Beating Venice seems a breeze for Romans

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The winds here at Cal State Dominguez Hills are beyond blustery. It seems all the trees behind the outfield fences are hanging on for dear life.

But the ultra-brisk conditions have not hampered Los Angeles this Monday afternoon. The Romans have struck for three runs in the fifth and sixth innings, and have a comfortable 6-1 lead on Venice.

Mario Villarreal is listed as a utility player on the Romans roster. But he’s pitching this game and doing a fine job. Villarreal is not overpowering at all, but he’s making the Gondoliers put the ball in play, keeping his defense alert, and averaging just over 11 pitches an inning.

This one should be over quickly. And after being slapped around by these winds for nearly two hours, not a moment too soon.

-- Mike Terry