NCCC preps for playoffs with new HR record

Niagara County Community College wrapped up the top seed in the Region III Western Division after a quartet of big wins this past week. In the process, the Thunderwolves also set a new single-season home run record (30). The previous mark was 27 (2016).

NCCC, which is ranked No. 3 in the latest NJCAA Division III poll, is now 35-5 overall and 23-3 in regional play. The No. 1 T-Wolves will host SUNY Adirondack in a best-of-3 sub-regional series beginning at Noon Saturday. The winner advances to the Region III Division III Championships on May 18-20 in Little Falls.

Niagara CCC 18, Corning CC 4

Freshman Joe Barberio was 4-for-4 with two home runs, six RBIs and four runs scored in the win. Classmate William Lawrence was 3-for-4 with a home run, triple, double and five RBIs. Sophomore Matt Cross finished 3-for-4 with a home run and four runs scored, while freshman Matt Kruszka was 3-for-4 with a home run and three RBIs.

Niagara CCC 8, Corning CC 0

Barberio allowed four hits and struck out 11 over six innings pitched. Freshman Vincent Chiarenza had two hits, including a home run, and two RBIs. Fellow frosh Michael O'Connor had two hits, two RBIs and two runs scored.

Niagara CCC 16, Genesee CC 2

Freshman Alex Bish went the distance and allowed just five hits and one earned run. Cross was 3-for-3 with a long ball and three RBIs, while freshman Garrett Boldt was 3-for-4 with four RBIs.

Niagara CCC 10, Genesee CC 1

Freshman Tyler Brill tossed a complete game, two-hitter with 13 Ks. Chiarenza had two hits, a homer and five RBIs. Cross also homered. Sophomore Casey Gruarin was 3-for-4 with an RBI and three runs scored.