Sunday, 23 November 2014
Exciting Finish Caps off Softball Season
By Little Joe Marra
With Maurice on the DL with a kidney stone (Take care of that Mo, we want to see you next spring in top shape) Big Joe once more took over managerial duties in a 7 on 7 nine inning affair. There's much to report. Another homer for Dave, two center field bombs for triples by Chris II, great play both offensively and defensively by the youngsters Nick and Roque's grandson Jeremy (two future stars) a three run double by Pete and a pair of two run doubles by yours truly.
But the play of the game came in the bottom of the ninth. Big Joe's squad started the inning two runs down. A couple of singles, a sac fly from Big Joe, a game tying single by Jeremy and a follow up single by Arun had the Sticks with runners on first and second, one out, score tied. Jeremy tried to score on a single by Artie but was out at the plate. Arun had taken third on the throw but made too big a turn. James Rex, the catcher, threw back to Pedro at third. Rather than get in a rundown Arun made a dash for home. Pedro's peg was nice and low and James, using his hockey goalie skills, backhanded the throw just as Arun ran into the tag. Double play, inning over and two potential winning runs strayed at the plate on the same play.
We went into extra innings and the Joes scored three and then blanked the Sticks in the bottom of the tenth ending the game with a neat 6-4-3 double play. The final score was 17-14. On hand today were Jeremy, Nick, Pete, Arun, Artie, Dave, Pedro, Chris II, John, James Rex, Mike W, Roque, Big Joe, and myself, Little Joe.
Today was our last game. There was some talk about getting together for a January dinner. Mull it over guys! Most important let's wish Maurice a speedy recovery.
Happy Thanksgiving Guys!
By Maurice Novelle
Thanks Joe for your kinds words!
Thanksgiving is more than the festivities, it gives us time ponder upon what lessons we have learnt and how we can spread happiness around, to look back at all the great memories and good people who came in our lives. Happy Thanksgiving Day to you and your loved ones!
Sunday, 16 November 2014
Joes win again
By Little Joe Marra
The weather wasn't as good as last week, but the turnout was better with 18 players, enough for a 9 on 9 game. At Kenny's suggestion Big Joe took the reins of the Mozzarella Sticks and a full nine inning game was agreed to. Artie took a ball to the head during batting practice but injuries can't deter him as he hit the first pitch of the game for a homer off the writer. The Bazooka Joes came back and after a big third inning led 9-4. The Sticks clawed their way back and after eight and a half innings they were within one run, 11-10. But the Joes scored three in the bottom of the eight and after a 1-2-3 ninth that was it. Final score: 14-10 in favor of the Joes.
Defensive player of the game in my opinion was Nick who snared several line drives playing second. Offensively, the Joes spread their hits throughout the line-up including a booming triple by Pedro and even miraculous single by yours truly.
On hand today: Big Joe, Mike W., Kenny, John, Artie, Sergio, Nick, Dave, Arun, Manny, Roque, Mauricio, Efrain, Pedro, Phil, Mike, Pete W and me, Little Joe.
Next week? We'll see.
Sunday, 9 November 2014
Another Win for Kenny
By Little Joe Marra
The November calendar date was ignored by Mother Nature --giving us good weather-- and by seventeen Windsor Parkers who wanted to get another game in. The Mozzarella Sticks captained by Kenny quickly built a big lead after three innings, 16-5, largely because of an eight-run third inning. The Bazooka Joes settled down with three straight scoreless innings but the damage was done already. They tried to chip away but couldn't come up with a big inning. Artie's pitching was once again tough and the defense behind him solid but a five-run seventh sealed the victory for Kenny’s team. The final score was 21-13. Arun gave the crowd and himself the thrill of the year with his first homer.
Thanks to Dave for sacrificing and catching for both teams. That also gave him a chance of getting more at bats and he did take advantage of it by pounding the ball around the field. A few of the guys had to leave after the first game so a three-inning round-robin game followed mostly so everyone could get in more softball on such a mild day. It's been great seeing such a great turnout every week. Hopefully, the weather holds for at least one more Sunday.
In attendance: Manny, Mike W., John, Mauricio, Artie, Roque, Pedro, Eytan, Rob, Chris 2, Mike, Nick, Arun, James, Kenny, Dave and yours truly, Little Joe.
