Sunday, November 05, 2006
The Mailman Delivers
by Erwin Kessler
In what could have been the last week of the season, twelve stalwart players showed up and were blessed with perfect weather. The decision was made to play three teams of four --which quite frankly it's a lot of fun.
It is hard to hide deficient talent at pitching or in the outfield (wonder who I'm talking about) and the Elks came in third much to the chagrin of Matt, Mauricio, Artie (great relief pitching) and yours truly.
The "Male" Carriers, captained by Nelson and aided by his Village People Little Joe, Scott and the sizzling hot Big Joe, came back from the dead winning today's trifecta and surpassing the M-Picks by one run and the Elks by eight, 16-15-8 respectively. The season ended for the M-Picks thus as it has most of the year with another loss, despite great playing by Kenny and Jeff but surprisingly poor performance by our MVP Jack and an injured Mo (who it is, by the way, editing this report); the injury however did not affect his powerful hitting.
I'm glad to see that Nelson finally regained his form from years past and he can now look forward dreamily to next year since his option has already been picked up.
I will leave the year end recap to our commentator Mitch who is still playing his organ; Mitch!! remember if your erection lasts for longer than four hours see a doctor.
I look forward to seeing you all at the holiday party and sooner at Danny's function which we will be getting an e-mail notice this week regarding date, time and place.
Thanx for a great season!
Today attendees: Kenny, Jack, Matt, Erwin, Big Joe, Little Joe, Nelson, Artie, Mauricio, Scott, Jeff and Mo.
Sunday, October 29, 2006
Windy city nail-biter
by Maurice Novelle
World Champ St Louis Cardinals flamboyant supporter Big Joe took over Elks captain duties today. Erwin's team managed to attain a 14-13 jittery victory in a game that had to go extra innings several times after back-to-back comebacks. Finally in the bottom of the ninth the Elks would score the winning run. Due to the length of game one, game two was abruptly brought to a conclusion after only two innings of play and for that reason it will not count as an official game.
Although the infield was not in bad shape, there were a few puddles on the left side near second base that prevented the infielders from playing their customary position. Also the extremely windy conditions didn't seem to affect fly balls as initially expected. Late arrival Miguel played right field for both teams.
Today's lineups:
Elks: Big Joe, Bald Mike, Nelson, Artie, Ken, Jack and Little Joe.
M-Picks: Jeff, Matt, Danny, Mo, Russell, Sam and Parker.
See you guys next week! By the waywe don't know Mitch's whereabouts as of yet and Danny has a big surprise. Stay tuned!
Sunday, October 22, 2006
M-Picks rebound for twin-bill split with Elks
by Maurice Novelle
Well, this may sound like a broken record already --but yes you guessed it right-- our senior softball analyst was again on assignment today. Last nite he was thrilling the patrons at Fuzzy's in Bellerose tinkling the ivories accompanied by his avant-garde band Crimson Street till the wee hours of the morning. We have no doubts that they rocked!!!
During a special ceremony prior to today's first game, Jack was honored and presented with this year's MVP trophy. Kudos to Jack for a great season!
In a fiercely controversial double-header, the Elks won the opener 13-7 and the M-Picks bounced back to win the nightcap 12-11 in their last at bat. There were several questionable calls that seemingly favored Erwin's team and generated bitterly discord among players. I prefer not to get into specifics. Let the cool heads prevail!
See you guys next week!
Today's lineups:
Elks: Matt, Warren, Danny, Big Joe, Little Joe, Russell, Scott and Erwin
M-Picks: Mike, Jonah, Jeff, Jack, Sam, Artie, Parker and Mo
Sunday, October 15, 2006
M-Picks win double-header 8-7 and 12-7
by Maurice Novelle
Our senior softball analyst Mitch Weingart is again on assignment. Where the hell is he? Reliable sources have informed me that the Mets have requested his services to start the fifth game in the NLCS against the St Louis Cardinals. Initially it was reported, after yesterday's Mets dreadful defeat, that Mitch was consoling Russell on the banks of the Missouri River underneath the Gateway Arch but it seems that McDonalds made up the story to increase burger sales. In any event I'm forced to do today's game report. That sucks!
The wintry weather conditions didn't seem to affect attendance and we witnessed a great turnout; in fact it was a pleasant day for playing ball and the field was in great shape.
In game one, after a series of defensive mishaps, the Elks, without their jaunty captain, quickly got on board scoring four runs; however the M-Picks behind Gary's impressive pitching performance bounced back. Gary also contributed with his bat smoking a long drive to right over Artie's head. Warren and Manny also hit homers for their respective teams. The defensive play of the game was Angelo's spectacular diving catch in right field.
In game two Sam took over pitching duties for Big Joe. He pitched well mixing his trademark knuckleball with an overpowering fastball. After Manny's long blast to put the Elks ahead in the top of the sixth 7-5, the M-Picks seemed to face a tragic end. However Jack with his daring triple managed to switch the momentum back in favor of the M-Picks. Keyed-up Danny couldn't control himself and went running across the field to congratulate and hug this year's MVP. What a solid performance again by Jack! Justawesome baby!
Ape-man (formerly mailman) Nelson playing left field made some outstanding catches swinging through the trees like Tarzan and in one at bat he almost lines into a triple play. That would be a first. Also Mauricio had his father Artie dead duck at first from center field but decided to hold the ballI wonder what imperious reasons prevented him from throwing it...hmm...YOU'RE GROUNDED IT!
After a controversial play at first base we decided to implement the "Scott" rule. Whenever the batter-runner reaches first base by a hit he is permitted to overrun first base after reaching it. On such an overrun, the runner is not in jeopardy--he cannot be tagged out. This protection is limited; if the runner makes any move toward second base, he is once again in jeopardy and will be out if tagged. The first baseman will be allowed to block the base in order to make the tag.
Lastly, your humble writer playing first base got involved in a quasi collision with Big Joe when he grounded to first and Gary failed to cover the bag. Well, we got into a close foot race and I just made it by a whisker.
Today's lineups:
Elks: Manny, Matt, Nelson, Kenny, Artie, Sam, Little Joe, Scott, John II, and Big Joe.
M-Picks: Mike, Warren, Angelo, Jonah, Danny, Mauricio, Jack, Jose, Gary and Mo.
See you guys next week!
Sunday, October 08, 2006
Good game tarnished by Elks captain shady move as Miguel pinch runs for uninjured Sam. Elks win 16-15
Wily Warren and the Home Run Factory
by Mitch Weingart
The long ball played a prominent roll in today's first game as round trippers seemed to be the special of the day! After some spirited chatter about the Mets, yeah!!...and the Yanks oy vey!! we took to the field for the first of two games with a fairly light turnout, typical for this time of year.
It didn't take long for the fireworks to start, as Warren smacked the first official "ground rule" home run of this season into the deep woods of centerfield, just to the right of the homer cone. There was some brief discussion about the actual placement of the cone, but it was mutually agreed that Warren's blast was worthy of four bases, and the cone stayed where it was. This shot was followed by Mike's launch into the trees for another dinger...and the homerun derby was about to begin. Miguel shot, one into the right field gap, as did Jeff...both getting home runs for the effort...Warren added another blast to his resume...and then a third later in the game that tied the game at fifteen, if memory serves me correctly. Anyway, there were more bombs at the field today, than the grand opening of an Iraqi shopping center! If I forgot somebody else's homer...sorry!!
