SJL:
In the midst of a tough start for the back-to-back reigning WPK champs, the Columbus Whalers (1-5), they did get a wonderful performance from their ace, Jim Norris, the SJL Pitcher of the Year in 1976. Norris was matched up on Tuesday against the often overlooked Washington Night Train ace Jose Casillas in a tremendous pitching duel, and with the help of the Whalers talented young closer Jamar Clay (pitched the final 2 innings) got the lone win for the Whalers in the first week. (Casillas, it should be noted, is 126-82 with a 3.06 ERA in his slightly more than 8 seasons as a big leaguer and is a fan favorite but has never won a Pitcher of the Year award and has only twice been named to the All-Star game in spite of having two 19-win season, two 18-win seasons, and two 16-win seasons in his career thus far.)
MGL:
The ageless Jaime Schardein, in his first start for the L.A. Spinners in this his second go-round with the club, at age 41, hurled a complete game victory against the Brooklyn Aces, allowing just 3 hits.
The Spinners are off to a 4-2 start while the Aces sit at 3-3.
