GRISSLIE ANTICS: Revisited

INTRO

It was reported here about a month ago that there would be a stark reduction in Grisslie antics for this coming season.   Of course, this arose from discussion at the Executive meeting that there was non-baseball stuff interfering with the actual baseball games.  Fair is fair, we need to address this stuff.

Rob has committed to cutting back some of the antics this year for the betterment of the league.  Personally, I think the antics ARE for the betterment of the league, but that's me and I never get anything passed so my vote doesn't count.

On the eve of the new season draft it seems as good a time as any to let new Grisslies as well as those people who have been around for a while know how the landscape has changed.  If you want to see how we got this far, you can read "HERE" and then come back to this. 

OH!  Welcome back.  So let's pick this up on the Donini deck where would make cuts to our antics for the upcoming season. 

Me: Well, are you ready to start planning out our "special events" for this season?
Rob: Yeah. 
Me:  Are you still planning on cutting things back?
Rob:  Yeah.  No wait.  Not cutting back, more like slashing.  Its too much, we gotta get a handle on this stuff.
Me: Okay, but I think people have come to expect this from us it might be a little awkward. 
Rob:  Well, nothing lasts forever; except Doris' injuries and my hangovers, so its time for a change.  Did you get the info I asked for?

 DORIS

Me:  Yeah, I have all the events we've done over the past couple of years.  We can go through them and decide what you want to keep and what you want to toss.
Rob:  Cool, lets review, but be warned, a lot is going.  
Me:  Alright.  I'm disappointed but I know where you're coming from.  Well first off, we have the annual Grisslie award banquet where everyone gets a little trophy or gift and few words said about them while we eat & drink.
Rob:  That stays.
Me:  Really?  Its the first one.  You don't want to have a "cut", "keep" and "maybe" list or something?  We should probably put this on the maybe.  Its an expense, not an on field activity.  Its questionable at best. 
Rob:  No, seriously, we need to keep that one.  In fact, we should make it bigger. 
Me:  Bigger?
Rob:  Yeah.  Lets bring it out of a restaurant and into a house.  Do a BBQ, make it an all day event, spouses, kids, maybe a band.  What do you think?
Me:  Wow.  Okay, Sure.  If that's what you really want.  Its not the direction I thought we would go, but okay.
Rob:  I know its the 1st one, but its a biggie.  We can't lose our Grisslie Award Banquet.

Me:  Maybe you're right.  We'll do one thing huge and then cut back.  Fair enough, we'll keep it.  #2, you did the whole "Chicks Dig Me" weekend long event last year. 
Rob: Right, obviously that's finished, but there may be something else to replace it.  
Me:  What do you mean. 
Rob:  We might get a guy on our team that loves fishing or something and we can do a Fish Dig Me event.
Me:  Fish dig me?  Really?
Rob:  Its just an example, don't take me so literally.  Maybe Moose Dig Me or Ashely Judd Digs Me.  I wouldn't say "no" to that one. 
Me:  Okay then, #3 was the Steve Ross / Richard Gere night. 
Rob:  Keep it. 
Me:  We can't do that again.  Its was fun, but its done. 
Rob:  Not Richard Gere, but there are 179 other guys who also look like famous people that we can build whole themes around. 
Me:  like?
Rob:  Like have you ever noticed that Al Bales looks like The Undertaker from WWE?  Or Derryl Gaudet has an uncanny resemblance to Darryl Sittler?  Or Jim MacDonald looks like a young Jean Claude Van Damme?  Or Jens Lepa is a dead ringer for Freddie "Boom-Boom" Washington from Welcome Back Kotter?
Me:  Washington was black.

Rob: Hey man, I don't see colours, just people.  I'm telling you, Washington and Jens are separated at birth.
Me:  Fine.  so this stays too.  #4, Mickey Mannell Hawaiian shirt night. 
Rob:  That stays. 
Me:  Why are we doing this?  Mannell has retired for one thing and there isn't exactly a plethora of guys sporting Hawaiian shirts. 
Rob:  I'm waiting for you to get to the tasteless ones.
Me:  The Hawaiian shirt night wasn't tasteless enough for you?
Rob:  No.  In fact, now that the Mick has retired, we may call him out for a special Hawaiian shirt tribute night!
Me: For the love of god.  Fine.  #5 Art Sagert's, celebration for his 1500th hit.  
Rob: Keep it.
Me:  Of Course
Rob:  There will be someone else with a monumental event.  3000 ABs, 1st stolen base, something.  We have to honor that stuff.  Plus, its fun to do an event with the Hot Tub Woody's, they dig doing this stuff too.
Me:  We're really not doing much to cut anything out. 
Rob:  Maybe I didn't make myself clear.  I want to get rid of the less important stuff. 
Me:  Like what?
Rob:  I DON'T KNOW!  You haven't gotten to them yet...keep going. 
Me:  What about opening night festivities?  That's #6.

Rob:  No way.  Opening night is like.....OPENING NIGHT!  You may as well cut off my right arm.  Granted I would still be one of the top three pitchers in the league left handed, but my balance would be WAY off.  No way, opening night stays.  
Me:  I'm not arguing anymore.  #7, rookie appreciation night. 
Rob:  Nope, that stays.  Hopefully we can hook up with Dodge City again and do a good rookie intro game. The only problem might be that new captain, "The Beechey".
Me:  I don't think The Beechey will be a problem.  #8, fan appreciation night.
Rob:  I'm glad you finally got to this one.
Me:  Really?  We're FINALLY going to cut something out???
Rob:  Ummmm.  No.  But I want to make this bigger and better than ever before!
Me:  You're kidding.
Rob:  No.  I'm dead serious about this one.  Its our signature. 
Me:  How can it be bigger?  We're already over the top with sponsors donating food and 4 teams participating and guys not even playing that night showing up.
Rob:  Geez.  You just can't think your way out of the small little box you live in can you?.  Its probably because you're short.  Think BIG!   We've outgrown Keogh, it can't hold anymore people for the event.  Do you remember last year?  Art Sagert was damn near crushed by the Cragg children.  Let's move it from Keogh to Coventry.  Let's make it a night that there are 2 games each C2 & C3.  That way we'll have 8 teams there to enjoy the fun!  Double the crowd!
Me: Okay, that's DEFINITELY bigger. 

Rob: That's why you're the "co-captain" and I'm the "pro-captain".  I think big. 
Me: Undoubtedly. 
Rob: What else to you have?
Me: Not much....you've exhausted my list.
Rob: So lets review what we've cut. 
Me: 
Rob: You're not saying anything. 
Me: Rob, we've cut nothing, we've added. 
Rob: That just can't be.  I promised that we'd cut back on the antics. 
Me: Well, I guess you'll just have to call it tomfoolery.
Rob: Maybe one day you'll be a "pro-captain" too. 

