After winning the last three GIAA Class AA state championships, Gatewood baseball has opened the season with another hot start, going 3-0 so far with no less than 10 runs scored in each game.
The Gators opened 2026 with a 15-8 win at home over Strong Rock Christian last Monday, then defeated Harvester Christian 11-1 on Tuesday in Eatonton before taking down Central Georgia Arts 10-6 last Thursday in Macon to wrap up their opening week schedule.
Head coach Brandon Moss said he was proud of how well his team played at all positions.
“Our pitchers continued to build their pitch counts and gain confidence in their stuff, as well as pitching with certain pitches in certain counts,” Moss said. “I think they did a much better job overall this week of throwing strikes with their off-speed and using it in certain counts.
“Offensively, I think we took some steps forward in gaining some comfort in the box, seeing pitching more consistently and allowing approaches to take shape.”
Moss added he was pleased with his team’s aggressiveness on the bases as well, with the Gators stealing 15 bases in their first three games.
The Gators’ schedule this week will be a little tougher as they travel to Augusta Christian on Monday and then visit Monticello on Tuesday to face nearby rival Piedmont Academy, which also has posted a 3-0 start.
“This week will be a much more challenging week, just due to the nature of the schedule,” Moss acknowledged. “We have three tough, non-region games this week, and just through the increased level of competition, we will improve, regardless of the outcome of the games.
“We have such a talented young roster that improvements are going to come naturally from competition and failure. We just have to make sure on the coaching end that we use every opportunity that presents itself to teach the lessons that need to be learned.”
Moss added that he hopes to see growth from his young players, but already likes what he’s seen at the plate so far this season.
“Lawson Moore and Jayden Moss have picked right up where they left off last season, carrying us in the middle of the order. Brady Haley has been great in the two spot and has delivered some big hits, as has Drew Love in the six spot. And Ben Pearson looks like he’s going to be an impact bat who could slide up to the middle of the order by mid-season.” Moss said. “Honestly, overall, the offense has done a great job.”
Following the games against Augusta Christian and Piedmont Academy, Gatewood will host Athens Christian on Friday in Eatonton.