Sunday, 2 November2014
Game rained out
Sunday, 26 October 2014
Joes defeat Sticks 7-4 and 12-5
By Maurice Novelle
The Bazooka Joes took advantage of the Mozzarella Sticks atrocious defense to win both ends of today’s double header. Someone blamed it on the father-son winning talisman of Artie and Mauricio but premonition aside both games defensively were horrible to watch. Errors galore!
The Sticks also appeared completely helpless against Jeff that had excellent command of his pitches and didn’t show any rustiness signs after his recent inactivity.
On a good note, we had another great turnout. On attendance were Jeff, Mike W, Mauricio, John, Chris, Sergio, Artie, Little Joe, Nick, Terry, Big Joe, Roque, Pedro, Rob, Phil, Arun, Chris 2, Mike, Dave B and the writer.
See you guys next week!
Sunday, 19 October 2014
Sticks win again
By Maurice Novelle
On a dull and murky morning that sort of reminded us that our softball season is probably approaching its unyielding denouement, a flock of diehards showed up to field 12 to play hard ball. We enjoyed a couple of exciting games. Newcomer Chris stole the show with a pair of three-run homers and número uno had another solid pitching performance to beat the Bazooka Joes 12-4 and 5-4 to take both ends of today’s twin bill. Big Joe pitched well enough but was victimized by defensive flubs.
In attendance today were Roque, Kenny, Peter 2, Mike W, Arun , Efrain, Sergio, Dave B, Big Joe, Chris, Manny, John, Pedro, Artie, Phil, Nick, Chris 2 and the writer. Pete W placed on the 15-day DL because of bruised ribs stopped by to say hello.
See you guys next week. We’re collecting 2015 field permit fees, please bring some dough. Thanks!
Sunday, 12 October 2014
Round Robin Bound
By Maurice Novelle
Not much to report today. After yesterday’s heavy rain the infield was saturated. There were no puddles but we had to rake it well to be able to play. Only twelve players showed up so we played a round robin with Mo’s team beating Little Joe and Artie’s foursomes 19-4-11. The magnificent twelve were Little Joe, john, Chris, Arun, Artie, Roque, Sergio, Phil, Mike W, Pedro, Dave and the writer.
See you guys next week!
Sunday, 5 November 2014
Sticks win twin-bill
By Little Joe Marra
Maurice was a last minute scratch so Kenny filled in as manager and performed his magic again leading his team to a doubleheader sweep, 11-6 and 7-6. Game two was the better contest. The game went back and forth with the Joes leading 5-4 going into the last inning but with the bases loaded and no one out Sergio hit a sac fly that scored not 1, not 2, but 3 runs as the ball was thrown around resulting in a play that was wild even by Windsor Park standards. I'm not sure if I've ever seen that before. Trailing by 2 the Joes also loaded the bases in the bottom of the last. They plated 1 and then yours truly came up with the bases still jammed and 1 out- tying run on third, go ahead run on second. Alas, a hard grounder to third resulted in a game ending double play.
Plays of the game: Phil made a leaping catch of a deep drive by Artie preventing a sure homer and the writer snared a bullet hit back to the box by Manny. Players of the game: Efrain pounded the ball and, as Maurice would say "flashed the leather" at third base; and Artie who also smacked the opposing pitcher around and was the winning pitcher in both games despite a sore hammy. I guess the weeks off were beneficial. Thanks to Pete W. for arriving early and clearing the puddles off the field. (Hope you feel better after that nasty spill rounding 1st, Pete)
See you next week, weather permitting. Bring money!
In attendance: Kenny, Manny, Efrain, Sergio, Arun, Artie, Chris, Peter S., Mike W., John, Phil, Mike, Pete W., Ajay and Little Joe.
Sunday, September 28, 2014
Sticks Drop Nightcap
By Maurice Novelle
The Mozzarella Sticks won the opener effortlessly 9-4 and then dropped the nightcap 12-11. They actually deserved a better fate after a remarkable eight-run come-from-behind victory attempt initiated by Deeppak’s opposite field clearing bases triple. But the Bazooka Joes managed to weather the storm. They took advantage of a couple of misplayed balls in the outfield to regain the lead. The Sticks didn’t surrender and added two more runs but it wasn’t enough.
On attendance today were John, Mike W, Sergio, Adrien, Arun, Nick, Ajay, Little Joe, Eric, Roque, Efrain, Pedro, Imran, Phil, Dave B, Pete W, Alexa, Deeppak and the writer.
