Wednesday, April 13, 2011
Mercer Island Wins Lone Tuesday Contest
Mercer Island 9, Juanita 6 - Juniors David Oppenheim and Cameron Ogard each drove in three runs, leading the Islanders to their first KingCo win 9-6 over Juanita. The Rebels jumped ahead early, with senior Sean Barlow launching a 3-run home run. Mercer Island responded immediately, putting a six spot on the board in the bottom half of the frame. They would not trail the rest of the way, extending the lead with single runs in the 2nd, 4th and 6th innings. Sophomore Isak Morris was the winning pitcher, allowing 5 runs (4 earned) in six innings of work. Evan Thomspon, Brian Higgins and Alberto Gonzales each had two hits and each Islander in the order had at least one knock on the day. Juanita collected twelve hits, three coming off the bat of senior J.J. Caldwell, with two each from sophomore Ty Eng and junior Conner Jackson.
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
Redmond, Mount Si Remain Lone Unbeatens
With both leagues on a Monday/Wednesday/Friday schedule this week, each day is packed with nine scheduled games. Monday amazingly brought nice enough weather for all nine games to be played - has to be a first this year! Here's a quick look at the results...
Monday 4A Results
Redmond 11, Bothell 9 - In a battle of previously unbeaten KingCo teams, the Mustangs pounded out 12 hits to down Crown division leading Bothell, 11-9. The bulk of the runs were scored early in the game, with Redmond leading 9-8 after just three innings of play. 'Stang shortstop and Oregon State bound Michael Conforto was 3-for-3 with a double and two home runs, driving in 2 and scoring three more on the night. Fellow future Beaver Dylan Davis homered and drove in three, and also earned the win on the mound despite a shaky start to the game. For the Cougars, Ryan Morgan had a big night, finishing 3-for-4 with a double, home run and 2 RBI. Redmond also got contributions from junior Peter Hendron (2-for-3, double, 2 RBI, 3 runs) and T.J. Whidby (2-for-4, double, 2 RBI) in improving to 7-0. The loss dropped Bothell to 6-1, a full game ahead of second place Woodinville in the Crown division.
Issaquah 8, Ballard 3 - Junior Brandon Mahlovich pitched a complete game and also homered to lead the Eagles to their third straight KingCo win, 8-3 over Ballard. The right hander allowed 7 hits and 3 earned, striking out 8 going the distance for the win. Issaquah improves to 4-3 in KingCo play, just a game behind Newport for second place in the Crest Division. Ballard, who had their mini-winning streak snapped, got strong performances from Ryan Kangas (2-for-3, RBI) and Nelson Cooper (2-for-3, double, HR, 2 RBI).
Inglemoor 7, Skyline 5 - The Vikings got back on track Monday, evening their league record at 4-4 with a 7-5 win over the Spartans of Skyline. Emmett Maki was 3-for-4 with 3 runs batted in for Inglemoor, which got a solid performance from senior Dustin Doucette on the mound. Skyline's Nate Litka was 3-for-3 with a double and three RBI in a losing effort.
Roosevelt 6, Eastlake 3 - Senior Reid Martinez drove in four of the Roughriders 6 runs as they picked up their second league win, 6-3 over the Eastlake Wolves. Martinez finished the day 3-for-4 with a double and a home run, also adding three stolen bases. David Holt worked the first 4 1/3 innings to pick up the win, with senior Tim Moore finishing the game in style, striking out 5 over the last 2 2/3. John Armour and Robert Nolan each had two hits for Eastlake, which remained winless dropping to 0-7.
Newport 6, Garfield 5 - The Knights climbed out of an early deficit thanks to the relief efforts of junior Aaron Sandefur, scoring 3 in the 5th and 2 more in the 6th to down the Bulldogs, 6-5. Sandefur came on relief in the third inning and tossed five shutout innings, allowing Newport to complete the comeback. He allowed just 3 hits without walking a batter, picking up 6 strikeouts along the way. Senior Jared Fisher, the reigning KingCo 4A pitcher of the week, continued to swing a hot bat as well, driving in 3 runs while going 2-for-4. Senior Daniel Altchech also drove in two for the Knights, who improved to 5-2 on the season. Garfield lost its seventh straight KingCo game despite strong efforts from sophomore Chandler Honican (3-for-4, 2 RBI), Zach Ward (2-for-4, 2 runs) and Spencer Scott (1-for-4, double, 2 RBI).
Monday 3A Results
Mount Si 11, Liberty 0 - Senior shortstop Tim Proudfoot went deep three times, as the Wildcats hit five home runs in an 11-0 whitewash of the Patriots. Mount Si has opened league play on fire, with their starting pitchers allowing just 2 runs in four starts. Offensively they've been on a tear as well, outscoring their opponents 39-6 in their 4 wins. Last week's KingCo 3A player of the week Max Brown homered as did junior Reece Karalus. Junior Trevor Lane struck out eight in four innings of work to pick up the win.
LW 7, Juanita 3 - Long-time Kirkland rivals Lake Washington and Juanita met for the first time since 2008, with the Kangs earning early bragging rights with a 7-3 win over the Rebels. Senior Wesley Russell tossed six strong innings in his first league start of the season, scattering 7 hits and not walking a batter. He struck out 5 Rebels en route to the win. The Kangs were led offensively by junior Victor Mayorquin, who was 2-for-4 with a two-run double in the fourth inning. Senior Kory Kohlwes and junior Zach Johnson each had 2 hits for LW, which moved to 3-1 in league play. Senior J.J. Caldwell was 2-for-3 with an RBI for Juanita, who takes on Mercer Island Tuesday in a game rained out from last week. Lake Washington shortstop Bob Cruikshank doubled and scored in the 7th and has at least one hit in each of the Kangs' 10 games this season.
Interlake 3, Mercer Island 2 - The Saints pitching staff continued to impress on Monday, this time keeping Mercer Island in check for a 3-2 win over the Islanders. Interlake has allowed just 12 runs over their first four KingCo contests helping them to a 3-1 start. Griffin Sutich, Gavin McNeils and Ari Kira combined on a 7-hitter, with Kira striking out the final M.I. batter of the game with the tying and go ahead runs on base. Austin Strother was 2-for-3 with a triple, driving in two runs in Interlake's decisive 3-run sixth inning. M.I. drops to 0-3 and will look to get in the win column when they play host to Juanita Tuesday night.
Bellevue 5, Sammamish 1 - A battle of two young pitchers went the way of the Wolverines, as they improved to 3-1 with a 5-1 win over Sammamish. Junior Michael Raine outdueled Totems freshman Joe Giachetti in this one, with Bellevue scoring all of its runs over the final three innings. Raine allowed just a run on four hits in the complete game victory. He collected 9 strikeouts against just one walk, throwing 51 of his 86 pitches for strikes. The Wolverines were led offensively by senior Reid Wagner, who was 3-for-3 with 3 RBI. Sophomore Jack Meggs (triple, 2 runs) and Jack Perkins (double) also made strong contributions to the win. Sammamish dropped to 0-4 with the loss despite a strong performance from their freshman right hander. Aaron Lawrenson and Chris Strain each doubled in defeat.
Monday 4A Results
Redmond 11, Bothell 9 - In a battle of previously unbeaten KingCo teams, the Mustangs pounded out 12 hits to down Crown division leading Bothell, 11-9. The bulk of the runs were scored early in the game, with Redmond leading 9-8 after just three innings of play. 'Stang shortstop and Oregon State bound Michael Conforto was 3-for-3 with a double and two home runs, driving in 2 and scoring three more on the night. Fellow future Beaver Dylan Davis homered and drove in three, and also earned the win on the mound despite a shaky start to the game. For the Cougars, Ryan Morgan had a big night, finishing 3-for-4 with a double, home run and 2 RBI. Redmond also got contributions from junior Peter Hendron (2-for-3, double, 2 RBI, 3 runs) and T.J. Whidby (2-for-4, double, 2 RBI) in improving to 7-0. The loss dropped Bothell to 6-1, a full game ahead of second place Woodinville in the Crown division.
Issaquah 8, Ballard 3 - Junior Brandon Mahlovich pitched a complete game and also homered to lead the Eagles to their third straight KingCo win, 8-3 over Ballard. The right hander allowed 7 hits and 3 earned, striking out 8 going the distance for the win. Issaquah improves to 4-3 in KingCo play, just a game behind Newport for second place in the Crest Division. Ballard, who had their mini-winning streak snapped, got strong performances from Ryan Kangas (2-for-3, RBI) and Nelson Cooper (2-for-3, double, HR, 2 RBI).
Inglemoor 7, Skyline 5 - The Vikings got back on track Monday, evening their league record at 4-4 with a 7-5 win over the Spartans of Skyline. Emmett Maki was 3-for-4 with 3 runs batted in for Inglemoor, which got a solid performance from senior Dustin Doucette on the mound. Skyline's Nate Litka was 3-for-3 with a double and three RBI in a losing effort.
Roosevelt 6, Eastlake 3 - Senior Reid Martinez drove in four of the Roughriders 6 runs as they picked up their second league win, 6-3 over the Eastlake Wolves. Martinez finished the day 3-for-4 with a double and a home run, also adding three stolen bases. David Holt worked the first 4 1/3 innings to pick up the win, with senior Tim Moore finishing the game in style, striking out 5 over the last 2 2/3. John Armour and Robert Nolan each had two hits for Eastlake, which remained winless dropping to 0-7.
