CLIPPERS GO FULL THROTTLE

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By Joe Eusebio


SALINEVILLE OH- Seniors Alex Eusebio, Colin Keleman and Ian Lessjoined with freshman Avery Young to lead Columbiana to a 18-0 win at Southern Local on Monday.

Eusebio did not allow a hit, run or issue a walk while striking out seven over three innings. Young pitched two scoreless innings while giving up one hit and striking out five. At the plate, Eusebioknocked in two runs, scored two runs and stole a base while Young had three RBI, scored two runs,and stole two bases.  But the big bat for the Clippers was swung by catcher Keleman, who went 3-for-4 with four RBI, scoring two and adding two stolen bases.  Less scored three runs and stole three bases while getting on base in four of his five plate appearances.

Southern sophomore Mason Pitts started and went 4 2/3 innings allowing 8 runs (4 earned), seven hits and striking out six. Sophomore Chase Forbes had the Indian’s only hit, a single to left in the fifth inning.

Columbiana is now 3-0 in the EOAC and 5-3 overall. Southern drops to 1-1 in the conference and 3-1 overall.

Columbiana will be staying on the road on Tuesday, heading to Cene Park to face off against Cardinal Mooney at 7:00 p.m. Next up for Southern, is the rematch at Columbiana at 5:00 p.m. on Wednesday.

CAT SCRATCH FEVER; STRUTHERS SCRAPS NILES

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STRUTHERS, OH- Michael Scavnicky was on fire, nailing three hits in three at-bats to help Struthers stomp Niles 16-6 at Bob Cene Park on Monday. Scavnicky kept it consistent with singles in the first, third, and fourth innings.

The Red Dragons kicked things off with Brighton Gilmour’s RBI single in the first, but that lead didn’t last long. The Wildcats roared back in the bottom of the first, grabbing a 3-1 lead thanks to a single from Jordan Becker, a walk by Travis McMurray, and Josh Robison getting plunked—all bringing runners home.

The Wildcats piled it on in the third, capitalizing on a couple of Red Dragons’ errors and a wild pitch to push their lead even further. They didn’t stop there, racking up five runs in the fifth inning alone. Scavnicky, Robison, and Anthony Pastella all chipped in with RBIs.

Drew Chizmar scooped up the win for Struthers, despite giving up four runs over three innings. His counterpart, Landon Turner, wasn’t as lucky, getting tagged for 11 runs in his four innings of work. Isaac Wolfe also pitched in with some relief for the Wildcats.

Overall, the Wildcats amassed 11 hits. Robison, batting eighth, made his hits count, driving in three runs. JR Hovanec also had a great day at the plate, hitting 2-for-2. Discipline at the plate was key, as Struthers players walked seven times. They were also a menace on the bases, stealing nine in total.

For the Red Dragons, Kris Hrosar, Brian Parsons, and Gilmour each had two hits. Gilmour, Parsons, and AJ Yost each knocked in a run, with Yost snagging a couple of steals himself.

The Wildcats are set to visit the Red Dragons again on Tuesday to wrap the season series.

EAGLES SINK RANGE ON THE ROAD

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CANFIELD, OH- Braydon Songer completely owned the mound, striking out 10 batters in Hubbard’s 3-0 shutout against South Rangeon Monday night.

Pitching was top-notch on both sides. Hubbard’s crew racked up a total of 11 strikeouts, and South Range’s pitchers managed to fan six.

The scoring action heated up in the eighth inning when the Eagles strung together three singles. Johnny Reyes sparked the rally with a key hit that brought a runner home.

On the mound for the Raiders, Tyson Tarajack had a solid start, holding Hubbard to just two hits and no runs across seven innings, and he struck out six. 

At the plate, Gabe Rusnak, Reyes, and Geno Leshnack each knocked in a run to fuel Hubbard’s win.

For the Raiders, Will Gehring, Tyler Wardle, Andrew Brian, and Julian Tranovich each managed a hit. The team also turned a slick double play during the game.

Next up, Hubbard hosts South Range again on Tuesday to finish the season series.

VIEW GAME PICTURES HERE

 

KENNEDY CAPS OFF MOGADORE

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MOGADORE, OH- On a brisk Monday evening, the John F. Kennedy Eagles took to the field against Mogadore, securing a strong 7-3 victory away from home. The Eagles’ offense clicked early and often, leveraging their timely hitting to build a commanding lead.

