Following is the schedule for the optional individual photo session on Thursday, June 30th:
3:00 - 3:15 pm: Rick Sisco
3:15 - 3:30 pm: Patrick O'Connor
3:30 - 3:45 pm: Jason Enguita
3:45 - 4:00 pm: Connor Bartle
4:00 - 4:15 pm: Steve Sismelich
4:15 - 4:30 pm: Matt LeVigne
4:30 - 4:45 pm: Tyler Dempsey
4:45 - 5:00 pm: Zac Zavod
5:00 - 5:15 pm: Jim Robley
An email was distributed to each of the above participants with more information about the photo sessions.
2011 Chicagoland Tournament Champions & 2011 Lombard Tournament Champions!
Wednesday, June 29, 2011
Warriors Fall to Southside Express
The Warriors lost to the Southside Express by a score of 5-3 under the lights at Centennial #5 on Wednesday night.
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CLICK HERE for team and individual statistics through Game #22.
The first three hitters in the game for the Southside Express (SSE) reached base on two walks and a hit batsman. All three runners scored when the SSE added three hits in the inning--one being a costly two out hit to score two runs. The Warriors' starting pitcher, Steve Sismelich, was removed from the game after experiencing some tenderness in his arm. Matt Carroll entered the game in relief and retired the final hitter of the inning.
The Warriors would spend the rest of the night trying to chip away at the five run deficit. Unfortunately, this was not a night of timely hitting as the Warriors left ten runners on base in this game--and twice failed to score after loading the bases with less than two outs.
Matt LeVigne recorded the Warriors' only extra base hit of the evening when he doubled to centerfield. This was Matt's fourth double and his team-leading 12th extra base hit of the season. But, the Warriors left Matt stranded at second base in the second inning.
Trent Sichelski singled to start the third inning and then stole second base. But, he was also left stranded after being in scoring position with no outs.
The Warriors finally scored in the fourth inning. The inning started with Steve Sismelich reaching base on an infield error. Matt Carroll then walked (his 19th of the season). The next three Warriors--Jason Enguita, Tyler Dempsey and Connor Bartle--all singled. The Warriors scored two runs and had the bases loaded with no outs. But, the next three hitters were unable to advance the runners and the inning ended with the Warriors trailing the SSE by three runs.
The Warriors threatened again in the sixth inning. Matt Carroll started the inning with a line drive single into leftfield. Tyler Dempsey and Connor Bartle singled. Matt LeVigne walked to load the bases with one out. But, the Warriors left three runners stranded. This time, the inning ended on a well hit line drive off the bat of Trent Sichelski--which unfortunately was hit right back at the pitcher.
In the meantime, Matt Carroll was pitching a masterpiece. After entering the game in relief in the first inning, he continued to hold the SSE scoreless for the rest of the game! He managed to keep his pitch count under control while on the mound for 6 1/3rd innings. Matt allowed just three hits in that span.
With the Warriors trailing by two runs in the seventh inning, Patrick O'Connor worked the count and drew a walk to start the inning. This brought the tying run to the plate with no outs. But, the Warriors went down quickly after that. A pop fly to the catcher, a strikeout and another fly out to the first baseman ended the Warriors' hopes in this one.
Despite out-hitting the SSE by nine hits to four, the Warriors simply could not convert hits into runs. The Warriors lost for the second time this season.
CLICK HERE for team and individual statistics through Game #22.
The first three hitters in the game for the Southside Express (SSE) reached base on two walks and a hit batsman. All three runners scored when the SSE added three hits in the inning--one being a costly two out hit to score two runs. The Warriors' starting pitcher, Steve Sismelich, was removed from the game after experiencing some tenderness in his arm. Matt Carroll entered the game in relief and retired the final hitter of the inning.
The Warriors would spend the rest of the night trying to chip away at the five run deficit. Unfortunately, this was not a night of timely hitting as the Warriors left ten runners on base in this game--and twice failed to score after loading the bases with less than two outs.
Matt LeVigne recorded the Warriors' only extra base hit of the evening when he doubled to centerfield. This was Matt's fourth double and his team-leading 12th extra base hit of the season. But, the Warriors left Matt stranded at second base in the second inning.
Trent Sichelski singled to start the third inning and then stole second base. But, he was also left stranded after being in scoring position with no outs.
The Warriors finally scored in the fourth inning. The inning started with Steve Sismelich reaching base on an infield error. Matt Carroll then walked (his 19th of the season). The next three Warriors--Jason Enguita, Tyler Dempsey and Connor Bartle--all singled. The Warriors scored two runs and had the bases loaded with no outs. But, the next three hitters were unable to advance the runners and the inning ended with the Warriors trailing the SSE by three runs.
The Warriors threatened again in the sixth inning. Matt Carroll started the inning with a line drive single into leftfield. Tyler Dempsey and Connor Bartle singled. Matt LeVigne walked to load the bases with one out. But, the Warriors left three runners stranded. This time, the inning ended on a well hit line drive off the bat of Trent Sichelski--which unfortunately was hit right back at the pitcher.
In the meantime, Matt Carroll was pitching a masterpiece. After entering the game in relief in the first inning, he continued to hold the SSE scoreless for the rest of the game! He managed to keep his pitch count under control while on the mound for 6 1/3rd innings. Matt allowed just three hits in that span.
With the Warriors trailing by two runs in the seventh inning, Patrick O'Connor worked the count and drew a walk to start the inning. This brought the tying run to the plate with no outs. But, the Warriors went down quickly after that. A pop fly to the catcher, a strikeout and another fly out to the first baseman ended the Warriors' hopes in this one.
Despite out-hitting the SSE by nine hits to four, the Warriors simply could not convert hits into runs. The Warriors lost for the second time this season.
Tuesday, June 28, 2011
Warriors Win 10-0 Over Bellwood
The Warriors met little resistance in a 10-0 win over the Bellwood Reds at Memorial Park on Tuesday night.
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CLICK HERE to view team and individual statistics through Game #21.
