It was a breezy day, to say the least, at East Madison Senior Field when the Sand Crabs defended their title against the Orioles, in the season opener for both teams.  The wind was blowing strongly out to center field, at a strength similar to that which caused the SS Minnow to go off course during their 3 hour tour.  Their 3 hour tour.

Captaining the mound for the visiting Sand Crabs was Randy Gaber, facing off against wily veteran Steve Waugh for the Orioles.  The Crabs announced their presence with authority in the top of the first, striking for 6 runs on 5 hits, and two miscues by the orange birds.  The Orioles chirped back in their half of the frame, garnering one run on 2 hits, and one Sand Crab boot.  In the Crabs second inning, they clawed forth for 7 more while the Orioles were held in check.  Both squads went quietly in the third, but the salty Crabs steamed forward for a German “No” in the 4th.  They managed 11 consecutive singles matching the record accomplishment of the Colorado Rockies on July 30th, 2010, for you history buffs. Crabs reliever Mike Schoonveld stepped to the mound in the 4th to debut his knuckle-slurve fast-up into the teeth of the gale force winds.  Catcher Chris McGill did his best Superman impression trying to corral this mustang-like offering.  However, this did keep their opponents guessing, and off the scoreboard.   The Sand Crabs made a snowman in the 5th, while playing solid defense including 3 double plays (but not in the same inning) to keep the Orioles from tallying.  The Crabs finished with 4 more in their half of the 6th, then closer Mike “Wally” Wallace shut the door to end the game at time limit.

After the door was shut, it was opened at Slice’s, where the thirsty Crabs were quenched by the finest beer in the land.   By the way, they’re out of Schlitz.

Rangers post their first win of the 2022 season.  Jeff Kunkle went the distance allowing 3 runs.  The Rangers played great defense and provided timely hitting to secure the victory.