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Rotary Roars Into Championship

Mark Pinson/Highlands Today

Rotary's Alex Gomez tags out Elks baserunner Tyler Bertoniere during Friday night's Dixie Majors city tournament at Max Long Complex.

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By Mark  Pinson | Highlands Today

Published: May 31, 2008

SEBRING — After losing a one-run game to Pool Paradise to fall into the loser's bracket during the Dixie Majors (ages 10-12) city tournament on Thursday night, Rotary bounced back in a big way as Brandon Ferretti had two hits and two RBI in a 10-0 four-inning victory over Elks on Friday night at Max Long Complex.

"The kids answered in a big way after losing a tough game against Pool Paradise," said Rotary coach Bobby Cannon. "Our pitching was outstanding and we swung the bats real well."

The loss eliminated Elks from the double-elimination tournament and moved Rotary into Saturday night's championship game against undefeated Pool Paradise.

"We're looking forward to playing Pool Paradise," said Cannon. "We've lost to them three times this season, but the last two games could have gone either way.

"Our pitching is set up and if we play the way we're capable, we've got a good chance."

Results from the game was not available at press time. For complete coverage, including pictures and reaction, see Monday's Highlands Today.

Rotary jumped out quickly with two runs in the top of the first inning off Elks right-hander Ryan Davidson, and added another in the second when Devin Williams plated Trey Frazier with a fielder's choice for a 3-0 lead.

Right-hander Ty Little, who picked up the win, allowed only one hit in two innings of work.

Rotary kept the pressure on in the third inning when Alex Gomez drew a two-out walk, stole second base and scored on Joey Staffieri's single.

Staffieri then stole second and raced home on Ferretti's base hit for a commanding 5-0 lead.

"We were aggressive at the plate and put the ball in play against a good pitcher," said Cannon. "We're going to need the same kind of approach against Pool Paradise."

Rotary, which had nine hits, sealed the win with a five-run fourth inning, as Gomez lined a two-run double to right-center field and Ferretti capped the outburst with an RBI double for a 10-0 lead.

Ferretti, who pitched the final two innings, retired all six batters he faced to sew up the win.

"We played well and got a good win," Cannon said. "The kids are confident and they know they can beat Pool Paradise.

"We just have to come ready to play and it should be a classic."

In another elimination game on Friday night, Lions knocked off Highlands Today by a score of 14-2.

Lions then lost to Pool Paradise 11-1 to set up the finale against Rotary.

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