Week 9 Review

My Pete Rose Autographed Baseball

I got it for 2 casino chips

INTRO

No time for an Into.....have a swell weekend! 

STATS

Back to leading with one of my favourites.  However, as the Grisslie slide continues, its getting less fun to look at this.  With no disrespect intended to any team, it would appear that the Joints, Brew Jays, Red Dogs and Rounders are establishing themselves as the top tier.  However, remember that we don't play the Cleats again this year so both teams could still be perfect in the second half.  Bank on it. 

The .800 club is dwindling a bit.  Barton remains completely ridiculous, but Moon, Glecoff and Goncalves are in a real battle for second.  Nice race. 

Anicete still hasn't made an out in the second quarter of the year.  Some interesting trending as you can see teams records influenced when players are hot. 

As I write 3 runs seemingly every game for John Barlow, this is no surprise to me.  He's been absolutely on fire and having a great year.  Routledge did this last year too...he's a scoring machine.  McCarron has shot up the standings as has Jamie and Roger.  The rest of the group has either tailed off a bit or held pace. 

And there's the evidence.  McCarron leading in runs in the second quarter of the season and he has team mates on the list too!  This is a really nice mix of player from ranking, age and experience in the league.  Love this stuff. 

Jerry leads in ABs and his son leads in score keeping games.  What a combo!  Paul Koolhaas, who's name is shocking spelled right is having a banner year and joins Brian Richards to make it 3 Banshees on the list. 

In total hits, Jens is up to his old tricks after having a little lull.  It didn't last long.  Any offensive category that you can stay ahead of Barton in is impressive.  But look at John Barlow coming on strong.  As much as I think we have an incredible crop of rookies this year, this list more than any is dominated by vets.  For now anyway....but those rookies are coming on!

Al continues to hold onto the lead in this category but its no precarious.  Roger Gaudet has been pretty consistent all year and hasn't moved much while those around him are going up and down.

And Brad Young continues to be a run away leader in this category.  When he gets on he's still pretty much a lock to score.  This also shows the dominance of the Red Dogs offense with 3 guys in this top 10. 

Having played Cox last night, I can attest to the fact that he is playing very well.  For that matter, Rick is striking the ball incredibly well right now too.  There are some guys in this list are out preforming their norm, but mostly these are guys who are bouncing back to what they are accustomed to after a bit of down year. 

The one you've been waiting for!  The rookies!  Lahey is back in the lead, but we have Sagert, Chiovitti and Butler all at 750.  And don't look now but Mason is coming on after a slow start.  I have a feeling that this is going to play out pretty competitively as the season goes on. 

That's it gang....on to the games!

GAME REVIEW

Rusty Rebels 16; Lucky Stiffs 17
The Rebels led this one 14-6 after three innings but couldn't hold on.  Roger Burton (4/4, 4) and Kevin Moon (4/4, 2) were perfect for the Rusty Rebels. The Lucky Stiffs who rolled a 7 in the seventh inning to win this game had 6 players with 4/5 nights, but no one was perfect for the game.

Hurtin' Units Vs. Tap Masters (Postponed)

Reschedule Date and Time:  Wednesday July 4th, 9:30 at Keogh Park. 
 

Banshees 7;  Hot Tub Woody's 8
Congratulations to the Hot Tub Woody's who are the first team in our league to have a lower team ERA than the Blue Jays.  Much like they did to us a couple of weeks ago the Woody's scored early, took the middle innings off to save energy and stay hydrated and scored a little insurance in the 7th.  Nice formula.  The Woody's also welcomed Brian Varcoe to the league on this night.  Brian got his first hit in the league and scored his first run in the first inning of the game.  Congrats Brian!  Chris Larkin and Cliff Tucker were both 3/3 in this one and Chris also scored a run.  The Banshees, who are soaring up the "jug-ranking" since the acquistion of Dan Chiasson looked good to pull this out in the 7th and at least force the Hot Tub Woody's to hit in the bottom of the 7th.  But with runners on second and third with one out, the inning fizzled without a runner crossing the plate.  The Banshees got a perfect night from Craig Beatty who is a very Scott Barton like 13 for his last 14.  On this nigth he was 3/3. 

Brew Jays 12; Grisslies 9
What a great game this was.  There were really too many amazing defensive plays and spectacular offense to go into too much depth on here.  The big bat causing most of the damage for the Brew Jays was Matt Foerster who was 5/5 with 3 runs scored.  The Grisslies had perfect nights from Gary Basso (4/4, 1) and Lance Horgan (4/4).  More on this dramatic affair by clicking ===> HERE

Gruesome Devils 14; Beer Bros. 15
This game was scoreless through 2 and a half; and then the Beer Bros. broke through with 6.  The Devils answered with 6 of their own in the top of the 3rd.  And the see-saw affair was on.  The Bros. would ultimately need to score 4 in the bottom of the 7th to eke out the one run win.  Neither team had a perfect night at the plate in this one.  I'm pretty sure that's the first time that has happened this year. 

Dusty Cleats 9; Dislocated Joints 28
With the week I've had, I take no joy in someone elses misfortune.  The Cleats were led by the Killer "B's" on this night as Kevin Boston (4/4, 3) and Scott Barton (4/4, 2) had solid nights at the dish.  The Joints had FIVE perfect night starting with lead off man Steve Wynnyk's 5/5 with 4 runs scored.  Joining Steve were Doris Casullo (5/5, 4); Emeil Edwards (5/5, 3); Stefan Kapp (5/5, 4); and Captain Down Town Billy Brown who was 4/4 with 3 runs scored. For more on this game, click ===> HERE

Dodge City Rounders 16; Dog Catchers 11
Pretty close game, eh?  Well, what if I told you it was 16-0 after 6 and a half innings?  The Dog Catchers played a wild bottom of the 7th sending 17 batters to the plate and falling just a little short.  Of note, Phil Glecoff, Ingo Bartens and Jim MacDonald each scored twice in that inning.  Also MacDonald (4/4, 2); Glecoff (4/4, 2) and Randy Hipken (4/4) were perfect on the night.  Meanwhile the Dodge City Rounders good perfect nights from Adrian Barry (5/5) and Wayne Bickford (4/4, 2).

