Nail-biter starts off season

Opening Day at Costa Mesa American Little League would not be denied as dark clouds hung over the grounds March 6 at Costa Mesa High. The traditional pancake breakfast and host of vendors had to be canceled. But the team parade and games were kept on the schedule in hopes that a little rain would not prevent the launch of the 2010 Little League spring baseball season.

The Costa Mesa High cheer squad welcomed each team from Tee-Ball through Majors as they made their way onto the Major field for their introductions. After this year’s president, Ryan Chambers, completed housekeeping duties, it was time to play ball.

In the likes of a Freeway Series, the Major Angels were the visiting team facing the Major Dodgers in the home opener. The game proved to be a nail-biter as the Dodgers edged the Angels 3-2.

Daniel Morales started the game for the Dodgers and struck out the first two Angel batters. He then walked Ben Resnick, who scored after a single by Garrett Chadderdon and a passed ball. The inning ended as Morales recorded his third strikeout.

Angels pitcher Chadderdon started the game and retired the first two batters, bringing up Morales. After working a full count, Morales hit a solo home run over the center-field fence to tie at 1-1.

Ryan Lether took the mound for the Dodgers in the second and third innings. He showed great stuff as he struck out four of the seven batters he faced and gave up no runs. Chadderdon was still on the mound for the Angels in the bottom of the third when Chandler Littley led off with a base hit for the Dodgers. He then moved to second on an excellent sacrifice bunt by Garrett Kerley. Littley eventually scored on a couple of passed balls, putting the Dodgers ahead 2-1.

William Leiby took the mound for the Dodgers in the top of the fourth inning. After Chadderdon recorded his second single of the game, the Dodgers’ defense was able to prevent him from scoring. In the bottom of the inning, Morales hit a hard ground ball by the Angels shortstop to the left-center-field fence for a double. He then scored on a couple of passed balls, putting the Dodgers up 3-1.

Evan Larsen took the mound for the Dodgers in the top of the fifth inning and gave up one run as Jesse Campbell walked and then scored on a couple of passed balls bringing the score to 3-2. Cole Chambers took the mound for the Angels in the top of the sixth and struck out two of the three batters faced, retiring the side. Larsen eventually closed the game for the Dodgers and struck out five of the seven batters he faced. Excellent pitching and good defense on both sides kept this low scoring game very exciting. The players drew cheers from the fans and parents who weathered out the somewhat heavy rains during pre-game infield practice. What an excellent way to kick off the 2010 spring baseball season at Costa Mesa American Little League!

CHRISTY CONNER lives in Costa Mesa.