Tuesday, September 15 vs Stirling Ave
Our season ended last Tuesday evening with a game against Stirling Avenue. Unlike both games against them in the regular season, there was no rain at all.
We had what might have been our smallest team of the year, playing with nine men. Even that was one more than what Stirling managed to get out. With relief pitcher Dave Frey unable to make it, Cal Jutzi pitched a whole game. Unlike Roy Halladay that night, Cal managed to get a three-up, three-down inning once. By holding Stirling scoreless in the first, and scoring two in the bottom of the inning, we started with lead. Despite scoring nine runs in total, our lead disappeared, leading to a 21-9 loss. Our defence, while of course not perfect, seemed tighter for the last game, which was satisfying.
Speaking of satisfaction, I am looking forward to our end-of-season party this Sunday, September 27. Cam and Jean Ann Jutzi have agreed to host us. Please reply to me by Thursday if you can come or not, and if you are bringing family members.
Awards: Last year we had our inaugaral awards ceremony, which I think was fun. To recap - please nominate fellow players and fans for an award you think they should receive. You make the category and nominate someone for it. Please let me know your ideas this week. (You can also tell me if that was a one-year-only idea.)
See you Sunday!
Monday, September 21, 2009
Friday, September 11, 2009
Thursday, September 10, 2009
Home runs at Slo-Pitch
Wednesday, September 9
Tonight was a "travel night", so we had three team times - game one in Bloomingdale, game two in Breslau, and pit stop at Tim Horton's in between.
Game one against Rockway (MB- they have a bunch of extra players from Waterloo MB church) was a bit rough. We had some nice hits, including a some good line drives from Peter Jutzi for extra bases. With 13 players in the order, only the first three batters got up for a third at-bat, and we only pushed two players across the plate. It was a bit rough for Peter J in the outfield, too, stretching his hip in the last inning.
We lost two players for the second game against Glencairn, even though Peter's hip recovered enough to play. Steven Metzger had two triples, if I remember correctly, and we all remember that Mark DH had two over-the-fence home runs. Our fielding could use some work, starting with myself.
Last Game: Tuesday, September 15, 6:30 pm at Bloomingdale, home vs Stirling Ave. I know that Dave F and Mark DH cannot come, others please let me know if you will be there. It sounds like Peter's friend Josh will be able to come.
Wrap-up Party: Sunday, September 27, evening meal. We'll work on plans, but some sort of potluck an/or BBQ could be fun. This is for families and fans (and potential fans and players, too). Location, exact time, and format to be decided. Input welcome. Let me know if that date doesn't work for you.
Tonight was a "travel night", so we had three team times - game one in Bloomingdale, game two in Breslau, and pit stop at Tim Horton's in between.
Game one against Rockway (MB- they have a bunch of extra players from Waterloo MB church) was a bit rough. We had some nice hits, including a some good line drives from Peter Jutzi for extra bases. With 13 players in the order, only the first three batters got up for a third at-bat, and we only pushed two players across the plate. It was a bit rough for Peter J in the outfield, too, stretching his hip in the last inning.
We lost two players for the second game against Glencairn, even though Peter's hip recovered enough to play. Steven Metzger had two triples, if I remember correctly, and we all remember that Mark DH had two over-the-fence home runs. Our fielding could use some work, starting with myself.
Last Game: Tuesday, September 15, 6:30 pm at Bloomingdale, home vs Stirling Ave. I know that Dave F and Mark DH cannot come, others please let me know if you will be there. It sounds like Peter's friend Josh will be able to come.
Wrap-up Party: Sunday, September 27, evening meal. We'll work on plans, but some sort of potluck an/or BBQ could be fun. This is for families and fans (and potential fans and players, too). Location, exact time, and format to be decided. Input welcome. Let me know if that date doesn't work for you.
Wednesday, September 2, 2009
Double Slo-Pitch
Monday, August 31
Monday (yes, Monday) saw us play a double-header to begin the Slo-Ptich play-offs. It was beautiful if somewhat cool night, with some dew appearing on the grass as the night wore on. Eleven players came out, allowing one person to sit each inning, and I got to play most of the positions subbing for people.
We hit an impressive number of doubles on Monday. Peter Jutzi had a bases-clearing double in the first game, and I had three doubles myself. (We aren't picky on the difference between a double and reaching on an error or advancing on a throw.) I believe Mark DH and Sal also recorded two-base hits on the night. It is amazing what a difference a double makes compared to a single for scoring runners, and staying out of force plays or double plays.
We had many solid plays defensively, but, even though I like to be optimistic and cheerful in these reports, our fielding got really ugly by the end the second game. After gettting the first two batters in the bottom of the last inning, many of us had the chance to make the final out. Ultimately, we didn't, and what was supposed to be an open inning was eventually called to end. Clearly our fielding will need some practice before next season. While winning is not necessarily the main goal, it really is much more fun to play when we are competitive with the other team.
Next Games:
Wrap-Up: Let's think about an end-of-season party. Bring your datebooks to the game on Sept 9, and we can do some scheduling by email, too. We'll try for a date in the last half of September, if possible.
Monday (yes, Monday) saw us play a double-header to begin the Slo-Ptich play-offs. It was beautiful if somewhat cool night, with some dew appearing on the grass as the night wore on. Eleven players came out, allowing one person to sit each inning, and I got to play most of the positions subbing for people.
We hit an impressive number of doubles on Monday. Peter Jutzi had a bases-clearing double in the first game, and I had three doubles myself. (We aren't picky on the difference between a double and reaching on an error or advancing on a throw.) I believe Mark DH and Sal also recorded two-base hits on the night. It is amazing what a difference a double makes compared to a single for scoring runners, and staying out of force plays or double plays.
We had many solid plays defensively, but, even though I like to be optimistic and cheerful in these reports, our fielding got really ugly by the end the second game. After gettting the first two batters in the bottom of the last inning, many of us had the chance to make the final out. Ultimately, we didn't, and what was supposed to be an open inning was eventually called to end. Clearly our fielding will need some practice before next season. While winning is not necessarily the main goal, it really is much more fun to play when we are competitive with the other team.
Next Games:
Wednesday, Sept 9: 6:30 pm in Bloomingdale (visitors vs Rockway), then 9:30 pm in Breslau (home vs Glencairn).
Tuesday, Sept 15, 6:30 pm in Bloomingdale (home vs Stirling).
Tuesday, Sept 22 at 9 pm is the B-side final, if we make it.
Wrap-Up: Let's think about an end-of-season party. Bring your datebooks to the game on Sept 9, and we can do some scheduling by email, too. We'll try for a date in the last half of September, if possible.
Saturday, August 22, 2009
Slo-Pitch and Play-Offs
Hi Team,
This is another absentee dispatch sent from Saskatchewan. I wasn't at Tuesday's game, but the league website
(http://www.geocities.com/mennoniteslopitch/) says that Rockway got significantly more runs than First in the game. It doesn't say who had more fun, though.
As my brother-in-laws team was eliminated from the play-offs in his league last week, I don't have any other games for which to give a recap. Next week we play WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 26, 9 PM as visitors against Erb Street. I will miss this game, too. This is the last regular season game. At this point, we are in a tie for fifth in the B pool with Stirling Ave, but we would win the tie-breaker since we 'beat' them in our head-to-head game (one rainout and one Stirling default on a rainy day). So, if we win against Erb St, or do no worse than what Stirling does vs Waterloo North, we will be in fifth place for the play-offs.
