DUBAI: Mexican catcher Miguel Ojeda and Filipino infielder Ian Mercado’s singles each drove in two runs, while Raul Shah added an RBI to cap off Cobras’ five-run attack in the first inning.
Combined with solid pitching from Nyan Hernandez and the Cobras’ airtight bullpen, Mumbai defeated Karachi Monarchs 8-4, tying the historic first series of Baseball United Season 1 (1-1). The deciding match is on Sunday, Nov. 16.
Besides Ojeda, Ian Mercado (2 for 4 with 2 RBIs) and Raul Shah (2 for 4 with 1 RBI and 1 strikeout) stood up for the Indian team’s offense.
Despite falling one-third of an inning short to qualify for the win, Hernandez had the best outing for a starting pitcher so far, pitching 4.2 innings and allowing just one earned run. He struck out three batters.
Other highlights from the night
* Mumbai’s bullpen performance was key to maintaining the lead. Brandon Kaminer (2.1 innings pitched, 0 earned runs, 0 walks, 2 strikeouts) earned the win in relief, despite Jacob Hasty struggled (1 home run, 2 earned runs, 1 walk, 1 strikeout), Chandler Woolridge posted a 1.1 perfect road (3 strikeouts) to finish the job. Karachi’s starting pitcher Franklin Van Gurp took the loss after allowing five runs in the first inning. No starting pitcher has yet been credited with a victory after two regular-season games.
* Faisal Hayat became the first Pakistani-born player in Baseball United Season 1 Karachi franchise history — the Pakistani national team player completed two high quality innings where he appeared indecipherable. Musharaf Khan came in to pitch in the ninth inning, to continue the Pakistani national pride in the bullpen. Like his countryman, the righthand pitcher also completed the inning scoreless, with one walk and one strikeout.
* Karachi manager Jay Bell requested the use of the fireball against his son, Brantley Bell, who plays for Mumbai. Facing Scott Ellis, the Bell heir struck out three times in a single at-bat. Although he won the game, he succumbed to his father in this family duel. This was tonight’s only successful attempt either for Fire Ball or Money Ball. Ellis struck out four more batters.
