With a solid offensive and defensive performance, the Wachusett Nationals beat the Boulder A's 7-1 on May 22 in their home opener at Klingele Field in Paxton. The Nationals were able to defeat the Boulder A's thanks to eight hits, including two extra base hits.

After taking the lead in the first, scoring one run on an RBI single by Craig Ludwig, the Nationals stayed on top until the final out. The team scored another three runs in the fifth capped off by a two-run double by Mike Maceiko. That run total was matched in the fifth, including an RBI single by Jerry Patraitis, plating Greg Shuler, to give the Nationals a seven run lead late in the game.

Defense and pitching carried them through as well. Patraitis picked up the win for the Nationals. He allowed one earned run, five hits and two walks while striking out three over six innings of work, behind the pitch calling of Shawn Sullivan. Doug Nashold came on in relief in the seventh to get the A’s to go in order and close out the victory.

On May 25, the Wachusett Nationals beat the Townsend Astros 11-4 in seven innings as they easily handled the Astros’ pitching with six hitters combined for 16 hits, 10 RBIs and nine runs scored.

The Nationals jumped out early thanks to a first inning rally that saw three runs cross the plate on an RBI double by Jerry Patraitis and two singles. The Nationals built upon their lead with two more runs in the third as Mike Maceiko singled, scoring Tom Kokernak to kick things off. That was followed up by Mark Sutphen's single, bringing home Maceiko.

In the sixth inning Wachusett offense erupted. The Nationals batted around the order, scoring 6 runs, including an RBI single by Craig Ludwig, an RBI single by Kokernak, and a two-run single by Maceiko.

Pitching for the Nationals, Tom Kokernak allowed just four runs over seven innings for the complete game win. He struck out four, walked four and surrendered 10 hits. The win improves the team record to 3-2.

The next game for the Nats is on June 5 at Fitton Field, Worcester versus Fitchburg Red Sox in the “Field of Dreams” game. Proceeds from tickets, which are $5, will benefit the Capt. Christopher Sullivan Liberty Scholarship, which honors the memory of a late Princeton soldier.