GAME RECAP: Saddleback’s 9 run sixth helps Bobcats sweep series

In a dominating performance, the Saddleback Bobcats defeated Long Beach City in Game 2 of their playoff series, advancing to the next round of the playoffs. Saddleback got things started early, scoring 3 runs in the 3rd inning on runs from Makani Tanaka, Michael Davinni, and Isaiah Morales. Long Beach City would respond though in the 4th inning, with William Schwab driving in a run with a double to cut the deficit to 3-1.

As both teams added a run in the 5th inning, the game remained close with Saddleback leading 5-3. But it was the top of the 6th inning that saw the Bobcats explode for 9 runs, including back-to-back home runs from Cole Koniarsky and Zachary Schwartzberg, giving Saddleback a commanding 14-3 lead. They would continue to pour it on in the 7th inning, adding 4 more runs and extending their lead to 17-3.

Long Beach City would fight back, scoring 1 run in the 7th inning and 4 more in the 8th, but the lead was insurmountable. Saddleback would go on to win Game 2 by a score of 18-8, sweeping the series and advancing to the next round of the playoffs.

Saddleback’s starting pitcher, Trevor Eby, struck out 7 through 4 innings but gave up 3 runs on 8 hits. Long Beach City’s starting pitcher, Marcellus Henry, lasted 5 innings but gave up 5 runs on 7 hits and struck out 2.

The Bobcats will now face the loser of the Glendale and El Camino game in the 2nd round on Thursday at 3pm. With a dominant win in Game 2, Saddleback will look to continue their strong play as they advance further in the playoffs.