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I left off the other day with this:
With that said, that Bandits had gone 5-7 after starting the year 0-11. The Bandits final 12 games of the season saw them hit .225 (34 points higher than beginning of the season), sport a team ERA of 3.89 (vs. 6.23), have 2.4 errors per game (vs. 3.1) but only give up only 1.1 unearned runs per game. The run diffential for the 2nd half of the season was 49 runs scored to 60 runs allowed, only an 11 run difference over 12 games (.92 runs/game) - as compared to 5.5 runs a game in the first half. These stats (especially the hitting) are not out of this world - but they are a marked improvement.
Lets examine who was responsible. First, was the leaps and bounds made by the pitching staff. Yes, during the final half of the season the Bandits played Siren, Hager City x2 and Bay City, but they played playoff teams: Hudson, River Falls, Ellsworth, Menomonie x2, and a barely squeaked out of the playoffs Osceola team x2. The pitching staff consisted of three studs: Will Ball (17.1 IP, 3.12ERA), Jim Rochford (29.2 IP, 3.94ERA), and led by Trevor Todd (52.1 IP, 3.44ERA). Those three pitchers combined to post a 3.53 ERA during the 2nd half of the season, and threw all but 4.2 innings of those games.
Will Ball's first season as a Bandits was solid. Although he had inconsistent control at times this season, he proved to be a valuable asset to the pitching staff. Ball will be playing for Hibbing Com. Col. this fall and spring and should be back and ready to pitch for the Bandits next season.
Old Man Jim Rochford had another fine year, with victories over Hudson and Bay City. Rochford actually logged 4 more innings than in 2008 and walked 10 less batters, but struck out 10 less batters also. "I don't even try to strikeout anyone anymore, you have to be 0-2 or 1-2, and the 7 or 8 batter, for me to even think about it. Although it seems like I strike out more 3 - 4 batters because they want to hit the ball so hard. We'll see how many years I can keep this up before good teams figure it out."
Trevor Todd was the ace of the staff during the 2nd part of the year, pitching in 11 of the 12 games,starting 5 games and relieving 6 games. The only game Todd did not see action in was a non-conference game in Hager City. Todd only threw 11+ innings before the turning point in Siren and was hammered in 3 his 4 outings, giving up 10 runs in 12IP. But Todd was relentless in the 2nd half of the season. Todd shut the door on River Falls for the Bandits first conference win of the season. Todd pitched 2 complete games against Osceola, with a victory on the final game of the season. Todd set personal highs for IP, K, and W, and a personal low in ERA.
The increased batting average was more of the addition to a couple key players than it was to individuals increasing their own stats. A few players (Curtis Roebuck, Jeff Johnson, and Steve Siqueiros) slightly increased their batting stats in the 2nd half of the season. The rest of the team hit the same or a bit lower than the first half. The infusion came from high schoolers Matt Vold and Gus Koecher. Gus Koecher played in 5 games and hit .273 in the lead off position, which would tie him for 3rd on the team for batting average if he had enough plate appearances to qualify. Matt Vold hit an incredible .556 in 5 games with the Bandits, mainly hitting in the 3-hole.
More to come in part 3.
Friday, August 7, 2009
Thursday, August 6, 2009
2009 Season Comes to An End - Let the Offseason Begin
The St. Croix River Bandits finished their season July 27th by beating the Osceola Braves. We are gonna take a quick recap of the season before going in depth about comparisons to previous seasons. The Bandits played a rough non-conference schedule this season including Isanti (27-7), Blaine (24-17), and Grantsburg (11-7 conf.). The Bandits started the season off with their worst losing streak in their 3 year history, losing their first 11 games, including dropping their first 6 conference games. The Bandits were outscored an amazing 89-28 over that 11 game period, touting a batting average .191 and an ERA of 6.23. Fielding wasn't the saving grace either, as the Bandits gave up nearly 3 unearned runs a game (2.8) on 3.1 errors per game.
Thats when Bandits scheduling braintrust, Scott Lindholm and Trevor Todd decided its time we played the Siren Steelers. Siren decided they would play the Bandits up in Siren with only 2 days (or less) notice. The result was a 11-1 victory, with the Bandits scoring 9 runs in the last 4 innings. This was the breakout game for Trevor Todd, who threw 7 innings, gave up 3 hits and 1 run, and struckout 13 batters. The Bandits dropped a game at Ellsworth but then picked up their first conference win of the season versus River Falls.
The River Falls game was an instant classic. The game went 13 innings long and the teams swapped the lead 5 times in the 5-4 Bandits victory, including a bottom of the 12th 2-run homerun by catcher Steve Siqueiros and Gus Koecher knocking in the winning run in the bottom of the 13th.
The Bandits lost a close game to Menomonie (at Menomonie) the following Friday night, but picked up their 2nd win of the season that Sunday, 4-1, vs. Bay City. Jim Rochford got the win for the Bandits, his 2nd win vs the Bombers in two outings. Rochford pitched 7 2/3 innings giving up six hits and only 1 run. Trevor Todd picked up the 1 inning, and change, save.
The Bandits did lose their next 5 games (including 2 debacles against Hager City), but these game were a lot close than the average 5.5 run beating they took during their 11 game losing streak. The average margin of loss was under four runs, with two games being 2 run games.
The Bandits ended the season like power-houses though. The Bandits 2nd to last game of the season saw them knocking off then North Division leader Hudson - who had been on a 10 game winning streak. Jim Rochford and the Bandits took down Hudson 8-6 on Wanigan Day Sunday, and saw some amazing plays. Hudson scored 2 runs in the first, but the Bandits answered back with 3 of their own. Rochford led up 3 hits in the top of the 2nd. But with no outs and the bases loaded the Bandits were able to get out of the jam unharmed, thanks 100% to a diving catch by Gus Koecher in centerfield. The Bandits piled on 5 runs in the bottom of the 7th. The River Rats tried to claw back in the top of the ninth, scoring 4 runs, and having the tying run come to the plate. Trevor Todd was able to close the game out, and have the Bandits escape with a victory.
The Bandits last game of 2009 was a dream come true during a losing season. The Bandits were playing the rival Braves from Osceola. The Braves were had a record of 8-7 and needed one more victory to claim a playoff spot. A loss from the Bandits would effectively end their season. Trevor Todd pitched a complete game 3-2 victory, with the Bandits scoring the winning run in the 7th inning and holding on the 1-run lead.
With that said, that Bandits had gone 5-7 after starting the year 0-11. The Bandits final 12 games of the season saw them hit .225 (34 points higher than beginning of the season), sport a team ERA of 3.89 (vs. 6.23), have 2.4 errors per game (vs. 3.1) but only give up only 1.1 unearned runs per game. The run diffential for the 2nd half of the season was 49 runs scored to 60 runs allowed, only an 11 run difference over 12 games (.92 runs/game) - as compared to 5.5 runs a game in the first half.
Thats when Bandits scheduling braintrust, Scott Lindholm and Trevor Todd decided its time we played the Siren Steelers. Siren decided they would play the Bandits up in Siren with only 2 days (or less) notice. The result was a 11-1 victory, with the Bandits scoring 9 runs in the last 4 innings. This was the breakout game for Trevor Todd, who threw 7 innings, gave up 3 hits and 1 run, and struckout 13 batters. The Bandits dropped a game at Ellsworth but then picked up their first conference win of the season versus River Falls.
The River Falls game was an instant classic. The game went 13 innings long and the teams swapped the lead 5 times in the 5-4 Bandits victory, including a bottom of the 12th 2-run homerun by catcher Steve Siqueiros and Gus Koecher knocking in the winning run in the bottom of the 13th.
The Bandits lost a close game to Menomonie (at Menomonie) the following Friday night, but picked up their 2nd win of the season that Sunday, 4-1, vs. Bay City. Jim Rochford got the win for the Bandits, his 2nd win vs the Bombers in two outings. Rochford pitched 7 2/3 innings giving up six hits and only 1 run. Trevor Todd picked up the 1 inning, and change, save.
The Bandits did lose their next 5 games (including 2 debacles against Hager City), but these game were a lot close than the average 5.5 run beating they took during their 11 game losing streak. The average margin of loss was under four runs, with two games being 2 run games.
The Bandits ended the season like power-houses though. The Bandits 2nd to last game of the season saw them knocking off then North Division leader Hudson - who had been on a 10 game winning streak. Jim Rochford and the Bandits took down Hudson 8-6 on Wanigan Day Sunday, and saw some amazing plays. Hudson scored 2 runs in the first, but the Bandits answered back with 3 of their own. Rochford led up 3 hits in the top of the 2nd. But with no outs and the bases loaded the Bandits were able to get out of the jam unharmed, thanks 100% to a diving catch by Gus Koecher in centerfield. The Bandits piled on 5 runs in the bottom of the 7th. The River Rats tried to claw back in the top of the ninth, scoring 4 runs, and having the tying run come to the plate. Trevor Todd was able to close the game out, and have the Bandits escape with a victory.
The Bandits last game of 2009 was a dream come true during a losing season. The Bandits were playing the rival Braves from Osceola. The Braves were had a record of 8-7 and needed one more victory to claim a playoff spot. A loss from the Bandits would effectively end their season. Trevor Todd pitched a complete game 3-2 victory, with the Bandits scoring the winning run in the 7th inning and holding on the 1-run lead.
With that said, that Bandits had gone 5-7 after starting the year 0-11. The Bandits final 12 games of the season saw them hit .225 (34 points higher than beginning of the season), sport a team ERA of 3.89 (vs. 6.23), have 2.4 errors per game (vs. 3.1) but only give up only 1.1 unearned runs per game. The run diffential for the 2nd half of the season was 49 runs scored to 60 runs allowed, only an 11 run difference over 12 games (.92 runs/game) - as compared to 5.5 runs a game in the first half.
Monday, July 27, 2009
Game Recap: Bandits End Season By Knocking Braves Out Of The Playoffs!
The St. Croix River Bandits (4-12 conf. 5-18 overall) played their final game of the season at Oakey Park on Sunday night versus their rival the Osceola Braves (8-8 conf.). A victory for the Braves would assure them a post season berth, and the Bandits were hoping to be the spoiler. The Braves defeated Ellsworth on Friday night but had lost to Menomonie earlier in the day on Sunday (score: 9-5) in a rain induced make-up game. The Braves record coming into this game was 8-7, and in WBA league play, generally only teams with above .500 records make the playoffs. The Braves had started the year out strong, 6-2 at the midway point, but took a nose-dive in the second half of the year - losing five of their last seven games prior to facing the Bandits.
Fans of both teams came out to enjoy the game on the clear, warm evening. Despite playing at Oakey Park, the Bandits were the designated home team - as the game had been rescheduled from its original date, time, and location in St. Croix Falls on Saturday.
The Bandits scored first in the bottom of the 2nd inning. Steve Siqueiros belted a double to right field to lead off the inning against Braves starting pitcher, and recent Braves Hall of Fame inductee, Dave Leske. Siqueiros was able to reach 3rd base on a passed ball and then scored when Kyle Kahl hit a fielder's choice grounder ball. At the end of the 2nd inning the Bandits led 1-0.
Trevor Todd started on the mound for the Bandits and pitched remarkably. Todd didn't allow a hit until the 4th inning, when Braves' Tyler Pilz hit a rocket double to left center field. Pilz reached 3rd base on a passed ball. With 2 outs in the inning, Pilz took off to home when another pitch by Todd looked to be headed for the backstop. The ball ricocheted off the plate, the glanced off of Siqueiros's chest protector, up and into the face of batter Ian Kalata. Siqueiros quickly picked the ball up off the ground and was able to tag out Pilz as he slid into home.
The Braves led off the top of the 5th inning with Kalata drawing a 3-2 walk. Pete Droher hit a double to left center field, scoring Kalata from first base. After a groundout, Collin Lehman placed a perfect squeeze bunt down the 3rd base line. Bandits third baseman Jeff Johnson tried to flip the ball to Siqueiros covering the plate, but the throw wasn't in time and the Braves took a 2-1 lead.
The score remained the same until the bottom of the 6th inning. Siqueiros, who was 2-2 with 2 doubles so far, hit yet another lead off double to right center field. Siqueiros was able to score when pitcher Trevor Todd aided his own cause by hitting the ball the opposite way, down the third base line. The Braves had a left handed batter outfield shift on - which allowed Todd to reach 2nd base, as the ball nearly went foul, but managed to stay in play. At the end of the 6th inning: Bandits 2 Braves 2.
Bandits Gus Koecher created a run of his own in the bottom of the 7th inning. Despite striking out on another curveball, the ball got away from catcher Ryan Rugg and Koecher was able to wheel safely down to first base. Koecher safely stole 2nd base, getting himself into scoring position. Matt Vold came to the plate (who previously had 10 hits in 21 at bats this season) and hit what would have been an infield single. However, the ball was played and thrown quickly and low by the Braves infielder, trying to get Vold out at first. Koecher, seeing the throw and expecting it not to be caught cleanly, kept sprinting, past third and down to home plate to score. Bandits lead 3-2.
Between the 6th and 9th inning, starting pitcher Trevor Todd allowed only 1 hit (a 2-out single to Droher in the 9th). Todd did walk three batters in that span, but two of them were caught stealing 2nd base by Bandits catcher Siqueiros. Todd completed the game by striking out Jon Anderson for the 2nd time that night, giving the Bandits their first conference win versus the Osceola Braves and knocking the Braves out of the playoffs. With the victory, the Bandits snapped a 4 game losing streak to the Braves, besting the Braves for the first time since August 3rd 2007.
In the post game press conference former coach Jim Rochford had this to say:
"It was great to come out here to Oakey Park and beat the Braves tonight and being the spoiler. They've still beat us 6 out of 8 games in 3 years, but we put together a great effort tonight, at the plate, on the mound, in the field, everywhere.....except maybe running the bases. Hats off to Braves pitchers Dave Leske and Ross Benitz, who was pitching on about 17 hours rest, and still got us out, they pitched a heck of a game... How about Steve Siqueiros though? Here's a guy that played for the Braves for what seems like 10 seasons but was scarcily used, especially in conference games, and he goes 3-4 tonight with 3 doubles, 2 runs scored, and throws out 2 guys trying to steal 2nd against his old team...amazing."
The Bandits finish the season 4-12 in conference and 5-18 overall, compared to 2008's record of 2-13, 8-16. More on the Bandits season review in the next article.
*NOTES*
Game Balls
1. TIE Steve Siqueiros - 3/4, 3 2B, 2R, 2 guys caught stealing, caught a big pop up bunt in the 9th, and quickly recovered in the 4th inning to tag out Pilz at home.
1. TIE Trevor Todd - 9IP, 4H, 2ER, 6BB, HBP, 7K and the Victory. Todd was also 2-4 at the dish with a double and RBI.
3. Gus Koecher - so maybe Koecher went 0-4 with 3Ks, well his legs got the winning run across the plate, and in a 1 run game - that's what really matters.
Unheralded Hero of the Game:
Jeanne Rochford and the Braves kid (name unknown) who helped out the Bandits by taking admission during the game. THANK YOU
WOW of the Game:
Ross Benitz to Dave Leske in the bottom of the sixth inning..."well as long as you don't give up another lead off double to Siqueiros..." Well Steve-O took the 2nd pitch he saw and crushed it to right center field for his 3RD double of the game. Afterwards, umpire Buck Schott stated, "Son, that's the first time I saw someone turn 3 triples into 3 doubles."
Players Missing in Action - All Career Bandit Finale
Allram, Chad - getting hit by a pitch...somewhere
Campbell, Dan - spectating (at least I thought I saw him over there), scouting for umpires for the next SCBA tournament.
Chelberg, Chris - digging wells, melding young baseball player's minds, and sneaking on to certain golf courses.
Chinander, Trygve - Excited to get back to school, dreading going back to class..
DeSmet, Troy - spectating: envisioning Jonah playing 13 years from now in AA ball
Ellefson, Mark - Mark went to the (noun)______ and decided to (verb) _____ (number) ____
(plural noun)_____ in the (noun) ______. That's just wrong.
Gagner, Jay - poisoning those foolish enough to enter his domain.
Hartel, Jesse - rocking out some new tats - maybe a mohawk, striking fear into those he punishes at the pool table
Hartman, Nick - pit fighting in Pakistan against a Mongol named Khan
Hehling, Callin - Parachuting somewhere over the Middle East and still throwing 90mph.
Holman, Joe - Poor Joe, had to go,
Where? I do not know.
Not at the diamond, nor on the field,
no glove, nor cap, nor bat to wield.
Jacobson, Brian - spectating: envisioning himself coaching/batting the Bandits to the playoffs in 2010.
Jensen, Brandon - a haiku
Your picture I saw
There at my son's new day care
These kids should be scared
Klatt, Mitch - don't be so down on yourself Mitch, your .059 batting average is still better than 8 former Bandits.
Leahy, Mike - spectating: envisioning when and how he is going to get his next beverage.
Lewis, Adam - performing surgery on under-privileged, special needs dogs who were mentally abused as puppies.
Lumsden, Dustin - currently missing in the UW education system...I'm pretty sure they have at least a 34% return rate - in baseball language thats pretty good.
Martell, Jordan - became the first pastor/starting SS to lead the Howard Lake Orphans to their first North Star League title.
Pederson, Brandon "BP"- body cast gets removed in a few weeks, good luck BP!
Peterson, John "JP" - wondering what the hell is going on down there!
Pilz, Travis - playing for the Osceola Braves.
Shores, Wade - at home with 4 women......yikes.
Smith, Nathaniel "Bubba" "B-Nippy" - working, only 1 more day left before everything is back to normal.
Sullivan, Alex - LOST - just like the TV show, except without the airplane crash, island, or sci-fi.
Svoboda, Collin - in Luck doing whatever those kids in Luck do.....hang out at the IGA???
Thompson, Mitch - left team because he got an intership at a hospital in the cities, little did he know then that he was the guy who gets to clean blood splatter.
Todd, Bob - spectating: watching his boy throw a gem.
Weinberg, Sean - recovering from the African version of an appendicitis.
Werner, Jack - whatever happened to Jack Werner....I have no idea. He retired after he was traded to the Siren Steelers in return for 2 hours of game time.
Fans of both teams came out to enjoy the game on the clear, warm evening. Despite playing at Oakey Park, the Bandits were the designated home team - as the game had been rescheduled from its original date, time, and location in St. Croix Falls on Saturday.
The Bandits scored first in the bottom of the 2nd inning. Steve Siqueiros belted a double to right field to lead off the inning against Braves starting pitcher, and recent Braves Hall of Fame inductee, Dave Leske. Siqueiros was able to reach 3rd base on a passed ball and then scored when Kyle Kahl hit a fielder's choice grounder ball. At the end of the 2nd inning the Bandits led 1-0.
