The 2019 U16 State Winter Championships began with a beautiful day in Latrobe Valley, featuring nine action-packed games at Morwell Cougars and Traralgon Redsox Baseball Clubs. Six teams are taking part in the tournament and vying for the title of 2019 U16 State Winter Champions: Dandenong, Diamond Valley, Geelong, Latrobe Valley, Ringwood and Sunraysia.
The weather held out for a glorious winter day, and participants and spectators alike also enjoyed a terrific Home Run Derby sponsored by Ausport. Six awesome participants stepped up to the plate and tried to hit as many home runs as they could. Well done to our six hitters and their trusty pitchers and catchers: Jackson Malycha - Sunraysia, Patrick Grimmer - Geelong, Jacob Dickinson - Latrobe Valley, Angus Stals - Diamond Valley, Nicholas Bertucci - Dandenong and Harry Elustondo - Ringwood.
Jackson, Jacob, Angus and Nick progressed to the semi finals, which saw Angus and Jacob tie to force a playoff. Angus prevailed, sending him into the final round against Nick, who was crowned the 2019 U16 SWC Home Run Derby Winner! He received a $50 voucher from Ausport for his impressive performance. Congratulations, Nick!
Current standings for the 2019 U16 State Winter Championships are:
1. Diamond Valley (3-0)
2. Geelong (2-1)
3. Dandenong (1-1-1)
4. Sunraysia (1-1-1)
5. Ringwood (1-2)
6. Latrobe Valley (0-3)
Catch up on all the action from the nine games of SWC U16 below:
Game 1
Sunraysia vs. Geelong
5 14
It didn't take long for Geelong to bring their runners around, plating a pair of runs in the first inning. Harper Rickard and Noah Brennan had singles in the frame. Hayden Peoples started on the mound for Geelong, striking out three Sunraysia batters in the bottom of the first.
Rickard continued her great day at the plate with an RBI triple in the top of the second. Cooper Tipping followed up with a single to make it 4-0. Next up was Harry Fitzgerald, who was hit by pitch, and Jet Quach who knocked in a run on a single. Brennan and Tanner Stott also had singles as Geelong took a 7-0 lead.
Geelong retired Sunraysia's batters without any dramas in the bottom of the second, and a wild pitch and sacrifice fly allowed them to improve their lead to 9-0. Quach and Stott kept their hitting going strong with two singles in the third. Sunraysia broke through and got on the board in the bottom half of the third with four hits. Singles for Zach Stainer, Rahmen Martinez, and Jackson Malycha made it 9-3, and Blake Peterson tripled to score another run.
Geelong wasn't done scoring, managing five more runs in the top of the fourth on a combination of errors, walks and a single by Josh Masterson. Sunraysia put up one more for a final score of 14-5 in Geelong's favour. Harper Rickard, Tanner Stott, Jet Quach and Noah Brennan each had two hits in their opening victory, while Peoples and Martinez each recorded four strikeouts for their respective teams.
Game 1
Sunraysia vs. Geelong
5 14
It didn't take long for Geelong to bring their runners around, plating a pair of runs in the first inning. Harper Rickard and Noah Brennan had singles in the frame. Hayden Peoples started on the mound for Geelong, striking out three Sunraysia batters in the bottom of the first.
Rickard continued her great day at the plate with an RBI triple in the top of the second. Cooper Tipping followed up with a single to make it 4-0. Next up was Harry Fitzgerald, who was hit by pitch, and Jet Quach who knocked in a run on a single. Brennan and Tanner Stott also had singles as Geelong took a 7-0 lead.
Geelong retired Sunraysia's batters without any dramas in the bottom of the second, and a wild pitch and sacrifice fly allowed them to improve their lead to 9-0. Quach and Stott kept their hitting going strong with two singles in the third. Sunraysia broke through and got on the board in the bottom half of the third with four hits. Singles for Zach Stainer, Rahmen Martinez, and Jackson Malycha made it 9-3, and Blake Peterson tripled to score another run.
Geelong wasn't done scoring, managing five more runs in the top of the fourth on a combination of errors, walks and a single by Josh Masterson. Sunraysia put up one more for a final score of 14-5 in Geelong's favour. Harper Rickard, Tanner Stott, Jet Quach and Noah Brennan each had two hits in their opening victory, while Peoples and Martinez each recorded four strikeouts for their respective teams.
Game 2
Diamond Valley vs. Dandenong
5 4
Dandenong enjoyed a solid start to the game, with Angelo Reale Rontos taking a lead-off walk and Nicholas Bertucci smashing a two-run homer to center field. Dandenong threatened again in the top of the second with their first two batters getting on, but Diamond Valley's Liam Robertson kept things in control on the mound. Dandenong had a 3-0 lead going after the top of the third, but Diamond Valley put together a comeback late in the game to achieve an impressive victory.
Diamond Valley's rally started in the bottom of the third, when Declan Spiers took a bases-loaded walk to get one run. A sacrifice fly in the top of the fourth allowed Dandenong to score their fourth and final run of the day, but the rest of the offense belonged to Diamond Valley. The bottom of the fourth saw Diamond Valley load up the bases with no outs as Connor Pilatti was hit by pitch, Max Corcoran doubled and Shintaro Katon walked. Campbell Every came up to bat and hit a line drive single to knock in a run. Diamond Valley took the lead on an error, winning the game to earn a 1-0 record to start the tournament.
Bertucci led Dandenong with two hits on the day and 2 RBI's, while Mason Haimona had two hits of his own. Diamond Valley's Robertson was impressive on the mound, covering the entire game with three strikeouts and 10 fist-pitch strikes. Dandenong relied on the pitching efforts of Damien Bodey, Brodie McToldridge and Mitchell Johnston.
Game 3
Latrobe Valley vs. Ringwood
0 15
Ringwood wasted no time bringing their runners around, tallying five runs in the first thanks to back-to-back singles from Jack Ratcliffe and James Squire. With two runners on, Harry Elustondo stepped up to bat and sent a double sailing into center field to make it 2-0. By the time three outs were recorded, Ringwood had taken four walks and secured a 5-0 advantage.
Latrobe Valley's first time up at bat was quick and quiet, with a single from Mitch McGrath but no score. Ringwood picked up where they left off, tacking on five more runs in the top of the second to put the game out of reach for Latrobe Valley. It was a similar story in the top of the third, when Ringwood took a 15-0 advantage on hits from Ratcliffe, Squire and Blake Mitchell.
With just one hit in the game and four costly errors in the field, Latrobe Valley saw some areas in which they could improve for their next games. Ringwood had nine hits with Mitchell recording 3 RBI's on two hits. Zeke Doyle did a great job of getting on base for his team, taking three walks over the course of the game. Ringwood's offense was difficult to retire and could prove to be a big challenge throughout the tournament if they keep up the momentum.
Game 4
Sunraysia vs. Dandenong
7 7
This was a highly competitive matchup between two teams determined to get a win on the board after losing their opening games. Sunraysia dominated for much of the game, but Dandenong didn't give up, eventually coming back to tie the game.
Dandenong started the game with a double from Nick Bertucci, and he quickly came around to score. Sunraysia evened things up in the bottom frame, with their first six batters getting on base before an out was finally recorded. Rahmen Martinez, Jackson Malycha and Colby Lawton all had hits in the inning as Sunraysia earned some breathing room with a 5-1 lead.
Ryan Lewandowski led off the top of the second with a single for Dandenong, followed by a walk for Damien Bodey. The next two batters were retired quickly by Sunraysia, but Dandenong managed to score two runs with two outs to make it 5-3. Sunraysia answered in the bottom frame with two walks and a double by Blake Peterson. The score was 6-3 in Sunraysia's favour heading into the top of the third, when Peterson got three outs on 13 pitches. By the end of the third,
Sunraysia was ahead by four runs. That didn't last long, as Dandenong put together an electric fourth inning with four walks and a single by Nick Bertucci to tie up the game. Sunraysia tried to pull away in their last at-bats, as Hayden Chase had a lead-off single, but Dandenong shut down their efforts for the game to end in a tie, much to the cheers of a delighted crowded. Sunraysia's Peterson and Dean Bone combined for just four hits allowed and five strikeouts in the game, while Mason Haimona impressed in his 3.1 innings for Dandenong with just two earned runs allowed.
Game 5
Ringwood vs. Geelong
3 6
Ringwood was enjoying a 3-0 lead when Geelong crept back into the game late, earning the win with a strong team effort.
Finley Ronalds-Greatbach started on the mound for Ringwood, retiring three batters on 10 pitchers in the top of the first, including two strikeouts. Ringwood had success in their first at-bats, with two walks and a 2-RBI single for Aden Higgins. Geelong went down quietly in the top of the second, while Ringwood made it 3-0 their next turn at the plate with Elijah Ferguson's single and two walks.
Geelong finally got their offense moving in the top of the third with as two walks and two singles put pressure on Ringwood's pitching for the first time in the game. Jake Elderfield walked as the lead-off batter before two strikeouts. Harper Rickard and Cooper Tipping had back-to-back singles to get Geelong on the board, making the score 3-1.
With a comeback in mind, Tipping did his job on the mound for Geelong, recording three outs with nine pitches. Geelong overtook Ringwood with a five-spot in the fourth. Patrick Grimmer started things off with a single, while Jet Quach came up afterwards and reached on an error. Three consecutive walks tied the game, while an error and Hayden Peoples big single gave Geelong the push they needed. Noah Brennan closed the game for Geelong, protecting their newfound lead with three strikeouts.
Tipping was dependable on the mound for Geelong, throwing seven first-pitch strikes and three strikeouts across three innings.
Game 6
Latrobe Valley vs. Diamond Valley
3 11
Coming off a narrow comeback win against Dandenong, Diamond Valley made the most of their recipe for success: hard hitting and defensive skill. They gave up zero errors compared to Latrobe Valley's two, and they collected seven hits to help them score 11 runs.
Their offense got started right away, putting five up in the first frame on four walks, a dropped 3rd strike and a hit by pitch. Five runs scored with no hits gave Diamond Valley the determination to keep chipping away at it, and that they did, giving up just one in the bottom of the first on Josh Burgar's RBI double, before extending their lead in the top of the second. Back-to-back doubles by Angelina Kichakov and David Carroll made it 6-1. Campbell Every had a 2-out single but Diamond Valley's offense was retired until the next inning.
Latrobe Valley scored their final runs in the bottom of the second as batters Sebastian Battista and Anthony Smith had big hits. The 6-3 score was quickly replaced in the top of the third with an even larger advantage as Declan Spires had a drive line double and Thomas Medland singled to make it 8-3. Carroll and Every had additional hits on the day as Diamond Valley came away with the win, 11-3.
Another standout for Diamond Valley is Keeley Harrison, who threw three innings and had nine first-pitch strikes and four strikeouts in the Latrobe Valley game.
Game 7
Dandenong vs. Latrobe Valley
6 5
Latrobe Valley fought long and hard, but ultimately fell to this Dandenong side determined to get a win after starting their day with a loss and a tie. Jacob Dickinson doubled to left to score Josh Burgar for the first run of the game, giving Latrobe Valley an early lead that didn't last long.
Dandenong answered with two of their own in the bottom frame, thanks to Nick Bertucci's RBI double and a groundout from Jack Conell. Latrobe Valley tied things up at two apiece in the second when Felicity Clissold singled on a ground ball to left field. Latrobe's Mitch McGrath had two strikeouts in the bottom of the second before Dandenong loaded the bases. They went on to score four runs with two outs, including a hard-hit double from Angelo Reale Rontos and Callum Fulcher's single.
Latrobe Valley wasn't going down without a fight, tacking on one more in the third to make it 6-3, and they came within one run in the fourth inning. Dandenong buckled down to hold on for the win, with pitcher Tyler Memery recording the final out.
Dandenong just had four hits in the day while Latrobe Valley had three, and Dandenong struggled in the field making six errors compared to Latrobe's two. Despite some defensive miscues, Dandenong was able to get the job done when it mattered and come away with the win.
Game 8
Diamond Valley vs. Geelong
10 9
The highly competitive matchup between these two undefeated sides was full of spirit and sportmanship, with lots of cheering as both teams battled valiantly to come out with the win.
In the end Diamond Valley brought home the go-ahead run, despite Geelong's best efforts to stop them. Geelong got on the board in the first inning with three runs on hits from Darcy Stack, Harry Fitzgerland and Patrick Grimmer. Diamond Valley kept up the pace with four runs of their own in the bottom frame. From there it was back and forth as each team had their offense clicking on all cylinders.
Geelong put themselves in a good position following the top of the third with four-run lead, but Diamond Valley kept at it and Max Corcoran singled in the go-ahead run for Diamond Valley.