See you guys next week… and please don’t forget to bring money for next year’s field permit!
Sunday, September 21, 2014
Joes beat Sticks 4-2, 8-7
By Maurice Novelle
As expected, after last night rain, the field was in bad shape and we had to work for an hour or so to get rid of some of the mud puddles.
The Bazooka Joes took both ends of today’s double header. Both teams played hard, and defensively we had a couple of gems. Talk about flashing the leather, we probably witnessed some of the best catches of the season. The player of the game, no bragging implied, was número uno who had a gold glove performance at third. Offensively Mike W and Manny blasted some long balls.
On attendance today were Mike W, John, Kenny, Pedro, Russell, Mike, Phil, Sava, Imran, Little Joe, many, Roque, Lawman, Sergio, Arun, Big Joe, Pete W, Little George, Ajay, Alec and the writer.
Please don’t forget we’re collecting the dues for next year’s permit, bring some cash, like Yogi would say, it’s just as good as money. See you guys next week!
Sunday, September 14, 2014
Where was everyone?
By Joe Kuceluk
Due to lack of players, we began playing five on five, half field, with Kenny playing first for both teams. When three other players came, we had seven on seven. We played a five inning game but stopped for the day when three people left. Big Joe's Sticks won 6-3. Artie, who was the Joes’ manager and pitched, reinjured his leg muscle on a great attempt to get an out at first.
Sunday, September 7, 2014
The Wolf is Back
By Maurice Novelle
Attendance today was a bit disappointing compared to last week’s great turnout and to make matters worse in the middle of the game a few of the guys had to leave earlier unexpectedly so we ended up playing our round robin jumble. Little Joe, Jeff and Big Joe pitched and acted as captains. Little Joe’s squad prevailed 9-4-1 respectively.
The player of the game was Mike “The Wolf” Medici who had been upset at himself for how’s been playing lately and had promised his fan base on WP Softball’s Facebook page he was going to claw out of his deep slump and get back to his normal self. Well the big guy delivered on his promise with an opposite field clearing bases triple. Clutch hit baby!
On attendance today were Big Joe, Matt, Roque, Pedro, Artie, Sergio, Little Joe, Mike, Jeff, Manny, Mike W, Rob, Arun, Phil and the writer.
Hey guys, just a reminder about next year’s field permit fees, please bring some green next week! Thanks!
Sunday, August 31, 2014
Joes Swept in Doubleheader Slugfest
By Maurice Novelle
We didn’t expect such a great turnout on a Labor Day weekend and we didn’t expect the Bazooka Joes to lose both games with Jeff on the mound. But borrowing Ruben Blades celebrated Pedro Navaja’s lyrics, la vida te da sorpresas, that is... life is full of surprises!
The Mozzarella Sticks were the better team and defeated effortlessly the Joes today captained by Russ due to Little Joe’s absence, 7-0 and 16-9 with an impressive pitching performance by the writer garrisoned by a solid defense behind him. Super Diablo Manny put on a show at the plate as always with long drives and even hit for the cycle. Felix also cracked a couple of long balls and Matt L was the defensive player of the game gunning down a runner at home trying to score with a perfect throw.
In attendance were Russ, Jeff, Mike W, Rob, Artie, Sergio, Felix, Sava, Robert, Jay, Manny, Matt L, Matt, Kenny, Phil, Pedro, Mike, Dave B and the writer.
We need to start collecting for next year’s permit, please bring some dough. Thank you! See you guys next week!
Sunday, August 24, 2014
Extra innings win for Joes
By Maurice Novelle
Today we witnessed probably one of the best played and most contentious games of the season. The Bazooka Joes were trailing 4-3 and in their last at bat took advantage of a misplayed ball in center field to tie the game and send it into extra innings. In the next inning they put the game out of reach by scoring three runs with two men out to beat the Mozzarella Sticks 7-4 and pillage Jeff's stellar pitching performance.
Game two had to be interrupted after only three innings due to the massive departure of players. The Joes were ahead 5-0.
We had a great turnout, in attendance were Manny, Matt L, Roque, Kenny, Rob, Sergio, Artie, Phil, Little Joe, Pete, Felix, Jeff, Matt, Mike W, Efrain, Pedro, Arun, Dave B, Mike, Jay, Tony and the writer.
See you guys next week!
