Ennis Brothers Shine as Bryan County Baseball Eyes Playoff Push

BRYAN COUNTY, Ga. — The Bryan County baseball team, led by first-year coach Kyle Farmer, is making headlines as they gear up for the Class A-DII state playoffs, thanks in part to standout performances from brothers Cooper and Gunner Ennis. The sibling duo has played pivotal roles in the team’s success this season.

Coach Farmer praised the Ennis brothers, stating, “The Ennis brothers are more than just athletes; they’re baseball players. The way they carry themselves and compete speaks volumes about their character on and off the field.” Farmer added, “I really wish I would have had Cooper for more than one year. He’s a tough competitor who plays the game the right way.”

As a senior, Cooper Ennis has found a way to establish his own identity after previously being overshadowed by his older brother, Tanner, who is now playing at Georgia Military College. This season, Cooper stands out not only as the team’s shortstop but also as a reliable pitcher. Entering the final week of regular-season play, he is batting .310 with 15 RBIs and a team-high three triples.

Reflecting on his journey, Cooper said, “I was just following in his footsteps… It was pretty hard dealing with expectations, but I feel pretty good right now about what I’m doing.” His resilience is evident; Cooper overcame a harrowing incident when he was hit by a truck two days after Christmas, resulting in a broken femur. “Just something that happened,” he shrugged.

In addition to his batting success, Cooper boasts a pitching record of 3-1 and a 3.40 ERA, with 54 strikeouts over 55.2 innings. He recently delivered one of his best performances in a tight 4-2 victory against Screven County, fueled by senior AJ Thomas‘s three RBIs.

Gunner Ennis, now a freshman, has managed to escape some of the pressures that come with being part of such a talented athletic family. “I’m myself,” Gunner stated, adding, “It’s fun playing with Cooper. I’ve never played with either of my brothers before, and I’m enjoying it.” With a batting average of .386 and a team-leading 20 RBIs, Gunner has certainly made an impact this season.

On the mound, Gunner has pitched 13 innings with a 2.15 ERA, striking out 16 batters. Despite being the youngest sibling, he has embraced a leadership role, a testament to his maturity as noted by Coach Farmer, who expressed excitement about coaching Gunner for the next four years.

Farmer remarked, “Gunner has come on and done a great job. He’s got a lot of room to grow and mature.” Gunner, who also played backup quarterback in football and is looking to play basketball next winter, affirmed, “My heart is with baseball. I’ve worked so hard all my life at baseball.”

The Ennis brothers share many qualities: strong work ethic, teamwork, and humility. They have quickly become integral to the Bryan County baseball culture, working together to push the team towards potential playoff glory.