By Bill Nestor, Sports Editor
There have been so many big wins on the baseball field this season for area fans, but by far the biggest victory came from Lincoln baseball player Maxx Abruzzino.
Abruzzino was diagnosed last October with cancer.
You can imagine how difficult it would be for a sophomore to hear that kind of news. The worry of what would come next, the uncertainty of the future, and the possibility that you might never play sports again. Abruzzino never quit fighting and he defeated cancer. His hard work and dedication paid off when he was finally cleared to play this past Thursday when the Cougars travelled to Phillip Barbour.
Maxx didn’t have anything else to prove, just making it back to the diamond showed his resolve. It tells us all everything we need to know about this fearless young man.
Abruzzino, however, had one more memorable chapter to write in his comeback story, and the ending is indeed epic. With his team trailing six to five and the bases full of teammates, Abruzzino found himself at the plate. Lincoln was down to their final out and Maxx was down to his last strike in Colt Country, one of the most intimidating venues in North Central West Virginia.
It was a pressure packed situation to say the least. Besides, it was amazing enough that the junior had come this far to everyone, except the standout player himself.
Abruzzino delivered a two R.B.I. hit that proved to be the game-winner. It proves that good things happen to good people. Maxx Abruzzino’s strength and courage should be celebrated and his story is a reminder of the greatness of high school athletics.
The Cougars had a four-game winning streak snapped by Petersburg. They started the streak with a win at home over Phillip Barbour, followed by another win in Shinnston over South Harrison. A huge road win at Robert C. Byrd was followed by the road win discussed earlier over the Colts. During the streak, Lincoln had the bats working, averaging just over 10 runs an outing.
The Cougars hit the road for a three-game road trip after hosting Lewis County tonight at 6 p.m., Williamstown tomorrow and East Hardy and Independence on Saturday.
Robert C. Byrd is off to a solid start, defeating Bridgeport last week eight to four. It was their first win over the Indians since 2021.
The Indians, despite the loss to the Flying Eagles, look solid, and as usual, waited to start their regular season in hopes of a post-season push.
In softball action, Lincoln is off to an impressive start. The Cougars won seven of their first nine contests. In these victories, Lincoln score 89 runs while allowing just 16.
The Cougars are in the midst of an eight game home streak. They have lock-ups remaining with Lewis County, Frankfort, St. Mary’s, Washington, Wheeling Park, and Preston. It’s getting interesting with several big games yet to come.
That will do it for now! Until next week, take care and God Bless!!!
