Team Italy defeats Germany 3-1 and now faces the Netherlands in Haarlem Baseball Week Playoffs

Team Italy manager Gilberto "Gibo" Gerali and his Azzurri squad earned the right for a rematch against the Netherlands in the Haarlem Baseball Week Playoffs by beating Germany 3-1 at Pim Mulier Stadium in the Netherlands on July 19, 2018. Having been victim of a by 43-year-old veteran pitcher and former Olympian Rob Cordemans, Team Italy would rather have someone else start for the Dutch on July 20 at 1 pm (EDT); however, it would not be surprising to see him pitch again since he has had five days rest and much success against the Italians.

Team Italy played well against the Germans to reach the playoffs. Starting pitcher Luis Lugo threw seven sparkling innings and allowed just one run on two hits with 11 strikeouts to get the win. Reliever Andrea Pizziconi received the save after holding Germany hitless during his two scoreless innings.

The Team Italy offense went to work in the top of the first inning. Nico Garbella doubled down the left field line and advanced to third base on Robel Garcia's infield single. Knowing he had speed on the basepaths, Team Italy manager Gibo Gerali called for the double steal. The strategy paid off as Nico Garbella successfully stole home for the Azzurri's first run of the game.

Nico Garbella struck again with his second double of the contest in bottom of the third inning. He advanced to third base on Robel Garcia's groundout to first. Then Chris Colabello was intentionally walked. Back-to-back RBI singles from Alessandro Vaglio and Alex Sambucci resulted in two more runs to give a 3-1 lead which would stand to win the game.

There is no doubt pitcher Luis Lugo and outfielder Nico Garbella were the stars for Team Italy. In fact, both players have had a major impact during Haarlem Baseball Week. Luis Lugo (1-0, .75 ERA) leads all pitchers with 20 strikeouts in his 12 innings of work while Nico Garbella leads all hitters with three doubles and ranks fourth in batting average (.444).

With and the defeat of Germany, Team Italy (2-3) plays the Netherlands (3-2) under the lights in the Haarlem Baseball Week Playoffs which continue through July 22, 2018. Forza #Italia! #LetsMakeItHappen

by Roberto Angotti