by Ravenna, Ohio – Andrew Datz had a go-ahead single in the sixth inning to propel the visiting Alliance Aviators to a 9-6 win over host Ravenna.
Earlier in the afternoon, both teams completed a game that was suspended April 8th due to rain. Alliance won that game, 6-3.
Senior catcher and Mount Union football commit Andrew Datz, who had a home run in the first game, knocked home a go-ahead single to right field in the top of the sixth of Game 2.
“I think it was essential because it got us going and got us hype.” said Datz.
Freshman catcher Ryan Bruni added an RBI single to right field, and an additional run came across on an error to make the score 5-2.
From there, the Aviators scored three additional runs to pad their margin to 8-2. After scoring a run in the seventh, the Ravens scored four runs to cut the deficit to 9-6. However, closer Brayden Blatt closed the door to secure the victory.
“We did we needed to do. We took advantage of a couple of mistakes to push across a couple runs. If we play hard tomorrow, and take care of what we need to take care of, we can win.” said Alliance head coach Jeff Graffice.
Junior pitcher Kurtis Taylor earned the win in five innings of relief for the Aviators.
“I just wanted to throw strikes and make sure Drew (Datz) called the right pitches for me, which he did.” said Taylor.
Alliance improves to 14-12 overall. They travel to Willoughby South for a sectional championship contest Thursday afternoon.
Ravenna closes their season at 5-19.
Too bad you didn’t see Gavin Bruni pitch for Alliance. I hear he’s the real deal.