OSLOPRETENDERS

The Pretender Outcasts staged another exciting comeback, scoring three runs in the final inning but stranding the tying run at third base when Mathias’ line shot to right-center was caught.



- By Darren McKellep, August 10th 2013

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Just 16 years old, Mathias Dudek is batting .281 and has been exceptional this season with runners in scoring position. With 12 RBIs in 9 games, he is now second only to reigning MVP Matt for the Outcasts. (Mathias is the son of longtime Pretender Jim Dudek.)

 

Darren pitched all 7 innings, recording 8 Ks and allowing 4 earned runs on 7 walks and 8 hits.

 

The comeback started with Darren’s liner over SS off closer Yujiro, followed by Jim’s RBI double to the left-field corner. Next, Matt earned a 9-pitch walk, but after a pop-out and K, the Outcasts were down to their last out and still behind by three. Unfazed, Luis promptly pulled a clutch double down the line to score Jim and Matt and bring Mathias to the plate. ØHIL’s Philip spoiled the Outcast rally with a running catch of Mathias’ drive, ending the game at 8-7.

 

Some shaky Outcast defense allowed too many unearned runs, and inexperience on the basepaths hurt as well, but Royals’ pitcher Eilev deserves credit for keeping the Pretender bats quiet though innings 2‒5, aided by strong Japanese defense at third and short. The Hasegawa brothers accounted for 11 putouts/assists. 

 

French phenom Cam Prunier had 3 hits and an RBI, and 16-year-old Erik McKellep blasted a double over the right fielder.

 

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