Meridians Baseball

Although not a tournament type final score, definitely a close contest with our new rivals in the NKABL.   Back & forth all night, this game certainly had the feel of postseason with each run being celebrated by both sides.  

2011 Meridians Silver Slugger Derek Reese booms two doubles on the night with 2 RBI, scores 3 runs including the tying run in the bottom of the 7th after earning a BB and a delay steal of 2nd base.   'Stinky glove' Reese also earned his keep toeing the rubber for the first 5 innings and leaving with the lead (5 K's).   The 'other' Tyler steps in and earns the Win thanks to the offense, helping himself with a Sac bunt to get Reese & Love in scoring position.   Soto gets the opportunity then after putting one in the pitcher's hip the time before - this time also goes back up the middle, but with more mmmph behind it.   Reese scores from 3rd and Love rounds 3rd hard also looking to score, but another good Tarheels outfield throw holds him up.   The toss to 3rd to try and nab him sails into foul ground and the Meridians walk-off.   Final: 9-8 to advance to the the NKABL Final.

Multi-hit nights for Soto and Cornett (2 SB) along with Reese, Sickinger also adds 2 SB and a smooth double-play before taking the bump.