Bandits run out of innings in Menomonie, lose 5-2.

The St. Croix River Bandits (1-8, 2-13) could not overcome a 5 run deficit Friday night versus the Menomonie Eagles (6-4). On a night that was promising rain earlier in the day, it turned out to be a gorgeous evening in Menomonie under the lights. Trevor Todd started on the mound on for the Bandits making his 3rd start this season. Todd was coming off of 2 straight wins over Siren and River Falls last week, and looking for a similar result against Menomonie.

Todd and Eagle's pitcher Rob Heller went toe to toe for the first 3 innings, with each pitcher only giving up a single hit. In the 4th inning the Eagles took the lead. Two hits by 3B Brandon O'Connell and RF Andy Lorenzen and a CF Tanner Vavra walk loaded the bases with one out. While Todd was pitching to 1B Mickey Boyle, Todd fumbled the ball while in the stretch on the rubber. Todd was able to regain the ball but the home plate umpire called a balk allowing all runners to advance a base. Lorenzen would later score on a past ball, giving the Eagles a 2-0 lead after 4.

The Eagles tacked on 3 more runs in the 6 inning with 3 hits, a hit batsmen, and an error all contributing to the big inning.

Todd was able to refocus and finished the game allowing only two more batters to reach base.

The Bandits had a threat in the 7th inning with runners on the corners with 1 out. Eagles pitcher Rob Heller was able to safely get out of the inning, getting Jeff Johnson and Curtis Roebuck to groundout and fly out respectively.

The Bandits were finally able to score in the 8th inning. Left Fielder Tim Wampfler reached base with a one out bunt single. Scott Lindholm ripped a double to the fence, scoring Wampfler from 1st base. Lindholm was not able to advance further than 2nd though, as Heller - once again - minimized the damage and retired the next two Bandit batters.

The Bandits tried to rally again in the top of the ninth inning. Catcher Steve Siqueiros hit the Bandits second double of the game to lead off the inning, taking over the Bandits career leader position in doubles. 1B Michael Chelberg followed with a tapper back to the mound and was thrown out at first base. 3B Jeff Johnson singled, advancing Siqueiros to third base. 2B Curtis Roebuck hit an RBI single to score Siqueiros. The Bandits had runners on first and second with only 1 out, bringing the tying run to the plate. However, the Bandits could not muster another hit, ending the game 5-2.

The Bandits and SP Trevor Todd put up a great effort, but could not string together hits until the final innings of the game. The Bandits are now 0-3 lifetime versus the Menomonie Eagles, but have only allowed a total of 10 runs in those 3 games. "We have really struggled swinging the bats against Menomonie for some reason, well besides good pitching obviously that is. But, honestly, we have scored 3 runs in 3 games versus that team. We get them again later this season at home, I hope we can put something together," said Bench Coach Jim Rochford.

*NOTES*

Game Balls

1) Scott Lindholm - 2/3, 2B, RBI, BB

2) Trevor Todd - 8IP, CG, 8Hits allowed, 5runs, 7K

3) Steve Siqueiros - 1/4, R, 2B, RBI - took over career doubles leader in Bandits history

Unheralded Hero of the Day: The boots at a certain Menomonie establishment

WOW Play of the Day: A certain Bandit may have broken a BRAND NEW bat on the GROUND!!! AAAAAHHHHHH!!!!!

Players Missing in Action: - the all nerd edition
Adam Lewis - at a Trekkie convention
Jim Rochford - playing Pokemon with his son
John Peterson - wrestling a wookie
Matt Vold - looking for parts for his lightsaber
Gus Koecher -building a farm robot
Michael VanderPlas - dressing up like Frodo Baggins
Jay Gagner -practicing his wolverine moves
Will Ball - anime marathon

MIDSEASON REVIEW

The St. Croix River Bandits (2-12, 1-7) have a pair of conference games this weekend. To be eligible for post season play, a team needs to finish with at least a .500 record in conference to get a bid. The Bandits are only 1-7 in conference and have 8 games remaining, so the feat remains remotely possible, but not probable. When we interviewed Bandits mastermind Jim Rochford, he had this to say about the season so far. "To be absolutely honest, we are shooting to win maybe 4 or 5 conference games this season now that we look at it. With a healthy Gagner we would probably have a .500 record at this point, but we aren't going to make excuses, we need to swing the bat a little better...we have lost too many close games. Last season we went 2-13 in conference with Jay, this season if we can win 4/5 without him, that would be some very good progress. We have a very good and somewhat young core of players, who if we can keep playing baseball, will develop even more than they have so far."

The Bandits usually give out awards at the end of the season which are voted on by the players: but here at the Bandits Blog we are going to be a complete dictator with the MID SEASON AWARDS and overall bandits grades.

