|
The season opener for the Wild Turkeys was played under beautiful skies and on a field with tall grass. Grounders were slow, but the bumps caused some erratic bounces. Prior to the start of the game, Mark requested that everyone have fun and above all be safe out there. All in all both goals were achieved. Sam was tied up with a late running work meeting and left Bill in charge of the lineup and batting order. Mark continued his role as on-field cheerleader and all around bossy pest.
We started off the game well. Mark pitched and the defense held them to two runs. Our offense replied with only one run to complete the first inning looking like it would be a low scoring game. Then it all broke loose. By the end of the second inning the score was tied 11-11. The team showed great defense at times with Hannah running around like a rabbit in short field. Good for her. Judy nearly made several good catches for outs...instead keeping plays to doubles. I think I even saw her throw overhand once! Chris, Mike, Joe and James made their share of good plays. For the most part there were no unusual mistakes in the outfield. The Radars took advantage of us by "hitting 'em where we weren't" with many balls falling in behind the infield and in front of the outfield. In the infield, Phil made some difficult stops at third and made the throws to Debbie at first for the outs. Jose and Nancy teamed up to make the throw outs to second simultaneously trying unsuccessfully for the double play. That will come as the season progresses. In the only unfortunate incident of the game Debbie took one for the team after an errant throw bounced on the ground and hit her in the knee. Hannah came off the bench to relieve her at first for the remainder of that inning while Debbie shook it off. And we can't forget Rich! He was creaking around at third and wondering when his poor 'ole body would just quit. In the only double play of the game Mark made an easy line-out and threw to Bill who caught the runner at third completely off base. On offense, the Radars had two big innings to the Turkeys one which was the decisive factor in the final score of the game. Tim and Mark alternated pitching more or less throughout the game which ended after five innings due to the time and darkness. At the conclusion of the game, the Turkeys found themselves behind in the box score by 8 runs.
Several good plays by Gerardo earned him the "Turkey of the Week" award as determined at dinner after the game. And as this report is being written, the warmth of the beer and pizza is starting to wear off. The sting of defeat is beginning to be felt. Still, the team enjoyed themselves and look forward to the next game.
Jack came to the game but chose not to play on the field. Instead, he took the responsibility for keeping score, a task that most of us tend to shy away from. He was diligent in identifying their strong hitters which only does us good if we pay attention to him! Still, it's great to have spectators and Jack's support is always welcome. The box score for the game:
|
|
|
