Round 2 of the MWBL ficture saw local A grade teams Croydon and Ringwood draw 2-2 after a tight tussle.

It was a significant day for the Croydon Baseball Club, who dedicated the day to former player John Reddish who passed away at the end of last year. The first diamond was officially named after John before the game.

Croydon player Dennis Ward pitched the entire seven innings, was outstanding on the hill.

Keal Kingston, in his first A grade game for Ringwood pitched three innings, only giving up two runs. Ringwood coach Adam Bright closed out the game, throwing the ball with some pepper and not giving away any runs.

Croydon Assistant Coach Sean Pascoe said it was “ridiculously well played game” with both sides having opportunities to win.

He said best for Croydon was pitcher Dennis Ward who got a lot of outs when needed and Chris Hodkinson for Ringwood who “hit the ball the best”, and went one for three with a double.

Ringwood President Norm Crebbin said the scoring in the game was all done early with both teams then having opportunities to take the game. He said while his team was disappointed not to come away with the win, drawn games always had a bit of excitement and they hoped to go one better next week.

Sean Pascoe said it was a great day for Croydon, who came together to remember and old friend.

“We had a great turn out today for John Reddish. About 80 or 100 people were there from the club to see the diamond named after him,” he said.

John started at Croydon in 1975 with his two sons who played juniors. He joined the committee in 1982 before becoming president from 1987 to 1990. John played from 1977 for several years before turning to umpiring. He was made a life member at the club in 1985.

Next week Croydon take on Research at home and Ringwood meet Watsonia, also on home turf.

In other A Grade results for round two, Greensborough defeated Heathmont 12 to 5, GMBC defeated North Balwyn 8 to 0, Research defeated Westgarth 7 to 5 and Watsonia defeated Knox 5 to 4.