Helix Edges Valhalla to Advance in CIF Div. II Baseball

A three-run seventh inning enabled Helix Charter High (22-9) to pull out a 4-3 win over visiting Valhalla on Wednesday in a San Diego Section CIF Division II first-round playoff game.

After dropping three decisions to the Norsemen (13-17) during the Grossmont Hills League season, the Highlanders appeared headed to a fourth straight defeat, trailing by two entering the final frame.

Helix eventually tied the game 3-3 when Mauro Olivarria drew a bases loaded walk. Kacy Smith then ripped a shot down the third base line to score Ray Peterson with the winning run.

The Highlander bats had been uncomfortably quiet for Helix coach Cole Holland through much of the game, but he was pleased with the last minute burst. “It shows we have a little character,” he said.

Helix, the No. 2 seed, hosts Scripps Ranch (21-8) at 3:30 in Friday’s second round of the Division II winner’s bracket.

Brandon Lewis was the winning pitcher, and Jake Reed, Smith and Brennan Ingram each had two hits for Helix.

EastCountySports.com contributed to this report.