Sunday, August 17, 2014
Even Steven
By Maurice Novelle
The Bazooka Joes without their leader and with Kenny on father-of-the-bride assignment, Big Joe sporting a majestic Indiana Jones Panama hat took over captain duties.
The Mozzarella Sticks took the opener 13-7 and the Joes won the night cap by identical score. That must be a first.
In attendance today were Roque, Matt, Sergio, Rob, Jeff, Jose, Big Joe, Manny, Mike W, Artie, Pedro, Arun, Edie, Mike and the writer.
On a separate note, Manny informed us that he was able to get in touch with Nelson. On behalf of all the guys, we would like to wish you Mailman a very successful surgery, hope you recover quickly and look forward to see you back in action. Get well soon Nelson!
See you guys next week!
Sunday, August 10, 2014
The Heat is On!
By Joseph Marra
Well, after a five-run first inning it looked like Kenny was going to continue his winning streak as substitute captain but Little Joe settled down on the mound and the Bazooka Joes defense solidified behind him. With a six-run fourth inning doing the most damage, the Joes came back to take the opener 12-7.
The second game was all Sticks. Little Joe was tiring and it seemed the heat caught up with defense as well. The Sticks scored 6, 3, 5, and 4 runs in the first four innings and with the score 18-0 and the afternoon sun showing no mercy we were about to invoke our own mercy rule. It was decided to give the Joes one more turn at bat. Mike greeted Pedro, who was in to mop up after Jeff, with a long home run on his first pitch. Two more runs were eked out making it an 18-3 final.
In attendance today were Roque, Mike Wolf, Rob, Artie, Arun, John, Little Joe, Jeff, Pedro, Sergio, Kenny and some newcomers: Robert, who left after a couple of innings with an injury, Arun's brother Ajay and his cousin Deeppak, and Sergio's friends Peter, who also had a long homer to right field and twin brothers Phill and Chris.
Sunday, August 3, 2014
Game rained out
Sunday, July 27, 2014
Unexpected Beautiful Weather for a typical F Troop Game and OUTSTANDING BARBEQUE
By Joe Kuceluk
Everyone gathered patiently Sunday morning with food, soda, beer, salads and desserts to begin our Annual Barbeque. As we looked to the clouds and hoped for a rainless game, heavy drops started to fall about 10 a.m. when Bazooka Joe’s team was on the field. Thankfully it stopped within minutes and the clouds became dry and later the sun blessed our event. But before the grills were offering delicious burgers, hot dogs, sausage, chicken and shrimp, we had to finish the game.
Let me see….hanging fly ball, outfielder standing under the descending ball, waiting for it to be gently secured in an open glove and players counting the out when suddenly, the outfielder is no longer the reliable fielder we know, he becomes a stranger from an old comedy show and drops the ball. We all make errors and that’s why we play together but when an inning gives the batting team eight outs, the bugles of F Troop sound and we wander off the field, hanging our heads and relieved that it’s over. However, the other team is grateful and can’t wait to hit again. Somehow the score was later tied and after nine brutal innings, Bazooka Joe’s team outlasted the Mozzarella Sticks 101 to 99. The age 50 plus group was injured and exhausted but mellowed into great food, beverages and conversation. It was nice to see Russell’s son play so well and hitting the ball with authority. He took a hard bouncing ball in the throat and stayed with the play.
Thanks again for making the Big Joe’s Barbeque a success.
Final Score:
Bazooka Joes 22 - Mozarella Sticks 19
Player Attendee List:
Roque, Pedro, Rob, Sergio, Little Joe, Russ, David B, Savas, Alec, Matt, Kenny, Artie, Rahsaun, Maurice, Big Joe, Mike R, Pete W and Jay.
Sunday, July 20, 2014
Kenny to the rescue
By Joseph Marra
With Maurice out it fell to Kenny once more to act as substitute team captain and just as in past weeks, he proved to be more than up to the task leading the Mozzarella Sticks to a sweep of the doubleheader. The Sticks were nearly flawless in game 1 with Jeff pitching no-hit ball for the first four innings and Manny Jr. hitting ropes all over the field, including a homer, and playing great shortstop. In fact the entire team hit, fielded and ran the bases as if they never heard of Windsor Park style baseball. Final score of the 7 inning game was a lop-sided 11-2.
