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The St. Croix River Bandits (0-4, 0-9) lost again on Sunday to the New Richmond Millers. The Millers, who are now 3-1 in conference and 6-1 overall, gave up three early runs to the Bandits in the first inning. CF Scott Lindholm started the inning by drawing a walk with the count full. After a SS Matt Vold strikeout, 1B Trevor Todd slapped a single to the outfield. 3B Kyle Kahl was hit by a 3-2 pitch, loading the bases. C Steve Siqueiros then drove a first pitch fastball to the right center field fence, clearing the bases with a double. (On a sidenote, as DH Michael Chelberg commited the last out of inning by popping up to the New Richmond catcher Matt Peterson, Siqueiros railroaded Peterson, causing Peterson to riccochet off of Siqueiros as he was completely blind-sided. Peterson would get his retribution later in the game.)
Starting pitcher Jim Rochford (0-2) had an up and down game. Rochford breezed through the first inning, got out of a jam in the 2nd thanks to a ground ball doubleplay, and finally allowed the Millers to score in the top of the third. Matt Peterson got on with a single and stole second base. CF Mike Perillo singled to center, but Peterson was only able to make it to third. The next batter, 3B Scott Emerson grounded to first base and Trevor Todd immediately threw home to catch the charging Peterson. There was a brutal collision at the plate, but catcher Siqueiros did not have enough time to apply the tag, Peterson was ruled safe.
The Millers tied the game in the 5th inning when Matt Peterson reached on an error and then Rochford walked the next two batters on 9 pitches to load the bases. 3B Scott Emerson hit a 2-2 fastball sharply to left field, scoring Peterson from third. RF Curt Kleinschmidt hit a sacrifice fly to CF Scott Lindholm, tying the game as New Richmond 2B Hayden Zimmerman crossed the plate.
The Bandits had only 1 hit between the 2nd and 4th inning, but was able to string a couple of hits together in the 5th, after the Millers had tied the game. SS Matt Vold (after being specifically instructed to hit the ball to the right field gap) hit the ball to the right field gap, Kleinschmidt attempted to cut off the ball, but it skipped past him, allowing Vold to reach third base with only 1 out. The Millers brought the infield in the keep Vold at third on a ground ball and the strategy paid off as Trevor Todd grounded the ball sharply to 2B Zimmerman, keeping Vold from scoring. Bandits clean-up hitter (which is the "musical chair" spot of the line-up) Kyle Kahl was able to take a 2-1 pitch and hit it right up the middle of the field for an RBI single, giving the Bandits a 4-3 lead.
Rochford sped through the 6th inning without any trouble, but hit a speed bump in the 7th. Closing in on 100 pitches, Rochford allowed 3 straight singles, but was able to get an out after Scott Emerson tried to strech a single to a double. Bandits CF Scott Lindholm gunned the ball to home plate trying to get Zimmerman scoring from 2nd, catcher Siqueiros saw Emerson dashing to second base and instantly threw down to second after catching the ball. Emerson was not ruled out at first (even though he was tagged), but started retreating back to the dugout (probably because he was OUT.) and then SS Matt Vold tagged him out again, getting the first out of the inning. However, Zimmerman did score, tying the game at 4 a piece. Lefty Curt Kleinschmidt then smoked a first pitch curveball down the first base line for a double, scoring Mike Perillo, and the Millers took a 5-4 lead. Rochford was able to wiggle out of the inning without any more damage done, and didn't allow any runs in the 8th. Michael Chelberg relieved Rochford in the 9th, and besides a walk, had no trouble with the Millers batters.
The Bandits threatened in the bottom of the 7th inning when Scott Lindholm reached with a 1 out single. Matt Vold then hit a solid line drive that may have been a base hit. However, the Bandits had the hit and run on and Miller's 2B Zimmerman was in the perfect spot to catch the scorched ball and double up Lindholm back at first.
After the first two batters got out for the Bandits in the 8th, Siqueiros was able to draw a walk. Michael VanderPlas was brought in the pinch hit, and smacked the first ball he saw over the third baseman's head for a single. Michael Chelberg came to the plate with two outs and runners on 1st and 2nd. Chelberg was down 0-2 when he hit a foul ball to the third base side of the field. 3B Scott Emerson came out of nowhere, dove and caught the ball, in what was the defensive play of the game. Coach/Pitcher/Whatever Jim Rochford stated, "I knew Michael was not getting on base lately, but I knew we wanted to Michael to pitch the 9th inning instead of myself, what i wasn't sure of was whether Michael could re-enter the game if I pinch hit Larcom for him. Its not like Michael isn't a good hitter, he's just been hitting the ball AT people. I was hoping he was due, but Emerson made a phenomenal play to take any chance away from Michael."
The Bandits went down quietly in the 9th inning, without any reaching base.
Overall the game was well played by both sides. Unfortunately the Bandits were on the losing side of this game, and their 2nd 1 run loss this season. Rochford stated, "We had all the momentum after that first inning, already by the end of the 2nd inning their guys were getting frustrated because they weren't getting on base, but we just let them back into it, me included. Maybe it's because we aren't used to playing with the lead, or whatever, we can't be comfortable with just a three run lead in the first, we have to pile on the runs when we can. We have games next week against Elmwood and River Falls, we should be competitive and hopefully we get a W."
Notes
Game Balls
1. Scott Lindholm - went 2/4 (increasing his batting average to .454 against the Millers) and a walk, and a run. Lindholm also caught 7 flyballs on the day and was a part of a wacky 8-2-6 tagout at 2nd base.
2. Steve Siqueiros - 1/3 with a double and 3RBI, that came in the first inning. Siqueiros also drew a walk.
3. Kyle Kahl - played well in the rotating clean spot the Bandits have had since their inception. went 1/3 with a run scored and an RBI, also was hit by a pitch to reach 1st. Kyle also had two cleanly played grounders at 3B.
Unheralded Hero(es) of the Day:
To both the Bandits and the Millers for playing a fun and competitive game that was back and forth and dramatic. Fans got a good game today.
Good job also to Ben Anderson, our announcer, on a stellar job on the Mike.
WOW Play of the Day (tie):
Steve Siqueiros's bases clearing double as the Bandits took their (sigh) biggest lead of the season at 3-0.
Miller Scotty Emerson's leaping, diving, over-around the shoulder foul ball catch/grab/snag with the Bandits threatening in the eighth with batters on 1st and 2nd and 2 outs.
Bandits Missing in Action:
Adam Lewis: Delivering a child from the first man in Minnesota to give birth
Jay Gagner: Colonoscopy
Gus Koecher: Hunting.....people
Joe Holman: Acne removal surgery
Estimated Attendance: 40-60
Sunday, May 31, 2009
Friday, May 29, 2009
Bonus Coverage: SCF vs. Amery - 1st Round Regional Game
The St. Croix Falls Saints took on the Amery Warriors in WIAA DII Regional action Friday afternoon, the day the SCF seniors graduate. The Saints held the #3 seed (8-1 in conf.) in this region and was host to the Warriors (5-9 in conf.) the #6 seed. There was a large crowd for the event, as many classes were excused to watch, attendance reached over 250 at some points of the game. Both the Saints and the Warriors were very chipper at the onset of the game, both teams standing in the dugout when their team were at bat, cheering their teammates on.
The first inning went off without a hitch as SCF SP Will Ball (senior) was dealing and throwing heat. Amery SP Kurt Gehrman (junior) matched Ball's output, setting down the first 3 batters he faced. The second and third innings also had little drama. Amery was able to get a two out opposite field double from RF Kyle Schultz in the 2nd, before Ball induced a tapper back to the mound from CF Carl Lee. Ball walked the first batter of the third inning, DH Carson Rimstad, on a full count, which was followed by a nice sac bunt by LF Sam Less. Ball got out of the inning unscathed by getting a groundout to 2nd baseman Cory Gebhard, followed by a infield fly also to the 2B Gebhard.
The Saints went down quietly in the 2nd inning as Gehrman really started showcasing his curveball, and finally got their first hit in the bottom of the 3rd by #9 hitter and LF Sam Schmidt, who push bunted down the third base side and reached first with two outs. Schmidt was then able to steal 2nd base on the next pitch. Lead-off man Nick Johnson hit a ground ball to third base, but couldn't outrun the throw, and was the third out of the inning.
The Warriors started the 4th inning with a bang, C Steve Bielmeier hit a 0-1 pitch deep to left center field and CF Nick Johnson ran out of real estate as the ball carried over the fence for a homerun. Ball kept his composure and finished off the rest of inning without allowing a baserunner, and breaking out a nasty changeup that had hitters fooled.
The fifth inning was another scoring opportunity for the Saints. An error allowed RF Josh Larcom to reach 1b, again with two outs. Larcom was able to steal 2B, getting himself into scoring position. 1B Marcus Campbell was able to draw the count full, but couldn't make contact with the 3-2 fastball, ending the 5th inning.
