Your Wilton Redding Retro’s journeyed to Fussenrich Park in Torrington today to face the Torrington Dragons in our quarterfinal playoff match. After the game I was struck by the similarities between Torrington born abolitionist John Brown and his hometown Dragons-let’s see what they have in common besides geography and why history seems to rhyme.
Outlook on Life:
The Torrington Dragons are playing men’s adult baseball and thus have to be glass half full kind of guys.
John Brown fathered 20 children so not only was he a glass half full kind of guy, his bed must have been pretty full and his house, with 20 kids really had to be full.
Ambition to achieve great accomplishments:
The Torrington Dragons made the playoffs with 10 wins during the season and come in armed with their top players in an effort to win the league championship . Numerous fans and family are behind their efforts . “Let’s win on the field” they chanted when the playoff pairings were announced
John Brown attempts to start a liberation movement among slaves in 1859. Frustrated with the advocates of peaceful resistance and pacifism he is reported to have said “ These men are all talk –what we need is action”
The Beginning or “We are off to a good start!”
Tied at 1 in the fourth, the Dragons squeeze out a run to take a 2-1 lead
John Brown seized the armory at Harper’s Ferry where seven people were killed, and ten or more were injured. He intended to arm slaves with weapons from the arsenal.
The Middle-or “ Uh oh !”
Trailing by 1 in the 5th the Wilton /Redding Retro’ tie the game and then break it open with a bases loaded single on a 3-2 pitch taking 3 run lead.
John Brown’s attack failed. Within 36 hours, Brown's men had fled or been killed or captured by local farmers, militiamen, and U.S. Marines led by Robert E. Lee.
The End – “Yikes”
The Retro’s tack on another run in the 7th to take commanding 4 run lead 6-2 . The Dragons last hope is the bottom of the 7th but they go out 1-2-3 to end the game and get eliminated from the single elimination tourney.
John Brown is executed by hanging in Charles Town, Virginia (now West Virginia) thus being eliminated from the tournament of life, which is also a single elimination format.
Streaks
The Wilton/ Redding Retro’s move on to the semi- final round of the playoffs next Saturday with confidence facing the next challenge with is not likely to feature any Civil War personalities. The Retros have been on a great streak of late winning 7 of their last eight .
The Union Army went on a streak as well beating the South, and winning in WW1, WW2 and Korea before losing on the road at Vietnam . Of course, war is also played in a single elimination format so lessons can l be learned all around
Sunday, September 26, 2010
Friday, July 30, 2010
Stepping down as manager after this season
Gents:
I have decided that this will be my last season running the Wilton Red Sox. I have had a terrific time playing with you all and enjoyed the experience immensely. But after basically being on the DL all year and with the prospect of that status not changing I have concluded it is time for someone else to take the reins and help the Red Sox move forward. Perhaps having an artificial hip, a shoulder that feels like there is a sword in it and and eyes that need glasses to read anything are signs the universe is trying to tell me something. If I were to be able play next year it would be in the 38 plus division but my shoulder would have to magically be healed. The orthopedic doc i saw guy told me the MRI I had indicates have a "slap tear" of my labrum-not the best circumstance for a pitcher. But I will try to do some weight work this winter and see how it is next year but in the 38 plus level.
I have had the pleasure of getting to know each of you and regard each of you as a friend of mine . I very much enjoyed playing with you and watched you have some fantastic performances as we have experienced the joy of baseball. Many of you sacrificed a lot to play for the Red Sox and I appreciate the effort and energy you put into playing for our team. Advice is often given “to live in the moment” and “live life to the fullest” and your putting energy and heart into an endeavor as you did as Red Sox players is testimony to that and for sharing that I thank you. We had some terrific games together and I will miss the games immensely.
Going forward I hope someone among you takes the reins and keeps the team going. Perhaps you can discuss among yourselves on Sunday.
Whomever it may be you can expect some surprises as you go along but I will write up a list of items that need to be handled to run the team.
There are many ways to run one of these teams and players may have their likes and dislikes about how i ran it but my goal was to make it a good experience for everyone
Now is the time for another guy to put his stamp on the team and of course I wish him the best of luck.
I have decided that this will be my last season running the Wilton Red Sox. I have had a terrific time playing with you all and enjoyed the experience immensely. But after basically being on the DL all year and with the prospect of that status not changing I have concluded it is time for someone else to take the reins and help the Red Sox move forward. Perhaps having an artificial hip, a shoulder that feels like there is a sword in it and and eyes that need glasses to read anything are signs the universe is trying to tell me something. If I were to be able play next year it would be in the 38 plus division but my shoulder would have to magically be healed. The orthopedic doc i saw guy told me the MRI I had indicates have a "slap tear" of my labrum-not the best circumstance for a pitcher. But I will try to do some weight work this winter and see how it is next year but in the 38 plus level.
I have had the pleasure of getting to know each of you and regard each of you as a friend of mine . I very much enjoyed playing with you and watched you have some fantastic performances as we have experienced the joy of baseball. Many of you sacrificed a lot to play for the Red Sox and I appreciate the effort and energy you put into playing for our team. Advice is often given “to live in the moment” and “live life to the fullest” and your putting energy and heart into an endeavor as you did as Red Sox players is testimony to that and for sharing that I thank you. We had some terrific games together and I will miss the games immensely.
Going forward I hope someone among you takes the reins and keeps the team going. Perhaps you can discuss among yourselves on Sunday.
Whomever it may be you can expect some surprises as you go along but I will write up a list of items that need to be handled to run the team.
There are many ways to run one of these teams and players may have their likes and dislikes about how i ran it but my goal was to make it a good experience for everyone
Now is the time for another guy to put his stamp on the team and of course I wish him the best of luck.
Thursday, July 29, 2010
Next Game 8/1 .. Make up with NC.. Playoffs
Sunday
We host the Bridgeport Brewers at home Sunday ( 8/1) in doubleheader ( 2- 7 inning games). This should be a good chance to win a couple games on our home field and I hope we can have two good games.
We know Ned, Bob Ryan and Matt ( DL) will be out. Please let us know if you will not be coming on Sunday
New Canaan Make up Game
The New Canaan game which was rained out last Friday night might be a game that impacts the standings and seedlings of the top four teams. Hence they may want to play that game. So far the idea is that the game would be played next weekend sat Aug 7th or Sunday Aug 8th. However they want to schedule to play the 7th in the event rain cancels and the chance to play Sunday the 8th is still there . As I have mentioned previously I am going to be in Newfoundland early in the week and will not be around nor have access to email , internet etc through the 16th of August. I may however be able to see a moose which won't help organize this game but will be interesting nonetheless. Jim will chat with you Sunday and then handle the arrangements going forward in the event that game is required.
Playoffs
The weekend after that, Aug 14th and 15th is the 1st round of playoff tournament action in which we are in the Presidents Cup bracket. The tourney is scheduled to start sat Aug 14th I don't know who we would be scheduled to play nor where but I do know the format is 2 of 3 with the first game coming on sat aug 14th and then Sunday ( 8/15) 2 games if the first 2 are split. In the president cup there are 4 teams and of course the two winners advance to the final round which is the subsequent Sat aug 21st and Sunday Aug 22nd 2 games if needed in 2 of 3.
We know that August is a difficult month in terms of schedules but the league voted to conduct the playoffs prior to labor day and the format is what has evolved. I can tell you there is endless discussion about his at league meetings and each year it seems to result in different format and dates. In reality neither August nor September is optimal for a bunch of reasons and the format is an effort to try to solve problems but exists in a minefield of other issues like field availability player availability etc
Jim will handle the playoffs and I hope we advance to the final round . I return in time for the final round which I hope we will be playing.
Our Teammate
You have all seen Roneil's family at the games and watched the kids play. His daughter Isabella has undergone major surgery , chemotherapy, radiation and all sorts of other procedures to help fight her battle with brain cancer. Her doctors believe she may have a recurrent tumor in an area of her brain that is considered inoperable. Let us all share our prayers for her and her family.
We host the Bridgeport Brewers at home Sunday ( 8/1) in doubleheader ( 2- 7 inning games). This should be a good chance to win a couple games on our home field and I hope we can have two good games.
We know Ned, Bob Ryan and Matt ( DL) will be out. Please let us know if you will not be coming on Sunday
New Canaan Make up Game
The New Canaan game which was rained out last Friday night might be a game that impacts the standings and seedlings of the top four teams. Hence they may want to play that game. So far the idea is that the game would be played next weekend sat Aug 7th or Sunday Aug 8th. However they want to schedule to play the 7th in the event rain cancels and the chance to play Sunday the 8th is still there . As I have mentioned previously I am going to be in Newfoundland early in the week and will not be around nor have access to email , internet etc through the 16th of August. I may however be able to see a moose which won't help organize this game but will be interesting nonetheless. Jim will chat with you Sunday and then handle the arrangements going forward in the event that game is required.
Playoffs
The weekend after that, Aug 14th and 15th is the 1st round of playoff tournament action in which we are in the Presidents Cup bracket. The tourney is scheduled to start sat Aug 14th I don't know who we would be scheduled to play nor where but I do know the format is 2 of 3 with the first game coming on sat aug 14th and then Sunday ( 8/15) 2 games if the first 2 are split. In the president cup there are 4 teams and of course the two winners advance to the final round which is the subsequent Sat aug 21st and Sunday Aug 22nd 2 games if needed in 2 of 3.
We know that August is a difficult month in terms of schedules but the league voted to conduct the playoffs prior to labor day and the format is what has evolved. I can tell you there is endless discussion about his at league meetings and each year it seems to result in different format and dates. In reality neither August nor September is optimal for a bunch of reasons and the format is an effort to try to solve problems but exists in a minefield of other issues like field availability player availability etc
Jim will handle the playoffs and I hope we advance to the final round . I return in time for the final round which I hope we will be playing.
Our Teammate
You have all seen Roneil's family at the games and watched the kids play. His daughter Isabella has undergone major surgery , chemotherapy, radiation and all sorts of other procedures to help fight her battle with brain cancer. Her doctors believe she may have a recurrent tumor in an area of her brain that is considered inoperable. Let us all share our prayers for her and her family.
Monday, July 19, 2010
Upcoming Gamnes Friday July 23rd and Sunday 25th
Gents:
We host the Cannons on Friday night for 745pm start at home. We can play them much better than we did Sunday and I expect we will be fresh and ready to go Fiday night
we will be missing a few players
so far we know the following players are out:
Raff
Bill Bowen
John Liz
Alex
Bob Ryan
Matt ( DL)
If everyone else shows we should be fine
Mike will be starting that game with Charlie catching
==================================================
On Sunday we play the Cardinals at Doubleday Field in Westport
that game starts at 10 am
We have other guys out for that that game as follows:"
Tim
John Liz
Dave M
Charlie
Bill Bowen
Matt ( DL)
Jim will start that game with Alex catching
directions to Doubleday are as follows:
http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&hl=en&geocode=&q=41.135603,+-73.367321&jsv=107.hc&ie=UTF8&t=h&z=16&iwloc=addr
or
DOUBLEDAY FIELD @ KINGS HWY ELEMENTARY - WESTPORT
I95 North/South use Exit 17 & take left off ramp onto Route 33 northbound. Follow Route 33 (past 2 set of traffic lights) about 1.5 to 2 miles on the left is Saugatuck Elementary School. The field is in back of this school. After the last entrance/exit to the school parking lot is Burr Road. Turn left on Burr Road(landmark is a yellow brick Church on the corner). About 2/3 of the way down Burr Road is a parking lot on the left for King's Hwy Elementary School. This lot is right behind homeplate at Doubleday Field.
