Rangers Stay Alive in NBC World Series

The Valley Rangers defeated the Cape Girardeau (Mo.) Capahas, 7-5, Wednesday in an elimination game of the National Baseball Congress World Series in Wichita, Kan.

Steve Dempsey (4-0) pitched 8 2/3 innings in his second start of the tournament, striking out two, walking none and allowing 13 hits. He allowed five runs, two earned.

Reliever Chris Matkin struck out Cory Crosnoe with runners at first and third to end the game and record his fifth save. Dempsey and Matkin played at Cal Lutheran.

First baseman Steve Savage was four for four. Joey Arnold, who will play at Cal State Northridge next spring, was three for four and has six hits in 11 at-bats during the tournament. He also has a home run, four walks, two sacrifices and two stolen bases.

The Rangers dropped into the losers’ bracket of the double-elimination tournament after a 16-7 third-round loss to Midlothian, Ill., Tuesday night. The game was called after seven innings because of a six-run rule.

The Rangers, 3-1 in the tournament, continue play today. The tournament concludes Sunday.