By Tara Murray
A couple of Sunshine Eagles stars made a welcome return to the side in Tuesday’s Baseball Victoria summer league premier 1st nine win.
The Eagles came away with a 5-1 win against Waverley and moved them up to second on the ladder.
The Eagles welcomed back Melbourne Aces and Australian star Darryl George to the side, while pitcher Billy Parsons was no longer on restrictions.
Eagles coach Stuart Clayton said both were keen to get out on the park for the Eagles on Tuesday night.
“Billy had been playing midweek, but had been on a pitching count of one or two innings,” he said.
“He was able to pitch five innings and was outstanding. Darryl hit two home runs.”
Against Waverley, the Eagles took control of the game in the third innings when they hit two home runs and three runs.
Two more runs in the fifth innings secured the win. Adrian Fittock also hit a home run in addition to George’s two.
Clayton said a change of pitcher proved to be costly for Waverley and they were able to capitalise on it.
“Everyone is doing really well,” he said of his side. “Defensively we were outstanding. We’re making a few errors here and there, but we’re backing up the pitchers.”
Clayton said they were expecting Parsons to play a bigger role in the pitching. Along with the three Young brothers, the Eagles have a strong pitching line up.
“Billy is heading back to the states at the end of the season,” he said. “He is aiming at pitching at the state of games.
“He wanted to do the same here and it works well for us. He got five out of him and it will help him down the track.”
Clayton said George was also keen to play a lot in the back part of the season.
He said he might miss a game or two here with his heavy load, including more Australian duties in February.
“He wants to keep swinging the bat,” he said. “And he’s one of the best defensive players in the league.
“He’s a great guy to have a round and people look up to him. Everyone stops and listens, it’s really good to have him.”
Clayton said they have a tough period coming up.
They are due to face Malvern on Saturday, before facing third placed Upwey Ftg on Tuesday night.
The Eagles women are set to face Geelong on Saturday.
