Weather woes and schedule shifts
The weekend brought a flurry of activity to the local Little League fields, with multiple squads delivering dominant performances while a hot forecast prompted the governing district to shift start times for several contests.
Greater Pittston Area opened its series with an 11‑1 triumph over Kingston/Forty Fort. Jaxon Bender delivered a stellar outing, striking out seven batters while allowing just one hit, and also contributed a triple at the plate. Anthony Argento powered the offense with a 2‑for‑2 performance that included a double and two RBI, while Jake Hulse and Michael Fanti each added multiple hits.
Greater Wyoming Area answered with a 14‑3 rout of Swoyersville/West Side. Franco Ramiza’s clutch double knocked in three runs, and the team exploded for ten runs in the fourth inning. David Hiller, who entered in relief, tossed 1.2 shutout innings, preserving the lead.
Valley East continued its unbeaten streak, blanking Hanover 11‑0 in five innings. Isaac Richards dominated the mound with ten strikeouts, surrendering only two hits, and Lucas Ferdinand closed the game with two more strikeouts and no hits allowed.
Valley West also posted a convincing 13‑0 victory over Nanticoke. Jason Ervin’s combination of two doubles and a single helped fuel the offense, while Jude Ulanoski earned the win by pitching three solid innings and striking out five batters.
Hazleton secured an 11‑1 win against Hazle Township, with Henry Garcia delivering a complete‑game effort that featured ten strikeouts and just one hit allowed.
Freeland edged Mountain Top 3‑1, highlighted by pitcher Kavon Cottle’s 16 strikeouts over 5.2 innings, earning the victory for his team.
District 16/31 announced adjustments to the start times of several games in response to the forecasted intense heat, ensuring player safety while keeping the schedule moving forward.