KingCo 4A Awards - Week 1

KingCo 4A Baseball - Players of the Week
Week 1: March 21 - 26, 2011

Crest Division
Player of the Week: Zach Abbruzza, Sr., Redmond
Gonzaga signee Zach Abbruzza has been on a tear all season. The first week of Kingco play was no different as he was 6-7 in a two game week with four of his six hits going for extra bases. He finished the week with two triples, two homeruns, and 10 RBI. Through seven total games, Zach is hitting .714 with 4 HR’s and 24 RBI.

Also nominated: NONE

Pitcher of the Week: Andrew Stull, Jr., Eastlake
Eastlake junior Andrew Stull threw five excellent innings against the Issaquah Eagles. On the day, the right-hander only walked one while striking out three. All three runs scored against Stull were unearned, resulting in a tough luck loss for the junior.

Also nominated: Dylan Davis, Redmond

Crown Division
Player of the Week: Zach Naon, Jr., Roosevelt
Zach Naon receives player of the week honors for the Crown division after a brilliant two game offensive display against Bothell and Garfield. In this first week of KIngCo play, the Roosevelt junior hit .571 going 4-for-7 with a grand slam, 2 doubles, and 6 RBI's. He also stole a base and scored three runs. In total, Naon is slugging .611 with a .333 batting average on the year.

Also nominated: Brian McAfee, Bothell

Pitcher of the Week: Spencer Greer, Jr., Woodinville
Against a highly potent Inglemoor offense, the Woodinville junior pitched himself into Crown Division Pitcher of the Week honors. Greer threw six outstanding innings only allowing one unearned run while striking out eight. The performance led the falcons to a 5-1 win over the rival Vikings.

Also nominated: John Trupin, Garfield

KingCo Blog & the Seattle Times

Mason Kelley from the Seattle Times and I sat down this afternoon to chat about KingCo Baseball, teams from around the state, playoff baseball and the origin of the blog. The video can be viewed below:


I'd like to thank Mason for his time this afternoon and his year-round coverage of high school sports in the area. He does a tremendous job helping get these student-athletes the credit and exposure they deserve. You can check out all of Mason's work on the Seattle Times High School Sports blog and follow him on Twitter @MasonKelley.

First Week of 4A League Play in the Books

Early leaders emerged on Thursday, with Bothell and Redmond both winning key divisional games to stay unbeaten.

4A Crest Division
Redmond 5, Skyline 3 - Senior Zach Abbruzza continued his tear through the first week of KingCo play, homering twice and driving in three runs as Redmond improved to 2-0 in KingCo with a hard-fought 5-3 win over Skyline. Abbruzza, who was 4-for-4 with 7 RBI in Tuesday's win, picked up right where he left off. A two-run blast in the first inning matched the Spartans total in the top of the frame and junior Patrick McGrath tripled home two runs in the third to put the Mustangs ahead for good. Abbruzza added his second home run of the night, providing an insurance run in the fifth inning and all but locking up KingCo 4A Player of the Week honors. Skyline was led once again by the duo of senior Nate Litka (2-for-4, double, 2 RBI) and junior Matt Sinatro (1-for-3, double). 'Stang starter T.J. Whidby recovered from a rough first inning to pick up the win, allowing just the two runs in four innings of work. Senior Michael Conforto struck out the side in the seventh to earn the save, and also had 2 of the Mustang 6 hits on the night. Redmond will take on Newport in a huge divisional clash on Monday.

Issaquah 3, Eastlake 2 - Junior right hander Andrew Kemmerer chipped in on the mound and at the plate for the Eagles, as they notched their first win of the season 3-2 over Eastlake. Kemmerer scattered three hits and three walks over 6 1/3 innings before handing the ball to junior Cole Westover, who slammed the door on the Wolves. Kemmerer also doubled and drove in one of the Eagle runs. Andrew Stull was the tough luck loser, allowing 3 runs in 5 innings. John Armour doubled and drove in both Eastlake runs, keeping his team in the game until the end.

4A Crown Division
Roosevelt 9, Garfield 8 - Junior Zach Naon's grand slam sparked a 6-run fourth inning as the Roughriders evened their KingCo record at 1-1 with a 9-8 win over Garfield. Roosevelt trailed 5-2 headed into the decisive frame where they took a lead they would not relinquish. The Bulldogs fought back to within a run with 2 runs in the top of the seventh, but Spencer Maniccia got the final two outs to save the 'Riders win. Eli Mathieu was 2-for-2 with a double and an RBI to help lead Roosevelt to victory. Zach Ward starred in defeat, finishing the day 3-for-4 with a double and 2 RBI.

Inglemoor 9, Ballard 2 - Senior Connor Savage and junior Perry Pipkin each had three hits in Inglemoor's 16-hit attack as they responded from an opening day conference loss to top the Beavers, 9-2. Senior Emmett Maki was the winning pitcher, tossing 5 shutout innings allowing just 2 hits before handing the ball to junior Lucas Wimmer for the final two frames. Seniors Peter Meuisi and Adam Mosebar each homered, with Mosebar driving in four runs on the afternoon. Ballard's Oliver Guarino provided half of his team's offense with a solo home run in the sixth.

Bothell 5, Woodinville 2 - Sam Lee and Brian McAfee each drove in two runs in a 5-run fifth inning as the Cougars took an early lead in the Crown Division with a 5-2 victory over the rival Falcons. Lee's 2 RBI came on a home run, helping the Cougars in the only inning they would score. Senior southpaw Kevin McShane was the winning pitcher, with Henry Baillargeon surviving a late Woodinville rally for the save. The Falcons loaded the bases with just one out in the final frame, but could not overcome the three-run deficit. Junior T.C. Florentine's two-run home run provided the only Woodinville offense on the day, as they dropped to 1-1 in KingCo play.

Non-League Scores
Mercer Island 10, Franklin 0

KingCo 4A Opening Day

League play started on Tuesday for the 4A clubs, with 10 of the league's 11 teams opening with a conference opponent. Pitching was the theme of the day, as most clubs sent their aces to the hill to try and start the season off with a win. Four of the five league contests saw the winning team allow just one run or less, and we saw a couple dramatic finishes.

4A Crest Division
Redmond 12, Eastlake 1 - Gonzaga-bound Zach Abbruzza went off for the Mustangs, driving in 7 runs while going a perfect 4-for-4 with two triples as Redmond opened league play with a 12-1 win over the Wolves of Eastlake. Jake Levin was 3-for-4 with 2 doubles and 3 runs scored and Connor Bozman was 2-for-3 with 2 runs scored, helping pace the 12-hit attack. The Stangs scored in every inning but the fourth, with 6 different players driving in runs. Dylan Davis picked up the win, allowing just a hit and an earned run over four innings. Peyton Lutz and Thomas Crosley pitched shutout innings to close things out.

Newport 1, Issaquah 0 - Senior catcher Daniel Altchech drove in the winning run on an infield ground ball with the bases loaded in the bottom of the seventh to squeak the Knights past their rival Eagles, 1-0. The opening KingCo game for both clubs was a classic pitcher's duel, with Cole Wiper and Jared Fisher combining to keep Issaquah off the scoreboard all day. Wiper got a no-decision, allowing 2 hits and 2 walks over 5, striking out 8. He also wiggled out of a bases loaded, no out jam in the fifth inning. Fisher allowed just a hit over the final two frames and earned the win thanks to the seventh inning heroics. Ethan Kalin and Scott Boydston matched every zero of Newport's division 1 combo on the mound until the final inning. Nate Anderson was 2-for-4 for Newport, while senior second baseman Gavin Schumaker had two of Issaquah's 3 hits on the day.

