When the ball was hit to center field, Michael Torniero made sure it stayed out of trouble. The Tupper Lake Riverpigs outfielder has been named the Empire League Defensive Player of the Year, a testament to his flawless play and game-changing presence in the outfield.

In 28 games, Torniero was a human highlight reel — tracking down deep drives, cutting off extra-base hits, and gunning down runners with precision. His instincts, range, and arm strength anchored the Riverpigs’ defense all season long.

2025 Defensive Stats:

• Games Played: 28
• Putouts: 43
• Assists: 5
• Errors: 0

Torniero’s perfect fielding percentage speaks volumes. Not once did he flinch under pressure or misplay a ball — an incredible feat in a league loaded with speed and power.

Whether it was diving into the gap or throwing out a runner trying to take an extra base, Torniero brought elite defense every single day. His consistency and hustle set the tone for Tupper Lake and made him one of the most respected defenders in the Empire League.

Michael Torniero didn’t just play defense — he owned the outfield.

Dominance, durability, and pure swing-and-miss stuff — that’s what Jose Moreno brought to the mound in 2025. The ace right-hander has been named the Empire League Pitcher of the Year, capping off a season that showcased his elite command and competitive fire.

Pitching for the Tupper Lake Riverpigs, Moreno was the definition of a stopper — whether starting, finishing, or anything in between. He did it all, and he did it with authority.

2025 Season Stats:

• ERA: 2.38
• Innings Pitched: 45.1
• Record: 3-1
• Strikeouts: 62
• Walks: 26
• Hits Allowed: 32
• Complete Games: 1
• Saves: 1

Moreno’s ability to mix power and finesse kept hitters guessing all year. He racked up 62 strikeouts, often overpowering batters with a fastball that exploded out of his hand, then freezing them with a sharp breaking ball. His 2.38 ERA across 45.1 innings reflects just how tough he was to square up.

Whether it was his complete game gem, clutch save in relief, or his consistency every time he took the mound, Moreno proved to be the most valuable arm in the league. His performance was a key piece in North Country’s strong season and a reminder that true aces shine brightest under pressure.

With this award, Jose Moreno firmly cements himself as one of the top arms in the Empire League — and possibly, one to watch at the next level.

In a dominant performance, Tupper Lake secured its second Empire League title by sweeping the North Country Thunderbirds in the Finals. The team’s victory marks a historic achievement for the franchise, which last captured the championship several years ago.

Tupper Lake came into the series with momentum and didn’t miss a beat, showcasing their balanced offense and lockdown defense throughout the series. From the opening game, Tupper Lake set the tone, overwhelming the Thunderbirds with a blend of speed and precision, taking a commanding lead early on.

The Thunderbirds, though valiant in their efforts, struggled to find their rhythm against Tupper Lake’s relentless pressure. Game 2 saw much of the same, with Tupper Lake’s offensive stars shining once again, capping the series with a convincing win.

This title not only highlights the strength of Tupper Lake’s roster but also cements their place as one of the Empire League’s premier teams. With back-to-back strong seasons, the franchise has proven that its rise to the top was no fluke, and this second championship further solidifies their legacy.

For the Thunderbirds, it was a tough series, but their resilience and strong regular-season performance set the foundation for future success. As they reflect on the series loss, there is no doubt they’ll return with even more determination next season.

Tupper Lake’s sweep in the Finals is a fitting end to a fantastic season, leaving fans celebrating another title for their beloved team.

In a story that underscores the unpredictable journey of baseball careers, Tyler Bryant, a right-handed pitcher, has ascended from the Empire League to the Frontier league to now signing with the Milwaukee Brewers. This meteoric rise is not only a testament to his talent but also highlights the often-overlooked pathways that lead to Major League Baseball.

Bryant’s journey began in the Empire League, an independent baseball league known for its gritty competition and as a proving ground for many players looking to make their mark. The Empire league provided the perfect stage for Bryant to showcase his skills. His performance was nothing short of impressive, quickly catching the attention of scouts and front-office personnel.

What set Bryant apart was his combination of fastball velocity, sharp breaking pitches, and an unshakeable mound presence. These attributes, which had often been overshadowed in his earlier career, came into full bloom in the Empire League, allowing him to dominate hitters and accumulate impressive statistics. His ability to handle pressure situations and his undeniable talent did not go unnoticed, propelling him swiftly up the ranks.

The Brewers, known for their keen eye for raw talent and potential, wasted no time in securing Bryant’s services. The organization recognized the unique skill set he brought to the table, seeing in him the promise of a future Major League pitcher. Bryant’s signing with the Brewers marks the culmination of years of hard work, perseverance, and a series of fortunate breaks that led him from the humble fields of the Empire League to the Higher levels of Independent ball in the Frontier League and now to a Major League organization.

Article by Empire Media

The Tupper Lake Riverpigs started their season with a commanding 6-3 victory over the North Country Thunderbirds on opening day. Right-handed pitcher Rafael Feliz was the star of the game, delivering an impressive performance on the mound to secure the win.

Feliz pitched six shutout innings, allowing no runs and striking out five batters. His dominant presence kept the Thunderbirds’ hitters off balance and laid the foundation for the Riverpigs’ successful opener.

The Riverpigs’ offense was equally impressive, with Jhoan Contreras, Aramis Cruz, and Matt Fabian each collecting two hits. Their consistent batting put pressure on the Thunderbirds’ defense throughout the game. Nathaniel Vance added to the offensive fireworks with a thrilling triple, contributing to the Riverpigs’ scoring surge.

The Riverpigs took the lead in the 6th and maintained control, capitalizing on key scoring opportunities. Their solid defense and timely hitting ensured they stayed ahead of the Thunderbirds, who struggled to mount a comeback.

This opening day victory sets a positive tone for the Riverpigs’ season, showcasing their strong pitching and potent offense. Fans are optimistic about the team’s prospects and looking forward to more exciting games ahead. With Feliz’s stellar pitching and a lineup that delivers under pressure, the Riverpigs are poised for a promising season.

Article by Empire Media