Stopped by West Haven’s practice today, a day after the Westies knocked off Cheshire 5-2 on opening day. Boston College-bound pitcher Eric Stone tossed a three-hitter and finished with six strikeouts for West Haven. He also went 2-for-5 with two runs. Stone said it certainly helped boost his confidence to have a pitching performance like that against a team with eight eventual college players on its roster. Stone is clearly at full strength after missing last season with a torn meniscus (the second time he suffered the injury). He said he was throwing in the high 80s.

• Stone also said sophomore Bobby Moretti has been pitching well. Moretti was the ace for the Shelton Little League team, which reached the Little League World Series four years ago. Stone said Moretti may start against Platt Tech on Saturday.

• The Westies opened the season, playing with heavy hearts. West Haven assistant coach Shane Russell, 35, suffered a stroke last week, but is home now. Head coach Mike Anquillare said he was unsure if Russell would return this season. Following the win over Cheshire Wednesday, the team bus stopped Russell’s house to present him with the game ball.