Walking three straight batters is no way to start a game, but that was the hole Archbould Photography dug for themselves in their 12-5 loss against MacPherson Rentals in the mite division of the Whitehorse Minor Softball League at the Minor Softball Complex on Wednesday.
Up 4-0 in the bottom of the first with bases loaded, MacPherson’s Isaac Williamson produced an infield hit to drive in two more runs to go up 6-0.
“He’s a stud player, that’s for sure,” said MacPherson head coach Rob Johnson of Williamson.
However, Archbould looked to be closing the gap at the top of the second, scoring three runs. Campbell Burdenie hit the only triple of the game to put in two runs and Parker Hobbis whacked a single to put in another.
Archbould put in two more runs in the third, but were already down seven after MacPherson scored four times at the bottom of the second.
“We’ve had our ups-and-downs - a few more losses than wins - but the kids are really positive and enthusiastic out there and they always put in a good effort,” said Johnson.
“Tonight we got a real solid pitching effort from Kayden King, Isaac Williamson and Maddy Nicholson - all three were solid pitchers tonight.
“Our batting was excellent - it’s really taken off lately. The kids have been listening to what we’re telling them and have really been producing.
“The best thing to see is everyone is having a good time - lots of smiles and good sportsmanship.”
A total of six walks and a plunked batter in the first inning played a huge role in the outcome of the game, but the important thing is getting the team used to every position, instead of selecting players for specific positions, such as pitcher, said Archbould head coach Russ Hobbis.
“They are not in set positions; it’s not like in competitive softball where you put your best pitchers in all the time,” said Hobbis. “You have to rotate the kids around - it’s not Little League.
“The kids are here to have fun and learn because we want them to like playing baseball. You’re not going to stick one in right field the whole game.”
Contact Tom Patrick at tomp@yukon-news.com