Thursday, July 3, 2008

By Brett M. Berliner
NJS.com Student Intern

LYNDHURST -- Lyndhurst Post 139 got a strong effort from Sean McGrath on the mound and some early run support to key an important 7-2 win over Waldwick Post 57 on Wednesday evening in American Legion baseball action in Lyndhurst. McGrath pitched six solid innings allowing just the two runs while his offense got off to a quick start, putting up two runs in the first and three more in the second to give the 18-year old starter all the support he would need.

“He (McGrath) pitched a great game,” said Lyndhurst coach Jeff Radigan. “We started off with a couple of defensive blunders but Sean, like a professional, simply settled down and got out of it. He had a couple of strikeouts and only allowed 2 runs. This performance was definitely his best work yet. He’s going to be a freshman in college and already he’s off to a great start.”

Right from the first inning, things started off smoothly for Lyndhurst as Waldwick pitcher Jake Menzo issued two walks, which eventually led to the Bears first two runs. Jack Montanile walked, then scored after stealing second, going to third on a throwing error by the catcher and then scoring on the same play when Waldwick third baseman Adam Brown misplayed the throw from centerfield. Anthony Dorio also scored to give Lyndhurst an early 2-0 lead.

Lyndhurst (12-2) averaged a run per inning until the third when outfielder Jamie Parnofiello grounded out bringing home Ryan Kiczek. Then catcher Denis Ackerman grounded out to second base plating Montanile putting the Bears up 5-0.

During the fifth inning, Saracino slammed a single to right field scoring Montanile again. Montanile scored three of the Bears seven runs.

Waldwick (9-5) had some chances throughout the game, however, could only manage two runs in the fourth, one of which was unearned.

“We came out very flat in the beginning,” Waldwick head coach Brian Callahan said referring to the team’s offensive production. “Sometimes during the summer, it is very hard to motivate these guys so we have to continue making hitting adjustments.”

Things are not going to get an easier for Waldwick 57, which will need to get ready to play a very strong Paterson Tigers team on Sunday.

“Paterson is holding a 9-1 record,” said Callahan. “I trust Menzo and he will be getting the ball back (against Paterson). You know, one thing about my boys, and that is, they always come ready to play. It takes a certain smart to get them fired up, and believe me, they will be fired up.”

“I feel ready for Sunday’s game against Paterson,” added Menzo, who recently graduated from Ramsey High School and will be attending the University of Utah in fall 2008. “One of our biggest problems this past year has been getting on base and staying consistent in that aspect. Hopefully we’ll make this a reality for the weekend.”

Lyndhurst 139 has a number coming up in the next ten days. On Thursday the Bears will face Glen Rock before two big Passaic County ball clubs next week, the Hawthorne Knights on Monday and Clifton 8 next Thursday.

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