Mon. Apr 25, 6:00pm @ INTENSITY

It was the 1st day back from Castro Valley’s Spring Break. And, it had been 2 weeks since the SKIPPING NINJAS last regulation game, which was a loss. Although the NINJAS appeared in 2 unofficial scrimmage games in between, there were many players missing and, therefore, it wasn’t a true NINJAS team that took the field in those scrimmage outings. This would mark the 1st time the NINJAS played an official game in 2 weeks. By chance, the NINJAS faced off against INTENSITY again and, with the results of the previous game, the NINJAS had to shake off the rust of the previous 2 weeks and try to come up with an answer for a challenging opponent.

1st Inning
With the SKIPPING NINJAS taking the field 1st on offense and INTENSITY down to 8 players due to injuries and absences, INTENSITY tapped their ace pitcher to start the game. With Kas out for the SKIPPING NINJAS, Rachel was up 1st in the lineup. Rachel came out and fouled off the 1st pitch. The pitcher threw heat on the next 2 pitches and struck Rachel out. Erika was up next. The pitcher threw a ball on the 1st pitch and Erika fouled off the 2nd, which brought up 1-1. After that, the pitcher couldn’t find the strike and eventually walked Erika. Lexie came up to the plate next. The pitcher fired one in for a standing strike on Lexie and, on the pitch, Erika made it to 2nd on a steal. The next pitch was a ball and Lexie watched 1 more go by for strike 2. Lexie connected on the next pitch, sending a hard grounder toward the INTENSITY 2nd baseman. Erika reached 3rd as the INTENSITY defense went for the out at 1st, but an overthrow at 1st gave Lexie the single and Erika made it home to put the SKIPPING NINJAS on the board. Miara was up next. After a ball on the 1st pitch, the pitcher lost control of the ball and Miara was hit by the pitch. The pitcher regrouped as Rebecca took her position at the plate. Rebecca took a swing at the pitcher’s 1st pitch. She released too late and collected a strike for her efforts. She took a swing at the next pitch and again, missed, but this time she released too early. The pitcher followed it up with 2 balls in a row to even up the count. On the 2nd ball, Lexie made her way into scoring position on a steal. The INTENSITY catcher got up to throw Lexie out at 3rd, but missed her target and Lexie scored on the overthrow as Miara made it to 2nd base. Rebecca held up her bat on the last pitch, but it was a strike and Rebecca was sent back to the NINJAS dugout. Elise was up next. Miara stole 3rd on the 1st pitch and Elise held her bat for a strike. Elise took a swing at the next pitch but missed for strike 2. The pitcher put 2 balls in the count to even things up before firing one in and getting it past Elise for the strikeout, ending the initial NINJAS rush.

Fighting fire with fire, the SKIPPING NINJAS selected Miara to lead the team in the 1st. The 1st INTENSITY batter came up to the plate. Miara fired one in for a strike. The batter connected on Miara’s next pitch, putting it in play. She sent a ground ball through the 1st base side of the NINJAS infield. Rachel moved in to collect the ball. As she came up with it, the ball hit the ground and the batter earned a single. Miara threw heat on her 1st pitch against the 2nd INTENSITY batter for a strike. On the pitch, the runner on 1st made is safely to 2nd on a steal. The batter fouled off Miara’s next pitch for 0-2. Balls on the next 2 pitches evened up the count. Miara threw heat again and it looked like it was going to put the batter away, but, unexpectedly, the batter connected and send a low and fast fly ball down the 1st base line. Lexie reached out for it, but it was out of reach and the ball landed in fair territory. Aale’a quickly threw the ball back to Lexie to hold the runner to a single, but the other runner reached 3rd on the play. The next batter came up to the plate. She fouled off the 1st pitch and missed the 2nd, bringing up strikes 1 and 2. The batter took a swing at Miara’s next pitch and connected, sending a fast grounder right up the middle of the infield. Miara scooped up the ball, checked 3 to freeze the runner, and threw the ball for the out at 1st. The runner took off for home on the throw and, thinking quickly, Lexie fired one in to Hylah at catcher and successfully turned the double play, preventing the score with the out at home. With a runner on 3rd, the next batter came up to bat. She swung at Miara’s 1st pitch and took a ball on the next for 1-1. She fouled off the next pitch before getting a hold of the next one, sending a fly ball over Aale’a’s head in right field for a double, bringing the other INTENSITY runner home. The next batter tried to keep it moving, but she missed on the 1st pitch. She hit the ball on the next pitch, but the ground ball went straight to Miara and she was able to pick it up and make the easy throw to 1st for the 3rd out.

SKIPPING NINJAS 2 – INTENSITY 1

2nd Inning
Natalie was up 1st in the 2nd inning. The INTENSITY pitcher started to struggle right away against Natalie. She threw 3 balls in a row to start things off before getting one past Natalie to bring up 3-1. Natalie held her bat on the next pitch for the walk and Natalie headed to 1st base. Natalie turned the corner at 1st on her way to 2nd, but a combination of an alert INTENSITY defense and Natalie’s slow run on the steal sealed Natalie’s fate and INTENSITY got the out at 2nd. Hylah was up next. Continuing to struggle, the pitcher threw 2 balls to start things off. Hylah missed the next pitch and watched one go by and the count was even at 2-2. Another ball brought up full count. Then, Hylah connected on the next pitch, but the ball popped up over the infield and the INTENSITY short stop was able to get under the ball for the catch and the out on Hylah. Katrina was up next. Once again, the pitcher was off to a slow start and threw 2 balls against Katrina. But the next 3 pitches were on target and got Katrina to swing. Katrina tried her best, but couldn’t time the pitches on her 1st at bat and she struck out, ending the inning for the NINJAS offense.

Continuing the pitcher duel, Miara was back at the rubber in the 2nd inning. Making quick work of the INTENSITY offense, Miara put on a pitching clinic. Miara fired her 1st pitch in and got it past the 1st batter for strike 1. The batter took a cut on the next pitch and missed for strike 2. Miara settled in for her 3rd pitch and the batter dug in. Miara released the ball and, once again, it was on target. The batter took a swing and the bat went just over the ball for strike 3. The next batter came up to the plate. Miara faltered a bit on the 1st 2 pitches, but quickly regained her pitch. At 2-0, Miara fired one in and the batter fouled it off. A ball on the next pitch brought up 3-1. The batter fouled the next one off and reached full count. Miara pulled out the fast ball on the next pitch and fired one in. Looking like she was moving in slow motion, the batter released her bat, but it traveled through the strike zone so late that the batter may as well have been swinging at thin air. The batter struck out and was sent back to the INTENSITY dugout empty handed. The next batter came up to bat. Miara, now on fire, threw heat on the 1st pitch and got it past the batter for strike 1. The next pitch came in hot and, for the 2nd pitch in a row, the batter watched it go by for strike 2. After a ball on the next pitch, Miara drilled one in again. This time, the batter took a swing, but again, the batter released too late and missed the ball, striking out and closing the door on the 2nd inning.

SKIPPING NINJAS 2 – INTENSITY 1

3rd Inning
At the top of the 3rd, after yet another defensive showcase put on by both teams, the INTENSITY defense took to the field with their ace pitcher at the rubber again. Aale’a was up 1st to see what she could do. Aale’a came out swinging. She fouled off the 1st pitch and missed the 2nd. After a ball on the 3rd pitch, Aale’a was able to connect and put the ball in play. The ground ball rolled up the 3rd base line and Aale’a took off for 1st. The INTENSITY 3rd baseman picked up the ball and made the throw to 1st. The ball was out of reach and forced the 1st baseman to come off of the bag for the catch, the opening allowed Aale’a to reach 1st base safely. Rachel was up next. Rachel battled with the pitcher, alternating strikes and balls until full count. Rachel fouled off 1 more pitch to stay alive. On the next pitch, Rachel held her bat and the ball looked to be outside, but the umpire disagreed and called the strikeout. Erika was up next. Erika came out swinging and fouled off the 1st pitch. She fouled off one more after taking balls on the 2 previous pitches. With the count at 2-2, she put the ball in play. The INTENSITY short stop moved in to pick up the ground ball and made the throw to 1st for the out on Erika as Aale’a reached 2nd base. Lexie was up next. Lexie took a swing at the pitcher’s 1st toss and connected. She sent a line drive just over the INTENSITY defenses heads deep into right field for a single, which gave Aale’a enough time to turn the corner at 3rd and beat the ball to the plate to put up another run for the NINJAS. Miara was up next. The pitcher struggled to get a strike over the plate and threw a ball on the 1st pitch. A passed ball on the next pitch gave Lexie an opening to steal 2nd. The pitcher threw another ball to follow it up. On release of the next pitch, Lexie stole 3rd base. The pitch was ruled a ball and Miara walked. Miara turned the corner at 1st and gunned it for 2nd. The INTENSITY catcher got up and fired the ball to 2nd base. Miara dove to get under the tag, but the umpire called her out. With the 3rd out, the SKIPPING NINJAS defense took to the field.

Giving INTENSITY a different look, Natalie was brought in to take over pitching duties. Natalie took a while to warm up and walked the 1st INTENSITY batter. The next batter came to the plate. After a ball on the 1st pitch, the batter connected and sent a line drive out into left field that hit the ground. Erika was able to recover quickly and throw the ball back in to hold the batter to a single. With INTENSITY runners on 1st and 2nd, the next batter came up to bat. On release of the 1st pitch, the runners took off on a steal and the batter connected, putting a ball in play. The ball rolled slowly up the 3rd base side of the field and Natalie moved in to pick it up. She got up to make a play, but as the runner rounded 3rd and got past Natalie, she hesitated before making her throw. She decided to go for the out at home, but it was too late and the runner scored and the runner on 2nd advanced safely to 3rd. The next batter came up to bat. On the 1st pitch, the runner on 1st stole 2nd base and the pitch was ruled a ball. Natalie had trouble on the next pitch as well and added another ball to the count. Natalie got one past the batter to bring up 2-1. Then the batter fouled one off to even things up. After another ball, the batter connected and sent a hard ground ball tearing through the NINJAS infield past Hylah’s glove, at 3rd base, for a double, bringing 2 runs in and putting INTENSITY in the lead for the 1st time in the game. The next batter came to the plate. After uneventfully reaching full count on the batter, Natalie hung one out over the plate and the batter got a piece of it. She sent a grounder rolling through the infield. This time Miara was able to get in front of the ball and made the throw to Lexie for the 1st defensive out of the inning. The next batter came up. Natalie got one past her for a strike. Balls on the next 2 pitches put Natalie behind. She was able to recover and get one more past the batter to even things up. On the next pitch, the batter took a swing and sent another ball past Hylah into left field for a single, bringing another runner home. Natalie got back to work as the next batter came up to the plate. Natalie’s 1st pitch got past Katrina and the runner on 1st advanced on a steal. Natalie’s next 2 pitches also missed their mark and the count was at 3-0. The batter fouled off the next pitch. Then she missed on a 2nd attempt and the count was full. The batter connected on the next pitch. Miara moved in to pick up the grounder and again made the connection with Lexie at 1st for the 2nd out as the runner on 2nd made it to 3rd. After starting off with a ball on the next batter, Natalie hit her with a pitch and put her on base. Natalie split the difference with the next batter on the 1st 2 pitches. On the next pitch, the batter put it in play, hitting a fast ground ball past Hylah for a single and bringing 1 more INTENSITY run across the plate. Natalie started to struggle and started off on the next batter with 2 balls in a row. On the 3rd pitch, the batter got a hit and sent a grounder through the 3rd base side of the field. Miara moved it to collect the ball and, taking her time, threw to 1st for the 3rd out. However, the NINJAS were now faced with a 3 point deficit.

