December 2009
We would like to wish you all a joyous holiday season.
Sunday, November 22, 2009
Preseason Showdown: Mozzarella Sticks Prevail
by Maurice Novelle
Our season officially came to an end today, and what better way to cap it off with a great turnout; nineteen guys convened at the playing field.
In anticipation to next year’s blood-curdling rivalry between the Mozzarella Sticks and the Bazooka Joes we played a friendly Thanksgiving double-header. The potent Mozzarella Sticks lineup walked away with the turkey beating easily the Bazooka Joes 12-5 and 10-1 to take both ends of the twin bill.
The player of the game was Fantasy Bill who hit four triples. The defensive play of the game was Russ awesome backhand nab to turn a flawless 4-6-3 double play. And the line of the day was Roly’s funny remarks regarding Artie’s jersey resembling Freddy Krueger’s shirt. That was priceless!
In attendance were Little Joe, Angelo, Matt, Nelson, Roly, Kenny, Wally, Russ, Cathy, Felix, Dario, Bill, Brendan, Sal, Doug, Artie, Jose, Tommy and the writer.
Hey guys...have a turkey-fic Thanksgiving time feasting with your friends and family. Hope you all have a great holiday. Happy Thanksgiving!
Sunday, November 15, 2009
See you later, alligator!
by Maurice Novelle
The infield was in such bad shape that all our efforts to make it somewhat playable turned up futile. We’ll have to figure out something with drainage for next year. At the end we had no other choice but to rotate the field direction and set home plate in right field as to avert dealing with the massive puddles and treacherous sticky mud.
Before starting the game, an emotional Erwin reminisced and duly said goodbye to his comrades in arms while posing for a final snap shot with them. What a crowning moment!
Thirteen guys adventured this morning to Alley Pond Park to play a seven-inning round robin tourney. The teams were formed as followed: the Latinos with Nelson, Roly, Russ, Artie and the writer, the Italians with Joe 21, Pasquale, Vito and Tommy, and the Gringos with Erwin, Angelo, Little Joe and Brendan.
The final score was 13-9-4. The Latinos were the winning team, followed closely by the Gringos while surprisingly enough the powerful Italian lineup finished dead last. Joe 21 as always flashed the leather at third making a couple of great diving stabs, but the play of the game without a doubt was Tommy’s dazzling tag to get Angelo out at second.
Everyone agreed to keep playing as long as the weather cooperates so I’ll post another poll sometime in mid week to keep track of likely attendance. Stay tuned guys!
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
One more game!
by Maurice Novelle
All of a sudden everyone seems reluctant to call it quits. Last Sunday the nice weather and Nelson’s skillful pleading resurrected the appetite on some of the guys to stretch the season a little bit longer.
The weather forecast for this coming Sunday is cloudy skies with temperatures in the low 60’s. Saturday is supposed to rain all day so as expected the field will have a few noticeable puddles. Taking all that into consideration, let’s find out how many guys are willing to show up anyway. Take the poll!
Little Joe 's game report for Sunday, November 8, 2009
Since our game on Sunday came about mostly because of the motivation from Nelson, our long lost mailman, I'll try to satisfy his request and recap the game. No infommercial video, however. You reprobates will have to read this.
With the promise of spring-like weather, and the promise of many willing players, ten guys showed up Sunday morning hoping for something resembling softball. We decided on a 3 on 3 on 3 game with Kenny as official pitcher. Big Joe arrived midway ( it was somewhat like a reunion day, Joe 21 showed up, too! ) and took over the pitching, with Kenny moving to 1st. Thanks to both of them for being such good sports.
Highlights? Well, Nelson made everyone suspicious of his claims to injuries because he played in his normal MVP style, hitting ropes and playing both ss and cf. Joe 21 can still hit, in case anyone was worried. Roly had a great stick as well, but more importantly he and Russ kept us laughing. One of Russ, green monster singles flushed out a rabbit from behind a tree. Fortunately, his kids arrived too late to witness Daddy being mean to "Baseball Bugs". Tommy made a great pivot at 2B to execute the game's only Double Play. Artie sprayed the ball around the field as usual. Newcomers Brendan and Wally played solid ball and showed they know this game. We hope they they continue to come around. As for me, well, all I did was captain the team of Nelson, Wally and myself to victory. I completed the trifecta of New York Italian/American Joe's who win games: Joe Torre, Joe Girardi, and Little Joe.
