December 29, 2007
TIME FOR NEW BEGINNINGS
[Taylor Addison, Blue Mountain Arts, 1989]
This is a time for reflection as well as celebration. As you look back on the past year and all that has taken place in your life…
Remember each experience for the good that has come of it and for the knowledge you have gained.
Remember the efforts you have made and the goals you have reached.
Remember the love you have shared and the happiness you have brought.
Remember the laughter, the joy, the hard work, and the tears.
And as you reflect on the past year, also be thinking of the new one to come.
Because most importantly, this is a time of new beginnings and the celebration of life.
Spirits are on high with 2007 knocking on our doors. It's time for new beginnings and fresh resolutions. Wishing you all a new year filled with exciting possibilities and all the rewards of true happiness.
Have a happy, healthy and prosperous 2008!
Let's extend our congratulations to Nelson who deservedly so is the 2007 Most Valuable Player.
December 2007
May the Holiday Season bring only happiness and joy to you and your loved ones.
Sunday, November 18, 2007
2007 Season brought to a close! I didn’t mind driving fifteen miles to get to the field today. I was optimistic that the weather will cooperate and we could play one more game before calling it quits. I waited eagerly for fifteen or twenty minutes but no one showed up. The season is officially over. Have a great Thanksgiving turkeys…I mean guys!
Just a note…Early in the MVP voting process players were selected based on their attendance record and seniority status. Then only those who received at least two votes were allowed to remain in contention. However it was brought to my attention that by error of omission I neglected to include one licit contender. I sincerely apologize for the mistake. Also a glitch allowed someone to vote twice for the same person. In order to fair and unbiased we’ll have to start afresh. Sorry for the inconvenience guys and please vote again!
Please vote again for the winner!
Sunday, November 11, 2007
Jack Frost Softball! Let me break you the good news… the softball season is not over yet. By this time of the year all indications should tell otherwise however thirteen diehards decided to defy Mother Nature and made it to the field today.
The infield was in poor playing condition, puddles everywhere, so after some futile grounds keeping attempts we decided to move to one of the adjacent fields within short walking distance and played there. We had a great time and played ball well passed siesta hour. The first game was a six-inning round robin contest and subsequently since two guys had to leave, we engaged in a pitting of wits employing a system with a designated pitcher that acted as umpire as well and six players per side. The first game ended 13-10-3 in favor of Nelson’s team. Little Joe’s squad captured game two in extra innings, an 11-10 contentious victory indeed.
In attendance today: Angelo, Vinny, Big Joe, Little Joe, Matt, Juan, Felix, Artie, Don, Nelson, Rob, Matt IV and the writer.
See you guys next week!
Sunday, November 04, 2007
Time for celebration! This statement may seem contradictory after the recent war of words and sequence of events that discombobulated our microcosm but Marathon Sunday triple header was a rather cordial showdown. First the M-Picks indulged in celebration by winning the first two games 6-3 and 9-0. Then it was the turn for the jubilant Elks who struggled badly but eventually managed to hang on to a victory defeating the M- Picks 13-12 in game three.
It wasn’t chilly today but the infield was in poor condition. The clay was virtually petrified and it was difficult to judge how the ball would bounce.
Some of the guys are ready to call it quits. Let’s wait and see, as long as the temperature stays above 50°F we can play.
Today’s lineups:
Elks: Manny, Nelson, Big Joe, Danny, Matt IV, Little Joe, Dave, Rob and Erwin.
M-Picks: Bald Mike, Matt, Jeff, Pat, Steve, Kenny, Felix, Artie and the writer.
Sunday, October 28, 2007
Erwin's swindling act! The Elks won both ends of today's twin bill 7-3 and 9-0 fair and square. However Juan's stellar pitching performance was tarnished by Elks captain's deceitful tactics during pre-game teams' selections by premeditatedly neglecting to disclose Juan's presence to the opposing captain after being asked regarding available pitchers. Let me be candid: in my book, that is a pathetic lack of sportsmanship... shame on you Erwin!
2007 season City of New York Parks & Recreation field permit fees were $552.00. Up to date we have collected $550.00 for 2008.
The mildly cold climatic conditions didn't affect attendance as in the past and we had another great turnout. Here are today's lineups:
Elks: Matt, Angelo, Juan, Ariwan, Vinny, Kenny, Little Joe, Dave, Rob, Sam and Erwin.
