The Lowell 11U Cal Ripken baseball team capped off an impressive summer run with a hard-fought performance at the Cal Ripken Regional Tournament in New Canaan, Connecticut, after capturing the Eastern Massachusetts state championship.
Displaying grit, resilience, and heart throughout the tournament, the Lowell squad battled through adversity and advanced out of pool play, proving they belonged among the region’s best. Their journey came to an emotional quarterfinal showdown against the host and defending regional champions, New Canaan. The Lowell 11U regional team was comprised of Ryder Swett, Thomas Florence, Harry Zahareas, Jacob Marion, James Kane, Kal Eang, Lucas Ros, Ryan McDonough, Victor Bellerose, and Sean Drinkwater.
Lowell came out strong in the elimination game, jumping to an early lead thanks to timely hitting and disciplined defense. Ryder Swett started the effort in the top of the first with a hard-hit ground ball through the left side for a base hit. Thomas Florence followed with a line drive single to right field. Sean Drinkwater singled to center field scoring Swett and Florence and claiming a 2-run lead in the top of the first.
Sean Drinkwater started on the hill for Lowell. The 2-0 lead was secured going into the second thanks to a nifty double play turned in the middle of the infield by Swett and Florence.
Lowell put two more runs on the board in the top of the 3rd inning thanks to plate discipline as Marion, Drinkwater, and Kane took free passes to first. Marion would score on a Harry Zahareas hard hit ground ball and Drinkwater stole home.
Lowell stumbled in the bottom of the 3rd allowing New Canaan to push four runs across tying the game 4-4. Ryder Swett would take over on the hill in the fourth inning to settle things down.
Now trailing 5-4, Lowell would threaten in the top of the 5th on a single by Swett and a walk to Marion, however they could never push a runner across the plate. New Canaan eventually edged Lowell in a tight 5-4 contest that went down to the wire.
While the loss was tough, the Lowell coaching staff couldn’t be prouder of the team’s effort, sportsmanship, and relentless spirit.
The boys gave everything they had and enjoyed a great baseball experience in New Canaan, Connecticut. They played with heart, represented Lowell with pride, and never backed down no matter the opponent.
Winning the Eastern Massachusetts title was no small feat, and advancing in regional play showcased the team’s growth, teamwork, and determination. From clutch performances at the plate to gritty outings on the mound, every player contributed to the memorable run.
Though the team fell short of a regional crown, their summer is far from over. The Lowell 11U squad now shifts focus to defending their Baystate Baseball title — a goal they’re more motivated than ever to achieve.
As the summer winds down, one thing is clear: the future of Lowell baseball is bright, and this group of young athletes has already made their community proud.
Thank you to Coach Bill Florence for putting together this wonderful article!
A special Thank You to all the families who supported their young athletes and their teammates through the rigors of travel and tournament play. The team also thanks all of those who reached out with supportive messages and phone calls throughout the week. Your messages were heard and very much appreciated by the players! Go Lowell!
