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Little League action heats up Downtown

It stayed dry most of the weekend and Downtown Little Leaguers were able to get in almost a full weekend of play. Here’s a sample:

D’Backs edge Dodgers
In a close game at East River Park the Diamondbacks edged the Dodgers 4-3 behind Luke Shapiro’s two homers and three R.B.I. in Majors Division action. Sunday.

D’backs pitcher Liam Kolb went the distance with 10 strikeouts to get the win in front of solid defense by Joe Tuzzino at second, Shapiro at short and Taylor Sibha at third. Griffin Molly also swung the bat well.

The Dodgers made the most of their opportunities and were able to turn their walks into runs. Victor Malinowski pitched well in relief for the Dodgers.

Mariners’ bats on fire
The Mariners were hitting the ball well last Saturday with homers by Matthew Sheridan, Sean Wils, Paris Leach and Justin Valenzuela, who pitched well against the Pirates in a 23-3 win in the Minors Division.

Pirates Coach Robert Kolb said his team showed good perseverance and solid defense by shortstop Elias Sosa, who had a single and two walks, and first baseman Michael Connor. Devin Kolb stayed focused and determined on the mound.

Mariners Coach David Leach said catcher Travis Brandon, who doubled last weekend, has improved his swing considerably. Both Sheridan and Matthew Weinstein were able to steal a few bases. Weinstein and Wils pitched well in relief of Valenzuela.

Knocking ‘em both ways
The Cardinals Roy Vlcek connected for homers from both sides of the plate in a 21-2 win over the Indians last Saturday in Chelsea Waterside Park. Vlcek’s first shot as a righty was a line drive to center and he went the other way to left center for his second dinger as a lefty. Kyle Maer also connected for a homer and Jake Bader knocked in two runs.