Rafferty draws interest from MLB Scouts
 Rafferty held opponents to a .165 average
PAXTON, Mass. – Those of you who have had the pleasure of watching Anna Maria College junior Zach Rafferty (Worcester, Mass.) pitch this season may have noticed some unfamiliar faces behind the backstop dressed in polo shirts and armed with radar guns. These mystery men were professional scouts, and they have been paying close attention to Rafferty’s powerful right arm as the 2010 MLB Draft approaches.
As of this week, Rafferty has been contacted by scouts from eight different Major League Baseball teams, including the Red Sox, Yankees, Brewers, Blue Jays, White Sox, Mets, Nationals, and Phillies. Since the completion of AMC’s baseball season, these teams have continued their evaluation of the right-hander by scheduling private bullpen sessions. His fastball, which normally sits around 89-91 MPH, has been clocked as high as 94, and with a little work, the scouts believe he could throw even harder. “They’ve given me some tips on my mechanics, and say it will help my control and allow me to throw easier and with less stress”, says Rafferty.
Zach has received special interest from the New York Mets, and has been invited to the team’s Pre-Draft Camp this Sunday. Rafferty and other Mets’ prospects will throw bullpen sessions with members of the club’s scouting department and front office in attendance.
Zach helped the AMCATS to a program-record 21 wins this season, as well as the team’s first-ever ECAC Championship appearance. He led The Commonwealth Coast Conference in batting average against, holding his opponents to an AMC-record .165 average; more than 40 points lower than any other TCCC pitcher. He also set the program record for strikeouts in a single season, compiling 62 K’s in just 47.0 innings of work. In his best performance of the year, Rafferty came within two outs of tossing a no-hitter, finishing with a one-hit complete-game shutout in a 1-0 victory versus New England College in which he racked up nine strikeouts.
Although none of the teams have made Zach any promises, they’ve told him to be ready if and when he receives a call. The 2010 MLB First-Year Player Draft will be a three day event covering the dates of June 7-9. To follow the draft or to find more information, please visit http://mlb.mlb.com/mlb/events/draft/y2010/.
Photo Courtesy of David Sheridan for AMC Sports Information |
Scafidi named to NEIBA All-Region Team
 Scafidi helped lead AMC to 21 wins in 2010
All-New England Team
PAXTON, Mass. – The accolades continue to pile up for Anna Maria College sophomore right fielder Jeff Scafidi (Worcester, Mass.), who was most recently selected as a member of the 2010 New England Intercollegiate Baseball Association (NEIBA) Division III All-New England Second Team on Tuesday afternoon.
In addition to his All-New England selection, Scafidi has earned several other honors during his 2010 season, including The Commonwealth Coast Conference (TCCC) Player of the Week, National Collegiate Baseball Writers Association (NCBWA) Player of the Week, Anna Maria College Athlete of the Year, and All-TCCC First Team.
Scafidi led the TCCC in batting average (.486), on-base percentage (.535), and slugging percentage (.764) this season, while setting the AMC single season records for hits (70), doubles (15), runs batted in (49), and total bases (110).
Scafidi’s terrific season helped lead the AMCATS to a program record 21 wins, sparking the club to postseason berths into both the TCCC and ECAC Championship Tournaments.
Photo Courtesy of David Sheridan for AMC Sports Information |
Gulls make it four-straight over AMCATS, 6-1
 Kodys had two hits and scored AMC's lone run
Box Score
BEVERLY, Mass. – Second seeded Endicott College scored three runs in the bottom of the second inning and never looked back, topping seven seed Anna Maria College by the score of 6-1 to advance in the Eastern College Athletic Conference (ECAC) Championship Tournament on Thursday afternoon in Beverly, Mass. The win was the fourth of the season by the Gulls over the AMCATS, as the Blue and Green took a TCCC doubleheader and a conference playoff game from AMC earlier in the year.
A two RBI double to right field by sophomore Mike Russo (Natick, Mass.) opened the scoring in the bottom of the second. The Gulls’ centerfielder then scored just one batter later when Eric Lemke (Southington, Conn.) reached on an infield single deep in the hole at second, and then advanced to second base on a throwing error by Andy Fallon (Worcester, Mass.) that also allowed Russo to score.
The Gulls proceeded to tack on a single run in the third, fourth and fifth innings, including a solo homerun to deep centerfield from Colin Sitarz (West Hartford, Conn.). The sophomore drove a two out pitch from Jim McNamara (Worcester, Mass.) off the top of the rocks in centerfield to give the Gulls a 4-0 lead.
The advantage grew to 5-0 when the Gulls pulled off a double steal, with Russo taking home and Lemke swiping second. A fifth inning RBI single by senior catcher Joe Klein (Monroe, Conn.) padded the Endicott advantage to six runs.
The AMCATS plated their only run of the day in the top of the seventh when Jeff Kodys (Holden, Mass.) doubled down the left field line, eventually scoring on an RBI single to centerfield by Judd Evarts (N. Ferrisburg, Vt.) just two batters later.
Senior pitcher Colin McGinn (Tolland, Conn.) went seven innings, allowing seven hits and one run while striking out four to up his record to 8-4. Matt Sharon (Wallingford, Vt.) and Benjamin Petrides (Belchertown, Mass.) each pitched one inning apiece, allowing a combined two hits and no runs.
McNamara took the loss as he gave up eight hits and six runs (three earned) in six innings of work. Zach Rafferty (Worcester, Mass.) pitched a scoreless seventh and eighth inning for AMC.
Mike Russo went 2-for-4 with a pair of runs scored and two RBI to lead the Gulls. Colin Sitarz and Joe Klein each had multi-hit games while driving in a run apiece in the victory. Anna Maria got a pair of hits from both Andy Fallon and Jeff Kodys in the setback.
Release Courtesy of Endicott Sports Information
Photo Courtesy of David Sheridan for AMC Sports Information |
Baseball selected to play in ECAC Championship
Championship Bracket
PAXTON, Mass. – It was announced on Monday that the Anna Maria College baseball team was selected to take part in the 2010 Eastern Collegiate Athletic Conference (ECAC) Division III New England Baseball Championship. The team will enter the tournament as the number seven seed.
The AMCATS have compiled a 21-19 record thus far, going 9-13 in The Commonwealth Coast Conference. AMC will meet conference foe Endicott College in the first round, marking the fourth time this season the two teams have faced off.
In the first round on Wednesday, May 12, No. 1 Curry (27-13) will host Daniel Webster at 3:00 p.m. The No. 2 seed Endicott (24-17) will host No. 7 Anna Maria (21-19) at a time to be determined. No. 3 Wentworth (27-14) will face No. 6 Husson (23-20) at Wentworth at 3:30 p.m. Ending the schedule is No. 4 Suffolk (21-16) taking on No. 5 Framingham (23-17) at Suffolk at a time to be determined.
On Saturday, May 15, the winner of the No.1/No.8 game will play the No.4/No. 5 winner in the first semifinal match up. The other semifinal game will be the winner of the No.3/No.6 match and the No.2/No.7 winner. Game times and location will be determined after the quarterfinal matchups.
The championship game will take place on Sunday, May 16 with the two semifinal winners. Time and location are to be determined.
Partial Release Courtesy of the ECAC
Photo Courtesy of David Sheridan for AMC Sports Information |
McNamara ties wins mark as AMCATS defeat Eagles
 McNamara earned his sixth win on Tuesday
Box Score
PAXTON, Mass. – Junior James McNamara (Worcester, Mass.) tied the Anna Maria College single season record for wins while leading the AMCATS to a 13-6 victory over Daniel Webster in a Division III non-conference baseball contest at Alumni Field on Tuesday afternoon. The win improves the AMCATS to 21-19 overall on the year, while the Eagles fall to 18-15.
Junior catcher Jeff Kodys (Holden, Mass.) led the way for the AMCATS offensively, going 3-for-4 with three doubles, three runs batted in, and two runs scored. Sophomore Jeff Scafidi (Worcester, Mass.) also had three runs batted in and two runs scored, smacking a double and a three-run homer in four at-bats, while shortstop Mike Galvin (Rutland, Mass.), leftfielder Jeff Lander (Gloucester, Mass.), and first baseman JK Vaughn (Simsbury, Conn.) each chipped in with two hits apiece. McNamara had a strong day, both at the plate, and on the mound. With the bat, he had three hits in four at-bats, including a double. On the mound, the junior hurler struck out six batters over six innings of work to earn the victory and improve his season record to 6-5. With the win, McNamara ties Tom Heindl’s AMC single season record of six wins accomplished in 2001. Junior Zach Rafferty (Worcester, Mass.) came in to preserve the win by striking out five batters over three scoreless innings to earn his second save of the season.
Freshman Joe Morin (Pelham, N.H.) paced the Eagles with a game-high four runs batted on the day, all of which came on a second inning grand slam. Freshman Nate Bradstreet (Middleboro, Mass.) also had a good at the plate, going 2-for-3 with two runs scored and two runs batted in, including a two-run homer, while fellow freshman Tyler Bonin (Litchfield, N.H.) added two hits and two runs scored in the loss.
The Eagles jumped out in front on Morin’s second inning slam, but the AMCATS fought back to tie the score with two runs in second and two more in the fourth. In the second inning, second baseman Andy Fallon (Worcester, Mass.) drove home AMC’s first run on a fielder’s choice which was immediately followed by an RBI double from Kodys. The AMCATS added two more runs in the fourth on another RBI double by Kodys, and a run-scoring triple down the right field line by freshman Justin Hyland (Spencer, Mass.).
The AMCATS then blew the game open in the fifth, rallying for eight runs on five hits. Fallon got the scoring started, clearing the bases with a three-run single that was misplayed by the centerfielder. Kodys followed with his third RBI double of the day before the inning was capped by a three-run homer from Scafidi to give AMC a 12-4 advantage.
The Eagles responded with two runs in the top of the sixth on a two-run blast by Bradstreet, however Rafferty was summoned from the bullpen and tossed three scoreless frames to close out the 13-6 win for the AMCATS.
The Eagles will return to action versus Southern Vermont on Friday at 11:00 am as part of the NECC Tournament, while the AMCATS will have to wait until Monday to hear if they have earned a berth into the 2010 ECAC Tournament.
Photo Courtesy of David Sheridan for AMC Sports Information |
Golden Bears walk off with win over AMCATS, 4-3
 Galvin led the AMCATS with three hits on the day
Box Score
SPRINGFIELD, Mass. - Senior first baseman Joe Griglun (Southington, CT) lined a run-scoring walk-off single to left with one out in the seventh as second-seeded Western New England College defeated seventh-seeded Anna Maria 4-3 Friday afternoon (Apr. 30) in an elimination game of The Commonwealth Coast Conference (TCCC) Baseball Tournament at Trelease Park.
The Golden Bears, who are 2-1 in the tournament, will host third-seeded Endicott at 10:00 a.m. Saturday (May 1). If WNEC wins, the two teams will square off in an elimination contest at approximately 2:00 p.m. later in the afternoon. The Gulls (27-13) have a 2-0 mark in the tournament.
Western New England College raised its record to 30-9, but it wasn't easy.
The upstart AMCATS took a 1-0 lead in the second on RBI double by junior catcher Jeff Kodys (Holden, MA) and went ahead 2-0 with another run in the third following a run-scoring single by senior left fielder Jeff Lander (Gloucester, MA).
The Golden Bears tied the game in the bottom of the third when Griglun delivered a clutch, two-out single that drove in two runs. WNEC went ahead 3-2 in the fifth when Griglun grounded into a hard-hit double play with the bases loaded.