M-Picks: Warren, Pat, Big Joe, Nelson, Matt IV, Felix, Danny, Jonah, Alec, Steve and the writer.
See you guys next week!
Sunday, October 21, 2007
Mailman delivers! An estimated three hundred foot plus dinger by Nelson was today's highlight. Nelson's integrity had being questioned earlier by Big Joe on a play at first base but the slugger vindicated himself smashing the colossal homer. Isn't revenge sweet!
After four defeats in a row the Elks managed to savor finally a win routing the M-Picks 8-7 in game one. The joy over the victory however was rather swift and momentum never carried over game two; the M-Picks bounced back and won leisurely 6-1.
Before game time we were forced to do some grounds keeping due to recent torrent rains and poor field drainage conditions. Infielders had a hard time coping with the muddy turf and tricky grounders; a real adventure out there!
Today's lineups:
Elks: Bald Mike, Matt IV, Big Joe, Felix, Steve II, Little Joe, Sam and Erwin.
M-Picks: Matt, Nelson, Jeff, Danny, Scott, Dave, Artie, Russell and the writer.
See you guys next week!
Sunday, October 14, 2007
Jeepers Creepers... Mighty Jeff single-handedly beats ailing Elks! Ace hurler Jeff pitched lights out and contributed with his bat hitting a pair of three-run dingers, back to back doubles and drove a total of ten RBIs to defeat the Elks 4-2 and 16-5.
Also in today's twin bill, Nelson blasted a mammoth circuit clout to deep center and newcomer Felix hit a well placed looper in the gap. Defensively, Artie made a couple of brilliant plays in left field, Pat had two sensational diving catches in short and first baseman Scott turned an unassisted double play snaring a screaming line drive leaping to his right and tagging out the runner trying to get back to the bag, without a doubt that was the defensive play of the game... a catlike reaction by Scott!
On another note, our love and best wishes to Juan's daughter who was rushed to the hospital last night, she's only three years old, hoping and praying she'll get well soon.
Today's lineups:
Elks: Angelo, Rob, Big Joe, Danny, Matt IV, Little Joe, Alec, Artie, Erwin and Pat.
M-Picks: Bald Mike, Matt, Jeff, Nelson, Felix, Kenny, Dave, Scott, Sam and the writer.
Hey Guys... next week please don't forget to bring $25.00 for 2008 field permit. We're still $200 short. Thank you!
Sunday, October 7, 2007
M-Picks sweep! Without Erwin, their kinetic patriarch, the Elks looked disoriented and in rather tremulous fashion they succumbed to the M-Picks who seized both ends of today's twin bill by a score of 6-3 and 5-4 respectively. Game one was a walkover. The Elks were anemic and lackluster; however in game two their lassitude seemed to fade away and with three runs ahead a victory looked impending but the puissant M-Picks rallied in their last at bat and scored four runs to spoil the festivities.
The winner pitchers were finesse twirler Jeff and flame thrower Juan. Losing pitcher Big Joe pitched well also and had some excellent defense behind him, especially Mr. Showboat Pasquale, who was sporting a skin-tight soccer shirt to exhibit his chisel carved pectoral muscles. Anyhow, aside from any jocular remarks, Evander Holyfield... I mean Pat who made some outstanding plays at short, deservedly so is today's MVP. Outta boy!
Today's lineups:
Elks: Matt, Nelson, Vinny, Dave, Doug, Sam, Russ, Big Joe and Pasquale.
M-Picks: Bald mike, Angelo, Juan, Danny, Kenny, Scott, Jeff and Yours truly.
See you guys next week!
Sunday, September 30, 2007
A pair of well played games! As the Mets 2007 horrendous season comes to an end I'm writing today's game report heartily uninspired. We had one of the best turnouts of the season, great crowd indeed, and another twin bill ended in a split, five in a row thus far. The M-Picks won the opener 8-6 while the Elks took game two 6-4.
Last week Erwin informed us that we had two contrasting games. [This report was partially edited] Game one was a hitters' duel with a final score of 13-11 in favor of the M-Picks; however it was a better played game than the score would indicate.
Game two was a classic with Jeff and Big Joe at their best. The Elks came back from their game one defeat to win it 2-1.
Little Joe served as captain of the M-Picks. He was very vocal and played a flawless third base. He was joined by Scott, Dave, Bald Mike, Nelson, Juan, newcomer Vinny (a friend of Little Joe) and Big Joe who displayed great hitting prowess to go with his great pitching performance.