Gruesome Devils 17; Hurtin' Units 19
This game was pretty much like the score indicates, back and forth with the teams wailing on each other.  The Gruesome Devils had perfect nights from Bob McCullough (5/5, 2); Mike Douglas (5/5, 4); Richard Gabourie (5/5, 2) and Simon Smith (5/5, 2).  The Hurtin' Units invited the league's newest player to the team as Mike Olliffe resigned for the season to rehab his leg.  Their new comer, Mark Butler contributed right away getting a couple of hits and scoring a run.  Welcome to the league Mark!  The Hurtin' Units had three perfect evening's at the plate from Anicete Goncalves (4/4, 2); Cameron Clark (4/4, 2) and Dave Kidd (4/4, 2).

Grisslies 7; Red Dogs 8
This was a well played game from both teams.  Despite the low score there were a lot of base runners and some very timely defense from both sides.  The Grisslies were led by Art Sagert (3/3, 1); Doug Dwyer (3/3, 1); Rob Farah (3/3, 2) and Bob Vienneau (3/3).  The Red Dogs had perfect nights from Rick Hjelholt (3/3); Rob McCarron (3/3, 1); Jim Rouleau (3/3) and Gary Cox (3/3, 3).  More on this game ===> HERE

Hot Tub Woody's 4; Brew Jays 10. 
This can only be classified as a disappointment.  I look forward to hearing the antics from the Brew Jay table after a late game.  A Piero walk off shot with bases loaded end a game.  A Billy the kid Clouthier behind the back strike 3 call to end a game.  This had nothing.  Blah.  Just a plain old win.  The Woody's did a good job keeping an offensive juggernaut down, but couldn't muster much offense of their own.  There were no perfect nights for the Woody's in this one.   The Brew Jays had Jamie McClean go 5/5 with 3 runs scored while the aforementioned Billy the kid Clouthier was 4/4 with a run.  Maybe next week the Dave's (Polny and Fleming) can play on unicycles and mix it up a bit.   


Things to check out:

Check out the Donini Three Stars of the game here ==> STARS
Check out the Dislocated Joints game notes from DTBB & Terry Doucet ==> JOINTS
Check out the Tap Master's game notes from Jason Bowers ==> Tapped Out
Check out the Hurtin' Units BLOG from Jimmer ==> Hannibal Lecter
The League's Official Website ==> League

GAME 12: Base Running

Pre-INTRO
By the time anyone reads this (6am Friday), I'll be taking off from Buffalo on my way to a brief stop over in NYC before heading to a warm breezy beach for the weekend.  I don't get many long weekends that aren't either family or baseball, so I'm taking advantage.  

So, the inevitable errors that you find in the league stats, my Saturday STATs blog or this BLOG will be repaired, but not until next Tuesday or Wednesday.  

Cheers!!!!
   

THE INTRO

GAME 12???????????????????????

How the hell did that happen?  Frig, half the season already over!?!?!  Well, sort of. Before I get wistful and lament the half way point, lets remember that there's 12 games left + 3-6 in the HTKP tournament, another 3-6 in the August tournament and another 4-7 in the playoffs in September.  So....for some teams there could be as many as 31 games left.  And even if you don't do great there's still at LEAST 22 left.

Don't panic!

But still, as the unofficial halfway point, we (we Grisslies that is) tend to do a bit of a review or look ahead.  We've done report cards in the past.  But this doesn't feel like a good year for report cards.  That's primarily because I would fail, so screw it.  We've done team building stuff at the mid point before, but I'm not so sure that this is what this team needs.  We're kind of meandering through this year.  The Grisslies have had a habit in recent years of playing better of than the sum of their parts, that's because the concept of team was always first and foremost.  We also have a habit of being one of the worst 1/2 half teams in the league and one of the best 2nd 1/2 teams.

Go figure.   

This year, we're playing beneath the ability of the sum of our parts.  We're just ever so slightly out of step.  There are some real good signs, but no real consistency.  So I've been trying to figure out why.  Normally, my first reaction is blame Rob.  Lets be honest, its quick, its a safe answer and it usually works.  But try as I may to foist this on him, I can't really make it stick.  He's like Teflon.   So my examination brings me to the fact that this team, like all teams, must be built and NOT simply assumed. And we start that building with communication, the round out to understanding and finally end with acceptance.  Truly, that's what has worked in the past for us, so its time to do it now.

In an effort to break that ice in communication and keep this BLOG pretty serious, I've taken the liberty of doing a little summary of each of the players so that we can better appreciate each others strengths and weaknesses, kind of a get to know you thing.  Here's the run down.

Rick Cudnik:
Nice Nickname:  Ricky-Bobby
Other Nickname:  Squinty    
Positions Played in 2012: Center Field, Shortstop
The Most Private thing I'll admit to:  I feel sad for seedless watermelons because they can't have baby watermelons of their own.  (sad face)
Favourite TV Show:  Ben Franklin and Hitler, The new odd couple.  Oh, the antics those two would get into!  Hilarious!
Favourite Animal:  A Dragon.
Favourite Book:  Anything I can colour.
Favourite Sport other than baseball:  Darts.  I'm not really allowed to play with sharp things for obvious reasons, but its still fun. 
If I could meet one person alive or dead it would be:  Probably Bjorn Borg because of that whole Star Trek thing.  I would totally assimilate him.  
Goal for the rest of 2012:  I want to put the "elation" in "Team Relations"

Dave Argue:
Nice Nickname:  The Contradiction 
Other Nickname:  The mustache that rocked the world. 
Positions Played in 2012: Center Field, Right Field, Short Stop, 3rd Base, Second Base, Pitcher
The Most Private thing I'll admit to:  I don't mind playing beside Ricky-Bobby, I just wish he was mute.
Favourite TV Show:  The Fall Guy:  I loved this show staring Lee Majors as a crime fighting stunt man with no sense of balance.  And he could only run in slow motion.  It took forever, but was fun. 
Favourite Animal:  Probably a schnauzer.  I still dig the mustache thing. 
Favourite Book:  "Miles to go" by Miley Cyrus.  It's like it spoke directly to me. 
Favourite Sport other than baseball:  I'll say soccer in case my wife reads this. 
If I could meet one person alive or dead it would be:  Groucho Marx.  (obviously)

Goal for the rest of 2012:  I might actually just give it all up and become a handsome billionaire.  