Newport 6, Garfield 5 - The Knights climbed out of an early deficit thanks to the relief efforts of junior Aaron Sandefur, scoring 3 in the 5th and 2 more in the 6th to down the Bulldogs, 6-5. Sandefur came on relief in the third inning and tossed five shutout innings, allowing Newport to complete the comeback. He allowed just 3 hits without walking a batter, picking up 6 strikeouts along the way. Senior Jared Fisher, the reigning KingCo 4A pitcher of the week, continued to swing a hot bat as well, driving in 3 runs while going 2-for-4. Senior Daniel Altchech also drove in two for the Knights, who improved to 5-2 on the season. Garfield lost its seventh straight KingCo game despite strong efforts from sophomore Chandler Honican (3-for-4, 2 RBI), Zach Ward (2-for-4, 2 runs) and Spencer Scott (1-for-4, double, 2 RBI).
Monday 3A Results
Mount Si 11, Liberty 0 - Senior shortstop Tim Proudfoot went deep three times, as the Wildcats hit five home runs in an 11-0 whitewash of the Patriots. Mount Si has opened league play on fire, with their starting pitchers allowing just 2 runs in four starts. Offensively they've been on a tear as well, outscoring their opponents 39-6 in their 4 wins. Last week's KingCo 3A player of the week Max Brown homered as did junior Reece Karalus. Junior Trevor Lane struck out eight in four innings of work to pick up the win.
LW 7, Juanita 3 - Long-time Kirkland rivals Lake Washington and Juanita met for the first time since 2008, with the Kangs earning early bragging rights with a 7-3 win over the Rebels. Senior Wesley Russell tossed six strong innings in his first league start of the season, scattering 7 hits and not walking a batter. He struck out 5 Rebels en route to the win. The Kangs were led offensively by junior Victor Mayorquin, who was 2-for-4 with a two-run double in the fourth inning. Senior Kory Kohlwes and junior Zach Johnson each had 2 hits for LW, which moved to 3-1 in league play. Senior J.J. Caldwell was 2-for-3 with an RBI for Juanita, who takes on Mercer Island Tuesday in a game rained out from last week. Lake Washington shortstop Bob Cruikshank doubled and scored in the 7th and has at least one hit in each of the Kangs' 10 games this season.
Interlake 3, Mercer Island 2 - The Saints pitching staff continued to impress on Monday, this time keeping Mercer Island in check for a 3-2 win over the Islanders. Interlake has allowed just 12 runs over their first four KingCo contests helping them to a 3-1 start. Griffin Sutich, Gavin McNeils and Ari Kira combined on a 7-hitter, with Kira striking out the final M.I. batter of the game with the tying and go ahead runs on base. Austin Strother was 2-for-3 with a triple, driving in two runs in Interlake's decisive 3-run sixth inning. M.I. drops to 0-3 and will look to get in the win column when they play host to Juanita Tuesday night.
Bellevue 5, Sammamish 1 - A battle of two young pitchers went the way of the Wolverines, as they improved to 3-1 with a 5-1 win over Sammamish. Junior Michael Raine outdueled Totems freshman Joe Giachetti in this one, with Bellevue scoring all of its runs over the final three innings. Raine allowed just a run on four hits in the complete game victory. He collected 9 strikeouts against just one walk, throwing 51 of his 86 pitches for strikes. The Wolverines were led offensively by senior Reid Wagner, who was 3-for-3 with 3 RBI. Sophomore Jack Meggs (triple, 2 runs) and Jack Perkins (double) also made strong contributions to the win. Sammamish dropped to 0-4 with the loss despite a strong performance from their freshman right hander. Aaron Lawrenson and Chris Strain each doubled in defeat.
Monday, April 11, 2011
KingCo 3A/2A Awards - Week 1
KingCo 3A/2A Baseball - Players of the Week
Week 1: April 4 - 9, 2011
Player of the Week: Max Brown, Sr., Mount Si
Mount Si outfielder Max Brown picks up the first KingCo 3A/2A player of the week award for his outstanding performances in the Wildcats' 3-0 week. The senior had three multi-hit games last week, finishing 8-for-12 with 4 runs scored and 4 RBI. He had one double in each of the three games and also stole 3 bags. For the season, Brown is hitting .500 (13-for-26) in eight games, with 5 doubles, a home run and 10 RBI.
Also nominated: Sean Barlow, Juanita; Sam Finfer, Interlake
Pitcher of the Week: Carl Snaring, Jr., Interlake
Interlake junior Carl Snaring is the winner of the KingCo 3A/2A pitcher of the week award for week 1. The southpaw dominated Liberty in a 9-0 win on Thursday afternoon. He went the distance in tossing a shutout, allowing just a single hit and three walks while striking out 11 Patriots. Snaring tossed 109 pitches in the win, which was part of his team's 2-1 week.
Also nominated: Bob Cruikshank, LW; Reece Karalus, Mt. Si; Trevor Lane, Mt. Si; Izak Styskal, Liberty; Trevor Taylor, Mt. Si
Week 1: April 4 - 9, 2011
Player of the Week: Max Brown, Sr., Mount Si
Mount Si outfielder Max Brown picks up the first KingCo 3A/2A player of the week award for his outstanding performances in the Wildcats' 3-0 week. The senior had three multi-hit games last week, finishing 8-for-12 with 4 runs scored and 4 RBI. He had one double in each of the three games and also stole 3 bags. For the season, Brown is hitting .500 (13-for-26) in eight games, with 5 doubles, a home run and 10 RBI.
Also nominated: Sean Barlow, Juanita; Sam Finfer, Interlake
Pitcher of the Week: Carl Snaring, Jr., Interlake
Interlake junior Carl Snaring is the winner of the KingCo 3A/2A pitcher of the week award for week 1. The southpaw dominated Liberty in a 9-0 win on Thursday afternoon. He went the distance in tossing a shutout, allowing just a single hit and three walks while striking out 11 Patriots. Snaring tossed 109 pitches in the win, which was part of his team's 2-1 week.
Also nominated: Bob Cruikshank, LW; Reece Karalus, Mt. Si; Trevor Lane, Mt. Si; Izak Styskal, Liberty; Trevor Taylor, Mt. Si
KingCo 4A Awards - Week 3
KingCo 4A Baseball - Players of the Week
Week 3: April 4 - 9, 2011
Crest Division
Player of the Week: Peter Hendron, Jr., Redmond
Redmond Mustang junior Peter Hendron earns player of the week honors for his ability to come up with the big hit. Twice in the week Hendron drove in key runs with two outs. The first was against Garfield in the form of a three run homerun to plate the decisive runs. The second was against Ballard via a bases clearing double which tied the game at 4. On the week, Hendron was 4-7 with 6 RBI and 2 runs scored.
Week 3: April 4 - 9, 2011
Crest Division
Player of the Week: Peter Hendron, Jr., Redmond
Redmond Mustang junior Peter Hendron earns player of the week honors for his ability to come up with the big hit. Twice in the week Hendron drove in key runs with two outs. The first was against Garfield in the form of a three run homerun to plate the decisive runs. The second was against Ballard via a bases clearing double which tied the game at 4. On the week, Hendron was 4-7 with 6 RBI and 2 runs scored.
Also nominated: Ben Rosellini, Issaquah
Pitcher of the Week: Jared Fisher, Sr., Newport
In a game against Inglemoor, the University of Washington signee was nearly perfect. Carrying a perfect game into the 7th, an infield hit ended Jared Fisher’s bid. Nonetheless, he was dominant from beginning to end as he only needed 81 pitches to carry his team to victory. All told, Fisher threw 7 shutout innings giving up the one hit, striking out 10 and walking none. This is back to back Pitcher of the Week awards for the Newport Knight staff as Fisher joins Cole Wiper in receiving the honor.
Also nominated: None
Crown Division
Player of the Week: Oliver Guarino, Sr., Ballard
In a tough three game week, senior outfielder Oliver Guarino of the Ballard Beavers continued his impressive offensive performance. On the week, he was 5-9 with two doubles and a triple allowing him to drive in six runs. His offensive output propelled the Beavers to a 2-1 week, evening up their Kingco record at 3-3. This is Guarino’s first player of the week award.
Also nominated: None
Pitcher of the Week: Marty Luckenbach, Jr., Woodinville
Woodinville junior Marty Luckenbach was flat out dealing against the Skyline Spartans on Thursday. The hard throwing right-hander pitched a complete game shutout. En-route to the victory, Luckenbach struck out ten without walking a single hitter. He only yielded four hits on the afternoon. Luckenbach is now 1-1 in the young KingCo season.
Also nominated: Kevin McShane, Bothell; Danny Thompson, Ballard
Pitcher of the Week: Jared Fisher, Sr., Newport
In a game against Inglemoor, the University of Washington signee was nearly perfect. Carrying a perfect game into the 7th, an infield hit ended Jared Fisher’s bid. Nonetheless, he was dominant from beginning to end as he only needed 81 pitches to carry his team to victory. All told, Fisher threw 7 shutout innings giving up the one hit, striking out 10 and walking none. This is back to back Pitcher of the Week awards for the Newport Knight staff as Fisher joins Cole Wiper in receiving the honor.