The Elks were manned by Matt, Alec, Angelo (great at short ) Sam (who continues to pound the ball), Artie ,Danny, Jeff who has made a complete recovery from his shoulder issues and pitched his best game in the past few years, Jose a newcomer playing an inspired third base and Erwin.
Turning back to today's events, the lineups were as follows
The Elks: Angelo, Pat, Big Joe, Matt III, Kenny, Jack, Russ, Artie, Vinny, Erwin, Jose, Manny II and Juan.
M-Picks: Matt, Bald Mike, Jeff, Nelson, Danny, Little Joe, Scott, Dave, Sam, Alec and yours truly.
See you guys next week!
Sunday, September 09, 2007
M-Picks split twin bill with Elks! As the summer approaches omega we have noticed a decline in attendance compared to previous years. Today was no different and only sixteen players made it to the field. Vacation time has always affected attendance but afterwards turnout tends to resurge. Hopefully that trait will prevail in 2007, however during the present season some of our regulars have been recurrently absent...just to mention a few names: our last year MVP Jack, our award winning reporter Mitch, Apache John, Manny, John 21, etc. Hey guys...we would really like to hear from you!
In today's double header, the Elks dropped the opener 9-6 and bounced back to take the second game 3-2. Even though he was the losing pitcher in game two, Sam is today's MVP. What a great performance! He had impeccable control but the umpire's strike zone was tight and he got squeezed on a few crucial counts. Just a reminder... as an umpire you judge the ball as it crosses the plate. It doesn't matter where the ball contacts the ground.
Today's lineups:
Elks: Pat, Jeff, Juan, Little Joe, Artie, Russell, Yakir and Erwin
M-Picks: Matt, Nelson, Scott, Big Joe, Dave, Sam, Alec and Maurice.
Monday, September 3, 2007
Wow...what a game baby! On a exhilarating, well played and quasi-historic game, the M-Picks turned four impressive double plays but came out of the small end of the horn after a promising tying two-out clutch hit by your humble servant, a gapper up the middle that sent the game into extra innings.
In the sixth inning "Mariano-wannabe" Pasquale took the mound and pitched two superb innings in relief but in the top of the ninth after a couple of defensive flubs he walked the bases loaded and ended up surrendering five runs to the Elks potent squad for the final score of 12-7.
The Elks put on a display of hitting prowess but also flashed some leather and turned a routine double play for a Windsor Park record breaking five double plays in a single game. The MVP was Jason, known for his tape-measure blasts, who was impressive in the field with some startling catches in left field. Game two was a non-contest and the M-Picks won easily 6-2.
Happy Labor Day!
Yesterday's lineups:
Elks: Matt, Jeff, Jason, Jonah, Dave, Russell. Sam and Erwin
M-Picks: Warren, Pat, Nelson, Danny, Kenny, Little Joe, Artie, Maurice and Scott
Guys... next week please bring $25.00 for 2008 permit. Thank you!
Sunday, August 26, 2007
Elks win both ends of twin bill! On a soggy Sunday morning, the Elks without the services of their captain Erwin won the opener 8-6 and took the second game 12-5 thanks to a brilliant pitching performance by Jeff whose arm seemed to have healed well and showed no ill effects whatsoever of the injury that was afflicting him lately.
On the mound for the M-Picks ace hurler Big Joe pitched well, however today he was unusually erratic with his control and walked too many batsmen loading the bases in several occasions. The M-Picks played poorly defensively and looked somewhat disoriented in the base paths making a series of running blunders.
The highlight of the game was Sam's acrobatic and graceful backhand flip to Pat at third to get the runner out. It was Ozzie-like wizardly! The sad note...the squabble between Danny and Joe. Will you guys stop bickering...it's embarrassing...show some sportsmanship!
Today's lineups:
Elks: Matt, Pasquale, Scott, Jack II, Danny. Sam, Dave, George and Jeff
M-Picks: Warren, Flushing Matt, Nelson, the writer, Lawman Matt, Kenny, Jonah and Big Joe
Sunday, August 12, 2007
Hot Pants! On a torrid Sunday morning, short stop Pasquale, exhibiting symptoms of sunstroke, futilely attempted to make a diving snag of a line drive but wound up performing a quite exotic strip-tease dance move by ripping his baggy pants at the seams. It was a real ugly sight but it caused lots of laughter among the spectators with the exception of an aroused octogenarian bystander that was walking her dog. The signora seemed extremely concerned about the well being of our teammate and wanted to closely examine his groin to make sure he didn't permanently injure his private parts. It took some effort to persuade her otherwise but once someone inferred he was hermaphrodite she desisted immediately. Thank God!
