The Mathews High School varsity baseball team was dealt a tough loss at its home opener, falling to the Essex Trojans last Thursday, 11-1.

Senior Justin Jones started on the mound for the Devils, striking out four batters and walking one in the first three innings. Junior Danny Hogge relieved Jones in the fourth inning. Hogge struck out three batters and also only walked one. Freshman Hunter Horsley closed out the game, coming in during the seventh inning. Horsley recorded one strikeout and one walk. Out of the Trojans’ 11 runs, only three were earned.

While the two-week break, due to spring break and inclement weather, took a toll on the Devils’ fielding, they also struggled at the plate against the Trojans’ pitching. Junior Michael Thomas led the team with an RBI, putting Mathews on the board in the bottom of the second inning. Senior Christian Blue got on base with a hard ground ball to second, which resulted in a fielder’s choice. Other Blue Devils filled the bases with walks, but the boys were unable to develop enough offense to score any other runs.

The Blue Devils were ready to get things back on track at two home games scheduled for Monday against the Northumberland Indians and Tuesday against the King William Cavaliers. Unfortunately, both games were canceled because of the weather.

The Blue Devils are preparing for their next game at King and Queen Central Tigers today.