The Reussbuhl Eagles (12-8) and the Zurich Barracudas (12-8) split a pair of games this weekend in Swiss Baseball League action. The Eagles routed the Barracudas in the opening game 21-0 before Zurich stormed back to take the next game 14-3.
Both teams finished the season with identical records and split their regular season matchups. But due to the tiebreaker system Reussbuhl will enter the playoffs as the No. 3 seed and will travel to Zurich on Saturday to meet a rejuvenated Challengers squad in Game 1 of their semi-final series.
The Challengers (13-7) are fresh off their Swiss Cup triumph over the Bern Cardinals two weeks ago in Therwil and appear ready to make a serious run in the playoffs. Veterans Thomas LANDIS (.483) and Chris Palatinus (.458) lead a rejuvenated crew that is 6-4 in their last 10 games.
The Barracudas will travel to Bern on Saturday for their playoff opener against the two-time defending Swiss champions. Veterans Frank Berchtold (4-2) and Farid Bekkali (23 hits) pace a team that has split their last five doubleheaders.
The Cardinals (18-2) remain the favorites to win their third straight title but Coach John BAUM’S squad has struggled mightily the final month of the season. Still, a solid pitching staff that includes BAUM, ace Severin FRIES, and Christoph BEYELER.
Mr. Baseball will provide a preview of the Swiss Baseball League finals later this week.