Anna Maria tied the game in the seventh on a sacrifice fly by freshman center fielder Mike Guarnieri (Wallingford, CT).
Western New England College freshman Kevin Jefferis (Cheshire, CT) pitched a gutty 7 2/3 innings allowing 11 hits with seventh strikeouts and two walks.
Junior Mike Lawlor (Windsor, CT) came on with two runners on base in the eighth and retired the side. He gave up a lead-off hit in the ninth, which was promptly erased when Guarnieri bunted into a double play.
Lawlor then struck out the final batter and wound up winning his fourth game in five decisions.
Freshman second baseman Mike Rubino (Northford, CT) had the other two hits for the hosts while senior center fielder Steve Kearney (Glastonbury, CT) scored two runs.
Sophomore Jeff Scafidi (Worcester, MA) went 5 2/3 innings for the AMCATS and did a nice job allowing only three hits with five strikeouts. He walked five and hit Kearney twice. Freshman Ed Maldonado (Worcester, MA) pitched the final 2 2/3 innings and gave up a hit with a strikeout and two walks. He also hit two Golden Bears.
Junior shortstop Mike Galvin (Rutland, MA) had three hits for AMC while Guarnieri and senior first baseman JK Vaughn (Simsbury, CT) each had two.
The AMCATS were one of the most improved teams in the the region and currently hold a 20-19 record.
Release Courtesy of WNEC Sports Information |
Gulls hand AMCATS first tournament loss
 Lander collected his 100th career hit Thursday
Box Score
BEVERLY, Mass. – Endicott College pounded 19 hits and scored 22 runs, including seven in the bottom of the second, as the Gulls routed Anna Maria College, 22-4, in a TCCC playoff game on Thursday afternoon in Beverly, Mass. The win moves Endicott (27-13) into the driver’s seat on Saturday when the Gulls will face the winner of Friday’s Western New England vs. Anna Maria matchup at 10:00 a.m.
Colin Sitarz (West Hartford, Conn.) went 3-for-3 with four RBI and two runs scored in the win. Mike Russo (Natick, Mass.) had a 4-for-5 afternoon with three runs scored and two RBI. Freshman Eric Lemke (Southington, Conn.) also had a multi-hit game, going 2-for-5 while driving in two runs and scoring three times.
Aaron Santos (Cambridge, Mass.) had three RBI and scored twice while Andrew Betts (Bristol, Conn.) plated three runners. Brendan Pittsley (Plympton, Mass.) moved to 2-1 on the year with the win, allowing two runs on five hits in five innings of work.
The Gulls opened the day with a seven run second to quickly erase a one-run deficit. Anna Maria allowed the rally to occur as the AMCATS walked six batters and hit two others in the frame. In total, Endicott only had one hit in the seven-run burst.
The Blue and Green tacked on six runs in the bottom of the fifth, lacing seven hits in the inning. The Gulls added three in the sixth, including two on an RBI double from Santos. A five-run eighth capped off the scoring as the hosts connected for six more hits to raise the afternoon’s total to 19.
The loss drops Anna Maria to 20-18 overall and moves the AMCATS into a rematch with Western New England, a team AMC beat to open the tournament on Tuesday, 11-7. Endicott will face the winner of the AMCATS and Golden Bears on Saturday morning at 10:00 a.m. If Anna Maria wins then the Gulls will play at home, while if WNEC wins the Blue and Green will travel to Springfield to face the Golden Bears.
Release Courtesy of Endicott Sports Information |
Scafidi selected to All-TCCC First Team
 Scafidi led the TCCC in AVG, OBP, and SLG
All-TCCC Team
PAXTON, Mass. – After a record-setting sophomore season, Anna Maria College right fielder Jeff Scafidi (Worcester, Mass.) has been selected as a member of the 2010 All-TCCC First Team, as announced by Commissioner Gregg Kaye on Wednesday afternoon.
Scafidi led the conference with a .484 batting average, a .531 on-base percentage, and a .766 slugging percentage. The sophomore outfielder set the AMC single season records for hits (60), runs batted in (46), and total bases (95), while also tying the program’s single season marks for doubles (13) and triples (5). Jeff collected his 100th career hit this year and became the AMC program’s all-time leader in runs batted in (84) and total bases (178).
Scafidi was named the The Commonwealth Coast Conference and NCAA Division III National Player of the Week for the time period of March 22-28. He batted .750 (15-20) during that week while compiling a 1.150 slugging percentage. He had eight runs scored and 16 runs batted in, collecting at least two hits and an RBI in every game.
Jeff helped to lead the AMCATS to a program record 20 wins so far this season, bringing them back to the TCCC Tournament for the first time since 2001. Scafidi has continued his outstanding season in the playoffs, with four hits during AMC’s opening round upset win over second-seeded Western New England College. Scafidi and the AMCATS will be back in action Wednesday versus Endicott College at 3:00 pm. |
AMCATS pound 17 hits in upset over Golden Bears, 11-7
 Scafidi led all players with four hits on the day
Box Score / Full Playoff Schedule
SPRINGFIELD, Mass. - Sophomore right fielder Jeff Scafidi (Worcester, MA) had four hits and freshman pitcher Ed Maldonado (Worcester, MA) starred in relief as seventh-seeded Anna Maria upset second-seeded Western New England College 11-7 in an opening round game of The Commonwealth Coast Conference (TCCC) Baseball Tournament Tuesday afternoon (Apr. 27) at chilly Trelease Park.
The AMCATS (20-17) will visit third-seeded Endicott (a 6-2 winner over sixth-seeded Eastern Nazarene) in a second-round game of the double elimination tournament on Wednesday (Apr. 28). The Golden Bears (28-9) will host Eastern Nazarene in a losers' bracket contest Wednesday. Both games will begin at 3:00 p.m.
Anna Maria trailed 2-0 before scoring nine runs in the second inning after sending 13 batters to the plate. Scafidi and junior shortstop Mike Galvin (Rutland, MA) each had a pair of singles and scored a run in the inning.
Western New England College staged a comeback by scoring four times in the seventh to get within 10-6 before Maldonado came in to get the final out with two runners on base. He allowed only two hits in 2 1/3 innings.
Junior second baseman Andy Fallon (Worcester, MA) contributed three hits to the visitors' 17-hit attack while scoring two runs and delivering a pair of RBI.
Junior pitcher James McNamara (Worcester, MA) went six innings giving up nine hits and three runs with a pair of strikeouts and walk to even his record at 5-5.
The Golden Bears lashed out 13 hits as junior catcher Jason Leclerc (Chicopee, MA) went 3-for-5 with a double, RBI, and three runs. Junior designated hitter Ryan Dudzinski (Bristol, CT) added a single, double, scored twice, and stole his 25th base of the season.
Senior shortstop Justin Walz (Groton, CT), senior first baseman Joe Griglun (Southington, CT), and junior left fielder Andrew Fatse (Hampden, CT) each chipped-in with two hits.
Junior pitcher Evan Michaud (Windsor Locks, CT) (4-3) took the loss.
Western New England College left 10 runners on base in losing to the AMCATS for the first time in eight decisions.
Release Courtesy fo WNEC Sports Information
Photo Courtesy of David Sheridan for AMC Sports Information |
Baseballs claims 7th seed in TCCC Playoffs
Full Playoff Schedule
Curry College has claimed the top seed for The Commonwealth Coast Conference (TCCC) baseball championship, which begins with opening-round games on Tuesday, April 27.
The Colonels (25-11 overall) captured the top seed in the conference tournament after matching Western New England (28-8) and Endicott (25-13) with identical 17-5 records in TCCC play.
TCCC tiebreaking procedures were used to sort out the three-way deadlock for first place. In head-to-head play among the three tied teams, Curry claimed the top seed after posting a 3-1 record, compared to WNEC’s 2-2 record and Endicott’s 1-3 mark. WNEC and Endicott were then treated as a new tie.
In step one, WNEC and Endicott split their regular-season doubleheader. In step two, the teams were compared against other TCCC teams starting at the top of the standings. WNEC earned the #2 seed by virtue of a 1-1 record against top-seeded Curry, while Endicott claimed the #3 seed after going 0-2 against Curry.
A four-way tie for sixth place among Eastern Nazarene, Anna Maria, Gordon and Colby-Sawyer was also used to determine the final three seeds. In head-to-head play among the four tied teams, Eastern Nazarene and Anna Maria were both 4-2, while Gordon was 3-3 and Colby-Sawyer was 1-5. ENC and AMC emerged and were treated as a new tie.
In step one, Eastern Nazarene and Anna Maria split their regular-season doubleheader. In step two, Eastern Nazarene was awarded the sixth seed based on a 1-1 record against top-seeded Curry, as opposed to a 0-2 mark for Anna Maria, which was then seeded seventh.
Gordon and Colby-Sawyer returned to the top of the tiebreaking procedure and Gordon earned the eighth and final seed by virtue of their doubleheader sweep of Colby-Sawyer.
Four games are slated for Tuesday, April 27 at 3:00 p.m.. Top-seeded Curry will host eighth-seeded Gordon (16-18, 9-13), second-seeded Western New England will host seventh-seeded Anna Maria (19-17, 9-13), third-seeded Endicott will host sixth-seeded Eastern Nazarene (16-20, 9-13) and fourth-seeded Wentworth (24-12, 15-7) will host fifth-seeded Salve Regina (21-16, 12-10).
Tournament action will continue through the week, culminating with the championship game on Sunday, May 2 at 1:00 p.m. The TCCC tournament champion will earn an automatic berth in the upcoming 2010 NCAA Division III Baseball Championship.
Release Courtesy of the TCCC |
AMCATS rewrite record book in sweep of Newbury
 Fallon collected his 100th career hit
Box Scores: Game 1 / Game 2
PAXTON, Mass. – Sophomore Jeff Scafidi (Worcester, Mass.), junior Andy Fallon (Worcester, Mass.), senior Jeff Lander (Gloucester, Mass.), and junior Michael Galvin (Rutland, Mass.) all reached milestones as the Anna Maria College men’s baseball team swept Newbury College by scores of 14-4 and 16-5 in a non-conference doubleheader during Senior Day at Alumni Field on Wednesday afternoon. With the pair of victories, the AMCATS improve to 18-17 overall, while the Nighthawks fall to 5-20.
Scafidi had three hits on the day, breaking the AMC program record for hits in a single season, which he set as freshman, and giving him 57 base knocks on the year. Fallon was 3-for-5 with five runs scored in the twin-bill, and reached the milestone of 100career hits on a triple in game two. Lander also had three hits on the day, including the 12th home run of his career, tying Andy Mathieu for the program’s all-time record. Galvin was 3-for-6 with a home run, four runs batted in, and five runs scored, giving him an AMC record 43 runs scored on the year.
Seniors Michael Allard (Monson, Mass.), Judson Evarts (N. Ferrisberg, Vt.), Pete LaBelle (Gardner, Mass.), Jeff Lander, Derek Malkowski (Corbeil, Ontario), and JK Vaughn (Simsbury, Conn.) were honored before the second game as part of the Senior Day festivities, and each played a valuable role during the double-dip. Vaughn led the AMC offensive attack, going 4-for-6 with five runs scored and three runs batted, while Lander contributed his previously mentioned three hits and three runs scored. Evarts earned a walk in his only at bat and also started a 5-4-3 double play in the field, while Labelle earned the game one victory with three shutout innings. Malkowski closed the door with a scoreless seventh inning in game one, while Allard tossed three shutout innings to earn the save in the night cap.