Offensive Player of the 1st Half: Kyle Kahl. The Bandits leading hitter and defensive stalwart has improved his batting average from last year's .209, to batting .314 so far this season. Kahl had 14 hits in 67 at bats in 2008, and already has 11 hits this season in 35 at bats. Moreover, Kahl has walked 7 times this season and has struck out only 3 times all season. Kahl also has 5 runs scored, 5 RBI, and 2 Stolen bases.

Defensive Player of the 1st Half: John Peterson. Second baseman John Peterson is a converted shortstop who has played 66 2/3 innings and commited only 1 error. JP is a leader on the field and shows a large range over at 2nd base.

Pitcher of the 1st Half: Trevor Todd . The re-emergence of Trevor Todd is a welcome addition to the Bandits staff. Trevor has both Bandits wins this season, and despite two poor outings against Hudson and Prescott, Trevor has been quieting hitters in June. Trevor still has an ERA around 4.50 but has shown that he can be consistant in the strike zone over the last month.

Most Improved Player of the 1st Half: Kyle Kahl . For all the same reasons listed above.

Mid - Season Grades

Batting for Contact - The Bandits have somewhat improved their hitting over the coarse of the season, but still not to where they ended the season last year or the season before: D+ for a .210 team batting average

Batting for Power - The Bandits are hitting at a pase of 1.071 extra base hits a game, which is up from 1.041 from 2008, but still lags behind 1.137 from '07. Either way, the Bandits have historically been a singles team. A great power hitting team like Isanti hits at an average of 2.3 extra base hits a game which I would consider an A: C- for the Bandits, up from a D+ for the 2 HRs.

Eye at the Plate: The Bandits are down almost a full walk a game from the previous season. Some of this is due to more consistant pitching we have faced. Hard stats: 09 - 3.07 BB/9, 08 - 4BB/9, 07 - 3.90BB/9. Getting 3 walks a game still isnt terrible, the median team in mlb is issued 3.5 walks a game: C-

Strike 3!: The Bandits are striking out at roughly the same pace as last season, with 7.79k/9 vs. 7.88k/p one season ago. This is still way too much, considering that is roughly 30% of the outs in a game. The median team in mlb is sitting a 7K/9, but the pitchers we face aren't nearly as dominant. During the last 4 games, the Bandits have struck out at a rate of 5.30K/9, so hopefully we are on the up swing: C-

On the Bases: The Bandits were known for their running on teams in the first season (when they were a bit younger) swiping 37 bases and being caught 8 times (82% success rate). But the Bandits took a big step back last year only nabbing 13 bases and being thrown out 3 times. (81%). This season the Bandits have 15 stolen bases with only 1 CS, but 7 of those came in one game: C (would be higher if those 7 didn't come at 1 catcher's expense)

Defense: Bandits D has been much like last season with 92.4% on the balls being fielded (as compared to 92.6%). The Bandits have committed more errors per game this season 2.7 vs 2.3 the previous year, however, in 2007 that number was an atrocious 3.3errors/game. The Bandits also are having trouble keeping runners from stealing, mostly from our crafty pitching staff allowing too big of leads: C

Pitching: With our "Big Arm" getting the "Big Hurt" the Bandits staff was struggled this season. They don't have a light's out pitcher like many teams do, and must rely on consistency and defense. Strikeouts are down 1.5k a game and WHIP (walks+hits/inning) is up .34 per inning or 3 walks/hits per 9 innings. However, with that said, the Bandits ERA is hovering right around last year's mark of 5.46, which is impressive after some crushing defeats by non-conference opponents East Bethel 14-4 and Blaine 12-4: C (could be better could be worse, the Bandits have been blown out a hand full of times, and played close games the others.)

Game Recap - Bandits win thriller in 13 innings.

The St. Croix River Bandits (1-7, 2-12) won their first conference game on Sunday afternoon against the River Falls Fighting Fish (5-3, 6-8) by the score of 5-4. I don't even know where to begin. The game lasted a whopping 13 innings, and featured 4 lead changes, 2 home runs, men stranded on 3rd with no outs, and more.

The game started with CF Scott Lindholm reaching base in the 1st inning for the 10th time in 14 games by crushing a double to right center field. Lindholm advanced to third on a SS Gus Koecher ground out. After 1B Trevor Todd struck out, C Steve Siqueiros came to the plate. During Siqueiros's at bat, Fish SP Josh Eidam threw a wild pitch and Lindholm bolted for home. The ball ended up being partially blocked by Fish C Trevor Gutting and he was able to recover and throw the ball to Fish SP Josh Eidam to tag out Lindholm at the plate.

Bandits SP Jim Rochford, was on his game, changing speeds and keeping hitters off-balance. Rochford did not allow a hit until the fourth inning. Rochford gave up a walk and a hit that inning, and the Fish had runners on 1st and 2nd with only 1 out. Fish DH Joe Paatalo hit a line drive to Koecher, who then tried to throw out Fish SS Brian Giebel who was hustling back to 2nd base. Koecher's throw was high and was tipped by 2B Curtis Roebuck's glove, both Fish runners then tried to advance and in the flurry of action, RF Will Ball charged the ball and was able to throw out the runner advancing from first at 2nd base, which, oddly, was being covered by LF Tim Wampfler. This would be the first 6-5-9-7 double play in Bandits history.