There was talk about trying to get another game in if the weather cooperates. It's a bit much to hope for another day as beautiful as last Sunday, but you never know. If it looks feasible we can e-mail each other again. Let's keep our fingers crossed.
For Windsor Park softball, this is Little Joe signing off.
Sunday, November 1, 2009
Season over – Farewell Erwin!
by Maurice Novelle
On a hazy NYC Marathon Sunday morning Joe 21, Erwin, Scott, Little Joe, Artie and the writer arrived at field 12 with the eager expectation of playing one more game before calling it quits.
No luck! And another season has come to an end... indeed. This one is especially sad because we have to say goodbye to a dearest friend of ours, someone who throughout our softball league’s existence, thirteen years to be exact, has delighted us with his charismatic presence, a rare blend of recondite and down-to-earth affability with levelheaded competiveness. That is why he deserves to be our first hall of famer.
We’re gonna miss you Erwin! Shalom bro!
Sunday, October 25, 2009
One Last Plead!
by Maurice Novelle
Well another great day to play ball and only four guys (Scott, Little Joe, Artie and the writer) made it to the field. It looks like this season is over. Next week, unless people show up, we’ll call it quits.
One last plead guys! Those of you who haven’t yet contributed towards next year’s field permit PLEASE DO SO. If you have any questions contact me. Thank you!
As you are aware, Erwin is moving to Florida. We would like to wish the old fart the best of luck. I understand he'll be joining a senior citizens' league out there. Little Joe will take over as captain and his team will be The Bazooka Joes. M-Picks will also cease to exist with Erwin's departure and the team will be named The Mozzarella Sticks.
Sunday, October 18, 2009
Today's game was rained out.
Sunday, October 11, 2009
Surging M-Picks Pound Elks 13-7
by Maurice Novelle
We had another great day to play ball but only fourteen guys made it to the field, and with the exception of Nelson and Pete that are on the DL (Roly and Tommy were unavailable today) everyone was wondering about the whereabouts lately of some of our regulars. Where is “Salchichón” Big Joe? …as affectionately Russ likes to call him. Where is our lead start reporter Mitch? How about Lawman Matt, Bald Mike, Matt, Joe 21, Pasquale, Danny, Fantasy Bill, Dave and Luis? …and I can keep going. Hey…we need a sign of life from you guys.
On attendance today were Erwin, Juan, Brendan, Kenny, Russ, Omar, newcomer Wally, Jeff, OD, Doug, Little Joe, Artie, Alec and the writer.
Once again, please remember to contribute toward next year’s field permit if you haven’t done so. Right now we’re still a couple of hundred dollars short. Thank you kindly for your cooperation in this matter.
Sunday, October 4, 2009
Hey guys…it’s time to chip in!
by Maurice Novelle
Let me be short and to the point! As the 2009 season winds out and with only a handful of games left to play, we have not yet collected the required funds to cover for next year’s field permit. I don’t want to sound like a broken record but without your contributions our league will cease to exist. Please next week come in and bring $25, that’s not even a buck a Sunday. Thank you!
In attendance today were Kenny, Jeff, Tommy, Little Joe, Roly, Juan, Russ, Artie, Omar, Doug and the writer.
Sunday, September 27, 2009
Today's game was rained out.
Sunday, September 20, 2009
2010 Season in Jeopardy Unless You Act Now
by Maurice Novelle
L'Shanah Tovah…
Happy Rosh HaShanah to our Jewish friends!
Last Sunday the game was rained out because the field was in deplorable condition due to the heavy downpours during the week. The previous week we hosted our annual barbecue and we had a great turnout.
Today in comparison it was a ghost town, just barely eight guys made it to the field and the obvious question is…where was everyone? But aside from nonattendance there is an urgent matter that needs prompt attention. We need to raise sufficient funds for next year field permit otherwise our league existence will be at peril.
Please this coming Sunday make an effort, show up and bring $25. Much obliged!
Sunday, September 13, 2009
Today's game was rained out due to poor field conditions.
Sunday, September 6, 2009
No game report today due to time constraints. We had our annual barbecue... great turnout... and the M-Picks win both ends of double header. What could be better!