125 Post Road West
Westport, Connecticut
06880
let's hope a good weekend for Red Sox baseball lies ahead
We host the Cannons on Friday night for 745pm start at home. We can play them much better than we did Sunday and I expect we will be fresh and ready to go Fiday night
we will be missing a few players
so far we know the following players are out:
Raff
Bill Bowen
John Liz
Alex
Bob Ryan
Matt ( DL)
If everyone else shows we should be fine
Mike will be starting that game with Charlie catching
==================================================
On Sunday we play the Cardinals at Doubleday Field in Westport
that game starts at 10 am
We have other guys out for that that game as follows:"
Tim
John Liz
Dave M
Charlie
Bill Bowen
Matt ( DL)
Jim will start that game with Alex catching
directions to Doubleday are as follows:
http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&hl=en&geocode=&q=41.135603,+-73.367321&jsv=107.hc&ie=UTF8&t=h&z=16&iwloc=addr
or
DOUBLEDAY FIELD @ KINGS HWY ELEMENTARY - WESTPORT
I95 North/South use Exit 17 & take left off ramp onto Route 33 northbound. Follow Route 33 (past 2 set of traffic lights) about 1.5 to 2 miles on the left is Saugatuck Elementary School. The field is in back of this school. After the last entrance/exit to the school parking lot is Burr Road. Turn left on Burr Road(landmark is a yellow brick Church on the corner). About 2/3 of the way down Burr Road is a parking lot on the left for King's Hwy Elementary School. This lot is right behind homeplate at Doubleday Field.
125 Post Road West
Westport, Connecticut
06880
let's hope a good weekend for Red Sox baseball lies ahead
Monday, July 12, 2010
Next Game July 18th home vs Cannons
Gents:
Sunday's win was very reassuring after we let it slip away. They had momentum and several chances to win but we hung in there and finally started to hit.
before the recap let me update the schedule for you:
Next Sunday July 18th at 9 am we host the Cannons at the JV field. We will finish the suspended night game ( we are now in top of the 8th leading 8-7) and then play regular 9 inning game
going forward we play them again friday night july 23rd
then sunday the 25th we play the cardinals
we have established our date to play the Mariners (our make up of the second game of the doubleheader where we were missing a lot of guys) on wed night July 28th in Wilton
then we have final regular season games with a doubleheader at home vs Bridgeport brewers , with whom we opened the season.
The way it looks is we can make the top bracket of the playoffs ( top 4 teams) if we keep winning. our schedule is more difficult than the Dodgers or Phillies but i think we are up to the challenge.
Please let us know if you are unable to be there next Sunday.
Game recap:
Tim gets us started by booming an RBI double right center but Trumbull quickly counters and we are tied at 1 goig tot he 4th. We get runners in scoring position but they wriggle out of it as we loft a lazy fly ball to cf
but he has it and drops it and we take 3-1 lead. Flossin' Johnny Pflokin is pitching well for the Titans and takes them thru 7 innings stranding runners in virtually every inning and only allowing the one earned run.
Jim meanwhile is zipping thru with 1-2-3 innings one after another. and we get to the bottom of the ninth.
A bunt single a broken bat single and a walk load the bases and Trumbull is alive. We get two outs then they drive single to right down the first baseline scoring two and tieing the game. Jim battles to get a ground ball to short where Jose fields it cleanly and throws to Roneil and we head to extra innings disappointed not to have closed it out but also relieved it did not get worse.
In extra innings we get men aboard but fail to drive int he go ahead run and we get tot he bottom of the 12th where they load the bases with one out. Time gets a popup he catches himself setting up the bases loaded two outs situation.As Tim goes in the windup their runner breaks for home Charlie sees as does Tim who throws to Charlie who steps in front of the plate blocking the plate in a manner that the Pittsburgh steelers could not get thru and tags the runner out. The runner has still not reached home was not going to get through Charlie.
Charlie of course leads off the 13th and quickly runs the count to 3-2. He gets a fastball and drills it over the shortstops' heads to get us started. Raff and his hammies follow and he eschews the bunt and drops a single to left giving us two on with no outs. Xavier comes to the plate ( with a new haircut defying the Samson edict of strength in his hair) and recalls his winter of hitting where he bunted 2- 4 times a night and gets the sign. We see they are having the third baseman hold and Xavier drops a beautiful bunt that trickles out to third where neither the pitcher not third baseman can get at it and tears are streaming down the cheeks of Titan Faitfull while the Red Sox crowd whoops it up.
We take the lead when the next play results in the first baseman throwing the ball away trying to get the runner at home .Roneil steps up and drills a double in the right field gap breaking the game open. Jose follows with a 2 run single and we lead by 5 and go on to win.
A couple notes: our right fielders Raff and Xavier both made plays in the bushes in right field going where no man has gone in pursuit of outs
. Shawn also worked the crowd trying to catch a foul pop and later was observed seen having drinks with a girl from the sidelines impressed with his prowess.
Special note goes to Charlie who caught all 13 innings in brutal heart and gave them nothing all day ... no stolen bases and called a great game with Jim and Tim. Our catching has been great all year and we have substantially more stolen bases that we have given up which gives us a big edge in games.
Jim threw very well and deserved to win with his breaking ball handcuffing the Titans all day. Tim came in and fired the ball past the Titans and came up huge with men on to keep them shut down when there was no room for error. Roneil seemed to have watched the Lebron decision as he showed off his leaping ability grabbing a floating liner. Bill Bowen has a big day at third with several fine plays including one where he fieleded the ball behind the bag at third and made the long throw to Shawn who stretched out grabbed the ball and got the out.
John Liz got back on the hitting track with a double to right and we look for more of that down the stretch
Tim will pitch as we resume the Cannons game and keep firing for us to get the win.
Let's win 2 Sunday! These are big games for us
==========================================================================
In other news i saw where there is a 130 year old woman in Kazhistan or somewhere in that neck of the woods. It seems she is feeling old for her 108 and over league where she says they are too speedy for her now and is looking for a 128 and over league. Reporters have heard of one such league in Mongolia but it seems they go from base to base on horseback and it is a short season.
Sunday's win was very reassuring after we let it slip away. They had momentum and several chances to win but we hung in there and finally started to hit.
before the recap let me update the schedule for you:
Next Sunday July 18th at 9 am we host the Cannons at the JV field. We will finish the suspended night game ( we are now in top of the 8th leading 8-7) and then play regular 9 inning game
going forward we play them again friday night july 23rd
then sunday the 25th we play the cardinals
we have established our date to play the Mariners (our make up of the second game of the doubleheader where we were missing a lot of guys) on wed night July 28th in Wilton
then we have final regular season games with a doubleheader at home vs Bridgeport brewers , with whom we opened the season.
The way it looks is we can make the top bracket of the playoffs ( top 4 teams) if we keep winning. our schedule is more difficult than the Dodgers or Phillies but i think we are up to the challenge.
Please let us know if you are unable to be there next Sunday.
Game recap:
Tim gets us started by booming an RBI double right center but Trumbull quickly counters and we are tied at 1 goig tot he 4th. We get runners in scoring position but they wriggle out of it as we loft a lazy fly ball to cf
but he has it and drops it and we take 3-1 lead. Flossin' Johnny Pflokin is pitching well for the Titans and takes them thru 7 innings stranding runners in virtually every inning and only allowing the one earned run.
Jim meanwhile is zipping thru with 1-2-3 innings one after another. and we get to the bottom of the ninth.
A bunt single a broken bat single and a walk load the bases and Trumbull is alive. We get two outs then they drive single to right down the first baseline scoring two and tieing the game. Jim battles to get a ground ball to short where Jose fields it cleanly and throws to Roneil and we head to extra innings disappointed not to have closed it out but also relieved it did not get worse.
In extra innings we get men aboard but fail to drive int he go ahead run and we get tot he bottom of the 12th where they load the bases with one out. Time gets a popup he catches himself setting up the bases loaded two outs situation.As Tim goes in the windup their runner breaks for home Charlie sees as does Tim who throws to Charlie who steps in front of the plate blocking the plate in a manner that the Pittsburgh steelers could not get thru and tags the runner out. The runner has still not reached home was not going to get through Charlie.
Charlie of course leads off the 13th and quickly runs the count to 3-2. He gets a fastball and drills it over the shortstops' heads to get us started. Raff and his hammies follow and he eschews the bunt and drops a single to left giving us two on with no outs. Xavier comes to the plate ( with a new haircut defying the Samson edict of strength in his hair) and recalls his winter of hitting where he bunted 2- 4 times a night and gets the sign. We see they are having the third baseman hold and Xavier drops a beautiful bunt that trickles out to third where neither the pitcher not third baseman can get at it and tears are streaming down the cheeks of Titan Faitfull while the Red Sox crowd whoops it up.
We take the lead when the next play results in the first baseman throwing the ball away trying to get the runner at home .Roneil steps up and drills a double in the right field gap breaking the game open. Jose follows with a 2 run single and we lead by 5 and go on to win.
A couple notes: our right fielders Raff and Xavier both made plays in the bushes in right field going where no man has gone in pursuit of outs
. Shawn also worked the crowd trying to catch a foul pop and later was observed seen having drinks with a girl from the sidelines impressed with his prowess.
Special note goes to Charlie who caught all 13 innings in brutal heart and gave them nothing all day ... no stolen bases and called a great game with Jim and Tim. Our catching has been great all year and we have substantially more stolen bases that we have given up which gives us a big edge in games.
Jim threw very well and deserved to win with his breaking ball handcuffing the Titans all day. Tim came in and fired the ball past the Titans and came up huge with men on to keep them shut down when there was no room for error. Roneil seemed to have watched the Lebron decision as he showed off his leaping ability grabbing a floating liner. Bill Bowen has a big day at third with several fine plays including one where he fieleded the ball behind the bag at third and made the long throw to Shawn who stretched out grabbed the ball and got the out.
John Liz got back on the hitting track with a double to right and we look for more of that down the stretch
Tim will pitch as we resume the Cannons game and keep firing for us to get the win.
Let's win 2 Sunday! These are big games for us
==========================================================================
In other news i saw where there is a 130 year old woman in Kazhistan or somewhere in that neck of the woods. It seems she is feeling old for her 108 and over league where she says they are too speedy for her now and is looking for a 128 and over league. Reporters have heard of one such league in Mongolia but it seems they go from base to base on horseback and it is a short season.
Tuesday, July 6, 2010
July 11th at Trumbull
Gents:
Our next game is Sunday July 11th up at Trumbull at Trumbull HS JV field
We start at 9am
Hopefully the week off has given us a chance to heal minor injuries. As for myself I was able to throw last Sunday in our July 4th game vs. the Danbury League. Jose and Bobby U also played and your Fairfield league beat the Danbury league 5-3 in a very nice game.
Directions via Google maps destination is 41.261792, -73.193471
Trumbull HS
Exit 49N onto CT 25N toward Danbury
Exit 9 Daniels farm road
Right on Daniels from rd and hs is on your right after .7miles
aTrumbull High School
I-95 North:
Take exit 27 A (Route 8-25 Connector). Stay on Route 25 part when it branches left leading into Trumbull. Get off at exit 9 (Daniels Farm Road). *Turn right at the end of the exit up the hill. You will pass Hillcrest Middle School on your right. The next right is Strobel Road. Take that right and the school is on the right.
