Everything has gone well for the Guilderland baseball team except for the weather.
Like the rest of Section II, the Dutchmen have had a hard time getting on the field this spring. Guilderland has only played three games, including last Wednesday’s 7-0 victory over Mohonasen in Rotterdam.
We just need to get into a rhythm playing games, said Guilderland coach Doug LaValley. `We’ve been averaging one game a week.`
When the Dutchmen have gotten on the field, they’ve lived up to the preseason hype that had them contending for the Suburban Council title. Against Mohonasen, they got a stellar pitching performance from Greg Barcomb and timely doubles from three players to put the Mighty Warriors away.
`I think the kids were happy with it just being a warm day,` said LaValley.
The Dutchmen spotted Bar-comb a 4-0 lead in the first inning. Joe Lima had the big hit in the rally with a bases-loaded double that drove in three runs.
Barcomb did the rest. The senior scattered four hits over seven innings and struck out six to pick up the victory.
`He threw unbelievable today,` said LaValley. `He worked hard during the winter, and it shows. I think his fastball was his most effective pitch.`
Mike Goldstein and Nick Polsinelli added RBI doubles for Guilderland, which improved its record to 3-0.
`I’m happy. They’re playing well,` said LaValley.
Guilderland may have trouble playing any games this week. The Dutchmen’s Monday game against Columbia was postponed due to rain, and their Tuesday home game against Colonie was also in jeopardy of being called due to the wet weather. Their next scheduled game is Wednesday against Niskayuna.
Lady Dutch earn two wins
The Guilderland softball team is also off to a strong start after victories over Ballston Spa and Mohonasen last week.
Jenn McCutcheon tossed a three-hitter and helped her own cause with a home run to lead the Lady Dutch to a 5-2 victory over Ballston Spa last Tuesday. McCut-cheon added seven strikeouts in the complete-game effort.
Guilderland’s bats were active last Wednesday in a 7-3 victory over Mohonasen in Rotterdam. The Lady Dutch recorded 13 hits, led by Lauren Napoli’s two-run triple. Napoli finished with two hits.
Like the baseball team, the Guilderland softball team’s Monday game against Columbia was postponed due to the weather. The Lady Dutch’s next scheduled game is Wednesday against Niskayuna.They then travel to Saratoga Friday before playing in the Shaker Tournament Saturday in Latham.“