4A Crown Division
Garfield 3, Ballard 1 - Junior John Trupin went the distance for the Bulldogs, scattering seven hits and allowing just one earned run as Garfield won their opener, 3-1 over Ballard. Spencer Scott's two-run single in a three-run sixth inning gave the Bulldogs the lead for good, as Trupin held off the Beavers in the seventh inning. Sophomore infielder Chandler Honican was 2-for-2 with a run scored and Trupin added a hit and an RBI for Garfield. Sophomore Ryan Kangas was 2-for-3 with a double and drove in the lone Ballard run. However, Kangas took the loss in relief, allowing all three runs in the sixth inning after starter Danny Thompson had held the 'Dogs at bay over the first four innings.

Bothell 7, Roosevelt 6 - The Cougars scored two unearned runs in the bottom of the seventh to walkoff on the Roughriders Tuesday, 7-6. Bothell used a four-run fifth inning to take a 5-2 lead into the seventh. However, Roosevelt would not quit, scoring 4 runs of their own in the top of the seventh to take a 6-5 lead. The Cougars answered the call, plating the tying and go ahead runs in the bottom half of the frame to escape with a victory. Brian McAfee, Mitchell Viydo and Brad Monson each drove in two runs for Bothell with Viydo collecting three hits on the day. The Roughriders were led by Zach Naon (3-for-4, 2 RBI), Jack Brennan (2-for-4) and Eli Mathieu (2-for-3, 2 runs). Brady Mickelson was the winning pitcher, pitching the final two-thirds of the top of the seventh with a strikeout.

Woodinville 5, Inglemoor 1 - Junior right hander Spencer Greer struck out 8 over 6 one-hit innings and senior Carl Svanevik was 2-for-2 as the Falcons got an opening day KingCo victory, 5-1 over the defending Crown division champion Vikings. Greer took a no-hitter into the fifth inning, with his only run allowed being an unearned run in the sixth. Junior Cody Bauman struck out the side in the seventh to secure the win. Senior Sean Sellers had two walks and an RBI, while sophomore Caleb Hamilton doubled and drove in a run. Junior Blake Wilson drove in the lone score for Inglemoor. Woodinville will travel to Bothell for a matchup of 1-0 teams on Thursday night.

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From here on out on the blog, the focus will be on league games. With KingCo 4A play starting up yesterday and 3A soon to follow, we have plenty to keep up with. As time allows, I will list scores from non-league contests (as seen below)...

Non-League Scores
Mount Si 11, Skyline 5
Mountlake Terrace 5, Mercer Island 2

First State Baseball Rankings

The first Seattle Times high school baseball rankings have been released and the KingCo conference is well represented. Two teams crack the top 10 in each of the polls, with another eight "on the bubble."

At the 4A level, preseason Crest Division favorite Redmond comes in at #3, with Newport just one spot behind the Mustangs at #4. Bothell, Inglemoor, Issaquah, Skyline and Woodinville find themselves on the watch list.

For 3A, defending KingCo tournament champion Mercer Island opens the season at #5, with 2010 co-champion Mount Si three spots further down at #8. Bellevue, Lake Washington & Liberty are the next group of teams looking to crack the polls.

References: Seattle Times HS Baseball Rankings

Monday Non-Leagues

Just two KingCo teams were in action on Monday on the eve of KingCo 4A opening day...

Monday Results
Ballard 4, Seattle Lutheran 2 - In their final tuneup prior to league play, the Beavers used a four-run fourth inning to top Seattle Lutheran, 4-2. Sophomore Frank Airey was 2-for-3 with an RBI, while fellow soph Ryan Kangas drove in two of Ballard's four runs. Senior Parker Hanson was the winner on the bump, allowing 3 hits and 2 runs in his 4 innings of work. Ballard opens KingCo 4A play on Tuesday at Garfield HS.

Mount Si 15, Auburn Mountainview 2 - The Wildcats scored early and often, smashing 15 hits en route to a 15-2 five-inning rout of Auburn Mountainview. Seniors Max Brown, Tim Proudfoot and Nate Sinner each drove in three, with Brown and Proudfoot homering on the afternoon. Reese Karalus picked up the win to even his season record at 1-1.

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KingCo 4A league play opens today with five matchups, including Newport and Issaquah renewing their long-time rivalry:

KingCo 4A Tuesday Openers
Ballard @ Garfield, 3:45 PM
Redmond @ Eastlake, 4:00 PM
Newport @ Issaquah, 4:00 PM
Roosevelt @ Bothell, 6:00 PM
Inglemoor @ Woodinville, 6:30 PM

KingCo 4A - Crest Division Preview

Crest Division - Pre-Season Coaches Poll
1) Redmond (3 first place votes) - 15 points
2) Newport (2) - 14 points
3) Skyline - 9 points
4) Issaquah - 8 points
5) Eastlake - 4 points

Coaches were asked to rank their division in order of projected finish, excluding their own teams. 4 points were awarded for 1st, 3 for second and so on down to 1 point for 4th. One team did not vote.

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Team Capsules (listed alphabetically)
Eastlake Wolves
Head Coach: Kevin Agnew (1st year)
2010 Summary: 1-15 KingCo (5th in Crest division), 1-18 overall

Returning starters: Casey Fithian (Jr - C), Connor Hanson (Sr - IF)

Other returners: Andrew Carey (Sr - OF), Alex Chen (Jr - OF), Alex Dean (Sr - P), Robert Nolan (Jr), Ethan Potter (Sr - P/OF), Andrew Stull (Jr - P)

Top newcomers: John Armour (Jr - OF/C), Nick Kassuba (Jr - IF/P), David Stariha (Sr - IF), Michael Staudinger (Soph - OF), Ryan Tucker (Sr - P)

Season Outlook from Coach Agnew: Our kids are working very hard and are excited to compete against their Kingco competition. We have an experienced group of pitchers and a nice mix of young position players. Casey Fithian will return as our starting catcher. He provides quality leadership for our team and we look to him for production as a middle order guy. Andrew Carey will lead our outfielders. He returns after a strong junior year and he is another guy that provides leadership and will be a middle order hitter. All together our team is working hard to prepare for the upcoming season. This year our league and our division are going to be extremely tough. Our kids are looking forward to the challenge and are ready to get going.

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Issaquah Eagles
Head Coach: Rob Reese (18th year, 298-123 career record)
2010 Summary: 12-4 KingCo (T-1st in Crest division), 17-6 overall; Eliminated in KingCo playoffs

Returning starters: Jake Bakamus (Jr - SS), Ben Rosellini (Sr - LF)

Other returners: Ethan Kalin (Jr - P/1B), Brandon Mahovlich (Jr- P/3B), Blake Miller (Jr - CF), Gavin Schumaker (Sr - 2B)

Top newcomers: Scott Boydston (Jr - P), Jack Gellatly (Fr - IF), Matt Gonn (Jr - P/OF), Ryan Guiberson (Soph - 1B/P), Andrew Kemmerer (Jr - P/C), David McIlvaine (Jr - IF), Trenton Nagasawa (Jr - IF), Danny Rawlings (Jr - OF/P), Justin Reynolds (Sr - 2B), Zach Walker (Soph - C), Cole Westover (Jr - P/3B)

Season Outlook from Coach Reese: Lost 13 seniors from 2010 team. Have only 3 seniors this year. Rebuilding year. Strong junior class but lack experience. Pitching depth could be a problem early.

