Pitching holds key for LWA

Lawrence Woodmere Academy’s baseball team will begin PSAA postseason play later this week, after finishing with a 5-2 record in the regular season. While LWA lacks the level of experience that some of the league’s top contenders feature, the Tigers’ strong pitching could give them a chance to put together a memorable playoff run.

This spring, pitchers Noah Warren and Elijah Saint Furcy have emerged as some of the league’s best arms, and have LWA head coach Karim Shabazz feeling quite confident about his team’s chances. 

“I tell our players all the time, that it comes down to the pitcher and the catcher, and everything else is secondary,” he said. “If your pitcher is dealing, the game becomes much simpler. If Noah and Elijah are throwing well, then the game becomes much easier for us.”

Warren has served as the veteran ace on the mound this season, and played a key role in LWA securing a playoff position. 

“This season has really been a turnaround from last year for us,” Shabazz said. “Warren has really been throwing the ball well and has been a major reason for that.” 

Saint Furcy is only a freshman, but has been one of LWA’s most relied upon players this spring. His strong contributions on the mound, and his versatility have made him a tremendous weapon for Shabazz. 

“Elijah has really stood out for us,” Shabazz said. “He plays four positions for us. He pitches, plays first base, second base and shortstop. He’s thrown a no-hitter for us. We can place him almost anywhere in the field. He’s a great kid, and he can really swing the bat well too.”

On the flip side of the ball, senior shortstop Jake Ellowitz has stood out as one of the team’s best players, both offensively and in the field. Nathan Cupidore and Jordyn Berry have also provided a strong mix of production and leadership for LWA this spring. 

“They lead the team with their toughness, and really set the tone for the guys to come out and play strong,” Shabazz said.

Berry has also caught his coach’s eye with his glove and ability to come up with clutch defensive plays. 

“Some of our best moments this year have come from Jordyn Berry,” Shabazz said. “He’s made some really great plays in the outfield this season.”

While LWA has plenty to feel confident about entering the postseason, Shabazz fully acknowledges that their competition is also stocked with talent. 

“I feel we stack up pretty well with the rest of the league,” he said. “The other teams are a little bit older than we are. We only have three seniors out there. Both Portledge and Waldorf (School of Garden City) have great pitching, so facing those teams will be a great challenge for us.” 

The PSAA postseason begins on May 19. LWA will host the No. 6 seed in the opening round. The league championship game will take place at MCU Park, home of the Brooklyn Cyclones, on May 25.