The games are winding down, but there are still some great moments of baseball left in this hot off-season.
European Championship – French National Team
The bitter defeat against Germany has demoralized the team, their competitive spirit, and their structure. The starting pitching lineup (Antoine, De la Rosa, Coste, Esposito) was put back in place against the Czech Republic, but the mercy rule ended France’s game in the 7th inning. The Czech Republic put on a strong showing and, playing at home, could still finish 5th in the tournament. They easily defeated the French team. The latter will play on Saturday at 12 PM for a chance to secure 7th or 8th place against Sweden.
Division 2 Baseball
The final series continues between Valenciennes and Béziers. Over the first weekend, at home, the Pirates secured two victories. One more win and they’ll be the 2023 Division 2 champions. It’s not over yet, as Valenciennes will be determined to win on Saturday to force a Sunday game and try to even the series. Given the statistics, the task looks tough but not impossible. Béziers is likely to bring their A-game in the third match, starting their ace Nicholas Dazell, who boasts a 1.63 ERA, backed by their dominant hitter Pilar Velasquez, who hits safely in half his at-bats (.500 average). For the Vipers, their top pitcher Patten will need to step up, supported by a strong defense.
Broadcasts on Vipères TV and Baseball TV France.
Division 1 Men’s Softball
The potential five-game series kicks off between the Rabbits of Clapiers and the Barracudas of Montpellier. Both teams dominated the championship and have also competed in the European Cup. Montpellier has the edge, riding high after their bronze medal at the European Championship. With some players coming from baseball, their victory in the Baseball Championship will give them a steel resolve. Clearly, Montpellier’s double in baseball and softball is within reach this year.
Other Championships
The Division 3 season is at its midpoint, and the French 18U Cup also begins this weekend.