Also nominated: None
Crown Division
Player of the Week: Oliver Guarino, Sr., Ballard
In a tough three game week, senior outfielder Oliver Guarino of the Ballard Beavers continued his impressive offensive performance. On the week, he was 5-9 with two doubles and a triple allowing him to drive in six runs. His offensive output propelled the Beavers to a 2-1 week, evening up their Kingco record at 3-3. This is Guarino’s first player of the week award.
Also nominated: None
Pitcher of the Week: Marty Luckenbach, Jr., Woodinville
Woodinville junior Marty Luckenbach was flat out dealing against the Skyline Spartans on Thursday. The hard throwing right-hander pitched a complete game shutout. En-route to the victory, Luckenbach struck out ten without walking a single hitter. He only yielded four hits on the afternoon. Luckenbach is now 1-1 in the young KingCo season.
Also nominated: Kevin McShane, Bothell; Danny Thompson, Ballard
Weekend Update
With all the rain during the week, the Saturday schedule was packed as well, with 3 games in the 3A league and two more in the 4A.
Saturday 3A Results
Liberty 4, Lake Washington 0 - Junior Izak Styskal shutout the Kangs, getting ground ball after ground ball in Liberty's 4-0 win over previously unbeaten (in KingCo) Lake Washington. The right-hander allowed six hits and walked one, recording 13 ground ball outs on the afternoon. The Patriots used little ball to put their four runs on the board, scoring once on an LW throwing error and twice on sacrifice flies. Junior Ben Wessel also doubled home a run in Liberty's 2-run sixth inning. Sophomore Nick Johnson was 2-for-3 with a double for LW, who finished the week 2-1.
Mt Si 11, Mercer Island 1 - The Wildcats made an early statement as potential favorites in the 3A league, topping MI 11-1 in six innings. Mount Si pounded out 11 hits, with Max Brown, Trevor Lane and Nate Sinner each collecting multi-hit games. Junior right hander Reece Karalus gave up just two hits and struck out 11 in the complete game victory. One night after playing a dramatic 11 inning game, neither the Islanders or Kangs had much in the tank, combining to score just 1 run in their Saturday contests.
Juanita 8, Sammamish 7 - The Totems scored three times in the top of the seventh to tie the game, only to watch senior Mitch Gebe single home the winning run in the bottom of the seventh, as Juanita picked up an 8-7 win. Senior Sean Barlow was 2-for-3 with two doubles and two runs batted in for Juanita. Gebe, Chris Foss, Derek Kaufman and Conner Jackson had two hits a piece for the Rebels, who will play host to long-time rival Lake Washington on Monday night. Chris Strain drove in two runs for the Totems, who dropped to 0-3 in league play.
Saturday 4A Results
Woodinville 7, Newport 2 - Falcons senior outfielder Carl Svanevik homered and drove in five of Woodinville's seven runs to help his team bounce back from a Friday loss to top Newport, 7-2. Svanevik's home run came in the top of the first inning, getting the Falcons off to a quick start. Three Woodinville pitchers combined on a four hitter, while junior Max Carter was 3-for-4 with a home run. Senior Jared Fisher was 2-for-2 and drove in the lone Knight runs on the day.
Ballard 7, Eastlake 0 - Senior Danny Thompson allowed just a hit and a walk in five shutout innings as the Beavers won their second game in as many days, 7-0 over Eastlake. The right hander lowered his ERA to 0.74 on the season, as he has allowed just 7 hits and 2 earned runs in his 19 innings of work. Thompson also added a double and a triple on the afternoon, while Brendan Foor (2-for-4, 3 RBI) and Oliver Guarino (2-for-4, triple, 2 RBI) chipped in to pace the Ballard offensive attack. The win moves Ballard into a tie with Inglemoor for third place in the Crown Division, while the Wolves dropped to 0-6 on the KingCo 4A season.
Saturday 3A Results
Liberty 4, Lake Washington 0 - Junior Izak Styskal shutout the Kangs, getting ground ball after ground ball in Liberty's 4-0 win over previously unbeaten (in KingCo) Lake Washington. The right-hander allowed six hits and walked one, recording 13 ground ball outs on the afternoon. The Patriots used little ball to put their four runs on the board, scoring once on an LW throwing error and twice on sacrifice flies. Junior Ben Wessel also doubled home a run in Liberty's 2-run sixth inning. Sophomore Nick Johnson was 2-for-3 with a double for LW, who finished the week 2-1.
Mt Si 11, Mercer Island 1 - The Wildcats made an early statement as potential favorites in the 3A league, topping MI 11-1 in six innings. Mount Si pounded out 11 hits, with Max Brown, Trevor Lane and Nate Sinner each collecting multi-hit games. Junior right hander Reece Karalus gave up just two hits and struck out 11 in the complete game victory. One night after playing a dramatic 11 inning game, neither the Islanders or Kangs had much in the tank, combining to score just 1 run in their Saturday contests.
Juanita 8, Sammamish 7 - The Totems scored three times in the top of the seventh to tie the game, only to watch senior Mitch Gebe single home the winning run in the bottom of the seventh, as Juanita picked up an 8-7 win. Senior Sean Barlow was 2-for-3 with two doubles and two runs batted in for Juanita. Gebe, Chris Foss, Derek Kaufman and Conner Jackson had two hits a piece for the Rebels, who will play host to long-time rival Lake Washington on Monday night. Chris Strain drove in two runs for the Totems, who dropped to 0-3 in league play.
Saturday 4A Results
Woodinville 7, Newport 2 - Falcons senior outfielder Carl Svanevik homered and drove in five of Woodinville's seven runs to help his team bounce back from a Friday loss to top Newport, 7-2. Svanevik's home run came in the top of the first inning, getting the Falcons off to a quick start. Three Woodinville pitchers combined on a four hitter, while junior Max Carter was 3-for-4 with a home run. Senior Jared Fisher was 2-for-2 and drove in the lone Knight runs on the day.
Ballard 7, Eastlake 0 - Senior Danny Thompson allowed just a hit and a walk in five shutout innings as the Beavers won their second game in as many days, 7-0 over Eastlake. The right hander lowered his ERA to 0.74 on the season, as he has allowed just 7 hits and 2 earned runs in his 19 innings of work. Thompson also added a double and a triple on the afternoon, while Brendan Foor (2-for-4, 3 RBI) and Oliver Guarino (2-for-4, triple, 2 RBI) chipped in to pace the Ballard offensive attack. The win moves Ballard into a tie with Inglemoor for third place in the Crown Division, while the Wolves dropped to 0-6 on the KingCo 4A season.
Friday Night Lights
Full slate of 3A & 4A games on Friday, as sunshine finally arrived (for a day at least) allowing the 4A teams to get caught up on past rainouts:
Friday 3A Results
Lake Washington 12, Mercer Island 11 (11 innings) - In what was likely the game of the year so far in the KingCo conference, the Kangs scored three times in the bottom of the 11th inning to walk-off with a 12-11 win over the defending 3A league champion Islanders. Mercer Island jumped out early with 2 runs in the first and tacked on three more on junior David Oppenheim's three-run home run in the second inning. The teams traded four run innings, MI carrying a 9-6 lead into the seventh. LW would push across three runs to tie the game and send it to extra frames. Both bullpens tossed scoreless innings in the 8th, 9th and 10th before MI broke through with 2 in the top of the 11th. However, the Kangs fought back once again, tying the game on a two-run double by junior Victor Mayorquin and winning it on senior Chris Moore's RBI single. Moore drove in four on the night for LW, with Mayorquin finishing the evening 4-for-7 with a double and 2 RBI. Senior Evan Thompson was 3-for-6 and Oppenheim finished 2-for-4 with the home run and 4 runs batted in for the Islanders.
Mt. Si 9, Juanita 0 - Junior Trevor Taylor struck out 10 Rebels in five shutout innings, propeling the Wildcats to a 9-0 win over Juanita. Taylor's strong start was on the heels of an impressive outing by teammate Trevor Lane in the Mt. Si opener. Senior Max Brown was 3-for-4 with a double and fellow senior Dustin Breshears tripled and stole two bases for the 'Cats. Senior Derek Welsh homered to help the team to a 2-0 KingCo start.
Interlake 9, Sammamish 6 - The Saints scored three times in both the fourth and fifth innings and held off a late Sammamish run for their second straight league win. Junior Carl Snaring doubled twice fresh off an impressive performance on the mound where he struck out 11 in a complete game win over Liberty on Thursday. Sophomore Austin Strothers was the winning pitcher, with the Totems scoring just two runs over the first six innings. Senior infielder Aaron Lawrenson had a big day in defeat, missing the cycle by just a home run going 4-for-4 on the afternoon.
Bellevue 6, Liberty 5 - The Wolverines picked up their second league win in three tries, sending Liberty to 0-2 with the one-run victory.
