Saturday, June 30, 2007

Game Recap - Bandits Notch Win in Braham, 4-1

The St. Croix River Bandits (4-10, 6-14) worked quickly in their 4-1 victory over the Braham Stars, gametime was recorded at about 1 hour and 30 minutes long. Jim Rochford picked up his second win of the season. Rochford had a stellar game, getting ahead of batters and keeping them off balance; scattering seven hits, walking one, and giving up only one earned run, while striking out five in the complete game performance. Blake Karas also had a great day on the mound striking out eleven and allowing only one earned run.

The game was extremely quick for the first 4 1/2 innings. Karas had a perfect game going at that point and Rochford had only thrown 32 pitches, throwing only 4 in the 4th inning. Rochford let up a two out walk in the bottom of the 5th, which was followed by consecutive singles before the Bandits were able to record the final out of the inning. The Bandits countered back quickly in the top of the 6th inning. Curtis Roebuck was able to get an infield single with two outs. Jordan Martell then hit a triple into the right center gap, scoring Roebuck, and tying the game 1-1.

The Stars threatened in the 7th inning, putting the first to men up on board with singles. However, Rochford was able to induce two short flyballs to right field, and then a little dribbler back to the mound for the third out.

The bats came alive for the Bandits again in the 8th inning. Kyle Kahl led off with a single, and Nick Hartman hit a comebacker to the pitcher Karas, who threw a little high to 2nd base, causing the 2nd baseman to come off the bag. Roebuck then attempted to move the runners over with a bunt. He placed the bunt down and with the pitcher and 1st basemen covering, Roebuck was able to beat out the 2nd baseman who was supposed to be covering 1st on the bunt coverage. With the bases loaded and the tensions high, team batting leader Jordan Martell stepped into the box, and unexpectedly got a piece of a pitch that came right back to the pitcher. Karas threw home for the force and then down to 1st for the 1-2-3 double play. Trevor Todd was able to pick him up, as he slapped a 1-2 fastball down the third baseline, only mere feet from the foul line, for a double and 2 RBI. Newly acquired Mitch Thompson was able to drive Todd in with a gapper double of his own, making the score 4-1. Rochford only needed 14 more pitches to close out the game.

Seven Bandits had hits, two coming from Curtis Roebuck, and the defense played a great game in which some tough plays were made and no errors were seen.

Next game is a make-up game @ Princeton 7:30pm 7/5, also the Bandits play 2 games on Saturday at Milaca at 2 and 4pm, and Sunday at home versus division-leader Chisago Lakes.

*Other Notes

*Boxscore HERE

*Missing from action were Troy DeSmet, Brian Jacobson, Mike Leahy, Bob Todd, Mike Chelberg, and Sean Weinberg

Friday, June 29, 2007

Game Preview - @ Braham Stars 6/30 2pm

The St. Croix River Bandits (3-10, 5-14) will take on the Braham Stars(5-9, 5-9) in a rematch of the 7-0 loss the Stars handed the Bandits earlier in the season. Blake Karas will likely be the starting pitcher for the Stars, who went the distance in his last outing in St. Croix, striking out 14, and allowing only 4 hits and 3 walks in the shutout. The Bandits will counter with Jim Rochford, who has consistently pitched well for the Bandits, dropping his ERA down to 4.57.

For those who may wonder where some of those Bandits wins came from that haven't been there before; the Isle Outlaws have officially folded and in a conference meeting it was decided that since the Outlaws had already played a number of games, they would forfeit the remander. The Bandits may be out of first place, held by Chisago at 8-4 (5.5 games back, with 9 to play), but they still hold out hope for climbing from the Central Division cellar. The Bandits trail Pine City (4-7) by 2 games, and Braham by a game and a half.

Tuesday, June 26, 2007

Game Recap - Bats Stymied as Bandits Drop 2 Games to Pirates

The St. Croix River Bandits (1-10, 2-14) could not pull it off this weekend versus the Pine City Pirates. The Bandits scored a total of 6 runs in the two games, losing 7-3, and 8-3 in 2 seven inning games. Jim Rochford started for the first game and did not have his best stuff. He was often pitching from behind in the count and batters took advantage. Rochford gave up 6 hits, and 3 earned runs, but walked 4 and hit 2 batters, including making a throwing error in the 7th inning that most likely cost 2 more runs to score.