BOLD PREDICTIONS (III) - 2013

INTRO

Deep sigh.

The marquee is buggered.  The poll is busted.  Thank god this is just a BLOG and not a fire station or a strip club were a busted pole could be really costly.

I've put a request in with "BLOGGER" who runs this site but its too late to be able to rectify anything.  Instead of the usual league voted favourites, I've begged our committee of experts to submit a top 6 list.  It wasn't easy.  As much fun as the reviews have been, its not easy to go out on a limb and pick teams and abandon your cloak of anonymity (which I believe may have been one of the superpowers from X-men school).  In particular it was hard to twist Geoff Keogh's arm.  But Radar, me and Peters got one arm and Doyle got the other and we managed to get him to cry uncle.  Actually, in this town it could have been uncle, brother or cousin.

Anyway, you'll be able to make fun of me, Mark, Geoff and Kevin at the end of the year for our fearless predictions.  There's a beer on this, so I know they'll take it seriously.

Meanwhile, this weeks reviews were written by Kevin Boston, me, and a combined contribution from Mark Doyle and Geoff Keogh, and finally (this cost a fortune) our guest reviewer is none other than Eldrick "Tiger" Woods.  

So here is our last set of reviews with the predictions at the bottom....

HOT TUB WOODY'S

Kevin Boston: Looks like there are plenty of twigs on the Woody’s this year.  With Keogh and Goodin bashing in runs, the HTW’s will be looking towards the steady sticks of the Danceman, Goosney and of course Barton.  This core will be tough to get around.  Crafty hitters like Larkin and Horgan keep fielders on their toes because they can squeeze an extra base hit out when called upon.  Defensively, their team looks very erect and stiff.  Opposing teams will have to nail the Woodies’ gaps and avoid hitting it right to their players or else it will be a quick inning.  This team always has fun which translates into wins.  Chemistry looks solid.  Could this be NSFE’s year to hoist the trophy?  (EDITORS NOTE:  If you're not laughing after that review, you need to reread)

Mark Doyle & Geoff Keogh:  If there is any team to be ‘excited’ by the warm waters of the new season it’s The Hot Tub Woody’s.  This team is strong up the middle with Keogh at short and either Barton or Goodin at second. Their outfield appears to be very solid with Horgan, Chiovitti, Ball and Dancey. Larkin at 3rd and NSF Eddie at 1^st base. Veteran Bob Vaughan will take the mound and provide leadership for the infield.  This is a solid lineup at the plate filled with speed at the top followed by average and power in the middle which makes for formidable Hot Tub sticks.

Tiger Woods:  Seriously?  Woody's?  I could talk for weeks on this subject.  Do I need to review the rest?  These guys are obviously winning it all.  Did I ever tell you my Woody story?  Its very hush hush. 

Doug Dwyer:  Keep 'em healthy!  Barton, Chiovitti and Captain Dancey all fought lengthy injuries last year.  If they all stay upright this team has the potential to blend really good team speed and defense.  Tom Ball, Jason Chiovitti, Jeff Dancey and Lance Horgan make for a speedy and responsible outfield foursome.  Blaine Richards is a great 5th at any spot.  Having Goodin AND Keogh makes this a fantastic middle infield and Goosney and Larkin sharing 3rd and firing darts to Hopkins rounds out a nicely set team.

HURTIN' UNITS

Kevin Boston: Midsummer evening games at Coventry 2 will be the Units’ best friend.  With all of those power lefties in their lineup, the opposition’s defense better be ready on the right side.  Rookie Hagar is a great pick-up and will add some consistency to their lineup.  Mix him in with the veteran leadership of McClean, Olliffe and JT, and the Units could squeeze out a few wins.  Defensively, they have some good arms in the outfield.  The keys to success are to limit the opposition’s runs and be patient

Mark Doyle & Geoff Keogh: The Hurtin' Units went to the draft and picked an outfield that is definitely not hurtin’! Chiasson, Cudnik, McClean, rookie Hager and Olliffe. This may prove to be the best outfield in the league, and factor in their averages, look for plenty of base runners. With Glecoff and crew there is plenty of power to score Basacchi,  Lyon and Kononiuk. Matched with the passion of Taylor and Olliffe these are a force to be reckoned with on Playoff weekend.

Tiger Woods: OMG...did anyone even look at these teams?  I take back what I said about the Woody's, THESE guys are the champs!  First off, they're the UNITS!  That's only one notch below being called the PACKAGE!  Then they have 3 guys named Richard and one name Cox.  I SHOULD BE ON THIS TEAM!  Cox, Woods, Richard....UNITS.  Come on Tottenham!  On a lighter note, I still reminisce about the times that Danny and I have had at Perkins restaurants and various truck stops.  He sure does like good coffee!

Doug Dwyer:  Yes, the Hurtin' Units.  A lot of people like this team.  I'm not on the band wagon with both feet yet.  Is it the Chiasson factor?  Is it not knowing about Olliffe's recovery?  Hager and Cox look like a solid middle infield pairing.  McClean, Chiasson, Glecoff and Cudnik make for a pretty high end outfield.  I'll assume the surgically repaired Olliffe is at 1st base and Vince at 3rd.  They still have to find spots to play Brian Kononiuk, Rick Lyon and Richard Gabourie.  That's not a bad problem to have. Taylor's pitching was greatly improved last year and if he takes another step forward this year it could make the difference.

RED DOGS

Kevin Boston: Built like a typical Red Dogs team, this year’s squad has some power in their core.  Holmann is a reliable stick and will provide some stability in the lineup to compliment Candy and Avery.  Swabuck and the veteran Candyman are always dangerous  with their smart hitting and ability to think three plays ahead.  On the mound is the underrated Tito.  He does his job by keeping his team in the game and giving 110% every time.  Look for a lot of chess-match types of games this year with this team and be careful not to let your guard down.

Mark Doyle & Geoff Keogh:   This team lead by the father and son Candy Combo look to get Red Hot up the middle with (Mike) Candy at short and Grenkie and 2^nd. With nobody hitting under 570 last year they will be counting on having plenty of base runners to move station to station. Their outfield lead by Holman and rookies Parsons and Chiavaroli could prove to be the surprise of the season. Tito will provide plenty of playoff experience on the mound having 1 jacket and a runner up in the last 3 years.  This team could surprise a lot in the playoffs

Tiger Woods:  Swabuck is the question mark from what I've read on the bathroom walls. Can he keep it up?

Doug Dwyer:  Meet Peter Holmann.  7th in the league in hitting last year at .787.  Nice rookie season.  Mason, Peters, Avery, Moon, Cudnik and Barton were the ones to better his average and only Mason Peters and Moon did it with more hits.  He and the formidable Mike Candy will likely patrol Center with Stephane Simard and Clayton Avery getting time in outfield too.  The infield might be a little plug and play to start off as they try to figure out their shortstop which may end up being the younger Candy.  Swabuk might be the second base answer.  The individuals on this team all look good, just haven't figured out how they all fit together.  But Bob has a knack for putting together a good squad to challenge for the top.

