Saline Sluggers Help Blue Jays Take Third at Willie Mays World Series

The Michigan Blue Jays travelled to Puerto Rico to participate in the Willie Mays World Series.  The team, comprised of kids from around Washtenaw County, finished 2-2 and third overall.

The Blue Jays started the tournament with a 10-3 loss to the New Jersey Rocz, who finished second.  The team rebounded to beat the MVPs from Miami 7-5 on day two and shut out the Northern Kentucky Reds 10-0 on day three.  That day also saw the Blue Jays lose their final game to the eventual champions, the Georgia Yard Dogs 9-1.

“We played very well as a team and really went as a team effort.  They played very well defensively,” said Calvin Nichols, the team’s General Manager and assistant coach.

Saline residents Ryan Nichols and Ryan Steinhauer played in all four games.  Nichols played in the outfield and Steinhauer pitched and played at first base.  Both athletes made some critical plays at their respective positions.  Nichols had a hit and a walk, scored a run and batted in a run, while Steinhauer recorded two hits and three runs batted in. 

While at the tournament, the team earned the Sportsmanship Award.  The team, though excited for the new experience, kept their composure and played with poise throughout the competition.  While they did not come away with the title, the team’s coaches were pleased with their players’ exuberance and attitude.

“The award was given to the team that exhibited the best sportsmanship, both on and off the field, the entire time they were in Puerto Rico.  We emphasized to the boys that they were not only representing their team and coaches, but also representing Michigan and many different organizations that supported us.  We were very proud of the boys,” said Nichols.