American Defenders unite and suit up for first time
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It was a good chance for head coach Dr. Carroll Land to evaluate the talented players and see where the lineup and rotation would play out.
Land used eight different pitchers in the game including Rich O’Donald, the rookie of the year from the University of Delaware.
O’Donald struggled in the first inning as the U.S. Military All Stars scored the first two runs of the game. Brendan Newton and Ramon Marquez both picked up RBI doubles as the All Stars took a 2-0 lead.
Cory Davisson (Evansville) entered the game in the 2nd inning and allowed a leadoff single to Jovanni Bramasco. A sacrifice fly from Korey Smith two batters later would score Bramasco and build a 3-0 lead.
The U.S. Military All Stars held the American Defenders scoreless until the 6th inning when the bats came alive. John Andreoli (UCONN) ripped an RBI single to left field, putting reliever Matt Munson in a jam. The next batter, Zack Williams (Judson) singled up the middle, bringing home Matt Oliveto (FDU) and John Andreoli and tying up the game.
In a 3-3 tie, the U.S. Military All Stars battled back to take the lead in the 7th. With two runners on, Ronnie Stahl crushed a double to right field regaining the lead 5-3.
In the final inning, the All Stars threatened for more but Dave Glass (Westfield State) prevented any scoring. With the bases loaded and no one out, Glass retired the next three hitters without allowing a run in impressive fashion.
The American Defenders brought the tying run to the plate, but Juan Velazquez struck out John Andreoli to end the game and seal the 5-3 victory.
These teams will play another exhibition tomorrow at 6:35 PM at Wahconah Park. The game is free for everyone to attend. Come root on the Pittsfield American Defenders as they continue to prepare for their season opener at Vermont on Friday and home opener against New Bedford on Saturday. The home opener will also feature a fireworks extravaganza after the game.
Fans can always listen to the American Defenders games by using teamline, the official broadcasting partner of the American Defenders. By going to http://www.teamline.cc/sportpage?teamcode=6301&eventcode=5 fans can watch and listen to every American Defenders game during the season.
Fans can also go to the team store at 2 South Street in Pittsfield for more information on the Pittsfield American Defenders or by going to the official team site at http://www.pittsfieldamericandefenders.us.
The American Defenders front office can be reached by calling (413) 997-2273. Fans can call for information on the teams, tickets, sponsorship, group outings and so much more.
