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The St. Croix Falls Saints (9-0, 14-4) clinched the Lakeland West Conference championship Thursday night in St. Croix Falls versus the rival Unity Eagles (6-3, 12-8). The Saints are having one of their best seasons since this Saint can remember in over 10 to 15 years.
The Saints started everywhere-man Gus Koecher on the mound. Koecher went the distance, allowing only 4 hits, and 1 earned run, coming in the 7th inning.
Koecher's counterpart, Unity pitcher, Luke Nelson pitched nearly as well. Nelson allowed only 5 hits over 6 innings of work, but Nelson's defense struggled behind him. The Eagles commited 6 errors, and allowed 4 unearned runs in the bottom of the 4th inning, to give the Saints a comfortable cushion.
The two teams will face off again Friday afternoon (5:00pm) at Unity, as the Saints try to finish the conference season off undefeated. This will be SCF's 2nd consecutive conference championship.
Stars of the Game:
SCF - Gus Koecher 7IP, 1ER, 4K - 1-3
UTY - Luke Nelson, 6IP, 1ER, 3K - 2-4, 2B, RBI
SCF - Austin Whittenberger 2-3, R
Friday, May 21, 2010
Tuesday, May 18, 2010
Game Recap - Bandits Lose By 1 in Extras.
The St. Croix River Bandits (1-1, 2-3) lost their 3rd game of the season by 1 run. The loss came at the hands of the Plum City Blues (2-1, 3-1) in 11 innings of play. From the onset of the game, the Bandits were extremely confident, they had won their previous two games, and Plum City ace Tony Garner was not in the starting line-up.
Bandits pitcher Jim Rochford got the start on the mound, after throwing 1 2/3 inning on the previous day and recording a save. The Blues took control in the top of the first inning. C Zach Watkins, hit a 2-out double to deep center field. 1B Shaun Miley hit a 1-2 breaking ball and singled to the outfield. Watkins came sliding in as Bandits catcher Steve Siqueiros positioned himself in front of home plate. Siqueiros received the ball and applied the tag, but Watkins was ruled safe as the umpire ruled that Watkins had swiped a portion of the plate.
Rochford settled down and only allowed one more hit until through the 7th inning. The Bandits offense started rallying in the 5th inning. Blues starting pitcher Chase Nelson had allowed only 2 hits through the first 4 innings of play. The Bandits tied the game at 1 after CF Scott Lindholm reached on an infield single, and was scored by a double from 3B Michael Chelberg.
The Blues got the run back in the top of the 6th inning. Rochford walked and hit the first two batters he faced. Rochford then went on to airmail a throw over to first base on a bunt attempt by Miley, scoring Nelson from 2nd base. Rochford was able to induce a flyout, and then an inning ending double play to get out of the jam.
C Steve Siqueiros connected on a 2-1 fastball for a double to left center to with 1 out in the bottom of the 6th inning. DH Brian Jacobson crushed a line drive single up the middle, scoring Siqueiros from 2nd base. 1B Trevor Todd drew a walk and Scott Lindholm singled to load the base with 1-out. Nelson was able to strikeout both RF Will Ball and 2B Curtis Roebuck to end the inning with the Bandits threatening to take the lead and blow the game open.
Zach Watkins enter the game to pitch for the Blues in the bottom of the 7th, but the Bandits were all over him. Chelberg led off the inning with a single and a stolen base. LF Michael VanderPlas hit an RBI single giving the Bandits a 3-2 lead. Siqueiros singled, advancing VanderPlas to 2nd base. After a Jacobson flyout to left field, Trevor Todd hit a 2-out single to center field. VanderPlas rounded third and came charging home to score. Blues CF Nate Prissel charged the ball and threw a rocket to catcher Shaun Miley, who had moved from 1st to C after the pitching change. There was a collision 5 feet in front of the plate, but Miley was able to hold onto the ball, and VanderPlas ended up being the 3rd out of the inning.
The Blues were able to start the 8th inning off with a tough Bandits error, and a single. Rochford was able to get Miley to pop out for the first out of the inning. 3B Cory Breidung was able to work the count to 3-1 against Rochford and turned on an inside fastball sending it towering to left field. LF Michael VanderPlas tracked it back to the wall, but ran out of real estate, with the ball landing 10 feet past the fence for a 3-Run home run. Rochford finished the inning, but the Blues led 5-3.
The Bandits trailed 5-3 heading in to the bottom of the 9th inning. SS Kyle Kahl walked with 1 out and traded places with VanderPlas after a fielder's choice got Kahl at 2nd. Steve Siqueiros hit into what looked like a game ending ground out to 2b Kevin Mueller, but the ball hopped under Mueller's glove, getting VanderPlas to 3rd base. Brian Jacobson hit an RBI single cutting the lead to 5-4. Trevor Todd followed with a game-tying-RBI single of his own, scoring Siqueiros from 2nd base and getting winning run, Jim Rochford (pinch running for Jacobson) over to 2nd base. Watkins got ahead of CF Scott Lindholm early in the count, but Lindholm was able to draw the count full. Watkins was finally able to strikeout Lindholm on a fastball in to end the inning, and send the game to extras.
Will Ball pitched the 9th and into the 10th for the Bandits before running into trouble. The Bandits summoned Trevor Todd, who pitched 7 1/3 innings in the win on the previous day, for some extra inning help. Todd was able to stifle the rally in the bottom of the 10th, getting 2 strikeouts to end the inning.
The Bandits threatened in the bottom of the 10th inning. Will Ball led the inning off with a single. 2B Curtis Roebuck tried to bunt Ball over to 2nd base, but pitcher Zach Watkins was able to field the ball cleanly and throw out lead runner Ball at 2nd base. Chelberg singled with Roebuck on first base, to put the game-winning run again on 2nd base for the Bandits.
Kyle Kahl then hit a sharp ground ball to 2nd base, but this time Blues Kevin Mueller came up with the play, throwing to 2nd to get Chelberg out. SS Chase Nelson threw over to first base to get Kahl to end the inning. The throw went wide and tall, but 1B Matt Sperger jumped up to save the errant (and what would have been game-losing) throw and attempted swipe back to tag Kahl advancing to first. Kahl was called out on what was a close play down the line, ending the inning and the Bandits threat.
The Blues plated a run across in the top of the 11th. A tired Trevor Todd allowed 3 walks after a lead off double to Chase Nelson, walking in a run. The Bandits were able to get out of the inning with a 6-2-3 double play, down only 1 run. The Bandits had the heart of the order up in the bottom of the 11th, but went down meekly with 2 strikeouts and a flyout to end the game.
"This game was going to be heartbreaker for the losing team," said starting pitcher Jim Rochford. "..each team had chances to either pull away or win the game from the 7th inning on it seemed. If you are a fan of baseball drama, this was a game to come and see, and how all games should come down. We played real well today, we hit better than they did, they played some better defense and executed better than we did, it was a great game, just unfortunate that we were on the losing end. This is still a confidence builder for our team, and we will be moving forward. There is no reason that we can't be at least a .500 team in this league if we play like we did this weekend."
