The Division 2 Baseball Championship wrapped up its quarterfinal round last weekend. This weekend, September 17th and 18th, the semifinals take center stage.
The top contenders for promotion, Valenciennes and Clermont, secured their spots by defeating Thiais and Anglet, respectively. Valenciennes will face Ronchin, who triumphed over Sénart 2, and Clermont will host Béziers, who overcame La Rochelle.
In Division 1, it’s already clear that PUC and Nice are in relegation trouble. However, as always, winning or losing your division isn’t the only factor in promotion or demotion. The criteria for moving up to Division 1 are stricter—number of licensed players, number of officials—but most importantly, the budget is a major consideration. For example, Béziers chose not to promote to Division 1 last year despite winning the Division 2 title.
Béziers is once again on track to win Division 2, and their coach, Lionel TEIXIDOR, aims for a back-to-back title. However, they’ll eventually have to step up to the plate and promote.
Valenciennes will put up a fierce fight, as they’re eager to climb the ladder.
The Division 2 final is set for October 2nd.
On the playdown front, action continues this weekend as well. Two matches were played last weekend.
Rouen leads 2-0 against Montigny
Dunkerque leads 2-0 against PUC
Montpellier leads 2-0 against Eysines
Bréal and Meysieu split their series 1-1
