American's Continue To Roll

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SEBRING - Playing three baseball games in the span of eight hours during the hottest part of the day didn't seem to faze the Sebring American All-Stars (ages 6-8) on Saturday.

Competing in the Dixie Youth Pitching Machine District 8 All-Star Tournament at Max Long Recreational Complex, the American's stayed unbeaten in the double-elimination event by beating Sebring National 12-2 Saturday morning, then topping Okeechobee American 7-2, and finally, the boys in blue wrapped up the day by blanking Okeechobee National 5-0.

"I'm so proud of these kids because they stayed focused, executed properly and played well under some really hot conditions," said American coach Eric Lewis. "In fact, they played their best defensive game of the tournament in the last game of the day.

"We've still got one more game to win to clinch the district championship, and that's been our goal from day one."

The wins moved Sebring American into the championship game on Sunday against once-beaten Okeechobee American, which eliminated Sebring National.

Results from the championship game were not available at press time.

For the complete story and pictures see Tuesday's Highlands Today sports section.

Sebring American jumped out to a quick start in Saturday afternoon's final game against Okechobee National.

Clint Patrick led off by reaching on an error, stole second base and scampered home on a one-out single to center field by Everett Hurst.

Hurst advanced to third base when the ball was misplayed in the outfield and scored on an infield hit by Gabe Gomez.

Gomez stole second and third base and scored on a ground out by Seth Hamilton for a 3-0 lead.

The Americans added to their lead in the second inning.

Hunter Martinez lined a one-out single to left field, moved to second base on a wild pitch and scored on an infield single by Jan Martinez.

Jan Martinez stole second base, moved to third on a ground out and raced home on a wild pitch for a 5-0 lead.

That was more than enough for the American's, as they made several outstanding catches in the outfield with men on base to thwart several Okeechobee National rallies.

"Our defense was awesome today," said Lewis. "For an eight and under team, that's the best defense I've ever seen.

"We've got a good combination of hitting and defense and we just need to take care of business in the finals."

The District 8 champion and runner-up advance to play in the state tournament in Paxton, which is in the panhandle, beginning June 28.