The Darien Little League team opened its Metro Region tournament against New Jersey champion Bayonne Central and fell 8-2, marking a tough start to their regional campaign.
Early Surge
Bayonne struck first, plating three runs in the opening inning after an infield error set the stage, and Jett Bridges delivered an RBI single that put the visitors ahead early.
Manager Joe Paccione later reflected on the sloppy start, citing fielding mistakes and visible nerves among his players as factors that contributed to the slow beginning.
Third‑Inning Response
Darien answered in the third with an RBI single from Luca Hidaka, narrowing the deficit to 4-2 and sparking hope of a comeback.
Sixth‑Inning Burst
The tide turned in the sixth when Bayonne erupted for four runs, highlighted by Mason Rincon’s RBI double and Bridges’ two‑run single that stretched the lead to 8-2.
Starting pitcher Chase Klimkowski worked 4 ⅓ innings, allowing only two runs while striking out nine batters, laying the groundwork for the later rally.
Reliever Mason Rincon closed the game with 1 ⅔ scoreless innings, fanning four opponents to seal the victory and preserve the shutout.
Regional Implications
The win secures Bayonne’s first Metro Region championship and follows its recent New Jersey state title, underscoring the team’s rising prominence in youth baseball.
Darien now faces an elimination match against Rhode Island champion Lincoln on Sunday at 7 p.m., a chance to rebound from the setback.
Paccione remains optimistic, pointing to the squad’s resilience after previous tournament losses and expressing confidence that the team can turn the page.