The Bandits struck first in the bottom of the fourth inning. Trevor Todd hit a 1-out single to center field that was misplayed by fish CF Clint Kempf, and allowed Todd to advance to 2nd. Todd was able to score on a Steve Siqueiros 2 strike-single. The next batter was 3B Michael Chelberg. Chelberg was making his debut at 3B after a second inning injury to starting 3B Jeff Johnson - Johnson appears to have pulled a hamstring and is day to day. Chelberg was able to poke a single to the outfield, giving him his first hit of the game, and the Bandits had runners on 1st and 2nd with 1 out. Unfortunately, Will Ball struck out, and Tim Wampfler grounded out to the pitcher to end the inning. Bandits up 1 - 0.

The Fighting Fish continued to struggle while Rochford was on the mound, getting only 1 hit over the next three innings. The score was 1-0 Bandits going into the top of the 8th inning. Fish 2B and #9 hitter, Sam Giliuson hit a 2-1 fastball straight up the middle of the field for a lead off single. Eidam then followed with a sacrifice bunt, advancing Giliuson to 2nd. Rochford threw a first-pitch curveball to Fish 3B Nathan Brom, who dropped the head of the bat and gave a mighty uppercut swing. The bat connected, and the ball sailed out to left field, over Wampfler's head, and over the fence for a 2-run HR. After the game Rochford stated, "Usually I don't have enough gas on my pitches, especially my curveball, for anyone to actually hit it out of the park. I was hoping for a flyball to center or left, but I guess he hit it a little too far." Rochford finished the inning and the Bandits were down 2-1.

In the bottom of the 8th inning, the Bandits had their 3-4-5 hitters coming up, but Eidam was able to get the Bandits to hit into 2 quick outs on 2 pitches. Chelberg was able to hammer a double down the right field line, putting a man in scoring position. Will Ball swung at the first pitch he saw and flared the ball into short right field. Fish RF Adam Brathol sprinted in, Chelberg was rounding 3rd - ready to score and tie the game, and Brathol completely laid out to make a diving grab and preserve the Fish 2-1 lead over the Bandits.

Rochford took the hill for the Bandits once more in the 9th inning, but it didn't last long. Fish's Trevor Gutting, who was 0-3 so far in the game, hit line drive up the middle to give the Fish a baserunner with 0 outs. Bandits management made the call to bring in Curtis Roebuck in relief.
Rochford's final line: 8IP, 6H, 2BB, 2ER, 1K. Fish's Kempf sacrifice bunted Gutting over to second on the first pitch by Roebuck. While Roebuck was pitching to #9 batter Giliuson, he threw a wild pitch which allowed Gutting to reach 3rd with only 1 out. The Bandits brought in infield in to protect against the runner scoring on a groundball. Roebuck was able to induce Giliuson to pop out harmlessly to 2B Preston Langer, who had replaced Rochford on the field after the defensive switch that allowed Roebuck to take the mound. After Eidam walked, Brom then came up to bat with 2 out and Gutting still on third. Brom again tried to knock the ball out of the park, but got a little under it, sending a high flyball into center field where Lindholm was able to make the catch.

Bottom of the ninth inning, and the Bandits needed a run to tie and 2 to win. Tim Wampfler, who 0-3, was hit by a pitch and was able to take first base. Langer then bunted Wampfler over to 2nd base. Curtis Roebuck hit a flyball to LF for the 2nd out of the inning. The Bandits were down to their last out with CF Scott Lindholm at bat. Lindholm was 1-4 with 2 strikeouts versus Fish P Josh Eidam. Lindholm took the first strike, and fouled off the 2nd pitch. Down in the count, 0-2, Lindholm hit a weak line drive to center field, and Wampfler took off from 2nd. The throw from center field came in too late, allowing Wampfler to score and tie the game at 2, and Lindholm was able to take 2nd base when the defense threw home. Gus Koecher then sharply hit a line drive up past the pitcher into center field and quickly got to Fish CF Kempf. Kempf came up firing as third base coach Jim Rochford waved Lindholm home. The throw was on the mark and beat Lindholm to the plate by a couple feet, and he was tagged out easily, sending the game into extra innings.

The Fish looked poised to take the lead in the 10th inning. Roebuck walked Giebel to start the inning. Giebel stole 2nd, and was able to reach 3rd after the Bandits muffed the throw down to 2nd. Roebuck walked #4 batter Gilbertson, prompting the Bandits to bring in lefty Trevor Todd. Todd's job was to not give up a big inning, and he did even better. With the infield in, #5 batter Joe Paatalo grounded out to Koecher at short. Koecher had to make a stretch up the middle to get to the ball, and if Giebel had run home, there is a good chance he would have scored, but he stayed at third and Koecher was able to make the play. Scott Warrington followed with a flyball to very short right field. Will Ball came charging in and made the catch, and gave Giebel no chance to score from 3rd. Todd was able to strike out Gutting, stranding Fish on 3rd and 2nd, after they had 2 men in scoring position with 0 outs.

