Sallies Edge Archmere 4-3 in DIAA Baseball Quarterfinal Thriller

WILMINGTON, Del. -- Salesianum School, the powerhouse from Wilmington, survived a nail-biter against Archmere Academy, winning 4-3 in extra innings during the Delaware Interscholastic Athletic Association baseball quarterfinals. The victory, first reported by First State Update, propelled the Sallies into the semifinals against a yet-to-be-determined opponent. Played at Archmere's field in Claymont, the game showcased rivalries between northern Delaware's top Catholic programs, with Salesianum improving to 18-5 on the season while Archmere ended at 15-8.

Salesianum starter Jack Riley dominated early, scattering four hits over seven innings while striking out eight Auks batters. The Sallies grabbed a 3-1 lead in the fourth on RBI singles from shortstop Tommy Wilson and catcher Mike Ferrara, both Wilmington natives who ignited the offense. Archmere clawed back in the eighth, tying it at 3-3 on a two-run homer by senior slugger Liam Hayes, but Salesianum's reliever Connor Hayes -- no relation -- locked down the ninth and tenth to set up the heroics.

In the 11th, Salesianum leadoff hitter Nate Johnson drew a walk, advanced on a sacrifice bunt by Riley, and scored the game-winner on Wilson's sharp single to left field. The 5-foot-10 senior from Padua High transfer became the unlikely hero, pumping his fist as teammates mobbed him at the plate. Coach Dom DiFelice praised the resilience: 'These kids never quit; that's Salesianum baseball.' The win marks the Sallies' third straight quarterfinal appearance, building on their 2024 runner-up finish.

Archmere, coached by Joe Falco, fought valiantly but couldn't overcome Salesianum's depth. The Auks, from New Castle County's southern edge, relied on ace pitcher Ben Carter's 10 strikeouts but faltered in extras. Delaware's DIAA playoffs, now in their 50th year, highlight the state's passion for baseball, with semifinals slated for Friday at Frawley Stadium in Wilmington.