FRAZIER DOES IT AGAIN!

Todd Fraizer did not pitch against the U.S. South team this afternoon.

Rules say that a player cannot pitch two consecutive games, so Frazier had to settle for playing shortstop. In fact, it didn’t matter where he played because his bat would be in the lineup anyway.

Frazier finished the day 3-4, including a two-run homer in the fourth. He also scored three times and stole a base.

"I just like to get the rally started for my team," he said. "It’s just a great feeling to succeed in Williamsport."

New Jersey scored one run in the first, two in the fourth, and two in the sixth.

"The boys are playing great baseball," said Mike Gaynor, manager of the East Region champion. "To be honest, I’m shocked that we’re doing so well."

For the South, the lone highlight was leadoff hitter Justin Hardee’s two run homer in the third. That shot gave them the lead, but they could not hold it past the next inning. The South scored their third run in the sixth when Taylor Gagnon singled home pinch-runner Zach Garris.

"We are capable of hitting better," said Wayne Hardee, manager of the South. "I’m still proud of their performance and we’re still happy to be in Williamsport."

The South’s lack of offense could be due to the pitching of Casey Gaynor who struck out four in six innings of work.

"I just wanted to throw strikes," he said. "I knew if I let them hit the ball, my defense would be good enough to get them out."

"Every time he goes out on the mound I just shake my head," Coach Gaynor said. "He’s simply amazing."

With the win, the East clinches a spot in Thursday’s United States Championship Game. The South is still alive and could end up facing the East in the Championship Game.

--Mark Rogoff
   Special Correspondent