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Newport Knights
Head Coach: Hal DeBerry (2nd year)
2010 Summary: 11-5 KingCo (3rd in Crest division); Eliminated in KingCo playoffs

Returning starters: Daniel Altchech (Sr - Util), Nate Anderson (Jr - CF), Nick Clifford (Sr - 1B/OF), Jared Fisher (Sr - RHP/1B), Billy Sahlinger (Jr - SS/RHP), Cole Wiper (Sr - RHP/IF)

Other returners: Brandon Richards (Sr - C), Eric Jensen (Sr - RHP), Lee Stoops (Sr - C)

Top newcomers: Ioannis Kritsonis (Jr - IF), Curtis Kojima (Jr - OF), Matt Murray (Sr - RHP/3B), Zak Holcomb (Sr - RHP/1B), Aaron Sandefur (Jr - 3B/RHP), Mason Paul (Jr - IF), Keith Van Court (Sr - OF/1B), Joseph Victor (Sr - OF)

Season Outlook from Coach DeBerry: The Knights return a solid nucleus of players from the 2010 campaign, with six returning position players who saw significant time last season. The pitching staff will be deep and experienced, with four returners who pitched last season. Pitching and defense are the strengths of the ball club; our offensive progression will be a key in where we finish in a very tough Crest Division.

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Redmond Mustangs
Head Coach: Dan Pudwill (7th year, 104-37 career record)
2010 Summary: 12-4 KingCo (T-1st in Crest division), 19-6 overall; KingCo tournament champions, eliminated in State quarterfinals

Returning starters: Zach Abbruzza (Sr - P/IF), Michael Conforto (Sr - IF), Dylan Davis (Sr - P/OF), Peter Hendron (Jr - P/OF), Patrick McGrath (Jr - IF), T.J. Whidby (Sr - P/IF)

Other returners: Jake Levin (Sr - P/IF), Colin McBride (Sr - C/OF)

Top newcomers: Conner Bozman (Jr - OF), Peter Irvin (Sr - P)

Season Outlook from Coach Pudwill: We should be able to score runs this year. The key is to maintain consistency on the mound and solidify our defense. Hopefully, if we do those things, we can find a way out of Kingco and into the state tourney.

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Skyline Spartans
Head Coach: Chris Tamminen (8th year)
2010 Summary: 7-9 KingCo (4th in Crest division), 12-12 overall; KingCo tournament runner-up, eliminated in first round of State

Returning starters: Weston Blackburn (Sr - IF), Zach Liddle (Sr - IF), Nate Litka (Sr - IF), Jimmy Sinatro (Jr - C)

Top newcomers: Connor Gilchrist (Jr - P/OF), Clayton Huber (Jr - P/1B), Matt Lunde (Jr - P), Brandon Lundenberg (Sr - P), Tyler Neudorfer (Sr - IF), Connor Reinerstein (Jr - OF), Travis Snider (Sr - P/OF)

Season Outlook from Coach Tamminen: Have a good group of kids. Hope they learn quickly how they need to play at this level. A group that will get better as we go.

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KingCo 4A - Crown Division Preview

Crown Division - Pre-Season Coaches Poll

1) Inglemoor (4 first place votes) - 24 points

2) Woodinville (1) - 20 points

3) Bothell (1) - 19 points

T-4) Ballard - 11 points

T-4) Roosevelt - 11 points
6) Garfield - 6 points

Coaches were asked to rank their division in order of projected finish, excluding their own teams. 5 points were awarded for 1st, 4 for second and so on down to 1 point for 5th.

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Team Capsules (listed alphabetically)

Ballard Beavers

Head Coach: John Lamm (3rd year, 10-29 career record)

2010 Summary: 6-10 KingCo (5th in Crown division)

Returning starters: Frank Airey (Soph - C), Brendan Foor (Sr - 3B/SS), Rory Graf-Brennen (Soph - 2B), Oliver Guarino (Sr - OF), Danny Thompson (Sr - P), Steven Weber (Jr - 1B)

Other returners: Eric Frank (Sr - P), Joe Jacobson (Soph - P), Ben Welch (Soph - SS)

Top newcomers: Stuart McGeorge (Soph - OF), Alex Stamey (Soph - 2B)

Season Outlook from Coach Lamm: We are still very young; if we can find a #2 pitcher we will be all right.

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Bothell Cougars

Head Coach: Paul Moody (13th year at Bothell, 28th year in KingCo, 327-271 career record)

2010 Summary: 10-6 KingCo (2nd in Crown division), 17-8 overall; Lost to Kelso in winner-to-state district game

Returning starters: Henry Baillargeon (Sr - P), Dain Gilbert (Sr - 3B), Jordan Kynaston (Sr - P), Brian McAfee (Sr - P/3B/DH), Kevin McShane (Sr - P/1B), Jon Mercer (Sr - SS), Ryan Morgan (Sr - OF), Mitchell Viydo (Sr - 2B)

Other returners: Brad Monson (Sr - OF/P)

Top newcomers: Zach Anderson (Jr - 1B), Rex Carlin (Jr - P/OF), Zach Farmer (Sr - OF), Nik Gray (Jr - OF), Eric Gregory (Sr - OF), Jordan Johnson (Sr - C), Samuel Lee (Soph - C), Brady Mickelson (Jr - 2B/P), Mark Woods (Jr - SS)

Season Outlook from Coach Moody: Bothell returns a solid group of infielders and a couple of starting pitchers from last year. We hope to compete good enough to make the Kingco playoffs and with any luck move on to the state tournament.

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Garfield Bulldogs

Head Coach: Chris Moedritzer (1st year head coach after 3 years as assistant)

2010 Summary: 5-11 KingCo (5th in Crest Division), 8-11 overall

Returning starters: Hayes Gorecki (Soph - P/UTIL), Chandler Honican (Soph - IF), Ruben Palmer (Sr - CF), Spencer Scott (Sr - P/C/3B), John Trupin (Jr - P/1B), Zach Ward (Jr - P/1B/LF)

Other returners: Hank Droege (Jr - P/1B), Liam McFeely (Jr - P/IF), Ian Zapolsky (Sr - P)

Top newcomers: Grant Bronsdon (Jr - OF), Cody Browne (Jr - OF), Valentino Coleman (Sr - P/3B), Collin Evenson (Jr - P/OF), Jordan Gipson (Sr - OF), Sam Kennard (Jr - C/IF), Joe Markman (Sr - C), Ricky Nakamura (Jr - OF/P), Joe Renner (Jr - P/3B), Charlie Tarnoff (Jr - P/IF)

Season Outlook from Coach Moedritzer: The Bulldogs hope to pick up where they left off after a strong finish to the 2010 season. A strong junior class leads the way with 11 Varsity players. Garfield has more pitching depth this year than it has traditionally had in the past, as well as a solid catcher and middle infield anchoring the defense. The offense lost a few big bats to graduation, but the returners have significantly improved their hitting in the offseason. The schedule figures to be different with Garfield switching from the Crest to the Crown division, but the goal of making the Kingco 4Apostseason tournament remains the same.

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Inglemoor Vikings

Head Coach: Bryan McNaghten (4th year, 47-27 career record)

2010 Summary: 14-2 KingCo (Crown division champions), 18-5 overall; eliminated in KingCo playoffs

Returning starters: Dustin Doucette (Sr - P), Mitchell Gonsolus (Sr - SS), Emmett Maki (Sr - P/1B), Peter Meuisi (Sr - 3B/OF), Conor Savage (Sr - OF), Obi Taylor (Sr - P/1B), Garrett Vandiver (Sr - OF/2B), Blake Wilson (Jr - C/OF)

Other returners: Alex Morrow (Sr - P/3B), Adam Mosebar (Sr - C)

Top newcomers: Ken Holen (Soph - OF), Sean Howard (Sr - P), Eric Rodgers (Sr - P), Lucas Wimmer (Jr - P/3B)

Season Outlook from Coach McNaghten: Senior led team untested in a couple key spots – success will be determined by ability to fill those spots. Pitching & senior leadership appears to be strengths of the Vikings.

