A Game Measured in Endurance, Not Just Runs

The Barflies traveled to Marl on June 22 for a Landesliga matchup that would prove to be less about stats and more about strength of character. With both teams facing limited rosters and intense summer heat (over 35°C), this game quickly turned into a war of attrition.

Bochum lost two players before the game reached the fourth inning — one with a knee injury after a collision on the bases, and another with a broken hand following a slide into first base. With few substitutes available, several players pushed through existing injuries to keep the team on the field.

Marl also suffered setbacks. A non-contact calf injury took one of their players out in the fifth, and a more serious incident paused the game for 40 minutes in the sixth. A young, talented prospect for the German baseball scene injured his shoulder on a head-first slide into home after an inside-the-park homerun.

In games like these, the final score — a 16:3 Marl win via mercy rule — is secondary. What stands out is the perseverance, the spirit of competition, and the mutual concern for player well-being.

We extend our best wishes to everyone recovering from injuries on both sides. Your dedication to the game inspires us all.

Tough Loss for the Barflies Against Marl Slydogs

Despite being short-handed due to injuries, family emergencies, and university commitments, the Barflies made the trip to face the Marl Slydogs with just 10 players. The Slydogs took an early lead, scoring 6 runs in the first three innings. Bochum showed signs of life in the fourth, bringing in 4 runs to close the gap to just two.

Dennis, making his first start of the season with limited practice time, kept us in the game early on. However, the Slydogs capitalized on a missed flyball to center, bringing in 9 runs total in the fourth. A bad hop on the Marler infield jammed Stephan’s finger, preventing him from coming in as a reliever. Coach Pete stepped up, shutting down the Marl offense in the fifth temporarily with two popfly outs on two pitches.

In the top of the sixth, down by 13, Coach Pete’s hit, initially appearing to be off his foot, was ruled fair. Through an errant throw, a run scored and Pete made it to third. Drawing a pick attempt from the Slydogs pitcher, Pete managed to score another run as the throw skidded past the thirdbaseman. Despite these efforts, the comeback was short-lived as Marl put up four more runs in the bottom of the sixth, ending the game early.

We continue to grow and learn from each game. On to the next one! 🏆⚾