Young Jays Hit Early Season Stride on the Baseball Diamond
Graduating 13 seniors after a 2023 state title, the varsity baseball team entered the season as young squad brimming with potential. Hard work in the preseason quickly translated into impressive results on the field as evidenced by the team’s opening performances.
Jesuit began its campaign with a resounding 12-0 victory over Terrebonne, a game concluded in four-and-a-half innings at Kirsch-Rooney Stadium. The Blue Jays established an early lead, scoring five runs in the first inning and steadily building on their advantage with strategic plays and solid pitching. Senior Everett Denny led the pitching effort with three scoreless innings and five strikeouts, and he also contributed offensively by driving in a run. Junior Brandon Thomas continued the shutout with two scoreless innings of his own, striking out four. Senior Patrick Berrigan spearheaded the offense with two hits and two RBIs, while sophomore Marshal Serio, junior Connor Donnelly, junior Jake Moreci, and sophomore Derek Delatte each drove in runs to secure the win.
Jesuit’s momentum continued against Belle Chasse with a 7-4 victory. Moreci doubled and drove in two runs, complementing his winning performance on the mound with five innings pitched and eight strikeouts. Contributions from Serio, Donnelly, senior Luke Werling, and junior Sean Maher further highlighted the team’s balanced attack.
However, the team faced a challenging moment against St. Augustine this week in the first district 9-5A game, losing 6-5 in eight innings. Seeking redemption, Jesuit responded emphatically on Thursday, March 14, with a commanding 12-3 victory. Denny’s performance, including a base-clearing triple, a two-run double, and a single, drove in five runs. Serio cleared the bases with a solid triple, turned into an in the park homerun on a Knights’ error. The team’s aggressive play, featuring three triples, underscored their dominance throughout the game.
After winning over the weekend against Seattle Prep 12-0 and De La Salle 9-2, the Blue Jays currently hold an overall record of 10-6 and a district record of 1-1. With the season in full swing, Jesuit’s blend of young talent and determination positions the team for further success. The Jays will face Northshore on Tuesday, March 21, at 4:00 p.m. at Miley Playground. Check out the full schedule and 2024 team roster.