A few players left following the first contest, and so some minor personnel changes were made and a five inning game was agreed on for game 2. Little Joe took over the pitching duties to face Jeff who showed no hint of tiring. The Sticks had a four run first and it looked like things were continuing where they left off. But, that was all the Sticks could manage for rest of the game and it was just a matter of whether they could hold off the Joes. Little Joe's squad scored 1 in the 4th and 2 in the 5th. With the tying and winning runs on base Jeff bore down and whiffed Arun (who was a ball hawk in centerfield) to end the game.
In attendance: Jeff, Manny Jr., Matt, Roque, newcomer Jay II, Artie, Sergio, Russ, Pete, Kenny, Big Joe, Super Diablo Manny, Mike Wolf, Efrain, Eitan, Arun, Edie, Dave B and Little Joe.
Of course you know what's happening next week - Big Joe's annual BBQ! I hope you're ready.
Sunday, July 13, 2014
Bitin’ Twin Bill
By Maurice Novelle
Curious enough both games were dramatic one-run come-from-behind victories. The Bazooka Joes won the opener 5-4 while the Mozzarella Sticks took the night cap 11-10.
Super Diablo Manny crushed a couple of homers and a long triple but the play of the game was the accidental collision he got involved in at second base with Rahsaun who was trying to tag him out. Evoking Luis Suarez World Cup infamous biting incident Manny grabbed his front teeth and denied biting his opponent but his dental impressions were clearly visible on Rahsaun’s bloody chin. Hmm Hannibal Manny!
In attendance today were Jeff, Manny, Kenny, Artie, Ryan, Rob, Edie, John, Little Joe, Big Joe, Roque, Matt, Eitan, Pedro, Rahsaun, Sergio and the writer.
Don’t forget we’re holding our fifth annual barbecue on July 27, 2014. Come join us for a day of great food after the game. Please contact Big Joe at joecoach320@yahoo.com for more details.
Sunday, July 6, 2014
Double Header Split
By Maurice Novelle
Just a quick clarification regarding today's discussion. The Amateur Softball Association of America (ASA) sets the universal rules for softball in the United States and according to their official rule book... obstruction is when a defensive player affects or prevents a batter from swinging at a pitched ball or hinders the progress of a runner. A catcher may not block the pathway of a runner attempting to score unless he has possession of the ball. If the catcher steps on the plate or blocks the runner before he has the ball, the umpire may call the runner safe.
We had a great turnout for once and we couldn’t ask for better weather to play ball either. After Friday’s heavy rain the infield was a bit mushy and we had to work around first and second bases. The final result, the Bazooka Joes won game one 10-1 and the Mozzarella Sticks took the night cap 8-1. The game in a nutshell: great pitching both by Big Joe and Jeff, and sloppy fielding and poor execution.
Guys get ready for the big event on Sunday July 27, 2014 "Big Joe WP Softball Annual BBQ." What should you bring to the BBQ? We need food (burguers, dogs, buns, salads, cheese, cake, etc.) and beverages, grills, charcoal, fluid, utensils, plates, cups, etc. Please contact Big Joe at joecoach320@yahoo.com for more details.
In attendance today were Big Joe, Roque, Kenny, Pedro, Rob, Eric, Mike, Little Joe, Pete W, Jeff, Mike W, Efrain, Artie, Arun, Edie, Sergio, Dave B, Ryan and the writer.
See you guys next week!
Sunday, June 29, 2014
Round Robin déjà vu
By Maurice Novelle
Once again we had a low turnout. Some of the guys bailed out last minute and we were forced to play another round robin. The player of the game was Pete W that acted as the official catcher and DH for all three squads. Today Pete dazzled us with his defensive adroitness behind the plate and also contributed with his bat driving in several runs. At the end Artie’s team prevailed defeating Kenny and the writer’s sides 6-4-0 respectively.
In attendance were Manny, Arun, Efrain, Pete W, Kenny, Jeff, Matt, Rob, Artie, Roque, Pedro, Sergio and the writer.
See you guys next week and happy 4th of July!
Sunday, June 22, 2014
Round Robin Skirmish
By Maurice Novelle
Some of the guys took the day off and only a dozen reported to play. Parks did a good job in the infield to fill some of the dips around second base and they also mowed the grass. Thank you Pete!
After batting practice we played a three-inning modified round robin game. The writer’s team defeated Big Joe and Little Joe’s squads 13-4-4. Aside for an opposite field mammoth shot homer by Manny there were two exciting defensive plays. One was Arun’s grounder to third to nail Matt at home, and the other one Roque’s throw to the cutoff man to get Manny out on a rundown. The two plays were executed to perfection and the writer had the privilege of participating on both of them.
