Westfield softball pitcher Sarah McNerney fields a ground ball out. (Submitted photo)
WESTFIELD – The two-time defending Western Massachusetts Division 1 champion Westfield Bombers were one of several area teams snubbed by the “Super 8” baseball committee, and are now out to prove they were deserving of that bid.
The school’s softball team just capped off an unbeaten regular season with a record of 20-0. All that remains is a WMass crown.
There are several story lines to follow this postseason, including how the ’14 Tri-County League champion Westfield Vocational-Technical High School baseball team will react to winning its first league title in nearly two decades.
Westfield senior shortstop Lexi Minicucci records a force out at third base, making one of several defensive stops during the regular season. (Submitted photo)
Neighboring Gateway posted one of its most thrilling seasons in recent memory, finishing just one win short of its own league crown. Will the Gators turn that into a solid tournament run?
And let’s not forget about Southwick-Tolland, who stunned Westfield in a late-season shocker at Bullens Field. The Rams, who are no stranger to big-time playoff games, figure to be one of the favorites this postseason.
Westfield third baseman Maddy Atkocaitis goes up against the fence to track down a foul ball for an out in a May 23 regular season game.
The Southwick softball team, rejuvenated by a new head coach (Todd Downie) and freshman pitching phenom (Emily Lachtara), may also have just about as good a chance as anyone too.
There is more than just baseball and softball set to take place though Thursday.
The Westfield boys’ volleyball and lacrosse teams look to post their second straight victories this postseason at Agawam and home against Westboro, respectively.
Westfield girls’ tennis travels to Longmeadow on Friday. The unbeaten Bombers’ boys (12-0) host Northampton Saturday.
Also, on Saturday, Westfield State University will play host to the WMASS/Central boys’ and girls’ track and field championships, beginning at 9:30 a.m.
For a complete listing of the high school postseason, visit our calendar page or check the latest edition of The Westfield News.
