CONWAY, Ark.-The Red River Credit Union/TABA Texarkana Razorbacks begin their trek into the postseason today in the opening round of the American Legion Arkansas state tournament.
Texarkana (28-8) faces Searcy at 7 p.m. on the campus of the University of Central Arkansas. Games will be played at both UCA and Hendrix College over the two-weekend event, for the teams which advance to the second weekend from the 16-team field.
The championship game is slated for Saturday, July 29 at Hendrix with the state champion advancing to the Mid-South Regional in New Orleans, La.
The Razorbacks are the defending state, regional and World Series champions.
"The state tournament came a little bit quicker than I thought it would," Razorback head coach Dane Peavy said. "We're ready. This is kind of our moment..
"Through the season, everybody understood that all 16, 17 teams (in Arkansas) were going to state, and we just played through the season injury-free."The Hogs are deep in pitching depth with seven non-position playing hurlers, as well as five more defensive players who can take the mound.
The starting rotation will feature some combination of Patrick Flanagan, Austin Cross, Kaden Tollett and Tanner Vaught. Hunter Lewis joins Cross as left-handers, as does Jay French, who could also help in the outfield.
Justin Swecker has worked in the closer role, and Philip Sissons was pulled up for the postseason. Kade Garmany will start catching.
Will Smith, last year's National Player of the Year for American Legion, is the designated hitter.
At first base could be John Michael Russ, who also catches, or Austin Stubber. Parker Ribble has been playing second, Riley Orr shortstop and Logan Vidrine or Russ at third.
The outfield will feature Beau Burson in right, with a combination of Cole Boyd, Tyler Moreland, French and Gabe Parker in the other outfield positions. Parker also catches.
"This is the real season," Peavy said. "This is where we're going to shine, play and lock in on what we need to do. Hopefully, we're well rested and ready to go."
The winner advances to Saturday's 4 p.m. game at Hendrix, while the loser plays at 1 p.m. Saturday in an elimination game.