by Meredith Rosenquist and Greg Kay
The Lowell 11U Ripken team had a great summer season that culminated with a Bay State league championship.
The team started the season off strong with a district championship in Ripken and a run to the semifinals in States.
They finished the season in Bay States with a 22-4 record, outscoring their opponents 271 to 49, including two trophy weekend victories, and ended the season with 13 straight wins.
The team was led on offense by Wes McDonald (11HR), Matthew Rurak (7 HR), Arthur De Souza (2 HR), Jack Duffy (1 HR), and Finn Stevens (1 HR).
Amongst the team leaders in batting average were Emilio Cespedes, Drew Durkin, and Matthew Matos. Timely hits by Liam Joyce and at bats by Merryn Kay proved vital.
Pitching was led by starters Emilio Cespedes, Harry Shea, Arthur De Souza, Matthew Matos, and closer Wes McDonald.
Stellar spot starts were turned in by Jack Duffy, Louis Molinari, Logan Kelly, Finn Stevens, and Matthew Rurak.
Overall, the team defense was strong, with many players playing multiple positions throughout the summer.
Thank you to the coaching staff and families for a great season, especially manager Sammy Valles, and coaches Greg Kay, Brian Shea, and Kris Stevens.