PLAY-OFF SCHEDULE (TENTATIVE):
Monday, Aug 31: 8 pm and 9:30 pm, at BRESLAU upper diamond
Wednesday, Sept 9: 6:30 pm at BLOOMINGDALE; 9:30 pm at BRESLAU
Tuesday, Sept 15, 6:30 pm at BLOOMINGDALE (one game only)
Tuesday, Sept 22, 9 pm at BLOOMINGDALE - B play-off if we make it!
Play-off games will be rescheduled in case of rain.
Have a great game this week.
Scott
This is another absentee dispatch sent from Saskatchewan. I wasn't at Tuesday's game, but the league website
(http://www.geocities.com/mennoniteslopitch/) says that Rockway got significantly more runs than First in the game. It doesn't say who had more fun, though.
As my brother-in-laws team was eliminated from the play-offs in his league last week, I don't have any other games for which to give a recap. Next week we play WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 26, 9 PM as visitors against Erb Street. I will miss this game, too. This is the last regular season game. At this point, we are in a tie for fifth in the B pool with Stirling Ave, but we would win the tie-breaker since we 'beat' them in our head-to-head game (one rainout and one Stirling default on a rainy day). So, if we win against Erb St, or do no worse than what Stirling does vs Waterloo North, we will be in fifth place for the play-offs.
PLAY-OFF SCHEDULE (TENTATIVE):
Monday, Aug 31: 8 pm and 9:30 pm, at BRESLAU upper diamond
Wednesday, Sept 9: 6:30 pm at BLOOMINGDALE; 9:30 pm at BRESLAU
Tuesday, Sept 15, 6:30 pm at BLOOMINGDALE (one game only)
Tuesday, Sept 22, 9 pm at BLOOMINGDALE - B play-off if we make it!
Play-off games will be rescheduled in case of rain.
Have a great game this week.
Scott
Thursday, August 13, 2009
Late Night Slo-Pitch
Wednesday, August 12 vs Waterloo North
I wasn't actually at the Slo-Pitch game tonight (Wed) vs Waterloo North, so if someone wants to give a recap, please reply to all.
Meanwhile, in Western Major Baseball League action Tuesday, one error-filled inning allowed the Melville Millionaires to sink the Swift Current Indians hopes of winning their third straight Eastern Conference championship.
Melville scored eight runs with only two base hits in the third inning, helped by three fielding errors, walks, hits by pitch, and wild pitches. Swift Current's run in the first inning would prove their only significant offense, and Melville added a solo home run for good measure. Uncle Conrad Funk went 1-for-4 with a ground-rule double in the bottom of the ninth, but was stranded on second.
Next week, First Mennonite plays Tuesday, August 18 at 7 pm on Diamond A as visitors vs Rockway (MB!). I don't know who will be there for sure, but I am gone, and I am pretty sure that Mark DH is gone, too. Please contact Cal
J about your plans.
Good luck!
I wasn't actually at the Slo-Pitch game tonight (Wed) vs Waterloo North, so if someone wants to give a recap, please reply to all.
Meanwhile, in Western Major Baseball League action Tuesday, one error-filled inning allowed the Melville Millionaires to sink the Swift Current Indians hopes of winning their third straight Eastern Conference championship.
Melville scored eight runs with only two base hits in the third inning, helped by three fielding errors, walks, hits by pitch, and wild pitches. Swift Current's run in the first inning would prove their only significant offense, and Melville added a solo home run for good measure. Uncle Conrad Funk went 1-for-4 with a ground-rule double in the bottom of the ninth, but was stranded on second.
Next week, First Mennonite plays Tuesday, August 18 at 7 pm on Diamond A as visitors vs Rockway (MB!). I don't know who will be there for sure, but I am gone, and I am pretty sure that Mark DH is gone, too. Please contact Cal
J about your plans.
Good luck!
Wednesday, August 5, 2009
The storm passed over Slo-Pitch
Tuesday, August 4 vs Stirling Ave
Despite torrential rains in the afternoon in Kitchener (including one soaking me on a 3 minute bike ride), it was beautiful and clear at game time in Bloomingdale. That would be the reason that league rules say the game should be cancelled at the diamond.
Twelve people in yellow shirts showed up, considerably better than the five players for Stirling, and one player between the two teams that were supposed to play on the other diamond. So, at 7:10 pm we Stirling defaulted to us for our first win of the season, earned by our good attendance!
We played anyway, with a few yellow shirts on the other side. It could get quite bright behind the plate when the batter, catcher and umpire were all number 1st. The highlights of the night, in addition to Dave Frey's three shutout innings, was Mark Diller Harder returning from South America to hit two over-the-fence home runs. The game was even less intense than usual with the outcome already decided, but the full First Mennonite team ended up with five runs to three for the Stirling/First/Waterloo North team.
Next week we play Wednesday, August 12 at 9 pm, home against Waterloo North, at Bloomingdale Diamond 'A'. I am expecting Cam J, Cal J, Peter J, Nathan M, Mark P, Tracy K, and Jeff M. John P and Mark DH are maybes. Dave, Mackenzie, Sal, and I are all away next week (I am gone the next three weeks, the last three of the regular season). We could use more players for next week. Please call Cal Jutzi (519-743-9836) if you can come, or if your plans change.
See you in the play-offs, in the week before Labour Day (either Monday or Tuesday, I am checking).
Despite torrential rains in the afternoon in Kitchener (including one soaking me on a 3 minute bike ride), it was beautiful and clear at game time in Bloomingdale. That would be the reason that league rules say the game should be cancelled at the diamond.
Twelve people in yellow shirts showed up, considerably better than the five players for Stirling, and one player between the two teams that were supposed to play on the other diamond. So, at 7:10 pm we Stirling defaulted to us for our first win of the season, earned by our good attendance!
We played anyway, with a few yellow shirts on the other side. It could get quite bright behind the plate when the batter, catcher and umpire were all number 1st. The highlights of the night, in addition to Dave Frey's three shutout innings, was Mark Diller Harder returning from South America to hit two over-the-fence home runs. The game was even less intense than usual with the outcome already decided, but the full First Mennonite team ended up with five runs to three for the Stirling/First/Waterloo North team.
Next week we play Wednesday, August 12 at 9 pm, home against Waterloo North, at Bloomingdale Diamond 'A'. I am expecting Cam J, Cal J, Peter J, Nathan M, Mark P, Tracy K, and Jeff M. John P and Mark DH are maybes. Dave, Mackenzie, Sal, and I are all away next week (I am gone the next three weeks, the last three of the regular season). We could use more players for next week. Please call Cal Jutzi (519-743-9836) if you can come, or if your plans change.
See you in the play-offs, in the week before Labour Day (either Monday or Tuesday, I am checking).
Thursday, July 30, 2009
Have Mercy at Slo-Pitch
Wednesday, July 29 vs Glencairn MB
As moral victories go, last night's game ranks near the top for recent years.
Not only did we score 14 runs last night, but we had our first offensive mercy
inning in recent memory (at least my memory, which might be good but short).
With eleven players, five fans, and a coach, we were fully prepared for the
night. We started off well, holding Glencairn scoreless in the first two
innings while scoring one ourselves.
The third inning saw a bushel of runs for each team. Glencairn, the
visiting team, scored seven runs in the top of the inning, including a few
cheap ones off "swinging bunts" that only got a few feet from home. Such is
life. We responded in the bottom of the inning, with the first three batters
scoring runs.
In the fourth, Glencairn extnded its lead by scoring another five runs,
putting them up 12-4 at the middle of the fourth. First Mennonite rallied,
however, sending all eleven batters to the plate. The only out recorded was
on a force out that scored the eighth run of the inning. This was the first
time we have been cut off by the mercy rule this season, and quite likely for
longer. It also left the score tied at 12 after four innings.
