The Warriors played 36 games this season. This is in addition to the OYA Pony League schedule in which some teams played another 24 games.
CLICK HERE to view the FINAL 2011 team and individual statistics. Note that the FINAL leaderboard has been expanded to include the top 6 performers in most categories.
2011 Chicagoland Tournament Champions & 2011 Lombard Tournament Champions!
Monday, July 25, 2011
Warriors End Season With Loss to Pilsen
The Warriors season ended on Monday night in a game that looked like an instant replay of the Oak Park game. Just like in the Oak Park game, the Warriors jumped out to an early lead in the first inning. Steve Sismelich singled to start the game and scored on an infield ground ball off the bat of Matt Carroll. Matt LeVigne was hit by pitch (his team leading 8th of the season). He stole second base and then scored on a single to centerfield by Cody Rutledge.
The Warriors would not score again for the rest of the night. The team recorded just two hits over the next four innings--a single by Patrick O'Connor and a single by Matt Carroll.
The Warriors pitching staff had trouble retiring any of the Pilsen hitters. In the Oak Park game, the Warriors made three pitching changes while Oak Park scored 11 runs after two outs. This time, Pilsen scored 13 runs in the first inning and 9 of those runs scored after two outs. In this Pilsen game, the Warriors used three pitchers in the first inning and five pitchers in the first four innings of play!
The Warriors committed a couple of field errors in the game. But, Pilsen pounded out 13 hits in four innings in addition to drawing 8 walks. Allowing 21 baserunners in four innings won't get the job done in very many games.
Obviously, the last two games were one-sided games in which the Warriors were not competitive. But, there is a fine line between losing very big and winning games for this team. With a few relatively minor pitching adjustments, I believe that the Warriors could get back on track in a few games. Unfortunately, the season is now over and we've run out of time. Hopefully, everyone will remember this season as a whole and not focus on how the last two games were played.
The Warriors would not score again for the rest of the night. The team recorded just two hits over the next four innings--a single by Patrick O'Connor and a single by Matt Carroll.
The Warriors pitching staff had trouble retiring any of the Pilsen hitters. In the Oak Park game, the Warriors made three pitching changes while Oak Park scored 11 runs after two outs. This time, Pilsen scored 13 runs in the first inning and 9 of those runs scored after two outs. In this Pilsen game, the Warriors used three pitchers in the first inning and five pitchers in the first four innings of play!
The Warriors committed a couple of field errors in the game. But, Pilsen pounded out 13 hits in four innings in addition to drawing 8 walks. Allowing 21 baserunners in four innings won't get the job done in very many games.
Obviously, the last two games were one-sided games in which the Warriors were not competitive. But, there is a fine line between losing very big and winning games for this team. With a few relatively minor pitching adjustments, I believe that the Warriors could get back on track in a few games. Unfortunately, the season is now over and we've run out of time. Hopefully, everyone will remember this season as a whole and not focus on how the last two games were played.
Thursday, July 21, 2011
Warriors in the News Again...
Following is an article which appeared in today's edition of the Orland Park Prairie...(CLICK within image for enlarged view)
Wednesday, July 20, 2011
Team Photo
I finally captured our team photo after last night's practice. Thanks to Ken Sichelski for triggering the shutter so that I could be in the photo! There are two versions of the photo:
During this weekend's tournament, we will distribute an 8x10 print (using the archival paper and inks with a 100 year display life!) to each Warriors' family. If anyone wishes to order more prints, they are also available through my website. You can just click on the above links to get to the photo on the site.
During this weekend's tournament, we will distribute an 8x10 print (using the archival paper and inks with a 100 year display life!) to each Warriors' family. If anyone wishes to order more prints, they are also available through my website. You can just click on the above links to get to the photo on the site.
Sunday, July 17, 2011
Pilsen Wolves Win Again!
The Pilsen Wolves defeated Oak Park by a score of 8-7 in the Lockport Tournament's Championship game.
Oak Park was trailing by one run in the bottom of the seventh with two outs and nobody on base. A single was then followed by a line drive into the right-centerfield gap. Pilsen's outfielder made a nice stop which held the runners in scoring position. The game ended with a strikeout as Pilsen won its second straight tournament championship (Palos and Lockport).
Oak Park was trailing by one run in the bottom of the seventh with two outs and nobody on base. A single was then followed by a line drive into the right-centerfield gap. Pilsen's outfielder made a nice stop which held the runners in scoring position. The game ended with a strikeout as Pilsen won its second straight tournament championship (Palos and Lockport).
Oak Park Knocks Warriors Out of Tournament
Oak Park-River Forest put an end to the Warriors' chances in the Lockport Tournament with a decisive win on Sunday afternoon at Dellwood Park.
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CLICK HERE to view the team and individual statistics through Game #35.
Things looked promising at first when the Warriors jumped out to a three run lead in the first inning. Steve Sismelich lined a two-strike hit into centerfield before Matt Carroll drew a walk. With two outs, Matt LeVigne lined a base hit into leftfield to score two runs. Then, Cody Rutledge tripled to the rightfield wall to score Matt.
But, Oak Park started the bottom of the first inning with five straight hits. Despite an early pitching change and two strike outs by Cody Rutledge to end the inning, Oak Park took a one run lead into the second inning.
