Tonight's guest is senior pitcher Josh Russell, who earned his first win in a complete game effort against the Wheaton Thunder this afternoon at Terry Park. Tonight's blog will go in a question and answer format as Josh will discuss all of the action from today's game.
Q: How did it feel for you to get your first win today over a quality opponent like Wheaton?
A: It was more importantly a good win for the team. It was much needed and everyone got into the action from top to bottom. It was great to see some young guys make some big contributions like Eric Steininger, who came up with a big hit in the 7th inning. Everyone contributed to today's success.
Q: You gave up a run each in the 5th and 6th innings but slammed the door after that, and seemed to get stronger as the game wore on. What enabled you to do this?
A: Long hours of team conditioning, and confidence in my defense. I knew that they would be where they needed to be to make plays.
Q: How did your off-speed pitches keep the Thunder off balance today? By all indications they were a potent offensive team who could really hit the fastball.
A: I really didn't have my breaking ball till the 7th inning. I had to rely strongly on the defense behind me, and they did a great job. Bobby Hillier came up with two big plays in the hole, we had a clutch double play turned early in the game up the middle, and my outfielders ran down some huge balls in the gaps. Thank you to my defense, you all get a shout out tonight.
Q: The top of the 7th inning was a huge turning point in today's game. Did getting the lead back allow you to relax and make some more pitches?
A: It was a complete game changer. The momentum was finally back in our favor, and it allowed everyone to play with more confidence.
Q: How did you convince Coach Schaly to let you go back out for the ninth inning today? How did it feel to finish off the game by striking out the side?
A: I just wanted to finish what I started. With the momentum the way it was, I could count on everyone to do their job and carry us home for a win.
Q: The team has another big game tomorrow with a quality opponent in Dominican. What will it take to pull out a victory tomorrow morning?
A: We'll need Tish (James Teyssier) to keep his square head on his shoulders. We'll need another quality defensive performance put together with timely scoring.
Good Fight, and Good Night from Fort Myers.
The Tomcats return to action tomorrow vs. the Stars of Dominican University at Terry Park. First pitch is scheduled for 10:00am. You can follow the Tomcats with live stats at thielathletics.com.
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