Freshman Kyle Schiavone (Wethersfield, Conn.) led the way for the Nighthawks going 4-for-5 with two home runs, two runs scored, and four runs batted in on the night. Sophomore Michael Dean (Wethersfield, Conn.) also had four hits in the doubleheader, while freshman Russell DeMatties (Hamden, Conn.) was 2-for-4 with a home run and two runs scored in the game one.
DeMatties led off game one with a home run, as Newbury scored a run in each of the first three innings to build a 3-1 advantage.
The AMCATS answered with three runs in the bottom of the third, getting RBI’s from Scafidi, Jim McNamara (Worcester, Mass.), and Vaughn to take a 4-3 lead.
After both teams added runs in the fourth, the AMCATS pulled away with five in the fifth and four more in the sixth, including a two-run blast by Galvin. LaBelle held the Nighthawks scoreless over his three innings of work, while Malkowski shut the door in the seventh to take game one by the score of 14-4.
The Nighthawks got the scoring started in game two with a two-run shot by Schiavone in the second, but the AMCATS tied the score in the bottom of the frame, including Lander’s 12th career home run.
Newbury regained the lead with three runs in the top of the fourth, including Schiavone’s second homer in as many at bats, to move the score to 5-2.
However, the AMCATS were able to respond once again, batting around to score eight runs, including a bases clearing double by Mike Guarnieri (Wallington, Conn.) to grab a 10-5 lead.
Allard came in to throw three scoreless innings, while the AMCATS tacked on one in the fifth and five more in the sixth to take game two by the score of 16-5.
The Nighthawks will return to action on Saturday, traveling to face Elms at 1:00 pm, while the AMCATS hit the road on Thursday to battle Emerson at 7:00 pm.
Photo Courtesy of David Sheridan for AMC Sports Information |
AMCATS drop a pair of close game to Golden Bears
 Lander was 4-for-5 during the doubleheader
Box Scores: Game 1 / Game 2
SPRINGFIELD, Mass. - In a doubleheader that took more than five hours to complete, the Western New England College baseball team defeated visiting Anna Maria 3-2 in 10 innings and 6-3 Monday afternoon (Apr. 19)
at Trelease Park.
The Golden Bears ran their winning streak to 11 games and raised their overall mark to 27-6 with a 16-4 mark in The Commonwealth Coast Conference (TCCC). The AMCATS drop to 16-17 and 9-13 in the league.
Freshman second baseman Mike Rubino (Northford, CT) drove home the winning run with no outs in the 10th in the opener. Junior catcher Jason Leclerc (Chicopee, MA) led off the inning with a double and moved to third on a sacrifice bunt by sophomore right fielder Tom Bouvier (East Longmeadow, MA) who was safe on first following an error.
Junior second baseman Andrew Fatse (Hampden, MA) drove in the first two Golden Bears' runs with a triple in the second and sacrifice fly in the fourth.
Anna Maria rallied with two runs in the seventh when senior left fielder Jeff Lander (Gloucester, MA) tied the game with a RBI single. He finished with three of the visitors' six hits.
WNEC senior pitcher Matt Rogers (Portsmouth, RI) retired the first 13 batters before Lander lined a single to right that glanced off the glove of Bouvier who made a diving effort. Bouvier quickly recovered and threw out Lander trying to stretch the hit into a double.
Sophomore Mike Lawlor (Windsor, CT) allowed only three hits with three strikeouts and a walk in four innings in moving his record to 3-0.
In the second game that ended in near darkness, the Golden Bears scored four times in the fifth inning to erase a 3-1 deficit.
Bouvier had a key RBI single in the inning serving as the designated hitter, then pitched an inning-and-a-third in relief giving up a hit with two strikeouts to earn the save.
Fatse knocked in three runs with a sacrifice fly in the fourth and two-run double in the fifth. Leclerc singled, doubled, scored a run, and had a RBI.
Junior pitcher Zach Cloft (Glastonbury, CT) settled down after a shaky start and improved his record to 3-0. He gave up six hits, but struck out six and walked only two.
Anna Maria senior designated hitter JK Vaughn (Simsbury, CT) went 3-for-3 with a pair of singles and double. He and Lander each collected RBI singles to help give the AMCATS a 3-0 lead in the first inning.
Release Courtesy of WNEC Sports Information
Photo Courtesy of David Sheridan for AMC Sports Information |
McNamara shuts out Hawks as AMCATS earn split
 McNamara tossed nine innings of shut out ball
Box Scores: Game 1 / Game 2
BRISTOL, R.I. – The Roger Williams University Baseball team kept its postseason hopes alive with a split Sunday afternoon against Anna Maria College, falling 1-0 in nine innings in the first game, but coming back to win the second 3-1.
Roger Williams moved into a tie for ninth place with Gordon College, with identical 6-12 records. The Hawks are now two games behind Eastern Nazarene for the eighth and final playoff spot with four conference games left to play.
In the first game, both teams’ starters were locked in from the start as Jim McNamara (Worcester, Mass.) and PJ Gouthro (Walpole, Mass.) each tossed scoreless inning after scoreless inning.
Anna Maria had an opportunity to put some runs on the board in the fourth, as Matt Guarnieri (Wallington, Conn.) and Jeff Scafidi (Worcester, Mass.) led off the inning with back-to-back singles. Guarnieri would eventually make his way to third, but ultimately ended up stranded in scoring position as Gouthro snagged a come-backer to get out of the inning.
On the other side, the Hawks looked like they would get a walk-off victory in the bottom of the seventh when Trevor Manzi (Beverly, Mass.) knocked a one-out triple to deep right field, just shy of the fence. Yet McNamara was able to strike out two of the next three batters to send the game to extra innings.
Anna Maria finally managed the first run of the game in the top of the ninth on a sacrifice fly JK Vaughn (Simsbury, Conn.), scoring Andy Fallon (Worcester, Mass.). With the one-run lead, McNamara shut the door in the bottom of the ninth, sandwiching a double around the final three outs of the game.
McNamara allowed only five hits over the course of his complete game shutout. Justin Hyland (Spencer, Mass.) was 3-for-3 in the game while Guarnieri and Scafidi had two hits apiece.
Gouthro took the hard-luck loss, tagged for only one run in nine innings of work. Grant Bolin (Simsbury, Conn.) went 2-for-4 with a stolen base for RWU.
Scoring in the second game came earlier, as the AMCats struck first in the second, with Fallon scoring on a sacrifice fly by Vaughn. The one-run deficit for Roger Williams only lasted until the third inning, when Bolin nailed a two-run double to center field to put the Hawks on top 2-1. RWU added one more in the fifth inning on an RBI single by Rob Zarthar (Dedham, Mass.).
That would be all Ben O’Shea (Reading, Mass.) needed as he went the distance, allowing only one unearned run on two hits and a walk in the game while striking out nine in the win. His counterpart, Zach Rafferty (Worcester, Mass.), allowed all three runs in 4.1 innings of work. Brendon Tivnan (Worcester, Mass.) came in and pitched 1.2 innings of scoreless relief.
For the Hawks, Bolin finished with two hits, two RBI, and a run scored. Tim Georgen (Bristol, Conn.) also added a pair of hits and a run. Fallon and Jeff Lander (Gloucester, Mass.) had the only hits for Anna Maria in the game.
Roger Williams (8-21, 6-12 TCCC) steps out of conference play tomorrow and takes on Rhode Island College at 3:30 p.m. Anna Maria (16-15, 9-11 TCCC) hosts Newbury College Wednesday at 2:00 p.m. in its home finale.
Release Courtesy of RWU Sports Information
Photo Courtey of Dave Sheridan for AMC
|
Scafidi and Tivnan lead AMC to sweep of Bison
 Scafidi hit 2 HR's and set the AMC RBI record
Box Scores: Game 1 / Game 2
PAXTON, Mass. – Sophomore Jeff Scafidi (Worcester, Mass.) was 5-for-8 with two home runs on the day, while junior Brendon Tivnan (Worcester, Mass.) tossed a complete-game to earn the win in the night cap, as the Anna Maria College baseball team swept Nichols College in a The Commonwealth Coast Conference doubleheader at Alumni Field on Wednesday afternoon. The AMCATS, who came in to the day leading the Bison by just one game for the eighth and final playoff spot, improve their record to 15-14 (8-10 TCCC), while the Bison fall to 9-18 (5-11 TCCC).
Scafidi led the offensive charge for the AMCATS with five hits, two home runs, five runs scored, and four runs batted in. The sophomore right fielder set the AMC program record for RBI’s in a season with a solo shot to right in the very first inning of game one. Scafidi now has 42 RBI’s on the season, breaking the previous mark of 38 which he set as a freshman last year. Junior James McNamara (Worcester, Mass.) also had a fine day, going 4-for-7 with three runs scored and four runs batted in. Senior JK Vaughn (Simsbury, Conn.) also had four hits on the day, while middle infielders Andy Fallon (Worcester, Mass.) and Mike Galvin (Rutland, Mass.) each added three hits in the double-dip. Tivnan was sharp while going the distance on the mound in game two, surrendering just one run on four hits over seven innings of work, improving his season record to 3-1. Sophomore Dean Diamantopoulos (Shrewsbury, Mass.) also threw a complete-game while earning the victory in game one, improving to 2-3 overall.
Junior Austin Martin (Cranston, R.I.) paced the Bison in game one, going 3-for-4 with a home run, a double, three runs scored, and three runs batted in. Junior George Sergi (Blackstone, Mass.) also performed well in game one, going 2-for-3 with a double, two runs scored and two RBI’s, while shortstop Josh Clark (Brunswick, Maine) finished with three hits on the day.
The Bison jumped on the board early in game one when Martin launched a two-run homer in the top of the first, scoring Al Montalto (Wilmington, Mass.) and giving Nichols a 2-0 advantage.
The AMCATS answered in the bottom half of the inning on a solo shot to right by Scafidi. The home run gave Scafidi 39 runs batted in on the season, breaking the AMC program record of 38 which he set last year.
AMC then exploded for seven runs on seven hits in the bottom of the second, taking an 8-2 lead. Vaughn, Jeff Kodys (Holden, Mass.) and Scafidi all had RBI singles during the rally, while Galvin and McNamara both delivered two-run singles.
The Bison battled back with two runs in the top of the fourth, receiving run scoring doubles from both Sergi and freshman John Micciche (Holbrook, Mass.) to cut the AMC lead to 8-4.
However, the AMCATS matched the Bison with two runs of their own in the bottom half of the inning, and then plated four more runs in the fifth, including a two-run shot by Galvin, to take a commanding 14-4 advantage.
In the top of the seventh, the Bison rallied to score four runs before Diamantopoulos was finally able to retire the side on a strikeout to preserve the 14-8 victory.
It was Anna Maria who scored first in game two, as senior Jeff Lander (Gloucester, Mass.) drove home Scafidi with an infield single to give the AMCATS a 1-0 lead after one inning of play.
After the Bison tied the score in the top of the third, the AMCATS fired back with four runs in the bottom of the inning, including a two-run blast by Scafidi, to take a 5-1 lead.
The AMCATS added an insurance run in the fifth when freshman Justin Hyland (Spencer, Mass.) drew a walk with the bases loaded, and that was more than enough for starting pitcher Brendon Tivnan. Tivnan held the Bison scoreless on just one hit over the final four innings to nail down the 6-1 win for AMC.
The AMCATS now lead the Bison for the final playoff spot by three games with just four to play. The Bison return to action on Thursday, hosting Worcester State in a non-conference matchup at 3:30 pm, while the AMCATS play again on Saturday, traveling to face Western New England College in a TCCC doubleheader starting at noon.
