Legion Baseball Snaps Streak, Earns Two Big Wins

– Allison Goldsberry

The Medford Post 45 American Legion baseball team snapped a long losing streak with two big wins over Arlington and Natick. The team struggled through its schedule with lots of injuries, a small active roster, and guys playing out of position, but managed to pull through, according to Coach Ryan Kozul.

“I am really proud of the way my core group of guys battled through it and we were competitive in every one of the losses against some very good teams,” said Kozul.

On Sunday Medford soundly defeated Arlington 11-4. Belmont Hill’s Nolan Brennan pitched a complete game, giving up only one earned run on five hits while striking out a season-high twelve guys.

Malden Catholic’s Paul Covelle was 3-3 with two triples and three RBI’s, Suffolk University’s James McConville was 2-4 with three RBI’s, Medford High School alum Kyle Heath added an RBI, and Arlington Catholic’s Ryan Carvalho had four runs scored.

On Tuesday Medford dominated playoff contender Natick, winning 12-4. MHS alum Chris Salvati pitched a complete game, striking out ten. Salvati was also 2-4 with two RBI’s and three runs scored.

Kozul praised his team for playing “tremendous defense,” led by Danny Gilchrist at third base and Covelle at second base.

Covelle was 4-4 with three RBI’s and four runs scored while Brennan was 2-4 with four RBI’s and a “towering” three run home run over the fence in centerfield.

Medford finishes up the regular season Wednesday at Playstead against Somerville for a 5:45PM game. The team will open up the District 5 double elimination playoffs on the road at some point next week, said Kozul.

MHS alum Chris Salvati, heading to Dean College in the fall, helps his team both on the mound and behind the bat.

MC’s Paul Covelle provides solid offense and defense.

Belmont Hill’s Nolan Brennan got the win on the hill against Arlington and slammed a home run against Natick.