Route 15 (Merritt Parkway) North:
Take exit 49 N (Danbury Route 25). Go to exit 9 (Daniels Farm Road). Follow the directions from * above
After the game we will be having a barbeque at Jim's house which is 10 minutes away
Please let us know if you are not able to attend the game
Regards
Our next game is Sunday July 11th up at Trumbull at Trumbull HS JV field
We start at 9am
Hopefully the week off has given us a chance to heal minor injuries. As for myself I was able to throw last Sunday in our July 4th game vs. the Danbury League. Jose and Bobby U also played and your Fairfield league beat the Danbury league 5-3 in a very nice game.
Directions via Google maps destination is 41.261792, -73.193471
Trumbull HS
Exit 49N onto CT 25N toward Danbury
Exit 9 Daniels farm road
Right on Daniels from rd and hs is on your right after .7miles
aTrumbull High School
I-95 North:
Take exit 27 A (Route 8-25 Connector). Stay on Route 25 part when it branches left leading into Trumbull. Get off at exit 9 (Daniels Farm Road). *Turn right at the end of the exit up the hill. You will pass Hillcrest Middle School on your right. The next right is Strobel Road. Take that right and the school is on the right.
Route 15 (Merritt Parkway) North:
Take exit 49 N (Danbury Route 25). Go to exit 9 (Daniels Farm Road). Follow the directions from * above
After the game we will be having a barbeque at Jim's house which is 10 minutes away
Please let us know if you are not able to attend the game
Regards
Thursday, July 1, 2010
July 4th Tourney vs Danbury League
On Sunday July 4th players form the fairfiled County league will be playing at Old Ridgefield HS in Ridgefield CT at 9am in a single 9 inning game vs players from the Danbury League.
Directions Provided to us:
The Old Ridgefield High School is just south and east of downtown Ridgefield, on East Ridge Street. From I – 84, take Route 7 south for approximately six (6) miles. Turn right onto Route 35 and travel for approximately 3 miles. At the intersection of Route 35 and Grove Street turn left. Travel on Grove Street for a half a mile, and then turn left onto Prospect street and then make an immediate right onto East Ridge Street. Continue to a stop sign, make a left turn and the field will be on the left.
If you use google maps or mapquest define your destination as East Ridge Street
Ridgefield CT
Directions Provided to us:
The Old Ridgefield High School is just south and east of downtown Ridgefield, on East Ridge Street. From I – 84, take Route 7 south for approximately six (6) miles. Turn right onto Route 35 and travel for approximately 3 miles. At the intersection of Route 35 and Grove Street turn left. Travel on Grove Street for a half a mile, and then turn left onto Prospect street and then make an immediate right onto East Ridge Street. Continue to a stop sign, make a left turn and the field will be on the left.
If you use google maps or mapquest define your destination as East Ridge Street
Ridgefield CT
Monday, June 28, 2010
Result of Mariners game and Upcoming Events
Gents:
We gave the Mariners some room to breathe by surrendering 4 in the first to trail 4-1 but we chipped away to tighten the gap to 6-5 in the 8th. But the Mariners rallied with 2 outs in the 8th for three runs to pull away.
Irv came out and was a real warrior on the mound battling through their line-up and gave it everything he had. As we were missing all out pitchers that was a real help and Irv's efforts are appreciated.
We did have some moments Jose knocked in Roneil in the first with a hard double down the left filed line and later knocked in another run with a single to right.
Alex ripped a shot to deep right center for stand up double . Xavier lined a nice single to right for a ribby. Roneil knocked in a run with a fielders choice and Raff added a long sacrifice fly. Danny also knocked in a run with an infield single.
Defensively we played very well with no errors and a nicely turned double play (just missing a second one). Alex did a great job behind the plate and they never threatened to steal.
All in all a couple of minor differences and we had a chance to come out on top.
This weekend coming up is July 4th of course and we do not have a game scheduled.
In other news, Matt was diagnosed with herniated disks and we hope modern medicine or acupuncture can help him recover quickly. Raff continued his ongoing battle with his hamstrings but we hope he recovers in the next couple weeks.
For me , although my shoulder felt better yesterday I still felt the ice picks being drilled into my shoulder as I threw some sideline tosses but I am having an MRI tonight to help determine is this is more than bursitis or tendonitis. Icing it is every day seems to help but I am also taking enough Ibuprofen for a horse so maybe that is helping reduce the inflammation. As we have only three weeks left to regular season it had better get better soon.
You have the schedule to see our remaining games and I will establish a date with the Mariners to make up game 2 of the Sunday DH. Our regular season concludes Aug 1 and I believe the subsequent weekend is for makeup's . My recollection is the playoffs start the weekend of Aug 15th
Now there are going to be two playoffs for our league.
One for top 4 teams in regular season for league championship and one playoff with teams 5-8 for the Presidents Cup. Teams 9 and 10 will not be involved with the playoffs.
We have a very good shot to be in top 4. we do have to win most of our remaining games though. We are playing well enough to win them all. Of special importance will be our games left with New Canaan. We do lead them 8-7 in the 8th of the suspended game and we will conclude that game in our Sunday match up with them July 18th. We will start that day as if it is the top of the 8th with us leading 8-7. After the conclusion of that game we will start the regularly scheduled game.
Our next game is Sunday July 11th at Trumbull vs. the Titans. After the game we will have a BBQ at Jim's home which shall be a fun event and we hope you can all attend.
Next week I will send directions to the Trumbull field
We gave the Mariners some room to breathe by surrendering 4 in the first to trail 4-1 but we chipped away to tighten the gap to 6-5 in the 8th. But the Mariners rallied with 2 outs in the 8th for three runs to pull away.
Irv came out and was a real warrior on the mound battling through their line-up and gave it everything he had. As we were missing all out pitchers that was a real help and Irv's efforts are appreciated.
We did have some moments Jose knocked in Roneil in the first with a hard double down the left filed line and later knocked in another run with a single to right.
Alex ripped a shot to deep right center for stand up double . Xavier lined a nice single to right for a ribby. Roneil knocked in a run with a fielders choice and Raff added a long sacrifice fly. Danny also knocked in a run with an infield single.
Defensively we played very well with no errors and a nicely turned double play (just missing a second one). Alex did a great job behind the plate and they never threatened to steal.
All in all a couple of minor differences and we had a chance to come out on top.
This weekend coming up is July 4th of course and we do not have a game scheduled.
In other news, Matt was diagnosed with herniated disks and we hope modern medicine or acupuncture can help him recover quickly. Raff continued his ongoing battle with his hamstrings but we hope he recovers in the next couple weeks.
For me , although my shoulder felt better yesterday I still felt the ice picks being drilled into my shoulder as I threw some sideline tosses but I am having an MRI tonight to help determine is this is more than bursitis or tendonitis. Icing it is every day seems to help but I am also taking enough Ibuprofen for a horse so maybe that is helping reduce the inflammation. As we have only three weeks left to regular season it had better get better soon.
You have the schedule to see our remaining games and I will establish a date with the Mariners to make up game 2 of the Sunday DH. Our regular season concludes Aug 1 and I believe the subsequent weekend is for makeup's . My recollection is the playoffs start the weekend of Aug 15th
Now there are going to be two playoffs for our league.
One for top 4 teams in regular season for league championship and one playoff with teams 5-8 for the Presidents Cup. Teams 9 and 10 will not be involved with the playoffs.
We have a very good shot to be in top 4. we do have to win most of our remaining games though. We are playing well enough to win them all. Of special importance will be our games left with New Canaan. We do lead them 8-7 in the 8th of the suspended game and we will conclude that game in our Sunday match up with them July 18th. We will start that day as if it is the top of the 8th with us leading 8-7. After the conclusion of that game we will start the regularly scheduled game.
Our next game is Sunday July 11th at Trumbull vs. the Titans. After the game we will have a BBQ at Jim's home which shall be a fun event and we hope you can all attend.
Next week I will send directions to the Trumbull field
Thursday, June 24, 2010
Sunday 6/27 vs mariners changed to One game
Gents:
We will be playing a single 9 inning game at Kiwanis on Sunday.
Please make every effort to attend as we know many guys are missing
Dave
We will be playing a single 9 inning game at Kiwanis on Sunday.
Please make every effort to attend as we know many guys are missing
Dave
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
Sunday DH vs Mariners 6 /27 830 start time
Gents:
Nice win last weekend ... Let's go get a couple more this Sunday
Quick recap: Jim threw 7 strong innings and left with narrow 4-3 lead Tim came in to close with 2 solid shutout innings.
Roneil was the hitting star with a bases loaded double and a line single that led to the winning run after a steal, fielders choice and ground ball to second
Bob Ryan made his fielding debut with a fine job at first and then starting a double play in the 8th from third
Bill Bowen had a good game a short and tripled to give us a chance to score
Tim play very well at third handling several ground balls and turning them into outs
We play this weekend at Kiwanis Park for a doubleheader against the Mariners. Note this is an 830 start time as they have time squeeze on their fields
We may have lost Matt for the season with some back issues but we hope he recovers in time to play in July
We will be missing quite a few guys this weekend: we know we are missing: Jim, Charlie, Brian, Bob Ryan ( and it is likely my arm will not be ready) Hopefully everyone else can make it. Please advise if not attending.
Tim and Mike will be our starters in these games
Note this is an 8:30 start time
Directions:
http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&hl=en&geocode=&q=50+old+dam+road,+fairfield,+ct&sll=41.123558,-73.258317&sspn=0.010604,0.019956&ie=UTF8&ll=41.12351,-73.261621&spn=0.010604,0.019956&t=h&z=16&iwloc=addr
Or Kiwanis Field:
Kiwanis Field
I95 North Exit 21 right at the bottom at the ramp.
I95 South Exit 21 left at the bottom of the ramp.
Second light (Rte 1) take a right. Next traffic light, take left on South Pine Creek Road. Go through first stop sign, approx. 1/2 mile, on left is Old Dam Road,
field approx. 300 yards on left (past golf course & soccer field).
Nice win last weekend ... Let's go get a couple more this Sunday
Quick recap: Jim threw 7 strong innings and left with narrow 4-3 lead Tim came in to close with 2 solid shutout innings.
Roneil was the hitting star with a bases loaded double and a line single that led to the winning run after a steal, fielders choice and ground ball to second
Bob Ryan made his fielding debut with a fine job at first and then starting a double play in the 8th from third
Bill Bowen had a good game a short and tripled to give us a chance to score
Tim play very well at third handling several ground balls and turning them into outs
We play this weekend at Kiwanis Park for a doubleheader against the Mariners. Note this is an 830 start time as they have time squeeze on their fields
We may have lost Matt for the season with some back issues but we hope he recovers in time to play in July
We will be missing quite a few guys this weekend: we know we are missing: Jim, Charlie, Brian, Bob Ryan ( and it is likely my arm will not be ready) Hopefully everyone else can make it. Please advise if not attending.
Tim and Mike will be our starters in these games
Note this is an 8:30 start time
Directions:
http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&hl=en&geocode=&q=50+old+dam+road,+fairfield,+ct&sll=41.123558,-73.258317&sspn=0.010604,0.019956&ie=UTF8&ll=41.12351,-73.261621&spn=0.010604,0.019956&t=h&z=16&iwloc=addr
Or Kiwanis Field:
Kiwanis Field
I95 North Exit 21 right at the bottom at the ramp.
I95 South Exit 21 left at the bottom of the ramp.
Second light (Rte 1) take a right. Next traffic light, take left on South Pine Creek Road. Go through first stop sign, approx. 1/2 mile, on left is Old Dam Road,
field approx. 300 yards on left (past golf course & soccer field).
