Hricenak’s Grand Slam Lifts No 3 Mid Valley Past Old Forge, 9-5
By: Justin Bradley | SportzWire | April 2, 2026 | Photo courtesy Justin Focus
Midday game. Easter break around the corner.
But make no mistake, this one still had bite.
SportzWire Coaches Poll No. 3 Mid Valley handled business at the Spartan Stadium Complex, knocking off Old Forge 9-5 behind a statement performance from Natalie Hricenak.
Mid Valley struck first and set the tone early.
Hricenak got things rolling in the second with an RBI double, and the Spartanettes kept pressure on in the third, stringing together quality at-bats to build a 4-0 lead.
Old Forge stayed composed.
They battled back with disciplined at-bats, took advantage of opportunities, and kept the game within striking distance heading into the middle innings.
Then came the moment. Bottom of the fifth. Bases loaded.
Natalie Hricenak stepped in and didn’t miss.
A grand slam to center.
Game changed instantly.
Hricenak delivered when it mattered most:
- 2 hits
- 5 RBIs
- Grand slam that broke the game open
Big swing. Big moment. Big-time performance.
Mid Valley’s depth showed all afternoon.
- Angela Laskowski: 3 hits, consistent pressure at the top
- Avery Tinney: 2 hits, 2 runs scored
- Marley Morano: 2 hits, 2 RBIs
- Ariana Davey: Key RBI contribution
In the circle, Ava Hazelton set the tone:
- 5 innings pitched
- 9 strikeouts
- Controlled the pace in key moments
Elliana Vagni closed things out in relief.
Old Forge didn’t fold.
- Ariana Davitt, Juliette DeStefano, Kate O’Hearn: 2 hits each
- DeStefano & Addison Rafalko: 2 RBIs apiece
- Patient approach with 5 walks
- Clean defense, no errors
They stayed within reach but Mid Valley delivered the decisive blow.
Game Notes
- Mid Valley: 14 hits, 9 runs
- Old Forge: 8 hits, 5 runs
- Deciding moment: 5th inning grand slam
- Hazelton: 9 strikeouts in 5 innings
No. 3 Mid Valley continues to look like a serious contender in District 2.
Depth across the lineup. Strong presence in the circle.
And when the moment showed up…They capitalized.
Some games build. Some games turn.
This one flipped on one swing.
And that’s what good teams do, they stay ready for it.
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