The Preston Pirates baseball team displayed their competitive spirit over a series of games last week, led by standout performances from key players like Hunter McElhannon and Kaden Dean. While the Pirates experienced both victories and tough losses, their resilience and talent on the field were on full display.

--- McElhannon shines in 8-0 victory over Stonewall Hunter McElhannon dominated on the mound in Preston’s 8-0 shutout victory against the Stonewall Longhorns last Thursday. The right-hander pitched a five-inning gem, striking out 10 batters and allowing no hits or runs, while issuing just one walk. McElhannon’s impressive performance left the Longhorns unable to gain any momentum throughout the game.

The Pirates struck early, getting on the board in the first inning when Kaden Dean grounded out, scoring a run. In the second inning, Preston added to their lead with singles from Jayden Herring and Bradley Winford, followed by a fielder’s choice by Noah Wilson, which brought three runs across the plate.

Stonewall’s starter, Landon Gutierrez, struggled to contain Preston’s offense, surrendering six runs (four earned) over three and two-thirds innings. Gutierrez managed four strikeouts, but the Pirates’ patience at the plate, accumulating six walks, was key to their victory.

Kaden Dean had a big day at the plate, going 2-for-4 with three RBIs. Jayden Herring also collected two hits and stole two bases, as the Pirates ran wild with four stolen bases. Preston’s defense was flawless, committing no errors, and Pepper Gallup led the team with 10 chances in the field.

--- Dean powers Preston to 13-1 win over Okay Friday saw another dominant performance from the Pirates, as they defeated Okay 13-1 in a game where Kaden Dean once again led the charge. Dean went 4-for-4, driving in five runs, including a threerun double in the fifth inning that capped off a nine-run explosion for Preston.

The Pirates got on the board in the third inning with a single by Dean, followed by two runs scored on a dropped third strike. Preston’s offensive surge in the fifth included hits by Pepper Gallup, Noah Wilson and Weston Cope, as well as key contributions from Bradley Winford and Wilson’s two-run homer to left field.

Pepper Gallup was strong on the mound, allowing just two hits and one unearned run over four innings. He struck out eight but also struggled with command, walking seven. Despite the walks, Gallup’s ability to keep Okay off the scoreboard was pivotal. The Pirates’ aggressive play on the base paths and their patience at the plate, drawing eight walks, contributed to their victory.

--- Pirates fall to Navajo, 14-8

The Pirates’ matchup with the Navajo Indians on Thursday told a different story, despite Preston outhitting Navajo 11-5. After jumping to a 6-0 lead by the second inning, Preston was poised for another win, but Navajo turned the game around with a seven-run fifth inning, capitalizing on errors and timely hits.

Preston’s early offense was sparked by Kaden Dean’s RBI double and a two-run single from Weston Cope. However, the Pirates’ defense faltered, committing key errors that allowed Navajo to take control.

Hunter McElhannon started the game for Preston, giving up three runs (one earned) over four innings while striking out seven. Navajo’s patience at the plate, drawing 13 walks, played a major role in their comeback. Despite the loss, Preston showed their offensive capabilities, with Dean and Winford each collecting three hits.

--- Pirates’ rally falls short against Asher

In another hard-fought game on Friday, a Preston Pirates’ comeback attempt fell just short, losing 11-9 to the Asher Indians. The Pirates trailed by six runs after the third inning but rallied in the fourth, scoring five runs, including a three-run homer by Kaden Dean, his third hit of the game.

Dean’s performance was a highlight for Preston, as he went 3-for-4 with a home run, a double, and three RBIs. Bradley Winford also contributed with two hits, including an RBI double.

However, Asher’s early lead proved too much to overcome. The Indians capitalized on their opportunities, with key hits from Beau Willis and Ryan Gregg. Pepper Gallup started on the mound for Preston, giving up eight runs over three innings, but struggled with control, issuing seven walks.

Despite the loss, the Pirates showed their ability to fight back and nearly erased a large deficit. Asher’s patient approach at the plate, drawing 10 walks, and their ability to convert chances into runs were the difference-makers.

The Moss Pirates were on deck to face Preston on Monday.