By By SCOTT COOPER - Sports Writer
The Dodgers earned a win over the Cardinals this past Thursday to improve to 4-1 and stretch their lead in the East Brewton Little League 11-12 year-old division.
Earlier in the week, the Cardinals had defeated the Red Sox to pull even with the Dodgers in the standings. But, the loss to the league leaders dropped the Cardinals to 3-2 and a full game out of the top spot.
Although playing competitively and proving to be a tough opponent to put away, the Red Sox have so far been unable to get over the hump and bring up the rear in the standings at 0-4.
Cardinals 7, Red Sox 6
In a tight game played between the Cardinals and Red Sox on May 6, the Cardinals scored seven runs on seven base hits while allowing only three Red Sox hits in a 7-6 victory.
Cardinal pitchers Tyler Cross and Justin Payne combined to keep the Red Sox offense off balance the entire contest. Cross gave-up only three hits and struck-out five in a starting role while Payne came on in relief to allow no hits and record eight strikeouts.
Offensive leaders for the Cardinals were Kevin Pace, 2-for-4 with one run scored; Logan Blackman, one run scored and Tyler Cross, one run scored.
Leaders on offense for the Red Sox were Jamar Travis, 1-for-2 with one run scored; Dylon Smith, two runs scored and Chris Payne, one run scored.
Dodgers 3, Cardinals 1
Both the Dodgers and Cardinals entered their May 8 game tied for the league lead with 3-1 records, but the Dodgers' 3-1 win allowed them to assume the 11-12 year-old division's top position.
Dodgers' starting pitcher William Shell controlled the game from the mound in leading his team to victory. Shell tossed a five-hitter while striking-out nine and kept the Cardinals off the bases by giving-up only one walk.
The Cardinals' Tyler Cross and Justin Payne also threw well in a losing cause. Cross allowed two hits and recorded six strikeouts while Payne struck-out four and surrendered no hits.
Leading the Dodgers' offense were Tyson Godwin, one run scored; Taylor Cash, one run scored and Shane Jerkins, one run scored.
Tyler Cross went 2-for-4 with one run scored to lead the Cardinals' offense.