Youngstown Express, 1080 Media advance in Class Little b

STRUTHERS — Youngstown Express and 1080 Media won Saturday playoff games to win their opening round Class Little b series at Cene Park.

David DiBernardi went the distance and tossed a shutout in Youngstown Express’ 2-0 victory over Rondinelli Tuxedo.

Clay Cooper and DiBernardi each crossed the plate while Mark Calautti contributed a hit and RBI. John Fithian added the other hit for Express.

Danny Reese pitched a complete game for Rondinelli in the losing cause. Rob Rivera had two hits to pace the Rondinelli attack.

Friday, Express opened the playoffs with a 2-0 win over Rondinelli.

Kris Karr pitched a two-hit shutout while Alec Neapolitan and Tyler Blangero each contributed a hit and a run. Tyler Walls added a hit and RBI.

For Rondinelli, Hank Schlueter struck out eight in a complete-game loss. Justin McGinnis and Josh Davis had a hit apiece.

Youngstown Express will take on Roth Brothers in round two

1080 Media 13, Action Physical Therapy 3

1080 Media clinched a bid into the second round thanks in large part to an eight-run fifth inning that shortened the game to five innings.

Patrick Rhodes picked up the win and Brad Smith led the charge offensively with two hits, including a double. He also drove in four runs.

Mike Lopuchovsky contributed a hit and two RBIs, and he scored twice. Mike Watson touched home three times.

Zac Merrill picked up the loss while P.J. Stickle had a hit and scored twice for Action. Rick Yauger added a hit and a run.

1080 Media will play the Astro Falcons in the second round of the playoffs.