Down to the final strike in the seventh inning against Muskogee on senior night, McAlester center fielder Gunner Hodgell had a senior moment.
The senior singled to left field, tying the game 3-3, and a subsequent crack of the bat sent Mike Deak Field into a frenzy. Sophomore left fielder Blake Judkins hit a line drive ground ball through the right field gap to walk it off for the Buffaloes (16-17).
Coach Justin Mullins said this type of a win was a much-needed confidence booster for his team, which previously rode a six-game losing streak.
“We never stop fighting and our kids never stop competing,” Mullins said. “It may not be coming out for us on the winning side, but I’m going to tell you we have great, high-character kids that battle every day.”
Mullins had high praise for Hodgell following the game, saying his hit in the biggest of moments epitomized the hard work and leadership he has shown throughout his high school career.
“He’s a four-year guy that has done everything we’ve asked him to do and I couldn’t be more proud of him,” Mullins said. “To get the big hit to tie the game is just a testament to him and his family and everything he’s done for this program.”
McAlester will next begin the OSSAA Regional Tournament Thursday with matchups against Tulsa Edison (14-17) and Bishop Kelley (27-9). The Buffaloes beat the Eagles in their two matchups last year, but they haven’t defeated the Comets since 2022.
Despite having to go on the road to face tough competition at regionals, Mullins said he is confident in his team no matter where they play. He also added they will give maximum effort and continue to fight until the final out.
“We’d like to have a home regional, but I’ll take any draw we get with the kids that I have,” Mullins said. “We’re just gonna go fight and they’re gonna have to beat us and we’re gonna fight till the bitter end.”
McAlester’s first game will begin at 11 a.m. Thursday at Bishop Kelley High School.