RUSTY REBELS

Kevin Boston: This is perhaps the team to look out for this year.  Lots of balance on the sticks and in the field.  Three-time All-Star pitcher Andy Gee leads the Rebels into this season.  He can hurt you with the bat and will work every batter with his precise pitching.  Consistent hitters like Goncalves, Booth and Armstrong are solid while returning to the TOT is Chris Ross who can find more holes than a bunny rabbit.  Dickson needs to return to his old power stroking and will be a key asset with his ability to play any key position.  Rounding out this team are Gyori and the Pieman who have shown consistent improvement over the past few years.  Look out because they will burn you

Mark Doyle & Geoff Keogh: This team is one of the early favourites. It won’t take them long to shake the rust off.  Led by captains Booth and Armstrong this team is strong from top to bottom. The League’s best pitcher Gee can beat you with the glove or stick, while Dickson and Armstrong will take care of the middle infield with Goncalves, Ross, Tanner and Harrett in the Outfield. This team also has the secret weapons of the Pieman and Esau Lewin to count on for timely hits and speed on the bases. A consistent lineup will keep the bases flowing, so look for this team to stir it up at the end of the year.

Tiger Woods:  Dickson.  'nuff said.  

Doug Dwyer:  It must be April.  I'm liking the Rusty Rebels again!  Everyone knows what Booth and Armstrong bring to the picnic and Andy has been the all - star pitcher 3 years running.  After that they have a lot of balance and good guys.  John Harrett makes his long awaited return and adds to the already high baseball IQ on this squad.  Dickson is completely dependable in either Center or Short and Anicete continues to shine with the glove and the bat.  Paul Gyori at 3rd and Piero Del Greco at Catcher seem like locks.  Gyori has improved his play every year and might be one of the better value picks in the league.  After that, there are some moving parts with Ross (OF), Tanner (IF/OF), Len (IF), that will all contribute  but need to fall into a regular defensive routine.  Just a few bits to piece together.  They will.  I like this team.   
TAP MASTERS

Kevin Boston: This year’s father/son combo team is the Tap Masters.  Pendlebury squared and Clouthier X 2 provide some solid synergies of playing ability and smarts.  Add Butler and Schrank to this mix and the Tap Masters could be Jedi Masters of the ball diamond by the time this season plays out.  Joseph was on fire towards the end of last season and the Tap Masters are banking on that pop to help their lineup.  Defensively, these lads are quick and have some good arms all around.  It will be tough to find gaps on this team

Mark Doyle & Geoff Keogh:  Blood flows thicker than water (or beer) through these taps. With the Clouthier / Pendlebury combo there is over a century of baseball experience through the middle infield and outfield. The two Cliffs offer a formidable defense, while with the names of Rumboldt, Butler and Koolhaas, this team hope to master the base paths. Factor in the experience of Jonkman, you will not find a deeper knowledge of hitters and defense in the league. Look for this team to ‘Tap’ the knowledge of their ‘Masters’

Tiger Woods:  No offense, but this team is finishing last.  Schrank?  Really?  Do you know who I am?

Doug Dwyer:  Two Bill's (not related).  Two Clouthiers (related).  Two Cliffords (not related).  Two Pendleburys (related).   Its going to be a messy year trying to figure out hits on the Tap Masters score card.  Schrank and Clouthier (Jr.) are likely the solutions at short and Rob Rumboldt at 2nd.  Koolhaas plays and excellent 3rd base and Captain Bowers completes the infield at 1st.  Clouthier (Sr.) can and will play anywhere.  The outfield looks frightening with Pendlebury (Jr & Sr.) Tucker, Joseph and Butler all taking turns shagging flies.  This could be good!

PREDICTIONS:

Okay, so we'll find out in about 4 months who the best prognosticator is.  These are assembled alphabetically.  If you find any that aren't it does not indicate a favourite, it simply indicates that I can't alphabetize.  

So here is your quick synopsis:

The Dusty Cleats, Grisslies and Red Dogs are the only three teams to not collect a single vote.  That likely means one of those clubs will win the regular season.

The Draft Kings are the only team to get 4 votes from the "panel of experts".  Best of luck to the newest captains, but here is a word of caution.  The team voted to finish 1st last year was the Dodge City Rounders.  They were a top 6 club and had a great year bowing out in the semis.  The team that DID win the regular season and make it all the way to the final was the Brew Jays.  Our preseason voting had them in 10th place, although I will say that I had them correctly picked.  Click HERE for the evidence from last April. See?  Even a blind squirrel can find the odd nut.

Next we have a cluster of six teams that received 3 votes each.  The Beer Bros., Blues Brothers, Dislocated Joints, Gruesome Devils, Hot Tub Woody's and Tap Masters.  Realistically, our "pack" of teams in the standings is usually between 2nd and 12th place for the bulk of the season.  All those teams will likely be in that cluster until the August push or fade that each club has.

Same can be said for the teams that had two votes.  The Dodge City Rounders, Dog Catchers and Rusty Rebels.  I wouldn't be surprised to see any of them at the top.

Finally, the expansion cousins Brew Jays and Hurtin' Units both received only a single vote.  Bo probably likes that so he can fly under the radar.  James probably likes it so he can give the "no one respects us" speech to the team.  Again.  I wouldn't be at all surprised to see either of these teams near the top.

There it is.  Done.  Nothing left to do but play!  Bring on the sun and we'll see you with an opening day BLOG!

NOTE:  My sincere thanks to Geoff, Kevin, Mark and Scott for their significant contributions to the last three blog editions.  It made it more fun (and less work) for me.  Thanks guys!

BOLD PREDICTIONS (II) - 2013

A TECH MOMENT

A number of people have complained that the Scroll (Marquee) at the top of the page isn't working properly anymore.  That's sort of true.  If you are using Microsoft Internet Explorer (regardless of version it would seem), the scroll isn't functioning properly.  There is a bug.  I've tried an assortment of different widgets to correct it, but they are all varying degrees of bad.  I never noticed this right away because I try to stay away from Explorer.   If you're on anything else, including smartphones it seems to be good. 

I use Firefox (Mozilla) which is a free browser.  I find it much more useful and quicker than Explorer.  You can get it at http://www.mozilla.org/en-US/firefox/new/

Click on this picture which will be in the middle/right of the page:

Then just follow the steps.  When it asks you if you want to make Firefox your default browser, you can say no or yes.  Either way.  You will still have Explorer and Firefox, so you can still use them both depending on what your needs are. 

Remember this is free.  Believe me, its not any kind of pirated software. 