Jeff Sagert

Nice Nickname:  Sags 
Other Nickname:  Jeffy Pop 
Positions Played in 2012: Center Field, Shortstop, 3rd Base, 2nd Base. 
The Most Private thing I'll admit to:  I soak my hands in pickle brine to build up calluses for hitting.   That's why I'm leading all rookies in average (just saying)

Favourite TV Show:  The Simpsons.  OMG, this show cracks me up.  Ashley and Jessica pretending to be singers living with their jailbird dad OJ.  Funniest thing ever! 
Favourite Animal:  My turtles.  Cuff and Link. 
Favourite Book:  Scientology:  The Fundamentals of Thought, by L. Ron Hubbard.  That or the Twilight series. 
Favourite Sport other than baseball:  Anything besides hockey.  Hate that game and their stupid 2 assist rule.  I think anyone who touches the puck that day should get an assist.   

If I could meet one person alive or dead it would be:  Darius Kasparitis.  Did you know that "itis" means "The Friendly Ghost" in Russian? 
Goal for the rest of 2012:  Give up practicing witchcraft. 

Gary Basso:
Nice Nickname:  Dean Martin  
Other Nickname:  Shooby, dooby doo. 
Positions Played in 2012: Left Field, Right Field, 3rd Base
The Most Private thing I'll admit to:  I have two secret powers, but I'm afraid that I've already said too much.  
Favourite TV Show:  The Airport Challenge!  Its on the game show network.  They have 3 random people work as air traffic controllers and try to successfully land planes.  EXCELLENT show! 
Favourite Animal:  Ricky-Bobby.
Favourite Book:  Sex and the City.  I was a little disappointed that there weren't any pictures, but still a pretty good book.   
Favourite Sport other than baseball:  Bocce ball.  Its a little aggressive at times, but it sure gets your heart going. 
If I could meet one person alive or dead it would be:  The REAL Slim Shady, not those other Slim Shady's who are just imitating and won't stand up. 
Goal for the rest of 2012:  I want to catch a ball.  No one hits to me.

Doug Dwyer:
Nice Nickname:  The Blogger 
Other Nickname:  Rob's side kick 
Positions Played in 2012: Left Field, Center Field, Right Field, 3rd Base, Short Stop, 2nd Base, 1st Base.
The Most Private thing I'll admit to:  Most of these BLOGS are really written by Paul Piellusch.  Except the really, really, really excessively long ones because he gets bored after about 75 words.
Favourite TV Show:  WWF Vs. WWE.  There's nothing like animals vs. wrestlers. 
Favourite Animal:  A Jackalope. 
Favourite Book:  SPN rules handbook - 2008 edition.
Favourite Sport other than baseball:  There are no sports other than baseball, there are only hobbies. 
If I could meet one person alive or dead it would be:  Jean-Luc Picard.  No question.  
Goal for the rest of 2012: I'm going to start my own religion.  More on that later.

Art Sagert:
Nice Nickname:  The "Art" of Hitting 
Other Nickname:  Jeffy pop's pop. 
Positions Played in 2012: Right Field, Left Field, Center Field, 1st Base. 
The Most Private thing I'll admit to: I need to have my shoulders iced down after every game due to the pain caused from carrying the team.   
Favourite TV Show: CSI, Beeton.  Enough said. 
Favourite Animal:  A Dingo.  I just like saying Dingo.  Dingo, Dingo, Dingo.  Dingo.
Favourite Book:  Superman, #703 

Favourite Sport other than baseball:  Trampoline.  If it had become an Olympic sport 30 years earlier, I'd have a medal right now. 
If I could meet one person alive or dead it would be:  Probably Ted Williams, I could give him a few batting tips.    
Goal for the rest of 2012: That's tough, considering I've already got my 1500th hit.  Probably scoring my 1000th run.

Lance Horgan:
Nice Nickname: Lance Romance 
Other Nickname:  Jesus 
Positions Played in 2012: Center Field, Right Field, 2nd Base. 
The Most Private thing I'll admit to:  My hair takes a LOT of maintenance. Gel, mouse, hairspray, it costs a bloody fortune too!!!
Favourite TV Show:  90210.  The original series.  Especially the episode where Donna Martin's Dyslexia is finally properly diagnosed and she gets to graduate.  Still brings a tear to my eye.  Donna Martin Grad-u-Ates!!! Donna Martin Grad-u-Ates!!! Donna Martin Grad-u-Ates!!! (Frig, now I'm misty) . 
Favourite Animal: Llama.  Not only are they fun to ride, but they make a great Thanksgiving dinner! 

Favourite Book: The story of "O".  I can't tell you how relieved I was to find out it had nothing to do with Oprah Winfrey.
Favourite Sport other than baseball: Parachuting With No Strings Attached, by Plumb Etting.  What's life with risks?
If I could meet one person alive or dead it would be: Hugh Armstrong.  The legend.
Goal for the rest of 2012:  Seriously, I want to finish my movie script and get Hugh Armstrong and Tori Spelling to star in it.  Life would be complete. 

Rob Farah:
Nice Nickname:  The Gris.
Other Nickname:  The Master of Trivia (but only if the answer is Rob Farah)
Positions Played in 2012: Pitcher, Catcher, 3rd Base, 1st Base, Right Field.
The Most Private thing I'll admit to: Really?  That's a question?  Because I'll admit to just about anything.  Did you know I once made a office building out of rubber bands, concrete glue and tacks?  And once I wedged bread out of the toaster with a knife...rattled my teeth and I had to lie down for about 45 hours.  And when I was a teenager and worked at this tattoo shop, we cleaned the floors and bathroom and all that stuff with bleach. one night when it was my turn to clean the bathroom, I poured a whole bottle bleach in the toilet, then had to pee and passed out from the combination of fumes, got a concussion, and learned an important lesson.  I don't remember what the lesson was, but it was important for sure!  And this one time.....at band camp....
Favourite TV Show:  Crappy Days.  A good show about growing up in Rexdale in the 50's with Schlongzie, Hotsie and Boney. 
Favourite Animal:  The electric eel.  Non electric eels SUCK!
Favourite Book: The book of Danno.  Remember that book from McGarrett on Hawaii 5-0?  Book 'o Danno.
Favourite Sport other than baseball:  Wow, this takes me back to my youth.  Probably stealing cars.
If I could meet one person alive or dead it would be: Picasso.  I think it would be cool to meet another great artist. 
Goal for the rest of 2012:  I need to lose 15 pounds.  If I can do that, I'll be happy.  

