Safford’s Maldonado slings no-hitter against Rio Rico

Contributed Photo By Stan Bpnifacio Sports Photography/Courtesy James Maldonado: Darren Maldonado slings one toward home plate. The Safford junior pitched a no-hitter against Rio Rico on Tuesday.

Staff Reports

RIO RICO – The Safford Bulldogs’ baseball team notched their third win in a row on Monday at Rio Rico when junior pitcher Darren Maldonado went the distance and pitched a no-hitter in a 1-0 victory. 

Maldonado threw 96 pitches and walked four in his historic game. 

Safford (0-2 region, 2-4 conference, 10-7 overall) was boosted offensively in part by Cole Goodman, who went 2-3 on the day and scored the game’s only run. 

The Bulldogs are currently sixth in the 3A South but will finish the regular season with four straight region games. They will start at home on Thursday against region leader Tucson Tanque Verde Hawks.

Safford will then host Tucson Pusch Ridge on Wednesday, April 23, before heading to Thatcher on Friday, April 25, and Tucson Palo Verde Magnet on Monday, April 28.