Game 9
Ringwood vs. Sunraysia
2 5
Sunraysia took a one-run lead early, and they kept tacking on runs as Ringwood fell behind and couldn't make up the deficit. Bailey Edgar and Jackson Malycha both had two hits for Sunraysia, while Home Run Derby participant Harry Elustondo batted in both of Ringwood's runs.
Sunraysia collected eight hits on their way to victory, compared to just two for Ringwood. They also made three errors in the field, giving Sunraysia the chance to score and ultimately improve their record to 1-1-1.
For updates and photos on the 2019 U16 State Winter Championships, please visit the Baseball Victoria Facebook Page HERE.
Game 2
Diamond Valley vs. Dandenong
5 4
Dandenong enjoyed a solid start to the game, with Angelo Reale Rontos taking a lead-off walk and Nicholas Bertucci smashing a two-run homer to center field. Dandenong threatened again in the top of the second with their first two batters getting on, but Diamond Valley's Liam Robertson kept things in control on the mound. Dandenong had a 3-0 lead going after the top of the third, but Diamond Valley put together a comeback late in the game to achieve an impressive victory.
Diamond Valley's rally started in the bottom of the third, when Declan Spiers took a bases-loaded walk to get one run. A sacrifice fly in the top of the fourth allowed Dandenong to score their fourth and final run of the day, but the rest of the offense belonged to Diamond Valley. The bottom of the fourth saw Diamond Valley load up the bases with no outs as Connor Pilatti was hit by pitch, Max Corcoran doubled and Shintaro Katon walked. Campbell Every came up to bat and hit a line drive single to knock in a run. Diamond Valley took the lead on an error, winning the game to earn a 1-0 record to start the tournament.
Bertucci led Dandenong with two hits on the day and 2 RBI's, while Mason Haimona had two hits of his own. Diamond Valley's Robertson was impressive on the mound, covering the entire game with three strikeouts and 10 fist-pitch strikes. Dandenong relied on the pitching efforts of Damien Bodey, Brodie McToldridge and Mitchell Johnston.
Game 3
Latrobe Valley vs. Ringwood
0 15
Ringwood wasted no time bringing their runners around, tallying five runs in the first thanks to back-to-back singles from Jack Ratcliffe and James Squire. With two runners on, Harry Elustondo stepped up to bat and sent a double sailing into center field to make it 2-0. By the time three outs were recorded, Ringwood had taken four walks and secured a 5-0 advantage.
Latrobe Valley's first time up at bat was quick and quiet, with a single from Mitch McGrath but no score. Ringwood picked up where they left off, tacking on five more runs in the top of the second to put the game out of reach for Latrobe Valley. It was a similar story in the top of the third, when Ringwood took a 15-0 advantage on hits from Ratcliffe, Squire and Blake Mitchell.
With just one hit in the game and four costly errors in the field, Latrobe Valley saw some areas in which they could improve for their next games. Ringwood had nine hits with Mitchell recording 3 RBI's on two hits. Zeke Doyle did a great job of getting on base for his team, taking three walks over the course of the game. Ringwood's offense was difficult to retire and could prove to be a big challenge throughout the tournament if they keep up the momentum.
Game 4
Sunraysia vs. Dandenong
7 7
This was a highly competitive matchup between two teams determined to get a win on the board after losing their opening games. Sunraysia dominated for much of the game, but Dandenong didn't give up, eventually coming back to tie the game.
Dandenong started the game with a double from Nick Bertucci, and he quickly came around to score. Sunraysia evened things up in the bottom frame, with their first six batters getting on base before an out was finally recorded. Rahmen Martinez, Jackson Malycha and Colby Lawton all had hits in the inning as Sunraysia earned some breathing room with a 5-1 lead.
Ryan Lewandowski led off the top of the second with a single for Dandenong, followed by a walk for Damien Bodey. The next two batters were retired quickly by Sunraysia, but Dandenong managed to score two runs with two outs to make it 5-3. Sunraysia answered in the bottom frame with two walks and a double by Blake Peterson. The score was 6-3 in Sunraysia's favour heading into the top of the third, when Peterson got three outs on 13 pitches. By the end of the third,
Sunraysia was ahead by four runs. That didn't last long, as Dandenong put together an electric fourth inning with four walks and a single by Nick Bertucci to tie up the game. Sunraysia tried to pull away in their last at-bats, as Hayden Chase had a lead-off single, but Dandenong shut down their efforts for the game to end in a tie, much to the cheers of a delighted crowded. Sunraysia's Peterson and Dean Bone combined for just four hits allowed and five strikeouts in the game, while Mason Haimona impressed in his 3.1 innings for Dandenong with just two earned runs allowed.
Game 5
Ringwood vs. Geelong
3 6
Ringwood was enjoying a 3-0 lead when Geelong crept back into the game late, earning the win with a strong team effort.
Finley Ronalds-Greatbach started on the mound for Ringwood, retiring three batters on 10 pitchers in the top of the first, including two strikeouts. Ringwood had success in their first at-bats, with two walks and a 2-RBI single for Aden Higgins. Geelong went down quietly in the top of the second, while Ringwood made it 3-0 their next turn at the plate with Elijah Ferguson's single and two walks.
Geelong finally got their offense moving in the top of the third with as two walks and two singles put pressure on Ringwood's pitching for the first time in the game. Jake Elderfield walked as the lead-off batter before two strikeouts. Harper Rickard and Cooper Tipping had back-to-back singles to get Geelong on the board, making the score 3-1.
With a comeback in mind, Tipping did his job on the mound for Geelong, recording three outs with nine pitches. Geelong overtook Ringwood with a five-spot in the fourth. Patrick Grimmer started things off with a single, while Jet Quach came up afterwards and reached on an error. Three consecutive walks tied the game, while an error and Hayden Peoples big single gave Geelong the push they needed. Noah Brennan closed the game for Geelong, protecting their newfound lead with three strikeouts.
Tipping was dependable on the mound for Geelong, throwing seven first-pitch strikes and three strikeouts across three innings.
Game 6
Latrobe Valley vs. Diamond Valley
3 11
Coming off a narrow comeback win against Dandenong, Diamond Valley made the most of their recipe for success: hard hitting and defensive skill. They gave up zero errors compared to Latrobe Valley's two, and they collected seven hits to help them score 11 runs.
Their offense got started right away, putting five up in the first frame on four walks, a dropped 3rd strike and a hit by pitch. Five runs scored with no hits gave Diamond Valley the determination to keep chipping away at it, and that they did, giving up just one in the bottom of the first on Josh Burgar's RBI double, before extending their lead in the top of the second. Back-to-back doubles by Angelina Kichakov and David Carroll made it 6-1. Campbell Every had a 2-out single but Diamond Valley's offense was retired until the next inning.
Latrobe Valley scored their final runs in the bottom of the second as batters Sebastian Battista and Anthony Smith had big hits. The 6-3 score was quickly replaced in the top of the third with an even larger advantage as Declan Spires had a drive line double and Thomas Medland singled to make it 8-3. Carroll and Every had additional hits on the day as Diamond Valley came away with the win, 11-3.
Another standout for Diamond Valley is Keeley Harrison, who threw three innings and had nine first-pitch strikes and four strikeouts in the Latrobe Valley game.
Game 7
Dandenong vs. Latrobe Valley
6 5
Latrobe Valley fought long and hard, but ultimately fell to this Dandenong side determined to get a win after starting their day with a loss and a tie. Jacob Dickinson doubled to left to score Josh Burgar for the first run of the game, giving Latrobe Valley an early lead that didn't last long.
Dandenong answered with two of their own in the bottom frame, thanks to Nick Bertucci's RBI double and a groundout from Jack Conell. Latrobe Valley tied things up at two apiece in the second when Felicity Clissold singled on a ground ball to left field. Latrobe's Mitch McGrath had two strikeouts in the bottom of the second before Dandenong loaded the bases. They went on to score four runs with two outs, including a hard-hit double from Angelo Reale Rontos and Callum Fulcher's single.
Latrobe Valley wasn't going down without a fight, tacking on one more in the third to make it 6-3, and they came within one run in the fourth inning. Dandenong buckled down to hold on for the win, with pitcher Tyler Memery recording the final out.
Dandenong just had four hits in the day while Latrobe Valley had three, and Dandenong struggled in the field making six errors compared to Latrobe's two. Despite some defensive miscues, Dandenong was able to get the job done when it mattered and come away with the win.
Game 8
Diamond Valley vs. Geelong
10 9
The highly competitive matchup between these two undefeated sides was full of spirit and sportmanship, with lots of cheering as both teams battled valiantly to come out with the win.
In the end Diamond Valley brought home the go-ahead run, despite Geelong's best efforts to stop them. Geelong got on the board in the first inning with three runs on hits from Darcy Stack, Harry Fitzgerland and Patrick Grimmer. Diamond Valley kept up the pace with four runs of their own in the bottom frame. From there it was back and forth as each team had their offense clicking on all cylinders.
Geelong put themselves in a good position following the top of the third with four-run lead, but Diamond Valley kept at it and Max Corcoran singled in the go-ahead run for Diamond Valley.
Game 9
Ringwood vs. Sunraysia
2 5
Sunraysia took a one-run lead early, and they kept tacking on runs as Ringwood fell behind and couldn't make up the deficit. Bailey Edgar and Jackson Malycha both had two hits for Sunraysia, while Home Run Derby participant Harry Elustondo batted in both of Ringwood's runs.
Sunraysia collected eight hits on their way to victory, compared to just two for Ringwood. They also made three errors in the field, giving Sunraysia the chance to score and ultimately improve their record to 1-1-1.
For updates and photos on the 2019 U16 State Winter Championships, please visit the Baseball Victoria Facebook Page HERE.
Game 3
Latrobe Valley vs. Ringwood
0 15
Ringwood wasted no time bringing their runners around, tallying five runs in the first thanks to back-to-back singles from Jack Ratcliffe and James Squire. With two runners on, Harry Elustondo stepped up to bat and sent a double sailing into center field to make it 2-0. By the time three outs were recorded, Ringwood had taken four walks and secured a 5-0 advantage.
Latrobe Valley's first time up at bat was quick and quiet, with a single from Mitch McGrath but no score. Ringwood picked up where they left off, tacking on five more runs in the top of the second to put the game out of reach for Latrobe Valley. It was a similar story in the top of the third, when Ringwood took a 15-0 advantage on hits from Ratcliffe, Squire and Blake Mitchell.
With just one hit in the game and four costly errors in the field, Latrobe Valley saw some areas in which they could improve for their next games. Ringwood had nine hits with Mitchell recording 3 RBI's on two hits. Zeke Doyle did a great job of getting on base for his team, taking three walks over the course of the game. Ringwood's offense was difficult to retire and could prove to be a big challenge throughout the tournament if they keep up the momentum.
Game 4
Sunraysia vs. Dandenong
7 7
This was a highly competitive matchup between two teams determined to get a win on the board after losing their opening games. Sunraysia dominated for much of the game, but Dandenong didn't give up, eventually coming back to tie the game.
Dandenong started the game with a double from Nick Bertucci, and he quickly came around to score. Sunraysia evened things up in the bottom frame, with their first six batters getting on base before an out was finally recorded. Rahmen Martinez, Jackson Malycha and Colby Lawton all had hits in the inning as Sunraysia earned some breathing room with a 5-1 lead.
Ryan Lewandowski led off the top of the second with a single for Dandenong, followed by a walk for Damien Bodey. The next two batters were retired quickly by Sunraysia, but Dandenong managed to score two runs with two outs to make it 5-3. Sunraysia answered in the bottom frame with two walks and a double by Blake Peterson. The score was 6-3 in Sunraysia's favour heading into the top of the third, when Peterson got three outs on 13 pitches. By the end of the third,
Sunraysia was ahead by four runs. That didn't last long, as Dandenong put together an electric fourth inning with four walks and a single by Nick Bertucci to tie up the game. Sunraysia tried to pull away in their last at-bats, as Hayden Chase had a lead-off single, but Dandenong shut down their efforts for the game to end in a tie, much to the cheers of a delighted crowded. Sunraysia's Peterson and Dean Bone combined for just four hits allowed and five strikeouts in the game, while Mason Haimona impressed in his 3.1 innings for Dandenong with just two earned runs allowed.
Game 5
Ringwood vs. Geelong
3 6
Ringwood was enjoying a 3-0 lead when Geelong crept back into the game late, earning the win with a strong team effort.
Finley Ronalds-Greatbach started on the mound for Ringwood, retiring three batters on 10 pitchers in the top of the first, including two strikeouts. Ringwood had success in their first at-bats, with two walks and a 2-RBI single for Aden Higgins. Geelong went down quietly in the top of the second, while Ringwood made it 3-0 their next turn at the plate with Elijah Ferguson's single and two walks.
