Starting pitcher Andrew Moss did all he could, from charging check-swing grounders to diving for infield bloopers and pitching nine complete innings of four-hit ball, but in the end it wasn't enough.
The Batavia Muckdogs lost 1-0, dropping its playoff series with the Tri-City ValleyCats 2-1.
Attendance for what may be the last professional baseball game in Batavia was 601.
But it was a rowdy 601 fans, never giving up until the final called strike -- with a runner on first -- to Nick Longmire.
The WildCats plated their lone run in the 4th when Adam Bailey doubled to right field with a runner on first base. Tyler Burnett reached on a squib infield single that both Moss and second baseman Joey Bergman made heroic efforts to field.
The Muckdogs managed only three hits.
Once the reality of the loss sunk in, only some fans started to leave. Many stayed a few minutes longer and gave a final cheer and yelled thank you to the players as they left the field.
More pictures after the jump:
What an entertaining game.
What an entertaining game. Too bad the fans couldn't walk away from their last home game smiling over a win.
It was a strange feeling when the last pitch was thrown. It didn't feel right to just leave. We all wanted to take in the atmosphere one last time and give our team a thank you.
Thank you Muckdogs. We moved into Batavia 8 years ago, and you guys have given us 8 years of Summer entertainment. I'm going to miss walking to the games next year.
It was a strange feeling
It was a strange feeling Mike! I don't think anyone wanted to believe that it was the final out. We had a great team this season and I want to thank every player of the 2010 Batavia Muckdogs. You made our city proud and I can only hope we can celebrate another opening NY Penn league game in 2011! Long live the Batavia Muckdogs!
Russ, thank you for all you
Russ, thank you for all you did on behalf of baseball in Batavia.
If the Muckdogs leave, good
If the Muckdogs leave, good luck. Hard to replace 61 years of History. It will be noticeable, to fans of baseball, in the City of Batavia, Ny. If you like local sports, High School plus Genesee Community College. New Soccer field, New Gym Floor, plus good Athletes. Gcc is a hot Community College. Swimming, Golf, Mens and Womens Basketball. So turn those frowns into smiles.
In 2008 Muckdogs were League Champs, 2010 Division Champs. I,also have video and audio clips, for my archives.
Thank You, Batavia Muckdogs.
jasonreesemedia.com
p.s. Homer, was one of the Best Mascots i've ever seen. Good luck to you, also.
71 Jason, since '39 But I am
71 Jason, since '39
But I am sad I missed it. I only hope I'm not bored to death next summer.
...after the boys of summer have gone...
At least the off season should be interesting if not dissappointing.
Great season, Muckdogs. The
Great season, Muckdogs. The whole area is proud of you guys.
That last pitch was clearly a
That last pitch was clearly a ball. Ump was calling strikes low and away all damn night.