Seven-run 3rd key in Connellsville Legion victory
Connellsville scored seven runs in the third inning and added two for insurance in a 9-1 victory over Belle Vernon on Monday in Fayette American Legion baseball play.
The game was called after five innings due to inclement weather that caused poor field conditions.
Connellsville improved to 5-0 this season. Belle Vernon, which has players on its roster that were competing in the WPIAL and PIAA playoffs, competed in its season opener.
Connellsville’s seven-run third gave the visitors a 7-0 lead. Grayden Gillott and Kace Shearer each had two-run singles, while Mason Miller and Noah Zawislan doubled in a run. Matthew Firestone had a run-scoring single.
The seven runs that Connellsville produced were more than enough for Ethan Porreca, who allowed one run on one hit over 4 鈪� innings. He struck out 10 and walked six.
Alex VanSickle relieved Porreca in the fifth, and after walking JB Crovak on a full count with the bases loaded to get the home team on the scoreboard, the recent Waynesburg Central graduate struck out the next batter to end the game.
Jacob Peterson singled for Belle Vernon in the fourth inning. Belle Vernon drew seven walks.
Connellsville also reached base seven times on walks. Chase Sankovich and Firestone each walked twice.
Zawislan had three hits in three at-bats.