Beckley Bash Post 32 opens home season ahead of state tournament hosting duties
The Bash faces Richwood Post 97 at Linda K. Epling Stadium, utilising the doubleheader to test college-level talent ahead of the region’s major summer event.
The Beckley Bash Post 32 American Legion baseball team commenced its home schedule on Wednesday evening, hosting Richwood Post 97 in a doubleheader at Linda K. Epling Stadium. The matches began at 6 p.m., marking the club’s first home games of the season. This fixture introduces a new Area 3 opponent, joining established regional rivals including Charleston Post 65, South Charleston Post 94, Logan Post 19, and Milton Post 139.
Entering the contest, the Bash holds two victories on its ledger, following a weekend sweep of Ritchie County Post 83. The opening day results included a 12-2 win and a 3-2 victory in the nightcap. Head coach Jordan Meadows noted that the initial roster was constrained by high school commitments, requiring the inclusion of Junior Legion players to supplement the nine Senior Legion members available.
The strategic focus for the Bash extends beyond immediate results, with Meadows emphasising the integration of college-level athletes ahead of the American Legion State Tournament. Scheduled to be hosted by the Bash from July 22 to 27, the tournament represents a significant logistical and competitive milestone for the post. Meadows identified the acquisition of experienced collegiate pitchers and players as a primary objective during the offseason.
The expanded roster features several athletes with recent collegiate experience or commitments. Included are Eli Green, Sam Barnett, Layne Lambert, Maddex Sims, Ashton Cochran, and Kadyn Hines. Hines, who recently played in the Class AA state quarterfinals for his high school team, is available for outfield duties but will not pitch. The team aims to leverage this depth to build continuity and chemistry among players who were previously high school rivals.
Meadows highlighted the dual purpose of the home opener: gaining critical experience at the stadium that will host the state tournament and fostering team cohesion. With the high school season still active, the Bash is utilising the current window to refine its lineup. The club also anticipates further engagement with local fans, including an annual Fourth of July exhibition against Logan, as it prepares for the championship series in late July.