Monday, June 14, 2010
Next game: June 20th at Home vs Phillies 9 am start
Gents:
We return to our home field for next Sunday's ( June 20th) single game as we host the Phillies at 9am.
We have several we know are out this week: Shawn, Mike ,Bobby U, and Jose are declared out on Sunday. We do anticipate Bob Ryan will be with us and
we look forward to getting him on track. We hope Raff's hammy is back in shape
Please let us know if you will not be there.
Recap of last week's win vs Mets:
Tim started and shut them down for the first two innings while we racked up a 5-0 lead. They walked Roneil and Danny to start off the game
and Jose reached on an error . Brian got he first run in with a sac fly to CF. We added another run on Alex's base hit to start up 2-0.
we added three more to lead 5-0 after 2.
They came back with three in the third to get back in the game but Jose had a bases loaded double and Bill Bowen had one as well. Shawn added three hits. Danny had two solid hits as well as several catches in CF. Roneil walked again and had another hit and we inexorably pulled away. Alex shut down their running attack and we surrendered no stolen bases. and Alex added a couple hits-again-as he has been ripping the ball lately- to have a nice day Brian got his first mound time in and went 1-2-3 in the 4th. In the fifth we helped them with a couple errors but Brian did a nice job battling them.
Mike came in and wrapped up things including 4 shutout innings as well as hitting a long double over the left fielders head.
Bobby U made the defensive play of the day with an over the shoulder grab of bloop while filling in for Roneil for an inning.
In a baseball oddity I had never witnessed. The Mets had a runner on third ,leading off in foul territory and their hitter lined a shot down the line.
The ball ricocheted off his arm and into his shirt where is stayed unbeknown to him. ...a new method of the hidden ball trick..
The Phillies game is an important one for us and I hope we can arrive at 8 to prepare for infield at 820am
see you Sunday
dave
We return to our home field for next Sunday's ( June 20th) single game as we host the Phillies at 9am.
We have several we know are out this week: Shawn, Mike ,Bobby U, and Jose are declared out on Sunday. We do anticipate Bob Ryan will be with us and
we look forward to getting him on track. We hope Raff's hammy is back in shape
Please let us know if you will not be there.
Recap of last week's win vs Mets:
Tim started and shut them down for the first two innings while we racked up a 5-0 lead. They walked Roneil and Danny to start off the game
and Jose reached on an error . Brian got he first run in with a sac fly to CF. We added another run on Alex's base hit to start up 2-0.
we added three more to lead 5-0 after 2.
They came back with three in the third to get back in the game but Jose had a bases loaded double and Bill Bowen had one as well. Shawn added three hits. Danny had two solid hits as well as several catches in CF. Roneil walked again and had another hit and we inexorably pulled away. Alex shut down their running attack and we surrendered no stolen bases. and Alex added a couple hits-again-as he has been ripping the ball lately- to have a nice day Brian got his first mound time in and went 1-2-3 in the 4th. In the fifth we helped them with a couple errors but Brian did a nice job battling them.
Mike came in and wrapped up things including 4 shutout innings as well as hitting a long double over the left fielders head.
Bobby U made the defensive play of the day with an over the shoulder grab of bloop while filling in for Roneil for an inning.
In a baseball oddity I had never witnessed. The Mets had a runner on third ,leading off in foul territory and their hitter lined a shot down the line.
The ball ricocheted off his arm and into his shirt where is stayed unbeknown to him. ...a new method of the hidden ball trick..
The Phillies game is an important one for us and I hope we can arrive at 8 to prepare for infield at 820am
see you Sunday
dave
Monday, June 7, 2010
Next game at Stamford vs Mets June 13th 9 am Westhill HS
Gents:
nice effort coming back twice on Sunday in the second game . ia m sure we were disappointed to end just a run short
good solid effort though in game 1 in all facets of the game
on to next week where we travel to Stamford to play the Mets at Westhill HS at 9am June 13th
directions are as follows:
http://maps.yahoo.com/map?q1=125%20Roxbury%20Road%2006902&mag=5&ard=1#mvt=m&lat=41.090795&lon=-73.566212&mag=5&zoom=14&q1=125%20Roxbury%20Road%2006902
or
M
125 Roxbury Road
Stamford, Connecticut
06902
Merrit PkwyMeerrit Pkwy: Get off Exit 34 (Long Ridge Road, rte 104) and go South towards Stamford. A bit more than a mile on the Right will be Junar properties. Take a hard right and go up the hill on Roxbury. Westhill will be on the right near top of the hill: Get off Exit 34 (Long Ridge Road, rte 104) and go South towards Stamford. A bit more than a mile on the Right will be Junar properties. Take a hard right and go up the hill on Roxbury. Westhill will be on the right near top of the hill.
Jim is likely to be out this week. anybody else not able , please let me know if you are unable to make the game
nice effort coming back twice on Sunday in the second game . ia m sure we were disappointed to end just a run short
good solid effort though in game 1 in all facets of the game
on to next week where we travel to Stamford to play the Mets at Westhill HS at 9am June 13th
directions are as follows:
http://maps.yahoo.com/map?q1=125%20Roxbury%20Road%2006902&mag=5&ard=1#mvt=m&lat=41.090795&lon=-73.566212&mag=5&zoom=14&q1=125%20Roxbury%20Road%2006902
or
M
125 Roxbury Road
Stamford, Connecticut
06902
Merrit PkwyMeerrit Pkwy: Get off Exit 34 (Long Ridge Road, rte 104) and go South towards Stamford. A bit more than a mile on the Right will be Junar properties. Take a hard right and go up the hill on Roxbury. Westhill will be on the right near top of the hill: Get off Exit 34 (Long Ridge Road, rte 104) and go South towards Stamford. A bit more than a mile on the Right will be Junar properties. Take a hard right and go up the hill on Roxbury. Westhill will be on the right near top of the hill.
Jim is likely to be out this week. anybody else not able , please let me know if you are unable to make the game
Wednesday, June 2, 2010
June 6th game at Bridgeport vs Dodgers
Gents:
On Sunday June 6th, we play 2-- 7 inning games at Bridgeport's Seaside 10 field starting at 9 am. We play against he Dodgers ( formerly Marlins). They have 7 wins this season so they are improved over last year and will be prepared to give us a battle,
If we pitch, play defense and hit the ball like we can we should find a way to win these games. Lets get on the board early and put pressure on their defense and then come back and make our plays.
Please let Jim and I know if you are unable to attend.
Google Directions to the field are here: ( this is a bit of a trip so please allow enough time to get there in time to loosen up before for infield which will start at 8:45am
http://maps.google.com/maps?f=d&hl=en&geocode=&saddr=&daddr=41.161274,-73.197731&mra=mi&mrsp=0&sz=17&sll=41.161104,-73.197967&sspn=0.004822,0.00912&ie=UTF8&t=h&z=17
Alternatively here they are:
seaside Park, Bridgeport
From the South: 95 to exit 26 (Wordin ave) merge onto Pine St. Slight jog to the left onto Admiral St. follow to Iranistan Ave. Go right on Iranistan Ave follow to Atlantic Street. Take a right on Atlantic St. The field and the parking lot will be on the left.
From the north: 95 to exit 26 (Wordin Ave) merge onto Cherry St. and go left at Wordin Ave (which will take you under 95) go left on Pine St. Slight jog to the left onto Admiral St. follow to Iranistan Ave. Go right on Iranistan Ave follow to Atlantic Street. Take a right on Atlantic St. The field and the Parking lot will be on the left.
On Sunday June 6th, we play 2-- 7 inning games at Bridgeport's Seaside 10 field starting at 9 am. We play against he Dodgers ( formerly Marlins). They have 7 wins this season so they are improved over last year and will be prepared to give us a battle,
If we pitch, play defense and hit the ball like we can we should find a way to win these games. Lets get on the board early and put pressure on their defense and then come back and make our plays.
Please let Jim and I know if you are unable to attend.
Google Directions to the field are here: ( this is a bit of a trip so please allow enough time to get there in time to loosen up before for infield which will start at 8:45am
http://maps.google.com/maps?f=d&hl=en&geocode=&saddr=&daddr=41.161274,-73.197731&mra=mi&mrsp=0&sz=17&sll=41.161104,-73.197967&sspn=0.004822,0.00912&ie=UTF8&t=h&z=17
Alternatively here they are:
seaside Park, Bridgeport
From the South: 95 to exit 26 (Wordin ave) merge onto Pine St. Slight jog to the left onto Admiral St. follow to Iranistan Ave. Go right on Iranistan Ave follow to Atlantic Street. Take a right on Atlantic St. The field and the parking lot will be on the left.
From the north: 95 to exit 26 (Wordin Ave) merge onto Cherry St. and go left at Wordin Ave (which will take you under 95) go left on Pine St. Slight jog to the left onto Admiral St. follow to Iranistan Ave. Go right on Iranistan Ave follow to Atlantic Street. Take a right on Atlantic St. The field and the Parking lot will be on the left.
Monday, May 31, 2010
Memorial Day recap Upcoming games June 6th
Gents:
A successful weekend of baseball gets us prepared for a doubleheader next Sunday June 6th as we invade ( get it? June 6th... D Day ) the Dodgers up in Bridgeport
I have requested they tell me the field but I have not gotten a reply yet . I imagine it is either Beardsley Park ( we played them up there last year early in the season) or Seaside Park in Bridgeport.
when I have it confirmed I will send directions. It is a 9 am start with 2 -7 inning games
Recap of weekend :
Friday vs Cannons Lead 9-8 suspended in top of 8th to be resumed next game with Cannons
We fall behind 1-0 in the first on a couple hits down the left field line but come back with 7 runs in the second highlighted by Tim Sticco drilling a 2 run double down the left field line.
we benefited from 3 NC errors that inning but we put the ball in play. They don't quit however, and chip away aided by some of our own glitches. and we are soon tied at 8.
We get a hit in the bottom of the seventh with 2 out and runners on first and third to take a 9-8 lead but after the 7th inning the game is suspended because the lights are scheduled to go out shortly. We will resume the game when we play them in late July.
Mike did a great job coming in the 6th and 7th and shutting them down. Johnny and Brian both threw strikes to the plate demonstrating their cannon like arms in the plays of the night.
Sadly it looks like Raff may go on the DL with his hammy but we shall see how he feels going forward.
Sunday vs Titans Win 2-1
The Titans come into the game with 5 wins and an improved team. Tim starts for us and in the first inning with 1 out and a runner on first he gets a ground ball to third which Bobby U fires to Bill at second who pivots and throws to first for inning ending double play. There will be more of these to come today.
Johnny leads off for us with 4 pitch walk and steal second. he gets to third on wild pitch and scores on Jose's ground ball and we lead 1-0. The score stays that way till the 9th! Tim throws 6 shutout innings giving up just two hits and staying in command the whole way. I relieve Tim and Jose gets 5 outs from of the next 6 hitters including a beautiful play where he took a high bounder on the second base side of the diamond and fired to first to get the runner. We also turn 4 more double plays during this 7 inning span as Bill, nursing a sore arm but able to play, feeds Jose on these double plays and we stall any Trumbull rallies. On the other side, their pitcher is effective shutting us down as well as we have only 4 hits( Brian, Mike,Jose, and me) to show for our efforts and missed opportunities such as the bottom of the eighth with the bases loaded with no outs but Trumbull strikes out the side.