Although we held reasonably tightly on defense, allowing only three, three,
and one run(s) per inning for the rest of the game, we could only eek out two
more ourselves before sunset. The game had good hitting, some nice defensive
plays (Dave Frey made sliding catch in right, even though the ball came on his
bad eye side), and just enough tension to keep it interesting. Thanks to Susan
Pries, the Moyers, and Romy (who combined bus and bike to make it out to watch)
who cheered us on, and the injured Peter Jutzi who helped coach and cheer.
Two reminders from mistakes this games. One, when running towards home, do
not step on the plate, but rather step on the ground just beyond the chalk
line that extends from the plate to the fence. (Also, remmber that once you
have passed the other chalk line, the "committment line", you can't go back to
third, but it is a force play at home.) Second, when running the bases, make
sure not to interfere with a fielder making a play, or you will be called out.
Also remmeber these rules when you are umpiring.
As moral victories go, last night's game ranks near the top for recent years.
Not only did we score 14 runs last night, but we had our first offensive mercy
inning in recent memory (at least my memory, which might be good but short).
With eleven players, five fans, and a coach, we were fully prepared for the
night. We started off well, holding Glencairn scoreless in the first two
innings while scoring one ourselves.
The third inning saw a bushel of runs for each team. Glencairn, the
visiting team, scored seven runs in the top of the inning, including a few
cheap ones off "swinging bunts" that only got a few feet from home. Such is
life. We responded in the bottom of the inning, with the first three batters
scoring runs.
In the fourth, Glencairn extnded its lead by scoring another five runs,
putting them up 12-4 at the middle of the fourth. First Mennonite rallied,
however, sending all eleven batters to the plate. The only out recorded was
on a force out that scored the eighth run of the inning. This was the first
time we have been cut off by the mercy rule this season, and quite likely for
longer. It also left the score tied at 12 after four innings.
Although we held reasonably tightly on defense, allowing only three, three,
and one run(s) per inning for the rest of the game, we could only eek out two
more ourselves before sunset. The game had good hitting, some nice defensive
plays (Dave Frey made sliding catch in right, even though the ball came on his
bad eye side), and just enough tension to keep it interesting. Thanks to Susan
Pries, the Moyers, and Romy (who combined bus and bike to make it out to watch)
who cheered us on, and the injured Peter Jutzi who helped coach and cheer.
Two reminders from mistakes this games. One, when running towards home, do
not step on the plate, but rather step on the ground just beyond the chalk
line that extends from the plate to the fence. (Also, remmber that once you
have passed the other chalk line, the "committment line", you can't go back to
third, but it is a force play at home.) Second, when running the bases, make
sure not to interfere with a fielder making a play, or you will be called out.
Also remmeber these rules when you are umpiring.
Monday, July 27, 2009
fog bowl at slo-pitch
Tuesday, July 21 vs Rockway
This email comes a bit later than usual due to renovations at my house. I had
my computer behind sealed doors to protect it from plaster dust as I ripped out
a couple walls and a ceiling.
Last week's game showed the reason why we got bright yellow shirts - even
though fog rolled in during the post-sunset game, we could still see the rest
of our players, even in the outfield. Seriously, I do like the look of all of
our players in uniform.
We had exactly ten players last week, including two new players:
Jeff "Boomer" Moyer made it after his son's ball game, and the injured Peter
Jutzi found a replacement in his friend Josh. With just the ten in the lineup,
we were each able to get four at-bats, exactly. As seems to be our pattern, we
waited until later in the game to rally our bats. I forget how many runs we
scored, since I don't have my scorebook with me, but I think it might be more
than the three listed on the league website
(http://www.geocities.com/mennoniteslopitch/2009_scores.html)
Rockway has added some players from Waterloo MB, and are not the pushovers
they used to be. It seems that they ened up with about 25 runs or so.
I seem to be forgetting a lot, including whatever outstanding plays we did
make. If anyone wants to add one, make a comment on the blog
(www.firstslopitch.blogspot.com).
This email comes a bit later than usual due to renovations at my house. I had
my computer behind sealed doors to protect it from plaster dust as I ripped out
a couple walls and a ceiling.
Last week's game showed the reason why we got bright yellow shirts - even
though fog rolled in during the post-sunset game, we could still see the rest
of our players, even in the outfield. Seriously, I do like the look of all of
our players in uniform.
We had exactly ten players last week, including two new players:
Jeff "Boomer" Moyer made it after his son's ball game, and the injured Peter
Jutzi found a replacement in his friend Josh. With just the ten in the lineup,
we were each able to get four at-bats, exactly. As seems to be our pattern, we
waited until later in the game to rally our bats. I forget how many runs we
scored, since I don't have my scorebook with me, but I think it might be more
than the three listed on the league website
(http://www.geocities.com/mennoniteslopitch/2009_scores.html)
Rockway has added some players from Waterloo MB, and are not the pushovers
they used to be. It seems that they ened up with about 25 runs or so.
I seem to be forgetting a lot, including whatever outstanding plays we did
make. If anyone wants to add one, make a comment on the blog
(www.firstslopitch.blogspot.com).
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
The Slo-Pitch ball was really carrying
Tuesday, July 14, Away vs Waterloo-Kitchener United Mennonite Church
Tonight had perhaps perfect Slo-Pitch weather - warm but not hot, dry, and no wind. Maybe the pitchers would have preferred some wind. Eleven players made it out in yellow shirts, meaning that one person wearing number "1st" had to sit each inning.
We got a taste of what was to come when the first pitch sailed well over the right-centre field fence, although we allowed only one more run that inning. Indeed, W-K hit their limit of five over-the-fence home runs, and then kept hitting more for dead-ball singles (essentially walks). Despite that demoralizing feeling, our defense actually played quite well, often getting the ball in from the outfield quickly to prevent too many extra bases. In the fifth inning, Steven Metzger pitched, and provided most of the defence himself, fielding three ground balls and throwing them to Sal for force-outs at first.
Peter J lead the way for our team offensively, singling each of his four at-bats, and scoring two runs. His dad Cam helped cash him in, and Cal J also had an rbi or two. Rallies in the seventh and ninth, both started by Peter, allowed us to surpass last week's totat runs, ending up with five.
Next week we play on Tuesday, July 21, 9 pm; home on Diamond 'A' vs Rockway. I am expecting most of the usual suspects: Cam, Cal, Scott, Peter J, Sal, Dave F, Steve M, Nathan M, Mark P, and Tracy. I know that Mark DH (Paraguay) and Mackenzie F (cottage) will not make it. Others, please let me know.
Play-offs: Players are required to have played 6 regular games to be eligible for the play-offs. At this point, Cam, Cal, Scott, Dave, Mackenzie, Peter S, Peter J, Sal, Steve M, Nathan M, Mark P, and Tracy have met that. Mark DH should if his plans don't change. Including next week's games, we have 6 more games to play. Others are welcome to come out and play.
Tonight's tip (and ad): Watching or listening to baseball is one way to learn more about the way the game is played. If you want to see decent live baseball for cheap, check out the Kitchener Panthers. They play at the park beside the Aud and Centennial Stadium, usually Thursdays at 7:30 and Sundays at 7 pm. Check out www.kitchenerpanthers.com for more information.
Tonight had perhaps perfect Slo-Pitch weather - warm but not hot, dry, and no wind. Maybe the pitchers would have preferred some wind. Eleven players made it out in yellow shirts, meaning that one person wearing number "1st" had to sit each inning.
We got a taste of what was to come when the first pitch sailed well over the right-centre field fence, although we allowed only one more run that inning. Indeed, W-K hit their limit of five over-the-fence home runs, and then kept hitting more for dead-ball singles (essentially walks). Despite that demoralizing feeling, our defense actually played quite well, often getting the ball in from the outfield quickly to prevent too many extra bases. In the fifth inning, Steven Metzger pitched, and provided most of the defence himself, fielding three ground balls and throwing them to Sal for force-outs at first.