Friday 4A Results
Ballard 5, Woodinville 4 - The Beavers scored 4 runs in the bottom of the fourth inning and held the Falcons scoreless for the final three innings to prevail, 5-4. Brendan Foor and Eric Frank each drove in two runs for Ballard, while Caleb Jaeger worked the final 3 2/3 innings allowing just one hit to earn the win. Junior Spencer Greer took the loss for Woodinville, who fell to 4-2 on the year, two full games behind Bothell in the Crown Division. Every player in the Falcon lineup had one hit, but they failed to string many hits together.
Issaquah 10, Inglemoor 3 - Junior left-hander Ethan Kalin allowed two runs and struck out six over five innings of work and senior Ben Roselini had 2 hits and 3 RBI as the Eagles downed Inglemoor, 10-3. Junior Andrew Kemmerer homered and drove in two runs and fellow junior Brandon Mahlovich had two hits and two runs scored to help pace Issy's 10-hit attack. Obi Taylor took the loss for the defending Crown Division champions, who made four errors in dropping their KingCo record to 3-4.
Skyline 4, Roosevelt 1 - The Roughriders broke a scoreless tie with a run in the top of the sixth, only to see Skyline score four times in the bottom of the frame as the Spartans beat Roosevelt, 4-1. Senior Travis Snider pitched 4 2/3 innings in relief of Connor Gilchrist, striking out 4 to earn the victory. Snider along with juniors Clayton Huber and Brandon Fischer drove in the Spartan runs. Graylin Derke was 2-for-2 with a double and a walk for Roosevelt, and also threw five scoreless innings before tiring in the 4-run Spartan sixth.
Newport 2, Eastlake 1 (9 innings) - Senior Nick Clifford hit a walk-off solo homerun in the bottom of the 9th, sending the Knights home with a 2-1 win over the Wolves of Eastlake. The game was a pitcher's duel between Eastlake's Andrew Stull and Newport's Cole Wiper. Stull went the distance, allowing just a run in the second inning before Clifford's late heroics. Meanwhile, Wiper was just as impressive, allowing just 3 hits and a walk while striking out 11 before handing the ball to senior Erik Jensen, who pitched a shutout top of the ninth for the win.
Friday 3A Results
Lake Washington 12, Mercer Island 11 (11 innings) - In what was likely the game of the year so far in the KingCo conference, the Kangs scored three times in the bottom of the 11th inning to walk-off with a 12-11 win over the defending 3A league champion Islanders. Mercer Island jumped out early with 2 runs in the first and tacked on three more on junior David Oppenheim's three-run home run in the second inning. The teams traded four run innings, MI carrying a 9-6 lead into the seventh. LW would push across three runs to tie the game and send it to extra frames. Both bullpens tossed scoreless innings in the 8th, 9th and 10th before MI broke through with 2 in the top of the 11th. However, the Kangs fought back once again, tying the game on a two-run double by junior Victor Mayorquin and winning it on senior Chris Moore's RBI single. Moore drove in four on the night for LW, with Mayorquin finishing the evening 4-for-7 with a double and 2 RBI. Senior Evan Thompson was 3-for-6 and Oppenheim finished 2-for-4 with the home run and 4 runs batted in for the Islanders.
Mt. Si 9, Juanita 0 - Junior Trevor Taylor struck out 10 Rebels in five shutout innings, propeling the Wildcats to a 9-0 win over Juanita. Taylor's strong start was on the heels of an impressive outing by teammate Trevor Lane in the Mt. Si opener. Senior Max Brown was 3-for-4 with a double and fellow senior Dustin Breshears tripled and stole two bases for the 'Cats. Senior Derek Welsh homered to help the team to a 2-0 KingCo start.
Interlake 9, Sammamish 6 - The Saints scored three times in both the fourth and fifth innings and held off a late Sammamish run for their second straight league win. Junior Carl Snaring doubled twice fresh off an impressive performance on the mound where he struck out 11 in a complete game win over Liberty on Thursday. Sophomore Austin Strothers was the winning pitcher, with the Totems scoring just two runs over the first six innings. Senior infielder Aaron Lawrenson had a big day in defeat, missing the cycle by just a home run going 4-for-4 on the afternoon.
Bellevue 6, Liberty 5 - The Wolverines picked up their second league win in three tries, sending Liberty to 0-2 with the one-run victory.
Friday 4A Results
Ballard 5, Woodinville 4 - The Beavers scored 4 runs in the bottom of the fourth inning and held the Falcons scoreless for the final three innings to prevail, 5-4. Brendan Foor and Eric Frank each drove in two runs for Ballard, while Caleb Jaeger worked the final 3 2/3 innings allowing just one hit to earn the win. Junior Spencer Greer took the loss for Woodinville, who fell to 4-2 on the year, two full games behind Bothell in the Crown Division. Every player in the Falcon lineup had one hit, but they failed to string many hits together.
Issaquah 10, Inglemoor 3 - Junior left-hander Ethan Kalin allowed two runs and struck out six over five innings of work and senior Ben Roselini had 2 hits and 3 RBI as the Eagles downed Inglemoor, 10-3. Junior Andrew Kemmerer homered and drove in two runs and fellow junior Brandon Mahlovich had two hits and two runs scored to help pace Issy's 10-hit attack. Obi Taylor took the loss for the defending Crown Division champions, who made four errors in dropping their KingCo record to 3-4.
Skyline 4, Roosevelt 1 - The Roughriders broke a scoreless tie with a run in the top of the sixth, only to see Skyline score four times in the bottom of the frame as the Spartans beat Roosevelt, 4-1. Senior Travis Snider pitched 4 2/3 innings in relief of Connor Gilchrist, striking out 4 to earn the victory. Snider along with juniors Clayton Huber and Brandon Fischer drove in the Spartan runs. Graylin Derke was 2-for-2 with a double and a walk for Roosevelt, and also threw five scoreless innings before tiring in the 4-run Spartan sixth.
Newport 2, Eastlake 1 (9 innings) - Senior Nick Clifford hit a walk-off solo homerun in the bottom of the 9th, sending the Knights home with a 2-1 win over the Wolves of Eastlake. The game was a pitcher's duel between Eastlake's Andrew Stull and Newport's Cole Wiper. Stull went the distance, allowing just a run in the second inning before Clifford's late heroics. Meanwhile, Wiper was just as impressive, allowing just 3 hits and a walk while striking out 11 before handing the ball to senior Erik Jensen, who pitched a shutout top of the ninth for the win.
Friday, April 8, 2011
Fisher Near Perfect in Knights Win
One late result coming in from Thursday night:
Newport 5, Inglemoor 0 - UW signee Jared Fisher was an infield single in the seventh away from perfection, leading the Knights to their third straight win, 5-0 over Inglemoor. Fisher needed just 81 pitches to cruise the distance, allowing just the one hit and no walks while racking up 10 punchouts. Senior Cole Wiper paced the offense, going 3-for-3 with a double and an RBI. Junior Billy Sahlinger added a home run to help Newport improve to 3-1 in KingCo play. Emmett Maki took the loss for the Vikings, whose record dropped to an even 3-3.
Newport 5, Inglemoor 0 - UW signee Jared Fisher was an infield single in the seventh away from perfection, leading the Knights to their third straight win, 5-0 over Inglemoor. Fisher needed just 81 pitches to cruise the distance, allowing just the one hit and no walks while racking up 10 punchouts. Senior Cole Wiper paced the offense, going 3-for-3 with a double and an RBI. Junior Billy Sahlinger added a home run to help Newport improve to 3-1 in KingCo play. Emmett Maki took the loss for the Vikings, whose record dropped to an even 3-3.
Thursday Results
Most of the scheduled games were played on Thursday, with the KingCo 4A unbeatens remaining unscathed with a showdown on the horizon for Monday...
KingCo 4A
Issaquah 10, Garfield 8 - The Eagles scored four times in the top of the seventh to take the lead and held on for a 10-8 win over Garfield. Issaquah had trailed 7-6 going into the final frame, but was able to push across the tying and go ahead runs. Junior right hander Scott Boydston worked three innings in relief to pick up the win. Senior Ben Roselini was 3-for-4 with a double and 2 RBI, while juniors Jake Bakamus (2-for-3, double, triple, 3 runs scored) and Brandon Mahovlich (2-for-4, 2 RBI) also contributed in Issy's 15-hit attack. Spencer Scott was 3-for-3 with a double and 3 RBI and Sam Kennard was 2-for-3 with 2 runs scored for Garfield, who dropped to 1-6 with the loss.
Bothell 10, Eastlake 0 - Week 2 KingCo 4A pitcher of the week Brian McAfee led the unbeaten Cougars past Eastlake with his arm AND his bat. The senior had half of Bothell's hits, going 3-for-3 with a double, home run and 3 RBI. He also shutout Eastlake over 5 innings, scattering 5 hits and a walk while striking out 9 in a 10-0 win. Senior shortstop John Mercer doubled and drove in three for the Cougars, who improved to 6-0 with a date with unbeaten Redmond set for Monday night.
Woodinville 6, Skyline 0 - Oregon State bound Marty Luckenbach struck out 10 in a 4-hit shutout as the Falcons downed Skyline, 6-0. Woodinville jumped out to a 3-0 lead after two innings, and their 6'5" junior right hander took care of the rest. The Falcon offense scratched across six runs despite collecting just four hits, as three Spartan errors made a tough luck loser out of Matt Lunde. Clarke Bader (1-for-2, double) and Carl Svanevik (1-for-2, triple) were the offensive stars for 4-1 Woodinville.
