The Pirates squared off against the Americans at New Scotland in an opening round playoff game. This game had a little of everything, with good pitching, timely hitting and some web gems.
After battling from 3-0, 5-3, 5-4, tied at 5-5, and 9-5 deficits, Americans rallied again to tie at 9-9, before play was suspended due to darkness after 5-innings of play. Both starters, Billy Smith for Bucs, and Brett Conlin for Amerks got big outs when they needed them. Darnell Baker, filling in for Don Wixon behind the plate, was 3-4 with 3 ribbys, while Smith helped his own cause going 2-3, and plating 3. Rob Rugen had a nite, with 3-4, 3 runs scored and 3 stolen bases, while Greg Smith had the big blow with a bases clearing double in the bottom of the 5th to knot the score at 9. Brad Buchan turned in a sparkler, leaping fior a line drive that was ticketed down the RF line for extra bags, and then stepping on 1st for the unassisted DP. Third sacker Kevin McCauley of the Buccos matched that gem with a diving stop, and then reaching behind him to make a tag on the incoming runner, keeping the Americans off the board. Great to see Jim Wing back in the line-up, going
1-2, with a HBP! (if you can't root for this guy, you don't get what this game is all about!). Play resumes Thursday 7/26 at 5:30pm back at New Scotland in what should prove to be a barn-burning finish!