In attendance today were Big Joe, Manny, Jeff, Miller, Little Joe, Matt, Sergio, Arun, Roque, Artie, Mike and the writer.
See you guys next week! Let’s go USA… we've gotta beat Portugal tonight to advance in the World Cup.
Sunday, June 15, 2014
Joes win again 14-12
By Maurice Novelle
Hey… happy Father’s Day!
We were a bit undermanned as expected due to the holiday but probably it was one of the best games of the year.
No game report today sorry… but gotta watch the World Cup! Let’s go USA against Ghana tomorrow!
In attendance were Artie, Kenny, Mike W, Roque, Pedro, Rob, Miller, Manny, Sergio, Arun, Russ, Mike, Pete W and the writer.
Sunday, June 8, 2014
Bazooka Joes defeat Mozzarella Sticks 15-5
By Maurice Novelle
After last week’s fiasco everything is back to normal, we hugged and kissed and there are no hard feelings. It’s all water under the bridge!
On a hot and sunny morning we had another great turnout. And with the exception of Mike W remarkable display of defensive artistry at short making three dazzling plays, a bystander stole the show cursing and screaming at Kenny for removing the weeds and pruning the trees in left field. What a fouled mouth woman! No wonder Kenny was in such a mood!
In attendance today were Mike W, Mike 3, Kenny, Pedro, Hajj, Rob, Miller, Little Joe, Dave 3, Bobby, Efrain, Jay, Eitan, Artie, Sergio, Nelson 2, Arun, Dave B, Pete, Dave W and the writer.
See you guys next week!
Sunday, June 1, 2014
Joes take both ends of twin bill 8-4 and 17-2
By Maurice Novelle
Not much to report except for Jeff’s birthday. Happy birthday old fart!
Both games were really disgusting; especially game two. After Manny's departure it got lopsided. Also the Sticks were hurt several times on plays when an opposing player acting as catcher didn’t seem to hustle or make an effort to catch the ball. I’m not going to get into specifics or point fingers but plays like that impact the outcome of the game and it’s not fair to the other team. Something will need to be done to prevent similar predicaments from happening again.
Also it’s okay to celebrate if you’re winning but it’s not good sportsmanship to talk trash or violate one of the few basic norms that exist in sports, namely to treat your opponents with a modicum of respect.
In attendance today were Jeff, Matt, Mike 3, Mike W, Pedro, Sergio, Little Joe, Rob, Mike, Pete, Big Joe, Manny, Roque, Kenny, Arun, Russ, John, Dave 3 and the writer.
See you guys next week!
Sunday, May 25, 2014
Sticks hang-on to 18-17 slugger fest
By Maurice Novelle
This was no gem by any stretch of the imagination. It was an error-filled game but yet a very exciting one, the type of game that would definitely keep you on the edge of your seat. Both teams were in a combative mode, they kept fighting back and wouldn’t give up.
Ace hurler Jeff who was unavailable to pitch played left field and startled us with a couple of dazzling catches to rob Roque twice but center fielder Eytan made probably the defensive play of the game with a brilliant arms out-stretched catch on a line drive off the bat of Mike the Wolf to prevent at least two runs in.
Both squads displayed poor defensive skills fielding routine ground balls and botching easy double plays but we cannot blame it on the field conditions after spending over an hour getting rid of the puddles, spreading sand and even hiring an outside contractor to mow the lawn. As you know, city parks close at dusk and our Good Samaritan Roque who had stopped the night before to work on the field was summoned by a cop for his efforts. He didn’t give up… he was back bright and early the next morning. Thanks Roque! Also we need to praise Pete W for his tenacity and diligence dealing with Parks on our behalf regarding our field situation. They are coming on Tuesday to fix our field. Kudos two our two pillars of civic virtue, Roque and Pete for their hard work!
But aside from the mediocre fielding and any glove misfortunes the bats were lively. The Mozzarella Sticks came from behind twice. First in the second inning scoring seven run
s after a line drive opposite field bases-clearing triple by the writer with two men out and capping it later on in the fifth with an explosive team effort rally that produced eleven runs with a barrage of successive hard hit doubles. The Bazooka Joes tried to stage a late comeback but felt short by a run.
