Semifinal defeat in Middle 7 tourney ends good year for Junior Cyclones

from staff reports

   JOHNSON CITY -- After playing past midnight the day before, the T.A. Dugger baseball team didn't have quite as much zip for its semifinal appearance in the Middle Seven Conference baseball tournament.
   The Junior Cyclones dropped a 15-5 decision on Tuesday to a good Sevier club, ending an otherwise excellent campaign.
   Finishing with a 9-5 record, T.A. Dugger enjoyed one of the best seasons in the history of the program.
   The Junior Cyclones certainly showed considerable improvement compared to the last few years.
   "With nine players returning next year, we feel that we should have another shot at the title," said T.A. Dugger coach Jason Carter. "The high school should be excited about getting seven great young men for its program next year as well."
   In the game against Sevier, Aaron Bray, Josh Guinn and Nick McNeal led the TAD efforts with two hits apiece. Collecting one hit each were Cory Pearson, Adam Grindstaff and Andrew Kennedy.