Trevor Todd started the second game for the Bandits and had trouble locating. It started with a 5 run first inning, which including 3 walks and a multitude of Pirates hits. The Pirates bats cooled down afterward and Todd ended up pitching 4 innings, giving up 5 walks, 6 hits, and 7 earned runs. However the Bandits were only able to get four hits off of starting pitcher Charlie Zak, and could not mount a viable threat.

Offensively, Jesse Hartel went 2-7 on the day, with a long triple in the 2nd game. Troy DeSmet went 2-6, and so did Kyle Kahl, who played both right field and left field for the first time in a long time.

Boxscores:
Game 1
Game 2

Next game is in Braham on Saturday 6/30 and next home game is Sunday 7/8 against conference powerhouse Chisago Lakes!

*Other Notes*

*The first-ever home run was hit off the Bandits this weekend, by lead-off hitter and Winona State catcher B.J. Samuelson against Bandits pitcher Curtis Roebuck. Congratulations Curtis!

*Newly acquired Brandon Pederson and Mitch Thompson could not make the weekend games but are excited for the rest of the season.

Thursday, June 21, 2007

Game Preview - Pine City Pirates @ Oakey Park in Osceola, Sunday 6/24 2pm (2 games)

The St. Croix River Bandits (1-8 conf., 2-12 overall) are coming of a weekend where they showed they can play with the better teams in the league and capped it off with a win versus the Quamba Cubs, 8-5, on Sunday. In that game the Bandits belted out ten hits by seven different players, scored eight runs by six different players, and thieved four bases.

The Bandits only play two games this week and they are both against the Pine City Pirates (2-6, 2-6) in Oakey Park in Osceola. The Bandits plan on throwing Jim Rochford in game one of the doubleheader, and Trevor Todd for game two. The Pirates have lost four straight and their fielding has been an issue with 15 errors in those four games. The Pirates, as a team, are only hitting .181 on the season, however they already have five home runs in seven games. Where the Pirates shine is in their pitching. Led by pitchers Ted Hasz and Tim Bowland who each have an ERA under 2.00, the pitching staff has only given up 2.68 earned runs per nine innings. The Bandits better be ready to swing the bats if they want to take two from Pine City!

Tuesday, June 19, 2007

Eastern Minny League - Mid-Season Review

The Bandits will be at their mid-season point after this weekend of action, so here are standings and stats from the Eastern Minny League
Eastern Minny North

LeagueOverall
TeamRecordHomeAwayRFRAGBWin %StreakRecordRFRA
Mora Blue Devils9-36-13-29632-.750Won 39-39632
Hinckley Knights8-35-13-291480.5.727Won 48-710571
Quamba Cubs1-81-30-525876.5.111Lost 82-2281233
Isle Outlaws0-00-00-0003

0-000
Eastern Minny West

LeagueOverall
TeamRecordHomeAwayRFRAGBWin %StreakRecordRFRA
Isanti Redbirds8-17-01-16221-.889Lost 115-411571
Nowthen Pioneers9-34-05-390610.5.750Won 39-39061
Princeton Panthers7-33-14-275481.5.700Won 49-49361
Milaca Stingers3-82-21-635646.273Lost 73-83564
Eastern Minny Central

LeagueOverall
TeamRecordHomeAwayRFRAGBWin %StreakRecordRFRA
Chisago Lakes Bulldogs7-13-04-17224-.875Won 29-29729
Braham Stars5-92-33-6431005.357Lost 35-943100
Pine City Pirates2-52-40-123364.5.286Lost 32-52336
St. Croix River Bandits1-81-30-539696.5.111Won 12-1367130


Stats Leaders - June 13th, 2007

Batting

Pitching

AVG(min 3.1 PA)
ERA(min 20 IP)
S. LevineNP.629B. BurmanIR0.38
B. BurkMBD.483K. AgreCLB0.86
J. ZimmerPP.463R. SeymourHK1.12
S. AusmusHK.424T. HaszPCP1.33
P. LindIR.389T. JarmolukNP1.35
C. StewartQC.387N. BrutsmanIR1.57
B. BurmanIR.385J. LudwigPP1.71
K. McFerranHK.379D. EbnerNP1.74
L. HaugenQC.373A. SeymourHK1.78
T. StayPP.366A. PattersonMBD2.66
J. MartellSCRB.333J. RochfordSCRB4.71






