They say the great teams just find a way to win. Well it has not been pretty, but MW has found a way in its past two games.
Last nights matchup faced heavily favored March-Westin against Mylan Express. The air was ripe for upset as March-Westin had several obstacles facing them, most notably being short a pair of their regular starters and having not played for two weeks. So a rusty start was almost expected for team MW, and that’s precisely what happened.
Carl stepped in for MWs regular hurler, James who was unable to attend the game, although Carl had not seen action from the mound since September. He struggled to find the plate and was eventually replaced by Johnny on the mound but not after the damage had already been done, essentially spotting Mylan Express 10 runs by the end of the first inning.
But March-Westin has showcased a powerful offense all season and with the advantage of less than ideal outfield conditions, this night would be no exception. MW picked apart the outfield with their top 6 batters, 5 of whom attributed for 3 runs each.
Bailey made the trip to Motown to replace Johnny, who at the last minute actually was able to make it to the game. Causing a moral dilemma for coach tom who went from not having enough players to yet again having too many and being forced to make a tough decision on the starting lineup.
Early in the game Dave hit a blast to right center with one out, forcing Nick who was on first base to tag up in case of a catch. The outfielder failed to make the catch as dave rounded first. This created a scene taken straight from Rookie of the Year with Nick a mere three steps in front of Dave who is politely suggesting that Nick continue to run and run fast. Nick scored on the play and Dave ended up with a standup triple.
Both teams hit a bit of an offensive dry spot during the middle innings of the game, but March-Westin was able to really put on the pressure with 7-run sixth inning rally to retake the lead.
In the bottom of the 7th there was one play that reminded Mylan Express and everyone in attendance that MW was destined to win this game, and that was Jacksons diving catch to rob the number 3 batter of a line drive that was sure to be a base hit. You could just feel the energy shift fully to the MW side. The snag would easily rank on any top 10 catches of the week list. And on a more personal note this journalist would just like to say, in the words of the great Craig Kilborn: Jackson, I glove you man.
The next batter then hit a routine pop fly to left field which Nick easily trotted under to end the game and keep the MW winning streak in tact. Final score 20-18.
The scorebook can be viewed here.
March-Westin will be leaving regular season play as they enter the USSSA softball tournament this weekend (gametimes to be announced June 9th, stay tuned to mwball.com for more). MW will return to regular season action on Monday the 12th as they take on Jackie’s Place.
Chasing Bonds Update: Nick-4, Amie-2, Jackson-1, Tom-1.
