The Cubs bounced back in a big way in game two of the Fall Classic, this morning. Ronnie Mazz, got the start and pitched 4 innings, giving up just one run, on 4 hits, and no walks, while striking out 3. The Cubs offense supported Ron with 2 runs in the 1st, 2 runs in the 2nd, and 3 runs in the 3rd. With a 7-1 lead, Albany used 3 pitchers to get through the last 5 innings, 2 innings from Ralph Caputo (2 runs), 2 scoreless innings from Scott Ross, and 1 inning from Jimmy Konstantakis (1 run).
The offense was again led by Jack Griffin, with his second 3 hit game in a row. Dave Mitchell added 3 hits and Bob Bolt, PJ Martone, and Ron Lochner added two hits each. The Cubs offense banged out 16 hits in all, and scored 15 runs in the 15-4 rout. The bats were much more patient, as the Cubs worked out 8 walks and had 3 hit batsmen. The defense was solid all game long, playing the complete game without a single error.
This is the kind of complete effort that it takes, game in and game out to win one of these tournaments, and it was great to see the Cubs put it all together. With a 1-1 record the Cubs will face the New Jersey Reds, at Roger Dean Stadium, tomorrow morning at 9:30 am. Bob Bolt gets the start against a perennial playoff team in the Reds. They always bring a large talented squad to these tournaments and should pose a tough test for game 3.
thx for the detailed update Mike. Seems this Albany squad , these guys, have this history of slow starts in tournaments. it goes way back. In a look at the competition, I see some of the same teams we used to face as 30, 40, 45 year olds. Hmm NJ,.... Mike, Ralph, Randy and Mitch know them well. that Montgomery County team is run by a guy who knows how to strategize. He's in the Classic HOF for such. But hey, I feel you rolling now. Particularly the patience at the plate. You'll be facing less than aces the next couple of days. 16 hits on top of 11 freebies, means offensive pressure. maybe they're not all that easy but be the team that KNOWS its gonna score runs.
I like that Darrell didn't get used up yesterday and others came in today to get this first win. Jimmy K. i know you were itching to get some action. (Dang Chicago 65+ should have pitched you on that PHX Friday???!?!?)
Mazz and Darrell, and Mike can all hop on the mound later in the week. Keep up the strategy of preserving arms. So many of you have experienced this grind.....keep fresh, trust your teammates, roll baby.
Tell NJ that "urban rednecks", rule and we Love, Randy Craft always. Have fun boys. we're all watching the Cubs up here.
