A Commanding Opening
The Marshwood 9U baseball team opened its Cal Ripken World Series campaign with a decisive 10-0 win over Florence (Alabama) Red, completing the game in just four innings. The victory not only advanced the team to the next round but also cemented its status as a serious contender for the championship.
Pitching was the backbone of the performance. James Galuppo and Alexander Harrison combined to allow only three hits while striking out five batters, keeping the opposition completely off balance. Their control on the mound set the tone for a game that never truly threatened to slip away.
Offensively, the lineup was equally potent. Leadoff hitter Bryce Carlin sparked the rally with three hits, including two doubles, and crossed the plate three times. Archer Catanese added a single and a triple while driving in two runs, and Brady Smith contributed two RBIs, rounding out a balanced attack that kept the scoreboard ticking.
The win also carried seeding implications. Marshwood entered the tournament as the fifth seed, while Puerto Rico secured the fourth seed after an impressive run to the bracket final. Meanwhile, Florence Red, the 12th‑seeded team, now faces a double‑elimination challenge as it looks to stay alive.
Looking Ahead
The next test for Marshwood will be a showdown against Puerto Rico on Wednesday at 1 p.m. The upcoming matchup promises another high‑stakes contest, with both teams vying for the top spot in the tournament. Fans can expect another display of disciplined pitching and timely hitting as the series progresses.