A three-run rally in the bottom of the fourth proved to be the difference maker during Tuesday night’s Junior Little League 14U Section Four Championship game, as Indiana clinched the title after taking down Hollidaysburg, 6-4.
Jake Slebodnick has the recap from Renda Digital TV.
The turning point in Tuesday’s game came in the top of the fifth. Hollidaysburg put two runners in scoring position to start the frame, but Indiana catcher Ethan Shank made a highlight-reel catch just inches away from the wall behind home plate. Then, right fielder Tyler Rifendifer prevented a run from scoring after catching a fly ball and quickly gunning the ball to home plate.
The next batter then grounded out to Sullivan VanHoose at first, who tagged the base to end the inning.
Indiana head coach Tyler Shank said his defense responded well to some tough plays.
Michael Zimmerman picked up the win after pitching three shutout innings of relief, while Charlie Manzi gave Indiana four strong innings out of the gate. Shank said they complemented each other well in Tuesday’s win.
In addition to their efforts on the mound, Zimmerman went 2-for-3 with an RBI while Manzi went 1-for-4 with an RBI and a stolen base. First baseman Sullivan VanHoose went 3-for-3 with a run and a walk.
For Hollidaysburg, Sam Blescia went 4-for-4 with two stolen bases. Caleb Myers was dealt the loss after surrendering six earned runs over three-and-two-thirds innings.
Indiana will continue their playoff push against Dubois. Dates and times are to be determined.
You can watch the full replay of Tuesday’s game on the WDAD YouTube channel.