As we celebrate Memorial Day, let’s pay tribute to our fallen heroes. We usually associate this holiday with the start of the summer vacation season but Memorial Day is a day to remember and honor those who have fought and died to preserve our American way of life and our cherished freedoms. Let’s take a moment this weekend to thank them and their families for their sacrifices and ask God to continue to keep watch over our brave men and women in uniform stationed overseas and all over the world fighting terror and protecting us. We owe you a debt of gratitude that we couldn’t possibly repay… God bless you!
In attendance today Mike W, Kenny, Rob, Ronnie, Jeff, Little Joe, Big Joe, Dave W, Roque, Efrain, Eytan, Pedro, Sergio, Russ, Pete W and the writer.
See you guys next week!
Sunday, May 18, 2014
Joes sweep Double-header
By Maurice Novelle
If the Bazooka Joes haven’t signed some sort of pact with the devil then Little Joe must be worshiping Nike, the Greek goddess of victory. In any event the Mozzarella Sticks are in such a funk lately that they dropped another pair of games after a 4-2 and 9-4 drubbing at the hands of the mighty Joes.
After Friday’s downpour a gigantic puddle covered much of the infield so we shifted the bases over as we did last week and played on the grass. We had a great turnout and some new faces. Newcomer Mike 2 was the player of the game. He was very impressive with the bat cracking some power shots and defensively in left field he displayed a lot of range, speed and a good glove... a five-tool caliber ball player. Manny and Roque also clocked a couple of mammoth shots to dead center.
In attendance today were Jeff, Manny, Matt, Kenny, Rob, Eric, Mike 2, Russ, John, Little Joe, Alexa, Big Joe, Efrain, Roque, Mike W, Pedro, Sergio, Arun, David B, Mike, Dave 3, Richie and the writer.
See you guys next week!
Sunday, May 11, 2014
Round Robin on Mother’s Day
By Maurice Novelle
Today’s game report will be abbreviated due to time constraints. But first let’s wish all the moms a happy Mother’s Day!
As expected we were a bit shorthanded today so we were forced to play the venerated round robin ruse. Jeff team took the spoils beating Little Joe and yours truly's squads 19-6-5. Efrain showcased his Ruthian power crushing some majestic moon shots but Pedro got the honors with his long blast to dead center. Edie also had a good day at the plate hitting three consecutive frozen ropes. Meanwhile Sergio, Mike and the writer flashed the leather making some dazzling defensive plays and Roque playing short, poetry in motion, turned a beautiful double play.
In attendance today were Little Joe, Roque, Arun, Edie, Pedro, Jeff, Efrain, Artie, Pete, Kenny, Mike, Sergio, David B, Rob and the writer.
See you guys next week!
Sunday, May 04, 2014
Joes take double header 13-11 and 9-8
By Maurice Novelle
We had a great turnout and some new faces courtesy of Mike the Wolf. Let’s welcome Jerry, James, Eric and Alexa! We hope you guys had a good time.
After those heavy downpours a few days ago it was surprising to see the field actually in decent playable condition. We didn’t have to do much fixing up.
Both ends of today’s twin bill were very entertaining to say the least. In game one the Bazooka Joes were ahead 9-3 in the second inning but the Mozzarella Sticks didn’t surrender and tied the game 10-10 in the bottom of the fifth. The inning ended on a controversial play, the umpire called Pedro out at second trying to stretch out a single even though he was clearly safe. The Joes took care of business in their next at bat adding three more runs to secure the victory. Jeff closed the game striking out Manny and Mike after surrendering a homer to Matt. What a thriller!
Game two was also exciting. The Sticks jumped on the score 7-0 but the Joes took advantage of the modified 3-men outfield for a stunning come-from-behind win. The player of the game was Jeff who had a superb pitching performance striking out eight batters.
In attendance today were Jeff, Roque (not really himself in right field), Mike the Wolf, Rob (Pedro’s little brother, good hands), Kenny (a rarity, lousy day at the plate, he even stroke out once), Russ (good game), Edie (second base is his position), James Rex, Alexa, Little Joe, Big Joe (kudos for your first legit dinger ever), Manny (a grand salami, what a shot baby), Matt, David B, Arun (outstanding speed patrolling the outfield), Pedro, Mike (earned the golden sombrero), Jerry, Eric and the writer.
Next week is Mother's Day so we'll probably play one game only. Ciao bambini!
