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Dunedin pulls plug on power hitter

By DOUG KATES
Published August 12, 2006

GULFPORT - Georgia slugger Kyle Carter built a reputation as a dangerous hitter in the Southeast Regional.

His six home runs raised eyebrows, caught the attention of opponents and had coaches trying to figure out how to stop him.

In the championship game Friday night, Dunedin's strategy was to not let him swing at all.

While other kids entered the title game with hopes of grabbing a big hit on national TV, Carter stepped to the plate four times and walked four times.

"I kind of knew it was coming," said Carter, who scored two of Georgia's five runs. "It didn't matter to me. I did what the team needed. I knew my teammates were going to back me up."

One teammate who helped in a big way was 12-year-old Patrick Stallings. Stallings hit four home runs entering the tournament and added three in five games. He clubbed a solo shot in the third inning, giving Georgia a 2-0 lead.

"I just do my best and do what I can," he said. "I thought it was out. I heard (the fans) going down to first."

Carter admitted he was hoping to hit in the game, but when he realized what was happening, he said it was important not to let the walks disrupt his pitching. He finished with a five-hitter and 14 strikeouts.

[Last modified August 12, 2006, 02:35:16]