Norwood Takes Step Toward Second Title-July 27, 1988

The sun-kissed summer evening of July 26, 1988, was a pivotal moment in the history of Norwood’s American Legion baseball team. As they took to the field against West Roxbury in the opening game of the Zone 6A finals, the air was electric with anticipation. The stage was set for a thrilling contest that would ultimately decide the fate of Norwood’s championship aspirations.

The Norwood team, boasting an impressive record of 25-4, had been on a roll all season long. Their success was largely attributed to their strong pitching and timely hitting. However, it was not just their individual skills that made them a force to be reckoned with; it was also the team’s ability to capitalize on their opponents’ mistakes.

In this particular game against West Roxbury, Norwood found themselves in a precarious situation in the fifth inning, tied 1-1. Shortstop Tom Benson drew a one-out walk, and with Derek Ghost-law popping out to short, the stage was set for a crucial play. Benson attempted to steal second base, but what seemed like an easy out turned into a game-changer.

West Roxbury catcher Greg Lynch threw a strong ball to second baseman Scott Galvin, who appeared to have tagged Benson out. However, in a moment of sheer luck, Galvin’s tag missed its mark, and Benson was able to represent Norwood’s go-ahead run. This minor flaw in the West Roxbury infield proved to be the turning point in the game.

The following hitter, Jim Dorherty, who had already broken up West Roxbury hurler Sean Russell’s perfect game with a single in the fourth inning, ripped a ball into center field, scoring Benson for the game-winner. This decisive play gave Norwood a crucial advantage in the best-of-three series.

“I was looking for the fastball,” said Dorherty, who had also pitched six innings against Medfield in semifinal action on Saturday night. “That’s all he (Russell) threw out there. He threw a lot faster the first time I was up.” Dorherty’s words highlighted the importance of adaptability and quick thinking in baseball.

While Norwood’s victory was largely due to their ability to capitalize on West Roxbury’s mistake, it was also thanks to the outstanding performance of right-hander Sean McCready. McCready fired a four-hit complete game, striking out eight while only walking two. His impressive display of pitching prowess was a testament to his skill and dedication.

The only time McCready got in any hot water was facing the first two batters in the first inning. Leadoff man Pat Kearns stroked a double and scored on a single by Brian Laws. Laws was retired on a double play, but McCready ended the inning by striking out Russell.

“It was a good ballgame, both pitchers threw very well,” said Norwood Coach Pete Wall. “Benson’s getting under that tag was a big break for us, and McCready pitched a very tough game.” Wall’s words encapsulated the essence of the game: it was a true test of skill, strategy, and luck.

As the sun set on July 26, 1988, Norwood had taken a significant step toward securing their second title. With a victory at Billings Field in West Roxbury tonight, they could wrap up another zone championship. The stage was set for an electrifying conclusion to this thrilling series.

Archival Note: This article has been dynamically reconstructed from the original public record print archives of the Patriot Ledger