The Becker Buzzards’ season ended last weekend as they went 2-2 in the state tournament. It was the first year of a one class tournament which meant the Buzzards played with the AA teams as well as the class A teams. Buzzards Co-Manager Mark Kolbinger said he was really pleased with the results.
In the opening round, the 11th-seeded Buzzards knocked off 6-seeded Monticello 3-0.
Jason Pfingsten proved he is one of the best players in the league with his incredible performance on the mound. Pfingsten pitched a complete game shutout, giving up just one hit and striking out four. He and also provided a huge two-run home run in the third inning.
“Everyone in the park could tell Pfingsten was in total control on the mound and when he hit the home run it was a real boost for us,” said Kolbinger. “Matt Marquette drove in the other run for us while Brian Kolbinger was three-for-three.”
Alex 10, Becker 3
Later Saturday, the Buzzards took on third-seeded Alexandria and fell by seven runs.
Becker jumped out to a quick lead and by the third inning were leading 3-0. However, Alexandria had a huge third, scoring seven runs to take the lead and never look back.
Jim Hanson started on the mound for the Buzzards and Brian Kolbinger came on in relief in the third inning and pitched very well. Brian's curve ball was excellent all day. He also went two-for-three at the plate.
Becker 13, Apple Valley 1
Sunday morning, Becker dominated Apple Valley and won by a dozen runs.
Dave Hinnenkamp went the distance on the mound, scattering five hits while giving up just one earned run. Pfingsten and Terry Gruenhagen each had three hits for the Buzzards.
Sunday night, Becker’s tournament and season ended when they fell 5-4 to Woodbury behind a strong pitching performance from Matt Eigen.
“Matt threw very well against one of the better hitting teams in the tournament,” said Kolbinger.
Eigen gave up just two hits through the first four innings before Woodbury scored five runs in the fifth on six hits and one Becker error. Mike Doetkott was three-for-four.
Becker got three runs in the third and had the bases loaded in the seventh but could only score one more run.
“We had a great chance to tie the game or win it, but just fell short,” said Kolbinger. “Our pitching staff did a great job with four games in two days. That’s a tall order.”
The Buzzards ended the year with a good run of solid play. Kolbinger says the players are already looking forward to their eighth season next year.
“Our team chemistry continues to be amazing,” he said.
