The Ceres Blaze 9-year-old travel baseball team improved its head-to-head record versus Rocklin to 4-1 on Monday.

The Blaze led from start to finish in beating Rocklin 13-7 in the championship game of the Pony Baseball Super Region Tournament at Bel Passi Fields in Modesto.

Ceres defeated Rocklin 17-7 for first place at Regionals the previous week in Pittsburg. The Blaze battled back from a 4-2 deficit.

"I'm elated," head coach Carlos Guizar said. "A lot of people are in awe of what they're doing. And they're not done yet. They've been playing fundamental baseball. They've exceeded my expectations."

The Blaze stormed out to a 6-0 lead in the top of the first inning during Monday's meeting.

Ceres starting pitcher Gilbert Zamora logged 22/3 innings on the mound.

"We seem to get timely hits whenever we play that team," Guizar said. "The only way we'd meet again is for the championship at the Zone tournament. Every single game has been close. Rocklin has a great team."

The Blaze compiled a perfect 4-0 record at Super Regionals.

Ceres topped Vacaville 12-11 on Sunday, Rocklin 5-4 on Saturday and San Francisco Youth Baseball 18-1 on Wednesday.

Ceres and Rocklin both qualified to compete at the Zone championships. The eight-team, double-elimination tournament will get underway this Friday in Walnut.
"Our whole fan base is behind them," Guizar said. "It's a big thing they accomplished. I'm hoping to advance to the World Series. I think we have a good chance at doing that. My whole lineup can hit. They're always productive. Our pitching is strong. Our defense makes plays."

The Blaze have placed first five times this season.

"I've been coaching these boys for two years," Guizar said. "Last year, we won four of the five tournaments we played in. The chemistry they have makes them want to fight for each other. Their brotherhood makes them so special."