Trevor Todd started on the mound for the Bandits and pitched remarkably. Todd didn't allow a hit until the 4th inning, when Braves' Tyler Pilz hit a rocket double to left center field. Pilz reached 3rd base on a passed ball. With 2 outs in the inning, Pilz took off to home when another pitch by Todd looked to be headed for the backstop. The ball ricocheted off the plate, the glanced off of Siqueiros's chest protector, up and into the face of batter Ian Kalata. Siqueiros quickly picked the ball up off the ground and was able to tag out Pilz as he slid into home.
The Braves led off the top of the 5th inning with Kalata drawing a 3-2 walk. Pete Droher hit a double to left center field, scoring Kalata from first base. After a groundout, Collin Lehman placed a perfect squeeze bunt down the 3rd base line. Bandits third baseman Jeff Johnson tried to flip the ball to Siqueiros covering the plate, but the throw wasn't in time and the Braves took a 2-1 lead.
The score remained the same until the bottom of the 6th inning. Siqueiros, who was 2-2 with 2 doubles so far, hit yet another lead off double to right center field. Siqueiros was able to score when pitcher Trevor Todd aided his own cause by hitting the ball the opposite way, down the third base line. The Braves had a left handed batter outfield shift on - which allowed Todd to reach 2nd base, as the ball nearly went foul, but managed to stay in play. At the end of the 6th inning: Bandits 2 Braves 2.
Bandits Gus Koecher created a run of his own in the bottom of the 7th inning. Despite striking out on another curveball, the ball got away from catcher Ryan Rugg and Koecher was able to wheel safely down to first base. Koecher safely stole 2nd base, getting himself into scoring position. Matt Vold came to the plate (who previously had 10 hits in 21 at bats this season) and hit what would have been an infield single. However, the ball was played and thrown quickly and low by the Braves infielder, trying to get Vold out at first. Koecher, seeing the throw and expecting it not to be caught cleanly, kept sprinting, past third and down to home plate to score. Bandits lead 3-2.
Between the 6th and 9th inning, starting pitcher Trevor Todd allowed only 1 hit (a 2-out single to Droher in the 9th). Todd did walk three batters in that span, but two of them were caught stealing 2nd base by Bandits catcher Siqueiros. Todd completed the game by striking out Jon Anderson for the 2nd time that night, giving the Bandits their first conference win versus the Osceola Braves and knocking the Braves out of the playoffs. With the victory, the Bandits snapped a 4 game losing streak to the Braves, besting the Braves for the first time since August 3rd 2007.
In the post game press conference former coach Jim Rochford had this to say:
"It was great to come out here to Oakey Park and beat the Braves tonight and being the spoiler. They've still beat us 6 out of 8 games in 3 years, but we put together a great effort tonight, at the plate, on the mound, in the field, everywhere.....except maybe running the bases. Hats off to Braves pitchers Dave Leske and Ross Benitz, who was pitching on about 17 hours rest, and still got us out, they pitched a heck of a game... How about Steve Siqueiros though? Here's a guy that played for the Braves for what seems like 10 seasons but was scarcily used, especially in conference games, and he goes 3-4 tonight with 3 doubles, 2 runs scored, and throws out 2 guys trying to steal 2nd against his old team...amazing."
The Bandits finish the season 4-12 in conference and 5-18 overall, compared to 2008's record of 2-13, 8-16. More on the Bandits season review in the next article.
*NOTES*
Game Balls
1. TIE Steve Siqueiros - 3/4, 3 2B, 2R, 2 guys caught stealing, caught a big pop up bunt in the 9th, and quickly recovered in the 4th inning to tag out Pilz at home.
1. TIE Trevor Todd - 9IP, 4H, 2ER, 6BB, HBP, 7K and the Victory. Todd was also 2-4 at the dish with a double and RBI.
3. Gus Koecher - so maybe Koecher went 0-4 with 3Ks, well his legs got the winning run across the plate, and in a 1 run game - that's what really matters.
Unheralded Hero of the Game:
Jeanne Rochford and the Braves kid (name unknown) who helped out the Bandits by taking admission during the game. THANK YOU
WOW of the Game:
Ross Benitz to Dave Leske in the bottom of the sixth inning..."well as long as you don't give up another lead off double to Siqueiros..." Well Steve-O took the 2nd pitch he saw and crushed it to right center field for his 3RD double of the game. Afterwards, umpire Buck Schott stated, "Son, that's the first time I saw someone turn 3 triples into 3 doubles."
Players Missing in Action - All Career Bandit Finale
Allram, Chad - getting hit by a pitch...somewhere
Campbell, Dan - spectating (at least I thought I saw him over there), scouting for umpires for the next SCBA tournament.
Chelberg, Chris - digging wells, melding young baseball player's minds, and sneaking on to certain golf courses.
Chinander, Trygve - Excited to get back to school, dreading going back to class..
DeSmet, Troy - spectating: envisioning Jonah playing 13 years from now in AA ball
Ellefson, Mark - Mark went to the (noun)______ and decided to (verb) _____ (number) ____
(plural noun)_____ in the (noun) ______. That's just wrong.
Gagner, Jay - poisoning those foolish enough to enter his domain.
Hartel, Jesse - rocking out some new tats - maybe a mohawk, striking fear into those he punishes at the pool table
Hartman, Nick - pit fighting in Pakistan against a Mongol named Khan
Hehling, Callin - Parachuting somewhere over the Middle East and still throwing 90mph.
Holman, Joe - Poor Joe, had to go,
Where? I do not know.
Not at the diamond, nor on the field,
no glove, nor cap, nor bat to wield.
Jacobson, Brian - spectating: envisioning himself coaching/batting the Bandits to the playoffs in 2010.
Jensen, Brandon - a haiku
Your picture I saw
There at my son's new day care
These kids should be scared
Klatt, Mitch - don't be so down on yourself Mitch, your .059 batting average is still better than 8 former Bandits.
Leahy, Mike - spectating: envisioning when and how he is going to get his next beverage.
Lewis, Adam - performing surgery on under-privileged, special needs dogs who were mentally abused as puppies.
Lumsden, Dustin - currently missing in the UW education system...I'm pretty sure they have at least a 34% return rate - in baseball language thats pretty good.
Martell, Jordan - became the first pastor/starting SS to lead the Howard Lake Orphans to their first North Star League title.
Pederson, Brandon "BP"- body cast gets removed in a few weeks, good luck BP!
Peterson, John "JP" - wondering what the hell is going on down there!
Pilz, Travis - playing for the Osceola Braves.
Shores, Wade - at home with 4 women......yikes.
Smith, Nathaniel "Bubba" "B-Nippy" - working, only 1 more day left before everything is back to normal.
Sullivan, Alex - LOST - just like the TV show, except without the airplane crash, island, or sci-fi.
Svoboda, Collin - in Luck doing whatever those kids in Luck do.....hang out at the IGA???
Thompson, Mitch - left team because he got an intership at a hospital in the cities, little did he know then that he was the guy who gets to clean blood splatter.
Todd, Bob - spectating: watching his boy throw a gem.
Weinberg, Sean - recovering from the African version of an appendicitis.
Werner, Jack - whatever happened to Jack Werner....I have no idea. He retired after he was traded to the Siren Steelers in return for 2 hours of game time.
Thursday, July 23, 2009
St. Croix River Bandits Finale vs. Osceola Braves: Sun July 26th 7:30pm
The St. Croix River Bandits (3-12 conference, 4-18 overall) will once again travel to Oakey Park to face the Osecola Braves (7-6) this season, except this time as the home team. The original game was scheduled for Saturday afternoon at St. Croix Falls, but due to a scheduling conflict with many Braves players, the game has been rescheduled for the following evening at 7:30. The Braves have three remaining conference games (vs. Ellsworth (8-7) Friday night, @ Menomonie (8-7) Sunday noon, and then back to face the Bandits Sunday evening.) and as it stands they will need to win two of the remaining three games to be post-season eligible. The Braves face a daunting task as the Menomonie Eagles also need another victory to assure a playoff spot, and even though Ellsworth is guaranteed as playoff berth because they are hosting a regional, I'm sure they will want to finish the season out 9-7, proving to themselves that they belong.
The Bandits will try to play the part of the spoiler on Sunday evening, The Bandits will start Trevor Todd on the mound for the 2nd time this season against the Braves. Todd is 2-5 this season with an ERA of 3.42 in his last 4 starts, pitching 31 innings and striking out 32 batters. Todd faced the Braves last on July 8th, where he allowed 4 early runs, and shut down the Braves for the rest of the game. Unfortunately, Braves pitchers Ross Benitz and Jacob Kiehl bested the Bandits hitters, allowing only 6 baserunners and 2 runs in the 4-2 Bandits loss.
Projected Bandits Starting Lineup (7/23/09)
CF Gus Koecher .333
RF Scott Lindholm .247
SS Matt Vold .500
C Steve Siqueiros .225
3B Kyle Kahl .298
P Trevor Todd .243
2B Curtis Roebuck .178
1B Jeff Johnson .140
LF Michael Chelberg .167
P Trevor Todd .243
2B Curtis Roebuck .178
1B Jeff Johnson .140
LF Michael Chelberg .167
Monday, July 20, 2009
Game Recap - Bandits halt losing streak and Hudson's 10 game winning streak.
The St. Croix River Bandits (3-12 conf, 4-18) pulled off an upset yesterday of the Hudson River Rats (10-4 conf, 15-9) in game #2 of Wannigan Day's Weekend. The Bandits were stomped by the River Rats earlier in the year, 12-2 at Hudson in late May, and the Rats had won their previous 10 games dating back to June 20th. The Rats also defeated the Bandits in each of their games last season, including a 16-0 drubbing at Oakey Park.
Bandits superstar Kyle Kahl was scheduled to miss the game, but Bandits manager Jim Rochford received a call 2 hours before gametime. It was Kyle. "Jimmy," he said "Do you think you'll need me today?"
"Oh my god Kyle, that's ridiculous, can you actually make it?" Rochford replied.
"The game starts at 1pm?....I'll be there at 12:50 ready to go."
Sure enough, Kahl rolls in a little early, 12:47 and some change...and its a good thing.
The Bandits started pitcher Jim Rochford on the mound. Rochford came off one of his worst outings of the season, against the Hager City Skeeters, allowing 11 hits and 6 earned runs in only 5 innings pitched. Rochford's game did not start off any better this time around.
Lead off batter Jason Hollar hit a screamer to center field that was caught by CF Gus Koecher for the first out of the inning. Andy LaBrosse hit a sharp single to left field which was followed by Brent Blegan hitting a towering homerun off a hanging slider to left center field, giving the Rats a 2-0 lead. River Rat legend Joel Schaffer scalded another ball to center field that was caught for the 2nd out. Jason Bast hit a line drive to right field for a single, and finally DH Brian Rudesill got underneath a pitch and popped up a lazy fly to left field. Rudesill's hit was the only one of the first six that didn't leave a dent in the baseball. Rats 2 Bandits 0.
The Bandits came right back in the bottom of the 1st inning. Gus Koecher led off the inning with a walk, and then stole 2nd base. After a Scott Lindholm strikeout, Matt Vold lined an RBI single into the outfield grass. Steve Siqueiros walked. Trevor Todd hit a light grounder to the left of the 2nd baseman. The Rat's Mitch Lewis was unable to turn the doubleplay, and only was able to get Todd out at first, with Bandits now having runners on 2nd and 3rd with 2 outs. Kyle Kahl, who wasn't even planning on playing hit an 0-1 stung line drive to center field, scoring both Vold and Siqueiros and the Bandits took the lead. Bandits 3 Rats 2.
Rochford got into more trouble in the top of the 2nd inning. The Rats 7-8-9 hitters each reached with singles, loading the bases with 0 outs. Hollar hit a lazy fly ball to LF Michael Chelberg who caught the ball, and it was too shallow for Kirk Krumrei to score from 3rd. LaBrosse hit what appeared to be a possible double to the left center gap in the outfield. Gus Koecher came sprinting over on a perfect line, dove to his right, and made an outstanding fully laid-out catch, nearly somersaulting back over to show the umpire he had the ball. Krumrei, on third base, had expected the ball to land in for a hit and was near home when the catch was made. Krumrei had to run back to third base, and had no chance to tag up and score because he was had wandered too far off the base. Blegan then came up with 2 outs, having homered in his last at bat. Blegan hit the first pitch he saw right to third base, where Kahl threw him out at first. 3 hits, 0 runs. Bandits 3 Rats 2.
That score would remain the same until the 7th inning. Jim Rochford became unhittable, allowing only 3 hits and 2 walks from the 3rd thru the 8th inning, at one point retiring 11 Rats in a row.
For really the first time this season, the Bandits poured on some runs against a conference opponent during the 7th inning. Micheal Chelberg led the fiesta off with a one-out infield hit. Koecher singled and Lindholm was hit by a pitch to load the bases. Vold got his 2nd hit of the day, knocking in Chelberg and Koecher. The Rats lifted starting pitcher Davis Lenzen in favor of reliever Brian Rudesill after Lenzen fell behind Siqueiros 3-1, and then opted to intentionally walk Siqueiros to load the bases. Rudesill had Todd down 0-2 in the count, but Todd singled on the next pitch to right field scoring Lindholm and Vold, and getting Siqueiros over to 3rd base. Kahl was once again up with a runner in scoring position. Kahl quickly got into hole with the count 0-2, but managed to foul off Rudesill's next 4 pitches. Kahl finally got a hold of one and grounded to shortstop LaBrosse. Third base coach Jim Rochford had Trevor Todd stealing 2nd on the play, so LaBrosse didn't have time to get both Todd and Kahl on a doubleplay, and threw Kahl out at first, allowing Siqueiros to score. The Bandits scored 5 runs in total and now lead by a score of Bandits 8 Rats 2.
Rochford started the ninth in what would unfortunately be an exciting inning. Rochford started by giving up an 0-2 double down the right field line to Mitch Lewis. Chris Klein grounded out to 2nd for the first out of the inning and Lewis advanced to 3rd. Hollar was able to draw into a full count and was finally walked by Rochford. Seeing signs of fatigue, catcher Steve Siqueiros summoned Trevor Todd to pitch the last two outs of the game. However, the outing did not start off gracefully. Trying to pick off Hollar at first base, Todd threw wide, allowing Lewis to score and Hollar to reach 2nd. Todd walked LaBrosse but was able to get Blegan to pop out to 2nd. Joel Schaffer then picked a good time to get his first hit of the day, hitting a blazing ground rule double to right field, and bouncing over the fence, scoring 2 more runs. The Rats had cut the lead to 8-5. Bast then singled for the 3rd time in the game, this time to left field, and the ball got away from LF Chelberg, allowing Schaffer to score. Todd then walked Rudesill on 4 straight pitches, putting the tying run one first base. Todd refound the strike zone and zipped his first pitch to LF Paul Rupert right down the heart of the plate. Todd's next pitch was tapped right back to him, where he flipped it over to first base for the third and final out.
"This was a great victory for us, our first win versus Hudson. With these young guys like Koecher and Vold (currently HS seniors) playing with us every game next year we can expect a lot more hitting, and a lot more running, and a lot more excitment," said pitcher Jim Rochford after the game.
Next Game IS RESCHEDULED: JULY 26TH SUNDAY VS OSCEOLA, AT OAKEY PARK - WE ARE STILL THE HOME TEAM.
BOXSCORES are HERE
NOTES
The Bandits are 3-3 in conference play at home this season (nevermind the 0-9 away record).
Matt Vold is 10-20 this season with 11RBI in 5 games.
Kyle Kahl has struck out only 5 times in 57 at bats.
Game Balls
IN NO PARTICULAR ORDER
Gus Koecher: 2-4, 2R, SB, Diving Catch, Diving Slides
Matt Vold: 2-4, 2R, 3RBI
Kyle Kahl: 2-4, 3RBI, 4A, 1PO, 0E
Honerable Mention:
Jim Rochford: 8 1/3 IP, 10H, 4ER, 3BB, 4K and a W
Unheralded Hero(es) of the Day:
The Fans. Lots and lots of fans out there today. We appreciate it.
WOW Play(s) of the Day:
Completely made up for that bore-fest which was Saturday.
Could be any of the following:
BANDITS
*Koecher's amazing diving catch to save 2+ runs in the top of the 2nd.
*Steve Siqueiros gets run OVER at the plate as he catches a relay from the outfield in the top of the 4th inning but hangs onto for the out.
*Koecher jumps over/around the catcher and tags homeplate, hyperextending his entire body, but scoring - none the less
*Kyle Kahl throwing one a bit short to Jeff Johnson at first base, who comes off the base and backhand swipes the back foot of Andy LaBrosse as he tries to leap away.
*Bandits hitting in general
*Jim Rochford giving up only 4 hits in 6 1/3 innings after giving up 6 in the first 2.
*Bases loaded, 0 outs, and giving up 0 runs.
RATS
Brent Blegan's blast-off homerun
Joel Schaffer's ground-rule double that took .73 seconds to leave the field once it hit the bat.
Diving catch in LF by Paul Rupert to take away a hit from Trevor Todd
Players Missing in Action
John Peterson - in Pain, lots of Pain
Estimated Attendance:
100-125
Bandits superstar Kyle Kahl was scheduled to miss the game, but Bandits manager Jim Rochford received a call 2 hours before gametime. It was Kyle. "Jimmy," he said "Do you think you'll need me today?"
"Oh my god Kyle, that's ridiculous, can you actually make it?" Rochford replied.
"The game starts at 1pm?....I'll be there at 12:50 ready to go."
Sure enough, Kahl rolls in a little early, 12:47 and some change...and its a good thing.
The Bandits started pitcher Jim Rochford on the mound. Rochford came off one of his worst outings of the season, against the Hager City Skeeters, allowing 11 hits and 6 earned runs in only 5 innings pitched. Rochford's game did not start off any better this time around.
Lead off batter Jason Hollar hit a screamer to center field that was caught by CF Gus Koecher for the first out of the inning. Andy LaBrosse hit a sharp single to left field which was followed by Brent Blegan hitting a towering homerun off a hanging slider to left center field, giving the Rats a 2-0 lead. River Rat legend Joel Schaffer scalded another ball to center field that was caught for the 2nd out. Jason Bast hit a line drive to right field for a single, and finally DH Brian Rudesill got underneath a pitch and popped up a lazy fly to left field. Rudesill's hit was the only one of the first six that didn't leave a dent in the baseball. Rats 2 Bandits 0.
The Bandits came right back in the bottom of the 1st inning. Gus Koecher led off the inning with a walk, and then stole 2nd base. After a Scott Lindholm strikeout, Matt Vold lined an RBI single into the outfield grass. Steve Siqueiros walked. Trevor Todd hit a light grounder to the left of the 2nd baseman. The Rat's Mitch Lewis was unable to turn the doubleplay, and only was able to get Todd out at first, with Bandits now having runners on 2nd and 3rd with 2 outs. Kyle Kahl, who wasn't even planning on playing hit an 0-1 stung line drive to center field, scoring both Vold and Siqueiros and the Bandits took the lead. Bandits 3 Rats 2.