There were two goofy plays in the top of the sixth inning with the Warriors at bat. SS Joe Rubenzer hit a one-out double down the line past 3B Ben Anderson and "hopping" over LF Sam Schmidt. The ball however, veered over into foul territory after passing 3B, and got so far as running into the softball fence (which is behind the baseball field fence - which only spans the fair territory), and by rule results in a dead ball - ground rule double. Thus when the ball hit the fence Schmidt raised his arms indicating ground-rule double but the umpires did not react. It was not until Rubenzer had crossed the plate for a possible inside the park homerun and SCF Coach Paul Randolph blazed out of the dugout pleading his case to the home plate umpire about the ground rules, that any action was taken. The umpire agreed with Coach Randolph and Rubenzer was forced to go back to 2nd base, causing Amery coach Matt Petterson to rumble out from his 3rd base box. Petterson made his agrument but the ruling stood. Rubenzer was able to steal 3B on C Gus Koecher, who had already thrown out a baserunner stealing 2nd, getting himself into scoring range with a sac fly. However, C Steve Bielmeier struck out on an 0-2 curveball in the dirt. Koecher was not able to make the tag, so he looked back Rubenzer at third and threw down to 1B for the out. When Koecher threw the ball, Rubenzer broke home, attempting to score. 1B Marcus Campbell caught the ball and quickly snapped it back to Koecher at home, who had completely blocked the plate, and tagged out Rubenzer at the plate for the third out in front of a frenzied crowd.
The 6th inning prooved no better for the Saints. The Saints CF Nick Johnson took first base after being hit by a pitch with 1 out. Everyone on the Saints and Warriors bench knew that Johnson was going to steal 2B, so Warriors P Gehrman threw over to first base twice to keep Johnson close. Johnson took an even bigger lead at first, and unexpectedly Gehrman threw over again, this time a little quickly, and was able to pick of Johnson at first base, cutting the Saints threat off at the knees. 2B Cory Gebhard smacked the first pitch he saw to deep left field, however Amery LF Sam Less made a great leaping - awkward - over the shoulder grab to end the inning.
Will Ball came back out for the 7th inning, getting 3 more quick outs, after an error by the infield. Ball finished the day with 7 IP giving up only 2 hits and walking 1 while striking out 5.
I was more than impressed with Ball's changeup which really buckled the opposing batters knees. Ball hadn't pitched in a few weeks due to arm troubles and thus his speed was a little down in the early innings. Ball stayed mostly away from his curveball, and even when he threw it, he could rarely get it over for a strike. Ball, though, was by far the most outstanding Saints player of the game.
The Saints entered the bottom of the 7th inning down 1-0 with their 3-4-5 hitters due up: Vold, Koecher, Ball. Spirits were high in the Saints dugout who still believed they could pull this victory off and advance in the playoffs for the first time since 2001. 2nd Team All-Middle Border Conference P Kurt Gehrman was still pitching for the Warriors and started with 3 straight curveballs to SS Matt Vold who looked at one, missed on another, and fouled the last one off. Gehrman came back with a fastball that painted the outside corner, and Vold was down on strikes. C Gus Koecher took the first pitch he saw and slapped it into play. Koecher wasn't able to get all of the ball, grounding it to SS Joe Rubenzer, who fielded it cleanly and the throw beat the speedy Koecher to 1B. With two outs and the season on the line P Will Ball came to the plate. Ball was able to draw a full count after falling behind 1-2. Gehrman challenged Ball with a 3-2 fastball the was just above the numbers. Ball bit on the pitch and could not catch up, striking out to end the game.
Congratulations to the Amery Warriors who will be advancing to the 2nd round of the regionals. Also congrats to the St. Croix Falls Saints who did in their conference this season and played a great season. I know that the Saints are disappointed with their finish this season, but they played a great game against a 1-pitcher team in this season's Amery Warriors. All the credit to P's Will Ball and Kurt Gehrman who combined to give up only 3 hits, 1 walk, and 1 hbp. The game was played in about 70 minutes, the fastest 7 inning game I have been to. Thanks again Saints for the great season, I hope to cover you more next year.
BOXSCORE
Warriors: 000 100 00 : 1 2 1
Saints.....: 000 000 00 : 0 1 2
SAINTS
CF Nick Johnson 0-2, HBP, CS, K
2B Cory Gebhard 0-3, K
SS Matt Vold 0-3, K
C Gus Koecher 0-3, K
P Will Ball 0-3, 2K
3B Ben Anderson 0-2
RF Josh Larcom 0-2, SB, K
1B Marcus Campbell 0-2, K
LF Sam Schmidt 1-2, K
LP - Will Ball 7IP, 2H, 1R, 1ER, 1BB, 5K
Warriors
2B Jared Nelson 0-3
SS Joe Rubenzer 1-3, SB, K
C Steve Bielmeier 1-3, HR, K
3B Brock Levin 0-3
P Kurt Gehrman 0-3, K
RF Kyle Schultz 1-3, 2K
CF Carl Lee 0-2
CF Larson 0-1
DH Carson Rimstad 0-1, BB,
LF Sam Less 0-1, sac bunt, CS
WP Kurt Gehrman: 7IP, 1H, 0R, 0ER, 0BB, 9K, 1HBP
The first inning went off without a hitch as SCF SP Will Ball (senior) was dealing and throwing heat. Amery SP Kurt Gehrman (junior) matched Ball's output, setting down the first 3 batters he faced. The second and third innings also had little drama. Amery was able to get a two out opposite field double from RF Kyle Schultz in the 2nd, before Ball induced a tapper back to the mound from CF Carl Lee. Ball walked the first batter of the third inning, DH Carson Rimstad, on a full count, which was followed by a nice sac bunt by LF Sam Less. Ball got out of the inning unscathed by getting a groundout to 2nd baseman Cory Gebhard, followed by a infield fly also to the 2B Gebhard.
The Saints went down quietly in the 2nd inning as Gehrman really started showcasing his curveball, and finally got their first hit in the bottom of the 3rd by #9 hitter and LF Sam Schmidt, who push bunted down the third base side and reached first with two outs. Schmidt was then able to steal 2nd base on the next pitch. Lead-off man Nick Johnson hit a ground ball to third base, but couldn't outrun the throw, and was the third out of the inning.
The Warriors started the 4th inning with a bang, C Steve Bielmeier hit a 0-1 pitch deep to left center field and CF Nick Johnson ran out of real estate as the ball carried over the fence for a homerun. Ball kept his composure and finished off the rest of inning without allowing a baserunner, and breaking out a nasty changeup that had hitters fooled.
The fifth inning was another scoring opportunity for the Saints. An error allowed RF Josh Larcom to reach 1b, again with two outs. Larcom was able to steal 2B, getting himself into scoring position. 1B Marcus Campbell was able to draw the count full, but couldn't make contact with the 3-2 fastball, ending the 5th inning.
There were two goofy plays in the top of the sixth inning with the Warriors at bat. SS Joe Rubenzer hit a one-out double down the line past 3B Ben Anderson and "hopping" over LF Sam Schmidt. The ball however, veered over into foul territory after passing 3B, and got so far as running into the softball fence (which is behind the baseball field fence - which only spans the fair territory), and by rule results in a dead ball - ground rule double. Thus when the ball hit the fence Schmidt raised his arms indicating ground-rule double but the umpires did not react. It was not until Rubenzer had crossed the plate for a possible inside the park homerun and SCF Coach Paul Randolph blazed out of the dugout pleading his case to the home plate umpire about the ground rules, that any action was taken. The umpire agreed with Coach Randolph and Rubenzer was forced to go back to 2nd base, causing Amery coach Matt Petterson to rumble out from his 3rd base box. Petterson made his agrument but the ruling stood. Rubenzer was able to steal 3B on C Gus Koecher, who had already thrown out a baserunner stealing 2nd, getting himself into scoring range with a sac fly. However, C Steve Bielmeier struck out on an 0-2 curveball in the dirt. Koecher was not able to make the tag, so he looked back Rubenzer at third and threw down to 1B for the out. When Koecher threw the ball, Rubenzer broke home, attempting to score. 1B Marcus Campbell caught the ball and quickly snapped it back to Koecher at home, who had completely blocked the plate, and tagged out Rubenzer at the plate for the third out in front of a frenzied crowd.
The 6th inning prooved no better for the Saints. The Saints CF Nick Johnson took first base after being hit by a pitch with 1 out. Everyone on the Saints and Warriors bench knew that Johnson was going to steal 2B, so Warriors P Gehrman threw over to first base twice to keep Johnson close. Johnson took an even bigger lead at first, and unexpectedly Gehrman threw over again, this time a little quickly, and was able to pick of Johnson at first base, cutting the Saints threat off at the knees. 2B Cory Gebhard smacked the first pitch he saw to deep left field, however Amery LF Sam Less made a great leaping - awkward - over the shoulder grab to end the inning.
Will Ball came back out for the 7th inning, getting 3 more quick outs, after an error by the infield. Ball finished the day with 7 IP giving up only 2 hits and walking 1 while striking out 5.
I was more than impressed with Ball's changeup which really buckled the opposing batters knees. Ball hadn't pitched in a few weeks due to arm troubles and thus his speed was a little down in the early innings. Ball stayed mostly away from his curveball, and even when he threw it, he could rarely get it over for a strike. Ball, though, was by far the most outstanding Saints player of the game.
