by John Baum
After having a weekend off due to Whitsuntide, the Swiss NLA league features three double headers Saturday and Sunday. In the premier matchup, the THERWIL FLYERS Flyers, (1-1), travel to Zurich to take on the BARRACUDAS, (4-2). Some of the biggest news of the week coming out of THERWIL as they have signed John Alexander, (a catcher with pro experience), who joined the team last Monday. This coupled with the FLYERS success winning the Eifel Cup tournament in Germany, makes them the favorite coming into these games. The BARRACUDAS will have to find their answer on the mound, Jeff Mottl should continue his strong start, and Beni Montag looked good in the friendly matchup between the Swiss National team and
the ATOMICS from Neuenburg. I have to give the edge in this one to the FLYERS. Although I believe they can sweep the BARRACUDAS this weekend, a split is probably in the cards. Chris Blackbee struggled against the promoted DEVILS in the first double header of the year, and the team’s matchup on the offensive side of the ball.
GAME 1- 7-3, FLYERS. GAME 2- 10-8, BARRACUDAS.
On Sunday the SISSACH FROGS, (1-3), go on the road to Zurich to play the CHALLENGERS, (3-5). Unfortunate news for the CHALLENGERS as Harry Bregy, (6-3, 2.07 ERA 2007), injured his ankle during the friendly matchup in Germany, and should be unavailable for the mound. This puts the pressure squarely on the CHALLENGERS, as Thomas Landis and Thomas Burger must be able to give significant innings. When this is not possible, Andy Fleischacker will have to pick up the slack. The CHALLENGER bats did explode two weeks ago, in particular Saentis Zeller, (5 doubles and a home run). The FROGS coming off hard fought losses to the BERN CARDINALS, look game to get back on the winning track. The FROGS are the only team to beat the potent offense of the INDIANS this year, and I believe have a shot to upset the home team once this weekend. This is key on how well Danny Traina throws, and of course how the Heerenschurli comes into play.
Prediction- GAME 1- 11-5, CHALLENGERS. GAME 2- 7-5, FROGS.
The last game of the weekend takes place in Lausanne, the WIL DEVILS,(1-5), travel to take on the INDIANS,(3-1). The DEVILS, with the upset of the season thus far, defeating the FLYERS, are riding a 4 game losing streak. That looks to continue as the take on the hard hitting Indians. The saving grace for the DEVILS maybe the curve ball of Rusty Biederman. When their pitching staff can keep the INDIAN hitters off balance, they can keep it close. Unfortunately for the DEVILS, I don’t see this happening. I have yet to see the revamped team, but don’t see them surprising the Indians. The INDIANS just have too much firepower with the Ramirez, DeFritas, Casamiro and several other potent hitters.
Prediction- GAME 1- 15-8, INDIANS. GAME 2- 10-4 INDIANS.
The BERN CARDINALS,(6-0), and the REUSSBUEHL EAGLES,(1-3), both have the weekend off.
{mrb-schedule:2008-05-17|2008-05-18|CH}
Complete Results
{mrb-standing:switzerland-2008}