by Miles E., staff writer
An all senior line up against Kipp led to a Lions 10-1 victory on senior night on April 27th, marking the final home game this season, and the final home game in the careers of 3, 4 year baseball players.
The Lions were in high spirits as the all senior team took the field. Pitcher Dev. P used that momentum to keep the Phoenix scoreless the first 2 innings, including striking out all 3 batters he faced in the second inning.
As for the Lions offense, they scored 2 runs in the 1st inning, which included an RBI single from shortstop Caiden R. Then in the bottom of the second inning, the Lions secured 2 more runs, coming off RBI singles from outfielder Eduardo V. and Third baseman Mariano S.
After coming in and pitching a 3 batter inning in the top of the third, Caiden R. hit a triple and was brought home by outfielder Giuseppe P. ‘s double in the bottom of the inning. Two singles from first baseman Andrew G. and Eduardo V. gave the Lions 3 total runs in the 3rd. The 4th inning continued the Lions streak of runs with 2 more from another RBI from Caiden’s single, who was then batted in from Giuseppe.
In the fifth inning however, the Lions were unable to secure a run to finish the game on mercy rule and were forced to play another inning where Kipp managed to get a run back from a single that was walked in.
But the Lions came back with another run at the bottom of the inning, when catcher Misha B. hit a single and then stole home. The Lions defense then shut out Kipp the rest of the way, ending the game at 10-1.
After the high spirited and a milestone game for the seniors, those who played for all four years at Galileo spoke on how they felt about their high school baseball experience and what memories or lessons they’d take away from it.
Mariano S., third base/pitcher:
“It was a good experience with a lot of ups and downs, mostly downs, but it showed me things do turn around at some point. Like this season we finally are in the playoffs which is something that I’ve wanted since starting on this team. I learned to persevere through the hard times and I’ll carry that with me throughout my life.”
Caiden R., shortstop/pitcher:
“Over the past four years Galileo baseball has improved dramatically. From a narcissistic coach who didn’t listen to anyone, to a coach that works for the team. From a season of zero wins to an undefeated season. I haven’t learned much skill wise but all the amazing and funny memories that I have made will stick with me for the rest of my life. Galileo baseball gave me an ounce of the ‘high school experience’.”
Misha B., catcher:
“While I may not have had the high school experience of making the playoffs and winning it all, I did learn many valuable lessons such as how to be a better teammate and a better leader. It also taught me how to be a good loser and how to have fun while losing because while no one wants to lose, you can at least learn how to take it more lightly. My only regret is that I wish I had more time with my baseball family because they are going to be the ones I miss most in college. This team will always hold a special place in my heart and I will forever love my baseball team.”
The Lions face Academy in the first round of playoff games on Thursday May 11th.
