Predicting baseball is no easy job, and when the prediction goes wrong, makes it even tougher. Valle Catholic proved us wrong with a stellar, well played 1-0 victory in the sectional round of playoffs over a veteran Crystal City squad. 

Junior RHP Tyler Litterest was nearly flawless on the mound, in what was his best outing of the season, throwing a two hitter and fanning six batters. Only six Crystal City batters reached base, of which only two made it into scoring position. Litterest was able to spot his 80-82 mph fastball, and mix in strikes with his change up and breaking ball to keep the Crystal City batters off balance.

“That was the best Tyler has thrown his fastball all season,” said head coach Jud Neager on Tyler’s performance." 

The only run of the game came in the top of the fifth, with three consecutive singles off the bats of Litterest, Evan Lauer, and Nolan Wodd. Litterest reached on a bloop single and advanced to third with some aggressive baserunning on Lauer’s single to left center. Wood drove home Litterest, providing enough offense for the Warriors to advance to the Quarterfinals.

“We did everything we need to do to give ourselves a chance to win the ball game. The guys at the bottom of the order were able to do what they needed to do to get on base,” said Naeger on his offense.

Leadoff batter Alec Greminger had two hits, the only player of the game with multiple hits. Greminger also make the play of the game, an over the shoulder diving catch in shallow left center for the first out of the sixth inning.

In the losing effort, Crystal City LHP Alex Winkleman took the loss, despite striking out seven and surrendering five hits and the only run.

Valle Catholic will take on Twin Rivers Wednesday at home at 4:30. The winner of that game will advance to the Final Four in Springfield next Wednesday and Thursday.

Check back tomorrow for more predictions on which teams will advance to Springfield.