The Saints entered the bottom of the 7th inning down 1-0 with their 3-4-5 hitters due up: Vold, Koecher, Ball. Spirits were high in the Saints dugout who still believed they could pull this victory off and advance in the playoffs for the first time since 2001. 2nd Team All-Middle Border Conference P Kurt Gehrman was still pitching for the Warriors and started with 3 straight curveballs to SS Matt Vold who looked at one, missed on another, and fouled the last one off. Gehrman came back with a fastball that painted the outside corner, and Vold was down on strikes. C Gus Koecher took the first pitch he saw and slapped it into play. Koecher wasn't able to get all of the ball, grounding it to SS Joe Rubenzer, who fielded it cleanly and the throw beat the speedy Koecher to 1B. With two outs and the season on the line P Will Ball came to the plate. Ball was able to draw a full count after falling behind 1-2. Gehrman challenged Ball with a 3-2 fastball the was just above the numbers. Ball bit on the pitch and could not catch up, striking out to end the game.
Congratulations to the Amery Warriors who will be advancing to the 2nd round of the regionals. Also congrats to the St. Croix Falls Saints who did in their conference this season and played a great season. I know that the Saints are disappointed with their finish this season, but they played a great game against a 1-pitcher team in this season's Amery Warriors. All the credit to P's Will Ball and Kurt Gehrman who combined to give up only 3 hits, 1 walk, and 1 hbp. The game was played in about 70 minutes, the fastest 7 inning game I have been to. Thanks again Saints for the great season, I hope to cover you more next year.
BOXSCORE
Warriors: 000 100 00 : 1 2 1
Saints.....: 000 000 00 : 0 1 2
SAINTS
CF Nick Johnson 0-2, HBP, CS, K
2B Cory Gebhard 0-3, K
SS Matt Vold 0-3, K
C Gus Koecher 0-3, K
P Will Ball 0-3, 2K
3B Ben Anderson 0-2
RF Josh Larcom 0-2, SB, K
1B Marcus Campbell 0-2, K
LF Sam Schmidt 1-2, K
LP - Will Ball 7IP, 2H, 1R, 1ER, 1BB, 5K
Warriors
2B Jared Nelson 0-3
SS Joe Rubenzer 1-3, SB, K
C Steve Bielmeier 1-3, HR, K
3B Brock Levin 0-3
P Kurt Gehrman 0-3, K
RF Kyle Schultz 1-3, 2K
CF Carl Lee 0-2
CF Larson 0-1
DH Carson Rimstad 0-1, BB,
LF Sam Less 0-1, sac bunt, CS
WP Kurt Gehrman: 7IP, 1H, 0R, 0ER, 0BB, 9K, 1HBP
Weekend Preview: Sat @ Hudson, Sun vs. New Richmond 1pm
The St. Croix River Bandits are looking for their first win of the season yet as they are 0-7 overall and 0-2 in conference play. The Bandits will already be at a disadvantage as they will be without their top 3 pitchers for the game. The Bandits received devastating news that pitcher Jay Gagner may be out for the season with arm and elbow issues. To make matters worse #2 Adam Lewis is out all weekend with work and #3 Jim Rochford just had a newborn son, last Sunday and won't be able to make the weekend games. This leaves that Bandits somewhat strapped. The Bandits expect to pitch a conglomerate of Michael Chelberg, Curtis Roebuck, Kyle Kahl, Matt Vold, Andy Mueller (former SCF Saints star who hasn't pitched in 12+ years), amongst others.
The Bandits first game of the weekend is against the Hudson River Rats on Saturday. The River Rats may only be 2-5 this season, but don't let their poor non-conference record fool you, this team is a powerhouse and the Bandits hope to compete. The Bandits lost 2 games to the Rats last season, by scored of 16-0 and 3-1 (a Jay Gagner pitched game). The Rats are riddled with guys who played college ball, headlined by Sean Parnell, former Amery phenom, who played at UW-Oshkosh. I unfortunately can't tell you much about the River Rats besides they are good, since they don't have boxscores for me to peruse.
Game #2 for the weekend will be at home versus the New Richmond Millers. The Millers are off to a great start this season, going 4-1 including an 8-3 win versus the Menomonie Eagles. The Millers do strike out a lot (much like the Bandits) k'ing 8.8 times per 9. The Millers, though, are so far raking this season, with 6 players batting over .300. Millers pitching has been good to poor, they have won a couple of wild games, 16-12 against UW Barron for instance. The Millers are led on the mound by P Tim Brown. If the Bandits don't see Brown, the Millers have a myriad of pitchers such as Cody Torkelson, Hayden Zimmerman, Logan Peterson, and Mitch Paquin who will all be ready to go. The Millers sport a solid 14 man roster - each guy with the ability to play.
The Bandits first game of the weekend is against the Hudson River Rats on Saturday. The River Rats may only be 2-5 this season, but don't let their poor non-conference record fool you, this team is a powerhouse and the Bandits hope to compete. The Bandits lost 2 games to the Rats last season, by scored of 16-0 and 3-1 (a Jay Gagner pitched game). The Rats are riddled with guys who played college ball, headlined by Sean Parnell, former Amery phenom, who played at UW-Oshkosh. I unfortunately can't tell you much about the River Rats besides they are good, since they don't have boxscores for me to peruse.
Game #2 for the weekend will be at home versus the New Richmond Millers. The Millers are off to a great start this season, going 4-1 including an 8-3 win versus the Menomonie Eagles. The Millers do strike out a lot (much like the Bandits) k'ing 8.8 times per 9. The Millers, though, are so far raking this season, with 6 players batting over .300. Millers pitching has been good to poor, they have won a couple of wild games, 16-12 against UW Barron for instance. The Millers are led on the mound by P Tim Brown. If the Bandits don't see Brown, the Millers have a myriad of pitchers such as Cody Torkelson, Hayden Zimmerman, Logan Peterson, and Mitch Paquin who will all be ready to go. The Millers sport a solid 14 man roster - each guy with the ability to play.
Game Recap - Bandits end the weekend with two losses to East Bethel.
~Note~ I apologize for the tardiness of this game recap, however, I has blessed with my second son on Sunday and have not had much chance to write and thus the recap comes now...better late than never~
GAME 1:
The St. Croix River Bandits (0-2, 0-7) are in a giant rut. The Bandits faced off against the Bandits of East Bethel last Saturday and dropped both games of the doubleheader. The first game was a close one. The Bandits started Adam Lewis on the mound, and things started off a little rocky. Lewis allowed a walk and two hits in the first inning, which led to a run, and two hits in the second that led to another run. The East Bethel Bandits notched another three runs in the 4th inning due to a couple untimely errors and two singles.
The St. Croix River Bandits were down 5-0 going to the bottom of the 5th with only 1 hit in the game. RF Tim Wampfler led the scoring off with a one out single, followed by a 1B Jesse Hartel walk. 2B John Peterson smacked a double to the right center gap, scoring Wampfler and giving the Bandits their first run of the day. SS Kyle Kahl followed with a sharp single that drove in 2 more runs. LF Trevor Todd finished the scoring by crushing a ball to right center field, giving himself a double and an RBI.
The East Bethel Bandits struck again in the top of the 6th, R&B sensation R. Kelly hit a solo shot to dead center increasing their lead to 6-4. The Bandits were able to get a baserunner on in the 7th inning when Kyle Kahl reached on an error by the shortstop. CF Scott Lindholm then blazed a 1-1 fastball to left center field. However, Bandits luck would strike again. Due to the dryness in the region, the ball took one bounce and hopped over the fence for a ground-rule double that certainly would have been a triple had it plopped against the fence. Kahl was held up at 3rd and Lindholm was given 2nd. Trevor Todd lifted the ball to deep left field to score Kahl from 3rd. Had the ground-rule double been a triple - the game would have been tied 6-6 instead of 6-5. DH Joe Holman struck out swinging, leaving Lindholm stranded at 2B.
Game Balls:
1. Tim Wampfler - went 2 - 3, a sweet double, and with a run scored, saw the ball well all day.
2. Trevor Todd - 1 -3 with a double and 2RBI (reached base twice on errors also)
3. Kyle Kahl - 1 - 4 but scored twice, had 2 RBI, and stole a base.
Unheralded Hero(es) of the Game:
The St. Croix River Bandits team which only struck out 4 times in the first game...
Just Amazing:
John Peterson ran home from 2nd on a single and was dead meat as the outfielder threw a bead to home plate. Instead of slowing down or trying to slide under the catcher (and for those who are unaware, bowling over the catcher is not allowed in this league), JP "superman-ed" over the catcher and was able to swipe home plate to score.
GAME 2:
All the momentum the Bandits had in the first game was lost between the 15 minute break that was taken between the two games. The Bandits were able to score first, with three straight singles by CF Scott Lindholm, 2B Curtis Roebuck, and DH Trevor Todd, but were only able to get 1 run with the bases loaded and no outs. The East Bethel Bandits must have seen enough of their starting pitcher, and pulled him in favor of a different pitcher after the 1st inning. The Bandits scored one run in each of the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th inning, gathering 5 hits and a walk.
