Historic First Playoff Game in Moscow
Playoff fever is spreading rapidly through Moscow as the Thunder Bears get set to host their first playoff game in franchise history.
Moscow's journey to the playoffs has been nothing short of incredible after finishing dead last in 2059 during their inaugural season. Brencis Deshevsky's squad fought hard to win the division title and get Moscow to its first ever playoff series.
All eyes are on the Buenos Aires Brisas, who come to town riding a hot streak, winning 7 of their last 10 games. Three of those games included a convincing sweep of the Thunder Bears right here in Moscow just last week.
"We know we have a tough test ahead of us, but we will fight hard like we have all season" said Deshevsky. Moscow will be dropping to a 4-man rotation for the playoffs and have replaced Bruno Bugbie with lefthander Hud Bannon for game 3. Bugbie will handle long relief and emergency SP for the bullpen.
Key Players to Watch
Quinn Greene: The Buenos Aires star slugger is known for his powerful hitting and clutch performances. Greene’s ability to change the course of a game with a single swing of the bat has made him a Fan Fav. Greene blasted 42 HR for the Brisas this season.
Davey McDonald: The Brisas’ lightning-fast right fielder is having an MVP caliber season. He is batting .310 and leads the league in doubles while currently sporting a 5.7 WAR
Biao Li: Li made the move to first base from left field midseason after Moscow acquired Isacco Aglietti. He leads the GBC with 114 RBI and has been clutch for the Thunder Bears over the past two seasons.
Maximilian Nielsson: Nielsson is batting .295 this year for Moscow and has proven to be clutch from both third base and the DH spot. He will need to step up big if Moscow is to have a chance in this series
Game 1 in Moscow:
BUA: Troy Torres (9-7, 4.76 ERA)
MOS: EwungaGoiba Ghera (11-8, 4.06 ERA)
Sportsbook odds Game 1:
BUA Brisas +130
MOS Thunder Bears -155
Run total:
O 9.5: -115
U 9.5: -105
