SOUTHERN SECTION BASEBALL PLAYOFF ROUNDUP : Saugus’ Slugging Proves Too Much for Santiago

6Jason Bates hit a two-run home run and Mike Hagen had a two-run single in the top of the sixth inning to lead Saugus to an 8-3 victory over Santiago in the second round of the Southern Section 3-A playoffs Tuesday at Santiago High School.

Saugus (15-9) held a 2-0 lead after two innings after Bates’ first-inning sacrifice fly and John Lopata’s second-inning home run.

Santiago (21-7) cut into the lead when Enela Scanlan grounded into a fielder’s choice to drive in Todd Devaney in the third inning.

Scanlan doubled home Robert Jung in the fifth inning to tie it, 2-2.

Bates’ home run gave Saugus the lead for good. After the blast, Lopata walked and Brian Worley reached on an error. Hagen singled to drive in both for a 6-2 lead.

Bob Cowan pitched the first five innings for Saugus to pick up the victory. He struck out six and walked three. Chris Pendleton earned the save, allowing one run and two hits in two innings.

Louie Perez allowed six runs in 5 2/3 innings in taking the loss. Scott McGarrh had three hits and a run batted in for Santiago.