Sunday, August 30, 2009
M-Picks come around to draw split
by Maurice Novelle
The Elks had already beaten the M-Picks 5-3 in the opener of today’s twin bill, and with a four run lead in game two, they were almost certain of a clean sweep. However the M-Picks were not ready to throw the towel, and inspired by Angel’s colossal jack off Lefty that landed well behind Matt’s reach in deep far center field, they rallied and bounced back to walk away with an incredible come from behind 7-6 victory.
With the bases loaded, and already in extra innings, Bald Mike hit a sharp grounder through the middle to bring home Artie for the decisive run. In the bottom of the sixth, Jeff’s frozen rope to right drove in two runs to tie it, but the crucial play clearly was Tommy’s at bat that walked with two men out to load the bases. What a great game!
The player of the game was Angel who carried a big bat and made some terrific catches in left field. Great performance! Also Vernie flashed the leather with a sensational diving catch at short to rob Billy and Lefty put on a power display with some long shots.
On attendance today: Red, Vernie, Matt, Lefty, Kenny, Jonah, Cheeks Gabriel, Middle Village Mike, Little Joe, Eddie, Big Red, Jeff, Bald Mike, Felix, Danny, Doug, Russ, Angel, Fantasy Bill, Artie, Tommy, Carlos and the writer.
Next week is the BBQ. I’ll bring some Doritos, cheese sauce and peanuts.
Sunday, August 23, 2009
Doubleheader split in the rain
by Maurice Novelle
The sporadic downpours didn’t dissuade the diehards of driving to the field and we had a great turnout. The Elks without their captain, once again, took the opener 4-1 and the M-Picks would win the nightcap 7-4.
Game one was a gem, well pitched by both sides, and with the exception of a misplayed line drive in right field in the first inning that resulted in three unearned runs, the teams were balanced and evenly matched.
In game two the M-Picks bats finally awaked with four runs in an inning. The Elks fell behind by six runs and tried to put together a last minute comeback attempt aided by two controversial calls by the officiator in charge, but it was already too late. The player of the game was Show who put on a “show” on the mound and with the bat. Great all around performance!
On attendance today were Jeff, Dario, Felix, Doug, Russ, Cathy, Cheeks, Angel, Kenny, Red, Lefty, Tommy, Carlos, Artie, Joe 21, Matt, Mauricio, Jose, Roly, John, Middle Village Mike, Sal, Show and the writer.
Regarding the barbecue… everyone insisted on having it next week. So next week bring something to chow and gulp. If you have any questions, please contact Roly at rlopez@camelotgrp.com.
Ciao bambini!
Sunday, August 16, 2009
Juan throws doubleheader shutout!
by Maurice Novelle
The torrid weather didn't seem to bother ace hurler Juan who mowed down effortlessly the M-Picks and probably showcased his best pitching of the season to win both ends of today’s twin bill 12-0 and 6-0. An outstanding pitching performance by Juan indeed! It was also the first time in WP Softball history that a team ends blanking the opposition in both games of a doubleheader. Juan had to leave earlier and was relieved one inning by Felix while southpaw twirler Artie pitched the remaining two innings.
The offensive player was Roly who had some huge clutch hits.
In attendance today were Juan, Bald Mike, OD, Felix, Artie, Kenny, John, Roly, Russ, Tommy, Jeff, Matt, Jose, Fantasy Bill, Sal, Little Joe, Big Joe, Cathy and the writer.
See you guys next week!
Sunday, August 2, 2009
Game Rained Out!
by Maurice Novelle
Well, no one should question my devotion now. Last Sunday, after checking the weather forecast, I decided to cancel the game and was fiercely criticized. At the end it turned out to be a decent morning and thirteen guys showed up for a round robin.
Today the weather man anticipated exactly the same prognosis than last week... no rain in the horizon until noon time. Guess what! I drove all the way to Queens and when I arrived at the field at 8:45 a.m. it was lightly raining. I waited ten minutes, I didn’t see any of my compeers and I drove off. Shucks, the mutts were really having a good time in the rain!
Next week I won’t be around so make sure someone brings bases. See you guys in two weeks!
Sunday, July 19, 2009
Elks win both games despite Pat’s blunders!
by Maurice Novelle
Due to timing constraints today’s report will be brief.
Game one was a one-sided affair. The Elks played better and clearly dominated the lifeless M-Picks to walk away with an easy 15-3 win. The death blow was Cathy’s blooper that would put the game out of reach and force the M-picks to capitulate. The player of the game was Kenny who played solid right field.