Mike (looking sharp in his David Wright jersey) had a big day at the plate today, falling only a double short of hitting for the cycle, but his completion of a play on a deflected ground ball to rob Sam of an infield single was the "Scores titty terrific play of the day..."
Kudos to Angelo, arriving late....first played the field for both sides...and then served as DH for both sides...and played a spirited game, giving his best for both sides...
Erwin had a sensational day today...in addition to driving in three runs, his clever moves were key, managing his team to this unlikely victory. It was the captain's move to place Miguel before Sam in the lineup that proved pivotal, as Miguel found himself running for Sam, who was really supposed to be running for congress, but Sam was already hurting...that put Miguel at second with one outas the pinch runner with the winning run...woe was Moe!!... Up walked Russell, who hit a ground ball to the right side of the infield: the ball was picked up and played to second for out number two.....but speedy Russell galloped across the bag before the relay throw to first as Miguel crossed the plate with the winning run.....on a walk-off ground ballas we witnessed one of our most bizarre endings this season. Great managing by Erwin this whole season; that has him as a leading front runner to replace Joe Torre next year... or maybe Mark Foley later this week!!
Well, if you're not busy on the 21st of October...my band will be making its debut at Fuzzy's Wolfrose right down the road just ten minutes from the field...We'll be going on at 10:00 PM... It's also the first nite for the World Series so it'll also be a baseball bash to boot!! Come and party...and hopefully we'll be rooting our New York Mets onto victory in game one!! Check out website at http://www.crimsonstreet.com/
...and I'll see ya next week
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Today's Line ups:
Elks: Matt, Jeff, Miguel, Little Joe, Russell, Sam, Artie, Erwin and Angelo.
M-Picks: Bald Mike, Jonah, Warren, Danny, Nelson, Jack, Mitch and Mo.
Sunday, October 1, 2006
Game rained out. Our best wishes to Apache John for a speedy recovery.
Sunday, September 24, 2006
Mutts snatch playing field...
M-Picks win opener 4-3
Elks bounce back 5-4
Tainted Glove
By Mitch Weingart
Questionable fielding errors by Mike and Russell helped both their teams achieve victory in today's action. The day began a bit "ruff" as we were displaced by the "Doggie Olympics", and we needed to relocate to the fields closer to the tennis center. Fortunately for us, there were a few open fields; otherwise we would have had to kick some ass doggie style!
Eventually settling into field #3, today's attendance was a bit light, so we found ourselves lending out players to fill in positions...and wouldn't you know it, we had a bit of controversy as a result. Game one saw a play botched by the normally sure handed Mike, filling in on the right side of the field.....his "goof" lead to a four-run inning that would provide all the scoring the M-Picks needed for game one.
"MVP" Jack, who overall had a rough day at second, but another great day at the plate, gets a high five for his acrobatic grab of a line drive that deflected off of Jeff's glove early in the game. The M-Picks made their runs stand up as the Elks fought their way back and almost pulled even but the game ended with Warren flying out with the tying run on second base.
Game #2 was being dominated by Jeff's pitching and the M-picks were cruising along until....Russell, filling in as catcher for the "Picks", dropped an easy foul pop of Danny's bat. Danny had been robbed of an extra base hit earlier in the game on an outstanding running catch by...uh, ...me!! ...yes, this is not a typo!! ...In fact, I made two or three nice plays today...but enough about me!! Let's get back to our story.......Given a second chance, Danny found himself a double in the gap and came around to score the first run for the Elks later that inning... Now, to be honest, Russell also dropped an even easier throw from Joe, covering first base...for his own team... and I don't think any of us would actually botch a play on purpose...but, even the Pope commented that... only a Muslim could have blown such an easy play........a remark he later apologized for, while playing half court basketball with George Bush, Mel Gibson and Hugo Chavez, the Venezuelan president...
Thanks to a huge triple by Jack, the M-picks were comfortably ahead as the game entered the seventh inning of what was originally scheduled for six frames. ...What was that all about?? Hadn't the M-picks already won the game?? Where was the time keeper?? But, the game continued onto the bottom of the seventh, starting with a bloop infield single by Russell, followed by some blown defensive plays ...and then a clutch hit by Warren, who would not be denied a second time...driving in the winning runs as the Elks came from behind to stun the M-Picks.
A big day for Sam today, inspired by his Who concert, hit like the "softball wizard" ...and he looked good running the bases....ending his "summertime blues"...he even tagged up from second to third...hey, Sam..."We won't get fooled again!!"
Pete looks like he might have skip the rest of the season, pulling up lame with a hamstring injury running to first...it looked painful.....go home and eat some spinach...you'll feel better!! ...and we wish you continued success on your volunteer work...we were glad to contribute...
anyway.....The Doggie Olympics should have concluded by now...and we'll be back at our normal field next week...probably knee deep in dog shit, too.......see ya then!!
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Today's lineups:
ELKS: Lawman Matt, Warren, Danny, Russell, Dave, Sam, Artie, Pete and Big Joe.
M-PICKS: Mike, Matt, Jonah, Mo, Kenny, Jack, Joe, Mitch and Jeff.
Saturday, September 22, 2006
To our Jewish friends that are celebrating their High Holy Days:
"May you be inscribed in the Book of Life." Happy New Year guys!
Sunday, September 17, 2006
M-Picks win both ends of today's double header 11-2 and 5-1
Note: Due to the fact that I'm dead tired and our head reporter happens to be on assignment, today's game report will be brief and to the point.
Well, today clearly the Elks were no match to the "mighty" M-Picks. The M-Picks displayed terrific hitting, solid defense and outstanding pitching, all the attributes of the great teams. The winning pitcher and MVP was non other than Big Joe who was just lights out on the mound. The Elks meanwhile, with the exception of Jeff II and his powerful hitting splurge, looked hesitant at best and failed to make use of their superior speed. What else can I say!
Today's lineups
ELKS
Jonah, Jeff II, Kenny, Russell, Jack, Sam, Dave, Jeff, Miguel and Erwin
M-PICKS
Bald Mike, Matt, Warren, Danny, Nelson, Pete, Apache John, Big Joe, Artie, Loula and Maurice.
See you guys next week!
Sunday, September 10, 2006
Tomorrow we commemorate the fifth anniversary of the September 11 attacks. Five years cannot fully heal the pain our nation has endured, and nor should they dampen the memories of those who perished that day. On this solemn occasion, let us pause to remember those who lost their lives. Let us give thanks for the heroes of that day. And let us never forget those who continue to serve our nation overseas in uniform, our brave men and women who are helping to strengthen the United States of America for generations to come.
Unprecedented comeback by M-Picks
12-11 and 13-13
They score seven runs with two outs in last at bat
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A Tale of Two Shittys!!
By Mitch Weingart
Erwin's early departure spelled doom for the Elks, who soiled themselves as soon as their captain cut the cheese and turned the corner...crapping all over their eight run lead in the night cap. The virtual loss came after dropping a dingle-berry in a colon cleansing affair to that same bunch of "picks" in game one.