Bob Vienneau:
Nice Nickname:  Blue Velvet (or) Bobby V.
Other Nickname:  The man who put the "Body" in Beeton Auto-Body.
Positions Played in 2012:  1st Base, Right Field
The Most Private thing I'll admit to:  I'm really 6 foot 1, but I slouch.
Favourite TV Show:  Barney the Carnivore Dinosaur.  Those kids never know what's going to hit them!
Favourite Animal:  The Unicorn.  Which, if I'm not mistaken, had a hair taken from it to to be used in Harry Potter's wand.
Favourite Book:  Hilarious Bible Tales and coincidences.  Oh, from Barabas to Daniel and the lions.  Just try to stop laughing!
Favourite Sport other than baseball:   Snooker, which is ironically played on Green Velvet.

If I could meet one person alive or dead it would be: Jesse the Body Ventura. And I'd get him do an ad for Beeton Auto Body and call it body on body.  I'm clever with words. 
Goal for the rest of 2012:  Be able to Karaoke 7 Amy Winehouse songs.
 

Scott Pritchard:
Nice Nickname: The Illustrated Man
Other Nickname: Gordon Sumner.
Positions Played in 2012:  Left Field, Right Field
The Most Private thing I'll admit to:  I sued the makers of South Park for stealing me life story.  Made a FORTUNE!!!
Favourite TV Show:  Anything but South Park.  Probably Miami Vice Presidents.  It didn't last long, but it had Al Gore and Dan Quayle fighting crime and high temperatures in south Florida. Intense man, intense.
Favourite Animal:  Sphinx
Favourite Book:  An Inconvenient Book.  That was all the conservative corporate money grabbing scum buckets could muster in the global warming debate.  
Favourite Sport other than baseball:  ATV polo.  My squad can beat any team on horseback. 
If I could meet one person alive or dead it would be:  That Norwegian guy that invented cars.  Henry Fjord.   
Goal for the rest of 2012: Turning Left. 

Dave Doucette:
Nice Nickname: DCMT (Don't Call Me Terry)
Other Nickname:  SYIDCMT (Seriously You Idiot, Don't Call Me Terry)
Positions Played in 2012: 3rd Base, 2nd Base, 1st Base, Catcher, Right Field, Left Field.
The Most Private thing I'll admit to:  I once played a game in my wife's socks and went 5 for 5.  Now I always have to wear an article of her clothing when I play.   I just found out the rose goes in the front.
Favourite TV Show:  American Idle.  It follows lazy assed Karaoke singers. 
Favourite Animal:  Buck toothed - Walamite.  
Favourite Book:  Easy one.  When I was in grade 11, I read:  "If God Loves Me, Why Can't I Get My Locker Open?"  Changed my life. 
Favourite Sport other than baseball:  Boomerang.  Most people don't know its a point based game with teams and rules and everything.  I don't know how to score it or even play it or anything like that.  I don't even really even know how to throw a boomerang, but I admire that someone put that much thought into it. 
If I could meet one person alive or dead it would be: Terry Doucet.  I just want to know what all the hype is about!
Goal for the rest of 2012: I have a feeling that I'm going to hit my first home run.  And then probably swim across Lake Ontario.  Or at least across the Conservation Area pond.  Maybe at the narrow part.  Right near where you can wade. 

Charlie O'Leary:
Nice Nickname: Chuckles the dog faced boy. 
Other Nickname:  The dog faced boy.
Other Nickname:  Dog faced boy.
Other Nickname:  Dog faced
Other Nickname:  Dog 
Positions Played in 2012:  1st Base, Catcher. 
The Most Private thing I'll admit to:  No one, and I mean no one, can call a game like me.  
Favourite TV Show:  King of Queens:  Reality show where weekly musical numbers are judged by Richard Simmons and Nathan Lane, the loser is voted off the cabaret
Favourite Animal:  What animal do they make minced meat tarts from?  I love them!
Favourite Book:  How to manipulate authority figures, by Anne Arkie
Favourite Sport other than baseball:   Umpire watching.  I have a field guide and binoculars for identifying different species of umpires. 
If I could meet one person alive or dead it would be: Richard Higham.  The only umpire ever banned from major league baseball in 1882 for trying fix a game.  I don't really understand why they would kick him out just for trying to fix something though.  That part is weird.  I just think its noble of him to even try to fix it.  But only if it truly was broken.  
Goal for the rest of 2012:  I too shall fix the game. 

Okay Grisslies, there you go.  Now you know each other.  So lets have a fun second half to the season!

THE SPEECH

Doug:  Well I'll admit that I didn't see it coming, but we've gotten some great feedback on the Hotel California song.
Rob:  Whoa, whoa, whoa....it sounded like you said "we".
Doug: Yeah.
Rob:  Right, because of all the writing you do. 
Doug: Why do you get so "its all about me"?
Rob:  Because.
Doug: Because WHY?
Rob:  Because it IS all about me!!!
Doug: I'm sure this week's song will reflect that?
Rob:  Yes, the song is an accurate reflection of the state of things.  It is the truth. Don't let that get in the way of your silly stories.  By the way, what was with the Polny thing?
Doug:  What do you mean?
Rob:  It was kind of stupid. Like that whole Brew Jay thing.  I was on the phone with Rod Duggan for an hour yesterday.  He wants you kicked out of the league.  Said he's going to punch you in the face.  Again.  You need to stick to the truth and realize that your amusing stories and not amusing at all.  
Doug:  Fine.  I'll apologize to Rod, but I think people recognize that it was tongue in cheek.  I think Rod actually has a sense of humour. Anyway, what's the title of this weeks version of Rob's truth called? 
Rob:  Its, called "base running".  The fans are going to love this one.  Its what they've been waiting for.  You see how I build up to these great moments?  Its one of my gifts.  
Doug:  Okay, a short and sweet conversation finally, I love these weeks with 2 games.   
Rob:  Make sure you mention that I wrote this song. 
Doug:  Oh, I don't think anyone will miss that fact.  

