Capahas post ninth straight victory

The Plaza Tire Capahas withstood Saturday's extreme heat to post their ninth consecutive victory, 6-0 against the host Valmeyer (Ill.) Lakers.

Plaza Tire and Valmeyer were scheduled to play two seven-inning games, but both coaches agreed to one nine-inning contest because of the weather.

"It was a miserable day to try and play two," Capahas manager Jess Bolen said. "With the heat, we just decided one game was best."

For the Capahas (23-6), three pitchers combined on a one-hitter. Matt Stroup, the winner, worked the first four innings, striking out three and walking two. Jason Chavez hurled the next four innings, allowing Valmeyer's lone hit. He struck out one and did not issue a walk. Josh Parham finished up with a perfect ninth.

Plaza Tire had seven hits, led by Robby Moore with two. Bryan Ingram drove in two runs.

The Capahas did not commit an error.

Cal Ripken tournament

Jackson moved within one win of clinching the Cal Ripken 12-year-old state championship with a 14-2 rout of Kennett in the winners bracket final.

Jackson will play Lebanon in the 4 p.m. title game today.

Lebanon knocked off Kennett 3-2 in the losers bracket final. Earlier on Saturday, Lebanon squeaked by Cape Girardeau 1-0 to eliminate Cape.

A 6 p.m. game will follow the 4 p.m. final if Lebanon wins.

Jackson had posted a 14-0 victory against Macon on Friday. Cape had won a pair of losers bracket games Friday -- 10-0 against Mt. Vernon and 6-0 against Macon.

BABE RUTH SOFTBALL Heartland 10-U in finals

The Heartland 10-and-under girls softball team advanced to today's regional championship in Colorado by beating Denver Southeast 14-0 in four innings Saturday afternoon.

Ashton Elfrink and Brandi Glastetter combined on a no-hitter with each pitcher striking out two batters.

Heartland had nine hits, including two each from Montana Estes, Sierra Miller and Courtner Scheeter.

Heartland plays 9 a.m. today in the championship.

Heartland 12-U in finals

The Heartland 12-and-under girls softball team will play for the regional championship today after defeating East Central, Colo., 2-0 in Burlington, Colo.

Danielle Gibbons pitched all six innings for the win.

Heartland had five hits.

-- From staff reports