Wellington Heat are now 6-2 and 2-0 in Jayhawk League; return home tonight to battle BeeJays
by James Jordan, Sumner Newscow — The Wellington Heat won two games at the Bethany Bulls during the week, and were to have played again Thursday night there, before returning home for a weekend series. The Heat hosts the Dodge City Bee Jays Friday through Sunday, at 7 p.m. each day.
The Heat are now 6-2, but more importantly 2-0 in the Jayhawk League as the games with Bethany opened league play.
As expected, the pitchers are doing well, and the hitters are getting enough hits to get the win most nights. This year’s edition relies more on hit-and-run style of play as opposed to the power hitters they had a year ago. They are probably also stronger on the mound this year as well.
Brett Clark got the win while pitching Wednesday night, spreading out two runs in an 8-3 win. Ryan Baca relieved and got the save, and also pitched well assistant coach Aaron Rea said. Baca has been impressive in the relief role this season and coaches are expecting good things this year from him.
Jaden Eggimann was three-for-four at the plate Tuesday, and on Wednesday, A.J. Duran was three-for-four hitting. Different players are rising up each night for the team so far. Eggimann had a three-run home run during the trip to Bethany.
On Tuesday the Heat got a lot of hits going, and won 10-5.
Coach Rea said the coaching staff has stressed throwing strikes this year, and not giving free passes through walks. They are having the pitchers challenge hitters, and letting the defense do its job in the field, and so far that is working out.
Early on hitters have struggled a little, as is often the case, but they have shown some improvement lately.
This weekend they expect to see a good team in the BeeJays, who are usually up there at the top of the standings along with the Heat.
After this weekend, the Heat have a long road trip, and will return to Wellington for a series starting June 21.
Free tickets for Friday’s game can be picked up at Penny’s Diner, and tickets for Sunday’s game can be picked up at Barefoot Jerry’s in Wellington. According to the Heats website, Friday is also free hot dog night.
