Bristol Bats overcame a 15 run deficit on Sunday in the second match of their double header against the Taunton Muskets to win 18-17.
The Bats went down 25-7 in the first game but the comeback meant they ended the day with honours even.
The Badgers were also in action against AAA side The Rebeldes, and fought all the way despite going down 12-8 and 6-4 in their double header.
The Bats’ second game comeback was built a strong pitching performance by Tyron Porter who gave up just two runs in his four innings pitched.
The team’s offense sprang into life in the fourth inning as the Bristol team piled on 16 runs with third baseman Jacob Bollinger leading the charge with three hits, four RBIs as well as scoring three runs.
Infielders Kat Golik, Paul Carter and Jamie Godwin also had multi-hit games to back up Porter’s pitching performance.
In the first game, the Bats were unable to contain the Muskets offense which registered 24 hits over the seven innings.
“We had two great games of baseball against the Muskets who are a very strong side and I think it was the best comeback I’ve been part of at the club,” said Tom Rowe, player manager of the Bats. “We had quite a few players new to the club and the game, and they were pretty impressive on the day.”
Over on the main field at Somerdale, the Badgers fought hard to overcome the The Rebeldes, a AAA side also based in Taunton.
Luke Claflin drove in four runs during the 12-8 loss in the first game as well as striking out 13 Rebeldes over his seven innings pitched.
The second game was a much tighter affair with the Badgers almost overcoming a five run deficit before falling short in the 6-4 loss.
Rhodri Theaker drove in two runs including a double while Sampson Yuen hit the first triple of the season.
Pitcher Mike Osborn struck out eight Rebeldes and gave up just three earned runs.
“It was always going to be tough but I am pleased we fought hard and played the game in the right way. It was extremely disappointing that opposition spectators charged the umpire after a disputed call. There is no place for that type of behaviour on a baseball field.” said Rhodri Theaker. “We showed much improvement from the week before and after just our second weekend of baseball, we are moving in the right direction.”
The Badgers return to action next Sunday when they host the Bournemouth Bears. The Bristol Buccaneers make their BBF A debut as well with Taunton Muskets returning to Somerdale. Both matches start at 12 noon.