Lincoln‑Way West Varsity Warriors earned a 10‑8 win over Lincoln‑Way Central in Southwest Suburban Conference play, improving to 20‑7 overall and 12‑4 in conference, while also honoring longtime leader Dr. Ted Robbins with a ceremonial first pitch before the game.
The contest was played on May 15 at Lincoln‑Way West High School, where the Warriors combined a special tribute with a hard‑fought victory.
Dr. Robbins, the founding Athletic Director and High School Principal, was celebrated by Coach Jake Zajc and the baseball team for 17 years of vision, leadership, and service to Lincoln‑Way West. His dedication helped shape the school’s athletic program from the beginning, leaving a lasting legacy for students, staff, and the community as he enters retirement.
On the field, the Warriors used a seven‑run third inning to build enough cushion against the Knights. Carson Paulas sparked the offense with a two‑run single in the second and finished with two hits, two RBIs, a walk, and two stolen bases. Michael Pettit delivered the game’s biggest swing with a grand slam to center, driving in four runs. Peyton Globke added an RBI single, while Luke Stoner and Matt Oberts each drew bases‑loaded walks. Oberts later added a solo home run in the fifth, and Quinten Lange chipped in two hits and scored once.
Owen Chudzinski earned the win on the mound, striking out five over 3.2 innings while allowing just two earned runs. Central’s offense kept the game close with 13 hits, including a 3‑for‑3 day from Conor McCabe with a home run and three RBIs, plus a solo shot from Daniel Houston and a run‑scoring double from Austin Welch.
Next up for the Warriors is a matchup against Crete‑Monee on Tuesday, May 19 at 4:30 p.m.
