Fast Start Fuels Abington Blue to Pool Play Shutout Over North East Connell
By: Justin Bradley | SportzWire | June 27, 2026 | Photo courtesy Justin Focus
NORTH SCRANTON, Pa. — Abington Little League Blue broke the game open before North East Connell had a chance to settle in, scoring eight runs in the opening inning on the way to an 11-0 victory in District 17 Majors pool play Saturday at North Scranton Little League.
Abington capitalized on timely hitting and defensive miscues to build an early cushion. An error plated the game’s first two runs before Owen Walsh delivered an RBI single. Max Shursky followed with a two-run single, and Evan Ross capped the explosive inning with a towering two-run home run to center field. Bradley McDonald added another RBI single as Abington sent 12 batters to the plate.
The offense wasn’t finished.
In the second inning, Jaxon Hizny ripped a two-run double to extend the lead to 9-0 before Abington added two more runs to complete the 11-run performance.
On the mound, Hizny was dominant. The right-hander tossed three hitless innings, allowing just one walk while striking out three to earn the victory. Shursky finished the combined no-hitter with two scoreless innings, striking out one and walking one as the duo combined to hold North East Connell without a hit.
Abington pounded out 11 hits offensively.
Hizny and Bradey Bleich each collected two hits from the top of the lineup. Ross finished with a two-run homer and two RBIs, while Vincie Pricci and Walsh also drove in two runs apiece. Shursky added two RBIs during the decisive first inning.
North East Connell’s pitching staff settled down after the opening frame, with Daniel Kohut providing 4⅓ innings of relief while allowing just four runs. Despite the setback, NEC battled throughout the afternoon, drawing two walks and continuing to compete against one of the tournament favorites.
Abington improves in District 17 Majors pool play and will look to carry its momentum into its next matchup Monday night.
Top Performers
Abington Little League Blue
• Jaxon Hizny — 2-for-2, double, RBI; 3 hitless innings, 3 strikeouts for the win.
• Evan Ross — 1-for-2, two-run home run, 2 RBIs.
• Max Shursky — 1-for-2, 2 RBIs; 2 scoreless hitless innings in relief.
North East Connell
• Daniel Kohut — Worked 4⅓ innings in relief, limiting further damage after the opening inning.
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