By Doug La Rocque
The Berlin Mountaineers varsity baseball and softball teams opened competition in the Central Hudson Valley League this past week, but the results were not what either team hoped for. The Berlin boys hosted the Eagles of Loudonville Christian in their season opener. The game remained close in the early innings, with Berlin starter Garrett Fiske keeping the Eagles’ bats fairly quiet. [private]
Fiske tired in the middle innings as Loudonville Christian put together back to back multi-run innings that Berlin was not able to overcome. Berlin Coach Josh Weaver was proud of the spirit his team showed, as the Mountaineers put up a five spot on the Eagles’ pitching staff in the bottom of the 7th, but fell short in their comeback. The final score gave Loudonville Christian an 18 to 9 victory. Starting catcher Colin Love drove in three runs for the Mountaineers, while Jacob Bruns went 2 for 4 at the plate with two RBIs.
Berlin traveled to nearby New Lebanon for their second game of the week, only to be shut out by the Tigers’ pitching staff. The Mountaineers fell by a 12 to 0 score. Sophomore Henry Ruebel went 1 for 3 at the plate including a double. Phil Doin and Garrett Fiske also picked up hits for Berlin. Coach Weaver is of course disappointed with the losses but not with his team. “First games of the year, first time seeing live pitching, it’s a big thing for the guys.” Weaver said they have some work to do with their pitching staff, but “this team has a bright future – we just need some more time and more experience.”
The Lady Mountaineers also opened their softball season with a pair of losses to Loudonville Christian and Cambridge. Coach Art Schmich admitted he has some work to do with his team. Berlin will also run track and field this spring, their season opening soon.[/private]