It was a fitting comeback for Mo and his merry M-picks, who never said die (arrhea)....down to their last strike, they squeezed out run after run ...a couple of cheeky calls at turd base, some rim shots from Jack, Dave and Lawman Matt among others....of course the Elks piled on their own dookie by blowing some easy plays in the field...a botched ground ball certainly rectum.... and the Elks were fortunate to leave the field with the game tied at 13....as Artie was stranded as the winning run on second.
There was some discussion as whether or not to continue the game another inning but our field permit was only good for another 15 minutes...and I was already a half hour late for my Sunday enema which was looking better and better by the minute....so we decided to call it a day, while we still had our dignity.
Game one was a well contested affair that saw the lead switch hands several times throughout. Russell rebounded from last week's strikeout with some big blows (double and triple) plus adding some assists in the outfield, that were key plays at the time....
The M-picks continued to play tough however, and fought their way back to take a three run lead, that was seemingly safe with Jeff on the mound. That was until Manny did his thing with two on and two out...and unloaded a rope past a lunging LuLa....Once the ball got passed him all hell broke loose as Manny rounded the bases to tie the game at eleven. The shot heard round the park!! However, the M-picks were not to be denied... and with a series of singles and some good base running managed to push across the run [that eventually would] secured their victory.
In case anybody was wondering, Warren played a terrific first base today, filling in for Nelson who was AWOL today...dude, we missed your peanuts!! Marriot Jeff had a rough day in the field today...dude, you shoulda stayed atta Holiday Inn Express last nite!!
Sam's bat came alive today...and he looks to be on track for a full recovery from his knee surgery. And, in the circus of the bizarre, we watched a foot race between Sam and Big Joe, who did their own version of the hundred yard "dash". It should be over by the time you are reading this.....
See you guys next Sunday!!
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Thanks Mitch for your vividly egested report! I don't need to go to White Castle. But before I answer a call of nature and regarding another fecal matter, I would like to add that the Hot Dog (Sam) dominated today's WP Sausage Race --a thrifty rendition of the Brewers' dash-- leaving the Brat (Big Joe) in the dust.
Today's lineups:
ELKS: Manny, Jeff II, Bald Mike, Miguel, Pete, Russell, Sam, Parker, Mitch, Big Joe and Erwin.
M-PICKS: Warren, Lawman Matt, Danny, Jack, Dave, Artie, Luis, Jeff and yours truly.
God willing, see you guys next week! Au revoir!
Monday, September 04, 2006
Elks beat M-Picks 10-8, 12-5
The Catch!
By Mitch Weingart
Anybody at today's game knows what I'm talking about...Andre's diving play on the Lawman's foul ball to right field...with the bases loaded. The hustling effort was easily one of the best in Windsor Park history. It was the kind of catch that ESPN would be showing all day long if they had been covering our game instead of those stupid tennis matches.
Anyway, it was good to see both sides rushing over to "high five" Andre on his spectacular snatch...well, everybody but Matt, who was robbed of a second chance and that play proved to be the "kosher catch" of the game. (...brought to you by Buddy's Deli on 73rd Ave) The amazing grab preserved the Elks' lead, who needed all the help they could muster as they had to fight off a furious comeback by the M-picks in the last inning. With Gary tiring on the mound and several runs already across the plate, "MVP" candidate Jack, (who earlier had done some major damage at the plate) got his chance to lock in his award. You could have cut the tension with a bagel knife at this point, as "silent but deadly" Dave was in the on-deck circle,...the Elks had lost all their momentum and seemed doomed to give up the lead, but Jack went after a pitch out of the strike zone; and he lofted a fly ball to left field that finally put an end to both the M-picks frantic rally and this terrible run-on sentence.
Today's twin bill was a rescheduled affair due to the heavy rains brought about by Ernesto earlier this weekend... If you had tickets for yesterday's game, and didn't show up today, you missed a good one!! As it was, 13 players still showed up on Sunday and they enjoyed a non-sanctioned scrimmage, overcoming a low turnout and wet field conditions.
Game two was dominated by the Elks, who batted around in the 5th inning, scoring 7 runs en route to a 12-5 victory. The 5th inning was highlighted by Manny's grand slam, who despite homering in both games, had an unusual day at shortstop, either making spectacular leaping grabs or botching easy ground balls...
Big Joe entertained the crowd with his running game, getting thrown out at first, trying to stretch a clean hit, well,...into a single!! This time, another hustling play by Andre caught the flat footed Joe three steps from the bag. On the other side of the spectrum was Miguel, who twice today, turned two weak ground balls into doubles by basically running faster than the law allows...
Mo enjoyed an impressive moment at the plate, when he hammered the ball high and deep into left field trees that just cleared the theoretical foul pole. The majestic shot would have earned him a homer on any legitimate field, but the captain had to settle for a "Green monster" single. Jason also had a big blast, into the woods on a fly, to the right of the cones...that earned him an easy stroll to second base.
We greeted newcomer, Jeff...a friend of Russell's, who joined us and played an all around good game. Welcome aboard!!
We'll be back to our normally scheduled Sunday twin bills this coming weekend, weather permitting!! See ya then!!
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Much obliged Mitch for the report.
Today's lineups....
Elks: Manny, Danny, Little Joe, Kenny, Russell, Jeff II, Mitch, Artie, Gary, Andre and Erwin.
M-Picks: Matt, Miguel, Jason, Nelson, Jack, Dave, Mike II, Sam, Big Joe, Lawman Matt and yours truly.
See you guys next week!
Sunday, August 27, 2006
Ground Crew Searches for Jimmy Hoffa
By Mitch Weingart
A small crew braved this morning's inclement weather and got in a quick toss or two before the skies opened up and the rains started coming down heavy. The short two-minute workout was dominated by the Elks, taking both ends of the two-minute warm up.
On a more serious note, we offer our condolences to Sam's wife, Marilyn, who lost her mother last week.
Hopefully, we'll have some sunnier weather next Sunday... till then...stay loose!
Sunday, August 20, 2006
JEFF PICKS A WINNER!!
By Mitch Weingart
With both captains out again for the second week in a row, Jeff and Joe did the honors for their respective leaders, as The Elks took today's twin bill by a combined score of (ouch!) 25-12...
Prior to today's game, we were treated to a demonstration of Big Joe's animal handling techniques. Windsor Park's "dog whisperer" cleared the field of a pet canine that was running havoc with second base and a few cones. Watch for Big Joe's special on "Animal Planet", coming up later this season, as he runs down that pesky rabbit in left field...
Actually, game one was a competitive affair that saw the lead switch hands several times throughout this tough seven inning slugfest. Danny ("being Danny") set the tone, and lead off with a well hit ball past Miguel for the first of several home runs by various players. The shot gave the M-picks a temporary one run lead at the time. A normally sure footed Miguel, had his problems in right field today, but did manage to hit his cut-off man once, ...too bad he was throwing his glove at the time....
The see-saw event finally went the way of the Elks 13-10, as Jeff and his sidekick, Dave held on for the well earned victory.
Game two got off to a similar start for the M-picks, as Artie hit a rope past Miguel and gave the Picks a quick 1-0 lead. But, the lead was short lived as the Elks pounded Joe, who was sweating more bullets than the entire Iraqi Army by this point. Although they lost 12-2, the M-picks were fortunate to have Jack on their side, still riding a high from last week, he took over at second and then third base in the nite cap; flashing some leather at the hot corner, and diving after anything within reach, along with some timely clutch hitting has Jack as a leading contender for this year's MVP. The chants for Jack from today's crowd (of one) certainly have him as a crowd favorite.