Redmond 5, Ballard 4 - Junior Peter Hendron doubled and drove in three runs and senior Michael Conforto homered, as the Mustangs stormed back from an early deficit to stay unbeaten with a 5-4 win over Ballard. Things were looking good for the Beavers early, as they took a 4-0 lead into the fifth. However, they could not hold off the potent Redmond attack, as the 'Stangs tied the game with a four-run fifth and took the lead in the 6th. T.J. Whidby earned the win with two shutout innings in relief, with Conforto picking up another save, punching out two Ballard hitters in a hitless seventh inning. Oliver Guarino drove in two of the Beavers four runs in defeat.
KingCo 3A
Mount Si 8, Bellevue 5 - Junior Reece Karalus homered and drove in four runs and Trevor Lane struck out 7 in six shutout innings as the Wildcats won their KingCo 3A opener 8-5 over the Wolverines. Mount Si scored four in the first and another single run in the second to jump out early on Bellevue starter Drew Quinlan. They extended the lead in the bottom half of the fifth, with Max Brown and Karalus driving in the Wildcat runs. The Wolverines made things interesting scoring four times in the top of the seventh, but Shane Dixon struck out Jeff VanOrman to end the game. Lane needed just 74 pitches in his six innings of work, while Brown helped the offense with a 3-for-4 day, doubling and driving in 2. Mount Si will play host to Juanita on Friday, with Bellevue welcoming Liberty to their house.
KingCo 4A
Issaquah 10, Garfield 8 - The Eagles scored four times in the top of the seventh to take the lead and held on for a 10-8 win over Garfield. Issaquah had trailed 7-6 going into the final frame, but was able to push across the tying and go ahead runs. Junior right hander Scott Boydston worked three innings in relief to pick up the win. Senior Ben Roselini was 3-for-4 with a double and 2 RBI, while juniors Jake Bakamus (2-for-3, double, triple, 3 runs scored) and Brandon Mahovlich (2-for-4, 2 RBI) also contributed in Issy's 15-hit attack. Spencer Scott was 3-for-3 with a double and 3 RBI and Sam Kennard was 2-for-3 with 2 runs scored for Garfield, who dropped to 1-6 with the loss.
Bothell 10, Eastlake 0 - Week 2 KingCo 4A pitcher of the week Brian McAfee led the unbeaten Cougars past Eastlake with his arm AND his bat. The senior had half of Bothell's hits, going 3-for-3 with a double, home run and 3 RBI. He also shutout Eastlake over 5 innings, scattering 5 hits and a walk while striking out 9 in a 10-0 win. Senior shortstop John Mercer doubled and drove in three for the Cougars, who improved to 6-0 with a date with unbeaten Redmond set for Monday night.
Woodinville 6, Skyline 0 - Oregon State bound Marty Luckenbach struck out 10 in a 4-hit shutout as the Falcons downed Skyline, 6-0. Woodinville jumped out to a 3-0 lead after two innings, and their 6'5" junior right hander took care of the rest. The Falcon offense scratched across six runs despite collecting just four hits, as three Spartan errors made a tough luck loser out of Matt Lunde. Clarke Bader (1-for-2, double) and Carl Svanevik (1-for-2, triple) were the offensive stars for 4-1 Woodinville.
Redmond 5, Ballard 4 - Junior Peter Hendron doubled and drove in three runs and senior Michael Conforto homered, as the Mustangs stormed back from an early deficit to stay unbeaten with a 5-4 win over Ballard. Things were looking good for the Beavers early, as they took a 4-0 lead into the fifth. However, they could not hold off the potent Redmond attack, as the 'Stangs tied the game with a four-run fifth and took the lead in the 6th. T.J. Whidby earned the win with two shutout innings in relief, with Conforto picking up another save, punching out two Ballard hitters in a hitless seventh inning. Oliver Guarino drove in two of the Beavers four runs in defeat.
KingCo 3A
Mount Si 8, Bellevue 5 - Junior Reece Karalus homered and drove in four runs and Trevor Lane struck out 7 in six shutout innings as the Wildcats won their KingCo 3A opener 8-5 over the Wolverines. Mount Si scored four in the first and another single run in the second to jump out early on Bellevue starter Drew Quinlan. They extended the lead in the bottom half of the fifth, with Max Brown and Karalus driving in the Wildcat runs. The Wolverines made things interesting scoring four times in the top of the seventh, but Shane Dixon struck out Jeff VanOrman to end the game. Lane needed just 74 pitches in his six innings of work, while Brown helped the offense with a 3-for-4 day, doubling and driving in 2. Mount Si will play host to Juanita on Friday, with Bellevue welcoming Liberty to their house.
Interlake 9, Liberty 0 - Junior Carl Snaring was dominant on the mound, going the distance in a one-hit shutout as the Saints bounced back from Wednesday's loss with a 9-0 win over Liberty. Snaring struck out 11 Patriot batters, allowing just the one hit and three walks along the way. Sophomores Kamana Adriano and Austin Strothers led the Interlake offensive attack with Adriano homering with 4 RBI and Strothers collecting 2 hits and driving in 2.
Thursday, April 7, 2011
Technology Aiding Fans in Following Teams
Many sports teams are using the new era of technology and social media to enhance the experience for players, families and fans alike. The KingCo baseball conference is no different, with a number of teams using Twitter, live stat sites or both to allow more people to follow the action. I have been using these sites to follow along with games and thought I'd put together a compilation of all that I know about in case there are others interested in following the action (when there is actual baseball being played!!). If there are any other social media or "GameCast" type sites for KingCo teams, please pass them along in an e-mail.
(FYI, in case you hadn't noticed, there is a link to all KingCo baseball web sites on the right hand side of the page - you can find a ton of information on many of these sites as well...)
Live Stats/Twitter Sites by Team:
3A
Bellevue
Twitter: @BHSBaseball
Lake Washington
Live play-by-play: http://www.gamechanger.io/t/spring-2011/lake-washington-2752173/home
Twitter: @KangsBaseball
Mercer Island
Live play-by-play: http://data.iscorecentral.com/iscorecast/player.html?c=68ed0b49c3
Twitter: @MIHSBaseball
Mount Si
Live play-by-play: http://www.pointstreak.com/baseball/team_home.html?seasonid=573&teamid=14738
4A
Redmond
Live play-by-play: http://data.iscorecentral.com/iscorecast/player.html?c=C014616BD6
Twitter: @RHSMustangBaseb
Roosevelt
Live play-by-play: http://www.gamechanger.io/team-126441?src=team_scoreboard
Skyline
Twitter: @spartabaseball
(FYI, in case you hadn't noticed, there is a link to all KingCo baseball web sites on the right hand side of the page - you can find a ton of information on many of these sites as well...)
Live Stats/Twitter Sites by Team:
3A
Bellevue
Twitter: @BHSBaseball
Lake Washington
Live play-by-play: http://www.gamechanger.io/t/spring-2011/lake-washington-2752173/home
Twitter: @KangsBaseball
Mercer Island
Live play-by-play: http://data.iscorecentral.com/iscorecast/player.html?c=68ed0b49c3
Twitter: @MIHSBaseball
Mount Si
Live play-by-play: http://www.pointstreak.com/baseball/team_home.html?seasonid=573&teamid=14738
4A
Redmond
Live play-by-play: http://data.iscorecentral.com/iscorecast/player.html?c=C014616BD6
Twitter: @RHSMustangBaseb
Roosevelt
Live play-by-play: http://www.gamechanger.io/team-126441?src=team_scoreboard
Skyline
Twitter: @spartabaseball
Weather Continues to Affect Schedule
Another day, another set of rainouts - including a couple suspended games where rain, hail and even snow forced the postponement of games. Here's a look at what went down on a cold, wet Wednesday:
KingCo 3A
Bellevue 4, Interlake 1 - The Wolverines scored in each of the last three innings to make a winner out of sophomore Michael Raine, as they topped Interlake in their 3A opener, 4-1. Junior Jack Carlson was 2-for-3 with 2 runs scored and senior Bijan Dekhordi added two hits as well. Saints senior Griffin Sutich was the tough louck loser, victimized by a defense which made six errors. Junior Jake Wilson drove in the lone run on the night for Interlake. Both teams play make-up games on Thursday, with Bellevue taking on Mount Si and Interlake hosting Liberty.
Mercer Island 3, Mount Si 0 - game was suspended in the top of the 2nd inning...will be continued at a later date.
Rainouts: Lake Washington @ Liberty; Sammamish @ Juanita
KingCo 4A
Skyline 10, Issaquah 0 - Clayton Huber tossed five shutout innings and was 3-for-4 with a double and 2 RBI leading the Spartans to a six-inning 10-0 victory over Issaquah. Huber was joined by the "brothers Sinatro" in leading the Skyline attach, with both Jimmy and Matt Sinatro collecting two hits and two RBI. The Spartans scored in every inning but the second, pushing four runs across to end the game in the bottom of the sixth. Issaquah, which made 7 errors on the afternoon, drops to 1-3 in league play, while the boys in green even their record at 2-2.
