A weekend of double-headers to test Major League squad depth

THIS weekend sees the first of the seven double-headers (today and tomorrow) of the WP baseball season.

Bothasig host Durbanville today, the latter having had an indifferent start to their season, losing to Westridge Yankees and newcomers Maitland Giants. And tomorrow, Bothasig visit fellow unbeaten outfit, the Bellville Tygers.

Bothasig have been without their frontline pitchers, Jared Elario (injury) and Dylan Unsworth (extended stay in USA Fall League). So far the youthful combination of Devon Clarke, Jordi King, Damon Mitchell and Keenan Clarke put in excellent efforts.

Durbanville have also relied on four pitchers, though they have not been well supported by the team’s defence.

Bothasig would hope to still be unbeaten tomorrow when they play Bellville in what has become known as the “north derby”. Both teams will be hoping for efficient games today so as not to put pressure on the pitching staff.

Bellville have the easier of today’s games when they visit Crusaders, especially with the backing of their intimidating travelling supporters known as “The SigNation”.

Durbanville’s encounter tomorrow is away to Athlone A’s, who want to redeem themselves after coming a cropper against VOB last week.

Durbanville have been without their regular local and international players. Coach Darryn Smith will be hoping his pitching will be sufficient to be competitive.

A’s play Maitland today and will be hoping to have a more settled team which could provide some consistency. Maitland have a tricky weekend; they face Westridge tomorrow.

But after last week’s demolition of Durbanville, Giants will surely back themselves this weekend.

Maitland will also be hoping to continue their hitting exploits from last week.

With a clash against VOB today, Westridge will be hoping to pick up the pieces after going down to Bellville in seven innings last week.

Pitchers Luwayne du Plessis, Jared du Plessis, Jayson Ripepi and Kyle Ripepi would need to be at their best in both games this weekend if they wish to triumph. Their hitting and fielding also needs to be on point.

VOB’s opponents tomorrow are Crusaders, who will head to Chukker Road hoping to grab the points.

Crusaders’ pitching depth might be their problem, though, so VOB will be hoping the additions made from Silvertree will assist them in taking both wins.

This weekend will really be a test for all teams as the depth of all squads will be extended. Fixtures Today: Maitland v Athlone, Crusaders v Bellville, Bothasig v Durbanville, Westridge v VOB (all 3.30pm). Tomorrow: Bellville v Bothasig, Athlone v Durbanville, Maitland v Westridge, VOB v Crusaders (all 12.30pm). Promotion League Today: Devonshire v Van Der Stel, Thistle v Helderberg, Milnerton v Battswood.