Geelong finally got their offense moving in the top of the third with as two walks and two singles put pressure on Ringwood's pitching for the first time in the game. Jake Elderfield walked as the lead-off batter before two strikeouts. Harper Rickard and Cooper Tipping had back-to-back singles to get Geelong on the board, making the score 3-1.
With a comeback in mind, Tipping did his job on the mound for Geelong, recording three outs with nine pitches. Geelong overtook Ringwood with a five-spot in the fourth. Patrick Grimmer started things off with a single, while Jet Quach came up afterwards and reached on an error. Three consecutive walks tied the game, while an error and Hayden Peoples big single gave Geelong the push they needed. Noah Brennan closed the game for Geelong, protecting their newfound lead with three strikeouts.
Tipping was dependable on the mound for Geelong, throwing seven first-pitch strikes and three strikeouts across three innings.
Game 6
Latrobe Valley vs. Diamond Valley
3 11
Coming off a narrow comeback win against Dandenong, Diamond Valley made the most of their recipe for success: hard hitting and defensive skill. They gave up zero errors compared to Latrobe Valley's two, and they collected seven hits to help them score 11 runs.
Their offense got started right away, putting five up in the first frame on four walks, a dropped 3rd strike and a hit by pitch. Five runs scored with no hits gave Diamond Valley the determination to keep chipping away at it, and that they did, giving up just one in the bottom of the first on Josh Burgar's RBI double, before extending their lead in the top of the second. Back-to-back doubles by Angelina Kichakov and David Carroll made it 6-1. Campbell Every had a 2-out single but Diamond Valley's offense was retired until the next inning.
Latrobe Valley scored their final runs in the bottom of the second as batters Sebastian Battista and Anthony Smith had big hits. The 6-3 score was quickly replaced in the top of the third with an even larger advantage as Declan Spires had a drive line double and Thomas Medland singled to make it 8-3. Carroll and Every had additional hits on the day as Diamond Valley came away with the win, 11-3.
Another standout for Diamond Valley is Keeley Harrison, who threw three innings and had nine first-pitch strikes and four strikeouts in the Latrobe Valley game.
Game 7
Dandenong vs. Latrobe Valley
6 5
Latrobe Valley fought long and hard, but ultimately fell to this Dandenong side determined to get a win after starting their day with a loss and a tie. Jacob Dickinson doubled to left to score Josh Burgar for the first run of the game, giving Latrobe Valley an early lead that didn't last long.
Dandenong answered with two of their own in the bottom frame, thanks to Nick Bertucci's RBI double and a groundout from Jack Conell. Latrobe Valley tied things up at two apiece in the second when Felicity Clissold singled on a ground ball to left field. Latrobe's Mitch McGrath had two strikeouts in the bottom of the second before Dandenong loaded the bases. They went on to score four runs with two outs, including a hard-hit double from Angelo Reale Rontos and Callum Fulcher's single.
Latrobe Valley wasn't going down without a fight, tacking on one more in the third to make it 6-3, and they came within one run in the fourth inning. Dandenong buckled down to hold on for the win, with pitcher Tyler Memery recording the final out.
Dandenong just had four hits in the day while Latrobe Valley had three, and Dandenong struggled in the field making six errors compared to Latrobe's two. Despite some defensive miscues, Dandenong was able to get the job done when it mattered and come away with the win.
Game 8
Diamond Valley vs. Geelong
10 9
The highly competitive matchup between these two undefeated sides was full of spirit and sportmanship, with lots of cheering as both teams battled valiantly to come out with the win.
In the end Diamond Valley brought home the go-ahead run, despite Geelong's best efforts to stop them. Geelong got on the board in the first inning with three runs on hits from Darcy Stack, Harry Fitzgerland and Patrick Grimmer. Diamond Valley kept up the pace with four runs of their own in the bottom frame. From there it was back and forth as each team had their offense clicking on all cylinders.
Geelong put themselves in a good position following the top of the third with four-run lead, but Diamond Valley kept at it and Max Corcoran singled in the go-ahead run for Diamond Valley.
Game 9
Ringwood vs. Sunraysia
2 5
Sunraysia took a one-run lead early, and they kept tacking on runs as Ringwood fell behind and couldn't make up the deficit. Bailey Edgar and Jackson Malycha both had two hits for Sunraysia, while Home Run Derby participant Harry Elustondo batted in both of Ringwood's runs.
Sunraysia collected eight hits on their way to victory, compared to just two for Ringwood. They also made three errors in the field, giving Sunraysia the chance to score and ultimately improve their record to 1-1-1.
For updates and photos on the 2019 U16 State Winter Championships, please visit the Baseball Victoria Facebook Page HERE.
Game 4
Sunraysia vs. Dandenong
7 7
This was a highly competitive matchup between two teams determined to get a win on the board after losing their opening games. Sunraysia dominated for much of the game, but Dandenong didn't give up, eventually coming back to tie the game.
Dandenong started the game with a double from Nick Bertucci, and he quickly came around to score. Sunraysia evened things up in the bottom frame, with their first six batters getting on base before an out was finally recorded. Rahmen Martinez, Jackson Malycha and Colby Lawton all had hits in the inning as Sunraysia earned some breathing room with a 5-1 lead.
Ryan Lewandowski led off the top of the second with a single for Dandenong, followed by a walk for Damien Bodey. The next two batters were retired quickly by Sunraysia, but Dandenong managed to score two runs with two outs to make it 5-3. Sunraysia answered in the bottom frame with two walks and a double by Blake Peterson. The score was 6-3 in Sunraysia's favour heading into the top of the third, when Peterson got three outs on 13 pitches. By the end of the third,
Sunraysia was ahead by four runs. That didn't last long, as Dandenong put together an electric fourth inning with four walks and a single by Nick Bertucci to tie up the game. Sunraysia tried to pull away in their last at-bats, as Hayden Chase had a lead-off single, but Dandenong shut down their efforts for the game to end in a tie, much to the cheers of a delighted crowded. Sunraysia's Peterson and Dean Bone combined for just four hits allowed and five strikeouts in the game, while Mason Haimona impressed in his 3.1 innings for Dandenong with just two earned runs allowed.
Game 5
Ringwood vs. Geelong
3 6
Ringwood was enjoying a 3-0 lead when Geelong crept back into the game late, earning the win with a strong team effort.
Finley Ronalds-Greatbach started on the mound for Ringwood, retiring three batters on 10 pitchers in the top of the first, including two strikeouts. Ringwood had success in their first at-bats, with two walks and a 2-RBI single for Aden Higgins. Geelong went down quietly in the top of the second, while Ringwood made it 3-0 their next turn at the plate with Elijah Ferguson's single and two walks.
Geelong finally got their offense moving in the top of the third with as two walks and two singles put pressure on Ringwood's pitching for the first time in the game. Jake Elderfield walked as the lead-off batter before two strikeouts. Harper Rickard and Cooper Tipping had back-to-back singles to get Geelong on the board, making the score 3-1.
With a comeback in mind, Tipping did his job on the mound for Geelong, recording three outs with nine pitches. Geelong overtook Ringwood with a five-spot in the fourth. Patrick Grimmer started things off with a single, while Jet Quach came up afterwards and reached on an error. Three consecutive walks tied the game, while an error and Hayden Peoples big single gave Geelong the push they needed. Noah Brennan closed the game for Geelong, protecting their newfound lead with three strikeouts.
Tipping was dependable on the mound for Geelong, throwing seven first-pitch strikes and three strikeouts across three innings.
Game 6
Latrobe Valley vs. Diamond Valley
3 11
Coming off a narrow comeback win against Dandenong, Diamond Valley made the most of their recipe for success: hard hitting and defensive skill. They gave up zero errors compared to Latrobe Valley's two, and they collected seven hits to help them score 11 runs.
Their offense got started right away, putting five up in the first frame on four walks, a dropped 3rd strike and a hit by pitch. Five runs scored with no hits gave Diamond Valley the determination to keep chipping away at it, and that they did, giving up just one in the bottom of the first on Josh Burgar's RBI double, before extending their lead in the top of the second. Back-to-back doubles by Angelina Kichakov and David Carroll made it 6-1. Campbell Every had a 2-out single but Diamond Valley's offense was retired until the next inning.
Latrobe Valley scored their final runs in the bottom of the second as batters Sebastian Battista and Anthony Smith had big hits. The 6-3 score was quickly replaced in the top of the third with an even larger advantage as Declan Spires had a drive line double and Thomas Medland singled to make it 8-3. Carroll and Every had additional hits on the day as Diamond Valley came away with the win, 11-3.
Another standout for Diamond Valley is Keeley Harrison, who threw three innings and had nine first-pitch strikes and four strikeouts in the Latrobe Valley game.
Game 7
Dandenong vs. Latrobe Valley
6 5
Latrobe Valley fought long and hard, but ultimately fell to this Dandenong side determined to get a win after starting their day with a loss and a tie. Jacob Dickinson doubled to left to score Josh Burgar for the first run of the game, giving Latrobe Valley an early lead that didn't last long.
Dandenong answered with two of their own in the bottom frame, thanks to Nick Bertucci's RBI double and a groundout from Jack Conell. Latrobe Valley tied things up at two apiece in the second when Felicity Clissold singled on a ground ball to left field. Latrobe's Mitch McGrath had two strikeouts in the bottom of the second before Dandenong loaded the bases. They went on to score four runs with two outs, including a hard-hit double from Angelo Reale Rontos and Callum Fulcher's single.
Latrobe Valley wasn't going down without a fight, tacking on one more in the third to make it 6-3, and they came within one run in the fourth inning. Dandenong buckled down to hold on for the win, with pitcher Tyler Memery recording the final out.
Dandenong just had four hits in the day while Latrobe Valley had three, and Dandenong struggled in the field making six errors compared to Latrobe's two. Despite some defensive miscues, Dandenong was able to get the job done when it mattered and come away with the win.
Game 8
Diamond Valley vs. Geelong
10 9
The highly competitive matchup between these two undefeated sides was full of spirit and sportmanship, with lots of cheering as both teams battled valiantly to come out with the win.
In the end Diamond Valley brought home the go-ahead run, despite Geelong's best efforts to stop them. Geelong got on the board in the first inning with three runs on hits from Darcy Stack, Harry Fitzgerland and Patrick Grimmer. Diamond Valley kept up the pace with four runs of their own in the bottom frame. From there it was back and forth as each team had their offense clicking on all cylinders.
Geelong put themselves in a good position following the top of the third with four-run lead, but Diamond Valley kept at it and Max Corcoran singled in the go-ahead run for Diamond Valley.
Game 9
Ringwood vs. Sunraysia
2 5
Sunraysia took a one-run lead early, and they kept tacking on runs as Ringwood fell behind and couldn't make up the deficit. Bailey Edgar and Jackson Malycha both had two hits for Sunraysia, while Home Run Derby participant Harry Elustondo batted in both of Ringwood's runs.
Sunraysia collected eight hits on their way to victory, compared to just two for Ringwood. They also made three errors in the field, giving Sunraysia the chance to score and ultimately improve their record to 1-1-1.
For updates and photos on the 2019 U16 State Winter Championships, please visit the Baseball Victoria Facebook Page HERE.
Game 5
Ringwood vs. Geelong
3 6
Ringwood was enjoying a 3-0 lead when Geelong crept back into the game late, earning the win with a strong team effort.
Finley Ronalds-Greatbach started on the mound for Ringwood, retiring three batters on 10 pitchers in the top of the first, including two strikeouts. Ringwood had success in their first at-bats, with two walks and a 2-RBI single for Aden Higgins. Geelong went down quietly in the top of the second, while Ringwood made it 3-0 their next turn at the plate with Elijah Ferguson's single and two walks.
Geelong finally got their offense moving in the top of the third with as two walks and two singles put pressure on Ringwood's pitching for the first time in the game. Jake Elderfield walked as the lead-off batter before two strikeouts. Harper Rickard and Cooper Tipping had back-to-back singles to get Geelong on the board, making the score 3-1.
With a comeback in mind, Tipping did his job on the mound for Geelong, recording three outs with nine pitches. Geelong overtook Ringwood with a five-spot in the fourth. Patrick Grimmer started things off with a single, while Jet Quach came up afterwards and reached on an error. Three consecutive walks tied the game, while an error and Hayden Peoples big single gave Geelong the push they needed. Noah Brennan closed the game for Geelong, protecting their newfound lead with three strikeouts.
Tipping was dependable on the mound for Geelong, throwing seven first-pitch strikes and three strikeouts across three innings.
Game 6
Latrobe Valley vs. Diamond Valley
3 11
Coming off a narrow comeback win against Dandenong, Diamond Valley made the most of their recipe for success: hard hitting and defensive skill. They gave up zero errors compared to Latrobe Valley's two, and they collected seven hits to help them score 11 runs.