The Bandits put together a threat in the 10th. Todd reached on an error, and was moved to 2nd with a sac bunt by Siqueiros. Chelberg was next up and was 3-4 on the day vs. Fish P Eidam, who was still in the game. The Fish decided to intentionally walk Chelberg to get to Will Ball. The decision paid off, as Ball grounded into a 4-6-3 double play to end the inning.

In the top of the 12th inning, the Fish were finally catching up to Bandits P Trevor Todd. Todd gave up 5 hits in the inning, including a double by Scott Warrington, but was able to get out of the inning, letting up only 2 runs, and leaving men stranded on 2nd and 3rd.

In the bottom of the 12th, the Bandits were still upbeat, and the Fish had finally changed pitchers as Josh Eidam left the game and Ryan Gilbertson relieved. Gilbertson got Koecher to fly out to center field for the first out. Trevor Todd then singled on the first offering he saw from Gilbertson. C Steve Siqueiros was the next batter. Siqueiros was 3-4 on the day vs. Eidam including a double to deep left field. Siqueiros was even at 1-1 in the count when he blasted a pitch to deep left field again. The ball soared past LF Eidam and over the fence. Siqueiros tied the game on a 2-run HR. The first Bandits HR on their home field in their three year history.

The drama continued in the 13th, with Trevor Todd still on the mound. Todd gave up a one out double to Nathan Brom, followed by a sharp single by Brian Giebel. Todd bore down, and struck out the next two batters, stranding the Fish again on third and second.

The Bandits started the bottom of the 13th inning with 2 strikeouts. #9 hitter Curtis Roebuck was able to plop a single into left field to give the Bandits a base runner. Scott Lindholm was then hit by a pitch on a weird play. Lindholm called for a time out. but time was not given by the umpire as the P Gilbertson was already in motion. Gilbertson, maybe distracted by all the commotion in the batters box, struck Lindholm, moving Roebuck to 2nd. Gus Koecher ended the game with a blast down the left field line, allowing Curtis Roebuck to score easily and gave the Bandits their first conference and home win of the season.

"This is the greatest game we have played as a team. We have won some great games, but those were mostly an individual performance by our ace Jay Gagner. Today everyone chipped in, whether it was fantastic fielding or sac bunts." said SP Jim Rochford. CF Scott Lindholm added, "We came a long way as a team today."

The Bandits next game is Friday at Menomonie at 7:30pm and the next home game is Father's Day June 21st. vs. Bay City. The Bandits are 0-2 lifetime vs. Menomonie and 1-0 vs. Bay City.

June 21st vs. Bay City - the first 15 fans will receive a free stainless steel travel mug presented by the General Store in Taylors Falls. Free sparklers will also be given out to all kids ages 18 and under.

NOTES

Game Balls

1. Steve Siqueiros - 4/5, 2B, HR, 3RBI, sac bunt. That home run was amazing.

2. Gus Koecher - 2/7 GW RBI - enough said

3. Pitchers Jim Rochford, Curtis Roebuck, Trevor Todd 13 IP 4 ER allowed, got out of jams and kept the defense on their toes

WOW PLAY of the Game: Michael Chelberg attempted to steal 2nd base; unfortunately the base was currently occupied by Steve Siqueiros. Chelberg, then standing on 3B, openly asked Steve why he hasn't gone yet, even though the catcher had the ball in hand and was running down the 3rd baseline. After Steve gave Chelberg the glare of death, Chelberg scurried back to 2B, and the Fish catcher Trevor Gutting did not attempt a play, as he did not want to miscue and allow Siqueiros to score in a tight game. Congrats Michael, I guess you thought Steve was stealing home?

Unheralded Hero of the Game: This usually doesn't go to the opposing team, but Josh Eidam pitched 11 innings, walked no batters and let up only 2 runs, I bet his arm feels just great today.
Also some dap to fan Brian Jacobson, we always play better when our old coach is watching.

Steve Siquieros hit the first Bandits HR at our home field.

This is the first extra inning win for the Bandits in Bandit history.

Jim Rochford has only given up 5 ER in 16 conference innings.

Gus Koecher showed more range than any previous Bandits shortstop in 3 years.

I'm sure I'm missing a bunch of things, lots happened in the game, especially after the 9th inning.

