SEASON IN REVIEW: HUDSON BASEBALL

Greg Dedrick
ccSCOOP Sports Editor

07-02-09 - The Hudson Bluehawks varsity baseball team enjoyed another successful season in the Patroon Conference, but their season ended prematurely in sectional play this year. After going 15-3 in the league, good enough for second place, the Bluehawks were seeded fifth in the ultra-competitive Section II Class B sectional tournament.
 
In their first round matchup against fourth-seeded Saratoga Catholic, the Bluehawks looked poised to move into the final four against league rival Chatham, but a late rally ended those hopes and the Bluehawks season by a score of 5-4. The loss finished off Hudson’s season and put their final record at an impressive 19-4.
 
Hudson will lose a number of talented players to graduation including Patroon Conference First Team members Justin Brantley and Mike Rigos. Second Team All Star Brandon Williams will also be graduating from the squad.
 
Looking toward next year, Patroon Conference Second Team All Star Kevin Gorman will return to pitch and play in the infield, while Talib Barksdale will return to first base. Jordan Smith’s return on the mound will also be key for the Bluehawks next season.
 
On the season, seven different Bluehawks hit over .300 this year—an impressive number for any team’s offense. Some top performers at the plate for Hudson this year included Brandon Williams who hit .347 with 24 runs and 14 RBIs. Kevin Gorman ended the year hitting .350 with 21 RBIs and 12 runs scored. Jack Rigos added to the offensive potency by hitting .324 with 18 RBIs and 16 runs. Siena-bound pitcher Justin Brantley is known for his exploits on the mound but was also dangerous at the plate, hitting .356 with 31 runs. Jon Carpenito hit .317 with 16 runs, while Mike Rigos capped off a fantastic season hitting .466 with 32 runs scored, 3 triples, 2 home runs, and 24 RBIs.