Their offense got started right away, putting five up in the first frame on four walks, a dropped 3rd strike and a hit by pitch. Five runs scored with no hits gave Diamond Valley the determination to keep chipping away at it, and that they did, giving up just one in the bottom of the first on Josh Burgar's RBI double, before extending their lead in the top of the second. Back-to-back doubles by Angelina Kichakov and David Carroll made it 6-1. Campbell Every had a 2-out single but Diamond Valley's offense was retired until the next inning.
Latrobe Valley scored their final runs in the bottom of the second as batters Sebastian Battista and Anthony Smith had big hits. The 6-3 score was quickly replaced in the top of the third with an even larger advantage as Declan Spires had a drive line double and Thomas Medland singled to make it 8-3. Carroll and Every had additional hits on the day as Diamond Valley came away with the win, 11-3.
Another standout for Diamond Valley is Keeley Harrison, who threw three innings and had nine first-pitch strikes and four strikeouts in the Latrobe Valley game.
Game 7
Dandenong vs. Latrobe Valley
6 5
Latrobe Valley fought long and hard, but ultimately fell to this Dandenong side determined to get a win after starting their day with a loss and a tie. Jacob Dickinson doubled to left to score Josh Burgar for the first run of the game, giving Latrobe Valley an early lead that didn't last long.
Dandenong answered with two of their own in the bottom frame, thanks to Nick Bertucci's RBI double and a groundout from Jack Conell. Latrobe Valley tied things up at two apiece in the second when Felicity Clissold singled on a ground ball to left field. Latrobe's Mitch McGrath had two strikeouts in the bottom of the second before Dandenong loaded the bases. They went on to score four runs with two outs, including a hard-hit double from Angelo Reale Rontos and Callum Fulcher's single.
Latrobe Valley wasn't going down without a fight, tacking on one more in the third to make it 6-3, and they came within one run in the fourth inning. Dandenong buckled down to hold on for the win, with pitcher Tyler Memery recording the final out.
Dandenong just had four hits in the day while Latrobe Valley had three, and Dandenong struggled in the field making six errors compared to Latrobe's two. Despite some defensive miscues, Dandenong was able to get the job done when it mattered and come away with the win.
Game 8
Diamond Valley vs. Geelong
10 9
The highly competitive matchup between these two undefeated sides was full of spirit and sportmanship, with lots of cheering as both teams battled valiantly to come out with the win.
In the end Diamond Valley brought home the go-ahead run, despite Geelong's best efforts to stop them. Geelong got on the board in the first inning with three runs on hits from Darcy Stack, Harry Fitzgerland and Patrick Grimmer. Diamond Valley kept up the pace with four runs of their own in the bottom frame. From there it was back and forth as each team had their offense clicking on all cylinders.
Geelong put themselves in a good position following the top of the third with four-run lead, but Diamond Valley kept at it and Max Corcoran singled in the go-ahead run for Diamond Valley.
Game 9
Ringwood vs. Sunraysia
2 5
Sunraysia took a one-run lead early, and they kept tacking on runs as Ringwood fell behind and couldn't make up the deficit. Bailey Edgar and Jackson Malycha both had two hits for Sunraysia, while Home Run Derby participant Harry Elustondo batted in both of Ringwood's runs.
Sunraysia collected eight hits on their way to victory, compared to just two for Ringwood. They also made three errors in the field, giving Sunraysia the chance to score and ultimately improve their record to 1-1-1.
For updates and photos on the 2019 U16 State Winter Championships, please visit the Baseball Victoria Facebook Page HERE.
Game 6
Latrobe Valley vs. Diamond Valley
3 11
Coming off a narrow comeback win against Dandenong, Diamond Valley made the most of their recipe for success: hard hitting and defensive skill. They gave up zero errors compared to Latrobe Valley's two, and they collected seven hits to help them score 11 runs.
Their offense got started right away, putting five up in the first frame on four walks, a dropped 3rd strike and a hit by pitch. Five runs scored with no hits gave Diamond Valley the determination to keep chipping away at it, and that they did, giving up just one in the bottom of the first on Josh Burgar's RBI double, before extending their lead in the top of the second. Back-to-back doubles by Angelina Kichakov and David Carroll made it 6-1. Campbell Every had a 2-out single but Diamond Valley's offense was retired until the next inning.
Latrobe Valley scored their final runs in the bottom of the second as batters Sebastian Battista and Anthony Smith had big hits. The 6-3 score was quickly replaced in the top of the third with an even larger advantage as Declan Spires had a drive line double and Thomas Medland singled to make it 8-3. Carroll and Every had additional hits on the day as Diamond Valley came away with the win, 11-3.
Another standout for Diamond Valley is Keeley Harrison, who threw three innings and had nine first-pitch strikes and four strikeouts in the Latrobe Valley game.
Game 7
Dandenong vs. Latrobe Valley
6 5
Latrobe Valley fought long and hard, but ultimately fell to this Dandenong side determined to get a win after starting their day with a loss and a tie. Jacob Dickinson doubled to left to score Josh Burgar for the first run of the game, giving Latrobe Valley an early lead that didn't last long.
Dandenong answered with two of their own in the bottom frame, thanks to Nick Bertucci's RBI double and a groundout from Jack Conell. Latrobe Valley tied things up at two apiece in the second when Felicity Clissold singled on a ground ball to left field. Latrobe's Mitch McGrath had two strikeouts in the bottom of the second before Dandenong loaded the bases. They went on to score four runs with two outs, including a hard-hit double from Angelo Reale Rontos and Callum Fulcher's single.
Latrobe Valley wasn't going down without a fight, tacking on one more in the third to make it 6-3, and they came within one run in the fourth inning. Dandenong buckled down to hold on for the win, with pitcher Tyler Memery recording the final out.
Dandenong just had four hits in the day while Latrobe Valley had three, and Dandenong struggled in the field making six errors compared to Latrobe's two. Despite some defensive miscues, Dandenong was able to get the job done when it mattered and come away with the win.
Game 8
Diamond Valley vs. Geelong
10 9
The highly competitive matchup between these two undefeated sides was full of spirit and sportmanship, with lots of cheering as both teams battled valiantly to come out with the win.
In the end Diamond Valley brought home the go-ahead run, despite Geelong's best efforts to stop them. Geelong got on the board in the first inning with three runs on hits from Darcy Stack, Harry Fitzgerland and Patrick Grimmer. Diamond Valley kept up the pace with four runs of their own in the bottom frame. From there it was back and forth as each team had their offense clicking on all cylinders.
Geelong put themselves in a good position following the top of the third with four-run lead, but Diamond Valley kept at it and Max Corcoran singled in the go-ahead run for Diamond Valley.
Game 9
Ringwood vs. Sunraysia
2 5
Sunraysia took a one-run lead early, and they kept tacking on runs as Ringwood fell behind and couldn't make up the deficit. Bailey Edgar and Jackson Malycha both had two hits for Sunraysia, while Home Run Derby participant Harry Elustondo batted in both of Ringwood's runs.
Sunraysia collected eight hits on their way to victory, compared to just two for Ringwood. They also made three errors in the field, giving Sunraysia the chance to score and ultimately improve their record to 1-1-1.
For updates and photos on the 2019 U16 State Winter Championships, please visit the Baseball Victoria Facebook Page HERE.
Game 7
Dandenong vs. Latrobe Valley
6 5
Latrobe Valley fought long and hard, but ultimately fell to this Dandenong side determined to get a win after starting their day with a loss and a tie. Jacob Dickinson doubled to left to score Josh Burgar for the first run of the game, giving Latrobe Valley an early lead that didn't last long.
Dandenong answered with two of their own in the bottom frame, thanks to Nick Bertucci's RBI double and a groundout from Jack Conell. Latrobe Valley tied things up at two apiece in the second when Felicity Clissold singled on a ground ball to left field. Latrobe's Mitch McGrath had two strikeouts in the bottom of the second before Dandenong loaded the bases. They went on to score four runs with two outs, including a hard-hit double from Angelo Reale Rontos and Callum Fulcher's single.
Latrobe Valley wasn't going down without a fight, tacking on one more in the third to make it 6-3, and they came within one run in the fourth inning. Dandenong buckled down to hold on for the win, with pitcher Tyler Memery recording the final out.
Dandenong just had four hits in the day while Latrobe Valley had three, and Dandenong struggled in the field making six errors compared to Latrobe's two. Despite some defensive miscues, Dandenong was able to get the job done when it mattered and come away with the win.
Game 8
Diamond Valley vs. Geelong
10 9
The highly competitive matchup between these two undefeated sides was full of spirit and sportmanship, with lots of cheering as both teams battled valiantly to come out with the win.
In the end Diamond Valley brought home the go-ahead run, despite Geelong's best efforts to stop them. Geelong got on the board in the first inning with three runs on hits from Darcy Stack, Harry Fitzgerland and Patrick Grimmer. Diamond Valley kept up the pace with four runs of their own in the bottom frame. From there it was back and forth as each team had their offense clicking on all cylinders.
Geelong put themselves in a good position following the top of the third with four-run lead, but Diamond Valley kept at it and Max Corcoran singled in the go-ahead run for Diamond Valley.
Game 9
Ringwood vs. Sunraysia
2 5
Sunraysia took a one-run lead early, and they kept tacking on runs as Ringwood fell behind and couldn't make up the deficit. Bailey Edgar and Jackson Malycha both had two hits for Sunraysia, while Home Run Derby participant Harry Elustondo batted in both of Ringwood's runs.
Sunraysia collected eight hits on their way to victory, compared to just two for Ringwood. They also made three errors in the field, giving Sunraysia the chance to score and ultimately improve their record to 1-1-1.
For updates and photos on the 2019 U16 State Winter Championships, please visit the Baseball Victoria Facebook Page HERE.
Game 8
Diamond Valley vs. Geelong
10 9
The highly competitive matchup between these two undefeated sides was full of spirit and sportmanship, with lots of cheering as both teams battled valiantly to come out with the win.
In the end Diamond Valley brought home the go-ahead run, despite Geelong's best efforts to stop them. Geelong got on the board in the first inning with three runs on hits from Darcy Stack, Harry Fitzgerland and Patrick Grimmer. Diamond Valley kept up the pace with four runs of their own in the bottom frame. From there it was back and forth as each team had their offense clicking on all cylinders.
Geelong put themselves in a good position following the top of the third with four-run lead, but Diamond Valley kept at it and Max Corcoran singled in the go-ahead run for Diamond Valley.
Game 9
Ringwood vs. Sunraysia
2 5
Sunraysia took a one-run lead early, and they kept tacking on runs as Ringwood fell behind and couldn't make up the deficit. Bailey Edgar and Jackson Malycha both had two hits for Sunraysia, while Home Run Derby participant Harry Elustondo batted in both of Ringwood's runs.
Sunraysia collected eight hits on their way to victory, compared to just two for Ringwood. They also made three errors in the field, giving Sunraysia the chance to score and ultimately improve their record to 1-1-1.
For updates and photos on the 2019 U16 State Winter Championships, please visit the Baseball Victoria Facebook Page HERE.
Game 9
Ringwood vs. Sunraysia
2 5
Sunraysia took a one-run lead early, and they kept tacking on runs as Ringwood fell behind and couldn't make up the deficit. Bailey Edgar and Jackson Malycha both had two hits for Sunraysia, while Home Run Derby participant Harry Elustondo batted in both of Ringwood's runs.
Sunraysia collected eight hits on their way to victory, compared to just two for Ringwood. They also made three errors in the field, giving Sunraysia the chance to score and ultimately improve their record to 1-1-1.
For updates and photos on the 2019 U16 State Winter Championships, please visit the Baseball Victoria Facebook Page HERE.
As Acting CEO of Baseball Victoria and on behalf of the Board of Management, I would like to acknowledge the teams who have played at the 2019 Little League, Intermediate League, Junior League and Senior League Nationals across the country.
Congratulations to the players, coaches and staff for representing your charters and our state with passionate baseball, maximum effort and high-quality sportsmanship.
We continue to hear reports that our young baseballers are held in high esteem on and off the field and we are thrilled to see our teams grow in their knowledge of the game and compete at the national level.
Thank you to the parents who continually support their children to pursue their dreams of playing baseball throughout local, regional, state and national levels. Your dedication and sacrifice are always acknowledged and appreciated.
I am proud of all the players and teams who through our state title tournaments have taken up the experience of playing at a national level and I am sure that these individuals will come back to their clubs with a deeper knowledge of the game and themselves.
This year Victoria had ten teams compete at nationals and Sunraysia Baseball League (Mildura) hosted the Australian Intermediate League Championships (AILC) for the first time.
Sunraysia did a fantastic job hosting the tournament which has been dubbed “the friendly” games by those who attended and we look forward to their hospitality for the next three years.
Of course without officials we have no game, so thank you to all our umpires and scorers for a job well done.
