As always, spring in the Catskills is a tough environment to have a baseball season – this year proving to be no exception.

The Livingston Manor Central School squad persevered despite the elements to provide some standout moments, even though falling short of its goal to make play-offs. The highlight of the season was Senior Day on May 14, when five seniors welcomed their parents and families onto the field before the game for special recognition.

Coming off a 7-4 win over Chapel Field, where starting pitcher Ben Johnson recorded a complete game, throwing over 100 pitches, Manor sought to avenge an early season defeat to Sullivan West, but fell behind early in a see-saw affair. The first few innings proved to be an exciting contest, with both teams running the bases like it was a track meet and scoring runs as easily as picking spring blueberries.

But Wildcats starter Anthony Zamenick had a hard time quelling the Bulldogs’ rallies, while some bad hops led to fielding misadventures behind him.

Manor continued to push the envelope, led by third baseman Logan Park who reached base four times, and center fielder Kyle Hendrickson who had two hits and a couple of ribbies. But the squad left a bit too much chicken on the bone, falling 9-6 to the Bulldogs.

Manor then closed out its season over the weekend with a 5-10-2 record after recording a 4-4 draw vs. Seward High School. But Coach Dylan Smith was pleased with the season.

“It was a big improvement from last year, as it was nice to see the guys development and grow this season,” he said. “Despite falling one win short of making the play-offs, we are looking forward to next year.”