Rochford got into more trouble in the top of the 2nd inning. The Rats 7-8-9 hitters each reached with singles, loading the bases with 0 outs. Hollar hit a lazy fly ball to LF Michael Chelberg who caught the ball, and it was too shallow for Kirk Krumrei to score from 3rd. LaBrosse hit what appeared to be a possible double to the left center gap in the outfield. Gus Koecher came sprinting over on a perfect line, dove to his right, and made an outstanding fully laid-out catch, nearly somersaulting back over to show the umpire he had the ball. Krumrei, on third base, had expected the ball to land in for a hit and was near home when the catch was made. Krumrei had to run back to third base, and had no chance to tag up and score because he was had wandered too far off the base. Blegan then came up with 2 outs, having homered in his last at bat. Blegan hit the first pitch he saw right to third base, where Kahl threw him out at first. 3 hits, 0 runs. Bandits 3 Rats 2.
That score would remain the same until the 7th inning. Jim Rochford became unhittable, allowing only 3 hits and 2 walks from the 3rd thru the 8th inning, at one point retiring 11 Rats in a row.
For really the first time this season, the Bandits poured on some runs against a conference opponent during the 7th inning. Micheal Chelberg led the fiesta off with a one-out infield hit. Koecher singled and Lindholm was hit by a pitch to load the bases. Vold got his 2nd hit of the day, knocking in Chelberg and Koecher. The Rats lifted starting pitcher Davis Lenzen in favor of reliever Brian Rudesill after Lenzen fell behind Siqueiros 3-1, and then opted to intentionally walk Siqueiros to load the bases. Rudesill had Todd down 0-2 in the count, but Todd singled on the next pitch to right field scoring Lindholm and Vold, and getting Siqueiros over to 3rd base. Kahl was once again up with a runner in scoring position. Kahl quickly got into hole with the count 0-2, but managed to foul off Rudesill's next 4 pitches. Kahl finally got a hold of one and grounded to shortstop LaBrosse. Third base coach Jim Rochford had Trevor Todd stealing 2nd on the play, so LaBrosse didn't have time to get both Todd and Kahl on a doubleplay, and threw Kahl out at first, allowing Siqueiros to score. The Bandits scored 5 runs in total and now lead by a score of Bandits 8 Rats 2.
Rochford started the ninth in what would unfortunately be an exciting inning. Rochford started by giving up an 0-2 double down the right field line to Mitch Lewis. Chris Klein grounded out to 2nd for the first out of the inning and Lewis advanced to 3rd. Hollar was able to draw into a full count and was finally walked by Rochford. Seeing signs of fatigue, catcher Steve Siqueiros summoned Trevor Todd to pitch the last two outs of the game. However, the outing did not start off gracefully. Trying to pick off Hollar at first base, Todd threw wide, allowing Lewis to score and Hollar to reach 2nd. Todd walked LaBrosse but was able to get Blegan to pop out to 2nd. Joel Schaffer then picked a good time to get his first hit of the day, hitting a blazing ground rule double to right field, and bouncing over the fence, scoring 2 more runs. The Rats had cut the lead to 8-5. Bast then singled for the 3rd time in the game, this time to left field, and the ball got away from LF Chelberg, allowing Schaffer to score. Todd then walked Rudesill on 4 straight pitches, putting the tying run one first base. Todd refound the strike zone and zipped his first pitch to LF Paul Rupert right down the heart of the plate. Todd's next pitch was tapped right back to him, where he flipped it over to first base for the third and final out.
"This was a great victory for us, our first win versus Hudson. With these young guys like Koecher and Vold (currently HS seniors) playing with us every game next year we can expect a lot more hitting, and a lot more running, and a lot more excitment," said pitcher Jim Rochford after the game.
Next Game IS RESCHEDULED: JULY 26TH SUNDAY VS OSCEOLA, AT OAKEY PARK - WE ARE STILL THE HOME TEAM.
BOXSCORES are HERE
NOTES
The Bandits are 3-3 in conference play at home this season (nevermind the 0-9 away record).
Matt Vold is 10-20 this season with 11RBI in 5 games.
Kyle Kahl has struck out only 5 times in 57 at bats.
Game Balls
IN NO PARTICULAR ORDER
Gus Koecher: 2-4, 2R, SB, Diving Catch, Diving Slides
Matt Vold: 2-4, 2R, 3RBI
Kyle Kahl: 2-4, 3RBI, 4A, 1PO, 0E
Honerable Mention:
Jim Rochford: 8 1/3 IP, 10H, 4ER, 3BB, 4K and a W
Unheralded Hero(es) of the Day:
The Fans. Lots and lots of fans out there today. We appreciate it.
WOW Play(s) of the Day:
Completely made up for that bore-fest which was Saturday.
Could be any of the following:
BANDITS
*Koecher's amazing diving catch to save 2+ runs in the top of the 2nd.
*Steve Siqueiros gets run OVER at the plate as he catches a relay from the outfield in the top of the 4th inning but hangs onto for the out.
*Koecher jumps over/around the catcher and tags homeplate, hyperextending his entire body, but scoring - none the less
*Kyle Kahl throwing one a bit short to Jeff Johnson at first base, who comes off the base and backhand swipes the back foot of Andy LaBrosse as he tries to leap away.
*Bandits hitting in general
*Jim Rochford giving up only 4 hits in 6 1/3 innings after giving up 6 in the first 2.
*Bases loaded, 0 outs, and giving up 0 runs.
RATS
Brent Blegan's blast-off homerun
Joel Schaffer's ground-rule double that took .73 seconds to leave the field once it hit the bat.
Diving catch in LF by Paul Rupert to take away a hit from Trevor Todd
Players Missing in Action
John Peterson - in Pain, lots of Pain
Estimated Attendance:
100-125
Game Recap - Bandits bats struggle vs. Menomonie
The St. Croix River Bandits (2-12 conf. 3-17 overall) lost to the Menomonie Eagles (8-7 conf. 19-11 overall) on Saturday of Wannigan Days 8-3. The Bandits started lefty Trevor Todd who was 2-4 on the season with an ERA of 4.24 (ERA of 3.11 in his previous 8 appearances) making his 5th start of the season.
The first 3 innings flew by quickly as both Trevor Todd and Menomonie pitcher Ben Sivertson allowed only 2 combined baserunners. The Eagles scored in the top of the 4th inning. Todd walked #2 hitter Joe Mohr to lead off the inning. Luke Schultz grounded out to 2nd baseman Curtis Roebuck, advancing Mohr to 2nd. Mickey Boyle singled and Cory Hastings was plunked to load the bases with only 1 out. Trey Vavra hit a 1-1 pitch to shortstop Matt Vold, and it looked like the inning may end in a double play. However, the ball took a hop and skidded underneath Vold's glove, scoring 2 Eagles. The Eagles scored their third and last run of the inning on a fielder's choice groundout by Andy Lorenzen, scoring Hastings from 3rd. Eagles 3 Bandits 0.
The Eagles scored a single run in the top of the 5th, when Mohr lifted a flyball to deep left center field. The ball was hit as high as it was far, and was just far enough to clear the 330 foot fenceline for a solo homerun. Eagles 4 Bandits 0.
The Eagles tacked on another run in the next inning. A leadoff double by Boyle was almost squandered by the Eagles. Todd was able to strike out Hastings, and induce Trey Vavra into hitting a little dribbler back to the mound that Todd fielded to first base. Todd quickly got behind Lorenzen in the count, and Lorenzen was able to drive a 3-1 fastball for a single, scoring Boyle from 2nd base. Eagles 5 Bandits 0.
Until the bottom of the 8th inning the Bandits only managed 3 baserunners from 3 singles. Ben Sivertson proved to be a crafty righty. He mixed in a fastball, curveball, and changeup - all pitches he threw with accuracy, and had the Bandits off balance all day. However, in the bottom of the 8th inning he struggled with his control. After Jeff Johnson popped out to the shortstop, Will Ball was hit by a pitch. Then Curtis Roebuck was hit by a pitch. Then Gus Koecher was hit by a pitch. Three consecutive Bandits had reached base, all without swinging the bat. Scott Lindholm came to the plate, 0-3 on the day with 1 strikeout, and managed to rip a full-count line drive to left field, over the left fielder Ned Welch's head. Welch, who was playing deep, quickly recovered and was able to gun down Gus Koecher trying to make 3rd from 1st base. The Lindholm double drove in 2 runs. Matt Vold seemed to be the only Bandit that Eagles pitcher Sivertson could not get out. Vold dumped a 1-0 pitch to right center field, scoring Lindholm from 2nd base. Vold's final line for the day: 3-4, RBI. Steve Siqueiros came to the plate with 2 outs, representing the tying run. But Sivertson had already regained his composure and control and Siqueiros went down on 3 quick strikes. Eagles 5 Bandits 3.
The Bandits kept Todd in for the 9th inning, having retired the last 6 batters in a row, and may have made a mistake in doing so. Todd allowed a single to Lorenzen and then hit Alex Buckley. Bandits management turned to 18 year old Will Ball. Ball's first pitch was errant, allowing the runners to advance to 3rd and 2nd. Ned Welch then grounded to third base, but Johnson's throw was wide of 1st base. First baseman Michael Chelberg leaped for the ball but ended up only knocking the ball into the Bandits dugout, allowing both runners on 2nd and 3rd to score. Welch would later score on a sacrifice fly, and the Eagles got all 3 runs back in the top of the 9th. Eagles 8 Bandits 3.
The Bandits went down quietly in the ninth, getting only a walk off of relief pitcher Rob Heller.
The Bandits dropped their 5th game in a row and haven't won since coming off the 2 week hiatus during the 4th of July. "This was a pretty ugly game," said pitcher Jim Rochford. "By no stretch of the imagination we could have allowed only two runs today, however, if you look at it on the other side, if Sivertson doesn't bean three batters, we score only one instead of three. Trevor pitched absolutely great, its just amazing to me, what happens when our team gives up any free bases. We walked only two guys and beaned two. Three of those four guys scored."
BOXSCORE is HERE
The Bandits next game is Wannigan Days Game #2 - Sunday vs. Hudson.
NOTES
Game Balls
1. Matt Vold: 3-4, RBI
2. Trevor Todd: 8IP, 3ER, 6H, 5K, 2BB, 2HBP
3. Scott Lindholm: 1-4, R, 2B, 2RBI
Unheralded Hero of the Game:
All of the staff that worked the 4th/5th/6th tournament this weekend, you make it possible for the Bandits and the St. Croix Youth Baseball Association to exist. THANK YOU
WOW Play of the Day:
Not much action on the big boys field, most of the yelling and screaming came from the little kids fields, where numerous games ended in walk-off fashion. My favorite play of the day was when I was umping a 6th grade game behind the plate and the catcher would frame the ball when it was 8 inches outside or up near a kid's head. Then he would drop his head in disgust when I called it a ball. I thought he was going to try and fight me. Otherwise, I suppose three hit batsmen in a row is enough of a WOW for our game.
Players Missing in Action:
Kahl - Lost at a wedding
JP - Lost at a Perkins
Larcom - Lost at a little kids tournament
Svoboda - Lost at a tractor pull
Switala - Lost in a sweatshirt
Gagner - Lost in a motel bed
Estimated Attendance:
40-60
The first 3 innings flew by quickly as both Trevor Todd and Menomonie pitcher Ben Sivertson allowed only 2 combined baserunners. The Eagles scored in the top of the 4th inning. Todd walked #2 hitter Joe Mohr to lead off the inning. Luke Schultz grounded out to 2nd baseman Curtis Roebuck, advancing Mohr to 2nd. Mickey Boyle singled and Cory Hastings was plunked to load the bases with only 1 out. Trey Vavra hit a 1-1 pitch to shortstop Matt Vold, and it looked like the inning may end in a double play. However, the ball took a hop and skidded underneath Vold's glove, scoring 2 Eagles. The Eagles scored their third and last run of the inning on a fielder's choice groundout by Andy Lorenzen, scoring Hastings from 3rd. Eagles 3 Bandits 0.
The Eagles scored a single run in the top of the 5th, when Mohr lifted a flyball to deep left center field. The ball was hit as high as it was far, and was just far enough to clear the 330 foot fenceline for a solo homerun. Eagles 4 Bandits 0.
The Eagles tacked on another run in the next inning. A leadoff double by Boyle was almost squandered by the Eagles. Todd was able to strike out Hastings, and induce Trey Vavra into hitting a little dribbler back to the mound that Todd fielded to first base. Todd quickly got behind Lorenzen in the count, and Lorenzen was able to drive a 3-1 fastball for a single, scoring Boyle from 2nd base. Eagles 5 Bandits 0.
Until the bottom of the 8th inning the Bandits only managed 3 baserunners from 3 singles. Ben Sivertson proved to be a crafty righty. He mixed in a fastball, curveball, and changeup - all pitches he threw with accuracy, and had the Bandits off balance all day. However, in the bottom of the 8th inning he struggled with his control. After Jeff Johnson popped out to the shortstop, Will Ball was hit by a pitch. Then Curtis Roebuck was hit by a pitch. Then Gus Koecher was hit by a pitch. Three consecutive Bandits had reached base, all without swinging the bat. Scott Lindholm came to the plate, 0-3 on the day with 1 strikeout, and managed to rip a full-count line drive to left field, over the left fielder Ned Welch's head. Welch, who was playing deep, quickly recovered and was able to gun down Gus Koecher trying to make 3rd from 1st base. The Lindholm double drove in 2 runs. Matt Vold seemed to be the only Bandit that Eagles pitcher Sivertson could not get out. Vold dumped a 1-0 pitch to right center field, scoring Lindholm from 2nd base. Vold's final line for the day: 3-4, RBI. Steve Siqueiros came to the plate with 2 outs, representing the tying run. But Sivertson had already regained his composure and control and Siqueiros went down on 3 quick strikes. Eagles 5 Bandits 3.
The Bandits kept Todd in for the 9th inning, having retired the last 6 batters in a row, and may have made a mistake in doing so. Todd allowed a single to Lorenzen and then hit Alex Buckley. Bandits management turned to 18 year old Will Ball. Ball's first pitch was errant, allowing the runners to advance to 3rd and 2nd. Ned Welch then grounded to third base, but Johnson's throw was wide of 1st base. First baseman Michael Chelberg leaped for the ball but ended up only knocking the ball into the Bandits dugout, allowing both runners on 2nd and 3rd to score. Welch would later score on a sacrifice fly, and the Eagles got all 3 runs back in the top of the 9th. Eagles 8 Bandits 3.
The Bandits went down quietly in the ninth, getting only a walk off of relief pitcher Rob Heller.
The Bandits dropped their 5th game in a row and haven't won since coming off the 2 week hiatus during the 4th of July. "This was a pretty ugly game," said pitcher Jim Rochford. "By no stretch of the imagination we could have allowed only two runs today, however, if you look at it on the other side, if Sivertson doesn't bean three batters, we score only one instead of three. Trevor pitched absolutely great, its just amazing to me, what happens when our team gives up any free bases. We walked only two guys and beaned two. Three of those four guys scored."
BOXSCORE is HERE
The Bandits next game is Wannigan Days Game #2 - Sunday vs. Hudson.
NOTES
Game Balls
1. Matt Vold: 3-4, RBI
2. Trevor Todd: 8IP, 3ER, 6H, 5K, 2BB, 2HBP
3. Scott Lindholm: 1-4, R, 2B, 2RBI
Unheralded Hero of the Game:
All of the staff that worked the 4th/5th/6th tournament this weekend, you make it possible for the Bandits and the St. Croix Youth Baseball Association to exist. THANK YOU
WOW Play of the Day:
Not much action on the big boys field, most of the yelling and screaming came from the little kids fields, where numerous games ended in walk-off fashion. My favorite play of the day was when I was umping a 6th grade game behind the plate and the catcher would frame the ball when it was 8 inches outside or up near a kid's head. Then he would drop his head in disgust when I called it a ball. I thought he was going to try and fight me. Otherwise, I suppose three hit batsmen in a row is enough of a WOW for our game.
Players Missing in Action:
Kahl - Lost at a wedding
JP - Lost at a Perkins
Larcom - Lost at a little kids tournament
Svoboda - Lost at a tractor pull
Switala - Lost in a sweatshirt
Gagner - Lost in a motel bed
Estimated Attendance:
40-60
Monday, July 13, 2009
Game Recaps: A Weekend With Hagar City....Gone Wrong
The St. Croix River Bandits (2-11 conf, 3-17 overall) dropped a couple of games to the Hagar City Skeeters this weekend. The Bandits and Skeeters played a 7 inning non-conference game on Saturday at Hagar City and a conference game vs. Hagar City at home on Sunday.
So what happens when a team that's struggling to pitch the ball meets a team that's struggling to hit the ball? The answer is the Skeeters vs. the River Bandits.
Game 1. (Non Conference) Hagar City 6 - St. Croix River Bandits 4
Skeeters walks/HBP allowed/errors: 12
Bandits Hits: 5
The Skeeters were able to get 9 hits off of starting pitcher Will Ball, who struggled with control the entire day. However, even though Ball allowed 9 hits, and walked/plunked a combined 9 batters, only 3 of his 6 runs were earned, due to some shoddy defensive play. The Bandits offense did not come to the rescue, managing only 5 hits in 27 at bats, 2 by C Steve Siqueiros. The Bandits also stranded 3 runners in the 6th inning, having the bases loaded and 0 outs, and couldn't put the ball in play.
Game 2. (Conference) Hagar City 8 - St. Croix River Bandits 4
Skeeters walks/HBP allowed/errors: 14
Bandits Hits: 4
The Bandits gave up an early lead in the first inning as Skeeters lead off batter Lance Murphy singled to left field, stole 2nd base, and reached 3rd on a wild pitch. Bandits starting pitcher Jim Rochford, coming off of 2 consecutive quality conference starts (15.2 IP, 3ER), just didn't have his stuff. Rochford walked Elliot Foley. Rochford induced 3-hitter Mike Berg to hit into a possible double play grounder to 3rd base, but 3rd baseman Jeff Johnson's throw sailed on him, and into right field. Muphy was able to score. Rochford was able to get out of the inning without any further damage.
