Brewers riding three-game win streak, sit second in NDBL

July 28, 2014 · 0 Comments

Zach Riddell struck out four in last Thursday’s win over Aurora.

By Jake Courtepatte
With only two games left in the NDBL schedule, the Bolton Brewers are looking to end on a high note.
The Brewers kicked off their week at home against the Aurora Jays last Thursday, trailing the Jays by one point for top spot in the league.
Starting pitcher Zack Riddell found himself in a hole early, after a walk, a steal and a pair of base hits in the top of the first put two runners in scoring position. Jay Ian Rettie would score to put the home team down 1-0.
However, Riddell would find his groove in the second inning when he struck out the side.
“You really have to hit your locations with a team like this,” said Riddell. “They’re obviously a good hitting team, and will take advantage of your mistakes.”
Down 3-2 in the bottom of the fifth, the Brewers found their opportunity when Jays’ pitcher Chris Rettie walked Eric Cirone to load the bases with only one out. A pair of RBI singles by Matt Blacklaws and Shawn Chalmers would put the Brewers up for good, 4-3.
The Brewers went undefeated this season against Aurora, winning both games.
Riddell put down a solid outing on the mound, allowing eight hits and three runs through six innings, striking out four. Riddell, who plays for the junior team and gets the occasional call-up to the seniors, said he thought he pitched well.
“The hitting’s a lot better,” he observed. “In junior ball you can get away with it a little bit. I’m a hard throwing pitcher, so I can get away with a fastball. But you have to mix in a lot of pitches, hit your spots, and if you don’t then they’ll get those little bloop hits off you.”
The Brewers’ defence was highlighted by a great stab by third baseman Travis Rumney in the top of the sixth. Rumney knocked down a line drive on his knees, getting the ball to first base in time for what would be a crucial third out.
“I just caught the ball and came up to throw,” said Rumney. “Chalmers (first base) had a good stretch on it, he probably made a better play than I did coming across the diamond.”
After picking up their third win in a row Monday night in Tottenham against the Angus Black Sox, the Brewers remain one point behind the Jays. The Jays picked up two more wins last week amidst their loss to the Brewers, against the Lisle Astros and New Lowell Knights.
The season draws to a close Wednesday for the Brewers, in a doubleheader on the road against the Barrie Angels.
For stats, schedules, and more information, visit www.ndbl.ca