Chris Chelberg started on the mound for the Bandits. This is Chelberg's first action he had seen in over 10 years. His start had mixed results, he was able to get the first three batters of the game out, including a strikeout. However, with the Bandits up 2-0 going into the 2nd, Chelberg gave up 3 hits and 2 walks, which aided by an error, allowed 4 runs. Jim Rochford took the mound in the 3rd inning and fared no better. Rochford have up a whopping 10 hits, 2 walks, and 6 runs in only 3 innings. "Obviously one of the worst outings I've had, they hit the ball well, I thought I threw well but sometimes you get hit, and that's what happened today." The East Bethel Bandits were able to end the game in the bottom of the 6th with 4 more runs of off relief pitcher John Peterson, who was heard saying after the game, "I think I'm officially retired from pitching". The St. Croix River Bandits weren't able to get a hit after the 4th, getting only 1 more baserunner off of a hbp. The Bandits lost 14-4 in 6 innings.
P Jim Rochford had some insight after the game. "You know were are just struggling right now, we scrath across 4 or 5 runs and let up 6 to 12, or we let up only 3-4 runs and score none. We just haven't found the winning formula yet. Maybe we need to be like the Tampa Bay Rays and take out the extra part in our name, just be the St. Croix Bandits, I don't know. Its better than Trevor Todd's suggestion of playing to the death."
Game Balls:
1. Michael VanderPlas - went 2/3 and scored 2 runs (1 of which he manufactured with aggressive baserunning. Vandy also gunned a guy down from left field with a strike to home plate.
2. Curtis Roebuck - went 1/2 with a run scored, a bunt single and in two games pitched 1 2/3 innings giving up only 2 hits, no walks, and no runs.
3. Adam Lewis - may have gone 0/3 but did have 2 RBI and played good D.
Unheralded Hero of the Day:
Jeanne Rochford for once again doing to Bandits concession stand and peddling our wares to unknowing teens and their families.
The Boulevard Bar and Grill for the Bandits Bash that Night - GOOD TIMES
Missing from the Day:
Jay Gagner - arm amputation
Mitch Thompson - family vacation....really...
Gus Koecher & Matty Vold - still getting warmed up for the Bandits season
Michael Chelberg - had detention at Winona, didn't know they did that at college.
GAME 1:
The St. Croix River Bandits (0-2, 0-7) are in a giant rut. The Bandits faced off against the Bandits of East Bethel last Saturday and dropped both games of the doubleheader. The first game was a close one. The Bandits started Adam Lewis on the mound, and things started off a little rocky. Lewis allowed a walk and two hits in the first inning, which led to a run, and two hits in the second that led to another run. The East Bethel Bandits notched another three runs in the 4th inning due to a couple untimely errors and two singles.
The St. Croix River Bandits were down 5-0 going to the bottom of the 5th with only 1 hit in the game. RF Tim Wampfler led the scoring off with a one out single, followed by a 1B Jesse Hartel walk. 2B John Peterson smacked a double to the right center gap, scoring Wampfler and giving the Bandits their first run of the day. SS Kyle Kahl followed with a sharp single that drove in 2 more runs. LF Trevor Todd finished the scoring by crushing a ball to right center field, giving himself a double and an RBI.
The East Bethel Bandits struck again in the top of the 6th, R&B sensation R. Kelly hit a solo shot to dead center increasing their lead to 6-4. The Bandits were able to get a baserunner on in the 7th inning when Kyle Kahl reached on an error by the shortstop. CF Scott Lindholm then blazed a 1-1 fastball to left center field. However, Bandits luck would strike again. Due to the dryness in the region, the ball took one bounce and hopped over the fence for a ground-rule double that certainly would have been a triple had it plopped against the fence. Kahl was held up at 3rd and Lindholm was given 2nd. Trevor Todd lifted the ball to deep left field to score Kahl from 3rd. Had the ground-rule double been a triple - the game would have been tied 6-6 instead of 6-5. DH Joe Holman struck out swinging, leaving Lindholm stranded at 2B.
Game Balls:
1. Tim Wampfler - went 2 - 3, a sweet double, and with a run scored, saw the ball well all day.
2. Trevor Todd - 1 -3 with a double and 2RBI (reached base twice on errors also)
3. Kyle Kahl - 1 - 4 but scored twice, had 2 RBI, and stole a base.
Unheralded Hero(es) of the Game:
The St. Croix River Bandits team which only struck out 4 times in the first game...
Just Amazing:
John Peterson ran home from 2nd on a single and was dead meat as the outfielder threw a bead to home plate. Instead of slowing down or trying to slide under the catcher (and for those who are unaware, bowling over the catcher is not allowed in this league), JP "superman-ed" over the catcher and was able to swipe home plate to score.
GAME 2:
All the momentum the Bandits had in the first game was lost between the 15 minute break that was taken between the two games. The Bandits were able to score first, with three straight singles by CF Scott Lindholm, 2B Curtis Roebuck, and DH Trevor Todd, but were only able to get 1 run with the bases loaded and no outs. The East Bethel Bandits must have seen enough of their starting pitcher, and pulled him in favor of a different pitcher after the 1st inning. The Bandits scored one run in each of the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th inning, gathering 5 hits and a walk.
Chris Chelberg started on the mound for the Bandits. This is Chelberg's first action he had seen in over 10 years. His start had mixed results, he was able to get the first three batters of the game out, including a strikeout. However, with the Bandits up 2-0 going into the 2nd, Chelberg gave up 3 hits and 2 walks, which aided by an error, allowed 4 runs. Jim Rochford took the mound in the 3rd inning and fared no better. Rochford have up a whopping 10 hits, 2 walks, and 6 runs in only 3 innings. "Obviously one of the worst outings I've had, they hit the ball well, I thought I threw well but sometimes you get hit, and that's what happened today." The East Bethel Bandits were able to end the game in the bottom of the 6th with 4 more runs of off relief pitcher John Peterson, who was heard saying after the game, "I think I'm officially retired from pitching". The St. Croix River Bandits weren't able to get a hit after the 4th, getting only 1 more baserunner off of a hbp. The Bandits lost 14-4 in 6 innings.
P Jim Rochford had some insight after the game. "You know were are just struggling right now, we scrath across 4 or 5 runs and let up 6 to 12, or we let up only 3-4 runs and score none. We just haven't found the winning formula yet. Maybe we need to be like the Tampa Bay Rays and take out the extra part in our name, just be the St. Croix Bandits, I don't know. Its better than Trevor Todd's suggestion of playing to the death."
Game Balls:
1. Michael VanderPlas - went 2/3 and scored 2 runs (1 of which he manufactured with aggressive baserunning. Vandy also gunned a guy down from left field with a strike to home plate.
2. Curtis Roebuck - went 1/2 with a run scored, a bunt single and in two games pitched 1 2/3 innings giving up only 2 hits, no walks, and no runs.
3. Adam Lewis - may have gone 0/3 but did have 2 RBI and played good D.
Unheralded Hero of the Day:
Jeanne Rochford for once again doing to Bandits concession stand and peddling our wares to unknowing teens and their families.
The Boulevard Bar and Grill for the Bandits Bash that Night - GOOD TIMES
Missing from the Day:
Jay Gagner - arm amputation
Mitch Thompson - family vacation....really...
Gus Koecher & Matty Vold - still getting warmed up for the Bandits season
Michael Chelberg - had detention at Winona, didn't know they did that at college.
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
Game Preview - Sat. 5/23 vs. East Bethel @ SCRB
The St. Croix River Bandits (0-2, 0-5) are in search of their first win of the season after a rough first couple of weeks. The Bandits have shown spots of good play, especially in the 4-3 loss to Grantsburg and a 3-0 loss to Plum City. The Bandits just have not received consistent hitting in their lineup, and while some games have been defensively sounds, a few others have been outright atrocious. The Bandits will play two seven innings games against another struggling Bandits team this weekend, the East Bethel Bandits (1-4). East Bethel won their season opener, a comeback against Milaca, but have since dropped their last four games, including a loss to, SCVBL team, New Richmond Millers. East Bethel has had their struggles defensively as well, averaging about 3 errors per game.
The East Bethel Bandits are led by Derek Williamson, who as a sophomore at Augsburg College, batted .292 in 32 games with 22 runs and 22 RBI. Williamson is in his third year playing for the East Bethel Bandits and has started off on a torrid pace, hitting .429 with 4 stolen bases in only 3 games. Williamson has stolen 20+ bases in each of his two seasons with the Bandits. The St. Croix River Bandits expect to see East Bethel's top two pitchers, Andrew Polum and Jeff Amann. Both pitchers boasted solid control numbers over their career, Amann picking up about a strikout an inning, and Polum walking only 2.2 per 9 innings.
The St. Croix River Bandits will counter game 1 with starting pitcher Jim Rochford taking the mound. Rochford is coming off of an Isanti game where he struggled in the first inning, and ended up losing the game 6-1. Rochford is confident that he can throw in another performance like the season opener vs. Grantsburg. Rochford commented, "That Isanti game was pretty weird, I ended up hitting 2 left handed batters in the 1st inning, if I get even 1 of those guys out, they score 1 run instead of 3. I actually felt pretty confident after the game, I didn't walk anyone, half their hits came in the first inning, and somehow I managed to strike out 4 guys.