Just when you think that Rob is a little over the top he shows his humble side.  And good for him!  Here is the famous Billy Idol Song, White Wedding renamed to Base Running.  Music ===> HERE for those of you that never learned how to snarl don't have a Rebel Yell. 

BASE RUNNING

I'm Robbie Farah and look what I've done

I'm Robbie Farah and I'm a number one

I'm Robbie Farah I'm a superman

I'm Robbie Farah I'm the one who taunts

I'm Robbie Farah, Home Run!

It's a nice day to start again

It's a nice day for some base running

It's a nice day to start again

I'm Robbie Farah what have I done

I'm Robbie Farah and I'm a number one

I can hit baseball so long (so long)

Doug hasn't had a hit in so long (so long)

It time for me to hit another so long

It's a nice day to start again (come on)

It's a nice day for some base running

It's a nice day to start again

Time to cross home now

There is nothin' fair on this field

There is nothin' safe on this field

And there is nothin' sure on this field

And there is nothin' pure on this field

Try and hit it to left on this field

Start again

Come on

It's a nice day for some base running

It's a nice day to start again

It's a nice day to start again

It's a nice day to start again

THE GAME

Well this was our second game against the Red Dogs.  The first one was our 3rd game of the year, we were 2-0 at the time, and the Red Dogs beat us 7-6 in a game that we just didn't seem very interested in for some some reason.   Now they seem to have hit their collective stride and are sitting waiting for us having won their last three in a row.  We came into this eager for the second half of the season to start and licking our wounds from a crappy game against the Brew Jays two nights ago.      

Since they beat us 7-6, the Red Dogs have scored 13, 19, 20, 10, 21, 19, 18 and 19 runs in their last 8 games.  That averages out to 17.4 runs a game. 

Great. 

The game started out well for the visiting Grisslies as Art Sagert led off with a single.  It was followed by a single from yours truly, then Jeff Sager, then Rick Cudnik, then Rob Farah, then an assortment of force outs and hits and line drives.  We ended up with four runs and a good start. 

The Red Dogs were shut out in the first and scored one in the second when Gary Cox scored his first of 3 runs on the night.  We had a 6-1 lead after the top of the 3rd but the Red Dogs had their only big inning of the night when they pushed across 5 runs.  It was their only inning of more than a single run. 

The game was cut at six innings due to time, but the Red Dogs came away with a well earned 8-7 win in a competitive but very fun game. 

As Rob Farah would say, see you in the finals!

Things to check out:

Check out the Donini Three Stars of the game here ==> STARS
Check out the Dislocated Joints game notes from DTBB & Terry Doucet ==> JOINTS
Check out the Tap Master's game notes from Jason Bowers ==> Tapped Out
Check out the Hurtin' Units BLOG from Jimmer ==> Hannibal Lecter
The League's Official Website ==> League

GAME 11: Big 'ol Case of Asthma

INTRO

I know.  You all thought I was going to go after All-Star Bat Boy, Sir Rob Hayward in this spot didn't you?  Freshly back in the league, playing for the Brew Jays who are playing the Grisslies on this night??  Well, patience young Skywalker.  The season is a long one.  Sir Rob will have his day.

The Brew Jays have lots of great guys on their club.  In fact you can go up and down the roster and pick out some of the real stars in our league plus some of our league's finer gentlemen.

And in that mix you will find one Dave Polny!  Do I dare take on one of our league heavy weights like David?

I try not to ignore those voices.  When I do, I end up ornery like Rob.

Back to Dave.  When I start out with these reports / stories / exposes they are usually the based on an incident or maybe a character trait or physical trait that is funny or sometimes (on rare occasions) its something completely made up.  That's the starting point anyway, then they kind of spring to life. 

But I'll be honest.  Dave is a bit of a tough nut to crack.  There's no defining "incident" like going head-long into a pool of West-Nile, mosquito infested water to make a stop (not an out mind you, just a stop) at second base at C3.  So with actual incidents out of equation, perhaps its time to make stuff up?  But then, I have to ultimately say "no" to that.  You don't go making stuff up about a stand up guy who contributes so much to our league in both effort and the behind the scenes financial contributions.

The man is a power broker, a consensus builder, a king maker.  One slip up and you're on the outside looking in.  Well, you'd think that, but its not necessarily the case and you'll see why.   

Delving into character traits, I decided to make a list.  What words immediately spring to mind when you hear the name, Dave Polny?  Composure, Peacefulness, Contentment, Easy-going, Serenity?

Me too!  Exactly the same. So my question naturally is:  How does one guy corner the market on this calm, non-excitable approach to life?  Again, its a tough one to answer.  It comes back to the whole nature Vs. nurture argument.  If you're not familiar with that discussion you should probably go back and watch Trading Places with Eddie Murphy (when he was funny) and Dan Aykroyd (he was never funny).  But, we're resourceful here at the BLOG.  We don't mind doing a little digging and we've uncovered some photos of Dave that may explain things and lay to rest whether he was born laid-back or learned it along the way.

Here is Dave at 3 years old.  You can see already the intense eyes of an executive.  The rigid jaw of a defensive infield specialist.  The hair cut of a New York Yankee.  However, he seems to have gotten some coaching on the path to relaxation with the 'chill' pose with his hands behind his head.  But even at 3 years old you can see the internal struggle with the bold striped shirt screaming "order and control" in sharp contrast to mellow persona you see today. 

By the time Dave reached 10 years old, he shed the exterior symbols of intensity and started to morph into laid-back-Dave.  It was a slow morph though.  The hair-cut, while purposefully a little 'shaggy' was only a comb away from a rigid corporate cut.  But the overall change was apparent.  Except for those friggin' piercing eyes!!!  There is a rumour out there that Dave tried out for the role of Damien in The Omen.  That is patently untrue.  However, he was Damien's stunt double.

Ahhhhhh, 18.  University!  Those intense eyes are chilled by late teen euphoria.  The hands behind the back of the head has transitioned from uncomfortable and forced to the preferred leisure pose.  Yes, Dave had officially hit his mellow zone from which there would be no return.

Entering the corporate world at the age of 25 had no discernible impact on Dave.  He literally is a blend of the teenager and the eerily calm guy that you see every week on the baseball diamond.