The game kicked off with Mogadore scratching across the first run in the bottom of the first, but that lead was short-lived. By the second inning, the Eagles had found their rhythm, plating three runs to seize control. The key moment came from Dominic Ryan, who later in the game smashed a crucial home run, not just padding the lead but also igniting the Kennedy crowd.

Contributions came from across the lineup, with Chase Hadley doubling and driving in a run, and newcomer Andrew Lapolla chipping in with two hits and an RBI. Michael Condoleon’s speed was on full display as well, stealing a base and scoring twice, underscoring the Eagles’ aggressive approach on the base paths.

Pitching for JFK was equally effective, with starter Freddy Bolchalk dominating over five innings, allowing just one run and striking out eight. Taggart Carfangia took over for the final two innings, navigating through some traffic but holding Mogadore to just two runs.

Mogadore’s lineup showed sparks of potential, with Ronnie Skye and Tyler Youngblood each knocking doubles, but they couldn’t quite muster enough to keep pace with the Eagles. Their pitcher, Cole Reese, encountered some trouble, giving up six earned runs across six innings, which ultimately proved too much of a hurdle.

The Eagles’ combination of power at the plate and solid pitching handed them a well-earned win as they continue to build momentum this season. As they prepare for their next matchup, the team looks poised to make a significant impact, with players stepping up both offensively and on the mound. If Monday’s performance is anything to go by, the Eagles are shaping up to be a tough opponent in any contest.

RAMS SHUT DOWN JACKSON MILTON OFFENSE

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Xavier Klamer was dominant on the bump, as they rang up 14 strikeouts in Mineral Ridge’s 2-0 victory over Jackson-Milton on Monday. Klamer allowed three hits and zero runs over six innings while walking one. The pitching was strong on both sides. The Rams pitchers struck out 16, while Jackson-Milton sat down 13.

A wild pitch put Mineral Ridge on the board in the bottom of the sixth.

Drew Sloan took the loss for Jackson-Milton. The starting pitcher went six innings, allowing two runs on three hits, striking out 13 and walking two. Nick Anderson pitched one inning of shutout ball for Mineral Ridge in relief. The righty surrendered zero hits, striking out two and walking two.

Gino Novello, Jackson Geddes, and Christian Dunlap each collected one hit for Mineral Ridge. Caden Ruby, Vinnie Fay, and Sloan each collected one hit for Jackson-Milton.

QUAKERS RALLY IN WILD ONE

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SALEM, OH- What a comeback it was for the Salem Quakers! On Monday, they overcame a hefty seven-run deficit to claim a resounding 20-10 victory against the Minerva Lions.

From the get-go, it was clear this game was going to be a slugfest. The Lions roared into the lead early, with Braydon Wood and Gaven Aquino delivering crucial hits that quickly piled up runs in the first inning. But the Quakers weren’t about to let this game slip away that easily.

Lance Bailey was the spark the Quakers needed, smashing a three-run homer that instantly got them back into the game. But the real magic happened in the second inning when the Quakers turned the tables dramatically. They racked up eight runs, with Colin Riesen’s clutch double bringing in two crucial runs that helped Salem take an 11-7 lead.

The hits just kept coming. Riesen was unstoppable at the plate, contributing heavily to the team’s impressive 16-hit tally. Trenton McCoy and the rest of the lineup showed patience and strategic acumen, working walks and stealing bases with a gusto that kept the pressure on Minerva.

Pitching was key too. Cyle Burt stepped up in relief, stabilizing the game and holding the Lions at bay, despite a rocky start from the Quakers’ pitching staff. Bailey also shone in his relief stint, tossing two scoreless innings and striking out four.

Minerva’s lineup had its moments, with Aquino leading the charge with three hits. Wood and Logan Frigyes were also notable contributors, driving in runs and keeping the game competitive.

As the dust settled, the Quakers walked off with not just a win but a statement about their resilience and firepower. Next, they’ll be looking to carry this momentum into their upcoming game against the Carrollton Varsity Warriors. If Monday’s game was any indicator, that one’s not to be missed either!

WARRIORS CLIP ELLWOOD CITY

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ELLWOOD CITY, PA- In a game that unfolded under a clear blue sky, the Mohawk Warriors claimed a solid victory over Ellwood City with a 6-1 scoreline on Monday. The game saw a display of strategic play and strong pitching from the Warriors that ultimately left the home team struggling to find their rhythm.

