Rockland — The American Legion Zone 2 regular season has drawn to a close with the postseason under way. And, unfortunately, Rockland-based Amato's playoff hopes vanished into the sunset, culminating in a 10-3 loss to Gardiner July 16 to end the summer season.

Amato's, comprised of talented Midcoast players, ended the season with a 6-10 record, short of qualifying for the postseason. The top four squads in Zone 2 qualify for the playoffs, which began on Saturday, July 21 in Augusta.

Leading Amato's at the plate in its season finale against Gardiner July 16 were Bryant Matthews (single), Drew Townsend (single, run), Anthony Campagnoli (2 singles), Joe Nelsen (home run, single), Taylor Hall (single), J.T. Tobin (single), Chandler Crans (single) and Billy Joyce (single).

For Gardiner, Crocker (2 singles, 2 runs), Theriault (single, 2 runs) Fletcher (single) and Meehan (single, 2 runs) paced the offense. Full names for Gardiner players were unavailable.

Campagnoli, Chandler Crans and Hall pitched for Amato's, allowing a combined nine hits and seven walks, with six strikeouts. Gardiner pitchers allowed 10 hits and one walk, with six strikeouts.

Amato's scored one run in the second inning and two more in the third, while Gardiner scored two in the first, six in the fourth and one in both the fifth and seventh stanzas, respectively.

Amato's manager Joe Nelsen said he was disappointed his squad could not clinch a Zone 2 playoff berth, but thanked parents for their efforts in getting their children to games, in addition thanking Jake Barbour of Amato's, Paul Russo and the Money Foundation and the Maine Boats and Harbors Show for their support.

Courier Publications sports staff can be reached by phone at 207-594-4401 or by email at sports@courierpublicationsllc.com.