The fourth round of baseball action, French-style.
A ‘reserve’ day featuring four matchups. This weekend should solidify the standings, barring any major upsets. The only question mark is Metz, the Cometz.
Metz, who haven’t played a single game yet (and must be chomping at the bit), face a tough opener against the Cougars in Montigny.
The Cometz aren’t starting with the easiest opponent, which will quickly show what they can expect this season. The Cougars, provisional leaders of Group A (3-1), are a tough team to play. That’s been clear for years. They’ve already beaten the French champions once this season and swept the Paris side twice. The 2018 French runners-up currently rank fifth in batting average (.278) and third in ERA with a stellar 2.18. The Cougars’ pitchers control the ball with 33 strikeouts, 14 walks, and hold opponents to a .230 average (28 hits, 5 doubles, and 2 triples). In terms of defense, the Cougars have made only 4 errors with one double play.
Above: the Cougars’ baseball field in Montigny.
So, what about the new Messin recruits? Rodriguez (SS), Jordan (P), Granoff (P), Melendez, Rogers? The Cometz could well spring a surprise against a Montigny team used to strong standings. Wait and see! Answer on May 1st.
The second matchup of the weekend pits the Rochellais, who are back on the road to Toulouse (they’re starting to know the way). A rainout last weekend caused the rescheduling.
The Boucaniers head into this with confidence, boasting a 3-1 record. They have a solid batting average of .313 (second in the league), the most powerful offense with a .458 SLG, and the third-best on-base percentage (.406). Defensively, they’ve made 5 errors (fourth) and turned two double plays, allowing their pitchers to play comfortably. Their ERA stands at 3.48 (sixth), with 39 strikeouts and 12 walks. Their opponents’ batting average is a bit high at .278 (against Nice and Montpellier).
Above: the Boucaniers at Boucan’s Field.
The Toulousains (0-2) will have to bring their A-game to win both matches. Let’s hope they at least take one by going all out from the start. They’ll need to hit better, as their current average of .178 (against Sénart) is too low to threaten Nieves or De La Rosa. At Argoulets, they’ve given up 6 earned runs per game. That’s too many to challenge one of the league’s top offenses. But let’s keep things in perspective, the Tigers have faced the Templiers.
Above: Toulouse on Opening Day at Argoulets. Photo credit: Julien Barrio
Here we go. Cougars vs. Cometz (1-1). Tigers vs. Boucaniers (0-2)
Vincent Picard
