Braves proud of state title

Published 12:00 am Sunday, August 15, 1999

The Natchez Braves had to come back from a loss last Saturday to the Baton Rouge Red Sox to capture the state semipro title, but that’s just what they did, sweeping the Red Sox in two games last Sunday.

Natchez defeated Baton Rouge 20-6 in the first game as Darion Mustascari struck out nine batters.

Kelly O’Neal had four hits, including a double, while Josh Hoffpauir added three doubles.

Email newsletter signup

Hoffpauir transferred from Northwestern State to Southern Mississippi on Friday.

Buddy Brown doubled and singled, while Lee Zumbro had two singles to add to the Brave assault in the first game.

Natchez won the second game 6-3 as Jeff Gamberi picked up the win, allowing six Baton Rouge hits.

Hoffpauir homered and singled, while Russ Hazlip, Gabe Bailey and Zumbro had two singles each.

Hunter Ogden added a double.

L.C. Smith, Dan Smith and Joey Paul also pitched for the Braves, who finished the season 20-6.

&uot;I was real proud of the guys,&uot; said Natche Braves head coach Eddie Brown. &uot;They all did a great job.&uot;