So I think the answer to my own question is that Dave's "take a day-mon" attitude is a true combination of nature AND nurture.

Oh, by the way, I know the cynical ones out there are saying, "Why did it take Dave between the ages of 18 and 25 to actually finish university an get a job?"  Well, if you must know, being chilled doesn't necessarily mean you aren't busy.

Davey-boy took a look around the hallowed halls of his ivy league institution and realized that most 'students' were in the same state of perpetual relaxation that he was.  In fact....next to most of the student body Dave looked like a 40 year mad executive who drank 15+ cups of coffee a day (if you can even imagine that!).  These other students weren't just chillin', they were comatose!  Where you and I would see a general malaise and no hope, Dave saw opportunity!  And in short order he would cash in.

Dave locked himself away and set to work on his apple III.  He was determined to write a book that would speak to his generation.  It had to be a combination of self help, inspiration, instruction and great, great literature.  He laboured long and hard and finally turned out a book that would be a staple for university students both here at home and those around the world.

Its impossible to say how many students lives were saved by this book.  Dave's fortune now secure, he could go off into the corporate world at his pace, calling his shots and playing baseball whenever he damned well pleased.  At least that's what he told me.

Dave's folks, while secretly reveling in his success and genuinely proud of their son, have been quoted as a "tad concerned" with his "selling out to the man" when he wrote the book.

I honestly don't know where they would have gotten that idea.  But I'll tell you what's painfully obvious from the picture of his parents is that seed of his overwhelming mellowness was bestowed upon him by these swell low-key Grateful Dead lovin' spoonfuls.

So now you know that Dave's on the field relaxation comes from a perpetual state of inner peace that began at a young age and was constantly worked at.  I know that the Brew Jays Captain's were a little concerned about Dave this year.  They had the stories of his "mellowness" but until you witness it first hand....well...you're just not prepared.

They (rightfully) asked Dave for the results of his recent physical and found out that his resting heart rate was 9 beats per minute!!!  No wonder he's so chilled.  A little more reading found that his Maximum Activity heart rate was 8.

Now you see....it isn't just that Dave has everything in check .... he actually gets MORE calm the more that other people get excited around him get!  This is like Ninja stuff.  He probably learned this at a Shaolin Temple.

This is why Dave can play 2nd base on rice paper

And now you know the rest of the story. 

THE SPEECH

Doug:  I suppose you want me to thank you for the song you wrote about me last week. 
Rob:  Well, I'm not expecting it, but I'll admit that it would be kind of nice. 
Doug:  Don't you think it was a little mean spirited?  We play in a 'rec-league' Rob, you didn't have to call me out like that.  Geez.
Rob:  Ha, 179 guys play in a rec league....only you play in a wreck league!
Doug:  Frig.  How is it that I end up being the one with the bad reputation?  So what's on the musical menu this week? 
Rob:  Well, I think it'll be tough to top last week so I went with a classic. 
Doug:  Okay, great!  What's classic mean to you? 
Rob:  Like the Eagles. 
Doug:  Nice!  People will dig that, good call.
Rob:  I don't care about "the people" so much.  An artist has to be true to his trade.
Doug:  What about your "fans" that you talked about a couple of weeks ago?
Rob:  Oh, I'm not dissing my fans.  But they want the unedited "ME".  Not some commercial boy band version of "ME".
Doug:  A boy band?  That's kind of laughable. 
Rob:  Go ahead and laugh, but I've had offers to tour with a boy band already.
Doug:  Really?  What band would that be?
Rob:  I'm not really allowed to say, I signed a non-disclosure agreement. 
Doug:  Whatever. 
Rob:  Okay.  STOP BADGERING me!  If you must know, I've been approached by the Rovers.
Doug:  The Irish Rovers?
Rob:  Well, they prefer just the "Rovers" now.  Apparently the whole 'Irish' bit was viewed as some kind of reverse discrimination thing. 
Doug:  Okay, well that's quite the boy band that you're considering joining.  Move over One Direction!
Rob:  Exactly.  So I just need them to change their waiver from free Guiness and blue M&M's to free Donini and green Smarties, then I'm good to go. 
Doug:  Good luck with that. So why didn't you use a Rovers song this week?  Or at least another boy band song?
Rob:  You haven't figured out the whole sequencing to the songs yet have you.  This one will set up the next one for when we play the Red Dogs on Thursday. 
Doug:  Okay DJ.
Rob:  Alright, you have to go now.  We have two games AND a captains meeting this week and you're just dragging me down. 
Doug:  Never a dull moment Rob, good luck getting your groove back. 

Shortly thereafter, I got an email from Rob containing this game's song.  Robbie boy has taken song "Hotel California" and reworked into a "Big 'ol Case of Asthma".  There's some clever lines in this one.  For those of you who spent the last song at the high school dance outside in the smoking area, here is the tune to the original Eagles hit ===> HERE

Big 'ol Case of Asthma

On a dark Tottenham roadway, cool wind in my hair

 Gross smell of water treatment, rising up through the air

Up ahead in the distance, I saw shimmering light

My head grew heavy and my sight grew dim

I had to stop for a bite

There I stood with a sandwich;

Was it Mexican, I couldn't tell

And I was thinking to myself,

'This could be Heaven or it could be taco bell'

Then I grabbed a bat by the handle and strode to the plate

There were voices calling me senor,

I thought I heard them say...

Welcome to a big 'ol case of the asthma

The air is heavy here (a crappy time of year)

Lots of people are complaining of the asthma

Humidity is crazy here (Any time of year)

You can find it here

My muscles are cramping, I have to do deep knee bends

There's not nearly enough water, for me and all my friends

The sun dances on the backstop, gross summer sweat.

Some try to remember, some try to forget

Next I said to my co-Captain,

"Please bring me my wine"

He said, 'Hasn't pitched without a Donini shot since nineteen sixty nine'

And still those voices are calling from far away,

Wake you up in the middle of the night

Just to hear them say...

Welcome to a big 'ol case of the asthma

The air is heavy here (a crappy time of year)

Lots of people are complaining of the asthma

Humidity is crazy here (Any time of year)

You can find it here

Summer burns are peeling,

We stay cool with ice

Sue-Z says 'We are all dehydrated, but water would suffice'

And at the downtown barber's,

They gathered for their trim

Even Lance bowed to the steely clippers,

But they just can't beat the heat

Last thing I remember, I was

Running for the Legion door

I had to find the passage back

To the place I was before

'Relax,' said the Stiffer,

'We are programmed to receive.

