Otterbots edge out Coal Cats, 4-3

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DANVILLE, Va.- The Coalcats’ fire was put out on First Responder Night in Danville. The Otterbots collected their third win of the summer, 4-3.

Danville began it with their defense. After a leadoff walk by the Coalcats’ shortstop Julio Solier, the basepaths were cleaned by the middle infield of Jaxon Goldberg and Mason Pangborn. The former high school rivals executed their first of three double plays on the night.

“I really like what we’re made of defensively,” Danville manager Mickey Tettleton said.

“Me and him (Pangborn) are great friends,” Goldberg said. “Coming from the same area, we understand it’s tough baseball in Kansas. We’re just happy that we can do stuff for the team, whether that’s a double play or making a couple plays in the infield. It’s a team game. I’m proud of my guy.”

Goldberg, serving as the second baseman, hit his first double of the season in the bottom of the first, designated hitter Seth Smith later bringing him home on a single.

Tri-State came into the third and scored three times, their third run coming on a pickoff attempt at second base. The runner on third base, Chandler Murray, scored before the runner on first base, Michael Rodriguez, was tagged to end the top half of the inning.

Danville had their turn with a three-run inning in the fifth, Goldberg and center fielder Christian Hamilton coming through. Hamilton hit a single to right field, plating catcher Charlie Carter, and Goldberg followed two pitches later with his second double. Hamilton and left fielder Xander Zumwalt scored on the play.

“They might,” Tettleton said on whether Hamilton and Goldberg will bat 1-2 in the future. “I’m just really happy for both of them.”

“Baseball is a crazy game,” Goldberg said. “Obviously, our record isn’t where we want it to be, but one win can change a whole season. So, we’re hoping we can ride on this win and keep competing. That’s all we can really do.”

That offense was enough for Danville to win a much-needed game, 4-3. Not only did they keep Tri-State from getting to .500 on the year, but they also grabbed their first win in a long time. The Otterbots and Coal Cats battle again on Sunday, with first pitch at 5:30 p.m.

For more information on 2025 single-game tickets, season tickets, corporate partnerships and group outings, email matt@danvilleotterbots.com or call the Otterbots front office at 434-554-4487. The Danville Otterbots will play their home games at American Legion Field at Dan Daniel Memorial Park.