Knights Comeback falls just short in Opener vs. East Marietta Spikes

Austin struck out 2 in 1 1/3 and had
an RBI single

The Marietta Knights opened 2014 with a 9-5 loss to the East Marietta Spikes in game 1 of a doubleheader at Larry Bell Park. The Knights dug a hole early as their pitchers struggled with the strike zone allowing the game tested Spikes to jump out to a 9-1 lead. Things looked bleak until singles by Jackson Tysinger and George Krivsky along with a walk to Presley Field loaded the bases. With one out, Hunter Williamson drove a single into left field that scored Jackson. Mason Doyle hit into a fielder's choice that brought home 2 more runs. Mason stole 2nd and 3rd and took home on a passed ball to make it 9-5. The Knights were in comeback mode and liked their chances in the final inning but the umpires called time limit about 5 minutes early ending the Knights opportunity.



Luke was solid at 3B and behind the plate
for the Knights

The Knights definitely showed some of the rust and jitters to be expected in their first game. This showed mostly in control as they walked 7 batters and threw 3 wild pitches, while Spikes' pitchers only walked 2. This allowed the Spikes to score their 9 runs on only 6 hits. On the positive side Austin Hansell struck out 2 in an 1 1/3 innings and George Krivsky struck out 3 in 2 2/3. When the ball was put into play, the Knights defense was superb and only committed 2 errors.
Luke Martin was the defensive player of the game. You often hear that the first play of the season will set the tone for the year. On the first pitch of the 2014 season, the Spikes leadoff man delivered a nearly perfect bunt down the 3rd base line. Luke charged from 3B, scooped and fired to Presley at 1B just ahead of the speedy runner. Later in the inning, Luke fielded a hot grounder at 3rd with a runner on 1st. He heard his teammates calling 2 and turned and threw to Hunter at 2B to get the lead runner. Luke moved behind the plate for 3rd and after a strikeout on a low fastball the ball skidded all the way to the backstop. Luke got to it quickly and made the long throw over the batter to a stretching Presley to preserve the out.

Coach Rob was pleased the team's effort and he was excited that they fought back after being down early. There were plenty of teachable moments as expected but the coaching staff is certain that they have a very good baseball team.