Governor Livingston Wins Union County Title in a Wild 7th Inning Battle
In what was expected to be a tightly contested battle between two top 20 teams, Governor Livingston's Highlanders faced off against the Westfield Blue Devils at Kean University for the Union County Title
The game began with both teams' aces on the mound, Matt Diskin for Governor Livingston and Tomas Cesero for Westfield, setting the stage for a pitchers' duel. However, as the innings progressed, the Highlanders managed to find cracks in Westfield's armor, particularly playing small ball.
The Highlanders started their scoring in the top of the second with a series of strategic base running. As they got on with a single, stole two bases following a bad pick-off attempt, and was hit home with another single, marking an aggressive approach from the Highlanders. The next inning followed Dominic Labisi was hit by a pitch, setting up Zach Geertsma, who delivered a "moon shot" triple to score Labisi from first. Michael Basile followed up with a blooper to center field, scoring Geertsma. Cesero seemed to be struggling after this series but eventually dug himself out of the hole.
Both pitchers gained composure, and the game saw a few scoreless innings, despite a few runners getting on base. Matt Diskin looked sharp in his outing as he struck out 3 batters in the bottom of the third and continues to push the paces against the Blue Devils. Both teams also displayed some solid defensive skills to keep the game close.
As we got to the top of the 7th, Governor Livingston held a 3-0 lead and looked to put the cherry on top. The Highlanders exploded in the top of the seventh, capitalizing on Westfield's defensive errors. A series of hits and a crucial single that extended their lead were key. The inning saw Governor Livingston pile on seven runs, effectively sealing their control over the game.
Westfield, not going down without a fight, rallied fiercely in the bottom of the seventh, scoring eight runs in a nearly miraculous comeback attempt. However, Anthony DeNora was able to close out the game for the Highlanders, securing the championship victory despite the late scare.
Governor Livingston showcased their ability to capitalize on opportunities and execute under pressure. Westfield’s late-game rally highlighted their tenacity and refusal to give up, even when the odds were stacked against them. Both teams have shown they are contenders within the state, and this game will likely be a key learning experience as they prepare for future competitions.
The game began with both teams' aces on the mound, Matt Diskin for Governor Livingston and Tomas Cesero for Westfield, setting the stage for a pitchers' duel. However, as the innings progressed, the Highlanders managed to find cracks in Westfield's armor, particularly playing small ball.
The Highlanders started their scoring in the top of the second with a series of strategic base running. As they got on with a single, stole two bases following a bad pick-off attempt, and was hit home with another single, marking an aggressive approach from the Highlanders. The next inning followed Dominic Labisi was hit by a pitch, setting up Zach Geertsma, who delivered a "moon shot" triple to score Labisi from first. Michael Basile followed up with a blooper to center field, scoring Geertsma. Cesero seemed to be struggling after this series but eventually dug himself out of the hole.
Both pitchers gained composure, and the game saw a few scoreless innings, despite a few runners getting on base. Matt Diskin looked sharp in his outing as he struck out 3 batters in the bottom of the third and continues to push the paces against the Blue Devils. Both teams also displayed some solid defensive skills to keep the game close.
As we got to the top of the 7th, Governor Livingston held a 3-0 lead and looked to put the cherry on top. The Highlanders exploded in the top of the seventh, capitalizing on Westfield's defensive errors. A series of hits and a crucial single that extended their lead were key. The inning saw Governor Livingston pile on seven runs, effectively sealing their control over the game.
Westfield, not going down without a fight, rallied fiercely in the bottom of the seventh, scoring eight runs in a nearly miraculous comeback attempt. However, Anthony DeNora was able to close out the game for the Highlanders, securing the championship victory despite the late scare.
Governor Livingston showcased their ability to capitalize on opportunities and execute under pressure. Westfield’s late-game rally highlighted their tenacity and refusal to give up, even when the odds were stacked against them. Both teams have shown they are contenders within the state, and this game will likely be a key learning experience as they prepare for future competitions.