The Sask Five 18UAAA Marlins saved the best to last, earning a dramatic come-from-behind 6-5 win over the East Central Red Sox at Mocon Field in Martensville on Wednesday, June 12.
The Red Sox took advantage of a Marlins’ error, and two batters were hit by pitches, to load the bases in the top of the first inning. A single and a sacrifice fly gave the visitors a 2-0 lead.
The Marlins got one run back in the top of the second inning. Dayton Lundstrom led off the inning with a walk. He advanced to second on a single to left field by Willis Simair and scored on a double to right field by Rhett Anderson.
A walk to Josh Kirk loaded the bases for the home team.
But, Red Sox hurler Dallen Rude escaped further damage by striking out the next two batters.
The Red Sox added to their lead, opening the third inning with a triple and scoring on a sacrifice fly.
The visitors added two more runs in the top of the sixth inning to take a 5-1 lead.
Cue the comeback.
The Marlins inched closer with a pair of runs in their half of the sixth inning. Lukas Viden led off with a single to left field. Dayton Lundstrom singled to right field.
A Red Sox error allowed Viden to score and Lundstrom to take second base. He scored on a Rhett Anderson single to right field.
Braden Toth came to the mound in relief and shut down the Red Sox in the top of the seventh inning on a fly out and two consecutive strikeouts.
The Marlins grabbed the victory with maximum hustle in their half of the inning.
Houston Koch hit a sharp ground ball to the Red Sox shortstop and was able to beat the throw.
He advanced to second on a Hayden Connor single. Lukas Viden laid down a perfect bunt, advancing both runners and loading the bases.
Dayton Lundstrom drew a walk, allowing Koch to score.
Reese Gyug came in to pinch run for Connor and Masson Hnatiuk was brought in to pinch run for Viden.
Ben Hosegood hit a sacrifice fly ball to right field.
Gyug tagged up and scored to tie the game. Hnatiuk tagged up and advanced to third base. Lundstom remained at first.
Lundstrom then stole second base and the Red Sox intentionally walked Willis Simair to load the bases.
A wild pitch allowed Hnatiuk to score, providing the home team with the dramatic win.