This week saw Navy taking the spotlight with two out of three weekly baseball awards in the Patriot League after securing two victories against Army West Point. Lehigh also claimed one award following their impressive 5-1 performance last week. Landon Kruer, a senior right-handed pitcher from Navy, was recognized for his exceptional performances, contributing significantly to Navy's success. Meanwhile, Navy's freshman catcher Ty DePerno earned Rookie of the Week honors for the second time this season due to his outstanding batting average and contribution to team victories. On the other hand, Lehigh's Aidan Quinn captured Player of the Week by driving in ten runs and maintaining an impressive batting average during their successful week.
Navy's dominance was highlighted by Landon Kruer's remarkable contributions as a reliever. His pivotal role in securing two saves helped Navy triumph over Army West Point. Across three relief appearances spanning five innings, Kruer showcased his skill by allowing just one run while striking out five opponents. This consistency not only bolstered Navy’s defense but also set a high standard for collegiate pitching.
Kruer’s performance extended beyond mere statistics; it underscored strategic importance. By stepping into crucial moments during games, he effectively neutralized opposing offenses. In addition to his stellar outings against Army West Point, Kruer also excelled earlier in the week against Fordham. His scoreless inning of relief work contributed significantly to Navy’s 11-7 victory, reinforcing his value as both a closer and situational pitcher. Overall, Kruer's efforts were instrumental in stabilizing Navy's bullpen and ensuring consistent wins throughout the week.
Ty DePerno's emergence as a key player for Navy has been undeniable. As the recipient of Rookie of the Week honors, DePerno demonstrated why he is becoming a formidable force at the plate. With an impressive .533 batting average and contributing six RBIs, he played a vital role in Navy's overall success. His ability to deliver clutch hits under pressure made him indispensable to the team.
Complementing Navy's achievements, Lehigh's Aidan Quinn exemplified offensive prowess through his multifaceted contributions. Quinn amassed ten RBIs and maintained a robust .417 batting average, showcasing power with five doubles, one triple, and one home run. His performance was critical in Lehigh’s five victories, where he consistently delivered timely hits that propelled his team forward. Both DePerno and Quinn have established themselves as essential figures within their respective teams, setting benchmarks for future rookies and players alike.