***NOTES***
Boxscores Here
Game Balls
1. Michael Chelberg - 4-6, R, 2B, RBI, SB - who is this kid?
2. Brian Jacobson - 3-5, 2RBI
3. Steve Siqueiros - 2-6, 2R, 2B
Unheralded Hero(es) of the Game: To Baseball- what a phenomenal sport. Today's game was fantastic and I hope we see more just like it....except with us winning of course.
WOW Play of the Day: It was suggested that I note that of the three pitchers that threw for the Bandits on Sunday, only Trevor Todd was without a hit batsman. My official play/moment is the 2-out rally in the 9th inning that allowed the Bandits to tie to game at 5.
Things Heard On/Off the Field:
Hey, we made a deal that I don't have to pinch run for anybody
I know we are the home team
-How many innings are we playing? "11." -What?..Really? (Funny that it turned out to be true)
Rochford, I hate to say this, but I think you better pinch run for me
Umpire - This is a spectator sport, shouldn't you guys be cheering?
Umpire - Did he GO!?!? No!! Is it a Strike!!?!? Yes!!
Umpire - Shortstop! Shortstop! Stop throwing like my daughter!
Yeah I hate those guys too, I know a guy who was getting so much grief that when he was on the mound he tried to hit one of the guys harassing him and the ball ended up hitting the concession stand...
Players Missing in Action:
Adam Lewis - got a new job rolling dice at old folk's home
HS Posse - get ready for regular season's final 2 week stretch
Jake Zielsdorf - where have you gone?? Did Alex Sullivan kidnap you??
Tim Wampfler - you're still invited...
Leahy/Church Kevin - you can at least come and watch the game.....jerk!
Next Game - at Ham Lake, Sunday 5/23, Next Home Game 5/29 vs. St Paul Mud Hens x2.
Bandits pitcher Jim Rochford got the start on the mound, after throwing 1 2/3 inning on the previous day and recording a save. The Blues took control in the top of the first inning. C Zach Watkins, hit a 2-out double to deep center field. 1B Shaun Miley hit a 1-2 breaking ball and singled to the outfield. Watkins came sliding in as Bandits catcher Steve Siqueiros positioned himself in front of home plate. Siqueiros received the ball and applied the tag, but Watkins was ruled safe as the umpire ruled that Watkins had swiped a portion of the plate.
Rochford settled down and only allowed one more hit until through the 7th inning. The Bandits offense started rallying in the 5th inning. Blues starting pitcher Chase Nelson had allowed only 2 hits through the first 4 innings of play. The Bandits tied the game at 1 after CF Scott Lindholm reached on an infield single, and was scored by a double from 3B Michael Chelberg.
The Blues got the run back in the top of the 6th inning. Rochford walked and hit the first two batters he faced. Rochford then went on to airmail a throw over to first base on a bunt attempt by Miley, scoring Nelson from 2nd base. Rochford was able to induce a flyout, and then an inning ending double play to get out of the jam.
C Steve Siqueiros connected on a 2-1 fastball for a double to left center to with 1 out in the bottom of the 6th inning. DH Brian Jacobson crushed a line drive single up the middle, scoring Siqueiros from 2nd base. 1B Trevor Todd drew a walk and Scott Lindholm singled to load the base with 1-out. Nelson was able to strikeout both RF Will Ball and 2B Curtis Roebuck to end the inning with the Bandits threatening to take the lead and blow the game open.
Zach Watkins enter the game to pitch for the Blues in the bottom of the 7th, but the Bandits were all over him. Chelberg led off the inning with a single and a stolen base. LF Michael VanderPlas hit an RBI single giving the Bandits a 3-2 lead. Siqueiros singled, advancing VanderPlas to 2nd base. After a Jacobson flyout to left field, Trevor Todd hit a 2-out single to center field. VanderPlas rounded third and came charging home to score. Blues CF Nate Prissel charged the ball and threw a rocket to catcher Shaun Miley, who had moved from 1st to C after the pitching change. There was a collision 5 feet in front of the plate, but Miley was able to hold onto the ball, and VanderPlas ended up being the 3rd out of the inning.
The Blues were able to start the 8th inning off with a tough Bandits error, and a single. Rochford was able to get Miley to pop out for the first out of the inning. 3B Cory Breidung was able to work the count to 3-1 against Rochford and turned on an inside fastball sending it towering to left field. LF Michael VanderPlas tracked it back to the wall, but ran out of real estate, with the ball landing 10 feet past the fence for a 3-Run home run. Rochford finished the inning, but the Blues led 5-3.
The Bandits trailed 5-3 heading in to the bottom of the 9th inning. SS Kyle Kahl walked with 1 out and traded places with VanderPlas after a fielder's choice got Kahl at 2nd. Steve Siqueiros hit into what looked like a game ending ground out to 2b Kevin Mueller, but the ball hopped under Mueller's glove, getting VanderPlas to 3rd base. Brian Jacobson hit an RBI single cutting the lead to 5-4. Trevor Todd followed with a game-tying-RBI single of his own, scoring Siqueiros from 2nd base and getting winning run, Jim Rochford (pinch running for Jacobson) over to 2nd base. Watkins got ahead of CF Scott Lindholm early in the count, but Lindholm was able to draw the count full. Watkins was finally able to strikeout Lindholm on a fastball in to end the inning, and send the game to extras.
Will Ball pitched the 9th and into the 10th for the Bandits before running into trouble. The Bandits summoned Trevor Todd, who pitched 7 1/3 innings in the win on the previous day, for some extra inning help. Todd was able to stifle the rally in the bottom of the 10th, getting 2 strikeouts to end the inning.
The Bandits threatened in the bottom of the 10th inning. Will Ball led the inning off with a single. 2B Curtis Roebuck tried to bunt Ball over to 2nd base, but pitcher Zach Watkins was able to field the ball cleanly and throw out lead runner Ball at 2nd base. Chelberg singled with Roebuck on first base, to put the game-winning run again on 2nd base for the Bandits.
Kyle Kahl then hit a sharp ground ball to 2nd base, but this time Blues Kevin Mueller came up with the play, throwing to 2nd to get Chelberg out. SS Chase Nelson threw over to first base to get Kahl to end the inning. The throw went wide and tall, but 1B Matt Sperger jumped up to save the errant (and what would have been game-losing) throw and attempted swipe back to tag Kahl advancing to first. Kahl was called out on what was a close play down the line, ending the inning and the Bandits threat.
The Blues plated a run across in the top of the 11th. A tired Trevor Todd allowed 3 walks after a lead off double to Chase Nelson, walking in a run. The Bandits were able to get out of the inning with a 6-2-3 double play, down only 1 run. The Bandits had the heart of the order up in the bottom of the 11th, but went down meekly with 2 strikeouts and a flyout to end the game.
"This game was going to be heartbreaker for the losing team," said starting pitcher Jim Rochford. "..each team had chances to either pull away or win the game from the 7th inning on it seemed. If you are a fan of baseball drama, this was a game to come and see, and how all games should come down. We played real well today, we hit better than they did, they played some better defense and executed better than we did, it was a great game, just unfortunate that we were on the losing end. This is still a confidence builder for our team, and we will be moving forward. There is no reason that we can't be at least a .500 team in this league if we play like we did this weekend."