The Warriors scored four runs in the top of the first inning on just one hit--a triple to deep leftfield off the bat of Tyler Dempsey. Bellwood's starting pitcher opened the game by hitting Steve Sismelich with a pitch and then promptly walked Matt Carroll. Matt leads the team with 18 walks on the season. Bellwood's defense committed two errors in the inning.
Zac Zavod was the starting pitcher for the Warriors' and pitched two strong innings. Zac allowed one hit and struck out three. His WHIP (walks and hits per innings pitched ratio) improved to an impressive 1.14 after this outing.
Bellwood's starting pitcher struck out the side in the top of the second inning to keep the score at a respectable 4-0. But, the Warriors scored five runs in the top of the third inning on just three hits--a single by Jason Enguita, a double by Jim Robley (his 5th of the season) and a single by Connor Bartle. Bellwood committed another two errors in this inning.
Matt Olinski made his fourth appearance as a pitcher for the Warriors in the third inning. For the second consecutive night, Matt was impressive on the mound. He held Bellwood scoreless despite two errors behind him. And, he struck out four hitters in two innings of work.
For the second straight game, the Warriors went into a bunting mode in an attempt to keep the score within reason. The team attempted at least 20 bunts--several of which were successful. Despite another four errors by Bellwood in the final two innings of the contest, the Warriors scored just one more run to make the score 10-0.
Trent Sichelski pitched a flawless fifth inning. He retired the first batter on a nice play by Steve Sismelich on a ground ball to third base. Trent then struck out the last two hitters of the game.
The game was called after five innings of play after the ten run mercy rule was applied.
CLICK HERE to view team and individual statistics through Game #21.
The Warriors scored four runs in the top of the first inning on just one hit--a triple to deep leftfield off the bat of Tyler Dempsey. Bellwood's starting pitcher opened the game by hitting Steve Sismelich with a pitch and then promptly walked Matt Carroll. Matt leads the team with 18 walks on the season. Bellwood's defense committed two errors in the inning.
Zac Zavod was the starting pitcher for the Warriors' and pitched two strong innings. Zac allowed one hit and struck out three. His WHIP (walks and hits per innings pitched ratio) improved to an impressive 1.14 after this outing.
Bellwood's starting pitcher struck out the side in the top of the second inning to keep the score at a respectable 4-0. But, the Warriors scored five runs in the top of the third inning on just three hits--a single by Jason Enguita, a double by Jim Robley (his 5th of the season) and a single by Connor Bartle. Bellwood committed another two errors in this inning.
Matt Olinski made his fourth appearance as a pitcher for the Warriors in the third inning. For the second consecutive night, Matt was impressive on the mound. He held Bellwood scoreless despite two errors behind him. And, he struck out four hitters in two innings of work.
For the second straight game, the Warriors went into a bunting mode in an attempt to keep the score within reason. The team attempted at least 20 bunts--several of which were successful. Despite another four errors by Bellwood in the final two innings of the contest, the Warriors scored just one more run to make the score 10-0.
Trent Sichelski pitched a flawless fifth inning. He retired the first batter on a nice play by Steve Sismelich on a ground ball to third base. Trent then struck out the last two hitters of the game.
The game was called after five innings of play after the ten run mercy rule was applied.
A Deep Pitching Staff
This team's pitching staff is deeper than any past Warriors' team. So far this season, 11 players have pitched for the Warriors, and 9 pitchers have thrown 7 innings or more. Connor Bartle leads the staff in innings pitched with 20.7, and that represents just 15% of the total innings pitched for the team--or an average of just under 1 inning pitched per game played.
Here are the top ten Warriors' pitchers for 2011 based upon innings pitched:
Here are the top ten Warriors' pitchers for 2011 based upon innings pitched:
- Connor Bartle- 20.7 (9 appearances)
- Matt Carroll- 20.3 (7 appearances)
- Tyler Dempsey- 17.3 (9 appearances)
- Steve Sismelich- 17.0 (10 appearances)
- Cody Rutledge- 15.3 (7 appearances)
- Zac Zavod- 14.0 (6 appearances)
- Jim Robley- 9.0 (4 appearances)
- Jason Enguita- 7.7 (7 appearances)
- Matt Olinski- 7.0 (4 appearances)
- Trent Sichelski- 5.0 (3 appearances)
Strength of Schedule
The Warriors have won 95% of its games played so far this season. Much of this success can be attributed to the talent and improvement of many of our players. A deep pitching staff goes a long way to achieving a high winning percentage. However, the weaker schedule this season also plays a part.
As discussed during the Parents Meeting, ideally a schedule could be created to stretch the team to the degree that winning 60 to 70% of the games would be an accomplishment. Playing higher quality opponents accelerates the development of players. When playing stronger opponents, mistakes are amplified and players tend to make corrections much faster as a result.
So far this season, the good news is that when faced with a higher quality opponent, the Warriors have stepped up and met the challenge. The team has played in just five games that were decided by 3 runs or less--and won four of the five. Following is the distribution of wins by run differential this season:
As discussed during the Parents Meeting, ideally a schedule could be created to stretch the team to the degree that winning 60 to 70% of the games would be an accomplishment. Playing higher quality opponents accelerates the development of players. When playing stronger opponents, mistakes are amplified and players tend to make corrections much faster as a result.
So far this season, the good news is that when faced with a higher quality opponent, the Warriors have stepped up and met the challenge. The team has played in just five games that were decided by 3 runs or less--and won four of the five. Following is the distribution of wins by run differential this season:
- Wins by 3 runs or less: 4 games (21%)
- Wins by 4 or 5 runs: 2 games (11%)
- Wins by 5 to 10 runs: 5 games (26%)
- Wins by 10 runs or more: 8 games (42%)
Monday, June 27, 2011
Warriors 17, Lemont 9
The Warriors scored several runs early and then held on to beat Lemont by a score of 17-9 in seven innings of play at Bambrick Park.
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CLICK HERE to view the team and individual statistics through Game #20.
The Warriors scored five runs in the first inning on five consecutive hits. Jason Enguita doubled and Matt LeVigne tripled in the inning. It was Matt's fifth triple--tying a Warriors' all-time record for triples in a season.
Lemont struck back with two runs in the bottom of the frame after the first two batters reached base on hits and later scored.
