Crusaders begin season with a win at home

Monroe. After a scoreless first inning, the team’s offense came alive and scored 21 runs in three innings.

| 05 Apr 2023 | 05:49

The Crusaders started their 2023 campaign at home as they took on the Raiders of Port Jervis.

Head Coach Christopher Vero and assistants Patrick Tierney and William Beyer look to guide the Crusaders to a Section 9 title with a strong team that features 11 seniors this year.

After a scoreless first inning, the Crusaders offense came alive and scored 21 runs over the next three innings. The runs ended the game after the top of the fifth inning due to the mercy rule.

The Crusaders offense was lead by JJ Kelleher who had 1 hit, 4 runs and 3 RBIs. Collin Murray pulled in 2 hits, a double, 3 runs, and 3 RBIs; David Fennessy had a triple, 2 runs and 4 RBIs while Peyton Jemison had a triple, 1 run and 4 RBI’s.

Starting pitcher Jaden Fateman went 3 innings allowing 1 hit while striking out 5 to pick up the win. Lucas Beers put in 2 innings in relief and struck out 6 to finish off the shut out victory.

The Crusaders 21-0 victory brings their record to 1-0. Their next game will be next week when they travel to Goshen to face the Gladiators.

Photo 1-Starting Pitcher Jaden Fateman #21, picked up the opening day victory. Photo 2-David Fennessy #15, had a triple and 4 RBIs in the game Photo 3-Lucas Beers #44, struck out 6 in 2 innings of work Photo 4-Payton Jemison #22, had a triple and 4 RBIs in the game.