The Cicero Rattlers outlasted the Outlaws (formerly Spartans) on Monday night at Meltzer Park, holding off a final inning threat to win 6-4.
Starting pitcher for the Rattlers was Ryan Walker. The ace pitched 4 innings, striking out 4 as he gave up 2 hits and 4 runs. Griffon Filighera came in out of the bullpen to pitch the final 2 innings, where he gave up 2 hits and zero runs. The two Jamesville-Dewitt hurlers combined for an ERA of 2.00 on the day.
Hits on the day from the Rattlers came from Kenton Cochran (2), Daniel Capp, Evan Rumpel, Griff Filighera, Jacob Calabria and Ryan Walker.
Runs on the day from the Rattlers were scored by Calabria (3), Rumpel, Cochran and Tyler Hildreth.
With the Rattlers ahead 6-4 in the final inning, the Outlaws managed to get the tying runs on, advancing them to 2nd and 3rd base. With 2 outs, the batter hit a hard ground ball down the 3rd base line. Capece made the snag and long-throw to Thelen, who made a sensational scoop to beat the runner by a split-second.
This was the first game of the fall for this team as they prepare for the State Fair Tournament at the end of August.