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Roosevelt Roughriders

Head Coach: Jason Bowie (4th year)

2010 Summary: 3-13 KingCo (6th in Crown division), 4-16 overall

Returning starters: Blair Davidson (Sr - C), Graylin Derke (Jr - P/3B), David Holt (Sr - P/IF), Tate Maider (Soph - C), Reid Martinez (Sr - P/IF/OF), Tim Moore (Sr - P/IF/OF), Zach Naon (Jr - OF), Cody Shaul (Jr - 1B)

Other returners: Jack Brennan (Sr - OF), Eli Mathieu (Sr - P/2B)

Top newcomers: Spencer Maniccia (Soph - P/1B), Anthony Laguardia (Soph - 2B)

Season Outlook from Coach Bowie: The Riders are welcoming back all three of their starting pitchers from last season. Those pitchers are part of the 8 of 9 overall position players returning from last year as well. Defense and pitching will be the key as the Riders try for their first playoff berth since joining the KingCo in 1997. With some senior leadership and good pitching, Roosevelt has their best chance ever to secure a playoff berth this season.

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Woodinville Falcons

Head Coach: Terry Agnew (20th year)

2010 Summary: 8-8 KingCo (3rd place in Crown division), 12-8 overall

Returning Varsity players: Clarke Bader (Jr - C), Shea Donlin (Jr - SS), T.C. Florentine (Jr - OF), Spencer Greer (Jr - P), Ryland Longoni (Sr - OF), Sean Sellers (Sr - 3B), Doug Sullivan (Sr - C/1B), Carl Svanevik (Sr - OF), Beau Vintertun (Jr - 2B)

Top newcomers: Cody Bauman (Jr - P), Max Carter (Jr - OF), Caleb Hamilton (Soph - P/IF), Kalei Kover (Sr - P), Matt Laitala (Jr - IF), Marty Luckenbach (Jr - P), Stephan White (Soph - P), Nate Wilham (Jr - IF/OF)

Season Outlook from Coach Agnew: Woodinville has a good group of players returning to the team this year.

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Catching Up...

Busy weekend for the blog...apologies for missing the late week action. A quick look at games played on Thursday - Saturday is below:

Thursday Results

Kentridge 8, Issaquah 0

- no highlights available

Mt. Rainier 3, Skyline 1

- Nate Litka (Skyline - Senior) - 1-for-2, double

- Brandon Lunderbert (Skyline - Senior) - 5 IP, 3 H, 3 R (1 ER), 2 BB, 4 Ks

Garfield 21, Franklin 4

- Spencer Scott (Garfield - Senior) - 4-for-5, 3 runs scored

- Ruben Palmer (Garfield - Senior) - 3-for-5, double, 4 RBI, 4 runs scored

- Chandler Honican (Garfield - Soph) - 2-for-4, 4 RBI

- Colin Evenson (Garfield - Junior) - Win, 4 IP, 4 Ks

Ballard 6, Interlake 1

- Danny Thompson (Ballard - Senior) - Win, 4 IP, 2 H, 0 R, 5 Ks

- Alex Stamey (Ballard - Soph) - 2-for-3

Friday Results

Inglemoor 16, Juanita 1

- Inglemoor - nine-run first inning

- Blake Wilson (Inglemoor - Junior) - 4-for-4, 2 doubles, 3 RBI

- Adam Mosebar (Inglemoor - Senior) - 3-run HR

- Garrett Vandiver (Inglemoor - Senior) - 3 runs scored

Skyline 11, Kentwood 3

- Nate Litka (Skyline - Senior) - 2-for-3, double, 2 RBI

- Matt Sinatro (Skyline - Junior) - 2-for-4, RBI

- Matt Lunde - (Skyline - Junior) - Win, 5 1/3 IP, 4 H, 2 ER, 3 BB, 5 Ks

Mercer Island 16, Garfield 2

- Brian Higgins (MI - Soph) - 3-for-3, 4 RBI

- David Oppenheim (MI - Junior) - 2-for-2, double, 3 runs, 2 RBI

- Jordan Richartz (MI - Senior) - 2-for-3, triple, 2 runs

- Evan Thompson (MI - Senior) - 2-for-3, 2 RBI, 2 runs

- Spencer Scott (Garfield - Senior) - 2-for-3

Liberty 8, Issaquah 4

- Jacob Hofferber (Liberty - Senior) - Win, 4 IP, 2 H, 2 R

- Ryan Maio (Liberty - Senior) - 2-for-2, RBI, run

- Ben Wessel (Liberty - Junior) - 1-for-3, double, RBI

- Justin Reynolds (Issaquah - Senior) - 2-for-2, solo HR

Sammamish 4, Ballard 1

- Paul Heywood (Sammamish - Junior) - Win, 5 IP, 4 H, 1 R (0 ER)

- Joe Giacchetti (Sammamish - Freshman) - Save, 2 IP, 1 H, 0 R, 2 Ks

Saturday Results

Moses Lake 5, Roosevelt 2

- Graylin Derke (Roosevelt - Junior) - 1-for-3, HR, 2 RBI

Roosevelt 12, Graham-Kapowsin 11

- Graylin Derke (Roosevelt - Junior) - Winning Pitcher; triple, RBI

- Tim Moore (Roosevelt - Senior) - triple, 2 RBI

Kelso 10, Issaquah 4

- no highlights available

Bothell 5, O'Dea 1

- Henry Baillargeon (Bothell) - Win, 4 IP, 4 H, 0 R, 2 BB, 4 Ks

- Brian McAfee (Bothell) - 3-for-3, RBI, 2 runs

- Mitchell Viydo (Bothell) - 2-for-3, 2 RBI

Newport 8, Kelso 0

- Billy Sahlinger (Newport - Junior) - Win, 5 IP, 3 H, 0 R, 0 BB, 6 Ks

- Jared Fisher (Newport - Senior) - 1-for-4, double, 2 RBI

- Curtis Kojima (Newport - Junior) - 1-for-2, 2 RBI

Shorewood 3, Inglemoor 0

- Kevin Moriarty (Shorewood) - 4 IP, 1 H, 4 BB, 7 Ks

- Conner McKeever (Shorewood) - 1-for-3, RBI; Save, 3 IP, 1 H, 0 R

Southridge 20, Redmond 2

- Mike McAdie (Southridge) - 3-for-4, 4 RBI

- Matt Mendenhall (Southridge) - 3-for-4, HR, 3 RBI

- Bryce Jackson (Southridge) - 3-for-4, HR, 3 RBI

Southridge 15, Redmond 5

- Matt Mendenhall (Southridge) - Hit for the cycle, 4 RBI, 3 runs

- A.J. Henderson (Southridge) - 2-for-3, 2 doubles, 3 RBI, 3 runs

Wednesday Wrap

Wednesday saw a bit of a bounce back by the KingCo 3A teams, as they picked up a couple wins against formidable 4A opponents:

Wednesday Results
Mercer Island 2, Newport 0 - In a game between presumed title contenders from both leagues, junior Max Dammeier outdueled senior and University of Oregon bound Cole Wiper to lead Mercer Island to a 2-0 win. Dammeier allowed just a hit and two walks, striking out six in five innings of work to pick up the win. Fellow junior Hunter Goldberg worked the final two innings for the save, striking out two in the process. Junior Nick Holstead and senior George Jiranek each were 1-for-3 with an RBI for the Islanders, who scored single runs in the 2nd and 7th inning. Junior Billy Sahlinger doubled for Newport in the loss.

Mount Si 8, Bothell 2 - Trevor Lane helped his Wildcats respond to an opening day loss, leading Mount Si to an 8-2 win over Bothell. The junior started and pitched the first five innings, allowing just an unearned run on three hits while striking out four. Lane along with senior second baseman Dustin Breshears homered for the Wildcats, who bounced back nicely from an 11-1 loss at the hands of Redmond on Monday. Tim Proudfoot and Reece Karalus each had two hits, while Max Brown doubled and drove in two to pace the Mount Si offensive attack. Bothell, which opened their season with an extra-inning win over Bellevue on Monday, was led by John Mercer and Sam Lee, who each had doubles. Kevin McShane took the loss for the Cougars.

