Published in the June 28, 2017 edition
LYNNFIELD head coach John O’Brien was in attendance at the north vs. south All-Star game to watch Lynnfield baseball’s Justin Juliano (left) and Nick Aslanian help the north defeat the south 8-5.
(Dan Pawlowski Photo)
By DAN PAWLOWSKI
DORCHESTER — Justin Juliano and Nicholas Aslanian of the Lynnfield baseball team played in the class of 2017 North vs. South All-Star game at B.C. High on Tuesday, June 20. Aslanian got the start, and the win, for the north, giving up just one run in three innings of work. The north beat the south 8-5.
“It’s a lot of fun,” said Aslanian. “There are a lot of kids who wanted to be here today so it’s definitely a privilege. “
The game showcased the best seniors in the state, regardless of division. Lynnfield and Malden Catholic were the only two schools in the north to have two representatives. The two Pioneers certainly appreciated the honor and recognized the opportunity to measure up against the best in the state.
“All the best players, all the MVP’s, all the all-league players are here so it’s cool to be playing against the best,” said Juliano.
Baseball won’t stop for Aslanian and Juliano as they will both play in college. Aslanian will pitch at Salem State University, and Juliano will man the infield at Saint Joseph’s College.
“It’s kind of a relief,” said Aslanian. “You think about it all of high school, worrying about your last game, but all the hard work pays off eventually, and now we have four more years of it.”
Lynnfield head John O’Brien was on hand in Dorchester to watch two of Lynnfield baseball’s best play their last high school game.
“It’s a great way to finish their high school career,” said O’Brien. “They’re terrific kids, they have done a great job for us and they will do very well in college too.”
O’Brien got to hand out the trophies to his players at the end of the game, which was certainly the way Juliano and Aslanian wanted to end their careers.
“We’re going to miss playing for Coach ‘OB.’ He was unbelievable to play for, I wouldn’t have wanted to play for anybody else,” said Aslanian as Juliano nodded in agreement.
Four more years to enjoy the game will certainly be exciting for both players, but a final high school game will always be bittersweet, regardless of the outcome, or where it’s played. Now, Juliano and Aslanian can finally look forward to the bright future ahead.
“It’s hard to wear this jersey for the last time,” said Juliano, the setting sun reflecting off the gold “L” on his jersey. “But I’m looking forward to next year.”