The game began quietly with both teams held scoreless in the first inning. Ellwood City briefly took the lead in the second inning thanks to a double by Roth, who later scored, but that would be the only time they’d see home plate. The Warriors, unshaken by their slow start, found their stride in the fourth inning, unleashing a burst of energy that would see them take control of the game.

Vince Pezzuolo, starting pitcher for the Warriors, threw a solid five innings, allowing only one run and striking two out, showcasing both control and stamina. His performance on the mound was backed by a cohesive defensive display, keeping the Ellwood errors to a minimum.

The turning point came in the fourth inning when the Warriors loaded the bases and Jackson Chapman hit a sacrifice fly to bring home the first run. This sparked a series of strategic hits and base running that saw two more runs come in, giving the Warriors a lead they would not relinquish. Keigan Hopper’s double was a highlight, driving in two crucial runs and demonstrating the depth of the Warriors’ batting lineup.

Mohawk Area continued to build on their lead with one run in the fifth and two more in the sixth, courtesy of smart base running and solid hits by the A&J Connection: JJ Nail and AJ Verdi, who together knocked in three of the six runs. Despite Ellwood City’s best efforts to rally, the Warriors’ pitching held strong, with Chapman and Bobby Fadden closing out the game without giving up any further runs.

Ellwood City’s pitchers, led by Nardone, found themselves under constant pressure, struggling with control and ultimately yielding six runs from eight hits. Their day was characterized by a battle against both the Warriors’ bats and their own command on the mound.

As the game concluded, Mohawk celebrated a well-earned victory, demonstrating not just their skill but their ability to capitalize on crucial moments.

FEEZLE SHINES AS REBELS TRUMP CHAMPION

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COLUMBIANA, OH-In a MVAC thrilling showdown on Monday, the Crestview Rebels showcased their pitching talents and offensive firepower, securing a hard-fought 3-1 win over Champion.

Ethan Feezle’s standout performance on the mound, coupled with clutch hits from Drew Dattilio and others, propelled the Rebels to victory in a game marked by tense moments and standout plays.

Feezle took center stage as the starting pitcher for Crestview, delivering a masterful performance that left Champion batters struggling to find their rhythm. With an impressive 11 strikeouts over seven innings, Feezle showcased his command and control, surrendering just one run on five hits while issuing seven walks.

Both teams demonstrated strength on the mound, but Feezle ultimately proved to be the difference-maker for Crestview.

The Rebels wasted no time making their mark, as Feezle’s own single in the bottom of the first inning put Crestview on the scoreboard early. The momentum continued in the third inning, with Dattilio delivering a crucial single to extend the Rebels’ lead to 2-0.

Dattilio’s standout performance at the plate highlighted the depth of Crestview’s lineup, as he led the team with three hits in three at-bats. Luke Julian, Dattilio, and Feezle each contributed with an RBI, while Zach Davis collected two hits to bolster the Rebels’ offensive attack.

For Champion, Carson Fife got the nod to start the game on the bump and went the distance for the Flashes.  Fife’s impressive performance included giving up two earned runs on eight hits, walking one and striking out five Rebels.  Fife would also drive in the only run of the game offensively for Champion while putting together a two-hit performance.

As Crestview (7-0) looks ahead to their next matchup against Champion on Tuesday, April 16th, they will look to take a season series and continue a great start to the season.

GAULT PROVIDES THE HEAT; LIONS POUND EP

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NEW WATERFORD, OH- Drew Gault has been working towards days like these.  In a dazzling display of power-hitting, Drew Gault led the charge for the Heartland Christian as they clinched a decisive 12-2 win over East Palestine on Monday. Gault’s impressive performance, highlighted by two home runs and five RBIs, stole the spotlight and propelled his team to victory.

Gault wasted no time making his mark, launching homers in both the second and fourth innings to ignite the Lions’ offense and send the crowd into a frenzy.

Despite East Palestine striking first with a run in the opening frame, the Lions quickly responded, seizing the lead in the bottom of the inning. Brett Walker’s timely single drove in two runs, giving Heartland Christian the early advantage.

East Palestine managed to tie the game in the second inning, but Gault’s homer in the bottom half of the inning swung the momentum back in favor of the Lions, propelling them to a 5-2 lead.

