The Lac la Hache Food Market Bantams picked up their first victory of the season as they knocked off Shuswap 9-6 in 100 Mile Men’s Fastball League action at Lumberman’s Park, May 24.
When the Bantams play against other league teams, the two squads switch pitchers and catchers, so the Bantam chucker pitches against his teammates, and the men’s battery goes against their team.
Bantam coach Greg Edle explains it is the only way to get some experience for his players, as they wouldn’t be able to stand up against the older pitchers who can “really fire the ball.”
Mark Boyce was the winning pitcher for the Bantams, as he chucked all five innings of the game before time ran out.
Kevin Neufeld threw the first three innings for Shuswap before Daryl Eustache came in relief for the last two innings.
Hornets sting Jake’s Pub
Sanford & Dillman Hornets beat Jake’s Pub 6-1 thanks to a stellar performance by big Reg Hooper who recorded eight strikeouts in the four innings he threw.
Bob Collens came in to relieve Hooper and pitched the last two innings.
Jason Armeneau got the start for Jake’s Pub and pitched 4 2/3 innings and recorded a strikeout before being relieved by Greg Parent, who normally starts for Jakes. Parent finished the game.
Rally a game changer
Red Rock Grill defeated Exeter Sporting Goods 9-5 on May 22.
Red Rock had a big two-out rally in the bottom of the fourth inning and scored five runs off Exeter starter Paul Carey.
Matt Ounpuu hit a solo home run in the bottom of the fifth inning to put Red Rock up 9-2.
Exeter mounted a comeback during its last at bat, scoring three runs, but that was as close as they would get.
Pat Findlay pitched a complete game for the Red Rock victory.
Tourney cancelled
The intra-league tournament scheduled for May 26-27 had to be cancelled because only three teams could field squads.
The decision on whether to reschedule the tourney is pending.
Where they stand
As of May 25, Exeter and Red Rock Grill are tied for first place with eight points with 4-1 records.
Sanford follows with six points and 3-2 record.
Shuswap, Jake’s and the Bantams round out the standings with identical 1-4 records for two points.
Who’s on first?
Tonight (May 30) has Shuswap looking to avenge last week’s loss against the Bantam, while Exeter and Red Rock look to break the deadlock at the top of the standings on May 31.
Shuswap and Jake’s will usher in the new month on June 4, and Exeter takes on the Bantams on June 5.