By Tom Nader

Publisher and Editor

Home runs took center stage in Ravenna on Saturday, with the high school baseball program’s annual derby that showcased multiple age divisions from youth to alumni.

Sparked by Ravens varsity head coach Lee Lovejoy, the annual event pulls in players of all ages in a fun-filled afternoon.

In the 8U Division, Elijah Golias was crowned champion after he distanced himself from the competition in the final round. Golias currently plays for the Ravenna Guardians.

Avery Yun was the champion of the 9U Division. He battled Hunter Alger back and forth in the final round before Yun took the title in extra pitches.

The 10U Division champion was Derek Luna Jr., who won convincingly by belting five home runs — in 10 pitches — in the final round.

In the 12U Division, Riley Dray had arguably the best day of any hitter in the competition. He cracked 14 home runs, on 27 total pitches, including six dingers in the final round to earn the championship crown.

The 13/14U Division champion was Tripp Bregant, who used a solid final two rounds to outdo Lando Godley.

The Alumni Division featured 10 participants. Lovejoy, coach of the Ravens and Class of 2011 graduate, earned the championship.

Emmanuel Miller (2023), Mike Medina (2003), Jaiden Clegg (2019) and Scott Enlow (1997) all advanced to the final round of the Alumni Division, which featured competitors from 1997 through 2023.