The Bandits tied the game in the bottom of the 2nd inning. Kyle Kahl led the inning off with a walk, and Jeff Johnson was able to single to right, but the ball was misplayed by the right fielder when getting the ball in. Kahl was able to reach 3rd base, however, then-3rd base coach Scott Lindholm sent Kahl home, as the infield/outfield still did not have control of the ball, and he was able to score. Bandits 1 - Skeeters 1
The Skeeters came roaring back in the top of the 3rd inning. Rochford gave up 3 straight singles to the 1-2-3 hitters, and let up a run before getting an out. Mike Maves singled softly to LF to load the bases with one out. Rochford walked Jeremy Werner on 4 straight pitches, walking in a run from 3rd base. The next batter, Cory Bratholl hit the first pitch he saw right at 3rd baseman Jeff Johnson, who threw home to Steve Siqueiros for the 2nd out of the inning, then Siqueiros was able to relay the ball down to 1st base to beat the runner for an inning ending doubleplay. Skeeters led 3-1.
The Skeeters scored again in the top of the 5th inning. Three runs in total, coming off of 3 hits and an error. Cory Bratholl got his revenge, as he crushed a ball to deep left center field with the bases loaded, and all three runners scored. Bratholl, however, was only make it to 1st base, making that hit one BIG single. Skeeters up 6-1.
The Bandits got two back in the bottom of the 5th inning. Skeeters pitcher Brady Brenner walked the bases loaded and with 1 out Kyle Kahl hit a single to centerfield scoring Lindholm and Todd. However, even with runners 1st and 3rd and one out, the Bandits were not able to score another run. Skeeters up 6-3.
Rochford came out to pitch the top of the 6th, which turned out to be a bad idea. Rochford let up a double to lead off hitter Lance Murphy and another single to Elliot Foley. Rochford was then lifted for Trevor Todd. Rochford's final line: 5IP, 11H, 8R, 6ER was far from ideal - after looking at the stat sheet Rochford's only comment was, "Well atleast the 4 thru 9 hitters were 4-17 against me - too bad those first three guys were 7-10." Trevor Todd relieved all 4 innings, and allowed only 1 hit, walked 2, and hit 2 batters. Both runners that Todd inherited did score in the 6th inning, and were charged to Rochford. Skeeters up 8-3.
Skeeters pitcher Brady Brenner settled down in the last 4 innings, walking only 4 Bandits, and letting up only 1 hit. Trevor Todd was able to score in the bottom of the ninth inning for the Bandits as he walked and Kyle Kahl's single got him over to 3rd base. Todd scored when Skeeters catcher Mike Maves tried to pick off Kyle Kahl from first base with 2 outs in the ninth inning. Kahl was caught in a run down but was able to escape back to first when the Skeeters infield mis-handled the ball, allowing Todd to reach home. Final Score Skeeters 8, Bandits 4.
The Bandits have managed only 12 hits in their last 3 games since the 4th of July break and if they hope to win any of their 3 remaining conference games, that number must improve - by a lot!
NOTES
Game 1
Game Balls:
1-3. Steve Siqueiros 2-4, R, 2B, 2 RBI
Unheraled Hero of the Day: Trevor Todd went 0-0 in 4 plate appearances, walking twice, getting hit by a pitch and hitting a sacrifice bunt. Very impressive Trevor
WOW Play of the Day: Perhaps something to do with defense, and flying as high as a kite, and sitting around on the field, and someone's dad yelling at all the little kids on the field. For you Bandits who were there, you know what I mean.
Players Missing in Action: just about everyone, we even had to recuit some kid from Lewis, WI named Bubba Smith, except he isn't the one that's 6'7" 260lbs and played pro football.
Estimated Away Attendance: 0 - for sure and a good thing
Game 2:
Game Balls
1. Kyle Kahl 2-4, R, 2RBI, BB, 5 assists
2. Trevor Todd 4IP, 1H, 2BB, 2HBP, 5K also 0-2 at the dish 2R, 3BB
3. Scott Lindholm 1-2, R, 2BB, HBP
Unheralded Player of the Day: Michael VanderPlas. Vandy played a phenonemal 2nd base, the first time in his Bandits career in the infield. In 3 innings, Vandy had 3 assists and a putout, no errors and 1 amazing play where he hustled to the ball, threw across his body, and made the out at first just in time.
WOW Play of the Day: I'd like to say its where pitcher Jim Rochford catches a line drive off the bat of Skeeter DH Tyler Frazier and then, not knowing if the ball had bounced or not, and Frazier taking off towards 1st base, Rochford throws /spikes the ball into the ground 10 feet wide of first base, then looks to the umpire and says, "Hey I caught that, it didn't hit the ground!....right??" But the happening of the day is when a friendly dispute about infield defensive positioning almost came to fisticuffs.
Players Missing in Action:
Matt Vold - sunday football camp, fun times....
Gus Koecher - trapping fish
Curtis Roebuck - if Curtis Roebuck "happens" in Vegas, does that mean he has to stay there?
Adam Lewis - stood us UP! I am crank calling you for the next 10 days LEW!
Estimated Attendance: 30-50
So what happens when a team that's struggling to pitch the ball meets a team that's struggling to hit the ball? The answer is the Skeeters vs. the River Bandits.
Game 1. (Non Conference) Hagar City 6 - St. Croix River Bandits 4
Skeeters walks/HBP allowed/errors: 12
Bandits Hits: 5
The Skeeters were able to get 9 hits off of starting pitcher Will Ball, who struggled with control the entire day. However, even though Ball allowed 9 hits, and walked/plunked a combined 9 batters, only 3 of his 6 runs were earned, due to some shoddy defensive play. The Bandits offense did not come to the rescue, managing only 5 hits in 27 at bats, 2 by C Steve Siqueiros. The Bandits also stranded 3 runners in the 6th inning, having the bases loaded and 0 outs, and couldn't put the ball in play.
Game 2. (Conference) Hagar City 8 - St. Croix River Bandits 4
Skeeters walks/HBP allowed/errors: 14
Bandits Hits: 4
The Bandits gave up an early lead in the first inning as Skeeters lead off batter Lance Murphy singled to left field, stole 2nd base, and reached 3rd on a wild pitch. Bandits starting pitcher Jim Rochford, coming off of 2 consecutive quality conference starts (15.2 IP, 3ER), just didn't have his stuff. Rochford walked Elliot Foley. Rochford induced 3-hitter Mike Berg to hit into a possible double play grounder to 3rd base, but 3rd baseman Jeff Johnson's throw sailed on him, and into right field. Muphy was able to score. Rochford was able to get out of the inning without any further damage.
The Bandits tied the game in the bottom of the 2nd inning. Kyle Kahl led the inning off with a walk, and Jeff Johnson was able to single to right, but the ball was misplayed by the right fielder when getting the ball in. Kahl was able to reach 3rd base, however, then-3rd base coach Scott Lindholm sent Kahl home, as the infield/outfield still did not have control of the ball, and he was able to score. Bandits 1 - Skeeters 1
The Skeeters came roaring back in the top of the 3rd inning. Rochford gave up 3 straight singles to the 1-2-3 hitters, and let up a run before getting an out. Mike Maves singled softly to LF to load the bases with one out. Rochford walked Jeremy Werner on 4 straight pitches, walking in a run from 3rd base. The next batter, Cory Bratholl hit the first pitch he saw right at 3rd baseman Jeff Johnson, who threw home to Steve Siqueiros for the 2nd out of the inning, then Siqueiros was able to relay the ball down to 1st base to beat the runner for an inning ending doubleplay. Skeeters led 3-1.
The Skeeters scored again in the top of the 5th inning. Three runs in total, coming off of 3 hits and an error. Cory Bratholl got his revenge, as he crushed a ball to deep left center field with the bases loaded, and all three runners scored. Bratholl, however, was only make it to 1st base, making that hit one BIG single. Skeeters up 6-1.
The Bandits got two back in the bottom of the 5th inning. Skeeters pitcher Brady Brenner walked the bases loaded and with 1 out Kyle Kahl hit a single to centerfield scoring Lindholm and Todd. However, even with runners 1st and 3rd and one out, the Bandits were not able to score another run. Skeeters up 6-3.
Rochford came out to pitch the top of the 6th, which turned out to be a bad idea. Rochford let up a double to lead off hitter Lance Murphy and another single to Elliot Foley. Rochford was then lifted for Trevor Todd. Rochford's final line: 5IP, 11H, 8R, 6ER was far from ideal - after looking at the stat sheet Rochford's only comment was, "Well atleast the 4 thru 9 hitters were 4-17 against me - too bad those first three guys were 7-10." Trevor Todd relieved all 4 innings, and allowed only 1 hit, walked 2, and hit 2 batters. Both runners that Todd inherited did score in the 6th inning, and were charged to Rochford. Skeeters up 8-3.
Skeeters pitcher Brady Brenner settled down in the last 4 innings, walking only 4 Bandits, and letting up only 1 hit. Trevor Todd was able to score in the bottom of the ninth inning for the Bandits as he walked and Kyle Kahl's single got him over to 3rd base. Todd scored when Skeeters catcher Mike Maves tried to pick off Kyle Kahl from first base with 2 outs in the ninth inning. Kahl was caught in a run down but was able to escape back to first when the Skeeters infield mis-handled the ball, allowing Todd to reach home. Final Score Skeeters 8, Bandits 4.
The Bandits have managed only 12 hits in their last 3 games since the 4th of July break and if they hope to win any of their 3 remaining conference games, that number must improve - by a lot!
NOTES
Game 1
Game Balls:
1-3. Steve Siqueiros 2-4, R, 2B, 2 RBI
Unheraled Hero of the Day: Trevor Todd went 0-0 in 4 plate appearances, walking twice, getting hit by a pitch and hitting a sacrifice bunt. Very impressive Trevor
WOW Play of the Day: Perhaps something to do with defense, and flying as high as a kite, and sitting around on the field, and someone's dad yelling at all the little kids on the field. For you Bandits who were there, you know what I mean.
Players Missing in Action: just about everyone, we even had to recuit some kid from Lewis, WI named Bubba Smith, except he isn't the one that's 6'7" 260lbs and played pro football.
Estimated Away Attendance: 0 - for sure and a good thing
Game 2:
Game Balls
1. Kyle Kahl 2-4, R, 2RBI, BB, 5 assists
2. Trevor Todd 4IP, 1H, 2BB, 2HBP, 5K also 0-2 at the dish 2R, 3BB
3. Scott Lindholm 1-2, R, 2BB, HBP
Unheralded Player of the Day: Michael VanderPlas. Vandy played a phenonemal 2nd base, the first time in his Bandits career in the infield. In 3 innings, Vandy had 3 assists and a putout, no errors and 1 amazing play where he hustled to the ball, threw across his body, and made the out at first just in time.
WOW Play of the Day: I'd like to say its where pitcher Jim Rochford catches a line drive off the bat of Skeeter DH Tyler Frazier and then, not knowing if the ball had bounced or not, and Frazier taking off towards 1st base, Rochford throws /spikes the ball into the ground 10 feet wide of first base, then looks to the umpire and says, "Hey I caught that, it didn't hit the ground!....right??" But the happening of the day is when a friendly dispute about infield defensive positioning almost came to fisticuffs.
Players Missing in Action:
Matt Vold - sunday football camp, fun times....
Gus Koecher - trapping fish
Curtis Roebuck - if Curtis Roebuck "happens" in Vegas, does that mean he has to stay there?
Adam Lewis - stood us UP! I am crank calling you for the next 10 days LEW!
Estimated Attendance: 30-50
Game Recap - Bandits drop close game to Rival Osceola
The St. Croix River Bandits (2-10, 3-15) struggled to hit after coming back from a 2-week holiday hiatus, and had their hands full with Ross Benitz and Jacob Kiehl of the Osceola Braves (6-4). The Braves quickly took the lead in the bottom of the 1st inning, when speedster LF Ryan Rugg poked a ball just past P Trevor Todd, towards second base. Bandits SS Matt Vold charged the ball and quickly relayed it to first base, but was unable to catch the speedy Rugg. Rugg was able to steal both 2nd and 3rd base on the Todd-Siqueiros battery, and then scored on a Tim Urban groundout to 2b.
The Braves rallied again in the bottom of the 2nd inning. Braves Brian Hauck led the inning off with a single. Trevor Todd was able to strike out Pete Droher and Steve Papke, but Hauck reached 2nd base on a passed ball. Travis Pilz hit a 2-out single to right field where Bandits RF Michael Chelberg fielded the ball and launched it towards home plate, trying to catch Hauck running in from 2nd. Siqueiros was able to catch the ball and tried to apply the tag to Hauck, who was attempting to slide under it. Dust and sand filled the air with the slide and it wasn't certain whether Hauck was safe or was the 3rd out of the inning. With everyone looking to the umpire, he raised out both arms out, indicating that Hauck was safe, giving the Braves a 2-0 lead. The inning dragged on, as Braves C Ian Kalata dropped a ball down the first base line for a double, scoring Pilz. Ryan Rugg then singled for the 2nd time in 2 innings, scoring Kalata, making the game 4-0. Todd was able to stop the bleeding, picking off Rugg at first base for the 3rd out of the inning.
While the Bandits were able to get runners on base in both the 1st and 2nd inning. Braves SP Ross Benitz was able to induce 2 groundball-inning-ending-doubleplays. So when Bandits RF Michael Chelberg reached in the 3rd with a walk to start the inning, 3rd base coach Jim Rochford states "There was no way he wasn't going to steal," and thats how Chelberg reached second base. Chelberg was able tag up and reach third base after Jeff Johnson flew out to deep left field for the 2nd out of the inning, which would have been a home run in any other park in the conference. Chelberg then scored without a Bandit even needing to touch the ball, as a Benitz/Kalata passed ball reached the backstop, Chelberg raced home and scored.
The Bandits scored again, mostly on Braves miscues in the 4th inning. Gus Koecher led off the inning by striking out, but the strikout pitch got past C Ian Kalata and Koecher was able to sprint down to 1st base and beat out the throw. Koecher then stole 2nd base and reached 3rd on another passed ball. Matt Vold came to the plate and laced a 1-1 fastball into right center field for a single, scoring Koecher, and cutting the Braves lead to 4-2.
Trevor Todd pitched the remainder of the game for the Bandits and surrendered only 4 more hits over 6 innings, and faced only 5 batters over the minimum. Unfortunately the Braves pitched just as well. Benitz needed only 19 pitches to get 6 outs in the 5th and 6th innings. Braves reliever Jacob Kiehl threw the last three innings and picked up the save. Kiehl allowed only 1 hit and 1 walk, while striking out 1.
The Braves and Bandits both played a clean game, with only 1 error being recorded between the two teams, and the evening which was dominated by good pitching. The Bandits play the Braves again at St. Croix Falls on Saturday July 25th.
NOTES
Game Balls
1. Trevor Todd: 8IP, 8H, 4R, 7K, 3BB
2. Gus Koecher/Matt Vold: 2-7, R, RBI SB, BB
3. Michael Chelberg - 0-2, R, BB, SB but scored a run with some aggressive base running and ALMOST made what could have been the game winning play in the 2nd inning with his throw to home plate. Too close to call - glad I wasn't the umpire. Plus some other stellar defense in RF.
Unheralded Hero of the Game: Bandits defense, only 1 error on the evening - a ball that took a goofy hop, but didn't cause any runs to cross the plate.
WOW Play of the Day: When Matt Vold hit a 2-Run HR to tie the game in the top of the ninth inning with Steve Siqueiros on 1st base. - WAIT - that didn't happen...... Its actually when a ball was hit deep to right center field and RF Michael Chelberg started yelling to CF Scott Lindholm, "you got it, you got it." until Chelberg realized, oh I guess he's too far away, I better run. So Chelberg ran...and ran, and dove backwards, left arm stretched out, and somehow caught the ball while appearing to hyper extend his entire body. Chelberg raised the ball up for the umpire to see he had it and then, hearing the calls of his teammates, threw the ball in to the infield where Braves RF Tim Urban was doubled off of 2nd base, as Urban thought the ball had dropped for a hit.
Players Missing in Action:
pretty much all of our regulars were here.....amazing...except for Gagner of course, lets not get crazy.
Away Attendance: 30+
The Braves rallied again in the bottom of the 2nd inning. Braves Brian Hauck led the inning off with a single. Trevor Todd was able to strike out Pete Droher and Steve Papke, but Hauck reached 2nd base on a passed ball. Travis Pilz hit a 2-out single to right field where Bandits RF Michael Chelberg fielded the ball and launched it towards home plate, trying to catch Hauck running in from 2nd. Siqueiros was able to catch the ball and tried to apply the tag to Hauck, who was attempting to slide under it. Dust and sand filled the air with the slide and it wasn't certain whether Hauck was safe or was the 3rd out of the inning. With everyone looking to the umpire, he raised out both arms out, indicating that Hauck was safe, giving the Braves a 2-0 lead. The inning dragged on, as Braves C Ian Kalata dropped a ball down the first base line for a double, scoring Pilz. Ryan Rugg then singled for the 2nd time in 2 innings, scoring Kalata, making the game 4-0. Todd was able to stop the bleeding, picking off Rugg at first base for the 3rd out of the inning.
While the Bandits were able to get runners on base in both the 1st and 2nd inning. Braves SP Ross Benitz was able to induce 2 groundball-inning-ending-doubleplays. So when Bandits RF Michael Chelberg reached in the 3rd with a walk to start the inning, 3rd base coach Jim Rochford states "There was no way he wasn't going to steal," and thats how Chelberg reached second base. Chelberg was able tag up and reach third base after Jeff Johnson flew out to deep left field for the 2nd out of the inning, which would have been a home run in any other park in the conference. Chelberg then scored without a Bandit even needing to touch the ball, as a Benitz/Kalata passed ball reached the backstop, Chelberg raced home and scored.
The Bandits scored again, mostly on Braves miscues in the 4th inning. Gus Koecher led off the inning by striking out, but the strikout pitch got past C Ian Kalata and Koecher was able to sprint down to 1st base and beat out the throw. Koecher then stole 2nd base and reached 3rd on another passed ball. Matt Vold came to the plate and laced a 1-1 fastball into right center field for a single, scoring Koecher, and cutting the Braves lead to 4-2.
Trevor Todd pitched the remainder of the game for the Bandits and surrendered only 4 more hits over 6 innings, and faced only 5 batters over the minimum. Unfortunately the Braves pitched just as well. Benitz needed only 19 pitches to get 6 outs in the 5th and 6th innings. Braves reliever Jacob Kiehl threw the last three innings and picked up the save. Kiehl allowed only 1 hit and 1 walk, while striking out 1.
The Braves and Bandits both played a clean game, with only 1 error being recorded between the two teams, and the evening which was dominated by good pitching. The Bandits play the Braves again at St. Croix Falls on Saturday July 25th.
NOTES
Game Balls
1. Trevor Todd: 8IP, 8H, 4R, 7K, 3BB
2. Gus Koecher/Matt Vold: 2-7, R, RBI SB, BB
3. Michael Chelberg - 0-2, R, BB, SB but scored a run with some aggressive base running and ALMOST made what could have been the game winning play in the 2nd inning with his throw to home plate. Too close to call - glad I wasn't the umpire. Plus some other stellar defense in RF.
