Sometimes practicing a sport is not enough to improve your skills. There are times you need to play in order to spot a weakness that needs attention. There are terms for this kind of "play": shadow boxing, scrimmage or friendlies.
When teams are involved in a friendly game, the coaches agree to a form of competition, which usually stretches the rules. The game may or may not be scored, players are freely substituted, and coaches are often found on the field of play consulting with players about the specific situation. With ASA winter ball just a few weeks away, the
So Cal Ringers prepared to face
American Pastime KSA for a friendly game of softball.
The American Pastime KSA 16U Fastpitch Softball Team is a member of the Junior Olympics program. This summer they hosted the
Chinese Taipei 16U Junior Olympic National Team, from Kaoshiong City, in addition to placing 2nd at the 2007 Colorado Fireworks Showcase Tournament. The friendly game between the two teams would serve as a practice session for the Ringers and a tournament tune-up for American Pastime (AP).
At the top of the 1st inning, the umpires called out "play ball" and AP sent four batters to the plate; they were the visiting team. The first batter reached on a single, only to be stranded on the bag as the next four batters sent fly balls to the outfield. In the bottom half of the inning the Ringers copied this performance as the first batter reached on a single but could not advance when the next three batters went down in order.
AP scored a run in the 2nd inning, sacrificing the lead-off batter (triple). The Ringers were unable to respond as they went down in order, providing AP their third strikeout of the game.
The 3rd inning saw AP raise the level of play a notch, scoring three runs on a double and three straight singles. The Ringers attempted to get on the board when the lead-off batter reached first base on a walk, advanced to second on a passed ball, then stole third. However, the AP pitcher is ranked 3rd in the nation (16 and Under Division) and proved it as she struck out the next three batters (six strikeouts in three innings).
The 4th inning had AP on the offense as eight batters faced the Ringers defense. AP added three runs to their tally on five singles and a passed ball. The Ringers opened their half of the inning with back-to-back singles and an error by the AP right fielder.
The game ended with AP on top of the Ringers 7-1. The second friendly game went three innings as AP shut out the Ringers 8-0.