GAME #1
In the first game of pool play in the Indiana Chiefs Invitational, the 17U Indiana Chiefs (8-1) defeated the Lansing Redbirds 10-2 in 5 innings. Matt Dvorscak (3-0, Whiting) pitched all 5 innings allowing 1 earned run on 2 hits to go along with 8 strikeouts. After giving up an unearned run in the top half of the first inning, the Chiefs responded with a 4-run bottom half which was highlighted by a 2-run, inside-the-park home run by Larry Crisler (Bishop Noll). Other notable contributors on the night included Jaylen Yarbrough (Bishop Noll; 2 hits, 2 runs, 2 stolen bases), Nick Podkul (Andrean; 1-1 with a double, 3 RBI and 2 walks), Corey Rusboldt (Chesterton; 2 runs), David Hladek (Munster, 2-2 with a double), and Alec Skalka (Munster; 1-1 with 2 walks).
GAME #2
The 17U Indiana Chiefs (9-1) defeated 19U Highland Post 180 4-1. Jonathan Azar (1-0, Munster) gave up just one run in four innings but got the no decision. Cullan Carey (2-1, 1 save; Andrean) threw two shutout innings of relief to get the win and Justin Mender (0-0, 2 saves; Lake Central) recorded the final three outs. David Hladek (Munster) was 2 for 2 and Brandon Garcia (Griffith) had an RBI double.
GAME #3
The 17U Chiefs (10-1) took down the LaPorte Lakers by a score of 4-3 to win their pool. Kevin O’Donnell (1-0, Highland) was the pitcher of record for the Indiana Chiefs after tossing 5 innings in which he allowed 3 earned runs and struck out 3. Jamie Johnson (Andrean) scored twice and stole two bases, Alex Vode (Andrean) was 2 for 3 and Kyle Buikema (Griffith) chipped in with a double. Josh Terzarial (0-0, Griffith) pitched a scoreless 6th inning and Justin Mender (0-0, 3 saves; Lake Central) picked up his second save of the day.
SEMI-FINAL
The NWI Rippers pulled off the upset of the host Chiefs (10-2) in 5-2 fasion. Clay Keltner (1-1, Highland) was the tough luck loser after allowing just 2 earned runs in 5 1/3 innings. Keltner struck out 6. Although the Chiefs only scored twice, the had solid offensive days from several players. Larry Crisler (Bishop Noll) was 2 for 3 with a double, Jimmy Skiff (Andrean) was 2 for 3 with a solo home run, and Alex Vode (Andrean) walked twice.
