(Courtesy of Michael Butler, 1300 WTLS and 106.5 FM) -- Each of Pat Love's three-seasons have been quite good at Tallassee. In his first year, the Tigers won a single-season record 24 games. The next year, they broke that mark with 32 victories. Last season's 44-9 record set a new high for wins.
That's an even 100 wins in three years. With the program at an all-time high, aspirations are to reach the state finals and compete for a championship.
"If this team does what it's supposed to and keeps progressing like it is, I think we'll really have a shot. This team has eyes not only to make it to the state tournament but finish number one," Love said. "The expectations have already been set. I didn't have to do it. They expect a lot themselves."
Love noted that although the standard is already at a high level that this season has a "different feel."
"We've got a senior-oriented team. They're seasoned. They know how to handle pressure. They've played in big games."
Tallassee lost one senior last year in Madelyn Martin. This year's team has seven seniors.
"It starts off with Jordan Walters and Sinclair Cole on the mound. Both pitched a lot last year."
Walters is a Shelton State signee. Cole has signed with Alabama A&M.
"In the outfield we've got Sally Shipman, Hannah Martin, Ivory Chapman and Natlie Davis. On the infield, we're returning a lot of starters."
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| Baynes | Haynes | Love | Walters |
Walters broke the record for wins by a pitcher with a 26-9 record in 2019. She had an ERA of 2.08. She along with teammates Lexi Love, Belle Haynes and Chloe Baynes were all-state picks last year. Baynes was a first-team selection and the MaxPreps national Freshman of the Year with a .669 average and 82 stolen bases.
"Jordan can go out on any given day and shut down anybody. Chloe is one of the best outfielders around. Belle is the best shortstop I've coached. My daughter Lexi is good at catching too."