Nick Salzarulo didn’t want insult anyone involved in the baseball program, so he took a moment to choose his words carefully.

“It’s probably the third best,” the Pleasantville senior said when asked to rank the Section 1 titles he’s been a part of. “But, I mean, it’s a pretty good third.”

Salzarulo and the Panthers continued to carve out a supreme legacy in the glorious history of Pleasantville on Saturday, capturing yet another Section 1 championship. This time it was baseball, ending a 21-year title drought by stunning rival Briarcliff, 12-1, in six innings at Palisade Credit Union Park.

HIGHLIGHTS:

Pleasantville lost twice to rival Briarcliff, the No. 1 seed, during the regular season.

Salzarulo and Michael Matica drove in runs for Pleasantville in a two-run first inning and then were in the center of a 10-run explosion in the sixth after the Bears cut the deficit to 2-1.

Brendan O’Neil was masterful, pitching a complete game for the victory. Pleasantville next faces Section 9 champion Marlboro in the state regional semifinals on May 31.

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