Peter J lead the way for our team offensively, singling each of his four at-bats, and scoring two runs. His dad Cam helped cash him in, and Cal J also had an rbi or two. Rallies in the seventh and ninth, both started by Peter, allowed us to surpass last week's totat runs, ending up with five.
Next week we play on Tuesday, July 21, 9 pm; home on Diamond 'A' vs Rockway. I am expecting most of the usual suspects: Cam, Cal, Scott, Peter J, Sal, Dave F, Steve M, Nathan M, Mark P, and Tracy. I know that Mark DH (Paraguay) and Mackenzie F (cottage) will not make it. Others, please let me know.
Play-offs: Players are required to have played 6 regular games to be eligible for the play-offs. At this point, Cam, Cal, Scott, Dave, Mackenzie, Peter S, Peter J, Sal, Steve M, Nathan M, Mark P, and Tracy have met that. Mark DH should if his plans don't change. Including next week's games, we have 6 more games to play. Others are welcome to come out and play.
Tonight's tip (and ad): Watching or listening to baseball is one way to learn more about the way the game is played. If you want to see decent live baseball for cheap, check out the Kitchener Panthers. They play at the park beside the Aud and Centennial Stadium, usually Thursdays at 7:30 and Sundays at 7 pm. Check out www.kitchenerpanthers.com for more information.
Wednesday, July 8, 2009
It had to be the Slo-Pitch shirts!
Tuesday, July 7. Home vs Westheights BIC
Tonight's highlight may have happened before the game even started, as First Mennonite players donned their new yellow t-shirts. Being egalitarian, each one of us is 1st. During the game, we had the bases loaded at one point, prompting someone to remark how nice it looked to have three people in yellow on the bases. Indeed.
That comment may in fact have come in the bottom of the eighth inning, when the "bottom" of the lineup (those I didn't know were coming, but am glad they did) sparked a late rally, loading the bases and scoring Tracy with hits from John P, Alan J, and Mark P. Dave Frey had the big hit of the night in the sixth, driving a ball to the wall in right centre for a double. He later scored on a hit by a Jutzi son. My score sheet suggests that Sal, Cam, and John P all reached base in each at-bat. In all, we scored four runs in the game.
Dennis Burkhart (former catcher) had a saying that went something like, "There is no rally that cannot be killed with incredibly stupid baserunning." In fact, there were three times I counted that someone on our team reached a base and then got tagged out going past it. On two of those, a run came in to score ahead of out. Just a gentle reminder. At least one, however, was a simple case of too much momentum being too hard to stop.
With Cal J losing his bid for the perfect attendance award this year, we went with Dave, John, and Steven M on the pitching rubber. Between pitching and defence, we did manage to hold Westheights scoreless in the third, and to 29 overall.
Next week we play on Tuesday, July 14, at 9 pm on Diamond 'A', visitors against W-K. I am expecting Cam, Cal, Scott, Dave, Mackenzie, Peter S, Peter J, Sal, Mark P, Nathan, Steve M, and Tracy. I know that John P, Alan, David N, and Mark DH are not available. Others, please let me know if you can come or not. Don't forget your shirts! And wear black shorts or pants if possible.
Tonight's highlight may have happened before the game even started, as First Mennonite players donned their new yellow t-shirts. Being egalitarian, each one of us is 1st. During the game, we had the bases loaded at one point, prompting someone to remark how nice it looked to have three people in yellow on the bases. Indeed.
That comment may in fact have come in the bottom of the eighth inning, when the "bottom" of the lineup (those I didn't know were coming, but am glad they did) sparked a late rally, loading the bases and scoring Tracy with hits from John P, Alan J, and Mark P. Dave Frey had the big hit of the night in the sixth, driving a ball to the wall in right centre for a double. He later scored on a hit by a Jutzi son. My score sheet suggests that Sal, Cam, and John P all reached base in each at-bat. In all, we scored four runs in the game.
Dennis Burkhart (former catcher) had a saying that went something like, "There is no rally that cannot be killed with incredibly stupid baserunning." In fact, there were three times I counted that someone on our team reached a base and then got tagged out going past it. On two of those, a run came in to score ahead of out. Just a gentle reminder. At least one, however, was a simple case of too much momentum being too hard to stop.
With Cal J losing his bid for the perfect attendance award this year, we went with Dave, John, and Steven M on the pitching rubber. Between pitching and defence, we did manage to hold Westheights scoreless in the third, and to 29 overall.
Next week we play on Tuesday, July 14, at 9 pm on Diamond 'A', visitors against W-K. I am expecting Cam, Cal, Scott, Dave, Mackenzie, Peter S, Peter J, Sal, Mark P, Nathan, Steve M, and Tracy. I know that John P, Alan, David N, and Mark DH are not available. Others, please let me know if you can come or not. Don't forget your shirts! And wear black shorts or pants if possible.
Thursday, June 25, 2009
Halfway through the Slo-Pitch season
We have now played eight regular-season games, plus one exhibition game. There are eight more regular-season games left, plus five or six play-off games. Since next week is the league's mid-season break (sorry, no all-star game in this league), let's call this half-way.
Tonight was a beautiful if hot night for a baseball. Erb Street came out swinging, scoring seven runs in the first to set the tone. We did, however, hold them scoreless in the second, seventh, eighth, and ninth innings. Sal made a nice catch in foul territory on a ball many of us thought was going out of play, which was part of a three-up three-down inning for our defence. Sal also had one of the big hits of the night, a single that went all the way to the centre field wall. Mark Peters also had a long double in the seventh, and with smart and agressive baserunning, later scored our first run of the night. Cal Jutzi, who was three for three on the night, scored the second run the next inning. Peter Jutzi also reached base in each of his three at-bats, including a double in the eighth that cashed in Cal.
Next week there is no game, since Canada Day falls on the Wednesday. Our next game is Tuesday, July 7, 7 pm on Diamond A, home vs Westheights BIC. I am expecting Cam J, Cal J, Scott A, Dave F, Mackenzie F, Peter J, Sal U, Nathan M, and Tracy K. I know that Mark DH is gone until early August. Anyone else coming, let me know by email or facebook, or even in person!
Practice: Since there is no game, let's have a practice and/or game of scrub on Tuesday night next week (June 30). Purely for my own convenience, let's meet at Sheppard School (Borden & Weber Sts, near the Kitchener Aud) at 7 pm. Let me know if you can make that. You can bring friends, too. If not enough people reply, I'll send an email Monday cancelling it.
Enjoy summer, and have a good week or two!
Tonight was a beautiful if hot night for a baseball. Erb Street came out swinging, scoring seven runs in the first to set the tone. We did, however, hold them scoreless in the second, seventh, eighth, and ninth innings. Sal made a nice catch in foul territory on a ball many of us thought was going out of play, which was part of a three-up three-down inning for our defence. Sal also had one of the big hits of the night, a single that went all the way to the centre field wall. Mark Peters also had a long double in the seventh, and with smart and agressive baserunning, later scored our first run of the night. Cal Jutzi, who was three for three on the night, scored the second run the next inning. Peter Jutzi also reached base in each of his three at-bats, including a double in the eighth that cashed in Cal.
Next week there is no game, since Canada Day falls on the Wednesday. Our next game is Tuesday, July 7, 7 pm on Diamond A, home vs Westheights BIC. I am expecting Cam J, Cal J, Scott A, Dave F, Mackenzie F, Peter J, Sal U, Nathan M, and Tracy K. I know that Mark DH is gone until early August. Anyone else coming, let me know by email or facebook, or even in person!