INTRO

Lets start off will last weeks final rankings for predicting a top 6 finish.  Considering that voting is WICKED down even though the hits are WICKED up, I think we'll do total votes instead of percentages this year.

The Beer Bros.                      2
The Blues Brothers                0
The Brew Jays                       1
The Dislocated Joints and       0
The Dodge City Rounders      2

The same principle applies to this week's poll.  We are looking for your opinions on what clubs have the best chance to making it to the top 6 spots overall.  

This week we're pleased to welcome celebrity reviewer, Jimmy Swaggart!  Holy Cow, did we ever score on this one!  And our league reviewers this week are:  Kevin Boston, Geoff Keogh and Mark Doyle.  Now these aren't the oldest of the old timers but they do have "old Tottenham" blood lines and have been following this league in detail since its inception.   So off we go!

DOG CATCHERS

Kevin Boston, Geoff Keogh, Mark Doyle: Fresh from the farm, this team has a couple of solid rookies coming up to the TOT.  Jim Smith and Don Slipetz are new to the league and are anxiously awaiting their debut.  On the mound the steady Randy Hipken leads the Dog Catchers with long-time fellow Captain Larry Turner.  Six of their returning players hit .650 or over.  The Young/Robinson combination will provide plenty of pop (not brown bottle pops) to knock in Wynnyk and Stacey.  Hitters beware of these dogs because they will eat up ground balls.  They have lots of depth in the outfield led by Doucette

Jimmy Swaggart:  Randy and Larry went to church, that's why I prayed for them to have 4 shortstops.

Doug Dwyer:  Well this is an embarrassment of riches, isn't it?  4 guys that can play short and that's not even counting Cliff Stacey. This club could be really interesting.  10 of 12 guys are infielders so it'll take some managing and adapting.  The good news is that they are a great group of guys and easy to get along with power and average up and down the lineup.  Figuring out the right infield / outfield combo will be the key to the whole thing.

DUSTY CLEATS

Kevin Boston, Geoff Keogh, Mark Doyle: Back in the league is Kevin Hollingshead who will lead the Cleats with his big bat and solid play.  Veterans Bob Pearce, Dave McGovern along with Captains CP and Dane will provide a good core.  Mark Banks could be the money man this year for the Cleats.  High “Hopes” (and we include Troy in that statement) for Emeil Edwards setting the table for Hollingshead, McGovern and Short.   “For those about to Rock” Bill Salutes -u, has improved each year he has played in the league.  He is quick on the bases and a deceptive hitter.  Look out, the Cleats could be full of surprises this year.

Jimmy Swaggart:  Hope springs eternal, praise Jesus.  And thankfully Troy Hope is on this club.  Too bad they don't have a guy named "Prayer" too.  

Doug Dwyer:  I hear this Hollingshead can hit a bit.  McGovern and Edwards can mash a ball pretty good too.  The left side of the diamond looks great and in my book Emeil is an elite outfielder in our league.  Now where does everyone else play?  You've got some really good and versatile players like Sallustio, Short and Pearce.  And to top it off they are all great to play with.  Banks could be a surprise as a rookie, he's been working out his throwing arm by hoisting pints on the Donini deck so he should fit in just fine.  

GRISSLIES

Kevin Boston, Geoff Keogh, Mark Doyle:Defensively, the Grisslies are a tight squad which will force opposing bats to work for every run. Dwyer and Casullo in the infield with Saunders, Gaudet, Gayle and Wadden leading the outfield.  This team is loaded with options with Tinkler, Muirhead and Dol who are very versatile at multiple positions.  Gayle is expected to lead the Grisslies with his explosive speed to kick start the offense.  Captain Rob Farah always prepares his teams for the post-season and will often catch opponents off guard with his flaring hits.   Historically, the Grisslies balance their batting order which has always proved to be successful.


Jimmy Swaggart:  Jesus healed the weak, the down trodden, the immobile.  This team has Doris Casullo, right?

Doug Dwyer: The Grisslies have some speed.  They have some gloves.  They have some average.  They have some arms.  They have some versatility.  Even some youth.  But they have no power.  That's okay, power is rarely a factor on Sunday afternoons in September, but it sure makes the season a lot of fun!  Gaudet, Saunders and Gayle give the Grisslies 3 legit center fielders and Tinkler, Wadden, Casullo and Dwyer give lots of options in the infield.  Starting pitching looks steady! 

DRAFT KINGS

Kevin Boston, Geoff Keogh, Mark Doyle: Rookie captains Stike and Cragg “Drafted” well this year by picking up fellow Fenelon Falls old teammate Jeff Handley who muttered “I can’t wait to play with these misfits again.”  Veteran pitcher Sandy Bell is known for his consistent approach, good defense and leadership.  The DK’s have lots of speed in the outfield with Routledge and Muirhead.  Five players hit over .700 last year providing a great amount of ball smacking power.  Handley and Brooks are known to hit the fence with gapers to knock in guys like Bones and Smith who are often on base with crafty hitting.  Look out for more timely hitting if Caldwell regains his old stroking habits.

Jimmy Swaggart:  John 2: 9-10  And the master of the banquet tasted the water that had been turned into wine. He did not realize where it had come from, though the servants who had drawn the water knew. Then he called the bridegroom aside and said, “Everyone brings out the choice wine first and then the cheaper wine after the guests have had too much to drink; but you have saved the best till now.”  I believe this sums up the Draft Kings

Doug Dwyer:  Its easy to lose focus when you see a top 3 of Cragg, Handley and Stike.  But I don't recall any championships being won by 3 guys no matter how good they are.  More power (like they need it) and a sure handed 3rd base option comes with Brooks.  Rouleau brings a multitude of infield options and a reliable bat.  Routledge has speed and defense, and same with Muirhead.  You won't find a more sure glove at first than Caldwell.  He'll even dig out most of Chuck's throws.  The team looks really balanced, but the scored with DeLand, Bones and Simon.  They are all very different players but are key contributors and good attitudes.  Simon's hitting has really spiked in the last couple of years and can play anywhere.  Bones and DeLand both have savvy and knack for delivering at crunch time.  Once you get passed the top 3, its a good looking club.  

GRUESOME DEVILS

Kevin Boston, Geoff Keogh, Mark Doyle: This team is full of heart and hustle.  Polny, Charlie “Hustle” O’Leary, Vienneau along with their Captains Lepa and DeLand will ensure this team is always on the ball.  Power-wise, Lahey is arguably the hardest hitting batter in the league.  Behind him in the lineup is sophomore Jeff Sagert who can hit for power and average.  Rounding out their power core, is Jens and Mark Kolsen.  Opposing teams’ defense better be ready for this squad.   Art, Jens and Brian are quick in the field and are smart to hit the cutoff men Lahey and Polny.  Rounding out the corners are Kolsen and Sagert for a strong infield.

