6.8 Game Preview

SLAMMERS TAKE ON SECOND PLACE BUSCHHH LEAGUERS

ARLINGTON HEIGHTS: The Oakton Slammers (0-5) will face off against the Buschhh Leaguers (4-1) on Thursday Night. First pitch is scheduled for 8:30pm at Melas Park.

Despite a hiccup in a 5-4 loss to Foul, No Catch last week, the Buschhh Leaguers remain one of the best teams in the league. They have the best run differential, and are only giving up an average of 3 runs per game.

"They'll be a tough out. We hope the film from last week's game will expose some holes," team manager Zach Wulbert said during this week's press conference.

The Slammers, on the other hand, can't seem to buy a win. The defense showed up, holding the opposition to a season-low 6 runs, but the bats were silent for the second week in a row.

"Obviously, we have to hit the ball if we want to win. Missing two of our best hitters in Nagle and Kowalski didn't help. But, we need everyone, one through twelve, getting on base," Wulbert noted.

RINGER?: It should be noted that the American Legion Rowdies brought in a ringer pitcher during last Thursday's game. Their normal pitcher had given up 66 runs in just 4 games, and so they brought in an unregistered pitcher just to beat the Slammers.

SWINGING FOR THE FENCES: Shortstop Jimmy Latal hit the first home run for the Slammers this season in the second inning. Leading off, Latal cranked a pitch into the left-center gap, easily making it around the bases for a score.

TEAM LEADERS: Three players lead the team with a .462 OBP: Latal, Wulbert, and catcher Nels Flink. Flink has the team lead with 6 hits, while Latal has driven in a team-high 4 runs.

WITH A WIN: The Buschhh Leaguers would advance to 5-1, cementing their position toward the top of the league.

The Slammers would advance to 1-5, earning their second win in franchise history. They would also get just their first win over the Buschhh Leaguers, after losing the first 2 matchups last season.

ERAS TOUR TAKES MELAS: The Slammers are hosting a stop of the global sensation "The Eras Tour" on Thursday, after three sold-out shows at Soldier Field. Wear your favorite Taylor Swift era! Follow @oaktonslammers on Instagram and Twitter for more.