HAINES HAS A DAY FOR LAKEVIEW

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Izzy Haines drove in six runs on three hits to lead Lakeview past Hubbard 16-3 on Wednesday. Haines singled in the fourth scoring three, doubled in the third scoring two, hit a sacrifice fly in the first scoring one, and singled in the second scoring one.

Lakeview got on the board in the top of the first inning after Haines hit a sacrifice fly, Paige Schwartz grounded out, and Hallie Capan singled, each scoring one run. They added to their early lead in the top of the second inning after Hubbard committed an error, Kennedy Bartlett singled, and Haines singled, each scoring one run.

Lakeview scored five more runs on four hits in the top of the third inning. An error scored one run, Kalyssa Werner singled, scoring one run, Haines doubled, scoring two runs, and Schwartz singled, scoring one run.  They kept going and scored five runs on five hits in the top of the fourth inning. Mack Stowe singled, scoring two runs, and Haines singled, scoring three runs.

Isabella Isenberg earned the win for Lakeview. The right-handed pitcher allowed five hits and three runs (two earned) over five innings, striking out nine and walking two.

Kaylee Schultz took the loss for the Eagles. The starting pitcher went two and two-thirds innings, giving up 11 runs (three earned) on eight hits, striking out three and walking two.

The Bulldogs collected 15 hits in the game. Makenna Werner, Haines, and Werner each collected three hits. Bartlett collected two hits in three at bats.

Alyssa Gregory went 1-for-2 at the plate as they led the team with one run batted in. Gregory, Emalee Warren, Lauren Komorek, Cara Green, and Haleigh Taylor each collected one hit for Hubbard.

LAKERS BRING THE PAYNE IN WIN OVER ROCKETS

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Maplewood, OH- In a commanding display of offensive prowess, the Pymatuning Valley Lakers secured an impressive 8-2 victory over the Maplewood Rockets on Wednesday, fueled by the stellar performance of Saige Payne at the plate.

Payne’s bat was on fire, delivering three hits in as many at-bats, including a crucial double in the fourth inning and singles in the third and sixth innings, setting the tone for the Lakers’ offensive onslaught.

The Lakers wasted no time asserting their dominance, with Macie Payne driving in the opening run with a single in the top of the first inning. Saige Payne extended the Lakers’ lead to 3-0 with another timely single in the third inning, paving the way for their commanding victory.

On the mound, Payne showcased her versatility, not only delivering at the plate but also earning the win with a solid pitching performance, surrendering just one earned run on four hits over seven innings, while striking out an impressive nine batters and demonstrating excellent control.

Maplewood’s E Perline faced a tough outing, absorbing the loss after allowing eight runs on 13 hits over seven innings, while striking out two and walking six.

Saige Payne wasn’t alone in her offensive prowess, as Allison Clark, McKenna Jordan, and Rylee Young also made significant contributions with multiple hits for the Lakers. The Lakers’ lineup proved formidable, with both Paynes driving in three runs each, showcasing the depth and power of their batting order.

The Lakers exhibited patience at the plate, drawing six walks throughout the game, while also capitalizing on their speed with seven stolen bases, led by Clark and Jordan.

Despite Maplewood’s efforts, including a run batted in by R Krieg and solid hitting from E Nevinski, the Lakers’ dominant performance proved too much to handle.

Looking ahead, the Lakers will carry their momentum into their next matchup against the Grand Valley Mustangs on Thursday, aiming to continue their winning streak and further solidify their position as a force to be reckoned with in the league.

WILDCATS CLAW PAST HERALDS

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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

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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.

MEROLILLO’S PERFECT GAME HIGHLIGHTS RIDGE’S DOUBLEHEADER SWEEP

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MINERAL RIDGE OH- Lily Merolillo struck out 11 batters as they led Mineral Ridge past Sebring 14-0 on Tuesday. Merolillo gave up zero hits and zero runs over five innings while walking none completing a perfect game in the circle.

Laney Rigley collected four hits in four at bats in the win. Rigley tripled in the third inning, doubled in the first inning, doubled in the second inning, and doubled in the fourth inning. Mineral Ridge got on the board in the first inning after Rigley doubled, scoring one run. They then scored six runs on four hits in the bottom of the second inning. Sydney Wyllie grounded out, scoring one run, Megan Haynie singled, scoring one run, Rigley doubled, scoring one run, and Maddie Gerberry doubled, scoring three runs. The Rams added one run in the third. Rigley tripled after a 6-pitch at-bat, making the score 8-0.

Mineral Ridge added to their lead and scored six runs on seven hits in the bottom of the fourth inning. Wyllie singled, scoring one run, Haynie singled, scoring two runs, Sullivan Sandy singled, scoring one run, Rigley doubled, scoring one run, and Merolillo singled, scoring one run.

