Lakers host District tourney this weekend

SANDPOINT — A tough 10-8 loss to the Coeur d’Alene Lumbermen cost them the No. 1 seed, but the Peak Sand and Gravel Lakers still earned a first round bye in the six-team 2018 Single A District Championships, as the Lakers play host to American Legion baseball starting today at War Memorial Field.

Austin Greene ripped two doubles, Tyrone Larson and Sydney Bottomley each had a double and single, and Garrett Connolly and Kade MacDonald each added a pair of hits in the 10-8 loss, which ultimately made the Lakers the No. 2 seed in the district tournament.

The Lakers (13-8) out-hit the Lumberman 14-9, but left eight runners on base and gave up eight walks, some of which led to a five run third inning for Coeur d’Alene in the loss.

Larson pitched 2-2/3 innings and struck out four, before Garrett Connolly and Thomas Riley each struck out four in some strong relief. Riley added a double, and Billy Brackett, Caleb Edlund and Tyler Shaffer added hits in defeat.

“The regular season is in the rear view mirror,” said manager Ken Oler. “We are excited to host districts and our focus is on game one Friday.”

The tourney kicks off today with an opening game between No. 3 seed Moscow and No. 6 seed St. Maries at 5 p.m. at War Memorial Field, followed by No. 4 seed Lewiston vs. No. 5 seed Orofino at 7:30 p.m.

The No. 2 seed Lakers will face the Moscow/St. Maries winner on Friday at 11 a.m. at War Memorial Field, while No. 1 Coeur d’Alene awaits the winner of Lewiston and Orofino at 1:30 p.m.

All tournament games will be held at War Memorial Field, with the championship game slated for Sunday at noon.