Redmond 5, Juanita 2 - Juniors Adam Cline and Peyton Lutz combined on a 5-hitter as the Mustangs beat the Rebels 5-2 at Hartman Park on Wednesday night. Coming off an 11 run performance in the opener, the bats were a little quieter for Redmond thanks to Juanita senior starter Brick Kawabata who kept the Stangs off balance. Senior Zach Abbruzza was 2-for-2 with an RBI, with T.J. Whidby, Connor Bozman, Nick Rothermel and Jake Levin each driving in a run as well. Cline was the winning pitcher, allowing 4 hits and 2 earned runs over 4 1/3 innings. Lutz worked the final 2 2/3, allowing just a hit and a walk while striking out three in earning the save. Brian Nolan had two of Juanita's five hits on the evening, finishing the night 2-for-3 with a double and an RBI.

Woodinville 7, Monroe 6 - Junior Beau Vintertun's walk-off single in the bottom of the seventh inning sent the Falcons home victorious, winning a non-league game 7-6 over Monroe. Woodinville jumped out early with 2 runs in the first and 3 more in the third. Senior and Oregon State bound Marty Luckenbach started and allowed just an unearned run over three innings of work. Monroe would score a run in the third and explode for five in the fourth to grab a 6-5 lead. The Falcons tied the game in the bottom of the fourth and won it with Vintertun's heroics in the seventh. Senior Carl Svanevik was 2-for-4 with 3 RBI and C.J. Florentine finished with 2 hits for Woodinville, who is off to a 2-0 start.

Eastlake 7, Glacier Peak 1 - A six-run fifth inning broke open a tight game, as Eastlake doubled their win total from a season ago with a 7-1 win over Glacier Peak. Junior Andrew Stull was the winning pitcher for the Wolves, working four shutout innings allowing just one hit. Seniors Evan Young and Alex Dean finished things off, allowing a single run over the final three frames. Nick Kassuba, Connor Hanson and Andrew Corey each had two hits as part of the Wolves' 13-hit attack. Scott Ford and Tim Peruchini doubled in a losing effort for GP.

Liberty 2, Auburn Mountainview 1 - The Patriots scored single runs in the 2nd and 3rd innings and held on for a 2-1 win over the Lions of Auburn Mountainview.

Totems Win 3A/4A Clash with Garfield

There was just one lone game played on Tuesday involving KingCo 3A/4A teams:

Sammamish 7, Garfield 6 - The Totems survived a 6-run fourth inning by the Bulldogs, picking up their second win in as many days, 7-6 over Garfield. Sammamish jumped out to an early 5-0 lead keyed by a two-run single by Craig Sweet. However, Zach Ward sparked Garfield's 6-run outburst in the fourth with a three-run double, putting his Bulldogs ahead 6-5. Sammamish jumped back ahead with a couple unearned runs in the fifth and relief pitcher Jacob West did the rest, holding Garfield scoreless over the final three frames to preserve the win. Sweet finished the day 4-for-4 with the 2 RBI and amazingly has not been retired in his first two games. The Sammamish first baseman has started the season 7-for-7, driving in 4 runs in the process. Chris Strain chipped in with 2 hits, a double and an RBI for Sammamish. Joe Renner took the loss for Garfield despite not allowing an earned run in 1 2/3 innings of work.

One late result from Monday to report:

Sammamish 6, Hazen 4 - The Totems used a 3-run sixth inning to overcome a 4-3 deficit and top Hazen, 6-4. Craig Sweet led the way offensively, going 3-for-3 with 2 runs scored and 2 RBI. Michael Colombi was 2-for-3 with an RBI and Aaron Lawrenson doubled for Sammamish, who starts the season out with a W. Joe Giacchetti tossed three shutout innings in relief of starter Paul Heywood to earn the victory.

Opening Monday

In what was opening night for many of the KingCo 3A/4A teams, the upper division flexed their muscles, winning all of the non-league contests pitting 3A & 4A teams.

Monday Results
Redmond 11, Mt. Si 1 - Highly touted senior Dylan Davis lived up to the preseason hype in the opener, homering twice and driving in 5 in the Mustangs 11-1 win over Mt. Si on opening night. Davis hit 2-run home runs in both the first and third innings, and later added a bases loaded walk and a double, which was a couple feet away from home run #3 of the night. In addition to his work at the plate, Davis (who is signed to play at Oregon State University next season) also picked up the win on the mound, tossing 4 innings allowing just one unearned run while striking out three. Fellow senior and Gonzaga signee Zach Abbruzza broke the game open with a bases-clearing three run double in the bottom of the 5th. Senior T.J. Whidby worked two perfect innings in relief of Davis, striking out 3 of the six batters he faced.

Eastlake 6, Interlake 2 - In coach Kevin Agnew's Eastlake coaching debut, his Wolves used early runs and solid pitching to lead them past Interlake, 6-2. Alex Dean started on the mound for Eastlake and was impressive, striking out five in three shutout innings. David Stariha provided the offensive punch, picking up a double and a triple on the day. Sophomore Sam Finfer doubled and scored both runs for Interlake.

Bothell 4, Bellevue 3 (8 inn.) - In a hotly contested opening game, Bothell was able to prevail, pushing the winning run across in the bottom of the 8th inning for a 4-3 win over Bellevue. The two schools known for their football prowess, staged quite possibly the best game of Monday's slate. Bellevue took an early lead with a single run in the third. Bothell responded with 3 fourth inning runs, two coming on a double by senior Brian McAfee. The Wolverines tied the game with two runs in the top of the fifth, but could never get back on top. Brady Mickelson pitched two scoreless innings in relief for the win, while Dain Gilbert added two hits for the Cougars.

Inglemoor 10, O'Dea 3 - The Vikings made a statement in their season opener, scoring in 5 of their 6 offensive innings en route to a 10-3 rout of defending 3A state champion O'Dea. Senior Dustin Doucette allowed just a single run in three innings of work in his opening night start. Senior infielder and Gonzaga-bound Mitchell Gonsolus tripled twice and drove in four, and also got help from Emmett Maki (2-run double) and junior Blake Wilson (2 hits, 2 RBI). The senior trio of Maki, Obi Taylor and Alex Morrow worked the final four innings in relief, holding the high-powered Irish in check.

Newport 7, Eastside Catholic 2 - Senior and University of Washington signee Jared Fisher stole the show in the Knights opener, striking out four in four hitless innings while going 2-3 with a triple and 4 RBI as Newport downed Eastside Catholic, 7-2. Junior Nate Anderson was 3-3 with an RBI and two runs scored for Newport, which was hosting their annual opener at Husky Ballpark.

Bishop Blanchet 11, Ballard 5 - The Beavers were the lone KingCo 4A team in action to lose on Monday, dropping an 11-5 decision to Bishop Blanchet. Oliver Guarino led the way for Ballard, going 2-3 with a double and an RBI. Caleb Jaeger was the losing pitcher, allowing two runs in just two-thirds of an inning.

Woodinville 7, Juanita 0 - Junior Spencer Greer and senior Kalei Kover combined on a 6-hit shutout, as the Falcons opened their season with a 7-0 win over the Rebels of Juanita. Greer started and picked up the win, striking out 6 in his 4 innings of work. Kover worked the final three frames, striking out four and picking up the save. Woodinville's offense was led by senior Carl Svanevik, who was 2-for-3 with 2 RBI. The Falcons were also aggressive on the basepaths, swiping six bags in as many tries. Jyran McNairy doubled for Juanita in the loss.

Rainouts - Kentridge @ Issaquah, Mercer Island @ Garfield

Jamborees, Non-League Games on the Horizon

We are now two weeks into the baseball season, which means it is jamboree time for many of the KingCo 3A and 4A teams. A couple 4A teams got a head start on things, opening their non-league slates on Friday. It would appear that pitching is definitely ahead of hitting at this point in the season, with both games involving KingCo teams turning out to be low scoring contests.

