Mudcats take Season Opener

The Mudcats began the season on a beautiful, early-fall-like day on September 11^th.  Flanked on either side of the baseball diamond, the Mudcats and Lookouts pledged allegiance to the flag, and reminded us that baseball is indeed our country’s pastime. 

Having spent weeks fielding grounders and running the bases, both teams were ready to play. Leyton started the game, and the season with a lead off hit. Adam  scorched a hit over first base, driving in Leyton and starting what would become a five-run inning. Jacob was on with a hit, Luke batted in a couple more runs with a fly ball over second, and Drew out-ran a throw to first.

The Lookouts were on base after a single pitch, but were held to only one run, to close the first inning.

Gabe, Logan and Colby ground out, and the Lookouts were able to stay the Mudcats—three up, three down.  

At the bottom of the second, Jacob and “Sticks” team up to get the first out.  A batter strikes out, then Jacob makes a great play on a chopper to retire the side.

“Sticks” drives in a run in the third inning, to make it six runs for the Mudcats.

The second half of the line-up gets busy in the fourth inning, as Gabe gets on base with a grounder through the legs of the defense, and Logan almost beats the throw by digging out a grounder to first.

Practice pays, and Drew knocks down a wicked chopper at the mound and throws a dagger for an out at first.  The Lookouts score, but they’re still behind the Mudcats.

“Smiley” gets in on the action with a grounder too tough for the Lookouts pitcher to handle and “Sticks” bats in another runner. 

The Lookouts bats are stirring, and the Mudcats’ defense is tested.  Tyler makes a stop in the outfield, and gets the ball back quickly.

Luke hits a big shot into the outfield for a lead-off single.  “Tex” finds a pitch he likes and legs out a single.

The Mudcats prevail 10-8, and shake hands with the Lookouts, ending a great start to the season. The Mudcats had 16 hits and no strike outs. Way to bring your hitting shoes! Check out the picutes from the game.

Write-up by Scott Hart
Pictures by Tonya Proctor