The top of the order led the way as the Doncaster Dragons beat ladder leaders Waverley on Saturday in one of their best performances of the season.
The Dragons won 13-7 at Napier Park, making it three wins in a row since the calendar ticked over to February.
Another strong pitching performance from Matt Josselyn helped set up the win. Josselyn pitched eight innings, allowing three runs on six hits and five walks, with eight strikeouts.
His task was made easier by the fact that he had an early lead. The Doncaster offence got off to a hot start, with Nic Unland leading off the game with a home run. Three more runs followed in the first inning, highlighted by Billy Findlay’s two-run double.
That first inning set the tone for the rest of the game as the Dragons added runs in fourth, fifth and seventh innings to build an 8-3 lead. They then put the result beyond doubt with a five-run top of the ninth.
Disciplined batting was the key. The Dragons took advantage of 14 walks, with every player in the lineup reaching base at least once.
Findlay was the standout hitter, with two doubles and three walks, scoring four runs and driving in four. Mitch Ellis had one hit and three walks, Jean Alvarado reached base three times, and Rolando Curiel provided some insurance with a two-run double in the ninth inning.
“Can’t ask for much more than that,” coach Brendan McDonald said.
“Great intent at the plate all day. We had productive at-bats with two strikes, took the free passes, stole a few bases, and got the big hits.
“Waverley has been a really strong club for a long time and they’re having another excellent season. This was a great test for us, and the guys once again showed what they’re capable of.”
The Dragons will look to extend their three-game winning streak when they host Fitzroy on Tuesday at 6.15pm.
Doncaster Baseball Club 