Practice: Since there is no game, let's have a practice and/or game of scrub on Tuesday night next week (June 30). Purely for my own convenience, let's meet at Sheppard School (Borden & Weber Sts, near the Kitchener Aud) at 7 pm. Let me know if you can make that. You can bring friends, too. If not enough people reply, I'll send an email Monday cancelling it.
Enjoy summer, and have a good week or two!
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
Close only counts in horseshoes and Slo-Pitch
Tuesday night saw an excellent defensive game played on Diamond 'B'. After Waterloo North had a five-run outburst in the bottom of the first, we all settled down into a low-scoring match.
We played solid defensively, with David Neufeld making a number of slick pick-ups and strong throws from shortstop, to mention only one player. John Pries also made a number of catches roving in the outfield. The pitching of Dave Frey and Cal Jutzi combined to allow only four more runs over the next seven innings, despite a gusting wind playing with the pitches.
Offensively we did well, even if we came up short. My scoresheet shows that Cam J reached base all four times at-bat, and I think that included a few runs batted in. Mark DH had the three shorter parts of the cycle, and scored each time he got on base. Cal (speedster) and Cam J showed some heads-up base running, taking an extra base when third was left uncovered by Cam's fly into short left field. Cal (the lead runner) wisely ignored my coaching instructions, and Cam followed Cal's lead by sneaking into second on the play.
In the end, we did score six runs, just short of Waterloo North's nine, but we were in the game the whole time. It was just their three-run homer in the first that made the difference. We had eleven players, which was a nice amount, even if two of the eleven were different than who I was expecting. It is quite helpful to know ahead of time with some degree of certainty who will come or not.
Next week we play Wednesday, June 24 at 7 pm, home vs Erb Street on Diamond 'B'. I am expecting Cam, Cal, Scott, Dave F, Mackenzie F, Nathan M, and Tracy K. Mark DH's brother Kendall facebooked the event, wanting to come. Mark himself, and John Pries, are not able to make it. Please let me know if you will come. I anticipate that this could be another close and competitive game.
T-shirts: We approved the design of the t-shirts that Tracy is getting for us. On the front, it will say "The Last Shall Be FIRST", and the back will have a large 1, with the st in small superscript for all of us. Since Tracy is getting these from a client in lieu of money she is owed, I think that we should each pay her $10 for our shirts, and some of the team's extra funds beyond what is needed for this year's fees could go to purchase remainders for future seasons. (Future players could then pay into the team kitty for their shirts.) It might be hard to get Tracy (who doesn't have email and so is likely not reading this) to take the money, but she deserves it. I have also not collected player fees from her, offsetting the "cost" of 5 shirts. If you have any comments on this, you can post them here on the blog or on the group page on Facebook, or email me, or talk at Wednesday's game.
We played solid defensively, with David Neufeld making a number of slick pick-ups and strong throws from shortstop, to mention only one player. John Pries also made a number of catches roving in the outfield. The pitching of Dave Frey and Cal Jutzi combined to allow only four more runs over the next seven innings, despite a gusting wind playing with the pitches.
Offensively we did well, even if we came up short. My scoresheet shows that Cam J reached base all four times at-bat, and I think that included a few runs batted in. Mark DH had the three shorter parts of the cycle, and scored each time he got on base. Cal (speedster) and Cam J showed some heads-up base running, taking an extra base when third was left uncovered by Cam's fly into short left field. Cal (the lead runner) wisely ignored my coaching instructions, and Cam followed Cal's lead by sneaking into second on the play.
In the end, we did score six runs, just short of Waterloo North's nine, but we were in the game the whole time. It was just their three-run homer in the first that made the difference. We had eleven players, which was a nice amount, even if two of the eleven were different than who I was expecting. It is quite helpful to know ahead of time with some degree of certainty who will come or not.
Next week we play Wednesday, June 24 at 7 pm, home vs Erb Street on Diamond 'B'. I am expecting Cam, Cal, Scott, Dave F, Mackenzie F, Nathan M, and Tracy K. Mark DH's brother Kendall facebooked the event, wanting to come. Mark himself, and John Pries, are not able to make it. Please let me know if you will come. I anticipate that this could be another close and competitive game.
T-shirts: We approved the design of the t-shirts that Tracy is getting for us. On the front, it will say "The Last Shall Be FIRST", and the back will have a large 1, with the st in small superscript for all of us. Since Tracy is getting these from a client in lieu of money she is owed, I think that we should each pay her $10 for our shirts, and some of the team's extra funds beyond what is needed for this year's fees could go to purchase remainders for future seasons. (Future players could then pay into the team kitty for their shirts.) It might be hard to get Tracy (who doesn't have email and so is likely not reading this) to take the money, but she deserves it. I have also not collected player fees from her, offsetting the "cost" of 5 shirts. If you have any comments on this, you can post them here on the blog or on the group page on Facebook, or email me, or talk at Wednesday's game.
Thursday, June 11, 2009
New Slo-Pitch Recruit
I have a new prospect for our team starting in the 2024 season of Slo-Pitch. I caught John Funk Albrecht at 1:35 am today (Thursday, June 11), and I didn't even drop him!. At 9 lbs 3 oz we expect him to be a heavy hitter.
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
A happy Slo-Pitch birthday to Cal
Tuesday, June 9 vs Bloomingdale
I guess the BBQ didn't materialize, but Judy brought cookies to help us all celebrate Cal's 55th birthday last night. It's good we have Dave Frey starting to pitch, because Cal probably only has 15-20 more years in his arm.
I don't have the scorebook with me (it's in the equipment bag in case I can't make it next week), but we had some good defensive innings, holding them to one or two runs a number of times in the game, both with Dave and Cal pitching. We had one double play from the "that's how we wrote up the play" category: Sal went for a pop-up and deflected it to Scott with his glove, fooling the runner at third into breaking for home. A throw to Mark D-H at third and the runner was caught not tagging up.
Hitting was better than the scoresheet might show. We loaded the bases at least twice, once cashing in two runners. I forget who the batter was - sorry for the lack of recognition.
Next week we play Tuesday, June 16, 7 pm on Diamond 'B', visitors against Waterloo North. I am expecting: Cam, Cal, Sal, Mark D-H, Steve M, Mark P, Nathan M, Dave F, Mackenzie F, Tracy, likely me. Please let me know if there are changes.
T-Shirts: We agreed to yellow t-shirts with the slogan "The Last Shall Be FIRST" in black letters.
Facebook: I am getting into 2006 already, and have a Facebook page, with a group called First Menno Slo-Pitch. Search for me or that, or try this link:
http://www.facebook.com/home.php#/group.php?gid=95594325932&ref=mf
Gotta run - going to the hospital tonight.
I guess the BBQ didn't materialize, but Judy brought cookies to help us all celebrate Cal's 55th birthday last night. It's good we have Dave Frey starting to pitch, because Cal probably only has 15-20 more years in his arm.
I don't have the scorebook with me (it's in the equipment bag in case I can't make it next week), but we had some good defensive innings, holding them to one or two runs a number of times in the game, both with Dave and Cal pitching. We had one double play from the "that's how we wrote up the play" category: Sal went for a pop-up and deflected it to Scott with his glove, fooling the runner at third into breaking for home. A throw to Mark D-H at third and the runner was caught not tagging up.
Hitting was better than the scoresheet might show. We loaded the bases at least twice, once cashing in two runners. I forget who the batter was - sorry for the lack of recognition.
Next week we play Tuesday, June 16, 7 pm on Diamond 'B', visitors against Waterloo North. I am expecting: Cam, Cal, Sal, Mark D-H, Steve M, Mark P, Nathan M, Dave F, Mackenzie F, Tracy, likely me. Please let me know if there are changes.
