Capahas play today to stay alive in NBC World Series

The Craftsman Union Capahas hope they fare better during their second trip to Wichita, Kan., in less than a week.

The Capahas began their 18th straight appearance in the National Baseball Congress World Series by losing 5-0 to the Pueblo (Colo.) Chieftains on Saturday.

After making the approximately eight-hour return trip to Cape Girardeau following the defeat, the Capahas drove back to Kansas on Thursday. They'll try to stay alive in the double-elimination event by winning today's 2 p.m. game against the St. Joseph (Mo.) Saints.

If the Capahas (32-7) beat the Saints (40-17), they'll play again Saturday and continue to play daily until their next setback. A loss today would send the Capahas back to Cape Girardeau with their season over.

"It would be nice to go back out there and get at least a couple of wins," Capahas manager Jess Bolen said.

Jason Chavez (8-0, 1.38 earned-run average), who has been the Capahas' most effective pitcher all season, will start today.

"As good a year as he's had, he deserves a chance to pitch out there," Bolen said.

The Capahas managed just three hits in their tournament opener against Pueblo standout Josh Faiola, who pitches for Dartmouth College.

"We just ran into a really good pitcher, and they're a good ballclub," Bolen said. "He was clocked at 94 miles per hour, and he was hitting the corners. That's pretty tough."

Kyle Perry took the loss as he allowed four runs and five hits in 4 2/3 innings.

Lance Seasor, Justin Welker and Brian Hopkins had the Capahas' hits.

Hopkins, a former Southeast Missouri State University star, began the season with the Capahas before signing a professional contract with the River City Rascals of the independent Frontier League. He was released by the Rascals late last week and rejoined the Capahas in time for the World Series.

The Saints, like the Capahas a perennial World Series participant, also lost their opening tournament game.

mmishow@semissourian.com

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