Game two was probably one of the best games played in recent history! Great pitching, a real pitchers duel…Juan and Jeff were lights out. The M-Picks took advantage of several defensive miscues and were ahead 4-2 but Jose’s tremendous blast would spark the Elks and Kenny’s clutch hit in the bottom of the seven would complete a thrilling 5-4 comeback victory.
In attendance today were Jeff, Bald Mike, Pat, Dario, Kenny, Jose, Russ, Cathy, Erwin, Matt, Warren, Danny, Sal, Jonah, Pete, Juan, John and the writer.
See you guys next week!
Sunday, July 12, 2009
M-Picks bats clobber Elks in double-header sweep!
by Maurice Novelle
Mitch, our aide-de-camp chronicler, was on assignment today... nowhere to be found. Hmm?
After last night heavy downpours, the field was not in suitable playing condition and we had to do some prepping to get rid of a few puddles. We had a short session of batting practice and then we got underway.
In game one the M-Picks ruled the roost. They cranked out three dingers to pound the Elks 15-5. The losing pitcher was Little Joe who lacked control and was victimized by some erratic fielding and poor base running.
In the night cap the M-Picks continued their carnage ripping off a six-run second inning rally against ace hurler Jeff on their way to an easy 11-6 win. With plenty of run support and some solid defense behind him, the writer, a notable junk thrower, had no problem whipping through both contests and walk away with a couple of effortless victories. Hurray!
Kudos to Tommy who had a stellar performance with the bat and was lively and alert around the base paths; hey... terrific slide at home, it was worth the knee scrape!
In attendance today were Little Joe, Dario, Kenny, Jeff, Doug, Roly, Uba, Erwin, Cathy, Matt, Nelson, Sal, Jose, Danny, Artie, John, Tommy and yours truly.
See you guys next week!
Sunday, July 5, 2009
Jeff Dominates the Day, as Elks Crush M-Picks 7-1, 15-0
by Mitch Weingart
Today was all about “Pumpkin” Jeff. The man was brilliant in pitching both ends of today’s double header. His bases loaded triple against Big Joe put game one out of reach, while holding the M-Picks to a single run and then barely missing a no-hitter in the second contest. If that wasn't enough, Jeff then piled everybody in his car and took us to Uncle Jack's for lunch, gave out complimentary tickets for Paul McCartney's show at CitiField; all while coordinating Michael Jackson's funeral arrangements and negotiating a new arms agreement with North Korea. Jeff is The Man!
Game one highlights included Big Joe, who must have mistaken Cathy for Sarah Palin: "keep running...don't quit now! Letterman is an asshole, keep running!" There were two titanic blasts by Nelson, fresh off his fifty game suspension for injecting "Just For Men" into his buttocks. Those awful growling dogs that sounded like Michael Vick was walking them; and Bald Mike, who despite a severe leg injury, gutted out a good game at first base for the Elks and still ran faster than Big Joe!
Well, for a while, in game two, it looked like the only way somebody would hit Jeff, would be by backing into him in the parking lot. The M-Picks didn't get a runner on base until the sixth inning, when Kenny couldn't handle a scorching ground ball, which after some discussion by the umpiring crew was ruled an error, mostly because, well... writing about a no-hitter would have been awesome! The no-no was still being played out until the next inning, when with one out, Roly (who was still emotionally distraught about Billy Mays; originally confusing him with Willie Mays and then with Willie Nelson) launched a scud missile towards Hawaii and that was the official end of Jeff's no-hit bid.
Meanwhile, The Elks were pounding Mo, putting on an display that even Macy's would have been jealous of, highlighted by Dario's crushing homer to right field that had the announced crowd of two on their feet and asking their dad when the ice cream truck was going to show up.
Today was a well attended event; nice to see the Windsor Park posse in full force! Let's give it up for: Dario, Nelson, Jeff, Pete, Kenny, Doug, Russ, Bald Mike, Erwin, Matt, Sal, Big Joe, Angelo, Artie, Roly, Little Joe, Cathy, Tommy, Maurice, and me, the writer! And Jim, who had to leave early, but left his very cool green bat for us to play with! See you guys next week!
