The Bucs beat the Fordians in a languid game, slow-paced and humid, by a score of 9-1. Lounello started and went four scoreless innings for the Pirates, Tryon pitched the 5th and final frame. The game was stopped by darkness, as if even God had seen enough. Both teams lacked zip.
We're at that time of year, losing light every day, when games are cut short by a lack of light. It's so important to pick up the pace between innings, to keep things moving along. Nobody wants to lose a close game after going only five or six innings. Games need to start on time and the umpires need to help establish a "let's go" pace.
In last year's winter meetings the Highlander's manager, Cos DiBari, suggested a rule that allowed for catchers to have courtesy runners when there were two outs. An interesting idea to help move the game along, but it struck me as slightly complicated, not all that impactful, and, well, "Who needs an extra rule?" So I was among the majority that voted "no." That said, and at this time of year, I can maybe see the merit. Perhaps an idea to revisit during the sad gray winter months.