Players Missing in Action:
Adam Lewis - saving lives, delivery babies, feeding the poor, and clearing land mines.
Jay Gagner - still looking for a donor for an extra elbow ligament.
Kyle Kahl - "had to" go to his fiance's brother's uncle's mother's dog's friend's graduation party.
John Peterson - handcuffed to a bedpost.
Matt Vold - ooo, look at me, I'm Matt Vold, I am good enough to play for Team Wisconsin...oooo I'm playing against Nebraska today.

Will Ball - oh wait you showed up for the game...LATE...don't do it again!

Estimated Attendance: 50-75

Game Recap - Bandits drop another conference game, 8-2 to Ellsworth.

The St. Croix River Bandits (1-12, 0-7) are still struggling to find a conference win. The Bandits traveled to Ellsworth on Friday night for the 2nd time in 2 years. Last year's game ended in a 1-0 thriller in which the only run scored was unearned. The Bandits had threatened in the top of the ninth but couldn't get anyone across the plate.

This year's game was a lot less thrilling. For the sixth time this season lead off batter and CF Scott Lindholm reached base and scored in the first inning. And for the sixth time, the Bandits have come up empty. Linholm reached on an error, stole 2nd, and was able to score on a 1B Trevor Todd single.

SP Michael Chelberg came out strong, getting 3 quick outs on only 7 pitches. However, the Hubbers came rearing back in the 2nd inning. Jeremiah Paulson led off the inning with a double, and was knocked in by a Garrett Birkel single. The Hubbers loaded the bases after a walk and another single. Chelberg was able to induce a double play ball that was played cleanly by 3B Jeff Johnson who fired the ball home, where C Siqueiros stepped on the plate and threw down to 1B for the second out. Jordan Zimmer grounded out to 3B to end the inning, and the Hubbers only came away with 1 run.

The Bandits were not so lucky in the bottom of the third. Chelberg walked the first two batters of the 3rd inning, and 3-batter and starting third baseman Scott DeWyre hit a game breaking HR to left center. The Hubbers were not finished, scoring 2 more runs in the inning and chasing Chelberg out of the game. The Hubbers led 6-1 after 4.

Pitcher Will Ball made his debut for the Bandits and threw 4 2/3 innings and let up only 3 hits, 1 run, and 5 walks, while striking out 5 in relief. Trevor Todd came in relief in the 8th, striking out 2, allowing only 1 hit and 1 unearned run.

The Bandits scored only one more run in the game - in the 7th.

This is the Bandits 8th game where they have let up at least 1 big inning. "We play consistent baseball for most of the game, but it seems like somewhere between the 2nd and 5th we just lay an egg out there. Whether its poor defense, costly walks, or whatever, we just seem to internally blow up and give up a big lead at some point in the game. 90% of the time, you're going to lose every time when you do that." stated Bench Coach Jim Rochford. Rochford went on to say, "We did get a very good performance out of Will Ball tonight, and Trevor Todd is much improved over these last two games, our goal for the rest of the season should be to improve upon last year where we had 2 conference wins. Right now we are 0-7 in conference with lots of baseball left. Last season we won 2 games in conference, I'll be happy with 4, especially with Gagner hurt."

**Notes**

Game Balls

1. Will Ball - great debut for Will. went 2-4 at the plate, threw 4 2/3 innings giving up only a single run, and scattering 3 hits.

2. Bandits Baserunners: Chelberg, Lindholm, Kahl all had stolen bases and DH Tim Wampfler claimed he would have nabbed one, but the ball was put in play - which took away a double play ball.

3.

Unheralded Hero of the Day

The Big Horn in Beldenville, where the Bandits wash away all of their southern away game blues.

Wow Play of the Game:

Probably DeWyre homerun or the sweet Bandits double play with the bases loaded and no outs in the 2nd.

Players Missing in Action:

Jay Gagner - 15 day disabled list (tendonitis)

Jim Rochford - baby watching

Adam Lewis -working

Curtis Roebuck -coaching

Jake Larcom - coaching

Matt Vold - ACTs

Gus Koecher - ACTs

Tim Whittenberger: working

Game Recap - Bandits Notch 1st Win of Season in 11-1 victory over Siren.

The St. Croix River Bandits (1-11, 0-6) were able to come away with their first victory in 11 months yesterday in a 11-1 victory over the Siren Steelers. It was the first game this season where the Bandits were able to put together a complete effort, allowing only 1 run, making only 1 error, and collecting 10 hits, 11 walks, and scoring 11 times.

SP Trevor Todd had his best performance as a Bandit, throwing 7 innings, allowing only 3 hits, 2 walks, 1HBP, and 1 run (unearned), while striking out 13. Curtis Roebuck and JR Switala combined for 2 innings of scoreless relief, striking out 2 more Steelers.

The Bandits could have blown the game wide open a lot earlier in the game. In the first inning after 2 walks and a 3B Kyle Kahl infield hit loaded the bases with 0 outs, they were poised to take a big early lead. However, Steeler's SP Potvin was able to wriggle out of the jam, inducing 2 infield pop outs and striking out RF Michael VanderPlas.

