2022 Sewanhaka Indians Sweep Giants for 35+ Crown in Long Island Midweek MSBL

Long Island Midweek, 35+ Division

Sewanhaka Indians 9, Giants 6 (game two of championship series sweep)

2016 was the last time the Sewanhaka Indians won a league title in the 35+ division but this one was even sweeter for manager Artie Johnson for two reasons. The first reason was that two years ago a bunch of guys left the team to start their own and he had to retool the Indians once again. A few old friends, looking to get back into the game, contacted Artie and it was perfect timing, as well as a perfect match.

The first year together the Indians lost in the finals, which was not too bad for a first-year team.  They used it as a learning process. They lost a few important players from that team and guys were concerned but Artie knew he would replace them with guys who were just as talented, which is exactly what happened.

Fast forward to this summer. The Indians finished 14-4 after a 1-3 start, due to the cold weather, but they finished a strong 13-1 and marched on to the playoffs, where after a tough quarter and semi-finals round they made it to the finals against the undefeated Giants team, who finished 18-0.

In game one, the Indians faced a pitcher who pitched for the Israeli National Team but they came out on top, 8-0, behind a stellar pitching performance by Matt Restivo, who pitched a complete game 2-hitter with 14 strikeouts. Key and timely hitting by the whole team up and down the lineup gave the Indians the runs they needed.

Game two went a bit differently but they wanted the sweep. Once again, as they did all year, the top of the lineup set the tone by continuously getting on base via hit or walk and letting the rest of the line-up drive them in, as the Indians won 9-6.  It was a well-deserved championship sweep.

“We pride ourselves with good pitching, defense, and on-base percentage, and of course, everyone picks each other up, which is exactly what this team does,” stated manager Artie Johnson.  “That led to our ultimate goal: a championship!”

Here are the members of the 2022 35+ MSBL Long Island Midweek champions:

Artie Johnson, Jeff Applebaum, Nick Cocco, Evan Garcia, Eddie Genninger, Mike Murray, Abny Navarro, Matt Restivo, Pat Fisher, Courtney Trembone, Charlie Bannardo, Gavin Saladino, Guy Saladino, Chris Waye, Robbie Brooks, Rich Kain, Andrew Visconti, and Kevin Boyle.