Jimmy Swaggart: Basso?  Lahey?  DeLand?  Lepa?  This boat is leaking.   I might be able to help with the Lord's assistance.  Thank God I Noah guy. 

Doug Dwyer: I expect this team to be overlooked by a few people.  I also expect them to do really well.  This team's lineup just screams of energy and effort.  Lepa, Richards, O'Leary, Sagert, and Vienneau are all aggressive ball players who never let up on a play whether on the bases or in the field.  The rest of the guys are a little more on the quiet side.  Lahey may have a few double play combinations to try out before they settle on a regular routine, but the options are good ones.  Kolsen, Lahey and Sagert bring at three pronged power threat that can't be matched by too many teams.  Basso, Lepa, Richards make up three fourths of a solid outfield.  They'll have to plug and play to find the fourth member. 

BOLD PREDICTIONS (I) - 2013

INTRO

We're throwing a little change up to this year's edition of "BOLD PREDICTIONS".  There will still be a guest reviewer (Lance Armstrong) from outside the league and there will still be some degree of statistical analysis that won't amount to a hill of beans; but I've also asked a few people from around the league to weigh in with their opinions on the strengths of the various clubs.  This week we are happy to be joined by Kevin Boston and Scott Peters. 

As usual, there will also be the poll on the far right of your page that will change every week along with the 5 teams that are being reviewed.  This week we'll be looking at:

The Beer Bros.
The Blues Brothers
The Brew Jays
The Dislocated Joints and
The Dodge City Rounders

Next week will be:

The Dog Catchers
The Dusty Cleats
The Grisslies
The Draft Kings and
Gruesome Devils

And the final grouping will be:

The Hot Tub Woody's
The Hurtin' Units
The Red Dogs
The Rusty Rebels and
The Tap Masters

Now to explain the Poll.  We are looking for predictions on who you think will make it into the top 6 of the league final standings.  If its one team, vote for them.  If its more than one you can select as many as you want.  So why the top 6?  Well in the playoffs the top 3 play four home playoff games.  The teams ranked 4 - 6 play three out of four at home.  Does it matter?  Who knows.  Last year the top 6 produced the following results:  1. Championship Finals, 2. Quarter Finals, 3. Eliminated Saturday, 4. Semi Finals, 5. Champions, 6. Quarter Finals.  To me that's a pretty good result overall and would seem to speak to the top 6 mattering a bit. 

I will throw in the "grain of salt" precaution as always.  We have balanced teams.  But we all have different ways of evaluating, speed, arms, power, average and other things which leads to slight variations.  Then we have the 'how they gel' factor.  At the end of the day this is only supposed to be fun.  So lets see what our experts say!

BEER BROS.

Kevin Boston: There will definitely be some beers among these brothers this season.  The 2013 Beer Brothers squad are comprised of a solid bunch of guys who enjoy the game.  On the field, they will be good up the middle on defense with Jerry on the mound and Doyle and Ross at short and second.  Opposing defenders will have to be on their toes with the BB’s offensive lineup led by McCarron, Ross, Piellusch, Doyle while guys like Kapp, McKendrick and Bales will be deadly to round out their order.

Scott Peters:   2012 = .630 OBP
                       2 rookies
                       Jerry Wallace factor (great pitcher, .625 hitter over 5 years)
                       McCarron, Piellusch = Good core Outfield
                       Doyle, Ross, Kapp = Infield OR Outfield - nice problem to have
                       Explosive offensive potential - don't wake the sleeping lion

Lance Armstrong:  I have a training program for this Doyle guy that would probably see him get back into the top 25.  I don't advocate cheating, but this team needs a transfusion.

Doug Dwyer:  The core looks strong offensively and defensively.  Wolfe and Sheehan are 'wait and see' but history says that when you get two rookies, at least one is better than advertised.  Kapp brings speed on the bases and capable defense.  I love the Martin Ranby, Al Bales, Dave Fleming and Dave McKendrick combo.  Lets call them M.A.D.D.  Good heady ball players and great team guys.  

The Blues Brothers

Kevin Boston:  Incoming “rookie” Captains Tessier and Barlow invested in off-season scouting when they drafted this team.  The Blues Brothers’ have a great combination of defense and offense throughout their lineup.  Starting at third base, Ingo and Fraser offer a platoon while Clark and Mason are up the middle followed by the platoon of Tessier and Barlow at first.  On the mound, Big Red is a tough pitcher and is quick on D.  Fielders like Argue, McDonald, Bickford and Boston will provide a good core.  At the plate, there shouldn’t be much singing of the blues with an offense led by Clark, Mason, Boston and Argue.

Scott Peters:  2012 = .681 OBP
                      1 rookie
                      Mason, Tessier = Excellent Short - First combo
                      Argue = Infield OR Outfield and can even pitch
                      Boston, Bickford, Clark = Solid Outfield
                      Not the fastest team, overall OBP may be elevated by fielders choice?
                      Quiet leadership with Clark, Argue, Barratt, Bartens
                      Can they gel?

Lance Armstrong:  A shortstop would help.  Holy crap, does no one else see the gaping hole in this defense?  May I suggest an upgrade and move Cam to short?  I'd rather have a lefty with an arm than a guy who refers to the pitcher as the "relay man" on throws to first.

Doug Dwyer:  I think distributing this line up is key.  Jim MacDonald has long been one of my favourite hitters and he could drive in a lot of runs with Clark, Mason and Boston in front of him.  Don't fall asleep on Argue, he'll play anywhere and play well and he has a knack for getting the big hit.  Ingo, Fraser, Bicky and the captains are all solid hitters that play to the situation.  I agree that overall team speed is low, but the baseball IQ on this club is very high. 


The Brew Jays

Kevin Boston:  With three rookies on the Brew Jays this season, it will be an interesting year.  As we have seen in the past, rookies help push teams beyond expectations.  Veteran Captains Niederhuber and Duggan kick start an offense with reliable McCullough.  Speedy fielders Osmond and Sullivan will also help on the bases and track down those gappers.

Scott Peters:  2012 = .655 OBP
                      3 rookies = big unknown
                      Duggan, McCullough = good infield
                      Allan = very underrated player
                      Beatty = solid OBP when in attendance
                      Hardy = sophomore jinx?
                      Two Tims = can steal a few games for you

Lance Armstrong:  Knowing this team their 3 rookies will probably turn out to be this years Gord Robinson, Brad Young and Will Goodin.  Lets face it, for 3 years this team has been mashing the ball.  Until they prove otherwise I fully expect to see DeSavoy and Osmond go yard.

