By Gene Helfman

Before more than a hundred enthusiastic fans, the Lopez Majors baseball team hosted Orcas in a doubleheader on May 26 at Odlin Park. The fantastic weather rivaled the quality of play in two close games. In the first game, Andrew Auckland and Canyon Doherty combined to hold Orcas to three runs. Orcas jumped out to a lead in the first inning that was cut down in the second inning when Josh Kramer blasted a towering solo homer that landed a good 25 feet beyond the left field fence. Kramer’s homer accounted for Lopez’ only score, the game ending 3-1, Orcas.

The second game was a nail-biter. Orcas scored in the top of several innings, but Lopez answered back in the bottom. Kramer and Patrick pitched for Lopez, with Auckland, Ananda Velo and Silas Nichols crossing the plate. The game ended in a 3-3 tie, bringing Lopez’s overall record to three wins, two losses, and two ties. Lopez’ only other loss was to Friday Harbor.

Afterward, coach Shane Patrick congratulated the players on how well they played and especially on their sportsmanship. Patrick said game officials have complimented Lopez repeatedly for their good sportsmanship. He and coach Andy Nichols both emphasized the importance of having fun, which was evident in the attitude of the players during and after both games.

Lopez has one more home meeting at Odlin Park on June 9 against a Friday Harbor team. The public is welcome to watch quality baseball on Lopez.