Game 1:
Belly Itchers 4, Gentlemen 0 F/6
W: AJ Tate
L: Mike Raber
HR: Mike Turley

As some suspected this one started off as a pitchers' duel; carrying on an on going theme in this year's Playoffs. Tensions were high as both Managers attempting to do all they could in order to put their teams in a position to win. Two big mistakes gave the Itchers all they needed to ink something other than a 'K' on the score sheets. A couple of fielding blunders hashed the first run, which was promptly followed by Turley's 3-run jack. AJ's vow for his first perfect game was broken up in the sixth with a walk to Brian Barber, but AJ did finish with his No-Hitter in tact.

Game 2:
Gentelmen 8, Belly Itchers 1 F/6
W: Brian Barber
L: Brian Richardson

HR: Brian Richardson, Scott Wielenga

Barber showed up with the mechanics that have been eluding him all season. He looked magnificent on the bump as his teammates peppered B. Richardson for 16 hits. Richardson showed glimpses of greatness but lacked the vocal (and hitting) support from his squad. Both pitchers were just shy of double digit strike outs. Quite an enjoyable game to watch; a true example of the right way to respect your opponents' skills and to congratulate/motivate the opposing pitcher, regardless of the score.

Game 3:
Belly Itchers 0, Gentlemen 1 F/6
W: Mike Raber
L: AJ Tate

HR: Scott Wielenga

A prolific re-match of hurlers. Several at bats were clutch and most quite long in this game but, none more triumphant than Scott Wielnga's in the 1st inning. After fouling off at least 6 of the flamethrower's high speed pitches, AJ changed it up and Scott got a hold of it; with his patented one-arm swing method. It was the hit heard 'round the KWL. With that ugly swing, Scott gave his pitcher breathing room and destroyed AJ's confidence. Don't worry AJ was far from broken he continued to throw 10 more K's after the 1st inning (12 total) and Raber attempted to match tossing 10 of his own. Luck was clearly on someone's side, but fans will be eagerly awaiting a possible series deciding Game 4. As both 'Aces" will have to watch from the pine!

Raber throws his 2nd shut out in 08' vs. Itchers.

Game 4:
Gentlemen 2, Belly Itchers 3 F/6
W: Mike Downs
L: Brian Barber
HR: Mike Downs

The Hurlin’ Aces (Raber and AJ) could only sit and watch as their respected teams attempt to keep their Championship hopes alive. It was a mystery who was going to toe the bump for the Itchers but the Captain threw himself into the fire. Both pitchers threw bullets holes for a while but the Gents just couldn’t figure out Downs’ locations. Downs amassed 12 K’s and the Gents defense fizzled in the extra set, allowing Bontrager to sprint home for the game winning run in the 7th.

From the get-go both pitchers looked fatigued, both teams were riding their arms into the Series decider! As usual AJ tossed at least 10 K’s (18 actually). Itchers took the lead in the first inning with Bontrager forcing the issue, once again, with his speedy base running. Raber then helped himself by taking a walk to score a run after his squad was smart in the 1st. After that inning AJ was hitless and the Gents got nothing but ugly cuts from the box. Yet again, the mixture of a well placed ball and some spotty defense allowed the Itchers to take the lead and the NLCS. Congrats, best of luck in the Township!