Local fastpitch team in running for title but faces tough slate ahead

Pete's Blues is poised to win its unprecedented third straight Kelso Klassic title after taking down the host squad in Saturday night's winners bracket semifinals.

Pete's Blues defeated Kelso Fastpitch 8-4 to move into today's noon winners bracket final of the 29th annual double-elimination men's fastpitch softball tournament at Kelso City Park.

The other winners bracket finalist of the 14-team tournament was still being determined late Saturday night as the Southeast Missourian went to press.

Kelso Fastpitch, after placing fourth last summer for its best finish in years, got its 2013 tournament off to a strong start by winning its first two games.

Kelso Fastpitch routed Wessel's Coors Light from Teutopolis, Ill., 8-0 in five innings in Friday's tourney opener, then defeated Wizards of Oz from Silver Lake, Kan., 8-3 Saturday morning.

But the loss to Pete's Blues sent Kelso Fastpitch into the dreaded losers bracket, meaning it would need five straight wins today to capture the title.

Fans watch the game between Kelso Fastpitch and Wessel’s Coors Light during the 29th annual Kelso Klassic on Friday at Kelso City Park. (Adam Vogler)

Kelso Fastpitch will begin its daunting challenge at 10:30 a.m. today. The championship round is set to begin at 3 p.m. and an if-necessary title contest would follow.