The Bulldogs looked solid in beating Archbold 7-2 on Monday at Booster Field, especially the pitching. Dace Kime struck out 10 and was very good in 4 2/3 innings of work. Justin Hancock was very good, striking out six in 2 1/3 inngs. They combined to allow only one hit.

Meanwhile, Craig Gutman was on base four times, he drove in three and the offense pounded out nine hits. It wasn’t a great performance overall by the team, but it’s something to build on. Let’s hope the weather holds out and the Bulldogs can get on an early roll with such a young team. It was encouragaing to see the young guys make plays and get on base.

If the hitting and defense turn out to be as good as the pitching could be, it could be another special year for Defiance. But before we go and put the cart before the horse, let’s give this team a handful of games before we judge just how much potential this team will have.

So I guess what I’m saying to DHS baseball fans is this: Be encouraged about today’s outing, but don’t get too far ahead of ourselves. The Western Buckeye League is going to be very tough and the non-league schedule is also very good. It might be a cliche, but let’s take each game as it comes and hope that this first win is the foundation of a great year.