Anyhow, we had another twin bill split. The M-Picks won the opener 10-1 and the Elks took the night cap 9-7. The squads were arranged as follows:
Elks: Matt, Pat, Big Joe, Kenny, Pete, Sam, Russell and Erwin.
M-Picks: Mike, Jeff, Nelson, Danny, Scott, Edwin, George and the writer.
Ciao bambini!
Sunday, August 05, 2007
Mercy Rule takes effect! Game one was brought to an early end after only three innings of play when the M-Picks pummeled the Elks 15-0. It was a sluggerfest! Kenny blamed the CF12 corker clincher for his team's fiasco so in game two we went back to the regular F16 clincher. I won't argue that is a livelier ball however we have already used this year the F12G gold clincher in several occasions and that ball can really go a long way as well.
Anyhow the strategy seemed to work for the Elks that took the night cap 11-4 in seven innings. Today the guys flashed some leather. Pat and Dave made some circus catches at short; and Nelson was Andruw Jones in center field; just superb!
Today's lineups:
Elks: Matt, Kenny, Jeff, Dave, Danny, Edwin, Ed, Erwin and Pete.
M-Picks: Luis, Pat, Nelson, Big Joe, Scott, Little Joe, Sam and the writer.
Sunday, July 29, 2007
Hot Stuff! We were short-handed again and we had to revert to the three-team round robin tourney. We only played a six-inning game due to the intense heat and humidity. At the end...everyone was fatigued and exhausted.
In attendance were Erwin, Pat, Nelson, Danny, Little Joe, Big Joe, Lawman Matt, Dave, Sam, George, Luis, Kenny, Scott, Artie, Pete (stayed for batting practice only) and the writer.
It was an extremely competitive game. Among the highlights... Scott has become a hitting machine, the man is red hot! There were also three defensive gems: an over the shoulder basket catch by second baseman Kenny in short center, a diving stretch by first baseman Nelson to get Sam out after the writer air mailed a ball that had ricocheted off Erwin's leg at third and a chopper to third off Danny's bat that could had become the first triple play ever in WP Softball history.
See you guys, next week!
Sunday, July 22, 2007
Where is everybody? Due to time constraints today's report will be succinct.
According to Big Joe, last week we had a great turnout and the M-Picks won both games of the twin bill 10-9 and 19-13. This week however since a lot of the guys were off on vacation, just twelve guys made it to the field and we were forced to implement the three-team round robin setup with Bald Mike, Luis and Matt as captains. In attendance also were Nelson, Scott, Jason, Danny, Kenny, Dave, Sam, Edwin and the writer.
See you guys, next week!
Sunday, July 08, 2007
Sweating Bullets! After a relative mild summer, this morning was rather hot and muggy, a sort of early reminder of the upcoming dog days of August. We played a couple of six-innings games. The M-Picks won the opener 14-11 and the Elks took care of the night cap 8-7.
In attendance were Lawman Matt, Yakir, Pat, Edwin, Kenny, Jeff, Dave, Artie, Gary, Erwin, Luis, Matt, Steve, Nelson, Big Joe, Little Joe, Sam and the writer.
Last week Pat left his glove at the field. Please contact him at BLADEPRO2000@YAHOO.COM. Some of the guys were having problems opening the video clips so I compressed the movie files. Today I tried the compact format but the size is too small. Better luck next time.
Sunday, July 01, 2007
War of Words! Elks win 14-13 and the backwash of a controversial play at home plate taints the elation of Sam's majestic grand slam. The play in question aroused immediate suspicion because the ball hit Erwin's glove and then sprang back allowing his teammate to score and tie the game. Wellthey say that there are three sides to every story: your version, his/her version and the truth. You be the judge! Anyhow, I believe that a little common sense could have prevented the whole episode from escalating but regardless of the actions of Big Joe or Erwin, this is a gruesome display of lack of sportsmanship and camaraderie; a sad day for WP Softball indeed!