Doug Dwyer:  Totally unpredictable with the rookie content making up a quarter of the club.  For the 'known' content, its a great combination of good character and good athletes.  Beatty's bat is a beast.  Hardy, Sullivan and Osmond are all 'speed and full effort' type guys.  McCullough is a proven tournament pitcher who should adjust well and quickly to pitching regularly in the league.  The captains are good to play with & against, they 'get it'.  Might be a different year for the Jays who are used to contending for 1st, but when this team does gel, and they will, watch out!

The Dislocated Joints

Kevin Boston:  Downtown Billy Brown and Terry Doucet did well at this year’s draft by landing the Bash Brothers Moon and Kahuna.  Look for a lot of offense with those two guys banging in runners like Moye and the ever reliable Foersters.  Question marks about the infield may come up but with the amount of leadership on this team, no one should be worried.

Scott Peters:  2012 = .658 OBP
                      1 rookie
                      Moon, Foerster, Rose, Burton = huge power!
                      Rose = can also pitch if needed
                      Not sure if the infield is set, may be the achilles
                     Will Doucet remember to bring the equipment?
                      Not looking forward to playing this team at Keogh

Lance Armstrong:  I feel sorry for Brad Moye.  The next shortest guy on the team is about 6 foot 3.  Good luck on the "tree team"!

Doug Dwyer:  On paper, this looks like the easiest team to position.  They seem to all fall nicely into place.  If Matt continues to hit like he did last year in the playoffs he will finish in the top 5 in batting.  Add that to Moon's resurgence and Kahuna and Doucet's reliable bats and it takes the pressure off of everyone else.  I would expect a quick start for this club because there's not a lot of guess work in where people are playing.  There should be comfort almost immediately.

The Dodge City Rounders

Kevin Boston:   Like the Emperor in Star Wars, Al Fry has recruited his young Jedi Knight, The Beechey, to be his apprentice.  The power of the Dark Side on this team will give them pop in their bats with guys like Peters, Dell, The Beechey and rookie McKibbon.  Go-to-Gaudet is always reliable for defense and timely hits.  Mabee and Steeves offer this team depth and will be counted on in many games to push their team to a lot of W’s.

Scott Peters:   2012 = .662 OBP
                      2 rookies
                      2, 3, 4 hitters in line-up returning from last year
                      Gaudet = one of the best pitchers in the league
                      Who's going to play shortstop?
                      Decent speed = may be what wins games for this team
                      Not sure about depth, break-out years might be required

Lance Armstrong:  Peters is still in the league?  That'll drag a team down.  Watch out for Idaho.  He's the only guy in the league who can hit a triple and have time to stop for a smoke and tie his shoe at second base.

Doug Dwyer:  One of my most improved player candidates is on this club.  I think this a break out season for Brett Mabee.  He's likely the answer at shortstop and being surrounded by awesome hitters will elevate his average.   Its a talented but quiet team.  You might only hear Gaudet and The Beechey from time to time. 

CONTROVERSY!!!

GRISSLIES STIR THE POT

Well, they've done it again.  The Grisslies have stirred the pot and started another controversy what will be sure to involve sub-committees, lawyers and constitutional experts.

Shortly after the last executive meeting, Grisslie CEO Robert Farah, Esq dug deep into the availability of shirts for the upcoming season.  There were two shirts available to the Grisslies but they were never offered; The Grisslies feel that this makes the shirt selection null and void.  

So what fast one did the Grisslies pull this time?  Well, The BLOG has learned that Farah discovered that the Pink shirt and the camouflage were never offered as selections.  So Farah rescinded his initial selection and opted for camouflage.

Rumors of this have been spreading like wildfire this week but there has been no "official" comment from the league.  Its is clear to The BLOG that league official's have been ordered to stay tight lipped about this nefarious action.  The BLOG attempted to break through the wall of silence and get reaction.  While there was no direct confirmation you will see that there is also no shortage of harsh opinions.

Hugh Armstrong:   I don't know know if this is true, but I'd be lying if I said I was surprised.  This is the kind of stuff that they do regularly.  I find it disappointing.  But not surprising.
Mike Olliffe:  Its the first I've heard of it, but camouflage?  How are we supposed to throw out base runners if you can even see them?
Frank Laird:  This is exactly why I retired.
Jason Bowers:  If this is true I hope we draft some players who have been in the army so we can figure out how to find those guys on the field.  This is nuts.

Meanwhile as the local press got wind of the breaking news, they descended down on League President McClean's home residence.

Buried under a horde of media, McClean would only say that league matters are handled internally and that they were not about to air their dirty laundry in public.  To emphasize his point he then hung his shirts on the clothes line.  The BLOG can confirm that those shirts were indeed clean.  McClean remains a man of his word.

More league reaction:

Chuck Cragg:  Camouflage?  Is that like Camel skin?  Is this because Farah is from Lebanon?  I don't see the advantage really, whatever.
The Beechey:  I feel bad for my team. This doesn't really impact me exactly because of my extraordinary hearing, but for the other guys?  I really feel for them.  This is wrong. 
Jeff Dancey:  I can neither confirm nor deny that I know anything about what you're suggesting.  Neither can I confirm nor deny that I've been asked to head up a committee to investigate the latest in what has become a legacy of subterfuge and deceit for this sordid bunch.  Now while it isn't necessarily premature to say that I would be in charge of such a committee should it indeed be established that there be a need for one such as this, the topic in its entirety remains highly speculative.  However, if I were in charge of such a committee, rest assured, there would be a madness to my method and the travesty that these spelling challenged Grizzly Bears are making to our constitution would come to an abrupt and painful end.
Paul Piellusch:  I agree with Jeff, but with fewer words.

The Grisslie backlash has been swift, decisive and almost entirely one sided.

Farah, long considered a bit of a Maverick in the league seems to has pushed the envelope a little too far this time.  Even the leader of the unofficial opposition, Doris Bettman has chimed in on this one.

 

Doris:  I feel sorry for you people, I really do.  No I don't.  I'm conflicted.  I find myself to be simultaneously a man of action and a man of inaction.  Yes, I am conflicted. Yet also proflicted.  The bottom line is this league had an opportunity to elect me, Doris Bettman, in the last AGM.  You denied me.  You now know that you should not have denied me; you should have in fact nied me.  See what with these Grisslies have done to you?  They are manipulatory.  This would not have happened on my watch with my strong leadershipization.  Its one thing to be able to point with a finger.  But I'm an ambi-pointer.  How many commishalingas do you know that can point with both hands?  Didn't think so.  Maybe next November you'll do the right thing.  

Doris's absurd political aspirations aside, something must be done to stop the Grisslies from messing around with the integrity of the game.  

Tim Shrank:  I haven't missed a meeting and I know nothing of this.  But to me the answer is easy.  Why don't we do like on Planet of the Apes and have the "Sacred Scrolls", or in our case, "The Constitution" kept under wraps and only accessible to the smartest Orangutang?  That was usually Dr. Zaius.  Hey wait a minute.  I COULD BE OUR DR. ZAIUS!  I'm smart!  I have facial hair!  This could work.   