HR

Wins

J. ZimmerPP3A. PattersonMBD5
T. BowlandPCP2N. BrutsmanIR4
T. StayPP2A. SeymourHK4
15 tiedwith1D. EbnerNP3



T. JarmolukNP3



J. LudwigPP3



B. KarasBS3



T. SwensonCLB3



A. WestIR3



9 tiedwith2



M. LeahySCRB1






RBI

Strikeouts

S. LevineNP16B. KarasBS56
M. RoteHK15A. PattersonMBD42
T. SchaffIR14B. BurmanIR39
S. AusmusHK13B. KnollPP37
Z. NeubauerPP13D. EbnerNP36
K. AgreCLB12A. WestIR30
B. BurmanIR12A. SeymourHK28
T. StayPP12R. SeymourHK28
K. JohnsonIR11N. BrutsmanIR26
K. McFerranHK11T. ToddSCRB25
J. HartellSCRB10








Runs

IP

K. AhlgrenMBD17B. KarasNP45.1
R. SeymourHK16A. PattersonMBD44
J. AchartzCLB14J. RochfordSCRB36.1
R. AusmusHK14J. FellmanQC34.1
K. JohnsonIR14A. WestIR32
K. McFerranHK14J. LudwigPP31.2
P. LindIR13C. StewartQC31.1
T. MoodyCLB13D. EbnerNP31
A. SaukNP13B. KnollPP29
B. SchultzIR13N. BrutsmanIR28.2
T. ToddSCRB8








SB

WHIP

P. LindIR13K. AgreCLB0.65
K. AhlgrenMBD9N. BrutsmanIR0.87
R. SeymourHK7A. PattersonMBD0.93
A. SullivanSCRB6B. BurmanIR0.98
R. AusmusHK6T. SwensonCLB1.03
B. BurkMBD5J. LudwigPP1.09
T. StayPP5A. SeymourHK1.11
11 tiedwith4T. HaszPCP1.11



T. KroschelHK1.16



B. KarasBS1.17



J. RochfordSCRB1.55


Mid-Season All Conference (Selected by River Bandit Blogger)

C Kyle Johnson - Isanti
1B Sean Ausmus - Hinckley
2B Packy Lind - Isanti
SS Tony Stay - Princeton
3B Jesse Zimmer - Princeton
OF Scott Levine - Nowthen
OF Brandon Burk - Mora
OF Kevin McFerran - Hinckley
P Asa Patterson - Mora
P Blake Karas - Braham
P Nate Brutsman - Isanti
P Brent Burman - Isanti

Volunteers Needed for Concessions

If you are bored and want to do something for a good cause; volunteer your a little of your time to the St. Croix River Bandits.

We need concessioneers for our remaining home games, and anyone who would like to sing the national anthem during home games as well.

If you are interested please contact Jim Rochford and he'll get you situated. Thanks!

Boxscores Updated

This Weekend's Boxscores are updated and ready for viewing. Either go back to the individual game reviews here on the blog or Click Here to go to the Bandits Homepage.

Sunday, June 17, 2007

Game Recap - Bandits Get First Conference Win, 8-5 over Quamba.

The St. Croix River Bandits (1-8, 2-12 overall) beat the Quamba Cubs on a windy Sunday afternoon. Mike Leahy made his first start of the season, mostly working in relief appearances prior to this start, and pitched 7 1/3 strong innings for the Bandits. Leahy (1-1) had trouble with control in the first inning, walking two batters who ended up scoring, but settled down nicely allowing only 3 more runs during the rest of his outing. Leahy finished with three strikeouts, only those two walks, and three earned runs.

The Bandits had a good day with the bats, even though it took them a few innings to finally get going against Cubs pitcher Corey Stewart. The Bandits scored 2 runs in the bottom of the 4th and 6th, and had a chance to break the game open when Brian Jacobson hit a line drive screamer above the third baseman's head, with the bases juiced and with 2 outs. But the Cub's corner fielder made a quick reaction and leaped as tall as he could to snag the sure double out of the air.

The Bandits struck again in the bottom of the seventh inning, scoring three runs and getting on top for the first time in the game 7-4. The Bandits gave one back in the top of the eighth inning, but Curtis Roebuck came on in relief for Leahy and had a great rest of the eighth and ninth for a save in his pitching outing this season, and first save in Bandits history. The Bandits tacked on one more in the eighth for the 8-5 victory.

*Other Notes

*Full Boxscore Click Here

*Bandits had a pretty full dugout on Sunday, with much of their roster in attendance minus starting corner IF Kyle Kahl, and spot IF Chad Allram.

