Cloverdale falls to Monrovia in sectional round

Troy Davis gets a catch in the outfield as Brantson Scott looks on. (Banner Graphic/JAY LOCKETT)

ROACHDALE -- It was late in the game when Cloverdale's baseball team made it on the scoreboard against Monrovia at the North Putnam IHSAA sectional Thursday. While the Clovers never gave in and gave themselves an opportunity to make a run at the lead, Monrovia was able to stave off any comeback attempt and took the win 5-1.

"This game was the microcosm of our season," Clover coach Jarrod Duff said. "Brayden (White) pitched well enough to win. We just made some mistakes defensively. We got some guys on base but didn't get enough timely hits."

Duff said while his team did make mistakes they also played well at times.

Cloverdale was held scoreless through seven and was down 5-0 at the top of the last inning after holding Monrovia scoreless in the sixth.

Cloverdale managed two runners on base after two consecutive singles. Brayden White singled to score Troy Davis but that was all the Clovers could give.

Cloverdale will lose Davis, Brantson Scott and Ryan Schuyler to graduation this year and Duff said he will miss those players but with only losing three seniors Duff is looking forward to next season.

"Our seniors weren't very vocal," Duff said. "They were kids that led by example. Troy Davis and I have come a long way as a coach and a player. We've gotten really close. I love the kid. Ace (Schuyler) is just a kid that loves to play the game. I hope our other kids have that love of the game.

"Brantson is just a great kid to be around," Duff continued. "He's going to go and play college basketball and some kids in his situation might've not cared and packed it in this baseball season. Brantson didn't do that. If you ask any of his teammates they'll say he's a a great teammate and great guy to be around."

Duff is looking for his young team to hit the weights in the offseason and is excited at the potential of his younger class.

"Looking forward," Duff said. "We are getting a lot of people back. We are only losing two starters. So we just have got to get in the weight room and get a few more guys in,this offseason and open gym. The future is bright for these kids."

IHSAA Sectional 44

At North Putnam

Cloverdalle 000 000 1 - 1 6 1

Monrovia 020 210 0 - 5 6 0