Aztecs and Colts Set Up Championship Rematch After Thrilling Semi-Final Victories
The stage is set for a highly anticipated 6A baseball championship match-up between the Corona del Sol Aztecs and the Casteel Colts. Both teams punched their tickets to the final after decisive semi-final victories. The championship game is scheduled for 7:30 PM on May 20th at Tempe Diablo Stadium.
The Aztecs showcased their dominance in their semi-final matchup against the Mountain Lions, securing a 9-1 victory. Corona del Sol's offense was firing on all cylinders, overwhelming the Mountain Lions' pitching. Adding to their strong performance, pitcher Ryan Caruso threw an impressive 81 pitches, remarkably using every single one.
Meanwhile, the other semi-final contest saw a much tighter contest between the Hamilton Huskies and the Casteel Colts. In a back-and-forth battle, the Colts ultimately edged out the Huskies with a 9-7 victory.
Now, all eyes turn to the championship game, which will be a rematch of the season opener between the Aztecs and the Colts. In that first encounter, Casteel emerged victorious with an 8-2 score. Will Corona del Sol be able to avenge their earlier loss and claim the championship trophy, or will Casteel once again assert their dominance?
The Aztecs have leverage in the championship game due to the potential absence of a key Casteel player. Sources close to the situation have informed WSSArizona that Ryan Harwood of Casteel will appeal his mandatory 1-game suspension. The suspension stems from an ejection in yesterday's semi-final game against Hamilton. Harwood, who hit a crucial go-ahead home run in the 5th inning, was ejected for bat-flipping in celebration, a violation of AIA rules that carries an automatic one-game suspension.
The outcome of Harwood's appeal will undoubtedly have a significant impact on the championship game. If the appeal is denied, the Colts will be without a player who demonstrated his ability to deliver in critical moments. This could give the Aztecs, who are already riding high after their dominant semi-final win, an even greater advantage.
Will Corona del Sol capitalize on this rematch opportunity and secure the championship title? Or will Casteel, even potentially shorthanded, find a way to repeat their earlier success? Baseball fans across Arizona will be eagerly watching to see who emerges as the 6A champion.
