LWA relies on fundamentals

Spring’s late arrival has made getting acclimated on the diamond difficult for the young Lawrence Woodmere Academy baseball team in 2014. Throw in the fact that the PSAA season is relatively short, and getting in any type of groove has been downright impossible.

The Tigers come off a 10-2 season, which ended prematurely in the semifinal round of the playoffs. After losing five to graduation, LWA is light on upperclassmen, but heavy on playing sound, fundamental baseball.

Head coach Mike Cohn believes his team will be a tough opponent. “We’re not going to scare anyone with our power, but we’re going to be successful by playing the game the right way,” Cohn said. “We’re very young, and we have a few injuries that we’re dealing with right now. If we can hit our stride, and get healthy, we’ll be fine. The weather hasn’t allowed us to get any continuity.”

The Tigers are 1-1 on the season, and were leading Waldorf 4-3 when that game was suspended after four innings. In addition to Waldorf, LWA faces Bay Ridge Prep, Evangel Christian, Brooklyn Friends, Martin Luther, Kew Forest, Friends Seminary, and United Nations International School in PSAA play.

Junior Wesley Gladstein leads the pitching staff. Gladstein establishes his fastball, mixes in an improved change, and isn’t afraid to use the inside of the plate. When he’s not on the mound, Gladstein, who has improved at the plate, will play outfield on non-pitching days.

Mike Levitt, one of the more versatile players on the roster, will step into a starting role after pitching in relief as a junior. Levitt, one of the team’s captains, will also play second base, shortstop, and the outfield, and gives the Tigers some pop in the middle of the order.

Eighth-grader Noah Warren has excellent command and terrific baseball IQ. Cohn expects Warren, who plays third base when he’s not pitching, to have a very bright future. Sophomore Nate Cupidore rounds out the rotation. 

Senior captain Matt Irizzary will set the tone for LWA at the top of the order. Irizarry has a good eye and has excellent bat control. The three-year starter is solid with the glove at first base.

Sophomore Jordyn Berry will follow Irizarry in the order, and figures to be a solid table setter. Berry will play second, third and the outfield. Slick-fielding Jake Ellowitz will hit third. The sophomore shortstop gets on often and is a terror on the base paths. Senior Abe Castillo is a solid, defensive center fielder.  

Cohn loves the makeup of his team. “We’re going be patient at the plate, play small ball, and steal a lot of bases, “ he said. “These guys understand baseball. They’re an absolute pleasure to coach. They’re not only talented, but they come to practice each day to get better. They’re hungry to improve, and are driven to do well.”

LWA will host Friends Seminary on May 7 at 4:30 p.m.