Baseball: Wolves split double-header with McHenry; Condon hits walk-off double

The Wolves continued their 2015 season on Sat., March 21 with a home double-header against McHenry County College. After dropping the first game 9-6, the Wolves came from behind to win the second game 5-4.

The Wolves stormed out to an early lead in game one, and at one point led 6-1. However McHenry wouldn’t quit and went on to score eight unanswered runs to earn a win. The Wolves had their chances though.

“We’re finding ways to lose ball games,” said coach Wayne King. “It’s not very solid right now.”

The Wolves committed a number of errors, both in the field and on the bases. Walks were also a major issue.

The second game started ominously for the Wolves. McHenry’s second batter to the plate belted a two- run homer over the left field fence. Luckily, starter Nick Lindemann settled in nicely after that, and his pitching kept the Wolves in the game.

The game appeared to be lost in the 6th inning. With the bases loaded and two outs, the McHenry batter sent what looked like a surefire double to left-center field. That was when center fielder Josh Snead came to the rescue.

Having just moved from right field to center in a defensive change, Snead laid out to make a game saving catch. This kept the game tied, and set up some final inning drama.

After surrendering a run in the top of the seventh, the Wolves trailed 4-3 with two outs. TJ Condon then approached the plate for what would turn out to be the game’s final out. Condon clubbed a two-run, walk off double to send the fans home happy.

“We’re going to try to nominate him for the player of the week,” said King. Whether he wins it or not, TJ is definitely the player of the season for the Wolves.

Though still struggling, the Wolves are showing signs of turning it around. The bats seem to have arrived and once the pitching and fielding become more consistent, the Wolves could be a very dangerous team.

The Wolves invite Carl Sandburg in tomorrow at noon.