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HERALDS SKIP PAST FAIRPORT

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Photo Credit: Joclyn Nicholas

Fairport Harbor, OH- Ezra Campbell showcased his offensive prowess, driving in four runs on three hits to propel the St. John Heralds to a commanding 19-3 victory over the Fairport Skippers on Wednesday.

Campbell’s bat was on fire throughout the game, as he delivered timely hits to fuel the Heralds’ offense. In the second inning, Campbell’s single drove in one run, and in the fourth inning, he came through again with another single, plating two more runs.

The Heralds surged ahead with a dominant performance in the second inning, where they erupted for 10 runs to seize control of the game. Contributions came from various players, including Anthony Severino, Will Anderson, and Campbell, who all played a part in driving in runs during the explosive inning.

Fairport Harding managed to get on the scoreboard early in the first inning when DJ Dambolena singled, bringing in one run. However, the Heralds quickly asserted their dominance, extending their lead in the third inning with the help of a passed ball and a single by Kyle Hejduk.

Hejduk also showcased his skills on the mound, starting the game for the Heralds and delivering a solid performance, striking out six batters over three innings. Nathan Wright took the mound for Fairport Harding but struggled against the relentless onslaught of the Heralds’ offense.

Anderson provided stellar relief pitching for the Heralds, shutting down Fairport Harding’s offense with two innings of zero-run ball, striking out four batters in the process.

Offensively, the Heralds amassed 13 hits, with Campbell and Anderson leading the charge with three hits each. Severino, Ryan Williams, and Hejduk also contributed multiple hits to the Heralds’ offensive barrage.

The Heralds’ disciplined approach at the plate was evident, as they drew 11 walks throughout the game. Aaron Wychock, Anderson, John Miller, and AJ Henslee displayed patience, each drawing two walks.

On the basepaths, the Heralds wreaked havoc, stealing a total of 10 bases, with Wychock, Campbell, Williams, and Anderson each swiping multiple bags.

Defensively, the Heralds were flawless, committing no errors in the field, with Severino making the most plays with 13 chances.

Fairport Harding’s Elijah Harless led his team with two hits, while Wright, Dambolena, and Harless each drove in a run for the Skippers. Fairport Harding displayed discipline at the plate, tallying eight walks.

The St. John Heralds look to carry their momentum into their next game as they face Chalker at home on Thursday, aiming to continue their winning streak.

HERALDS LOSE LEAD LATE TO FALL TO SKIPPERS

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Fairport Harbor, OH- Despite amassing 12 hits, the St. John Heralds suffered a narrow 9-8 defeat against the Fairport Skippers on Tuesday. Alyssa Cevera stood out for the Heralds, delivering an impressive four-hit performance.

Cevera’s bat was on fire throughout the game, as she went 4-for-4 at the plate, showcasing her hitting prowess. She doubled twice, once in the fourth inning and again in the seventh, and added two singles in the second and sixth innings.

Fairport got off to a strong start, taking an early lead in the bottom of the first inning courtesy of Justinger’s triple and Phillips’ groundout, each driving in a run.

However, the Heralds fought back, seizing the lead in the top of the fourth inning. Cevera’s double, combined with contributions from Gianna Torres, Caitlyn Carney, and Rylee Frasure, propelled St. John ahead, scoring one run each.

A crucial error by the Heralds allowed Fairport to level the score at four apiece in the bottom of the fifth. St. John responded in the top of the sixth, breaking the tie with Oliveras’ double, driving in two runs, followed by Frasure’s single to extend their lead to 7-4.

Nevertheless, Fairport staged a dramatic comeback in the bottom of the sixth, capitalizing on an error to score five runs on two hits, surging ahead to a 9-7 lead.

Cevera displayed her versatility, starting in the circle for the Heralds. Despite her solid performance, allowing three hits and three runs over four and two-thirds innings while striking out seven, the Heralds couldn’t secure the win. McFadden led the charge for Fairport from the mound, enduring St. John’s offensive onslaught to secure the victory.

Despite the loss, the Heralds showcased their offensive firepower, tallying 12 hits. Oliveras led the charge with a 2-for-5 performance at the plate, driving in three crucial runs. Frasure also made significant contributions, collecting three hits in four at-bats. Cevera’s speed on the basepaths was evident as she stole two bases, while the Heralds collectively swiped six bags throughout the game.

For Fairport, Prioreschi and Justinger led the offensive charge with two hits apiece, each driving in a run. The Skippers demonstrated patience at the plate, drawing eight walks to capitalize on scoring opportunities.

Despite the setback, the Heralds remain determined, eagerly anticipating their next matchup against the Lakeside Dragons on Thursday, where they aim to bounce back with a vengeance.

DRAGONS BLAZING BATS LEAD TO WIN OVER FALCONS

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While powering through a cold and windy Wednesday evening, the Lakeside Dragons cruised to a resounding 13-3 victory over the Jefferson Falcons on Wednesday.

The Falcons struck first in the top of the first inning, capitalizing on Luke Lambert’s double and Tate Hudson’s single to take an early lead. Lambert’s heads-up baserunning allowed him to tag up and score, igniting Jefferson’s offense.