SKIPPING NINJAS 3 – INTENSITY 6

4th Inning
With the division pitching limit of 4 innings, INTENSITY decided to save their ace pitcher to close the show. A new pitcher was brought in to give the NINJAS a different look. Rebecca was up 1st. Rebecca took a ball on the 1st pitch. The next 2 pitches came in on fire and got past Rebecca, putting her behind in the count. But the pitcher couldn’t find the strike on the next 3 pitches and a walk put Rebecca on base. Elise was up next. The pitcher threw a ball on the 1st pitch against Elise and Rebecca successfully stole 2nd. Another ball gave Rebecca a shot at 3rd. Elise watched a pitch go by for a strike. After another ball pitch, Elise took a swing and missed, bringing up full count. On the throw back to the pitcher, Rebecca took off for home. Reacting quickly, the pitcher fired the ball in to the catcher who caught the ball as Rebecca slid for home. Bringing the tag down on Rebecca’s torso, the catcher applied the tag, but Rebecca’s foot looked like it had reached the plate. Unfortunately, the umpire ruled it an out and Rebecca was sent back to the dugout. Another ball on Elise put her on base. Natalie was up next. After a ball pitch, Natalie watched the next one go by for a strike and Elise safely stole 2nd. After another ball, Natalie fouled one off for 2-2. After taking one more ball, Natalie tried to connect, but came out a touch too late and, after 6 pitches, she struck out. The pitcher started to struggle against Hylah. She threw a ball on the 1st pitch. A passed ball on the next pitch gave Elise an opportunity to steal 3rd. She took off as the catcher recovered the ball. The catcher threw to 3rd, trying for the out on Elise, but the ball got away from the INTENSITY 3rd baseman and Elise got up and ran for home, scoring on the error. The pitcher missed one more time, bringing up 3-0. After Hylah missed the next pitch, she redeemed herself and connected on the follow-up. Hylah send a hard ground ball through the INTENSITY defense out into the right field grass for a single. Katrina was up next. After splitting the difference with the pitcher on the 1st 2 pitches, Katrina put the ball in play. Unfortunately, the ground ball was easily picked up by the INTENSITY defense and they made the easy out on Katrina at 1st base, holding the NINJAS to 1 run in the inning.

Trying to keep INTENSITY guessing, Hylah took over pitching in the 4th. Hylah looked pretty good at pitcher given her relative lack of pitching experience over the last couple of years. The 1st INTENSITY batter came up to bat. Hylah alternated between balls and strikes and inched her way to full count. The batter fouled off one more and stayed alive. Finally, the batter connected and sent a hard grounder down the 3rd base side of the field. Miara, playing short stop, scooped up the ball and made the throw to Lexie for the 1st out. Hylah found her rhythm and got the next batter to swing. She missed the 1st 2 pitches and got behind in the count early. After a ball, the batter put the ball in play. Again, the grounder made its way into Miara’s glove. Taking her time, Miara threw the ball to Lexie for the 2nd out. With 2 down, Hylah got ready to face the next batter. Hylah got one past the batter for a strike. Hylah missed on the next pitch to even up the count. On the next pitch, the batter took a swing and connected. Incredibly, the batter hit a 3rd grounder straight to Miara and, once again, she picked up the ball and threw it to Lexie, at 1st, for the 3rd out, making quick work of the INTENSITY offense in the 4th inning.

SKIPPING NINJAS 4 – INTENSITY 6

5th Inning
With the SKIPPING NINJAS trailing by 2 and the clock ticking on the game, the NINJAS needed to wake up their offense to get back in the game. Aale’a was up 1st for the NINJAS. After taking 2 balls in a row, Aale’a was hit by a pitch and got on base. Rachel came up next. She fouled off the 1st pitch, then watched one go by to bring up 0-2. When the 3rd pitch came through, Rachel got a hit and sent a fast grounder toward the INTENSITY short stop. The short stop bobbled the ball on the way up, which gave Rachel enough time to make it on base. The INTENSITY short stop turned her attention to 2nd base. She made the throw to 2nd. The 2nd baseman received the ball and turned to tag Aale’a for the out. The pitcher got to work as Erika came up to bat. Erika took a swing and missed the 1st pitch. The next pitch was a ball and Rachel stole 2nd before the catcher could react. Erika took a swing at the next pitch for a strike and Rachel safely stole 3rd. The pitcher threw a ball on the next pitch. Then, on the follow-up, Erika took a swing and struck out. Lexie came up to bat next. Lexie took a cut on the 1st pitch, missing for the strike. Rachel came out on her lead and the catcher stood up to walk her back to 3rd base. Once the catcher made the throw back to the pitcher, Rachel took off and crossed the plate, reducing the INTENSITY lead to 1 point. Lexie resumed her position to finish her at bat. Lexie swung and missed the next pitch, putting the 2nd strike in the count. After a ball on the following pitch, Lexie fouled of the next one to stay alive. After another ball, Lexie was able to get a hold of one and put the ball in play. She sent a grounder straight back to the pitcher and she was able to pick it up and make the throw to 1st for the out, retiring the side.

Miara was back at the rubber to take on the INTENSITY offense again. Having rested her pitching arm for a couple of innings, it seemed like Miara lost a little bit of speed, but her accuracy was on point. The 1st batter came up to the plate. Miara missed the mark on the 1st pitch, but was able to string 3 good pitches together and got the batter swinging. She took cuts at the 3 strike pitches, missing them all and striking out. Miara started off with a ball on the next INTENSITY batter. The batter fouled off Miara’s next pitch. The batter took a swing at the next pitch for a strike. Then, Miara dug deep and threw heat. Stunned, the batter held her swing and the umpire called the strike and the batter was sent packing. Miara lost her touch on the next batter. She was able to get the batter to swing at a couple of pitches, but a walk on the batter put an INTENSITY runner on base. The next batter came up to bat. She started off swinging and fouled off the 1st pitch. After a ball, the batter watched one get by her for a strike. On the next pitch, the batter took a swing. Missing the ball, the batter struck out and ended the inning for the INTENSITY offense. The SKIPPING NINJAS defense was able to hold INTENSITY scoreless for 2 innings in a row.

SKIPPING NINJAS 5 – INTENSITY 6

6th Inning
Entering the 6th inning trailing by 1, the umpire stated that, with the clock ticking on the game, this would likely be the last inning. With this being the last turn at bat, the SKIPPING NINJAS needed to kick it into high gear in this inning to have a shot at the win. Miara came up 1st. She came out swinging aggressively and fouled off the 1st 2 pitches. After a ball, Miara fouled off 1 more. On the next pitch, Miara connected and ripped on out to left field. The ball hit the ground in fair territory and Miara got a double on the play. Rebecca came up next. On the 1st pitch, Miara took off for 3rd. The catcher got up and fired it in to 3rd to try to get the out, but the INTENSITY 3rd baseman couldn’t lock it down and Miara scored on the error, tying up the game. Rebecca fouled off the next pitch before a ball brought up 2-1. The pitcher threw heat on the next 2 pitches and struck Rebecca out. Elise was up next. After taking a ball on the 1st pitch, Elise hit a grounder toward the 3rd baseman. She beat the ball to 1st for a single. Natalie was up next. After watching a strike go by, Natalie fouled off the next pitch. After a ball brought up 1-2, Natalie put the next ball in play. She hit a hard ground ball out to right field for a single. Elise reached 2nd and, while the INTENSITY defense scrambled for the ball, she was able to make it to 3rd base. Hylah was up next. With a ball on the 1st pitch, Natalie stole 2nd base. After a ball, Hylah fouled one off. Then, she took a swing and missed. A passed ball on the next pitch brought up full count and gave Elise the opening to score and put the NINJAS in the lead again. Natalie stole 3rd on the play and the catcher tried for the out, but missed the connection at 3rd and Natalie was able to follow Elise home. Finally, a walk on Hylah put a NINJA on base. Katrina came up next. Katrina went back and forth with the pitcher. At 2-1, Hylah stole 2nd on a passed ball. Katrina put the ball in play on the next pitch, but the grounder went back to the pitcher, who was able to get the ball to 1st for the out on Katrina as Hylah reached 3rd. Aale’a was up next. After reaching 2-2, Aale’a was hit by a pitch and got on base. With NINJAS runners on 1st and 3rd, Rachel came up to bat. Rachel watched 2 fast balls go by, both hitting their mark for strikes 1 and 2. Rachel took a swing at the next pitch and missed, striking out and ending the inning for the NINJAS offense with a 2 point lead.

It was the SKIPPING NINJAS defense’s turn take the field and try to maintain the lead for the win. Miara was back to close the show. After a ball on the 1st pitch, the batter put the ball in play. She hit a fly ball over the 3rd base side of the field. Natalie got in front of it and couldn’t get a hold of the ball and the batter got a single on the play. The next batter came up. After a ball on the 1st pitch, Miara got one past the batter and evened up the count. The batter connected on the next pitch and sent a grounder back to Miara. She picked up the ball and threw it to Lexie at 1st for the out. 1 down, 2 to go. Miara started to slow down a bit and lost control on the next pitch for ball 1. A passed ball on the next pitch allowed the runner to make it home on the play. The batter connected on the next pitch, popping it up over the infield. Both Natalie and Rachel converged on the ball. Neither called the ball, but both backed off, allowing it to hit the dirt, which gave the batter enough time to make it on base. With the error, the runner on 3rd scored, reducing the NINJAS lead to 1 point. Miara got back to work against the next batter. After fouling off the 1st 2 pitches, the batter put the ball in play and sent a fast grounder through the 1st base side of the field. Rachel, playing 2nd base unexpectedly backed off to cover 2nd and the ball reached the right field grass. Thankfully, Aale’a recovered the ball and held the batter to a single. The next INTENSITY batter came up to bat. The runners stole their way into scoring position on a passed ball. Miara lost focus on the batter and, eventually, a walk on the batter loaded the bases for INTENSITY. It was make or break for the NINJAS as INTENSITY was looking to bring the runners home. Miara got back to work. Clearing her head, she quickly got back at it and started throwing heat. She got the next batter to swing. After fouling one off, the batter swung at 3 pitches, missing them all for a strikeout. 2 down, 1 to go. Miara threw heat and caught the next batter napping for strike 1. Miara did it again and got it past the batter for strike 2. Then, Miara rocked back, stepped forward and threw the ball. The batter gritted her teeth and released the bat. The bat came around to meet the ball. Bracing herself for the impact, the batter gritted her teeth and closed her eyes. She missed the ball and the pitch hit Hylah’s glove for strike 3. The SKIPPING NINJAS preserved their lead and took home the victory.

Final Score
SKIPPING NINJAS 8 – INTENSITY 7

Game Ball
It was a nail-biter, with the NINJAS taking home the hard-fought victory against a tough team. But, for the 2nd game in a row, it was defense and pitching that carried the day for both teams. And both teams put on a great show for the fans. There were 2 SKIPPING NINJA players that really put forth a great performance: Miara – had an incredible day pitching and contributed a great deal at short stop and also had some good baserunning; and Lexie – although she was on 1st base all day, she really held it down and caught everything that came her way, including being involved in a double play. For that, both Miara and Lexie received game balls. Great job out there ladies!

Spring Break Kick-Off Scrimmages

On Saturday, April 16 @ 2pm, the SKIPPING NINJAS took on SWAT for the 1st of 2 mid-season scrimmages to kick off Spring Break week. It was a chance to give girls on the team the opportunity to play positions that they hadn't played yet this season (or ever) and since the NINJAS were short a few players due to Spring Break, the SKIPPING NINJAS had to call up a few girls from the younger division - the Majors - to round out our roster. We were lucky to get 3 girls from BLUE HEAT to help us out: Maya, Mariyna (sp?) and Katelyn. It was a fun game in which the NINJAS took home the victory.

Final Score
SKIPPING NINJAS 12 - SWAT 8

Game Ball
Aale'a played 1st base for the entire game and, for never having played prior to this season, Aale'a really did a great job holding it down. For that, she took home the game ball. Great job Aale'a!

On Sunday, April 17 @ 11:30am, the SKIPPING NINJAS hosted the FLAMING PANDAS team. Once again, we had to call up some younger players from the Majors division to round out our scrimmage squad. Mariyna from BLUE HEAT returned, but Maya and Katelyn were unavailable. So, we asked Olivia from AFTERSHOCK - Natalie's sister and a teammate from last year's team - to play with us. The FLAMING PANDAS got the better of us in the game and took home the victory, but the SKIPPING NINJAS played some good ball. It just didn't go our way.