Unheralded Hero of the Game: Bandits defense, only 1 error on the evening - a ball that took a goofy hop, but didn't cause any runs to cross the plate.
WOW Play of the Day: When Matt Vold hit a 2-Run HR to tie the game in the top of the ninth inning with Steve Siqueiros on 1st base. - WAIT - that didn't happen...... Its actually when a ball was hit deep to right center field and RF Michael Chelberg started yelling to CF Scott Lindholm, "you got it, you got it." until Chelberg realized, oh I guess he's too far away, I better run. So Chelberg ran...and ran, and dove backwards, left arm stretched out, and somehow caught the ball while appearing to hyper extend his entire body. Chelberg raised the ball up for the umpire to see he had it and then, hearing the calls of his teammates, threw the ball in to the infield where Braves RF Tim Urban was doubled off of 2nd base, as Urban thought the ball had dropped for a hit.
Players Missing in Action:
pretty much all of our regulars were here.....amazing...except for Gagner of course, lets not get crazy.
Away Attendance: 30+
Tuesday, July 7, 2009
Game Preview - 7/8 @ Osceola Braves 7pm
The St. Croix River Bandits (2-9 conf, 3-14 overall) will take the short trip down the river to Osceola to battle the Braves on Wednesday. This is the first meeting between the Braves and Bandits this season. The Braves hold a 6-1 advantage in the overall series, with the Bandits only win coming from a dominating Jay Gagner performance in 2007. Gagner allowed only 4 hits and struck out 18 batters in a 2-1 victory. The Braves have outscored the Bandits 80-25 in this one sided rivalry, but as manager Jim Rochford states, "A lot of these games were closer than they appeared in the boxscores, they do a good job of piling on runs in the late innings, and not letting other teams get back into the game."
Trevor Todd will take the mound for the Bandits. Todd faced the Braves last year in a 11-6 loss at SCF. Todd threw 7 innings and let up only 6 hits, but the game was plagued by walks and errors, which eventually led to the Bandits defeat. Todd is also 7-17 lifetime versus the Braves at the plate, with 3RBI and a run scored. Bandit's CF Scott Lindholm has also had some success versus Braves pitching, going 6/16 with 3 R scored in 5 games against the Braves.
Bandits predicted Line-up
LF Scott Lindholm
CF Gus Koecher
P Trevor Todd
C Steve Siqueiros
SS Matt Vold
3B Kyle Kahl
RF Michael Chelberg
1B Jeff Johnson
2B Curtis Roebuck
Trevor Todd will take the mound for the Bandits. Todd faced the Braves last year in a 11-6 loss at SCF. Todd threw 7 innings and let up only 6 hits, but the game was plagued by walks and errors, which eventually led to the Bandits defeat. Todd is also 7-17 lifetime versus the Braves at the plate, with 3RBI and a run scored. Bandit's CF Scott Lindholm has also had some success versus Braves pitching, going 6/16 with 3 R scored in 5 games against the Braves.
Bandits predicted Line-up
LF Scott Lindholm
CF Gus Koecher
P Trevor Todd
C Steve Siqueiros
SS Matt Vold
3B Kyle Kahl
RF Michael Chelberg
1B Jeff Johnson
2B Curtis Roebuck
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
Game Recap - Bandits defeated, slowly but surely, by the New Richmond Millers.
The St. Croix River Bandits (2-9, 3-14) were baffled by Tim Brown and the New Richmond Millers on Wednesday night in New Richmond. "The first time around when we played those guys at home, even though we lost, I wasn't that impressed for a team that had such a good conference record (now 7-3), but tonight I was. They looked great, timely hitting, extra base hits, disciplined plate appearances, sound defense, and a great effort by starting pitcher Tim Brown." stated manager Jim Rochford. "Their head coach, Ryan Stephens, has that team firing on all cylinders. They are a young and talented group of players that will be competitive for some time in the SCVBL."
The Bandits were only out hit 7 to 9 on Wednesday night but the Bandits, once again, could not string hits together, getting only more than 1 hit in an inning one time, in the first when the Bandits scored their lone run. Scott Lindholm led off the game with a single, and stole 2nd base. Michael Chelberg reached on an infield single that ricocheted off of Miller SP Tim Brown. While clean up hitter Steve Siqueiros was batting, Brown threw a high pitch, that tipped off the glove of catcher Matt Peterson. Lindholm dashed home and the throw was not in time. The Bandits had runners on 1st and 3rd with one out, after Siqueiros walked. Millers veteran pitcher Brown bared down and got Kyle Kahl and Adam Lewis to strike out, ending the inning with only 1 run given up.
The Millers popped right back in the bottom of the 1st. Miller's center fielder (and player of the game) Hayden Zimmerman hit a lead off double to left field. Starting pitcher Will Ball (making his first start as a Bandit) was able to strikeout the next batter, Jon Will. Zimmerman reached third on a Scott Emerson single and was able to score on a Curt Kleinschmidt sacrifice fly to right field.
The Bandits had troubles connecting on Tim Brown's pitches all evening. Brown ended up striking out 10 Bandits, inducing 2 comebackers to the pitcher, and getting the Bandits to ground into 2 double plays.
The Millers, Zimmerman got aboard in the 3rd inning with a walk and was drove home with Jon Will's only hit of the day, a double to deep left center. The Millers held a 2-1 lead until the bottom of the 6th inning when they struck again. Bandits miscues led to 2 runs being scored (and could have been more, if not for some timely defense) with an error, hbp, and 2 singles leading the way. Once again, it seems that every error the Bandits make comes around to haunt them - that's why we love baseball. Trevor Todd relieved Ball with 2 outs in the 6th, and batters on 2nd and 1st with 2 outs and was able to strike out Miller's RF Ron Peterson to end the inning. Millers up 4-1.
The Millers struck again in the 7th for 2 more. Zimmerman led the inning off with a triple to right center and was scored on an Emerson single. Emerson advanced to second base when Kleinschmidt grounded out to first. Millers SS Mitch Paquin hit a ground ball to SS Kyle Kahl who overthrew firstbaseman Adam Lewis. Paquin sped towards 2nd base, but Lewis got to the ball quickly and threw to 2B Curtis Roebuck who was able to tag out Paquin at 2nd base. Unfortunately for the Bandits, Emerson was able to score during the chaos, before the tag was applied. Millers up 6-1.
Collin Svoboda, a high school senior from Luck, made his debut, and sadly as many Bandits pitchers do, struggled in his first men's league outing. Svoboda lasted 1/3 of an inning, not allowing any hits, but walking 3 and beaning 1. "He threw some good pitches, he just needs to locate a little lower in the zone, almost every Bandits pitcher I have seen has struggled in their first outing. In my first game 3 years ago, I walked 6 batters and hit 2 more over 4 innings, and that was against a Quamba team that was a lot less disciplined at the plate than this team. I fully expect him to bounce back." stated manager Jim Rochford.
Speaking of Rochford, when he went to the mound to take Svoboda out of the game, he asked catcher Steve Siqueiros, "Who should we have go in? Chelberg or Roebuck." Siqueiros answered, "You." With a befuddled look, Rochford trotted back to the dugout to retrieve his glove and plodded out to the pitchers mound. Rochford's first pitch was a strike on the inner half of the plate to lefty Jon Will, who popped/lined/blooped the ball over to third base where Chelberg was able to make the catch and throw over to Roebuck at 2nd base to double off Ron Peterson. All in all, Rochford's appearance, 1 pitch, 2 outs.
The Millers opted against allowing Brown to complete the game, throwing fireballer Cody Torkelson. Torkelson's control was a bit inconsistent, but he got the job done. The game ended on a double play ball which symbolized exactly how the game played out.
"We were in the game for a long time and that team pretty much bled us to death. A run here, a run there, then 2 more, etc, etc. We start off real well against Brown and company here, but just can't put a whole game together. But like I said, I came off very impressed with New Richmond and wish them the best of luck in the playoffs." said Jim Rochford
The Millers are 7-3 and generally teams with a record over .500 make the postseason tournament. The Milers have 6 games left and it would be a shock to this columnist/or rather blogger, if they don't make it.
The Bandits won't see the Millers again until next season, and are 0-4 lifetime against them.
The Bandits next game isn't for 2 WHOLE WEEKS. July 8th at Osceola - we are hoping against hope that ace Jay Gagner will be ready from his elbow injury, but if not expect either of the lefties Trevor Todd or Jim Rochford to take the mound.
Game Balls:
1) Scott Lindholm: only Bandit with 2 hits, scored a run, and stole a base.
2) Will Ball: pitched a good game today for his first start. Allowed 4 runs over 5.2 innings, but only 2 were earned, scattered 7 hits, struck out 2 (and made 4 defensive plays - not bad for a pitcher)
3) Curtis Roebuck: 1-3 at the dish, but had a great fielding day 5 put outs and 3 assists and no errors. Robey was also involved in both of the Bandits double plays on D.
Unheralded Heroes of the Day:
We had a minimum of 20 Bandits fans come to the game on Wednesday night. We more than appreciate the support that you guys give us, even if some of the men are wearing the opposing team's colors or scarves around their neck.
WOW Play of the Day:
With Millers SS Mitch Paquin on 2nd base, DH Aaron Frei hit a single to RF where Bandits Michael VanderPlas threw a bead to Bandits catcher Steve Siqueiros. Siqueiros caught the ball and instead of bracing for impact from the charging Paquin, pretty much starting charging Paquin instead. It ended in a violent collision in which Siqueiros tagged the runner out, quite forcefully, to Paquin's chest and face. Siqueiros had hung on to the ball and then did the patented Steve-O glare down as Paquin was getting up. When asked about the play Siqueiros responded, "Well, I'm not going to just stand there and let HIM knock ME over." Whatever you say Steve-O.
Players Missing in Action
Jay Gagner - seriously just think of something, anything, and that is probably what Gagner was doing.
Matt Vold - whatever my excuse is, its better than his
Gus Koecher - the only 17 year old I know who works 80 hours a week, isn't there a law?
Jake Larcom - teaching 7th graders the correct way to banana 1st base
Adam Lewis's arm - just kidding
Jeff Johnson - ate too much Hawaiian Pizza and lost his will to live because it is so terrible
John Peterson - was busy turning time into money
I Learned Something Today.....
1. 9 hits in a game is no good if you get 1 an inning
2. Pete's Pizza will gladly stay open later for 12 hungry baseball players. Thanks Pete
3. 16 year olds still put $1 of gas in their car. How far is that going to get you? 4500 feet? Thats right I'm talking to you, kid at the Horse Creek gas station who was wearing a Manning Phoenix Suns basketball jersey and when asked about it stated, "I don't know, I don't watch....basketball."
The Bandits were only out hit 7 to 9 on Wednesday night but the Bandits, once again, could not string hits together, getting only more than 1 hit in an inning one time, in the first when the Bandits scored their lone run. Scott Lindholm led off the game with a single, and stole 2nd base. Michael Chelberg reached on an infield single that ricocheted off of Miller SP Tim Brown. While clean up hitter Steve Siqueiros was batting, Brown threw a high pitch, that tipped off the glove of catcher Matt Peterson. Lindholm dashed home and the throw was not in time. The Bandits had runners on 1st and 3rd with one out, after Siqueiros walked. Millers veteran pitcher Brown bared down and got Kyle Kahl and Adam Lewis to strike out, ending the inning with only 1 run given up.
The Millers popped right back in the bottom of the 1st. Miller's center fielder (and player of the game) Hayden Zimmerman hit a lead off double to left field. Starting pitcher Will Ball (making his first start as a Bandit) was able to strikeout the next batter, Jon Will. Zimmerman reached third on a Scott Emerson single and was able to score on a Curt Kleinschmidt sacrifice fly to right field.
The Bandits had troubles connecting on Tim Brown's pitches all evening. Brown ended up striking out 10 Bandits, inducing 2 comebackers to the pitcher, and getting the Bandits to ground into 2 double plays.
The Millers, Zimmerman got aboard in the 3rd inning with a walk and was drove home with Jon Will's only hit of the day, a double to deep left center. The Millers held a 2-1 lead until the bottom of the 6th inning when they struck again. Bandits miscues led to 2 runs being scored (and could have been more, if not for some timely defense) with an error, hbp, and 2 singles leading the way. Once again, it seems that every error the Bandits make comes around to haunt them - that's why we love baseball. Trevor Todd relieved Ball with 2 outs in the 6th, and batters on 2nd and 1st with 2 outs and was able to strike out Miller's RF Ron Peterson to end the inning. Millers up 4-1.
The Millers struck again in the 7th for 2 more. Zimmerman led the inning off with a triple to right center and was scored on an Emerson single. Emerson advanced to second base when Kleinschmidt grounded out to first. Millers SS Mitch Paquin hit a ground ball to SS Kyle Kahl who overthrew firstbaseman Adam Lewis. Paquin sped towards 2nd base, but Lewis got to the ball quickly and threw to 2B Curtis Roebuck who was able to tag out Paquin at 2nd base. Unfortunately for the Bandits, Emerson was able to score during the chaos, before the tag was applied. Millers up 6-1.
Collin Svoboda, a high school senior from Luck, made his debut, and sadly as many Bandits pitchers do, struggled in his first men's league outing. Svoboda lasted 1/3 of an inning, not allowing any hits, but walking 3 and beaning 1. "He threw some good pitches, he just needs to locate a little lower in the zone, almost every Bandits pitcher I have seen has struggled in their first outing. In my first game 3 years ago, I walked 6 batters and hit 2 more over 4 innings, and that was against a Quamba team that was a lot less disciplined at the plate than this team. I fully expect him to bounce back." stated manager Jim Rochford.
Speaking of Rochford, when he went to the mound to take Svoboda out of the game, he asked catcher Steve Siqueiros, "Who should we have go in? Chelberg or Roebuck." Siqueiros answered, "You." With a befuddled look, Rochford trotted back to the dugout to retrieve his glove and plodded out to the pitchers mound. Rochford's first pitch was a strike on the inner half of the plate to lefty Jon Will, who popped/lined/blooped the ball over to third base where Chelberg was able to make the catch and throw over to Roebuck at 2nd base to double off Ron Peterson. All in all, Rochford's appearance, 1 pitch, 2 outs.
The Millers opted against allowing Brown to complete the game, throwing fireballer Cody Torkelson. Torkelson's control was a bit inconsistent, but he got the job done. The game ended on a double play ball which symbolized exactly how the game played out.
"We were in the game for a long time and that team pretty much bled us to death. A run here, a run there, then 2 more, etc, etc. We start off real well against Brown and company here, but just can't put a whole game together. But like I said, I came off very impressed with New Richmond and wish them the best of luck in the playoffs." said Jim Rochford
The Millers are 7-3 and generally teams with a record over .500 make the postseason tournament. The Milers have 6 games left and it would be a shock to this columnist/or rather blogger, if they don't make it.
The Bandits won't see the Millers again until next season, and are 0-4 lifetime against them.
The Bandits next game isn't for 2 WHOLE WEEKS. July 8th at Osceola - we are hoping against hope that ace Jay Gagner will be ready from his elbow injury, but if not expect either of the lefties Trevor Todd or Jim Rochford to take the mound.
Game Balls:
1) Scott Lindholm: only Bandit with 2 hits, scored a run, and stole a base.
2) Will Ball: pitched a good game today for his first start. Allowed 4 runs over 5.2 innings, but only 2 were earned, scattered 7 hits, struck out 2 (and made 4 defensive plays - not bad for a pitcher)
3) Curtis Roebuck: 1-3 at the dish, but had a great fielding day 5 put outs and 3 assists and no errors. Robey was also involved in both of the Bandits double plays on D.
Unheralded Heroes of the Day:
We had a minimum of 20 Bandits fans come to the game on Wednesday night. We more than appreciate the support that you guys give us, even if some of the men are wearing the opposing team's colors or scarves around their neck.
WOW Play of the Day:
With Millers SS Mitch Paquin on 2nd base, DH Aaron Frei hit a single to RF where Bandits Michael VanderPlas threw a bead to Bandits catcher Steve Siqueiros. Siqueiros caught the ball and instead of bracing for impact from the charging Paquin, pretty much starting charging Paquin instead. It ended in a violent collision in which Siqueiros tagged the runner out, quite forcefully, to Paquin's chest and face. Siqueiros had hung on to the ball and then did the patented Steve-O glare down as Paquin was getting up. When asked about the play Siqueiros responded, "Well, I'm not going to just stand there and let HIM knock ME over." Whatever you say Steve-O.
Players Missing in Action
Jay Gagner - seriously just think of something, anything, and that is probably what Gagner was doing.
Matt Vold - whatever my excuse is, its better than his
Gus Koecher - the only 17 year old I know who works 80 hours a week, isn't there a law?
Jake Larcom - teaching 7th graders the correct way to banana 1st base
Adam Lewis's arm - just kidding
Jeff Johnson - ate too much Hawaiian Pizza and lost his will to live because it is so terrible
John Peterson - was busy turning time into money
I Learned Something Today.....
1. 9 hits in a game is no good if you get 1 an inning
2. Pete's Pizza will gladly stay open later for 12 hungry baseball players. Thanks Pete
3. 16 year olds still put $1 of gas in their car. How far is that going to get you? 4500 feet? Thats right I'm talking to you, kid at the Horse Creek gas station who was wearing a Manning Phoenix Suns basketball jersey and when asked about it stated, "I don't know, I don't watch....basketball."
Sunday, June 21, 2009
Game Recap - Bandits capture 2nd conference win in 4-1 defeat of Bay City.
The St. Croix River Bandits (2-8, 3-13) won their 3rd game out of the past five on Sunday. The Bandits faced off against Bay City (2-6) and SP Jim Rochford once again took the mound. Rochford started last Sunday vs. River Falls, and threw 8 strong innings, but was not the pitcher of record in the victory.
The first four innings flew by as Rochford and Bay City starting pitcher Tony Schultz worked quickly, not allowing a runner past 2nd base. The bottom of the 5th inning was started by a SS Kyle Kahl single. 1B Michael Chelberg sacrifice bunted Kahl over to 2nd. The next batter, Adam Lewis, then singled to right center field, scoring Kahl from 2nd, and giving the Bandits a 1-0 lead. The Bandits had runners on 1st and 2nd in the 5th with only 1 out, but it took only 2 pitches for Schultz to get two quick outs from RF Michael VanderPlas and CF Scott Lindholm.
The Bombers got that run back in the top of the 6th. Rochford allowed a 2-out single to #3 hitter Shaun Strain, who was then able to steal 2nd base. Clean-up hitter and 1B Gregg Ulveais crushed a ball off of the right center field fence, scoring Strain from 2nd, with a double. The next batter, 3B Jordan Eggenberger, hit a sharp line drive down the line. Bandits 3rd baseman Jeff "Plow" Johnson made a stellar defensive play by diving over to his right and snagging the ball out of the air.