***NOTES***
Boxscores Here
Game Balls
1. Michael Chelberg - 4-6, R, 2B, RBI, SB - who is this kid?
2. Brian Jacobson - 3-5, 2RBI
3. Steve Siqueiros - 2-6, 2R, 2B
Unheralded Hero(es) of the Game: To Baseball- what a phenomenal sport. Today's game was fantastic and I hope we see more just like it....except with us winning of course.
WOW Play of the Day: It was suggested that I note that of the three pitchers that threw for the Bandits on Sunday, only Trevor Todd was without a hit batsman. My official play/moment is the 2-out rally in the 9th inning that allowed the Bandits to tie to game at 5.
Things Heard On/Off the Field:
Hey, we made a deal that I don't have to pinch run for anybody
I know we are the home team
-How many innings are we playing? "11." -What?..Really? (Funny that it turned out to be true)
Rochford, I hate to say this, but I think you better pinch run for me
Umpire - This is a spectator sport, shouldn't you guys be cheering?
Umpire - Did he GO!?!? No!! Is it a Strike!!?!? Yes!!
Umpire - Shortstop! Shortstop! Stop throwing like my daughter!
Yeah I hate those guys too, I know a guy who was getting so much grief that when he was on the mound he tried to hit one of the guys harassing him and the ball ended up hitting the concession stand...
Players Missing in Action:
Adam Lewis - got a new job rolling dice at old folk's home
HS Posse - get ready for regular season's final 2 week stretch
Jake Zielsdorf - where have you gone?? Did Alex Sullivan kidnap you??
Tim Wampfler - you're still invited...
Leahy/Church Kevin - you can at least come and watch the game.....jerk!
Next Game - at Ham Lake, Sunday 5/23, Next Home Game 5/29 vs. St Paul Mud Hens x2.
Monday, May 17, 2010
Game Recap: Bandits win conference opener vs. Bay City
The St. Croix River Bandits (1-0, 2-2) won their second straight game, and first conference game of the 2010 season versus the Bay City Bombers (0-3 conference) in Bay City on Saturday. The Bandits started the first inning off in style. Second-year player Michael VanderPlas, starting 3b, hit a solo homerun-bomb with 2 outs and no one on to give the Bandits an early 1-0 lead. His homerun is only the 4th homerun in Bandits history, and 2nd homerun in Bay City.
Trevor Todd started on the mound for the Bandits. Todd pitched admirably, giving up only 7 hits, but struggled with control throughout the game. The Bandits tacked on another run in the top of the third inning, when VanderPlas doubled to left center, scoring Michael Chelberg from 1st base. The Bombers rallied back in the bottom of the third inning. Todd walked 3B Shaun Strain and plunked 1B Larry Nance. RF Bump Ulvenes reached on an error which scored the Bombers first run. 2B LeMarcus Flack doubled to left, scoring two more runs for the Bombers - all with no outs recorded. Todd bore down, inducing a strikeout and 2 infield outs to end the inning - with the Bombers up 3-2. The Bombers added another run in the bottom of the 4th inning, with back to back doubles by Nance and Ulvenes.
The score remained 4-2 until the top of the 6th inning, when the Bandits bats really woke up. SS Kyle Kahl led the inning off with a single, Siqueiros doubled(maybe....) to left center field (a certain HR shot if the Bandits were at home). Todd grounded into a fielder's choice, nabbing Kahl off 3rd. CF Scott Lindholm and 2B Curtis Roebuck followed up with RBI single's - sandwiching a Bombers passed ball that allowed Todd to score, and Lindholm to move into scoring position.
Leading 5-4 in the top of the 7th inning, the Bandits lucked into another run. With 2 outs and a runner on 3rd base, C Steve Siqueiros popped a 2-0 fastball straight up to the catcher Jrue Eaton. Eaton ran up the first base line a few feet and whipped around to catch the ball in fair play. The ball popped in and out of Eaton's mitt, landing in fair territory, allowing VanderPlas to score from 3rd.
Trevor Todd hit a brick wall in the bottom of hte 8th inning. After striking out CF Rick Flandrup, Todd allowed a walk, single, and 2 walks in order, cutting the Bandits lead to 6-5. Jim Rochford was called on to get the Bandits out of the jam. Rochford struck out Ulvenes and was able to get a groundout by Flack to end the inning, preserving the lead.
The Bandits added 2 more security runs in the top of the 9th inning. 1B Chelberg, Kahl, and VanderPlas led off the inning with singles. VanderPlas picked up his 3rd RBI of the day, singling in Chelberg. Trevor Todd grounded into a fielder's choice, with the 3rd baseman Shaun Strain stepping on 3rd base to nab Kyle Kahl, but then threw over to first base in an attempted doubleplay. The throw went wide, allowing VanderPlas to score all the way from 1st base. By the time the Bombers got out of the inning, the Bandits had a 3 run cushion, leading 8-5.
Rochford tried to make things interesting for the Bandits in the bottom of the 9th. Rochford issued a lead off walk, followed by a lazy line drive single into right field. Rochford was able to set down the next 3 batters, capping the game off with a swinging strikeout of LF Rajon Bowe.
In his post game press conference Rochford stated that this was a great win for the Bandits organization. "Historically speaking, we generally have the exact opposite type of game, great hitting to start the game, and poor hitting to end it. But we picked up our starting pitcher today, played generally good defense, and really came out hitting the ball today. 1 win in the bag, 8 more to go for playoff consideration.
***NOTES***
BOXSCORES Here
Game Balls
1. Michael VanderPlas - 4-5, 3R, 2B, HR, 3RBI
2. Michael Chelberg - 2-5, 2R
3. Trevor Todd - stuck in there, picked off some dudes, gave up only 4 ER on what most would deem a bad day on the hill.
Unheralded Hero of the Game - All 9 Bandits who showed up to play, you guys are dedictated son's of b#$ches.
WOW Play of the Day - You'd think I would say Michael VanderPlas's Price Fielder-esque HR, I say its Trevor Todd in the bottom of the 5th inning: walks a batter...picks him off, hits a batter.....picks him off, walks a batter.........picks him off....all 3 outs. Who needs to throw strikes?
Things Heard Around the Diamond - not much....no one to hear anything.....everyone was on the field.
Players Missing in Action:
Adam Lewis - got a new job selling kittens to wolves
Jeff Johnson - realized that baseball season started around 9pm Saturday evening..
HS Posse - splitting games in their double-header.
Brian Jacobson - saying unfavorable things about the Posse during their game vs. Bruce
Next Game is Sunday vs. Pine City at SCF
Trevor Todd started on the mound for the Bandits. Todd pitched admirably, giving up only 7 hits, but struggled with control throughout the game. The Bandits tacked on another run in the top of the third inning, when VanderPlas doubled to left center, scoring Michael Chelberg from 1st base. The Bombers rallied back in the bottom of the third inning. Todd walked 3B Shaun Strain and plunked 1B Larry Nance. RF Bump Ulvenes reached on an error which scored the Bombers first run. 2B LeMarcus Flack doubled to left, scoring two more runs for the Bombers - all with no outs recorded. Todd bore down, inducing a strikeout and 2 infield outs to end the inning - with the Bombers up 3-2. The Bombers added another run in the bottom of the 4th inning, with back to back doubles by Nance and Ulvenes.
