The Northeast Texas Community College Eagles are headed to the Super Regional after shutting out Navarro College 4-0 on Sunday night to claim the Region XIV North Tournament Championship. Click here for free downloadable photos from the tournament.
Originally scheduled to be played at Paris Junior College at 6 p.m. due to field conditions and weather concerns, the championship game was delayed and ultimately moved again to Paris High School after issues with the lights at the PJC field. Despite the late start, intermittent rain, and adjusting to a full turf field, the Eagles turned in one of their most complete performances of the postseason.
NTCC struck first with two runs in the opening inning and added insurance runs later in the game while the pitching staff completely silenced Navarro’s offense. The Bulldogs managed just three hits on the night and were shut out for the first time in the tournament.
BJ Lumkins led the Eagles offensively with an RBI and a run scored, while Jonathon Kent, Drew Flores, and Jake Farris each drove in a run. Boston Seahorn continued his strong postseason play with three stolen bases and a run scored.
On the mound, Kaleb Kuhn gave NTCC a solid start, pitching three scoreless innings with seven strikeouts while allowing just one hit. Chris Whitaker earned the win in relief after tossing five shutout innings with five strikeouts. Lane Cole closed out the game in the ninth inning.
The Eagles drew eight walks and played aggressive baseball throughout the night, taking advantage of four Navarro errors to secure the championship victory.
With the win, NTCC advances to the NJCAA Super Regional next weekend as the Region XIV North Tournament champions. Details about the venue and game times will be announced soon.