*Great defensive plays all around the field today

Game Recap - Bandits Drop Heartbreaker in Mora

The St. Croix River Bandits (0-8 conf, 1-12) struggles continued in Mora verus the Blue Devils. The Bandits dropped the first game 7-0 with Adam Lewis throwing a fair game for the Bandits, six innings with four earned runs. However, every run scored by the Blue Devils could be attributed to walks, errors, or hit batsmen. This, compounded with the Bandits hitting woes against Jeff Oslin, who allowed only four hits, led for a quick game.

The next game however was a wild one. The Blue Devils scored four runs in the first inning off three hit batsmen, and in what appeared as a shrinking strike zone. However, it seemed every inning as if the Bandits were able to score a run or two versus starting pitcher Mike Moravec, getting five runs of him in three innings. With the score tied 5-5 the Bandits scored another run in the fifth inning off of hard-tossing Justin Krie to take the lead 6-5. Scott Lindholm also missed a homerun by about five feet foul, (second time in 2 days) which would have given the Bandits a little more comfort room, and ultimately may have won them the game.

In the sixth inning Trevor Todd was relieved for Amery newcomer Brandon Pederson who was filling in at SS for the doubleheader. The Bandits, not knowing what to expect, were awed by his performance. After letting up a run in the sixth inning, Pederson pitched 6 shutout-shutdown innings, not allowing anyone past 2nd base. Pederson quick delivery was matched by his velocity to the plate, and his deuce was crippling-starting off the edge of the plate and dropping in for strikes.

At the same time, Justin Krie was also getting into a groove for the Blue Devils, after struggling to locate pitches in his first few innings. Krie was lifted in the 10th for Asa Patterson who was lights-out versus the Bandits. Patterson pitched four innings giving up one hit, a Trevor Todd double, and striking out nine. The side-armer baffled the Bandits hitting staff that had belted out eleven hits, with his giant slurve, and well located fastball.

In the top of the 13th inning the Blue Devils were able to score run which deflated the Bandits defense, which had been playing solidly. The Blue Devils went on to score three more times that inning, and Patterson shut down the Bandits in the bottom of the 13th for a 10-6 Bandits loss.

It was a tough day for both teams enduring 20 innings of baseball in hot, dry weather. The River Bandits had many chances to capitalize in the 2nd game but couldn't find a way. But after showing they can competitively play against one of the best teams in the conference for the 2nd day in a row, the Bandits shouldn't get too down on themselves.

Offensively the Bandits were led by Brian Jacobson who had two hits in four at bats, scoring two runs, and getting an RBI; Trevor Todd and Nick Hartman both went 3-5 in the second game. Alex Sullivan stole two more bases, putting him tied for fourth in the Eastern Minny League in steals.

Next Game is Sunday 6/17 HOME vs. the Quamba Cubs where the Bandits seek revenge on the team that gave them their first loss of the season.

*Other Notes

*Full Boxscore Game One

*Full Boxscore Game Two

*Starting SS Jordan Martell, 3B Troy DeSmet were missing in action.

*Outfielders had trouble seeing the ball of the bat in Mora, which led to come costly hits for the Blue Devils.

Saturday, June 16, 2007

Game Recap - Rain Ends Game in 7th vs. Isanti, Bandits Lose 4-0

The St. Croix River Bandits (0-6, 1-11) couldn't get the bats going Friday night in Isanti, in a game that was hampered by and finally cut short due to rain. With the game tied 0-0 in the bottom of the fifth inning, the storm came in and lightning cracked nearby. To that point in the game starting pitcher Jim Rochford had only let up two hits, while walking one. The game was delayed for nearly 30 minutes before action resumed and Isanti was able to score a run in the bottom of the fifth, and tack on three more in the bottom of the sixth. Rochford again pitched a solid game, giving up only six hits and walking one, while striking out two and letting in only one earned run in six innings of work.

The Bandits unfortunately could not figure out Redbird pitcher Ben Lind and was not able to record a hit of the starting righty in the six innings they saw him. Alex Sullivan was able to get on via walk and steal two bases.

The Bandits next game is Saturday at Mora for a doubleheader starting at 2pm, and Sunday at home in SCF versus the Quamba Cubs.

*Other Notes

*For Full Boxscore CLICK HERE

*CF Scott Lindholm almost hit the first home run in River Bandits history, but pulled the ball about 5 feet foul of the foul pole.

