Not even the British weather has been able to stop softball in Milton Keynes this summer, as the new four-team league has gone from strength to strength come rain or shine.
The league has provided competitive action for both experienced and rookie players, and the season really took off in July, even if the weather at times was a damp squib.
Doubleheader
The second doubleheader night of the season took place at Woughton-on-the-Green on 12 July, and despite persistent miserable weather, two great games took place.
The Homerun Hornets, previously without a win, ended their slump with an amazing 40-26 victory over the Willow Lakers. Despite the dominance of the batters, the game was most memorable for some great catches in slippery conditions.
Pitcher Alan Davis and first base player Robyn Hillyard took MVP honours for the victors while first base player Lauren Pritchard and shortstop Richie Murray starred for the Lakers, the latter hitting a grand slam and taking an unbelievable catch.
Meanwhile, on the other pitch, the Double D’s and Towcester Tigers fought it out to be the first team to clinch a playoff berth. Thanks partly to a grand slam by Craig Holmes and MVP performances by outfielders Rachael Shkurko and Jon Reynolds, the D’s came out on top by 27-16.
Tigers’ pitcher Laura Simpson and outfielder Dan Lovell were named their MVPs, and all is not lost for the Tigers, who may have a chance of gaining revenge on the Double D’s in the playoff final.
Hornets march on
The suddenly in-form Hornets remained alive in the playoff race after defeating the Double D’s by 25-14 on 26 July.
Outstanding batting again made the difference for the resurgent Hornets, with Alan Davis leading the way in the pitching circle and also moving up to joint top on the home run leader board.
Shortstop Chris Borah and second base player Leanne Reynolds were named MVPs for the Hornets, while shortstop Rachael Shkurko and pitcher Jason Jenkins took the honours for the D’s.
This result meant that the Lakers, Hornets and Tigers are all in the hunt to face the Double D’s in the playoff final. It’s getting exciting and -- who knows -- we may need the calculators out at the end of the season to decide the finalists!
Keep up to date on all the latest news and playing opportunities in Milton Keynes at www.mksoftball.co.uk.