You know what I’ve been thinking? What’s more impressive: the recent winning streak from the Red Sox, or Lynnfield’s dominance during the District 16 tournament?
I wouldn’t bet against these kids, who will — no doubt — be written about some more during their high school careers.
What a run it was for the 12-year-old All-Stars, culminating in Thursday evening’s 5-3 win against Peabody West to capture the title. Next for Lynnfield is the Section 4 tournament, which begins Wednesday at Andover’s Deyermond Park.
Across five games, Lynnfield outscored opponents, 45-3, and didn’t concede a run until the championship tilt. As if that needed icing on the cake, it was the Town’s first 12-year-old title in 17 years.
“Even after errors, these guys pick each other up,” said manager Chris Cavallo. “All season long — all District long — I told them to stay confident and stay positive with each other. We’re going to make mistakes. They’re 12 years old. We’re going to make errors. Stay positive and you’re going to have your chance, whether it’s in the field or at-bat, and they did.”
They certainly did.
Lynnfield — channeling its Lionel Messi clutch gene during this World Cup — broke a 3-3 tie with a pair of sixth-inning runs. Brothers Nico (4 IP, 3 R, 2 H, 8 K, 4 BB) and Luca (2 IP, 1 H) combined for the victory.
“We’ve played these guys (Peabody West All-Stars) every year in the finals — as 10s, 11s, and now 12s,” Cavallo said. “When we’re playing each other, you know it’s going to be a good game.”