The introduction of GameChanger for electronic scoring has introduced a whole new group of people to the art of baseball scoring and also allowed those unable to attend to still keep up with what was happening at each tournament.
The standout performance was from the Southern Mariners Junior League team who after a hard fought final had to settle for the Silver Medal.
Congratulations to all our teams that participated this year.
I’d also like to thank our hard working coaches that ran the Charter Player Development Programs, there were significant changes to the program this year that have been well received and provide a fantastic platform to grow this program further.
Finally, thank you to the Charter committees and the BV District Charter committee. A lot of work goes on behind the scenes to make the charter program run effectively and it can’t be done without the great work of the many volunteers who put their hand up.
Kind Regards,
Jeff Paull - Baseball Victoria Acting CEO
Jeff Paull - Baseball Victoria Acting CEO
11-year-old Will Kent has had a very memorable year thus far. Not only did he get to participate in the Charter Player Development Program and play in the Charter State Championships, but he also headed to Lismore, NSW for the 2019 Australian Little League Championships. His performance at Nationals was impressive, so much so that he earned a spot on Australia’s U12 World Cup Team!
As the only Victorian named to the squad, Will is looking forward to representing his state and his country at the World Baseball Softball Confederation’s U12 Baseball World Cup, which will take place in Tainan, Taiwan from July 26 to August 4. He is one of 18 players on the roster, which was finalized following the Australian Little League Championships in June, and he’s very appreciative of this opportunity. “I’m most excited to wear green and gold representing Australia and meet new people while playing with a really good team,” Will said.
Playing against fellow junior baseball players from around the world will be an amazing experience for Will, who has played for Greenhills Montmorency and Melbourne Baseball Clubs and also participates in cricket and AFL. He says baseball is his favourite, having started tee ball at age 5, and he has big dreams for his future in sport. “I would like to make it to Triple A or the Major Leagues.”
To achieve those goals, Will must continue to practice and train hard, something he’s been doing all year in preparation for these big tournaments. He says he’s made improvements this year throughout his training and playing. “I’ve learned a lot. I feel stronger and fitter, and I’ve worked on my fielding, batting and throwing techniques,” Will said.
Will and his family are thankful for the Victorian development pathway that allowed for him to progress and achieve new things. He will always remember his first time playing in the National Championships last month. “It was really fun hanging out with all the boys and pitching on a mound.”
Not long after the Australian Little League Championships, Will had a sweet surprise for him waiting at home. The talented infielder sat down for dinner with his family when he was handed a letter informing him of his spot on the U12 World Cup roster.
“He just had this look of shock on his face and he read it again like he didn’t believe it,” Will’s dad Andrew said. “It was an amazing moment. We’re very proud.”
Will wasn’t expecting to make the squad as Eastern Athletics finished 12th in the tournament, but Team Australia officials had their eyes on the talented infielder. Now he’s busy hitting, throwing and running to prepare for the World Cup, even finding time for training on a recent family vacation to Hawaii.
Will names his father and coach as sources of inspiration, and he also looks up to his uncle and fellow Team Australia representative James Beresford. Plus, senior players like Mitch Ellis and Sam Kennelly are happy to help Will when he needs it. “I train with the seniors sometimes, so they usually help me with my hitting and give me some tips.”
His hard work is paying off, according to his dad who says he’s seen positive change and growth in his son over the past 12 months. “He’s really jumped ahead leaps and bounds, even from the State Tournament to the National Tournament,” Andrew said. “With the training we’re doing twice a week and the Charter Player Development Program, it’s really lifted him up a number of notches. He’s thinking more about his baseball, he’s stronger and fitter and knows how to warm up properly.”
Watching their son getting better and better in a sport he loves is so rewarding for his parents. “We didn’t even know there was an U12 Australian Team or a tournament, so it was a great surprise and we were very proud,” Andrew said. “I just hope he enjoys the sport as much as I have over the years, and works as hard as he can to achieve whatever is possible.”
Whether he makes it in the Majors or stays a local baseballer, Will’s parents will be so proud and happy for their son. “I want him to enjoy it all and develop the friendships I’ve made through it.”
Baseball Victoria is excited to announce two new sponsorships with Glenferrie Sports and Spinal Clinic and Symmetry Physiotherapy.
Glenferrie Sports and Spinal Clinic and Symmetry Physiotherapy are dual preferred physiotherapy partners of Baseball Victoria. These two leaders in sports medicine and physiotherapy will provide an exclusive discount to all Baseball Victoria Aces Academy and Charter Academy athletes.
Baseball Victoria is pleased to partner with these two established businesses that play such an important role in the lives of Victorian athletes. Glenferrie Sports and Spinal Clinic is a sports medical practice that operates out of the Hawthorn Aquatic and Leisure Centre, providing services such as Physiotherapy, Hydrotherapy, Sports Physicians, Podiatry, Sports Massage, Sports Chiropractic, Nutrition and Naturopathy. Physiotherapy services also operate out of Glenferrie Private Hospital. Their mission is to provide patients with the best health and wellbeing services and they work with athletes to achieve the best physical condition possible, whether it’s following surgery, injury or day-to-day soreness.
“We are ready to make the most of this opportunity to further engage with Victorian baseball players and help these talented athletes as they continue to develop their skills,” Matt Hopkinson, Principal at Glenferrie Sports and Spinal Clinic, said. “Our physiotherapy services can have a profound impact on the lives of athletes, and we are excited about our future work with Victorian baseball.”
Symmetry Physiotherapy is the leading healthcare provider in western and north western suburbs with 8 convenient locations. The team at Symmetry Physio have had experience working with both professional and recreational athletes and a strong understanding of rehabilitation and performance. Along with sporting injuries Symmetry Physiotherapy specialise in the management of back pain, headaches, shoulder impingement, knee injuries, neck pain, sciatica, ankle injuries, scoliosis, whiplash, tennis elbow and more. “We are thrilled to embark on this new partnership with Baseball Victoria, and we look forward to serving more Victorian baseball players,” Tyron Saunders, Director of Symmetry Physiotherapy, said. “We are committed to providing the highest level of care while promoting healthy, active lifestyles.”
Symmetry Physiotherapy is the leading healthcare provider in western and north western suburbs with 8 convenient locations. The team at Symmetry Physio have had experience working with both professional and recreational athletes and a strong understanding of rehabilitation and performance. Along with sporting injuries Symmetry Physiotherapy specialise in the management of back pain, headaches, shoulder impingement, knee injuries, neck pain, sciatica, ankle injuries, scoliosis, whiplash, tennis elbow and more. “We are thrilled to embark on this new partnership with Baseball Victoria, and we look forward to serving more Victorian baseball players,” Tyron Saunders, Director of Symmetry Physiotherapy, said. “We are committed to providing the highest level of care while promoting healthy, active lifestyles.”
These sponsorships will directly benefit young Victorian baseball players in Baseball Victoria’s Development Pathway. “It’s fantastic to have both Glenferrie Sports and Spinal Clinic and Symmetry Physiotherapy on board,” Baseball Victoria Acting CEO Jeff Paull said. “This will be a great year with our dual preferred physiotherapy partners providing much-needed services to our athletes as they continue to progress toward their baseball goals.”
If you visit Glenferrie Spinal and Sports Clinic or Symmetry Physiotherapy, don’t forget to mention you’re a Baseball Victoria member.
For more details on Glenferrie Spinal and Sports Clinic, please visit: http://glenferriessc.com.au/
For more information on Symmetry Physiotherapy, please visit: https://symmetry.physio/
Prime Minister Scott Morrison visited the Cronulla Little League team today ahead of their trip to the US for the Little League World Series next month.
Cronulla will represent Australia Region for a second time at the Little League World Series in Williamsport, Pennsylvania, from August 15-25.
“I’m really proud of what you achieved,” Mr Morrison told the players.
“I was blown away (when I heard) … for one of our teams from down here to not only win at the state level, but then win nationals.”
“I would love, next time I see President Trump, to be able to say ‘my Cronulla boys are World Series champions’.
“I would love to tell him that, I reckon that would be awesome because he loves winners.”
Cronulla punched its World Series ticket by claiming gold at the 2019 Australian Little League Championship in Lismore last month.
Cronulla manager Jason Choat said it was a thrill for the players to have a visit from the Prime Minister.
“This is really good, it’s special,” Choat said.
“There’s a lot of things that have been really good but this is a highlight.”
The Little League World Series will be another chance for Australian baseball to shine on the world stage.
West Australia Liam Hendriks yesterday became the third Aussie to feature in the MLB All-Star Game, striking out three of four batters he faced.
It came on the back of Victorian Lewis Thorpe becoming the 34th Australian to play MLB after debuting for Minnesota on June 30.
The Little League World Series features 16 teams – eight from the US and eight from around the world – of players aged 10-12.
Due to previous announcements of changes to the Pennant Committee structure, Baseball Victoria is now accepting nominations for a female representative on the Victorian Summer Baseball League Pennant Committee.
Nominations must be submitted by Monday, 15th July at 5pm. If more than one person is nominated, voting will open on Tuesday the 16th July and will close on Monday the 22nd July at 9am.
Nominations can be submitted via email to Kelsey.quinn@baseballvictoria.com.au.
As a sub-committee of the Board of Baseball Victoria, the VSBL Pennant Committee is an important part of our organization’s ongoing effort to improve the VSBL competition and ensure greater opportunities and a fair and safe competition for all. .
To view the Pennant Committee - Nomination Application, please click HERE.
Due to previous announcements of changes to the Pennant Committee structure, Baseball Victoria is now accepting nominations for a female representative on the Victorian Summer Baseball League Pennant Committee.
Nominations must be submitted by Monday, 15th July at 5pm. If more than one person is nominated, voting will open on Tuesday the 16th July and will close on Monday the 22nd July at 9am.
Nominations can be submitted via email to Kelsey.quinn@baseballvictoria.com.au.
Nominations can be submitted via email to Kelsey.quinn@baseballvictoria.com.au.
As a sub-committee of the Board of Baseball Victoria, the VSBL Pennant Committee is an important part of our organization’s ongoing effort to improve the VSBL competition and ensure greater opportunities and a fair and safe competition for all. .
To view the Pennant Committee - Nomination Application, please click HERE.
The 2019 U18 State Winter Championships hosted by Sunraysia Baseball League wrapped up on Sunday with wet weather slowing things down. Off-and-on heavy rain showers throughout the day had an impact on the completion of games, as grounds crews worked diligently to try and keep the fields in a suitable playing condition.
The first two games of the day finished early, with Geelong and Ringwood taking away victories. By 11:15 am, Field 2 was deemed unplayable for the rest of the day. The Geelong vs. Dandenong game was moved to Field 1 scheduled at 1:15pm following the conclusion of the Latrobe Valley vs. Sunraysia game.
Another heavy downpour halted the Geelong vs. Dandenong game when it was still the top of the first, and the game was called with Geelong being crowned champions as they had a 3-0 record round robin record. Dandenong finished in second place with a 2-1 record, with Ringwood, Sunraysia and Latrobe Valley rounding out the final standings.
Well done to all the teams that participated and the volunteers who made it all possible. Congratulations Geelong on a well-earned championship!
Game 7
Latrobe Valley vs. Geelong
2 5
After a slight rain delay, the battle between undefeated Geelong and a winless Latrobe Valley side got underway. Geelong started things off right with a single by Nicholas Zanghi and three walks as they went up 1-0 in the top of the first. Latrobe Valley had a quick response, tying things up in the bottom half of the inning. Zanghi's second single of the day boosted Geelong in the top of the second as they took a 5-1 lead. Latrobe Valley put one on the board in the bottom of the second, but persistent rain halted the game and Geelong came away with their third victory of the tournament.
Game 8
Ringwood vs. Sunraysia
4 0
These two teams kept warm during the rain delay with a fun game of wiffle ball, and they carried their competitive spirit through to the actual game with some impressive pitching performances. The Home Run Derby participants from both teams - Raiden Wakefield of Sunraysia and Damon Hill of Ringwood - had singles in their first at-bats, but the scoring didn't happen until the second. That's when Ringwood's Rhys Saultry led off with a triple to right, coming around to score on a sacrifice fly by Aiden Higgins. By the end of the inning, it was 2-0 in favour of Ringwood.
Damon Hill recorded a groundout and two strikeouts on 11 pitches to bring Ringwood back up to bat in the bottom of the third. Declan O'Connor led things off with a walk, followed by back-to-back singles from Damon Hill and Joshua White to make it 3-0. Ringwood added one more for a 4-0 lead when the game was called. In his three innings on the mound, Hill gave up just two hits while striking out six, another excellent performance that helped him earn the All-Star Player honour for Ringwood.
