Winning streak ends as Rangers drop two straight John E. Banks - Staff Writer
Tinker Rangers centerfielder Stephen Escalante leads off of first base during a game versus the Ameristars on July 22 at Hillsdale College in Moore. (Photo by John E. Banks)
The losses are mounting for the Tinker Rangers baseball team. Not just on the scoreboard, but around the diamond as well.
Permanent changes of station have claimed some of the Ranger’s players in recent weeks and the coach is looking for replacements.
“We need experienced middle infielders and pitchers,” said head coach Stephen Escalante, who also plays centerfield on the team. “If you have the time and talent, this could be a great opportunity for you.”
Anyone interested in trying out for the team can call Escalante at 1-832-276-6655 or visit the team’s Web site at www.leaguelineup.com/welcome.asp?url=tinker.
Rangers fall to Sooners
Riding a four-game winning streak, the Rangers faced the Sooners July 19 in a National Adult Baseball Association game at Reynolds Field.
The game quickly turned in favor of the 5-1 Sooners. After five innings, the Sooner had a commanding 11-0 lead. They never looked back, en route to a 15-2 victory.
“We didn’t have our full compliment of players and that definitely impacted the outcome of this game,” Escalante said. “We played hard, but our early mistakes cost us the win.”
Ameristars shut out Rangers
The Tinker Rangers faced undefeated and league leading Ameristars July 22 at Hillsdale College in Moore.
Pitcher Caleb Gray and the Rangers defense held the game scoreless through five innings. But the high-powered Ameristars exploded for 10 runs over the next two innings to run-rule the Rangers.
“We wasted a great pitching performance by Caleb Gray and some of our guys were playing positions that they are not used to,” Escalante said.
Gray struck out 10 batters in six innings of play.
