The 11-year-old Turlock American All-Stars had a great 2012 season, earning District 73 and Section 6 Championships, but their run was cut short on Tuesday in the California Division II All-Star Tournament. After falling to River Park 15-1 on July 21, the American All-Stars were eliminated by Vacaville Central by a score of 8-1.

“The kids were tired,” American head coach Nathan Mirza said. “It’s a long run and when you get to that level the pitching is really deep. We just weren’t swinging the bats like we normally do.”

Turlock scored its sole run in the first inning when Mike Mirza hit a sacrifice fly into right field to score Casey Carr from third base. Vacaville Central’s pitching took over after the first inning, however, using pitcher rotation to stifle Turlock’s momentum and off-speed pitches to kill offensive rhythm.

Turlock, who averaged ten runs a game in the District 73 and Section 6 tournaments, only managed to score three runs in this tournament; a testament to the high level of play.

“It was a great season and a good run. They are set up to go a long way next year,” Mirza said. “Turlock American Little League grew this year, about 50 players, so we have a lot of talent. I think that talent can give us a state title and maybe even more in the near future.”