Sunday, June 28, 2009
Elks sweep first ever “Michael Jackson Memorial” triple header!
by Mitch Weingart
Energized by the presence of their captain and Jeff's steady pitching, the Elks rolled over the M-Picks 5-2, 11-0, 2-1 on a grief filled but sunny Sunday morning. Game one was the “Thriller”, a pitching matchup for the ages between Juan and Jeff as the Elk's broke on top as a result of some goofy errors and well placed hits. And even though Juan was to be the losing pitcher in this game, his fastball, curveballs and off speed stuff kept everybody off balance; actually coming close to striking out the side in one inning, and he deserved a better fate.
The first of today's many arguments came after Joe 21 purposely dropped Erwin's line drive to second creating a self induced double play situation; and it became the most talked about ball since, well....since Lance Armstrong.
As the M-Picks battled their way back, the game came down to a sliding play by Maurice running to third base, and as the ground shook, Roly applied what most thought was a game ending tag, only to have Danny call him safe. This was the second argument of the day sponsored in part by the law firm of Jacoby and Myers. Danny consulted with five teammates and Michael Jackson's personal physician, who all thought Mo was out. Danny then reversed his call but strangely enough, the Elks insisted on letting the play stand as if that would bring the Gloved One back to life; but alas, the game ended with the next batter, when Tommy popped out and we all passed around a new batch of pain killers, and Russell brought some bubble gum, too!
Game two started out innocently enough and then all hell broke loose, as the Elks, with their team captain beaming from the bench, pounded on the M-Picks' new pitcher, Little Joe, who took more of a beating than Pee Wee Herman ever did and when the score reached 11-0 Iranians took to the street to protest the slaughter of innocent ball players; and as a result, the second game was called via the mercy rule...Jeff, picking up his easiest victory ever.
With some time to kill, before the wives would start bitchin' we started a third game, this one featuring Mo pitching for the M-Picks, and his junk ball style pitching was giving everybody fits as the M-picks clung to a 1-0 lead. But, with Pasquale applying the CPR, the Elks came back from the dead as Mo coughed up two [unearned] runs and his last kidney stone as the Elks held off a late rally to complete the trifecta.
Some tough calls out there today and the trees gave us some fits. It ain't easy ump’ing these games but, I'm proud of the way we held our cool in the face of some plays that even Monica Lewinsky wouldn't have blown.
On a sad note, we've been informed that Windsor Park will be proceeding with their plans to build new garden apartments. Using the very grounds that we had hoped they'd utilize to construct our very own state-of-the-art softball complex, including permanent BBQ facilities for Big Joe and fifty-foot LCD scoreboard but we'll continue to look elsewhere to pursue our dream; maybe the junkyards
next to Citi Field? Also, we were sad to learn of Bald Mike's softball injury which could be season ending from the sound of it. By the time he gets back, he could have hair...who knows?
Speaking of BBQ's, Mo will be doing a new survey for this summer's festivities, which now needs to be rescheduled since Big Joe will not be dancing in the Michael Jackson's farewell concert tour; maybe he'll hook up with Usher?
In addition to the usual cast of characters, parolees and homeless psychopaths who usually join us, today's game featured: Joe 21, Little Joe, Big Joe, Manic-Depressive Joe and Cup of Joe. Also in attendance, who's name wasn't Joe: Danny, Juan, Artie, Tommy, Maurice, Pasquale, Matt, Jeff, Pete, Roly, Russ, Jim (welcome aboard!) and of course, Erwin!
See you guys next Sunday!!
Sunday, June 21, 2009
Father's Day Game rained out!
Sunday, June 14, 2009
Maxim’s Softball Team Shows Up To Save The Day!
by Mitch Weingart
Okay, so that really didn't happen, but with only twelve players taking the field today, we were forced to have a three-way round robin which oddly enough ended up being one of the more entertaining games of the season.
I suppose the wet weather and North Korea's threat of nuclear aggression kept some of the regulars at home and there were rumors that Erwin was marching in the Puerto Rican Day Parade. Either way, once the field was prepped and deemed playable, the players were picked and the action got underway. Kenny, still suffering from a pulled groin, graciously agreed to catch and umpire for all three sides.
Anyway, the round robin format, kept everybody on their toes, playing two positions on defense, when not batting, and we saw some very impressive hustle, especially by newcomers Jason and John.
The game was of a typical Windsor Park variety with some outstanding efforts in the field by guys like Artie, Little Joe and even me…once I figured out what position I was playing! And there were plenty of comedy relief, none better than Danny's errant throw from left field that saw the ball land about four feet behind him. There were also some close plays at the bases thanks to some great relay throws, keeping everybody on their toes or sliding on their asses; and also some huge power shots by guys like Bald Mike, Maurice and Doug.