Final Score
FLAMING PANDAS 13 - SKIPPING NINJAS 8

Game Ball
For her contribution to a spectacular catch in the outfield and starting off a double play, Olivia (our guest NINJA) received a game ball. Hylah received a game ball as well for providing great defense at home and for some good at bats and base running. Great job Olivia and Hylah!

Rescheduled - Sun. Apr 10, 2:00pm vs. INTENSITY

After the big win in yesterday’s game, the SKIPPING NINJAS were set to face INTENSITY for the 2nd time in the season. It was the 2nd of 4 of our rescheduled rainouts and the SKIPPING NINJAS came to the fields energized after their previous performance. But this was a different team with a number of good players that posed a different set of challenges. They also beat us in our previous meeting. So, it was time to see if yesterday’s winning formula would carry into today’s game.

1st Inning
As it was her birthday, Lexie was set to lead the NINJAS defense in the 1st. Lexie threw a ball on her 1st pitch, but quickly warming up, she was able to get the 1st batter to swing at her next 3 pitches for a strike and 2 foul balls. After another ball evened up the count at 2-2, the 1st INTENSITY batter connected, sending the ball out to right center field for a single. The next batter came to the plate and Lexie went back and forth with her alternating balls and strikes with a couple of fouls in the mix. Reaching full count on the 2nd batter, with the INTENSITY runner making it to 2nd on a steal, Lexie released her next pitch. The batter got a hold of it and sent another fly ball out to right center field for a single. The next batter came up to the plate. On Lexie’s 1st pitch, the batter connected and sent another fly ball out to deep right field past Elise for another single, putting INTENSITY on the board with 1 run. Lexie started to struggle against the next batter and, after reaching full count, Lexie threw the next pitch outside and walked the batter, loading the bases for INTENSITY. Refocused, Lexie got back to work against the next batter as she came up to bat. Lexie was able to get a strike over the plate, catching the next batter off guard. After a ball, the batter took a swing and missed Lexie’s next pitch, but the ball got away from Hylah and it opened the door for the 3rd base runner to score on a steal. Lexie returned to the rubber to get ready for the next batter coming up to bat. Starting off with a ball on the 1st pitch, Lexie was able to string strikes together, getting the batter to swing. The batter watched 1 pitch go by for a strike and, not wanting to go down without a fight, took swings at Lexie’s next 2 pitches, missing both and striking out. The next INTENSITY batter came to the plate and swung her bat aggressively. This proved to be her undoing as she took swings at and missed 3 pitches in a row for the 2nd strikeout in a row. The next batter came to the plate. She fouled off Lexie’s 1st pitch. After a ball, she swung and missed, bringing up 1-2. She connected on the next pitch and hit a hard ground ball through the NINJAS infield out into the right center field grass for a single, bringing another runner home. As the NINJAS scrambled to bring the ball back in, the INTENSITY runner on 3rd rolled the dice and took off for home. The NINJAS recovered the ball and made the throw home. Hylah got set to receive the ball, made the catch, turned and tagged the runner for the 3rd out.

Starting the game off down by 3, it was the SKIPPING NINJAS turn to see if they had a response for INTENSITY’s challenge. Kas was up 1st. The pitcher started off strong with a strike pitch that caught Kas by surprise. After following the 1st strike with a couple of balls, the pitcher threw one right down the middle. Kas took a swing but missed and the count evened up at 2-2. Another ball brought up full count. The pitcher followed it up with heat and stunned Kas, sending her back to the NINJAS dugout empty handed. Erika was up next. The pitcher had trouble finding her pitch against Erika and threw 2 balls across the plate to start things off. Erika fouled off the next pitch. Then, she watched one go by for strike 2. She stayed alive with another foul ball. A ball on the next pitch brought up full count. On the next pitch, Erika connected and sent a grounder right up the middle of the infield. The INTENSITY pitcher collected the ball and made the throw to 1st for the out on Erika. Lexie was up next. Again, the pitcher started off with 2 ball pitches. Lexie fouled one off before connecting on the 4th pitch. She sent the ball rolling up the 3rd base side of the field and the INTENSITY 3rd baseman picked it up and threw the ball to 1st for the 3rd out, denying the SKIPPING NINJAS offense and moving the game into the 2nd inning.

INTENSITY 3 – SKIPPING NINJAS 0

2nd Inning
Lexie was brought in to pitch again in the 2nd. Facing off against her 1st batter, Lexie was on fire. She threw heat on the 1st 2 pitches before breaking it up with a ball. Counting on another ball pitch, the batter held her bat, but Lexie was on target and got the strikeout. Lexie didn’t fare so well against the 2nd batter. Lexie threw 2 balls in a row to start things off against the 2nd batter. The next pitch was a strike, but the batter took a cut and connected, sending the ball into right center field for a single. Lexie got back to work as the next INTENSITY batter came up to the plate. The batter fouled off Lexie’s 1st pitch. After a ball, Lexie found her rhythm again and got the batter to swing at her next 2 pitches, missing both for another strikeout. On the last pitch on the batter, the runner on 1st took off for 2nd, but Hylah was ready for her and got up and fired the ball to 2nd base. The ball reached Rachel’s glove just in time and Rachel was able to tag the runner to retire the side.

Miara was up next. Miara battled hard against the pitcher, taking a strike on the 1st pitch and fouling off the 2nd. The next pitch was a ball to bring the count to 1-2. Miara fouled off the next 2 to stay alive before another ball evened up the count. The pitcher dug deep and threw heat on her next pitch. This drew the swing from Miara. Unfortunately, Miara misjudged the pitch and struck out. Natalie was up next. After taking a ball on the 1st pitch, Natalie watched the 2nd pitch go by for a strike. Natalie connected on the next pitch, but the grounder went straight back to the pitcher who made the easy throw to 1st for the out on Natalie. Rebecca came out next to see if she could jumpstart the SKIPPING NINJAS offense. Rebecca took a swing at the 1st pitch, but released her bat a bit too late for strike 1. She took a swing at the next pitch, but, again, her timing was off and the ball squeaked by for strike 2. After a ball on the next pitch, Rebecca protected well and fouled off the next pitch. Unfortunately, trying to stay alive, Rebecca took a cut on the next pitch and missed, striking out and ending the NINJAS 2nd inning attempt to get into the game.

INTENSITY 3 – SKIPPING NINJAS 0

3rd Inning
After a great defensive inning for both teams in the 2nd, Miara was set to take over pitching duties from Lexie. Miara took a moment to warm up and had trouble finding her pitch against the 1st batter. She managed a strike among 3 balls before hitting the batter and putting her on base with a walk. Things didn’t go much smoother against the next batter as Miara started off with 2 ball pitches in a row. The batter took a swing at Miara’s next pitch for a strike. Then, taking another swing, connected and sent a hard grounder down the 1st base side of the NINJAS infield. Rebecca came off of 1st base to collect the ball, but couldn’t get a handle on it and the batter earned a single. With INTENSITY runners now on 1st and 2nd, Miara got right back to work. Refocused, Miara was able to find her groove as the batter fouled off the 1st pitch before taking a ball to even up the count. The batter fouled off another on Miara’s next pitch. Finally, Miara dug deep and fired one in, getting it past the batter for the strikeout. Reenergized, Miara heated up and started throwing consistently. Miara threw heat and fired one in for strike 1. The batter was stunned. The next pitch came in hot as well and the batter held her bat for strike 2. A ball on the next pitch brought up 1-2. Recovering quickly, Miara drilled one more past the batter for another strikeout. The 5th INTENSITY batter came to the plate. Miara stunned the batter with her 1st pitch for a strike as the batter looked on. A ball on the next pitch evened up the count. The batter took a swing at Miara’s next pitch and missed, bringing up strike 2. Then, the batter connected, putting the ball in play. The ball popped up over the infield and Rachel, playing 2nd, rushed over to make the catch for the 3rd out of the inning.

Still trailing by 3, the NINJAS defense was starting to have some success, but it was time to wake up the offense to get back in the game. Hylah was up 1st. After taking a ball on the 1st pitch, Hylah fouled of the next 2 and got behind in the count. She took another ball and the count evened up at 2-2. Then, the INTENSITY pitcher got one past Hylah and struck her out. The pitcher didn’t have as much luck against Elise as she started to struggle a bit. She managed to get Elise to swing for a strike before giving up 1st base with a walk. Rachel was up next. The INTENSITY pitcher, continuing to slump, threw a ball on her 1st pitch against Rachel. On the passed ball, Elise made her way to 2nd base. Rachel watched one go by for a strike. Another passed ball gave Elise a window to make it to 3rd on a steal. Then, Rachel hit the ball past the INTENSITY 1st baseman for a single, bringing Elise home and putting the SKIPPING NINJAS on the board for the 1st time in the game. It was Katrina’s turn at bat. Trying to get Rachel around the bases, Katrina took a swing at the 1st pitch for a strike as Rachel stole 2nd. A passed ball on the next pitch gave Rachel an opening to steal 3rd. Then Katrina tried to make something happen so that she could get Rachel home. Unfortunately, Katrina swung and missed the next 2 pitches, striking out and hanging Rachel up on 3rd base. With 2 outs and a runner on 3rd, Aale’a took her turn at bat. Swinging aggressively, Aale’a tried to bring Rachel home. She took a cut on the 1st pitch but missed. Aale’a attacked the 2nd pitch just as hard, but again came up short. The pitcher threw heat on the next pitch to get out of the inning. Aale’a released her bat but decided that it was a bad pitch and tried to check her swing. The barrel of the bat came too far around to save it and the umpire called the strike, ending the inning for the NINJAS.

INTENSITY 3 – SKIPPING NINJAS 1

4th Inning
It was another great defensive inning for both teams. Attempting to maintain a hold on INTENSITY, Miara came out for another inning at the rubber. On fire, Miara struck out the 1st INTENSITY batter of the inning with 3 strike pitches in a row. The next batter came to the plate and Miara lost her pitch. With a foul ball in the mix for a strike, Miara couldn’t find her target and the count reached 3-1. The batter connected on the next pitch and popped the ball up. Miara strolled over to make the catch for the 2nd out. The next INTENSITY batter came up to bat. On the first pitch, the batter connected sending a ground ball toward Lexie, playing short stop. Lexie rushed in to collect the ball, but lost her grip as she came up with it, giving the batter enough time to reach 1st base. Miara continued to struggle a bit and started off with 2 balls against the next batter. The batter took a swipe at the next pitch and fouled off the follow up to even up the count. After another ball, the batter was able to connect and sent a slow grounder into foul territory. Taken by surprise by the fact that the ball didn’t roll into foul territory, Hylah rushed to pick up the ball. Reaching out and picking the ball up with her glove, Hylah dropped the ball in the transition to her throwing hand and with the error, the batter was able to earn a single. Miara started the next batter off with a ball as well, but managed to get her to swing at the next 3 pitches. The batter fouled off the 1st and missed the 2nd, but she connected on the 3rd and put it in play. The batter sent a fast grounder toward short stop. Lexie was able to come in to collect the ball. This time, keeping a handle on it, made the throw to 1st, but the runner beat the ball to the bag and, with the action at 1st, the runner on 3rd was able to cross home, ending a 2-inning scoring drought for INTENSITY. On the play, the INENSITY runner on 2nd made it to scoring position. With runners on 1st and 3rd and 2 outs, the next batter came to the plate. A ball on the 1st pitch allowed the runner on 1st to steal 2nd. Miara threw another ball pitch and got behind in the count. On the next pitch, the batter connected and sent a grounder down the 3rd base line. Katrina moved in and reeled in the slow roller. She got up and fired one to 1st for the 3rd out.

