DRAGONS STRUGGLE IN EAGLES NEST

/in , /by

Photo Credit Joclyn Nicholas

Geneva, OH- The Lakeside Dragons faced a tough challenge trying to win 2 straught against the Geneva Eagles, ultimately falling 15-2 in Wednesday’s matchup. Geneva wasted no time asserting their dominance, jumping out to an early lead with a flurry of hits and aggressive baserunning in the first inning.

Logan Queen’s single drove in the first run for Geneva, followed by key hits from Kean Arkenburg and Logan Rustic that extended their lead. R Besco’s ground out added another run to Geneva’s tally.

In the second inning, Geneva capitalized on Lakeside’s defensive miscues, with Queen and Shea Arkenburg contributing to their commanding lead.

Geneva continued to pour on the runs in the third inning, highlighted by Hewitt Wilt’s homer and solid plate discipline that allowed them to capitalize on walks and wild pitches.

Shea Arkenburg turned in a dominant performance on the mound for Geneva, limiting Lakeside to just one hit and one run over three and one-third innings while striking out eight batters and displaying excellent control.

Anthony Wooten took the loss for Lakeside Dragons, facing a tough outing on the mound, surrendering seven runs on four hits in just one inning of work.

Tristan Westerfield drove in Lakeside’s lone RBI, while Wooten led the team with one hit.

Despite the tough loss, Lakeside showed patience at the plate, drawing nine walks throughout the game, indicative of their disciplined approach.

Geneva’s offense was led by Hewitt Wilt, who racked up three hits from the leadoff position, while Shea Arkenburg and Kean Arkenburg proved formidable back-to-back in the lineup, each driving in three runs. Logan Queen also contributed with two hits.

Geneva’s aggressive baserunning was a key factor, with multiple stolen bases adding to their offensive onslaught.

Looking ahead, the Lakeside Dragons will regroup for their next challenge, a road game against Perry on Friday, as they aim to bounce back from this defeat and showcase their resilience on the diamond.

MUSTANGS GET STUNG BY KIRTLAND

/in , /by

Photo Credit: Jocyln Nicholas

Orwell, OH- Despite a valiant effort to mount a comeback in the fifth inning, the Grand Valley Varsity Mustangs fell just short in a narrow 5-4 loss to Kirtland on Wednesday. The Mustangs narrowed the deficit with a series of hits and a well-executed fielder’s choice, but ultimately couldn’t overcome Kirtland’s early lead.

Kirtland seized the momentum in the top of the fourth inning, with Tyler Turk scoring on a tag-up play and Macguire Boyd driving in another run with a single to put them on the scoreboard.

Max Paul delivered a solid performance on the mound for Kirtland, earning the win after allowing only two runs (one earned) on six hits over six innings, while striking out nine batters and walking four. On the other side, Payton Plizga of the Grand Valley Varsity Mustangs pitched admirably but was saddled with the loss, surrendering three earned runs on nine hits over six and one-third innings, with seven strikeouts and just one walk.

Plizga and Eric Ellsworth contributed RBIs for the Mustangs, showcasing their offensive prowess in a closely contested game. Justin Hagan emerged as a standout performer at the plate for Grand Valley, going 4-for-4 on the day.

Kirtland’s offense was led by Boyd, Tyler Turk, and Lucci Cantini, each collecting two hits, while Boyd, Jack Turk, and Cantini drove in runs to support their team’s effort.

In the end, despite a spirited offensive display and strong pitching from both sides, the Mustangs fell short of victory. They will look to bounce back in their next matchup, a home game against St. John on Saturday, as they aim to return to the win column and build on their competitive performance against Kirtland.

