The Black and White

by Zoe Anderson edited by Jillian Mastrostefano

The Pilgrim baseball team got off to a rocky start in their 2026 season, opening with a 0–7 record. Instead of letting the slow start define them, the team used it as motivation to improve and reset their focus. Their first win came against Mt. Hope, and since then, the Patriots have won four of their last six games, showcasing significant progress and determination.

A big part of the team’s recent success starts on the pitching mound. Seniors Derrick Butler and Anthony DeLuca have made major contributions by consistently pitching ahead in the count and forcing opponents to make difficult contact. They’ve been supported by juniors Kyle Rezendes and Landen Phillips, along with senior Dominic Berry–all of whom have had solid pitching contributions.

Defensively, the team has faced challenges throughout the season, especially against high-ranking Division I opponents. Despite this, Samuel Shelton has emerged as a key player at the top of the lineup. He has proven himself as one of Rhode Island’s top leadoff hitters and an excelling baserunner.

The team’s success has been a collective effort. Players including Michael Mainelli, Jackson Monte, Tony DeLuca, Dominic Berry, Kyle Rezendes, Braeden Paesano, and Jack Cirelli have all made important contributions throughout the season, successfully working as a team. 

Anthony DeLuca has been one of the team’s biggest surprises this year, showing major improvement at the plate and earning a spot batting third in the lineup. His performance has also been recognized beyond the school, as he was nominated by the Providence Journal for Rhode Island Baseball Player of the Week.

Looking ahead, head coach Brian Morry emphasizes the importance of staying focused on daily improvement. “Our approach for the remainder of the season is to just play well today—whether that’s in practice or a game—and try to be better today than we were yesterday,” Morry said. “Our goal is to win the next game. That’s it.” With renewed momentum and a strong team mindset, Pilgrim baseball is focused on continuing its improvement and finishing the season on a high note.