However, with the sun pounding down on a weary M-pick team, Jeff could sense those cold suds waiting for him at the beach. He had the M-picks begging for mercy and after four innings the game was called.
On a totally different note...the Yanks have Bernie Williams ...and now, Windsor Park Softball has our own budding musical star who'll soon be releasing his own CD of original tunes. I got a quick preview today and had no idea we had such a musical talent roaming the outfield...! No....it's not Mo doing Gangster Rap.
Also, my daughter Stephanie, (who used to play with us, way back when) will be headlining with her band "Dayglow" at "Lucky's" on Bell Blvd this Wednesday night around ten. If you're not busy, stop on by!!... You can check them out on the web at The Official Dayglow Website
....And good luck to Doug, who will be heading off to study law and root for the Tigers in Detroit this coming semester. We wish him well...but, not the Tigers!!
Hey... see ya next week!
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Thanks Mitch for the report... I wonder who designated Jeff as Elks captain! It's like having Emeril Lagasse in your backyard barbecuing hamburgers instead of going to McDonald's.
Sunday, August 13, 2006
A SHOT OF JACK!!
by Mitch Weingart
A big turnout today on "No-Mo" Sunday saw the Elks sweep a twin bill from the M-picks, who seemed lost without their fearless leader. Mo was rumored to be chewing down a few of those $25 dollar hot dogs in the Hamptons this weekend. Big Joe, already picking up the slack for Fidel Castro earlier this week, took over the helm for the Picks, who came up on the short end twice, 11-8 and 7-2.
After a short vote concerning "Ball and Strikes" versus "Two Swings", game one got underway as Jeff and Big Joe took the mound. Jeff had a strong day at the mound, with some great velocity on his pitches and also hitting a few shots into the woods, he actually got stronger as the day went on, leaving the field at noon to compete in a triathlon and then go shopping at Waldbaum's. Big Joe looked good on the mound in his new Cardinals t-shirt, which he said he bought in St. Louis, but was actually spotted buying.... in the clearance rack at Modell's right here in Douglaston!! Busted!!
Jack brought his A-game to the plate today, smoking a ball well over Matt's head into the center field woods. There was a small dispute as to whether or not this was a double or triple...and Jack had to eventually settle for a double. The shot deserved to be a triple, and after reviewing rule #21, probably could have been called that way. Either way it was a clutch hit at the time, securing the victory for the Elks, as they won the first game 11-8.
Scott got the "Viagra Long Ball" blast of the day, stroking a well hung opposite field home run well over my head, eventually run down by Apache John, who could have used a cab getting back to the field.
Back after three weeks in Greece, Russell blasted a ball half way back to Crete, only to be gyro'd at the plate by Jack, who after a great relay from the outfield, had not only the ball, but a serving of moussaka and stuffed grape leaves waiting for Russell when he got to the plate...welcome back, big guy!!
Also today, we actually had to invoke the Manny Rule, AKA rule #7, as both Manny and Doug showed up well after start of game one. Manny was kind enough to assume umpiring responsibilities behind the plate, and called a terrific game.
Game two saw a pitching change for the Elks, as Gary took over the mound. Gary's slower delivery and gaudy Corona jersey, gave the M-picks fits, as they had just spent the previous seven innings swinging at Jeff's hard stuff. With twelve players on each side, we needed to invoke rule #10, as players were rotated in and out of the game. Anyway after a misplayed ball by myself and some other players (...to be named in my exclusive column, available only to those who subscribe to our premium web page services)..., we managed to rotate ourselves right out of the game, and went down faster than Paris Hilton at her senior prom, losing 7-2...
Good turnout today! We all missed Sam, who is busy in Costa Rica trying to use up the rest of his hair gel before boarding his flight back home. See ya next week!!
Sunday, August 06, 2006
Elks split doubleheader with M-Picks
Winning game one 11-10 and losing game two 7-2
Just a Second There!
By Mitch Weingart
The M-picks and Elks split today's double header action with both games ending on brilliant plays at second base!
This past week's brutal heat wave broke just in time for our crew as approx twenty two well tanned participants showed up for two evenly matched games under brilliant sunny skies.
With Big Joe goofing off in St. Louis this week, pitching duties were evenly divided by Sam, Mo and Kenny, all of whom chipped in and pitched well for their respective teams also giving Jeff a well deserved rest in the rotation.
Game one was a high scoring affair highlighted by Doug's excellent play, earning him MVP of the day. Unfortunately, Doug injured his wrist later between games, accepting high fives from his teammates and he is listed as probable for next week's game. However, the defensive play of the game belongs to Dave... the first of two plays that ended each game at 2nd base today. With two out and the tying run on second, this writer smacked a screaming line drive headed up the middle. The hit would have tied the game and been the defining moment of my life. But, Dave made a brilliant diving stop to his right, snagging the ball in mid air and putting an end to my feeble hopes of glory. Game one ended at 11-10 for the Elks.
The 2nd half of today's twin bill saw Mo take the mound for the M-picks and his baffling pitching style stymied the Elks, almost shutting them down completely. The M-picks took advantage of some questionable fielding, bad hops and miscues and lead 6-2 as the Elks came up for their last at bat. But, as the Elks started to mount a mini comeback, Artie caught a blistering shot at 2nd base, then picked off Michael, who at 2nd, had already started running towards 3rd. The unassisted double play put an end to the game and sent everybody home with a happy face...
Hey...How fast is Miguel? His infield hit to Nelson at first was a shocker, even to those of us used to seeing him run before. He must be leaving early from the plate...is that even possible?? And speaking of blazing speed, how about Mo's clean single to left field? Sam is still on the field, blaming Mel Gibson for the disputed call at first....... In fact, there were several very close plays today at first and I think for the most part, we do a pretty good job of governing ourselves.
Also today, I was pleased to bring along my 8 year old nephew Ben, visiting us from Red Hook, New York, in Dutchess County. He did a nice job as "DH", assisting the umps, chasing foul balls and calling Mo safe at first. Ben happens to be an all star goalie in his Ice Hockey League in addition to being an all around athlete and pretty good kid.
...Here's hoping that this coming week is a bit more comfortable for everybody!
See ya next Sunday!
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Once again Mitch much obliged for your customarily puissant report. In attendance today Sam, Manny, Matt, Miguel, Jeff, Little Joe, Doug, Mike III, Dave, Parker, Erwin, Kenny, Lawman Matt, Warren, Scott, Jonah, Danny, Nelson, Luis, Mitch, Artie and yours truly. I will see you guys in a couple of weeks.
Sunday, July 30, 2006
M-Picks take twin bill 5-4 and 11-5
Oh -Clay!! Can Ya Dig It?
By Mitch Weingart
At first sight, I though the dirt was dumped by somebody who didn't like the 9:05 start time. A dumpster load of fresh clay sitting dead square in centerfield delayed the prompt start of our game as we shared four shovels, clearing the area best we could into a playable situation. In reality, a pile was put there by our own NYC Parks Dept the day before to prepare for a cricket game that same day but the follow-up crew with that work order showed up halfway thru our second game, a full day late!!....No surprises here, as these are the same people that assigned two permits to the same field earlier this season... One of the guys was actually pissed off that we screwed up his pile.... Hopefully, this cricket deal doesn't cause us any more problems down the road...
