Scrub the Rust Off; Here We come

Well it had been 3 weeks since the Rangers last played a game, but they finally hit the field again. The rust showed a little on Tues evening, but the Rangers skinned the Rattlers 8-7 led by some spectacular defensive plays and excellent pitching.

The boys were ready to play, but Father Time is a difficult foe to avenge. They would prove to be their own worst enemy as the evening progressed. Offense has been a difficult task this year, as the young Rangers have started a new season.

As if three weeks off wasn't enough, add a potential season ending injury to Treat's glove hand and you get a recipe for a team with obstacles to overcome. Fowler stepped up and strapped on the armor to catch for Matlock, who pitched very well through 3 innings.

He struck out 7, bringing his season total to 14 and allowed 7 runs. The top of the 3rd would prove to be very eventful as Matlock pitched into a bit of a jam aided by a blown call by the field umpire and some timely Rattler hitting.

Sharp stopped the bleeding with an outstanding assist from left field by gunning down a Rattler trying to stretch a single into a double. Dodson finished the half inning, and saved the tying run, with a pro-style stretch at first base that retired the final Rattler of the evening. All in all, it was a successful night for the Rangers.
Wednesday would prove to be more of the same as the Rangers faced the Edmond Cubs. Pitching and defense have been the staples all year for this young team. They got some help from the offense tonight, though.

Cady pitched well in the first inning. He struck out 2, bringing his season total to 5, and allowed 2 runs. He helped his cause by laying down a bunt single and scoring 2 runs.

Just when the Cubs thought they were going to get something going in the first, Matlock snuffed the attempted steal of 3rd as Phillips easily applied the tag to retire the side.
Fowler also singled in the second and scored 2 times. Webber and Matlock were robbed of base hits be very good Cub defensive plays. Jones scored twice also before taking the ball from Cady to pitch the 2nd inning.

After struggling with the first 2 batters and walking them both, Jones' arm came alive as he sat down the next 3 allowing no runs across. With 3 Ks tonight, he has 18 on the year, leading the Rangers in this category.

Rangers 10 Cubs 2

Next up St. Mary's Saints on Friday night.

'Til next time, I'm outta here.