Photo Courtesy of David Sheridan for AMC Sports Information |
AMCATS battle back to clip Hawks 10-9
 Vaughn reached the 100-hit milestone Tues.
Box Score
PAXTON, Mass. – Paxton, Mass. - The AMCATS Jeff Scafidi (Worcester, MA) and JK Vaughn (Simsbury, CT) each collected their 100th career hits to lead Anna Maria to 10-9 victory over Becker. Scafidi went 3-4 with 2 RBI, collecting his 100th hit in the sixth inning, while Vaughn added two hits and two RBI, earning his 100th hit during the fifth. Todd Tompkins (West Haven, Conn.), Tony D’Addio (West Haven, Conn.), and Eric Lajoie (Oakham, Mass.) chipped in with two hits apiece in the loss for the Hawks. The win snaps an eight game losing streak for the AMCATS, who improve to 13-14 on the year, while the Hawks fall to 6-11.
Anna Maria got on the board early, scoring Mike Galvin (Worcester, MA) on sacrifice fly by Scafidi in the first.
The AMCATS put another run on the board in the second on a solid RBI double by Vaughn, taking a 2-0 lead.
Becker responded with their first run of the game in the top of the third. After a strikeout to start the inning, shortstop Keith Kandel (Fresno, Calif.) singled and advanced to second base after an infield hit by Joe Corey (Billerica, Mass.). With runners on first and second, Austin Phillips (Thomson, Ga.) came to bat and stroked an RBI single, scoring Kandel to make the score 2-1.
Anna Maria extended their lead to 5-1 in the fifth inning, but it didn’t last long. After a walk and a single, Anna Maria pitcher Pete Labelle (Gardner, Mass.) was lifted in the sixth after giving the team a solid five innings. After a bunt single loaded the bases, freshman catcher Kyle Beede (Auburn, Mass.) delivered an RBI single to cut the AMC lead to 5-2. Lajoie then came up and stroked a two-run single to bring the Hawks within one run. The rally continued, and after a two run doubles by Ryan Sczerbinkski (Cranston, R.I.), and Tompkins, as well as some sloppy fielding, the Hawks took a 9-5 lead.
Jeff Kodys (Holden, Mass.) led off the bottom of the sixth with a long double off the top of the fence. After two strikeouts and a hit by pitch, Scafidi plated Kodys on a solid single to right center. Jim McNamara followed with an RBI single of his own, cutting the BC lead to 9-7.
Pitcher Eddie Maldonado (Worcester, Mass.) blanked the Hawks for the next two innings, keeping the AMCATS in the game.
In the bottom of the seventh, the AMCATS loaded the bases on three walks for Galvin who also drew a walk to score in a run, cutting the lead to 9-8. The Hawks had a chance to close out the AMCATS’ rally with a bases loaded double play, but the throw to first sailed wide allowing two runs score, giving Anna Maria a lead that they wouldn’t give up.
Maldonado preserved the victory by stranding runners on first and second to end the game, giving him his second win of the year.
The Hawks will look to bounce back against Lasell at home this Thursday at 3:00 pm, while the AMCATS return to action on Wednesday to take on Nichols in a playoff-implicating TCCC doubleheader starting at 12:00pm. |
Gulls nab two from AMCATS in TCCC doubleheader
 McNamara became AMC's all-time hits leader
Box Scores: Game 1 / Game 2
PAXTON, Mass. – Freshman Eric Lemke (Southington, Conn.) went 2-for-3 with an RBI and two runs scored in each game of the doubleheader, helping to lead the Endicott College baseball team to a sweep of Anna Maria College during a The Commonwealth Coast Conference matchup at Alumni Field on Sunday afternoon. With a single in game two, James McNamara (Worcester, Mass.) collected his 116th career hit, becoming AMC's all-time hits leader. The Gulls, currently ranked first in the conference, improved their record to 17-9 (11-1 TCCC), while the AMCATS dropped their eighth straight to fall to 12-14 (6-10 TCCC).
Lemke sparked the Gulls by going 4-for-6 with four runs scored from the leadoff spot, while also driving in two runs. Senior catcher Joe Klein (Monroe, Conn.) was 2-for-3 with a solo home run in game one, while freshman Victor Resto (Framingham, Mass.) went 3-for-4 with a triple, a homer, two runs batted in, and three runs scored in the second game of the double-dip. After surrendering three runs in the bottom of the first inning, senior Colin McGinn (Tolland, Conn.) settled in and tossed six scoreless frames the rest of the way to earn the win in game one. McGinn struck out five batters, taking the complete-game victory and improving his record to 5-1 on the year. Sophomore Benjamin Petrides (Belchertwon, Mass.) went five innings, allowing four runs (three earned) on 10 hits to earn the victory in game two, improving to 3-1 overall.
Senior JK Vaughn (Simsbury, Conn) paced the AMCATS, going 4-for-7 on the day with three runs batted in, while shortstop Mike Galvin (Rutland, Mass.), freshman Mike Guarnieri (Wallington, Conn.), sophomore Jeff Scafidi (Worcester, Mass.), and junior Andy Fallon each collected three hits in the doubleheader. Catcher Jeff Kodys (Holden, Mass.) launched two home runs in game two, driving in a team-high four runs on the day, while junior James McNamara (Worcester, Mass.) became Anna Maria’s all-time hits leader with a base knock to left in game two. Despite taking the loss, McNamara pitched well in game one, going 6 2/3 innings while surrendering four earned runs and striking out eight.
In game one, the Gulls jumped out to a 1-0 lead in the first inning when Lemke came home on a costly Anna Maria error.
The AMCATS responded with three runs of their own in the bottom half of the inning, as Scafidi, Jeff Lander (Gloucester, Mass.) and Vaughn each delivered RBI-singles.
After getting a run back on Klein’s solo shot in the second, the Gulls took the lead with two more in fifth. Lemke smacked an RBI-single through the left side, advanced to second on a wild pitch, and eventually came home on a go-ahead single by sophomore Colin Sitarz (West Hartford, Conn.) to give EC a 4-3 lead.
The Gulls added an insurance run in the top of the seventh, and the two-run cushion was more than enough for McGinn, who held the AMCATS scoreless for the final six innings to close out the 5-3 win.
It was the AMCATS who took the early 1-0 lead in game two, as Guarnieri delivered a first-inning solo shot to right to put AMC on top.
However, the Gulls rallied for five runs in the top of the second, as a costly two-out error opened the door for a big inning. Senior Aaron Santos (Cambridge, Mass.) contributed the big hit of the inning with a bases-clearing three-run double to right center.
The AMCATS chipped away at the Endicott lead with runs in the third, fourth, and fifth innings, including a solo home run from Kodys in the fourth, to claw back to within one at 5-4.
Once again, the Gulls were able to respond, scoring four runs on four hits in the top of the sixth. Resto led off the inning with a solo shot to left, while shortstop Chris Dominguez (Braintree, Mass.) smacked a two-run double, and Sitarz added an RBI-single to center during the rally.
Trailing 10-4 and down their final out with the bases empty in the seventh, the AMCATS continued to fight. After an RBI-single by Vaughn, Kodys launched his second homer of the game with a three-run shot to right centerfield. Senior Judson Evarts (North Ferrisburg, Vt.) followed with a single to right, and the AMCATS brought the tying run to the plate. However, EC’s Kevin Dupras (Belchertown, Mass.) was able to bear down and retire the final batter on a ground ball to short, preserving the 10-8 victory.
The Gulls will take to the field again on Wednesday when they travel to face rival Gordon College at 2:00 pm, while the AMCATS return to action on Tuesday, hosting Becker in a non-conference matchup at 3:30 pm.
Photo Courtesy of David Sheridan for AMC Sports Information |
Leopards slug their way to sweep over AMCATS
 Lander had two home runs on Saturday
Box Scores: Game 1 / Game 2
PAXTON, Mass. – The Wentworth Institute of Technology baseball team put up 23 runs while sweeping Anna Maria College in a The Commonwealth Coast Conference doubleheader at Alumni Field on Saturday afternoon. The victories were numbers 99 and 100 of Head Coach Steve Studley’s Wentworth career, improving his club to 19-6 (11-3 TCCC). The AMCATS have now dropped six straight, falling to 12-12 (6-8 TCCC).
Sophomore Conner Flisnik (Marcy, N.Y.) led the Leopards going 5-for-8 with four runs scored and three runs batted in. Juniors Matt Jordan (Concord, N.H.) and Jake McManus (Hopkinton, N.H.) each had three hits in game one, with Jordan scoring three runs, driving in four, and belting a home run. Seniors Matt Dannenhoffer (Bethany, Conn.) and Mo Gardner (Chagrin Falls, Ohio) each earned victories by going the distance in their starts for the Leopards, both improving their records to 5-0 on the year.
Junior James McNamara (Worcester, Mass.) paced the AMCATS offensively, collecting four hits in seven at bats while driving in three runs. Sophomore Jeff Scafidi (Worcester, Mass.) added four hits of his own, while shortstop Mike Galvin (Rutland, Mass.) was 3-for-7 with a home run and four runs scored, and senior Jeff Lander (Gloucester, Mass.) smacked homers in both games of the double-dip, driving in three runs on the day.
Both teams will return to action Sunday at noon, with the Leopards hosting Curry and the AMCATS facing Endicott in a conference doubleheader at Alumni Field.
Photo Courtesy of David Sheridan for AMC Sports Information |
Lancers slam their way past AMCATS, 10-1
 Lander reached twice, scored, and had a SB
Box Score
PAXTON, Mass. – Junior third baseman Tyler McElman (Marlboro, MA) smashed a grand slam in the third inning to lead the Worcester State College baseball team over Anna Maria College in a non-conference matchup at a windy Alumni Field in Paxton. The Lancers move to 14-5-1 overall while the AMCATS fall to 12-10 with their fourth-straight loss.
Senior Ryan Laprade (Leominster, MA) led the way with three hits and three steals for the Lancers. Senior right fielder Nick Caparell (North Attleboro, MA) added three hits and three runs scored, while freshman Chris Creen (Worcester, MA) contributed a triple and two runs scored. Freshman pitcher Shaun Slattery was solid on the mound for the Lancers, going 5 2/3 shutout innings while striking out four and improving his season record to 2-0.
The AMCATs were led by senior Jeff Lander (Gloucester, MA) who reached base twice, scored a run, and added a stolen base. Junior catcher Jeff Kodys (Holden, MA) knocked in the lone run for the AMC.
The AMCATS were plagued by walks and errors for most of the game and were unable to break through against the solid pitching of the Lancers.
The Lancers held a 1-0 advantage into the top of the third when the Lacers erupted for six runs. TJ Magnell (Leominster, MA) led off the inning with a walk, followed by a single from Corey McDonald (Hudson, MA). Two more walks and an RBI-single by Caparell led to two Worcester State runs, leaving the bases loaded for McElman who smashed a grand slam over the left center field fence to give the Lancers a 7-0 lead.
The AMCATS had a chance to answer in the bottom of the inning, when an error, a walk, and in infield single by Mike Guarnieri (Wallington, CT) loaded the bases. However, Slattery was able to end the threat by getting Jeff Scafidi (Worcester, MA) to ground out with the bases loaded.
The AMCATS scored their lone run in the sixth inning when Lander walked, stole second, and came home on an RBI-single to left by Kodys.
Worcester State returns to conference play with a doubleheader at Westfield State this Saturday at 12 pm, while the AMCATS look to bounce back on Saturday in a TCCC doubleheader versus Wentworth beginning at noon.
