Dos Pueblos baseball dropped two crucial Channel League games in Friday’s home doubleheader against Buena and finds itself in a second-place tie with the Bulldogs with two games to play.
The Chargers were blown out in the first game, losing 17-1. Joe Huthsing hit a solo homer for Dos Pueblos’ only run.
“We struggled on the mound all the way around. We didn’t hit well in the first game. Our bats were held silent,” said coach Nate Mendoza.
The second game was a different story, as both teams fought in a tight 2-1 game. Gabe Speier stepped up to the mound and pitched the first 5 1/3 innings, keeping Buena scoreless for the first five.
Buena was able to break through with consecutive one-run doubles in the top of the sixth. Huthsing stepped in to finish the game, allowing no runs and only one hit.
“Gabe gave us an outstanding porformance. He kept us in the game and pitched a great game. Unfortunately we were unable to get many hits in the game,” said Mendoza.
With Buena up 2-0 in the bottom of the sixth, Porfiro Avila singled to score Colin Cole, cutting the score to 2-1.
Buena tried to expand its lead in the seventh, but a great defensive play by Kyle Richardson prevented any runs. With one out, a runner on first attempted to steal second but was nailed by a quick reaction throw from Richardson.
Dos Pueblos loaded the bases in the bottom of the seventh. With one out, Buena made a spectacular double play to end the game.
Chargers (18-6) dropped to 6-4 in league. They play San Marcos twice next week, starting at home on Tuesday.
“I’m pretty disappointed, not in my kid but in the outcome of the game,” Mendoza said. “My kids work hard every day, and I commend them for that.
“A win today would have seperated us in second, it was pretty big. All were going to do is keep working hard, and let the chips fall where they fall.”
Game 1: Buena 17 Dos Pueblos 1
Game 2: Buena 2 Dos Pueblos 1