The Bandits came roaring back in the 6th inning. The Bandits led off the inning with 2 singles by 2B John Peterson and LF Trevor Todd. After a Steve Siqueiros fielder's choice, Kyle Kahl hit a single up the middle that scored Todd from 2nd base. 1B Michael Chelberg hit a sharp single to center field loading the bases with only 1 out. DH Adam Lewis grounded to the Bomber's Eggenberger at third base, but he was unable to make the play, allowing Lewis to reach 1st and Siqueiros to score from 3rd. Bandit's 3B Johnson then hit his 2nd single of the game, scoring Kahl. The Bandits looked poised to break the game open even further as Michael VanderPlas stepped to the plate with only 1 out and the bases still loaded. VanderPlas hit the hardest hit ball by a Bandit of the day, unfortunately Bomber's 1st baseman Gregg Ulvaeis snatched it out of the air and was able to double off Tim Wampfler (running for Johnson) who was scampering back to first base. The Bandits led 4-1 after the 6th inning.
The Bombers threatened in the 8th and 9th, but to no avail. Trevor Todd was brought into the game in the 8th inning with 2 outs and runners on 2nd and 1st. After walking the bases loaded, Todd was able to strike out Eggenberger to end the inning. The Bombers were able to get runners on 2nd and 1st in the ninth inning after an error and a walk. But with 2 outs, Todd was able to "strike out" Bomber catcher and lead off batter Tim Eaton.
This was the Bandits 2nd victory over Bay City in the past two years and the 2nd conference victory of the season. "This was a good win for us, we are building confidence with every game we play. We have 6 conference games left and if we can go 3-3 in those last 6 it would be a huge improvement over last season." said starting pitcher Jim Rochford. The Bandits tied their conference win total from last year. The Bandits were 2-13 in the St. Croix Valley Baseball League in 2008, and are currently 2-8.
The Bandits next game is Wednesday at New Richmond at 7:30pm. The Bandits lost to the Millers 5-4 on May 31st.
**NOTES**
Game Balls
1. Jim Rochford 7.2 IP, 6hits allowed, 3BB, 1ER, and 4K
2. Kyle Kahl 2/4, 2R, RBI
3. Adam Lewis/Jeff Johnson - combined 4/8 with 3 RBI and a stolen base (obviously by Lewis)
Unheralded Hero of the Day:
Scott Lindholm was a downright nasty (in a good way) third base coach today.
WOW play of the Day: COMBO - Jim Rochford allowed 2 hits in the first inning, faced only 3 batters, and got 3 outs without a triple play....congrats there! Rochford also let up what would have been a sure home run in just about any park in the SCVBL to Bomber 2B Shaun Strain. But the ball hit a wall of wind out in deep left field and dropped in play for only a double.
Players Missing In Action (Will Ferrell style)
Jay Gagner - just waking up from a bender -I'm Ron Burgandy?
Matt Vold - practicing his fanciest ice skating maneuvers
Curtis Roebuck - getting kicked out of an Applebee's
Chris Chelberg - walking into the sunset with his pet monkey
Will Ball - fighting with his younger brother for the top bunk
Gus Koecher - steel cage match with a bear.
The first four innings flew by as Rochford and Bay City starting pitcher Tony Schultz worked quickly, not allowing a runner past 2nd base. The bottom of the 5th inning was started by a SS Kyle Kahl single. 1B Michael Chelberg sacrifice bunted Kahl over to 2nd. The next batter, Adam Lewis, then singled to right center field, scoring Kahl from 2nd, and giving the Bandits a 1-0 lead. The Bandits had runners on 1st and 2nd in the 5th with only 1 out, but it took only 2 pitches for Schultz to get two quick outs from RF Michael VanderPlas and CF Scott Lindholm.
The Bombers got that run back in the top of the 6th. Rochford allowed a 2-out single to #3 hitter Shaun Strain, who was then able to steal 2nd base. Clean-up hitter and 1B Gregg Ulveais crushed a ball off of the right center field fence, scoring Strain from 2nd, with a double. The next batter, 3B Jordan Eggenberger, hit a sharp line drive down the line. Bandits 3rd baseman Jeff "Plow" Johnson made a stellar defensive play by diving over to his right and snagging the ball out of the air.
The Bandits came roaring back in the 6th inning. The Bandits led off the inning with 2 singles by 2B John Peterson and LF Trevor Todd. After a Steve Siqueiros fielder's choice, Kyle Kahl hit a single up the middle that scored Todd from 2nd base. 1B Michael Chelberg hit a sharp single to center field loading the bases with only 1 out. DH Adam Lewis grounded to the Bomber's Eggenberger at third base, but he was unable to make the play, allowing Lewis to reach 1st and Siqueiros to score from 3rd. Bandit's 3B Johnson then hit his 2nd single of the game, scoring Kahl. The Bandits looked poised to break the game open even further as Michael VanderPlas stepped to the plate with only 1 out and the bases still loaded. VanderPlas hit the hardest hit ball by a Bandit of the day, unfortunately Bomber's 1st baseman Gregg Ulvaeis snatched it out of the air and was able to double off Tim Wampfler (running for Johnson) who was scampering back to first base. The Bandits led 4-1 after the 6th inning.
The Bombers threatened in the 8th and 9th, but to no avail. Trevor Todd was brought into the game in the 8th inning with 2 outs and runners on 2nd and 1st. After walking the bases loaded, Todd was able to strike out Eggenberger to end the inning. The Bombers were able to get runners on 2nd and 1st in the ninth inning after an error and a walk. But with 2 outs, Todd was able to "strike out" Bomber catcher and lead off batter Tim Eaton.
This was the Bandits 2nd victory over Bay City in the past two years and the 2nd conference victory of the season. "This was a good win for us, we are building confidence with every game we play. We have 6 conference games left and if we can go 3-3 in those last 6 it would be a huge improvement over last season." said starting pitcher Jim Rochford. The Bandits tied their conference win total from last year. The Bandits were 2-13 in the St. Croix Valley Baseball League in 2008, and are currently 2-8.
The Bandits next game is Wednesday at New Richmond at 7:30pm. The Bandits lost to the Millers 5-4 on May 31st.
**NOTES**
Game Balls
1. Jim Rochford 7.2 IP, 6hits allowed, 3BB, 1ER, and 4K
2. Kyle Kahl 2/4, 2R, RBI
3. Adam Lewis/Jeff Johnson - combined 4/8 with 3 RBI and a stolen base (obviously by Lewis)
Unheralded Hero of the Day:
Scott Lindholm was a downright nasty (in a good way) third base coach today.
WOW play of the Day: COMBO - Jim Rochford allowed 2 hits in the first inning, faced only 3 batters, and got 3 outs without a triple play....congrats there! Rochford also let up what would have been a sure home run in just about any park in the SCVBL to Bomber 2B Shaun Strain. But the ball hit a wall of wind out in deep left field and dropped in play for only a double.
Players Missing In Action (Will Ferrell style)
Jay Gagner - just waking up from a bender -I'm Ron Burgandy?
Matt Vold - practicing his fanciest ice skating maneuvers
Curtis Roebuck - getting kicked out of an Applebee's
Chris Chelberg - walking into the sunset with his pet monkey
Will Ball - fighting with his younger brother for the top bunk
Gus Koecher - steel cage match with a bear.
Bandits run out of innings in Menomonie, lose 5-2.
The St. Croix River Bandits (1-8, 2-13) could not overcome a 5 run deficit Friday night versus the Menomonie Eagles (6-4). On a night that was promising rain earlier in the day, it turned out to be a gorgeous evening in Menomonie under the lights. Trevor Todd started on the mound on for the Bandits making his 3rd start this season. Todd was coming off of 2 straight wins over Siren and River Falls last week, and looking for a similar result against Menomonie.
Todd and Eagle's pitcher Rob Heller went toe to toe for the first 3 innings, with each pitcher only giving up a single hit. In the 4th inning the Eagles took the lead. Two hits by 3B Brandon O'Connell and RF Andy Lorenzen and a CF Tanner Vavra walk loaded the bases with one out. While Todd was pitching to 1B Mickey Boyle, Todd fumbled the ball while in the stretch on the rubber. Todd was able to regain the ball but the home plate umpire called a balk allowing all runners to advance a base. Lorenzen would later score on a past ball, giving the Eagles a 2-0 lead after 4.
The Eagles tacked on 3 more runs in the 6 inning with 3 hits, a hit batsmen, and an error all contributing to the big inning.
Todd was able to refocus and finished the game allowing only two more batters to reach base.
The Bandits had a threat in the 7th inning with runners on the corners with 1 out. Eagles pitcher Rob Heller was able to safely get out of the inning, getting Jeff Johnson and Curtis Roebuck to groundout and fly out respectively.
The Bandits were finally able to score in the 8th inning. Left Fielder Tim Wampfler reached base with a one out bunt single. Scott Lindholm ripped a double to the fence, scoring Wampfler from 1st base. Lindholm was not able to advance further than 2nd though, as Heller - once again - minimized the damage and retired the next two Bandit batters.
The Bandits tried to rally again in the top of the ninth inning. Catcher Steve Siqueiros hit the Bandits second double of the game to lead off the inning, taking over the Bandits career leader position in doubles. 1B Michael Chelberg followed with a tapper back to the mound and was thrown out at first base. 3B Jeff Johnson singled, advancing Siqueiros to third base. 2B Curtis Roebuck hit an RBI single to score Siqueiros. The Bandits had runners on first and second with only 1 out, bringing the tying run to the plate. However, the Bandits could not muster another hit, ending the game 5-2.
The Bandits and SP Trevor Todd put up a great effort, but could not string together hits until the final innings of the game. The Bandits are now 0-3 lifetime versus the Menomonie Eagles, but have only allowed a total of 10 runs in those 3 games. "We have really struggled swinging the bats against Menomonie for some reason, well besides good pitching obviously that is. But, honestly, we have scored 3 runs in 3 games versus that team. We get them again later this season at home, I hope we can put something together," said Bench Coach Jim Rochford.
*NOTES*
Game Balls
1) Scott Lindholm - 2/3, 2B, RBI, BB
2) Trevor Todd - 8IP, CG, 8Hits allowed, 5runs, 7K
3) Steve Siqueiros - 1/4, R, 2B, RBI - took over career doubles leader in Bandits history
Unheralded Hero of the Day: The boots at a certain Menomonie establishment
WOW Play of the Day: A certain Bandit may have broken a BRAND NEW bat on the GROUND!!! AAAAAHHHHHH!!!!!
Players Missing in Action: - the all nerd edition
Adam Lewis - at a Trekkie convention
Jim Rochford - playing Pokemon with his son
John Peterson - wrestling a wookie
Matt Vold - looking for parts for his lightsaber
Gus Koecher -building a farm robot
Michael VanderPlas - dressing up like Frodo Baggins
Jay Gagner -practicing his wolverine moves
Will Ball - anime marathon
Todd and Eagle's pitcher Rob Heller went toe to toe for the first 3 innings, with each pitcher only giving up a single hit. In the 4th inning the Eagles took the lead. Two hits by 3B Brandon O'Connell and RF Andy Lorenzen and a CF Tanner Vavra walk loaded the bases with one out. While Todd was pitching to 1B Mickey Boyle, Todd fumbled the ball while in the stretch on the rubber. Todd was able to regain the ball but the home plate umpire called a balk allowing all runners to advance a base. Lorenzen would later score on a past ball, giving the Eagles a 2-0 lead after 4.
The Eagles tacked on 3 more runs in the 6 inning with 3 hits, a hit batsmen, and an error all contributing to the big inning.
Todd was able to refocus and finished the game allowing only two more batters to reach base.
The Bandits had a threat in the 7th inning with runners on the corners with 1 out. Eagles pitcher Rob Heller was able to safely get out of the inning, getting Jeff Johnson and Curtis Roebuck to groundout and fly out respectively.
The Bandits were finally able to score in the 8th inning. Left Fielder Tim Wampfler reached base with a one out bunt single. Scott Lindholm ripped a double to the fence, scoring Wampfler from 1st base. Lindholm was not able to advance further than 2nd though, as Heller - once again - minimized the damage and retired the next two Bandit batters.
The Bandits tried to rally again in the top of the ninth inning. Catcher Steve Siqueiros hit the Bandits second double of the game to lead off the inning, taking over the Bandits career leader position in doubles. 1B Michael Chelberg followed with a tapper back to the mound and was thrown out at first base. 3B Jeff Johnson singled, advancing Siqueiros to third base. 2B Curtis Roebuck hit an RBI single to score Siqueiros. The Bandits had runners on first and second with only 1 out, bringing the tying run to the plate. However, the Bandits could not muster another hit, ending the game 5-2.
The Bandits and SP Trevor Todd put up a great effort, but could not string together hits until the final innings of the game. The Bandits are now 0-3 lifetime versus the Menomonie Eagles, but have only allowed a total of 10 runs in those 3 games. "We have really struggled swinging the bats against Menomonie for some reason, well besides good pitching obviously that is. But, honestly, we have scored 3 runs in 3 games versus that team. We get them again later this season at home, I hope we can put something together," said Bench Coach Jim Rochford.
*NOTES*
Game Balls
1) Scott Lindholm - 2/3, 2B, RBI, BB
2) Trevor Todd - 8IP, CG, 8Hits allowed, 5runs, 7K
3) Steve Siqueiros - 1/4, R, 2B, RBI - took over career doubles leader in Bandits history
Unheralded Hero of the Day: The boots at a certain Menomonie establishment
WOW Play of the Day: A certain Bandit may have broken a BRAND NEW bat on the GROUND!!! AAAAAHHHHHH!!!!!
Players Missing in Action: - the all nerd edition
Adam Lewis - at a Trekkie convention
Jim Rochford - playing Pokemon with his son
John Peterson - wrestling a wookie
Matt Vold - looking for parts for his lightsaber
Gus Koecher -building a farm robot
Michael VanderPlas - dressing up like Frodo Baggins
Jay Gagner -practicing his wolverine moves
Will Ball - anime marathon
Friday, June 19, 2009
MIDSEASON REVIEW
The St. Croix River Bandits (2-12, 1-7) have a pair of conference games this weekend. To be eligible for post season play, a team needs to finish with at least a .500 record in conference to get a bid. The Bandits are only 1-7 in conference and have 8 games remaining, so the feat remains remotely possible, but not probable. When we interviewed Bandits mastermind Jim Rochford, he had this to say about the season so far. "To be absolutely honest, we are shooting to win maybe 4 or 5 conference games this season now that we look at it. With a healthy Gagner we would probably have a .500 record at this point, but we aren't going to make excuses, we need to swing the bat a little better...we have lost too many close games. Last season we went 2-13 in conference with Jay, this season if we can win 4/5 without him, that would be some very good progress. We have a very good and somewhat young core of players, who if we can keep playing baseball, will develop even more than they have so far."
The Bandits usually give out awards at the end of the season which are voted on by the players: but here at the Bandits Blog we are going to be a complete dictator with the MID SEASON AWARDS and overall bandits grades.
Offensive Player of the 1st Half: Kyle Kahl. The Bandits leading hitter and defensive stalwart has improved his batting average from last year's .209, to batting .314 so far this season. Kahl had 14 hits in 67 at bats in 2008, and already has 11 hits this season in 35 at bats. Moreover, Kahl has walked 7 times this season and has struck out only 3 times all season. Kahl also has 5 runs scored, 5 RBI, and 2 Stolen bases.
Defensive Player of the 1st Half: John Peterson. Second baseman John Peterson is a converted shortstop who has played 66 2/3 innings and commited only 1 error. JP is a leader on the field and shows a large range over at 2nd base.
Pitcher of the 1st Half: Trevor Todd . The re-emergence of Trevor Todd is a welcome addition to the Bandits staff. Trevor has both Bandits wins this season, and despite two poor outings against Hudson and Prescott, Trevor has been quieting hitters in June. Trevor still has an ERA around 4.50 but has shown that he can be consistant in the strike zone over the last month.
Most Improved Player of the 1st Half: Kyle Kahl . For all the same reasons listed above.
Mid - Season Grades
Batting for Contact - The Bandits have somewhat improved their hitting over the coarse of the season, but still not to where they ended the season last year or the season before: D+ for a .210 team batting average
Batting for Power - The Bandits are hitting at a pase of 1.071 extra base hits a game, which is up from 1.041 from 2008, but still lags behind 1.137 from '07. Either way, the Bandits have historically been a singles team. A great power hitting team like Isanti hits at an average of 2.3 extra base hits a game which I would consider an A: C- for the Bandits, up from a D+ for the 2 HRs.
Eye at the Plate: The Bandits are down almost a full walk a game from the previous season. Some of this is due to more consistant pitching we have faced. Hard stats: 09 - 3.07 BB/9, 08 - 4BB/9, 07 - 3.90BB/9. Getting 3 walks a game still isnt terrible, the median team in mlb is issued 3.5 walks a game: C-
Strike 3!: The Bandits are striking out at roughly the same pace as last season, with 7.79k/9 vs. 7.88k/p one season ago. This is still way too much, considering that is roughly 30% of the outs in a game. The median team in mlb is sitting a 7K/9, but the pitchers we face aren't nearly as dominant. During the last 4 games, the Bandits have struck out at a rate of 5.30K/9, so hopefully we are on the up swing: C-
On the Bases: The Bandits were known for their running on teams in the first season (when they were a bit younger) swiping 37 bases and being caught 8 times (82% success rate). But the Bandits took a big step back last year only nabbing 13 bases and being thrown out 3 times. (81%). This season the Bandits have 15 stolen bases with only 1 CS, but 7 of those came in one game: C (would be higher if those 7 didn't come at 1 catcher's expense)
Defense: Bandits D has been much like last season with 92.4% on the balls being fielded (as compared to 92.6%). The Bandits have committed more errors per game this season 2.7 vs 2.3 the previous year, however, in 2007 that number was an atrocious 3.3errors/game. The Bandits also are having trouble keeping runners from stealing, mostly from our crafty pitching staff allowing too big of leads: C
Pitching: With our "Big Arm" getting the "Big Hurt" the Bandits staff was struggled this season. They don't have a light's out pitcher like many teams do, and must rely on consistency and defense. Strikeouts are down 1.5k a game and WHIP (walks+hits/inning) is up .34 per inning or 3 walks/hits per 9 innings. However, with that said, the Bandits ERA is hovering right around last year's mark of 5.46, which is impressive after some crushing defeats by non-conference opponents East Bethel 14-4 and Blaine 12-4: C (could be better could be worse, the Bandits have been blown out a hand full of times, and played close games the others.)