T-Shirts: We agreed to yellow t-shirts with the slogan "The Last Shall Be FIRST" in black letters.
Facebook: I am getting into 2006 already, and have a Facebook page, with a group called First Menno Slo-Pitch. Search for me or that, or try this link:
http://www.facebook.com/home.php#/group.php?gid=95594325932&ref=mf
Gotta run - going to the hospital tonight.
Wednesday, June 3, 2009
The Slo-Pitch answer is blowing in the wind
Wednesday, June 3 vs Elmira
Fifteen of us showed up at the diamond tonight for our game vs Elmira, although Tracy Kauffman decided to go back to work instead of playing. We also had lots of fans tonight, filling nearly an entire row of the bleachers! Thanks to Susan Pries, Val Frey, Kathy Clemence, Kathy Albrecht, Rachel Diller Harder, and a bunch of younger fans who "watched" from the playground areas beyond the outfield. There were two others in the bench that I didn't meet.
There was a wind blowing in from left field tonight, although it only seemed to knock down our balls, as Elmira managed to drop a few over the fence. Dave Frey pitched another three innings for us tonight, including a scoreless sixth. Our closer, Steven Metzger, finished off the bottom of the eigth in similar fashion.
Dave Frey also had the big stick of the night, leading us off with a solid single to centre. Later in the game he cashed in our only two runs of the game with another single. With 14 people in the batting order, most of us only got up 3 times, and poor Nathan and Mark Peters only twice. (We do, however, like having enough players, and we will likely need everyone when summer holiday season starts.)
Next week we play Tuesday, June 9, at 9 pm on Diamond A, home vs Bloomingdale. It is hot dog night - come early to help celebrate Cal's birthday! The balls are in the bag - we will use an orange or yellow ball for games under the lights. I am expecting Tracy, Mark P, Nathan M, Steven M, Sal U, Mackenzie F, Dave F, Mark DH, Cam J, and Cal J. I will come if baby isn't in the middle of being born. If anyone else can come (it's a late game), please let me know.
T-shirts: Tracy is offering to get T-shirts for the team. Please send me suggestions for colour and lettering. Also, let me know what size you wear.
Fifteen of us showed up at the diamond tonight for our game vs Elmira, although Tracy Kauffman decided to go back to work instead of playing. We also had lots of fans tonight, filling nearly an entire row of the bleachers! Thanks to Susan Pries, Val Frey, Kathy Clemence, Kathy Albrecht, Rachel Diller Harder, and a bunch of younger fans who "watched" from the playground areas beyond the outfield. There were two others in the bench that I didn't meet.
There was a wind blowing in from left field tonight, although it only seemed to knock down our balls, as Elmira managed to drop a few over the fence. Dave Frey pitched another three innings for us tonight, including a scoreless sixth. Our closer, Steven Metzger, finished off the bottom of the eigth in similar fashion.
Dave Frey also had the big stick of the night, leading us off with a solid single to centre. Later in the game he cashed in our only two runs of the game with another single. With 14 people in the batting order, most of us only got up 3 times, and poor Nathan and Mark Peters only twice. (We do, however, like having enough players, and we will likely need everyone when summer holiday season starts.)
Next week we play Tuesday, June 9, at 9 pm on Diamond A, home vs Bloomingdale. It is hot dog night - come early to help celebrate Cal's birthday! The balls are in the bag - we will use an orange or yellow ball for games under the lights. I am expecting Tracy, Mark P, Nathan M, Steven M, Sal U, Mackenzie F, Dave F, Mark DH, Cam J, and Cal J. I will come if baby isn't in the middle of being born. If anyone else can come (it's a late game), please let me know.
T-shirts: Tracy is offering to get T-shirts for the team. Please send me suggestions for colour and lettering. Also, let me know what size you wear.
Thursday, May 28, 2009
When the Rain Comes Down... on Slo-Pitch
Wednesday, May 27 vs Stirling (Rain-out)
As many of you noticed, it was rather rainy for much of today (Wednesday). At 6:40 pm in Bloomingdale, it was sprinkling lightly, and Diamond B had just a few puddles. Between about 6:50 and 7:03 pm, we had a serious rain shower, during which we set up the bases. At about 7:02 pm, I told the rep from Stirling Ave that his team really does need to show up at the diamond, but since it was raining hard and likely to continue or get worse, we would call it a rain-out. (At this point they had only 4 players present.) One person (Cal - oops, did I say that out loud) mentioned that there was a good hockey game on TV, anyway.
So, by 7:04 or so, my rain jacket was not really necessary, and since Dave was getting in some pitching practice, we (Steven M, Nathan M, Mark P, Mackenzie, Scott A, Tracy, Cam) stayed for batting/fielding practice.
Thanks to those who were planning on coming out, and to those who indicated that they would not be able to. An email even up to 5 pm on gameday is welcome, since I try to prepare line-ups and fielding assignments ahead of time. Those who reliably indicate when they can and cannot come will bat higher in the order and play defense in more innings.
As many of you noticed, it was rather rainy for much of today (Wednesday). At 6:40 pm in Bloomingdale, it was sprinkling lightly, and Diamond B had just a few puddles. Between about 6:50 and 7:03 pm, we had a serious rain shower, during which we set up the bases. At about 7:02 pm, I told the rep from Stirling Ave that his team really does need to show up at the diamond, but since it was raining hard and likely to continue or get worse, we would call it a rain-out. (At this point they had only 4 players present.) One person (Cal - oops, did I say that out loud) mentioned that there was a good hockey game on TV, anyway.
So, by 7:04 or so, my rain jacket was not really necessary, and since Dave was getting in some pitching practice, we (Steven M, Nathan M, Mark P, Mackenzie, Scott A, Tracy, Cam) stayed for batting/fielding practice.
Thanks to those who were planning on coming out, and to those who indicated that they would not be able to. An email even up to 5 pm on gameday is welcome, since I try to prepare line-ups and fielding assignments ahead of time. Those who reliably indicate when they can and cannot come will bat higher in the order and play defense in more innings.
Thursday, May 21, 2009
A fine night for Slo-Pitch
Tuesday, May 19 vs Glencairn Mennonite Brethren
Tuesday night was a beautiful night to be on the diamond - warm and clear with just enough wind for Cal's "curveballs".
We had twelve players out, which was almost exactly what I was expecting. Thanks to all of you for letting me know when you plan to play. Steven M and Nathan M brought their roommate Mark ? out. David Neufeld played his first game of the season, which will be shortened for him given his impending move to South America. We also had fans - Romy C, who played in our exhibition game, George F (dad and grandpa of Dave and Mackenzie), and Kathy and Anna A who "watched" from the outfield playground for the first part of the game.
As for the game, we continued to hit reasonably well. Like last game, we had runners on base in most innings, scoring in three of them for a total of seven. Steven M showed why he won last year's Jackrabbit award, twice using agressive baserunning to score from second base with two outs. Dave F and Nathan M each reached base every at bat, and all but two hitters reached base at least once, according to my records.
Our defense turned two double plays, both involving third base. One was the traditional bases loaded grounder to third, which calls for stepping on third and throwing home. The other saw Mackenzie catch a fly ball in left, and throwing out the runner who didn't tag up. (Glencairn learned that "there is no rally that cannot be killed by incredibly stupid baserunning", to quote Dennis Burkhardt.) Other heads up plays came on "errors". I think on a total of three dropped infield pop-ups or liners we still recovered to get a force play, which gets basically the same result.
