Buckeye baseball team soldiers on without star pitcher

TEMPE, Ariz. (KSAZ0 - Thursday was a tough day on the field for the Verrado High School Viper baseball team from Buckeye, as they play in a state semifinal game in Tempe without their star pitcher.

Bryan McKinsey, 17, died on Wednesday, but the team made a difficult decision to play ball. There were many hugs, as the Vipers head into an important playoff game without McKinse, who passed away at his home.

On Thursday, McKinsey's jersey was held by teammates, who now have the most difficult task: playing the game McKinsey loved so much, knowing he will never be able to play again.

FOX 10's Stefania Okolie reports.