The score remained 4-2 until the top of the 6th inning, when the Bandits bats really woke up. SS Kyle Kahl led the inning off with a single, Siqueiros doubled(maybe....) to left center field (a certain HR shot if the Bandits were at home). Todd grounded into a fielder's choice, nabbing Kahl off 3rd. CF Scott Lindholm and 2B Curtis Roebuck followed up with RBI single's - sandwiching a Bombers passed ball that allowed Todd to score, and Lindholm to move into scoring position.
Leading 5-4 in the top of the 7th inning, the Bandits lucked into another run. With 2 outs and a runner on 3rd base, C Steve Siqueiros popped a 2-0 fastball straight up to the catcher Jrue Eaton. Eaton ran up the first base line a few feet and whipped around to catch the ball in fair play. The ball popped in and out of Eaton's mitt, landing in fair territory, allowing VanderPlas to score from 3rd.
Trevor Todd hit a brick wall in the bottom of hte 8th inning. After striking out CF Rick Flandrup, Todd allowed a walk, single, and 2 walks in order, cutting the Bandits lead to 6-5. Jim Rochford was called on to get the Bandits out of the jam. Rochford struck out Ulvenes and was able to get a groundout by Flack to end the inning, preserving the lead.
The Bandits added 2 more security runs in the top of the 9th inning. 1B Chelberg, Kahl, and VanderPlas led off the inning with singles. VanderPlas picked up his 3rd RBI of the day, singling in Chelberg. Trevor Todd grounded into a fielder's choice, with the 3rd baseman Shaun Strain stepping on 3rd base to nab Kyle Kahl, but then threw over to first base in an attempted doubleplay. The throw went wide, allowing VanderPlas to score all the way from 1st base. By the time the Bombers got out of the inning, the Bandits had a 3 run cushion, leading 8-5.
Rochford tried to make things interesting for the Bandits in the bottom of the 9th. Rochford issued a lead off walk, followed by a lazy line drive single into right field. Rochford was able to set down the next 3 batters, capping the game off with a swinging strikeout of LF Rajon Bowe.
In his post game press conference Rochford stated that this was a great win for the Bandits organization. "Historically speaking, we generally have the exact opposite type of game, great hitting to start the game, and poor hitting to end it. But we picked up our starting pitcher today, played generally good defense, and really came out hitting the ball today. 1 win in the bag, 8 more to go for playoff consideration.
***NOTES***
BOXSCORES Here
Game Balls
1. Michael VanderPlas - 4-5, 3R, 2B, HR, 3RBI
2. Michael Chelberg - 2-5, 2R
3. Trevor Todd - stuck in there, picked off some dudes, gave up only 4 ER on what most would deem a bad day on the hill.
Unheralded Hero of the Game - All 9 Bandits who showed up to play, you guys are dedictated son's of b#$ches.
WOW Play of the Day - You'd think I would say Michael VanderPlas's Price Fielder-esque HR, I say its Trevor Todd in the bottom of the 5th inning: walks a batter...picks him off, hits a batter.....picks him off, walks a batter.........picks him off....all 3 outs. Who needs to throw strikes?
Things Heard Around the Diamond - not much....no one to hear anything.....everyone was on the field.
Players Missing in Action:
Adam Lewis - got a new job selling kittens to wolves
Jeff Johnson - realized that baseball season started around 9pm Saturday evening..
HS Posse - splitting games in their double-header.
Brian Jacobson - saying unfavorable things about the Posse during their game vs. Bruce
Next Game is Sunday vs. Pine City at SCF
Friday, May 14, 2010
Weekend Preview - Conference Play Begins!
The St. Croix River Bandits (0-0, 1-2) will begin conference play starting Saturday at Bay City Bombers and following up on Sunday at home vs. Plum City Blues.
The Bandits have been struggling in the batter's box as a team, but that hasn't stopped Bandits starters Michael Chelberg, Michael VanderPlas, and Steve Siqueiros from batting a combined .346 over the first three games. The Bandits defense has provided fans with highlight dives and slides already this season, and has already turned 3 double plays - as compared to 4 turned all last year.
The Bandits have Trevor Todd slated to take the mound on Saturday versus The Bay City Bombers. Todd is 0-1 this season with an ERA of 1.23 and 15 strikeouts in 14 and 2/3 innings pitched. The Bandits are 2-0 lifetime vs. Bay City. Bay City is also the site of the Bandits 1st homerun - coming off the bat of Adam Lewis. Bay City (0-2, 0-4) has been struggling as of late. The Bombers dropped a close game to Plum City, 1-0, before getting hammered by the Hager City Skeeters 8-2. The 2010 Bombers have lacked consistancy on defense, averaging 2-3 errors per game. Advanced scouting on the Bombers is very lacking as they play 90 minutes away from SCF and they do not have a web site.
The Bandits will be short-staffed going down to Bay City - as the HS calvary is still playing ball and some regulars have not been so regular this season. The Bandits probable lineup:
1B Michael Chelberg
SS Kyle Kahl
3B Michael VanderPlas
C Steve Siqueiros
P Trevor Todd
CF Scott Lindholm
2B Curtis Roebuck
RF Will Ball
LF Jim Rochford??? (whoa...)
The Plum City Blues will be the Bandits conference home season opener on Sunday. The Blues are 1-1 in conference play with their win against Bay City and loss against perenial powerhouse Prescott. The Blues will undoubtedly pitch Tony Garner, who may as well be paying for the Bandit's expenses as he literally OWNS the team. The Bandits are 0-2 versus Garner with at batting average of .129 over 2 games, scoring 2 runs in 18 innings, and compiling 28 strikeouts. Pitcher Jim Rochford states, "We just have problems against Tony Garner, he'll come in here, throw about 150 pitches and probably not even sweat. He is the one starting pitcher in the this league we just haven't figure out yet." The Bandits hope that their luck will change pitting sophomore Bandit Will Ball on the mound. The Bandits probably Sunday starting lineup:
3B Michael Chelberg
SS Kyle Kahl
DH Brian Jacobson
C Steve Siqueiros
LF Michael VanderPlas
1B Trevor Todd
CF Scott Lindholm
2B Curtis Roebuck
RF/P Jim Rochford/Will Ball
The Bandits have been struggling in the batter's box as a team, but that hasn't stopped Bandits starters Michael Chelberg, Michael VanderPlas, and Steve Siqueiros from batting a combined .346 over the first three games. The Bandits defense has provided fans with highlight dives and slides already this season, and has already turned 3 double plays - as compared to 4 turned all last year.
The Bandits have Trevor Todd slated to take the mound on Saturday versus The Bay City Bombers. Todd is 0-1 this season with an ERA of 1.23 and 15 strikeouts in 14 and 2/3 innings pitched. The Bandits are 2-0 lifetime vs. Bay City. Bay City is also the site of the Bandits 1st homerun - coming off the bat of Adam Lewis. Bay City (0-2, 0-4) has been struggling as of late. The Bombers dropped a close game to Plum City, 1-0, before getting hammered by the Hager City Skeeters 8-2. The 2010 Bombers have lacked consistancy on defense, averaging 2-3 errors per game. Advanced scouting on the Bombers is very lacking as they play 90 minutes away from SCF and they do not have a web site.
