2008 Aflac All-American Classic

Los Angeles

Dodger Stadium was selected as the first Major League ballpark to host this annual contest of the nations top rising high school senior baseball prospects. The 5,600 fans in attendance were treated to an old fashioned pitchers duel between the East and West Aflac All-Americans, that wasn’t decided until the ninth inning.

The West team jumped out to a quick lead, as Slade Heathcott singled home California native David Nick in the bottom of the first. Home Run Derby Champion, Matt Davidson’s double in the fourth inning plated Max Stassi for the second run of the game. Those two runs seemed to be more than enough of a cushion for the West pitchers who had limited the East team to just one hit over the first eight innings.

After an error, infield single and a walk, the East squad was breathing new life in the top of the ninth. Brian Goodwin promptly singled up the middle to plate two runs, stole third and scored on a wild pitch. After the dust settled, the East had grabbed a two run cushion. That was enough support for Austin Maddox, who pitched a scoreless bottom half to get the win. For his late inning heroics, Goodwin was selected as the games Most Valuable Player.

The 4-2 win gave the East squad their second consecutive victory and tied the series at 3 wins each.

During the annual Awards banquet, Mychal Givens received the 2008 Player of the Year Award and Beau Wright was given the Sportsmanship Award for his conduct during the week’s activities, which is voted on by his coaches and fellow players.