The Monroe-Woodbury Crusaders are making waves in the baseball world after their dominant performance against the Mamaroneck Tigers on Saturday night. The Crusaders secured their place in the NYSPHSAA state semifinals with an 8-5 victory, marking their first state playoff appearance since 1990.
The stage was set for a thrilling matchup, and the Crusaders delivered. With a complete-game performance by senior righty Braeden Burkethe team showcased their resilience and skill. Burke’s impressive 12 strikeouts without a single walk left Mamaroneck struggling to keep up.
Burke’s Masterful Pitching Leads the Way
Braeden Burke was the undeniable star of the game, scattering seven hits and allowing only three earned runs. His ability to keep Mamaroneck off balance throughout the contest was a testament to his skill and composure. Burke’s performance was a cornerstone of the Crusaders’ victory, providing a solid foundation for their offense to build upon.
The Crusaders’ offense was nothing short of spectacular. Joey Bauer went 2-for-2, driving in three crucial runs. Evan Erickson crossed the plate three times, and Liam Hayes added two hits, including a double, while scoring a run and driving in another. The team’s collective effort was a testament to their unity and determination.
A Historic Run Continues
With this victory, Monroe-Woodbury improves their season record to 20-3, showcasing their consistency and prowess on the field. The Crusaders will now face Massapequa in the state semifinals on June 12 at Union-Endicott High School in Binghamton. The game is scheduled for 7 p.m., and the stakes couldn’t be higher as they vie for a berth in the state championship game.
The journey to the semifinals has been a remarkable one for Monroe-Woodbury. Their first state playoff appearance in nearly three decades is a milestone that highlights their growth and potential. As they prepare to face Massapequa, the Crusaders are poised to continue their historic run and make their mark on the state baseball scene.