The Bandits will be short-staffed going down to Bay City - as the HS calvary is still playing ball and some regulars have not been so regular this season. The Bandits probable lineup:
1B Michael Chelberg
SS Kyle Kahl
3B Michael VanderPlas
C Steve Siqueiros
P Trevor Todd
CF Scott Lindholm
2B Curtis Roebuck
RF Will Ball
LF Jim Rochford??? (whoa...)
The Plum City Blues will be the Bandits conference home season opener on Sunday. The Blues are 1-1 in conference play with their win against Bay City and loss against perenial powerhouse Prescott. The Blues will undoubtedly pitch Tony Garner, who may as well be paying for the Bandit's expenses as he literally OWNS the team. The Bandits are 0-2 versus Garner with at batting average of .129 over 2 games, scoring 2 runs in 18 innings, and compiling 28 strikeouts. Pitcher Jim Rochford states, "We just have problems against Tony Garner, he'll come in here, throw about 150 pitches and probably not even sweat. He is the one starting pitcher in the this league we just haven't figure out yet." The Bandits hope that their luck will change pitting sophomore Bandit Will Ball on the mound. The Bandits probably Sunday starting lineup:
3B Michael Chelberg
SS Kyle Kahl
DH Brian Jacobson
C Steve Siqueiros
LF Michael VanderPlas
1B Trevor Todd
CF Scott Lindholm
2B Curtis Roebuck
RF/P Jim Rochford/Will Ball
Tuesday, May 11, 2010
Game Recap - Bandits turn tides on the Cubs, win by 1 in extras.
The Bandits didn't win their first game of the season in 2009 until June 9th - starting the season on a franchise worst 11-game losing streak. Luckily the Saint Croix River Bandits (0-0, 1-2) won't have to worry about such a circumstance this season as they won their first game of the season against the Minneapolis Cubs on Mother's Day Sunday.
The Bandits started P Will Ball on the mound who had success in his rookie season last year posting a 3.12 ERA in 17 1/3 innings pitched. Ball got through the first inning unscathed - with the help of an 8-9-4-3 double play.
The Bandits struck first in the bottom of the first inning. CF Scott Lindholm reached on a base on balls. Trevor Todd grounded into a fielder's choice, switching him with Lindholm and an out. Todd was able to reach 2nd base on a passed ball during DH Brian Jacobson's at bat. Jacobson would strike out, getting C Steve Siqueiros to the plate with 2 outs. Siqueiros was only 2-9 to start the season, but was able to smack a single to the outfield, scoring Todd from 2nd base. RF Michael VanderPlas would walk to get runners on 2nd and 1st with 2 outs. SS Kyle Kahl grounded out to 2nd base and the Bandits led 1-0 after one inning.
The 2nd inning turned into a pitching nightmare for rising star Will Ball. Ball walked the first batter and then allowed two consecutive hits, scoring Rossum who had walked. Ball then walked the next four batters, all on full counts. Trevor Todd came on in relief and was able to close out the inning, but the damage had already be done, leaving the Bandits trailing 3-1.
The Bandits got a run back in the bottom of the 3rd inning. Siquieros reached base with a 1-out single. Michael VanderPlas popped out to 2nd base for the 2nd out of the inning. The Cubs followed that up with consecutive errors on Kyle Kahl and Curtis Roebuck's at bat, allowing Siqueiros to score - cutting the lead to 3-2.
Trevor Todd threw another gem, this time in relief. Todd pitched 7 and 2/3 innings, allowing only 2 hits and 4 walks while striking out 9 batters.
With the Bandits trailing 3-2 in the bottom of the ninth inning, the Bandits were poised to lose their third game in a row by the margin of 1 run. Trevor Todd led the inning off with a single and promtly stole 2nd base. Jacobson hit a deep "single" to the right center field gap, scoring Todd from 2nd base. Will Ball pinch ran for Jacobson and was advanced to 2nd on a Siqueiros ground out. Michael VanderPlas hit a sharp single to center field, and Ball attempted to score the winning run from 2nd base - running through at least one stop sign. Ball was gunned down at home for the 2nd out, VanderPlas was able to gain 2nd base on the throw home. Kyle Kahl followed with a single, however, VanderPlas was caught leading too far off of third base, and was run down for the third out of the inning.
Jim Rochford entered the top of the 10th inning in relief of Trevor "Chuck" Todd. Rochford struggled in his last outing and was hoping to shut down the Cubs for as long as could - as the pitching options for the Bandits were not optimal. Rochford was able to get three quick outs, and put the Cubs back on defense for the 10th inning.
2B Curtis Roebuck led the inning off with a 4-walk. Next up was.....relief pitcher Jim Rochford? When Rochford entered in the top of the 10th he came in for first baseman Jesse Hartel, who was struggling at the plate, sending Trevor Todd over to first base. Rochford went up with the mind set to bunt. Rochford saw three straight balls, and pulled his bunt back each time. The fourth pitch to Rochford came in high and tight. Rochford pulled back but the pitch hit him straight on the forearm. Next up was Bandit first-timer Kevin VanBrackhorst - a disciple of the Mike Leaky School of Baseball. Van Brackhorst hit a sharp grounder, that the young Cubs shortstop ranged to his left for and snagged. The shortstop then threw over to first to get Van Brackhorst but his throw was errant, allowing Roebuck to score, and giving the Bandits the 4-3 victory in 10 innings.
In his post game interview Jim Rochford had this to say. "That was a good game, we needed that one. It took so long for us to win our first game last year. Trevor Todd had another amazing outing. Our bats were quite for awhile, but 9 hits isn't something I'll complain about. Thanks to Vandy and Will's baserunning skills I was able to come in and steal the win from Trevor.
***NOTES***
Boxscore Here
Game Balls
1. Trevor Todd - 7.2 IP, 0ER, 2H, 4BB, 9K & 1-4, 2R, SB
2. Steve Siqueiros - 2-5, R, RBI
3. Brian Jacobson - 1-5, game tying RBI in 9th.
Unheralded Hero(es) of the Day: Jesse Hartel, Mike Leahy, & Kevin VanBrackhorst for coming out and helping some shorthanded Bandits.
WOW Play of the Day: CF Scott Lindholm's last second decision to dive for a fly ball in the top of the first inning, pinning his throwing arm underneath his body as he made the catch and RF Michael VanderPlas promptly grabbing the ball from Lindholm's glove and throwing back into the inflield, where 2B Curtis Roebuck threw the ball over to first base to double up the baserunner.
Things heard on and off the Diamond....
"You have to get a better stare down after you get hit by a pitch"
"Seriously.....Jesse could hear your ass from 1st base."
in reponse: "That's all Leinie's baby"
Players Missing in Action
Michael Chelberg - car broken down
Adam Lewis - $ broken down
Jeff "Plow" Johnson - body broken down
HS Posse - opponent's broken down
Tim Wampfler - tha's right Tim...I added you!
Next game is at Bay City, May 15th.