Inglemoor 3, Roosevelt 0 - Senior right hander Dustin Doucette struck out seven in 5 2/3 shutout innings to lead the Vikings to a shutout win over Roosevelt in a game originally scheduled for last Friday. Doucette outdueled Roughrider ace David Holt, who allowed just 3 hits and 3 runs (2 earned), striking out 3 in five innings on the bump. Junior Blake Wilson drove in a run for Inglemoor, who had just three hits to Roosevelt's 2 on the afternoon. Reid Martinez had two hits and a stolen base in a losing effort for the 'Riders.
Woodinville 6, Ballard 1 - game suspended...will be continued at a later date.
KingCo 3A
Bellevue 4, Interlake 1 - The Wolverines scored in each of the last three innings to make a winner out of sophomore Michael Raine, as they topped Interlake in their 3A opener, 4-1. Junior Jack Carlson was 2-for-3 with 2 runs scored and senior Bijan Dekhordi added two hits as well. Saints senior Griffin Sutich was the tough louck loser, victimized by a defense which made six errors. Junior Jake Wilson drove in the lone run on the night for Interlake. Both teams play make-up games on Thursday, with Bellevue taking on Mount Si and Interlake hosting Liberty.
Mercer Island 3, Mount Si 0 - game was suspended in the top of the 2nd inning...will be continued at a later date.
Rainouts: Lake Washington @ Liberty; Sammamish @ Juanita
KingCo 4A
Skyline 10, Issaquah 0 - Clayton Huber tossed five shutout innings and was 3-for-4 with a double and 2 RBI leading the Spartans to a six-inning 10-0 victory over Issaquah. Huber was joined by the "brothers Sinatro" in leading the Skyline attach, with both Jimmy and Matt Sinatro collecting two hits and two RBI. The Spartans scored in every inning but the second, pushing four runs across to end the game in the bottom of the sixth. Issaquah, which made 7 errors on the afternoon, drops to 1-3 in league play, while the boys in green even their record at 2-2.
Inglemoor 3, Roosevelt 0 - Senior right hander Dustin Doucette struck out seven in 5 2/3 shutout innings to lead the Vikings to a shutout win over Roosevelt in a game originally scheduled for last Friday. Doucette outdueled Roughrider ace David Holt, who allowed just 3 hits and 3 runs (2 earned), striking out 3 in five innings on the bump. Junior Blake Wilson drove in a run for Inglemoor, who had just three hits to Roosevelt's 2 on the afternoon. Reid Martinez had two hits and a stolen base in a losing effort for the 'Riders.
Woodinville 6, Ballard 1 - game suspended...will be continued at a later date.
Wednesday, April 6, 2011
KingCo 4A Awards - Week 2
KingCo 4A Baseball - Players of the Week
Week 2: March 28 - April 2, 2011
Crest Division
Player of the Week: Zach Abbruzza, Sr., Redmond
For the second week running, Redmond senior Zach Abbruzza captures 4A player of the week honors. Though slowed a bit from his earlier torrid pace, Abbruzza is still setting the league ablaze. Against Crest Division foes Newport and Issaquah, Zach was 3-6 with two homeruns, 5 rbi, and 5 runs scored.
Week 2: March 28 - April 2, 2011
Crest Division
Player of the Week: Zach Abbruzza, Sr., Redmond
For the second week running, Redmond senior Zach Abbruzza captures 4A player of the week honors. Though slowed a bit from his earlier torrid pace, Abbruzza is still setting the league ablaze. Against Crest Division foes Newport and Issaquah, Zach was 3-6 with two homeruns, 5 rbi, and 5 runs scored.
Also nominated: NONE
Pitcher of the Week: Cole Wiper, Sr, Newport
Senior right-hander Cole Wiper led the Newport Knights past the Skyline Spartans in a scintillating performance. The University of Oregon signee befuddled the Spartan hitters in a complete game shutout, only needing 83 pitches on the day. When all was said and done, Wiper struck out ten while only allowing two hits. In two KingCo starts, Wiper has yet to give up a run.
Also nominated: None
Crown Division
Player of the Week: No Nominations
Pitcher of the Week: Brian McAfee, Sr., Bothell
In one of the more dominating performances in recent memory, Bothell’s senior Brian McAfee stymied the Inglemoor Viking offense. Stretching the game to an extra frame as the two teams exchanged zeros, McAfee pitched all eight innings to earn the win. In those eight innings, he surrendered only two baserunners while striking out 14. It was his first KingCo win on the season.
Also nominated: None
Pitcher of the Week: Cole Wiper, Sr, Newport
Senior right-hander Cole Wiper led the Newport Knights past the Skyline Spartans in a scintillating performance. The University of Oregon signee befuddled the Spartan hitters in a complete game shutout, only needing 83 pitches on the day. When all was said and done, Wiper struck out ten while only allowing two hits. In two KingCo starts, Wiper has yet to give up a run.
Also nominated: None
Crown Division
Player of the Week: No Nominations
Pitcher of the Week: Brian McAfee, Sr., Bothell
In one of the more dominating performances in recent memory, Bothell’s senior Brian McAfee stymied the Inglemoor Viking offense. Stretching the game to an extra frame as the two teams exchanged zeros, McAfee pitched all eight innings to earn the win. In those eight innings, he surrendered only two baserunners while striking out 14. It was his first KingCo win on the season.
Also nominated: None
Catching Up
As mentioned previously, it has been near impossible to keep up with which games are being played and which ones are being postponed due to weather. I think I speak for all high school baseball fans in the area when I hope for a break in this weather soon!
Here are the games I know have been played over the past few days:
Monday Results
KingCo 4A
Bothell 3, Garfield 0 - Senior southpaw Kevin McShane tossed six shutout innings and junior Eric Woods drove in two runs as the Cougars completed their sweep of the Crown Division with a 3-0 win over Garfield on Monday. McShane allowed just three hits and two walks, collecting 8 strikeouts along the way. Eric Gregory pitched a scoreless seventh for the save. Garfield junior John Trupin was outstanding once again in defeat, allowing just 2 hits and 3 unearned runs while striking out 10 in a complete game. Bothell improves to 5-0 and will enjoy a bye on Tuesday before hosting Eastlake on Thursday night.
KingCo 3A
Lake Washingon 9, Sammamish 2 - Senior Bob Cruikshank allowed just two first inning runs in six strong innings and also homered to help his cause as the Kangs won their KingCo 3A debut, 9-2 over Sammamish. Cruikshank scattered 4 hits and 4 walks, striking out 3 in his 97 pitch effort. He finished the day 3-for-4, and got help from junior Zach Johnson (solo HR), sophomore Nick Johnson (double, 2 RBI) and junior Theo Alexander (2 RBI). Tyler Hormel was a perfect 2-for-2 with a walk for the Totems, who will look to bounce back when they travel to Juanita Wednesday night.
Tuesday Results
KingCo 4A
Redmond 11, Garfield 10 - The Mustangs jumped out huge early and hung on for dear life, as Garfield scored the final ten runs of the game to fall just a single run short, 11-10. Senior Zach Abbruzza continued his assault on the KingCo 4A conference, homering once again for Redmond. Junior Peter Hendron also homered and drove in three, while Michael Conforto (2-for-3, double, 3 RBI) and Peyton Lutz (3-for-3, double, 2 runs) contributed to the 'Stangs 11-hit attack. Zach Ward drove in two runs for the Bulldogs, and Ricky Nakamura chipped in with 2 hits and 2 runs scored. Redmond improves to 5-0 and will travel to Ballard Thursday before Monday's showdown at Hartman Park with Crown division leading Bothell.
Over the Weekend
KingCo 4A
Woodinville 8, Roosevelt 4 - Junior Marty Luckenbach punched out 6 and allowed just an earned run over four innings as Woodinville took down Roosevelt, 8-4. Falcon closer Kalei Kover shut out Roosevelt over the last 3 frames to earn the save. The Woodinville offense was led by TC Florentine (3-for-3, double) and Clarke Bader (3-for-3, 2 rbi). Carl Svanevik, Nate Wilham had 2 hits and Max Carter added 2 hits a piece to help lead the team to victory.
Inglemoor 6, Garfield 4 - The Vikings overcame four errors to even their record at 2-2 with a 6-4 win over Garfield. Obi Taylor, Emmett Maki and Alex Morrow combined on the victory, with Taylor and Blake Wilson adding 2 RBI. Chandler Honican and John Trupin each had 2 hits for the Bulldogs in defeat.
Here are the games I know have been played over the past few days:
Monday Results
KingCo 4A
Bothell 3, Garfield 0 - Senior southpaw Kevin McShane tossed six shutout innings and junior Eric Woods drove in two runs as the Cougars completed their sweep of the Crown Division with a 3-0 win over Garfield on Monday. McShane allowed just three hits and two walks, collecting 8 strikeouts along the way. Eric Gregory pitched a scoreless seventh for the save. Garfield junior John Trupin was outstanding once again in defeat, allowing just 2 hits and 3 unearned runs while striking out 10 in a complete game. Bothell improves to 5-0 and will enjoy a bye on Tuesday before hosting Eastlake on Thursday night.
