Trying New Things in Oxford

Oxford, AL – Harrison pitches gem while testing new ways to gain velocity, but Monsters muster two hits in 2- loss to Atlanta Crackers.

By Joe Medley

OXFORD — Hayes Harrison did some learning on the fly Friday, and the former Oxford High standout once again showed he learns quickly.

Harrison pitched a seven-inning gem of a start, but the Choccolocco Monsters managed two hits in a 2-0 loss to the Atlanta Crackers in Sunbelt League action at Choccolocco Park.

The Monsters dipped to 8-6 overall, a game-and-a-half behind league leader Gainsville, while opening a three-game home stand that includes Saturday’s doubleheader with Atlanta. The doubleheader starts at 5:05 p.m. and includes a makeup game from a rainout earlier this season.

Harrison’s performance was the clear Monsters highlight Friday. He spread out eight hits with nine strikeouts and one walk.

Both Atlanta runs came in the fourth inning, one on Jaden Anderson’s one-out solo home run and the other on Charlie Banks’ RBI single.

Harrison settled down to put three more zeroes on the board after that.

“I did what I could do, kind of learning some stuff,” said Harrison, the 2023 Alabama Mr. Baseball and Gatorade Player of the Year for Oxford’s Class 6A state-title team. “I was working through some mechanical stuff during the game, kind of figuring out where my velocity is going to come from, and my command, as well.”

Monsters coach Ricky Ray Clayton called Harrison’s performance “unbelievable.”

“He showed tremendous ability to pitch with every pitch he has, three-pitch mix, and just outstanding guts,” Clayton said. “He has a lot of guts, just the ultimate competitor.

“That’s why he’s had the success he’s had in his career. He pitched well enough to win that game right there.”

Clayton, , who works with pitchers as an assistant coach at Etowah High School, said Harrison’s tweaks start in the lower body.

“He’s really learning how to use his lower half and how to sequence up his body with it and get his upper half going,” Clayton said. “He’s done such a great job. He continues to get better and better, each outing stronger and stronger, because he’s become more familiar with it.”

Photo gallery by Joe Medley

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