You can use your puffer any time you like,

But you will always wheeze!'

THE GAME

Lets see.....the Grisslies came into this one 2-5-1 in our last 8.  Not great.

The stupid Brew Jays are 5-0 in their last 5 stupid games.

I don't mean "stupid" in a mean spirited way.  Well, maybe a little.  I have fun playing the Brew Jays, good guys, good team, they'll have a beer after the game and they're all good dancers.  But I hate these guys!  We're zero and forever against them!  Since the Brew Jays came into existence, we've had zero regular season wins against them.  And for those of you scoring at home, that's one less than one (1).  That's kind of nuts.  It kind of sucks.  It's kind of stupid.

So we have a stupid team we can't beat (YaY) who are also stupidly on fire right now (YaY) while we kind of suck in our last 8 (YaY).  We got them lulled into that false sense of security.  The only good news going into this one is that we wouldn't have to deal with Bill Cloutier's behind the back pitching in this match up. 

That wasn't the ONLY good news, I'm just bitter.  I'm also not going to write much about this game.  On the surface the 12-9 game was way more flattering than how the game actually went.  Maybe, for a change, I'll just leave it at flattering and say we nearly beat them even though I know better.

The best news of all?  We don't play them again this year!!!  This is one of the few teams we only play once!!!

Stupid Brew Jays.

Things to check out:

Check out the Donini Three Stars of the game here ==> STARS
Check out the Dislocated Joints game notes from DTBB & Terry Doucet ==> JOINTS
Check out the Tap Master's game notes from Jason Bowers ==> Tapped Out
Check out the Hurtin' Units BLOG from Jimmer ==> Hannibal Lecter
The League's Official Website ==> League

Week 8 Review

Intro

What a weird week this one was.  The first forfeit in 3 years, a postponed game, 2 of the first 3 games of the week ending in ties and I thought we'd lose all three Thursday games to the thunder and lightening, but that didn't happen.  It feels like a lite week of ball, but still the same amount of stats.  Oh, and a new one for you - just because that's how I role (I know its spelled wrong).
Stats

Yeah, why not....lets start with the new one.  Excel and I don't get along at the best of times, so it took a while to get this sorted out properly.  What this does is measure your on base average as usual, but it only looks at your team's 7th, 8th, 9th, 10th, 11th and 12th games.  I like this view because 6 games is still a big enough number for a reasonable sample size and unless your name is Scott it isn't easy to stay white hot for that long a stretch.  So if you're on this list, you're pretty scorching hot in my books.  Yeah Lou....I'm looking at you. 

Well Donny Brasco lost his slim 1 AB lead this week and I think we're all surprised how that came about.  But fear not, the Don will be back.  Of that I'm sure.  Clearly Frank has brought out the whip in Banshee-land (no relation to Grisslie-land) where Muirhead, Richards and Koolhaas are apparently to frightened to take a night off!

In this stat edition of the blog I try to stay pretty neutral, but I think I'll take a moment to pump the tires of one of our own.  Grisslie Jeff Sagert is up to .828!  And its a pretty strong .828, with maybe only 3 infield hits out of 24 times on.  Way to go!  As the season goes on and things spread out, these will likely be all be top 10 lists.  I've cut some off at smaller numbers when there are large groups tied at the 9 or 10 spot. For this one though you can get at the league site, so feel free to browse there too. 

Al still owns this by a pretty large margin.  So to clarify this stat, when Al is in the batters box, before a pitch is thrown, there is an 68.6% chance that he'll score a run IN THAT AT BAT.  Not on the night, but in that at bat!  There's only a couple of handfuls of guys over 50% and he's pushing 70.  Way to go Al!

And a slight variation on the same theme....Brad Young scores 88.5% of the time that he's standing on a base.  Any base.  The scary part is he went down this week and he's still got Al (DNP) by almost 100 points.  Entering the stats week after week, I'll be honest, none of these names surprise me, but they do validate what I think is happening when entering the raw numbers.  For example McCarron and Keogh got off to slow starts (for them, not for us mortals), but I could sense they were coming on strong before they started showing up on the top 25 etc....   Anyway, these guys are pretty damned good.

Ohhhh....now here's a story!  This will teach Al to take a night off!  Miss one game and that scoring machine Dan Routledge just knocks you to the side!  There are a number of teams with games in hand yet so lots to sort out, but it is tightly bunched with 10 guys separated by a scant 4 runs.  WOW.  And the two that jump off the list to me are John Barlow and Eric Hipkin, two Red Dogs having fabulous years!  Oh, 4 of the top 10 are Red Dogs too as McCarron and Candy are obviously following the inspired lead set by the other two. 

Well Cliffy boy has yet to stub his toe.  He's still leading the way and seems to go 3/4 every game so there's no variation in that +332.  Lot's of good players to watch in this list. 

I guess Farah's batting tips finally beat Stiff's batting tips.  At list for now!  Lahey still leads in total hits for a rookie, but Grisslie Jeff Sagert overtook him in average with his second consecutive 4/4 game.  I think I've met most of the rookies or they've taken the time to introduce themselves to me and they are an impressive crop overall.  Attitude + ability.  We got lucky as a league. 

Barton, Schrank, Lepa, Hipkin, Barlow, Kolsen, Routledge, Rouleau, Doyle.  I know its tight, I know its early; but if those are the top 10 September 1st I won't be the least bit surprised. 

Okay, I'm better with the whole tie thing, except for the fact that they suck and should be banned.  Ties in baseball, geez.  Last week the Grisslies were 4-5 and 4 games back of the Joints.  We tied, Joints one and now we're 4.750 games back.  That makes sense.  The good news is that everyone has made the playoffs!!! YaY!  But we keep standings, so there must be a reason for it.  If you look from 7th place up, that's probably where your regular season winner will come from.  Its tough to handicap though.  That 2.5 game lead is massive.  The Joints would have to lose 3 in a row and Red Dogs win 3 in a row for the Joints to be caught.  Nothing is going to happen soon.  Dodge and the Brew Jays both have a game in hand on the Red Dogs and could conceivably also be sitting at 7-4 once they get those games in.  Enough lamenting, on with the review!