This week's tip: Infield fly rule. If there are runners on first and second, or first, second and third, and there are less than two outs, then on a fly ball (pop up) that is a reasonable catch by an infielder, the batter is automatically out (whether the ball is caught or not). Runners may run after the ball is caught or dropped if they wish, but there is no force play since the batter is out. Remember this when you are umpiring and running the bases.
Next week we play on Wednesday, May 27 at 7 pm, home vs Stirling on Diamond B. I am expecting Nathan M, Steven M, Sal U, Peter J, Peter S, Mackenzie F, Dave F, Scott A (pending baby), Cal J, Cam J, and Tracy K. I have regrets from Mark D-H. I don't know if Alan and Lynn are planning a honeymoon after Friday or not. Best wishes for your wedding and marriage.
Shirts: Tracy has a lead on getting us some team shirts. Please let me know if you have ideas for what colour you would like, and for lettering (i.e. FMC, or First Mennonite, or East End, or some other words instead or in addition).
See you next week.
Tuesday night was a beautiful night to be on the diamond - warm and clear with just enough wind for Cal's "curveballs".
We had twelve players out, which was almost exactly what I was expecting. Thanks to all of you for letting me know when you plan to play. Steven M and Nathan M brought their roommate Mark ? out. David Neufeld played his first game of the season, which will be shortened for him given his impending move to South America. We also had fans - Romy C, who played in our exhibition game, George F (dad and grandpa of Dave and Mackenzie), and Kathy and Anna A who "watched" from the outfield playground for the first part of the game.
As for the game, we continued to hit reasonably well. Like last game, we had runners on base in most innings, scoring in three of them for a total of seven. Steven M showed why he won last year's Jackrabbit award, twice using agressive baserunning to score from second base with two outs. Dave F and Nathan M each reached base every at bat, and all but two hitters reached base at least once, according to my records.
Our defense turned two double plays, both involving third base. One was the traditional bases loaded grounder to third, which calls for stepping on third and throwing home. The other saw Mackenzie catch a fly ball in left, and throwing out the runner who didn't tag up. (Glencairn learned that "there is no rally that cannot be killed by incredibly stupid baserunning", to quote Dennis Burkhardt.) Other heads up plays came on "errors". I think on a total of three dropped infield pop-ups or liners we still recovered to get a force play, which gets basically the same result.
This week's tip: Infield fly rule. If there are runners on first and second, or first, second and third, and there are less than two outs, then on a fly ball (pop up) that is a reasonable catch by an infielder, the batter is automatically out (whether the ball is caught or not). Runners may run after the ball is caught or dropped if they wish, but there is no force play since the batter is out. Remember this when you are umpiring and running the bases.
Next week we play on Wednesday, May 27 at 7 pm, home vs Stirling on Diamond B. I am expecting Nathan M, Steven M, Sal U, Peter J, Peter S, Mackenzie F, Dave F, Scott A (pending baby), Cal J, Cam J, and Tracy K. I have regrets from Mark D-H. I don't know if Alan and Lynn are planning a honeymoon after Friday or not. Best wishes for your wedding and marriage.
Shirts: Tracy has a lead on getting us some team shirts. Please let me know if you have ideas for what colour you would like, and for lettering (i.e. FMC, or First Mennonite, or East End, or some other words instead or in addition).
See you next week.
Thursday, May 14, 2009
Nine is fine for Slo-Pitch
Wednesday, May 13 vs Waterloo Mennonite Brethren
With light rain falling over the supper hour, and forecasts of more rain in the evening, it didn't look promising for tonight's Slo-Pitch game. However, the rain didn't get heavier, it actually let up to sprinkles and then nothing by the last innings of our game against Waterloo Mennonite Brethren church.
Each team played with nine players tonight, down from the 12 I was expecting for our team. (Two are getting married next week, so I guess they might be busy with other things.) Cam, Cal, Scott, Mark, Mackenzie, Peter S, Peter J, Sal, and Tracy Kauffman all braved the elements.
I think that we actually have the best hitting with 9 players in the line-up. We get to bat more often, and between running, umpiring, and coaching, we are all in the game. (That's not to say that I don't like having 14 players, and we'll need everyone we can get in the summer time, I expect.) It took once through the batting order to find our stroke, but in the third inning we scored three runs, sending 8 batters to the plate. That actually tied the score, since we let in only two runs in the first, one in the second, and blanked them in the third. We added two in the fifth, with me tripling in Mark's lead-off single, and Tracy's single over the bag at third cashing me in. We also added single runs in the sixth (with Sal leading off with a triple of his own), seventh, and eighth innings. We had five or more batters in each inning except the second (4) and third (3).
Our defence played a pretty good game, except for the numerous grounders that went through my legs. Mackenzie had one particularly impressive catch on a deep fly ball to left, and Peter Jutzi hauled in a number of flies in the outfield, too. Peter Szabo used both hands to catch a liner to second, and Sal made a picture-perfect stretch at first base to catch Mark's throw from third and put out the batter. In the end, we couldn't catch the four flies that landed over the fence, and I could only catch pop-ups at shortstop, so WMB ended up with 18 runs to our 8.
With light rain falling over the supper hour, and forecasts of more rain in the evening, it didn't look promising for tonight's Slo-Pitch game. However, the rain didn't get heavier, it actually let up to sprinkles and then nothing by the last innings of our game against Waterloo Mennonite Brethren church.
Each team played with nine players tonight, down from the 12 I was expecting for our team. (Two are getting married next week, so I guess they might be busy with other things.) Cam, Cal, Scott, Mark, Mackenzie, Peter S, Peter J, Sal, and Tracy Kauffman all braved the elements.
I think that we actually have the best hitting with 9 players in the line-up. We get to bat more often, and between running, umpiring, and coaching, we are all in the game. (That's not to say that I don't like having 14 players, and we'll need everyone we can get in the summer time, I expect.) It took once through the batting order to find our stroke, but in the third inning we scored three runs, sending 8 batters to the plate. That actually tied the score, since we let in only two runs in the first, one in the second, and blanked them in the third. We added two in the fifth, with me tripling in Mark's lead-off single, and Tracy's single over the bag at third cashing me in. We also added single runs in the sixth (with Sal leading off with a triple of his own), seventh, and eighth innings. We had five or more batters in each inning except the second (4) and third (3).
Our defence played a pretty good game, except for the numerous grounders that went through my legs. Mackenzie had one particularly impressive catch on a deep fly ball to left, and Peter Jutzi hauled in a number of flies in the outfield, too. Peter Szabo used both hands to catch a liner to second, and Sal made a picture-perfect stretch at first base to catch Mark's throw from third and put out the batter. In the end, we couldn't catch the four flies that landed over the fence, and I could only catch pop-ups at shortstop, so WMB ended up with 18 runs to our 8.
Thursday, May 7, 2009
Keep your eyes on the Freys in Slo-Pitch
Wednesday, May 6 vs Breslau
Well, we just got the game in tonight before the rain started too severely. I don't know about the late game folks.
Even though we played nine innings (or 8 1/2 to be precise), we still finished well before 8:30 tonight. We also didn't quite make it through the batting order three times. That was in part because we ended up with fourteen players, and in part because many of our well-hit balls were caught by Breslau's fielders.
On defense, one inning stands out. Father-son outfield duo Dave and Mackenzie Frey accounted for all of the outs with catches in right and left field respectively. Mackenzie made the third out on a pretty sliding catch. In another innings, pitcher Cal J showed his athleticism and long glove by catching pop-up at the third base line. Of course, not even Mackenzie was able to catch the balls that went over the fence, so Breslau won by quite a few to about 2.
Roger K and future player/bat & ball boy Zach came out for the first time tonight. Tracy K (who, as church custodian, spends more time at First Mennonite Church than any of us) shook off a few years of rust to join us tonight, and hopefully for many games this season.
