Hand Defeats Guilford in Baseball

By Tai Nuzzi and Aidan Doyle.  Staff Reporters.

Last Monday, the Tigers traveled to familiar territory to play their rivals, the Guilford Grizzlies. Guilford, off to a 3-0 start, were hungry for their fourth consecutive win. The Tigers, off to a rocky start of 1-2, wanted to make a statement.

Both teams pitched their aces as Guilford threw their D-1 commit Bryce Meder (junior) who was coming off a no-hit complete game performance against Middletown.

For the Tigers, junior Brandon SanMarco took the mound who was also coming off a complete game performance.

Both pitchers came out firing as neither team could get a hit. Through 3 innings, no runs were scored.

It wasn't until the top of the 4th inning when the Tigers finally struck.

The inning started with a single from junior shortstop Nick Antonetti which was then followed up by a huge double from sophomore Paul Calandrelli.

With two outs and a runner in scoring position, designated hitter Vincent Benevento had a clutch single that scored Calandrelli on a close play at home plate.

Pitching with a lead, SanMarco's confidence grew and he locked things down. He trusted his defense as the Tigers made spectacular plays in the field. The infield consisting of senior captain Cole Daignault, junior Nick Antonetti, junior Tai Nuzzi, and senior captain Troy Piascik played a flawless game.

Notable Players:

Jacob Rachler - 2/3 two singles, 2 stolen bases

Paul Callendrelli - 1/3 RBI double

Troy Piascik - 1/4 single