A Season of Drama
Ridgewood secured the Group 4 state baseball championship, edging Kingsway 7-6 in a game that swung back and forth until the final out.
The Maroons jumped out to a 5-0 lead in the first inning, sparked by senior Hudson Feeney’s three‑run double and RBI singles from Justin Loffredo and Brody Perrapato.
Senior reliever Brady Ross entered in the fourth inning with the team clinging to a 7-6 lead, throwing four scoreless innings and earning the win, greeted by chants of “Let’s go, Brady.”
Coach Kurt Hommen praised the team’s resilience, noting their perfect 3‑0 record in state finals and the ability to beat strong opponents under pressure.
Despite six hits and six walks by Kingsway, including three hits and two RBIs from cleanup hitter AJ Ward, Ridgewood’s defense held, with Ross inducing a game‑ending popup to Justin Loffredo at second base.
Kotaro Kim was the only Maroon with multiple hits, going 2‑for‑4, while Ryan Nitch was replaced on the mound and the final walk‑off was sealed by an intentional walk strategy.
Ross expressed his desire to win the championship for his teammates and the town of Ridgewood, reflecting on the season’s drama and the community’s support.