News & notes

 If you tuned in to MLB Network Thursday, expecting to see Shenendehowa grad Ian Anderson back on the hill for the Atlanta Braves, you got a rude surprise.

Anderson had his start moved to tonight, as the Braves welcome the Los Angeles Dodgers. Manager Brian Snitker made the decision to give Anderson an extra day's rest, and the move paid off, as the Braves beat Washington, 5-1, behind rookie Tucker Davidson.

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Meanwhile, Cincinnati Reds pitcher Jeff Hoffman (Shaker) was placed on the 10-day injured list with a shoulder injury a week ago, but, given how arm injuries of any kind can be unpredictable, there is no timetable for Hoffman's return.

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As we noted in a late update yesterday, Troy High's baseball game vs. CBA was pushed back to Saturday due to wet grounds at THS. What is meant to be the Senior Day game will now be the regular season finale, as Troy will play at Saratoga in a twi-night doubleheader. First game at 4:30, with the nightcap at 7, weather permitting, of course. Tomorrow's game is set for a 3 pm first pitch.

The Troy softball team travels to Saratoga today as well, hoping to snap a three game losing streak after Averill Park walked them off, 7-6, Thursday, on a sacrifice fly in the home 7th inning. Sean Geisel's club now sits in 4th place in the Suburban Council's Grey division at 6-6 (7-6 overall).

Troy's lacrosse team, locked in the basement, has one game remaining today at Shenendehowa. The mission at hand, of course, is to finally score. Troy was shut out again Thursday in a twilight game at Saratoga, 20-0. Now 0-12 (0-10 in league play), the laxmen need to find their pride and make a more concerted effort against Shen.

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The Tri-City Valleycats limp into their home opener tonight vs. New Jersey after a 1-5 road trip to start the season.

Perhaps the sight of some friendly faces at Bruno Stadium could provide a cure. Attendance will be capped at 2.500 fans to start the season (33% capacity), but the joint will be jumpin'. They'll also pay tribute to founding owner Bill Gladstone and Senator Joe Bruno, both of whom passed away since the team's last game.

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Also tonight: The Albany Empire are on the road to play the Jersey Flight. The game will be available on YouTube. Just punch in Albany Empire in the search box, and you're there.