SARATOGA SPRINGS — When Phonsey Lambert was hired as the head coach of the Saratoga Central Catholic baseball team, the Saints had won two games in two years and had never won a sectional contest. Saturday afternoon, Lambert watched his squad grab the lead in the first inning and continue to build upon on it in capturing a 12-1 victory over Schuylerville in the championship game of the 34th Phil Waring Memorial Tournament.
As the game concluded, the Saints shook hands with the Black Horses and proceeded to douse Lambert with water. Saturday’s title triumph represented career victory No. 600 for Lambert, who began coaching the Saints in 1988. The win marked the 17th time SCC claimed the tournament title.
“I wanted to make this one of the best programs in the state. Year in and year out, we are there and it is so gratifying,” Lambert said. “I have never thrown a pitch, hit a ball or stole a base. It has been all about my players and coaches. I’ve had so many great players over the years and alumni that have reached out to me. It has all been very special.”
“I am honored to play for him,” SCC freshman first baseman Carson Moser said.
“I came and watched the 500th win when I was younger (in 2016),” SCC freshman pitcher Pierce Byrne said, who gave up three hits and struck out six against Schuylerville in a game ending in five innings because of the mercy rule. “It is big to be part of the 600th win.”
With the wins Saturday against Corinth and Schuylerville, the Saints finished regular-season play at 17-3 overall — including an impressive 15-3 record in the Wasaren League. Those victories also represented the fourth and fifth in a 48-hour span.
Lambert’s latest accomplishment marked the third consecutive day a prominent Section II baseball coach reached a significant career milestone. Thursday, Hoosick Falls coach Mike…
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