Bainbridge’s JR Ritchie named Olympic League MVP

After a dominant year on the mound, including a no-hitter in the Olympic League championship game, it’s no surprise that Bainbridge’s junior right-hander JR Ritchie has been named league MVP.

The Spartans led the way with six selections after finishing the spring season with a 15-1 record, losing only early in the season to Port Angeles. Bainbridge’s four future Division 1 players, pitcher/outfielder Nate DeSchryver, pitcher Kai Francis, centerfielder Owen McWilliam and pitcher/infielder Jasiah George were all selected, as was designated hitter Connor Sweeny.

North Kitsap was represented by junior catcher/pitcher Colton Bower and shortstop Jaxson Gore. The Vikings finished third at the Olympic League tournament after losing to Bainbridge, but then beating Port Angeles.

Central Kitsap’s league runner-up team is represented by senior pitcher Joshua Flaugher, who struck out 10 Bainbridge hitters in the 2-0 league championship loss. Outfielders Christopher Chase and Chandler Lindstrom were also all-league picks, along with pitcher Chris Simonson.

Olympic had three players chosen — senior first baseman Braden Paulino, senior pitcher Brayden Buchanan and sophomore Lathan Haywood, who was selected as a utility player.

2021 Olympic League All-League Baseball Team

MVP — JR Ritchie, Bainbridge, junior.

First base — Braden Paulino, Olympic, senior.

Second base — Jasiah George, Bainbridge, senior.

Third base — Seth Woods, Port Angeles, senior.

Shortstop — Jaxson Gore, North Kitsap, junior.

Catcher — Colton Bower, North Kitsap, junior.

Catcher — Jacob Felton, Port Angeles, senior.

DH — Connor Sweeny, Bainbridge, junior.

Utility — Lathan Haywood, Olympic, sophomore.

Outfield — Christopher Chase, Central Kitsap, senior.

Outfield — Chandler Lindstrom, Central Kitsap, senior.