Heights team wins Pony League title

The "Green Machine" used the big inning to get ahead and stay ahead in the championship game. Photo by Melissa Rink.

In thrilling but ultimately convincing fashion, Cleveland Heights beat the South Euclid Indians 26-8 on July 17 to capture the 2015 Quad-City Pony League championship for the 14U age group.

The win did not come easily, as South Euclid claimed an early lead. Down by two runs with two outs in the bottom of the third inning, Heights scored 12 runs to take a commanding lead and never looked back.

Taking over for starter Justin Rink, pitchers Owen Lang and Jake Rzepka—backed by solid defense—held South Euclid to zero runs the remainder of the game.

Coached by Jeff Rink, the team finished the regular season with an 11-1 record and was seeded first in the post-season tournament. “I was really impressed with this squad, especially after they fell behind early," Rink said after the game. "A lot of these guys have been together for a long time, been competitive but have not won a championship until today. I am thrilled they ended their pre-high school careers on such a high note.”

Rink was assisted by coaches Chris Thomas and Mike Iammarino.

Calling themselves the Green Machine, the team members are: Justin Rink, Owen Lang, Michael Iammarino, Tristen Truitt, Ned Trivisanno, Kinsly Trivisanno, Patrick Kelley, Andrew Pecoraro, Jake Rzepka, Peter Eyerman, Suki Truitt and Luke Karboski.

The Quad-City League provides a travel opportunity for the older age groups of the recreation baseball leagues in Cleveland Heights, South Euclid, Mayfield Heights, Lyndhurst and Beachwood.

Michael Adams

Michael Adams is a Cleveland Heights resident. 

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Volume 8, Issue 8, Posted 10:58 AM, 07.21.2015