Jacksonville baseball shuts out West Central as Headen throws 3-hitter

Nolan Peters homers, Ryan Headen pitches complete game in 9-0 win

Apr. 16, 2026 at 4:53pm

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A fragmented, geometric painting depicting the motion and energy of a high school baseball game, with sharp planes of color representing the players, field, and equipment.A cubist interpretation of the high-energy action on the baseball diamond as Jacksonville cruises to a shutout victory.Jacksonville Today

The Jacksonville baseball team defeated West Central 9-0 on Wednesday, with Nolan Peters hitting a three-run home run and Ryan Headen throwing a complete-game three-hitter. Jacksonville scored in the second, third, and fifth innings, finishing with 11 hits. Headen struck out eight batters without allowing a walk.

Why it matters

This victory improves Jacksonville's record to 10-5 on the season, as they continue their strong start. West Central, meanwhile, falls to 5-8 on the year. The game was part of a busy day of high school baseball action in the region.

The details

Peters' three-run homer in the third inning broke the game open for Jacksonville. Jack Rohlk went 3-for-4 at the plate, while Peters and Joe Reif each had two hits. Reif also stole a pair of bases. On the mound, Headen was dominant, allowing just three hits while striking out eight without issuing a walk.

  • The game was played on Wednesday, April 16, 2026.
  • Jacksonville is scheduled to play at Limestone on Friday.

The players

Nolan Peters

A Jacksonville player who hit a three-run home run in the game.

Ryan Headen

The Jacksonville pitcher who threw a complete-game three-hitter, striking out eight batters without a walk.

Jack Rohlk

A Jacksonville player who went 3-for-4 at the plate in the win.

Joe Reif

A Jacksonville player who had two hits and stole a pair of bases.

Hayden Johns

The West Central pitcher who gave up nine runs on 11 hits in six innings.

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What they’re saying

“Nolan Peters is greeted at home plate after hitting a three-run home run in a baseball game against West Central at Future Champions on Wednesday.”

— Dennis Mathes, Journal-Courier

What’s next

Jacksonville will look to continue its strong start when it travels to Limestone on Friday.

The takeaway

This game showcased Jacksonville's offensive firepower and dominant pitching, as they cruised to a shutout victory over West Central. The Crimsons are proving to be a force to be reckoned with in the early part of the season.