'There's nothing like it'

FLORENCE - There's something special about being on the mound for the first game of a state playoff series for Mark Vanhorn.

Mars Hill's junior right-hander loves getting the ball with a chance to set the tone for the series.

"There is nothing like it - I absolutely love it," Vanhorn said. "I love the atmosphere, with so many fans at the game and just the feeling that it all starts with you. Plus, if you win that first game it really catches the momentum and helps everyone relax and just play ball. It's just a great feeling."

That great feeling is one that Vanhorn and the Panthers (29-12) have enjoyed four weeks in a row. He has started - and won - all four sereies openers in Mars Hill's run to the Class 2A state championship series against Leroy (34-5).

Vanhorn was just 3-3 in the regular season, but he has been almost flawless during Mars Hill's playoff run.

"He's been more focused since the playoffs began," catcher Randy Gooch said. "The game he threw against Ranburne was one of the best he's thrown all year. He was breaking off his curve better and just located better. Having him as our go-to guy for game 1 is big for us and helps us relax in game two."

Mars Hill coach Jay Mitchell said Vanhorn has been good all year, but has really stepped up in the playoffs.

"Early in the year we weren't playing good defense behind him, but there's no doubt he is throwing better now," Mitchell said. "He throws in the upper 80's and he'll touch 90 (mph). He has a lot of pitches and he uses them very effectively."

Vanhorn opened the playoffs with a 3-hit shutout in a 10-0 victory over Falkville. He then tossed a two-hitter with 11 strikeouts in beating Pleasant Valley 10-4. His third win was a 10-8 decision aainst Westminster Christian in the third round.

This past Friday, Vanhorn helped the Panthers open a series with a win, allowing five hits and striking out seven in a 5-2 victory over Ranburne.

"I've just been trying to keep mixing up my pitches and not be predictable," Vanhorn said. "My fastball is definitely my best pitch, but I try to use my curve and change-up, too. I started throwing a forkball this season and it has been a good pitch for me. Our defense has also been playing solid behind me. Our whole team has stepped up in the playoffs."

Vanhorn hopes to get the ball in another opening game when the Panthers begin play in the championship series Tuesday.

"It just doesn't get any better than this," Vanhorn said.

"I'm anxious for it to get here, but once I get on the mound I don't get nervous. The waiting is the worst part, but we don't have to wait as long this week. Pitching in the state finals is something I've dreamed of, and I can't wait."

While Mitchell always gives the ball to Vanhorn for the first game of a series, he is not sure if his ace will be ready Tuesday with just three days rest. Mitchell said he said he'll wait until today or even Tuesday before deciding who to pitch.

"We'll let him throw Monday and see how he feels," Mitchell said. "I know he will want the ball, but if he needs another day we'll go with someone else. Mark is by far our No. 1 pitcher, but we have a variety of options at No. 2."

The Panthers have three pitchers with six wins this season in C.K. Irby, Gooch and Jordan Abrams.

Senior Jonathan Florida has been slowed by a sore shoulder this year, but has pitched well in the playoffs and will be ready if needed.

"Vanhorn usually gets us going and then Abrams puts it away," said Irby, who got the win in game 2 against Ranburne in his first start of the season.

"We've got several good pitchers, so we'll let coach decide who will throw. We'll all be ready if needed."

Jeff McIntyre can be reached at 740-5737 or jeff.mcintyre@timesdaily.com.