Anyway, armed with his newly designed sign-in sheet, Maurice and Erwin reviewed and approved the new rules that we've adopted and actually picked two evenly "talented" teams for today's contest.
Game one was a thriller...with both Jeff and Gary pitching strong games. M-picks got off to an early four run lead that the Elks would slowly chip away at. How 'bout Gary's head first slide into second...the hustle move of the day!!! Nelson looked good in his debut at the hot corner.
Of special note was Mo's early departure from third base on a tag play, trying to score his team's fifth run. Called out by Danny, on an ensuing appeal play, the non-scoring event would prove critical, as the Elks tied things up in the top of the seventh at 4 all. But, after an intentional walk with runners at second and third with nobody out for the M-picks, Doug delivered a walk-off single, ending an interesting and well played game.
Not so interesting was the second game, as the M-picks took a six run lead right out of the gate and never looked back. Jeff once again pitching a strong game under some hot conditions, out dueled Joe in our second game. Matt showed some real power at the plate today, smacking three long doubles into the center field trees... I even hit a triple, in between dropping assorted pop-ups in the outfield.
We had some odd plays today, some strange foul balls that could have gone either way, running plays that were a bit bizarre...and a few out and safe calls that lead to some heated discussions...but, considering the warm temperatures, we did a good job of controlling our equally heated emotions...keeping things in check for the most part...
We all have a hot week coming up! Stay as cool as ya can, and we'll see ya next Sunday!
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Thanks again Mitch for your report. In attendance today: Mike, Jeff, Big Joe, Danny, Matt, Jason, Jonah, Kenny, Nelson, Scott, Gary, Apache John, Jack, Doug, Mitch, Artie, Warren, Dave, Erwin, Parker, Sam and the writer. See you guys next week!
Sunday, July 23, 2006
Elks win triple header 10-2, 8-6 and 7-1
The M-Picks playing with a frail contingent got destroyed by the Elks. In addition to Sam, Nelson and the writer being all physically impaired by injuries, to make just matters worse, Mike got hurt while chasing a pop-up at third.
But besides the injuries and the poor defensive performance displayed by the M-Picks the outcome of today's games made it clear and evident that the manner in which we pick up players is faulty and needs to be changed. Certainly everyone wants to win, however to make things fair and to have competitive games both teams must be equally balanced. With that in mind I will work on some sort of guideline or rule book. I would appreciate if anyone has a suggestion to please email me.
In attendance today Big Joe, Jack, Erwin, Mike, Mike II, Lawman Matt, Matt, Danny, Doug, Nelson, Sam, Little Joe, Angelo, Apache John, Manny, Dave, Kenny, Jeff and the writer.
See you guys next week!
Sunday, July 16, 2006
M-Picks win two out of three
7-1, 5-6 and 7-0
Under climatic conditions better suited for roasting a turkey outdoors than playing ball, the M-Picks potent squad put on a epicurean effort by basking Big Joe and dubbing him the new coming of José Lima. Nelson's peanuts aside... he just got pummeled! The precedent was to score lots of runs without the need of the long ball, no homers at all. It was a team endeavor, everyone contributed.
The oppressive heat, however, didn't seem to affect Master Chef Jeff who pitched brilliantly and displayed great stuff. In game two, for instance, he got out of a bases-loaded jam by getting dangerous slugger Raul to pop up. Later on, with a nasty slider he would strike out Erwin looking. Besides having great command of his pitches, Jeff depended upon a solid defense... Dave's diving grab at second base was just awesome but Mauricio's unexpected catch in center field was a real stroke of luck.
The Elks managed to avoid a triplet sweep thanks to Jack's outstanding performance. He carried his team and was daring running around the bases. Talking about daring plays, Scott's unintended Jean Claude Van Damme straddle split, while avoiding a tag, looked very painful and testicularly perilous. And what to say about Luis borderline reckless incursions throughout the field... that was pure raw adrenaline pumping. Careful man!
On another note, Kenny almost made it to the pages of the Guinness Book of Records by playing every position in a single game except for pitching duties. Next week we'll start collecting $25 per member for next year's field permit fees and also to buy some balls due to the friendly confines of our field.
In attendance today Nelson, Kenny, Doug, Little Joe, Big Joe, Erwin, Danny, Jack, Scott, Lawman Matt, Matt, Pete, Parker, Sam, Jason, Apache John, Luis, Miguel, Raul, Mauricio, Artie, Jack, Russ, Jeff and the writer. See you guys next week!
Sunday, July 09, 2006
M-Picks succumb 11-5 and 7-4
Elks Complete "Magical Mystery Sweep", As my Glove Gently Weeps..."
By Mitch Weingart
With apologies to Lennon and McCartney, it was a "hard day's nite" for Mo's crew ...a "long and winding road"... beginning with my sloppy fielding clinic, as balls bounced "here, there and everywhere"...The flood gates opened so wide in game one.... FEMA is still assessing the damage as I write this nonsense....
Anyway, lead by the tandem of Gary and Jeff, the Elks rode two fine pitching performances today, each of whom kept the M-picks in check for the most part, except for a monster blast by Jason way beyond the designated homer cone. The cone was then subsequently moved much further out in game two and last seen docking with the space shuttle.
No "Fool on a Hill" himself, Big Joe pitched well enough to win if he only had a "little help from his friends." Kudos to newcomers Scott -nice diving play at shortstop- and Michael -nice work in left field as predicted by Jason. And amazing running again by Miguel, creating his own brand of "Helter Skelter" on the base paths. He is, without a doubt the fastest player we've had in our short history.... and if not for that Tazer Gun last month, the cops would have never gotten their cuffs on him!!
Again we had a tremendous turnout today, beginning the festivities promptly at, give or take, 9:00 AM with a full house, much to Artie's chagrin, who arrived moments later to receive umpiring chores. With our new start time, guys like Lawman Matt will never get into game one, unless they sleep there the night before!! However, this is a rule we need to stick to in order to be fair to everybody... We also want to thank Nelson for catering today's affair for a second week in a row.... I'm sure after three or four more weeks in the sun, well... those peanuts will have a life of their own!! Today was also the second time that I've noticed this field was freshly cut and manicured. As mentioned by Erwin, we've really got ourselves a nice little ballpark this year. Its secluded location makes it difficult for even AlQuida to find. It has easy parking, no conflicts with other active fields, and it feels like a park, "blackbird" bird chirps and dog poop in plenty of abundance. Good work by Sam!! By the way, I spoke to the Knishner earlier today, who is still feeling some discomfort after his knee surgery, and stayed home as per doctor's recommendations. Hey Sam, get a new doctor and get back soon!!!
I'll be vacationing next week and will miss at least one Sunday, possibly two, depending when I "get back" so somebody will have to step up to the plate and drop balls for me!! ...any volunteers?? See ya!!
Sunday, July 2, 2006
M-Picks defeat Elks 4-3 and 11-8
A Walk in the Park
By Mitch Weingart
Two intentional walks to Raul and a clutch home run by Big Mike were the highlights of today's twin bill, swept by the M-Picks. Maybe the high gas prices kept us home instead of traveling on the holiday but today's Independence Day double header was a crowded dance card featuring five outfielders on each side.