Sunday, April 27, 2014
Joes win 15-6
By Maurice Novelle
Sometimes the final score doesn’t reflect what happens on the field. Today the Bazooka Joes were the better team because they took advantage of the Mozzarella Sticks poor fielding during the first two innings of the game. After that, their bats went into hibernation and didn’t score a single run.
And although Jeff pitched very well and had excellent command of his fastball and knuckleball, the Sticks managed to put some good swings and hit the ball hard at times but never really threaten to take the lead.
The player of the game was “Green Bat Giant” Kenny who hit the ball with authority and drove in several runs, a heck of a game! Also the Colombian connection, brothers Sergio and Efrain had very good at bats.
In attendance today were Jeff, Mike W, Efrain, Kenny, Sergio, Little Joe, Dave W, Manny, Matt, Jay, Arun, Artie, Pete and the writer.
See you guys next week and please RSVP Schedule-Smith email. Thank you!
Sunday, April 20, 2014
Easter Sunday Split
By Maurice Novelle
Happy Easter and Passover! We had another great turnout and the weather was magnificent again. Some of the guys had to leave early to celebrate the holiday so we decided to play an abbreviated double-header.
Game one was a real stinker, the Bazooka Joes with Kenny acting as captain due to Little Joe’s absence beat the Mozzarella Sticks effortlessly 18-2. Big Joe pitched well last week and had flashes of brilliance, today however he struggled from the outset against the Joes. Their powerful lineup kept hitting the ball hard, line drive after line drive. The Sticks atrocious defense didn’t help matters either.
In game two the Sticks managed to salvage the day with a controversial 2-1 come-from-behind victory. With one out and two men on base, Mike the Wolf smashed a ball down the middle and Big Joe trotting at a snail’s pace around the bases miraculously eluded Peter’s tag to score the winning run after a puzzling rundown play.
In attendance today were Jeff, Super Diablo Manny, Matt, Efrain, Sergio, fleet footed Arun, Ronnie the Cleats, Ryan, Kenny, Big Joe, Matt L, Roque, Mike W, Artie, David B, Edie, Pete and the writer.
See you guys next week!
Sunday, April 13, 2014
Play Ball!
By Maurice Novelle
Our seventeenth season got underway on Palm Sunday with a good turnout. Twenty one players made it to opening day to brush off the winter blues and the Bazooka Joes continued last year’s 18-5-2 winning streak with a decisive 19-6 victory over the Mozzarella Sticks.
The player of the game was Big Joe who pitched lights out and kept putting zeros on the scoreboard. The Joes played solid defense, Arun and Manny Jr. made a couple of outstanding running catches but probably the defensive jewel of the game was Edie’s diving catch in left field.
The sluggers put on a power display with Super Diablo crushing a two-run dinger and Jay hitting a long grand slam.
In attendance were Roque, Mike W, Jay, Little Joe, Artie, Manny Jr., Arun, Big Joe, Mike, Ryan, Dave W, Manny, Matt, Kenny, Edie, Pedro, Omesh, Russ, Dave II, Pete W and the writer.
Happy holidays… see you guys next week!
Sunday, March 30, 2014
The Countdown to Opening Day Officially Begins…
By Maurice Novelle
After enduring probably one of the coldest and snowiest winters in recent memory, spring is finally here, we hope! Good news WP Softball opening day is just around the corner, two weeks away to be exact, April 13. This year will be celebrating our seventeenth year of existence, what an amazing run, and we do expect to enjoy another wonderful softball season. Let’s get ready to play ball!
Sunday, February 9, 2014
Little Joe selected 2013 MVP
By Maurice Novelle
It was a doozy, an authentic dead heat race till the very end but Little Joe with 16% of the votes (27 out of 166) won the prestigious award. Congratulations to our 2013 MVP!
Sunday, January 19, 2013
Happy New Year!
By Maurice Novelle
Happy New Year guys! I hope everyone had a great holiday season. I myself literally started off the year on the wrong foot... I fell and fractured my right ankle a couple of weeks ago but God willing I expect to be ready for opening day.
Ok, it's time to select our 2013 MVP. I'm going to ask co-captain Little Joe to help out with the web poll selection by putting together a list of players who deserve the honor. Please remember that nomination will be based primarily on regular attendance.
Also those of you who haven't yet contributed to this year's permit dues, please do so. You can contact me at click here. Thank you!
