All eyes were on Team Israel, when they faced the Czech Republic in their historic debut at the European Championship. The two opponents are both contenders for a medal at this tournament.
The Czech struck first after an error and a hit. The 1:0 lead only lasted until the third when Blake Gaillen hit the first home run of this tournament to tie the game. Joey Wagman for Team Israel and Radim Chroust for the Czech delivered a stellar performance on the mound and didn’t allow a lot of traffic on the bases. In the 5th Wagman loaded up the bases but the Czech Republic could not take advantage of it. Two frames later Israel loaded up the bases but this time Israel found the trigger when Nick Rickles doubled down the right field line to clear the bases. A single later, Israel scored the 5:1.
After a rain delay, the game continued in the 8th. With two runners in scoring position the Czech had another great chance to add some runs to the scoreboard, but again without success. Jonathan Demarte came in as a reliever and cut shut the door for Israel’s first win.
ISR: Blake Gail: 4 for 4, 2B, HR; Nick Rickles: 1 for 5, 2B, 3 RBI