WARRIORS ZAPPED BY BLUE STREAKS

/in , /by

Story Credit: Larry Jennings

East Ashtabula, OH- In a thrilling showdown at Edgewood Senior High School, the Madison Blue Streaks delivered a masterclass performance, overpowering the Edgewood Warriors with a resounding 17-3 victory on Wednesday. The highlight reel moment came in the pivotal fourth inning, where the Blue Streaks unleashed a torrent of offense, notching an astounding ten runs to secure their triumph.
The opening salvo was fired by the Blue Streaks as Nathan Yarnell ignited the scoreboard with a well-placed single, ushering in the first run of the game. However, the Warriors swiftly retaliated in the bottom of the first inning. Tony Hall’s clutch double coupled with Caleb Johnson’s sharp single, combined with a crucial error by the Blue Streaks, allowed Edgewood to seize the lead momentarily, sending the home crowd into a frenzy.
But the game took a dramatic turn in the fourth inning when Madison’s bats came alive with a vengeance. Displaying remarkable offensive prowess, the Blue Streaks unleashed a relentless barrage, notching an imposing ten runs fueled by four hits. The inning’s apex came with a critical error that drove in three runs, effectively turning the tide in Madison’s favor.
As the game progressed, Madison continued to assert their dominance, piling on six more runs in the fifth inning, further widening the gap. Stellar performances from key players like Evan Smith and Nolan Thomas, who collected three hits each, underscored the Blue Streaks’ offensive firepower. Notably, Thomas and Eddy Gvora emerged as pivotal figures, driving in four runs apiece, leaving an indelible mark on the scoreboard.
On the mound, Eddy Gvora showcased his mettle, earning the win for Madison with an impressive display of control and precision. Despite facing some resistance from the Warriors, Gavora held his ground, allowing only five hits and three runs, while striking out six batters over five innings.
On the other side, Alex Sperduto endured a challenging outing for Edgewood, succumbing to the relentless onslaught from Madison’s offense. Despite a valiant effort, Sperduto was unable to contain the Blue Streaks, conceding seven runs on five hits over three and one-third innings.
Despite the setback, Edgewood’s resilience shone through, with players like Riley Baldwin, Hayden Hernandez, and Caleb Johnson delivering commendable performances at the plate. However, it wasn’t enough to stave off Madison’s relentless onslaught.
With this commanding victory, the Madison Blue Streaks reaffirmed their status as a force to be reckoned with in the league, sending a clear message to their rivals. As they set their sights on future challenges, the Blue Streaks can draw confidence from this resounding triumph, while Edgewood looks to regroup ahead of their next encounter at Howland on Friday.

WILDCATS CLAW PAST HERALDS

/in , /by

Southington, OH- In a hard-fought battle on Tuesday, the St. John Heralds encountered a setback, falling 10-7 to the Chalker Wildcats despite an impressive offensive display that saw them out-hit their opponents 10 to eight.

Leading the charge for the Heralds was Rylee Frasure, who showcased her hitting prowess with a stellar three-hit performance. Frasure’s consistency at the plate proved vital for the Heralds throughout the game, with impactful hits in crucial moments.

Despite a strong start from Chalker in the opening inning, highlighted by key hits from Nieves, Hromada, and Cox, the Heralds managed to claw their way back into contention, tying the game in the third inning thanks to a triple from Isabelle Holler and clutch hits from Frasure and Isabelle Stern.

However, Chalker regained the lead in the bottom of the third inning, powered by Hromada’s homer that drove in two runs, shifting the momentum in their favor.

Undeterred, the Heralds surged ahead once again in the fifth inning, capitalizing on opportunities created by Frasure, Ava Knowlton, and Sofia Park, reclaiming the lead with determined offensive efforts.

However, a defensive miscue allowed Chalker to level the score in the bottom of the fifth, setting the stage for a tense conclusion. In the decisive sixth inning, Chalker seized the opportunity, breaking the tie with timely hits from Kron and a wild pitch that extended their lead to 10-7.

Despite a valiant effort, Alyssa Cevera, the starting pitcher for St. John, faced a tough outing, ultimately taking the loss after five innings of work, during which she battled through seven hits and seven runs, while striking out seven.

Offensively, the Heralds showcased their hitting prowess, with Holler and Stern contributing multiple hits to the team’s effort. Their aggressive baserunning, highlighted by four stolen bases, kept the pressure on Chalker throughout the game.

For Chalker, Hromada emerged as a key offensive force, driving in three runs, while Kron led the team with an impressive 3-for-4 performance at the plate.

Chalker’s disciplined approach at the plate, drawing eight walks during the game, underscored their determination to secure the victory.