In the ninth Mike takes over but they get a walk ,single and walk to load the bases with none out. But on great 2-0 pitch Mike induces their clean up hitter to fly to Johnny in CF who catches it and fires to Shawn the cut off man. The tying run scores but we hold the runner at second. The next pitch Mike gets a ground ball to second and Bill tosses to Jose who fires to Shawn and the 6th double play of the day gets us out of the inning. As the baseball gods would have it, Bill leads off facing a new Trumbull pitcher and drills a single up the middle. Alex is next and shows bunt but the pitcher has one get away and throws it behind Alex advancing Bill to second. The brain trust ponders the next move and figures they will have trouble handling a bunt so Alex has the sign. He places it down beautifully at third and races to first. Their third baseman charges fearing Alex may have this beat and tries to channel A Rod into his body but after his underhand grab he throws under hand but the ball sails away scoring Bill for the win. A couple other items merit acknowledgement. Shawn made several fine grabs at first including one stretch play where he scooped the ball and managed to stay on the bag stretched full out to complete a double play. Alex caught a great game and fired two balls to second just missing one runner and nabbing the second with Jose putting on the tag. Alex effectively said you guys are not going anywhere keeping them at first and enabling the double plays. Our outfield with Brian, Johnny and X caught several fly balls and we gave Trumbull nothing to work with. Jose was fantastic at SS probably getting 10 assists and putouts and Bill filled in admirably for Roneil with several nice plays and the big hit to get the winning run on base with no outs.
All in all, we left the park feeling good about our game and moving on to next week's doubleheader.
I am going to try to get a session where we can take some BP for an hour this week and will check on the field eligibility tomorrow
it is likely i will try for early sat am say 8-15 to 915 or so
or perhaps an hour Wed Thursday or Friday night say 630-730--i will let you know
as far as scouting reports: Next weeks opponent is the Dodgers ( formerly the Marlins) supposedly they have some new players and they have won some games including beating the Cannons but if we play our best we should be successful.
On the other positive note, my arm seems fine now after applying enough ice over the past week to keep penguins happy. I was very relieved to be able to throw yesterday and it seemed like normal and pain free to me vs the previous couple of weeks where i felt like i was throwing 90 pound weights with 20 screwdriver in my shoulder and elbow. As my arm had never bothered me before and as you observed last season I could throw the day after pitching a whole game i was anxious to have it back to normal . Thanks to Jim, Mike, Tim, and Matt for picking up the slack for me and the team.
A successful weekend of baseball gets us prepared for a doubleheader next Sunday June 6th as we invade ( get it? June 6th... D Day ) the Dodgers up in Bridgeport
I have requested they tell me the field but I have not gotten a reply yet . I imagine it is either Beardsley Park ( we played them up there last year early in the season) or Seaside Park in Bridgeport.
when I have it confirmed I will send directions. It is a 9 am start with 2 -7 inning games
Recap of weekend :
Friday vs Cannons Lead 9-8 suspended in top of 8th to be resumed next game with Cannons
We fall behind 1-0 in the first on a couple hits down the left field line but come back with 7 runs in the second highlighted by Tim Sticco drilling a 2 run double down the left field line.
we benefited from 3 NC errors that inning but we put the ball in play. They don't quit however, and chip away aided by some of our own glitches. and we are soon tied at 8.
We get a hit in the bottom of the seventh with 2 out and runners on first and third to take a 9-8 lead but after the 7th inning the game is suspended because the lights are scheduled to go out shortly. We will resume the game when we play them in late July.
Mike did a great job coming in the 6th and 7th and shutting them down. Johnny and Brian both threw strikes to the plate demonstrating their cannon like arms in the plays of the night.
Sadly it looks like Raff may go on the DL with his hammy but we shall see how he feels going forward.
Sunday vs Titans Win 2-1
The Titans come into the game with 5 wins and an improved team. Tim starts for us and in the first inning with 1 out and a runner on first he gets a ground ball to third which Bobby U fires to Bill at second who pivots and throws to first for inning ending double play. There will be more of these to come today.
Johnny leads off for us with 4 pitch walk and steal second. he gets to third on wild pitch and scores on Jose's ground ball and we lead 1-0. The score stays that way till the 9th! Tim throws 6 shutout innings giving up just two hits and staying in command the whole way. I relieve Tim and Jose gets 5 outs from of the next 6 hitters including a beautiful play where he took a high bounder on the second base side of the diamond and fired to first to get the runner. We also turn 4 more double plays during this 7 inning span as Bill, nursing a sore arm but able to play, feeds Jose on these double plays and we stall any Trumbull rallies. On the other side, their pitcher is effective shutting us down as well as we have only 4 hits( Brian, Mike,Jose, and me) to show for our efforts and missed opportunities such as the bottom of the eighth with the bases loaded with no outs but Trumbull strikes out the side.
In the ninth Mike takes over but they get a walk ,single and walk to load the bases with none out. But on great 2-0 pitch Mike induces their clean up hitter to fly to Johnny in CF who catches it and fires to Shawn the cut off man. The tying run scores but we hold the runner at second. The next pitch Mike gets a ground ball to second and Bill tosses to Jose who fires to Shawn and the 6th double play of the day gets us out of the inning. As the baseball gods would have it, Bill leads off facing a new Trumbull pitcher and drills a single up the middle. Alex is next and shows bunt but the pitcher has one get away and throws it behind Alex advancing Bill to second. The brain trust ponders the next move and figures they will have trouble handling a bunt so Alex has the sign. He places it down beautifully at third and races to first. Their third baseman charges fearing Alex may have this beat and tries to channel A Rod into his body but after his underhand grab he throws under hand but the ball sails away scoring Bill for the win. A couple other items merit acknowledgement. Shawn made several fine grabs at first including one stretch play where he scooped the ball and managed to stay on the bag stretched full out to complete a double play. Alex caught a great game and fired two balls to second just missing one runner and nabbing the second with Jose putting on the tag. Alex effectively said you guys are not going anywhere keeping them at first and enabling the double plays. Our outfield with Brian, Johnny and X caught several fly balls and we gave Trumbull nothing to work with. Jose was fantastic at SS probably getting 10 assists and putouts and Bill filled in admirably for Roneil with several nice plays and the big hit to get the winning run on base with no outs.
All in all, we left the park feeling good about our game and moving on to next week's doubleheader.
I am going to try to get a session where we can take some BP for an hour this week and will check on the field eligibility tomorrow
it is likely i will try for early sat am say 8-15 to 915 or so
or perhaps an hour Wed Thursday or Friday night say 630-730--i will let you know
as far as scouting reports: Next weeks opponent is the Dodgers ( formerly the Marlins) supposedly they have some new players and they have won some games including beating the Cannons but if we play our best we should be successful.
On the other positive note, my arm seems fine now after applying enough ice over the past week to keep penguins happy. I was very relieved to be able to throw yesterday and it seemed like normal and pain free to me vs the previous couple of weeks where i felt like i was throwing 90 pound weights with 20 screwdriver in my shoulder and elbow. As my arm had never bothered me before and as you observed last season I could throw the day after pitching a whole game i was anxious to have it back to normal . Thanks to Jim, Mike, Tim, and Matt for picking up the slack for me and the team.
Sunday, May 23, 2010
Next Games Friday 5/28 @home vs Cannons & 5/30 Titans
Gents:
We have two games next weekend as we make up a rain out next Friday night the 28th vs the Cannons
as of now we know :
Danny Out Fri and Sun
Bobby U out Fri
Roneil out Sunday
Jim is out Sunday
Please let me know if you will not be in attendance for either game next weekend
As for this weekend there is quite a bit to be pleased about from this weekends' play
Friday night:
Jim battled through 9 tough innings on Friday with a great effort
Tim made the play of the year on a diving grab over the third baseline
Roneil made a rare appearance in CF and threw out a runner at the plate with a perfect throw
Matt , pinch hitting behind the plate, caught 9 innings and demonstrated great form behind the plate and a powerful arm.
Xavier had a couple hits and ran the bases like a champ
Shawn got his stroke in order and lined a shot to the OF which he repeated on Sunday
Raff got a couple hits and played flawless OF.
Sunday
Tim threw a great 5 innings giving up only 1 hit with no walks -and gave us the chance to win he game
Mike followed with 4 great innings allowing only 1 hit as well and made sure we won the game
Jose ripped the ball all day knocking in the first run with a shot down the line and hitting a comebacker that the cardinals pitcher will have nightmares about.
Jose also had a great day in the field making every play and coming sooo close on a grounder deep in the hole that he backhanded and forced to first just a bit late.
Alex caught Tim and helped Tim's pitch selection and intimidated any runners form attempting to steal
Charlie caught for Mike and threw out the potential cardinal base thief with a great throw to second
Both Mike and Charlie blasted long shots to LF but were caught but great wood
Bill rapped a double and got the big sac fly late in the game that gave us the lead.
Bobby U made several nice plays at third including the last two outs of the game and ripped the ball at the plate.
Danny hit the ball hard every time demonstrating his hitting is rounding into form.
Raff flew down the first baseline in our 3 run inning pressuring the defense into bad throw which gave us an insurance run
Roneil blasted a couple line drive hits and showed his hitting is on track for another great year.
Shawn and X had a busy day at !B and made every play.
Xavier executed a great bunt hit and played well at IB
Shawn drilled a rocket to left field once again showing his batting form is rounding into shape
All in all we are moving in the right direction: we had only one error on Sunday and the runner didn't advance, it makes a great difference in
the game
Next weekend we have a chance to win a couple games and let's keep playing hard
see you Friday night
We have two games next weekend as we make up a rain out next Friday night the 28th vs the Cannons
as of now we know :
Danny Out Fri and Sun
Bobby U out Fri
Roneil out Sunday
Jim is out Sunday
Please let me know if you will not be in attendance for either game next weekend
As for this weekend there is quite a bit to be pleased about from this weekends' play
Friday night:
Jim battled through 9 tough innings on Friday with a great effort
Tim made the play of the year on a diving grab over the third baseline
Roneil made a rare appearance in CF and threw out a runner at the plate with a perfect throw
Matt , pinch hitting behind the plate, caught 9 innings and demonstrated great form behind the plate and a powerful arm.
Xavier had a couple hits and ran the bases like a champ
Shawn got his stroke in order and lined a shot to the OF which he repeated on Sunday
Raff got a couple hits and played flawless OF.
Sunday
Tim threw a great 5 innings giving up only 1 hit with no walks -and gave us the chance to win he game
Mike followed with 4 great innings allowing only 1 hit as well and made sure we won the game
Jose ripped the ball all day knocking in the first run with a shot down the line and hitting a comebacker that the cardinals pitcher will have nightmares about.
Jose also had a great day in the field making every play and coming sooo close on a grounder deep in the hole that he backhanded and forced to first just a bit late.
Alex caught Tim and helped Tim's pitch selection and intimidated any runners form attempting to steal
Charlie caught for Mike and threw out the potential cardinal base thief with a great throw to second
Both Mike and Charlie blasted long shots to LF but were caught but great wood
Bill rapped a double and got the big sac fly late in the game that gave us the lead.
Bobby U made several nice plays at third including the last two outs of the game and ripped the ball at the plate.
Danny hit the ball hard every time demonstrating his hitting is rounding into form.
Raff flew down the first baseline in our 3 run inning pressuring the defense into bad throw which gave us an insurance run
Roneil blasted a couple line drive hits and showed his hitting is on track for another great year.
Shawn and X had a busy day at !B and made every play.
