4-A State Baseball Championship

What a day in Ruston! The 4-A State Baseball Championship between St. Louis and St. Michael's had just about everything a fan of the game could want. The Saints dominated at the plate the entire game. St. Louis starting pitcher James Ferrer pitched a dandy for 6 innings, as his curve ball left the St. Michael's batters knock-kneed. The two schools great fan bases were just as impressive in the stands. For a broadcaster of 15-plus years covering such events, I have to say it was likely one of the most satisfying championships I've ever covered.

That is with one exception, how it was decided. By that, I mean the final out. No matter who you root for, St. Michael's staged a stirring rally in their final at-bat to get back in the game, and ultimately tie the game. Then came the moment of infamy. The moment when St. Louis head coach Ross Blankenship, who was informed by his assistant Jason Keiser that St. Michael's had used an ineligible batter to tie the game, in turn informed the homeplate umpire of this unfortunate fact.

After thirty minutes or so of St. Michael's head coach Johnny Burhardt unsuccessfully pleading his case, Blankenship was informed that that was indeed the final out, as the tying run was taken off the scoreboard and that the Saints were indeed the 2011 State Champions, by the score of 9-8.

However, something amazing happened! After the obligatory celebration at the pitcher's mound, Saints players were seen consoling their suddenly, shocked foes. A spirit of sportsmanship rarely seen in these days of on-field brawls and fans going after umpires.
So, while the 2011 4-A State Championship will always be remembered for the way it was decided, perhaps it should really be remembered for the way both teams and their fans handled it. With pride, poise and ultimately class.