The Bandits usually give out awards at the end of the season which are voted on by the players: but here at the Bandits Blog we are going to be a complete dictator with the MID SEASON AWARDS and overall bandits grades.
Offensive Player of the 1st Half: Kyle Kahl. The Bandits leading hitter and defensive stalwart has improved his batting average from last year's .209, to batting .314 so far this season. Kahl had 14 hits in 67 at bats in 2008, and already has 11 hits this season in 35 at bats. Moreover, Kahl has walked 7 times this season and has struck out only 3 times all season. Kahl also has 5 runs scored, 5 RBI, and 2 Stolen bases.
Defensive Player of the 1st Half: John Peterson. Second baseman John Peterson is a converted shortstop who has played 66 2/3 innings and commited only 1 error. JP is a leader on the field and shows a large range over at 2nd base.
Pitcher of the 1st Half: Trevor Todd . The re-emergence of Trevor Todd is a welcome addition to the Bandits staff. Trevor has both Bandits wins this season, and despite two poor outings against Hudson and Prescott, Trevor has been quieting hitters in June. Trevor still has an ERA around 4.50 but has shown that he can be consistant in the strike zone over the last month.
Most Improved Player of the 1st Half: Kyle Kahl . For all the same reasons listed above.
Mid - Season Grades
Batting for Contact - The Bandits have somewhat improved their hitting over the coarse of the season, but still not to where they ended the season last year or the season before: D+ for a .210 team batting average
Batting for Power - The Bandits are hitting at a pase of 1.071 extra base hits a game, which is up from 1.041 from 2008, but still lags behind 1.137 from '07. Either way, the Bandits have historically been a singles team. A great power hitting team like Isanti hits at an average of 2.3 extra base hits a game which I would consider an A: C- for the Bandits, up from a D+ for the 2 HRs.
Eye at the Plate: The Bandits are down almost a full walk a game from the previous season. Some of this is due to more consistant pitching we have faced. Hard stats: 09 - 3.07 BB/9, 08 - 4BB/9, 07 - 3.90BB/9. Getting 3 walks a game still isnt terrible, the median team in mlb is issued 3.5 walks a game: C-
Strike 3!: The Bandits are striking out at roughly the same pace as last season, with 7.79k/9 vs. 7.88k/p one season ago. This is still way too much, considering that is roughly 30% of the outs in a game. The median team in mlb is sitting a 7K/9, but the pitchers we face aren't nearly as dominant. During the last 4 games, the Bandits have struck out at a rate of 5.30K/9, so hopefully we are on the up swing: C-
On the Bases: The Bandits were known for their running on teams in the first season (when they were a bit younger) swiping 37 bases and being caught 8 times (82% success rate). But the Bandits took a big step back last year only nabbing 13 bases and being thrown out 3 times. (81%). This season the Bandits have 15 stolen bases with only 1 CS, but 7 of those came in one game: C (would be higher if those 7 didn't come at 1 catcher's expense)
Defense: Bandits D has been much like last season with 92.4% on the balls being fielded (as compared to 92.6%). The Bandits have committed more errors per game this season 2.7 vs 2.3 the previous year, however, in 2007 that number was an atrocious 3.3errors/game. The Bandits also are having trouble keeping runners from stealing, mostly from our crafty pitching staff allowing too big of leads: C
Pitching: With our "Big Arm" getting the "Big Hurt" the Bandits staff was struggled this season. They don't have a light's out pitcher like many teams do, and must rely on consistency and defense. Strikeouts are down 1.5k a game and WHIP (walks+hits/inning) is up .34 per inning or 3 walks/hits per 9 innings. However, with that said, the Bandits ERA is hovering right around last year's mark of 5.46, which is impressive after some crushing defeats by non-conference opponents East Bethel 14-4 and Blaine 12-4: C (could be better could be worse, the Bandits have been blown out a hand full of times, and played close games the others.)
Sunday, June 14, 2009
Game Recap - Bandits win thriller in 13 innings.
The St. Croix River Bandits (1-7, 2-12) won their first conference game on Sunday afternoon against the River Falls Fighting Fish (5-3, 6-8) by the score of 5-4. I don't even know where to begin. The game lasted a whopping 13 innings, and featured 4 lead changes, 2 home runs, men stranded on 3rd with no outs, and more.
The game started with CF Scott Lindholm reaching base in the 1st inning for the 10th time in 14 games by crushing a double to right center field. Lindholm advanced to third on a SS Gus Koecher ground out. After 1B Trevor Todd struck out, C Steve Siqueiros came to the plate. During Siqueiros's at bat, Fish SP Josh Eidam threw a wild pitch and Lindholm bolted for home. The ball ended up being partially blocked by Fish C Trevor Gutting and he was able to recover and throw the ball to Fish SP Josh Eidam to tag out Lindholm at the plate.
Bandits SP Jim Rochford, was on his game, changing speeds and keeping hitters off-balance. Rochford did not allow a hit until the fourth inning. Rochford gave up a walk and a hit that inning, and the Fish had runners on 1st and 2nd with only 1 out. Fish DH Joe Paatalo hit a line drive to Koecher, who then tried to throw out Fish SS Brian Giebel who was hustling back to 2nd base. Koecher's throw was high and was tipped by 2B Curtis Roebuck's glove, both Fish runners then tried to advance and in the flurry of action, RF Will Ball charged the ball and was able to throw out the runner advancing from first at 2nd base, which, oddly, was being covered by LF Tim Wampfler. This would be the first 6-5-9-7 double play in Bandits history.
The Bandits struck first in the bottom of the fourth inning. Trevor Todd hit a 1-out single to center field that was misplayed by fish CF Clint Kempf, and allowed Todd to advance to 2nd. Todd was able to score on a Steve Siqueiros 2 strike-single. The next batter was 3B Michael Chelberg. Chelberg was making his debut at 3B after a second inning injury to starting 3B Jeff Johnson - Johnson appears to have pulled a hamstring and is day to day. Chelberg was able to poke a single to the outfield, giving him his first hit of the game, and the Bandits had runners on 1st and 2nd with 1 out. Unfortunately, Will Ball struck out, and Tim Wampfler grounded out to the pitcher to end the inning. Bandits up 1 - 0.
The Fighting Fish continued to struggle while Rochford was on the mound, getting only 1 hit over the next three innings. The score was 1-0 Bandits going into the top of the 8th inning. Fish 2B and #9 hitter, Sam Giliuson hit a 2-1 fastball straight up the middle of the field for a lead off single. Eidam then followed with a sacrifice bunt, advancing Giliuson to 2nd. Rochford threw a first-pitch curveball to Fish 3B Nathan Brom, who dropped the head of the bat and gave a mighty uppercut swing. The bat connected, and the ball sailed out to left field, over Wampfler's head, and over the fence for a 2-run HR. After the game Rochford stated, "Usually I don't have enough gas on my pitches, especially my curveball, for anyone to actually hit it out of the park. I was hoping for a flyball to center or left, but I guess he hit it a little too far." Rochford finished the inning and the Bandits were down 2-1.
In the bottom of the 8th inning, the Bandits had their 3-4-5 hitters coming up, but Eidam was able to get the Bandits to hit into 2 quick outs on 2 pitches. Chelberg was able to hammer a double down the right field line, putting a man in scoring position. Will Ball swung at the first pitch he saw and flared the ball into short right field. Fish RF Adam Brathol sprinted in, Chelberg was rounding 3rd - ready to score and tie the game, and Brathol completely laid out to make a diving grab and preserve the Fish 2-1 lead over the Bandits.
Rochford took the hill for the Bandits once more in the 9th inning, but it didn't last long. Fish's Trevor Gutting, who was 0-3 so far in the game, hit line drive up the middle to give the Fish a baserunner with 0 outs. Bandits management made the call to bring in Curtis Roebuck in relief.
Rochford's final line: 8IP, 6H, 2BB, 2ER, 1K. Fish's Kempf sacrifice bunted Gutting over to second on the first pitch by Roebuck. While Roebuck was pitching to #9 batter Giliuson, he threw a wild pitch which allowed Gutting to reach 3rd with only 1 out. The Bandits brought in infield in to protect against the runner scoring on a groundball. Roebuck was able to induce Giliuson to pop out harmlessly to 2B Preston Langer, who had replaced Rochford on the field after the defensive switch that allowed Roebuck to take the mound. After Eidam walked, Brom then came up to bat with 2 out and Gutting still on third. Brom again tried to knock the ball out of the park, but got a little under it, sending a high flyball into center field where Lindholm was able to make the catch.
Bottom of the ninth inning, and the Bandits needed a run to tie and 2 to win. Tim Wampfler, who 0-3, was hit by a pitch and was able to take first base. Langer then bunted Wampfler over to 2nd base. Curtis Roebuck hit a flyball to LF for the 2nd out of the inning. The Bandits were down to their last out with CF Scott Lindholm at bat. Lindholm was 1-4 with 2 strikeouts versus Fish P Josh Eidam. Lindholm took the first strike, and fouled off the 2nd pitch. Down in the count, 0-2, Lindholm hit a weak line drive to center field, and Wampfler took off from 2nd. The throw from center field came in too late, allowing Wampfler to score and tie the game at 2, and Lindholm was able to take 2nd base when the defense threw home. Gus Koecher then sharply hit a line drive up past the pitcher into center field and quickly got to Fish CF Kempf. Kempf came up firing as third base coach Jim Rochford waved Lindholm home. The throw was on the mark and beat Lindholm to the plate by a couple feet, and he was tagged out easily, sending the game into extra innings.
The Fish looked poised to take the lead in the 10th inning. Roebuck walked Giebel to start the inning. Giebel stole 2nd, and was able to reach 3rd after the Bandits muffed the throw down to 2nd. Roebuck walked #4 batter Gilbertson, prompting the Bandits to bring in lefty Trevor Todd. Todd's job was to not give up a big inning, and he did even better. With the infield in, #5 batter Joe Paatalo grounded out to Koecher at short. Koecher had to make a stretch up the middle to get to the ball, and if Giebel had run home, there is a good chance he would have scored, but he stayed at third and Koecher was able to make the play. Scott Warrington followed with a flyball to very short right field. Will Ball came charging in and made the catch, and gave Giebel no chance to score from 3rd. Todd was able to strike out Gutting, stranding Fish on 3rd and 2nd, after they had 2 men in scoring position with 0 outs.
The Bandits put together a threat in the 10th. Todd reached on an error, and was moved to 2nd with a sac bunt by Siqueiros. Chelberg was next up and was 3-4 on the day vs. Fish P Eidam, who was still in the game. The Fish decided to intentionally walk Chelberg to get to Will Ball. The decision paid off, as Ball grounded into a 4-6-3 double play to end the inning.
In the top of the 12th inning, the Fish were finally catching up to Bandits P Trevor Todd. Todd gave up 5 hits in the inning, including a double by Scott Warrington, but was able to get out of the inning, letting up only 2 runs, and leaving men stranded on 2nd and 3rd.
In the bottom of the 12th, the Bandits were still upbeat, and the Fish had finally changed pitchers as Josh Eidam left the game and Ryan Gilbertson relieved. Gilbertson got Koecher to fly out to center field for the first out. Trevor Todd then singled on the first offering he saw from Gilbertson. C Steve Siqueiros was the next batter. Siqueiros was 3-4 on the day vs. Eidam including a double to deep left field. Siqueiros was even at 1-1 in the count when he blasted a pitch to deep left field again. The ball soared past LF Eidam and over the fence. Siqueiros tied the game on a 2-run HR. The first Bandits HR on their home field in their three year history.
The drama continued in the 13th, with Trevor Todd still on the mound. Todd gave up a one out double to Nathan Brom, followed by a sharp single by Brian Giebel. Todd bore down, and struck out the next two batters, stranding the Fish again on third and second.
The Bandits started the bottom of the 13th inning with 2 strikeouts. #9 hitter Curtis Roebuck was able to plop a single into left field to give the Bandits a base runner. Scott Lindholm was then hit by a pitch on a weird play. Lindholm called for a time out. but time was not given by the umpire as the P Gilbertson was already in motion. Gilbertson, maybe distracted by all the commotion in the batters box, struck Lindholm, moving Roebuck to 2nd. Gus Koecher ended the game with a blast down the left field line, allowing Curtis Roebuck to score easily and gave the Bandits their first conference and home win of the season.
"This is the greatest game we have played as a team. We have won some great games, but those were mostly an individual performance by our ace Jay Gagner. Today everyone chipped in, whether it was fantastic fielding or sac bunts." said SP Jim Rochford. CF Scott Lindholm added, "We came a long way as a team today."
The Bandits next game is Friday at Menomonie at 7:30pm and the next home game is Father's Day June 21st. vs. Bay City. The Bandits are 0-2 lifetime vs. Menomonie and 1-0 vs. Bay City.
June 21st vs. Bay City - the first 15 fans will receive a free stainless steel travel mug presented by the General Store in Taylors Falls. Free sparklers will also be given out to all kids ages 18 and under.
NOTES
Game Balls
1. Steve Siqueiros - 4/5, 2B, HR, 3RBI, sac bunt. That home run was amazing.
2. Gus Koecher - 2/7 GW RBI - enough said
3. Pitchers Jim Rochford, Curtis Roebuck, Trevor Todd 13 IP 4 ER allowed, got out of jams and kept the defense on their toes
WOW PLAY of the Game: Michael Chelberg attempted to steal 2nd base; unfortunately the base was currently occupied by Steve Siqueiros. Chelberg, then standing on 3B, openly asked Steve why he hasn't gone yet, even though the catcher had the ball in hand and was running down the 3rd baseline. After Steve gave Chelberg the glare of death, Chelberg scurried back to 2B, and the Fish catcher Trevor Gutting did not attempt a play, as he did not want to miscue and allow Siqueiros to score in a tight game. Congrats Michael, I guess you thought Steve was stealing home?
Unheralded Hero of the Game: This usually doesn't go to the opposing team, but Josh Eidam pitched 11 innings, walked no batters and let up only 2 runs, I bet his arm feels just great today.
Also some dap to fan Brian Jacobson, we always play better when our old coach is watching.
Steve Siquieros hit the first Bandits HR at our home field.
This is the first extra inning win for the Bandits in Bandit history.
Jim Rochford has only given up 5 ER in 16 conference innings.
Gus Koecher showed more range than any previous Bandits shortstop in 3 years.
I'm sure I'm missing a bunch of things, lots happened in the game, especially after the 9th inning.
Players Missing in Action:
Adam Lewis - saving lives, delivery babies, feeding the poor, and clearing land mines.
Jay Gagner - still looking for a donor for an extra elbow ligament.
Kyle Kahl - "had to" go to his fiance's brother's uncle's mother's dog's friend's graduation party.
John Peterson - handcuffed to a bedpost.
Matt Vold - ooo, look at me, I'm Matt Vold, I am good enough to play for Team Wisconsin...oooo I'm playing against Nebraska today.
Will Ball - oh wait you showed up for the game...LATE...don't do it again!
Estimated Attendance: 50-75
The game started with CF Scott Lindholm reaching base in the 1st inning for the 10th time in 14 games by crushing a double to right center field. Lindholm advanced to third on a SS Gus Koecher ground out. After 1B Trevor Todd struck out, C Steve Siqueiros came to the plate. During Siqueiros's at bat, Fish SP Josh Eidam threw a wild pitch and Lindholm bolted for home. The ball ended up being partially blocked by Fish C Trevor Gutting and he was able to recover and throw the ball to Fish SP Josh Eidam to tag out Lindholm at the plate.
Bandits SP Jim Rochford, was on his game, changing speeds and keeping hitters off-balance. Rochford did not allow a hit until the fourth inning. Rochford gave up a walk and a hit that inning, and the Fish had runners on 1st and 2nd with only 1 out. Fish DH Joe Paatalo hit a line drive to Koecher, who then tried to throw out Fish SS Brian Giebel who was hustling back to 2nd base. Koecher's throw was high and was tipped by 2B Curtis Roebuck's glove, both Fish runners then tried to advance and in the flurry of action, RF Will Ball charged the ball and was able to throw out the runner advancing from first at 2nd base, which, oddly, was being covered by LF Tim Wampfler. This would be the first 6-5-9-7 double play in Bandits history.
The Bandits struck first in the bottom of the fourth inning. Trevor Todd hit a 1-out single to center field that was misplayed by fish CF Clint Kempf, and allowed Todd to advance to 2nd. Todd was able to score on a Steve Siqueiros 2 strike-single. The next batter was 3B Michael Chelberg. Chelberg was making his debut at 3B after a second inning injury to starting 3B Jeff Johnson - Johnson appears to have pulled a hamstring and is day to day. Chelberg was able to poke a single to the outfield, giving him his first hit of the game, and the Bandits had runners on 1st and 2nd with 1 out. Unfortunately, Will Ball struck out, and Tim Wampfler grounded out to the pitcher to end the inning. Bandits up 1 - 0.
The Fighting Fish continued to struggle while Rochford was on the mound, getting only 1 hit over the next three innings. The score was 1-0 Bandits going into the top of the 8th inning. Fish 2B and #9 hitter, Sam Giliuson hit a 2-1 fastball straight up the middle of the field for a lead off single. Eidam then followed with a sacrifice bunt, advancing Giliuson to 2nd. Rochford threw a first-pitch curveball to Fish 3B Nathan Brom, who dropped the head of the bat and gave a mighty uppercut swing. The bat connected, and the ball sailed out to left field, over Wampfler's head, and over the fence for a 2-run HR. After the game Rochford stated, "Usually I don't have enough gas on my pitches, especially my curveball, for anyone to actually hit it out of the park. I was hoping for a flyball to center or left, but I guess he hit it a little too far." Rochford finished the inning and the Bandits were down 2-1.
In the bottom of the 8th inning, the Bandits had their 3-4-5 hitters coming up, but Eidam was able to get the Bandits to hit into 2 quick outs on 2 pitches. Chelberg was able to hammer a double down the right field line, putting a man in scoring position. Will Ball swung at the first pitch he saw and flared the ball into short right field. Fish RF Adam Brathol sprinted in, Chelberg was rounding 3rd - ready to score and tie the game, and Brathol completely laid out to make a diving grab and preserve the Fish 2-1 lead over the Bandits.
Rochford took the hill for the Bandits once more in the 9th inning, but it didn't last long. Fish's Trevor Gutting, who was 0-3 so far in the game, hit line drive up the middle to give the Fish a baserunner with 0 outs. Bandits management made the call to bring in Curtis Roebuck in relief.
Rochford's final line: 8IP, 6H, 2BB, 2ER, 1K. Fish's Kempf sacrifice bunted Gutting over to second on the first pitch by Roebuck. While Roebuck was pitching to #9 batter Giliuson, he threw a wild pitch which allowed Gutting to reach 3rd with only 1 out. The Bandits brought in infield in to protect against the runner scoring on a groundball. Roebuck was able to induce Giliuson to pop out harmlessly to 2B Preston Langer, who had replaced Rochford on the field after the defensive switch that allowed Roebuck to take the mound. After Eidam walked, Brom then came up to bat with 2 out and Gutting still on third. Brom again tried to knock the ball out of the park, but got a little under it, sending a high flyball into center field where Lindholm was able to make the catch.