Release Courtesy of Dan Harris for AMC Sports Information
Photo Courtesy of David Sheridan for AMC Sports Information |
Seahawks sweep AMCATS in TCCC doubleheader
 Fallon was 3-for-3 in game two on Tuesday
Box Scores: Game 1 / Game 2
NEWPORT, R.I. - Juniors Alex Melcher [Poughkeepsie, N.Y.] and Matt Capone [Barrington, R.I.] each collected three hits apiece to lead Salve Regina University baseball to a sweep of Anna Maria College in a The Commonwealth Coast Conference doubleheader in Newport (6-3 and 7-4).
Junior Craig Silva [Marlborough, N.J.], who got the win in relief in extra innings last night against Colby-Sawyer, got the start in Game 1 and threw a complete-game allowing just seven hits and one earned run while striking out two.
With the score tied 2-2 in the bottom of the 5th, Brandon Bursie [Smithfield, R.I.] led off with a double down the left field line. After Charles Matarazzo [Montville, N.J.] received a base on balls, the two Seahawks advanced on stolen bases. With second and third and one out, Melcher failed in his attempt to lay down a suicide squeeze bunt. Bursie found himself in a pickle and escaped with the go-ahead run.
Tom Glynn [Woodbridge, Conn.] followed with a two-run double and came around on an RBI single by Riley Diaz [Miami, Fla.] to make it 6-2 in favor of Salve Regina.
Jeff Kodys [Holden, Mass.] led off the Anna Maria 7th inning with a solo blast to left field, but Silva earned his team-leading fifth victory when freshman Mike Guarnieri [Wallington, Conn.] ended the game on a soft liner to Glynn at third.
Salve Regina (13-9; 6-4 TCCC) scored in every inning of the second game except the fifth. Melcher added an insurance run in the sixth with his second homer of the season. Lefty reliever Pat Quinn [Middletown, N.J.] struck out five of the nine batters he faced to save the win for starter Nicholas Politelli [Warwick, R.I.].
"We played baseball today," said Seahawk head coach Steve Cirella. "Finally didn't make stupid mistakes, kept our heads in the game, and our pitchers did a great job. To win two against a tough conference team is a great accomplishment."
The sweep also provided a milestone for Cirella who moved into a tie with his predecessor Andy Andrade for the school record for most all-time baseball coaching victories (243).
Junior second baseman Andy Fallon [Worcester, Mass.] went 3-for-3 with two RBI in the nightcap for Anna Maria (12-9; 6-6 TCCC).
Release Courtesy of Slave Regina Sports Information
Photo Courtesy of David Sheridan for AMC Sports Information |
Alexander powers Falcons past AMCATS, 11-10
 Guarnieri was 4-for-6 during Monday's loss
Box Score
PAXTON, Mass. – Junior Dave Alexander (Torrington, Conn.) doubled and homered twice to help propel the Fitchburg State baseball team to an 11-10 non-conference victory over Anna Maria College at Alumni Field on Monday afternoon. With the win, the Falcons move to 6-7 (0-2 MASCAC), while the AMCATS drop to 12-7 (6-4 TCCC).
Alexander paced the Falcons’ offensive attack, going 3-for-5 with two home runs, a double, two runs scored, and three runs batted in. Junior John Phelan (Walpole, Mass.) also had three hits in the game, adding three runs scored and two RBI’s, while Brian Ware (Beverly, Mass.), Will Comerford (Ayer, Mass.), and Michael Mercier (Townsend, Mass.) each chipped in with two hits apiece. Sophomore Perry Russo (East Hartford, Conn.) earned the win on the mound, surrendering just one run on one hit in 3.2 innings of work in relief, while freshman Randy Ortiz, Jr. (Danielson, Conn.) earned his first collegiate save by pitching a scoreless ninth.
The AMCATS were led by their top three hitters in the lineup who were a combined 8-for-11 with six walks, nine runs scored and six runs batted in. Junior Mike Galvin (Rutland, Mass.) was 2-for-3 with three walks and four runs scored from leadoff spot, while freshman Mike Guarnieri (Wallington, Conn.) was 4-for-6 from the two-hole, and junior Jeff Scafidi (Worcester, Mass.) was a perfect 2-for-2 with a home run, three walks, three runs scored, and five runs batted in from the third spot in the order.
The AMCATS jumped out to an early 6-0 lead after scoring three times in both the first and second innings. Scafidi did most of the damage, contributing a two-run double in the first and a three-run blast in the second.
The Falcons answered with five runs on five hits in the third, including a two-run single by Ware, a two-run homer by Phelan, and an RBI-double by Alexander, cutting the AMC lead to 6-5.
The AMCATS countered with three runs in the bottom of the fourth, taking advantage of two FSC errors while receiving an RBI-double from Guarnieri to build a 9-5 advantage.
The Falcons, however, would not go away, scoring six runs over the next four innings to take their first lead of the game, 11-9. Alexander smacked solo homers in both the fifth and seventh innings, while Ricky Graham (Walpole, Mass.) and Mercier each drove in a run in the sixth.
The AMCATS got back to within a run after Jim McNamara (Worcester, Mass.) plated Galvin with a ground ball to the right side in the eighth, but Ortiz, Jr. was able to close the door in the ninth to preserve the 11-10 win for Fitchburg State.
Both teams will return to action on Tuesday, with the Falcons hosting Fisher at 3:30 pm, and the AMCATS traveling to face Salve Regina in a The Commonwealth Coast Conference doubleheader beginning at 2:00 pm.
Photo Courtesy of David Sheridan for AMC Sports Information |
Scafidi earns National Player of the Week honors
 Scafidi hit .750 with 16 RBI and a CG SHO
National Players of the Week
PAXTON, Mass. – After an outstanding week, Sophomore Jeff Scafidi (Worcester, Mass.) who had already been named The Commonwealth Coast Conference Player of the Week on Monday, was selected as the NCAA Division III National Player of the Week, as voted on by a panel of D-III members of the National Collegiate Baseball Writers Association.
Scafidi compiled a .750 batting average, going 15-for-20 while collecting at least two hits and one RBI in all six contests. He helped lead the AMCATS to a 5-1 record with eight runs scored and an impressive 16 runs batted in. Scafidi had three consecutive three-hit games and drove in four runs on three separate occasions. He pounded-out six extra-base hits, including four doubles and two triples, to compile a superb 1.150 slugging percentage. Some of his best performances include six hits and eight RBI’s in a doubleheader sweep of Norwich, five hits and two RBI’s in a TCCC split with Gordon, and four hits and six RBI’s in a TCCC sweep of Colby-Sawyer.
In addition to his dominance at the plate, Scafidi also excelled on the mound, tossing a three-hit complete-game shutout versus Colby-Sawyer in which he struck out nine batters.
After his terrific week, Scafidi is currently leading The Commonwealth Coast Conference in batting average (.517), slugging percentage (.879), hits (30), runs batted in (29), doubles (8), triples (5), and total bases (51).
The sophomore has the team off to a 12-6 (6-4 TCCC) record this season, including a current five-game winning streak in conference play. Scafidi and the AMCATS will be back in action on Monday when they host Fitchburg State in a non-conference matchup at 3:30 pm.
Photo Courtesy of David Sheridan for AMC Sports Information |
Rafferty hurls AMCATS to sweep over Pilgrims
 Rafferty threw a one-hit shutout in a 1-0 win
Box Scores: Game 1 / Game 2
PAXTON, Mass. – Junior Zach Rafferty (Worcester, Mass.) took a no-hitter into the seventh inning of game two before finishing with a complete-game one-hit shutout, lifting the Anna Maria College baseball team to a sweep over New England College in a The Commonwealth Coast Conference doubleheader at Alumni Field on a sunny Thursday afternoon. The AMCATS took the first game by a score of 12-3, before Rafferty hurled them to a 1-0 victory in game two. The AMCATS now improve to 12-6 (6-4 TCCC) on the year, while the Pilgrims fall to 2-13 (0-6 TCCC).
Rafferty’s outstanding pitching performance highlighted the day for the AMCATS. He went seven dominating innings surrendering just one hit and three walks while striking out nine batters. The complete-game shutout victory improved his season record to a flawless 3-0 mark. Junior Jim McNamara (Worcester, Mass.) also threw well, tossing a complete-game of his own in the first half of the twin-bill, allowing just three earned runs to improve to 2-3 on the season. Reigning National Player of the Week Jeff Scafidi (Worcester, Mass.) once again paced the offensive attack for the AMCATS, collecting three hits, a double, a run scored, and two runs batted in. Shortstop Mike Galvin (Rutland, Mass.), third baseman Justin Hyland (Spencer, Mass.), first baseman Jim McNamara, left fielder Jeff Lander (Gloucester, Mass.), catcher Craig Doyle (Worcester, Mass.), and second baseman Andy Fallon (Worcester, Mass.) completed a well-rounded AMC offense with two hits each. Freshman Mike Guarnieri (Wallington, Conn.) also chipped in with a team-high three runs batted in during the double-dip.
Senior Scott Miller (Mt. Airy, Md.) and junior P.J. Crowley (Pawcatuck, Conn.) each had two hits and a run scored on the day for the Pilgrims, while junior Jimmy Lauzon (Manchester, N.H.) and sophomore Lucas Burgess (Bath, N.H.) each had two hits in game one of the doubleheader. Senior Tim Dockerty (St. Johnsville, N.Y.), junior Chris Gagne (Rochester, N.H.), and junior John Holtman (Mendon, Vt.) knocked in the runs for NEC, each collecting one RBI. Sophomore Tyler Perrin (Thetford Center, Vt.) pitched well despite taking the loss in game two, surrendering just one run while striking out five in six innings of work.
The AMCATS jumped on the board in the bottom of the first of game one, scoring two runs on three hits. After a leadoff double by Galvin, Scafidi and Lander each added RBI-doubles to put AMC ahead by the score of 2-0.
The Pilgrims answered right back with two runs in the top of the second, getting a run scoring ground out from Dockerty and an RBI-single through the left side by Holtman to tie the score at two-all.
After Hyland gave the AMCATS the lead with a clutch two-out RBI-single in the bottom of the second, Anna Maria erupted for four runs on six hits in the fourth. Gaurnieri drove home two with a double to right center, while Lander and McNamara each added RBI-singles in the inning.
Anna Maria continued to apply the pressure, scoring two more in the fifth and three more in the sixth, as McNamara closed out the complete-game victory by the final score of 12-3.
Game two was a classic pitching duel between Rafferty and Perrin. It was clear from the early going that both pitchers had their best stuff, as they each cruised through the first three innings.
The AMCATS mounted a threat in the fourth, as Scafidi reached third with just one out. However, Perrin was able to bear down, retiring the next two batters on a strikeout and a line drive to right field to escape without damage.
Anna Maria finally managed to scratch across a run in the fifth. After Hyland and Doyle hit consecutive singles to put runners on the corners with just one out, Galvin drove home the game’s first run on a grounder to short. It looked as though the AMCATS were going to open things up when, with two runners in scoring position, Scafidi hit a hot shot to the left side that appeared destined for left field. However, NEC shortstop Scott Miller made an outstanding diving stop and threw Scafidi out to end the inning, keeping the Pilgrims within one.
Rafferty took his no-hitter into the seventh, and after he retired the leadoff hitter on a strike out, he was just two outs away. Unfortunately, the no-hit bid was broken up when Miller hit a hard ground ball to the left side that tipped off the glove of the diving Hyland at third base. Rafferty was able to shake it off, and retired the final two batters to preserve the 1-0 victory for AMC.
