Baseball for 2009 has finally arrived! As the final flickers of sunlight faded into night, the Arizona Winter League officially arrived in San Luis, Arizona, and a victorious night it was for the homeside. San Luis left seven men on-base in the first three-frames, but the bats came alive as the Atleticos sandwiched five runs a piece in the fourth and sixth innings around a three spot in the 5th to runaway from Team Canada. Final score: San Luis 14 Team Canada 1.The evening was an event all unto itself. San Luis is a fantastic baseball town, and the AWL was very excited to bring professional baseball to Joe Orduno Park. AWL President Dave Kaval and AWL Commissioner Kevin Outcalt were both on hand to take in the sights for themselves. Also marking the occasion was the San Luis High School band (as seen below), who played the national anthem prior to first pitch.
The Atleticos appear to have a solid squad who should entertain the local following for the next month. Team Canada didn't get the bats going as they would've liked, but Reid Horton showed he belongs as a No.1 starter in the league, and Garry Templeton's squad will get right back after it.
In other AWL action, the Blythe Heat outlasted the Saskatchewan Silver Sox (a last minute schedule change) 9 to 7 at Alexander Field in Blythe, CA. Saturday's slate of games sees the league makes its' inaugural appearance in Palm Springs, CA, as well as another set of games in San Luis and Blythe.
(Team Canada being announced on the field prior to the start of the 2009 AWL season)
Way to go San Luis!
ReplyDeleteThanks for the great coverage, league coverage, news and Pics. My cousin is playing on the Atleticos long ways from home. Very cool to have a means to keep up with his team. Great work.
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