The Aztecs are back on track after their Red Mountain loss

The Pool A Finals in Tempe, AZ, had spectators witnessing many entertaining plays. The Corona del Sol Aztecs are close to securing their spot in the State Championship after defeating the Sandra Day O'Connor Eagles. The Aztecs only need to advance two more games versus Red Mountain to make it to the championship.

Facing an excruciating potential end to their season, Corona del Sol's pitcher, Brett Crossland, who had thrown a significant 86 of the Aztecs' total 126 pitches at the game, remained focused. His mindset was clear: "We have the same plan... We are just going to play our regular game." When questioned about the team's rematch with Red Mountain following their unsettling 0-2 loss, Crossland exclaimed that it only made the Aztecs "more hungry," especially after having a quiet locker room after that game.

The Aztecs’ first inning facing the Eagles saw both teams feeling each other out. The scoreboard remained quiet until the bottom of the first inning when the Aztecs managed to push runs across, taking a 3-0 lead.

The second and third innings went on as usual, with both teams trying to level out their runs on the scoreboard. However, the top of the fourth inning brought a moment of concern for the Aztecs as Jaiden Lo Re (BYU Commit) suffered a toe injury. Despite the obvious pain, Lo Re demonstrated remarkable grit and determination, staying in the game to bat in the lower half of the inning.

The bottom of the fourth turned into an offensive explosion for Corona del Sol. Cooper Clouser, wearing #25, sparked with a powerful hit that sent him all the way to second base from home plate. The excitement only increased as Conor Rae stepped up to the plate and launched a towering home run out of the field, sending the crowd cheering. The offensive talent continued when Kellan Tom once again contributed, driving in another run for the Aztecs. By the end of the fourth inning, the scoreboard reflected 6 runs on the scoreboard. I can pretty much say the 4th inning was monumental for the Aztecs. By then, the Aztecs boasted their 11-2 lead.

Ryan Caruso (Arizona State commit) finished off the remaining 40 pitches of the game. Finishing off the game with a 13-5 score. The Aztecs will play next at Hohokam Stadium in Mesa, AZ, on Friday.