Yaphank, NY – The North Bellmore North Merrick Rebels completed a clean sweep of the Baseball Heaven Columbus Day Wood Bat Championship tournament yesterday defeating the previously unbeaten NYC Titans twice, 9 – 3 and 4 – 2.

While game one was merely the last game of the pool play round, home field advantage in the final was at stake as well as momentum coming into the championship game. In response to Coach Sam’s prodding for more offense, the Rebels delivered numerous hits and timely execution. The Rebels took the lead in the first inning and stayed ahead throughout the contest. Starting pitcher Alec Acri showed good control and went four complete innings in a much-needed effort to set the tone with the Titans that the Rebels were the team to beat in this tournament. Eric Solomon in relief got into and out of trouble in the fifth and closed out the sixth. The Titans delivered just one hit in the game. The Rebels offense, meanwhile, delivered hits throughout their lineup going through four Titans pitchers and ensuring the convincing victory.

Game two saw the return to the hill of the Rebels’ Nick Valeriano coming off an outstanding complete-game victory on Saturday. Knowing he needed to be conservative with his pitch count, Nick delivered another clutch, final-game performance completing five innings with just 62 pitches and allowing only two hits. The Rebels offense, while not prolific, took advantage of its opportunities delivering hits when needed and running the bases well. Rebels defense was excellent in making all the plays they should and more including an inning-ending great catch in centerfield by Brian Porricelli and an inning-ending 9-3 double-play started with a nice catch by Eric Solomon in rightfield, both of which stopped Titan scoring threats. Mike Proios closed the game, dominating Titans batters with a 1-2-3 sixth inning.

The only thing better than the beautiful, long weekend weather was the Rebels play throughout this tournament. In dispatching opponents including The Baseball Center of New York NYC Stars, Syracuse Sports Zone, and the NYC Titans, they continue to show they can compete with and beat full-time travel teams throughout the region.

The Rebels will look to build upon a perfect 9-0 record this fall when they return to National Junior Baseball League play Saturday against the Smithtown Bulls at Moriches Road Field.