NORWICH — The Addison County American Legion baseball team’s postseason run came to a tough end on Saturday. The local nine fell just short of a spot in the state championship game with a 3-2 loss to St. Johnsbury Post 58 in the semifinal game played in Norwich.

Three Addison players — Carter Paquette, Eyon Tembruell and Tyler Kimball — were recognized for their strong play by being named to the All-Tournament Team.

Addison County grabbed an early 1-0 lead on Saturday thanks to a balk by the Post 58 pitcher. St. Johnsbury took the lead in the fifth inning, tying the game on a disputed walk and going ahead on a double.

In the top of the seventh and final inning, Addison loaded the bases. Tembruell tied the game with a full-swing bunt that brought in a run. But with a chance to take the lead, Ryan Brouillard popped up to end the inning.

In the bottom of the seventh, St. Johnsbury quickly put runners on base. A pair of walks and a couple of close calls by the umpire loaded the bases, and their cleanup hitter walked on a full count to end the game in walk-off fashion.

Despite the defeat, Addison had a strong showing at the five-day tournament, going 2-2 in pool play and finishing as one of the top two teams in its bracket.

TOURNEY HIGHLIGHTS

Wednesday, July 23 — Addison started strong with a 3-0 shutout win over Brattleboro.

Thursday, July 24 — In a high-scoring battle, AC lost to top-seeded Essex Post 91, 11-7. Tembruell had a big day at the plate with a double, triple, three RBIs and two runs scored. Paquette reached base three times, scored three runs, and stole two bases. Brouillard added an RBI single and two walks. On the mound, Tucker Wright struck out seven over five innings.

Friday, July 25 — Addison bounced back with a 7-4 win over Bellows Falls. Tembruell pitched all seven innings, allowing just three earned runs while striking out three. Offensively, Paquette drove in two runs and stole two bases. Aricin Griffin tripled and added a sacrifice fly. Connor Crary reached base three times and scored once.