7.13 Game Preview

SLAMMERS BEGIN PLAYOFF RUN AGAINST BUSCHHH LEAGUERS

ARLINGTON HEIGHTS: The Oakton Slammers (2-8, 7 Seed) will face off against the Buschhh Leaguers (7-3, 2 Seed) on Thursday Night in a win-or-go-home playoff game. The first pitch is scheduled for 9:45pm at Melas Park.

The Slammers look for some success in the playoffs for the first time. In their first season, they lost a nailbiter to the Hammerhogs, 19-18. Last season, they were shut out by Beacon Tap, 12-0.

Unfortunately, they are matched up with one of the league's best, the Buschhh Leaguers. Winners of last season's championship, the Buschhh Leaguers have hammered opponents this year with a +87 run differential. That is best in the league, in spite of their 3 losses.

The Slammers, on the other hand, are at a -79 run differential. The offense has faltered at points throughout the season, but the defense has been historically solid, as the team is set to have the lowest total runs scored against in team history. A -79 run differential would also be by far the best in team history, with the Slammers having been outscored by triple digits in each of the previous two seasons.

While the matchup is shaping up to be a true David vs. Goliath, the teams actually have the same record since they faced off during Week 6. In that game, the Buschhh Leaguers crushed the Slammers 25-3, but since then each team has gone 2-2. The Buschhh Leaguers lost two close games in a row before handling their last two opponents of the season, while the Slammers finished with two wins in three tries.

"We know it's going to be a tough matchup, but we want to keep it close, and play smart," manager Zach Wulbert said.

WITH A WIN: The Buschhh Leaguers would advance to 8-3 and make the playoff semifinals for the second straight season.

The Slammers would advance to 3-8, earning their first playoff win in franchise history. 

The winner of this matchup will play the winner of Courtland's Garage (3rd seed) versus the Fatletes (6th seed) next Thursday for a chance at the title game.

CHRISTMAS IN JULY: Break out your festive gear, as the Slammers will look to make it snow in the playoffs! The team needs a rowdy crowd to cheer them to victory. 

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