Express Notes:
The 2015 NOLL AAA Express got the season started with an exciting mid-afternoon tilt against the Bats at sunny Golden Gate Academy Field. The visiting Express found themselves down 5-1 heading into the top half of the sixth, but -- undaunted -- they mounted a spirited comeback to knot the game at 5 to send the game to the bottom of the frame. After leadoff man Sam W-S got things started with a walk, Sommers D-N, Tyler J, and Aidan D followed with consecutive hits to drive in two runs before Alex N's ground ball to the right side drove in another run. That brought slugger Ari F to the plate -- where he promptly delivered, sending a double into CF to bring in the tying run. That's where the score stood heading into the bottom of the sixth, as the Express couldn't bring in any more runs.

Ari F, who was awarded the game ball, also got the game started for the Express with two solid innings of pitching, giving up just two runs while striking out two and walking none. Ari was followed to the mound by Aidan D and Erik W, who struck out five Bats between them while likewise not issuing any free passes. It was then youngster Jonah L's turn on the bump in the fifth, and, while he gave up a couple of walks and a big hit, he impressed by getting the ball over the plate and showing solid form. After the game, Coach Brook said of Jonah's performance, 'Very impressed with what I saw out there - we're looking forward to him getting better and better, and we are definitely going to count on him this year.' Tyler J. finished the eighth throwing nothing but strikes.

All game long, the Express demonstrated great fielding - Liam D played two solid innings behind the plate and had a nice play in the bottom of the sixth at first, Kiran K had a couple of nice plays in the field (including a good catch in RF), and Cole E flashed the leather at first base.

While the game ended with a 6-5 Bats victory after a heads-up base running play in the bottom of the sixth, the Express went away feeling good about their big comeback. Coach Brook said after the game: 'Great way to start the season - very happy with the way our team kept fighting against a tough Bats team. Now, we're on to the Hooks.'

The Express host the Hooks next Sunday at 10:00 at Back Caldecott.