With a slim lead in the Empire League baseball race Cypress High pitcher Kevin Lillicrop turned in an outstanding performance to keep the Centurions out in front with just three games to play.
With a slim lead in the Empire League baseball race Cypress High pitcher Kevin Lillicrop turned in an outstanding performance to keep the Centurions out in front with just three games to play.
Lillicrop, a senior pitcher for the Centurions, pitched a no-hitter against Pacifica High on Wednesday in a key Empire League game. Lillicrop recorded six strikeouts and only three walks in the 3-0 victory over the Mariners.
“I feel awesome…it feels great,” Lillicrop said. “I’m glad I could help out the team with a win today.”
Lillicrop said this is the first no-hitter he’s ever thrown, although he’s come close a few times in the past.
Not only was Lillicrop dominant on the mound, he was swinging a hot bat as well. He went 3-for-3 with an RBI, two doubles, and a single, which ultimately helped the team solidify their win.
Head coach John Weber had plenty of praise for the young pitcher.
“He did an amazing job,” Weber said. “It’s great for him because he’s a great kid.”
Weber didn’t ignore the fact that Lillicrop performed well in both areas of the game.
“[Lillicrop] has been struggling with the bat, but he got three hits today which was totally key and huge for us. He had a great day overall,” Weber said.
The Centurions got on the board in the second inning with a single by Steven Andrade and an RBI double by Lillicrop. Senior David Fletcher then hit a single, driving in Lillicrop. In the sixth inning, Cypress added another run following singles by Tyler Alamo and Andrade. Lillicrop recorded his third hit of the day, plating Alamo for their third run.
With the victory, the Centurions hold on to first place and improve their overall record to 20-6 and 7-2 in the Empire League.