302D edges USASPO in make-up game

With the regular intramural softball season coming to a close, teams are preparing for the playoffs by making up previously rained-out games.

USASPO and 302D faced off Monday evening in one of the rescheduled matches.

While 302D is all but out of the playoff race, USASPO looked to further lock down their position for the playoffs.

302D ended up with an 18-17 victory after seven innings.

USASPO jumped out early, scoring six runs in the first inning. 302D answered by scoring four of their own to cut the lead to two to close out the first.

In the top of the second, a crucial baserunning error thwarted any sort of threat by the USASPO when a runner was doubled off first base after a fly out to second.

302D answered with one run in the bottom of the inning to make the score 6-5 after two.

In the top of the third, USASPO blew things open by scoring eight runs. The 302D pitcher opened the inning by issuing two walks. A single scored one, followed by a sacrifice fly to score another.

Following a fielder's choice and another walk, a USASPO batter reached on an error to load the bases. A single scored one more run and kept the bases loaded. The next batter hit the ball over the centerfielder's head for a grand slam, giving USASPO a 14-5 lead.

The 302D squad just wouldn't go away and scored five of runs of their own to stay within striking distance.

USASPO could only push across one run in the top of the fourth, while 302D scored two to inch closer and closer.

In the top of the fifth, USASPO couldn't add to their lead and 302D took advantage. Down 15-10, they managed to push across six runs highlighted by a grand slam of their own over the right fielder's head.
Now up 16-15, 302D took the field with time all but expired with hopes of keeping USASPO off the scoreboard.

USASPO was able to push across one run to tie the game and then hold 302D to no runs in the bottom of the inning to take the game to extras.

In the top of the seventh, USASPO was able to score on a home run after a 302D outfielder let a ground ball get through his glove.

In the bottom of the inning, 302D pushed across two runs with great situational hitting to take the win.

USASPO and 302D are currently sitting at 11th and 15th in the standings. USASPO has a record of 12-9 and 302D is 9-12.

After additional rain hampered play Wednesday night, USASPO finishes their season tonight against AMC, while 302D wraps up tonight against HRC.