Ringwood vs. Sunraysia
4 0
These two teams kept warm during the rain delay with a fun game of wiffle ball, and they carried their competitive spirit through to the actual game with some impressive pitching performances. The Home Run Derby participants from both teams - Raiden Wakefield of Sunraysia and Damon Hill of Ringwood - had singles in their first at-bats, but the scoring didn't happen until the second. That's when Ringwood's Rhys Saultry led off with a triple to right, coming around to score on a sacrifice fly by Aiden Higgins. By the end of the inning, it was 2-0 in favour of Ringwood.
Damon Hill recorded a groundout and two strikeouts on 11 pitches to bring Ringwood back up to bat in the bottom of the third. Declan O'Connor led things off with a walk, followed by back-to-back singles from Damon Hill and Joshua White to make it 3-0. Ringwood added one more for a 4-0 lead when the game was called. In his three innings on the mound, Hill gave up just two hits while striking out six, another excellent performance that helped him earn the All-Star Player honour for Ringwood.
Game 9
Sunraysia vs. Latrobe Valley
12 0
Sunraysia ended their 2019 U18 campaign on a high note with a huge win over Latrobe Valley. Raiden Wakefield had three hits and Jack Barrot had 2 RBI's as Sunraysia collected 10 hits in total while holding Latrobe Valley to just two.
Felicity Clissold led off with a walk and Joel Hector singled for Latrobe Valley's first turn at the plate, but they couldn't get any runs on the board. Sunraysia's scoring started in the first with Wakefield's single, Barrot's double and Joel Trevaskis' triple. They were up 4-0 by the time the inning was over.
Barrot continued to hold things down on the mound for Sunraysia, striking out three in the second inning. Hector and the Latrobe Valley defence kept Sunraysia quiet in the bottom of the second, but Sunraysia plated two more in the third with a big double from Trevaskis, his second huge hit of the game.
Nathan Keilar had Latrobe Valley's second hit of the game in the top of the fourth, but Sunraysia would double their lead in the bottom frame on 2-out hits from Wakefield, Lachlan Scott, Ronan Scott and Chase Hayden.
Despite the loss, Hector had an impressive 10 first pitch strikes and six strikeouts, while Barrot gave up just one hit with three strikeouts in three innings.
Game 9
Sunraysia vs. Latrobe Valley
12 0
Sunraysia ended their 2019 U18 campaign on a high note with a huge win over Latrobe Valley. Raiden Wakefield had three hits and Jack Barrot had 2 RBI's as Sunraysia collected 10 hits in total while holding Latrobe Valley to just two.
Felicity Clissold led off with a walk and Joel Hector singled for Latrobe Valley's first turn at the plate, but they couldn't get any runs on the board. Sunraysia's scoring started in the first with Wakefield's single, Barrot's double and Joel Trevaskis' triple. They were up 4-0 by the time the inning was over.
Barrot continued to hold things down on the mound for Sunraysia, striking out three in the second inning. Hector and the Latrobe Valley defence kept Sunraysia quiet in the bottom of the second, but Sunraysia plated two more in the third with a big double from Trevaskis, his second huge hit of the game.
Nathan Keilar had Latrobe Valley's second hit of the game in the top of the fourth, but Sunraysia would double their lead in the bottom frame on 2-out hits from Wakefield, Lachlan Scott, Ronan Scott and Chase Hayden.
Despite the loss, Hector had an impressive 10 first pitch strikes and six strikeouts, while Barrot gave up just one hit with three strikeouts in three innings.
Game 10
Geelong vs. Dandenong
0 0
Rain interrupted this game within the first few minutes, and continuous downpour left the field flooded and unplayable. Geelong was named champions with their undefeated record, a sweet finish to a tournament in which their teamwork and dedication was evident from the start.
Please view more photos from this weekend on the Baseball Victoria Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/pg/BaseballVictoria/photos
Geelong vs. Dandenong
0 0
Rain interrupted this game within the first few minutes, and continuous downpour left the field flooded and unplayable. Geelong was named champions with their undefeated record, a sweet finish to a tournament in which their teamwork and dedication was evident from the start.
Please view more photos from this weekend on the Baseball Victoria Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/pg/BaseballVictoria/photos
The 2019 U18 State Winter Championships, hosted by Sunraysia Baseball League, began in Mildura on Saturday with six action-packed games and a thrilling Home Run Derby sponsored by Ausport. It was a beautiful winter day with plenty of sunshine and warm weather to keep players and spectators happy, and we're looking forward to Day 2 and finals tomorrow. Catch up on all the results below:
Game 1
Dandenong vs. Sunraysia
4 8
Lachlan Scott had two singles and a triple for 4 RBI's as Sunraysia beat Dandenong in their first game of the 2019 U18 State Winter Championships
On a sunny morning in Mildura, Sunraysia jumped out to an early lead, scoring four runs in the second to get the game started off right. Three walks and a scorching triple from Lachlan Scott gave Sunraysia a 4-0 advantage, but Dandenong cut their lead in half in the bottom frame. Lili Cavanagh had a 2-RBI single for Dandenong in the first.
It looked like Sunraysia would score again in the top of the second, with three straight singles from Frank Zaccone, Raiden Wakefield and Jack Barrot. Dandenong buckled down, with Cavanagh on the mound as they secured two quick outs to shut down the scoring attempts. It was a similar story for Dandenong their next time up to bat, with two singles and a walk not enough to bring runners around.
Sunraysia loaded the bases in the top of the third with walks from Rahmen Martinez and Cody Morrish, followed by another solid hit from Scott. Zach Stainer singled to make it 5-2, but that's all Sunraysia would get in the inning. Joel Trevaskis struck out three Dandenong batters in the bottom of the third to protect his team's lead. Sunraysia kept it rolling, making it 7-2 in the top of the fourth with a string of two-out singles by Trevaskis, Martinez, Morrish and Scott.
Dandenong got two back, but it wasn't enough to slow down Sunraysia. A dependable Sunraysia pitching trio of Wakefield, Trevaskis and Scott combined for 10 strikeouts and just 4 hits allowed, compared to 11 hits given up by Dandenong's pitchers.
Game 1
Dandenong vs. Sunraysia
4 8
Lachlan Scott had two singles and a triple for 4 RBI's as Sunraysia beat Dandenong in their first game of the 2019 U18 State Winter Championships
On a sunny morning in Mildura, Sunraysia jumped out to an early lead, scoring four runs in the second to get the game started off right. Three walks and a scorching triple from Lachlan Scott gave Sunraysia a 4-0 advantage, but Dandenong cut their lead in half in the bottom frame. Lili Cavanagh had a 2-RBI single for Dandenong in the first.
Lachlan Scott had two singles and a triple for 4 RBI's as Sunraysia beat Dandenong in their first game of the 2019 U18 State Winter Championships
It looked like Sunraysia would score again in the top of the second, with three straight singles from Frank Zaccone, Raiden Wakefield and Jack Barrot. Dandenong buckled down, with Cavanagh on the mound as they secured two quick outs to shut down the scoring attempts. It was a similar story for Dandenong their next time up to bat, with two singles and a walk not enough to bring runners around.
Sunraysia loaded the bases in the top of the third with walks from Rahmen Martinez and Cody Morrish, followed by another solid hit from Scott. Zach Stainer singled to make it 5-2, but that's all Sunraysia would get in the inning. Joel Trevaskis struck out three Dandenong batters in the bottom of the third to protect his team's lead. Sunraysia kept it rolling, making it 7-2 in the top of the fourth with a string of two-out singles by Trevaskis, Martinez, Morrish and Scott.
Dandenong got two back, but it wasn't enough to slow down Sunraysia. A dependable Sunraysia pitching trio of Wakefield, Trevaskis and Scott combined for 10 strikeouts and just 4 hits allowed, compared to 11 hits given up by Dandenong's pitchers.
Game 2
Latrobe Valley vs. Ringwood
5 6
A two-run homer by Damon Hill saw Ringwood take a late lead over Latrobe Valley in their first game of the tournament.
Joel Hector started for Latrobe Valley, retiring Ringwood's batters in the first without any dramas. Latrobe Valley hopped on the board in the bottom half with Kade Eicke's double. Ringwood made it 2-1 in the top of the second with an RBI single from Hannah Sowden. Ringwood's pitcher Becky Petty kept Latrobe Valley off the board in the bottom of the second, and it wasn't until the bottom of the third that they struck again. Four walks, an error and another hit from Eicke brought the score up to 5-1 in favor of Latrobe Valley.
Ringwood wasn't done yet though, and they engineered an impressive comeback in the top of the fourth to win their opening game. Declan O'Connor had an RBI single and a few errors and walks brought Ringwood within one run. That's when Damon Hill smashed an inside-the-park home run to score the go-ahead run, putting Ringwood in front 6-5. Two strikeouts and a groundout in their last at-bats sealed Latrobe Valley's fate.
Hector, Eicke and Felicity Clissold pitched well for Latrobe Valley despite the loss, earning a combined total of seven strikeouts. Ringwood's pitching staff of Petty, Aaron Wawra and Aden Higgins also got the job done with eight strikeouts overall.
Game 3
Ringwood vs. Dandenong
1 12
Despite a thrilling comeback win in their first game, Ringwood's momentum didn't last long as Dandenong got the better of them in their second game. Ringwood struggled to find their groove against this strong Dandenong side, a team that was determined to bounce back after an 8-4 loss to Sunraysia to start the day.
After a scoreless first inning, Dandenong got a run in the second, and they tacked on another four in the third on a hit from Mitchell Shane and several walks and a hit by pitch. Ringwood responded with their sole run of the game in the bottom of the third. That was all they'd get as Dandenong continued dominating at the plate and on the mound.
Lachlan Klauer and Joshua Tribe had RBI singles in the seven-run 4th inning as Dandenong secured a 12-1 victory. Rhys Fairweather had a great pitching performance, throwing six first-pitch strikes in 2.2 innings with six strikeouts and one earned run.
Game 4
Sunraysia vs. Geelong
2 17
Geelong opened their tournament play with a massive win, tallying 17 runs on 9 hits against Sunraysia. Cooper Rickard led the way with 4 RBI's, and Jack Northfield served as a valuable assset to the team, fulfilling his bat boy duties with awesome enthusiasm in the dugout and on the field.
James Lappin doubled in the first and Brody Stokoe singled to give Geelong a 4-0 lead. Sunraysia tried to keep up, scoring two in the bottom of the first, but then their bats were silenced from then on as Geelong ran away with it. Cooper Rickard smashed a 3-RBI double in the top of the second as they plated six. It was a similar story in the third with five runs scored on hits from Joshua Byrne, Travis Duxson, Stokoe and Nicholas Zanghi. Harvey Browne knocked the last two runs in during the fourth inning as well.
Sunraysia pitchers gave up nine hits and 12 walks in the game, giving Geelong plenty of scoring chances. Meanwhile Geelong's pitching duo of Rickard and Sebastian Dew covered things well, giving up just five hits altogether, a result they will hope to replicate in their upcoming games.
Game 5
Geelong vs. Ringwood
10 0
Geelong put on quite the show in their final game of Day 1, throwing a combined no-hitter against a Ringwood side that struggled throughout the game. A trio of pitchers made up by Travis Duxson, Joshua Byrne and Hudson Carter completely shut out Ringwood, giving up just a handful of walks in the game while striking out six. While Ringwood's pitchers also recorded six strikeouts on the day, they couldn't keep Geelong from scoring in every inning.
Will Brennan had an RBI single in the bottom of the second as Geelong did a great job of getting on base, working the count and extending their lead to 7-0. An error and Josh Byrne's double in the bottom of fourth made it 10-0 in favour of Geelong, a result Ringwood couldn't change in their last at-bats. This result gave Geelong a first-place record for Day 1 with two wins and no losses, while Ringwood is sitting at 1-2 in fourth place.
Game 6
Dandenong vs. Latrobe Valley
18 2
Dandenong kept on cruising with a huge win over Latrobe Valley, with Elliot Andersen leading the way with 3 RBI's and Lachlan Klauer coming in close behind with 2 RBI's of his own.
Latrobe Valley got on the board first with one run in the opening frame, but from then on out it was all Dandenong. They put up six in the first inning, with four walks, an error and a big hit off the bat of Mitchell Shane. Latrobe Valley was able to get one back in the top of the second, but their scoring was stopped there.
Andersen had a single in the bottom of the second as Dandenong worked their way to an 11-2 advantage. Despite taking three straight walks in the next frame, Latrobe Valley couldn't bring their runners around to get back in the game. Dandenong kept at it in the bottom of the third, with Lili Cavanagh leading off with a single, followed by a walk from Joshua Tribe and Klauer's 2-RBI single. Multiple walks and hit by pitch batters propelled Dandenong to the 18-2 final victory.