The Pilgrims will take to the field again tomorrow when they host WNEC in a TCCC doubleheader starting at 2:00 pm. The AMCATS will return to action on Monday, hosting Fitchburg State in a non-conference matchup beginning at 3:30 pm.
Photo Courtesy of David Sheridan for AMC Sports Information |
Scafidi named TCCC Player of the Week
 Scafidi hit .750 with 16 RBI and a CG SHO
TCCC Players of the Week
PAXTON, Mass. – Sophomore Jeff Scafidi (Worcester, Mass.) was selected as The Commonwealth Coast Conference Player of the Week, after an outstanding performance both at the plate and on the mound this week.
Scafidi compiled a .750 batting average, going 15-for-20 while collecting at least two hits and one RBI in all six contests. He helped lead the AMCATS to a 5-1 record with eight runs scored and an outstanding 16 runs batted in. Scafidi had three consecutive three-hit games and drove in four runs on three separate occasions. He pounded out six extra-base hits, including four doubles and two triples, to compile a superb 1.150 slugging percentage. Some of his best performances include six hits and eight RBI’s in a doubleheader sweep of Norwich, five hits and two RBI’s in a TCCC split with Gordon, and four hits and six RBI’s in a TCCC sweep of Colby-Sawyer.
In addition to his dominance at the plate, Scafidi also excelled on the mound, tossing a three-hit complete-game shutout versus Colby-Sawyer in which he struck out nine batters.
Scafidi currently leads the AMCATS in batting average (.517), hits (30), doubles (8), triples (5), runs batted in (29), total bases (51), and slugging percentage (.879).
The sophomore has the team off to a 10-6 (4-4 TCCC) record this season, including a current three-game winning streak in conference play. Scafidi and the AMCATS will be back in action on Wednesday when they host conference-foe New England College in a doubleheader beginning at 2:00 pm.
Photo Courtesy of David Sheridan for AMC Sports Information
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AMCATS take two from Chargers in TCCC doubleheader
 Scafidi threw a shutout and was 4-6 on the day
Box Scores: Game 1 / Game 2
PAXTON, Mass. – The Anna Maria College baseball team erupted for 23 runs on 26 hits as they swept a The Commonwealth Coast Conference doubleheader versus Colby-Sawyer College at Alumni Field on Sunday afternoon. Sophomore Jeff Scafidi (Worcester, Mass.) tossed a complete-game shutout to lead AMC to a 13-0 victory in game one, before the AMCATS rallied back from a 4-0 deficit to earn a 10-4 victory in game two. The two wins improve Anna Maria to 10-6 overall while evening their conference record to 4-4. The pair of losses drops the Chargers to 6-7 on the year and 1-3 in TCCC play.
Scafidi led the way for the AMCATS, excelling both at the plate and on the mound. He struck out nine batters in his game one shutout, improving his record to 2-1, while also going 4-for-6 during the day at the plate with two doubles, a triple, three runs scored, and six runs batted in. Freshman Mike Guarnieri (Wallington, Conn.) and junior Andy Fallon (Worcester, Mass.) were also 4-for-6 on the day, with Guarnieri adding a home run, five runs scored, and four runs batted in. Juniors Mike Galvin (Rutland, Mass.) and Jeff Lander (Gloucester, Mass.) each scored four runs, while catcher Craig Doyle (Worcester, Mass.) reached all four times he came to bat in game two, including a home run, a double, and three runs scored. Sophomore Dean Diamantopoulos (Shrewsbury, Mass.) settled down nicely after a rough start to go the distance for the win in game two, improving his record 1-1 on the year.
Freshman Cameron Knight (Cambridge, Mass.) paced the offensive attack for the Chargers with three hits, a run, and an RBI. Sophomore Greg Mehuron (Waitsfield, Vt.) and junior Shane Hoagboon (Mayfield, Mass.) each added two hits for Colby-Sawyer, with Mehuron knocking in a team-high two runs.
The AMCATS got things rolling with two runs in the bottom of the first in game one, getting consecutive two-out RBI-singles from Jeff Lander and James McNamara (Worcester, Mass.) to take a 2-0 lead.
After adding a run in the third on a solo shot by Guarnieri, the AMCATS exploded for six runs in the bottom of the fourth, including a two-run triple by Scafidi, an RBI-triple by Lander, and a run scoring double by McNamara to build a comfortable 9-0 advantage.
Anna Maria tacked on four more in the sixth on a two-run double by Scafidi, an RBI-single by McNamara, and a run scoring ground out by Jeff Kodys (Holden, Mass.) to make the score 13-0.
Scafidi put the finishing touches on his impressive complete-game shutout by inducing a game-ending ground out to first. The sophomore hurler allowed just three hits on the afternoon while striking out nine.
It was the Chargers who jumped on the board first in game two, as sophomore Justin Martin (Claremont, N.H.) singled through the left side to bring home junior Matt Corvo (Stratton Mountain, Vt.) in the top of the first, giving CSC a 1-0 lead.
Colby-Sawyer continued to swing the bats well in the second inning, scoring three runs on four hits, including an RBI-single by Knight and a two-run double by Mehuron, to build a 4-0 lead.
The AMCATS answered back in a big way, scoring seven runs on seven hits in the bottom half of the frame to take the lead, 7-4. Justin Hyland (Spencer, Mass.), Doyle, Guarnieri, Kodys, and Fallon each drove in a run, while Scafidi drove in two more, as the AMCATS batted around the order. Fallon had two hits in the inning, including a double in his first at bat.
Once given the lead, AMC starter Dean Diamantopoulos settled in, tossing five scoreless innings to close out the 10-4 victory for the AMCATS. The sophomore starter surrendered four runs, three of which were earned, on seven hits in the complete-game, but gave up just one hit after the second inning without allowing a single run from that point on.
The Chargers will play again on Tuesday when the travel to face Salem State at 3:00 pm, while the AMCATS return to action on Wednesday, hosting New England College in a TCCC doubleheader beginning at 2:00 pm.
Photo Courtesy of David Sheridan for AMC Sports Information |
AMCATS march past Cadets, sweep doubleheader
 McNamara captured his 100th career hit
Box Scores: Game 1 / Game 2
PAXTON, Mass. – Sophomore Jeff Scafidi (Worcester, Mass.) went 6-for-6 while junior James McNamara was 5-for-8 including his 100th career hit, as the Anna Maria College baseball team swept a non-conference doubleheader versus Norwich on Thursday afternoon at Alumni Field. The AMCATS captured game one by the score of 15-2, before taking game two 16-2. With the win, Anna Maria improves its record to 7-5 (1-3 TCCC), while the Cadets fall to 1-9 (0-0 GNAC).
Scafidi led the AMCATS with an outstanding performance at the plate, going 6-for-6 with eight runs batted in, and four runs scored. McNamara, who collected his 100th career hit on a double with the bases loaded in the second inning of game two, was 5-for-8 including a home run, seven runs batted in, and three runs scored. Mike Galvin (Rutland, Mass.) scored five runs for AMC while Andy Fallon (Worcester, Mass.), Mike Guarnieri (Wallington, Conn.), and Jeff Lander (Gloucester, Mass.) each add four runs. Lander also delivered one of three Anna Maria home runs, one of which came off the bat of junior Jeff Kodys (Holden, Mass.) who had four RBI’s on the day. Junior Brendan Tivnan (Worcester, Mass.) earned the victory in game one, tossing five innings while surrendering just one run to improve his record to 2-0. Sophomore Tim Henderson (Wayland, Mass.) earned his first win of the year in game two, going four innings and giving up just three hits and two runs.
The Cadets were paced by junior Dustin Shimkus (Collinsville, Ill.), sophomore Mitch Blair (Danby, Vt.), freshman Kase Cook (Sharpsburg, Ga.) and sophomore David Maxfield (Randolph, Vt.), who each collected two hits. Shimkus led NU with two runs batted in, while Maxfield went 2-for-3 with one run scored and a run driven in during game two of the twin-bill.
The AMCATS struck first in game one, getting a sac fly from Scafidi and an RBI-single by McNamara in the bottom of the opening frame to take a 2-0 lead.
The Cadets cut that lead in half during the top of the third, as Shimkus scored Maxfield on a double to left center.
The AMCATS responded in the bottom of the inning by exploding for eight runs on nine hits, including a lead-off solo home run by Lander, a two-run double by Guarnieri, and a three-run blast from Kodys.
The AMCATS added three runs in the fourth, getting a two-run single by Scafidi, and two more in the fifth on sac flies from both Justin Hyland (Spencer, Mass.) and Judson Evarts (North Ferrisburg, Vt.) to build a 15-1 advantage.
The Cadets added a run in the top of the seventh on an RBI-double by Maxfield, before the AMCATS were able to close out the 15-2 win.
In game two, the AMCATS picked up right where the left off, scoring three times in the bottom of the first, as McNamara delivered a three-run homer scoring Scafidi and Lander.
Norwich fought back with a run in the top of the second when senior James Ramsay (Vestal, N.Y.) hit a ground ball to the right side, delivering Cook from third.
Once again, the AMCATS responded with a big inning, scoring five runs on just one hit, with the big blow coming a two-run double from McNamara with the bases loaded.
After NU scored on an RBI-double by Shimkus in the third, AMC answered with three runs in the bottom half of the frame before tacking on five more in the fifth. Scafidi delivered the big hit in the third, smacking a two-run triple to left, while he, McNamara, Fallon, and Hyland each added run-scoring hits in the fifth.
The game was officially called due to darkness after the Cadets were retired in the top of the sixth with the AMCATS leading 16-2.
Both teams will return to action on Saturday at noon, as Norwich travels to face Lasell, and Anna Maria battles Gordon on the road in a TCCC doubleheader.
Photo Courtesy of David Sheridan for AMC Sports Information
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Colonels take two from AMCATS in TCCC doubleheader
 Lander was one of three AMCATS with 2 hits
Box Scores: Game 1 / Game 2
PAXTON, Mass. – Seniors Jesse Bruinsma (Lynnfield, Mass.) and Tim Sweeney (Walpole, Mass.) were a combined 11-for-17 with 11 runs scored and 10 runs batted in to lead the Curry College baseball team to a sweep over Anna Maria College in a The Commonwealth Coast Conference doubleheader at WPI’s Alumni Field on Sunday afternoon. With the sweep, the Colonels improve to 7-5 overall and a perfect 4-0 in the conference, while the AMCATS fall to an even 5-5 on the season and 1-3 in TCCC play.
The Colonels were paced by Bruinsma who went 6-for-10 on the day with five runs scored and five runs batted in. Sweeney was equally impressive, going 5-for-8 with six runs scored and five runs batted in. Senior Tony Luciani (Weymouth, Mass.) also had a strong day, reaching base on seven of his 10 plate appearances and scoring five runs. Sophomore Miles Galvin (Deerfield Beach, Fla.) was terrific in his game one start, earning the win by tossing six innings of one-run ball while striking out five. Junior Mike Hughes (Middleboro, Mass.) got the win in game two, striking out five batters in five innings while allowing four earned runs.
Senior Jeff Lander (Gloucester, Mass.), junior Jeff Kodys (Holden, Mass.), and freshman Mike Guarnieri (Wallington, Conn.) each had two hits for the AMCATS, while junior James McNamara (Worcester, Mass.) had a team-high two runs batted in. Freshman Dean Diamantopouos (Shrewsbury, Mass.) pitched well in the game one loss, allowing just one earned run through five innings, but was victimized by several costly AMC miscues in the field behind him.
The Colonels jumped on the board early in game one when Bruinsma drove in Luciani with an RBI-single in the top of the first inning.
