Resilient Andrew Refuses to Relinquish Zabrocki Cup

After suffering a tough loss to Lincoln-Way North earlier in the week, Andrew was intent on bouncing back in its game against Tinley Park. Adding to the Thunderbolts’ motivation was the fact that the Zabrocki Cup—named after Tinley Park Mayor Ed Zabrocki—was on the line Friday night.

And bounce back, Andrew did.

In the third annual meeting of the Zabrocki Cup series, the T-Bolts kept their series record unblemished with

The T-Bolt bats were active all night in support of a quality start from junior pitcher Pat McKeown. After struggling with control issues to start the game, McKeown settled in and allowed only two runs over five innings.

“I was really pumped for the game,” McKeown said. “I heard a lot of noise coming from both sides heading into this matchup.”

Andrew right fielder Brian Cobb led the way offensively for the T-Bolts, going 3-for-4, including a two-run double in the second. 

“I look forward to the crosstown rivalry,” Cobb said. “We haven’t lost two games in a row all season, so it was nice to get a big win today.”

Andrew coach Dave DeHaan applauded Cobb’s approach at the plate.

“Cobb had a great day and some quality at-bats. He stayed back and used all the fields,” DeHaan said.

DeHaan was pleased with his team’s overall resolve and tenacity at the plate. 

“We stayed positive after the tough loss,” he said. “We did a great job of scoring early today. Two good teams battling; the Titans have a good team. We had some good two-strike at-bats, and that’s what we pride ourselves on.”

Usually available to throw out the first pitch and present the trophy, Mayor Zabrocki missed Friday night’s game to attend to out-of-town business.