The Warriors attempted to keep the score within reason against an overmatched Lemont team by bunting more than ten times during the contest. Some hitters did not wish to damage their statistics by bunting into an out--so they attempted to lay down a sacrifice bunt (which does not count as a plate appearance) or bunt for a hit. Connor Bartle bunted twice for hits in this game!
The Warriors scored three runs in the bottom of the second inning on three hits--including a bunt single by Jim Robley. Jim then retired Lemont in order in the bottom of the second inning.
The Warriors scored just one run in the next two innings of play when Zac Zavod singled to leftfield and later scored on an infield error. Lemont scored two more runs in the bottom of the third inning to make the score 8-4. Jason Enguita pitched a scoreless fourth inning. This was Jason's seventh appearance of the 2011 season.
The Warriors scored twice in the top of the fifth when Tyler Dempsey hammered a homerun that may have traveled 400 feet from home plate. This was Tyler's second homer of the season. Trent Sichelski allowed just one unearned run in the bottom of the fifth inning. Trent struck out two hitters.
The Warriors had six hits in the sixth inning to score five runs. Rick Sisco tripled to deep centerfield in the inning. Matt Olinski was impressive in the bottom of the frame--striking out two and holding Lemont scoreless.
The Warriors added one more run in the seventh when Matt LeVigne singled and later scored. Rick Sisco retired two batters in the bottom of the seventh before Steve Sismelich entered the game and retired the final hitter of the game on a pop fly to Connor Bartle at first base.
CLICK HERE to view the team and individual statistics through Game #20.
The Warriors scored five runs in the first inning on five consecutive hits. Jason Enguita doubled and Matt LeVigne tripled in the inning. It was Matt's fifth triple--tying a Warriors' all-time record for triples in a season.
Lemont struck back with two runs in the bottom of the frame after the first two batters reached base on hits and later scored.
The Warriors attempted to keep the score within reason against an overmatched Lemont team by bunting more than ten times during the contest. Some hitters did not wish to damage their statistics by bunting into an out--so they attempted to lay down a sacrifice bunt (which does not count as a plate appearance) or bunt for a hit. Connor Bartle bunted twice for hits in this game!
The Warriors scored three runs in the bottom of the second inning on three hits--including a bunt single by Jim Robley. Jim then retired Lemont in order in the bottom of the second inning.
The Warriors scored just one run in the next two innings of play when Zac Zavod singled to leftfield and later scored on an infield error. Lemont scored two more runs in the bottom of the third inning to make the score 8-4. Jason Enguita pitched a scoreless fourth inning. This was Jason's seventh appearance of the 2011 season.
The Warriors scored twice in the top of the fifth when Tyler Dempsey hammered a homerun that may have traveled 400 feet from home plate. This was Tyler's second homer of the season. Trent Sichelski allowed just one unearned run in the bottom of the fifth inning. Trent struck out two hitters.
The Warriors had six hits in the sixth inning to score five runs. Rick Sisco tripled to deep centerfield in the inning. Matt Olinski was impressive in the bottom of the frame--striking out two and holding Lemont scoreless.
The Warriors added one more run in the seventh when Matt LeVigne singled and later scored. Rick Sisco retired two batters in the bottom of the seventh before Steve Sismelich entered the game and retired the final hitter of the game on a pop fly to Connor Bartle at first base.
Sunday, June 26, 2011
Warriors Win Chicagoland Tournament Championship!
The Warriors won the Chicagoland Metro (Memorial Weekend) Tournament championship in dramatic fashion over the Pilsen Wolves at Schussler Park on Sunday afternoon.
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CLICK HERE for team and individual statistics through Game #19.
In order to get to the championship game, the Warriors beat Midlothian, Pilsen (Harrison Park) and Oak Lawn in succession in the Midlothian pool of the tournament. This was the first time that a Warriors team has ever advanced through pool play in this tournament--and the team has participated in this tournament since the 2008 season.
The Warriors advanced through the semi-finals after coming back from a 6-0 deficit in the fourth inning against Westdale. The Warriors won the semi-final game by a score of 10-8.
But, the Warriors saved the best for last.
Steve Sismelich opened up the game with a single to centerfield and scored when Tyler Dempsey advanced the runner to home on a ground ball to the second baseman. The Warriors led 1-0.
Steve Sismelich was the Warriors' starting pitcher. Three of the first four Pilsen hitters reached base before Steve settled in and then struck out the final out of the inning with two runners in scoring position. Pilsen took a 2-1 lead.
The Warriors tied the game in the top of the second inning when Connor Bartle singled to centerfield. Connor advanced to third on Trent Sichelski's single and scored when the shortstop bobbled a ball off the bat of Matt Olinkski.
Steve Sismelich retired Pilsen quickly in the bottom of the second inning. Jason Enguita ended the inning by calling a pitch out and throwing out the runner attempting to steal second base.
The Warriors' defense broke down in the bottom of the third when the inning started with an infield error. Three of the next four batters reach base on singles--and three runs ultimately scored as the result of several ill advised throws and missed cuts. Jason Enguita once again limited the damage by throwing out another runner attempting to steal before Trent Sichelski fielded a high pop fly at second base to end the inning.
Things looked bleak as the Warriors' bats suddenly went silent. From the third through the sixth innings, the team had just one base runner reach first base--and that was on an infield error.
Fortunately, Cody Rutledge threw a masterpiece through the middle four innings of this big game. He held a hard hitting Pilsen team scoreless through the sixth inning--keeping the Warriors' hopes alive, although barely.
The Warriors faced a three run deficit with one inning to play. Steve Sismelich singled to start the inning. Matt Carroll drew a base on balls. Jason Enguita then lined a single to centerfield to score Steve. The Warriors now trailed by two. The Pilsen shortstop then mishandled a ground ball--allowing Matt Carroll to score. The Warriors now trailed by just one run.
Matt LeVigne then grounded out to shortstop, but that allowed Jason Enguita to score from third base to tie the ballgame. Then, with two outs, Connor Bartle singled to centerfield to score Tyler Dempsey with the leading run. The Warriors scored four runs in the top of the seventh inning to take a one run lead.