*While Isanti struggled to hit the ball early, the made up for it on defense, making difficult plays look easy and catching some hard hit balls - the team only has 7 errors on the year thru 13 games.

Friday, June 15, 2007

Game Preview - Weekend Preview 6/15-6/17

The St. Croix River Bandits (0-5 conf 1-10 overall) play 4 games in 3 days this weekend starting Friday night at 7:30pm in Isanti (8-0 conf, 14-1 overall). The Redbirds are agruably the best team in the Eastern Minny League at this point. Isanti went 14-6 this year and have roared out of the gates, dropping only 1 game so far this year coming against Coon Rapids. The Redbirds pitching staff has a 2.51 team ERA while throwing 5 starters so far this season, while their team batting average is .287. The Bandits plan on throwing Jim Rochford (1-2) on the mound. Rochford had a fair outing in his last start versus Hinckley, who managed to put the bat on the ball, but he continued to throw strikes and says he feels better every game.

Another tough team awaits the River Bandits on Saturday as the team travels to Mora to face the Blue Devils (6-3) in a doubleheader starting at 2pm. Mora was the 2005 and 2006 North Division champs of the Eastern Minny league, and have held the lead in the North for most of the season. However, they are coming off of two straight losses (to Isanti and Nowthen), and are looking to right their ship. Their pitching staff may only be 4 players deep, but their team ERA is 2.18 with 56 strikeouts in 62 innings is stellar. However, Mora did play on Wednesday, and play again on Sunday, so hopefully the Bandits can take a look at some other pitchers who haven't yet had a chance to throw this season.

The last game of the weekend is on Father's Day in St. Croix Falls versus the Quamba Cubs (1-5 conf, 2-19 overall), in a rematch of the first game of the season. The Bandits look to take revenge from their 8-6 loss in Quamba were they had 15 hits. Walks an errors were the Bandits' downfall during that game, allowing an extra 13 runners to get on base for the Cubs. Trevor Todd is expected to take the mound for the Bandits. Bandits are having a Father's Day special also on Sunday, any father get can 1 free hot dog with a coupon from the Yellow Paper! Come out and see the Bandits!

Thursday, June 14, 2007

Game Recap - Bandits Blown-Out By Braves

The St. Croix River Bandits (0-5, 1-9) took a step back Wednesday night, losing to the Osceola Braves 19-5 in seven innings. The Bandits had been playing good baseball for the last week and a half, yet with only one win to show for it. Michael Chelberg took the mound for the Bandits and pitched a fair game. Chelberg threw strikes, but the Bandits defense and some well hit balls put them in an early deficit.

The Bandits play a full week of baseball, Friday @ Isanti 7:30, Saturday @ Mora 2pm and 4:30pm, and at home versus Quamba 2pm.

More to come.

Tuesday, June 12, 2007

Game Preview - @ Osceola Braves Weds 6/13 7pm

The St. Croix River Bandits (0-5 conf, 1-8 overall) will take on the Osceola Braves for the second time this season on Wednesday night at Oakey Park at Osceola. The Osceola Braves pounded the Bandits for 12 runs, however 11 of those runs came in the 5th inning when the Bandits pitching staff imploded, walking a slew of Braves. However the Braves Joby Davidsavor did quiet the Bandits bats, allowing no hits threw five innings.

Sunday, June 10, 2007

Game Recap - Hinckley's Bats Sink Bandits, 8 - 3

The Hinckley Knights played a fairly exceptional game Sunday afternoon versus the St. Croix River Bandits (0-5 conf, 1-8 overall). Jim Rochford threw a complete game versus the Knights, allowing only 2 walks, 3 strikeouts, and only a handful of hard hit balls. However the Knights were able to find a hole in the St. Croix defense time and time again, for a whopping 16 hits and 7 earned runs. "I wouldn't be surprised if they had atleast 6-7 bloop hits," said coach Scott Lindholm, "But don't think we gave the game away, they took this one from us. They came out swinging the bats and putting balls in play and that's what happens." After the game Rochford felt that was probably his best outing this year. "My fastball was in the zone, and my slider was there tonight. They were just able to take my best breaking pitches and bang em to the opposite field for singles, they are the best hitting team I've seen this year, as far as getting contact."

Starting shortstop Jordan Martell supplied the offense, going 2-4, with a stolen base, run scored, and RBI. Martell also recorded 5 clean assists and 2 putouts. 2B Matt Vold also had 2 hits in 3 at bats with 2 runs scored.

