Little League parents and fans witnessed an instant classic at Lions Field Thursday night as the Bucs clinched first place with an extra-inning, 7-5 thriller over the second-place Express. The game went three extra frames.
The Bucs produced a two-out rally in the top of the ninth, and Bucs’ reliever Jose Chavez got out of a one-out jam with runners on second and third in the bottom of the inning, striking out the first and second runners in the Express order to seal the win.
The Bucs are 15-3. Express was 14-5 heading into a battle for second Tuesday with 14-5 Lakebridge. The three-league city tournament starts next week.
Bucs’ Avery Stewart attempts the tag out on third. Photos by Bart Nave. Photo galleries at: bart.ifp3.com
Express starter Camden Oakley from the mound
The Bucs Damian Mejia makes a great play from his knees.
Bucs catcher Baylor Brock watches a pitch into his glove.
Buc Kaylee Oler studies the pitcher from
the plate.
The Express’s Jayce Birchfield reaches
to make contact.
Zane Huff is all hugs after the Bucs win.
Buc Daniel Pogue works from the mound.
Devin Edwards connects with the ball for a base hit.
Parker Trippeer works from the mound.
Damian Mejia makes a play for the Bucs at shortstop.
Jose Chavez had a strong performance as the closing pitcher for the Bucs.
Jacob Pealer had a double and a single at the plate.
Zane Huff is all hugs after the Bucs win.