The Rams accumulated 15 hits in the game. Sandy and Maggie Collins each collected multiple hits. Mineral Ridge was sure-handed and didn’t commit a single error. Aaliyah Wall made the most plays with 11.

Game 2:

Mineral Ridge completed a doubleheader sweep of Sebring defeating them 7-0 in game 2 on Tuesday thanks in part to four runs in the second inning. McKenna Barker drew a walk, scoring one run, Lily Merolillo grounded out, scoring one run, Aaliyah Wall doubled, scoring one run, and Savannah Turk drew a walk, scoring one run.

Mineral Ridge opened the scoring in the top of the first thanks to two walks. They first got on the board when Wall drew a walk, scoring one run.

Turek earned the win for the Rams. They allowed one hit and zero runs over two and one-third innings, striking out six and walking none.

Merolillo led the team with one run batted in. Sullivan Sandy and Wall each collected one hit. Mineral Ridge  had a strong eye at the plate, accumulating 10 walks for the game. Sandy, Maddie Gerberry, and Turek led the team with two bases on balls each. Sandy stole two bases. Mineral Ridge stole four bases in the game as a team.

POLAND GETS RIGHT BACK TO WINNING

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GIRARD OH – Poland picked up their fourth win of the season by defeating Northeast 8 rival Girard on Tuesday night by a score of 14-2.

The Bulldogs erupted for 16 hits and helped deliver another conference win to Junior hurler Olivia Horn.  Horn scattered 5 hits over 7 innings and collected 5 strikeouts.  Her offense led the team with 4 hits including 2 doubles with 3 RBIs.  Both sophomores Elliana Thompson and Leanna Boccieri had 3 hits and a double apiece, with Boccieri collecting 2 RBIs.  Sophomore center fielder Avery Jakubovic had 2 hits including a double while senior first baseman Leanne Williams plated 3 RBIs.
For Girard, Kyra Bell had a double and a triple with an RBI, and Destiny Flaherty had the other RBI off a single.  Sophomore Myleigh Broll took the loss in the circle over 5 innings allowing 12 hits.
The conference rivals resume play at Poland Wednesday, April 10th at 5pm.
*Contributed By John Boccieri

RAIDERS NE8 DOMINANCE CONTINUES

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STRUTHERS OH- Giada Pauline drove in four runs on three hits to lead South Range  past Struthers 22-2 on Tuesday. Pauline singled in the fourth scoring two, hit a sacrifice fly in the second scoring one, and singled in the third scoring one.

The Raiders opened the scoring in the top of the first thanks to two singles. They first got on the board when Jayli Wilt singled, scoring two runs. They added to their early lead in the top of the second inning when Pauline hit a sacrifice fly, scoring one run, Gretchen Bartels singled, scoring two runs, and Solena DeJesus lined out, scoring one run. The Raiders added to their early lead in the top of the third inning after Pauline singled, and Anna Aey lined out, each scoring one run.

South Range Varsity Raiders scored seven runs on six hits in the top of the fourth inning. Addison Wardle singled, scoring one run, Katie Dance drew a walk, scoring one run, Pauline singled, scoring two runs, Aey grounded out, scoring one run, Kiera Winner singled, scoring one run, and Heidi Bartels doubled, scoring one run.

South Range scored six runs on four hits in the top of the fifth inning. Aey drew a walk, scoring one run, iLilah Angus hit into a fielder’s choice, but one run scored, Winner singled, scoring two runs, DeJesus singled, scoring one run, and Wardle drew a walk, scoring one run.

Wilt earned the win for the Raiders. The right-handed pitcher surrendered two hits and zero runs over three innings, striking out eight and walking none. DeJesus appeared in relief for South Range.

South Range piled up 19 hits in the game. DeJesus, Pauline, and Wilt each collected three hits. Bartels and Winner each collected multiple hits. The Raiders had patience at the plate, collecting 10 walks for the game. Bartels and Riley DeCiancio led the team with two free passes each. Keira Brogan stole two bases. The team ran wild on the base paths, accumulating seven stolen bases for the game.

CARROLLTON SPOILS SALEM HOME OPENER

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SALEM OH- The Salem Quakers took the field for the first time this year on their home field. Oh, what a beautiful field it is with a new infield & fence. They say you look good, you play good. That’s exactly what the defense did despite the 1-0 loss.

Sophomore Morgane Blaine went the distance in the circle allowing just 1 run, striking out 5 & walking just 1. She kept the Warriors off balance throughout & made them hit her pitches. Another great performance from pitch caller & battery mate Channing Toy. No wild pitches / no passed balls.

Bella Brant & Hadley Carlisle each made great plays on the corners of the infield on some hard shots. Lauryn Barton chased down a ball in the gap from her centerfield position.

Offensively Salem struggled as a team to find the gaps. The Quaker offense didn’t strike out once on evening. Channing Toy drew the only two walks in the game. Morgane Blaine & Lauryn Barton each singled.