Well, Big Joe's team came up for their last licks trailing by four runs and after some timely hitting and two botched plays in the field the score was tied. With the winning runs on base, Angelo launched a fly ball to right that Artie couldn't slap his glove on and it scored Joe with the sixteenth and winning run.
Today's kudos go to Big Joe and Bald Mike for providing some refreshments after the game. How 'bout that squirrel who came down and tried to snatch the bag of hot dog buns...he tasted really good!!
Next weekend is Father's Day...typically a light turnout...so if you have a friend who thinks they can play...bring him or her! I have a gig in Westchester the night before so, I doubt I'll be there but...I'll try! Have a great week!
In attendance today: Artie, Kenny, John, Jason, Big Joe, Matt, Bald Mike, Danny, Little Joe, Angelo, Doug, Maurice and Mitch.
Sunday, June 07, 2009
Little Joe Shines as Elks and M-Picks Split Two
by Mitch Weingart
Say all you want about Conan O'Brien and Jay Leno....Little Joe took center stage this Sunday morning, in today's contest, coming up big on both sides of a sun drenched field. Early on, in game one, the M-Picks had scratched out a few runs against Jeff and were clinging to a 4-1 lead, when Doug hit a rope that even David Carradine wouldn't have gotten hold of. It skipped past Nelson and Kenny for a three-run dinger that tied the game at 4. Congratulations also to Doug who has graduated from college and can now finally join us on a regular basis hitting the balls, instead of the books!
Well, this day was all about the little man! With the game on the line, Little Joe came up against Jeff, the following inning and hit a hard grounder right over the third base bag driving in two runs that would prove to be the difference in the 6-4 M-Pick victory.
Later on, with a chance to redeem himself against Little Joe, Jeff came up to bat with two outs and the game on the line. With the count 2-2, Joe slipped a hanging slider clocked at 37 miles an hour just past the exasperated reach of a swinging Jeff, striking him out to end an exciting game.
Game two was another well played affair as Jeff and Little Joe squared off in another pitcher's battle as players started wearing down in today's strong sun. The game was tied at 3...when Artie hit an opposite field single with the bases loaded scoring the go-ahead run for the Elks as my throw to third was offline ruining any chance to catch a speedy Russell at the bag and negating the winning run which was a blessing in disguise, since we know that the ensuing argument would have continued till Christmas.
Anyway, kudos to OD who played a terrific third base today, Kenny in right field playing thru injury, Bald Mike with an exciting triple, Nelson with his steroid driven bombs that have the trees ducking for cover and Maurice, his first trip back to the field, since giving birth to an 8lb-12 oz kidney stone. Also congrats to Tommy, with a key single in game one....Roly with a bomb to right field that Artie almost made an amazing play on; Big Joe with some gutsy calls, as ump......and for me... for writing about this nonsense! Woo hoo! See you guys next week!
In attendance were Roly, Russ, Mitch, Alec, Little Joe, Pete, Big Joe, Kenny, Jeff, Artie, Nelson, Matt, OD, Tommy, Bald Mike, Doug, Angelo and Maurice.
Sunday, May 31, 2009
Elks Win Two!
by Erwin Kessler
The Elks took advantage of the M-Picks who were without their inspirational captain. The star of today’s double header was Tommy who knocked in three runs, two for the Elks and one for the M-Picks.
The M-Picks roster was Little Joe, Bald Mike, Kenny, Doug, John, Big Joe, Alec, Perry, Juan and Tommy.
The Elks roster was Erwin, Roly, Matt, OD, Jeff, Nelson, Danny, Artie, Russ and Tommy.
Most of the arguments (in general very tame) took place after Big Joe left. I think they were all resolved quite amicably and correctly. We need some clarification regarding base running interference rule.
We wish Mo a speedy "passage" of his kidney stone.
I will be back in two weeks to try to lead my warriors to a similar sweep as today.
Monday, May 25, 2009
Memorial Day Game!
by "Little" Joe Marra
Here's a synopsis of the day's activities…
With our leader Maurice MIA (actually just sick), the lucky thirteen players attending today's game were forced to ad-lib with bags, boxes, and cones for bases in a four to a side round-robin game. Tommy, DH-ing for all tree teams in this nine inning contest, got a lot of at bats and near the end of the day started to grow weary. But, he was saving the best for last.
