Bedford Advances to Sectional Final with 14-2 win over Maple Heights

By Sam Abood

BEDFORD– The Bedford Bearcats ran away with the victory over the Maple Heights Mustangs by a score of 14-2 thanks to their aggressive base running on Thursday afternoon.

The team registered nine stolen bases in five innings before the game was ended due to the mercy rule. Bedford’s catcher Collin Kennedy lead his team with three stolen bases to go along with his three singles.

“Its always our emphasis, we’re a very aggressive baseball team,” said Bedford coach Levi Crozier. “We work all off season long on our stealing.”

Starting pitcher Jared Weingart was credited with the victory for Bedford. Weingart pitched all five innings while surrendering four hits and four walks and striking out five. Weingart really fell into a rhythm in the third inning when he struck out the side for a 1-2-3 inning.

Senior starting pitcher Dereonte Chandler took the loss for Maple Heights. Chandler did well to battle all day long and pitched the entire game, despite allowing so many runs to Bedford.

“Bedford is a good team. We played them last year and they have a lot of good hitters They did well today,” said Maple Heights head coach Justin Harnist said.

“The positive that I can take away is that our kids played hard and they have all year. They’ve given me everything they have in practices and games and they never quit or complain.”

Maple Heights only managed four hits in the game and really struggled with passed balls and errant throws.

Bedford’s right fielder Seth Freeman drove in three runs on two hits. Third baseman Ronnie Franklin also drove in three for Bedford.

“I tried to really drive the ball and twist to get my hips into it, you know, gap shots on the left side of the outfield” said Franklin when asked about his big day.

Bedford has their work cut out for them as they take on the powerhouse known as the Solon Comets in their next game

“Were looking forward to putting up a dog fight tomorrow versus Solon, a top contender, so our guys are definitely stoked about that,” said coach Crozier.