The Lowell 9U baseball team capped off an impressive summer run by capturing the 9U Baystate Championship at Nutile Field in Winchester, MA. This championship was the crowning achievement of a season filled with grit, resilience, and redemption.

The summer began with Lowell earning the title of District Champions, which secured them a spot in the Cal Ripken State Tournament. There, they dominated pool play by outscoring their opponents 47-5, a testament to their balanced offense and airtight defense. Despite an unlucky break in the State Semifinal that ended their title hopes at that level, Lowell still posted a combined 9-1 record in district and state play.

The team then turned their attention to the prestigious Baystate Tournament, where they went 15-2, outlasting 27 teams in the 9U division to take home the championship. Lowell finished their summer with a remarkable 24-3 overall record.

Throughout the season, this Lowell squad proved that setbacks were only fuel for their fire. Every loss was met with a comeback — the boys defeated every team that had bested them earlier in the season. Offensively and defensively, they were dominant, outscoring opponents 305 to 106 over the summer.

Let’s hear it for the 9U players! 

Quinn Smith – The team’s leadoff hitter and a defensive stalwart at second base or shortstop. As the season progressed, Quinn became a weapon on the mound, pitching Lowell to victory in the Baystate Semifinal. Offensively, he led the team in runs scored (46), stolen bases (20) and hit by pitches (12), setting the tone for the lineup all summer.

Brock Upton – Hitting in the #3 spot, Brock was one of the team’s top pitchers and a powerhouse at the plate, leading Lowell in batting average, hits, doubles, triples, and RBIs. He also finished second in runs scored and played a strong first base.

Xavien McLellan – The cleanup hitter and team’s #1 pitcher, “X” gave the squad confidence every time he took the mound. He was second on the team in RBIs and even blasted a home run to seal a mercy-rule win.

Elias Marte – The 3rd baseman and consistent offensive threat. Elias improved steadily on defense and was a force in the lineup whether batting 5th or 2nd late in the year.

Colton Wilson – A versatile newcomer who made an instant impact. Colton played all over the field, including outfield, first base, third base, and catcher. He finished 2nd on the team in batting average.

Eamon Gilday – The team’s fiery catcher, handling over 90% of the innings behind the plate in summer heat. Eamon brought energy and disruption on the basepaths while contributing offensively.

Landry McFadden – A shortstop, third baseman, and the team’s #2 pitcher, Landry delivered clutch hits and bunts, while being part of a dominant pitching trio with Xavien and Brock. He recorded the final out in the Baystate Championship Game.

Joe Esquilin – A key outfielder and pitcher, Joe shined in the Baystate quarterfinals against rival Chelmsford, including a gritty at-bat where he fouled off 5–6 pitches before getting a hit.

Nico Correa – A speedy outfielder who played stellar defense and hit around .400. His speed was a game-changer.

Liam Matos – Another speedy outfielder who used his legs to pressure defenses and cover ground in the field.

Cody Royal – An outfield contributor who found ways to make an impact offensively, whether through timely hits, bunts, or taking one for the team with key HBPs.

Alex Grzegorczyk – A dynamic defender in center field or at second base. Alex made one of the best plays of the summer in the State Tournament — a diving stop and throw to first to get the runner. His speed and bunting skills were a perfect fit at the top of the order.

Winning the Baystate Tournament is no small feat. With 27 teams competing in the 9U division, Lowell emerged as the last team standing. Every player made meaningful contributions to the team’s magical run, and the title reflects the group’s work ethic, unity, and determination.

Baseball fans in Lowell have plenty to be excited about — the city now boasts Baystate Champions in three different age groups, and with a core this talented, the future is bright.

Congratulations to the 2025 Lowell 9U Baystate Champions!

Thank you to Coach Mike Upton for putting together this wonderful article!

Sidebar from a proud and thankful 9U mom…

I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to Head Coach Mike Upton, along with Brad Smith, Ryan Gilday and John Royal. I’ve seen firsthand the incredible amount of work and dedication it takes to coach this team — from monitoring the weather, caring for the fields and keeping the snack shack stocked, to scheduling practices, coaching games and even taking players to cheer on other Lowell teams.

Your commitment goes far beyond the game itself, and I can’t thank you enough for the time, effort and heart you pour into making this such a great experience for the players.