Xavier executed a great bunt hit and played well at IB
Shawn drilled a rocket to left field once again showing his batting form is rounding into shape
All in all we are moving in the right direction: we had only one error on Sunday and the runner didn't advance, it makes a great difference in
the game
Next weekend we have a chance to win a couple games and let's keep playing hard
see you Friday night
Friday, May 21, 2010
Next Games: Friday May 21st and Sunday May 23rd
Gents:
We have two games this weekend
Friday night ( may 21st) we host the Mariners in 7:45pm start
sunday we host the Cardinals in a 9 am start
both single 9 inning games
weather forecast is very promising
we will be missing a few guys for both games but we have plenty of depth and we will all get to play.
as far as last weekend, we led the Top Hats after 5 which demonstrates we belong at that level and we will learn to finish those type of games as well go along.
in the event of a rainy Sunday morning I will post an update.
We have two games this weekend
Friday night ( may 21st) we host the Mariners in 7:45pm start
sunday we host the Cardinals in a 9 am start
both single 9 inning games
weather forecast is very promising
we will be missing a few guys for both games but we have plenty of depth and we will all get to play.
as far as last weekend, we led the Top Hats after 5 which demonstrates we belong at that level and we will learn to finish those type of games as well go along.
in the event of a rainy Sunday morning I will post an update.
Monday, May 10, 2010
Sunday DH May 16th At Monroe Wolfe Park
Gents: We journey to Monroe on Sunday to play a doubleheader ( 2 -7 inning games) beginning at 9 am at Wolfe Park
The Top Hats are a solid team and will require our best efforts on Sunday but I believe we are up to the task
We had an easy game last week against a weak team and these Top Hats will not be giving us anything. We battled them twice last year in close games and we can expect them to give us their best efforts as well.
Please let us know if you are NOT going to be there.
We get the field at 8:40am for infield so please get there early enough to loosen up
It is a longer trip so leaving a few minutes earlier will be a good idea
Here are directions :
South on Rte 15 (Merritt Parkway)Take Exit 49. See * below.
North on Rte 15 (Merritt Parkway) Take Exit 49N. See * below.
South on I-95 take Exit 38 to Merritt Parkway. Take Merritt Parkway to Exit 49. See * below.
North on I-95 Take Exit 27A to Rtes 8 & 25. Bear left to on Route 25 when highway divides. See * below.
*At the end of the exit you will be on the Route 25 Connector. Stay on the Connector (it’s a four-lane road) until it ends (there is a stop light at end). Turn right at the traffic light on to Route 111. At the 5th traffic light (1.2 miles), turn left onto Purdy Hill Road (Post Office is on the right). At the first stop sign (.7 miles)turn right onto Cutlers Farm Road. Wolfe Park is approximately 1/2 mile down the road on the left. Those cars without a Wolfe Park sticker (Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day) must park in the non-sticker / over flow parking lot (follow the signs) or be subject to fine.
Here are directions via Google maps if ou want to input your starting point
http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&hl=en&geocode=&q=41.313298,+-73.235410&ie=UTF8&t=h&z=16&iwloc=addr
The Top Hats are a solid team and will require our best efforts on Sunday but I believe we are up to the task
We had an easy game last week against a weak team and these Top Hats will not be giving us anything. We battled them twice last year in close games and we can expect them to give us their best efforts as well.
Please let us know if you are NOT going to be there.
We get the field at 8:40am for infield so please get there early enough to loosen up
It is a longer trip so leaving a few minutes earlier will be a good idea
Here are directions :
South on Rte 15 (Merritt Parkway)Take Exit 49. See * below.
North on Rte 15 (Merritt Parkway) Take Exit 49N. See * below.
South on I-95 take Exit 38 to Merritt Parkway. Take Merritt Parkway to Exit 49. See * below.
North on I-95 Take Exit 27A to Rtes 8 & 25. Bear left to on Route 25 when highway divides. See * below.
*At the end of the exit you will be on the Route 25 Connector. Stay on the Connector (it’s a four-lane road) until it ends (there is a stop light at end). Turn right at the traffic light on to Route 111. At the 5th traffic light (1.2 miles), turn left onto Purdy Hill Road (Post Office is on the right). At the first stop sign (.7 miles)turn right onto Cutlers Farm Road. Wolfe Park is approximately 1/2 mile down the road on the left. Those cars without a Wolfe Park sticker (Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day) must park in the non-sticker / over flow parking lot (follow the signs) or be subject to fine.
Here are directions via Google maps if ou want to input your starting point
http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&hl=en&geocode=&q=41.313298,+-73.235410&ie=UTF8&t=h&z=16&iwloc=addr
Sunday, April 25, 2010
Game cancelled for today 4/25
Gentlemen, game is cancelled for today. Field will not be ready and rain is expected through out the day. We will be in touch later this week, game next week against the Mets in Stamford, stay tune for direction later. Have a nice Sunday and good week, see you all next week.
Jim and Dave
Jim and Dave
Saturday, April 24, 2010
Game Tomorrow 4/25
Gentlemen, please make sure that you check the blog before leaving for the game tomorrow. Weather right now doesn't look too good. I will be talking with my grounds guys around 7 in the morning and will let Dave know about the condition of the field. He will then post a blog either way, play or no play!! IF we don't play, we will make up as some crazy weeknight game as we have had in the past. This is all a part of the spring time weather.
Hope everyone is ready if we do play tomorrow, we know that Raf, Bob R., Jose, Ned, Shawn and Irving are out, anyone else. Cross you fingers for a good day.
Jim
Hope everyone is ready if we do play tomorrow, we know that Raf, Bob R., Jose, Ned, Shawn and Irving are out, anyone else. Cross you fingers for a good day.
Jim
Thursday, April 22, 2010
Next game Sunday 9 am vs New canaan april 25th
Gents:
We continue the season with our next effort at home vs the New Canaan Cannons. The Cannons made it to the finals last year and will be a formidable test for us.
Jim will start followed by Mike and then me hopefully in closer mode.
We need to get on the board early to take control of the game.
Please be there around 8 am to stretch and prepare for infield at 820.
we will try to take some swings in the cage after infield practice.
we know Jose, Ned , Raff and Bob Ryan will be out. anyone else please let me know.
see you Sunday and let's get a W!
We continue the season with our next effort at home vs the New Canaan Cannons. The Cannons made it to the finals last year and will be a formidable test for us.
Jim will start followed by Mike and then me hopefully in closer mode.
We need to get on the board early to take control of the game.
Please be there around 8 am to stretch and prepare for infield at 820.
we will try to take some swings in the cage after infield practice.
we know Jose, Ned , Raff and Bob Ryan will be out. anyone else please let me know.
see you Sunday and let's get a W!
Monday, April 12, 2010
opening Day Sunday April 18th
Gents:
We kick off our season with a single game against the Bridgeport Brewers starting at 9 am.
Some points to note: Players from last year will find the following familiar but with new faces I thought it would be good to review how we approach things
1) We have the field until 8:40 am when we are obliged to let them take infield or use the time as they wish. With that in mind please get there early enough to take the field around 8:20 for infield/outfield. It is a good idea to stretch before hand to give your muscles some warning you are going to be pushing it
2) We ask that you do not say anything negative or argue with umps. If there is something to discuss Jim , Charley or I will have that discussion with them. We will have our share of calls with which we beg to differ but we need to accept it and move on and focus on what we can do as a player. Make the next pitch , take the next swing, make the next play in the field… focus on the matter in front of you and let go the last ump call--he is not going to rethink it. For new players-be especially ready to swing with two strikes and remember the zone expands in the ump's eyes especially for guys new to the league.
3) Bats: we want to avoid breaking one another's bats and as such have several team bats available. If you break your bat please use a team bat as opposed to another players "go to " bat. No one enjoys coming in to hit and finding his bat has mysteriously broken. We have about 5 Team bats including several brand new ones that feel good. Feel free to use a team bat at your convenience or preference ( Note the new 34 has a lot of hits in it! )
4) Attendance: we understand and anticipate that players will have conflicts. You can help us manage this by simply letting us know during the week if you are Not going to be there for the subsequent game. We have a decent size roster and pretty much have players available for each position in the event we are missing players. As it happens I will be missing this opening game myself as will Jose and Bob Ryan. Raff may be on the DL for a week or two. But even with the four of us out we still have a strong team and should be fine this Sunday. ( note I will be back next Saturday and be there for the New Canaan game but Jose is out two weeks)
5) Game management: as Jim and I are both pitchers we generally try to focus on the matter at hand-. Thus if Jim is pitching, I will be running things ( with the exception of the next game) if I am pitching Jim will be running things. When neither of us is pitching Jim generally coaches third and sends the signals- Jim will review the signs prior to the game on Sunday. We try to get everyone in the game and spend considerable focus on this. This is not a guarantee everyone plays every game but the better you play, the easier it is to find a spot for you ( the converse holds as well). We ask that you think of playing time as part of the function of being on a team. This is not going to be a democracy in allocating things evenly among all our players. We have players who hit over .400, ( Roneil and Bobby both hit over .400 last year with John Liz right behind them ) that we need to get a lot of at bats. The best way to get more at bats is to hit well and we plan to start the Sunday game with Roneil, John and Bobby at the top of the lineup. Defensively , we tend to make more changes and give players a chance . We will split the catching with Charlie and Alex for the first three games and then we have a double header which they will each have a game. As for pitching Sunday Jim will start and Tim will follow him. For the first three games as we are getting into shape pitchers will do as much as they can but generally a few innings until mid may when the arms develop some stamina.
6) Weather : During the season it is possible for doubtful weather to give you some uncertainty as to whether we play or not. To handle this , when the weather is doubtful or the forecast is discouraging , Jim and or I get up early and determine if we are going to play or not. In general if it looks unlikely we postpone rather than play in wet conditions . After the decision is made we update the blog with the determination. If is sunny out and blue skies we are not blogging away as we assume you will be able to determine we are playing. But if doubtful we update the blog with information. you should check before you leave home so as not to come all the way and find out we are not playing. Additionally, Jim and I need to deal with the umps and opposing teams as well . So to make it simple just check the blog before you leave and if nothing is there then the game is on.
This worked well last year during a season of much rain and we will ensure we do our bit to enable you to use your time well.
http://wiltonredsox2009.blogspot.com/
7) Energy: Let's hustle as a team and play your best. We all love the game and let it show in your energy for the game
Win next week!
Cheers,
Dave
We kick off our season with a single game against the Bridgeport Brewers starting at 9 am.
Some points to note: Players from last year will find the following familiar but with new faces I thought it would be good to review how we approach things
1) We have the field until 8:40 am when we are obliged to let them take infield or use the time as they wish. With that in mind please get there early enough to take the field around 8:20 for infield/outfield. It is a good idea to stretch before hand to give your muscles some warning you are going to be pushing it
2) We ask that you do not say anything negative or argue with umps. If there is something to discuss Jim , Charley or I will have that discussion with them. We will have our share of calls with which we beg to differ but we need to accept it and move on and focus on what we can do as a player. Make the next pitch , take the next swing, make the next play in the field… focus on the matter in front of you and let go the last ump call--he is not going to rethink it. For new players-be especially ready to swing with two strikes and remember the zone expands in the ump's eyes especially for guys new to the league.
