Gaugler Bails Out Erial

Lil’ Slugger's Name: Shawn Gaugler

Lil’ Slugger's Position: Pitcher

Lil Slugger's Team: Erial Little League 11-12 All-Stars

Lil’ Slugger's Accomplishment: Entering Tuesday night's District 14 championship game in the first inning in a bases-loaded jam with just one out and two runs already in, Gaugler was able to escape allowing only one Blackwood run on a fielder’s choice. From there he went on to shut down the Blackwood bats, affording his team the opportunity to stage a dramatic sixth-inning comeback in a 6-3 win. Gaugler needed just 50 pitches to complete 5 2/3 innings, picking up the win and leading his team to a District 14 championship.

Lil’ Slugger's Key to Awesomeness: Gaugler was able to keep hitters off-balance by mixing his fastball with an occasional curve. Most importantly, he had control of both pitches, not walking a single batter in the game. After the win Gaugler said he hopes winning a district title is only the first step in a long all-star tournament.

“Everybody wants to go to the Little League World Series, but we have to take it one step at a time,” he said.