Back at the top of the NINJAS lineup, Kas came out to try to solve the challenge of the day – the INENSITY defense. Unfortunately, it wouldn’t happen in this inning as she fouled off the 1st pitch, took a ball on the 2nd, watched one go by for strike 2 and, finally, swinging and missing for the strikeout. Erika was up next. She came out swinging as well and fouled off the 1st pitch. After taking a ball on the 2nd pitch, Erika put the next one in play. The ball popped up in the air as it traveled over the infield. The INTENSITY short stop called the ball and made the catch for the out. With 2 down in quick succession, things looked bleak for the NINJAS offense as Lexie came up to bat. Lexie took a swing at the 1st pitch and missed. A ball on the next pitch evened up the count. She connected on the next pitch, sending a low fly ball over the middle of the infield. The INENSITY pitcher moved in to snatch the ball out of the air, but, misjudging the distance was only able to deflect it, forcing the 2nd baseman, playing backup, to readjust. This bought Lexie just enough time to make it to 1st. Miara was up next. After a few balls allowed Lexie to make it to 2nd on a steal and a swinging strike, another ball put the count at 3-1. The next pitch hit Miara and she got on base. Natalie came up to bat next. Natalie took the 1st pitch, hoping for a ball. The umpire saw it differently. A passed ball on the next pitch advanced the NINJAS runners safely. Feeling the pressure, the INENSITY pitcher threw a ball on the next pitch, but quickly recovered and was on target for the next one, bringing up 2-2. Lexie, timing the throw back to the pitcher perfectly, took off for home on a steal as soon as the catcher released the ball. Quickly the pitcher tried to get the ball back home, but Lexie slid under the tag and scored. HAPPY BIRTHDAY LEXIE!!! Miara made it to 3rd on the play. Natalie took a swing at the next pitch and missed, striking out and leaving Miara on base.

INTENSITY 4 – SKIPPING NINJAS 2

5th Inning
Miara was back at the rubber to pitch in the 5th inning. With game time ticking away, the NINJAS needed to stand their ground if they were to remain competitive. So far, both defenses were able to effectively neutralize the other team’s offense, but the early surge from INTENSITY gave them the lead and has forced the NINJAS to play catch up all game. The 1st batter came up to the plate. With Miara’s pitch slowing down after 2 innings, the INTENSITY batters started to wake up their bats. On Miara’s 1st pitch, the batter took a swing and popped up the ball. Katrina, playing 3rd base, moved herself under the ball for the catch and the 1st out. A walk on the next batter put an INTENSITY runner on base. The next batter was up. A passed ball on the 1st pitch gave the runner a chance to make it to 2nd. On the next pitch, Miara threw a strike, but the ball got away from Hylah and the runner was able to make it to 3rd on a steal. The batter connected on the next pitch, sending a grounder right back to Miara. When Miara picked up the ball, she turned and looked at 3rd base to hold the runner. By the time she made the throw to 1st, it was too late as the runner just barely was able to step on the bag before the catch was made. On the throw, the runner on 3rd took off for home and scored. Miara got right back at it. After a ball on the 1st pitch, Miara got the batter to swing at the next 3 for the strikeout. The next batter came up to bat. A passed ball on the 1st pitch allowed the INTENSITY runner on 1st to steal 2nd. Miara got the next pitch on target and the batter watched the strike go by. The runner stole 3rd base on another passed ball. With the count at 2-1, the batter connected on the 4th pitch. She sent another grounder back to Miara. Miara moved in to scoop the ball up, but dropped it. Recovering the ball quickly, Miara attempted to throw the batter out at 1st, but the batter beat the ball to the bag. With the action on the opposite side of the field, the runner on 3rd cruised home to put one more point on the board for INTENSITY. Miara dug deep to find her pitch against the next batter. She threw heat on her 1st 2 pitches, notching 2 strikes in a row. On the 2nd pitch, the runner on 1st safely stole 2nd. Miara’s next pitch was on target, but the batter was ready. She ripped one out into left field for a single and brought home another run. With their bats coming alive, INTENSITY started to consistently hit off of Miara. The next batter came up and hit Miara’s 1st pitch to right field. The ball hit the ground, but Elise was able to contain it to hold the batter to a single. The next batter came up. She missed on her 1st swing for strike 1. The batter connected on the next pitch, but sent a grounder straight back to Miara. This time, Miara took her time as she reeled in the ground ball and stood up to make the throw to 1st. Rebecca received the ball and put her foot on the bag for the 3rd out.

Watching the game slipping away and the clock ticking, the NINJAS had to produce some runs if they were to get back in this game. Rebecca started things off in the bottom of the 5th. She came out swinging. She missed the 1st pitch, but hit a hard ground ball out into the right field grass for a single. Hylah was up next. She swung at the 1st pitch for a strike, but Rebecca made it safely to 2nd on a steal. Rebecca took off like a shot and made it safely to 3rd when she saw the next pitch get past the catcher. After another ball, Hylah got a piece of the next pitch and sent a grounder down the middle. The pitcher picked up the ball and threw it to 1st for the out on Hylah. Leaving home unattended, Rebecca hit the gas and reached home before the INTENSITY defense could cover the plate. Elise was up next. She collected a strike swinging at the 1st pitch. After a ball, Elise connected on the next pitch. Unfortunately, she sent a grounder right back to the INTENSITY pitcher, who made the throw to 1st for the out on Elise. Rachel was up next. She watched one pitch go by for a strike. She took a swing at the next pitch and sent a grounder right down the 1st base line. The INTENSITY 1st baseman came out of position to pick up the ball and trotted back to 1st for the easy out. Once again, the INTENSITY defense held the NINJAS to 1 point in the inning.

INTENSITY 7 – SKIPPING NINJAS 3

6th Inning
As the game clock inched closer to the time limit, Lexie was brought back in to pitch in what would be the final inning of the game. The 1st batter didn’t waste any time. On Lexie’s 1st pitch, the batter connected and hit the ball deep into left center field for a triple. The next batter came up to bat. After taking a ball on the 1st pitch, the batter fouled off the next one, bringing up 1-1. Lexie found her zone again and fired one in. The batter took a swing and missed. Strike 1. Following it up with another strike pitch, Lexie threw heat and the batter took another cut. Lexie struck her out and sent her back to the INTENSITY dugout empty handed. Lexie faltered a bit against the next batter. She threw a ball on the 1st pitch. A passed ball on the 2nd pitch allowed the runner on 3rd to score on a steal. Eventually, a walk on the batter put another INTENSITY runner on base. The next batter came to the plate. After a ball on the 1st pitch, Lexie started to get her pitch back and got the batter swinging. She fouled one off, then watched one go by, bringing up 1-2. On the next pitch, the batter took a swing. Unfortunately for her, her bat came just under the ball and she struck out. The next batter came out swinging and put the 1st pitched ball in play. She sent a grounder straight at Rachel, playing 2nd base. Rachel was able to get in front of the ball and make the toss to Rebecca for the 3rd out on the batter, giving the NINJAS offense one last shot at mounting a comeback.

Katrina was up 1st. After splitting the difference with the pitcher on the 1st 2 pitches, Katrina was hit by a pitch and got on base. Aale’a was up next. After taking a ball on the 1st pitch, Aale’a watched a pitch go by for a strike. On the pitch, Katrina safely stole 2nd. Aale’a watched one more go by for strike 2. With the count at 1-2 on Aale’a, she had to protect. She watched as the pitcher released the ball and, trying to time the swing, she released her bat a bit too late and struck out. With the door closing on the game, the SKIPPING NINJAS were back at the top of the lineup. Kas took her position at the plate. Kas fouled off the 1st pitch. She put the next ball in play, sending a grounder to the INTENSITY short stop. The short stop made the throw for the out at 1st, but Katrina was able to make it safely to 3rd. With 2 down, INTENSITY was on their way to victory, but it didn’t deter the NINJAS from playing hard. Erika was up next. On the 1st pitch, Erika watched it go by for a strike. Katrina took off on the throw back from the catcher and made it home safely. Erika stubbornly stayed alive by continuously fouling off pitches. Finally, she put the ball in play. The ball rolled slowly through the infield and the INTENSITY 1st baseman was able to pick it up and make it back to 1st for the 3rd out, ending the game and locking in the victory for INTENSITY.

Final Score
INTENSITY 8 – SKIPPING NINJAS 4

Game Ball
It was a tough battle today and the SKIPPING NINJAS came up short. But the story of the day was the defense that both teams displayed. After the initial INTENSITY rush in the 1st inning, the SKIPPING NINJAS held their own until a late game surge cemented the outcome. With that, the NINJAS still had some great action on offense, including 3 points on steals from 3rd. But, again, defense was a big factor in the game and for holding down the fort at home for most of the game, and being involved in a few key plays at and from the plate, Hylah was awarded the game ball. Great job Hylah!

Sat. Apr 9, 9:00am vs. FLAMING PANDAS

Coming off of the tie in the last game, the SKIPPING NINJAS were set to face EAST BAY FLOOR COVERING, who, in the time since our last game, had finally settled on a name for their team. Since their team colors are red and black, they decided on the FLAMING PANDAS. The FLAMING PANDAS were our 1st game of the season and handed the SKIPPING NINJAS their 1st loss. Silly team names aside, the SKIPPING NINJAS couldn’t take this opponent lightly as the NINJAS sought to avenge their loss.

1st Inning
Erika was selected to lead the offense in the 1st inning. It had been a while since Erika was at the pitching rubber, and it showed as she had to shake off a little rust. Struggling against the 1st 2 FLAMING PANDAS batters, Erika put runners on 1st and 2nd with 2 walks in a row. Erika started to warm up a bit and got the 3rd batter to take a swing for a strike. She followed it up with 2 ball pitches and it looked like she was headed toward walking another batter and loading the bases, but she was able to throw her next pitch down the middle. The batter took a swing and connected, sending the ball over the infield toward Miara at center field. Miara got a good read on the ball and ran in to make the catch for the out. Erika continued to throw erratically on the next batter. She fought hard to find her rhythm, but eventually walked the batter and loaded the bases. Erika regrouped as the next FLAMING PANDAS batter came to the plate. Erika fired in a strike to start things off and caught the batter napping. She threw another one down the middle that the batter fouled off. Not wanting to go down without a fight, the batter took a swing at Erika’s next pitch and missed, striking out for the 2nd out of the inning. The next FLAMING PANDAS batter was determined to bring her teammates home and swung aggressively. She fouled off the 1st 3 pitches and it seemed to rattle Erika a bit. Erika threw a ball on the next pitch to bring the count to 1-2. On the next pitch, the batter connected and sent the ball deep into the SKIPPING NINJAS left center field for a double. Going over her head, Kas had to scramble to recover the ball. Unfortunately, by the time Kas got the ball back to the infield, all 3 runners that were previously on base scored. Erika got back to work. Her 1st pitch on the next batter got past Hylah, which allowed the runner to make it to 3rd. The batter took a cut on the next pitch and missed, bringing the count to 1-1. On the next pitch, the batter put the ball in play and sent a fast grounder straight back to Erika. Erika picked up the ball, but decided to take a look at 3rd to freeze the runner. By the time Erika turned her attention to 1st base, it was too late and the batter got on base. The next batter connected with Erika’s 1st pitch and put the ball in play. She sent a grounder straight up the 1st base line toward Rebecca. With a bad bounce, the ball got past Rebecca and the batter reached 1st and the runner on 3rd made it home. The next batter came up to bat and, feeding off of the momentum that the FLAMING PANDAS started to generate, took a swing and connected with Erika’s 1st pitch. She sent a fast grounder toward Natalie, playing short stop. Natalie got in front of the ball and, taking her time, picked it up and connected with Rebecca at 1st for the final defensive out of the inning.

