By allowing ads to appear on this site, you support the local businesses who, in turn, support great journalism.
Tide pitcher Runyon named summer player of the month
Blue Tide logo

The Long County Blue Tide baseball team may be a long while from hitting the diamond again, but that does not mean their players can’t make an impact. One did just that as junior pitcher Landon Runyon was named 912 Sports Magazine’s Male Athlete of the Summer in their most recent award announcements.

Runyon has been a key part of the Tide’s success over the last two years and looks to play the role of ace on the mound for the 2023 season. Over the summer, he has participated in not only team workouts and camps, but went to several showcases throughout the southeast.

Tide head baseball coach James Hobbs told the magazine that Runyon has developed into a leader and worked on his speed on the mound.

“This summer Landon has taken on the role of a leader and has improved vastly on his velocity,” Hobbs said.

Runyon was invited to several showcases, with one in Louisville, Kentucky being the most recent to end his summer. The junior pitcher was excited about his opportunities this summer and the privilege of being recognized by 912Sports

“It’s an honor for me to be named athlete of the month by 912 Sports,” Runyon said. “This accomplishment gives me hope that all of my hard work and effort will pay off in the long run. I feel that by getting exposure all over the area this summer will help me to continue to grow mentally and physically in the game of baseball and also continue to further build my arm on the mound.”

The Blue Tide will be in very different territory going into the 2023 season as they lose all of their region opponents, including perennial power Pierce County, to reclassification but gain top single A opponents Calvary Day and Savannah Christian.

Despite this and losing nine seniors to graduation last season, Runyon is ready and determined to keep the same goal: competing for a region and state championship.

“I plan on leading the Blue Tide to yet another playoff run this coming year with the talented group of players that I have the privilege to call my teammates,” he said. “I am looking forward to continuing to grow under the talented coaching staff I play for. In doing so, I pray it leads to a successful season my junior year.”

The Blue Tide baseball season will begin in January. 

Sign up for our e-newsletters