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Historic opening day for Komox Men's Real Baseball League

The 2016 Komox Men’s Real Baseball League schedule got underway this past weekend at ‘The Jake Field’ in Comox.

Although all eight teams were in action on this opening day, most of the highlights were centered around the 12 o’clock tilt between the Daryl Robbins CGA Royals and the Investors Group Expos. This was a replay of last year’s playoff action, bringing back some bad memories for the Royals, who nevertheless prevailed 17-1.

In other action, Gladstone Athletics edged Happy's Source for Sports Indians 3-2, Brian McLean Yankees got by Mindset Wealth Mariners 8-7 and Fisher Realty Twins topped Toneff Funeral Services Blue Jays 8-7.

The Expos have been forced to retool for this season.  The loss of mates MacIntosh and Mundi will not be easy to recover from.  Age and injuries and military assignments have also hit home.

The first highlight was having in the lineup the man that the field is named after, Jake Plante.  Not only did Jake play first, and get a hit his first at bat, he also pitched for an inning.  Welcome back Jake!

Then, for the first time in league history (and our history dates back about 26 years), a female player took to the mound.  Jaki Braidwood grabbed the opportunity and threw two complete innings.  She did not quite shut the Royals' offence down, but she made history.

And the third note is that the starting and losing pitcher in this game was a 60-plus year old.  Really, should the game even count in the standings?  How about an asterisk?

So, on to week two.  Games this Sunday at 9:30, noon, 2:30 and 5.  Catch the Expos versus the Mindset Wealth Mariners for the final game of the day.  Drive to the north end of Torrence, park by the fields, and walk 500 feet west to the best little ball park on the Island!  See you there!