Mariners Edge Out Cubs, 5-3, In Late-Inning Thriller

DILLON, MT – The Mission Valley Mariners held off a late rally to defeat the Dillon Cubs 3-5 on Saturday, thanks to key hits and strategic pitching.

The Mariners opened the scoring in the third inning when Hunter Luedtke singled to drive in the first run. An error by Dillon then helped the Cubs tie the game at one in the bottom of the third.

In the sixth inning, the Mariners regained the lead when Aiden Gfroerer singled to score one run, followed by a clutch single from Noah Agliano that extended the advantage to 3-1.

The Cubs responded in the bottom of the sixth, drawing two walks and eventually tying the game at three on a walk by Andrew Bartlome.

However, in the top of the seventh, the Mariners pushed ahead again. Hunter Luedtke doubled to drive in a run, and Cody Haggard drew a walk to extend the lead to 5-3.

Luedtke earned the win in relief, allowing just one hit and no runs over 1⅓ innings, striking out one without issuing a walk. Cole Wadsworth started for the Mariners, surrendering one run on two hits over three innings with three strikeouts and one walk.

Kanin Engelhardt took the loss for Dillon, pitching seven innings and allowing five runs (three earned) on nine hits, with four strikeouts and two walks.

Offensively, Dillon’s Tristan Alvarez, Kanin Engelhardt, Marcus Lagunas, and Jase Alvarez each had one hit. The team drew eight walks, with Engelhardt and Andrew Bartlome each earning two free passes.

For the Mariners, Holden Emerson, Cody Haggard, and Hunter Luedtke each contributed two hits. Luedtke also led the team with two RBIs and went 2-for-4 at the plate. The Mariners turned one double play defensively.

The Cubs will next face the Broncs Baseball Club 18U on Saturday, looking to bounce back.