Clutch hitting and great defensive plays led to the Penticton Mariners peewee A baseball team sweeping two West Kelowna teams on the weekend.
It started with a 20-14 win over the Reds Saturday, then the White Sox 14-11.
Against the Reds, coach Allen Wilson described the match as a slugfest and watched Xander Whyte and Anthony Alexis smash doubles to drive runs in and fire up the Mariners. Defensively. Taya Kampe had another impressive outing as she made a great catch in left field to deflate the Reds. To end the game, Zack Wilson dove to make a catch. Alexis was also strong on the mound.
Still reeling from the first win against the Reds, the Mariners stayed strong on the bats and used their speed to steal bases. The Mariners also received strong pitching from Tyler Witkowski and Whyte, while McGarry Allen closed the game.
“The biggest highlight for the team was an in-the-park homerun by Miguel Monteiro which was celebrated by the whole team,” said Wilson.
Angus Bews and Wyatt Bogle were a force sharing second base duties and kept the ball out of the outfield. Krystopher Roy made a running catch at center field that allowed the Mariners to get a double-play and get out of the inning. Quinn Shauer made his debut bringing another positive attitude.
The Mariners’ most improved player of the week was Roberto Schiavone. His defensive play was strong as well as how he’s been attacking the ball when trying to hit it.
The Mariners’ coaching staff has also been very happy with the positive attitude among the players.
“If someone bobbles a ball or strikes out no one gets down, everyone realizes that they win and lose as a team not individuals,” said Wilson.