Since many people arrived early tonight, we were able to get a bit of practice in before the game. Let's keep doing that as we are able.
Well, we just got the game in tonight before the rain started too severely. I don't know about the late game folks.
Even though we played nine innings (or 8 1/2 to be precise), we still finished well before 8:30 tonight. We also didn't quite make it through the batting order three times. That was in part because we ended up with fourteen players, and in part because many of our well-hit balls were caught by Breslau's fielders.
On defense, one inning stands out. Father-son outfield duo Dave and Mackenzie Frey accounted for all of the outs with catches in right and left field respectively. Mackenzie made the third out on a pretty sliding catch. In another innings, pitcher Cal J showed his athleticism and long glove by catching pop-up at the third base line. Of course, not even Mackenzie was able to catch the balls that went over the fence, so Breslau won by quite a few to about 2.
Roger K and future player/bat & ball boy Zach came out for the first time tonight. Tracy K (who, as church custodian, spends more time at First Mennonite Church than any of us) shook off a few years of rust to join us tonight, and hopefully for many games this season.
Since many people arrived early tonight, we were able to get a bit of practice in before the game. Let's keep doing that as we are able.
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
A cool night for Slo-Pitch warm-up
Tuesday, April 28, Exhibition Game vs Waterloo North
Thanks to all who came out to the first slo-pitch game of the season. We had 13 players out tonight. We had an international flavour, with our Egyptian pastoral intern Ayman making his debut, and Romi, a Colombian most recently living in the United States. If I remember correctly, Peter S (John P's co-worker) has Australian roots or connections. Other non-First Mennonite players included Nathan M (roommate of Steven M) and ex-pastor Mark DH. Other players tonight included Sal U (marking his first game with the team), Cal J, Cam J, Peter J, Steven W, Dave F, Mackenzie F, and your truly.
Since this was an exhibition game, we ran through the batting order each inning, and didn't even pretend to keep score. I will note that Ayman improved each at-bat, with his last hit going into the outfield. I should also mention Cal J's double in the second inning. On the defensive side, Steven W had the most impressive miscue of the night, overthrowing the catcher from centre field.
According to the Weather Network, game time temperature was in the range of 7 degrees C, making it a cool night for our 'warm-up' game.
Next week, we play on Wednesday, May 6 at 7 pm, Diamond A vs Breslau. I am expecting Cam J, Cal J, Scott A, Dave F, Mackenzie F, Peter S, Peter J, Alan J, Lynn, Sal, Nathan M, and Ayman. If you (anyone else) can make it, please let me know.
Money: Fees for this year will be $50 for a full season, $35 for a half season, and $5 per game for occasional players. Please pay for full or half season fees by the May 19 game, if not sooner. (My cheque for league fees is dated June 1. With our second child due June 5, I can't guarantee making the May 27 game, as that is within the two-week either side window of normal arrival.)
Thanks to all who came out to the first slo-pitch game of the season. We had 13 players out tonight. We had an international flavour, with our Egyptian pastoral intern Ayman making his debut, and Romi, a Colombian most recently living in the United States. If I remember correctly, Peter S (John P's co-worker) has Australian roots or connections. Other non-First Mennonite players included Nathan M (roommate of Steven M) and ex-pastor Mark DH. Other players tonight included Sal U (marking his first game with the team), Cal J, Cam J, Peter J, Steven W, Dave F, Mackenzie F, and your truly.
Since this was an exhibition game, we ran through the batting order each inning, and didn't even pretend to keep score. I will note that Ayman improved each at-bat, with his last hit going into the outfield. I should also mention Cal J's double in the second inning. On the defensive side, Steven W had the most impressive miscue of the night, overthrowing the catcher from centre field.
According to the Weather Network, game time temperature was in the range of 7 degrees C, making it a cool night for our 'warm-up' game.
Next week, we play on Wednesday, May 6 at 7 pm, Diamond A vs Breslau. I am expecting Cam J, Cal J, Scott A, Dave F, Mackenzie F, Peter S, Peter J, Alan J, Lynn, Sal, Nathan M, and Ayman. If you (anyone else) can make it, please let me know.
Money: Fees for this year will be $50 for a full season, $35 for a half season, and $5 per game for occasional players. Please pay for full or half season fees by the May 19 game, if not sooner. (My cheque for league fees is dated June 1. With our second child due June 5, I can't guarantee making the May 27 game, as that is within the two-week either side window of normal arrival.)
Wednesday, April 1, 2009
Get ready for Spring Training in Slo-Pitch
Tonight officially marked the change of seasons for me. I just got home from my last Tuesday night hockey game of the season, marking the end of Winter. Earlier, I was at the meeting of the K-W Mennonite Slo-Pitch league, marking the coming of Spring.
Each of you is on my list as someone who either played with the First Mennonite team last year, or who may be interested in playing this year. If you know someone else who might be interested that is not on this list, please let them know.
This league is a recreational league, although we do keep score and standings. Teams are allowed women and men, and there are only 4 or 5 players under 30 allowed on the field at one time, although all who come out can bat. Our team is very welcoming of eager players of whatever skill level.
Our first game (exhibition) is Tuesday, April 28, at 9 pm. (This is one week later than mentioned in the First Forum.) All games (until play-offs, starting in September) are played in Bloomingdale. We play one game per week, either Tuesday or Wednesday at either 7 or 9 pm (11 early games and 6 late games). There are no games on June 30 or July 1 (Canada Day). I will send around the full schedule as soon as I get the final version.
I would like to know your interest and general availability for this season, so we know how much recruiting we have to do. If you can only play for part of the season because you will be at camp, on a different continent, or simply have a work schedule that will interfere at times, please let me know when you expect to be available. If you would like to be taken off this list, please let me know, too.
The costs for this league are, apparently, much lower than most other leagues. The total team fee is $490, so I expect individual fees to be in the range of $50/season or $5 per game, depending on whether we want to buy a new bat or 'uniform' shirts.
The league website is http://www.geocities.com/mennoniteslopitch/, and these emails get posted to a blog at http://www.firstslopitch.blogspot.com/
Let's all look forward to the coming of warmer weather and a fun season of Slo-Pitch.
Scott
Each of you is on my list as someone who either played with the First Mennonite team last year, or who may be interested in playing this year. If you know someone else who might be interested that is not on this list, please let them know.
This league is a recreational league, although we do keep score and standings. Teams are allowed women and men, and there are only 4 or 5 players under 30 allowed on the field at one time, although all who come out can bat. Our team is very welcoming of eager players of whatever skill level.
Our first game (exhibition) is Tuesday, April 28, at 9 pm. (This is one week later than mentioned in the First Forum.) All games (until play-offs, starting in September) are played in Bloomingdale. We play one game per week, either Tuesday or Wednesday at either 7 or 9 pm (11 early games and 6 late games). There are no games on June 30 or July 1 (Canada Day). I will send around the full schedule as soon as I get the final version.
I would like to know your interest and general availability for this season, so we know how much recruiting we have to do. If you can only play for part of the season because you will be at camp, on a different continent, or simply have a work schedule that will interfere at times, please let me know when you expect to be available. If you would like to be taken off this list, please let me know, too.
The costs for this league are, apparently, much lower than most other leagues. The total team fee is $490, so I expect individual fees to be in the range of $50/season or $5 per game, depending on whether we want to buy a new bat or 'uniform' shirts.
The league website is http://www.geocities.com/mennoniteslopitch/, and these emails get posted to a blog at http://www.firstslopitch.blogspot.com/
Let's all look forward to the coming of warmer weather and a fun season of Slo-Pitch.
Scott
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