3) Bats: we want to avoid breaking one another's bats and as such have several team bats available. If you break your bat please use a team bat as opposed to another players "go to " bat. No one enjoys coming in to hit and finding his bat has mysteriously broken. We have about 5 Team bats including several brand new ones that feel good. Feel free to use a team bat at your convenience or preference ( Note the new 34 has a lot of hits in it! )
4) Attendance: we understand and anticipate that players will have conflicts. You can help us manage this by simply letting us know during the week if you are Not going to be there for the subsequent game. We have a decent size roster and pretty much have players available for each position in the event we are missing players. As it happens I will be missing this opening game myself as will Jose and Bob Ryan. Raff may be on the DL for a week or two. But even with the four of us out we still have a strong team and should be fine this Sunday. ( note I will be back next Saturday and be there for the New Canaan game but Jose is out two weeks)
5) Game management: as Jim and I are both pitchers we generally try to focus on the matter at hand-. Thus if Jim is pitching, I will be running things ( with the exception of the next game) if I am pitching Jim will be running things. When neither of us is pitching Jim generally coaches third and sends the signals- Jim will review the signs prior to the game on Sunday. We try to get everyone in the game and spend considerable focus on this. This is not a guarantee everyone plays every game but the better you play, the easier it is to find a spot for you ( the converse holds as well). We ask that you think of playing time as part of the function of being on a team. This is not going to be a democracy in allocating things evenly among all our players. We have players who hit over .400, ( Roneil and Bobby both hit over .400 last year with John Liz right behind them ) that we need to get a lot of at bats. The best way to get more at bats is to hit well and we plan to start the Sunday game with Roneil, John and Bobby at the top of the lineup. Defensively , we tend to make more changes and give players a chance . We will split the catching with Charlie and Alex for the first three games and then we have a double header which they will each have a game. As for pitching Sunday Jim will start and Tim will follow him. For the first three games as we are getting into shape pitchers will do as much as they can but generally a few innings until mid may when the arms develop some stamina.
6) Weather : During the season it is possible for doubtful weather to give you some uncertainty as to whether we play or not. To handle this , when the weather is doubtful or the forecast is discouraging , Jim and or I get up early and determine if we are going to play or not. In general if it looks unlikely we postpone rather than play in wet conditions . After the decision is made we update the blog with the determination. If is sunny out and blue skies we are not blogging away as we assume you will be able to determine we are playing. But if doubtful we update the blog with information. you should check before you leave home so as not to come all the way and find out we are not playing. Additionally, Jim and I need to deal with the umps and opposing teams as well . So to make it simple just check the blog before you leave and if nothing is there then the game is on.
This worked well last year during a season of much rain and we will ensure we do our bit to enable you to use your time well.
http://wiltonredsox2009.blogspot.com/
7) Energy: Let's hustle as a team and play your best. We all love the game and let it show in your energy for the game
Win next week!
Cheers,
Dave
Wednesday, April 7, 2010
Next practice April 11th Sunday 930 AM Wilton Varsity Field
Gents:
we will do a good round of infield and outfield and then situations.
After that we can have a scrimmage.
During the morning we should have guys hitting in the cage to get some BP reps
Please make every effort to be there as it is one week from opening day and we are not likely to be able to practice as a team prior to the opener.
see you there
Dave
we will do a good round of infield and outfield and then situations.
After that we can have a scrimmage.
During the morning we should have guys hitting in the cage to get some BP reps
Please make every effort to be there as it is one week from opening day and we are not likely to be able to practice as a team prior to the opener.
see you there
Dave
Thursday, April 1, 2010
Practice Saturday 2pm April 3
Gents:
Just a reminder, we plan to practice at 2pm Saturday at Allen's Meadows in Wilton. The field is 1/4 mile past the HighSchool ( heading North) . There is a big sign for park entrance on your left and follow road approx 1/4 mile around a bend to the field.
Jim advises the field is wet now and if we are unable to get on we will update the Red Sox blog to alert you. We know the forecast is constructive but in the event a meteoroligist might be inaccurate we suggest you check the blog before you head out.
http://wiltonredsox2009.blogspot.com/
Note also Jose has updated our team website here:http://www.leaguelineup.com/welcome.asp?url=wiltonredsox
We will take picutres of the team and also some videos as the season evolves
We hope to have a lot of defensive work and perhaps a short 3-4 inning scrimmage. We will be not hitting BP on this field-- we wil lcheck to see if we can use the batting cage at the HS but supposeldy there are teams there.
We also have a bit of housekeeping. Each player needs to sign a waiver prior to playing .
If you intend to practice Saturday we will bring blank forms. If you are not able to attend Saturday please fill out the form and fax to Jim at 203-834-6323
We know Jose and Brian will be out and ask that if there is any doubt please fill it out and fax to jim today so we can handle this chore with minimum of effort.
The form is here: player participation form
http://www.ctnationalmsbl.com/Info.asp
You can also see a picture of Charley hitting there from when we played at the Bluefish stadium in Bridgeport. The slides rotate and Jim is shown in a subsequent picture.
One last item: we have a schedule change: Instead of playing Saturday morning May 8th on Mother's day weekend, we now have a Friday night 8pm game vs the Fairfield Mariners.
See you Saturday -only a couple weeks till opening day!
Just a reminder, we plan to practice at 2pm Saturday at Allen's Meadows in Wilton. The field is 1/4 mile past the HighSchool ( heading North) . There is a big sign for park entrance on your left and follow road approx 1/4 mile around a bend to the field.
Jim advises the field is wet now and if we are unable to get on we will update the Red Sox blog to alert you. We know the forecast is constructive but in the event a meteoroligist might be inaccurate we suggest you check the blog before you head out.
http://wiltonredsox2009.blogspot.com/
Note also Jose has updated our team website here:http://www.leaguelineup.com/welcome.asp?url=wiltonredsox
We will take picutres of the team and also some videos as the season evolves
We hope to have a lot of defensive work and perhaps a short 3-4 inning scrimmage. We will be not hitting BP on this field-- we wil lcheck to see if we can use the batting cage at the HS but supposeldy there are teams there.
We also have a bit of housekeeping. Each player needs to sign a waiver prior to playing .
If you intend to practice Saturday we will bring blank forms. If you are not able to attend Saturday please fill out the form and fax to Jim at 203-834-6323
We know Jose and Brian will be out and ask that if there is any doubt please fill it out and fax to jim today so we can handle this chore with minimum of effort.
The form is here: player participation form
http://www.ctnationalmsbl.com/Info.asp
You can also see a picture of Charley hitting there from when we played at the Bluefish stadium in Bridgeport. The slides rotate and Jim is shown in a subsequent picture.
One last item: we have a schedule change: Instead of playing Saturday morning May 8th on Mother's day weekend, we now have a Friday night 8pm game vs the Fairfield Mariners.
See you Saturday -only a couple weeks till opening day!
Monday, March 29, 2010
Practice April 3rd and April 11th
Gents:
We had a vigorous practice on Sunday am and are ready in case our games are played at 40 degrees. My hands are nearly thawed out after only 40 hours of heat treatments!
Anyway we have scheduled two practice sessions over the subsequent two weekends prior to our opening day April 18th.
Next Saturday form 2-5 we have the field at Allan's Meadows. The high school and others have locked up the two fields Saturday and Sunday is Easter which we assume is scheduled
.
We realize some guys will need to be out of town this weekend and in fact every weekend we have games guys have obligations . But if you can make it Saturday we should have a good practice. Let Jim and I know if you do not plan to be there in the first two games of the season. We know that Jose , Bob Ryan and I will not be there opening day -anybody else out that week or the next? ( Brian will be out this weekend)
Allan's Meadows is field very near the HS. If you are driving north on RT 7 to get to the HS keep going 1/4 mile and see a sign for Allan's Meadows and take the left in there and follow the curve till you see the fields. We expect to be there for 2pm practice.
Jim and I have discussed what to do in this session as there is no batting cage and we don't want guys standing around watching one guy hitting balls lobbed into him as that wastes too much time for too little benefit.
What we plan to do then is split into INF and OF. The OF will get fly balls hit to them since we figure no one has seen a fly in a while. In the infield we will try to provide 50-75 ground balls to every infielder to get some reps down. And catchers will have bunts and throws as well -pretty much like we did yesterday
After that we will do a situation defense where we assume baseburners etc and put the ball in play and make the plays. This should be a step up form regular infield and guys will get some running in touring the bases to attach a reality to this simulation.
After that we will have a short 3-4 inning scrimmage with pitchers throwing to catchers and hitters hitting "live" pitching albeit 75 % but it gives the pitchers a chance to throw to hitters rather than throwing meatball BP. The weather for Saturday is predicted to be 70 degrees and sunny so that should be perfect.
The following weekend April 11th in Sunday we have the field from 9:30 -12.
In the team mate news forum we have added Ned Joyce to our team. Ned played with us in several of our fall games with the Danbury league and played for Wilton HS in the nineties. He plays both the INF and OF and we expect him to make many valuable contributions to the team.
Also Johnny Liz may be bringing out a lefty pitcher for us and we can all meet him .
See you Saturday afternoon.
We had a vigorous practice on Sunday am and are ready in case our games are played at 40 degrees. My hands are nearly thawed out after only 40 hours of heat treatments!
Anyway we have scheduled two practice sessions over the subsequent two weekends prior to our opening day April 18th.
Next Saturday form 2-5 we have the field at Allan's Meadows. The high school and others have locked up the two fields Saturday and Sunday is Easter which we assume is scheduled
.
We realize some guys will need to be out of town this weekend and in fact every weekend we have games guys have obligations . But if you can make it Saturday we should have a good practice. Let Jim and I know if you do not plan to be there in the first two games of the season. We know that Jose , Bob Ryan and I will not be there opening day -anybody else out that week or the next? ( Brian will be out this weekend)
Allan's Meadows is field very near the HS. If you are driving north on RT 7 to get to the HS keep going 1/4 mile and see a sign for Allan's Meadows and take the left in there and follow the curve till you see the fields. We expect to be there for 2pm practice.
Jim and I have discussed what to do in this session as there is no batting cage and we don't want guys standing around watching one guy hitting balls lobbed into him as that wastes too much time for too little benefit.
What we plan to do then is split into INF and OF. The OF will get fly balls hit to them since we figure no one has seen a fly in a while. In the infield we will try to provide 50-75 ground balls to every infielder to get some reps down. And catchers will have bunts and throws as well -pretty much like we did yesterday
After that we will do a situation defense where we assume baseburners etc and put the ball in play and make the plays. This should be a step up form regular infield and guys will get some running in touring the bases to attach a reality to this simulation.
After that we will have a short 3-4 inning scrimmage with pitchers throwing to catchers and hitters hitting "live" pitching albeit 75 % but it gives the pitchers a chance to throw to hitters rather than throwing meatball BP. The weather for Saturday is predicted to be 70 degrees and sunny so that should be perfect.
The following weekend April 11th in Sunday we have the field from 9:30 -12.
In the team mate news forum we have added Ned Joyce to our team. Ned played with us in several of our fall games with the Danbury league and played for Wilton HS in the nineties. He plays both the INF and OF and we expect him to make many valuable contributions to the team.
Also Johnny Liz may be bringing out a lefty pitcher for us and we can all meet him .
See you Saturday afternoon.
Monday, March 1, 2010
Home Field looks great
Just a little snow But I am sure Johnny Liz can still track down the long fly balls out there!!
6 weeks 'till opening day
Sunday, January 24, 2010
Red Sox updates for 2010
Gents:
We have our winter meeting on Thursday night at th Wilton Y.
Several items will be discussed:
1) Playoff format -groundswell seems to point to two playoffs. The first is top 4 teams play for league championship. The next 4 teams play for Presidents Cup.
