WARRIORS WIN IN WILD NIGHT UNDER THE LIGHTS
Perry, OH- In a thrilling night game played under the lights, the Edgewood Warriors and Perry Pirates clashed in an intense battle that saw momentum swings, extra innings, and a high-scoring affair. Despite facing a daunting 14-4 deficit at one point, the Edgewood Warriors rallied to secure a dramatic 19-18 victory over the Perry Pirates. The game featured its share of dramatics, with each team hitting long flies that bounced over the outfield fence for ground-rule doubles that initially looked like potential home runs. Errors also proved costly for both sides, directly accounting for multiple runs in the high-scoring affair.
The game began with the Edgewood Warriors surging to an early 4-run lead in the first inning, capitalizing on hits by Logan Kray, Zane Naylor, Caleb Johnson, and Drew Hlavtur. However, the Perry Pirates quickly responded in the bottom of the inning, erupting for nine runs to take a 9-4 lead, highlighted by Jason Pentek’s timely single.
Undeterred, the Edgewood Warriors fought back, scoring six runs in the third inning to tie the game at 14 apiece. A series of errors and timely hits fueled their comeback, setting the stage for a thrilling contest.
The game continued to see-saw as both teams exchanged runs, with errors proving costly for both sides. In the top of the ninth inning, the Edgewood Warriors capitalized on a Perry Pirates error and a clutch single by Alex Sperduto to regain the lead.
On the mound, Geno Measel emerged as the winning pitcher for the Edgewood Warriors, delivering a solid performance over two and two-thirds innings. Austin Fell provided crucial relief, pitching four and one-third innings and holding off the Perry Pirates’ offense. For the Perry Pirates, Kyle Rhineberger took the loss despite a valiant effort on the mound.
Offensively, the Edgewood Warriors amassed 17 hits, with Sperduto and Naylor leading the charge with two RBIs each. Mason Feather, Tony Hall, Aidan Hernandez, Kray, and Hlavtur also made significant contributions with multiple hits.
Meanwhile, the Perry Pirates showcased their offensive skill with 13 hits, led by Cade Henderson’s four RBIs and Luke Sivon’s four hits. Trent Taylor provided additional support with two hits.
Despite the intense battle, both teams displayed resilience and determination, setting the stage for an exciting postseason. The Edgewood Warriors will next face the Ravenna Ravens in the opening round of the OHSAA playoff tournament, while the Perry Pirates await the winner of the Champion Golden Flashes vs Campbell Memorial Red Devils game in their playoff journey.