As a result of calling heads prior to the game, the Pilsen coach won the coin toss and the home team advantage. Now, the Warriors had to hold Pilsen scoreless in the seventh inning to hang onto its one run lead.
Tyler Dempsey entered the game in relief in this high pressure situation. He made fast work of the inning. The lead off batter flew out to left. The next batter grounded to second base, in which Steve Sismelich made a nice play moving to his right. Then, Tyler struck out the last hitter of the game to earn a save of the championship game.
CLICK HERE for team and individual statistics through Game #19.
In order to get to the championship game, the Warriors beat Midlothian, Pilsen (Harrison Park) and Oak Lawn in succession in the Midlothian pool of the tournament. This was the first time that a Warriors team has ever advanced through pool play in this tournament--and the team has participated in this tournament since the 2008 season.
The Warriors advanced through the semi-finals after coming back from a 6-0 deficit in the fourth inning against Westdale. The Warriors won the semi-final game by a score of 10-8.
But, the Warriors saved the best for last.
Steve Sismelich opened up the game with a single to centerfield and scored when Tyler Dempsey advanced the runner to home on a ground ball to the second baseman. The Warriors led 1-0.
Steve Sismelich was the Warriors' starting pitcher. Three of the first four Pilsen hitters reached base before Steve settled in and then struck out the final out of the inning with two runners in scoring position. Pilsen took a 2-1 lead.
The Warriors tied the game in the top of the second inning when Connor Bartle singled to centerfield. Connor advanced to third on Trent Sichelski's single and scored when the shortstop bobbled a ball off the bat of Matt Olinkski.
Steve Sismelich retired Pilsen quickly in the bottom of the second inning. Jason Enguita ended the inning by calling a pitch out and throwing out the runner attempting to steal second base.
The Warriors' defense broke down in the bottom of the third when the inning started with an infield error. Three of the next four batters reach base on singles--and three runs ultimately scored as the result of several ill advised throws and missed cuts. Jason Enguita once again limited the damage by throwing out another runner attempting to steal before Trent Sichelski fielded a high pop fly at second base to end the inning.
Things looked bleak as the Warriors' bats suddenly went silent. From the third through the sixth innings, the team had just one base runner reach first base--and that was on an infield error.
Fortunately, Cody Rutledge threw a masterpiece through the middle four innings of this big game. He held a hard hitting Pilsen team scoreless through the sixth inning--keeping the Warriors' hopes alive, although barely.
The Warriors faced a three run deficit with one inning to play. Steve Sismelich singled to start the inning. Matt Carroll drew a base on balls. Jason Enguita then lined a single to centerfield to score Steve. The Warriors now trailed by two. The Pilsen shortstop then mishandled a ground ball--allowing Matt Carroll to score. The Warriors now trailed by just one run.
Matt LeVigne then grounded out to shortstop, but that allowed Jason Enguita to score from third base to tie the ballgame. Then, with two outs, Connor Bartle singled to centerfield to score Tyler Dempsey with the leading run. The Warriors scored four runs in the top of the seventh inning to take a one run lead.
As a result of calling heads prior to the game, the Pilsen coach won the coin toss and the home team advantage. Now, the Warriors had to hold Pilsen scoreless in the seventh inning to hang onto its one run lead.
Tyler Dempsey entered the game in relief in this high pressure situation. He made fast work of the inning. The lead off batter flew out to left. The next batter grounded to second base, in which Steve Sismelich made a nice play moving to his right. Then, Tyler struck out the last hitter of the game to earn a save of the championship game.
Warriors Top Oak Forest 11-2
The Warriors rallied in the bottom of the fourth inning to put the Oak Forest Blue Demons away on Saturday morning at Schussler Park.
Connor Bartle was the Warriors' starting pitcher and threw three scoreless innings. He walked three, but did not allow a hit--and recorded his 8th victory of the season.
The Warriors scored just one run in the first three innings. Jim Robley hit his fourth double of the season in the second inning and scored on Matt Olinski's base hit to leftfield. Matt Olinksi would go on to get three hits and five RBI in this ballgame!
Matt Carroll pitched the fourth and fifth innings for the Warriors. Matt allowed just one hit and held the Blue Demons scoreless in that span. Matt has now allowed just two earned runs in 13 innings of work this season--and ranks second on the staff with a 1.08 earned run average (ERA).
The Warriors scored seven runs on six hits in the bottom of the fourth to put this one away. Matt Olinksi and Patrick O'Connor hit back-to-back doubles in the inning. Pat's double landed just fifteen feet from the leftfield wall.
Matt Olinkski pitched the final two innings for the Warriors. He allowed one earned run and struck out two.
One other note of interest was Matt LeVigne's two consecutive hit by pitches. He now has a commanding lead with 5 HBP's for the season.
Saturday, June 25, 2011
Warriors 8, 15U Warriors 5
The Warriors prevailed in the "War of the Warriors"--winning by a score of 8-5 over the 15U Warriors on Saturday morning at Schussler Park.
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CLICK HERE for team and individual statistics through Game #17.
The 15U team jumped out to the early lead with two runs in the first inning. Sam Marc singled, Tyler Knight doubled and Paco Lauciello singled to leftfield to score Sam. Robbie Maxfield grounded to shortstop to score Tyler. The Warriors failed to score in the bottom of the frame.
Zac Zavod retired the 15U team in order in the top of the second inning. The Warriors scored a run in the bottom of the inning when Matt LeVigne singled to leftfield to score Cody Rutledge. Lance Cardinal struck out the last batter of the inning as the Warriors left the bases loaded.
The 15U team extended its lead in the top of the third inning when Julian Gutierrez hit a two run homer to deep rightfield. Paco Lauciello then doubled (one of his three hits of the contest) and Dennis Bresingham singled to leftfield. Zac Zavod retired the final hitter of the inning on a pop fly to the first baseman.
Ryan Tannebaum entered the game in relief for the 15U team in the bottom of the third. He held the Warriors scoreless in the third inning. The Warriors trailed 4-1 as the game entered its fourth inning of play.
