Branford Best in Class L

By Sam and Tyler / June 17, 2009, 10:39 am

MIDDLETOWN – Branford is celebrating yet another title, its second in 4 years, as the Hornets took down a tough Berlin team by a final of 4-2. Matt Carasiti, the Berlin ace and recent draft pick of the Texas Rangers was unavailable after having thrown a complete game in the semi-final victory over Sheehan.

Anthony Marzi, a junior left hander receiving division I looks, took the mound for Berlin. He was opposed by sophomore lefty Jeff Stoddard of Branford. It was a pitcher’s duel early on. Both teams had early jitters, committing errors in the first inning. But both pitchers escaped and found their rhythm.

Branford began the scoring in the 4th, as Anthony Pelligrino tripled to deep center field to drive in the first run for his team. Andrew Luzzi then hit a sac fly to make it 2-0. In the bottom of the 5th, Berlin rallied with two outs. Fairfield bound Mark Bordenaro doubled and was driven in by DH Chris Allen. Allen then scored on a double by Carasiti. Branford escaped without further damage and heading to the 6th inning, we had a new ballgame.

In the 6th, it was Pelligrino igniting his club again. He walked and then went 1st to 3rd on a wild pitch and scored on a groundout by Andrew Luzzi. Tanner Tamsin reached after the third strike got away from the catcher. This proved costly for Berlin. Justin Giddings doubled in Tamsin and Branford extended the lead to 4-2.

Branford then brought in Pat Simone, who retired all 6 Berlin batters in a row to secure the class L championship for Branford. It was good to see strong crowds for both sides, despite the inclement throughout the day. Credit the Palmer field grounds crew for having the field in top shape. Both clubs played good baseball today and Branford will look to repeat in 2010, as they only lose three seniors.

View this blog now!