The Bandits play again on Wednesday night versus the Osceola Braves at 7pm under the lights. Go out and show your support!

*Other Notes

*Full Boxscore can be found HERE

*Jesse Hartel has a nice 5-game hit streak going, batting .368 with 5 runs scored and 5 RBI

*While the Hinckley Knights only had 9 players, but included Shawn Ausmus, Mike Rote, and Kevin McFarren who are all batting over .300 this season and all conference player Ryan Ausmus.

Game Recap - Bandits Lose Close Game in Nowthen, 10-9.

The St. Croix River Bandits (0-4 conf, 1-7 overall) played a very close game in Nowthen on Saturday afternoon, but couldn't pull through at the end for a victory. The Bandits had a rough start giving up nine runs in the first three innings, however they were able to put together a five run-third inning which included two RBI double by Jesse Hartel and a two RBI single by Tyler Pilz.

By the fourth inning the cloudy and rainy weather had cleared up into sunny skies and the pitching and defense finally got into a rhythm. Trevor Todd came into the game in the third inning and only gave up one unearned run, and three hits, while striking out four. Todd did allow a few walks in the game, but between a successful pick-off and two double plays, the Pioneers were held at bay.

The Bandits scored one in the seventh when Jesse Hartel reached via error and was able to move to third on the next play also via error. Preston Langer knocked the ball to the right side of the infield allowing Hartel to score on a sacrifice. The Bandits trailed 10-6 going into the eighth inning and the Pioneer pitcher, Alex Moses was relieved for Jeff Horner who struggled to located his pitches. Horner gave up a lead off walk to catcher Alex Sullivan, and then walked Jordan Martell. Trevor Todd notched a bloop single, loading the bases. After Tyler Pilz was walked which scored a run making the game 10-7 with the bases loaded and no outs, the Pioneers lifted Jeff Horner in favor of Danny Ebner. Jesse Hartel was able get a sacrifice out to score a run. DH Brian Jacobson came up to bat and crushed a ball to deep left field. Unfortately, winds had been blowing heavily from left to right field all day, the ball was knocked down, where it would have been a sure homerun in St. Croix, and ended up as a deep sacrifice fly scoring a runner. Pioneer pitcher Danny Ebner stranded the tying runner at second base and struck out the side in the bottom of the ninth for the Pioneer win.

Once again the Bandits hit well and played defense better than in their win in Siren. However, seven of eight lead-off men for the Pioneers made it to atleast first base, and the team let up nine run, seven earned in the first three innings.

The Bandits play a tough Hinckley Knights team (6-3 conference, 6-7 overall) Sunday at St. Croix @ 2pm. Jim Rochford (1-1) will take the mound for the Bandits in hopes of capturing their first conference victory.

*Other Notes

*CF/P Trevor Todd went 3-5 with 2 runs and a stolen base, while also pitching 6 innings, striking out 4, and giving up 0 earned runs.

*RF Jesse Hartel had 3 RBI and scored 2 runs.

*Nowthen lost 20 baseballs due to their next door neighbor business not allowing them to retrieve foul balls. The balls will be returned to the team on the next business day....no joke.

*Everyday starters Scott Lindholm and Troy DeSmet were missing from the line-up.

*For Full Box Score Click Here

Thursday, June 7, 2007

Game Preview - Weekend Preview 6/9-6/10

This weekend the Bandits (0-3 conf, 1-6 overall) play a pair of games. Saturday, 6/9, the Bandit take on the Nowthen Pioneers (4-1) in Nowthen at 2pm. Trevor Todd expects to take the mound for the Bandits, who are in search of their first conference win, after getting their their first franchise victory on Wednesday versus the Siren Steelers. The Nowthen Pioneers are led by second baseman Jason Rusch, last year's all conference honerable mention, and 2005 1st team all conference member. Rusch has batted .362 over the past three years with 40 RBI in 149 at bats, including batting 6-10 this season with 4 RBI and 4 runs scored. For more Nowthen stats click here

The Bandits second game of the weekend will be at home versus the Hinckley Knights (5-3 conf, 5-7 overall) Sunday, 6/10, at 2pm. Hinckley's team is stacked with all conference players from 2006, including 1st teamers: 1B Blake Chaffey, 3B Shawn Ausmus, and OF Mike Rote; and 2nd teamers: SS Ryan Ausmus, and P Jarrod Brennan. Shawn Ausmus is leading the way for the Knights, batting .392 in 51 at bats and 12 RBI. For full Hinckley Knight stats click here The Bandits will counter with Jim Rochford making the start, hoping that he shows as strong of an outing as he did versus Osceola and Siren earlier this week.

