For the final game of the season, the Warriors came out to their home field on April 20 to play the Cedar Ridge Raiders and honor the seniors on the team. The night consisted of a double header with the Warriors losing both games, but the spirits remained high as the season came to a close.

In the first game of the night, the Warriors came out strong as they did not allow the Raiders to score until the fifth inning. Good teamwork between pitcher Kyle Clements ‘19 and catcher Aidan Bird ‘20 allowed for quick outs. In the first inning, the Warriors were able to gain a lead. After their hits, Reed Harrington ‘18 and Chad Dixon ‘18 were settled on the bases, and after Will Clitheroe ‘19 hit the ball, both made it home. The Warriors remained in the lead until the sixth inning when the Raiders were able to score two runs bringing the score to 3-2. In the final inning, Dixon switched into pitch and was successful in not allowing more runs, however the Warriors could not score again, and lost 3-2.

Between the two games, the seniors were honored for their time and hard work on the team. Each boy was announced as they met up with their parents on the field.

In the second game, the Warriors were able to have a higher scoring game. As all the seniors on the team started, they were eager to score and enjoy their last time on the field. Nicky Manasso ‘18 and Jake Morrow ‘18 pitched for their final times throughout this game. During the seven innings, Dixon, Trevor Borses ‘18, Jackson Melton ‘18, Geraldo Garcia ‘18, and Marshall Dean ‘18 were all able to get home and score for the Warriors. In the end, the Warriors lost 9-3.

Emotions ran high after the game as the seniors stepped off the field for the last time. The game was followed by hugs and tears between the players and their family and friends. When asked about their season and their time on the baseball field this is what some of the seniors said:

Jake Morrow: “Tonight is my favorite memory of Westwood baseball ever, I played my absolute heart and soul out and had the most fun I’ve ever had. I truly love every one of those guys, it was so hard to see it end.”

Marshall Dean: “My favorite thing about Westwood baseball is being a part of a group of guys where we’ve bonded through hard work and countless hours on the field together. My favorite moments include the walk-off win versus McNeil, the Houston tournament, and the 16 inning game we played vs Stony Point this year.”

Jackson Melton: “It’s gonna be really hard to stop playing baseball since it’s been such a huge part of my life for the past 13 years, but I’m thankful for all the lesson I’ve learned and all the great memories I have. Just like the time I hit two tanks during tryouts sophomore year which was crazy.”

Reed Harrington: “To play my final high school game is something that is just crazy to think about. I feel like it wasn’t that long ago I was playing my first varsity game my sophomore year. It’s definitely gonna be a sad and emotional night for me. As far as continuing to play baseball, I am currently talking to a couple of colleges in regards to playing and will see where those take me, however at the moment i’m planning on attending Texas Tech.”

Nicky Manasso: “My favorite part of baseball was just making all these friends and the experiences we shared. The memories we created along with the jokes and sayings we made are just so enjoyable.”

Sam Zientek: “I really enjoyed being around my teammates and forming a relationship with each of them.”

Gerardo Garcia: “I am sad that I am playing my last high school game and I am really going to miss baseball and all of my friends. My sophomore year really sticks out to me because we were really good and I really enjoyed playing.”

Reid Carrier: “The best thing about baseball is that we are all really good friends.”

Chad Dixon: “It’s exciting to move on to greater things, but I’m gonna miss playing with everyone at Westwood. I’m going to continue playing baseball at Trinity University.”

Trevor Borses: “I’ve really enjoyed being able to play with my close friends at Westwood. My favorite moment this year was trucking the catcher because he was in my way as I ran home.”

The Warriors will continue to train and improve their game play throughout the off season and be back on the field next spring.