In the first inning Salem knocked on the door loading the bases with one out before hitting into a double play. In the final frame (7th) Bella Brant led off with a singled followed up with a single from Lainey Thorpe. With runners at 2nd & 3rd & two outs the Carrollton pitcher made a great play on a ball hit hard up the middle to make the final out. A heart breaking loss but Salem looks to get back in the win column tomorrow vs Alliance at home.

Salem is 1-1 now in conference play. It was awesome seeing softball alumni represent in the stands. Thanks Alyssa, Mack, Dorothy, Hannah, Bailee & Brooke!

*Contributed By Michael Thorpe at salemathletics.org

CANFIELD TAKES THEIR SHOT, SNAPS FALCONS LONG WIN STREAK

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By Ty Bartell 

CANFIELD, Ohio — The Austintown-Fitch varsity softball team suffered its first loss since May 28, 2022, ending a remarkable streak of 682 calendar days and 28 games without defeat in a drenching-thunderstorm ending 2-1 setback to All-American Conference neighboring rival Canfield.

The showdown unfolded Tuesday at Field #7 at McCune Park, where mother nature intervened with two outs in the Fitch 7th inning. Junior second baseman Sam Severn stood at third base, carrying the tying run. Severn had reached base with an infield single, advanced to second on a sacrifice, and then moved to third on a wild pitch by Canfield’s senior pitcher Malena Toth. As sophomore pinch-hitter Lily Stevens battled Toth in a tense at-bat, the skies opened up with intense thunder, lightning, and rain, forcing the umpires to clear the field. After a 10-minute delay and no signs of the weather letting up, the game was called due to at least five full innings being completed.

The last time Fitch faced a non-win was a 1-1 tie against Canfield on May 29, 2023. Both teams later competed in State title games on June 3, 2023, with Fitch clinching the Division I championship and Canfield coming up just short to Tallmadge.

The game showcased a classic pitcher’s duel between Lady Cardinal senior Malena Toth (7-1) and Lady Falcon junior Sydnie Watts (4-1). Toth, who secured her first win against Fitch in six career starts, was instrumental in both of Canfield’s runs, drawing a leadoff walk in the 2nd inning and hitting a crucial double in the 6th inning. Canfield’s sophomore designated player, Caylee Ortiz, and catcher Leah Figueroa were pivotal in driving in the runs.

Despite a valiant effort from Watts, who struck out nine batters over six innings, she could not slam the door shut with two down in the bottom of the sixth. Watts yielded five hits and two earned runs, while Toth allowed four hits and one earned run while striking out six.

Figueroa emerged as the hero for Canfield, delivering the game-winning RBI single in the bottom of the sixth inning. Her clutch performance earned her Player of The Game honors.

With this loss, Fitch moves to a 4-1 record, while Canfield improves to 7-1. Canfield will next host the Boardman Spartans (5-3) on Wednesday, April 10th, while Fitch will seek to bounce back against conference opponent, the Warren Harding Raiders, also on Wednesday in Warren, Ohio.

Stay updated with Austintown-Fitch and Canfield softball all season long with live games, scores, stats, stories, and more on YSN!

LIBERTY CONTINUES TO SCORE IN MVAC PLAY

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Rachel Strohmeyer hit two home runs and drove in four as Liberty Varsity Leopards 24′ defeated Brookfield Varsity Lady Warriors 13-2 on Tuesday. Strohmeyer homered in the third and fifth innings.

Liberty got on the board in the bottom of the first inning after Chloe Fleps singled, Sara Horn singled, and they scored on a passed ball, each scoring one run. They scored one run in the bottom of the third on a solo home run to center field by Strohmeyer on an 0-2 count. They weren’t done there, they scored six runs on five hits in the bottom of the fifth inning. Sarah Spisak drew a walk, scoring one run, Fleps doubled, scoring two runs, and Strohmeyer homered to center field, scoring three runs.

Strohmeyer led things off in the circle for Liberty Varsity Leopards 24′ The righty gave up six hits and two runs (one earned) over five innings, striking out five and walking one. Kaylin Poggi began the game for Brookfield Varsity Lady Warriors. The starting pitcher allowed 17 hits and 13 runs (12 earned over four and one-third innings, striking out four and walking one.

Liberty amassed 17 hits in the game. Fleps drove the middle of the lineup, leading with five runs batted in. The right-handed hitter went 3-for-4 on the day. Mia Parker set the tone at the top of the lineup, leading with four hits in four at bats. Strohmeyer, Brooklyn Ciminero, and Bella Hernandez each collected multiple hits. The Leopards were sure-handed in the field and didn’t commit a single error. Ciminero had the most chances in the field with five.

Keilani Malufau led Brookfield with two hits in three at bats. Lilly Randall and Rylie Burdge each drove in one run. The Warriors were sure-handed and didn’t commit a single error. Arianna Jones made the most plays with three.