It started to unravel in about the third inning when Manheim Central went ahead by a run. You could almost watch the wind come out of Northeastern's sails, or so it seemed. Some mistakes were made and too many runners were stranded on base. Dan's game was not like he pitched all season long (7 Strike Outs & 6 Walks). Manheim Central's pitcher (8 Strike Outs & 2 Walks) threw a really good game, and their offense stroked a couple of extra base RBI shots into the gaps in the outfield. There were a couple of plays that Northeastern came oh so close to making; diving catches that just went off the tip of the glove and really great stops by the second baseman and shortstop who were just not in positions to get the throws to 1st in time. Northeastern did not commit a single error in the game, while Manheim Central was credited with 2.
We thought we had a rally going in the bottom of the 6th with two outs when Brady slapped a shot to right field with runners on1st and 2nd.
Those guys headed for home, and so did the throw. However, the catcher threw back to second base where Brady was headed with a full head of steam. I called him safe, sliding in under the tag, and thought Northeastern had pulled it out by a run. However, the 2nd base umpire saw it differently and called Brady out before the go ahead run scored. I would love to see video, and an instant replay of the call because it really was that close. Somehow, the umpire felt he had a better view than I did, and after all, his call is the only one that counts. That call ended their playoff contention.At the end of the day, The scoreboard says it all.
Let's give Northeastern credit where credit is due. They played a helluva season and won their division and the YAIAA Championship. The seniors can hold their heads high as they graduate, knowing they are leaving a championship legacy behind them.
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