As for game two, the Bandits (of St. Croix) have two options. If SP Adam Lewis can make the game, he will be dealing for the Bandits.....if not, you will see a menagerie of Bandits players attempting the position, due to a Jay Gagner injury and a Michael Chelberg college exam. If Lewis can't make it, expect to see the debut of Chris Chelberg, along with some work from Curtis Roebuck, John Peterson, Kyle Kahl, and Trevor Todd.
NOTE*********** BANDITS BASH SATURDAY 8PM - 12AM @ The Boulevard Bar and Grill
The East Bethel Bandits are led by Derek Williamson, who as a sophomore at Augsburg College, batted .292 in 32 games with 22 runs and 22 RBI. Williamson is in his third year playing for the East Bethel Bandits and has started off on a torrid pace, hitting .429 with 4 stolen bases in only 3 games. Williamson has stolen 20+ bases in each of his two seasons with the Bandits. The St. Croix River Bandits expect to see East Bethel's top two pitchers, Andrew Polum and Jeff Amann. Both pitchers boasted solid control numbers over their career, Amann picking up about a strikout an inning, and Polum walking only 2.2 per 9 innings.
The St. Croix River Bandits will counter game 1 with starting pitcher Jim Rochford taking the mound. Rochford is coming off of an Isanti game where he struggled in the first inning, and ended up losing the game 6-1. Rochford is confident that he can throw in another performance like the season opener vs. Grantsburg. Rochford commented, "That Isanti game was pretty weird, I ended up hitting 2 left handed batters in the 1st inning, if I get even 1 of those guys out, they score 1 run instead of 3. I actually felt pretty confident after the game, I didn't walk anyone, half their hits came in the first inning, and somehow I managed to strike out 4 guys.
As for game two, the Bandits (of St. Croix) have two options. If SP Adam Lewis can make the game, he will be dealing for the Bandits.....if not, you will see a menagerie of Bandits players attempting the position, due to a Jay Gagner injury and a Michael Chelberg college exam. If Lewis can't make it, expect to see the debut of Chris Chelberg, along with some work from Curtis Roebuck, John Peterson, Kyle Kahl, and Trevor Todd.
NOTE*********** BANDITS BASH SATURDAY 8PM - 12AM @ The Boulevard Bar and Grill
Monday, May 18, 2009
Game Recap - Bandits tumble versus Prescott, lose 12-2.
The St. Croix River Bandits (0-2, 0-5) have yet to find their footing this season, experiencing erratic play from every aspect of the game. The game against Southern Division powerhouse Prescott was supposed to be the start of the conference season for pitcher Jay Gagner. However, Gagner was sidelined with nagging arm injuries that has plagued him since his start versus Blaine. The Bandits started OF Trevor Todd on the mound, making his 2nd appearance of the season. Trevor pitched admirably, but just could not keep the Pirates off the bases, allowing 19 men to reach base in 5 innings. The Bandits kept the game close, 5-2, until the bottom of the 5th inning where the Pirates poured on another 7 runs, most unearned, in route to a 10 mercy-rule victory in the 7th.
The Bandits did take the lead early in the game. In the 1st inning CF Scott Lindholm and 2B John Peterson led off with singles. P Trevor Todd reached base on a error, and the Bandits had the bases loaded with no outs. Unforunately, the Bandits would only get in 1 run off of a Michael Chelberg fielder's choice, leaving 2 runners stranded. The Bandits would once again have the bases loaded in the 3rd inning with 1 out, but once again could only score 1 run, again courtesy of Michael Chelberg with an RBI single.
After the smoke cleared, Prescott had scored 12 runs, only 6 earned in what CF Scott Lindholm called, "One of the worst fielding performances he had witnessed from the Bandits, even though we are done in the scorebooks for 3 errors, it seems like we made 9 errors or miscues." The Bandits will try to right the ship with a pair of non-conference games Saturday versus another stuggling Bandits team, the East Bethel Bandits, who are currently 1-4. "Make no mistake, we are playing these next two games to win, I'm not going out there if we are just going to half-#@! it.," says P/general manager Jim Rochford.
**Notes**
Bandits Bash at Boulevard Bar and Grill in Dresser - Sat May 23rd - whoever reads this - your attendance is mandatory - $10 at the door for unlimited tap beer from 8pm to 12am.
Game Balls:
1. Scott Lindholm: 3-4 2runs scored - cant ask for a better individual effort from the lead off, I asked him before the game if he could try to hit above the team's batting average (he was .10 under) and now 115 points ahead.
2. Michael Chelberg: 1-2 2RBI and a walk - raised his batter average 62 points with 1 hit.
3. Preston Langer: at 3rd base he had 5 assists and a putout with no errors, in what Lindholm said, was the only Bandits who didn't have a defensive lapse.
Unheralded Hero of the Day: Trevor Todd, who despite stopping at a gas station in the cities, still ran out of gas on the way to Prescott, about 7 miles away from the town. Congrats Trev.
The Bandits have 8 guy what are 25-89 combined so far this season. .281 BA
The Bandits have 8 guys that are 2-62 combined so far this season...ouch
Unavailable for the game (a long list today):
Adam Lewis - in jail/reasons unknown
Jay Gagner - minor tommy john surgery
Jim Rochford - pregnant
Curtis Roebuck - competitve cow herding debut
Jake Larcom - still running
Joe Holman - presumed dead
Jeff Johnson - appendectomy
Jesse Hartel - run-in with the Columbian Cartel
Gus and Matt - still in the minors (and will probably have a good run in the playoffs)
The Bandits did take the lead early in the game. In the 1st inning CF Scott Lindholm and 2B John Peterson led off with singles. P Trevor Todd reached base on a error, and the Bandits had the bases loaded with no outs. Unforunately, the Bandits would only get in 1 run off of a Michael Chelberg fielder's choice, leaving 2 runners stranded. The Bandits would once again have the bases loaded in the 3rd inning with 1 out, but once again could only score 1 run, again courtesy of Michael Chelberg with an RBI single.
After the smoke cleared, Prescott had scored 12 runs, only 6 earned in what CF Scott Lindholm called, "One of the worst fielding performances he had witnessed from the Bandits, even though we are done in the scorebooks for 3 errors, it seems like we made 9 errors or miscues." The Bandits will try to right the ship with a pair of non-conference games Saturday versus another stuggling Bandits team, the East Bethel Bandits, who are currently 1-4. "Make no mistake, we are playing these next two games to win, I'm not going out there if we are just going to half-#@! it.," says P/general manager Jim Rochford.
**Notes**
Bandits Bash at Boulevard Bar and Grill in Dresser - Sat May 23rd - whoever reads this - your attendance is mandatory - $10 at the door for unlimited tap beer from 8pm to 12am.
Game Balls:
1. Scott Lindholm: 3-4 2runs scored - cant ask for a better individual effort from the lead off, I asked him before the game if he could try to hit above the team's batting average (he was .10 under) and now 115 points ahead.
2. Michael Chelberg: 1-2 2RBI and a walk - raised his batter average 62 points with 1 hit.
3. Preston Langer: at 3rd base he had 5 assists and a putout with no errors, in what Lindholm said, was the only Bandits who didn't have a defensive lapse.
Unheralded Hero of the Day: Trevor Todd, who despite stopping at a gas station in the cities, still ran out of gas on the way to Prescott, about 7 miles away from the town. Congrats Trev.
The Bandits have 8 guy what are 25-89 combined so far this season. .281 BA
The Bandits have 8 guys that are 2-62 combined so far this season...ouch
Unavailable for the game (a long list today):
Adam Lewis - in jail/reasons unknown
Jay Gagner - minor tommy john surgery
Jim Rochford - pregnant
Curtis Roebuck - competitve cow herding debut
Jake Larcom - still running
Joe Holman - presumed dead
Jeff Johnson - appendectomy
Jesse Hartel - run-in with the Columbian Cartel
Gus and Matt - still in the minors (and will probably have a good run in the playoffs)
Saturday, May 16, 2009
Game Recap - Bandits Dominated by Gardner and the Blues
The St. Croix River Bandits (0-1, 0-4) managed just 2 hits on Saturday afternoon versus Plum City ace Tony Gardner. Gardner struck out 17 Bandits and allowed only 5 base runners on the Day. Bandits starting pitcher Adam Lewis pitched an outstanding game, letting up only 1 run through 6 innings before letting up 2 more in his final inning in the 7th. The Bandits threatened early in game, when 2B John Peterson hit a one out single. Gardner plunked the next two batters, SS Mitch Thompson, and LF Trevor Todd, loading the bases with only one out. However, he was able to wiggle out of the jam, striking out the next two Bandits. The Bandits were not able to get another runner base first base for the rest of the game, going down in order 6 of the next 8 innings. Prescott up next tomorrow, better bring the sticks.
**Notes**
Game Balls:
1. Adam Lewis - pitched an outstanding game, but couldn't get the run support, and took the loss.
2. Trevor Todd/John Peterson - managed the Bandits only hits of the day. -nod goes to Trevor since he got hit in the pinky toe.
3. Michael Chelberg - the only Bandits batter to NOT strike out on Saturday...better hit that guy in the 3 hole next game......
