Two close games against the promotion favorites – Senators put on a strong performance in Solingen

Last weekend, the Düsseldorf Senators visited the Solingen Alligators. Even before the first pitch, it was clear that this would be no easy task. The Alligators are among the strongest teams in the league and are contenders for promotion to the 1st Bundesliga. The home team fielded a correspondingly strong lineup in front of their home crowd.

But there was plenty to enjoy off the field as well. The Solingen team had put together a thoroughly successful game day. With a stadium announcer, baseball bingo, special catering, and many small activities, spectators and guests were treated to a true baseball experience. The Senators would like to thank them for their hospitality and the great atmosphere. Games against Solingen have been marked for years by passion, close scores, and plenty of emotion—and this time was no different.

The first game began with strong pitching on both sides. The offenses had to work hard for every single baserunner. For the Senators, Anton De Angelis took the mound and delivered a strong performance throughout the entire game. With very good, varied pitches and plenty of control, he repeatedly kept the dangerous Solingen offense in check.

The Alligators’ first runs resulted from a few defensive miscues that were immediately punished. Particularly encouraging, however, was the Senators’ response, as they were able to immediately make up for the runs they had given up. This set the stage for a tight and fast-paced baseball game in which every pitch and every at-bat could be decisive.

In the fifth inning, Solingen finally managed to score two crucial runs thanks to a passed ball and another unfortunate error. The Senators fought until the last out, got on base once more, and tried everything to turn the game around. In the end, however, Solingen narrowly prevailed 4-2.

Despite the loss, Düsseldorf took away a lot of positives from the first game. The team showed defensive stability, fought hard, and for long stretches played absolutely on par with one of the strongest teams in the league.

The second game also lived up to the expectations for this matchup.

Tom Kremer took the mound as the starting pitcher and once again demonstrated the strong progress he’s made in recent weeks. Together with catcher Anton De Angelis, he formed a well-coordinated battery and kept the Senators in the game for a long time. Defensively, Düsseldorf was once again sharp. The team responded well to bunts, executed strong double plays, and displayed focused defense across the entire field.

The game turned into a true slugfest. At times the Senators were ahead, then the Alligators took the lead. Neither team could pull away decisively. Every run had to be earned, and both teams delivered a high-caliber baseball game.

The game was overshadowed by two unfortunate collisions. A Solingen player was hit in the kneecap by a pitch. Later, there was a collision between Robin and a Solingen baserunner. Both situations were clearly unintentional. The Düsseldorf Senators wish everyone involved a speedy and full recovery.

After four innings, Tom handed the ball over to Nori Ogata, who also did everything he could to stop the Alligators’ offense.

With the score tied at 4-4, the game finally went into the decisive seventh inning.

The Senators initially got a runner to second base themselves and had a chance to take the lead. But a strikeout and a hard-hit ball to center field that was caught cleanly prevented them from taking the lead.

Things then got dramatic in the bottom of the inning. Solingen got a runner into a promising position early on. The Senators fought back with a strikeout and a groundout and were suddenly just one out away from extra innings. But a wild pitch ultimately allowed the decisive run, sealing a 5-4 victory for the hosts.

Of course, disappointment prevailed immediately after the game. Two losses hurt, especially when both games are so close. Nevertheless, the Senators were able to leave the field with their heads held high.

Across both games, the team perhaps delivered its most complete performance of the season so far. The defense played with focus, the pitching was strong, and the team performed as a cohesive unit. Against one of the league’s top favorites, Düsseldorf not only held its own but took both games down to the wire.

The Senators are also particularly pleased with their new addition, José, who made his debut with the team this weekend. Even though he’ll need some time to adjust offensively, he’s already shown how valuable he can be to the team. The entire team is looking forward to many more games together.

In the end, the team suffered two losses. However, their performance on the ice felt like a significant step forward. The Senators intend to build on this progress in the coming weeks.