Slow start due in large part to early inning pitching woes
American River College’s baseball team has started the season with a record of 1-3. It was dominant in its 9-1 victory over Shasta College on Feb. 4 but has fallen behind early, losing by a big margin in its three losses.
A five-run second inning doomed them in the season opener against West Valley College, and the team fell behind 8-1 just two days later, also against West Valley through two innings. Against Feather River College on Feb. 5, starter Andrew Fuentes lasted only ⅓ of an inning and allowed five runs in a 9-3 loss against Feather River.
Broadbent on fire to start the season
Freshman first baseman, pitcher, and designated hitter Kirby Broadbent has gotten off to a hot start this season, batting .615 with an on base percentage of .722 and slugging percentage of 1.154.
In 18 plate appearances, Broadbent has three doubles, two triples, four RBIs and has scored six runs, as well as drawing five walks.
Offense is off to strong start
The offense of ARC has scored 28 runs through the first four games. It’s been able to fight back into games in which it trailed by large deficits, but the 37 runs allowed has been too much to overcome early in the season.
Gunter rebounds from opening day flop with big game in win over Shasta
Starting pitcher Matt Gunter struggled in the season opener on Jan. 29, only lasting three innings while allowing six earned runs (eight total) and six walks.
He started in the team’s win over Shasta College on Feb. 4, earning his first win of the season after allowing only two hits over six innings pitched, including eight strikeouts.
Upcoming schedule
ARC now embarks on a six-game road trip to five different colleges, which includes a re-scheduled game at Shasta College that was rained out last week.
Stops include Hartnell College for two games, Mission College, the re-scheduled game at Shasta, Laney College, and the finale at Solano Community College before the team returns home against Diablo Valley College on Thursday, Feb 26.
The team played a home game yesterday against Solano Community College, the results were not available as of press time. To read the game write up, go to ARCurrent.com.
