Rangers out to maintain unbeaten run with pair of road trips

BASEBALL: The Toowoomba Rangers have set the pace in GBL division four to start the season, and now they’re hoping to take their strong form on the road.

Sean Rodgers has been strong for the Rangers in 2020. Photo: Nev Madsen

As they prepare for the first of two consecutive weekends away from home, player-coach Luke Ardill said they have the chance to send a message to the rest of the competition.

“We always love playing at home but it’s good to travel,” he said.

“Especially after a bye, we’re looking forward to getting on the road.

“It’s always good to go away and get a win, they always feel a bit better.

“We pride ourselves on being pretty hard to beat at home, and we want to set a precedence that we’re a hard team to beat no matter where we play.”

For the first time this season, Ardill will have a full complement of players to choose from, something he is excited about.

“This week we should have our full A-grade side, with Brian Hipps and Phil Vanderneut back,” he said.

“We’ve been able to win pretty comfortably over the first two weeks, and we’re going to be even harder to beat now.

“Those two bring experience. Their morale and presence in the dugout will help to make everyone else play that little bit better.”

Laurie Taylor and Bryce Thompson have developed a strong pitching partnership throughout the opening weeks, and Ardill said they will again work in tandem.

“Laurie will start for us, he’s our main pitcher this year,” he said.

“That’s not taking anything away from Bryce. He’ll come in to relieve Laurie and they’ll work together.

“Our team has gelled well this year, and everyone is really enjoying their baseball.”

The Rangers A-grade take on Carina Redsox White on Sunday, with C-grade also on the road to the All Stars.

B-grade will feature at Commonwealth Oval against Narangba from 9.30am.