The Bandits started P Will Ball on the mound who had success in his rookie season last year posting a 3.12 ERA in 17 1/3 innings pitched. Ball got through the first inning unscathed - with the help of an 8-9-4-3 double play.
The Bandits struck first in the bottom of the first inning. CF Scott Lindholm reached on a base on balls. Trevor Todd grounded into a fielder's choice, switching him with Lindholm and an out. Todd was able to reach 2nd base on a passed ball during DH Brian Jacobson's at bat. Jacobson would strike out, getting C Steve Siqueiros to the plate with 2 outs. Siqueiros was only 2-9 to start the season, but was able to smack a single to the outfield, scoring Todd from 2nd base. RF Michael VanderPlas would walk to get runners on 2nd and 1st with 2 outs. SS Kyle Kahl grounded out to 2nd base and the Bandits led 1-0 after one inning.
The 2nd inning turned into a pitching nightmare for rising star Will Ball. Ball walked the first batter and then allowed two consecutive hits, scoring Rossum who had walked. Ball then walked the next four batters, all on full counts. Trevor Todd came on in relief and was able to close out the inning, but the damage had already be done, leaving the Bandits trailing 3-1.
The Bandits got a run back in the bottom of the 3rd inning. Siquieros reached base with a 1-out single. Michael VanderPlas popped out to 2nd base for the 2nd out of the inning. The Cubs followed that up with consecutive errors on Kyle Kahl and Curtis Roebuck's at bat, allowing Siqueiros to score - cutting the lead to 3-2.
Trevor Todd threw another gem, this time in relief. Todd pitched 7 and 2/3 innings, allowing only 2 hits and 4 walks while striking out 9 batters.
With the Bandits trailing 3-2 in the bottom of the ninth inning, the Bandits were poised to lose their third game in a row by the margin of 1 run. Trevor Todd led the inning off with a single and promtly stole 2nd base. Jacobson hit a deep "single" to the right center field gap, scoring Todd from 2nd base. Will Ball pinch ran for Jacobson and was advanced to 2nd on a Siqueiros ground out. Michael VanderPlas hit a sharp single to center field, and Ball attempted to score the winning run from 2nd base - running through at least one stop sign. Ball was gunned down at home for the 2nd out, VanderPlas was able to gain 2nd base on the throw home. Kyle Kahl followed with a single, however, VanderPlas was caught leading too far off of third base, and was run down for the third out of the inning.
Jim Rochford entered the top of the 10th inning in relief of Trevor "Chuck" Todd. Rochford struggled in his last outing and was hoping to shut down the Cubs for as long as could - as the pitching options for the Bandits were not optimal. Rochford was able to get three quick outs, and put the Cubs back on defense for the 10th inning.
2B Curtis Roebuck led the inning off with a 4-walk. Next up was.....relief pitcher Jim Rochford? When Rochford entered in the top of the 10th he came in for first baseman Jesse Hartel, who was struggling at the plate, sending Trevor Todd over to first base. Rochford went up with the mind set to bunt. Rochford saw three straight balls, and pulled his bunt back each time. The fourth pitch to Rochford came in high and tight. Rochford pulled back but the pitch hit him straight on the forearm. Next up was Bandit first-timer Kevin VanBrackhorst - a disciple of the Mike Leaky School of Baseball. Van Brackhorst hit a sharp grounder, that the young Cubs shortstop ranged to his left for and snagged. The shortstop then threw over to first to get Van Brackhorst but his throw was errant, allowing Roebuck to score, and giving the Bandits the 4-3 victory in 10 innings.
In his post game interview Jim Rochford had this to say. "That was a good game, we needed that one. It took so long for us to win our first game last year. Trevor Todd had another amazing outing. Our bats were quite for awhile, but 9 hits isn't something I'll complain about. Thanks to Vandy and Will's baserunning skills I was able to come in and steal the win from Trevor.
***NOTES***
Boxscore Here
Game Balls
1. Trevor Todd - 7.2 IP, 0ER, 2H, 4BB, 9K & 1-4, 2R, SB
2. Steve Siqueiros - 2-5, R, RBI
3. Brian Jacobson - 1-5, game tying RBI in 9th.
Unheralded Hero(es) of the Day: Jesse Hartel, Mike Leahy, & Kevin VanBrackhorst for coming out and helping some shorthanded Bandits.
WOW Play of the Day: CF Scott Lindholm's last second decision to dive for a fly ball in the top of the first inning, pinning his throwing arm underneath his body as he made the catch and RF Michael VanderPlas promptly grabbing the ball from Lindholm's glove and throwing back into the inflield, where 2B Curtis Roebuck threw the ball over to first base to double up the baserunner.
Things heard on and off the Diamond....
"You have to get a better stare down after you get hit by a pitch"
"Seriously.....Jesse could hear your ass from 1st base."
in reponse: "That's all Leinie's baby"
Players Missing in Action
Michael Chelberg - car broken down
Adam Lewis - $ broken down
Jeff "Plow" Johnson - body broken down
HS Posse - opponent's broken down
Tim Wampfler - tha's right Tim...I added you!
Next game is at Bay City, May 15th.
Sunday, May 9, 2010
Game Recap - Bandits drop second straight game by 1 run.
The St. Croix River Bandits (0-0, 0-2) were toppled again by rival Minnesota powerhouse: The Isanti Redbirds. The Bandits are 1-4 in their four year history against the Redbirds, although this game was much closer than most.
The Redbirds pitched a bevy of arms on Sunday, starting with ace Wade Reichmann. Reichmann was 8-2 for the Redbirds in 2009 with a miniscule ERA of 0.72 and 101 strikeouts in 73 1/3 innings pitched. Reichman plowed through the Bandits lineup - striking out 4 in three innings pitched, and not allowing a single baserunner.
The Bandits finally got a hit in the 5th inning off of pitcher Charlie Zak. 2B Michael VanderPlas knocked a 1-out 1-1 fastball up the middle for a single. SS Kyle Kahl then walked. After a RF Will Ball strikeout, LF Tim Wampfler hit an infield single, allowing all runners to advance a base. VanderPlas was able to score on a wild pitch, giving the Bandits a 1-0 lead after 5 innings.
Bandits pitcher Trevor Todd started on the mound against the potent Redbirds lineup that features 2009 St. Paul Saint and 2009 MIAC Player of the Year Kyle Johnson. Todd had scattered 4 hits through five innings pitched against the Redbirds, striking out 4, and picking off 2 baserunners. Todd finally ran into trouble in the top of the 6th inning, after the Bandits took a 1-0 lead. Redbird superstar Packy Lind led the inning off with a single, and was sac bunted over to second base. Todd induced Kyle Johnson to ground out to 2nd base - allowing Lind to move over to third with two outs. The Redbirds were able to get a run back in the exact manner the Bandits had scored, on a passed ball/wild pitch - scoring Lind from third base. Redbird 3B Tyler Schaff hit a 2-out single to give the Redbirds another threat in the 6th inning. After a Trevor Todd balk to advance Schaff to 2nd base - relief pitcher Adam West found contact on a 1-2 count, and was able to drop the ball down the left field line for a double, scoring Schaff and giving the Redbirds a 2-1 lead.
