Sunday, July 2, 2017

Diamonds doubleheader disaster


In hugely different circumstances, Pittsburg failed to score in both games of a doubleheader, handing shutout victories to San Rafael 1-0 and 2-0. Tuesday, the Diamonds will play the first of nine games against first-place Sonoma in the two weeks before the first half champion is determined.

Shortstop Jose Garcia figured prominently in two controversial calls in game one. In the fourth inning with the Pacifics leading 1-0, Garcia was on second when Javier Marticorena singled. Garcia raced around third to home plate where catcher Rich Gingras stood and blocked the plate as he caught the throw from Miles Williams and prevented Garcia from scoring the tying run.

In the fifth inning, with the bases loaded, Garcia hit a line drive to right center. Williams made a full-out run and stretch trying to make the catch but umpire Gary Freeders ruled the ball hit safely and the Diamonds lead 2-1. Williams and Pacifics manager Matt Cavanaugh argued vehemently with the umpire who then changed the call to rule Garcia out. An umpire changing such a call without the aid of video or some other evidence is highly unusual if not unheard of.

A great performance by starter Angel Lara (2-2) – giving up one run in 5 1/3 innings pitched – was wasted and he took the loss. Patrick Conroy (1-3) had difficulty – two hits and two walks – in relief for San Rafael but got the win. Jake Pintar earned his first save.

In the nightcap, Pacifics starter Dakota Freese (2-1) pitched his second complete-game shutout against the Diamonds in as many tries. Freese struck out six while scattering three hits and three walks.

It was also the second time Freese ruined a terrific pitching performance by Tyler Stirewalt (2-3) who also pitched a complete game striking out five.

Because it was a doubleheader, under Pacific Association rules, both games were seven innings in length.