Little Joe's team held a 9 to 8 to 2 lead as a result of a big eight-run sixth but could not produce any insurance runs in the top of the ninth. Artie and teammates went quietly in their at bat and remained at 2. That left Big Joe's squad to get last licks needing 1 to tie and 2 to win. After getting the first two batters Little Joe and his team were looking good. But a throwing error by newcomer Jason (who played an otherwise solid game both in the field and at bat with the day's only homer) started the two out rally. Two clutch hits by Roly and Big Joe tied the score and put the winning run at third. That brought up Tommy who waited for his pitch in a long at bat. He finally managed to hit a swinging bunt scoring brother-in-law Roly (yes, Roly beat the tag at the plate) for the walk-off victory. Final score was 10-9-2.
In attendance were Big Joe, Roly, Charlie, Doug, Lawman Matt with his dad, Jason, Alec, Artie, Kenny, Perry, John, Tommy and Little Joe.
Also I've collected $170 so far, thanks in a large part to Danny's generous donation. That's gotten us two dozen Clinchers plus $10 extra. As more money comes in, hopefully, we'll have to decide if it should go to more Clinchers, a barbecue, next year's permit or other equipment.
Sunday, May 24, 2009
Another Double-header Split!
by Maurice Novelle
The Elks, back with their venerable captain, earned a 5-3 come-from-behind victory in the opener behind Jeff’s strong pitching performance, but fell 5-1 in the nightcap. The M-Picks displayed some timely hitting and took advantage of a couple of fielding miscues by the shaky Elks defense. The big hit was Lawman Matt’s blast that put the game out of reach in the first inning already. Newcomer Charlie was the very image of Pasquale making some diving catches in the outfield but… without grunting.
Tomorrow Monday, Memorial Day, the two squads will meet again in a rarely back-to-back days’ confrontation. See you guys tomorrow bright and early. Due to time constraints, tomorrow’s game report will be published later in the week.
In attendance today were Bald Mike, Charlie, Pasquale, Jeff, Roly, Little Joe, Tommy, Erwin, Nelson, Angelo, Lawman Matt, Danny, Perry, Artie, John and the writer.
Sunday, May 17, 2009
Game rained out
Sunday, May 10, 2009
Mother’s Day Twinbill Split!
by Maurice Novelle
Due to time constraints, today’s report will be brief. The M-Picks took game one 11-3 and the Elks won game two 6-3. The player of the game was Roly who hit a couple of bombs and had to trudge around the bases for his second genuine sweat-it-out dinger of the season. He also flashed the leather making a spectacular side flip lob to get snail-paced Big Joe at second.
In attendance were Matt, Jeff, Kenny, Roly, John, Omar, Little Joe, Tommy, Nelson, OD, Juan, Artie, Big Joe, Russ and the writer.
See you guys next week!
Sunday, May 3, 2009
Rained Out
Sunday, April 26, 2009
Elks and M-Picks Split Sun-Drenched Affair
by Mitch Weingart
Well, I must admit, I was surprised by the light crowd of players milling about the field when I arrived at 9:30 this morning. I thought perhaps, the early morning dog walkers (aka ...serial shitters) had left their mark and rendered the field knee deep in dog poop but the field was in great shape and we eventually got our act together a few moments later as some familiar faces continued to wander in throughout the morning. Although, none as late at Lawman Matt, who clearly doesn't support the concept of daylight savings time. Great to see Dominick back on the field, too!!
In game one, Mo's team rode a surprising bases-loaded two out double by Tommy, and Jack's defensive play at second base, all of which added up to an 8-3 pounding of the Elks.
The nightcap was a different story, as the M-Picks, all suffering the effects of swine flu, fell behind quickly when Nelson, attempting to be our first repeat MVP committed a rare error that opened up the floodgates for the Elks, as Juan followed with a three-run homer to right field. Bald Mike three-run dinger made things even hairier for Big Joe's reunion with Mo and the game was quickly out of hand for the M-Picks who were soundly beaten 12-3.
Gotta give some props here to Roly who with the family in attendance, smacked a key triple that took sooo…. long to complete that he actually pounded out that ball in the first game but reached third sometime during the second game if memory serves me correct.