The Bandits were able to score in the top of the third inning. CF Scott Lindholm reached for the 2nd time on a walk, bringing SS Matt Vold to the plate. Vold hit a high 3-2 fastball deep to center field where Steeler's CF Letch attempted to make a jumping, diving, over the back shoulder catch but could not get it. After seeing Letch not be able to make the play Vold turned the burners on, expecting to get a triple. As Vold was rounding 2nd, Third Base Coach Jim Rochford saw that the Steelers wouldn't have the ball to the first of 2 cut off men until Vold was near 3rd, so he sent Vold home. Vold has able to score, giving the Bandits their 1st HR of the season and the 2nd HR in Bandits history.

The Steelers were able to get a run back in the bottom of the 4th inning. Todd plunked the leadoff batter/Steeler catcher Sickler. The next batter, Harry Severson-Dickinson (HSD), who had just got done playing in the Sectional Final for Luck - who unfortunatly lost 2-0, lined a shot that ricocheted off of Todd's leg and into left field. HSD was able to get to 2nd base, and Sickler went to 3rd. Todd was able to strike the next 3 batters out. However, during the 2nd strikout victim's at bat, Todd threw the ball in the dirt and C Siqueiros was not able to get all of it, and the ball skipped past him. Sickler was able to score from 3rd base, the only Steeler run of the game.

The Bandits tacked on another 3 runs in the top of the 6th inning, with RBI hits by Lindholm and Vold. The game was scheduled to go just 7 innings, but after 6 1/2 the Steelers (down 5-1) approached Bandits Manager Jim Rochford about going the full 9 innings. After some deliberation by the coaches and umpiring crew (solo umpire "Bad" Brad Hopkins) it was decided the game would be extended.

The Steelers would probably take that proposition back if they had the chance. The Bandits scored 6 runs in the final 2 innings, and allowed only 2 hits. Vold had another hit in the 8th that drove in 2 runs. Vold and Kahl walked with the bases loaded in the 9th, and Todd had a 2 run single to make the score 11-1.

Overall, this was the best performance by the Bandits of the season. The Bandits have 2 conference games this weekend, including a rematch vs. River Falls, where the Bandits lost 11-1 in their last outing, even though they gave up only 5 hits. The Bandits hope they gained some momentum for the weekend, where they look for their first conference win of the season.

NOTES

Game Balls

1. Trevor Todd / Matt Vold

Trevor pitched 7 solid innings, and picked up the first win of the season for the Bandits.
Matt Vold went 3 for 4, 2B, HR, and 2 BB with 2 runs scored and a team record 6 RBI.

3. Tim Wampfler - although Wampy did not get a hit, he walked twice, and reached on an error, stole 5 bases, and scored 3 times.

Unheralded Hero(es) of the Game:
Besides a strong Bandits defense, the SCRB traveling fans that not only came to the game on short notice but also kept score during the game. Oh and Brad Hopkins for umping the game on short notice. Thanks Brad.

WOW Play of the Game: Matt Vold's Inside the park HR.

Congrats on the Proposal Kyle Kahl, what a stud.

Broken Bandits Records:
Matt Vold: Most RBI in a single game: 6
Tim Wampfler: Most Stolen Bases in a single game: 5

Players Missing in Action:
Adam Lewis - *work
Jay Gagner -*work
Gus Koecher -*work
Michael Chelberg -*work
Jake Larcom -*work
Tim Whittenberger - *work
John Peterson - *work

* I'm not sure if work at the Border Lounge counts as work.....

Traveling Attendance: 7

Game Recap - River Bandits swirling towards despair.

The St. Croix River Bandits (0-6, 0-11) have been devastated by this weekend's baseball events. Nothing seems to be clicking for the Bandits, whose inconsistent plate appearances have yielded an average of only 2.45 runs every nine innings. The Bandits are batting .192 as a team- 30 points lower than last season. Fielding has seen an error increase of one full error more per game than 2008. Pitching has been racked by injuries, with SCVBL ace Jay Gagner having missed the last month's worth of games with elbow trouble, Bandits #2, Adam Lewis also experiencing soreness, and #3, Jim Rochford, missing away games due to the recent birth of his 2nd child. The Bandits have had surprise production on the mound from Michael Chelberg (ERA 3.37 in 10+ innings). But one pitcher cannot make up for 3 missing ones, especially the calibur of Gagner, who is on every team's radar come drafting time before the playoffs.

It all accumulated into a perfect storm on Sunday afternoon in River Falls. As usual, lead off hitter Scott Lindholm was able to get onto first base in the first inning (via Fish error), and after a passed ball allowed him to attain 2nd, scored on a Steve Siqueiros RBI single. This would mark the 3rd game in a row where Lindholm reached base and scored in the first inning. Unfortunately those 3 runs account for almost 50% of the runs scored in each of the last 3 games. In fact, the Bandits have scored 5 runs total in the first inning of those games, and combined 3 runs in the other 22 innings. The Bandits finished the day with a disappointing 2 hits and 7 strikeouts.

