The Montclair State University baseball team is set to face off against William Paterson University in the New Jersey Athletic Conference (NJAC) Semifinals. The Red Hawks finished the regular season 30-18, their first time hitting the 30-win mark since the 2022 season, earning them the number two seed. Montclair State split the season series against the Pioneers, with their most recent matchup being a 16-14 loss on April 3.
“They beat us after we gave up a big lead at their place,” said Montclair State’s head coach, Dave Lorber. “We just need to be consistent and handle ourselves in the middle innings. If we do that and string together some quality at-bats, I think we’re gonna be in a good place.”
If the Red Hawks are going to provide the type of at-bats Lorber is looking for, then look no further than senior outfielder Michael Wansaw Jr. Wansaw Jr. leads the team in hits with 57, and in batting average at .416.
Michael Wansaw Jr. led Montclair State in hits this season, on his way to an All-NJAC First Team selection. Photo courtesy of Montclair State Athletics
“I feel like we’re relentless,” said Wansaw Jr. “This game, it’s very similar to life. It’s not easy; it’s a game of failure. As long as we keep playing together and keep fighting day in and day out, we can get that job done.”
As for the pitching staff, freshman Chris Matesic has stood out, even among a majority of upperclassmen. Matesic has the team’s lowest ERA at 2.73 (minimum 20 innings), lowest WHIP, and most wins. Now, he will get his first NJAC playoff experience.
Chris Matesic's 2.73 ERA in his freshman season ranked second in the NJAC. Photo courtesy of Montclair State Athletics
“It’s exciting,” said Matesic. “New level of competition, get to compete against different guys. It’s exciting.”
That excitement is shared among the coaching staff, as Coach Lorber had high praise for Matesic when discussing his rookie campaign.
“Arguably, probably one of the best freshman campaigns in the history of Montclair State baseball, which the tradition goes back tremendously,” Lorber said.
At the end of their last practice on Wednesday, just over 24 hours until gametime, the message from Lorber to his players was clear.
“Every game is a big game,” Lorber told the team. “They’re all important. No game is more important than the one at hand. This one is just like the first game of the season, and we have to go out and make sure we’re doing our very best in those moments.”
“Every game is a big game," said head coach Dave Lorber. “This one is just like the first game of the season, and we have to go out and make sure we’re doing our very best in those moments.” Photo courtesy of Montclair State Athletics
First pitch is scheduled for 3:00 PM at Yogi Berra Stadium on April 30.
