Diamondbacks  Notes:
Games like this one are the reason we come to play (and coach). The final game against a very good Sounds team had everything you could want in a little league game. After 3 innings the score was 3 to 2 D-Backs. After 4, it was 4 to 3 Sounds. After 5 innings the score was 6 to 4 D-Backs. The score was tied at the end of 6 at 6 runs each.

On offence the D-Backs recorded 8 hits with doubles by Carl and Adam. Jack went 3 for 3 at the plate. Jake, Joaquin, and Adam all recorded singles. We were being disciplined batters at the plate only swinging at the good pitches. The D-Backs reached base on 11 walks and 5 hit batters.

On defence there were many big plays, including Carl’s line drive catch in right, Mac’s pop up at first, Jack’s ground ball stop at 1st and throw to 2nd to get the lead runner. With a runner on 3rd Joaquin smothered a hot grounder keeping the run from scoring. With runners at 2nd and 3rd and no out, the game on the line, the whole team tightened up the defensive and behind Jack’s arm, held the Sounds scoreless to extend the game into extra innings.

Jake was on target pitching the first 3 innings recording 5 strikeouts and allowing only 2 runs. Jack pitched the 4th through 6th innings recording 4 strikeouts and allowing 4 runs. John showed the eye of the tiger and stepped up to pitch the 7th inning. With 2 outs in the bottom of the 7th holding on to a one run lead the Sounds got a big hit to the right-center gap to win the game. We should all be proud of John asking to take the ball and pitch with the game and season in the balance.

As the season progressed individual players baseball skills improved and players worked as a team forming new friendships. Coaches Glenn and Jeff are pleased with the teamwork and determination of the Diamondbacks. It has been fun to coach a great group on young men for the 2003 season and we both hope that each of the players had as much fun playing and learning as we did coaching.