Newly acquired pitcher JR Switala had to start the game as the Bandits had 6 either missing or used other pitchers. Switala had a rough outing, allowing 3 hits, 3 walks, and hitting 2 batters in 1.2 innings, giving up 7 runs - 4 earned. The Bandits did get a sizeable effort on the mound from SS Kyle Kahl and C Steve Siqueiros who combined to give up 4 runs, only 1 earned.

Bandits on the field were just as poor. The Bandits had 5 errors on the game, and a few other misplays in the field.

Not much good can be taken from the worst performance by the entire team in Bandits history. Kyle Kahl and Steve Siqueiros did a fabulous job on the mound for 2 guys who rarely see it. Hats off to River Falls for not charging the pitcher on the 4th hit by pitch of the day (although Kyle Kahl was on the mound at that point - don't charge that guy!). The Bandits will try to rebound on Tuesday, if it isn't rained out, in a 7 inning pick up game in Siren. The Bandits have a three game weekend, including a home game Sunday in a rematch versus River Falls, where Jim Rochford will take the mound and make the Fish swing at the ball.

NOTES

Game Balls

1. Steve Siqueiros - pitched, caught, hit.

2. You, the reader.

3. The Bandit Mobile for continuing to truck along.

WOW Play of the Day

The whole game: KK and Steve on the mound, Jake Larcom playing SS, a Wampfler, Vandy, Chelberg outfield, 11 runs given up on 5 hits.

Players Missing in Action
Jay Gagner: broken
Trevor Todd: tokin'
Gus Koecher: hayin'
Matt Vold: playin'
Jim Rochford: rearin'
Will Ball: disappearin'
Curtis Roebuck: workin'
Chris Chelberg: jerkin'
John Peterson: nappin'
Joe Holman: crappin'

Game Recap - Bandits can't keep lead vs. Elmwood, lose 10th straight.

The St. Croix River Bandits (0-10, 0-5) twice had the lead in the game vs. Elmwood on Saturday, but couldn't hold on to either one. The weather was cold and dreary, and the field grass long and wet. The Bandits started off strong in the first inning. CF Scott Lindholm walked and reached third on two passed balls. SS Kyle Kahl hit a sharp single to knock in Lindholm for the first run of the game. The Bandits, however would leave 2 men on base in the first, 1 in the third, and 2 more in the 4th.

SP Michael Chelberg pitched a mostly stellar game for the Bandits. Chelberg gave up a harmless single in the 2nd, and didn't let up another hit until the 4th inning. DH Justin Kerg was moved to 2nd base after Chelberg let up a 1 out walk to P Dylan Demotts. LF Jason Brenner hit the ball softly to third base, were Curtis Roebuck was able to get the single out at first, moving runners to 2nd and 3rd with 2 outs. The Expos were able to score their first run of the game when the next batter, RF Jed Tiffany, grounded to third, but the throw was misplayed at first base. Chelberg was able to get out of the inning only letting up the single run, and the score tied 1-1.

As the game dragged on, the temperature continued to drop and the rain and wind picked up, but with the score tied, the game went on despite the poor conditions.

The Bandits struck back in the top of the 6th. 1B Adam Lewis was able to reach on an error, and he was bunted over by C Steve Siqueiros. Chelberg was able to come through with a single to score Lewis from 2nd base, and the Bandits retook the lead 2-1.

The Bandits allowed the Expos to get the run back in the bottom of the 6th in typical Bandits style. Chelberg walked the lead off batter, Kerg, who then advanced to 2nd on a wild pitch. Kerg reached 3rd on a ground out to SS Kyle Kahl. Demotts was able to lift a 1-out flyball into foul territory in left field. LF Tim Wampfler made the play, but Kerg was able to score from third, tying the game at 2.

In the 7th inning, 2B John Peterson hit a 2-out double, but was stranded on 2nd base. The Expos were able to take the lead in the bottom of the 7th, once again, in typical Bandits fashion. Chelberg, who had only given up 2 hits, but had walked 4, was over 100 pitches but remained in the game. Chelberg walked the lead off and #9 hitter, Ario Cognetta. Chelberg was able to get the next two Expos out, but Cognetta was able to steal 2nd and get into scoring position. Chelberg and C Siqueiros met at the mound and made the good decision to walk #3 hitter Jonah Lansing, the create force outs at 1st, 2nd, and 3rd. However, Chelberg, taking extra precaution as to not throw a wild pitch, threw to first "intentional ball" right over the plate, letters high. Lansing crushed the ball to CF, were an unprepared (and rightly so) outfield had no chance of throwing out Cognetta at the plate. The Expos scored another insurance run in the 7th increasing their lead to 4-2. The Bandits went down quietly in the 8th, with Expo SP Dylan Demotts striking out the side. The weather, which had been deteriorating for the past hour, finally was enough for the umpire to call the game as the Expos had a 2 run lead after the Bandits batted in the 8th.

