Highlanders Clip Jets in Thrilling Championship

Senior Jacob Baca reflects Encinal's loss to Piedmont on May 13. Baca was named First Team All-League. (image via Kelly Quach)

It looked like the Jets would finally overcome the rival Highlanders.​

Sophomore Hudson Taylor stroked a two out double in the top of the 7th inning and pinch-runner Jonah Abrami slide into home to tie the game 5-5. Encinal (13-13) had clawed its way back from a 5-3 deficit in the WACC Championship at College of Alameda on May 13.

"I was saying to myself please don’t strike out," said Taylor. "Once I got a base hit there was a weight lifted off me."

"Thankfully, I was able to get on second from a past ball and then Hudson came in clutch with a huge two out hit to score me," added Abrami.

Sophomore Jonah Abrami slides into home for the tying run during the 7th inning of the WACC Championship. (image via Kelly Quach)

However, Piedmont (17-8) would not be denied, winning 6-5 on a walk-off in the bottom of the 7th inning. It was Piedmont's third win over Encinal this season.

Senior Chadd Edwards pitched a shutout 6th inning. However, the Highlanders quickly put a man on first and second in the bottom of the 7th. The Jets looked to push the game into extra innings but second baseman Jacob Baca bobbled a double play ball. Piedmont, aggressive on the bases all game, sent Sophomore Peter Krumins home. Krumins beat the throw to win the title for the Highlanders.

"Our team fought, and battled all year," said Encinal coach Trevor Sampson. "Yesterday was a great example of how our team never quits. It was a tough way to end the regular season, but I couldn’t be more proud of the team."

The loss eliminated Encinal from playoff contention. With the win, Piedmont qualified for the D4 NCS Playoffs.

"We all hugged and consoled each other," said Edwards. "Few words and if there were any, they were of encouragement and comfort."