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A memorable season for the McKinleyville 10-year-old Little League All-Stars came to an end on Thursday night in a 6-0 loss to San Mateo in the championship round of the Northern California state tournament in Turlock.
The game was close until late, with just two runs separating the two teams going into the fifth inning.
But a San Mateo team that featured some outstanding pitching this summer was once again able to contain the Mack bats and held on for a second tournament win over the local all-stars.
All in all, however, it was a memorable summer for the McKinleyville players, who won both the District and Section championships and finished second in Northern California.
“I’m super proud of the kids,” manager Carlos Avelar said. “This is the second time in three years the McKinleyville 9-10s got to the championship game. You can’t ask for much more than that.”
The San Mateo pitchers held the Mack offense to just one hit, a single by Breyden Brock in the top of the sixth to break up the no-hitter.
Teoh Arredondo had another impressive outing on the mound despite the loss, closing out an outstanding postseason for the Mack pitcher.
“Teoh pitched fantastic,” Avelar said.
Hudson Kapko also hit a deep fly ball to the outfield wall that the San Mateo right fielder made a great play on.
“I tip my hat to them again,” Avelar said of San Mateo. “They pitched outstanding.”
McKinleyville reached the championship round after winning three straight elimination games since losing 6-1 to San Mateo earlier in tournament play.
The McKinleyville 12s also qualified for the Northern California state tournament this summer as the program continues to impress and build momentum.
“We’re getting there,” Avelar said.
Categories: baseball, Little League, Youth sports