The Bern Cardinals host the Zurich Challengers on Saturday for game one of the best-of-five-series to determine the Swiss champion. The Cards swept the regular season series back in April 14-4 and 18-0. Both teams were in first place of their respective groups before the playoffs. But their opponents won the Swiss Cup game 6-2 in august against them.
Bern sealed the finale with three straight wins in the semis against the Zurich Barracudas. The Challengers needed game five versus the Reussbühl Eagles to reach the championship games.
The Cardinals rely on starters John BAUM (5-1, ERA 0.56), Christoph BEYELER (7-0, 2.13) and Severin FRIES (4-0, ERA 0.00). Their biggest offensive force is first baseman Jhonny PERIGO, who is hitting .567 with six homeruns, 27 Runs scored and 32 RBI.
On top of Zurichs pitching staff are Harry BREGY (6-2, ERA 3.15) and Thomas BURGER (6-4, ERA 6.60). Catcher Tobias SIEGRIST is hitting .427 with three homeruns, 36 runs and 32 RBI. Outfielders Thomas LANDIS (.448, 24 Runs, 24 RBI)) and Chris PALATINUS (.418, 27 Runs, 25 RBI) protect him in the batting order.
Prediction: Bern is warned after the loss in the cup finales, so they will win their third straight title in Switzerland.
