Saturday:
Vienna Wanderers @ Soroptimist Stockerau Cubs
On the hunt for their first home win of the season, the Cubs host the Wanderers in a battle of neighbors. The first showdown in April ended unsuccessful for the men from Stockerau, although they put up a fight and were able to hang with the currently second place Wanderers, albeit with some help from the Vienna defense. Scott Hostein put forth a noble effort on the mound, however a lack of defensive and offensive support doomed the cause. The Vienna pitchers Godler and Magarian are jumping at the bit to get back on the field after a week off; can the Wanderers repeat their effort from the Tuesday night derby win against the Metrostars? If so, the Cubs will be sweating from more than just the expected high temperatures.
RiCo Highlanders @ Schwaz Tigers
After four decisive wins against their regional counterparts in the first half, the Tigers look to continue that streak. If the Highlanders were able to recuperate over their weekend off, then they’ll need to show it this weekend in hopes of climbing out of last place. Joshua Stewart will lead the charge, and it will take more than a solid pitching effort: he will need improved defense behind him if they want to take a win home with them. On offense the Tigers made it look easy last time, noteably through the three homeruns of Köchl, Haisjackl, and Hueber.
Sunday:
Vienna Metrostars @ Kufstein Vikings
The Kuftstein team has had to suffer through seven straight losses, in addition to a rash of injuries. Against the Metrostars, they’ll take a shot at ending the unfortunate streak in the confines of their own home and with an extra week to prepare. The Metrostars, coming off a nail-biting loss to the Wanderers on Tuesday night, comes loaded with young talent. They have their eye on the top teams in the standings and don’t have any plans to lose ground. Coach Tim Patrick is fortunate to have depth at pitcher, with a choice of five starters he can go to. The Vikings on the other hand will try to sort out who they can call on to stop the Metrostars offense.
Attnang-Puchheim Athletics @ Schwechat Blue Bats
The defending champs Attnang and Schwechat fought to a split last time they took the field, which at the time was an upset for the Blue Bats. Not so surprising in retrospect, however, as the Bats have kept themselves in playoff contention with a strong first half performance. The Athletics, having hosted the European Cup but missing out on the finals, now focus on the remainder of the league schedule where they sit atop the standings with a 1.5 game lead. They shouldn’t be resting on their heels though, the Bats would be happy to cut down that lead and boost their own chances at the playoffs.
{mrb-schedule:2011-06-18|2011-06-19|AT}
{mrb-standing:austria-2011}