A slim 16‑year‑old junior named Ken Berkland has been handed the role of No. 1 pitcher for Norwood High School’s baseball team, stepping into a position of high expectations. Berkland inherits the job from standout pitcher Ray Martin, who led Norwood to a state championship last spring and dominated the local schoolboy baseball scene.
Despite his youth, Berkland has already shown flashes of brilliance. In the Eastern State tournament semifinal the previous June, then a little‑known 15‑year‑old sophomore, he allowed just five hits, struck out 17 batters, and defeated St. Mary’s of Lynn, propelling Norwood into the final. Martin then secured victories over Arlington and Dalton to clinch the state title.
Now, Berkland faces the challenge of living up to that breakout performance and leading Norwood’s defense of its championship. Supporting him are Captain Bob Stanton at shortstop, Fran Harrington at second base, and returning outfielders Eddie Mondor and Charles Parker in left and center field.
Norwood’s schedule includes 12 games: home‑and‑home matchups with Natick, Walpole, and Framingham, and single games against Boston English, Public Latin, Mechanic Arts, and Hyde Park. The Boston schools were noted for their easier travel access compared to some Zone Four opponents.
At present, only battery players have begun workouts in the gym, but the full squad will be called soon. If enough candidates report, Norwood plans to launch a more comprehensive intramural baseball program than in previous years.
Source: Boston Globe
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