The 10-year-old American All-Stars picked up where they left off in the first round of the California Division II All-Star Tournament, stringing together hits and playing solid defense for a 12-1 win over the Eel River All-Stars.

Unfortunately, Turlock’s momentum was deflated in the second round by the Woodcreek All-Stars who defeated the American All-Stars 14-1 on July 22, and again the next day by the Reedley All-Stars who won 7-1 and eliminated Turlock from the tournament.

“We had a really good chance, but they did a good job of keeping us off balance,” American head coach Leon Curtis said. “They played exceptional defense. They were virtually errorless and we weren’t and that’s what it came down to.”

Turlock started with some heat in the first inning, putting the bat on the ball and runners on base, but was ultimately unable to translate those hits into runs. Reedley’s tenacious defense ended the first inning with runners stranded on each base; it wouldn’t be the last time.

“We had some opportunities but just couldn’t capitalize,” Curtis said.

Cole Pacheco’s second inning line drive into right field finally drove in a run for Turlock but there would be no more runs after that. Turlock left two more innings with the bases loaded, not only giving Reedley much needed momentum but confidence as well.

Even though Turlock American didn’t make it to the California Division II title game, their District 73 and Section 6 Championships are a testament to the hard work and dedication they put into this season.

“They did something that hadn’t been done at their age level,” Curtis said. “It was a tremendous run. They set themselves up for future success and if they continue to work hard they should be back next year.”