Westfield American Legion Post 124 starting pitcher Matthew Irzyk, delivers in the first inning of last nights game against Springfield Post 21 at Westfield State University. (Photo by Frederick Gore)
WESTFIELD – Westfield Post 124 pitcher Matt Irzyk has posted many shining moments throughout the Bombers’ high school team’s championship run. So it should come as no surprise that he is delivering in summer ball again.
Irzyk scattered five hits and struck out a whopping 12 batters in a complete game effort to lead Westfield past Springfield 21, 3-1, Monday night at Westfield State University.
What made it even more special was the fact that Matt’s father, head coach Don Irzyk, celebrated his 25th wedding anniversary with a ceremonial first pitch from Don and his wife, Kim, to daughter Emily, and Matt behind the plate.
“Pitching has done the job this season,” coach Irzyk said, alluding to his son, Matt, and others who have helped lead Westfield to a 4-0 start to begin the American Legion Baseball season.
Matt Irzyk pitched a no-hitter into the fifth inning. He had the benefit of working with a lead as Westfield put together two runs in the second, and tacked on an insurance run in the sixth.
Springfield pitcher Sam Allen (4 Ks) also pitched all seven innings, allowing just six hits.
Tim Donahue and Chris Riga drove in one run apiece with sac-flies for Westfield, Chris Robitaille hit an RBI double, Kyle Murphy went 2-for-3, and Ryan Tettemer and Rob Sullivan each had a triple and a run scored.
“We’re getting some timely hitting and, maybe even more so than what the high school team was getting,” coach Irzyk said. “In general though, that high school winning attitude is carrying over, and the addition of Ryan Tettemer is one more potential bat and fielder.”
“It’s a combination of everything,” he added. “They’re putting it all together. Hopefully it continues to go that way. These guys are capable of beating almost anybody.”
Westfield will next take on Easthampton Post 224 at Westfield State University, beginning at 5:45 p.m. It will be Post 124’s fifth game in five days with a sixth on tap for Wednesday at home against Ludlow 52.
