Bozeman Bucks head back to region semifinals
SAND HILLS, Fla. (WMBB) – The Bozeman Bucks prepare for the regional semifinals against Bishop Snyder
Bozeman's postseason run has been extended once again, as the Bucks overcame a 12-run loss in game one of three in the quarterfinals, securing the semifinal placement.
The 27-3 Bucks were tested in a three-game series against Bolles from Jacksonville, where they were initially left treading water.
Late-inning rallies have been credited for the team's success, a trend that has been embraced by head coach Jeff Patton and his players.
'Our biggest thing for us is if we can keep it close, like we're really good in late-inning situations,' Patton said. 'So that's kind of the message to the boys, in the fifth, sixth inning, keep it close and we'll find a way to maybe get it done.'
A meeting with Bishop Snyder now awaits Bozeman in the Region semifinals, with a Division I-caliber left-handed pitcher expected to be faced.
Confidence, however, has been maintained by the Bucks, who have already been tested by strong pitching earlier in the postseason.
'We've seen really good pitching. I mean, seeing Cooper Moss twice and the guys over at South Walton and down there at Santa Fe Catholic,' Patton said. 'So we feel like we're going to be OK. We just got to hang in there.'
Bozeman's own pitching depth has been considered a quiet advantage, with a versatile group keeping opponents off-balance.
'I think that's kind of an advantage for us,' Patton said. 'Even though they're all right-handers except for Evan (Wallace), they all throw so differently, whether it's velocity or whatever. And if it is not working, we can go to another guy.'
The Bucks are scheduled to leave for Jacksonville at 8 a.m. Thursday, April 28 for the region semifinals.
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