Fifth-Inning Rally Sends Minnesota to World Series

LLWS_Active — Mon, 13 Aug 2007 21:26:00 GMT

Coon Rapids (Minn.) Little League is quickly earning the nickname "Comeback Kids" following their fifth-inning rally to defeat Rapid City, S.D., 17-8 in the Midwest Regional Championship on Saturday.

The victory marks the fourth time a team from Minnesota has advanced to represent the state in the Little League World Series.

A see-saw first four innings left Minnesota trailing 8-7, when Anthony Mrosla opened the top of the fifth with a lead-off double to spark the Coon Rapids' rally. A single by Nathan LaBrant, followed by three walks, increased Minnesota's lead to 9-8. Coon Rapids managed a healthy 13-8 lead by the close of the inning.

Hopes of a comeback for Rapid City faded in the top of the sixth when Dominique Reff connected to send the ball over the fence for a grand-slam home run, securing a nine-run margin over Rapid City.

Minnesota pitcher Tanner Lowe held Rapid City at bay, going 2-2/3 innings without allowing a run. Lowe started the game playing first base, then moved to the mound in the fourth to secure the win for Coon Rapids.

In their regional semifinal on Thursday, Coon Rapids performed a similar comeback, scoring seven runs with two outs after trailing Nebraska 1-0 in the top of the sixth.

Coon Rapids finished the eight-team tournament with a 5-1 record.

Minnesota advances to the Little League World Series where they take on Southwest Region champion Lubbock, Texas, on Saturday in Williamsport, Pennsylvania.

2007 Little League World Series: Midwest

Fifth-Inning Rally Sends Minnesota to World Series