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Warrior pitcher Josh Kopzca got the starting nod for a preseason game against Lakeland Chiefs.

Luke Gerchak fields a ball at first base for the Warriors.

WA first baseman Tyler Mitchell tags out a Lakeland Chief from a pick-off throw from pitcher Josh Kopzca.

Warrior right fielder Nick Gushka stands at the plate attempting to get third base runner Ryan Gorki to score in an exhibition match against the Lakeland Chiefs.

Ron Musto, left, Warrior head coach, chats with baserunner, Ryan Gorki.

WEST WYOMING – While Pittston Area still waits to begin competition, Wyoming Area made it on to the field for games for the first time this season Thursday.

The Warriors welcomed Lackawanna League opponents Lakeland and Wallenpaupack Thursday for a non-league doubleheader that more resembled spring training exhibitions than regular-season baseball. Due to field conditions at the Atlas Complex, the games were played Shoemaker Field behind West Wyoming Hose Company No. 1.

Playing under loose substitution rules that allowed teams to test many players in different situations, the Warriors fell to Lakeland, 7-4, and Wallenpaupack, 15-2.

Trying to win, however, was secondary to using one of the few opportunities to get field preparation prior to league play in what has been a difficult spring for all teams because of harsh weather conditions.

Ron Musto, coaching the Warriors for the first time since 2005, said there were bright spots in both games.

Nick Gushka, who also plays soccer and basketball at Wyoming Area, made a bid for a larger role on the baseball team in his senior season with two strong games. Gushka had three hits on the day while handling several defensive plays as a second baseman and a left fielder.

Sophomore Josh Kopcza got the first start on the mound and responded with four scoreless innings, striking out seven without walking a batter.

There were other strong defensive efforts, the best of which, according to coach Musto, was sophomore Anthony Nardell’s diving catch in center field to take away an apparent base hit.

Evan Musto threw out two runners from his catcher position while Musto said Zach Lopatka and Joe Gavenonis also showed strong arms.

Wyoming Area opens its Wyoming Valley Conference play on Monday hosting Tunkhannock.

Pittston Area still waiting

Pittston Area has yet to play a game. The Patriots have either cancelled or postponed four games so far this season. They will kick off Wyoming Valley Conference play on Monday at Wyoming Valley West. Pittston Area’s first home game is Thursday, April 9 against Crestwood.