Review

Tap Masters 7; Rusty Rebels 0.
Sadly this game ended before it started with a 7-0 forfeit due to lack of players.

Hot Tub Woody's 10; Dog Catchers 10.
The Game of the week had a number of spectators watching a spirited well pitched affair.  The game was highlighted by a top of the 7th grand slam off the bat of Chuck Cragg.  The Woody's had a balanced attack but no perfect nights at the plate.  The Dog Catchers were led by Randy Hipkin (3/3, 1), Don Swabuk (3/3, 1) and Paul Hargreaves (3/3).  You can read more about the game of the week ====> HERE

Grisslies 12; Lucky Stiffs 12
The Grisslies got off to a good start in this one but couldn't sustain their momentum.  The Lucky Stiffs were the comeback cardiac kids on this night scoring 4 in the bottom of the 7th to earn the tie.  The stiffs had perfect nights from Captain Clayton Campbell (4/4, 2) and Rookie Tom Ball (4/4, 1).  Meanwhile the Grisslies had a perfect night from rookie sensation Jeff Sagert (4/4, 2).  For more on this game, click ===> HERE.

Banshees 10; Dusty Cleats 5. 
The Banshees played with the lead for this entire game.  The Dusty Cleats got with a run on a number of occasions but couldn't quite get over the hump in this one.  The Banshees were led by Brian Richards (4/4, 3), Dan Chiasson (4/4) and Craig Beatty (4/4, 1).  The Dusty Cleats had perfect nights from Troy Hope (3/3, 1), Mark Doyle (3/3, 1) and Fraser Barratt (3/3).

However; I'm sorry to report that the real story here is that Scott Barton's streak is now over.  He came into this game 29/29 and got on the first 3 times he came up to drive it up to 32/32.  Then the inevitable finally happened.  Scott grounded out.  Fantastic run Scotty!

Red Dogs 19; Hurtin' Units 17
The Hurtin' Units scored 7 in the 6th inning of this to get themselves back into the game, but they couldn't push anything across in the 7th to finish the comeback.  The Units had two players with huge nights in Anicete Goncalves (5/5, 2) and Gord Robinson (5/5, 4).  The Red Dogs, who dominated this one throughout surprisingly had no perfect nights at the plate despite their 19 run outburst.  However they did have 3 run performances from Eric Hipkin, Rob McCaron and Jon Hardy. 

Postponed.  This game has been rescheduled for Wednesday July 11th, 9:30 at Keogh Park

Tap Masters 18; Gruesome Devils 6
In a battle of expansion cousins, the Tap Masters took the upper hand in the season series.  The Gruesome Devils had a perfect night from Mike Douglas who was 4/4 with a run scored.  The Tap Masters were led by Geoff Keogh (4/4, 3) and Captain Jason Bowers (4/4, 3).  More on this game can be found ====> HERE

Dog Catchers 8; Brew Jays 19
I typically don't do a lot of write up in this spot mostly because my fingers get sore from a full week of typing...but sometimes a little blurb is needed.  It seems that the Brew Jays were absent their starting pitcher for this one and had to press P2 Billy Clouthier into duty.   Bill had a good game as Bill usually does.  Gave up a couple in the 1st.  Had a 3 up 3 down second and got knocked around for 4 in the 3rd.  By that time the game was looking and safe and he cruised through the rest of the game giving up only 2 more runs.  But its not enough for Bill to get the win.  No that would be common place.  He needs to win with pizazz!  So with two and two on in the 7th and a batter who will remain unnamed at the plate with two strikes on him......Mr Clouthier uncorked a behind the back pitch that froze the (unnamed) batter and landed on the board for a called 3rd strike. 

Game over.  Footage is below.  I love Bills reaction!  Sorry for the dubbed in play by play call.

Click on the picture above to see Bill's amazing game ending pitch!!!

Meanwhile, Bill's pitching prevented any perfect nights out of the Dog Catchers, but Brew Jays had flawless plate performances from Lynn Foerster (4/4, 3), Matt Foerster (4/4, 3) and Dave Polny (4/4, 1).

Beer Bros. 6; Dusty Cleats 5
If there is a surprise team to jump up and win this thing, its the Cleats.  And not like the "awww, I feel sorry for them" Cleats of 2 years ago.  Its because this team makes no sense.  Their defense is among the best in the league.  The have great hitters, power hitters, good hitters, average hitters, speed and smarts.  And they can't score runs.  However, all these guys have in the past and they will again.  When it happens, look out!  The Beer Bros. needed this win to pull into the lofty position of a tie for 8th with the Grisslies.  Congratulations!  Shockingly, the only perfect performance on the night was Steve Ross' 2/2 with a run scored.  The Cleats had their usual from Mr. Consistency Scott Barton who was 4/4 with a run.

Lucky Stiffs 5; Banshees 17
The Stiffs never got to see a lead in this one as the Banshees scored 6 in the 1st and another 3 in the second.  Despite the Banshees outburst, they only had one perfect hitter on the night and that was  John Coopman who was 4/4 with 4 runs scored.  The Stiffs didn't have any perfect nights in this one, but they had lot of fun and looked fabulous!

Dislocated Joints 9; Dodge City Rounders 7
A lot of people were looking forward to this one.  A win for Dodge would have served notice to the Joints.  However, for all the Dodge City base runners, and there were plenty, they couldn't get those crusial run scoring hits to drive them in.  The game was missing two all stars in Al Fry and Doris Casullo as well.  Dodge's Ed McDowell (3/3, 2), Adrian Barry (3/3, 1), Mark Bickford (4/4) and Luc Schryer (4/4) were all perfect on the evening.  The Joints were led by Paul Gyori (4/4, 1) and Terry Ducet (4/4, 1).  You can read more about this game ===> HERE
Things to check out:

Check out the Donini Three Stars of the game here ==> STARS
Check out the Dislocated Joints game notes from DTBB & Terry Doucet ==> JOINTS
Check out the Tap Master's game notes from Jason Bowers ==> Tapped Out
Check out the Hurtin' Units BLOG from Jimmer ==> Hannibal Lecter
The League's Official Website ==> League