The Bandits tried to rally back in the bottom of the 6th. Red-hot 3B Michael Chelberg hit his third single in two games, to lead off the inning. Trevor Todd fielded into a possible double play, but Chelberg was able to break it up at 2nd base. DH Brian Jacobson grounded into a out, but advanced Todd to 2nd base. Todd was then able to advance to 3rd base on a wild pitch - however was stranded their by and inning ending strike out.
The Bandits were stiffled after the 6th - getting only one more baserunner in the last three innings. Trevor Todd pitched seven total innings, giving up only 2 runs, and scattering 8 hits. Will Ball came on in relief and pitched 2 scoreless innings.
The Bandits drop to 0-2 on the year - with a run differential of only -2 runs over the 2 games. P/Coach Jim Rochford had this to say after the game. "This was a really well played, hard fought game by both teams. Much better than yesterday. As much as losing teams hate the term "moral" victories, this defintely was one. This team was 26-7 last season and their core roster was here today. We played them very well, didn't have a fielding error for the 2nd straight game, and Trevor went out and pitched tremendously. Once we get our bats going a little bit, we will be in great shape for our conference schedule."
***NOTES***
Boxscores Found Here
Game Balls
1) Trevor Todd - 7IP, 8H, 2ER, 6K
2) Michael VanderPlas - 1-3, R
3) Team Defense - 0 errors for 2nd straight game.
Unheralded Hero(es) of the Game: To Scott Lindholm - whom the day after getting plunked in the face with a baseball was out playing CF for the Bandits with one good eye. And to Redbird BJ Samuelson, a known Bandits killer, for having too good of a good time the night prior to the game.
WOW play of the Day: Tim Wampfler's slip and slide butt dive catch in right field to steal a single away from CF Eric Rysdam, or Trevor Todd's uncanny ability to catch baseunners on first base.
Things heard on and off the Diamond:
"I'm glad Will is here to say the things that I am thinking but haven't said yet, then I can look at him like he is the weird one."
"Just put the back-up catcher's mask on and shag some flyballs - you'll be fine"
"That swing was terrible, I wonder if he even knows he's playing a baseball game right now, just terrible..."
Players Missing in Action:
Curtis Roebuck - at daughter's first birthday party.....reasonable excuse
HS Posse - ineligible until June X, 2010....reasonable excuse
Adam Lewis - starting new job as assistant railroad spike quality control director....fair excuse
Plow - sleeping....poor excuse Plow...poor!
Next Game is Sunday May 9th vs. the Minneapolis Cubs.
The Redbirds pitched a bevy of arms on Sunday, starting with ace Wade Reichmann. Reichmann was 8-2 for the Redbirds in 2009 with a miniscule ERA of 0.72 and 101 strikeouts in 73 1/3 innings pitched. Reichman plowed through the Bandits lineup - striking out 4 in three innings pitched, and not allowing a single baserunner.
The Bandits finally got a hit in the 5th inning off of pitcher Charlie Zak. 2B Michael VanderPlas knocked a 1-out 1-1 fastball up the middle for a single. SS Kyle Kahl then walked. After a RF Will Ball strikeout, LF Tim Wampfler hit an infield single, allowing all runners to advance a base. VanderPlas was able to score on a wild pitch, giving the Bandits a 1-0 lead after 5 innings.
Bandits pitcher Trevor Todd started on the mound against the potent Redbirds lineup that features 2009 St. Paul Saint and 2009 MIAC Player of the Year Kyle Johnson. Todd had scattered 4 hits through five innings pitched against the Redbirds, striking out 4, and picking off 2 baserunners. Todd finally ran into trouble in the top of the 6th inning, after the Bandits took a 1-0 lead. Redbird superstar Packy Lind led the inning off with a single, and was sac bunted over to second base. Todd induced Kyle Johnson to ground out to 2nd base - allowing Lind to move over to third with two outs. The Redbirds were able to get a run back in the exact manner the Bandits had scored, on a passed ball/wild pitch - scoring Lind from third base. Redbird 3B Tyler Schaff hit a 2-out single to give the Redbirds another threat in the 6th inning. After a Trevor Todd balk to advance Schaff to 2nd base - relief pitcher Adam West found contact on a 1-2 count, and was able to drop the ball down the left field line for a double, scoring Schaff and giving the Redbirds a 2-1 lead.
The Bandits tried to rally back in the bottom of the 6th. Red-hot 3B Michael Chelberg hit his third single in two games, to lead off the inning. Trevor Todd fielded into a possible double play, but Chelberg was able to break it up at 2nd base. DH Brian Jacobson grounded into a out, but advanced Todd to 2nd base. Todd was then able to advance to 3rd base on a wild pitch - however was stranded their by and inning ending strike out.
The Bandits were stiffled after the 6th - getting only one more baserunner in the last three innings. Trevor Todd pitched seven total innings, giving up only 2 runs, and scattering 8 hits. Will Ball came on in relief and pitched 2 scoreless innings.
The Bandits drop to 0-2 on the year - with a run differential of only -2 runs over the 2 games. P/Coach Jim Rochford had this to say after the game. "This was a really well played, hard fought game by both teams. Much better than yesterday. As much as losing teams hate the term "moral" victories, this defintely was one. This team was 26-7 last season and their core roster was here today. We played them very well, didn't have a fielding error for the 2nd straight game, and Trevor went out and pitched tremendously. Once we get our bats going a little bit, we will be in great shape for our conference schedule."
***NOTES***
Boxscores Found Here
Game Balls
1) Trevor Todd - 7IP, 8H, 2ER, 6K
2) Michael VanderPlas - 1-3, R
3) Team Defense - 0 errors for 2nd straight game.
Unheralded Hero(es) of the Game: To Scott Lindholm - whom the day after getting plunked in the face with a baseball was out playing CF for the Bandits with one good eye. And to Redbird BJ Samuelson, a known Bandits killer, for having too good of a good time the night prior to the game.
WOW play of the Day: Tim Wampfler's slip and slide butt dive catch in right field to steal a single away from CF Eric Rysdam, or Trevor Todd's uncanny ability to catch baseunners on first base.
Things heard on and off the Diamond:
"I'm glad Will is here to say the things that I am thinking but haven't said yet, then I can look at him like he is the weird one."
"Just put the back-up catcher's mask on and shag some flyballs - you'll be fine"
"That swing was terrible, I wonder if he even knows he's playing a baseball game right now, just terrible..."
Players Missing in Action:
Curtis Roebuck - at daughter's first birthday party.....reasonable excuse
HS Posse - ineligible until June X, 2010....reasonable excuse
Adam Lewis - starting new job as assistant railroad spike quality control director....fair excuse
Plow - sleeping....poor excuse Plow...poor!
Next Game is Sunday May 9th vs. the Minneapolis Cubs.
Game Recap - Bandits lose heartbreaker to Islanders, 9-8 - walk-off style
The St. Croix River Bandits (0-0, 0-1) traveled to Cumberland on Saturday and had an early lead over the Islanders but couldn't hold on. Jim Rochford started on the mound for the Bandits and was given a quick 4-0 lead after the first inning. The Bandits led off the season with 3 consecutive walks to load the bases. Catcher Brian Jacobson came through with a 1-out single to left-center field, scoring both CF Scott Lindholm and 3B Michael Chelberg. 1B Trevor Todd scored on an error, and 2B Curtis Roebuck slapped a ball to right field for a single, that scored Brian Jacobson/CR Tim Wampfler.