Trailing by 4 to start the game off, it looked like an uphill climb for the NINJAS as Kas came up to bat to start things off. It was a see saw battle between Kas and the FLAMING PANDAS pitcher, but, after reaching full count, the pitcher put Kas on base with a walk. Erika was up next. In similar fashion, Erika battled to full count before being sent to 1st on a walk. Miara was up next. The FLAMING PANDAS pitcher continued to struggle. Miara took a swing at the 1st pitch but missed. The next pitch got past the catcher and Kas and Erika advanced on the passed ball. Eventually, a walk on Miara loaded the bases for the SKIPPING NINJAS. Not able to find her groove, the PANDAS pitcher continued her skid and walked Rebecca, bringing Kas home. Hylah was up next and another walk kept the bases loaded and brought Erika across the plate. Elise was up next. Elise took a swing at the 1st pitch for a strike. But the PANDAS pitcher’s inconsistent pitching kept Elise guessing. Eventually, after reaching full count, Elise took a final swing on the next pitch and struck out. With bases loaded and 1 out, Rachel was up next. After 2 balls in a row, Rachel held her bat on the next pitch, but the pitcher was able to find her target and brought the count to 2-1. Catching the FLAMING PANDAS defense by surprise, Miara, at 3rd, took off like a shot as the catcher threw the ball back to the pitcher and scored. Rachel regrouped and returned to the plate to finish her at bat. Rattled, the PANDAS pitcher threw a ball on the next pitch. On the passed ball, Rebecca stole 3rd and got herself into scoring position. Finally, a walk on Rachel loaded the bases again. Natalie was up next. After a ball on the 1st pitch, Natalie took a swing and sent a fly ball out into right center field for a single, bringing Rebecca and Hylah home and giving the NINJAS a 1 point lead. With the PANDAS defense focusing on the out at home, Rachel took advantage of the opening and took off for 3rd. The PANDAS tried to throw her out, but missed the connection. Dusting herself off, Rachel got up and took off like a shot, scoring on the overthrow to 3rd and adding to the SKIPPING NINJAS lead. Trying to regroup, the PANDAS brought the ball back in and got set to face Katrina. Continuing to struggle, the pitcher walked Katrina, but not before Natalie was able to steal her way to 3rd base. Aale’a was up next. After reaching 2-1, Aale’a was hit with a pitch and was awarded 1st base. Back at the top of the lineup, Kas was up next. After a ball on the 1st pitch, Kas connected and popped the ball up over the PANDAS infield. The defense was able to get under the ball for the out on Kas. It was Erika’s 2nd appearance at the plate in the 1st inning. After a ball on the 1st pitch, Erika connected, sending a ball deep into right field for a single. As the ball hit the ground in fair territory, the NINJAS sprung into action. Natalie scored and, rolling the dice, Katrina took off for home as the PANDAS threw the ball to the catcher. The throw went wide and Katrina was able to reach home safely. Miara was up next. She took a swing at the pitcher’s 1st pitch and put it in play. Unfortunately, the ball went straight back to the PANDAS pitcher and she was able to scoop it up and make the throw to 1st for the 3rd out, but the damage was done and the NINJAS took over the lead by scoring 8 runs in the inning.

FLAMING PANDAS 4 – SKIPPING NINJAS 8

2nd Inning
In an attempt to maintain the lead that the SKIPPING NINJAS were able to create in the 1st, Miara was brought in to pitch. Miara did not disappoint as she put on a pitching clinic in the 2nd. The 1st batter came up to bat. She tried her best to get the PANDAS offense going as she fouled off Miara’s 1st pitch. After a ball, the count was at 1-1 and the next pitch came in hot. The batter was caught off guard and held her bat for a strike. Another ball evened up the count. Then, on Miara’s next pitch, the batter took a swing and struck out. The next batter took her turn. She came out swinging, hoping to get the offense going, but on 3 pitches, was sent back to the dugout. Miara slowed down a bit on the next batter and couldn’t quite get the pitches in. After balls on the 1st 2 pitches, the count was at 2-0. The batter took cuts on Miara’s next 2 pitches and evened up the count. After another ball, the batter took a swing, but it was academic as the strike pitch reached its target and the batter was sent packing with the PANDAS offense shut down in the 2nd.

In an attempt to stay in the game, the PANDAS were forced to try out a new pitcher. This pitcher started to struggle right away against Rebecca who was up 1st in the inning. Throwing more balls than strikes against an eager Rebecca, the pitcher was able to reach full count. Unfortunately, she couldn’t close the deal and Rebecca walked. Hylah was up next. Again the pitcher struggled and walked Hylah after reaching full count. With NINJAS runners on 1st and 2nd, the pitcher got set to face off against Elise. A passed ball on the 1st pitch sent Rebecca to 3rd on a steal. A ball on the next pitch sent Hylah to 2nd on another steal. With runners threatening to score and after another ball pitch brought the count to 3-0, the PANDAS pitcher found her rhythm and got Elise to swing for a strike. Elise fouled off the next pitch to reach full count. On the last pitch, Elise took a swing, but missed and struck out. Rachel was up next. After a ball on the 1st pitch, Rachel connected on the next pitch, sending a hard grounder to 3rd base for a single. With the 3rd baseman going for the out at 1st on Rachel, Rebecca and Hylah took off. Hylah advanced to 3rd as Rebecca crossed the plate. When play resumed, Natalie took her position at the plate. The pitcher fired one in for strike 1 on Natalie. On the pitch, Rachel stole 2nd base. Natalie connected on the next pitch and sent another hard grounder to the PANDAS 3rd baseman. Looking Hylah back to 3rd, the 3rd baseman went for the out at 1st and Hylah quickly turned and gunned it for home, adding another point to the SKIPPING NINJAS lead. Katrina came up next. She took a swing at the 1st pitch and sent yet another grounder to the PANDAS 3rd baseman for a single and the bases were loaded. Aale’a was up next. The pitcher started to lose it, throwing balls on her 1st 2 pitches against Aale’a. Aale’a took a swing at the next pitch, bringing up 2-1. On the pitch, Rachel took a big lead and threatened to make the run home. The catcher got up and tried to get Rachel out with a throw to 3rd, but missed her target and Rachel was able to score on the overthrow. While the PANDAS scrambled to recover the ball, Natalie made her way to 3rd and was quickly sent home, putting another NINJAS run on the board. The pitcher got back to work against Aale’a. She split the difference on the next 2 pitches, bringing up full count. On the last pitch, Aale’a took a swing, but missed it and struck out. Reaching the top of the lineup again, Kas was up, making her 3rd plate appearance on the day. Kas connected on the 1st pitch and sent a slow grounder rolling through the PANDAS infield. This time, the PANDAS were ready and were able to pick up the ball and make the throw to 1st for the out on Kas, ending the NINJAS 2nd inning rush.

FLAMING PANDAS 4 – SKIPPING NINJAS 12

3rd Inning
With a stellar pitching performance in the last inning, Miara was given another shot at the rubber. Watching the game get away from them, the PANDAS started to get anxious. The 1st batter came out swinging and connected on Miara’s 1st pitch. She sent a hard grounder up the middle of the infield. Reacting quickly, Miara got in front of the ball and picked it up. Taking her time, she tossed the ball to 1st for the out. Miara began to struggle against the 2nd batter and started off by throwing 3 balls in a row, bringing up a 3-0 count. The batter connected on the 4th pitch, but sent another grounder straight to Miara. Again, she picked up the ball and made the easy throw to 1st for 2 outs. The next batter came up to the plate. She fouled off Miara’s 1st pitch. After 2 balls, the PANDAS batter fouled off another pitch to even up the count at 2-2. The batter connected on the next pitch and sent a fly ball over the NINJAS infield. Rachel, playing 2nd, moved in to make the catch, but couldn’t get a handle on it and the batter earned a single. Miara struggled against the next batter and walked her, but not before the runner on base stole her way to scoring position. With PANDAS runners on 1st and 3rd, Miara got back into position to face the next batter. Refocused and wanting to get out of the inning, Miara dug deep and found her pitch. Throwing heat, Miara got one by the batter’s swing for strike 1. On the next pitch, the batter held her bat, seemingly counting on a ball, but the pitch found its target for strike 2. On the next pitch, the batter took a swing and missed, striking out and leaving the PANDAS runners stranded as the NINJAS offense took to the field.

Erika was up 1st to lead the SKIPPING NINJAS charge in the 3rd. Counting on the continued struggles of the PANDAS pitchers, Erika took the 1st pitch for a strike. She took a swing at the next pitch, but fouled it off to bring up 0-2. After a ball, Erika connected and put the ball in play. Sadly, the ball popped up and the PANDAS defense was able to make the catch for the out. Miara was up next. The pitcher lost her pitch and, with 4 pitches, walked Miara. Rebecca came up next as the pitcher continued her skid. Taking advantage of the situation, Miara stole her way to 3rd as Rebecca racked up enough balls in the count to take a walk to 1st. Hylah was up next. Hylah took a swing at the 1st pitch and missed. On the pitch, Rebecca successfully stole 2nd. Losing her touch once again, the pitcher missed her mark on 2 straight pitches, bringing the count to 2-1. Once again, timing it perfectly, Miara took off for home as soon as the catcher threw the ball back to the pitcher and scored. In the scramble, Rebecca made it to 3rd. Hylah fouled off 1 more pitch before going down swinging on the follow-up. Elise was up next and Rebecca was on her toes, ready to make a break for home if the opportunity presented itself. Elise took a swing at the 1st pitch for a strike. After a ball brought the count to 1-1, Elise took a swing again. Once again, she barely missed the ball and brought up strike 2. On the next pitch, Elise held her bat, reading ball. Unfortunately, the umpire saw it differently and called the strikeout on Elise, ending the inning and bringing the PANDAS out for another go.

FLAMING PANDAS 4 – SKIPPING NINJAS 13

4th Inning
Enjoying a commanding lead and wanting to save Miara’s arm, in case we needed it later in the game, the SKIPPING NINJAS selected Natalie to pitch in the 4th inning. With the clock ticking on the game, a sense of desperation started to creep into the FLAMING PANDAS team. The 1st batter came out to try to turn things around. After a ball on Natalie’s 1st pitch, the batter connected. The ball popped up and, waving everyone off, Natalie got under the ball and made the catch for the 1st out of the inning. The next batter came out swinging as well. Putting her bat on the ball, the batter sent a fast grounder toward Hylah, now playing 3rd. Hylah, reached out her glove and collected the ball. She fired the ball to 1st for the 2nd out. The next PANDAS batter came to the plate. She took the 1st pitch and it was ruled a ball. The batter took a swing at Natalie’s next pitch and got a hold of it, sending it out into right center field. Erika quickly recovered the ball and held the batter to a single. The next batter put the ball in play on the 1st pitch. But, she sent a slow grounder straight back to Natalie. She came off of the rubber to scoop up the ball. Then, she turned and threw it to 1st for the 3rd out, forcing the side change.

Rachel was up 1st in the 4th inning. After reaching 1-2 in a short battle with the pitcher, Rachel hit a grounder to 3rd base for a single. Natalie was up next. On the pitcher’s release, Rachel quickly made her way to 2nd base while Natalie put the ball in play. Natalie shot a hard grounder to the right field grass for a single as Rachel made it to 3rd on the play. A walk on Katrina loaded the bases for the SKIPPING NINJAS. Aale’a was up next. Aale’a, gaining confidence in her swing, got anxious to hit the ball and took a poke a high pitch for a strike. The pitcher followed it up with a ball to even up the count. Aale’a swung at a low pitch for strike 2. Another ball evened up the count one more time. Finally, Aale’a’s anxious swinging got the better of her and she struck out. It was Kas’s turn at bat. Kas took a swing at the 1st pitch and missed. The ball got past the catcher and Rachel tried to make it home. The catcher was ready for her and got back to the plate in time to put the tag on Rachel for the out. Kas came back to resume her at bat. After a ball brought the count to 1-1, Kas fouled of the next pitch. Then she swung and missed the next pitch, striking out and leaving both teams unable to score in the 4th inning.

FLAMING PANDAS 4 – SKIPPING NINJAS 13

5th Inning
Natalie was brought back in to pitch. Natalie started to struggle right away. She walked the 1st 2 PANDAS batters. Natalie continued to struggle and the PANDAS runners took advantage of the situation by stealing their way into scoring position. With 2 balls in the count, Natalie got back to work. She threw 1 more ball across the plate before the batter connected. The ball flew fast over the SKIPPING NINJAS infield. Rachel was able to get her glove out to make the catch for the out. Tagging up, the runner on 3rd took off for home as the NINJAS were celebrating Rachel’s catch. Quickly, Rachel threw the ball home and Hylah caught the ball and tagged the runner, turning the double play and preventing the score. Eventually, a walk on the batter put another PANDAS runner on base. The next batter came out swinging. She connected on Natalie’s 1st pitch, but the slow grounder went straight back to Natalie, who picked the ball up and made the throw to 1st for the 3rd out, ending the inning for the FLAMING PANDAS.

