Bravehearts

Worcester, MA -  In game one of the best-of-three FCBL Championship Series, the Bravehearts were able to come away with a 2-1 victory at home. 

After three scoreless innings of baseball, the ‘Hearts were able to strike first in the fourth inning. Mack Cheli (Chapman) was hit by a pitch to start the inning, and was hit in on a Riley Livingston double (Holy Cross). Tyler Becker (Adelphi) came up next and ripped a single into center to score Livingston. 

Reed Pegram (William Jewell) went seven innings for Bristol giving up only two runs on five hits and three walks while recording five strikeouts. Despite the good outing, Pegram got handed the loss. 

For Worcester, it was Jack Steele (Umass)  on the bump. The righty went 5.1 innings of scoreless baseball allowing only four hits with three walks and four strikeouts while getting the win. Jakob Barker (Valdosta State) came in and closed the door going 3.2 innings of hitless baseball allowing only one unearned run with five strikeouts. 

The only run for Bristol came after Sam Loda (Central Connecticut) walked and advanced to second on a Chris Rinaldi (Holy Cross) error allowing Austin White (University of Rhode Island)  to reach. Christian Beal (Bates) was hit by a pitch to load the bases with one out and Brandon Miller (St. Johns) grounded into a fielders choice to score Loda. 

Worcester will travel to Bristol tomorrow for games two and three (if necessary). With a win, Worcester will clinch their fourth FCBL Championship in six years. Bristol must win both games on Sunday in order to be crowned champions. First pitch for game one will be at 2pm, with game three (if necessary) being 30 minutes after the end of game one.