Oakridge Takes Opening Round Series vs Byron
Oakridge
began their 2013 TVSBL Postseason this past week with a best two of three series against the Byron Bulldogs.
In Thursday's opener at Dan Pulham Field, the Reds offense was the story from the very start. A shaky first inning lead to two unearned runs scored by Byron, but Oakridge answered quickly with three of their own. After adding two in the 2nd, and another in the 3rd, they broke out for six runs in the 4th inning. The scoring continued into the 7th and final inning due to curfew, which was capped off with an impressive 18 run tally in total. Most hitters in the Reds lineup had themselves solid nights, but a few who particularly filled the box score were Matt Johnston (4-5, 2 doubles, 3 runs) and Spencer Cleaver (2-5, 3 runs). On the mound for the night was Kevin Lunter, who recorded the win, going six innings and giving up 5 earned runs.
Sunday's game two gave Oakridge a chance to wrap up the best of three series in Byron, but a late inning collapse halted those plans. In control for most of the night, the bullpen fell victim to a resilient Byron club who seem to never quit when playing the Reds. At one point the lead swelled to 7, but 4 runs from Byron in the 8th and eventually the 9th was enough to seal the walkoff win and send the series to a 3rd and deciding game. Overshadowed by the tough loss was a great pitching performance from Kyle Gormandy, who went six innings of two hit-one run ball. Though he battled through nine walks, his ten strikeouts kept Byron off the scoreboard throughout the night. The Bulldogs were also unable to retire Spencer Cleaver, who had five singles and four runs scored.
Monday's deciding game was a close affair early on, as Kevin Lunter held Byron in check for five innings. His eight strikeouts kept him out of jams, as he was able to escape four of his five innings with strikeouts. At the plate, Matt Johnston continued his hot hitting, as he came up with a big 2 RBI double in the 3rd inning, and added two more singles. Matt Bunoza and Cody Cleaver each chipped in with two hits to help the offense to a 12 run total. To close things out, the Reds handed the ball to Jeff Barker, who entered the game by striking out the side in the 6th. Byron managed to score four runs over the next three innings, but the lead was more than enough to close things out for the 12-8 win.
With the series win, Oakridge will now move on to the TVSBL Championship weekend to be played on September 6,7,8 weekend. The format will be a four team, double knockout tournament.
All schedules and scores are posted at the league's website which can be found by searching Thames Valley Senior Baseball League. Keep up with the team by following on twitter @OakridgeReds and at facebook.com/OakridgeRedsBaseballClub