Mellieha Rookies Crowned U/13 National Baseball League Champions

The U/13 National Baseball League came to a thrilling conclusion as the Mellieha Rookies defeated the Mustangs 3-0 in the winner-takes-all Game 5, securing the championship and capping off an intense and hard-fought series.

With both teams tied 2-2 heading into the final game, the pressure was high at the Marsa Sports Complex. The Mustangs sent Amy Summer Elliot to the mound to start, but the Rookies wasted no time getting on the scoreboard.

Mellieha quickly loaded the bases, and Tiberio Monti drove in the first run after being hit by a pitch. Moments later, Zack Xuereb delivered a crucial single that brought in two more runs, giving Mellieha an early 3-0 lead.

On the other side, Cody Tabone delivered a brilliant pitching performance for the Rookies. The Mustangs tried to answer back, with Elliot hitting a triple to lead off their side of the first inning, but the Rookies defense held strong and kept the Mustangs from capitalizing.

In the second inning, Mellieha threatened to extend their lead, but this time the Mustangs’ defense stepped up recording an out at the plate and catching a runner in a rundown. Later, Sophie Vella for the Rookies hit a double to put herself in scoring position, but a clutch strikeout ended the threat. In the bottom half of the inning, Benjamin Pace reached base on a single for the Mustangs, but the Rookies’ defense held firm once again, preventing any further progress.

Heading into the final inning, the Mustangs brought in Samuel Moreno, who struck out the side and gave his team a last chance at a comeback. However, Cody Tabone matched the intensity, closing out the game with three strikeouts of his own to complete the shutout and seal the championship.

With a final score of 3-0, the Mellieha Rookies emerged as U/13 National Baseball League Champions, winning the series 3-2. It was a memorable finish to a series filled with talent, heart, and incredible young baseball. Congratulations to both teams for a fantastic season!