Steve Sismelich held the 15U team scoreless through the fourth and fifth innings. Steve allowed just one baserunner, on an infield hit, during this span. In the meantime, the Warriors scored four runs in the bottom of the fourth inning. Tyler Dempsey started the inning with a double (his team leading 8th of the season). Cody Rutledge singled. Then, Matt LeVigne singled to leftfield to drive in two runs. Jim Robley walked. Zac Zavod then came through with a clutch two out, two strike hit down the leftfield line to score Matt and Jim. The Warriors led 5-4 through four innings.
The Warriors extended its lead by scoring a run in the fifth inning despite not getting a hit. Four batters walked in the inning and Matt LeVigne was hit by pitch (his team-leading third of the season). The Warriors would never trail again in this one.
Cody Rutledge entered the game in relief for the Warriors in the top of the sixth inning. The first two hitters he faced reached base (on a double and a single). But, the lead runner was out attempting steal third base. The 15U team then scored a run on an infield error before the inning ended on an infield fly out. The Warriors led by just one run as the game moved into the bottom of the sixth inning.
The Warriors scored two insurance runs in the bottom of the sixth inning when Jim Robley reached base on an infield error and later score on Matt Olinski's double to leftfield. Matt would later score. The inning ended when the 15U team's leftfielder, Lance Cardinal, threw a runner out at the plate after Matt Carroll's base hit.
Cody Rutledge made fast work of the seventh inning--striking out two to earn his team-leading third save of the season.
The game was followed by a picnic. I would like to thank everyone for making the "War of the Warriors" a very enjoyable event.
CLICK HERE for team and individual statistics through Game #17.
The 15U team jumped out to the early lead with two runs in the first inning. Sam Marc singled, Tyler Knight doubled and Paco Lauciello singled to leftfield to score Sam. Robbie Maxfield grounded to shortstop to score Tyler. The Warriors failed to score in the bottom of the frame.
Zac Zavod retired the 15U team in order in the top of the second inning. The Warriors scored a run in the bottom of the inning when Matt LeVigne singled to leftfield to score Cody Rutledge. Lance Cardinal struck out the last batter of the inning as the Warriors left the bases loaded.
The 15U team extended its lead in the top of the third inning when Julian Gutierrez hit a two run homer to deep rightfield. Paco Lauciello then doubled (one of his three hits of the contest) and Dennis Bresingham singled to leftfield. Zac Zavod retired the final hitter of the inning on a pop fly to the first baseman.
Ryan Tannebaum entered the game in relief for the 15U team in the bottom of the third. He held the Warriors scoreless in the third inning. The Warriors trailed 4-1 as the game entered its fourth inning of play.
Steve Sismelich held the 15U team scoreless through the fourth and fifth innings. Steve allowed just one baserunner, on an infield hit, during this span. In the meantime, the Warriors scored four runs in the bottom of the fourth inning. Tyler Dempsey started the inning with a double (his team leading 8th of the season). Cody Rutledge singled. Then, Matt LeVigne singled to leftfield to drive in two runs. Jim Robley walked. Zac Zavod then came through with a clutch two out, two strike hit down the leftfield line to score Matt and Jim. The Warriors led 5-4 through four innings.
The Warriors extended its lead by scoring a run in the fifth inning despite not getting a hit. Four batters walked in the inning and Matt LeVigne was hit by pitch (his team-leading third of the season). The Warriors would never trail again in this one.
Cody Rutledge entered the game in relief for the Warriors in the top of the sixth inning. The first two hitters he faced reached base (on a double and a single). But, the lead runner was out attempting steal third base. The 15U team then scored a run on an infield error before the inning ended on an infield fly out. The Warriors led by just one run as the game moved into the bottom of the sixth inning.
The Warriors scored two insurance runs in the bottom of the sixth inning when Jim Robley reached base on an infield error and later score on Matt Olinski's double to leftfield. Matt would later score. The inning ended when the 15U team's leftfielder, Lance Cardinal, threw a runner out at the plate after Matt Carroll's base hit.
Cody Rutledge made fast work of the seventh inning--striking out two to earn his team-leading third save of the season.
The game was followed by a picnic. I would like to thank everyone for making the "War of the Warriors" a very enjoyable event.
Sunday, June 19, 2011
Warriors Win in Oswego
The Warriors beat the Oswego Panthers by a score of 15-3 on Father's Day in Oswego. It was a tight game until the Warriors' offense batted around in the top of the sixth inning to put the game away.
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CLICK HERE to view the team and individual statistics through Game #16.
The Warriors failed to score in the first inning despite getting two hits in the inning. After the Panthers' lead off hitter drew a walk, he was caught stealing as Jason Enguita fired the ball to Steve Sismelich for the out. Jason played an outstanding game--throwing out two runners on steal attempts and fielding two high foul fly balls behind the plate. Matt Carroll then retired the next two hitters to end the inning.
Matt LeVigne led off the top of the second inning with a double to deep leftfield. This was Matt's third double of the season. He reached third base with one out, but the Warriors once again failed to score in the inning.
The Panthers lead off hitter in the second inning once again reached base, but was promptly picked off by Matt Carroll. The next hitter doubled to leftfield. But, Matt retired the next three hitters to hold Oswego scoreless in the inning.
The Warriors finally scored a run in the third inning as a result of two Oswego errors. Then, the Panthers took the lead in the bottom of the third inning on three hits and a walk. Owego led 3-1 after three complete innings of play.
The Warriors scored a run in the top of the fourth to close the gap to one run. After the first two hitters of the inning were retired, Matt LeVigne legged out an infield hit. Connor Bartle singled to centerfield. And, Jim Robley singled to center to score Matt.
Connor Bartle pitched two scoreless innings in relief for the Warriors and did not allow a hit. Connor picked up his sixth win of the season as the Warriors scored three runs to take the lead in the top of the fifth--and would never trail again in this game.
Zac Zavod singled to start the fifth inning. Rick Sisco then singled to rightfield. Matt Carroll laid down a perfect bunt down the third base line for another hit. Tyler Dempsey lined a single to leftfield to score Matt. The Warriors now led 5-3.
