LYNN — This time, the Lynn Babe Ruth 15-year-old All-Star team hopes to complete the task at hand.
Last year, the players on this team bowed out as 14s in the state final to Maplewood in extra innings. Thursday, Lynn conquered that beast with a 4-1 win over Maplewood and now faces Parkway of West Roxbury today (3 PM) at Adams Field in Quincy.
Lynn manager Leon Elwell has already taken two Babe Ruth teams to World Series tournaments: the senior league in 2018 and a team of 15-year-olds in 2016.
Lynn should be ready. As the top seed in the tournament, it handily defeated Taunton Tuesday and then Maplewood Thursday. In those two victories, Lynn’s trademark pitching and defense were major factors in the wins.
“I think we’re pretty deep in all facets,” said coach Rich Avery. “And that starts with pitching. On any given day, we have six or seven kids who can start and throw a gem.”
That starts with Josh Doney, a lefty who can throw heat and buckle knees with his breaking stuff. Chris Marks started the game against Maplewood and gave up only one run before giving way to Doney.
Also seeing action in this tournament were Jared Paone and Levi DaSilva. All were effective.
The infield consists of Richie Avery at first, Jayden Driscoll at second, Christian Figueroa at short, and Matt Lewis at third.
“That was the same infield we had last year,” said Rich Avery. “They have worked awfully hard in that time, and they’ve turned into a real good unit.”
Lynn has upgraded up the middle thanks to two Revere boys who came after Lynn absorbed its neighbor to the south during the offseason.
“Kyle Cummings at catcher is a huge upgrade,” said Avery. “Last year, three runs scored on passed balls. Also, Seth Sullivan, our center fielder, Seth Sullivan came over too. Seth is a very good center fielder and a great leadoff hitter. He’s a real dirt dog. A throwback.”
Corner outfield play has been solid. In left field is Alex Lara, while Gilly Galva is in right.
“These guys just don’t let the ball hit the ground,” Avery said. “They are all great outfielders. They are aggressive.”
“Gilly’s fantastic,” said Avery. “He’s one of the best, most likable kids. He always has a smile on his face. You can see why he’s one of our best. He has a great arm, and he’s fast.”
Should Lynn win this tournament, it will start the New England regionals up in Keene, N.H., on the campus of Keene State College. If it wins in Keene, it’ll be another trip to the World Series.