Diamantopoulos settled in after the first, blanking the Colonels for the next three frames to keep the AMCATS close.
Anna Maria tied the game in the bottom of the fourth when Jeff Scafidi (Worcester, Mass.) scored on a line drive single to left off the bat of McNamara.
However, the AMCATS made four costly errors over the next two innings, allowing the Colonels to plate eight runs on just four hits, while earning the 9-1 victory.
The Colonels started the second game the same as the first, with Bruinsma driving home Luciani with a first-inning RBI single up the middle to grab a 1-0 lead.
The AMCATS clawed back with three runs of their own in the bottom half of the inning, getting a sac fly from Scafidi, an RBI ground out from McNamara, and a run-scoring triple by Guarnieri to take a 3-1 lead.
The Colonels responded by exploding with a six-run third inning, pounding out five hits during the frame while also taking advantage of two costly AMC errors. Bruinsma delivered a two-run double during the rally, while junior Brad Hawn (Chino Hills, Calif.) and Tim Sweeney contributed RBI singles.
The Curry offense continued to pour it on for the remainder of the game, scoring at least one run in every inning but the second, including seven runs over the final two frames, to capture the 16-5 win.
Both teams will be back in action on Tuesday, with the Colonels traveling to face Eastern Nazarene in a TCCC doubleheader starting at 2:00 pm, and the AMCATS hosting Fitchburg State in a 3:30 pm non-conference matchup.
Photo Courtesy of David Sheridan for AMC Sports Information |
AMCATS split doubleheader in TCCC opener
 Scafidi was 5-8 with a homer in the twin-bill
Box Scores: Game 1 / Game 2
PAXTON, Mass. – After dropping game one by the score of 4-2, the Anna Maria College baseball team took the second game of the twin-bill 7-4, earning a split in a The Commonwealth Coast Conference doubleheader versus Eastern Nazarene College at WPI’s Alumni Field on a beautiful Saturday afternoon. The AMCATS move to 5-3 overall and 1-1 in the conference, while the Lions go to 8-6 on the year and 1-1 in the TCCC.
The AMCATS were led by sophomore Jeff Scafidi (Worcester, Mass.) who was 5-for-8 in the twin-bill, with a double and a home run. Reigning TCCC and ECAC Player of the Week Michael Galvin (Rutland, Mass.) also played well, going 2-for-7 with three runs batted in and two runs scored, including a monstrous go-ahead three-run homer in game two. Junior Andy Fallon (Worcester, Mass.), freshman Justin Hyland (Spencer, Mass.), and freshman Mike Guarnieri (Wallington, Conn.) each added two hits for AMC. Junior James McNamara (Worcester, Mass.) pitched well despite taking the loss in game one, hurling a complete-game while surrendering just three earned runs. In game two, starter Zach Rafferty (Worcester, Mass.) earned the win, improving his record to 2-0. Freshman Ed Maldonado (Worcester, Mass.) came in to close out the win and earned his second save of the season.
During game one, Eastern Nazarene was paced by freshman Joel Torres (Bronx, N.Y.), who went 2-for-3 with two runs batted in, including a go-ahead homer in the top of the seventh inning. In game two, junior Luke Matthews (Boise, Idaho) reached all four times he came to the plate on two singles, a double and a walk, while Justin Denbow (Readfield, Maine) was 2-for-2 with a home run. Junior Juan Rivera (Pelham, N.H.) also played well in the game two loss, going 1-for-2 with two RBI’s, one run scored, one walk, and a steal. Denbow was excellent in his game one start, going six innings, surrendering just one earned run, while striking out eight batters to improve his record to 2-1 on the year. Senior Gregg Olsen (San Diego, Calif.) closed out the game one win for Denbow, earning his first save of the year.
The first game of the doubleheader featured a pitcher’s duel between McNamara and Denbow, with both hurlers getting through the first two innings unscathed.
The Lions broke through in the top half of the third, when Joel Torres delivered a clutch two-out RBI-single to score junior Anthony Melendez (Yonkers, N.Y.) with the game’s first run.
The AMCATS came back to tie the game in the bottom half of the inning on a two-out RBI-single from McNamara, and then took the lead in the fourth on a leadoff solo home run by Guarnieri.
After tying the game on a sac-fly from junior Victor Torres (Bronx, N.Y.) in the fifth, the Lions took the lead on a two-out homer in the top of the seventh by Juan Torres. The Lions tacked on an insurance run in the inning, before bringing in Olsen to close out the 4-2 victory.
Game two got off to an ominous start for the AMCATS, who quickly fell behind 3-0 in the top of the second, as Victor Torres delivered a two-run single, stole second, and came around to score.
The AMCATS clawed back with a run in the bottom half of the inning, as Hyland drove in Fallon on an RBI-single to cut the Lions’ lead to 3-1.
In the fourth inning, after a run scoring single from Hyland had cut the lead to one, Michael Galvin cleared the bases with a towering three-run shot to center, giving the AMCATS a 5-2 advantage.
The AMATS added runs in the sixth and seventh innings, including a home run by Scafidi on the first pitch of the sixth, before bringing in Maldanado to close out the 7-4 victory.
The Lions will take the field again on Tuesday when they host Curry at 2:00 pm. The AMCATS return to action Sunday, hosting Curry in a TCCC doubleheader beginning at 12:00 pm at WPI’s Alumni Field.
Photo Courtesy of David Sheridan for AMC Sports Information
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Galvin selected as ECAC Player of the Week
 Galvin batted .684 during the spring trip
ECAC Players of the Week
PAXTON, Mass. – A day after being selected as The Commonwealth Coast Conference Baseball Player of the Week, junior shortstop Michael Galvin (Rutland, Mass.) was named the Eastern Collegiate Athletic Conference Division III New England Baseball Player of the Week.
Galvin had an outstanding week at The RussMatt Central Florida Invitational, leading the AMCATS in almost every offensive category, including batting average (.684), hits (13), runs (9), total bases (16), on base percentage (.739), and slugging percentage (.842). The AMC shortstop had at least two-hits in every game this week, including three three-hit games. He also scored at least one run in every game and had three-straight multi-RBI performances. He finished the week a blistering 13-for-19 at the plate while adding two stolen bases.
During perhaps his best day of the week, Galvin collected back-to-back three-hit multi-RBI games in a doubleheader versus Northland. The junior went 3-for-4 in game one with three runs scored and two runs batted in. In game two, Galvin once again went 3-for-4 at the plate, scoring two runs while adding two RBI’s, and two stolen bases.
Galvin, who missed most of last season after undergoing surgery on his ankle, helped to lead Anna Maria to their best start in program history this week. Along with Galvin, the AMCATS are returning eight juniors and six seniors this season, as the club looks to make a return to the TCCC playoffs and contend for a Conference Championship. |
Galvin wins TCCC Player of the Week Award
 Galvin had atleast two hits in every game
TCCC Players of the Week
PAXTON, Mass. – Junior shortstop Michael Galvin (Rutland, Mass.) was selected as The Commonwealth Coast Conference Baseball Player of the Week after a torrid five-game stretch at The RussMatt Central Florida Invitational.
Galvin led the AMCATS in almost every offensive category, including batting average (.684), hits (13), runs (9), total bases (16), on base percentage (.739), and slugging percentage (.842). The AMC shortstop had at least two-hits in every game this week, including three three-hit games. He also scored at least one run in every game and had three-straight multi-RBI performances. He finished the week a blistering 13-for-19 at the plate while adding two stolen bases.
During perhaps his best day of the week, Galvin collected back-to-back three-hit multi-RBI games in a doubleheader versus Northland. The junior went 3-for-4 in game one with three runs scored and two runs batted in. In game two, Galvin once again went 3-for-4 at the plate, scoring two runs while adding two RBI’s, and two stolen bases.
Galvin, who missed most of last season after undergoing surgery on his ankle, helped to lead Anna Maria to their best start in program history this week. The AMCATS have missed the playoffs by just one game in each of the past two seasons, but are looking like a good bet to get over the hump this year. |
AMCATS off to best start in program history
 Lander is hitting .579 with 8 R, 7 RBI, and 7 SB
PAXTON, Mass. – After sweeping a doubleheader versus Northland College on Tuesday, the Anna Maria College baseball team improved their record to 4-1 in the RussMatt Central Florida Invitational. The 4-1 start is the best by any team in the program’s 30 years of existence.
The team began the Florida trip with an 11-3 victory over Drew University in their season opener. Junior James McNamara (Worcester, Mass.) earned the win, tossing six inning and surrendering just four hits and one earned run, while sophomore Dean Diamantopoulos (Shrewsbury, Mass.) earned the save by throwing three scoreless frames. Senior Jeff Lander (Gloucester, Mass.) had three hits and three stolen bases in the victory, while JK Vaughn (Simsbury, Conn.), Jeff Kodys (Holden, Mass.), Jeff Scafidi (Worcester, Mass.), and Justin Hyland (Spencer, Mass.) each collected two hits apiece.
The AMCATS returned to the field the following day to split a doubleheader with Waynesburg University. AMC took the first game 6-3 as junior Zach Rafferty (Worcester, Mass.) earned the win by tossing five innings of two-hit ball, surrendering just one run in the process. Junior Mike Galvin (Rutland, Mass.) and Jeff Lander each went 3-for-3 in the game. The AMCATS went on to drop the second game of the twin-bill, 10-6.
Anna Maria then swept their double-dip versus Northland College on Tuesday. Junior Brendon Tivnan (Worcester, Mass.) earned the win during AMC’s 16-8 victory in game one, while Lander went 4-for-4 with three doubles. Mike Galvin also played well, going 3-for-4 with three runs scored. Scafidi got the “W” in game two, as the AMC offense supported him with five runs in the opening frame, and coasted to a 12-6 victory. Catcher Jeff Kodys paced the AMC offensive attack by going a perfect 4-for-4 at the plate, while Scafidi helped his own cause by going 3-for-4 with four runs batted in. Mike Galvin, who has had at least one hit in every game during the Spring trip, also went 3-for-4 during the win.
The AMCATS will conclude their trip by playing Salem State on Thursday, before playing doubleheaders versus Moravian College on Friday, and Calumet College of St. Joe on Saturday. |
Worcester Tornadoes join AMCATS' Baseball Staff
PAXTON, Mass. – Head Coach Dave McNamara has announced the 2010 Anna Maria College baseball coaching staff, which includes Worcester Tornadoes stars Alex Trezza and Chris Colabello, as well as local standouts Chris Logan and Justin Perry.
Alex Trezza is entering his 10th year as a professional baseball player and has enjoyed a remarkable baseball career. A former Division I All-American and Conference Player of the Year at Stony Brook University, Trezza also holds the career and single season home run records at the University. Trezza was an 18th round MLB draft pick for the Detroit Tigers in 2001 and voted the Organization’s Most Improved Player in 2003. Trezza has also played in the Colorado Rockies organization and for the North Shore Spirit in the Can-Am League. He led the Can-Am League in home runs in 2006 and has been playing for the Worcester Tornadoes since 2008.
Chris Colabello, the former Assumption College star is widely recognized as the face of the Worcester Tornadoes. Chris is currently entering his sixth year of professional baseball. He is the Tornadoes all-time franchise leader in career batting average (.315), games (366), at-bats (1,371), runs (226), hits (428), doubles (106), home runs (45), runs batted in (248) and walks (156). Colabello also holds Can-Am League records in Doubles (34) and extra base-hits (51) in a single season. In 2008, Colabello hit .336 with 16 HRs, while also leading the league in RBIs (76).