After the Panthers failed to score in the bottom of the frame, the Warriors broke the game wide open with 10 runs in the top of the sixth inning. Steve Sismelich singled to leftfield on a ball that took a wild hop over the shortstop's glove to drive home two of the runs. Steve now appears on the leaderboard with 16 RBI for the season...not bad for a lead off hitter! Jason Enguita also drove in two runs with a base hit to center. Jason is now ranked second on the team with 26 RBI. His batting average has improved to .500--also ranked second on the squad. Connor Bartle also drove in two runs in the inning. Connor now appears on the leaderboard with 16 RBI for the season.
Zac Zavod was unhittable in the bottom of the sixth inning. He struck out two hitters before the final batter of the game tapped a ground out to the shortstop. The game was called after six innings due to the slaughter rule.
CLICK HERE to view the team and individual statistics through Game #16.
The Warriors failed to score in the first inning despite getting two hits in the inning. After the Panthers' lead off hitter drew a walk, he was caught stealing as Jason Enguita fired the ball to Steve Sismelich for the out. Jason played an outstanding game--throwing out two runners on steal attempts and fielding two high foul fly balls behind the plate. Matt Carroll then retired the next two hitters to end the inning.
Matt LeVigne led off the top of the second inning with a double to deep leftfield. This was Matt's third double of the season. He reached third base with one out, but the Warriors once again failed to score in the inning.
The Panthers lead off hitter in the second inning once again reached base, but was promptly picked off by Matt Carroll. The next hitter doubled to leftfield. But, Matt retired the next three hitters to hold Oswego scoreless in the inning.
The Warriors finally scored a run in the third inning as a result of two Oswego errors. Then, the Panthers took the lead in the bottom of the third inning on three hits and a walk. Owego led 3-1 after three complete innings of play.
The Warriors scored a run in the top of the fourth to close the gap to one run. After the first two hitters of the inning were retired, Matt LeVigne legged out an infield hit. Connor Bartle singled to centerfield. And, Jim Robley singled to center to score Matt.
Connor Bartle pitched two scoreless innings in relief for the Warriors and did not allow a hit. Connor picked up his sixth win of the season as the Warriors scored three runs to take the lead in the top of the fifth--and would never trail again in this game.
Zac Zavod singled to start the fifth inning. Rick Sisco then singled to rightfield. Matt Carroll laid down a perfect bunt down the third base line for another hit. Tyler Dempsey lined a single to leftfield to score Matt. The Warriors now led 5-3.
After the Panthers failed to score in the bottom of the frame, the Warriors broke the game wide open with 10 runs in the top of the sixth inning. Steve Sismelich singled to leftfield on a ball that took a wild hop over the shortstop's glove to drive home two of the runs. Steve now appears on the leaderboard with 16 RBI for the season...not bad for a lead off hitter! Jason Enguita also drove in two runs with a base hit to center. Jason is now ranked second on the team with 26 RBI. His batting average has improved to .500--also ranked second on the squad. Connor Bartle also drove in two runs in the inning. Connor now appears on the leaderboard with 16 RBI for the season.
Zac Zavod was unhittable in the bottom of the sixth inning. He struck out two hitters before the final batter of the game tapped a ground out to the shortstop. The game was called after six innings due to the slaughter rule.
From the Rightfield Bleachers
I witnessed a rare Cubs' victory while watching the game from the leftfield bleachers the other night. Here are a couple of photos from the game. The second picture is of some kids waiting for a homerun ball just off Waveland Avenue:
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Sunday, June 12, 2011
Warriors Beat Oak Lawn in Afternoon Game
After beating Hickory Hills in the morning game, the Warriors went on to beat Oak Lawn in a Sunday afternoon game at Centennial #4.
CLICK HERE for team and individual statistics through Game #15.
This was the fourth time that these two teams met this season. Oak Lawn played its best game of the series on Sunday.
Jason Enguita held Oak Lawn scoreless in the first inning as Oak Lawn left two runners in scoring position. The Warriors scored twice in the bottom of the frame on just one hit--a single to leftfield off the bat of Tyler Dempsey. A walk and hit by pitch came back to haunt Oak Lawn.
Cody Rutledge entered the game in relief for the Warriors in the second inning with the bases loaded and just one out. After walking the first batter, Cody retired the next two hitters to limit the damage. The Warriors trailed by one run. The Warriors failed to score in the bottom of the second inning.
Oak Lawn had two hits in the third inning and capitalized on an error by the Warriors' leftfielder to tag on another two runs. Oak Lawn led by a score of 5-2 as the game moved into the bottom of the third inning.
The Warriors tied the game in the bottom of the third inning after drawing four walks. A base hit by Rick Sisco and some timely ground balls to advance runners from third base contributed to the runs scored.
Tyler Dempsey pitched the next three innings for the Warriors. Tyler was nearly flawless--allowing no runs and no hits. He struck out four hitters. In the meantime, Zac Zavod hit a 3-2 pitch into leftfield to score Jim Robley as the leading run in the bottom of the fourth inning. The Warriors would never trail again in this one.
The Warriors had four hits in the bottom of the fifth inning to score three runs. The Warriors scored an insurance run in the sixth inning when Jim Robley scored from third base on a dropped third strike.
Matt Carroll pitched the seventh inning. After walking the first batter, he promptly picked him off first base. He then retired the next two hitters to end the game.
CLICK HERE for team and individual statistics through Game #15.
This was the fourth time that these two teams met this season. Oak Lawn played its best game of the series on Sunday.
Jason Enguita held Oak Lawn scoreless in the first inning as Oak Lawn left two runners in scoring position. The Warriors scored twice in the bottom of the frame on just one hit--a single to leftfield off the bat of Tyler Dempsey. A walk and hit by pitch came back to haunt Oak Lawn.
Cody Rutledge entered the game in relief for the Warriors in the second inning with the bases loaded and just one out. After walking the first batter, Cody retired the next two hitters to limit the damage. The Warriors trailed by one run. The Warriors failed to score in the bottom of the second inning.