Klauer not only had a great game at the plate, but he also pitched well, handling things on the mound with five strikeouts in 2.2 innings. This result put Dandenong in second place behind Geelong with a 2-1 record, while Latrobe Valley sits in fifth at 0-2 heading into Sunday's big day of finals.
Home Run Derby Sponsored by Ausport
The Baseball Victoria Home Run Derby Sponsored by Ausport took place after lunch, with five awesome representatives taking part with their trusty pitchers and catchers. This included Rhys Fairweather (Dandenong), Joel Hector (Latrobe Valley), Brody Stokoe (Geelong), Damon Hill (Ringwood) and Raiden Wakefield (Sunraysia). Damon Hill took home the top prize of a $50 Ausport gift voucher after accumulating the most points in the playoffs.
Well done to all players and teams on a fabulous first day of the 2019 U18 State Winter Championships. For photos and more updates, please visit the Baseball Victoria Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BaseballVictoria/
Game 2
Latrobe Valley vs. Ringwood
5 6
A two-run homer by Damon Hill saw Ringwood take a late lead over Latrobe Valley in their first game of the tournament.
Joel Hector started for Latrobe Valley, retiring Ringwood's batters in the first without any dramas. Latrobe Valley hopped on the board in the bottom half with Kade Eicke's double. Ringwood made it 2-1 in the top of the second with an RBI single from Hannah Sowden. Ringwood's pitcher Becky Petty kept Latrobe Valley off the board in the bottom of the second, and it wasn't until the bottom of the third that they struck again. Four walks, an error and another hit from Eicke brought the score up to 5-1 in favor of Latrobe Valley.
Ringwood wasn't done yet though, and they engineered an impressive comeback in the top of the fourth to win their opening game. Declan O'Connor had an RBI single and a few errors and walks brought Ringwood within one run. That's when Damon Hill smashed an inside-the-park home run to score the go-ahead run, putting Ringwood in front 6-5. Two strikeouts and a groundout in their last at-bats sealed Latrobe Valley's fate.
Hector, Eicke and Felicity Clissold pitched well for Latrobe Valley despite the loss, earning a combined total of seven strikeouts. Ringwood's pitching staff of Petty, Aaron Wawra and Aden Higgins also got the job done with eight strikeouts overall.
A two-run homer by Damon Hill saw Ringwood take a late lead over Latrobe Valley in their first game of the tournament.
Joel Hector started for Latrobe Valley, retiring Ringwood's batters in the first without any dramas. Latrobe Valley hopped on the board in the bottom half with Kade Eicke's double. Ringwood made it 2-1 in the top of the second with an RBI single from Hannah Sowden. Ringwood's pitcher Becky Petty kept Latrobe Valley off the board in the bottom of the second, and it wasn't until the bottom of the third that they struck again. Four walks, an error and another hit from Eicke brought the score up to 5-1 in favor of Latrobe Valley.
Ringwood wasn't done yet though, and they engineered an impressive comeback in the top of the fourth to win their opening game. Declan O'Connor had an RBI single and a few errors and walks brought Ringwood within one run. That's when Damon Hill smashed an inside-the-park home run to score the go-ahead run, putting Ringwood in front 6-5. Two strikeouts and a groundout in their last at-bats sealed Latrobe Valley's fate.
Hector, Eicke and Felicity Clissold pitched well for Latrobe Valley despite the loss, earning a combined total of seven strikeouts. Ringwood's pitching staff of Petty, Aaron Wawra and Aden Higgins also got the job done with eight strikeouts overall.
Game 3
Ringwood vs. Dandenong
1 12
Despite a thrilling comeback win in their first game, Ringwood's momentum didn't last long as Dandenong got the better of them in their second game. Ringwood struggled to find their groove against this strong Dandenong side, a team that was determined to bounce back after an 8-4 loss to Sunraysia to start the day.
After a scoreless first inning, Dandenong got a run in the second, and they tacked on another four in the third on a hit from Mitchell Shane and several walks and a hit by pitch. Ringwood responded with their sole run of the game in the bottom of the third. That was all they'd get as Dandenong continued dominating at the plate and on the mound.
Lachlan Klauer and Joshua Tribe had RBI singles in the seven-run 4th inning as Dandenong secured a 12-1 victory. Rhys Fairweather had a great pitching performance, throwing six first-pitch strikes in 2.2 innings with six strikeouts and one earned run.
Game 4
Sunraysia vs. Geelong
2 17
Geelong opened their tournament play with a massive win, tallying 17 runs on 9 hits against Sunraysia. Cooper Rickard led the way with 4 RBI's, and Jack Northfield served as a valuable assset to the team, fulfilling his bat boy duties with awesome enthusiasm in the dugout and on the field.
James Lappin doubled in the first and Brody Stokoe singled to give Geelong a 4-0 lead. Sunraysia tried to keep up, scoring two in the bottom of the first, but then their bats were silenced from then on as Geelong ran away with it. Cooper Rickard smashed a 3-RBI double in the top of the second as they plated six. It was a similar story in the third with five runs scored on hits from Joshua Byrne, Travis Duxson, Stokoe and Nicholas Zanghi. Harvey Browne knocked the last two runs in during the fourth inning as well.
Sunraysia pitchers gave up nine hits and 12 walks in the game, giving Geelong plenty of scoring chances. Meanwhile Geelong's pitching duo of Rickard and Sebastian Dew covered things well, giving up just five hits altogether, a result they will hope to replicate in their upcoming games.
Game 5
Geelong vs. Ringwood
10 0
Geelong put on quite the show in their final game of Day 1, throwing a combined no-hitter against a Ringwood side that struggled throughout the game. A trio of pitchers made up by Travis Duxson, Joshua Byrne and Hudson Carter completely shut out Ringwood, giving up just a handful of walks in the game while striking out six. While Ringwood's pitchers also recorded six strikeouts on the day, they couldn't keep Geelong from scoring in every inning.
Will Brennan had an RBI single in the bottom of the second as Geelong did a great job of getting on base, working the count and extending their lead to 7-0. An error and Josh Byrne's double in the bottom of fourth made it 10-0 in favour of Geelong, a result Ringwood couldn't change in their last at-bats. This result gave Geelong a first-place record for Day 1 with two wins and no losses, while Ringwood is sitting at 1-2 in fourth place.
Game 6
Dandenong vs. Latrobe Valley
18 2
Dandenong kept on cruising with a huge win over Latrobe Valley, with Elliot Andersen leading the way with 3 RBI's and Lachlan Klauer coming in close behind with 2 RBI's of his own.
Latrobe Valley got on the board first with one run in the opening frame, but from then on out it was all Dandenong. They put up six in the first inning, with four walks, an error and a big hit off the bat of Mitchell Shane. Latrobe Valley was able to get one back in the top of the second, but their scoring was stopped there.
Andersen had a single in the bottom of the second as Dandenong worked their way to an 11-2 advantage. Despite taking three straight walks in the next frame, Latrobe Valley couldn't bring their runners around to get back in the game. Dandenong kept at it in the bottom of the third, with Lili Cavanagh leading off with a single, followed by a walk from Joshua Tribe and Klauer's 2-RBI single. Multiple walks and hit by pitch batters propelled Dandenong to the 18-2 final victory.
Klauer not only had a great game at the plate, but he also pitched well, handling things on the mound with five strikeouts in 2.2 innings. This result put Dandenong in second place behind Geelong with a 2-1 record, while Latrobe Valley sits in fifth at 0-2 heading into Sunday's big day of finals.
Home Run Derby Sponsored by Ausport
The Baseball Victoria Home Run Derby Sponsored by Ausport took place after lunch, with five awesome representatives taking part with their trusty pitchers and catchers. This included Rhys Fairweather (Dandenong), Joel Hector (Latrobe Valley), Brody Stokoe (Geelong), Damon Hill (Ringwood) and Raiden Wakefield (Sunraysia). Damon Hill took home the top prize of a $50 Ausport gift voucher after accumulating the most points in the playoffs.
Well done to all players and teams on a fabulous first day of the 2019 U18 State Winter Championships. For photos and more updates, please visit the Baseball Victoria Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BaseballVictoria/
Game 3
Ringwood vs. Dandenong
1 12
Despite a thrilling comeback win in their first game, Ringwood's momentum didn't last long as Dandenong got the better of them in their second game. Ringwood struggled to find their groove against this strong Dandenong side, a team that was determined to bounce back after an 8-4 loss to Sunraysia to start the day.
After a scoreless first inning, Dandenong got a run in the second, and they tacked on another four in the third on a hit from Mitchell Shane and several walks and a hit by pitch. Ringwood responded with their sole run of the game in the bottom of the third. That was all they'd get as Dandenong continued dominating at the plate and on the mound.
Lachlan Klauer and Joshua Tribe had RBI singles in the seven-run 4th inning as Dandenong secured a 12-1 victory. Rhys Fairweather had a great pitching performance, throwing six first-pitch strikes in 2.2 innings with six strikeouts and one earned run.
Game 4
Sunraysia vs. Geelong
2 17
Geelong opened their tournament play with a massive win, tallying 17 runs on 9 hits against Sunraysia. Cooper Rickard led the way with 4 RBI's, and Jack Northfield served as a valuable assset to the team, fulfilling his bat boy duties with awesome enthusiasm in the dugout and on the field.
James Lappin doubled in the first and Brody Stokoe singled to give Geelong a 4-0 lead. Sunraysia tried to keep up, scoring two in the bottom of the first, but then their bats were silenced from then on as Geelong ran away with it. Cooper Rickard smashed a 3-RBI double in the top of the second as they plated six. It was a similar story in the third with five runs scored on hits from Joshua Byrne, Travis Duxson, Stokoe and Nicholas Zanghi. Harvey Browne knocked the last two runs in during the fourth inning as well.
Sunraysia pitchers gave up nine hits and 12 walks in the game, giving Geelong plenty of scoring chances. Meanwhile Geelong's pitching duo of Rickard and Sebastian Dew covered things well, giving up just five hits altogether, a result they will hope to replicate in their upcoming games.
Game 5
Geelong vs. Ringwood
10 0
Geelong put on quite the show in their final game of Day 1, throwing a combined no-hitter against a Ringwood side that struggled throughout the game. A trio of pitchers made up by Travis Duxson, Joshua Byrne and Hudson Carter completely shut out Ringwood, giving up just a handful of walks in the game while striking out six. While Ringwood's pitchers also recorded six strikeouts on the day, they couldn't keep Geelong from scoring in every inning.
Will Brennan had an RBI single in the bottom of the second as Geelong did a great job of getting on base, working the count and extending their lead to 7-0. An error and Josh Byrne's double in the bottom of fourth made it 10-0 in favour of Geelong, a result Ringwood couldn't change in their last at-bats. This result gave Geelong a first-place record for Day 1 with two wins and no losses, while Ringwood is sitting at 1-2 in fourth place.
Game 6
Dandenong vs. Latrobe Valley
18 2
Dandenong kept on cruising with a huge win over Latrobe Valley, with Elliot Andersen leading the way with 3 RBI's and Lachlan Klauer coming in close behind with 2 RBI's of his own.
Latrobe Valley got on the board first with one run in the opening frame, but from then on out it was all Dandenong. They put up six in the first inning, with four walks, an error and a big hit off the bat of Mitchell Shane. Latrobe Valley was able to get one back in the top of the second, but their scoring was stopped there.
Andersen had a single in the bottom of the second as Dandenong worked their way to an 11-2 advantage. Despite taking three straight walks in the next frame, Latrobe Valley couldn't bring their runners around to get back in the game. Dandenong kept at it in the bottom of the third, with Lili Cavanagh leading off with a single, followed by a walk from Joshua Tribe and Klauer's 2-RBI single. Multiple walks and hit by pitch batters propelled Dandenong to the 18-2 final victory.
Klauer not only had a great game at the plate, but he also pitched well, handling things on the mound with five strikeouts in 2.2 innings. This result put Dandenong in second place behind Geelong with a 2-1 record, while Latrobe Valley sits in fifth at 0-2 heading into Sunday's big day of finals.
Home Run Derby Sponsored by Ausport
The Baseball Victoria Home Run Derby Sponsored by Ausport took place after lunch, with five awesome representatives taking part with their trusty pitchers and catchers. This included Rhys Fairweather (Dandenong), Joel Hector (Latrobe Valley), Brody Stokoe (Geelong), Damon Hill (Ringwood) and Raiden Wakefield (Sunraysia). Damon Hill took home the top prize of a $50 Ausport gift voucher after accumulating the most points in the playoffs.
Well done to all players and teams on a fabulous first day of the 2019 U18 State Winter Championships. For photos and more updates, please visit the Baseball Victoria Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BaseballVictoria/
Game 3
Ringwood vs. Dandenong
1 12
Despite a thrilling comeback win in their first game, Ringwood's momentum didn't last long as Dandenong got the better of them in their second game. Ringwood struggled to find their groove against this strong Dandenong side, a team that was determined to bounce back after an 8-4 loss to Sunraysia to start the day.
