Hartsock: Dragons’ sizzling start best in minor league baseball

Brantley Bell was around last summer when things weren’t going so well for the Dayton Dragons. Now with the 2017 team off to a hot start, Bell has a tongue-in-cheek answer to the difference a year can make.

“The clubbies (clubhouse attendants) have figured out a way to wash the dirt out of the uniforms but keep the hits in them,” Bell said with a chuckle.

In all seriousness, the Dragons' 22 wins in the first 32 games is the best start for any team in minor league baseball. Last season Dayton didn't get their 22nd win until the end of June. The Dragons have won six straight games and 11 of their last 12.

“Last year was tough, it felt like we didn’t have any breaks going our way, and this year we’re scratching out wins in close games.”

Bell is one of several players on this year’s team who suffered through losing 93 games last season, and he admits it’s a lot easier to come to the ballpark when things are going well.

“I can’t remember too many games where the pitchers and hitters haven’t done well together,” Bell said. “When you have that going in, I’m not going to say we’re unstoppable, but it pretty much feels like it.”

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