Oak Lawn had two hits in the third inning and capitalized on an error by the Warriors' leftfielder to tag on another two runs. Oak Lawn led by a score of 5-2 as the game moved into the bottom of the third inning.
The Warriors tied the game in the bottom of the third inning after drawing four walks. A base hit by Rick Sisco and some timely ground balls to advance runners from third base contributed to the runs scored.
Tyler Dempsey pitched the next three innings for the Warriors. Tyler was nearly flawless--allowing no runs and no hits. He struck out four hitters. In the meantime, Zac Zavod hit a 3-2 pitch into leftfield to score Jim Robley as the leading run in the bottom of the fourth inning. The Warriors would never trail again in this one.
The Warriors had four hits in the bottom of the fifth inning to score three runs. The Warriors scored an insurance run in the sixth inning when Jim Robley scored from third base on a dropped third strike.
Matt Carroll pitched the seventh inning. After walking the first batter, he promptly picked him off first base. He then retired the next two hitters to end the game.
Warriors Top Hickory Hills
In the first of two Sunday games, the Warriors beat Hickory Hills by a score of 6-2 in seven innings. The team and individual statistics will be updated on this site after this afternoon's game.
The Warriors scored four runs in the top of the first inning on three infield hits and two errors. The Warriors would only score two more runs in the next six innings of play.
But, the Warriors' pitching and defense was sufficient to hold its early four run lead. The team made just one error in the game. Connor Bartle made his seventh start of the season and gave the Warriors' three strong innings. He allowed one run on two hits and struck out four. This was Connor's fifth win of the season.
Hickory Hills came back with a run in the bottom of the first inning on a walk and two hits. Connor struck out the last batter of the inning as Hickory Hills left two stranded.
The Warriors would not score again until the fifth inning when Steve Sismelich singled to leftfield and scored on Matt Carroll's base hit to centerfield. Steve now has 26 runs scored for the season--second on the squad behind Matt Carroll with 27 runs scored.
Jim Robley pitched two of the middle innings for the Warriors. Jim allowed one run on one hit and struck out four.
The Warriors scored an insurance run in the top of the seventh inning when Trent Sichelski walked and later scored on an overthrow at third base during an attempted steal. Once again, Trent reached base during all three plate appearances and now ranks second on the team in on-base percentage (.600).
Cody Rutledge closed the game--pitching the final two innings in relief to earn his second save. Cody was unhittable in this appearance--striking out four batters and allowing just two infield ground outs.
The Warriors will battle Oak Lawn later today in the second of two Sunday games.
The Warriors scored four runs in the top of the first inning on three infield hits and two errors. The Warriors would only score two more runs in the next six innings of play.
But, the Warriors' pitching and defense was sufficient to hold its early four run lead. The team made just one error in the game. Connor Bartle made his seventh start of the season and gave the Warriors' three strong innings. He allowed one run on two hits and struck out four. This was Connor's fifth win of the season.
Hickory Hills came back with a run in the bottom of the first inning on a walk and two hits. Connor struck out the last batter of the inning as Hickory Hills left two stranded.
The Warriors would not score again until the fifth inning when Steve Sismelich singled to leftfield and scored on Matt Carroll's base hit to centerfield. Steve now has 26 runs scored for the season--second on the squad behind Matt Carroll with 27 runs scored.
Jim Robley pitched two of the middle innings for the Warriors. Jim allowed one run on one hit and struck out four.
The Warriors scored an insurance run in the top of the seventh inning when Trent Sichelski walked and later scored on an overthrow at third base during an attempted steal. Once again, Trent reached base during all three plate appearances and now ranks second on the team in on-base percentage (.600).
Cody Rutledge closed the game--pitching the final two innings in relief to earn his second save. Cody was unhittable in this appearance--striking out four batters and allowing just two infield ground outs.
The Warriors will battle Oak Lawn later today in the second of two Sunday games.
Wednesday, June 8, 2011
Memorial Weekend Tournament Update
Pilsen beat (destroyed) Frankfort Square earlier tonight in the semi-final playoff game of the Chicagoland Memorial Weekend Tournament. As a result, the Warriors will now play Pilsen for the championship.
Since the Warriors are already scheduled to play Pilsen on Sunday, June 26th at 1:30 pm, it makes the most sense logistically to convert this game into the championship game. The tournament will send neutral umpires to Schussler South that day for our game.
Since the Warriors are already scheduled to play Pilsen on Sunday, June 26th at 1:30 pm, it makes the most sense logistically to convert this game into the championship game. The tournament will send neutral umpires to Schussler South that day for our game.
Saturday, June 4, 2011
From One Legend to Another
Anthony "Paco" Lauciello, the 2010 Homerun Champion and Warriors' legend, was on hand to congratulate Tyler Dempsey. Tyler is the 2011 Homerun Champion and was the only 13 year old player to appear in last season's Final Four.
You may click within the photograph to view a larger version.
Home Run Derby's Final Four
Congratulations to the Final Four hitters in this year's Home Run Derby! The Final Four included Matt Donnelly, Jason Enguita, Jim Robley (Runner Up) and Tyler Dempsey (Champion).
In other action, Matt LeVigne was the 2011 Baserunning Champion, while Graham Hevel was the Runner Up.
You may click within the image for a larger view. CLICK HERE to view more versions of the photos.
Warriors Advance to Championship Game
The Warriors defeated Westdale by a score of 10-8 in seven innings on Saturday morning to advance to the Chicagoland Memorial Weekend Tournament's championship game. The Warriors will face the winner of the Frankfort Square versus Pilsen Wolves game at a date which will soon be determined.
CLICK HERE for team and individual statistics through Game #13.
The Warriors had little success against Westdale's starting pitcher--failing to score through three innings. The Warriors had just one hit in the first three innings--a triple off the bat of Trent Sichelski. In the meantime, Westdale started pulling away in this one by scoring a run in the first inning, two in the second inning and three in the third inning to capture a 6-0 lead.
The Warriors have faced very little adversity so far this season. And, in the bottom of the third inning the defense did not handle adversity well. After a series of consecutive hits by Westdale, the Warriors started throwing the ball around the park. Finally, Cody Rutledge ended the misery by retiring two hitters (one at home plate) and kept the Warriors in the contest.