The Lions continued to pile on the runs, with Tyler Rarick adding another tally in the third by stealing home. However, it was the explosive fourth inning that truly showcased Heartland Christian’s offensive prowess. Gault’s second homer of the game, coupled with errors that allowed additional runs to score, extended the Lions’ lead to a commanding 10-run margin.

On the mound, Jake Walker delivered a gutsy performance, stifling East Palestine’s offense and securing the win for the Lions. Walker’s six innings of work saw him allowing just three hits and two runs while racking up an impressive eight strikeouts.

Despite East Palestine’s efforts, they were unable to contain the Lions’ relentless offense and solid defense. Heartland Christian’s aggressive baserunning, highlighted by six stolen bases, kept the pressure on their opponents throughout the game.

With contributions from players like Rarick and Owen Bender, who stole multiple bases, and a patient approach at the plate that resulted in six walks, the Lions showcased their depth and versatility on both sides of the ball.

For East Palestine, Phoenix Marvin started the game on the bump, and surrendered three hits and two runs (one earned) over one inning, striking out one and walking none.  Payyon Rutledge took the tough loss for East Palestine. The reliever went one and one-third innings, surrendering one run on three hits, striking out two and walking one. 

Offensively, EP’s Marvin, Logan Guy, and Jason Robb each collected one hit for East Palestine. Morrison and Beatty each drove in one run for the Bulldogs.

As they look ahead to their next matchup, Heartland Christian will prepare to face Ursuline on Tuesday at the Ace of Diamonds facility. 

 

DRAGONS FALL TO WARRIORS IN FINAL INNING

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Story by Larry Jennings

Ashtabula, OH- In a thrilling showdown on the diamond, Edgewood’s Varsity Warriors clashed with the Lakeside Dragons in a nail-biting baseball matchup that showcased stellar pitching performances and tense moments until the very end. On Monday, both teams brought their A-game, but it was the Edgewood Warriors who emerged victorious, edging out the Lakeside Dragons with a final score of 2-1.

The spotlight shone brightly on the pitchers as Logan Kray took the mound for Edgewood, while Lakeside sent Alex DiSalvatore to the bump. From the outset, it was evident that runs would be at a premium, as both hurlers showcased their prowess on the mound.
Kray proved to be a force to be reckoned with, racking up an impressive 12 strikeouts over six innings of work. Despite facing some pressure, he held Lakeside to just two hits and one run, displaying his command and dominance on the rubber.
Meanwhile, DiSalvatore  kept pace, going toe-to-toe with Kray. He pitched a solid seven innings, allowing just three hits and two runs, one of which was earned. DiSalvatore  showcased his own striking prowess, tallying nine strikeouts while issuing only one walk.
The game remained deadlocked until the late innings when the tension reached its peak. In the second inning, Edgewood managed to scrape across a run thanks to a wild pitch, taking an early lead. However, Lakeside fought back, leveling the score at one apiece in the bottom of the sixth inning with Zach Palmer’s clutch sacrifice fly.
As the game hung in the balance in the top of the seventh, Edgewood seized the opportunity to break the tie. An error by Lakeside allowed the Warriors to push across the decisive run, swinging the momentum in their favor.
Despite Lakeside’s valiant effort at the plate, drawing six walks and displaying aggressive baserunning with four stolen bases, they ultimately fell short in their quest for victory. Zach Palmer’s lone RBI stood as a testament to Lakeside’s resilience, but it wasn’t enough to overcome Edgewood’s pitching prowess and opportunistic offense, with Tony Hall scoring both runs for the Warriors.
The Dragons didn’t go down without a fight, however. Lakeside had the bases loaded in the bottom of the seventh with one out, but Alex Sperduto got a pop out and a fly ball out to end the game.
In the end, it was Logan Kray who earned the win for Edgewood, while Alex Desalvator was saddled with the loss for Lakeside. Aiden Hernandez, Logan Rudolph, and Riley Baldwin each contributed with a hit for the victorious Warriors, while Caleb Stitt, Gage Tome, Alex DiSalvatore, and Chase Newsom collected hits for the Lakeside Dragons.
With the dust settled on this thrilling encounter, Edgewood Warriors look ahead to their rematch against the Lakeside Dragons at Walter C Higgins Field at Edgewood High School on Tuesday. As the two teams prepare to square off once again, fans can expect another intense battle on the diamond as both sides seek redemption and bragging rights in this fiercely contested rivalry.