Once again the Bandits came up short despite a great effort by SP Michael Chelberg (minus a ball that wasn't a ball). The Bandits played an excellent defensive game, making only a single error, which, in Bandits style, led to a run. The Bandits play River Falls Fighting Fish on Sunday, where SP Will Ball looks to make his Bandits debut. The Bandits have had trouble in the past hitting off of Fish pitching, but hopefully tomorrow they can find their sticks and stick it to the fish for win #1.

NOTES

Game Balls

1. The Weather - the game was untimately decided by the weather. Not only did the weather make scorched fly balls look like harmless pop ups, it made normally "speedy" ball players into slow clunkers on the bases and in the field. The game was ended early due to the weather, not that the Bandits were guarenteed to score more runs in the 9th, but the rain and wind stole their chance away. So congratulations weather, you won.

2. SP Michael Chelberg: innings 1 thru 5. He allowed only 2 hits and 3 walks thru the first 5 innings and only 1 run (unearned) allowed. We'll let the last 2 innings be forgotten.

3. Take you pick: Steve Siqueiros (1-2, BB, SAC, K), Kyle Kahl (1-4, RBI, K), John Peterson (1-3, 2B, BB, 4 PO)...

Unheralded Heroes of the Game:
Uh....um.....how about the guys who had to drive all the way down to Elmwood....good enough for me.

WOW Play of the Game:
Hard to top an intentional ball, that crosses the plate and is laced into a defense not expecting to field it, which then scores the go ahead run, in the middle of a torrential downpour, in 40 degree weather.....Wow.

Players Missing in Action:
Trevor Todd - chronic gingivitis
Jim Rochford - "leakage"....oh wait, that was a different Bandit, Rochford has the clap.
Jake Larcom - branding and inseminating cattle
Gus Koecher -trapping beavers and rodents, and creating clothing for the less fortunate.
Matt Vold - busy saving kittens and small children in Madison as his alter-ego Mr. America.
Tim Whittenberg(er) -had a very nice calm weekend at the cabin with some friends where I am sure no alcohol is/was involved.
Jeff Johnson - got married...shhhh... don't tell his wife.

*Updated* Weekend Preview - Sat 6/6 @ Elmwood, Sun 6/7 @ River Falls

The St. Croix River Bandits (0-4, 0-9) continue their search for their first win of the season. Team Soothsayer Jim Rochford states, "With Gagner looking to be done for the season, or honest goal is to finish with a better conference record than last season (2-13). Jay was our equalizer, these SCVBL teams have a lot of talent, and we are going to continue to look for ways or guys to plug in who can play." The Bandits will travel this weekend to Elmwood on Saturday and River Falls on Sunday, hoping for at least a split.

The Bandits take on the Elmwood Expos on Saturday. The Bandits are 0-1 lifetime versus the Expos. The Expos beat the Bandits last season in a 11-3 drubbing on a miserable 91 degree and muggy day. The Expos are 3-8 this season and 2-3 in conference play , with those 2 wins coming against the upstart Hager City Skeeters. I would have some stats from last game for you dear readers but it appears whoever kept book only listed #s instead of names and the Expos website does not list player #s...so.... But I can tell you that every single Expo batter got to first on either a hit, walk, error, or catcher's interference.... expect their clean-up hitter who went 0-5. Figures. This season, while Elmwood's conference record looks fair, they are off to a rocky start also. Expo pitching has been inconsistent, giving up lots of walks, in fact more walks than hits. At the plate, The Expos have three hitters that are batting near .300 or better, similiar to the Bandits. However, the Bandits will not take Elmwood for granted like they did last year when they got their butts handed to them.

Sunday, the River Bandits take on the River Falls Fighting Fish in River Falls. The Fish are 4-6 this season but are 3-1 in conference with victories over Menomonie, Ellsworth, and Hudson. The Fish took 2 games from the Bandits last year winning 5-1 and 8-2. Bandits hitters have only managed 10 hits in 2 games versus Fish pitching, and hopefully that trend will change on Sunday.

Sam Giliuson and Ryan Gilbertson are of to hot starts for the Fish. 2B Giliuson is hitting .476 with 7 walks and only 1 strikeout. 1B Gilbertson is batting .303 with 2 doubles, 2 triples, and 5 RBI. Fish pitching has been fairly consistent this season. The staff is averaging almost a strikout and inning, and allowing 4.7 walks per game. Quote-man Jim Rochford says "Hopefully the Fish will be looking past us a little bit, as they have a game on Wednesday and Saturday. Maybe we can jump out to an early lead like we did against New Richmond, except this time, keep the pressure on and pull out a victory.

Game Recap - Bandits take early 3-0 lead, lose 5-4 to Millers

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

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.

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 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)

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.