A well played game one featured some terrific moments. The M-Picks had built a seemingly comfortable three run lead as Big Joe was cruising along. But that all changed when Mike came up with two on base in the top of the sixth. After hitting a foul pop that just eluded Nelson's outstretched peanut stained glove, he made the most of his second opportunity cranking the next pitch deep amongst the dog turds in right field tying the contest at three with the clutch homer.
The game continued on under hot sunny skies with both teams missing some scoring chances and featuring some close plays at the plate. But in the bottom of the tenth, after Raul was walked for the second time, Big Joe came thru in the clutch with a single to right field that scored the winning run.
Memorable moments included Maurice reenactment of Nacho Libre in a nasty collision with Little Joe at second base, Russell's cousin, Nick, playing a flawless right field converting all his opportunities in right field, Mattie's hustle running down Artie's right field blast that would have put the Elks ahead in extra innings and Jason's single that landed in the upper third of the green monster.
Game number two was a looser affair that saw Miguel relieved of his questionable umpiring skills to join the Elks as a few players for both sides had emergency BBQs to attend to. Although Erwin's team jumped out to an early lead, the M-Picks took advantage of some shoddy fielding and won the second game in a thankfully shorter six inning affair that saw both teams dragging their asses to the finish.
We had a terrific turnout today and when so many players turn up it's hard to get them all in. Once we get to 24 players, we reach the maximum legal allotment as determined by the Knishner of Softball, so if you show up late on days like this, chances are good you'll be sitting things out till the second game. As usual, the early bird gets the worm.
Hope everybody has an enjoyable Fourth of July. See ya next Sunday!!
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Thanks Mitch for your report!
On attendance today Jack, Ken, Doug, Nick, Russ, Big Joe, Jeff, Sam, Mauricio, Artie, Jason, Mike, Mike III, Matt, Nelson, Scott, Raul, Parker, Erwin, Little Joe, Pete, Dave, Mitch, Miguel and yours truly.
Have a happy holiday guys and see you next week!
Sunday, June 18, 2006
A Father's Day Tie!!
By Mitch Weingart
A smaller than usual crowd showed up today, but was rewarded with a thrilling 15-15 tie game, called after nine hard fought innings. Blame it on previous commitments for father's day or perhaps community service for others....or maybe the extreme heat, but we started the day minus both of our fearless leaders and only sixteen players to choose from. Nelson and Lawman Matt did the honors and we took the field shortly after 9:30.
After jumping out to a quick lead, Nelson's crew was served notice shortly thereafter, as the Lawman's firm quickly acquitted themselves, scoring nine runs in the following inning...all of this before recording a single out! This may be a Windsor Park first and right now our crack research team...is well, busy smoking crack and has not gotten back to me on this.....
Matt, who hit for the cycle today, lead that inning's barrage with a monster grand slam. The game continued on under the sweltering sun, and then around the fifth inning Raul showed up and was added onto Nelson's team. A fortunate gain for the mailman's bag, as the game wore on. We had the pleasure of having Pete's dad stop by and authenticate Father's Day for us!!.... Dad showed up and acted as material witness for today's proceedings. Pete showed off some serious skills in front of pop, most notably throwing out Raul trying to stretch a triple into a homer. The throw deep from left field found its mark, surprising both Pete and Raul, who probably didn't expect to see a play at the plate.
However Raul could not be held back a second time, and with his family video taping from their luxury box, continued his modus operandi just past the outstretched glove of an agonized Lawman in the top of the ninth inning. The solo home run knotted the contest at fifteen.
Please remember, the videotaping and replaying of our games for reasons other than personal use, without the express written consent of the "Windsor Park Knishner" of softball is prohibited by Windsor Park security!!....
Anyway, any thought of a walk off victory was dashed when Doug (who earned a Miranda warning earlier in the game) made a spectacular catch of Apache John's blast to center field in the bottom of the ninth.
The heated affair was then mercifully halted and deemed a mistrial, as most of us had family plans that involved sitting in copious amounts of traffic. A special mention should go to Parker, who in a gutsy performance, held his own against Jeff, in today's "pitcher's duel"...played without balls and strikes.
Today was the first game back for Jason, last year's rookie of the year... Welcome back!! Jason found out the hard way, that those big blasts to left field, last year's home runs, are just singles this time around when they disappear into the green monster. We've got to come up with a firm rule for that single/double deal in left field before long...any ideas??
We wish Manny well, as he takes off on a three week road trip to D.R. to visit family back home.
See ya next week!!
Sunday, June 11, 2006
Mauricio keys comeback as Elks sweep two
By Mitch Weingart
After a week of non-stop rain, the sun came out for the W. P. crew and we enjoyed two well played games; both decided by one run. The Elks came out pounding the hits in game one, building an 8-1 lead on the strength of Jeff's pitching and hitting. Erwin's team managed to give back all back, as the M-Picks, sparked by Miguel's arrival, clawed their way within a run. It came down to the final batter, but the Elk's held on for an exciting 10-9 victory as the tying run was stranded at second base.
Game two saw some people split for home. Russell was traded to the M-Picks for a Kaz Matsui jersey and a player to be named later. Then I, myself, was traded a few innings later for that same jersey and a dollar fifty cash. With the loss of players on both sides, our normally crowded outfield was reduced to just three fielders and that gave Mauricio, Artie's son, his chance to be a hero. After delivering a key three run dinger to tie the game, he came through again the following inning with a walk off single deep over Miguel's head in centerfield.
The defensive gem of the game had to be Raul and Manny's combined effort to rob speedy Matty of an infield single. And speaking of speed, the crowd just went crazy when Miguel beat out Erwin on ground ball. Erwin was positioned just a few feet away from first base. Man that was some kind of hustle!
Russell looked great at the plate today, hitting some monster shots into right field. Newcomer "Beckman" (Mike) played a solid shortstop all day long. And Big Mike put on a sliding clinic for today...showing us all kinds of ways to get hurt. Jack also had a big day at the plate with a key hit in today's contest and solid work behind the plate.
Meanwhile Lawman Mat continued his hot hitting streak...he has now hit safely in every game ever played... Sam (the "knishner of softball") looks good after his surgery....well, actually, he doesn't look any better, but his knee is responding well and should be off the DL in a few weeks. By the way, he did a superb job umpiring the first game...thank you!!
We broke in some new bases today...and lost the usual amount of balls in the green monster, in spite of an all out search party lead by Manny after game two. We did recover one or two hardballs, Osama Bin Laden's video camera and a map of a buried treasure etched into the back of the Declaration of Independence.
Next week is Father's Day, typically a lighter week attendance wise. Some of us will be enjoying time with our families; and for those of you, who tested positive on your DNA test, well, maybe it's not your favorite day of the year...but, no matter what, we'll still be getting together next week for another glorious day of Windsor Park Softball. See ya then!!
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Thanks Mitch for your colorful report. Boy... I wonder if we'll have to travel to Philadelphia now to decipher those cryptographic symbols or some catchpenny Ozzy Osbourne style polarized sun glasses I found at the beach will do.
On attendance today Pete, George, Dave, Manny, Mitch, Jack, Raul, Manny, Matt, Mike, Lawman Matt, Doug, Danny, Russ, Artie, Mauricio, Mike B, Jeff, Erwin, Little Joe, Nelson, Miguel, Kenny, Sam, Gary and yours truly. See you guys next week!