Bottom of the ninth inning, and the Bandits needed a run to tie and 2 to win. Tim Wampfler, who 0-3, was hit by a pitch and was able to take first base. Langer then bunted Wampfler over to 2nd base. Curtis Roebuck hit a flyball to LF for the 2nd out of the inning. The Bandits were down to their last out with CF Scott Lindholm at bat. Lindholm was 1-4 with 2 strikeouts versus Fish P Josh Eidam. Lindholm took the first strike, and fouled off the 2nd pitch. Down in the count, 0-2, Lindholm hit a weak line drive to center field, and Wampfler took off from 2nd. The throw from center field came in too late, allowing Wampfler to score and tie the game at 2, and Lindholm was able to take 2nd base when the defense threw home. Gus Koecher then sharply hit a line drive up past the pitcher into center field and quickly got to Fish CF Kempf. Kempf came up firing as third base coach Jim Rochford waved Lindholm home. The throw was on the mark and beat Lindholm to the plate by a couple feet, and he was tagged out easily, sending the game into extra innings.
The Fish looked poised to take the lead in the 10th inning. Roebuck walked Giebel to start the inning. Giebel stole 2nd, and was able to reach 3rd after the Bandits muffed the throw down to 2nd. Roebuck walked #4 batter Gilbertson, prompting the Bandits to bring in lefty Trevor Todd. Todd's job was to not give up a big inning, and he did even better. With the infield in, #5 batter Joe Paatalo grounded out to Koecher at short. Koecher had to make a stretch up the middle to get to the ball, and if Giebel had run home, there is a good chance he would have scored, but he stayed at third and Koecher was able to make the play. Scott Warrington followed with a flyball to very short right field. Will Ball came charging in and made the catch, and gave Giebel no chance to score from 3rd. Todd was able to strike out Gutting, stranding Fish on 3rd and 2nd, after they had 2 men in scoring position with 0 outs.
The Bandits put together a threat in the 10th. Todd reached on an error, and was moved to 2nd with a sac bunt by Siqueiros. Chelberg was next up and was 3-4 on the day vs. Fish P Eidam, who was still in the game. The Fish decided to intentionally walk Chelberg to get to Will Ball. The decision paid off, as Ball grounded into a 4-6-3 double play to end the inning.
In the top of the 12th inning, the Fish were finally catching up to Bandits P Trevor Todd. Todd gave up 5 hits in the inning, including a double by Scott Warrington, but was able to get out of the inning, letting up only 2 runs, and leaving men stranded on 2nd and 3rd.
In the bottom of the 12th, the Bandits were still upbeat, and the Fish had finally changed pitchers as Josh Eidam left the game and Ryan Gilbertson relieved. Gilbertson got Koecher to fly out to center field for the first out. Trevor Todd then singled on the first offering he saw from Gilbertson. C Steve Siqueiros was the next batter. Siqueiros was 3-4 on the day vs. Eidam including a double to deep left field. Siqueiros was even at 1-1 in the count when he blasted a pitch to deep left field again. The ball soared past LF Eidam and over the fence. Siqueiros tied the game on a 2-run HR. The first Bandits HR on their home field in their three year history.
The drama continued in the 13th, with Trevor Todd still on the mound. Todd gave up a one out double to Nathan Brom, followed by a sharp single by Brian Giebel. Todd bore down, and struck out the next two batters, stranding the Fish again on third and second.
The Bandits started the bottom of the 13th inning with 2 strikeouts. #9 hitter Curtis Roebuck was able to plop a single into left field to give the Bandits a base runner. Scott Lindholm was then hit by a pitch on a weird play. Lindholm called for a time out. but time was not given by the umpire as the P Gilbertson was already in motion. Gilbertson, maybe distracted by all the commotion in the batters box, struck Lindholm, moving Roebuck to 2nd. Gus Koecher ended the game with a blast down the left field line, allowing Curtis Roebuck to score easily and gave the Bandits their first conference and home win of the season.
"This is the greatest game we have played as a team. We have won some great games, but those were mostly an individual performance by our ace Jay Gagner. Today everyone chipped in, whether it was fantastic fielding or sac bunts." said SP Jim Rochford. CF Scott Lindholm added, "We came a long way as a team today."
The Bandits next game is Friday at Menomonie at 7:30pm and the next home game is Father's Day June 21st. vs. Bay City. The Bandits are 0-2 lifetime vs. Menomonie and 1-0 vs. Bay City.
June 21st vs. Bay City - the first 15 fans will receive a free stainless steel travel mug presented by the General Store in Taylors Falls. Free sparklers will also be given out to all kids ages 18 and under.
NOTES
Game Balls
1. Steve Siqueiros - 4/5, 2B, HR, 3RBI, sac bunt. That home run was amazing.
2. Gus Koecher - 2/7 GW RBI - enough said
3. Pitchers Jim Rochford, Curtis Roebuck, Trevor Todd 13 IP 4 ER allowed, got out of jams and kept the defense on their toes
WOW PLAY of the Game: Michael Chelberg attempted to steal 2nd base; unfortunately the base was currently occupied by Steve Siqueiros. Chelberg, then standing on 3B, openly asked Steve why he hasn't gone yet, even though the catcher had the ball in hand and was running down the 3rd baseline. After Steve gave Chelberg the glare of death, Chelberg scurried back to 2B, and the Fish catcher Trevor Gutting did not attempt a play, as he did not want to miscue and allow Siqueiros to score in a tight game. Congrats Michael, I guess you thought Steve was stealing home?
Unheralded Hero of the Game: This usually doesn't go to the opposing team, but Josh Eidam pitched 11 innings, walked no batters and let up only 2 runs, I bet his arm feels just great today.
Also some dap to fan Brian Jacobson, we always play better when our old coach is watching.
Steve Siquieros hit the first Bandits HR at our home field.
This is the first extra inning win for the Bandits in Bandit history.
Jim Rochford has only given up 5 ER in 16 conference innings.
Gus Koecher showed more range than any previous Bandits shortstop in 3 years.
I'm sure I'm missing a bunch of things, lots happened in the game, especially after the 9th inning.
Players Missing in Action:
Adam Lewis - saving lives, delivery babies, feeding the poor, and clearing land mines.
Jay Gagner - still looking for a donor for an extra elbow ligament.
Kyle Kahl - "had to" go to his fiance's brother's uncle's mother's dog's friend's graduation party.
John Peterson - handcuffed to a bedpost.
Matt Vold - ooo, look at me, I'm Matt Vold, I am good enough to play for Team Wisconsin...oooo I'm playing against Nebraska today.
Will Ball - oh wait you showed up for the game...LATE...don't do it again!
Estimated Attendance: 50-75
Friday, June 12, 2009
Game Recap - Bandits drop another conference game, 8-2 to Ellsworth.
The St. Croix River Bandits (1-12, 0-7) are still struggling to find a conference win. The Bandits traveled to Ellsworth on Friday night for the 2nd time in 2 years. Last year's game ended in a 1-0 thriller in which the only run scored was unearned. The Bandits had threatened in the top of the ninth but couldn't get anyone across the plate.
This year's game was a lot less thrilling. For the sixth time this season lead off batter and CF Scott Lindholm reached base and scored in the first inning. And for the sixth time, the Bandits have come up empty. Linholm reached on an error, stole 2nd, and was able to score on a 1B Trevor Todd single.
SP Michael Chelberg came out strong, getting 3 quick outs on only 7 pitches. However, the Hubbers came rearing back in the 2nd inning. Jeremiah Paulson led off the inning with a double, and was knocked in by a Garrett Birkel single. The Hubbers loaded the bases after a walk and another single. Chelberg was able to induce a double play ball that was played cleanly by 3B Jeff Johnson who fired the ball home, where C Siqueiros stepped on the plate and threw down to 1B for the second out. Jordan Zimmer grounded out to 3B to end the inning, and the Hubbers only came away with 1 run.
The Bandits were not so lucky in the bottom of the third. Chelberg walked the first two batters of the 3rd inning, and 3-batter and starting third baseman Scott DeWyre hit a game breaking HR to left center. The Hubbers were not finished, scoring 2 more runs in the inning and chasing Chelberg out of the game. The Hubbers led 6-1 after 4.
Pitcher Will Ball made his debut for the Bandits and threw 4 2/3 innings and let up only 3 hits, 1 run, and 5 walks, while striking out 5 in relief. Trevor Todd came in relief in the 8th, striking out 2, allowing only 1 hit and 1 unearned run.
The Bandits scored only one more run in the game - in the 7th.
This is the Bandits 8th game where they have let up at least 1 big inning. "We play consistent baseball for most of the game, but it seems like somewhere between the 2nd and 5th we just lay an egg out there. Whether its poor defense, costly walks, or whatever, we just seem to internally blow up and give up a big lead at some point in the game. 90% of the time, you're going to lose every time when you do that." stated Bench Coach Jim Rochford. Rochford went on to say, "We did get a very good performance out of Will Ball tonight, and Trevor Todd is much improved over these last two games, our goal for the rest of the season should be to improve upon last year where we had 2 conference wins. Right now we are 0-7 in conference with lots of baseball left. Last season we won 2 games in conference, I'll be happy with 4, especially with Gagner hurt."
**Notes**
Game Balls
1. Will Ball - great debut for Will. went 2-4 at the plate, threw 4 2/3 innings giving up only a single run, and scattering 3 hits.
2. Bandits Baserunners: Chelberg, Lindholm, Kahl all had stolen bases and DH Tim Wampfler claimed he would have nabbed one, but the ball was put in play - which took away a double play ball.
3.
Unheralded Hero of the Day
The Big Horn in Beldenville, where the Bandits wash away all of their southern away game blues.
Wow Play of the Game:
Probably DeWyre homerun or the sweet Bandits double play with the bases loaded and no outs in the 2nd.Players Missing in Action:
Jay Gagner - 15 day disabled list (tendonitis)
Jim Rochford - baby watchingAdam Lewis -working
Curtis Roebuck -coaching
Jake Larcom - coaching
Matt Vold - ACTs
Gus Koecher - ACTs
Tim Whittenberger: working
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
Game Recap - Bandits Notch 1st Win of Season in 11-1 victory over Siren.
The St. Croix River Bandits (1-11, 0-6) were able to come away with their first victory in 11 months yesterday in a 11-1 victory over the Siren Steelers. It was the first game this season where the Bandits were able to put together a complete effort, allowing only 1 run, making only 1 error, and collecting 10 hits, 11 walks, and scoring 11 times.
SP Trevor Todd had his best performance as a Bandit, throwing 7 innings, allowing only 3 hits, 2 walks, 1HBP, and 1 run (unearned), while striking out 13. Curtis Roebuck and JR Switala combined for 2 innings of scoreless relief, striking out 2 more Steelers.
The Bandits could have blown the game wide open a lot earlier in the game. In the first inning after 2 walks and a 3B Kyle Kahl infield hit loaded the bases with 0 outs, they were poised to take a big early lead. However, Steeler's SP Potvin was able to wriggle out of the jam, inducing 2 infield pop outs and striking out RF Michael VanderPlas.
The Bandits were able to score in the top of the third inning. CF Scott Lindholm reached for the 2nd time on a walk, bringing SS Matt Vold to the plate. Vold hit a high 3-2 fastball deep to center field where Steeler's CF Letch attempted to make a jumping, diving, over the back shoulder catch but could not get it. After seeing Letch not be able to make the play Vold turned the burners on, expecting to get a triple. As Vold was rounding 2nd, Third Base Coach Jim Rochford saw that the Steelers wouldn't have the ball to the first of 2 cut off men until Vold was near 3rd, so he sent Vold home. Vold has able to score, giving the Bandits their 1st HR of the season and the 2nd HR in Bandits history.
The Steelers were able to get a run back in the bottom of the 4th inning. Todd plunked the leadoff batter/Steeler catcher Sickler. The next batter, Harry Severson-Dickinson (HSD), who had just got done playing in the Sectional Final for Luck - who unfortunatly lost 2-0, lined a shot that ricocheted off of Todd's leg and into left field. HSD was able to get to 2nd base, and Sickler went to 3rd. Todd was able to strike the next 3 batters out. However, during the 2nd strikout victim's at bat, Todd threw the ball in the dirt and C Siqueiros was not able to get all of it, and the ball skipped past him. Sickler was able to score from 3rd base, the only Steeler run of the game.
The Bandits tacked on another 3 runs in the top of the 6th inning, with RBI hits by Lindholm and Vold. The game was scheduled to go just 7 innings, but after 6 1/2 the Steelers (down 5-1) approached Bandits Manager Jim Rochford about going the full 9 innings. After some deliberation by the coaches and umpiring crew (solo umpire "Bad" Brad Hopkins) it was decided the game would be extended.
The Steelers would probably take that proposition back if they had the chance. The Bandits scored 6 runs in the final 2 innings, and allowed only 2 hits. Vold had another hit in the 8th that drove in 2 runs. Vold and Kahl walked with the bases loaded in the 9th, and Todd had a 2 run single to make the score 11-1.
Overall, this was the best performance by the Bandits of the season. The Bandits have 2 conference games this weekend, including a rematch vs. River Falls, where the Bandits lost 11-1 in their last outing, even though they gave up only 5 hits. The Bandits hope they gained some momentum for the weekend, where they look for their first conference win of the season.
NOTES
Game Balls
1. Trevor Todd / Matt Vold
Trevor pitched 7 solid innings, and picked up the first win of the season for the Bandits.
Matt Vold went 3 for 4, 2B, HR, and 2 BB with 2 runs scored and a team record 6 RBI.
3. Tim Wampfler - although Wampy did not get a hit, he walked twice, and reached on an error, stole 5 bases, and scored 3 times.
Unheralded Hero(es) of the Game:
Besides a strong Bandits defense, the SCRB traveling fans that not only came to the game on short notice but also kept score during the game. Oh and Brad Hopkins for umping the game on short notice. Thanks Brad.
WOW Play of the Game: Matt Vold's Inside the park HR.
Congrats on the Proposal Kyle Kahl, what a stud.
Broken Bandits Records:
Matt Vold: Most RBI in a single game: 6
Tim Wampfler: Most Stolen Bases in a single game: 5
Players Missing in Action:
Adam Lewis - *work
Jay Gagner -*work
Gus Koecher -*work
Michael Chelberg -*work
Jake Larcom -*work
Tim Whittenberger - *work
John Peterson - *work
* I'm not sure if work at the Border Lounge counts as work.....
Traveling Attendance: 7
SP Trevor Todd had his best performance as a Bandit, throwing 7 innings, allowing only 3 hits, 2 walks, 1HBP, and 1 run (unearned), while striking out 13. Curtis Roebuck and JR Switala combined for 2 innings of scoreless relief, striking out 2 more Steelers.
The Bandits could have blown the game wide open a lot earlier in the game. In the first inning after 2 walks and a 3B Kyle Kahl infield hit loaded the bases with 0 outs, they were poised to take a big early lead. However, Steeler's SP Potvin was able to wriggle out of the jam, inducing 2 infield pop outs and striking out RF Michael VanderPlas.
The Bandits were able to score in the top of the third inning. CF Scott Lindholm reached for the 2nd time on a walk, bringing SS Matt Vold to the plate. Vold hit a high 3-2 fastball deep to center field where Steeler's CF Letch attempted to make a jumping, diving, over the back shoulder catch but could not get it. After seeing Letch not be able to make the play Vold turned the burners on, expecting to get a triple. As Vold was rounding 2nd, Third Base Coach Jim Rochford saw that the Steelers wouldn't have the ball to the first of 2 cut off men until Vold was near 3rd, so he sent Vold home. Vold has able to score, giving the Bandits their 1st HR of the season and the 2nd HR in Bandits history.
The Steelers were able to get a run back in the bottom of the 4th inning. Todd plunked the leadoff batter/Steeler catcher Sickler. The next batter, Harry Severson-Dickinson (HSD), who had just got done playing in the Sectional Final for Luck - who unfortunatly lost 2-0, lined a shot that ricocheted off of Todd's leg and into left field. HSD was able to get to 2nd base, and Sickler went to 3rd. Todd was able to strike the next 3 batters out. However, during the 2nd strikout victim's at bat, Todd threw the ball in the dirt and C Siqueiros was not able to get all of it, and the ball skipped past him. Sickler was able to score from 3rd base, the only Steeler run of the game.
The Bandits tacked on another 3 runs in the top of the 6th inning, with RBI hits by Lindholm and Vold. The game was scheduled to go just 7 innings, but after 6 1/2 the Steelers (down 5-1) approached Bandits Manager Jim Rochford about going the full 9 innings. After some deliberation by the coaches and umpiring crew (solo umpire "Bad" Brad Hopkins) it was decided the game would be extended.
The Steelers would probably take that proposition back if they had the chance. The Bandits scored 6 runs in the final 2 innings, and allowed only 2 hits. Vold had another hit in the 8th that drove in 2 runs. Vold and Kahl walked with the bases loaded in the 9th, and Todd had a 2 run single to make the score 11-1.
Overall, this was the best performance by the Bandits of the season. The Bandits have 2 conference games this weekend, including a rematch vs. River Falls, where the Bandits lost 11-1 in their last outing, even though they gave up only 5 hits. The Bandits hope they gained some momentum for the weekend, where they look for their first conference win of the season.
NOTES
Game Balls
1. Trevor Todd / Matt Vold
Trevor pitched 7 solid innings, and picked up the first win of the season for the Bandits.
Matt Vold went 3 for 4, 2B, HR, and 2 BB with 2 runs scored and a team record 6 RBI.
3. Tim Wampfler - although Wampy did not get a hit, he walked twice, and reached on an error, stole 5 bases, and scored 3 times.
Unheralded Hero(es) of the Game:
Besides a strong Bandits defense, the SCRB traveling fans that not only came to the game on short notice but also kept score during the game. Oh and Brad Hopkins for umping the game on short notice. Thanks Brad.
WOW Play of the Game: Matt Vold's Inside the park HR.
Congrats on the Proposal Kyle Kahl, what a stud.
Broken Bandits Records:
Matt Vold: Most RBI in a single game: 6
Tim Wampfler: Most Stolen Bases in a single game: 5
Players Missing in Action:
Adam Lewis - *work
Jay Gagner -*work
Gus Koecher -*work
Michael Chelberg -*work
Jake Larcom -*work
Tim Whittenberger - *work
John Peterson - *work
* I'm not sure if work at the Border Lounge counts as work.....
Traveling Attendance: 7
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