Teams finishing lower than 8th are excluded from post season play
2) Schedule and playoff timing: seems to be movement to want to have playoffs concluded by labor day and indicates playoff games will be in August despite number of guys being on vacation
3) Teams in league: it seems the stamford mets are splitting up and most of them are leaving mets to from the Brewers who report they wil be playing out of Bridgeport
the Mets are still in the league and their manager is eagerly recruting new players .the bridgeport team has represented that they are in and they are out--we shall see at the meeting
the Marlins have been told they will need to attend anger management classes if they keep whining at the umps, each other ... where this makes a difference is in our schedule. if we have 11 teams then the schedule is more awkward and involves bye weeks
4) Schedule: upon concluding the # of teams, the schedule will be created but it seems likely we will have more doubleheaders scheduled to get all the games (21) in and playoffs.
As you recall we tend to not play DH in Wilton( because kids game start at noon) but one Sunday and a Monday night game. I will try to arrange same kind of schedule
5) July 4th tourney-this is basically an idea i have proposed: As you know I have gone to several tournaments in Arizona as well as up to Cooperstown and must report these are a lot of fun and great to play. Charlie joined me in Arizona last year and can affirm tournament ball is a great time. By the way they loved Charlie out there!
Toward that end I thought a July 4th tourney would be fun for those who are around and would enjoy playing a new opponent. The model I have in mind now is that our league would supply 2 teams comprised of whatever players they want to bring . I would run one team and start with Red Sox players who want to play and fill in with guys from around the league that are "friends of the Red Sox". Another guy will have to run the second team of guys from our league. Danbury League will supply 2 teams comprised of guys from their league although they can draw from any of the teams. Lastly, up in Cooperstown for the last three years i have played with and against a team from Westchester called the Kensington Mud Hens. They will bring twp teams. The idea is we would play 4 games , I think 2 sat and 2 sun . the Fairfield teams would play both Danbury and Westchester teams but not the other Fairfield cty team. As Red Sox last year we played one scrimmage game as a team vs Danbury guys and they didn't have much pitching that night and the game was a runaway. After that game Danbury brought very good pitching including some young college fireballers. I know both Danbury and Westchester will bring good teams and i suspect this will be fun. The precise details have not been tidied up yet but we will sort that out. red sox need not feel that have to play this tourney and if you are planning to go to Newport and sail in a regatta then please don't change your plans. If not it should be a fun weekend. This tourney will be an extra expense though to pay for the additional umps and balls and i figure it will be about $ 50/man for the tourney. My expectation is 4 games and we will run it like we do our regular games. I still have to sort out some the details but we will be eligible to create our own fireworks for the 4th .
if you want to attend please do so ( 730at the Y otherwise if you have something to bring up please let me know by Thursday
Red Sox Specific items
1) Team communication: we created the blog last year and used that to post all relevant information such as game times, locations, directions , and rainout information and gossip.
I was thinking maybe i can also use text messages. My phone supports group texts and therefore if you all use text messaging i could send one text on sunday am regarding rainouts etc.
of course beautiful sunny days will not likely require notification but we all remember last year seemed to be risk of rainout every sunday. so if you want me to text you send me the number you want me to use and i will load it. I plan to keep the blog going like we did last year as well
the link will be the same http://wiltonredsox2009.blogspot.com/ I have updated the screen to reflect it is the 2010 seson
I will always load these messages to the blog in case.
2) we have 2 new players; Raff Bevilaqua is a former Red Sox who took time off to run triathalons and have a few kids. He returns in good shape and will help us in the field. Guys who remember him recall his fierce competitiveness and great outfield play. I am hoping he can play some right field for us. Matt defsco comes to us via a connection with Tim S. Matt played at Brown so he and Mike can regale us with Ivy league highlights.
Matt play the infield but has offered to play anywhere. Upon hearing that i can only hope he is as versatile as Bobby U who played everywhere last year and made every play!
Chuck has moved to Colorado . I did mention to him that umps out there call third strikes too but he seemed to think he will get better calls:)
3) Jim Lewicki returns from Florida this week after dominating at the Mets fantasy camp. We expect a big year from Jim in 2010.
4) Winter hitting: I have booked and paid a tunnel at Batters Box for next 8 weeks on Monday nights at 730-830. Upon pondering how much work can get done in one tunnel in one hour we have a few guys coming tomorrow night.
Roneil, X, Charlie, Tim, and Matt ( our new guy) should be there along with me.( each will have paid their portion of the rental.)
I know we have guys allover the place( Queens, ansonia etc and schedule issues). let me know if you want to hit and i will try to get additional time alloted or substitutions.I realize it is relativly early but it is fun to go get some swings and throws in. Charlie may bring his gear and soon we will have "live"at bats. The good news is the season is getting closer!
5) Uniforms: my sense is we will stay with our uniforms form last year. The white red sox . Raff -you may have yoru earlier sox uniform. Matt>we can discuss tomorrw but guys last year got nice Red Sox jerseys on Ebay and you should have white pants. we will get one hat for each player as part of the season fee. I am thinking we will retain the design we had last year from Charlie which was a big hit around the league. of course we will ask Charlie to weigh in and see if he has a creative statement to make.
6) Video: i got a new camera that is easy to use. I also got a new computer at home and loading videos etc is easier. So i plan to video each of us in action and load to you tube or the blog.
I will start at the winter and video some hitting so we can see what we are doing and maybe learn and identify some adjustments.
7) Season fees: I think we will be able to manage this at $250 per player. Jim will handle the money for us and collect the season fee and pay our bills and umps. Please make this chore easy for him and send him the fee as soon as possible. We have some early season fees ( league fees insurance balls equipment that we have to handle soon)
8) I hope Jose and John can maintain the Red Sox site
We have our winter meeting on Thursday night at th Wilton Y.
Several items will be discussed:
1) Playoff format -groundswell seems to point to two playoffs. The first is top 4 teams play for league championship. The next 4 teams play for Presidents Cup.
Teams finishing lower than 8th are excluded from post season play
2) Schedule and playoff timing: seems to be movement to want to have playoffs concluded by labor day and indicates playoff games will be in August despite number of guys being on vacation
3) Teams in league: it seems the stamford mets are splitting up and most of them are leaving mets to from the Brewers who report they wil be playing out of Bridgeport
the Mets are still in the league and their manager is eagerly recruting new players .the bridgeport team has represented that they are in and they are out--we shall see at the meeting
the Marlins have been told they will need to attend anger management classes if they keep whining at the umps, each other ... where this makes a difference is in our schedule. if we have 11 teams then the schedule is more awkward and involves bye weeks
4) Schedule: upon concluding the # of teams, the schedule will be created but it seems likely we will have more doubleheaders scheduled to get all the games (21) in and playoffs.
As you recall we tend to not play DH in Wilton( because kids game start at noon) but one Sunday and a Monday night game. I will try to arrange same kind of schedule
5) July 4th tourney-this is basically an idea i have proposed: As you know I have gone to several tournaments in Arizona as well as up to Cooperstown and must report these are a lot of fun and great to play. Charlie joined me in Arizona last year and can affirm tournament ball is a great time. By the way they loved Charlie out there!
Toward that end I thought a July 4th tourney would be fun for those who are around and would enjoy playing a new opponent. The model I have in mind now is that our league would supply 2 teams comprised of whatever players they want to bring . I would run one team and start with Red Sox players who want to play and fill in with guys from around the league that are "friends of the Red Sox". Another guy will have to run the second team of guys from our league. Danbury League will supply 2 teams comprised of guys from their league although they can draw from any of the teams. Lastly, up in Cooperstown for the last three years i have played with and against a team from Westchester called the Kensington Mud Hens. They will bring twp teams. The idea is we would play 4 games , I think 2 sat and 2 sun . the Fairfield teams would play both Danbury and Westchester teams but not the other Fairfield cty team. As Red Sox last year we played one scrimmage game as a team vs Danbury guys and they didn't have much pitching that night and the game was a runaway. After that game Danbury brought very good pitching including some young college fireballers. I know both Danbury and Westchester will bring good teams and i suspect this will be fun. The precise details have not been tidied up yet but we will sort that out. red sox need not feel that have to play this tourney and if you are planning to go to Newport and sail in a regatta then please don't change your plans. If not it should be a fun weekend. This tourney will be an extra expense though to pay for the additional umps and balls and i figure it will be about $ 50/man for the tourney. My expectation is 4 games and we will run it like we do our regular games. I still have to sort out some the details but we will be eligible to create our own fireworks for the 4th .
if you want to attend please do so ( 730at the Y otherwise if you have something to bring up please let me know by Thursday
Red Sox Specific items
1) Team communication: we created the blog last year and used that to post all relevant information such as game times, locations, directions , and rainout information and gossip.
I was thinking maybe i can also use text messages. My phone supports group texts and therefore if you all use text messaging i could send one text on sunday am regarding rainouts etc.
of course beautiful sunny days will not likely require notification but we all remember last year seemed to be risk of rainout every sunday. so if you want me to text you send me the number you want me to use and i will load it. I plan to keep the blog going like we did last year as well
the link will be the same http://wiltonredsox2009.blogspot.com/ I have updated the screen to reflect it is the 2010 seson
I will always load these messages to the blog in case.
2) we have 2 new players; Raff Bevilaqua is a former Red Sox who took time off to run triathalons and have a few kids. He returns in good shape and will help us in the field. Guys who remember him recall his fierce competitiveness and great outfield play. I am hoping he can play some right field for us. Matt defsco comes to us via a connection with Tim S. Matt played at Brown so he and Mike can regale us with Ivy league highlights.
Matt play the infield but has offered to play anywhere. Upon hearing that i can only hope he is as versatile as Bobby U who played everywhere last year and made every play!
Chuck has moved to Colorado . I did mention to him that umps out there call third strikes too but he seemed to think he will get better calls:)
3) Jim Lewicki returns from Florida this week after dominating at the Mets fantasy camp. We expect a big year from Jim in 2010.
4) Winter hitting: I have booked and paid a tunnel at Batters Box for next 8 weeks on Monday nights at 730-830. Upon pondering how much work can get done in one tunnel in one hour we have a few guys coming tomorrow night.
Roneil, X, Charlie, Tim, and Matt ( our new guy) should be there along with me.( each will have paid their portion of the rental.)
I know we have guys allover the place( Queens, ansonia etc and schedule issues). let me know if you want to hit and i will try to get additional time alloted or substitutions.I realize it is relativly early but it is fun to go get some swings and throws in. Charlie may bring his gear and soon we will have "live"at bats. The good news is the season is getting closer!
5) Uniforms: my sense is we will stay with our uniforms form last year. The white red sox . Raff -you may have yoru earlier sox uniform. Matt>we can discuss tomorrw but guys last year got nice Red Sox jerseys on Ebay and you should have white pants. we will get one hat for each player as part of the season fee. I am thinking we will retain the design we had last year from Charlie which was a big hit around the league. of course we will ask Charlie to weigh in and see if he has a creative statement to make.
6) Video: i got a new camera that is easy to use. I also got a new computer at home and loading videos etc is easier. So i plan to video each of us in action and load to you tube or the blog.
I will start at the winter and video some hitting so we can see what we are doing and maybe learn and identify some adjustments.
7) Season fees: I think we will be able to manage this at $250 per player. Jim will handle the money for us and collect the season fee and pay our bills and umps. Please make this chore easy for him and send him the fee as soon as possible. We have some early season fees ( league fees insurance balls equipment that we have to handle soon)
8) I hope Jose and John can maintain the Red Sox site
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