By Mike Maerz
Director of Florida Operations/Area Scout

In the other 7A semifinal game, the Gaither Cowboys took down the Belen Jesuit Wolverines in dominating fashion, 5-0. With the win, the Cowboys will take on the Venice Indians on Saturday in the 6A state championship game.

2016 LHP Gavin Gillespie (Gaither HS, FL) was untouchable on the mound as he went the distance and threw a shutout, allowing only two hits on the day as he set the Wolverines lineup down in order inning after inning. The Seminole State JC recruit used a low- to mid-80s mph fastball along with a 69-71 mph curveball on his way to seven strikeouts on the day. Gillespie mixed it up well, attacked the strike zone, and worked efficiently by throwing many first-pitch strikes.

2017 OF Jose Cadenas (Gaither HS, FL) led the charge for the Cowboys as he made his presence felt all throughout the game, whether it was in the field, at the plate, or on the base paths. The uncommitted junior went 3-for-4 on the day, which included a double, a run scored, and an RBI. Cadenas was also a constant threat on the base paths as he stole two bases by getting good jumps and showing great anticipation. He would also display range, a good first step to the ball, and light feet with quickness in center field.

2017 OF Kenny Rodriguez (Gaither HS, FL) also stood out at the plate as he went 1-for-2 with an RBI and run scored. The uncommitted junior was also aggressive on the base paths and showed the ability to kick it into another gear as he rounded the bases. 2016 SS Camryn Williams (Gaither HS, FL) went 1-for-3 with a run scored.