Sunday, June 04, 2006
Deluging win for Elks - After three days of heavy rain, fourteen stalwart players and a postoperative Sam showed up to play "splash" ball today. Well, not exactly because according to the attendees the field was actually in superb condition. The Elks, to his captain's jubilation, were victorious once again and added another notch to a promising season. The final score was 14-5.
Prior to the start of the five-inning contest they had a round robin tournament of three teams. Each contingent had four players: team one furnished three outfielders and a pitcher, team two had the infield and team three batted. Did you get it? Me, neither!
Anyhow, in attendance today were Nelson, Dave, Manny, Little Joe, Big Joe, Yakir, Kenny, Lawman Matt, Matt, Jack, Artie, Parker and Erwin who gracefully contributed to this report. See you guys next week!
Monday, May 29, 2006
This Memorial Day as we remember those who have made the supreme sacrifice in order to preserve our nation's freedom, it's a good day to thank our brave men and women in uniform. Freedom is too precious a gift not to remember those gallant warriors serving in the Armed Forces of the United States. Lets honor all who serve, it's the least we can do!
M-Picks and Elks split Memorial Day weekend double header
By Mitch Weingart
This Sunday saw a hefty turnout as we played our most competitive game on a newly shaved and manicured field. A thrilling 9-8 victory for the Elks, as they battled back from five runs early in the game. Both Joe and Jeff pitched strong games, only to be let down by a few sloppy fielding plays that might have meant game ending victories in regulation time for either side.
In case anybody missed it, my weak-ass choked and popped out with Mo in a position to score the winning run. There will be a chapter devoted to it in my upcoming novel
Anyway, in extra innings, the Elks went up three runs and seemingly had the game won, however a clutch hit by Kenny keyed a miraculous comeback for the M-picks as the game continued on at eight all. Artie finally pushed across the go-ahead and winning run with a well hit ball that bounced off my outstretched glove. This may not have been our best played game, but certainly our most exciting of the young season. In spite of my shitty play on both sides of the field, I was happy to be part of it.
Thankfully, game two was a shorter affair, as both sides battled fatigue and emotional letdowns from the earlier contest. Once again The Elks, almost tied it up, but Mo's team finally prevailed 4-3, as Dave turned a brilliant double play to thwart any sort of comeback. Little Joe, a.k.a. Clete Boyer, played a terrific third base today.
Notes and quotes: Our short left field porch has now sucked up more balls than Paris Hilton. We collected some quick cash and Nelson (5 for 5 in game one) kindly volunteered to find us a bucket. We'll be facing this problem all season long. Jeff brought some sort of netting material that was originally designed to keep Mexicans from crossing the border, but for whatever reason, we chose not to use it, and so now, there are twelve guys named Jose looking for work on Springfield Blvd.
We all wish Sam good luck on his knee surgery this coming Tuesday. In spite of his constant pain, Sam managed to leg out a double today! He'll be on the DL for a while, but hopes to come down and umpire the upcoming games.
Newcomer Wilfredo finally ended his consecutive strike-out streak with a well hit ground ball that he almost ran out for an infield hit.
See ya next week!!
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Thanks Mitch for the report. On attendance today were Erwin, Lawman Matt, Mike, Parker, Ken, Andre, Pete, Matt, Jack, Dave, Russ, Big Joe, Jeff, Little Joe, George, Miguel, Wilfredo, Apache John, Nelson, Sam, Artie, Danny and yours truly.
Erwin has suggested the idea of preparing an emergency phone contact list in the event, God willing, someone should get injured and need medical assistance. I happen to agree with him and I will prepare some sort of form that you can email me back with your information. I'm also planning to buy a first aid kit that we're required to have anyhow.
See you guys next week!
Sunday, May 21, 2006
Elks sweep both ends of twin bill
By Mitch Weingart
Faced with blocked roads due to a local running event, twenty of us managed to find a way to the field and we got in our allotment of two games. This morning's biathlon literally threw us a hanging curve by blocking off roads leading to the entrance of our field. Some of us parked on Winchester Blvd., others on 73rd Ave. And we all had about a 10 minute trek to the field. I'm sure there must have been a few that got discouraged and didn't think to make the hike, guessing the field was off limits today.
Let me be the first to put my cell phone number out here (917) 215-5192. I know a few of you have it and had it not been for Big Joe rendezvousing with me I'd be the Wandering Jew of Alley Pond Park...still looking for today's softball game. If we set up a bit of a phone chain, or at least have access to other's numbers...we can keep in touch, in case of questionable weather, road blocks or lava flows that might block our path to the field.
Game one wasn't even a contest. After a Mammoth Marriot sponsored home run by Russell, the rest of his team must have checked out of their rooms, because seams came apart shortly thereafter for the M-Picks. Even The Beatles didn't have as many hits as the Elks did during their monstrous inning game one. Shock and awe! When the score reached 14-2, the M-Picks surrendered the game and we moved onto game two.
A better played game, it was a tightly played affair, one that the M-picks might have tasted victory, had I not booted Big Joe's grounder to first base....who, oddly enough was batting out of turn when Lula got hung up at the Mister Softee truck trying to pass a bad check. As fate would have it, Joe's grounder took an errant bounce as a small meteorite (which only I noticed by the way) deflected the ball's trajectory as it disintegrated just above the playing field. Unfortunately the go ahead runs crossed the plate as I choked on some cosmic debris. This gave a 6-5 lead to the Elks who chose not bring in Billy Wagner and thus were able to hang onto a well played victory.
Next weekend is Memorial Day, many of us will be outta town, including myself, but the game is still on schedule!! Have a great week!
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Thanks Mitch for the report. I didn't know you were versed in the military doctrine of rapid dominance; however the Elks sluggers didn't exhibit much power, on the contrary, they were happy to tally walks on balls. To make matters worse, the Elks couldn't field at all and defensively they resembled the woefully inept Bad News Bears; with the exception of Nelson who made two spectacular plays.
On attendance today: Mitch, Erwin, Danny, Big Joe, Nelson, Jack, Mike, Miguel, Lula, Yaquir, Matt, Russ, Ken, Little Joe, Artie, Jeff, Gary, Peter, Sam and the writer
Sunday, May 14, 2006
Elks Weather the Storm and Win 10-9 - Due to time constraints today's game report will be brief. We played a single nine-inning game. Even though early in the action, the M-Picks were victimized by the umpire's ignorance of the strike zone, it was a very competitive and well played game. Jeff who pitched superbly run out of gas in the eight inning and the M-Picks threatened with last minute heroics but came short. The player of the game was fleet footed Miguel who made a brilliant running catch in center field.
On attendance today: Erwin, Jack, Sam, Mitch, Artie, Mauricio, Raul, Mike, Mike II, Nelson, Matt, Russ, Miguel, Doug, Kenny, Little Joe, Fantasy Bill, Jeff, a newcomer, and the writer.
According to the rule book of the International Softball Federation, The strike zone is that space over any part of home plate that is between the batter's back shoulder and his knees when the batter assumes his natural batting stance.