With time inching closer to the end of the game, the FLAMING PANDAS defense needed to get out of the 5th inning quickly if they were to get another shot at adding to their current score. Erika was up 1st. Swinging on the 1st pitch, Erika connected, sending the ball out into right field. The PANDAS right fielder couldn’t make the catch, but recovered quickly to make the throw to 1st, getting the out on Erika. Miara was up next and, after reaching full count, hit a hard ground ball out to left field for a single. Rebecca was up next. On a couple of ball pitches against Rebecca, Miara was able to make her way to 3rd base. With 2-0 in the count, Rebecca put the ball in play. Unfortunately, the fly ball was easily caught by the PANDAS defense and Rebecca was out. It was Hylah’s turn at bat. The 1st pitch against Hylah got past the catcher. That was all the opening that Miara needed to score on the passed ball. After swinging for a strike and evening up the count, Hylah connected and got a single from a hard ground ball to right center field. A walk on Elise put NINJAS runners on 1st and 2nd. Rachel was up next. The pitcher had a difficult time finding the strike zone on Rachel. After a ball and a strike, another ball got past the catcher and Hylah and Elise safely advanced on a steal. Rachel connected on the next pitch. Unfortunately, the ball popped up and the PANDAS were able to make the catch for the 3rd out. Right after the 3rd out, the umpire called time on the game and the SKIPPING NINJAS came away with a big victory.

Final Score
FLAMING PANDAS 4 – SKIPPING NINJAS 14

Fun Fact
With SKIPPING NINJAS taking home the victory in this game, all 4 teams in our division had matching records. That is, until the next divisional game took place the very next day, ending the 4 way tie.

Game Ball
It was a great day for the SKIPPING NINJAS girls. There was some good action all over the field on both sides of the ball and the NINJAS offense came alive and carried the girls to victory. Natalie put on another great performance in her 2 innings at the rubber. Rachel and Hylah had a great double play as well. Miara had a great day also, mostly at short stop, but in the outfield, and at pitcher as well. Rebecca also had a great day at 1st base, getting a number of outs, which contributed heavily toward our win – it was also her 1st time at 1st this season. So, Miara and Rebecca were each awarded a game ball for their efforts in this game. Great job out there NINJAS!

Mon. Apr 4, 6:00pm vs. SWAT

After splitting the difference between their 2 weekend games, an interesting turn of events, due to the rescheduled rainout game that was played yesterday, the SKIPPING NINJAS were set to rematch SWAT. The girls took to the field with confidence to see if they could repeat their effort from the previous game and take home 2 in a row against a game opponent trying to avenge a loss. With SKIPPING NINJAS at home for the 3rd game in a row, the NINJAS got into their defensive positions, ready to welcome the SWAT offense to the field.

1st Inning
Lexie started the game off at pitcher and got things started quickly as the 1st SWAT batter came up to bat. After throwing a ball on the 1st pitch, Lexie was able to bring it back and got the batter to swing for a strike. After another ball pitch, the batter took a cut on Lexie’s next pitch. She connected and put the ball in play. The ball popped up and Erika, playing right center, was able to get under the fly ball to make the catch for the 1st out of the game. The next SWAT batter came up to the plate. After swinging at Lexie’s 1st 2 pitches for strikes, the batter smartly held the bat on Lexie’s next pitch and the count reached 1-2. The batter took a swing at the next pitch and put it in play. Unfortunately, she sent a grounder directly to Katrina, playing 3rd, who scooped it up and took her time to make a good throw. She sent the ball to 1st for the 2nd out. Lexie started to struggle on SWAT’s 3rd batter and threw a ball on the 1st pitch. The batter took a swing at Lexie’s next pitch and fouled it off. Lexie followed that pitch up with 2 more balls, bringing the count to 3-1. The batter fouled off 1 more pitch and the count was full. On Lexie’s next pitch, the SWAT batter connected, but she hit another ground ball toward Katrina. Katrina moved in to collect the ball and, taking her time, gunned the ball to 1st for the 3rd out of the inning.

It was the SKIPPING NINJAS offense’s turn at bat. As she has been all season, Kas was up 1st in the lineup. After taking a ball on the 1st pitch, Kas hit the ball, but the grounder was easily contained by the SWAT defense and tossed to 1st to get the out on Kas. Erika was up next. Erika took a swing at the 1st pitch for a strike. After a ball on the 2nd pitch, Erika was hit by the follow up and was awarded 1st base. Lexie came to the plate next. After a ball on the 1st pitch, Lexie took a swing and connected. Sadly, the ball popped up over the infield and the SWAT defense was able to get under it to make the catch and get the 2nd out of the inning. Miara was up next. Swinging aggressively, Miara took a cut at the pitcher’s 1st pitch and hit a hard grounder through the 3rd base side of the field. Getting a good jump, the SWAT short stop was able to get in front of the ball and reel it in. Coming up with it, the short stop saw Miara approaching 1st base and knew that her throw wouldn’t make it in time. Smartly, she decided to go for the easy out on Erika at 2nd. Taking her time, she tossed the ball to 2nd and the SWAT 2nd baseman put her foot on the bag to get the force out on Erika, closing the door on the 1st inning.

SWAT 0 – SKIPPING NINJAS 0

2nd Inning
It literally seemed like a continuation of the previous game as the defenses continued to effectively shut each other out. Lexie was back at the rubber in the 2nd. Getting right back to work, Lexie peeled off 2 strikes in a row. A ball on the next pitch brought the count to 1-2. Lexie followed it up with another strike pitch to put the 1st SWAT batter away. Unfortunately, Lexie lost her groove on the next batter and, on 5 pitches, walked the batter to put a SWAT runner on base. The next batter came to the plate. Again, Lexie started off with a ball. She followed it up with a strike pitch to even up the count. Then the batter fouled off the next one and got behind. Undeterred, the batter took a swing at Lexie’s next pitch and sent a fast grounder down the 1st base side of the SKIPPING NINJAS infield. Rachel came in to collect the ball. She bobbled the ball on the way up and, by the time she regained control of the ball, the SWAT runner made it to 2nd base safely. Rachel attempted to get the out on the runner going to 1st, but the runner beat the ball to the bag and the runner, now on 2nd, took the opportunity to advance to 3rd. Lexie went back to work as the next SWAT batter came up to bat. Lexie’s 1st pitch was a ball. She followed it up with 2 strikes in a row. On the 2nd strike, the ball got past Hylah, at catcher, and the SWAT runners took advantage of the opening with the runner on 1st making it all the way to 3rd and the runner on 3rd making it safely home to put the 1st point on the board. Lexie was able to record a 2nd strike out on the next pitch as the batter took a swing and missed, but SWAT’s offense seemed to be coming alive. The next batter came up to bat. After a ball and a foul on Lexie’s 1st 2 pitches, the batter roped one out to right field for a single, bringing another SWAT runner across the plate. Lexie began to struggle again. A ball on the 1st pitch brought up 1-0, a ball on the next pitch fell out of Hylah’s glove and the runner on 1st took off for 2nd. Quickly recovering, Hylah picked up the ball and threw the ball to 2nd. Rachel got into position to receive the throw, caught the ball and tagged the runner coming to 2nd base to bring out the SKIPPING NINJAS offense.

Down 2 points at the bottom of the 2nd, Rebecca came to the plate 1st for the SKIPPING NINJAS. Showing good plate discipline, Rebecca selected her pitches wisely and, after 5 pitches, got on base with a walk. Hylah was up next. The 1st pitch was wide and got past the SWAT catcher and Rebecca made it safely to 2nd on a steal. Hylah fouled off the next pitch to bring up 1-1. The next pitch was a ball. The next pitch on Hylah was a strike, but the ball came out of the catcher’s glove, which allowed Rebecca to steal 3rd base. The SWAT catcher quickly regained control of the ball and tried to beat Rebecca to 3rd, but the ball bounced out of the SWAT 3rd baseman’s glove. Getting up quickly, Rebecca got up and took off for home and scored, putting the SKIPPING NINJAS on the board for the 1st time in the game. Hylah stayed alive on the next pitch by fouling it off, but went down on the next pitch by swinging for strike 3. Elise was up next. Elise went back and forth with the pitcher during her at bat. She took the 1st pitch for a strike. The next pitch was low and outside, bringing up 1-1. Elise took a swing at the next pitch for strike 2. The next pitch went high. With the count at 2-2, Elise took a swing and missed the next pitch, striking out for the 2nd SKIPPING NINJAS out of the inning. Rachel was up next. Coming out swinging, Rachel sent a fast grounder through the SWAT infield. Sadly, the SWAT 2nd baseman reeled it in and made the easy toss to 1st for the out on Rachel, holding the SKIPPING NINJAS to 1 point in the inning.

SWAT 2 – SKIPPING NINJAS 1

3rd Inning
Natalie was set to take over pitching duties in the 3rd inning. Going up against the 1st SWAT batter, Natalie took a few pitches to get started. Balls on the 1st 2 pitches put Natalie behind early, but she was able to rebound and get a strike past the batter who took the pitch like a statue. After another ball, the batter took a swing at the next pitch, fouling it off to bring up full count. She fouled off another one to stay alive, but Natalie was able to put her away with another beautiful strike pitch. The next SWAT batter came up to bat. She started swinging aggressively and fouled off the 1st pitch. The batter connected on the next pitch sending a slow roller up the middle of the infield. Natalie strolled over to pick up the ball. She turned and fired it to 1st for the out. Putting 2 batters away in quick succession, Natalie got back to the rubber to face off against the 3rd SWAT batter of the inning. With Natalie on fire, SWAT couldn’t afford to let pitches go by and the next batter came out determined to get on base. She took a swing at Natalie’s 1st pitch. Strike 1. She swung and missed Natalie’s next pitch. Strike 2. Natalie missed on the next 2 pitches, evening up the count. Natalie regrouped and reset on the pitching rubber. The batter anxiously awaited the next pitch. She loaded her bat as Natalie presented the ball. Natalie took a step and the batter loaded her bat. Natalie stepped forward and started the pitch. Natalie’s arm traced a circle in the air and her hand released the ball at the bottom of the arc and sent it fast and straight toward home plate. It was obviously a strike pitch. The batter released her bat and brought it around to meet the ball. The bat came down hard and entered the strike zone. The ball entered the strike zone as well. The bat came down and barely missed the top of the ball and, SNAP, the ball slammed into the catcher’s glove. Strike 3. With that, Natalie put on a great pitching show, sending 3 SWAT batters back to their dugout.

