With a 22-2-1 overall record, Roadrunner Baseball Coach Rob Valli has to be pleased with the overall play of his team -- but his pitching staff has really risen to the challenge in recent weeks following gaps due to the pandemic.
The Roadrunners enjoyed a solid return to play last weekend, rolling off three straight wins -- one vs. Salem and two over County College of Morris -- to extend their win streak to six straight and overall records to 22-2-1.
The highlight of the weekend proved to be a combined no-hitter by Jack Billings, Rich Racoboldo and Dan Frake in a 13-0 victory over host Salem Community College on Friday, April 23. Billings, the starter, struck out six in three innings while Frake finished up by fanning four batters in three innings.
"With all of the shutdowns and inconsistent scheduling, it's been tough," said Coach Valli. "But with all the gaps in play, our pitchers have really risen to the challenge. We've put in every situation imaginable, and they always respond."
Offensively, Roadrunners' catcher John Cristino enjoyed a monster day, knocking in seven runs on three hits. Centerfielder Eric Sabato also collected three hits and an RBI.
The Runners followed with a doubleheader sweep vs. County College of Morris on the road Saturday by scores of 21-2 and 4-2.
In Game 1, leadoff man Sam Daggers blasted a home run and knocked in three runs while leftfielder Nick Nocella collected five hits and three hits. Second baseman Jose Correa also added two hits, three runs scored and three RBIs.
After building a 6-1 early lead after two innings, the Runners put it away by exploding for 8 runs in the fourth inning for a commanding 14-1 advantage. Sophomore Marcus Eusebio hurled four solid innings to earn the win and improve his personal record to 5-1.
In Game 2, the Runners rallied from a 2-1 deficit with three runs in the third inning to grab the win. Correa delivered the big blow with a key two-run single off Titans' starter Sam Armstrong to lead the rally.
"Correa hits near the bottom of our lineup, and he has performed well," said Valli. "That was a big hit for us against a really good pitcher."
RCSJ freshman pitcher Chris Widger (5-0) remained unbeaten by striking out seven and scattering three hits in 4 2/3 innings.
The Runners have a busy week ahead with six games in six days starting with a home game vs. Salem CC on Tuesday, April 27, in a 3:30 start.