European Championship: Slovakia’s goal is to remain in the elite category
After a long wait Slovakia fans will see their team playing at European Championship. Men’s senior team will play their first game on Sunday and it will be a trial of fire as they face the most successful European baseball team, Netherlands, who currently boast 23 titles.
Martin Brunegraf’s team will, however, have a more important game ahead of them. Winning against Sweden would increase their chances to remain in the elite category.
“The ambition of Slovak national team is to remain in A category and, of course, to play the best games we can. We also want to gain new experience in the games against the best players in Europe out of which many play, so to speak, professionally,” said SBF president Mojmír Jankovič before the tournament.
The third game Slovakia plays will also be interesting, as they face their local rival, and former federation partner, Czech Republic, who are currently, based on WBSC ranking, the second team in Europe. Czechs also don’t hide their ambition to win medals this year. Finishing in Top 3 would also be a great achievement for Mike Griffin, who will leave the national team after the tournament, with Pavel Chadim stepping in.
Slovakia will have majority of the best talent available. However, Adam Macko, who is currently trying to earn his spot in Seattle Mariners, didn’t travel with the them. Fans will get a chance to see the MVP of the qualification tournament Jakub Ižold. You can watch all of the game, either as play-by-play, or through streams at wbsceurope.org and www.baseballsoftball.tv.
