The East Marion Eagles are soaring into postseason play on winds of momentum from a four-game winning streak. As the No. 3 seed from Region 7-2A, the Eagles will take on the Mize Bulldogs over the weekend in their first-round series.
The Eagles (9-10, 7-5) played the final game on their regular season schedule Tuesday on the road against North Forrest, but results were unavailable at press time. Their first-round series with Mize had already been cemented, however, and head coach Mandell Echols said his goal for the evening was for his players to take the field with a playoff mentality.
"That's the main thing. We've been going out in the first inning of games a little sluggish and nonchalant, as if other teams are just going to lay down and let us win," Echols explained. "But I think if we can come out focused with high intensity from here on out, we'll give ourselves a real chance."
The Bulldogs (20-6, 8-2) are coached by Adam Dyess, a longtime friend of Echols' from his hometown of Bassfield. Though both are eager to keep their team's season alive by winning the series, they're excited about the opportunity to coach against one another and believe this could be a really fun series for both the players and the fans.
"Mize doesn't have an overpowering pitcher or any really big bats, but they're really aggressive at the plate, and they're fundamentally sound," Echols said. "We've just got to match their focus and energy, avoid costly errors and be aggressive for 21 at-bats. It'll be a fun little rivalry."
The Eagles will travel to Mize for Game 1 Friday at 7 p.m., then they'll host Game 2 at the same time Saturday. If necessary, they'll hit the road again Monday to determine the series with a Game 3 at Mize.
As proud as Echols is of what the Eagles have already accomplished this season, he says he believes they still have more in the tank and looks forward to seeing what they can accomplish with clear heads and attention to detail in a win-or-go-home setting.
"Whenever we cross those white lines, our minds should only be focused on baseball," Echols said. "I want them to be aggressive and stay prepared to make that next play because you just never know. It could be the one that makes the difference and helps us win the ball game."
