A Playoff Battle in Fort Myers
The Florida High School Athletic Association’s Rural Class baseball semifinal will be played at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, April 13, at Hammond Stadium in Fort Myers, Florida. The matchup pits the first‑seeded Union County Tigers against the gritty Cottondale Blue Devils, each hoping to advance to the Rural state title game scheduled for May 14.
Union County arrives with a potent blend of power and precision. The Tigers boast a deep batting order that has consistently produced runs throughout the season, and they are anchored by a pitching staff that blends experience with fresh arms. Their recent history adds extra motivation: after capturing the Class 1A title in 2012, the program is chasing its second state championship.
Key contributors for Union County include seniors Kendall Carter, Jasen Sullivan, Jeffrey Brugh and Evan Christmas, all of whom have been highlighted for their offensive firepower. The pitching rotation features Erick Lasseter, Brady Tetstone and Ayden Androlevich, each bringing a distinct style that has kept opposing lineups off balance.
Cottondale, meanwhile, relies heavily on two standout players: Jaydon Gray and Lane Johnson. Johnson not only anchors the offense but also serves as the team’s top pitcher, posting a 2.79 ERA that has made him a cornerstone of the rotation. The Blue Devils’ blend of offensive flair and disciplined pitching makes them a formidable opponent.
The stakes extend beyond the immediate game. The winner of this semifinal will earn a spot in the Rural state title game on May 14, where they will meet the champion of the other bracket, either Trenton or Holmes County. For both programs, the opportunity to compete on a larger stage represents the culmination of months of hard work and community pride.