The PMHS Varsity baseball season came to a close on May 26th with a grueling extra inning loss against the Pearl River Pirates in the semifinals. Although the team fell short of a berth in the sectional finals, this season will be viewed as a significant step forward for the program. This was the first time in nearly 20 years that the Pelham team had reached the final four.

“Making it to the semifinals was a great experience for our team,” Coach Brian Leighton said. “Each game was definitely more and more intense as it got closer to the semifinals.”

Pitching was spectacular on both sides, with some defensive lapses accounting for three of the four runs allowed by Pelham pitching. Gavin Keating got the start and went six strong innings, allowing two runs, only one of which was earned, while striking out six. After seven innings, the score was tied, sending the game to extra innings. None of the pitchers allowed any runs on either side until the 12th inning, when Pearl River scored two unearned runs following defensive miscues by Pelham.

There was much more to the game than the score showed, as several calls by the umpires were disputed by players and coaches throughout the game. Ejections occurred in both the 7th and 11th innings, leading to increased tension and competitiveness.

“The ejections occurred in crucial and high-pressure situations,” Coach Leighton shared in an email. “However, it was very competitive throughout all 12 innings, and we were very proud of what the team had accomplished this season.”

Several of the team’s players were honored with awards following the conclusion of the season. Gavin Keating was named league pitcher of the year with his 1.00 ERA. The team’s shortstop, junior Jonathan Starvatow, took home the league MVP award with a .414 batting average and 23 stolen bases.

Despite the heartbreaking loss, Pelham’s semifinal appearance represents the team’s best postseason finish in nearly 20 years and provides a foundation for future success.