On a very pleasant day-before Mother's Day at Voorheesville, Manny Maruffo turned in a fantastic pitching performance, allowing only two hits, walking none, striking out eight, and leading the Cyclones to their first win of the season, 8-2 over Frank Mantagano and the Cougars. Actually, Manny came thisclose to a true gem, as he held the Cougars hitless until Rob Briscoe led off the 7th with a clean single to left. Even the Cougars bench stopped and applauded Manny (a gesture genuinely appreciated by everyone). At one point, Manny set down 15 of 16 Cougars, and even helped himself with an RBI double.
The Cougars struck first in this game, as Greg Briscoe reached on an error by Read Shepherd at first base. That was followed by a wild pitch and a couple of sacrifice bunts. Cyclones came back with two in the second, highlighted by an RBI single from Ed Schreiber. In the third, Jim Bonaparte walked to open the inning. Then, with one out, hits by Dennis Reuter, Tommy Smith, Jack Riley, Manny Maruffo, and Read Shepherd brought in a total of five runs. Cyclones added an insurance run in the bottom of the 6th on doubles by Smith and Riley. Tommy (The Commish) finished the day with two extra base hits and two RBI's. Riley also had two hits and two RBI's.
As always, the best to Frank and the Cougars. These guys will surprise some people before the season is over. Nice to see Tony Scanu and Rich Feir out there today, too! Good luck, guys, we'll see you soon!