In attendance today: Matt, Luis, Nelson, Scott, Sam, Big Joe, Pete, Lawman Matt, Steve, Pat, Jason, Little Joe, Dave, Artie, Erwin and the writer.
Sunday, June 24, 2007
Put it in the books... M-Picks Win!
Due to time constraints, today's game report will be abbreviated. First, we would like to wish Danny a speedy recovery who last week while catching a fly ball fractured a finger. It is a similar injury to the one sustained by Dave a couple of years ago. Danny... we hope to see you back in action soon! Also this morning during batting practice, Kenny injured his leg... probably a hamstring pull.
The M-Picks took both ends of today's twin bill defeating the Elks 4-3 and 9-4 respectively. We had a great turnout, and thanks to Sam's efforts we regained part of our outfield after Parks got rid of some of the weeds and vegetation and also cut down the grass. Good job Sam!
Today's game highlights were a couple of mammoth blasts by Ray and Manny, Steve's spectacular catches in center field and Jeff's lively fastball. Also Luis showed up with his photographic equipment and took a few snap shots. We also posed for a new group picture. Artie sporting a brand new Sony camera also kept clicking the shutter. Guys... just email me those captured moments so I can post them in our website.
The lineups
Elks: Manny, Steve, Big Joe, Edwin, Artie, Little Joe, Scott, Gary, Erwin, Yakir, Carlos and Luis.
M-Picks: matt, Pasquale, Jeff, Nelson, Jason, Kenny, Sam, Dave, Jack, Maurice, Ray and Lawman Matt.
Sunday, June 17, 2007
Danny Gives Us the Finger!
By Mitch Weingart
This year's Father's Day doubleheader was a shortened five and four inning sun soaked affair that saw the M-Picks and Elks slugging it out for a split decision.
Game one was dominated by Big Joe, who pitched his way to victory, 8-6, aiding the cause with his very own three run dinger well over the heads of two outfielders reaching in vain for the blast. In spite of Joe's blazing speed, the relay to the plate was just a few seconds short of its mark...and by the time Big Joe crossed the plate, it was almost time for lunch!! Nevertheless, it was a big blow for the Elks, who hung on for the well deserved victory, as Joe coerced a final ground ball out with the tying runs on base. Today's virtual game ball goes to Big Joe..!!! There were also homers by Matty...and by that new guy in the "Saints" shirt...and if I forgot any other big hits...sorry!
I saw a lot of new faces today...., too bad I don't remember their names....my bad!!
Unfortunately, the game was marred by an early injury to Danny, the damage to the ring finger on his right hand needed immediate medical attention ....a possible torn tendon, a dislocation or some kind of bone shattering boo-boo that may require a few weeks to heal...it didn't look all that good......Danny, let us know how yer doing.....
Game two saw the M-picks go to their Ace in the Hole...Sam...who after a rough outing last week...came back with vengeance as he pitched his way to a solid 11-5 victory......keeping the Elks off stride with a funky delivery, masked by clouds of cumulous cigar smoke and disconcerting sections of loose duct tape protruding from various body parts....Sam delivered a solid game....The Elks couldn't get the key hits they wanted...or the plays they needed in the field to keep it close.
Congratulazioni to Pasquale...who seemed to have a magnet in his glove at third base.....snagging several well hit line drives all day long...if not for those plays...who knows how many runs the M-picks might have plated. And we forgive him for that lousy ending to the Sopranos....
...Hope all you dads hadda happy day! see ya next week!!
Today's lineups
Elks: Matt, Ronnie, Big Joe, Ray, Pete, Artie, Mitch, Parker, Erwin and Pasquale.
M-Picks: Luis, Carlos, Edwin, Nelson, Kenny, Danny, Dave, Sam, Maurice, Jason and Rich.
Sunday, June 10, 2007
M-Picks sweep!
Under overcast skies and unseasonable moderate weather, the M-Picks win both ends of today's doubleheader 12-5 and 7-6. Before the initial first pitch, the green thumb contingent commanded by Jeff proceeded to manicure the turf and clear some of the noxious vegetation out in left field. Kenny enjoyed the pasture assignment so much that he kept weeding out while playing in the outfield.
Game one was no contest. The M-Picks disposed of the Elks effortlessly. Jeff who was bothered by a sore shoulder during this past week and was questionable to take the mound, showed no ill effects and pitched superbly keeping the big hitters at bay; e.g. Manny who had a lackluster performance at the plate. Except for Pasquale at third who flashed some leather, the Elks defense was also shaky and erratic. Meanwhile the M-Picks hitters had no trouble seeing the ball and it turned out to be an unmerciful slugfest; frozen rope after frozen rope...just relentless.
