The Amsterdam Mohawks are returning to their home turf with a significant advantage in the PGCBL championship series.
On a thrilling Thursday night, the Mohawks journeyed to Dunn Field to challenge the Elmira Pioneers, emerging victorious with a 7-2 win in the first game of the best-of-three series.
The game was a rollercoaster of excitement from the start, with Amsterdam seizing the lead in the top of the first inning. This was thanks to Zach Eldred’s double, which was followed by him scoring on a wild pitch.
The Pioneers managed to level the score in the bottom half with an RBI single from Andy Schroeder. However, the Mohawks quickly regained their lead in the second inning, courtesy of back-to-back doubles from Rob Rispoli and Steven Spalitta.
Adding to the Mohawks’ momentum, Jimmy Dionne contributed an RBI single in the third inning. The team then scored three more runs in the fourth, with Sebastian Harden hitting an RBI single, and both Zach Eldred and Evan Haeger securing RBI doubles. This flurry of activity saw the Mohawks extend their lead to 6-2.
Zach Hernandez was the starting pitcher for Amsterdam, lasting 4 1/3 innings. The right-hander conceded two runs on five hits and two walks, while also achieving five strikeouts.
Relief pitcher RHP Brenden Kline took over from Hernandez, managing to induce a double play to end the inning.
Mason Veronezi, a promising talent set to graduate from Burnt Hills-Ballston Lake in 2023, stepped up to the mound in the sixth inning. The right-hander was exceptional, pitching the final four innings for the Mohawks and allowing just one hit and one walk, while striking out three.
The best-of-three championship series will continue in Amsterdam on Friday, potentially featuring a doubleheader. Game 2 is scheduled to start at 4 p.m. at Shuttleworth Park. If a third game is required, it will take place immediately after on Friday night.
Amsterdam Mohawks 111 300 001 — 7 14 0
Elmira Pioneers 101 000 000 — 2 6 1
Disagree – Elmira has what it takes to come back and win the championship. Amsterdam better watch out.
Disagree – Elmira has shown they have the determination to make a comeback and take the championship title from Amsterdam. #UnderdogsRising
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