User:Joel.watson

Watson hits three homeruns!!!

Coming into the ‘08 season, area coaches recognized Joel Watson as one of the best defensive catchers in the Lackawanna League. Honesdale’s senior co-captain possesses a strong arm, quick feet and an uncanny ability to handle his pitchers.

What most opposition skippers didn’t count on, though, was Joel’s skill with the bat.

On Monday afternoon in Moscow, Watson exploded for one of the biggest days in the history of Hornet varsity baseball. He crushed three homeruns as the Red & Black posted a 15-13 Division One victory over North Pocono.

Those three homers were just the highlight of a perfect 5-for-5 day at the dish. Watson also scored four runs and drove in five. It was the kind of day that left Honesdale’s Mike Modrovsky shaking his head in wonder.

“Now that’s a career day, definitely one for the old scrapbook” Coach Modrovsky told TWI Sports. “None of those homers were cheapies, either, and a couple of them were just bombs. He was really dialed in at the plate.”

Watson isn’t just a talented baseball player; he’s also a hard-working student. Joel is a member of the National Honor Society and a true on-field leader. He and pitching coach Brian Gillow consult between every inning. Watson is looking to continue both his academic and baseball careers at the next level.

“He definitely has all the tools to play in college,” said Coach Modrovsky. “Joel is a natural leader. He’s very intense and he isn’t afraid to let his teammates know what’s on his mind. Joel’s going to be successful at whatever he does. He’s a great kid.”

Watson’s offensive outburst led Honesdale to its first Division One win of the season. The Hornets are now 1-3 in Lackawanna League action. Next up for the local lads is a Thursday afternoon encounter with Scranton. First pitch is slated for 4:30 p.m. at Keith Sutton Memorial Field.

Beginning early next week, the Hornets embark on a two-game road trip. Coach Modrovsky’s squad will play away games at Abington and Delaware Valley before finally returning home for a rare Saturday game against West Scranton.

That Division One battle is set for a 2:00 p.m. start.

Lackawanna League Slugfest Honesdale’s power surge wasn’t limited to Joel Watson on this particular day. Hornet hitters feasted on North Pocono pitching right from the opening frame.

Trojan skipper Jason Wittel sent Corey Salamido to the hill as his starter, but the Red & Black jumped all over him. Caleb Hicks came on in relief, but met witha similar fate. All tolled, North Pocono’s two hurlers surrendered seven homers, three doubles and a total of 14 earned runs.

Wade Rickard, Bobby Kinsman, Eric Sandercock and Wilson Davis each belted the ball over the wall. Kinsman singled, doubled, homered and drove in three. Sandercock banged out three hits, including a two-bagger.

But, the spotlight this day was on Joel Watson. Honesdale’s clean-up hitter lined a solo homer just over the “green monster” in left. Joel followed that up with a titanic blast deep into the trees in left center, then added a missile shot to straightaway center.

Watson’s eruption made a winner of Trevor Taylor, who started and worked into the seventh before needing help. Scotty Shaffer and Matt Gravel recorded the final two outs to seal the de