Game two meanwhile, it was more competitive. The M-Picks took the early lead but the Elks bounced back and got ahead 6-4. The turning point of the game was in the bottom of the fifth inning. The M-Picks would tie the game with a harmless little grounder by Artie that would go through first baseman Erwin's legs; a mirror image of Bill Buckner's 1986 World Series mishap. Then in the bottom of the sixth with the bases loaded, after intentionally walking Lawman Matt, the M-Picks would put the Elks out of their misery with a well stroke line drive by center fielder Matt, today's unquestionable MVP. Matt not only had a great day at the plate, going eight for nine, but also made some outstanding running catches in the outfield...and stole home.
Next week due to Father's Day will only play one game. Hasta la vista!
Today's lineups
Elks: Manny, Yakir, Big Joe, newcomer Steve, Pasquale, Little Joe, Scott, Sam, Mark and Erwin.
M-Picks: Lawman Matt, Matt, Jeff, Nelson, Danny, Kenny, Jason, Dave, Artie, Maurice and late arrival Pete.
Sunday, June 03, 2007
Another Twin-Bill Split!
After falling to the M-Picks 14-1 in the opening game of today's antemeridian doubleheader the Elks, in the absence of their hawkish-tempered captain, roared back to take a 9-1 victory in the nightcap.
Both games were curtailed inning-wise. In game one, Sam who always appears poised on the mound, was unusually wild and erratic with his pitches and couldn't find the strike zone. The game seemed to drag on until the fifth inning when, Danny, the acting captain, decided to concede it --imploring the mercy rule-- after the M-Picks scored seven runs. Game two was stopped abruptly at the end of the third inning due to lack of players.
The defensive play of the game was Pasquale's diving snag of a line drive at third base, however, shame on him for not running the grounder in his last at bat for an ending double play. The winning pitchers were Artie and the writer.
See you guys next week! Please try to make it on time so we can start the first game at 9:05 a.m.
Today's lineups
Elks: Sam, Luis, Bald Mike, Angelo, Artie, Dave, Danny, Nelson and newcomers Ronnie and Edward.
M-Picks: Little Joe, Manny, Matt, Carlos, Jason, Kenny, Scott, Russell, Pasquale and Maurice.
Monday, May 28, 2007
Today we pause to remember all those who made the ultimate sacrifice for this nation, the fallen warriors who never came home to their families and friends. Liberty is a precious gift whose benefits we all enjoy every day, but too often we give little thought to the price paid for it. Memorial Day is the one day each year on which we reflect on the tremendous sacrifices made by our fellow countrymen.
Monday Memorial Day attendees: Parker, Danny, Sam, Little Joe, Angelo, Pat, Kenny, Artie, Luis, Carlos, Matt, Bald Mike and yours truly. After batting practice we played a five-inning three team round robin.
Sunday, May 27, 2007
M-Picks and Elks...Lickety-split!
By Mitch Weingart
In two brisk games played amidst pollen infested skies, the M-Picks prevailed in game one 6-4, as the Elks took the noon-cap 11-7. What looked to be a sparse turnout at first, ended up with just the right number of players, give or take 18 or 19 guys showed up. Everybody had ample turns at bat, and plenty of opportunities to hit into double plays...right, Mo?
Game one was a nail biter, decided in the last inning, as Manny, who had earlier hit a mammoth opposite field three run dinger....failed to provide heroics in his last at bat, flying out to right field into what became a double play as the normally speedy Yakir was caught at the plate attempting an ill advised tag from third.
Defensive highlights of the game included a leaping, snow cone catch by Kenny in left field and some great stops by Jack at third basealbeit in batting practice...so what if they didn't count....
Game two featured a strong comeback by a determined Elks team, who battled back against Big Joe, pitching his normally strong game in spite of some differences in opinion with the plate umpire. After falling behind early, the Elks tied it up with a clutch homer by newcomer Luis Ramone (no relation to Joey Ramone...I asked!!)...who in addition to sporting a coordinated baseball outfit....also made at least three terrific plays in centerfield and therefore, receives today's virtual game ball.
