The Delbarton School baseball squad captured the state championship after a grueling 10‑inning marathon against St. Augustine, a game that swung back and forth before a decisive walk‑off in the final frame.
A Delayed Start
The contest was halted when St. Augustine’s team bus suffered a flat tire, leaving the players stranded. Rather than press on without them, the Green Eagles offered a ride, demonstrating a brand of sportsmanship that resonated throughout the stadium.
Key Performances
Kyle McBride earned the win on the mound, tossing 2 ⅔ innings and striking out eight batters. At the plate, Matt Tafuri led the lineup with two hits, while Lorenzo Maselli’s clutch walk in the tenth produced the go‑ahead run. Contributions from Curt Friedrich, Finnian O’Loughlin, Ted Masino and Maselli helped fuel the rally.
Coach Bruce Shatel’s Dual Triumph
Head coach Bruce Shatel, who also guides the school’s ice‑hockey team that captured a state title earlier this year, praised the collective effort of both squads. ‘This win means a lot, especially after the hockey team’s success,’ he said, underscoring the program’s recent momentum.
Program Milestone
The victory marks Delbarton’s first state baseball championship since 2019 and adds to a storied history that now stands at five titles. The win also reflects the depth of talent across the school’s athletic programs.
St. Augustine’s Alex Weingartner struck out eight batters over seven innings but took the loss, while John Eddis led the prep school with three hits in five at‑bats. The game’s narrative was further enriched by the presence of additional standouts such as Brady Jackson, James Gaven, Jack Lerro, and others who contributed to a memorable contest.