Friday's Scores

Roosevelt 1, Bishop Blanchet 0

Eastside Catholic 3, Skyline 2

Monday starts a heavy non-conference week chock-full of 3A/4A crossover games. 13 games will be played next week pitting 3A schools against 4A schools. Five of those games are on Monday, highlighted by a matchup between two 2010 KingCo champions, when 3A co-champ Mount Si travels to Hartman Park to take on defending 4A champion Redmond.

Here's a quick look at next week's interleague games:

Monday, 3/14

Bellevue @ Bothell, 3:45 PM

Eastlake @ Interlake, 4:00 PM

Mercer Island @ Garfield, 4:00 PM

Mount Si @ Redmond, 6:00 PM (Hartman Park)

Juanita @ Woodinville, 6:30 PM

Tuesday, 3/15

Sammamish @ Garfield, 4:00 PM

Wednesday, 3/16

Mount Si @ Bothell, 3:45 PM

Mercer Island @ Newport, 4:00 PM

Redmond @ Juanita, 7:00 PM (Lee Johnson Field)

Thursday, 3/17

Ballard @ Interlake, 3:30 PM

Friday, 3/18

Issaquah @ Liberty, 3:45 PM

Juanita @ Inglemoor, 3:45 PM

Ballard @ Sammamish, 4:30 PM

Check in with the KingCo Baseball Blog all next week for updates on these contests as well as conference previews for both the 3A and 4A leagues.

KingCo Baseball Blog Expands Coverage

The snow on the ground and the freezing temperatures can mean only one thing - high school baseball is nearly back! The first day of practice is next Monday (February 28th), with most team's having their jamboree scheduled for the weekend of March 12th. Non-league games start the following week, with conference play beginning shortly thereafter.

This season, the KingCo baseball blog will be expanding its coverage. We will continue to follow the teams and results of the 4A schools, but will also be covering the 3A league. There should be some tremendous baseball played this spring in both leagues, and we are excited to bring our perspective to our readers once again!

Stay tuned to the blog over the next few weeks for more news, including team previews and updates from around the world of KingCo baseball.

Crest Wins Annual Feeder Game

June 3, 2010
Crown 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 2 3 --- 7 9 1
Crest 1 0 0 2 4 3 0 3 0 --- 13 15 0

Crown Battery:
Luke Taylor, Spencer Trautman (3), Trevor Dunlap (6), Spencer Brueske (8) and Ethan Yeo, Matt Stefansson (6).

Crest Battery:
Shane Yarnell, Jeff Gonzales (3), Ryan Beliel (5), Connor Lawhead (7), Joey Gale (9) and Devin O'Donnell, Peter Summerville (4), Ryan Beliel (7).

Winning Pitcher: Jeff Gonzales (Newport)
Losing Pitcher: Spencer Trautman (Inglemoor)

Crown Offensive Highlights:
Marc Dickerson (Inglemoor) - 1-3, 2 RBI
Matt Stefannson (Woodinville) - 3-3, 2 RBI
Luke Taylor (Woodinville) - 2-4, 2B, RBI

Crown Pitching Highlights:
Luke Taylor (Woodinville) - 2 IP, 2 H, 1 ER, 0 BB, 4 Ks

Crest Offensive Highlights:
Josh Bircher (Redmond) -1-3, 2B, run
Jack Jajewski (Garfield) - 1-2, 2B, 2 RBI
Matt Kimmel (Redmond) - 2-3
Sam Nasci (Eastlake) - 2-3, 2B, 2 runs
Sean Penberthy (Skyline) - 2-2, 4 RBI, 3-run HR in 6th
Spencer Rogers (Issaquah) - Grand Slam in 5th
Peter Summerville (Garfield) - 2-3, 2 RBI, 2 runs, 2-run HR in 4th

Crest Pitching Highlights:
Jeff Gonzales (Newport) - 2 IP, 2 H, 0 R, 0 BB, 2 Ks
Ryan Beliel (Redmond) - 2 IP, 2 H, 0 R, 12 pitches

Redmond Wins 2010 KingCo Title

One KingCo team clinched a spot in the 4A state tournament, with two more having a chance to qualify on Saturday...

KingCo Championship: Redmond 6, Skyline 2
The Mustangs got home runs from Michael Conforto, Dylan Davis and Peter Herndon, as well as five strong innings from Davis on the mound to win the KingCo Championship, 6-2 over Skyline. Davis sputtered in the first, allowing 2 runs, but settled in after that, holding the Spartans hitless over his last four innings of work. Davis handed the ball to senior Ryan Beliel, who secured the win with two shutout innings. Redmond advances to the State tournament as the District 2/4 #1 seed, and will play at 10:00 am next Saturday (5/22) at Kent Memorial Park. Skyline will play a winner-to-state game against Evergreen HS from Vancouver this Saturday (5/15) at 2:00 pm at Woodinville HS.

KingCo Third Place Game: Bothell 5, Lake Washington 1
Senior Evan Hudson allowed just a run in six innings of work and Kevin McShane doubled and drove in 2 as the Cougars ended the Kangs season with a 5-1 win on Thursday afternoon. Lake Washington had their chances, but was only able to score a single run despite having 14 baserunners on the day. Kevin Knapp added two hits and an RBI for Bothell, who will travel to Kelso HS on Saturday with a state berth on the line. The game was the final one for Lake Washington in the KingCo 4A, as they will drop down to the 4A division starting in 2011.

Saturday (5/15) Schedule (Both games are winner to state, loser out)
Bothell (KingCo #3) @ Kelso (GSHL #1), 2:00 pm @ Kelso HS
Evergreen (GSHL #2) @ Skyline (KingCo #2), 2:00 pm - Woodinville HS

KingCo Final Four is Set

Tuesday's loser-out games saw the end of the season for two teams, with four surviving to play on the final day of the KingCo tournament:

Bothell 12, Inglemoor 6 - A seven-run first inning sparked the Cougars, as they eliminated Inglemoor with a 12-6 win on Tuesday afternoon. Bothell blasted three home runs, with Kevin Knapp, Michael Marriott and Brian McAfee providing the fireworks. Knapp also doubled and drove in four, while Marriott and McAfee each had 3 RBI. The Vikings had battled back to close to within 2 after 5 innings, but Bothell added a single run in the 6th before Marriott's three-run opposite field homer in the top of the seventh put the game out of reach. Seniors Scott Meyers and Ethan Yeo had two hits a piece, with Meyers and junior Peter Meuisi driving in a pair of runs for Inglemoor. The Vikings fabulous season comes to an end, finishing with an overall record of 18-5 and a Crown Division championship. Bothell moves on to the loser's bracket championship on Thursday, where they will play for the right to travel to Vancouver for a winner-to-state game Saturday.

Lake Washington 7, Issaquah 3 - Junior Wesley Russell allowed just two runs in five innings of work and sophomore Theo Alexander homered and drove in two as the Kangs knocked out Issaquah with a 7-3 win in Tuesday's night cap. The Kangs used a balanced attack, with eight different players combining for 12 hits and seven guys scoring one run a piece. Bob Cruikshank, Alex Donnelly, Chris Moore and Colin Tremblay each had multi-hit games for Lake Washington, who will take on Bothell in Thursday's third-place game. For Issaquah, senior Spencer Rogers was 2-for-4 with two doubles and an RBI and fellow senior Devin O'Donnell also had two hits and a double. The Eagles finish up their great season at 17-6.

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The final day of KingCo 4A baseball for the 2010 season is set. Both the third place game and the KingCo championship will be played on Thursday at 4:00 pm and 7:00 pm respectively. The third place game pits Bothell and Lake Washington against one another for the third time this year. Bothell won the previous two meetings and will look to complete the sweep. The winner will travel to Vancouver on Saturday for a State play-in game against the winner of the GSHL championship game between the Evergreen Plainsmen (13-8) and the Kelso Hilanders (17-3).