The Warriors finally started getting to Westdale's starting pitcher in his fourth inning of work. Jason Enguita singled to rightfield to drive in two runs for the Warriors to make the score 6-2 in favor of Westdale. However, the Warriors left two runners stranded in scoring position as the inning ended on a strikeout and a fly out to centerfield.
Cody Rutledge retired Westdale in order in the fourth inning. Due to the four inning pitching limitation in the tournament, Westdale was then forced to go to its first relief pitcher in the top of the fifth. The Warriors pounded out five hits and six runs in the inning. Steve Sismelich drove in two runs with a single to center and Tyler Dempsey also singled to center to score two more runs. By the time the inning ended, the Warriors held a two run lead.
Westdale closed the gap to one run by scoring in the bottom of the frame. Once again, the Warriors paid the price for a walk early in the inning. This time, the walk was followed by catcher's interference. With two runners on base, Westdale singled to rightfield to score a run. However, the tying run was retired at home plate when Rick Sisco fielded a wild pitch off the backstop and beat the runner to the plate on a collision play.
The Warriors failed to add to its one run lead when the inning ended on a play at the plate. The Warriors' runner was unable to score from second base on a single to rightfield. Cody Rutledge retired Westdale quickly in the bottom of the frame--striking out two to end the inning.
The Warriors added two important insurance runs in the top of the seventh, and final, inning. Rick Sisco led off the inning with a triple to deep rightfield. Rick reached base and scored during all three of his plate appearances in this game! Steve Sismelich then drove Rick home with a hard grounder to the shortstop. Matt Carroll reached on an infield error and scored on Tyler Dempsey's doubled to centerfield. The inning ended as Tyler was retired attempting to steal third base with two strikes on the hitter.
Tyler Dempsey entered the game in relief to close the game for the Warriors. After retiring the first two hitters, an infield error brought the tying run to the plate. Westdale's #3 hitter then singled to centerfield to bring the winning run to the plate. The game ended when the clean-up hitter flew out to Matt Carroll in leftfield.
The Warriors made more mistakes in this game than in the previous three pool play games combined. The good news was that the team was able to "win ugly" and advance to the championship where it is likely the team's play will improve.
CLICK HERE for team and individual statistics through Game #13.
The Warriors had little success against Westdale's starting pitcher--failing to score through three innings. The Warriors had just one hit in the first three innings--a triple off the bat of Trent Sichelski. In the meantime, Westdale started pulling away in this one by scoring a run in the first inning, two in the second inning and three in the third inning to capture a 6-0 lead.
The Warriors have faced very little adversity so far this season. And, in the bottom of the third inning the defense did not handle adversity well. After a series of consecutive hits by Westdale, the Warriors started throwing the ball around the park. Finally, Cody Rutledge ended the misery by retiring two hitters (one at home plate) and kept the Warriors in the contest.
The Warriors finally started getting to Westdale's starting pitcher in his fourth inning of work. Jason Enguita singled to rightfield to drive in two runs for the Warriors to make the score 6-2 in favor of Westdale. However, the Warriors left two runners stranded in scoring position as the inning ended on a strikeout and a fly out to centerfield.
Cody Rutledge retired Westdale in order in the fourth inning. Due to the four inning pitching limitation in the tournament, Westdale was then forced to go to its first relief pitcher in the top of the fifth. The Warriors pounded out five hits and six runs in the inning. Steve Sismelich drove in two runs with a single to center and Tyler Dempsey also singled to center to score two more runs. By the time the inning ended, the Warriors held a two run lead.
Westdale closed the gap to one run by scoring in the bottom of the frame. Once again, the Warriors paid the price for a walk early in the inning. This time, the walk was followed by catcher's interference. With two runners on base, Westdale singled to rightfield to score a run. However, the tying run was retired at home plate when Rick Sisco fielded a wild pitch off the backstop and beat the runner to the plate on a collision play.
The Warriors failed to add to its one run lead when the inning ended on a play at the plate. The Warriors' runner was unable to score from second base on a single to rightfield. Cody Rutledge retired Westdale quickly in the bottom of the frame--striking out two to end the inning.
The Warriors added two important insurance runs in the top of the seventh, and final, inning. Rick Sisco led off the inning with a triple to deep rightfield. Rick reached base and scored during all three of his plate appearances in this game! Steve Sismelich then drove Rick home with a hard grounder to the shortstop. Matt Carroll reached on an infield error and scored on Tyler Dempsey's doubled to centerfield. The inning ended as Tyler was retired attempting to steal third base with two strikes on the hitter.
Tyler Dempsey entered the game in relief to close the game for the Warriors. After retiring the first two hitters, an infield error brought the tying run to the plate. Westdale's #3 hitter then singled to centerfield to bring the winning run to the plate. The game ended when the clean-up hitter flew out to Matt Carroll in leftfield.
The Warriors made more mistakes in this game than in the previous three pool play games combined. The good news was that the team was able to "win ugly" and advance to the championship where it is likely the team's play will improve.
Wednesday, June 1, 2011
Tournament Game Scheduled for Saturday Morning
The Memorial Weekend Tournament semi-final game is scheduled for Saturday, June 4th at 9:00 am on Eagle Ridge II. Players should arrive at the field by 8:15 am. We will wear the WHITE jerseys for this game. Patrick O'Connor and Matt Olinksi are deactivated.
Pool play is now finished for this tournament. Of the 13 teams participating in the tournament, four teams have survived and will move into the semi-finals: Orland Park Warriors, Frankfort Square, Westdale Warriors and Pilsen Wolves. The first three teams won its pool and Pilsen entered as the wild card team since it tied several other teams with a 2-1 record, but had the fewest runs allowed of just 7 for the tournament.
Pool play is now finished for this tournament. Of the 13 teams participating in the tournament, four teams have survived and will move into the semi-finals: Orland Park Warriors, Frankfort Square, Westdale Warriors and Pilsen Wolves. The first three teams won its pool and Pilsen entered as the wild card team since it tied several other teams with a 2-1 record, but had the fewest runs allowed of just 7 for the tournament.
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