CABOT — After being no-hit in the State opener, the Bryant 11-year-old Cal Ripken All-Stars battled back through the losers bracket to finish in third place at the State Tournament. In the process, they nailed down the third of three bids to Regionals to be held in Jonesboro beginning July 30.
The comeback began with a 9-3 win over Benton on Saturday. Later in the day, they ousted Cabot, 12-0. On Sunday, Bryant eliminated Marion 12-0 to set up a game with Hot Springs with the winner advancing to the championship round. But Hot Springs prevailed 10-1.
Bryant’s 11-year-olds, coached by Bryon Glenn with assistance from Johnny Alliston and Scott Yant, include Connor Alliston, Bailey Bowers, Luke Brantley, Chase Brooks, Zach Byars, Jordan Gentry, Caleb McElyea, Liam Miller, Connor Riley, Connor Tatum, Matthew Vangilder and Hunter Winkles.
Regionals will be in Jonesboro beginning July 30.