However, the Dragons wasted no time responding, unleashing an offensive onslaught in the bottom of the first inning. With six runs plated on just two hits, Lakeside swiftly turned the tide, seizing a commanding 6-3 lead. Caleb Stitt delivered a pivotal single that drove in two crucial runs, setting the tone for Lakeside’s dominance.

Lakeside extended their lead in the bottom of the second inning, with Gage Tome’s groundout pushing the advantage to 7-3.

Matt Wagner showcased his prowess on the mound for the Dragons, earning the win with a stellar performance. The right-hander stifled the Falcons’ offense, allowing just four hits and three runs over five solid innings while notching five strikeouts.

Despite Jefferson’s efforts, they struggled to contain Lakeside’s potent lineup. Anthony Wooten, Stitt, and Alex DiSalvatore each drove in two runs for the Dragons, while Stitt demonstrated exceptional plate discipline with three walks.

Lakeside’s disciplined approach at the plate paid dividends, as they amassed an impressive total of 12 walks throughout the game. Dyln Newsome and Wagner led the charge on the basepaths, each swiping multiple bags to keep the pressure on the Falcons.

In the field, the Dragons were flawless, displaying impeccable defensive execution and committing zero errors. Newsome anchored the defense with five chances, showcasing Lakeside’s commitment to excellence on both sides of the ball.

For Jefferson, Giovanni Matticola, Hudson, Lambert, and Toby Dickinson each contributed with a hit, while Hudson, Michael McGraw, and Lambert drove in one run apiece.

With this commanding victory under their belts, the Lakeside Dragons are primed and ready for their upcoming matchup against South, aiming to carry their momentum forward and continue their winning ways. The Falcons will look to regroup as they play the Grand Valley Mustangs on Friday.

RAIDERS SET THE EARLY TONE

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CANFIELD OH- In the latest chapter of the rivalry between Poland and South Range on Wednesday, the Raiders set the tone early, scoring 3 runs and then holding on for a 4-1 win.

South Range’s offense was led by Jayli Wilt, who went 2-3 with a home run, driving in 3 runs and scoring 1 herself. Keira Brogan contributed with 2 hits and 2 runs scored, while Gretchen Bartels, Ashley Rupert, and Giada Pauline added hits for the Raiders. Pauline also drove in a run.

In the circle, Wilt was dominant, pitching a complete game, allowing just 3 hits and 1 run while striking out an impressive 14 batters.

Poland’s offense struggled to get going, with Elliana Thompson scoring their only run after drawing a walk. Leanna Boccieri and Leanne Williams added hits for Poland, with Williams driving in their lone RBI.

Olivia Horn pitched well for Poland, going 6 innings and allowing 6 hits and 3 earned runs while striking out 2 batters.

In the end, South Range’s early offensive burst and strong pitching from Wilt proved to be too much for Poland to overcome, as the Raiders secured the 4-1 victory in this heated rivalry matchup.

Game Photos HERE: https://ysn.smugmug.com/4-24-24-sb-south-range-poland/4-24-sb-poland-range/107EOS1D

RESERVE OFFENSE SHOWS OFF

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NEW MIDDLETOWN OH- Western Reserve showcased their power and dominance as they overwhelmed Springfield, securing a sweep in the MVAC with a resounding 19-1 victory on Tuesday.

The Western Reserve offense was firing on all cylinders, led by Lindsay Jones, who went 3-3 with 3 RBI and 3 runs scored. Caylee Selley was unstoppable, going a perfect 5-5 at the plate with 5 RBI and 2 runs scored. Sophia Reigle contributed with 3 walks, 3 RBI, and 1 run scored, while Maylin Hartzel and Mikayla Salonich added to the onslaught with multiple hits and runs scored.

In the circle, Hartzel was stellar, pitching a complete game, allowing just 4 hits and 1 earned run while striking out 3 batters in 5 innings of work.

Springfield struggled to contain Western Reserve’s powerful offense and was unable to keep up with their relentless attack.

With this win, Western Reserve completed the sweep over Springfield in the MVAC, showcasing their strength and determination as they continue their winning streak in conference play.

TIGERS ROLL ON TO SERIES SWEEP OF RESERVE

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NEW MIDDLETOWN OH- Springfield completed a league sweep over Western Reserve on Tuesday, defeating the Blue Devils 9-4 at home.

The Springfield offense was led by Payton Novak, who drove in 2 runs on his 1-2 performance. Kolten Ruark contributed with a 1-2 showing, adding 2 walks, 1 RBI, and scoring 2 runs. Alec Fusco and Ryan Maughan each added an RBI, with Fusco going 1-3 and scoring a run, and Maughan going 1-2 with a walk and scoring a run.

On the mound, Ruark was impressive, pitching 5.2 innings, allowing 4 hits, 3 earned runs, and striking out 10 batters.

Western Reserve’s offense was led by Evan Slaven, who drove in a run and reached base twice with a hit and a walk. Hunter Taylor scored a run on his 1-3 performance, and Brock Wellman added 2 runs scored, reaching base with a hit and a walk.

Despite their efforts, Western Reserve couldn’t overcome Springfield’s strong pitching and timely hitting.

