West Orange Routs Evans In Win

As the first week of the season comes to an end, the West Orange Warriors traveled to Evans High to take on the Trojans on a cold Thursday night. The Warriors and Trojans clashed for the first time this season in hopes for a huge statement game for Evans.

West Orange is loaded with talent. Of the 19 active players on the roster, 15 of them are already fully committed to play baseball at the next level. Those college-caliber players held to a final of 15-0 after six innings, as the Warriors erupted with a seven-run sixth to close it out.

Trojans’ starting pitcher, Hugo Laboy, was solid in his first game on the mound in his career. He struck out two Warriors in the first inning, creating confidence in the dugout and a yearning to get back out there and compete in the game.

Both teams got time to experiment with new pitchers, substitute position players, and consistent officiating from both umpires throughout the game. Roberto Guillen got a chance to pinch-hit in the sixth inning and made it his business to be heard. Blasting a two-run home run over the left field wall, Guillen sparked a serious run made by West Orange to close out the game.

West Orange center fielder Deandre Shelton also had a huge night, with two big hits, two RBIs, and two stolen bases, the junior who is already committed to the University of Alabama carried the team on his back in a strong outing.

“I was making sure I was staying aggressive,” Shelton explains. “I needed to stay on top of the ball. I know that’s been my biggest struggle lately is staying with the ball through the zone. Especially since I hit form both sides of the plate. I’ve been doing that since I was 4 years old.”

On the mound, Ben Good seriously delivered the goods. Only allowing one hit in his winning effort, Good struck out five Trojans. Following in relief for Good was Matt Rinks who also had a solid night in posting three strikeouts and a walk.

Evans Manager Dale Salapa was in high spirits even despite the tough outing for his boys.

“These are all really good kids. We’ve grown a lot together and continue to push each other every day when we come out here,” Salapa said. “We need to get the discipline thing down pat. Once we have everyone knowing what they need to be doing before every play, then we’ll be where we want to go. We made some nice plays in the field and had decent pitching. It all comes with experience.”

With experience will come better baseball. The Trojans are getting ready for three games next week as the season rolls on. Both of these squads will be demanding more from their players as the season rolls along.

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