Trailing by 1 and coming off of Natalie’s shutout of SWAT’s offense, it was time for the SKIPPING NINJAS to see what they could do on the other side of the ball. Natalie was up 1st. Natalie battled the pitcher during her at bat, fouling off a couple of pitches and taking a strike, but, eventually, a walk put her on base. Katrina came up to bat. The SWAT pitcher was having difficulty finding her groove and, after a few ball pitches that saw Natalie steal her way into scoring position, walked Katrina. Aale’a was up next. Aale’a took a swing at the pitcher’s 1st pitch for a strike as Katrina stole 2nd on a passed ball. Aale’a missed another pitch for strike 2. With balls on the next 2 pitches, the pitcher evened up the count on Aale’a. On the next pitch, Aale’a swung the bat and put the ball in play. The ball rolled up between the pitcher and catcher like a bunt, which caused some confusion as to which SWAT defender would pick up the ball. This gave Aale’a time to get to 1st and Natalie and Katrina to advance, with Natalie scoring on the play to tie up the game. The SWAT pitcher continued her skid against Kas, who was up next. After a ball on the 1st pitch, the next pitch was a passed ball, which gave Aale’a a chance to make it to 2nd on a steal. Katrina broke for home on the play as well and slid under the catcher’s tag to make it safely home and put the SKIPPING NINJAS in the lead for the first time in the game. Finally, a walk on Kas put SKIPPING NINJAS runners on 1st and 2nd. Erika was up next. The pitcher walked Erika and loaded the bases. Lexie came up next. Lexie took a swing at the pitcher’s 1st pitch and hit a hard grounder down the 1st base line. With a lot of time on her hands, the SWAT 1st baseman picked up the ball and ran back to 1st for the out on Lexie as Aale’a made her way down the 3rd base line toward home plate. The 1st baseman, in synch with the catcher, threw the ball home as hard as she could. The catcher snatched the ball out of the air and tagged Aale’a to complete the double play and prevent the score. Miara was up next. After taking a ball on the 1st pitch, Miara missed the 2nd and brought up 1-1. She connected on the next pitch and sent the ball out into center field for a single. The center fielder ran to get under the ball, but couldn’t quite reach it and the ball hit the ground. With that, the runners took off. Kas crossed the plate as Erika reached 3rd. With SWAT still trying to bring the ball back in, Erika broke for home and scored as well. SWAT was forced to bring in a new pitcher. Rebecca was up first against the new pitcher and was hit by the 2nd pitch. With SKIPPING NINJAS runners on 1st and 2nd, Hylah came up to the plate. After the runners advanced on separate passed ball pitches, the pitcher walked Hylah to load the bases. Elise was up next. Trying to make something happen, Elise fouled off the 1st 2 pitches. On the 3rd pitch, Elise connected. Unfortunately, she sent a slow grounder straight back to the SWAT pitcher, who quickly made the throw to 1st for the out on Elise, ending the inning for the SKIPPING NINJAS offense.

SWAT 2 – SKIPPING NINJAS 5

4th Inning
With the clock ticking closer to the end of the game, the SWAT offense needed to come alive to come back from a now 3 point deficit. Having had a great 3rd inning, Natalie was brought back in to pitch in the 4th. Having cooled off on the SKIPPING NINJAS’ long defensive stand, Natalie needed a couple of pitches to get back in the groove. She threw 2 balls to start off against the 1st SWAT batter of the inning. The 3rd ball came across the plate and the batter, counting on another ball pitch watched it go right by for a strike. She took a swing at Natalie’s next pitch and hit a low fly ball over the SKIPPING NINJAS infield. Miara rushed in to get in front of the ball, reached out her glove and made the grab for the 1st out of the inning. The next SWAT batter came up to the plate. Natalie fought hard to get back in rhythm and alternated pitches until she reached full count. Natalie dug deep on the next pitch and got it past the batter for the strikeout. With 2 down, things were looking good for the SKIPPING NINJAS. Natalie threw a strike on her 1st pitch on the next batter. On the next pitch, the batter connected and sent a fast grounder down the 3rd base side of the infield. Hylah moved it, but a bad bounce popped the ball over Hylah’s outstretched glove, giving the batter enough time to reach 1st base safely. The next batter came up to bat. After alternating pitches again and seeing the runner on base reach 2nd on a passed ball, Natalie hit the batter with a pitch and put another SWAT runner on base. The 5th SWAT batter (and the tying run) came up to the plate. Swinging aggressively, she took a cut and connected on Natalie’s 1st pitch, hitting a line drive over the SKIPPING NINJAS infield out to center field. Kas moved in for the catch, but couldn’t keep a handle on the ball and it popped out. With the drop, one SWAT runner turned the corner at 3rd and made it home as Kas tried to recover the ball. Kas eventually picked up the ball and, instead of throwing the ball to 2nd, chased the runner going to 1st. Unfortunately, she missed her target and sent the SKIPPING NINJAS defense scrambling for the loose ball. The confusion allowed the SWAT runner, now on 3rd, to score on the error. Natalie got back to work on the next batter. The batter took a swing and missed Natalie’s 1st pitch as the tying SWAT run stole 2nd. Natalie struggled on her next 3 pitches, bringing the count to 3-1. On the 3rd ball, the runner on 2nd took off for 3rd. Katrina, at catcher attempted the throw down, but threw the ball out of Hylah’s reach and the runner continued on and scored, tying up the game. Finally, a walk on the batter put another SWAT runner on base. The SWAT offense, having tied up the game, started to run the bases aggressively to try to regain the lead. On Natalie’s 1st pitch, the runner on base stole 2nd base. Then, Natalie hit the batter to put another runner on. Natalie got set to face the 8th SWAT batter, now taking her turn at bat. A passed ball on the 1st pitch saw the runners move into scoring position on a steal. On the next pitch, the batter connected and sent a grounder straight back to Natalie. Natalie moved in. Taking her time, she picked up the ball and tossed it to 1st for the 3rd out.

The game now tied at 5 points and time ticking away, this would be the last ½ inning of the game. It was up to the SKIPPING NINJAS to get a run in and secure the victory. Rachel was up 1st. Taking a ball on the 1st pitch, Rachel connected on the 2nd and popped the ball up in the air. The pitcher moved in under the ball and made the catch for the out on Rachel. Natalie was up next. After taking a ball on her 1st pitch, Natalie connected on the 2nd pitch as well. This time she sent a grounder toward the SWAT 2nd baseman who scooped up the ball and tossed it to 1st for the out on Natalie. Katrina came up to bat next. Katrina battled with the pitcher, eventually reaching full count. A ball on the next pitch put the SKIPPING NINJAS’ winning run on base. Aale’a was up next. Aale’a took the 1st pitch for a strike as Katrina started to work her way around the bases. Aale’a took a swing at the next pitch and put it in play. Katrina broke for 3rd base. Aale’a’s hit sent a grounder down the 1st base line. The SWAT 1st baseman stepped in front of the ball and picked it up and walked back to 1st to step on the bag for the easy out, ending the game with a tie.

Final Score
SWAT 5 – SKIPPING NINJAS 5

Game Ball
Once again, the SKIPPING NINJAS and SWAT teams put on a defensive show for the 2nd day in a row, nearly matching the previous game’s outcome. Unfortunately, a couple of costly errors allowed SWAT to tie up the game and a strong defensive showing in the last inning held the SKIPPING NINJAS until the game was called. So, once again, pitching and defense carried the day for both teams. For the SKIPPING NINJAS, there was 1 person who really stood out as she put together 2 great innings at pitcher. Natalie had a great 3rd inning, striking out 3 SWAT batters in a row and started the 4th inning very strong. For that, Natalie was awarded the game ball. Great job Natalie!

Rescheduled - Sun. Apr 3, 11:30am vs. SWAT

Just 1 day after a tough loss, the SKIPPING NINJAS were set to take on SWAT. This was a reschedule of an earlier rained out game and, since the rains also affected our pre-season scrimmage with SWAT, this was the first time playing against them this season. With rumors circulating that this was the team to beat this season and not wanting to take a 2nd loss in a row, the SKIPPING NINJAS were coming to the game with a little caution, but with the team ready to go, there was a sense of confidence in the air.

1st Inning
Having run through most of the pitching depth in the last 2 games, Miara was set to pitch to lead the SKIPPING NINJAS defense against SWAT. Coming out with the heat, Miara caught the 1st SWAT batter by surprise. She fired the 1st pitch in and it was on target. Strike 1. Not wanting to go down without a fight, the batter took a swing at Miara’s next 2 pitches and struck out. The next batter came to the plate. As if in disbelief of Miara’s pitching ability, she refused to swing. Strike 1. Again, the batter stood still. Strike 2. Miara lost control of the next pitch for a ball, but quickly turned it around and struck out the 2nd SWAT batter. The next SWAT batter came to the plate. She took the 1st pitch. Incredibly, with 8 pitches so far in the inning, Miara threw 7 strikes. The batter took a cut on the next pitch, fouling it off. She connected on Miara’s next pitch and sent a low fly ball toward Hylah at 3rd base. Hylah reached for it but couldn’t get a handle on the ball and the batter reached 1st safely. Miara lost control of her 1st pitch against the 4th SWAT batter for a ball. The next 2 pitches also failed to find their target and the count was at 3-0. Miara collected herself and threw heat on the next 3 pitches, putting the SWAT offense away in spectacular fashion.

Kas came out to start the SKIPPING NINJAS off in the 1st. Swinging aggressively; Kas connected on the 1st pitch and put the ball in play, scoring a single on a grounder to 3rd. Lexie was up next. On the 1st pitch, the ball got past the catcher and Kas stole 2nd. Warming up, the SWAT pitcher struggled to find her pitch and after 2 balls, she was able to get a strike over the plate. With the count on Lexie at 3-1, Lexie held her bat on the next pitch. Ball. Lexie got on base with a walk. Miara was up next. Counting on the ball pitch, Miara took the first one and it was called a strike. Miara took a swing on the next pitch and hit a grounder to the SWAT short stop, but with all the runners moving, the short stop hesitated to throw and the bases were loaded. Elise was up next. Alternating between balls and strikes, Elise reached full count. She took a swing on the next pitch, but missed and struck out. Rachel came to the plate next. The SWAT pitcher began to struggle and eventually walked Rachel, bringing Kas home and putting the SKIPPING NINJAS on the board. Hylah took her turn at bat. Hylah stayed alive after swinging at a couple of pitches, but, with her count full, the pitcher missed the mark again and walked Hylah, bringing Lexie home. Rebecca was up next. Refocused, the SWAT pitcher found her groove again and on 3 pitches struck Rebecca out for the 2nd out of the inning. Natalie came to the plate next and took a swing on the 1st pitch. She connected and sent a hard grounder through the SWAT infield out into the left field grass for a single. As the SWAT defense tried to recover, Miara and Rachel scored. Katrina was up next. The 1st pitch on Katrina got past the SWAT catcher and Hylah and Natalie advanced to scoring position on a steal. Eventually, a walk on Katrina loaded the bases. Aale’a was up next. After a ball on the 1st pitch, Aale’a got hit by the next pitch for a walk, bringing Hylah home. Erika came to the plate next. She swung hard at the pitcher’s 1st pitch and fouled it off. The next 3 pitches missed their mark and the count was at 3-1. Erika took a cut on the next pitch and missed for strike 2. Then, Erika held her bat on the next pitch, reading a ball. Unfortunately, the umpire saw it differently and called the strike, ending the initial SKIPPING NINJAS surge and moving the game into the 2nd inning.

SWAT 0 – SKIPPING NINJAS 5

2nd Inning
Miara was back at the rubber for the 2nd inning. Her pitch speed dropped a bit in the 2nd and the 1st batter was ready. After a ball on the 1st pitch, the batter started to swing. She missed on the next pitch for strike 1. She tried again and missed for strike 2. On the next pitch, the batter connected and roped the ball out to Erika in left field. Erika got a late jump on the ball and it hit the ground just out of her reach and, as she rushed to collect the ball, the batter was able to reach 3rd. The next batter came to the plate. Beginning to show signs of fatigue, Miara threw 2 balls in a row, but managed to refocus to get the batter to swing. 3 pitches later and the batter struck out. The next batter also went down swinging after 5 pitches. With 1 out left to go, Miara poured on the heat. Strike 1, the batter didn’t swing. Stike 2, the batter didn’t swing again. Strike 3, the batter took a cut, but missed and left the SWAT runner stranded on 3rd as Miara retired the side.

Back at the top of the lineup, Kas was back at the plate. Kas battled with the SWAT pitcher. After 2-0, Kas swung and missed. Then, another ball and a strike later and the count was full. On Kas’s last pitch, she took a swing and put the ball in play. She sent a ground ball toward the SWAT short stop for a single. Lexie was at bat next. Lexie took a swing on the 1st pitch for a strike and Kas safely stole 2nd. After another strike, Lexie stayed alive by fouling off the 3rd pitch. At 0-2, it looked like Lexie was going to be put away, but the SWAT pitcher threw 4 balls in a row and Lexie got on base. Miara was up next. On the 1st pitch, Kas stole 3rd as Miara took the strike pitch. On the next pitch, Miara put it in play. The ball rolled slowly up the middle of the infield and the SWAT pitcher rushed to collect the ball. As the pitcher made the play at 1st for the out on Miara, Kas hesitated on the run to home. She hung up on the 3rd base line. Frozen, Kas watched as the SWAT 1st baseman made the throw home. Then, she decided to go for it, but it was too late and the SWAT catcher tagged Kas out for the double play. With the action at home, Lexie was able to make is safely to 3rd. Elise was up next. After a strike on the 1st pitch, Elise connected, but popped the ball up over the SWAT infield. The pitcher was able to get under it for the 3rd out of the inning with both the SKIPPING NINJAS and SWAT defenses cancelling each other out in the 2nd.