Looking ahead, the St. John Heralds will regroup for their upcoming matchup against Windham on Thursday, eager to bounce back from this hard-fought loss and return to the win column.

BIG BATS LEAD WARRIORS PAST SPARTANS

/in , /by

Story Credit: Larry Jennings

Conneaut, OH- In a game packed with standout performances, the Edgewood Warriors secured a commanding 14-3 victory over the Conneaut Spartans. Faith Vencill emerged as a driving force for the Warriors, delivering five RBIs on two impactful hits. Her grand slam in the sixth inning, coupled with a crucial triple earlier in the game, highlighted her stellar contribution to the team’s success.

Pitcher Lucianna Paolillo showcased her prowess on the mound, tallying an impressive 12 strikeouts while allowing only five hits and three runs over six innings of work. The right-handed pitcher’s command of the game played a significant role in Edgewood’s dominant performance.

Despite Conneaut striking first in the opening inning with Maddy Drew’s RBI single, Edgewood quickly turned the tide in the second inning, capitalizing on opportunities to take a 4-1 lead. The Warriors’ offense continued to flourish, exploding for seven runs in the sixth inning, fueled by a barrage of hits including Vencill’s grand slam.

On the mound for Conneaut, Alexis Brown faced a tough outing, surrendering seven runs on nine hits over five innings, ultimately taking the loss for the Spartans.

Edgewood’s offensive onslaught saw them amass 14 hits throughout the game, with multiple players making significant contributions at the plate. Alongside Vencill and Paolillo, Natalie Lanetta, Juliaunna Gregory, Avery Vencill, and Mckenna Vencill each collected two hits, underscoring the depth of the Warriors’ lineup.

Conneaut, despite the loss, showcased resilience at the plate, with Alyssa McFadden and Maddy Drew driving in crucial runs. Drew’s 2-for-3 performance led the Spartans in hits, highlighting their offensive efforts.

Notably, Conneaut’s defensive efforts remained solid throughout the game, with no errors committed in the field, exemplified by Ella Boroski’s active presence with eight chances.

Looking ahead, the Edgewood Warriors will look to carry their momentum into their next matchup against Lakeside on Thursday, while the Conneaut Spartans will regroup for their upcoming game against the Pymatuning Valley Lakers on Saturday.

FALCONS OUTLAST SPARTANS IN THE LATE INNINGS

/in , /by

Conneaut, OH- In a gripping showdown on Wednesday, the Jefferson Falcons soared past the Conneaut Spartans with a 9-6 victory. The Falcons made their mark early in the game, seizing the lead in the second inning as Michael Riffle and Giovanni Matticola’s hits brought in crucial runs.

However, the Spartans fought back fiercely in the fourth, turning the tables with a surge of five runs, led by Bryce Spurlin’s powerful double that drove in three runs. Despite this setback, the Falcons rallied in the fifth inning, reclaiming the lead with key hits from Luke Lambert, Riffle, and Devin Salinas.

The game remained tense as Conneaut managed to level the score in the sixth inning when Anthony Rivera drew a walk scoring a run, but the Falcons refused to be denied. In the decisive seventh inning, a crucial error by Conneaut allowed the Falcons to break the tie, followed by a ground out by Toby Dickson that extended their lead to 9-6.

Dickson’s stellar performance on the mound earned him the win for Jefferson, showcasing his dominance with seven strikeouts over three and one-third innings. On the other side, J.R. Hutchison of the Conneaut Spartans faced a tough loss despite an impressive 12 strikeouts throughout the game.

Offensively, Riffle shone for the Falcons, driving in two runs and making a significant impact from the seventh spot in the lineup. Matticola, leading the charge at the top of the order, contributed with two hits, setting the tone for the Falcons’ offense.

Meanwhile, Spurlin and Ty Covill stood out for the Spartans, collecting two hits each with Spurlin’s bat proving particularly potent, driving in three crucial runs. Conneaut displayed patience at the plate, drawing 10 walks during the game, with Hutchison and Ethan Osborne leading the charge.

