Santa Barbara Pony Baseball’s 14-under all-stars ran into a hot pitcher Monday night and lost in the district championship to Ventura Coastal Platinum, 8-1, in Newbury Park.
Ventura’s pitcher struck out 18 Santa Barbara batters and allowed only two hits, both by Mario Aguilar. Aguilar scored the only run, coming on on a wild pitch after hitting a triple in the sixth inning.
Despite the loss, Santa Barbara advances to the sectional tournament. The local stars open play Thursday against Santa Susana at Dos Vientos Community Center in Newbury Park.