The KingCo Championship game follows, with Skyline taking on Redmond. The Mustangs won both contests during the regular season, but will see a different Spartans team on Thursday night. Skyline has allowed just two runs in two games against the powerful offenses of Inglemoor and Issaquah. Meanwhile, Redmond defeated both participants in the third place game (Lake Washington & Bothell) to reach the tournament final. The winner will be the District 2/4 #1 seed to state, while the loser will host the GSHL runner-up on Saturday for a spot in the 4A State tournament.

Skyline, Redmond Advance to Title Game

The KingCo tournament resumed Monday, with all eight playoff teams once again in action.

Winner's Bracket
Skyline 3, Issaquah 1 - The Spartans played giant killer once again on Monday, with senior Peyton Harrod one-hitting Issaquah in Skyline's 3-1 win. The victory moves the Spartans, who were 7-9 in the regular season, into Thursday night's KingCo championship game. Harrod, who missed the first half of the season with an arm injury, was masterful against the powerful Eagles lineup. He did not walk a single batter and struck out six, with the only blemish a solo home run by Issy senior Spencer Rogers. Senior Shane Yarnell was the tough luck loser, surrendering 3 unearned runs while striking out 8 in a complete game. Sean Penberthy was 2-for-3 with a double and a run scored for Skyline, who is guaranteed at worse a play-in game with the Greater St. Helen's League runner up for a trip to the State tournament.

Redmond 4, Bothell 1 - Junior right hander Zach Abbruzza picked up where he left off in the regular season, dominating another potent lineup as Redmond moved into the KingCo Championship with a 4-1 win over Bothell. Abbruzza has been tough on the mound all year long and Monday night was no exception. He allowed just a run on 3 hits while striking out 8, going the distance in the Mustang victory. He was also 3-for-4 with a double, getting help from Dylan Davis and Patrick McGrath, who each chipped in with two hits of their own. Jon Mercer doubled and Ryan Morgan tripled for the Cougars, who face elimination in a loser-out game on Tuesday.

Loser's Bracket
Inglemoor 7, Woodinville 6 - In the first of two dramatic loser-out games on Monday, the Vikings prevailed with a 7-6 win over Woodinville. The game was a back-and-forth affair with Inglemoor's run in the bottom of the sixth proving to be the difference. Emmett Maki was 3-for-3 with 3 RBI and also picked up the win in relief for the Viks. Jake Dammrose finished his high school career going 3-for-4 with a triple. Woodinville's season comes to an end with the loss, while Inglemoor will take on Bothell Tuesday at 4:00 pm in another loser out game, this time at Woodinville HS.

Lake Washington 5, Newport 4 (8 inn.) - Junior Wesley Russell's controversial home run in the top of the eighth inning kept the Kangs' season alive, as they snuck past Newport, 5-4. The home run was hit high down the left-field line and the delayed call could have gone either way. However, the umpires ruled that the ball hooked around the foul pole, giving LW the lead which they held in the bottom of the eighth. Fellow junior Bob Cruikshank was the winning pitcher, going 7 innings and allowing 5 hits and 4 runs (2 earned), adding 5 strikeouts. Joey Gale took the loss for Newport, despite striking out four Kangs in just two innings of work. LW lives another day, and will take on Issaquah in the nightcap of a loser-out doubleheader at Woodinville HS on Tuesday.

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Remaining Tournament Schedule (all games at Woodinville HS):

Tuesday, 5/11
Game #9: Bothell vs. Inglemoor, 4:00 pm (loser out)
Game #10: Lake Washington vs. Issaquah, 7:00 pm (loser out)

Thursday, 5/13
Game #11: Game #9 winner vs. Game #10 winner, 4:00 pm
(winner plays @ GSHL #1 on Saturday, 5/15; loser out)

KingCo Championship: Skyline vs. Redmond, 7:00 pm
(winner KingCo #1 to State, loser plays vs. GSHL #2 on Saturday, 5/15)

Semi-Finals Set in KingCo Tournament

On a beautiful day for baseball (about time!), the four first round matchups were played Saturday at Woodinville HS:

• Issaquah 5, Woodinville 0 - Senior Spencer Rogers struck out 9 in a 5-hit shutout as the Eagles topped the Falcons, 5-0. Mike Paulson and Ben Rosellini each had two hits for Issaquah, who broke open a 2-0 game with three runs in the bottom of the sixth inning. Senior Spencer Brueske took the loss for Woodinville, while Jake Dammrose was 2-for-3.
• Skyline 5, Inglemoor 1 - Connor Lawhead went the distance for the Spartans in their 5-1 upset win over Crown Division champion Inglemoor. The Vikings took a KingCo best 14-2 record into the playoffs, but couldn't muster up enough offense off the Skyline right-hander to move on. Skyline, who finished the regular season at 7-9, moves on to the semifinals to take on rival Issaquah.
• Bothell 9, Newport 7 - Bothell overcame a 7-2 deficit, scoring 6 times in the bottom of the sixth inning to stun Newport, 9-7. The Cougars outhit the Knights 13-2 in the contest, and were led by junior Brian McAfee, who continued his magical season going 3-for-4 with a double, HR and 2 RBI. Newport took the lead thanks to some Cougar mistakes, which included hit-by-pitches and six errors. However, their bullpen kept them in the game, allowing for the late rally.
• Redmond 9, Lake Washington 2 - Junior Dylan Davis had the big blast in this one, a two-out grand slam in the third inning, propelling the Mustangs past the Kangs, 9-2. The game was scoreless until the bottom half of the third. An infield single by Zach Abbruzza scored the first Redmond run and Michael Conforto drew a bases loaded walk for the second run. Davis then hit a 1-0 breaking ball high into the trees over the left-center field fence, capping the 6-run inning. Ryan Beliel worked five solid innings for the win, leading Redmond to a showdown with Bothell in the semi-finals Monday night.

Four teams remain in contention for the KingCo title, and they will face off in Monday's semifinals at Woodinville HS. Skyline will take on Issaquah in the 4:00 pm game, with the league's two hottest teams facing off in the nightcap when Bothell takes on Redmond. The Mustangs have won four consecutive games, while the Cougars come in winners of seven straight.

The teams in the loser's bracket hold on to the hopes of the third and final KingCo berth to State. The third KingCo team will face off with the GSHL champion on Saturday, 5/15. The loser-out contests also take place on Monday at Inglemoor HS, with Woodinville and Inglemoor playing in the afternoon game, with Newport-LW to follow at 7:00 pm.

First Round Set - Playoffs Start Saturday

The KingCo 4A's "second season" starts on Saturday when the KingCo playoffs get underway. A quick look at the last regular season game, which was played Thursday night...

Inglemoor 5, Lake Washington 0 - Six Inglemoor pitchers combined on a four-hit shutout, as the Vikings completed a 14-2 regular season with a 5-0 win over the Kangs. Seniors Scott Meyers and Ethan Yeo led the way offensively for Inglemoor, with Meyers going 2-for-3 with a homer and an RBI and Yeo driving in 2 runs. For Lake Washington, Bob Cruikshank had his fifth straight multi-hit game, picking up two singles on the night.