Sunday, May 7, 2006
Big Joe's Return Sparks Sweep
by Mitch Weingart
Under another sun filled sky, the long ball dominated today's action, as Elks decimated the M-picks in both ends of today's double header. An early opposite field home by Little Joe was just a sign of things to come, as that dinger was later followed by an even longer blast by Big Joe, who blew his load , but still pitched a strong game one, earning his first victory of the season. The first inning was an entertaining one, as Loula, a newcomer at 3rd base, showed some real creative styling throwing the balls every which he could think of setting a new Windsor Park record for most goofy looking errors in one inning.
However, this was about the only highlight of the day for the M-picks who were thoroughly trounced afterwards...Mo had some problems with his control today, walking Erwin half-way back to New Jersey in game one, but pitched well in defeat.
The slaughter gathered momentum in game two, as the Elks pounded home eleven runs in the bottom of the first inning and never looked back. The M-picks searched unsuccessfully for some starting pitching the whole game. Artie, Joe21 and Mike and a refreshed Mo all got spanked by The Elks, who rode the effortless pitching of Jeff to victory. If not for Miguel's titanic solo shot later in the game, the M-picks would have been shut down entirely. Among the many homeruns in today's contest, Manny's opposite field shot is still blocking traffic on the Grand Central Parkway...
Next Sunday is Mother's Day, historically, we have a smaller turnout as many make alternate plans with their wives that don't involve softball. We do plan on playing. A few of us, including me will be leaving after game one. Let's get an early start, so we don't end up in the doghouse!! ...enjoy the week!
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Thanks Mitch for today's report. I don't know the final score of game two because I had to leave early, however game one ended 18-8 in favor of the Elks.
On attendance today were Artie, Danny, Big Joe, Russ, Dave, Jack, Joe 21, Mike, Parker, Matt, Yaquir, Erwin, Miguel, Mitch, Jeff, Pete, Loula, Sam, Manny, Little Joe, Nelson, Andre, a newcomer (didn't get his name) and yours truly. See you guys next week!
Sunday, April 30, 2006
M-Picks defeat Elks 18-9 - Opening day started with a flop but ended with a bang. Thank God! "Duct Tape" Sam's incredulous facial expressions said it all and for those of us who still remember that popular TV commercial some time ago with a mystified old lady we couldn't but notice the similarities: where is the beef... I mean, where is the permit? In any event after the initial setback we had a great time and played a nine-inning game.
SEASON GETS UNDERWAY AFTER INITIAL PERMIT FIASCO
By Mitch Weingart
Under bright sunny skies, our Windsor Park faithful showed up at field 2 only to find a bizarre situation of duplicated permits for the same field. "Duct Tape" Sam forgot to take his dresser with him to the ballgame, otherwise he would have had the permit with him... he had to run back home to retrieve the golden paper...only to discover that this field had already been committed to another league by a parks dept employee... probably now somewhere in the Cayman Islands with our 500 bucks!!
....after consulting with another parks dept employee, we relocated to nearby field #12, which fortunately was being vacated by a group of soccer players, otherwise we'd still be looking for a field, as I write this....
...Okay, so about an hour late, we actually take the field....It has the equivalent of Boston's Green Monster....we shifted the field a bit to compensate for the angle as we were dealing with a very short left field..., shots into the trees were automatically ruled as a ground rule double... Unless Erwin hits it...then it will count as a three run homer regardless of how many men are on base.
The game had some interesting moments....none of which had to do with anything dealing with the word "defensive" , as balls bounced in and out of gloves and off people's heads....and after my team fell behind, we rallied to tie the contest at 8 all...but the team lead by Mo's pitching prevailed by the score of 18-9... Mo also had an strong day at the plate, driving a ball deep into centerfield, only to be thrown out at home as he attempted to knock Jack into the adjoining parking lot....it sort of reminded me of watching the Queen Mary docking in port...(only slower...)..Kudos to Jack for hanging on to the balls...including his own.....and an all around good day behind the plate... (just ask Nelson!!)
In a losing effort, Russell drove in 5 runs with some clutch hitting...including a huge double with the bases loaded, keeping the game within reach at that time....
We welcomed some newcomers to the group today....Miguel and Angelo...both made some nice contributions...although Miguel runs way too fast for the rest of us....!! If Big Joe is ever on the bases in front of this kid...it's gonna be a race to the finish!!
We had the usual group of guys....good to see all of you back....Gary looking good, losing about 30-40 pounds over the winter....wish I could have done the same....maybe next winter!
...we are a few bucks short for the field permit...so, if you haven't give any money at all...next week would be a good time to cough it up....hopefully, Sam will have this permit issue resolved by mid week...and the person responsible for this fiasco will be buying us dinner at Uncle Jack's on Bell Blvd..... Look for a an update at this website later this week, before heading out to any particular field...or showing up at Uncle Jack's.... I don't know about you guys...but I'm gonna go see if I can find a bottle of Ibuprofen somewhere!
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Thanks Mitch for the recap!
Great crowd today! On attendance: Mitch, Russ, George, Kenny, Manny, Raul, Russ, Danny, Artie, Jose, Jack, Nelson, Sam, Pete, Dave, Gary, Joe 21, Little Joe, Matt, Mike, Erwin, Miguel, Angelo and the writer. See you all next week!
2005 SEASON IS OVER - End of year recap
by Mitch Weingart
The 2005 Windsor Park softball season came to a crashing thud a couple of Sundays ago, beneath sunny skies and mild temps, when only three players showed up. We reluctantly had to forfeit the field to three squirrels and a rabid raccoon, taking refuge two blocks away at Pete's Cafe for breakfast. Sam, Russell and this writer eagerly chowed down some greasy eggs, bacon and home fries, which I think are still rounding third base somewhere in my intestines.
This year was a bit mixed. We got off to a late start due to the permit mixup, that never got straightened out... And that lead to quite a few shortened and relocated games during the rest of the season. It was very frustrating for all of us. We collected a fair amount of money towards next year's permit, which is currently invested in a Crispy Kreme Hedge Fund, and worse case scenario, even if we don't have a permit, we'll have a dozen donuts to start the next year's season.
Competition wise, we played some great games with the usual cast of characters and a few new faces. Matt and Mike, Art and his son, Mauricio along with a few others who popped in and out all made this a memorable year. Our usual cast of characters were pretty rock solid this year. We played quite a few games calling balls and strikes, which met with mixed results, but everybody agreed it helped to move the game along.
I think we all need to refocus on the original intent of our league, which for me was to get out of doing laundry sunday morning...but also, to remember that it's just a game and we play it for fun. I personally don't care if I win or lose, as long as the games are competitive and nobody gets hurt. And speaking of injuries Sam certainly played thru his share of aches and pain this year, leading the league in rolls of duct tape consumed. Almost duplicating his spectacular MVP season from a year ago. But, after a close vote of the executive committee, this year's MVP award will be shared by two. Kenny and Lawman Matt both had spectacular seasons, providing skills on both sides of the field. One would be hard pressed to pick between either player this year and we find it fitting that they share the MVP twinkie trophy this year, both getting a piece of that golden cream filled cake. Congratulations to both.
Usually we have an end of the year party here at Windsor Park. A chance for a few of us to get together in a different light, without our gloves and cleats, but with family and friends. It's a tradition we'd like to keep alive, however this year, since the holidays fall in a weekend, we decided to put it off until the beginning of next year. Maurice will keep you informed as to the time and place and hopefully see you soon!
Have a great off-season, and keep in shape! Spring training is right around the corner!!
