Bellville Tygers 2nd League Overpower Thistle to Start CTBF Season Strong

CAPE TOWN, Oct 5, 2024 – The 2024 Cape Town Baseball Federation (CTBF) 2nd League season kicked off with a bang as the Bellville Tygers stormed to a commanding 18-4 victory over Thistle at Ottery.

The Tygers’ offense was relentless, scoring seven runs in the third inning and adding another nine in the fifth, sealing a comprehensive win. Outfielder Q.McKenzie was a standout performer, going 3-for-5 with a double and two RBIs, while V.Rix contributed two hits and two RBIs, helping drive the Tygers’ offensive engine.

On the mound, the Tygers used a pitching committee. R.Kuyk opened the game, allowing two runs in two innings while striking out three. C.Kock, who earned the win, V.Rix  and T.Peters held Thistle at bay, with Kock striking out two in his 1.2 innings of work.

Despite the lopsided score, Thistle had its moments. Keegan Arnold earned an RBI and showed speed on the bases, while Kyle De Cerff drove in another run in the fourth inning. However, Thistle’s defense was shaky, committing a staggering 12 errors, which proved to be a key difference in the game. Their pitchers, led by Shaun Wildschut, struggled with control, allowing a total of nine walks.

Bellville Tygers’ aggressive baserunning was also a game-changer, with Kock, Rix, and McKenzie all stealing bases, keeping the Thistle defense on its toes throughout.

The win sets the Tygers off on a strong start to the season, while Thistle will look to regroup after a tough opener.

Notable Performances:

Q.McKenzie (Tygers): 3-5, 2B, 2 RBIs, SB

V.Rix (Tygers): 2-4, 2 RBIs, 2 SB

C.Kock (Tygers): 1.2 IP, 2 K, W (1-0)

K.De Cerff (Thistle): 1-2, RBI, SB

The Tygers will look to maintain their momentum as the season progresses, while Thistle will aim for redemption in their next game.