The Fullerton Legion baseball team was unable to find their stride in the playoffs, bowing out after two consecutive losses.

The Ramblers lost their opening round game to the Northern Valley 5-1, and then were ousted by West Allentown, 3-2. The previous two seasons Fullerton went deep into the Lehigh Valley Legion playoffs, winning the title in 2011.

Fullerton General Manager Jim Hein said that they fell victim to the walk, yielding a number of free passes that played a part in their quick exit.

"It came back to bite us," said Hein.

They also committed a couple of errors that contributed to the loss against Northern Valley.

Hein also said that they squandered some opportunities which also led to their early departure from the playoffs. He said they were unable to take advantage of their chances to plate runs, and when they did get a big hit, it was without men on base.

That was the case when Matt Bonshak homered in their game against West Allentown, drawing the Ramblers within one in the seventh inning. The solo shot proved to be their final gasp as they couldn't produce any more offense and lost 3-2.

The round tripper was Matt Bonshak's second extra base in the playoffs. He also tripled in the opener, while Zach Stopay was 2-for-3 with an RBI against Northern Valley.

While they battled the entire series, they just didn't couldn't get that one big hit or out to keep them alive.

"It just didn't work out," said Hein. "We had plenty of opportunities, but we just couldn't capitalize. We couldn't get the big hit when we needed it."

Hein also credited their opponents, noting that both Northern Valley and West Allentown "made really good plays against us."

All season long, Zach Delp was one of the most feared hitters in LVL. He was among the leaders in home runs and knocked in 6 runs during the year. His ability to change a game with one swing of the bat was well documented, and opposing pitchers took note, said Hein.

"They just didn't give him anything to hit," said Hein.

Delp finished the regular season hitting .390, leading the Ramblers this season in batting average (with at least 20 plate appearances). Matt Bonshak also wielded a strong bat, hitting .355, while Brandon Purrone hit .333, and Tyler Correll hit .314.

On the mound, Jeffrey Charles led the way, winning three games and posting a 3.82 ERA.

Hein said it was disappointing since the last two years have been so successful in the postseason. He said they had high hopes entering as the fifth seed, but just couldn't make it happen.

"The ball just didn't bounce our way," said Hein.