CCBC Essex Falls To CCBC Catonsville After Surrendering Big Second Inning

Rosedale, MD — CCBC Catonsville took control early and defeated CCBC Essex 9-0 on Thursday at CCBC Essex, thanks in large part to a six-run second inning. The loss drops CCBC Essex in Game 1 of the Region 20 doubleheader.

The Cardinals jumped ahead in the top of the second inning after Mannos singled to drive in one run, Jake Long hit a sacrifice fly scoring two, Kelly added an RBI single, and Palumbo doubled to left to bring home two more.

Freshman Yadier Henriquez Lopez (Harrisburg, PA / Central Dauphin East) started on the mound for CCBC Essex. The right-hander allowed five hits and six runs (one earned) across six innings, striking out two and walking none. Vallee was dominant for Catonsville, throwing a complete game shutout. He allowed five hits over seven innings, striking out six and walking one.

Offensively, CCBC Essex managed five hits — one each from sophomore Justin Cook (Bradenton, FL / Manatee), sophomore William Hartman (Reisterstown, MD / Franklin), sophomore Eduardo Zayas (Cidra, PR / Bilingual Education School at Cidra), freshman Connor Bailey (Salisbury, MD / Parkside), and sophomore Jimmy Perez (Queens, NY / High School for Arts and Business).

The Knights did turn a double play defensively but struggled to capitalize on offensive opportunities.

Palumbo was a force for Catonsville, going 2-for-4 with three RBIs. Kelly and Palumbo each recorded two hits, while Kelly stole two bases. Catonsville swiped four bases in total and turned two double plays to aid their pitching staff.

With the loss, CCBC Essex drops to 22-23 overall and 20-15 in Region 20 play.

Game 2 of the doubleheader will begin shortly as CCBC Catonsville now leads the season series 3-0.