SWAT 0 – SKIPPING NINJAS 5

3rd Inning
Natalie was brought in to pitch in the 3rd. After a ball on her 1st pitch, Natalie hit the 1st SWAT batter and gave her 1st base. Natalie’s 1st pitch on the 2nd batter was a strike and, with a ball on the next pitch, the runner on base stole 2nd. On the next pitch, the batter connected and sent one out into the SKIPPING NINJAS center field. Rebecca tried to reach the ball, but it hit the ground and the batter reached 1st safely as the other runner advanced to 3rd. The next batter came to the plate. Natalie’s 1st pitch was a ball and the runner on 1st stole 2nd. The batter took swings on Natalie’s next 2 pitches, missing both. A passed ball on the next pitch opened the door for the SWAT runner on 3rd to reach home and put SWAT on the board for the 1st time in the game. A strike on Natalie’s next pitch sent the batter back to the SWAT dugout, but not before the runner on base stole her way to 3rd. The next batter came to the plate. Natalie struggled to find her pitch and, after 4 pitches, the count was at 3-1. On the next pitch, the batter took a swing and connected, sending a grounder down the 3rd base line toward Hylah. When Hylah committed to the throw to 1st, getting the out, the runner on 3rd took off for home and scored. Natalie got right back to work on the next SWAT batter. She missed on her 1st pitch, but was able to quickly find her groove and get the batter to swing. The batter missed the 1st pitch, then held her bat for strike 2. The batter held her bat again, reading ball on the pitch. Unfortunately for her, the pitch sailed through the strike zone and Natalie struck her out.

Rachel was up 1st for SKIPPING NINJAS. She tried to revive the SKIPPING NINJAS offense by swinging and connecting on the 1st pitch. She hit a line drive to the SWAT 2nd baseman, who snatched the ball out of the air for the 1st out of the inning. Rachel threw her bat after the hit and nearly hit the catcher. The umpire called time and warned Rachel not to do it again. Hylah was at the plate next and swung at the 1st pitch for a strike. She connected on the next pitch, sending a fast grounder through the SWAT infield for a single. Rebecca was up next and took a swing on the 1st pitch for a strike as Hylah stole 2nd. The SWAT catcher popped up to throw Hylah out at 2nd, but the throw missed the mark and Hylah was able to make her way to 3rd. Rebecca fouled the next pitch off to bring the count to 0-2. A ball on the next pitch brought the count to 1-2 on Rebecca. The SWAT pitcher’s next pitch came out hot and on target. Unfortunately, Rebecca released the bat a touch too late, the bat barely missed the pitch and Rebecca went down swinging. The SWAT pitcher, surging late in the 3rd, started to string strikes together. Natalie was up next to try to bring Hylah home. The pitcher missed on the 1st pitch, but pulled it together and got Natalie to swing. The pitcher strung 3 good pitches together and struck Natalie out, shutting out the SKIPPING NINJAS offense for the 2nd inning in a row.

SWAT 2 – SKIPPING NINJAS 5

4th Inning
Natalie was brought back in to pitch in the 4th. The 1st SWAT batter came out swinging and fouled off and missed the 1st 2 pitches, bringing up 2 strikes. Natalie struggled on the next 3 pitches and the count was full. On the next pitch, the batter, hoping for a ball, held her bat and struck out. Natalie continued to struggle and threw balls on the 1st 2 pitches on the 2nd SWAT batter of the inning. On the 3rd pitch, the batter connected and sent one out to the SKIPPING NINJAS center field for a single. Continuing the skid, Natalie walked the next batter. With SWAT runners on 1st and 2nd, Natalie got ready to face the 4th batter. On the pitch, the runner on 2nd stole 3rd. The batter put the ball in play and sent a grounder to Miara, playing short stop, who collected the ball and looked the runner on 3rd back to base. As she turned to make the throw to 1st, the runner on 3rd took off for home and scored. With the runner reaching 1st before she could get the throw to 1st off, Miara noticed that the runner going from 1st to 2nd hesitated and decided to throw the ball to 2nd base. The ball reached 2nd base and the SKIPPING NINJAS defense was able to notch the 2nd out of the inning on the play. After all of the excitement, Natalie got back to work and quickly found her pitch on the next batter. Natalie put 2 strikes together to get ahead in the count, but not before the SWAT runner was able to steal her way to 3rd base. On the passed ball, the runner took off for home. As the SKIPPING NINJAS scrambled to cover home, the runner came down like a freight train. The SKIPPING NINJAS catcher tossed the ball to Natalie, but the toss was high and the runner was able to get under it to tag the plate and score. With 1 pitch left on the batter, Natalie got back to work. Without missing a beat, Natalie threw the pitch on target and got the batter to swing and miss for the strikeout.

With SWAT eating away at the SKIPPING NINJAS lead at the bottom of the 4th, Katrina was up 1st. Swinging on the 1st pitch, Katrina connected and put the ball in play. She sent a fast grounder toward the SWAT 3rd baseman for a single. Aale’a was up next. The SWAT pitcher was on and threw a strike on the 1st pitch, catching Aale’a off guard. A ball on the next pitch put the count at 1-1. A strike on the 3rd pitch got past Aale’a for strike 2. Then, Aale’a took a swing at the next pitch, but missed and struck out. Erika was up next. The pitcher started to struggle against Erika. With balls on the 1st 2 pitches, Katrina was able to steal her way into scoring position. With the count at 3-1, Erika took a swing and connected, sending a fly ball out into the SWAT outfield for a single and bringing Katrina home. Kas was up next. On the 1st pitch, Kas took a swing and put the ball in play. She sent a grounder down the 1st base line. The SWAT 1st baseman collected the ball and tagged 1st for the out as Erika reached 2nd. It was Lexie’s turn at bat. She took a strike on the 1st pitch. On the 2nd pitch, she got a piece of the ball and sent a grounder toward the SWAT short stop for a single. However, not needing to run, Erika took off for 3rd and, with the short stop in possession of the ball, ran into the out and ended the offensive inning for SKIPPIN NINJAS.

SWAT 4 – SKIPPING NINJAS 6

5th Inning
Lexie was brought in to pitch in the 5th. The 1st SWAT batter didn’t waste any time. Swinging on the Lexie’s 1st pitch, she hit a line drive to Rachel, playing 2nd base. Rachel couldn’t get a handle on the ball and the batter got a single. Lexie battled with the 2nd SWAT batter and, on 4 pitches was able to get the strikeout, but not before the runner was able to steal 2nd base somewhere during the exchange. It took a few more pitches to put away the next SWAT batter, but after reaching full count, Lexie got the 3rd batter to swing and miss on the last pitch for another strikeout. Again, during the at bat, the runner managed to make her way to 3rd base. With SWAT threatening to score, Lexie got back to work against the next SWAT batter, who already managed to get 2 big hits to center field in this game. Lexie missed on her 1st pitch, bringing up ball 1. Lexie found her mark on the 2nd pitch as the batter held her bat and the count was at 1-1. A swing on Lexie’s next pitch brought up 1-2. Trying to get the runner moving, the batter took a swing at Lexie’s next pitch. The ball was just out of reach and Lexie struck out 3 SWAT batters in a row to bring the SKIPPING NINJAS offense back out on the field.

Miara was up 1st. The SWAT pitcher started struggling against Miara and started the at bat throwing 2 balls. Miara swung and missed the next pitch, but, with the count at 2-1, the pitcher was not able to get another strike across the plate and Miara got on base with a walk. Elise was up next. The 1st pitch on Elise got past the SWAT catcher and Miara safely stole 2nd. A swinging strike on the 2nd pitch and Miara stole her way to 3rd base. Refocused, the SWAT pitcher got Elise to swing at her next 2 pitches for the strikeout. Rachel was up next. The 1st pitch on Rachel was a passed ball and Miara took a big lead off of 3rd. The SWAT catcher quickly recovered the ball and got up, freezing Miara on the 3rd base line between bases. Miara started inching back to 3rd and the catcher pump-faked to try to get Miara to surrender and turn back, but Miara held her ground. Shuffling back another step, Miara drew the catcher out. The catcher fired the ball to 3rd and Miara had to quickly make a decision. She took a couple of steps then dove for 3rd as the SWAT 3rd baseman made the catch. Diving under the tag, Miara reached 3rd base, unfortunately the base umpire signaled that Miara was out. After protesting the call – Miara was tagged on the back while her hand was on base, clearly showing that she made on base safely – the plate umpire let the call stand and Miara was officially called out on the play. With 2 outs, Rachel came back to the plate to finish her at bat. The next pitch was a ball, bringing up 2-0. Rachel fouled off the next pitch to bring up 2-1. She connected on the next pitch and sent a hard grounder to the SWAT 2nd baseman, who couldn’t get a grip on the ball, for a single. Sadly, having been warned earlier in the game, after the hit, Rachel threw her bat again, this time striking the umpire with it. The umpire called time and Rachel was ejected from the game. With Rachel being the 3rd out of the inning, both teams notched another mutual scoreless inning in the game.

SWAT 4 – SKIPPING NINJAS 6

6th Inning
With time running out and SKIPPING NINJAS ahead by 2, Miara was brought back in to pitch to close the show. With the SKIPPING NINJAS in the lead, this would be the last chance for SWAT to make something happen. Having rested her arm for the last 3 innings, Miara took a moment to warm up. After reaching 2-0, Miara got the 1st SWAT batter to swing and miss on a pitch before another ball brought the count to 3-1. The batter connected on Miara’s next pitch and put it in play. She hit a hard ground ball that tore through the SKIPPING NINJAS infield for a single. The next batter proved a bit easier as Miara started to find her groove. Miara struck the 2nd batter out, but not before the runner was able to get to 2nd base. The next SWAT batter came up to the plate. On the 1st pitch, the runner stole 2nd as the batter watched the strike go by. She took a swing at Miara’s next pitch for strike 2. Then, Miara threw heat and caught the batter by surprise and struck her out for the 2nd out of the inning. Miara struggled a bit on the next batter. Her 1st 3 pitches all missed the mark and she got behind in the count. At 3-0, Miara reeled it back in and fired off 2 strike pitches to bring up full count. The batter took a cut on the next pitch and put it in play. Miara, looked the 3rd base runner back to base. Then, she turned and fired the ball to Lexie at 1st. The throw got away from Miara and it went low and forced Lexie to adjust. She touched the ball, but couldn’t keep it under control and the batter got a single. With the error, the runner on 3rd took off for home and scored, reducing the SKIPPING NINJAS lead to 1 point. Miara struggled on the next batter. With a couple of strikes in the mix, the batter eventually got on base with a walk and now SWAT’s game winning run was on base. The next batter came up to the plate. Miara fired in a strike and the runners stole their way into scoring position. The batter fouled off Miara’s next pitch, bringing the count to 0-2. On Miara’s next 2 pitches, the count reached 2-2. Miara collected herself, dug deep and fired one in. The batter held her bat. The umpire stood up and after a beat, yelled STRIKE 3! Miara preserved the lead and closed the show. SKIPPING NINJAS came away with the victory!

Final Score
SWAT 5 – SKIPPING NINJAS 6

Game Ball
It was a great game by the SKIPPING NINJAS today. Shutting out SWAT for a couple of innings at the beginning and getting a big lead early in the game proved to be a winning formula for SKIPPING NINJAS on the day, but the story of the game today was the incredible pitching performances put on by all 3 NINJAS pitchers. But, with a commanding performance in all of her 3 pitching innings as well as some great base running and defensive play, Miara was awarded the game ball. Keep it up Miara!