#234---Perth v. Brisbane, 1/15/2021

 

This was the second ABL game I had the opportunity to watch in the winter of 2021, but I actually saw/scored it after #208 which was played on 1/20/2021, thanks to the odd programming choices of the random cable channel showing these games on tape delay. This game, played as the first of a split doubleheader at Adelaide, was billed as a pitcher’s duel between former big leaguer Travis Blackley and reigning ABL pitcher of the year Dylan Unsworth, and it didn’t disappoint. Blackely broke first, yielding a two-run homer in the fourth and dodging two errors in the fifth. He was yanked after walking two in the sixth, but despite another error Brisbane escaped with the score 2-0.

Unsworth, meanwhile, was sent out to try for the complete game (seven-inning doubleheader), but removed with run out and a runner at third after Dutton took two bases on a groundout. He struck out seven without a walk over 6 1/3, but former big leaguer Zac Reininger allowed the game tying hit. In the eighth, a double play resulted in Perth failing to cash in, while after two failed bunt attempts Fritsch dumped the game-winning single into right for Brisbane.

If I have to use a scoresheet with diamonds (and don’t worry, no one forced me), this is an example of what I prefer:

1) a very small diamond, since the space inside the diamond is wasted

2) “cheater” dots rather than a more complete outline of the diamond, so that if the batter does not reach base they leave as little clutter and superfluous ink as possible

Unfortunately, this approach takes the level of artistic talent needed from “trace a line” to “draw a line between two points”, and even that tiny increase in difficulty can result in some unfortunately-shaped lines when I am the one holding the pencil.