Unheralded Hero of the Day: I would think it would be the bench players for sitting all day in that freezing cold wind, but I'll go with Mitch Thompson who we chucked over the SS and performed fantastically- and even took one for the team.
Not available for today's game: Kyle Kahl - graduation - even though he's still in school..., Jim Rochford - due with his 2nd child any day now....can't wait to get back to my "pre-pregnancy" weight, Joe Holman - missing....if found please dial 715-555-1234), Jeff Johnson - temporary paralysis, Jake Larcom - the runs, Trygve Chinander - missed the bus, Gus and Matt - ACT's.
**Notes**
Game Balls:
1. Adam Lewis - pitched an outstanding game, but couldn't get the run support, and took the loss.
2. Trevor Todd/John Peterson - managed the Bandits only hits of the day. -nod goes to Trevor since he got hit in the pinky toe.
3. Michael Chelberg - the only Bandits batter to NOT strike out on Saturday...better hit that guy in the 3 hole next game......
Unheralded Hero of the Day: I would think it would be the bench players for sitting all day in that freezing cold wind, but I'll go with Mitch Thompson who we chucked over the SS and performed fantastically- and even took one for the team.
Not available for today's game: Kyle Kahl - graduation - even though he's still in school..., Jim Rochford - due with his 2nd child any day now....can't wait to get back to my "pre-pregnancy" weight, Joe Holman - missing....if found please dial 715-555-1234), Jeff Johnson - temporary paralysis, Jake Larcom - the runs, Trygve Chinander - missed the bus, Gus and Matt - ACT's.
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
Game Preview - 5/16 @ Plum City and 5/17 @ Prescott
The St. Croix River Bandits (0-3, 0-0) start the regular conference season this weekend with 2 conference games, Saturday vs. Plum City (3-0, 2-0) and Sunday versus Prescott (2-0, 2-0). The Bandits hope to rebound after a tough non-conference schedule to start off the season. Saturday's game at Plum City will see the Bandit's Adam Lewis start on the mound for the first time this season. Lewis was a consistent hurler for the Bandits last season finishing 1-2 with a 3.00 ERA over 30 innings. Plum City is coming off of conference wins against new SCVBL member Hager City and pulled through against Elmwood in a 4-3 game last Saturday. The Bandits can expect to see Blues ace Tony Garner, who struck out 14 Bandits in their last meeting in May of 2008. The Blues won that game 6-2, scoring 4 runs in the top of the 8th inning. The Bandits expect to be at full force this game with all of the starters and most of the roster available.
The Bandits 2nd game of the weekend comes against the South Division's powerhouse Prescott Pirates, who went 22-8 in 2008 including 11-3 in the SCVBL. However, one of those losses came at the hands of Jay Gagner and the Bandits, in what was St. Croix's first game that season. Gagner pitched a complete game 1-hit shutout, striking out 8 and walking 0 in what was one of his more dominant outings of the season. Gagner will attempt that feat again, as he will take the mound against the Pirates on Sunday. I'm sure that the Pirates recall the loss and will be looking to exact revenge at their home field.
The Bandits 2nd game of the weekend comes against the South Division's powerhouse Prescott Pirates, who went 22-8 in 2008 including 11-3 in the SCVBL. However, one of those losses came at the hands of Jay Gagner and the Bandits, in what was St. Croix's first game that season. Gagner pitched a complete game 1-hit shutout, striking out 8 and walking 0 in what was one of his more dominant outings of the season. Gagner will attempt that feat again, as he will take the mound against the Pirates on Sunday. I'm sure that the Pirates recall the loss and will be looking to exact revenge at their home field.
Sunday, May 10, 2009
Bandits suffer another defeat.
The St. Croix River Bandits lost another game on Saturday afternoon to the Blaine Fusion. The Bandits are now 0-3 in their first 3 non-conference games, heading into conference action this coming weekend with games at Plum City and Prescott. The Bandits were ahead in the game 2-1 until the top of the 5th when the Fusion tied it up at 2's. Jay Gagner was on the mound for the Bandits today and put up a solid effort - 5IP, 2 hits allowed, 2Runs allowed (1 earned), and 7 k. It was after Gagner departed the game that the Bandits efforts on the mound and the field started falling flat. From the 6th inning on, the Bandits commited 4 fielding errors and 9 walks which led to 10 runs for the Fusion. The more I analyze the boxscore the more it looks like the Bandits could have pulled this one off. The Bandits out hit the Fusion: 10 to 8 and struck out less: 8 to 11. Even disregarding walks, if each error was played cleanly the Fusion would have scored only 2 runs on the game. Not much else to say..
Hopefully that Bandits have this sloppy play out of their system as the "real season" starts next weekend. As for the Bandits hitting, the bats came out swinging today. Lefties Adam Lewis and Trevor Todd combined to go 4 for 6 today. Todd scored twice and hit a double in the 2nd inning. Lewis ended the game with 2RBI. Curtis Roebuck got in on the action, hitting his first career double with the Bandits and coming within a few yards of parking the 2nd home run in Bandits history (in which case I know more than a few Bandits who would have immediately quit the team).
**NOTES**
Thank you to the Copy Shop for supplying the mini-poster schedules: If you need paper, paper products, or just any project done with any sort of paper or printing, seriously, don't waste your time, go to the Copy Shop.
Game Balls
1st: Jay Gagner - any guy who can go 10 months without throwing a baseball, come in to the game after about 9 warm up pitches and let up only 2 hits thru 5 innings gets my vote.
2nd: Adam Lewis - 2-4, 2RBI, 8 putouts and an assist
3rd: Trevor Todd - 2-4, 2B, 2 runs scored
Unheralded Hero of the Day- (tie) Jeanne Rochford - concessioneer - for all the work she puts in because she loves the Bandits, and the DeSmet family for stepping up to the plate and announcing a great game, capped off by Eve DeSmet's rendition of "American...Family...Insuuuuuuurance."
Scott Lindholm made the first 8-2 Fielder's Choice that I, or hopefully any Bandit, has ever seen. Congrats.
Key Players Not in Attendance: Jeff Johnson (aggravated motor boat), Joe Holman (temporary blindness), and the High School kids (truency).
Estimated Attendance: 40-50 (not bad for a cold crummy day in May)
Friday, May 8, 2009
Bandits take loss against Isanti 6-1
The St. Croix River Bandits dropped to 0-2 after playing a talented Isanti team Friday night. Isanti jumped all over the Bandits and starting pitcher Jim Rochford in the first inning, scoring 3 runs off of 3 hits and a sac fly. Rochford allowed two more runs in the other 4 innings he pitched, giving up a whopping 8 hits in only 5 innings. "I was locating okay in the strike zone, some stuff was left up, some stuff they dumped over into right field, but some stuff they just hammered. Those two batters I hit in the first inning was really a let down, if get those guys out they don't score any runs that inning."
The Bandits offense struggled throughout the game as the Isanti pitchers was not someting the Bandits bats needed this early in the season. The Bandits managed just 1 hit (from starting SS John Peterson) and had 4 batters walk. The Redbirds starting pitcher Adam West had a perfect game going through5 innings, but lost it in the top of the 6th when he walked RF Mike VanderPlas.
The Bandits scored their lone run in the 6th inning when after VanderPlas walked, 3B Preston Langer hit a sharp groundball to 3B, Redbird Tyler Schaff made a great defensive play and winged the ball over the 2B. However the second baseman missed the play allowing it to drop in right field and VanderPlas advanced to 3rd. Vandy was then able to score on a swinging strike three by 2B Curtis Roebuck which was in the dirt. The catcher had to throw to first to get Roebuck out and Vandy made a great read and ran home to score the Bandits lone run.
Adam Lewis came in the pitch the 6th and beyond. Lewis gave up only 1 run on 4 hits, but did yield a couple of walks.
Next game is Saturday at 1pm vs. Blaine. AT THE METRODOME! I mean at the SCF High School Field.
**Notes**
Game Balls
1 - Tie: JP got our only hit so I suppose he is the offensive player of the game....we'll tie him with Vandy who scored our lone run.
3 - Defensive play of the game came from Curtis Roebuck who "missed" a line drive with the bases loaded and no infield fly rule called. Curtis threw to second and then somehow mysteriously was able to get 1 of the runners standing on first base out.....or something like that..its was confusing.
Unheralded Hero of the Day: Umpire Jim Jarvis, called a good game with a good sized strike zone, make those batters swing!
The Bandits played a pretty solid game defensively with only 1 statistical error. The outfielders said they made some bad read on the flyballs, but I have seen way worse.
Key players not in attendance: SS Kyle Kahl - speaking at a graduation ceremony, 3B Mitch Thompson - missed the team bus, OF Joe Holman - herniated metatarsal, 3b/1b Jeff Johnson - laxative overdose.
Bandits Away Attendance: 5 (6 if you include Laura's unborn child).
The Bandits offense struggled throughout the game as the Isanti pitchers was not someting the Bandits bats needed this early in the season. The Bandits managed just 1 hit (from starting SS John Peterson) and had 4 batters walk. The Redbirds starting pitcher Adam West had a perfect game going through5 innings, but lost it in the top of the 6th when he walked RF Mike VanderPlas.