KingCo 3A
Lake Washingon 9, Sammamish 2 - Senior Bob Cruikshank allowed just two first inning runs in six strong innings and also homered to help his cause as the Kangs won their KingCo 3A debut, 9-2 over Sammamish. Cruikshank scattered 4 hits and 4 walks, striking out 3 in his 97 pitch effort. He finished the day 3-for-4, and got help from junior Zach Johnson (solo HR), sophomore Nick Johnson (double, 2 RBI) and junior Theo Alexander (2 RBI). Tyler Hormel was a perfect 2-for-2 with a walk for the Totems, who will look to bounce back when they travel to Juanita Wednesday night.
Tuesday Results
KingCo 4A
Redmond 11, Garfield 10 - The Mustangs jumped out huge early and hung on for dear life, as Garfield scored the final ten runs of the game to fall just a single run short, 11-10. Senior Zach Abbruzza continued his assault on the KingCo 4A conference, homering once again for Redmond. Junior Peter Hendron also homered and drove in three, while Michael Conforto (2-for-3, double, 3 RBI) and Peyton Lutz (3-for-3, double, 2 runs) contributed to the 'Stangs 11-hit attack. Zach Ward drove in two runs for the Bulldogs, and Ricky Nakamura chipped in with 2 hits and 2 runs scored. Redmond improves to 5-0 and will travel to Ballard Thursday before Monday's showdown at Hartman Park with Crown division leading Bothell.
Over the Weekend
KingCo 4A
Woodinville 8, Roosevelt 4 - Junior Marty Luckenbach punched out 6 and allowed just an earned run over four innings as Woodinville took down Roosevelt, 8-4. Falcon closer Kalei Kover shut out Roosevelt over the last 3 frames to earn the save. The Woodinville offense was led by TC Florentine (3-for-3, double) and Clarke Bader (3-for-3, 2 rbi). Carl Svanevik, Nate Wilham had 2 hits and Max Carter added 2 hits a piece to help lead the team to victory.
Inglemoor 6, Garfield 4 - The Vikings overcame four errors to even their record at 2-2 with a 6-4 win over Garfield. Obi Taylor, Emmett Maki and Alex Morrow combined on the victory, with Taylor and Blake Wilson adding 2 RBI. Chandler Honican and John Trupin each had 2 hits for the Bulldogs in defeat.
KingCo 3A - Season Preview
KingCo 3A- Pre-Season Coaches Poll
1) Mount Si (3 first place votes) – 36.5 points
2) Lake Washington (2) – 36.5 points
3) Mercer Island – 32.5 points
4) Bellevue – 31 points
5) Liberty – 23.5 points
6) Sammamish – 22.5 points
7) Juanita – 17 points
8) Interlake – 14 points
Coaches were asked to rank their division in order of projected finish, excluding their own teams. 7 points were awarded for 1st, 6 for second and so on down to 1 point for 7th. Three teams did not vote.
________________________________________
Team Capsules (listed alphabetically)
Bellevue Wolverines
Head Coach: Jordan Nilsen (2nd year)
2010 Summary: 7-11 KingCo (5th), 9-15 overall, eliminated in KingCo playoffs
No information submitted from Bellevue.
________________________________________
Interlake Saints
Head Coach: Marc Linn (1st year)
2010 Summary: 2-16 KingCo, 2-18 overall
No information submitted from Interlake.
________________________________________
Juanita Rebels
Head Coach: Sherman Leach (1st year)
2010 Summary: 9-9 KingCo, 9-12 overall, eliminated in KingCo playoffs
No information submitted from Bellevue.
________________________________________
Lake Washington Kangs
Head Coach: Derek Bingham (8th year, 93-46 career record)
2010 Summary: 7-9 KingCo 4A (T-4th Crown Division), 11-13 overall, eliminated in final round of KingCo 4A tourney
Returning starters: Theo Alexander (Jr – OF), Bob Cruikshank (Sr – SS/P), Spencer Jackson (Sr – P/IF), Zach Johnson (Jr – 1B/P), Kory Kohlwes (Sr – OF), Chris Moore (Sr – OF/P), Wesley Russell (Sr – IF/P)
Other returners: Victor Mayorquin (Jr – OF), Nori Shimizu (Sr – P/OF)
Top newcomers: Duke Fanning (Sr – P/IF), Nick Johnson (Soph – IF/P), Neil O’Connor (Sr – 1B/P), R.J. Rusch (Jr – C), Stevie Semler (Soph – C)
Season Outlook from Coach Bingham: LW is bringing back the majority of last year’s young team which peaked with a deep run in the KingCo 4A playoffs. The strengths of our team this year will be depth and senior leadership. With solid seasons from the returners, contributions from the newcomers and a little luck, the Kangs could be in the mix for a potential KingCo title run.
________________________________________
Liberty Patriots
Head Coach: Steve Darnell (3rd year, 34-11 career record)
2010 Summary: 14-4 KingCo (T-1st), 14-6 overall, eliminated in KingCo playoffs
Returning starters: Ryan Maio (Sr – P/3B/OF)
Other returners: Jacob Hofferber (Sr – P/1B), Jason Hubbard (Sr – SS), Ben Wessel (Jr – P/1B), Scott Zerda (Sr – OF)
Top newcomers: Mitch Askins (Sr – OF), Jack Brady (Jr – OF), Harrison Diemert (Sr – C), Blake Reeve (Jr – P/3B), Izak Styskal (Jr – OF/P), Chris Weik (Sr – 2B)
Season Outlook from Coach Darnell: Liberty graduated 13 seniors from the 2010 team, so 2011 presents opportunities for our returning varsity and last year’s junior varsity players. Ryan Maio, Jacob Hofferber, Blake Reeve and Harrison Diemert will be called upon to provide critical leadership. Competitiveness and sacrifice are hallmarks of any successful team and this year’s Patriots have a unique competitive spirit that enables them to make sacrifices for the good of the team. These attributes will serve them well in the KingCo 3A/2A League where many teams will be battling it out to make the playoffs and earn one of the state playoff berths.
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Mercer Island Islanders
Head Coach: Cory Smith (2nd year, 18-7 career record)
2010 Summary: 14-4 KingCo (T-1st), 18-7 overall, KingCo tournament champions, eliminated in State quarterfinals
Returning starters: Max Dammeier (Jr – P/1B), Ben Emanuels (Sr – UTIL), George Jiranek (Sr – P/OF), Cameron Ogard (Jr – C/DH), David Oppenheim (Jr – OF), Jordan Richartz (Sr – OF), Evan Thompson (Sr – IF)
Other returners: Connor Perryman (Sr – OF/P), Derek Eng (Sr – 1B/P)
Top newcomers: Hunter Goldberg (Jr – P/IF), Brian Higgins (Soph – C/OF), Nick Holstead (Jr – IF), Isak Morris (Soph – P/OF), Phil Pugel (Jr – P/OF)
Season Outlook from Coach Smith: With 7 returning starters, including two proven starting pitchers, the Islanders should challenge for the KingCo titie and advance to the State Playoffs for the second straight year.
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Mount Si Wildcats
Head Coach: Elliott Cribby (1st year)
2010 Summary: 14-4 KingCo (T-1st), 17-6 overall, eliminated in KingCo playoffs
Returning starters: Max Brown (Sr – OF), Dustin Breshears (Sr – 2B), Shane Dixon (Sr – 3B), Reece Karalus (Jr – P/UTIL), Robb Lane (Sr – C), Trevor Lane (Jr – P/UTIL), Tim Proudfoot (Sr – SS)
Other returners: Ryan Atkinson (Jr – IF), Travis Hilleary (Sr – P), Trevor Taylor (Jr – P/UTIL)
Top newcomers: Daniel Besmer (Jr – OF), Justin Blenheim (Sr – OF/P), Andrew Dunklee (Sr – P), Justin Henak (Jr – IF/P), Hudson Luxich (Sr – P), Griffin McClain (Soph – P), Nate Sinner (Sr – OF), Zach Stevens (Sr – UTIL), Derek Welsh (Sr – P)
Season Outlook from Coach Cribby: Team returns 12 seniors. It builds off a KingCo 3A League title from 2010. With a new coaching change the team looks to continue its winning ways.
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Sammamish Totems
Head Coach: Tim Ahern (3rd year, 15-35 career record)
2010 Summary: 3-15 KingCo (6th), 6-19 overall, KingCo tournament runner-up, eliminated in district play-in game by 3A State champion O’Dea.
Returning starters: Navdeep Gill (Sr – UTIL), Ryan Hashimoto (Jr – P/OF), Paul Heywood (Jr – P/IF), Aaron Lawrenson (Sr – IF), Chris Strain (Sr – 1B), Craig Sweet (Sr – C)
Top newcomers: Michael Colombi (Jr – SS), Joe Giacchetti (Fr – P/IF), Tyler Hormel (Jr – OF), Eric Nhan (Jr – OF), Jacob West (Jr – P)
Season Outlook from Coach Ahern: SHS baseball looking to build off last years strong finish. Returning majority of the lineup from a season ago, most complete program top to bottom seen in Ahern’s 3 years at SHS.