Rochford was adequate for the first 5 innings of the game, allowing 5 hits, 4 walks, 2 runs (both earned) and striking out 5. The Bandits had tacked on a single run each inning, from inning 2 thru 4 and were leading 7-1 heading into the bottom of the sixth. Rochford fatigued, and struggled to get the ball in the strike zone. Rochford issued 6 walks, 3 hits, and a hit batsmen over the 6th and 7th inning - giving up 4 runs. Rochford was finally pulled after the seventh inning in favor of Curtis Roebuck - going into the bottom of the 8th with an 8-6 lead.
Backtracking a little... the Bandits, after scoring 7 runs in the first 4 innings, were all but stymied for the final five innings of the game. In the top of the 7th inning, clubhouse leader Scott Lindholm was looking for a breaking ball to drive. Unfortunately the pitch never broke, and Lindholm never ducked....The ball caught Lindholm near square in the eye/nose and would later be determined to be a microfracture of the high up bridge of the nose. Lindholm was forced to leave the game - which would have been much more convenient if the Bandits weren't sporting only 1 bench player and a catcher/DH combo that both only work from behind the plate. Lindholm would be listed as day to day.
Roebuck got into a jam in the bottom of the eighth inning with runners on 1st and 2nd with one out. Due to the aforementioned injury - catcher Brian Jacobson was relegated to 3B duty because of a myriad of defensive shifts. The cat-like Jacobson was able to haul down a 1-out line drive and hurl the ball back over to 2nd base to double up the shocked baserunner to end the eighth inning.
Roebuck was not so lucky in the bottom of the ninth. Cumberland led off the inning with a single and a walk. Former bandit John Peterson then sac bunted the runners over. Roebuck then hit a batter in a 2-2 count to load the bases. Roebuck struggled to find the strike zone, like most other pitchers that afternoon, walking the next 2 batters - each on full counts. The Islanders then hit a walk off single to end the game. Final score, 9-8 Islanders, 3 runs in the bottom of the ninth and 7 runs in the last 4 innings to cap of the game.
"This was a tough loss for us," noted pitcher Jim Rochford. "We had a big lead early, and Robes and I couldn't nail it down. It happens and we just have to move on to the next game."
***NOTES***
Boxscores Here
Game Balls
1. Brian Jacobson - for breaking out that baseball body for another season, catching, playing 3B, and going 3-5 with 3 RBI.
2. Michael Chelberg - starting off the year 2-2 with 3 walks and 2 runs scored.
3. Team DEFENSE - no errors today boys, way to start the season on the field.
Unheralded Hero of the Day: Tim Wampfler - without you coming to be the 11th man we would have been in a serious bind when Lindholm crumpled.
(honorable mention: Bandits Mobile - you still keep chugging along!)
WOW play of the day: I would have said Brian Jacobson hitting the ball 200 mph....straight at the shortstop for an inning ending double play...but anytime you hear a guy tell you that he thinks he swallowed some of his own nose-bone fragments while sitting at the doctor's office - thats gotta win...
Things heard on and off the Diamond....
"Are we the home team?"
"That F#$%^@g doctor is a homo.."
"Atleast let me swallow..."
and an in depth conversation about another man's unfortunate reproductive part's nightmare...
PMIA (players missing in action)
Adam Lewis - got a new job at railroad company
Jeff "Plow" Johnson - fish/sleep/avoid/cry/ing
The High School Posse - ineligible - season hasnt ended yet
Michael VanderPlas - rallying....really....
Next game is Sunday versus Isanti at SCF
Rochford was adequate for the first 5 innings of the game, allowing 5 hits, 4 walks, 2 runs (both earned) and striking out 5. The Bandits had tacked on a single run each inning, from inning 2 thru 4 and were leading 7-1 heading into the bottom of the sixth. Rochford fatigued, and struggled to get the ball in the strike zone. Rochford issued 6 walks, 3 hits, and a hit batsmen over the 6th and 7th inning - giving up 4 runs. Rochford was finally pulled after the seventh inning in favor of Curtis Roebuck - going into the bottom of the 8th with an 8-6 lead.
Backtracking a little... the Bandits, after scoring 7 runs in the first 4 innings, were all but stymied for the final five innings of the game. In the top of the 7th inning, clubhouse leader Scott Lindholm was looking for a breaking ball to drive. Unfortunately the pitch never broke, and Lindholm never ducked....The ball caught Lindholm near square in the eye/nose and would later be determined to be a microfracture of the high up bridge of the nose. Lindholm was forced to leave the game - which would have been much more convenient if the Bandits weren't sporting only 1 bench player and a catcher/DH combo that both only work from behind the plate. Lindholm would be listed as day to day.
Roebuck got into a jam in the bottom of the eighth inning with runners on 1st and 2nd with one out. Due to the aforementioned injury - catcher Brian Jacobson was relegated to 3B duty because of a myriad of defensive shifts. The cat-like Jacobson was able to haul down a 1-out line drive and hurl the ball back over to 2nd base to double up the shocked baserunner to end the eighth inning.
Roebuck was not so lucky in the bottom of the ninth. Cumberland led off the inning with a single and a walk. Former bandit John Peterson then sac bunted the runners over. Roebuck then hit a batter in a 2-2 count to load the bases. Roebuck struggled to find the strike zone, like most other pitchers that afternoon, walking the next 2 batters - each on full counts. The Islanders then hit a walk off single to end the game. Final score, 9-8 Islanders, 3 runs in the bottom of the ninth and 7 runs in the last 4 innings to cap of the game.
"This was a tough loss for us," noted pitcher Jim Rochford. "We had a big lead early, and Robes and I couldn't nail it down. It happens and we just have to move on to the next game."
***NOTES***
Boxscores Here
Game Balls
1. Brian Jacobson - for breaking out that baseball body for another season, catching, playing 3B, and going 3-5 with 3 RBI.
2. Michael Chelberg - starting off the year 2-2 with 3 walks and 2 runs scored.
3. Team DEFENSE - no errors today boys, way to start the season on the field.
Unheralded Hero of the Day: Tim Wampfler - without you coming to be the 11th man we would have been in a serious bind when Lindholm crumpled.
(honorable mention: Bandits Mobile - you still keep chugging along!)
WOW play of the day: I would have said Brian Jacobson hitting the ball 200 mph....straight at the shortstop for an inning ending double play...but anytime you hear a guy tell you that he thinks he swallowed some of his own nose-bone fragments while sitting at the doctor's office - thats gotta win...
Things heard on and off the Diamond....
"Are we the home team?"
"That F#$%^@g doctor is a homo.."
"Atleast let me swallow..."
and an in depth conversation about another man's unfortunate reproductive part's nightmare...
PMIA (players missing in action)
Adam Lewis - got a new job at railroad company
Jeff "Plow" Johnson - fish/sleep/avoid/cry/ing
The High School Posse - ineligible - season hasnt ended yet
Michael VanderPlas - rallying....really....
Next game is Sunday versus Isanti at SCF
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