Sewald helps Gorman win in Legion regional

Paul Sewald threw six solid innings and hit a solo home run as Bishop Gorman moved to 2-0 in the American Legion Western Regional on Friday in Surprise, Ariz., with a 9-2 win over Niwot (Colo.).

Sewald didn't allow an earned run, striking out six and giving up five hits. His solo homer in the fourth gave Gorman a 5-1 lead.

"He pitched well," Gorman coach Chris Sheff said. "He obviously threw very well and had a big home run."

The Titans (67-7-1) took control in the bottom of the second inning, scoring three runs on an RBI triple by Scott Dysinger, an RBI double by Neil Lawhorn and an RBI single by Joey Rickard.

"We beat up their starter a little bit," Sheff said. "It allowed Paulie to kind of settle in, too, which is always good."

Matt Hall was 3-for-5 with two runs, and Johnny Field and Dysinger each added two hits for the Titans.

Gorman plays Honolulu, a 9-1 winner over Anthem (Ariz.) in Friday's late game, at approximately 8 tonight.

"We're set up in a good spot now," Sheff said. "We play the other 2-0 team tomorrow, and if we win tomorrow, (it) automatically gets us to championship day."

Niwot (45-11) plays Albuquerque (N.M.) at 10 a.m.

The double-elimination tournament runs through Monday, with the winner advancing to the American Legion World Series in Shelby, N.C.

Sheff said he was happy that both of his starting pitchers so far, Sewald and Donn Roach, have been efficient.

"They're both not overextended, and hopefully both can come back on Monday if we make it that far," Sheff said.