After a scoreless first inning, Dandenong got a run in the second, and they tacked on another four in the third on a hit from Mitchell Shane and several walks and a hit by pitch. Ringwood responded with their sole run of the game in the bottom of the third. That was all they'd get as Dandenong continued dominating at the plate and on the mound.
Lachlan Klauer and Joshua Tribe had RBI singles in the seven-run 4th inning as Dandenong secured a 12-1 victory. Rhys Fairweather had a great pitching performance, throwing six first-pitch strikes in 2.2 innings with six strikeouts and one earned run.
Game 4
Sunraysia vs. Geelong
2 17
Geelong opened their tournament play with a massive win, tallying 17 runs on 9 hits against Sunraysia. Cooper Rickard led the way with 4 RBI's, and Jack Northfield served as a valuable assset to the team, fulfilling his bat boy duties with awesome enthusiasm in the dugout and on the field.
James Lappin doubled in the first and Brody Stokoe singled to give Geelong a 4-0 lead. Sunraysia tried to keep up, scoring two in the bottom of the first, but then their bats were silenced from then on as Geelong ran away with it. Cooper Rickard smashed a 3-RBI double in the top of the second as they plated six. It was a similar story in the third with five runs scored on hits from Joshua Byrne, Travis Duxson, Stokoe and Nicholas Zanghi. Harvey Browne knocked the last two runs in during the fourth inning as well.
Sunraysia pitchers gave up nine hits and 12 walks in the game, giving Geelong plenty of scoring chances. Meanwhile Geelong's pitching duo of Rickard and Sebastian Dew covered things well, giving up just five hits altogether, a result they will hope to replicate in their upcoming games.
Game 5
Geelong vs. Ringwood
10 0
Geelong put on quite the show in their final game of Day 1, throwing a combined no-hitter against a Ringwood side that struggled throughout the game. A trio of pitchers made up by Travis Duxson, Joshua Byrne and Hudson Carter completely shut out Ringwood, giving up just a handful of walks in the game while striking out six. While Ringwood's pitchers also recorded six strikeouts on the day, they couldn't keep Geelong from scoring in every inning.
Will Brennan had an RBI single in the bottom of the second as Geelong did a great job of getting on base, working the count and extending their lead to 7-0. An error and Josh Byrne's double in the bottom of fourth made it 10-0 in favour of Geelong, a result Ringwood couldn't change in their last at-bats. This result gave Geelong a first-place record for Day 1 with two wins and no losses, while Ringwood is sitting at 1-2 in fourth place.
Game 6
Dandenong vs. Latrobe Valley
18 2
Dandenong kept on cruising with a huge win over Latrobe Valley, with Elliot Andersen leading the way with 3 RBI's and Lachlan Klauer coming in close behind with 2 RBI's of his own.
Latrobe Valley got on the board first with one run in the opening frame, but from then on out it was all Dandenong. They put up six in the first inning, with four walks, an error and a big hit off the bat of Mitchell Shane. Latrobe Valley was able to get one back in the top of the second, but their scoring was stopped there.
Andersen had a single in the bottom of the second as Dandenong worked their way to an 11-2 advantage. Despite taking three straight walks in the next frame, Latrobe Valley couldn't bring their runners around to get back in the game. Dandenong kept at it in the bottom of the third, with Lili Cavanagh leading off with a single, followed by a walk from Joshua Tribe and Klauer's 2-RBI single. Multiple walks and hit by pitch batters propelled Dandenong to the 18-2 final victory.
Klauer not only had a great game at the plate, but he also pitched well, handling things on the mound with five strikeouts in 2.2 innings. This result put Dandenong in second place behind Geelong with a 2-1 record, while Latrobe Valley sits in fifth at 0-2 heading into Sunday's big day of finals.
Home Run Derby Sponsored by Ausport
The Baseball Victoria Home Run Derby Sponsored by Ausport took place after lunch, with five awesome representatives taking part with their trusty pitchers and catchers. This included Rhys Fairweather (Dandenong), Joel Hector (Latrobe Valley), Brody Stokoe (Geelong), Damon Hill (Ringwood) and Raiden Wakefield (Sunraysia). Damon Hill took home the top prize of a $50 Ausport gift voucher after accumulating the most points in the playoffs.
Well done to all players and teams on a fabulous first day of the 2019 U18 State Winter Championships. For photos and more updates, please visit the Baseball Victoria Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BaseballVictoria/
Game 4
Sunraysia vs. Geelong
2 17
Geelong opened their tournament play with a massive win, tallying 17 runs on 9 hits against Sunraysia. Cooper Rickard led the way with 4 RBI's, and Jack Northfield served as a valuable assset to the team, fulfilling his bat boy duties with awesome enthusiasm in the dugout and on the field.
James Lappin doubled in the first and Brody Stokoe singled to give Geelong a 4-0 lead. Sunraysia tried to keep up, scoring two in the bottom of the first, but then their bats were silenced from then on as Geelong ran away with it. Cooper Rickard smashed a 3-RBI double in the top of the second as they plated six. It was a similar story in the third with five runs scored on hits from Joshua Byrne, Travis Duxson, Stokoe and Nicholas Zanghi. Harvey Browne knocked the last two runs in during the fourth inning as well.
Sunraysia pitchers gave up nine hits and 12 walks in the game, giving Geelong plenty of scoring chances. Meanwhile Geelong's pitching duo of Rickard and Sebastian Dew covered things well, giving up just five hits altogether, a result they will hope to replicate in their upcoming games.
Game 5
Geelong vs. Ringwood
10 0
Geelong put on quite the show in their final game of Day 1, throwing a combined no-hitter against a Ringwood side that struggled throughout the game. A trio of pitchers made up by Travis Duxson, Joshua Byrne and Hudson Carter completely shut out Ringwood, giving up just a handful of walks in the game while striking out six. While Ringwood's pitchers also recorded six strikeouts on the day, they couldn't keep Geelong from scoring in every inning.
Will Brennan had an RBI single in the bottom of the second as Geelong did a great job of getting on base, working the count and extending their lead to 7-0. An error and Josh Byrne's double in the bottom of fourth made it 10-0 in favour of Geelong, a result Ringwood couldn't change in their last at-bats. This result gave Geelong a first-place record for Day 1 with two wins and no losses, while Ringwood is sitting at 1-2 in fourth place.
Game 6
Dandenong vs. Latrobe Valley
18 2
Dandenong kept on cruising with a huge win over Latrobe Valley, with Elliot Andersen leading the way with 3 RBI's and Lachlan Klauer coming in close behind with 2 RBI's of his own.
Latrobe Valley got on the board first with one run in the opening frame, but from then on out it was all Dandenong. They put up six in the first inning, with four walks, an error and a big hit off the bat of Mitchell Shane. Latrobe Valley was able to get one back in the top of the second, but their scoring was stopped there.
Andersen had a single in the bottom of the second as Dandenong worked their way to an 11-2 advantage. Despite taking three straight walks in the next frame, Latrobe Valley couldn't bring their runners around to get back in the game. Dandenong kept at it in the bottom of the third, with Lili Cavanagh leading off with a single, followed by a walk from Joshua Tribe and Klauer's 2-RBI single. Multiple walks and hit by pitch batters propelled Dandenong to the 18-2 final victory.
Klauer not only had a great game at the plate, but he also pitched well, handling things on the mound with five strikeouts in 2.2 innings. This result put Dandenong in second place behind Geelong with a 2-1 record, while Latrobe Valley sits in fifth at 0-2 heading into Sunday's big day of finals.
Home Run Derby Sponsored by Ausport
The Baseball Victoria Home Run Derby Sponsored by Ausport took place after lunch, with five awesome representatives taking part with their trusty pitchers and catchers. This included Rhys Fairweather (Dandenong), Joel Hector (Latrobe Valley), Brody Stokoe (Geelong), Damon Hill (Ringwood) and Raiden Wakefield (Sunraysia). Damon Hill took home the top prize of a $50 Ausport gift voucher after accumulating the most points in the playoffs.
Well done to all players and teams on a fabulous first day of the 2019 U18 State Winter Championships. For photos and more updates, please visit the Baseball Victoria Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BaseballVictoria/
Game 5
Geelong vs. Ringwood
10 0
Geelong put on quite the show in their final game of Day 1, throwing a combined no-hitter against a Ringwood side that struggled throughout the game. A trio of pitchers made up by Travis Duxson, Joshua Byrne and Hudson Carter completely shut out Ringwood, giving up just a handful of walks in the game while striking out six. While Ringwood's pitchers also recorded six strikeouts on the day, they couldn't keep Geelong from scoring in every inning.
Will Brennan had an RBI single in the bottom of the second as Geelong did a great job of getting on base, working the count and extending their lead to 7-0. An error and Josh Byrne's double in the bottom of fourth made it 10-0 in favour of Geelong, a result Ringwood couldn't change in their last at-bats. This result gave Geelong a first-place record for Day 1 with two wins and no losses, while Ringwood is sitting at 1-2 in fourth place.
Game 6
Dandenong vs. Latrobe Valley
18 2
Dandenong kept on cruising with a huge win over Latrobe Valley, with Elliot Andersen leading the way with 3 RBI's and Lachlan Klauer coming in close behind with 2 RBI's of his own.
Latrobe Valley got on the board first with one run in the opening frame, but from then on out it was all Dandenong. They put up six in the first inning, with four walks, an error and a big hit off the bat of Mitchell Shane. Latrobe Valley was able to get one back in the top of the second, but their scoring was stopped there.
Andersen had a single in the bottom of the second as Dandenong worked their way to an 11-2 advantage. Despite taking three straight walks in the next frame, Latrobe Valley couldn't bring their runners around to get back in the game. Dandenong kept at it in the bottom of the third, with Lili Cavanagh leading off with a single, followed by a walk from Joshua Tribe and Klauer's 2-RBI single. Multiple walks and hit by pitch batters propelled Dandenong to the 18-2 final victory.
Klauer not only had a great game at the plate, but he also pitched well, handling things on the mound with five strikeouts in 2.2 innings. This result put Dandenong in second place behind Geelong with a 2-1 record, while Latrobe Valley sits in fifth at 0-2 heading into Sunday's big day of finals.
Home Run Derby Sponsored by Ausport
The Baseball Victoria Home Run Derby Sponsored by Ausport took place after lunch, with five awesome representatives taking part with their trusty pitchers and catchers. This included Rhys Fairweather (Dandenong), Joel Hector (Latrobe Valley), Brody Stokoe (Geelong), Damon Hill (Ringwood) and Raiden Wakefield (Sunraysia). Damon Hill took home the top prize of a $50 Ausport gift voucher after accumulating the most points in the playoffs.
Well done to all players and teams on a fabulous first day of the 2019 U18 State Winter Championships. For photos and more updates, please visit the Baseball Victoria Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BaseballVictoria/
Dandenong vs. Latrobe Valley
18 2
Dandenong kept on cruising with a huge win over Latrobe Valley, with Elliot Andersen leading the way with 3 RBI's and Lachlan Klauer coming in close behind with 2 RBI's of his own.
Latrobe Valley got on the board first with one run in the opening frame, but from then on out it was all Dandenong. They put up six in the first inning, with four walks, an error and a big hit off the bat of Mitchell Shane. Latrobe Valley was able to get one back in the top of the second, but their scoring was stopped there.
Andersen had a single in the bottom of the second as Dandenong worked their way to an 11-2 advantage. Despite taking three straight walks in the next frame, Latrobe Valley couldn't bring their runners around to get back in the game. Dandenong kept at it in the bottom of the third, with Lili Cavanagh leading off with a single, followed by a walk from Joshua Tribe and Klauer's 2-RBI single. Multiple walks and hit by pitch batters propelled Dandenong to the 18-2 final victory.
Klauer not only had a great game at the plate, but he also pitched well, handling things on the mound with five strikeouts in 2.2 innings. This result put Dandenong in second place behind Geelong with a 2-1 record, while Latrobe Valley sits in fifth at 0-2 heading into Sunday's big day of finals.
Home Run Derby Sponsored by Ausport
The Baseball Victoria Home Run Derby Sponsored by Ausport took place after lunch, with five awesome representatives taking part with their trusty pitchers and catchers. This included Rhys Fairweather (Dandenong), Joel Hector (Latrobe Valley), Brody Stokoe (Geelong), Damon Hill (Ringwood) and Raiden Wakefield (Sunraysia). Damon Hill took home the top prize of a $50 Ausport gift voucher after accumulating the most points in the playoffs.
Well done to all players and teams on a fabulous first day of the 2019 U18 State Winter Championships. For photos and more updates, please visit the Baseball Victoria Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BaseballVictoria/