Andrew Pellegrini (right, in helmet) is mobbed by teammates after his game-winning hit gave Westfield American a thrilling 6-5 walk-off victory at Cross Street last night. Westfield scored two runs in the final inning after giving up a 4-1 lead. (Photo submitted by Kristen Koziol)
WESTFIELD – Across town from Bullens Field, Cross Street also hosted its fair share of thrilling entertainment on the diamond last night.
The 11-12-year-old squad of Westfield American led most of the way against the second squad from Northampton. Northampton 2 proved to be quite a challenge, taking a late lead in the sixth inning before Andrew Pellegrini belted a game-winning single to top off a two-run final frame and give the hosts a 6-5 win.
After rolling 14-1 over Northampton 1 Wednesday, Westfield swept their pool play matchups against the Hampshire County foe. American led 4-1 for a majority of the game, thanks in part to starting pitcher Colin Scanlon shutting down the Noho offense.
When Scanlon exited the game, Northampton took advantage of some errors, errant pitches and some smartly-placed bloop hits to tie the game and then eventually take a 5-4 lead heading into the bottom of the sixth inning. The rally would have continued if not for a spectacular diving catch from Tony Torres in centerfield.
Matt Pelletier led the inning with a hard-hit single. With one out, David Roundy smacked an RBI single, tying the score at five and setting up Pellegrini and the outfielder stepped up.
Westfield American is off Wednesday and will play their final pool A game Saturday at Longmeadow. District semifinals will be held next Wednesday if the current standings hold.
