Senior ACCS pitcher eager to lead charge for team in final year
Published 12:00 am Saturday, March 19, 2016
NATCHEZ — Adams County Christian School’s Tyler Wilson’s skillset was on full display Tuesday.
The left-handed hurler struck out 10 batters in just five innings, but three costly errors led to three unearned runs, leaving the Rebels short in a 7-6 loss to Amite School Center.
Yet, producing a strong pitching effort was not enough for the Wilson, the senior leader wanted the win.
“We have to practice harder,” Wilson said. “All the little errors … we can’t do that during district.”
Under first-year head coach Matthew Freeman, Wilson said he and the Rebels have made pivotal strides in attempting to reverse their fortunes from seasons past.
“Last year, we lost a lot (of games),” Wilson said. “This year, I think we’re going to be really good with (Freeman).”
Tuesday’s outing was not the first time Wilson demonstrated his unique skills as earlier in the season he struck out 11 Trinity Episcopal hitters and allowed no earned runs in helping lift his team to a 16-1 win.
Freeman, however, believes there remains untapped potential in his star pitcher’s left arm.
“The only thing that bothers me about Tyler Wilson is his confidence,” Freeman said. “If he would learn that he’s 6-foot-2, 215 pounds and a dominant, left-handed pitcher, he could flat out take over and be really dominant.
“It’s good knowing I’ve got him, but I just want him to perform to his ability. I want him to step up and realize just how good he is.”
Freeman noted Wilson’s potential is due to his strong ability as a left-hander to consistently hit his spots.
“In high school pitching, if you’re a lefty, throwing decently fast and being able to control the ball and keep it away from the (hitters), you’re going to be able to win some games,” Freeman said.
As one of just a handful of seniors on the Rebel roster, Wilson said much of the leadership has been thrust on his shoulders, a responsibility he relishes.
“(Freeman) asks me to provide leadership,” Wilson said. “I’ve been here for a long time, and he just wants me to lead the team and not let them get down if they make an error.
“If we’re able to win in district, then I see us going to the playoffs.”
And with his final season under way, Wilson said he plans to cherish every memory along the way as he dons the Rebel blue in his final campaign.
“It’s sad, because I’ve played so much here,” Wilson said. “Baseball is what I’ve always looked forward to. I don’t play any other sports.”