The Bugbuster moved back into the playoff hunt with a dramatic and unlikely 8-7 walk off victory over a very competitive D.L. squad.
The Bugbusters were severely undermanned, as the Bugs almost had to have Coach Soria�s Mother play the outfield. But Andrew Gozzo gave up his pre-work sleep time to fill out the roster (Thanks Andrew!) All the infielders were playing out of position. One Legged John Garza manned the first base position, with Junior Garza capably playing second. Young Geoff Ruberte played a very nice shortstop while the immobile Ed Johnson held down third. (Literally; like a boat anchor.) Stiff and sore Harold Soria, coming off a back injury, was forced into the starting rotation. Tony Telles caught the entire game. The Soria/Telles battery showed the experience of their combined 125 years by calling and pitching a beautiful game.
At least the outfield had some speed, with Jeremy Palmer, Brian Soria, Andrew �Don Goose� Gozzo and Craig Johnson manning the positions from left to right. . The outfield made 9 fly ball putouts, with Craig Johnson grabbing 5, including one highlight-reel diving snag.
Playing without an EH or reserves, the 10 stalwarts played a near flawless game. There was only 1 error, and each of the first 5 batters in the lineup had 2 hits apiece. Highlights included Geoff Ruberte starting a nifty 6U-1 DP, with John Garza making a sparkling scoop of a short hop bullet on the back end
With the good guys down 7-6 after 6 innings, a shutdown inning was required from Player-Manager Soria. And shutdown the D.L. he did. Saving his best pitching for the last inning, he made quick work of the opposition, giving the Bugs a chance.
Going into the bottom of the 7th, Geoff Ruberte lead off with a basehit. After one out, Palmer, Johnson & Johnson all singled, knocking in the tying run, and loading the bases with one out. With the scoreboard showing 7 7 7 in bright lights, the veteran Garza drilled along Sac Fly to right, Jeremy Palmer score the winning run, and the fans went crazy.
After the game, Manager Soria discussed possible fines and suspensions for the 10 guys who did not show up. Or possibly a 10 on 10 scrimmage to see which half of the team is better!