 
Stay tuned.  I'm certain there will be more to come as the travesty unfolds. 

SUPER HERO

Could I Be Your Hero Baby?

Don't pretend you don't like seeing an Enrique Iglesias song used for a title.

Now sometimes its takes a little digging....but its usually worth it.  In this case, it paid off in spades.  I haven't reaped all the benefits of this yet, but when I win the Pulitzer for investigative journalism, well....dinner is on me!

Of course you all remember the rookie crop from last year.  Who could forget?  We had some standouts for sure.  I would say that group integrated seamlessly into their teams and had a two way respect with the league almost immediately.  That alone is fantastic.  But virtually all of them also stood out on their baseball play as well.  It was an exceptionally gifted rookie troop.  The truth is that there was a group within the group that was ridiculous with their play.  And it was spectacular play at that. 

So while I really don't like calling people out, I think I need to do it in this case.  Specifically, we're talking about Winston Gayle, The Beechey, Scott Mason, Steve Lahey and Brad Young.  Now before anyone gets bent, there were a host of other really good rookies last year but these guys played wicked good.  Like, could be "all-stars" good.  Now this level of ball, arriving all at the same time doesn't just "happen".  No, there's more to it than that.

So what do I do?  I poke around, I question, I prod, I infiltrate and before you know it I'm sitting at a poker table with The Beechey having a conversation.  And before you think I screwed up that last sentence, I didn't. 

We voted at our 2nd Executive meeting this year that due to last years stellar play, The Beechey's name must now and for the duration of the season be preceded a Definite Article.   So when referring to him directly we now have to say "The Beechey".  If you compliment a teammate on a nice play using The Beechey's name as a reference you have must say, "You made quite A Beechey there".

Let me be completely honest here for a minute, the Executive meetings can be trying.  No sooner had we passed this resolution than Mike Olliffe brought up that the word "some" can also be used a definite article.  Of course Al Fry, a noted entomologist, protested.  The meeting quickly regressed into series of discussions on 'uncountable nouns', 'partitives', 'determiners' and the always controversial 'indefinite pronoun'.  After a brief pillow fight we finally reached a resolution.

We will not refer to "some" as an indefinite article.

Now, you may not know this about The Beechey, but he'll talk a wee bit.  Not only that, he may give away a small seemingly insignificant secret or two.  But when you hit a wall?  I'm not adverse to Sodium Pentothal.

Do you know what that is?  Some call it the truth serum drug.  Others call it a necessary evil.  Still others call it a fun at a Saturday night card game!  Normally a couple of drops will do ya.  So here I am playing cards and I'm strategically sitting beside The Beechey with Farah, Routledge, Gee, Mason and a handful of other ne'er do wells at the table.  I'm working The Beechey, but I'm really getting nothing out of him.  "Oh yeah, Winston's really good, oh yeah, Brad's really good, I loved playing on Al's team"...blah, blah, blah.  Nothing people didn't already know.  I wanted more! 
 
So The Beechey goes to the washroom and I surreptitiously spike his drink.  I wait the requisite 15 minutes (like the instructions on the bottle said) and I'm pretty much getting the same type of answers. Still nothing much to speak of and I keep probing, but about ready to give up.  I say, "The Beechey, I just think it's weird that all you rookies came in the same year and were all so explosive."

Then The Beechey drops this little nugget, "Oh, its probably because we all went to school together".  Huh?  You all went to the same school?  The Beechey gets this 'did I say that out loud' look on his face, then seemingly can't stop the stream of words coming from his mouth, "yeah, just for 3 years though...we all went to the X-men school run by Pete Shmagola.  Our parents got letters saying we had 'special skills' and this school would help us hone these talents and teach us about algebra, whatever algebra is.  Of course our parents were all over it because it was private education at a reasonable cost.  And of course all the kids were into it because Pete made us kick-ass capes."

Me:  Capes?
The Beechey:  "Yeah, you know.  Like Superman, Batman, Wonder Woman"
Me:  Dude, Wonder Woman doesn't have a cape. 
The Beechey:  She does too.  You didn't go to X-men school.  You don't know, she was a guest speaker.   
Me:  Whatever The Beechey.  So what was your super skill?
The Beechey:  Promise not tell?
Me:  You bet.
The Beechey:   [looking around to make sure no one is listening in]  My power was [whispering] night hearing!
Me:  Night HEARING?
The Beechey:  Shhhhhh, ya!  Still works too.  I guess special skills just stay with you, like Superman and his ability to communicate with tropical fruit. 
Me:  I don't know how to tell you this, but everyone can hear at night. 
The Beechey:  Yeah, obviously.  Geez.  But I can hear in the PITCH BLACK in the middle of the night!
Me:  WOW......can you hear how impressed I am?
The Beechey:  If it was darker I could.  I'm not surprised that you're a little shocked.  Most people don't know someone with superpowers.  
Me:  So what about the other guys?  I'm curious.  What was Lahey's power?
The Beechey:  Oh, his was amazing.  He had COMPLETE immunity to paper cuts!  Never bled, never winced.  Incredible strength.
Me:  And you guys bought this, huh?  Never mind.  Who else would have been there?  What about Mason? 
The Beechey:  You mean SS?
Me:  SS?  Because he's a Short Stop? 
The Beechey:   No.  How did you get to be a captain, you're such a dolt.  SS stands for Super Scott.  He was a special one alright.  He had TWO powers!
Me:  Two!  Wow, this should really be interesting. 
The Beechey: Yeah, Scott was our communications guy.  Kind of the brainiac of things.  He was the guy that could get you out of a tricky situation using his smarts and language skills.  First off, he was a master of invisible hand writing and more importantly he could also speak braille.  
Me:  I can see how that would come in handy.
The Beechey:  No doubt.  Hey did you ever wonder why there is Braille on the key pad of a drive through bank machine?
Me:  Yeah, that's kind of curious.
The Beechey:  Sure it is, unless you went to Pete's school.  That was designed specifically for Super Scott.
Me:  I can see how that would help in crime fighting.  And Winston?

