THE Pirates “plundered” their way to victory Sunday morning, rallying past the Athletics, 17-15, during the opening game of the 2nd Annual Summer T-Ball League 2025 at the Francisco “Tan Ko” Palacios Baseball Field.
Both teams entered the field ready to play, despite not yet finding their bearings.
The Pirates, who were first up to bat, took advantage of the situation and brought in three runs in the top of the opening inning before the Athletics synced as one to notch the three outs needed to stop the bleeding.
Defense was not the Pirates’ strong suit, however, as they struggled to secure the ball.
The Athletics capitalized on the Pirates’ mishaps with six runs to take the lead after one complete inning, 6-3.
Fortunately for the Pirates, they continued to shine at the plate, gradually cooking up a rally in the top of the second inning with 10 runs to regain the upper hand. The Athletics attempted to close the gap in the bottom half but could only muster three runs, falling behind once again, 13-9.
The Pirates then aimed to solidify their lead with four more runs in the top of the third inning. In the bottom half, the Athletics had one last chance to steal the win or force a tie and nearly succeeded, bringing in six runs to close the distance. Sadly, their efforts fell short, as the Pirates collected the three outs needed to secure their first win of the season, 17-15.
The Pirates consist of Waylon Beyer, Huck Bauer, Callam Torres, Isaih Ito, Scarlett Flores, Cece Willsey, Kaiyo Alepuyo, Veeda Beyer, Juriah Santos, and Denisha Santos.
The Athletics’ roster includes Deion Standish, Jasiah Villagomez, Damian Villagomez, Elijah Ada, Coral Aldan, Lyle Deleon Guerrero, Jaden Ada, Milo Standish, Francisca Reyes, and Tylee Mendiola.
Also victorious in their debut game were the Blue Jays, who trounced the Mariners, 24-13, while the Padres and Comets settled for a 19-19 tie.
“We are here to have these kids play ball, learn the fundamentals, and prepare for the upcoming leagues under the Little League program. This is a program we look forward to encouraging and growing by having more teams participate,” said Northern Mariana Islands Softball Association President Froilan Camacho.
Last year, the inaugural T-Ball program had four participating teams. This year, six teams joined, and organizers are looking to host eight teams next year.
Camacho also recognized and thanked the Division of Youth Services for providing uniforms and equipment, as well as the parents for bringing out their kids to practice and learn the game.
The Athletics’ Milo Standish safely reaches first base after beating the pickoff attempt during an opening game against the Pirates in the 2nd Annual Summer T-Ball League 2025 at the Francisco “Tan Ko” Palacios Baseball Field on Sunday.
The Pirates’ Callam Torres connects a single during an opening game against the Athletics in the 2nd Annual Summer T-Ball League 2025 at the Francisco “Tan Ko” Palacios Baseball Field on Sunday.
The Mariners
The Padres
The Blue Jays
The Athletics
The Comets
The Pirates