Swinging a hot bat for the Bandits is DH Brian Jacobson leading the team with a .455 batting average, who in Sunday's game vs. the Tri-City Sharks hit two lined doubles into left center, one of which would have been a homerun if the Bandits were playing at home. Trevor Todd also had an outstanding performance versus Siren, going 2-4 with 2 walks, 3 runs, and 3 RBI.

Get all your Bandits Stats HERE

Wednesday, June 6, 2007

Game Recap - Bandits Win First Game versus Siren

The St. Croix River Bandits (1-6 overall, 0-3 conference) won their first game Tuesday night at Siren, 12-9. The Bandits jumped out to an early 3-0 lead due to a couple singles by Jesse Hartel and Trevor Todd, followed by Preston Langer getting on base from a throwing error, and Kyle Kahl knocking in an RBI single. Aggressive baserunning also played apart of the inning, putting pressure on the Siren defense, and getting runners in scoring position.

The two teams went back and forth at each other, and Siren took their first lead of the ball game in the bottom of the fifth. Michael Chelberg started the game for the Bandits and looked good during most of his outing. However, as the game progressed he had trouble locating with the hitter's strike zone that was being called.

Jim Rochford came into the game in the fifth to relieve Chelberg with the score 7-6 Bandits and the bases loaded with one out. Unfortunately Rochford's second pitch was a miscommunction between he and Alex Sullivan, the catcher, and the runner from third was able to score on the wild pitch/passed ball making the score 7-7. Rochford was able to retire the next two batters to get the Bandits out of a jam.

The Bandits struck again in the 7th innning. The Bandits were able to load the bases for Trevor Todd, who hit a scorching over the center fielder's head. Todd was able to get a triple and actually scored on a throwing error on the same play. The Bandits scored five runs in the inning making it a 12-8 ball game. Trevor Todd finished the game 2-4 with 2 walks, 3 runs, 2 stolen bases, and 3 RBI.

Rochford threw the rest of the game and gave up 1 unearned run in the sixth and 1 meaningless run in the bottom of the ninth, for the first win in River Bandits history - congrats River Bandits!

The Bandits next game is Saturday, 6/9 at Nowthen at 2pm and then Sunday 6/10 at home versus Hinkley.

*Other Notes

*Starting C Alex Sullivan notched 2 RBI, smashing a gapper in left center for a double, scoring Sean Weinberg and Dustin Lumsden.

*Full Boxscore HERE

*Starting SS Jordan Martell, 3B Troy DeSmet, DH Brian Jacobson, and Chad Allram missed the game due to other commitments.

*Bandits were happy to see hometown fans make it to the game. Thank you! We appreciate it!

Tuesday, June 5, 2007

Game Preview - @ Siren Steelers 6/5 7pm

The River Bandits go on the road looking for their first win in Siren on Tuesday. Michael Chelberg will take the mound for the Bandits in hopes of continuing the good play the Bandits had over the weekend. The Bandits look to play their first game in "summer conditions" as tonight it should be clear skies and in the high 60's around the 7:00pm start time.

Sunday, June 3, 2007

Game Recap - Sharks Come Back in Late Innings to Foil Bandits Bid For First Win

The St. Croix River Bandits (0-3 conf, 0-6 overall) had their first win within grasp to have it pulled away by the Tri Metro Sharks in the Bandits final game of the Ken Staples tournament held in Osceola this weekend. Trevor Todd took the mound for the River Bandits and had a good outing in the early innings. The Bandits had a 6-2 lead going into the bottom of the fifth inning, led by two Brian Jacobson doubles. In the bottom of the fifth, the Sharks finally got their bats rolling, getting a couple of walks and couple of well hit balls to bring them to within one, with the score 6-5.

The Sharks brought in their relief pitcher who had a late breaking ball and a 90 mph fastball. The Bandits went down quietly in the top of the sixth. Todd took the mound to start the bottom of the sixth but got into some trouble early. The Sharks again put the bat on the ball for some good hits and soon had a 7-6 lead with runners on second and first with only one out. Jim Rochford was brought in for relief and managed to pitch to only one batter who grounded into a double play.