The Beechey:  Again, another double threat.  Winston could raise a man's cholesterol using only his mind and a pound of salted butter.  Plus he could move through time at the speed of time!
Me:  AT THE SPEED OF TIME?!?!?!
The Beechey: [nodding]  Wicked eh?  That explains how he was able to score from 1st base on a one bouncer to the pitcher. 
Me:  [head shaking]  I'm just afraid to know anymore. 
The Beechey: Oh, there were some guys you didn't even know in this school.  Or some guys who only went for a year or so and flamed out. 
Me:  I'm sure the stress of the super hero thing and stopping the evil element in the world caused a lot of anxiety. 
The Beechey:  I don't think it was that so much.  Probably more the geometry. 
Me:  Now that I can relate to.  What about Brad?
The Beechey: Well, Brad was kind of our spiritual leader.  He was actually born with the power of the "delayed reaction".  That comes in handy when you're trying to not be impulsive. 
Me:  I see......
The Beechey:  Or do you?
Me:  No, seriously.  Its probably the power I would choose for myself.  I mean; if the power of bullet attraction were already taken, I'd be all over the delayed reaction one.  Is that it?
The Beechey:  Yeah.  I mean that's it for our fully formed powers.  We always had others that we were working on. 
Me:  Oh this is a treat!  What else was there?
The Beechey:  Okay, I'll tell you, but I don't want to get kicked off the X-men School Reunion Committee so I need you to be really low key with this. 
Me:  I'll try my best.

The Beechey:  Well, we were working on new assortment of powers when the school disbanded, Pete called it a "happy meal". I'm not sure what that meant. 
Me:  So what was in the Happy Meal. 
The Beechey:  Usually fries, cheeseburger, small coke.  And of course, the toy!
Me:  Seriously The Beechey?
The Beechey:  Oh.  Sorry, just got a little hungry there for a second.  Well when we got to school in the morning at 9:08...
Me:  9:08?  Why 9:08?  Why not 9:00 or 9:15?
The Beechey:  Mr. Pete always said to expect the unexpected so we he started at 9:08 every day.
Me:  But didn't you come to expect that?
The Beechey: Yeah
Me:  This isn't a confusing philosophy to you?
The Beechey:  Yes.  No.  Wait.  Yes.  No wait, No.  Definitely No.  Ummmm, I'm not sure....
Me:  Never mind.  What happened every day at 9:08?
The Beechey:  Right, we'd start every day in a room for 43 minutes...
Me:  43 minutes because you're expecting the unexpected...
The Beechey: Yes...We'd spend 43 working on our collective power of Extraordinary Common Sense. 
Me:  Nice. 
The Beechey:  Then we'd move directly in physical training because you need to work both the Mind and the Body.  And we'd work on the Ability to Move in Super Slow Motion AND our Ability to teleport through space to the same spot you started at. 
Me:  Stunning, did anyone ever perfect either of these?
The Beechey:  Sadly, no.  But a few of us got close.  Winston was close on Teleportation and Mason was all over Super Slow Motion, but neither were certified. Anyway after our Hero Sandwiches for lunch, we'd have a long session working on "The Power to See Through Your Eyelids When you Blink Really, Really, Really, Really, Really Fast".  And then lastly there was the "The Ability to Make a Cigarette Go Out by Just Starring at it".
Me:  Wow!  That last one would at least be a clever bar trick.  Did it work?
The Beechey:  DID IT EVER!!!!!!  The timing was a little hit and miss, but I never failed to get cigarette to extinguish with my mind. 
Me:  You're full of it The Beechey. 
The Beechey:  Swear.  You just stare at the smoke and it goes out.  Sometimes it takes 3 minutes, sometimes 10 or 12.  But eventually its gong out. 

Me:  Fascinating.  So what happened to the school?  Did you figure out it was a scam?
The Beechey:  Scam?  Haven't you been listening?  We were quite obviously progressing well with the whole superhero training.  The only issues was the Province wide testing. It was a school after all.
Me:  Ouch...you guys all flunked?
The Beechey:  Bad.  I know Pete petitioned to keep us open on the grounds that we were essentially awesome, but it fell on deaf ears. 
Me:  Must have been dark.  They probably couldn't hear so good.
The Beechey:  True dat. 
Me:  Maybe you guys should have wrote the tests in Super Slow Motion?

The REAL New Trophy

BACKGROUND

Late last fall, maybe November(ish), I received and email from 8 year league veteran and former Grisslie, Simon Smith.  He forwarded me an interesting link that he thought would of interest for our league to look at.  It had to do with an Australian recreational rugby league that tried to introduce fun with a rotating trophy from game - to - game. 

Conceptually, the idea looked great, but needed just a little tweaking to fit into our league.  I socialized the idea with a few captains before our first Executive meeting and it met with some intrigue so I pursued it a little further.  I think we got it to a good enough position to propose at our Executive meeting and it was passed.  So let me try to explain it and how it works. 

First, we wanted to have something to track and be sustainable throughout the course of the season.  We do this for a few things, but those aren't necessarily for everyone.  If you take the "batting title" for instance.  We track it, but there are only a handful of people who are really in that race.  For the other 170-175 guys, it may be interesting but we aren't really participants per se.  While we wanted something to track and keep interest up throughout the year it had to also be fully inclusive to everyone AND be team oriented. 

EXPLANATION

To that end, the Grisslies have sponsored and donated a new trophy & award called "The Beer Cup".  The 'competition' for The Beer Cup will commence on the opening night of the season in the game between last years finalists, The Brew Jays and The Beer Bros.  The winner of the opening night affair will be the custodians of The Beer Cup.  Their award will be a T-Shirt which will look something like this:

The winner of the game will take the shirt and the captains will sign and date the back of it and take it to their next game.  Simple. 

The defending captains at their next game, which could be the next day or the next week will now have to win that game to retain the shirt or it will transfer to their new opponents.  Again, the winning captains will sign, date and bring it to their next game.  The team that is the current custodian of The Beer Cup will be reported weekly in the BLOG.  Some weeks it'll be played for once, but its possible that it could change hands as many as 3 times in a week. 

How long you retain it doesn't matter.  How many times you win it doesn't matter.  What does matter is who owns it at the end of the year. 

So you could be in the midst of a terrible year from a win / loss perspective or personally from a batting or fielding perspective.  But you would have the same opportunity to win this coveted award as everyone else.  By the luck of the schedule and who happenes to be the custodian of the shirt in the last couple of weeks of the season, your team could find themselves needing only a single victory to win the award or a perhaps a second 'upset' win to retain it when all is said and done. 

So what does that get you?  Well, its gets the t-shirt, but its hard to split that 12 ways.  So the Grisslies are donating a REAL trophy to go along the shirt.  We're still fighting, ummm, I mean discussing what the final trophy will look like.  However, there are 15 teams with equal opportunity to be the 1st to have their names engraved on the trophy and perhaps as importantly, the league has agreed to donate a beer ticket at the year end banquet for each member of the winning Beer Cup team. 

Now, despite this being published on April 1st, this is very much a real story.  Also, despite it being published by me and on this BLOG, it remains, very much a real story. 

We really hope everyone has fun with this in the spirit of our league. 

Throughout this edition you will see some ideas for the trophy that we're kicking around.  Its early stages but we hope to pick something and have it purchased by the time the Help The Kids Play tournament comes around.    Comments and suggestions are of course welcomed.  And big thanks to Simon Smith for getting the ball rolling on this idea.