The Bandits scored their lone run in the 6th inning when after VanderPlas walked, 3B Preston Langer hit a sharp groundball to 3B, Redbird Tyler Schaff made a great defensive play and winged the ball over the 2B. However the second baseman missed the play allowing it to drop in right field and VanderPlas advanced to 3rd. Vandy was then able to score on a swinging strike three by 2B Curtis Roebuck which was in the dirt. The catcher had to throw to first to get Roebuck out and Vandy made a great read and ran home to score the Bandits lone run.
Adam Lewis came in the pitch the 6th and beyond. Lewis gave up only 1 run on 4 hits, but did yield a couple of walks.
Next game is Saturday at 1pm vs. Blaine. AT THE METRODOME! I mean at the SCF High School Field.
**Notes**
Game Balls
1 - Tie: JP got our only hit so I suppose he is the offensive player of the game....we'll tie him with Vandy who scored our lone run.
3 - Defensive play of the game came from Curtis Roebuck who "missed" a line drive with the bases loaded and no infield fly rule called. Curtis threw to second and then somehow mysteriously was able to get 1 of the runners standing on first base out.....or something like that..its was confusing.
Unheralded Hero of the Day: Umpire Jim Jarvis, called a good game with a good sized strike zone, make those batters swing!
The Bandits played a pretty solid game defensively with only 1 statistical error. The outfielders said they made some bad read on the flyballs, but I have seen way worse.
Key players not in attendance: SS Kyle Kahl - speaking at a graduation ceremony, 3B Mitch Thompson - missed the team bus, OF Joe Holman - herniated metatarsal, 3b/1b Jeff Johnson - laxative overdose.
Bandits Away Attendance: 5 (6 if you include Laura's unborn child).
Thursday, May 7, 2009
Weekend Preview - Fri 5/8 @ Isanti 7:30 & Home Opener Sat 5/9 vs Blaine
The St. Croix River Bandits (0-1) have two more non-conference games the weekend and hopefully they will bring out their sticks. Friday the Bandits will face the Isanti Redbirds (1-0) who were 28-10 last season and finished 4th in the MN state tournament last season. The Redbirds defeated the Bandits in an odd game early last year that saw the Bandits jump out to a 4-2 lead through 4 1/2 innings. The Redbirds, however, were able to score 12 more runs in the next 2 innings, thomping the Bandits 14-4 in 6innings.
The Redbirds are led by stud catcher Kyle Johnson, who completed his senior season with the Concordia-Moorhead Cobbers, a DII conference. Johnson finished his career making the All-MIAC three times, including 2nd team all region last season, and probably 1st team all region this season as he hit .404 and 16HR with 36RBI in only 33 games. Last season Johnson hit a 941' home run off of starting pitcher Jim Rochford, who said in response, "Hey, I struck him out the first time....". Rochford is expected to start on the mound again for the Bandits with Adam Lewis ready to pitch the back 5. The Bandits are 1-2 lifetime versus the Redbirds, with that coming back in 2007 when Jay Gagner defeated them 2-1.
***Breaking News*** On 5/5/09 Kyle Johnson signed a pro contract with the Fargo-Moorhead Redhawks, an independant pro team that plays in the Northern League. This means that the Redbirds will be without their clean-up hitter this season, not that the Bandits are out of the woods just yet. The Redbirds still have BJ Samuelson and Tyler Schaff who combined hit 9HR and 58 RBI laste season.
***HOME OPENER***
The Bandits begin their promotional and home season on Saturday vs. the Blaine Fusion (3-0), a Class B MN team. The Bandits will be giving away free mini-poster schedules to all fans in attendance thanks to the Copy Shop in St. Croix Falls. Blaine finished the season 26-12 in 2008, just missing the playoffs. They are led by former Concordia-St. Paul player Tony Boxwell, who hit .458 with 5 HR and 53RBI last season (at least he is only hitting .583 this season). Blaine also sports 3 pitchers that have an ERA under 2.00 and a team batting average of .350. The Bandits will counter with their ace, former Golden Gopher, Jay Gagner. Gagner was only 1-3 last season, but that was due solely to lack of run support as his ERA was 0.95 and had 64 strikeouts in 47 innings pitched.
The Redbirds are led by stud catcher Kyle Johnson, who completed his senior season with the Concordia-Moorhead Cobbers, a DII conference. Johnson finished his career making the All-MIAC three times, including 2nd team all region last season, and probably 1st team all region this season as he hit .404 and 16HR with 36RBI in only 33 games. Last season Johnson hit a 941' home run off of starting pitcher Jim Rochford, who said in response, "Hey, I struck him out the first time....". Rochford is expected to start on the mound again for the Bandits with Adam Lewis ready to pitch the back 5. The Bandits are 1-2 lifetime versus the Redbirds, with that coming back in 2007 when Jay Gagner defeated them 2-1.
***Breaking News*** On 5/5/09 Kyle Johnson signed a pro contract with the Fargo-Moorhead Redhawks, an independant pro team that plays in the Northern League. This means that the Redbirds will be without their clean-up hitter this season, not that the Bandits are out of the woods just yet. The Redbirds still have BJ Samuelson and Tyler Schaff who combined hit 9HR and 58 RBI laste season.
***HOME OPENER***
The Bandits begin their promotional and home season on Saturday vs. the Blaine Fusion (3-0), a Class B MN team. The Bandits will be giving away free mini-poster schedules to all fans in attendance thanks to the Copy Shop in St. Croix Falls. Blaine finished the season 26-12 in 2008, just missing the playoffs. They are led by former Concordia-St. Paul player Tony Boxwell, who hit .458 with 5 HR and 53RBI last season (at least he is only hitting .583 this season). Blaine also sports 3 pitchers that have an ERA under 2.00 and a team batting average of .350. The Bandits will counter with their ace, former Golden Gopher, Jay Gagner. Gagner was only 1-3 last season, but that was due solely to lack of run support as his ERA was 0.95 and had 64 strikeouts in 47 innings pitched.
Sunday, May 3, 2009
Bandits Lose a Nail Biter
The St. Croix River Bandits (0-1, 0-0) played a well rounded game on Sunday afternoon in a 4-3 loss to the Grantsburg Honkers. Down by a run in the top of the ninth inning and with one out, RF Tim Wampfler slapped a single to left field and was followed by LF Trevor Todd drawing a walk. 3B Jeff Johnson struck out swinging on a 2-2 fastball, leaving C Steve Siqueiros at the plate with 2 outs. Siqueiros had scored all 3 of the Bandits runs on Sunday - walking once, smashing a double to left-center field, and reaching by error. Siqueiros was behind in the count 1-2, with the next pitch on its way and in the zone Siqueiros took a mighty swing, but failed to make contact. The Bandits took their first loss of the season.
Jim Rochford started the game on the mound for the Bandits. Rochford pitched 6 innings, giving up only 5 hits and 4 walks, 2 runs (1 earned), and struckout 2. Grantsburg scored first in the bottom of the 4th inning. The Honkers started the inning with a lead-off single, an out and an error later, the Honkers had men on first and 2nd with no outs. Rochford was able to a induce a groundball that forced out a man at 2nd. With runners on the corners the Honkers #9 batter and catcher was able to slap a base hit to left field, scoring the man from 3rd.
The Bandits came right back in the top of the 5th inning after Siqueiros's double. After 2B Curtis Roebuck bunted Siqueiros over to 3rd, the Honkers pitcher walked the next two batters. Siqueiros was able to score on a wild pitch, sending the SS Kyle Kahl and CF Scott Lindholm to 3rd and 2nd respectively, with only 1 out. The Bandits, however, were not able to capitalize, scoring only the 1 run.
The Honkers came back and scored in the 6th - scoring a run off of a very untimely error at 1B with 2 outs and a Honker on 3B, giving Grantsburg a 2-1 lead. The Bandits tied it back up in the top of the 7th. Two walks and an infield hit gave the Bandits a great position to score a lot of runs with no outs. Lindholm was at the plate and hit the ball sharpely to the Honkers first baseman. The Honker threw the ball home in hopes of getting Siqueiros, running from 3rd,with a force-out. Siqueiros beat the throw home and the Bandits tied the game at 2, bases still loaded and nobody out. The Bandits bats abandoned them again when the opportunity was ripe for more runs, and the next three batter struck out.
Trevor Todd relieved Rochford in the 7th inning, but had trouble finding consistency in early in the inning, walking 2 before getting his first out. The next batter hit a blooper that just stayed fair down the right field line, scoring a runner, and giving the Honkers another one run lead. The Honkers scored again in the inning taking a 4-2 lead into the 8th. The Honkers, however, tried to give the lead up in the top of the eigth. After getting the first 2 outs, Siqueiros and Roebuck reached on errors and Kahl walked, loading the bases for Lindholm-who then also reached base on an error, allowing Siqueiros to score his third run of the game. However, for the 4th time of the game, the Bandits struckout with the bases loaded.
