ROYALS DOWN FRIARS IN STATEMENT GAME

By Patrick Lujan

Notre Dame senior pitcher Ricardo Leon Guerrero II struck out eight batters in a complete game masterpiece to lead the Royals over the two-time defending ISA Baseball League champion Father Duenas Friars 10-1 Saturday morning at the Okkodo Field.

The Royals scored nine runs in the opening inning off FD starter Kaiden Weakley and never looked back as Leon Guerrero had total control on the mound.

Five walks issued and a couple of big hits in the opening frame chased the Friars pitcher, putting FD in a huge hole they were unable to climb out of – especially with Leon Guerrero dealing on the mound.

“It gives us the confidence. They’re the team to beat and reigning champs,” ND bench coach Rick Leon Guerrero said. “It’s a good win and we’re going to keep coming out and continue this momentum. It’s a big confidence booster.”

Leon Guerrero added a couple of hits on offense as well as Kyle Yoon. Fellow senior catcher Zavier Panes drew three walks to add to the offensive pressure.

The Royals had only 13 players in uniform as three others are currently playing for Guam in the U15 Oceania Baseball Cup.

It’s back to the drawing board for the Friars as they got a dose of reality in their season-opening game. Ayden Aguon drove in the lone run.

The Royals improve to 2-0 as they beat the Guam High Panthers on Thursday 13-3.

Canceled Games

The morning game between GW and Southern was canceled due to rain and the Royals afternoon game against GW was also called off because of rain.

At the Paseo Stadium, Game 3 of the Guam vs. New Zealand series for the U15 Oceania Cup was also called off. They will have a double header on Sunday at 10:30 am and 2 pm.

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