Monday, April 4, 2011
Opening Day for KingCo 3A
Been hard to keep track of which games have been played and which are still outstanding from last week's rainouts. Please shoot me an e-mail with any updates I am missing, as I'm still trying to get caught up.
Today brings the league openers for all 8 teams in the KingCo 3A/2A divisions. It also brings with it more rain (surprise). Already rain has moved the Sammamish - Lake Washington tilt to Sammamish HS at 4:30 PM. Other changes are likely as well. Here's the opening day schedule:
KingCo 3A/2A - Monday, April 4
Bellevue @ Mount Si, 4:30 PM (Mt. Si HS)
Interlake @ Liberty, 4:30 PM (Liberty HS)
Lake Washington @ Sammamish, 4:30 PM (Sammamish HS)
Juanita @ Mercer Island, 6:00 PM (Island Crest Park)
Today brings the league openers for all 8 teams in the KingCo 3A/2A divisions. It also brings with it more rain (surprise). Already rain has moved the Sammamish - Lake Washington tilt to Sammamish HS at 4:30 PM. Other changes are likely as well. Here's the opening day schedule:
KingCo 3A/2A - Monday, April 4
Bellevue @ Mount Si, 4:30 PM (Mt. Si HS)
Interlake @ Liberty, 4:30 PM (Liberty HS)
Lake Washington @ Sammamish, 4:30 PM (Sammamish HS)
Juanita @ Mercer Island, 6:00 PM (Island Crest Park)
Friday, April 1, 2011
Playing Between the Raindrops
Three 4A league games were played yesterday amidst the rainy weather that has plagued the Seattle area this week.
Crest Division
Redmond 12, Issaquah 1 - Five different Mustangs homered, including 2 from Week 1 Player of the Week Zach Abbruzza, as Redmond remained unbeaten in league play with a 12-1 win over Issaquah. Junior Peter Hendron was the winner, striking out six in three shutout innings. Dylan Davis, Jake Levin and Patrick McGrath were the other Mustangs to hit home runs, helping the team jump out to an 9-0 lead after 2 innings of play. Abbruzza's tear continued, as he drove in 5 more runs to bring his season total to 15 in four league games. Gavin Schumacher drove in the lone Eagles run.
Newport 5, Skyline 0 - Cole Wiper shutout the Spartans, striking out 10 in a complete game 5-0 Newport victory. The University of Oregon signee allowed just 2 hits and 3 walks in keeping Skyline off the board and needing just 83 pitches to do it. The senior also added two hits and an RBI, while junior Nate Anderson chipped in with a triple and two runs scored. Daniel Altchech and Jared Fisher each had two hits for Newport, who improved to 2-1 on the season. Clayton Huber was 2-for-3 in defeat for the Spartans.
Crown Division
Bothell 6, Ballard 5 - The Cougars scored four runs in a decisive sixth inning to come back from a 5-2 deficit to stay unbeaten with a 6-5 win over Ballard. Senior shortstop John Mercer was 2-for-3 with a triple and 3 RBI to help make a winner out of Eric Gregory. Ben Welch (2-for-3, double, 3 runs) and Frank Airey (2-for-3, RBI) led a 10-hit Beaver attack. Bothell will look to complete the sweep of the Crown Division on Friday when they travel to Garfield HS to take on the Bulldogs.
Wednesday, March 30, 2011
Cougars, 'Stangs Remain Unbeaten
Apologies for getting Monday's recaps up late - been distracted by the sun and 80 degree temps in Tucson :)
Two teams remain unbeaten in KingCo play after three games, with Bothell and Redmond leading their respective divisions early on...
Crest Division
Redmond 4, Newport 3 - In a matchup of two highly-touted arms, it was the bullpens that made the difference in Redmond's 4-3 win over Newport. Nick Rothermel and Michael Conforto shut out the Knights over the final four frames, with Conforto striking out the side in the seventh to preserve the win. Redmond touched up UW-bound starter Jared Fisher for 4 runs on 4 hits and six walks over five innings, tagging him with the loss. Oregon State signee Dylan Davis left with the lead, allowing 3 earned on a hit in three innings, but did not factor in the decision as he didn't complete four innings. Rothermel was the winning pitcher, scattering a hit and two walks in three scoreless innings of work.
Skyline 9, Eastlake 1 - Connor Gilchrist and Travis Snider combined on a four-hitter as the Spartans beat cross-town rival Eastlake, 9-1. Skyline collected 11 hits on the day and were led by the trio of Snider (2-for-4, HR, 3 RBI), Clayton Huber (2-3, 2 doubles, 3 RBI) and Jimmy Sinatro (3-for-4, double, RBI). Snider earned the save, pitching three scoreless innings while striking out four to close out the Wolves, who were led offensively by the two hits of John Armour. Week 1 KingCo 4A Crest Division pitcher of the week Andrew Stull was touched up in defeat.
Crown Division
Bothell 3, Inglemoor 0 (8 inn.) - Senior right hander Brian McAfee pitched a game for the ages, going all eight innings allowing just a hit and a walk while striking out 14, as Bothell continued their hot start with a 3-0 win over rival Inglemoor. The game was scoreless through 7 innings, with Inglemoor seniors Dustin Doucette and Alex Morrow matching McAfee's zeroes. Dain Gilbert drove in a run in the Cougars three-run top of the eighth.
Ballard 5, Roosevelt 4 - Brendan Foor was 4-for-4 with a double and Steven Weber was 2-for-4 with an RBI as the Beavers scored twice in the 6th and twice in the 7th for a come-from-behind 5-4 win over Roosevelt. The Roughriders were cruising behind starter David Holt, leading 4-1 headed into the bottom of the sixth inning. However, Ballard kept pressing, walking off with a victory in the bottom of the seventh.
Woodinville 9, Garfield 4 - Sophomore Doug Sullivan was 3-for-3 with 2 runs scored and 3 RBI as the Falcons scored 4 runs in the third and another 4 in the sixth en route to a 9-4 win over Garfield. Spencer Greer picked up his second win in as many starts, allowing 5 hits and 2 earned runs over four innings of work. The junior right hander also drove in two runs to help his cause, while Nate Wilham finished the night 2-for-3 with 2 runs scored. Four Bulldogs had two hits - Chandler Honican, John Trupin, Hank Droege and Hayes Gorecki - in the loss.
Two teams remain unbeaten in KingCo play after three games, with Bothell and Redmond leading their respective divisions early on...
Crest Division
Redmond 4, Newport 3 - In a matchup of two highly-touted arms, it was the bullpens that made the difference in Redmond's 4-3 win over Newport. Nick Rothermel and Michael Conforto shut out the Knights over the final four frames, with Conforto striking out the side in the seventh to preserve the win. Redmond touched up UW-bound starter Jared Fisher for 4 runs on 4 hits and six walks over five innings, tagging him with the loss. Oregon State signee Dylan Davis left with the lead, allowing 3 earned on a hit in three innings, but did not factor in the decision as he didn't complete four innings. Rothermel was the winning pitcher, scattering a hit and two walks in three scoreless innings of work.
Skyline 9, Eastlake 1 - Connor Gilchrist and Travis Snider combined on a four-hitter as the Spartans beat cross-town rival Eastlake, 9-1. Skyline collected 11 hits on the day and were led by the trio of Snider (2-for-4, HR, 3 RBI), Clayton Huber (2-3, 2 doubles, 3 RBI) and Jimmy Sinatro (3-for-4, double, RBI). Snider earned the save, pitching three scoreless innings while striking out four to close out the Wolves, who were led offensively by the two hits of John Armour. Week 1 KingCo 4A Crest Division pitcher of the week Andrew Stull was touched up in defeat.
Crown Division
Bothell 3, Inglemoor 0 (8 inn.) - Senior right hander Brian McAfee pitched a game for the ages, going all eight innings allowing just a hit and a walk while striking out 14, as Bothell continued their hot start with a 3-0 win over rival Inglemoor. The game was scoreless through 7 innings, with Inglemoor seniors Dustin Doucette and Alex Morrow matching McAfee's zeroes. Dain Gilbert drove in a run in the Cougars three-run top of the eighth.
Ballard 5, Roosevelt 4 - Brendan Foor was 4-for-4 with a double and Steven Weber was 2-for-4 with an RBI as the Beavers scored twice in the 6th and twice in the 7th for a come-from-behind 5-4 win over Roosevelt. The Roughriders were cruising behind starter David Holt, leading 4-1 headed into the bottom of the sixth inning. However, Ballard kept pressing, walking off with a victory in the bottom of the seventh.
Woodinville 9, Garfield 4 - Sophomore Doug Sullivan was 3-for-3 with 2 runs scored and 3 RBI as the Falcons scored 4 runs in the third and another 4 in the sixth en route to a 9-4 win over Garfield. Spencer Greer picked up his second win in as many starts, allowing 5 hits and 2 earned runs over four innings of work. The junior right hander also drove in two runs to help his cause, while Nate Wilham finished the night 2-for-3 with 2 runs scored. Four Bulldogs had two hits - Chandler Honican, John Trupin, Hank Droege and Hayes Gorecki - in the loss.
Tuesday, March 29, 2011
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.
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
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
Friday, March 25, 2011
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.
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
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
Wednesday, March 23, 2011
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.
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
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.
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
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