Pios sweep Geneva, while Hitmen split with Dansville in doubleheaders

ELMIRA, N.Y. (WETM) – The Elmira Pioneers picked up another doubleheader sweep, while the Hitmen closed out their regular season schedule at home.

The Pios swept Geneva to celebrate Military Appreciation Night at Dunn Field, on Friday. Meanwhile, the Hitmen split a twin bill against Dansville, to close out their regular season home slate.

In the PGCBL, the Pioneers opened their doubleheader with a 6-4 win. Elmira delivered a balanced offensive attack, as Matthew Leahy and Wellsboro’s Darryn Callahan knocked in runs on 2 RBI-singles, over the first 2 frames. In the 6th and 7th innings, the Pios mirrored their early offense, with RBI’s from Bennett Shealor, Andy Schroeder, and Callahan. Aiden Cook and Corning’s Nolan Terwilliger combined for a complete game on the mound, allowing just 4 runs, on 7 hits, while striking out 9.

In Game 2, Elmira responded quickly, to a 3-run 1st inning from Geneva. In the bottom of the 1st, Schroeder and Patrick Ward cut into the Red Wings’ lead with 2 RBI sac flies. In the 3rd, Schroeder gave Elmira the lead on a 2-RBI single, adding to an impressive day. A few batters later, Evan Blanchard added an RBI-triple, while Ward notched an RBI-single.

Elmira added to the offense in the 6th, with Leahy, Schroeder, and Cooper Smith collecting 3 more RBI. The Pios followed up with defense, closing out the 9-5 win on a double play.

Elmira hits the road to take on Newark, Saturday at 7:05 p.m.

In the NYCBL, the Horseheads Hitmen opened their doubleheader with a high-scoring shootout against Dansville. The Hitmen earned the 14-10 victory behind huge performances from 2 local grads. Haverling’s A.J. Brotz went (2-3) with 3 runs, 3 RBI, and a 2-run home run. Horseheads grad Matt Procopio added to the effort, going (2-5) with 4 RBI, 1 run, and a grand slam.

In Game 2, the Hitmen did not see the same success, falling 9-2. Horseheads grad Dom Russ led the Hitmen effort, going (2-2) with 2 runs, and a solo blast. Fellow Blue Raider alum, Procopio added 3 more knocks to cap off a 5 hit day.

The Hitmen wrap up their regular season on Saturday, against the winners of 14 straight games, Hornell. Action begins at Maple City Park, at 7 p.m.

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