Saugus Little League Williamsport all-stars win two to stay alive in District 16 tournament

By Joe McConnell

The Saugus Little League 11–12-year-old Williamsport all-star team (2-1) stayed alive in the District 16 tournament after edging Lynnfield, 3-2. That victory came on the heels of being shut out by Wyoma in the opener, 2-0.

John Benoit pitched a complete game on the mound against the Junior Pioneers, giving up just three hits.

On offense, Mason Botta was credited with one hit, and scored one of the team’s three runs, along with Luca Beatini and Benoit.

In a close game, the defense rose to the occasion to help propel the Junior Sachems to victory. Outfielders Gio Natalucci and Jake Amodeo led the way with some fine, clutch catches. Catcher Thomas Vitiello also made a big play with a strong throw to second to nab a Lynnfield runner in the sixth inning. It prevented Lynnfield from getting somebody into scoring position that could have set them up to tie the game.

“This was a great team win against a very good Lynnfield (club),” said manager Jeff Natalucci.

It looks like these Saugus Little Leaguers don’t want to go home any time soon in this double elimination tournament. After the win over Lynnfield, they then blew out Salem at Peabody’s MacArthur Park on June 28, 13-6.

Botta was a perfect three-for-three to help lead the offensive attack, and each time on base he scored a run. Benoit also had three hits, while scoring two runs. Natalucci was credited with two hits in as many at-bats, and also scored twice. Vitiello knocked in two runs with a single.

Pitcher Henry Rodriguez started the game on the hill, and went 4.2-innings, coming up with seven strikeouts.

“This was another great team win, with everybody contributing offensively,” said Natalucci.

After these two wins, the District 16 tournament continued on for the Saugus boys. Swampscott was their next opponent at Salem on June 30 after press deadline.