The Region's Team Of Northwest Indiana

Whiting Ind.- Despite scoring first the Northwest Indiana Oilmen had their winning streak snapped at five games in the final game of a homestand against the Joliet Generals.

A rbi single from Zamaurion Hatcher (Chicago/ Michigan) brought Kevin McCormick (Orland Park/ Evansville) in to score but that proved to be the lone tally the Oilmen would record in the 5-1 loss. The offense was smothered by Joliet pitchers Cooper Avery and Jacob Ferguson, only mustering four hits and four walks in comparison to 13 strikeouts.

“We did not play our best baseball today,” Oilmen manager TJ Marik said. “That game is completely past us and now we have to look forward to Saturday.”

Offensively Joliet capitalized on big innings in the fourth and fifth where they tacked on two runs apiece. This was the second time the two teams have faced off in the past week, the Oilmen were victorious the first time out, but Joliet came out on top Thursday.

“They played some really good baseball today but the eight zeroes after the first inning cannot happen,” Marik said. “Offensively we were not at our best. We have to better at putting balls in play.”

Oilmen starting pitcher Jacob Bimbi (Crystal Lake/ Wabash Valley) threw four innings where he struck out seven batters. A bright spot came from relievers Tom Conzemius (Deerfield/ Quincy) and Mason Kasprisin (Joleit/ St Charles CC) who had both pitched for the first time after extended layoffs.

“Those two haven’t really thrown in a while,” Marik said.  “Seeing Mason and Tom come out and compete the way they did and produce on the mound was really great to see.”

As the Oilmen approach the midway point of the season, they are just starting to reach their potential as the team has still had some additions in recent weeks.

“We are a lot stronger in every area,” Marik said. “Losses are going to happen, that’s baseball so we just have to get better and focus on the next game.”

The Oilmen will return to the diamond on Saturday afternoon when they travel to face the Chicago American Giants at 12:05 at Gouwens Park. The game will be broadcast on Facebook Live with Leo Staudacher and Zach Carr on the call.