And Russell, with wife and kids also cheering him on hit a long drive over the pitcher's head that got him a well deserved single plus the adulation of his beautiful family.
Remember guys, please go ahead and contribute to next year's permit, don't be shy!!!!!....hey, 25 bucks is still the biggest bargain in town!!
See ya'll next week!!
In attendance today were Artie, Kenny, Roly, Tommy, Juan, Danny, Nelson, Russ, Mitch, Matt, Bald Mike, Lawman Matt, Jack, Angelo, Little Joe, Big Joe, Dominick, Danny, Luis and Maurice.
Sunday, April 19, 2009
Not Quite Split Faced!!
by Mitch Weingart
At the brand new "Bailout Ballpark" in Alley Pond approx twenty players were eager to forget their economic woes and lose themselves for a few hours of light hearted softball. I'd like to thank the few guys that got together and cashed in the remainder of their 401(k)s to buy some new softballs; certainly a much better investment! Anyway, the field was in surprisingly good shape, no large piles of elephant dung as in previous years, and the pretty white blossoms that hung on the trees in left and center field, made an attractive area for many to enjoy nature's beauty...or relieve themselves between innings.
Not finished yet, is the leftfield Big Joe Bar-B-Q Porch promenade area with bleacher seats and upscale dining in the works...."Big Joe's Halal Burgers" and "Erwin's Pigeon on a Stick" both promise to deliver some tasty treats during the games. In fact, Erwin's pigeon was already on the field today promoting his new eatery. Both eateries should be open soon enough.
Before I go on, let's congratulate Joe 21 and Rya on the arrival of their child due to be born tomorrow. This Monday!!! Certainly the most exciting time in their life; and we wish them the best of everything!!....but, that's no excuse for not showing up next Sunday!
After a brief batting practice that saw some well launched balls by guys like Nelson and Russell, game one got under way and it was all pitching....as Jeff and Juan locked horns and the two of them got hornier as the game wore on eventually. Tommy broke a deadlocked game with a bases loaded bloop single to right and Mo's team went onto a well played 6-4 victory, highlighted by a nifty unassisted double play by Lawman Matt.
Game two was looser affair, as several players had to leave for various reasons but clearly, the highlight of the game was Pat's young son, Josh....filling in at second base.... making a circus catch and robbing somebody of a hit ....earning him the "Bernie Madoff steal of the day" award. The game eventually ended in a 4-4 tie...as time ran out on our opening day festivities and it was agreed that if we continued to play much more.......we could suffer massive injuries from our wives that might prevent our return to the playing field.
There were two close calls today...both involving "OD"....as he was called both out and safe on two separate occasions....but either way...the kid shows some good hustle on the field.
It was good to see all those familiar faces today and make some new friends, too. I won't be there next week as my band will be playing in East Northport, LI the night before so, if you're in the neighborhood www.crimsonstreet.net maybe I'll see ya!
Have a great week!
In attendance today... Little Joe, Perry, Kenny, Juan, Russ, Roly, Alec, John, Tommy, Pat, Lawman Matt, Odalis, Jeff, Felix, Artie, Mitch, Dom, Jack, Joe 21, Pete, Joshua and Maurice.
Monday, April 6, 2009
Palm Sunday Practice Session
by Maurice Novelle
Only a handful of diehards made it to the field yesterday for our first gathering of the season. Jeff was already in mid season form throwing his trademark floater and during batting practice he crushed a few balls. Roly’s timing at the plate was a bit off however he did well handling groundouts and with field drills. 2008 MVP Tommy was impressive with his bat and even displayed some pop. Kenny, Artie, Little Joe and the writer also participated in the workout.
See you guys on opening day. Happy Easter! Happy Passover!
Sunday, March 29, 2009
Spring is in the air! Opening Day is just around the corner...
Sunday, April 19, 2009 – 8:30 AM
by Maurice Novelle
Hi guys! Welcome back for another exciting softball season, our twelfth in existence. It’s been a while, since I last updated the website… time flies, doesn’t it!
Well, I have some great news to report! This past Thursday I attended the NYC Parks & Recreation seasonal meeting, I picked up our permit and was informed that our field is in a priority list of fields that will undergo some needed face lifting. I understand the field should be ready for playing next week.
Is anyone interested to join us for a softball practice session? Please anwer the poll above to see if we have enough players. Thank you!
Dust off those gloves and... let’s play some ball!