The Bandits attempted a rally in the top of the seventh, with Trevor Todd (who switched from P to LF) earning a walk, and Chad Allram being hit by a pitch. However, the Bandits could not capitalize, stranding both runners.

The Bandits played a solid game, and it was definetely a tough loss. But spirits are high as the Bandits played great baseball this weekend. The Bandits only have to learn to minimize damage and not give up those "big" innings. Out of 20 innings played this weekend, only 3 were regrettable, and while they may not have come away with a win, they certainly played well enough to.

The Bandits next game will be in Siren at 7:00pm on Wednesday. The forecast is for cloudy skies and the temp in the mid-high 60's, and a slight chance of rain.

*Other Notes

*2B Chad Allram was hit by a pitch for the 5th time in 4 games. Congrats..I guess

*DH Brian Jacobson definetely found his stroke Sunday, crushing two doubles to left center.

*Attendance was great all weekend for the Bandits games and sold about 20 t-shirts, we appreciate all the support from St. Croix and Osceola fans alike!

Bandits Pics

Trevor Todd

Mike Leahy

Alex Sullivan

Matt Vold

Jim Rochford

Brian Jacobson

Michael Chelberg

Game Recap - Rosetown A's Prove to be Too Much for the Bandits

The River Bandits (0-3 conf, 0-5 overall) took on the highly touted and talented Rosetown A's Saturday afternoon in their second game of the Ken Staples tournament. Newly acquired Adam Lewis was the starting pitcher for the Bandits and after the first two innings, he really settled into a groove. Lewis gave up five runs in the first two innings, but set the A's down effectively for the rest of the game only letting up one more run in the last five innings.

The starting pitcher for the A's pitched a stellar five innings, keeping the Bandits hitters off-balance and for the most part, off the bases. He was lifted in the sixth inning and the Bandits were able to get a few hits off the A's relief pitcher but unfortunately were not able to capitalize, leaving a few men on base in the sixth and the seventh. "This was easily the best team that we have played all year, and I thought we stuck with them very well, Lewis had a great game," said coach Scott Lindholm.

The Bandits will play their third game of the Ken Staples tournament, Sunday 6/3 at 11:00 am. Trevor Todd will be taking the mound for the Bandits.

Saturday, June 2, 2007

Game Recap - Osceola Takes First Game Against Bandits

Although the final score may not show it, the St. Croix River Bandits (0-3 conf., 0-4 overall) played a pretty good game on Friday night in Osceola. Lefty Jim Rochford started on the mound for the Bandits allowed only one run, unearned, in the first five innings of the game. Joby Davidsavor of the Braves pitched an even better game. Davidsavor pitched five innings and did not allow a hit. Davidsavor mixed speeds well, and the Bandits couldn't manage to adjust.

With the Braves leading 1-0 in the top of the sixth inning, the Bandits pitching staff began to struggle. Jim Rochford walked the first two batters he faced, then let up a single which scored a run, and walked the next batter to load the bases, and the Braves leading 2-0. Michael Chelberg came on in relief but had trouble locating his pitches recording one out, giving up a couple of hits, and walks. Mike Leahy was the next pitcher to come in and the Braves continued to roll, hitting the ball well and not swinging at bad pitches. A few scattered errors in the inning also allowed the Braves to drag out their rally. However, as pitcher Jim Rochford said, "its pretty hard for the defense to be locked into the game when the pitchers aren't throwing strikes and balls aren't being hit into the field for minutes at a time." By the time the Bandits took the bats in the bottom of the sixth, they were down 12-0.

The Bandits were not able to mount a rally of their own in the bottom of the sixth and thus ending the game via mercy rule 12-0 in favor of the Bandits. "It's unfortunate the the final score looks so bad even though the pitching and defense played very well 5/6 of the game, but the team is still gelling together and I'm very optimistic for the future of St. Croix baseball."

The Bandits take on the Rosetown A's for the second game of the Ken Staples Tournament, Saturday 6/2 at 2:00pm.

*Other Notes

*Player-Manager Scott Lindholm, and spot starter Sean Weinberg were not in attendance due to family graduations. Brian Jacobson was acting manager for the game.

*Rain threatened in the pre-game warm-ups but never interfered with game time.

*Report has it the Garth Olson, of the Osceola Sun, was sporting a St. Croix River Bandits baseball cap.

*Bandit's Chad Allram was hit by a pitch for the 3rd time in two games.