With this win, Springfield completed the league sweep over Western Reserve, solidifying their dominance in the series.

LAKEVIEW GETS THEIR REVENGE

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GIRARD OH- Lakeview bounced back from their previous night’s loss to Girard by edging out the Indians 7-6 in a close contest, splitting the season series.

The Lakeview offense came alive, led by Andrew Brown, who went 3-4 with 2 RBI and 2 runs scored. Brandon Toot contributed with a 2-3 performance, driving in 3 runs and scoring 1 himself. Jake Nicholas reached base three times, going 2-3 with a walk and scoring a run, while Hayden Newton added 2 hits and scored a run.

On the mound, Nathan Paolucci pitched a solid game, going 7 innings and allowing 7 hits and 4 earned runs while striking out 4 batters. Paolucci also closed the game with 3 innings of relief, allowing just 2 hits and no earned runs while striking out 2.

Girard’s offense put up a fight, with Jaden Royal driving in 2 runs on his 1-5 performance. Joe Marsco contributed with 2 hits, including an RBI, and scoring a run, while Nate Freeland and Kaiden Clare each added 2 hits.

On the mound for Girard, Dominick Tollone pitched 4 innings, allowing 8 hits and 5 earned runs while striking out 5 batters.

In the end, Lakeview’s offense and pitching were enough to secure the narrow victory, avenging their previous loss to Girard and splitting the season series.

FITCH WINS SIXTH STRAIGHT OVER THE SPARTANS

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By Ty Bartell

AUSTINTOWN OH- The Fitch softball team continued their dominance this season, this time against longtime rival Boardman on Tuesday, defeating the Spartans 12-2 and invoking the ten-run mercy rule in the sixth inning. The victory marked the second consecutive time Fitch has invoked the mercy rule against Boardman in as many days.

After keeping Boardman off the board to open the game, Fitch’s offense took charge. Freshman Kaliana Ray led off with a single and eventually scored on an RBI bunt single by junior Kylie Folkwein. Boardman tied the game in the top of the second with a double by Alex Ward who then swiped second and came home on a wild pitch. However, Fitch responded with a four-run inning, highlighted by a two RBI-single by “Ace of Base” Ayla Ray to take a commanding 5-1 lead.
Fitch’s offense continued to excel throughout the game, with key hits from junior Abby Toth, and junior Samantha Severn. Pitcher Sydnie Watts gave up a rare home run in the fourth inning to Maddie Wymer, her first of the season!

The Falcons’ offense wrapped up the game in the bottom of the sixth with a clinching RBI from Toth, securing the 12-2 victory. Ayla Ray nearly hit for the cycle and recorded three RBI, while Toth also added three RBI with two singles and a double. Severn contributed two doubles and two RBI, and Morgan Roby added an RBI and two singles.

With the win, Fitch improved to 11-1 overall and 5-1 in league play. The Falcons will face the undefeated Champion Golden Flashes on Thursday, April 25, at 5:00 p.m. Boardman (8-9) will look to bounce back as they host the Poland Bulldogs on Thursday.

IRISH END A THRILLER WITH A WALK OFF

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STRUTHERS OH- Ursuline secured a narrow victory over Hubbard on Tuesday, sneaking by with a 4-3 win to get back into the win column. The Irish walked it off in the 8th inning after tying the game in the 7th.

Leading the way for Ursuline’s offense was Luke Kollar, whose walk-off single in the 8th sealed the victory. Kollar finished the game 3-5 with 1 RBI and 1 run scored. CJ Frasco contributed with a 2-4 performance, driving in a run, while Thomas Pesa and Joe Balog each added 2 hits, with Pesa scoring a run.

On the mound, Frasco pitched a solid 8 innings, allowing 5 hits and 3 earned runs while striking out 6 batters.

Hubbard put up a fight, with Johnny Reyes leading their offense, going 2-3 with 1 RBI. Tyler Wright and Gabe Rusnak each drove in a run, and Brayden Songer scored a run.

Wright pitched a strong game for Hubbard, going 6 innings, allowing 6 hits and 1 earned run while striking out 8 batters.

In the end, it was Ursuline’s late-game heroics that secured the win, as they battled back to tie the game in the 7th before Kollar’s walk-off hit in the 8th.

WARRIORS PUT ON A SHOW FOR HOME CROWD

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BELOIT OH- West Branch put on a show on Tuesday night, dismantling Carrollton 11-0 in EBC play.

The offense came alive for West Branch, with Aaron Tucker leading the charge, going 2-2 with 2 RBI and scoring 3 runs. Anthony Perry also had a solid game, going 2-3 with 2 RBI and 1 run scored, while Beau Alazaus contributed with a 2-3 performance, driving in 1 run and scoring 2 himself. Charlie Biskup was perfect at the plate, going 3-3 and scoring 2 runs.

On the mound, Alazaus was outstanding, pitching 5 innings of one-hit ball while striking out 6 batters.

Carrollton struggled to get anything going against West Branch’s pitching and defense, managing just one hit in the game.

West Branch’s dominant performance on both offense and defense secured the impressive 11-0 win, showcasing their strength in EBC play.