In summary the Bandits played a good game, scattering 3 errors (only one that hurt) and getting seven hits and drawing six walks. As starting pitcher Jim Rochford said, "Its always a better feeling to get a win, but in a non-conference game like this, we just have to go out there and try to shake some of the winter rust off. We left a lot of guys on base today, and struck out too many times, but I am very optimistic for this season....if we can score 3 runs a game when Gagner pitches we'll finish the season with 10 or 11 conference wins. I know those are bold words coming from a team that went 2-13 in conference last season, guess that just shows how optimistic I am."
The Bandits next game is Friday at Isanti at 7:30 and then the home opener is Saturday 5/9 at the St. Croix Falls High School field, where ace Jay Gagner will be pitching against the Blaine Fusion. The Bandits will be handing out free giveaways to fans all season at every home game. Saturdays game will be free mini-poster schedules for all those in attendance. Come out and watch a game, its free entertainment.
*Notes*
Game Balls: I'll break this down Hockey Style
1st ball: Catcher Steve Siqueiros - scored all 3 Bandits runs and called a great game behind the plate
2nd ball: Pitcher Jim Rochford - pitched 6 solid innings, scattering 5 hits and 4 walks. Allowed only 1 earned run, 2 total and struck out 2.
3rd ball: LF Trevor Todd and CF Scott Lindholm combined to go 4 for 7 on the day accounting for over half of the Bandits total hits.
Unheralded hero of the day: Curtis Roebuck - made 10 defensive plays without an error, and executed a perfect sacrifice bunt that would later score Steve Siqueiros
The Bandits will be having a fundraiser in conjunction with The Boulevard Bar and Grill in Dresser. On May 23rd between 8pm and 12am you can receive unlimited tap beer if you purchase a Bandits Bash ticket from either your local Bandit or from the Boulevard. The tickets will be $10 to purchase and proceeds will go towards funding of the Bandits organization. Tickets can be purchased at the door on that Saturday.
Chris Chelberg has officially been put on the 60 Day - DL following a carpenter's knife accident...to put it kindly, who needs all five fingers anyway....right??
Michael Chelberg, son of Chris, did NOT bring his dog to the game on Sunday...76% of the reason we lost.
College kids come back next weekend.
Jim Rochford started the game on the mound for the Bandits. Rochford pitched 6 innings, giving up only 5 hits and 4 walks, 2 runs (1 earned), and struckout 2. Grantsburg scored first in the bottom of the 4th inning. The Honkers started the inning with a lead-off single, an out and an error later, the Honkers had men on first and 2nd with no outs. Rochford was able to a induce a groundball that forced out a man at 2nd. With runners on the corners the Honkers #9 batter and catcher was able to slap a base hit to left field, scoring the man from 3rd.
The Bandits came right back in the top of the 5th inning after Siqueiros's double. After 2B Curtis Roebuck bunted Siqueiros over to 3rd, the Honkers pitcher walked the next two batters. Siqueiros was able to score on a wild pitch, sending the SS Kyle Kahl and CF Scott Lindholm to 3rd and 2nd respectively, with only 1 out. The Bandits, however, were not able to capitalize, scoring only the 1 run.
The Honkers came back and scored in the 6th - scoring a run off of a very untimely error at 1B with 2 outs and a Honker on 3B, giving Grantsburg a 2-1 lead. The Bandits tied it back up in the top of the 7th. Two walks and an infield hit gave the Bandits a great position to score a lot of runs with no outs. Lindholm was at the plate and hit the ball sharpely to the Honkers first baseman. The Honker threw the ball home in hopes of getting Siqueiros, running from 3rd,with a force-out. Siqueiros beat the throw home and the Bandits tied the game at 2, bases still loaded and nobody out. The Bandits bats abandoned them again when the opportunity was ripe for more runs, and the next three batter struck out.
Trevor Todd relieved Rochford in the 7th inning, but had trouble finding consistency in early in the inning, walking 2 before getting his first out. The next batter hit a blooper that just stayed fair down the right field line, scoring a runner, and giving the Honkers another one run lead. The Honkers scored again in the inning taking a 4-2 lead into the 8th. The Honkers, however, tried to give the lead up in the top of the eigth. After getting the first 2 outs, Siqueiros and Roebuck reached on errors and Kahl walked, loading the bases for Lindholm-who then also reached base on an error, allowing Siqueiros to score his third run of the game. However, for the 4th time of the game, the Bandits struckout with the bases loaded.
In summary the Bandits played a good game, scattering 3 errors (only one that hurt) and getting seven hits and drawing six walks. As starting pitcher Jim Rochford said, "Its always a better feeling to get a win, but in a non-conference game like this, we just have to go out there and try to shake some of the winter rust off. We left a lot of guys on base today, and struck out too many times, but I am very optimistic for this season....if we can score 3 runs a game when Gagner pitches we'll finish the season with 10 or 11 conference wins. I know those are bold words coming from a team that went 2-13 in conference last season, guess that just shows how optimistic I am."
The Bandits next game is Friday at Isanti at 7:30 and then the home opener is Saturday 5/9 at the St. Croix Falls High School field, where ace Jay Gagner will be pitching against the Blaine Fusion. The Bandits will be handing out free giveaways to fans all season at every home game. Saturdays game will be free mini-poster schedules for all those in attendance. Come out and watch a game, its free entertainment.
*Notes*
Game Balls: I'll break this down Hockey Style
1st ball: Catcher Steve Siqueiros - scored all 3 Bandits runs and called a great game behind the plate
2nd ball: Pitcher Jim Rochford - pitched 6 solid innings, scattering 5 hits and 4 walks. Allowed only 1 earned run, 2 total and struck out 2.
3rd ball: LF Trevor Todd and CF Scott Lindholm combined to go 4 for 7 on the day accounting for over half of the Bandits total hits.
Unheralded hero of the day: Curtis Roebuck - made 10 defensive plays without an error, and executed a perfect sacrifice bunt that would later score Steve Siqueiros
The Bandits will be having a fundraiser in conjunction with The Boulevard Bar and Grill in Dresser. On May 23rd between 8pm and 12am you can receive unlimited tap beer if you purchase a Bandits Bash ticket from either your local Bandit or from the Boulevard. The tickets will be $10 to purchase and proceeds will go towards funding of the Bandits organization. Tickets can be purchased at the door on that Saturday.
Chris Chelberg has officially been put on the 60 Day - DL following a carpenter's knife accident...to put it kindly, who needs all five fingers anyway....right??
Michael Chelberg, son of Chris, did NOT bring his dog to the game on Sunday...76% of the reason we lost.
College kids come back next weekend.
Friday, May 1, 2009
Preview: Season Opener at Grantsburg - Sunday 5/3 1:00pm
St. Croix River Bandits will travel for their first game of the season on Sunday to face the Honkers of Grantsburg. This will be the Bandits first meeting with the Honkers. The Bandits (and most likely the Honkers as well..) will be without a few key players who are still off at college, but Bandits veteran Jim Rochford will take the mound, making his 2nd opening day start in 3 years. Rochford went 4-5 last season with a 3.63 ERA. The teams leading hitters Scott Lindholm and Michael Chelberg will be suiting up for the game, as Bandits hitter hope to have a little more luck than last season which saw the team's batting average drop 20 points from the first season.
Not much is known about the Honkers, they have had up and down seasons the last few years playing in the Independant League.
Projected Line-Up
CF Scott Lindholm -3rd year
1B John Peterson -2nd year
DH Michael Chelberg -3rd year
RF Joe Holman -1st year - Bandits 1st round pick in 2009.
LF Trevor Todd -3rd year
3B Jeff Johnson -1st year - free agent brought out of retirement
C Steve Siqueiros -3rd year
SS Kyle Kahl - 3rd year
2B Curtis Roebuck -3rd year
Other Notes:
Kyle Kahl will begin the season as the every day shortstop - making him the 3rd different opening day SS in 3 years. Kyle will take the position over from John Peterson, who is moving over to 2b. JP will start this game at 1B, as he is battling ......an injury...
Unavailable for the game will be: starting 3B Mitch Thompson, pull-hitter powerhouse Mike VanderPlas, Jake Larcom, Bandits career HR leader Adam Lewis, utility-man Preston Langer, Trygve Chinander, and ace Jay Gagner (who will be pitching the 5/9 vs. Blaine).
Not much is known about the Honkers, they have had up and down seasons the last few years playing in the Independant League.
Projected Line-Up
CF Scott Lindholm -3rd year
1B John Peterson -2nd year
DH Michael Chelberg -3rd year
RF Joe Holman -1st year - Bandits 1st round pick in 2009.
LF Trevor Todd -3rd year
3B Jeff Johnson -1st year - free agent brought out of retirement
C Steve Siqueiros -3rd year
SS Kyle Kahl - 3rd year
2B Curtis Roebuck -3rd year
Other Notes:
Kyle Kahl will begin the season as the every day shortstop - making him the 3rd different opening day SS in 3 years. Kyle will take the position over from John Peterson, who is moving over to 2b. JP will start this game at 1B, as he is battling ......an injury...
Unavailable for the game will be: starting 3B Mitch Thompson, pull-hitter powerhouse Mike VanderPlas, Jake Larcom, Bandits career HR leader Adam Lewis, utility-man Preston Langer, Trygve Chinander, and ace Jay Gagner (who will be pitching the 5/9 vs. Blaine).
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