Also under consideration was Jeff, who pitched his usual strong game...as well as Dave, who had numerous hits and several nice plays in the field. On the other end of the spectrum, we have our designated caterer, Nelson, who presented us with a practically empty bag of peanuts!! ...even the squirrels were saying: "what's up with that??"...and then there was Pete...who left at the conclusion of batting practice (is that a Windsor Park first?) claiming he had some other plans but was clearly upset about the peanut situation.
If you are reading this Sunday nite....there are intentions to get together for an early game tomorrow...Monday morning.... I may not be there...but have a good rest of the holiday...and take a moment to give a thanks to the men and women in uniform who have kept us free to pursue some of life's pleasures like softball...and peanuts...
Sunday, May 20, 2007
Elks win opener 9-5
Exactly a year ago Mitch wrote: "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."
Well, that is exactly what happened today. No wonder history repeats itself. And for those of you a bit infatuated with statistics, out of today's seventeen attendees, eleven reenacted the hike. Not bad!
In game one, the Elks -without their captain- deservedly won the opener 9-5. Big Joe pitched lights outs and the Elks defense was outstanding. With the exception of Pasquale who likes to hyperbolize his performance with daring artifices, the M-Picks looked sluggish and their bats were simply inanimate. In the night cap the M-Picks played better and were ahead but Pasquale, ala Mariano, pitching in relief failed to get the save and with the bases loaded walked the tying run. We played a couple of extra innings and called a game for the first tie of the season.
Note: Next week is Memorial Day weekend and we'll be playing on Monday too so get ready for two days of hot intense action. Wow, back to back!
Today lineups
Elks: Big Joe, Lawman Matt, Matt, Nelson, Dave, Danny, Jack and Sam.
M-Picks: Maurice, Bald Mike, Angelo, Pat, Kenny, Scott, Artie, Little Joe and late arrival Pete.
Sunday, May 13, 2007
M-Picks win both ends of Twin Bill. On Mother's Day, with a brilliance pitching and hitting performance by Jeff, the M-Picks dispose of the Elks relatively easily by a score of 7-6 and 9-1 respectively.
Game one was competitive and had to go into extra innings after the M-Picks drove in three runs in their last at bat to tie it. Elks' ace pitcher Big Joe was a bit erratic in the early going but seemed to regain his control, however he ran out of gas rather quickly and the M-Picks potent lineup took advantage.
In game two the same trend continued. The Elks couldn't regroup and the M-Picks took care of business again. They kept playing solid defense and hitting the ball hard.
The defensive play of the game was Matt II spectacular diving catch in right field. Artie also made a brilliant running catch in left field. In addition Kenny caught one by the green monster and Jack snatched a line drive behind second base. Nelson and Matt had the dubious distinction of striking out and there were a couple of disputed plays at third base.
Today's lineups
Elks: Big Joe, Lawman Matt, Matt, Matt II, Kenny, Little Joe, Sam, Jack and Erwin.
M-Picks: Jeff, Mike, Luis, Nelson, Scott, Artie, Dave, Parker and Maurice.
Sunday, May 06, 2007
TRIPLE HEADER
M-Picks 13-11; Elks 5-2 and 12-5
Controversy Rules in game one
By Mitch Weingart
Wind and weirdness set the tone for today's first game, as the M-Picks squeezed out a last minute victory in extra innings, 13-11. A strong jet stream wrecked havoc amongst the fielders today, as any balls popped in the air took on a life of their own. Most notable among the pop ups was a disputed infield fly rule, which caused some confusion as Lawman Matt ended up being gunned down at third base on a close call, while Nelson was speed walking towards home plate. Based on a few of my Google searches, it seems that the rule can only be called by the umpire; which it wasn't, not the fielders...or the runners; which it was. In reality, the play, like most others that we see...was not a given....and as the ball became entangled in the wind currents.....it dropped a foot from an anguished Danny, who couldn't make the play. However, in a rare Windsor Park moment, cooler heads prevailed and the game proceeded with just some minor arguing and a minimum amount of bloodshed.
This wasn't exactly the case later on, when Gary was caught batting out of turn, in place of newcomer Scott...and after taking one pitch...Joe jumped all over the situation...and Gary was disposed of quicker than Don Imus at the Apollo Theatre. I can't recall that rule being invoked in the past but, I think it's one of the Ten Commandments and nobody is going to have to be reminded of it next week. Again, I was pleased to see the rule bent for Scott, who was given his turn at bat the following inning...keeping the true sprit of our game alive...for at least another week.
