SportzWire
2026 News
Western Wayne defeated Holy Cross 4-3 with a late rally

Western Wayne defeated Holy Cross 4-3 with a late rally

By: Danielle Petros | SportzWire | May 8, 2026 | Photo courtesy Danielle Petros

Western Wayne edged Holy Cross in a close contest on Monday, securing a 4-3 victory after a late-game rally. The game was tied at three runs apiece heading into the top of the seventh inning when Western Wayne broke the deadlock.

Jake Grodack delivered the pivotal hit for Western Wayne, a double that scored one run and ultimately proved to be the difference maker.

Despite the tough loss, Holy Cross demonstrated a strong offensive showing, out-hitting Western Wayne 12 to seven. Several Crusaders had multi-hit performances, including Charlie Marx, Matthew Fox, Josh Trichilo, and freshman Chase Rutkoski, who each collected two hits. Freshman Chase Rutkoski was a standout performer for Holy Cross. Not only did he contribute two hits, but he also launched a game-tying solo home run to left field in the bottom of the fourth inning, evening the score at 3-3. Rutkoski's powerful swing on an 0-2 count underscored his impact. Beyond his offensive contributions, the young freshman also took the mound to start the game.

Western Wayne got on the board first in the opening inning, capitalizing on a double play. Holy Cross responded swiftly in the bottom of the first when Matthew Fox singled down the left field line to tie the game at one. Western Wayne regained the lead in the third inning, making it 2-1, thanks to a ground out by Jameson McCollum.

Damian Glackin earned the win for Western Wayne, pitching a complete game. He surrendered 12 hits and three runs over seven innings, striking out three batters and issuing one walk. For Holy Cross, Chase Rutkoski started, allowing five hits and three runs, two of which were earned, through six innings. The freshman recorded three strikeouts and five walks. Jacob Shedlauskas took the loss in relief, pitching one inning and giving up one run on two hits, while striking out one.

Holy Cross Crusaders

Chase Rutkoski 2 hits, 1 home run, 2 RBI, 6 IP, 5 H, 3 R (2 ER), 3 K, 5 BB

Charlie Marx 2 hits, 1 double

Matthew Fox 2 hits, 1 double, 1 RBI

Josh Trichilo 2 hits

Jacob Shedlauskas 1 IP, 2 H, 1 R, 1 K

Western Wayne Wildcats

Alex Decandis 3 hits, multiple stolen bases

Jameson McCollum 2 RBI

Jake Grodack 1 double, 1 RBI

Archer Long multiple stolen bases

Damian Glackin 7 IP, 12 H, 3 R, 3 K, 1 BB