Phoenix Sweeps the 2019 NALB World Championship Series

K. Fields
2020-09-17T13:46:04-04:00
Baseball

The 2019 NALB World Championship Series (WCS) featured the familiar Brooklyn Knights (108-54). The Knights' dynasty is a formidable one with 18 WCS appearances and 14 championships in 20 seasons. Representing League 2, the Phoenix Rattlers (91-71) were a bit of a surprise. After April's slow start left them in last place, they spent most of the season in third place chasing the Vancouver Wild and Richmond Slam. Phoenix clinched the tight three-way division race on the last day of the regular season. The Knights and the Rattlers each survived a hard fought seven game League Series to get here.

On paper, the Knights were the better team and solid favorites to win. The Rattlers rode their late-season hot streak, however, and outplayed their opponent. They displayed superior power (8 home runs to Brooklyn's 4) and better relief pitching by their bullpen. In the end, the games were close and competitive but the Rattlers always found a way to win. They edged the Knights every game on way to a World Championship Series four game sweep. This is the first championship for the Phoenix Rattlers in their third try.

Right fielder Arturo Guerrero's .375 average, 6 hits, 4 home runs, and 6 RBI powered Phoenix to victory. Rattlers' fans will long remember his MVP performance.

Game 1: Phoenix 5, Brooklyn 4
Game 2: Phoenix 5, Brooklyn 2
Game 3: Phoenix 7, Brooklyn 6
Game 4: Phoenix 7, Brooklyn 5

Series MVP: RF Arturo Guerrero (Phoenix Rattlers)

Click the image for the NALB 2019 World Championship roster