So, the playoff matchups are set, with the entire first round scheduled for Saturday, 5/8 at Woodinville HS. You can view the entire tournament bracket here. A first round preview will follow, but here's a rundown of the schedule:

KingCo 4A Tournament - First Round Schedule
10:00 am - Woodinville (8-8, Crown #3) vs. Issaquah (12-4, Crest #2)
1:00 pm - Skyline (7-9, Crest #4) vs. Inglemoor (14-2, Crown #1)
4:00 pm - Newport (11-5, Crest #3) vs. Bothell (10-6, Crown #2)
7:00 pm - Lake Washington (7-9, Crown #4) vs. Redmond (12-4, Crest #1)

Rain Delays Final Seeding

With the KingCo Tournament set to start on Saturday, two playoff-bound teams are still trying to finish up their regular seasons. The Inglemoor - Lake Washington game originally scheduled for Tuesday has been rained out on consecutive nights. It is now scheduled to be played tonight (Thursday 5/6) at 8:00 pm at Lee Johnson Field. Inglemoor locked up the Crown Division over two weeks ago, and will head into the tourney as the division's #1 seed. Lake Washington clinched a berth in the playoffs on Friday, but their seeding is still to be determined. A Kangs win tonight would give them the #3 seed in the Crown Division (thanks to winning a coin toss with Woodinville), while a loss would drop them to #4.

Here's how the first round of the playoffs lay out:

Saturday, May 8th
10:00 am - Woodinville/LW (Crown #3) vs. Issaquah (Crest #2)
1:00 pm - Skyline (Crest #4) vs. Inglemoor (Crown #1)
4:00 pm - Newport (Crest #3) vs. Bothell (Crown #2)
7:00 pm - Woodinville/LW (Crown #4) vs. Redmond (Crest #1)

Redmond Wins Crest; Woodinville in Playoffs

Two of Tuesday's games had a direct impact on the KingCo playoffs, with the Crest Division title and the final playoff spot in the Crown Division on the line:

Games affecting KingCo Tourney

• Redmond 3, Issaquah 1 - Junior Zach Abbruzza stymied the Issaquah bats for the second consecutive time, and Redmond scored twice in the top of the seventh inning to break a 1-1 tie and clinch the Crest Division championship with a 3-1 win over Issaquah. Abbruzza outdueled Issaquah ace Shane Yarnell, allowing just three hits and an unearned run while striking out 8. The loss was the first of the season for Yarnell, who didn't allow an earned run in his seven innings of work. T.J. Whidby had two RBI for the Mustangs, who earned the top seed from the Crest Division and will play the #4 seed from the Crown at 7:00 pm on Saturday.
• Woodinville 5, Ballard 3 - The Falcons got three hits each from seniors Jake Dammrose and Connor Jones, clinching a playoff spot with a 5-3 win over Ballard. Senior right hander Luke Taylor worked 5 1/3 strong innings for the win, which even Woodinville's league record at 8-8. Oliver Guarino was 2-for-4 and Brendan Foor drove in 2 runs for the Beavers, who saw their playoff dreams end. Woodinville will enter the KingCo tourney as the #3 or #4 seed, pending the result of the Inglemoor-Lake Washington game tonight, which is scheduled for 8:00 pm at Lee Johnson Field.

Other Tuesday Results

• Newport 15, Eastlake 1 - Newport (11-5) enters the KingCo tourney as the #3 seed from the Crest Division; Eastlake's season ends at 1-15.
• Bothell 8, Roosevelt 0 - Bothell's win gives them six straight, and they will head into the KingCo tournament as perhaps the hottest team in the league. They finish 10-6 and as the Crown's #2 seed, will take on Newport at 4:00 pm on Saturday in the first round on the playoffs. Roosevelt finishes their season at 3-13.
• Garfield 5, Skyline 4 - Skyline's loss did nothing to change their standing, as they enter the KingCo tournament as the #4 seed from the Crest Division at 7-9. Garfield's season ends with a record of 5-11.

Week 6 KingCo Awards

KingCo 4A Baseball - Players of the Week
Week 6: April 26 - May 1, 2010

Crest Division
Player of the Week: Shane Yarnell, Sr.,, Issaquah
Senior Shane Yarnell picks up his second Crest Division player of the week award this season for his 9-RBI performance in Issaquah's 3-0 week. Yarnell finished the week 6-for-10 (.600) with a double, home run and four runs scored to go along with his 9 RBI. He was key to the Eagles' big victory over rival Newport, hitting a three-run home run and driving in six. Yarnell has also collected two pitcher of the week awards, and is hitting .435 with 4 doubles, 2 home runs and a KingCo leading 24 RBI in league play this season.

Also nominated: Jack Jajewski, Garfield

Pitcher of the Week: Spencer Rogers, Sr., Issaquah
The Eagles continue their domination of the weekly KingCo awards, with senior Spencer Rogers winning the pitcher of the week award for week 6. Rogers tossed a no-hitter in Issaquah's 11-0 win over Redmond, facing the minimum number of batters in 6 innings of work. The right-hander walked three and struck out 7 to knock the Knights out of division championship contention. Rogers, who was the Crest Division player of the week in week 3, sports a 5-1 record on the season with an ERA of 2.29.

Also nominated: None

Crown Division
Player of the Week: Theo Alexander, Soph., Lake Washington
Kangs sophomore Theo Alexander is the winner of the Crown Division player of the week for week 6. Alexander broke out in a big way, going 6-for-10 (.600) with three doubles, a home run, 5 runs scored and 5 RBI for Lake Washington in their playoff-clinching week. He also walked twice and stole three bases. In KingCo play this season, Alexander is hitting .324 with 9 runs scored, 10 RBI and 7 stolen bases.

Also nominated: Bob Cruikshank, LW; Ethan Yeo, Inglemoor

Pitcher of the Week: Spencer Trautman, Sr., Inglemoor
For his 5-inning shutout against Ballard, senior left-hander Spencer Trautman wins the second Crown Division pitcher of the week award for the Vikings this year, joining junior Dustin Doucette. Trautman allowed just 2 hits and 1 walk while striking out four to help Inglemoor in their 11-0 win over Balard. Trautman improved to 2-0 with a 2.69 ERA in league play with his week 6 performance.

Also nominated: Obidiah Taylor, Inglemoor

Playoff Outlook

Just one day of regular season games remain before the KingCo 4A tournament, which starts on Saturday, May 8th. While seven of the eight playoff teams have been determined, much is still left to be determined in terms of seeding into the playoffs. Here's a quick look as to how each division lines up as of today:

Crest Division
In the playoffs:
Issaquah (12-3)
Redmond (11-4)
Newport (10-5)
Skyline (7-8)

Eliminated from playoffs:
Garfield (4-11)
Eastlake (1-14)

Scenarios:
The Redmond-Issaquah game on Tuesday will determine the Crest Division championship and the top seed from the Crest into the KingCo tournament - winner take all. If Redmond wins, Issaquah will be the #2 seed and Newport the #3. An Issaquah win combined with a Newport win over Eastlake would put the Knights at #2 and Redmond as the #3 (based on a regular season sweep for Newport over Redmond). Skyline is locked in as the #4 seed.


Crown Division
In the playoffs:
Inglemoor (13-2)
Bothell (9-6)
Lake Washington (7-8)

In contention:
Woodinville (7-8)
Ballard (6-9)

Eliminated from playoffs:
Roosevelt (3-12)

Scenarios:
Inglemoor is the Crown Division champion and will face off with Skyline in the first round of the playoffs. Bothell has secured the #2 seed and will take on the third seed from the Crest in round 1. Lake Washington has clinched a playoff berth, as they would win a three-way tie between themselves, Woodinville and Ballard based on head-to-head records between the teams. Based on Tuesday's results, they could get in as either the #3 or #4 seed. Woodinville and Ballard face each other on Tuesday with the final playoff spot on the line. A Falcon win would secure the final spot in the tournament, while a win by the Beavers would force a possible one-game playoff.

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Here's a look at the round 1 tournament matchups:

• 10:00 am - Crown #3 vs. Crest #2
• 1:00 pm - Skyline (Crest #4) vs. Inglemoor (Crown #1)
• 4:00 pm - Crest #3 vs. Bothell (Crown #2)
• 7:00 pm - Crown #4 vs. Crest #1