Chris Logan, another former local star, was recently named to the Worcester State College All-Decade Team. Logan was a two-year captain and two-time All-MASCAC selection while leading the Lancers to two Conference Championships, including 2008 when he hit .364 with 55 hits and 15 doubles.
Justin Perry also joins the AMCAT staff after pitching for the Stonehill College baseball team and quarterbacking for the football team. A 2009 graduate, Perry also played baseball in the prestigious, NECBL and joins the team as a Graduate Assistant Coach. |
AMC Boys of Summer Shine in Offseason
PAXTON, Mass. – The Anna Maria College baseball program was well represented this offseason with Jim McNamara (Worcester, Mass.), Jeff Scafidi (Worcester, Mass.), and Zach Rafferty (Worcester, Mass.), each starring in their summer leagues. Along with this trio, the AMCATS are expected to return 22 of the 23 players from last year’s roster, putting themselves in a great position for the 2010 season.
Jim McNamara played his summer ball for the Sag Harbor Whalers in the very competitive Atlantic Collegiate Baseball League, which is comprised of mostly Division I athletes. In fact, 27 former ACBL players were drafted by Major League Baseball organizations in the 2009 MLB Draft alone. McNamara thrived against the stiff competition, finishing second among all ACBL pitchers with a sparkling 1.98 ERA, surrendering just nine earned runs in 41 innings. Jim will return to Anna Maria this fall for his junior season after leading the AMCATS in wins, complete games, strikeouts, and innings pitched in 2009.
After capturing the AMC Team MVP Award last season, Jeff Scafidi continued his torrid pace this summer while playing for East Side American Legion. He compiled a .445 batting average, collecting 46 hits, four home runs, 37 RBI’s, and 73 total bases in just 25 games. Jeff will return to AMC for his sophomore year after a record-breaking freshman campaign in which he set the program marks for hits, runs batted in, doubles, triples, and total bases in a single season.
Zach Rafferty also had an impressive offseason while pitching in the Central New England Baseball Association. Rafferty recorded 32 strikeouts in just 29 innings of work and finished with a 2.48 ERA. After making six starts for the AMCATS in 2009, Rafferty is expected to return as a part of the rotation in his junior season.
AMC lost just one player from last season’s roster while adding several freshmen recruits this fall. With nine seniors and 10 juniors on the team, the AMCATS are a poised for a post season run in 2010. |
2009 Recap
The AMC baseball team entered the 2009 season with high expectations after capturing 12 wins in 2008, and barely missing the Conference playoffs by just one game. Although the team improved their TCCC record to 8-14 this year, they struggled down the stretch and once again fell short of the playoffs by just one game, finishing with an overall record of 12-27-1. On a positive note, the team’s total of eight one-run losses is evidence of how close they are to becoming one of the top teams in the Conference.
Although they missed the playoffs, the 2009 season was a very successful year for the program as they continued to grow and improve. Their eight Conference victories were the most for AMC since the 2001 season, and the second highest total in the program’s history. This year’s team set program records for runs scored (215), batting average (.299), hits (356), doubles (61), home runs (14), runs batted in (190), total bases (475), and earned run average (6.08) since the team stats were kept in 2004.
Freshman Jeff Scafidi (Worcester, Mass.) and sophomore Jim McNamara (Worcester, Mass.) both had record breaking seasons for the AMCATS this year. As AMC’s starting center fielder, Scafidi set single season program records for hits (54), runs batted in (38), and total bases (83), while also tying the record for doubles (13) and triples (5). He finished the season leading the club in batting average, hits, doubles, triples, total bases, slugging percentage, and runs batted in, while also tying for the team lead in runs scored and stolen bases. In addition, Scafidi was selected as the TCCC Rookie of the Week twice in his first season. Excelling both on the mound and at the plate, McNamara set the program’s career marks for wins and doubles during the year. This season, he led the pitching staff in wins (4), complete games (3), innings pitched (50.1), and strikeouts (37), while also finishing in the top five in almost every offensive category including batting average (.322), hits (47), doubles (7), runs batted in (25), and total bases (59).
Sophomore Jeff Kodys (Holden, Mass.) manned the catcher position for the AMCATS this year and was selected as a member of the All-TCCC Second Team. He completed the season batting .327 with 36 hits, seven doubles, three homers, 26 runs batted in, 20 runs scored, and 52 total bases; finishing among the top five on the club in each category. Junior Craig Doyle (Worcester, Mass.) and sophomore Nick Aromando (Oxford, Mass.) completed a solid core of catchers for the AMCATS this season.
Third baseman Alex Roycewicz (Oxford, Mass.) started 35 games at the hot corner for the AMCATS this season and was a major contributor with his bat. “Royce” batted .341 on the year with seven doubles, 21 runs batted in, and a team leading .386 on base percentage. During one outstanding stretch, Alex collected a hit in eight consecutive at bats spanning over four games.
Up the middle, AMC went with a combination of Andy Fallon (Worcester, Mass.), Brendon Tivnan (Worcester, Mass.), Dave Beauregard (Leicester, Mass.), and Judson Evarts (North Ferrisburgh, Vt.). With Michael Galvin (Rutland, Mass.) recovering from foot surgery, Fallon did a fine job taking over as the starting shortstop. Leading off for the AMCATS, Fallon batted .299 while tying for the team lead with seven stolen bases. Tivnan and Beauregard made 24 and 16 starts, respectively, between second and third. Evarts came on strong at the end of the year, starting seven games at second while making important contributions such as a walk-off single in extra-innings versus Wentworth.
Left fielder JK Vaughn (Simsbury, Conn.) and right fielder Matt Touhey (Mendon, Mass.) joined Scafidi as the team’s starting outfield. Vaughn had a terrific junior season, finishing second on the team with eight doubles and a .352 batting average, while also ranking among the top three on the club in hits (45), runs (24), and on base percentage (.382). Touhey made 22 starts for the AMCATS and tied for second on the team by drawing 12 walks in just 80 plate appearances.
Battling an elbow injury the entire season, Jeff Lander (Gloucester, Mass.) was relegated to starting as the team’s designated hitter. Lander led the club with four home runs in 93 at bats, finishing with a .280 batting average and a .362 on base percentage.
Led by McNamara, the AMCATS five-man starting rotation also included Brian Richard (Auburn, Mass.), Zach Rafferty (Worcester, Mass.), Brendon Tivnan, and Jeff Scafidi. Richard went 1-3 in seven starts despite a solid 4.50 earned run average, while Sacfidi and Rafferty each finished 1-4 over six starts. Tivnan compiled a 1-2 record in six starts, striking out an impressive 28 batters in 31.2 innings of work.
The AMC bullpen was comprised of Matt Fournier (Worcester, Mass.), Tim Henderson (Wayland, Mass.), Pete Labelle (Gardner, Mass.), Derek Malkowski (Corbeil, Ont.), Michael Allard (Monson, Mass.), and Kyle Green (Worcester, Mass.). Perhaps the staff’s most versatile pitcher, Fournier made 10 appearances out of the pen as well as four starts. He compiled a 3-2 record and led the team with a 3.50 ERA, two saves, and a .215 batting average against. Henderson led the team with 15 appearances in his freshman year, earning a win and a save while striking out 26 batters in 29.1 innings.
After dramatic improvements over the last two seasons, the AMCATS will enter the 2010 season looking to make a return to postseason play. AMC will welcome back nine seniors and 10 juniors next year while losing just one graduate. The club now appears poised to take the next step and make a run at one of the top spots in the Conference in 2010. |
Kodys selected to All-TCCC Team
 Kodys had nine multi-hit games this year
All-TCCC Team
PAXTON, Mass. – The Commonwealth Coast Conference Commissioner Gregg Kaye announced Thursday that Anna Maria College sophomore Jeff Kodys (Holden, Mass.) has been selected as a member of the All-TCCC Baseball Second Team.
Kodys had an excellent sophomore campaign as the AMCATS’ starting catcher this year. He finished the season among the top five on the team in eight offensive categories including batting average (.327), runs (20), doubles (7), home runs (3), runs batted in (26), total bases (52), slugging (.473), and on base percentage (.383). He had nine multi-hit games on the year and drove in multiple runs seven times. During a four-game stretch in late March, including a sweep of a TCCC doubleheader versus Gordon College, Kodys went 9-16 with six runs scored and eight RBI.
With Kodys and all but one player returning next season, the AMCATS are poised to make a run in 2010. AMC will have nine seniors and 10 juniors in ’10, and are looking like legitimate contenders for a Conference title.
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Golden Bears sweep AMCATS on Senior Day
 Fournier was celebrated on Senior Day
Box Scores: Game 1 / Game 2
PAXTON, Mass. – Freshman Mark DiTommaso (Hebron, Conn.) tossed a complete-game in the opener, while sophomore Andrew Fatse (Hampden, Mass.) went 3-for-5 with five runs batted in during game two to help lift the Western New England College baseball team to a sweep over Anna Maria College in a The Commonwealth Coast Conference doubleheader on Saturday afternoon. The Golden Bears took game one 6-2 before running away with the second game, 16-2. WNEC finishes the regular season with a 25-14 overall record, going 16-6 in the TCCC. The AMCATS dropped their final seven games of the year to finish 12-27-1 overall and 8-14 in the Conference.
AMC Pitcher Matt Fournier (Worcester, Mass.) was honored before the game as part of senior day. Fournier entered today’s action with a 3-2 record, a team-high two saves, and a team-best 3.50 ERA. His .215 batting average against was also tops on the club.
Fatse paced the Golden Bears on offense, going 4-for-8 with a double and a home run, while leading all players with six RBI on the afternoon. Junior Steve Kearney (Glastonbury, Conn.) and senior Chris Newell (Wallingford, Con.) also had strong days at the plate, pounding out four hits apiece. On the mound, DiTammaso went the distance in game one, surrendering just two runs while striking out five to improve his record to a perfect 6-0 on the year. Junior Matt Rogers (Portsmouth, R.I.) tossed five strong innings in game two, allowing two runs on five hits to earn his fourth win of the season.
Sophomore Jim McNamara (Worcester, Mass.) led the AMCATS with a team-high three hits on the afternoon, while junior Jeff Lander (Gloucester, Mass.) went 2-for-3 in game one, including a solo homer to right field. Sophomore Brian Richard (Auburn, Mass.) was impressive in his game one start, going 5.2 innings while allowing just three earned runs and striking out five.
WNEC jumped on the board first in the opener, getting an RBI-single up the middle by shortstop Justin Walz (Groton, Conn.) to grab a 1-0 lead.
The AMCATS struck back with runs in both the third and fourth innings to take a 2-1 advantage. Sophomore Alex Roycewicz got the scoring started for AMC with an RBI-single to left in the third, while Lander delivered a go-ahead homer in the fourth.
The lead would be short lived, as the Golden Bears rallied for two runs in the fifth, including an RBI single by sophomore Tony Trubia (Tolland, Conn.), and three more in the sixth to build a 6-2 lead.
DiTammaso then finished what he had started, retiring the last four hitters in order to solidify the 6-2 victory.
Game two was all WNEC from the start. They scored at least one run in every inning except for the seventh, including six runs on five hits in the third, and five runs in the sixth. Fatse and Trubia both homered for the Golden Bears, as the tam pounded out 14 hits to capture a 16-2 win. Rogers pitched well for WNEC, allowing just two runs in five innings to improve to 4-3 on the year.
WNEC finishes the year as the number two seed in the TCCC and will advance to the postseason starting on Tuesday. The AMCATS will have to wait and see what happens with Gordon College and Colby-Sawyer College before knowing whether or not they have qualified for post season play.
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