The Y-D Red Sox fell to the Cotuit Kettleers on Wednesday by a final score of 8-2.
Chris Hacopian has had some bad luck to start the season, although things may be turning around. Misfortune at the plate has affected several Y-D hitters this summer, with numerous hard-hit balls ending up quickly in the opponents’ gloves.
He's started to find his groove again, collecting five hits over his last four games and driving in four runs during that span. Two of those RBIs came on Wednesday, accounting for Y-D's only runs. After Cody Miller stole two bases, Hacopian brought him home with a groundout. Miller reached base again in the sixth inning with a walk and scored on a single by Hacopian.
“If you look at the hits, I’ve gotten lucky. I think that’s the difference right now. It’s the same swing and same approach, but the balls are falling,” Hacopian said after the game on Wednesday. “I’ve gotten some cheap ones lately. I definitely wasn’t getting those early in the season. It’s just sticking to it.”
Although the power hasn't been there, Hacopian is still reaching base at an impressive rate. His .333 on-base percentage ranks second on the team among qualified hitters.
He’s drawn 10 walks through the first 21 games — the most of any Y-D hitter. His disciplined approach at the plate not only helps him reach base consistently, but also allows him to work deeper counts and see better pitches to hit.
A mainstay in the three-hole of Scott Pickler’s lineup, Hacopian recognizes that his production is often fueled by the success of the top of the order. One of those key contributors is Miller, who reached base three times on Wednesday and scored both of Y-D’s runs.
“The guys in front of me are doing a really good job at setting up those opportunities for me to drive them in,” Hacopian said.
Hacopian and the Y-D Red Sox will enjoy a day off on Thursday before hosting Brewster on Friday at Red Wilson Field.
