Pride dominates USSA series

The Georgia Pride shamed their opponents while sweeping six games and winning the USSSA World Series, which was played Memorial Day Weekend in Atlanta.

The Pride, a 14-and-under baseball team based in Columbia County, outscored opponents 90-4 to take the title. The squad needed only 28 innings in six games to complete the decisive, mercy-rule victories.

Between opening and closing 10-0 shutouts, the Georgia Pride posted wins of 8-1, 19-2, 24-0 and 18-1.

Leading hitters were Rich Poythress (.688 batting average), Logan Jackson (.588), Hank McCladdie (.588), Chris Banker (.500), Chris Johnson (.500), Josh Grant (.429), Erik Smith (.400), Matt Moore (.375), Felix Chinea (.353), and tanner Helfrich (.286).

On the mound for the Pride were Felix Chinea, Josh Grant, Hank McCladdie, Chris banker and Rich Poythress.

During the 2002 season, the Pride has won three scrimmages and 14 tournament games. The team is managed by Angel Torres, and assistant coaches are Pat Moore and Felix Chinea.