Looking ahead, the Falcons are set to defend their home turf against Pymatuning Valley on Friday, aiming to carry their momentum forward. As for the Spartans, they will hit the road to face the Girard Yellow Jackets in their next challenge, eager to bounce back from this hard-fought defeat.

DRAGONS FLYING HIGH WITH WALK-OFF WIN OVER EAGLES

/in , /by

Photo Credit Joclyn Nicholas

Ashtabula, OH- The Lakeside Dragons ignited the home crowd with an exhilarating 3-2 walk-off triumph over the Geneva Eagles, securing a thrilling victory in dramatic fashion. With the game deadlocked at two apiece in the bottom of the seventh, the Dragons seized their moment when Curtis Maier induced a crucial fielder’s choice, allowing the winning run to cross the plate.

Pitching prowess was on full display as both teams battled fiercely on the mound. Lakeside’s hurlers delivered a stellar performance, racking up an impressive 10 strikeouts, while Geneva’s pitchers held their own, tallying eight strikeouts of their own.

Geneva struck first with a groundout by Shea Arkenburg in the top of the third inning, but the Dragons quickly responded, surging ahead in the bottom half of the inning as Chase Newsome drew a pivotal walk, propelling Lakeside to a 2-1 lead.

As tensions mounted in the late innings, Geneva fought back to knot the score at two apiece in the top of the seventh, courtesy of a clutch single by Logan Queen.

In the end, it was Lakeside’s Alex DiSalvatore who emerged as the hero, earning the win with a stellar seven-inning performance on the mound. Despite a valiant effort from Maier and the Eagles, Lakeside’s resilience and determination ultimately proved decisive.

Gage Tome led the charge at the plate for Lakeside, delivering two hits in three at-bats, while Caleb Stitt provided the crucial RBI to secure the victory.

For Geneva, Queen stood out with a key RBI, supported by contributions from Maier, Logan Rustic, Kean Arkenburg, and Sebastian Hall.

Despite the hard-fought contest, Geneva showcased impeccable defense, executing a double play and committing zero errors, with Maier leading the charge with seven defensive plays.

With their sights set on a rematch in Geneva, the Dragons look to carry their momentum into the next showdown, poised to once again ignite the flames of victory against the Eagles.

FALCONS SOAR IN HIGH SCORING BATTLE WITH SPARTANS

/in , /by

Photo Credit: Tanya Jean Photography

Jefferson, OH- The Jefferson Falcons soared to a thrilling 15-9 victory over the Conneaut Spartans, powered by Kennidie Rogers’ spectacular performance at the plate. Rogers was the standout star of the game, driving in an impressive five runs on four hits, including a memorable inside-the-park home run in the sixth inning that electrified the crowd.

From the outset, the Falcons asserted their dominance, jumping to an early lead in the first inning thanks to stellar hits from Allison Hill and Rylee DeMattia. The momentum continued in the second inning as the Falcons plated five more runs, fueled by Rogers’ clutch hitting and a string of well-executed plays.

Despite a spirited effort from the Spartans, highlighted by Maddy Drew’s towering home run in the third inning, Jefferson maintained control of the game. Even as Conneaut rallied with five runs of their own in the fourth inning, the Falcons remained undeterred, answering back with another five-run explosion in the sixth inning.

On the mound, Olivia Lewis battled through four innings for the Falcons, while Ada Sirrine provided solid relief pitching, shutting down the Spartans’ offense and securing the victory.

Offensively, the Falcons were firing on all cylinders, amassing an impressive 16 hits throughout the game. Notable contributions came from Mia Contenza, Hill, Sirrine, and DeMattia, who each delivered multiple hits to keep the Falcons’ offense rolling. Additionally, Marillia Matuz showcased her speed on the bases, stealing two in the game.

Despite the loss, the Conneaut Spartans showed resilience, with Drew leading the charge with three RBIs and Alyssa McFadden delivering a stellar 3-for-4 performance at the plate.

With this commanding win under their belts, the Falcons are primed and ready for their next challenge against Perry, as they aim to continue their winning streak. As for the Spartans, they will regroup and look to bounce back in their upcoming matchup against the Edgewood Warriors.

