DCR – EGRET SCRAPPERS (2-1) AT SHAW HS KNUCKLE PUNCHERS (1-2)
WHAT TO KNOW
The Egret Scrappers were predicted to finish last in the Railroad League, but got out to an encouraging start with a series win over the Vault 81 Dwellers in Week 1. Considered to have the worst pitching staff in the RL, and perhaps even the entire CBO, the Scrappers did not disappoint by giving up a league-high 21 runs over the first weekend, but still found ways to win 2 of 3.
The Shaw HS Knuckle Punchers are considered to contend for a playoff spot, even though they are predicted to finish in second behind the Oberland T-51s. Still, an opening weekend series loss to the T-51s may give some initial distance to the teams. While the Knuckle Punchers were disappointed with the series loss, they can be encouraged to know that they lost both games by only a run while beating Oberland by nine in their win.
WHAT TO EXPECT FROM EGRET
They will need runs at a steady pace to be able to outscore their opponents. The middle of their lineup can be a powerful one with right fielder Crops Gerdenheimer, left fielder Paladin Danse, and catcher Tony Tamez powering the way. Second baseman Dustin Bowfiddle had an impressive first week, hitting .500 to start.
WHAT TO EXPECT FROM SHAW HS
The Knuckle Punchers may be stronger than first expected, doing an equally good job of producing runs and holding the T-51s down in runs. If ace pitcher Brad Westing pitches better than he did in the opening weekend, Shaw HS has a huge advantage in pitching over the Scrappers.
KEY PLAYERS IN THE SERIES
EGR: Top of the Lineup—Center fielder Bill Chaney and first baseman Kyle Boohoo in Game One and third baseman and Bowfiddle in Games Two and Three will need to put steady pressure on the Knuckle Punchers’ pitching to manufacture runs throughout the series.
SHS: Second and Third Pitchers – Nick Mutfruit and Tony Acosta could put away the Scrappers if they are able to slow down Egret’s output. Mutfruit had a masterful first start, not allowing a run in 8 innings. Acosta doubles as the third pitcher and a utility infielder, making him a two-way threat. Though he lost his first start, Acosta only gave up four earned runs in 5.2 innings.
PREDICTION: We were close to picking the Knuckle Punchers to sweep the series, but we feel something is going to go right for Egret, probably in Game 3.
Knuckle Punchers Win 2 of 3