Despite some goofy fielding moments by both sides, there were some sparkling plays...most memorable was Artie's catch of a scorching fly ball in left field...
The game seesawed back and forth and after seven regulation innings was tied at 11 each. In overtime, the M-Picks rallied, lead to victory by their copious, yet courageous captain. Stepping up to the plate to drive in the go ahead run with a clutch hit and then making two outstanding plays in the field in the bottom half of that same inning as the Elks were mounting a comeback. Mo gets the virtual game ball for today's effort.
Thank you Mitch, for your eloquent report...
Today's team lineups:
Elks: Manny, Bald Mike, Danny, Luis, Gary, Matt 2, Scott, Dave, Sam, Jeff and Erwin.
M-Picks: Lawman Matt, Matt, Nelson, Kenny, Big Joe, Pete, Jack, Little Joe, Artie, Mitch and Maurice.
Sunday, April 29, 2007
Game Report by Joe Kuceluk
Jeff and I chose sides. Jeff's team was managed by Irwin and had ten players - the two Matts, Yakir, Pat, Danny, Scott, Doug and Jack. My team had Manny, Richy, Nelson, Kenny, Dave, Artie, Little Joe and two new guys - Louis and James. The first game was won by Irwin's boys 10 - 6 in six innings. There were home runs and great catches especially by Matt (not the attorney) and Richy. Matt the lawman also popped a blast. But the highlight was my blast over Yakir's head that landed for a triple. It should have been a homer but he's too fast and I'm too slow. Yakir also illustrated his speed by coming home from second on a sacrifice flyball out. Jeff pitched very well, striking out batters and keeping hitters off balance.
The second game was won by Joe's team (M-Picks) 8-4 in six ininngs. Louis, who saw our site on the web, hit and fielded very well and will be a regular player. James, who also came on board for the first time, played well at all positions especially at first base with a diving play on a foul ball. He hit well also and will return for games with some of his friends. Welcome aboard Louis and James.
Due to time constraints this report was not edited.
Sunday, April 22, 2007
Manny blasts two homers. M-Picks win Opening Day game 19-18. After two wintry weekends, Mother Nature finally expressed sympathy and blessed us with beautiful sunny skies; a perfect weather for playing ball and certainly for chasing dogs. And aside for the heated exchange during batting practice between Big Joe and the owner of a playful canine, everything went kosher, or as Mitch would put it "peirfect". In a somewhat facetious manner, Erwin --referring to the unfortunate incident-- and an I-man follower, made a similar observation to convey a verbal image of the bitch; however he never clarified who he was alluding to... I guess the mutt.
Now gearing our attention to the game, we witnessed a marvelous game. The Elks that finished the 2006 season with an impressive 24-16-2 got ahead 11-0 but the resilient M-Picks never abdicated and came back twice. It was a team effort, everyone contributed. Meanwhile, game two never got consummated. We only played an inning and some of the guys had to leave.
Also be noted that we have made a modification to our rules and regulations regarding rule 21 left field cones. Read our rules and regulations for more details.
Today's lineups
Elks: Gary, Richie (what an arm! two outstanding throws from center field right on the money), Lawman Matt (still looking for the guilty party to sue), Danny, Little Joe (thanks for the equipment bag), Artie, Scott and Erwin.
M-Picks: Big Joe (anger management therapy in the horizon), Manny (two colossal dingers), Matt (game winning hit), Jack, Sam (carrying a defective chip as per Erwin), Dave, Parker, Yakir (in mid season form patrolling the outfield) and the writer (great defensive play at third).
See you guys next week!
Sunday, April 15, 2007
Nor'easter diluvium! Workout cancelled.
Sunday, April 8, 2007
Oops! -- Well, we wrongly reported that the workout was cancelled but Dan the Man informed us that the cold weather didn't deter the seven magnificent (Dan, Matt, Mike, Sam, Scott, Joe and Pat) from making it to the field.
Sunday, April 1, 2007
Play ball! -- On a hazy Palm Sunday morning, the 2007 softball season got underway. Eleven diehards made it to the field for the first workout of the year, and after a strenuous batting practice session they played a six-inning friendly to get the rust off.
Sunday, March 4, 2007
We are in the process of renewing our field permit. Opening day is just around the corner. We look forward to another exciting season... By the way, this is our tenth year in existence. Time flies!
