Manila softbelles open title defense vs Canadians

MANILA, Philippines - Asia-Pacific representative Manila South kicks off its title-retention bid in the 2013 Big League Softball World Series against Canada’s Ontario District 5 in Pool B hostilities in Sussex County, Delaware.

The Manila softbelles battle the Canadians at 8 a.m. Tuesday (Manila time) at Bruce E. Layton Field as they seek a fiery start in their defense of the 16-18 crown.

After Ontario District 5, the Pinays will tackle USA East’s Pennsylvania District 5 at the Connie Mac Field on Tuesday night (Manila time), then host Delaware District 3 on Thursday and USA Central’s Indiana District 11 on Friday, both at Bruce E. Layton Field.

The Pinays, whose campaign is backed by the ICTSI Foundation, will be fielding a virtually different team than the one that reigned in 2012, with only pitcher Baby Jane Raro, Queeny Sabobo, and Krisna Paguican as holdovers.  But coach Ana Santiago feels that her wards are better-quipped for this year’s World Series, which has relocated to Delaware from its old venue in Kalamazoo.

“Although I only have three players from last year’s squad, this team is stronger in pitching, speed, and hitting so I am optimistic we can defend our title,” Santiago said before they left the Phl.

The trio will join forces with Lorna Adorable (outfielder), Angelie Ursabia (third base), Rosalyn Boton (catcher), Gelyn Lamata (outfielder), Jonalyn Almonia (second base), Mary Louise Garde (pitcher) Mary An Antolinao (pitcher), Agape Llave (pitcher), Hazel Claudette Angue (pitcher) and Adrianne Mei Uy (pitcher), Whell Ghene Camral (outfielder) and Rachell Ann Secor (first base).

“We have six pitchers who can also hit and play in other positions,” said Santiago. “We have a lot of depth in our bullpen.”