That’s one way to end a losing streak.
The Cotuit Kettleers had lost five straight heading into last night’s game against Chatham. They needed a big performance to stop the skid, and they got a bigger one than they ever could have imagined.
Chad Bell (Walters State) pitched the first nine-inning no hitter in the Cape League since 2007, leading Cotuit to an 8-2 victory over Chatham. The last pitcher to do it was Hyannis’ Matt Daly, who’s now a lights-out closer for Lansing in the Class A Midwest League.
Bell could find himself at a similar level sooner rather than later. He’s committed to transfer from Walters State to Tennessee for next season. But he was also a 14th-round pick this year, which marked the third time he’d been drafted. He was picked out of high school and again after his first year at Walters.
Whatever happens, Bell has emerged as one of the top-performing pitchers in the Cape League, with the no-hitter as the cherry on top. Bell now has a 2-1 record, a 1.01 ERA and 23 strikeouts in 26.2 innings. He has allowed nine hits all summer.
Last night, he carried a perfect game into the fifth, when Dean Green (Oklahoma State) walked. A walk and an error paved the way for two unearned runs in the ninth, but even then Bell was in control. He struck out Rick Oropesa (USC) to end the game.
Bell finished with eight strikeouts and three walks.
Thankfully for him and for Cotuit, the two late runs didn’t matter. The Kettleers had an 8-0 lead when the ninth inning began. Kevin Keyes (Texas) and Brandon May (Alabama) both hit home runs and May finished with four RBI to power a strong offensive effort.
Elsewhere
What to Watch For Tonight
Alex Wimmers (Ohio State) will make his first start of the summer as part of a doubleheader between Bourne and Orleans. Wimmers, who has a 3.00 ERA in two relief appearances, is scheduled to go in the second game.
RELATED POSTS
One week into the season, the Bourne Braves still haven’t lost a game. Sunday’s 9-2 win over Cotuit was the sixth in a row for Bourne. It’s the best start in the Cape League si...
Today, a break from the usual leadoff fare to celebrate draft night. This figured to be a quieter-than-normal draft in terms of Cape League connections. The bulk of college players who a...