FALCONS FLY BY SPARTANS

/in , /by

Photo Credit: Tanya Jean Photography

Jefferson, OH- The Jefferson Falcons soared to victory on Tuesday, dominating the Conneaut Spartans with a commanding 13-0 win. Right from the start, the Falcons asserted their dominance, with key plays in both the second and third innings propelling them into a substantial lead.

Devin Salinas ignited the scoring frenzy with a crucial single in the second inning, setting the tone for the Falcons’ offensive onslaught. Giovanni Matticola and Toby Dickson followed suit, driving in runs and securing an early advantage for Jefferson. The momentum only continued to build as Logan Saksa, Matticola, and others contributed to the scoring barrage.

Pitcher Luke Lambert delivered a stellar performance on the mound, stifling the Spartans’ offense with precision and control. Meanwhile, Bryce Spurlin struggled to contain the Falcons’ relentless hitting, ultimately succumbing to Jefferson’s offensive prowess.

Leading the charge at the plate were stalwarts like Dickson, Michael Riffle, and Lambert, each making significant contributions to the Falcons’ offensive output. Notably, Dickson’s solid hitting and three RBIs propelled Jefferson’s offensive dominance.

Defensively, the Falcons displayed flawless execution, committing zero errors and showcasing their fielding prowess. Riffle stood out with his exceptional defensive play, anchoring the team’s efforts in the field.

Despite Conneaut’s efforts, including notable performances from Spurlin and Ty Covill, the Spartans couldn’t overcome Jefferson’s relentless attack. With a rematch looming on the horizon, the Falcons are poised to continue their winning ways as they set their sights to repeat against Conneaut on Wednesday.

BLUE STREAKS SHOCK WARRIORS IN THE LATE INNINGS

/in , /by
Story by Larry Jennings
Madison, OH- In a thrilling showdown on Tuesday, the Madison Blue Streaks orchestrated a remarkable late-game rally to snatch victory from the jaws of defeat, edging out the Edgewood Warriors 4-3 in a nail-biting contest that kept fans on the edge of their seats until the very end.
The game commenced with both teams displaying their intent to seize control early on, setting the stage for a captivating battle on the diamond. However, it was the Warriors who drew first blood, capitalizing on an error in the first inning to take an early lead.
As the game progressed, Edgewood continued to assert their dominance, adding another run in the second inning courtesy of Caleb Johnson’s timely single, pushing their lead to 2-0. The Blue Streaks, however, refused to let their opponents run away with the game.
Down 3-2 in the bottom of the fifth inning, the Madison faithful erupted in jubilation as Eddy Gvora delivered a clutch single, driving in two runs and propelling the Blue Streaks into the lead for the first time in the game.
Nolan Thomas emerged as a pivotal figure for Madison, earning the win on the mound with a stellar performance. The right-handed pitcher showcased his prowess, holding the Warriors hitless and scoreless over 3 2/3 innings, while tallying an impressive eight strikeouts without issuing a single walk.
On the other side, Anthony Ciesicki suffered the loss for Edgewood, battling through four innings on the mound, allowing two runs on four hits, while striking out one and issuing three walks.
In a game marked by strategic pitching and clutch hitting, both teams exhibited moments of brilliance. Ben Amos set the tone for Madison, stifling the Warriors’ offense with three hits and three runs allowed over 3 1/3 innings, striking out four and walking three.
Offensively, Aiden Hernandez, Logan Kray, and Caleb Johnson each contributed a hit for Edgewood, with Riley Baldwin and Caleb Johnson driving in one run apiece. The Warriors’ defensive prowess was highlighted by a well-executed double play.
For the Blue Streaks, Alexander Davis and Eddy Gvora led the offensive charge with two hits each, while Davis, Seth Negin, and G’vora each drove in a run. Davis and Negin also showcased their speed on the basepaths, stealing multiple bases to ignite Madison’s offense.
With this hard-fought victory under their belts, Madison looks ahead to a rematch against Edgewood on Wednesday, aiming to carry forward the momentum from their late-game heroics. As for the Warriors, they’ll be eager to regroup and seek redemption on their home turf, determined to turn the tables and emerge victorious in the upcoming showdown.