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Tigers need better bats in key times

SOMBA Tigers have early problem of stranding runners in scoring position

The South Okanagan Minor Baseball Association Tigers started their season April 9 with a 5-2 win against West Kelowna.

Since then, it’s been four straight losses against Kamloops and Chilliwack. Against Chilliwack, the Tigers were downed 4-3 and then 12-1.

“We have to learn how to bear down in clutch situations,” said coach Junior Deleon. “We left more than 20 runners on second and third with less than two outs.”

Deleon said had they been able to cash in on half of those chances, they would be 5-0 instead. The Tigers coach said it’s still early enough in the season that they can make adjustments. Deleon added if they are still having the same problem in the second half of the season, there will be more reason to be concerned. Having lost players to graduation, as well as Chase Decosse and Matt Brodt to the Okanagan Athletics in the Premiere Baseball League, the Tigers had players step up in different roles. Deleon has been happy to see his players not give up in games when trailing, as was the case against Chilliwack on April 20, losing 4-3.

“Guys are finding ways to stay in,” he said. “It’s a different attitude which is a huge positive.”

This Saturday the Tigers host Victoria at McNicoll Park at 1 and 3:30 p.m. Deleon isn’t sure what to expect from the Vancouver Island team, but he is confident in his players. Deleon added it doesn’t matter what Victoria does if his players perform on the field like they can.

“We’re trying to adapt to new roles that players have come into,” he said. “The big thing is we can’t score runs (11 scored in five games). We have to put the ball in play. We’re trying to do too much in situations.”

On Sunday, the Tigers have a rematch against West Kelowna on the road. Deleon said his players have to be careful not to take the home side too lightly as it could come back to bite them.

“We haven’t shown yet that we can dominate West Kelowna.”