The Warriors would not threaten again in this one. Matt Carroll singled in the third inning and Jim Robley doubled in the fifth inning (his sixth of the season)--and those were the only two hits for the Warriors for the rest of the game. Jason Enguita and Patrick O'Connor reached on hit by pitches. And, Cody Rutledge drew a walk. But, the Warriors were unable to score after the first inning of play.
In the meantime, Oak Park continued to hit the ball hard. An eleven run second inning put the Warriors in the hole. Oak Park scored ten runs after two were out! And, Oak Park scored two more runs in the bottom of the fourth to make the final score 17-3. The ten run mercy rule was applied once the Warriors were retired in the fifth inning.
Thanks to the generous sponsorship support of the Sismelich family, the Warriors will play one last tournament this season. Ordinarily, the season would have ended after today's disappointing loss. Instead, this gift will allow us to play a fifth tournament--one more tournament than any Warriors' team has played in the past.
Saturday, July 16, 2011
Warriors Advance to Semi-Finals!
The Warriors advanced to the semi-finals of the Lockport Tournament after beating Palos by a score of 10-3 in seven innings at Dellwood Park on Saturday night.
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CLICK HERE to view the team and individual statistics through Game #34.
The Warriors prevailed in a hard fought game against the higher seeded Palos Thunder. Steve Sismelich singled to centerfield to start the game before Jason Enguita was hit by pitch (his 5th HBP of the season). Tyler Dempsey then hammered a double to leftfield to score Steve and Jason. This elevated Tyler's RBI total to 62 for the season--a record that will probably never be broken. Unfortunately, Matt LeVigne was then hit by pitch (his 7th of the season)--and was injured on the play. Shortly afterwards, Matt was permanently removed from the game as a result of this injury. With runners on second and third and just one out, the next two Warriors' failed to put the ball in play as the Warriors settled for two runs and left two stranded.
Matt Carroll was the Warriors' starting pitcher. He allowed two hits in the first inning, but then fielded a tapper back to the mound and made the toss over to Connor Bartle at first base to end the inning with no damage.
Jim Robley reached base on an infield error to lead off the second inning. Jim stole second base and later moved over to third on a ground out to the shortstop. But, the Warriors left Jim stranded as the inning came to a close on another strikeout.
Matt Carroll allowed a double in the second inning, but once again fielded a tapper back to the mound to end this inning without allowing a run to score.
The first four Warriors reached base to start the third inning. Steve Sismelich singled before Matt Carroll walked. Jason Enguita singled. Tyler Dempsey drew a base on balls to force Steve home. But, with the bases loaded and no outs, the Warriors would once again fail to take advantage of its opportunities. Cody Rutledge smashed a line drive in which the shortstop made a nice catch. Then, Connor Bartle hit a fly ball to the rightfielder. Matt Carroll attempted to score from third, but was retired when the rightfielder made an accurate throw to the catcher to end the inning!
Fortunately, Matt Carroll continued to pitch a gem. Cody Rutledge fielded two ground outs from third base in this inning (and recorded four assists in the first three innings of play). And, Matt picked a runner off of first to help his cause in the inning. The Warriors held a 3-0 lead as the game moved into the fourth inning of play.
The Warriors would once again leave a runner stranded at third base with less than two outs in the top of the fourth inning. Jim Robley led off the inning with a base hit to leftfield (one of his three hits of the game). He stole second and advanced to third base on a ground out to the third baseman. But, another strikeout and a pop up ended the scoreless inning.
Matt Carroll quickly got the first two Palos hitters to pop out. Then, the Warriors' committed an infield error before Matt struck out the #5 hitter to end the fourth inning.
The Warriors did not threaten in the top of the fifth inning and were retired in order. Matt struck out two and continued to shut out Palos through five innings of play.
The Warriors finally advanced a runner from third base when Connor Bartle hit a sacrifice fly to score Cody Rutledge with one out. This insurance run in the top of the sixth inning would prove to be helpful in the bottom of the frame.
Palos scored three runs in the bottom of the sixth inning to cut the Warriors' lead to just one run. The clean-up batter hit a ground ball just out of reach of the Warriors' second baseman to score two runs after two were out. He advanced to second base on an ill-advised throw to home and promptly scored on another single to rightfield. Matt Carroll picked another runner off first base to end the inning.
The Warriors put the game out of reach with a six run seventh inning. Rick Sisco, Zac Zavod and Steve Sismelich walked to start the inning. Then, Matt Carroll singled to leftfield to score Rick. With the bases loaded, Jason Enguita hit a hard grounder up the middle that struck the umpire (umpire's interference). Jason was credited with a hit, but only one run scored on the dead ball. Tyler Dempsey walked to score another run (his 64th RBI of the season). Cody Rutledge then hit a sacrifice fly before Connor Bartle and Jim Robley each singled. The Warriors now led by 7 runs as Palos came to bat for the last time.
Matt Carroll quickly retired Palos in the seventh inning. The first two batters grounded out. The third batter walked, but Jason Enguita threw him out when he attempted to steal second base to end the game.
Matt Carroll's complete game victory is just what the doctor ordered for the third game of the Lockport Tournament. The rest of the pitching staff is now rested and ready for the semi-final game which is scheduled for Sunday afternoon.
CLICK HERE to view the team and individual statistics through Game #34.
The Warriors prevailed in a hard fought game against the higher seeded Palos Thunder. Steve Sismelich singled to centerfield to start the game before Jason Enguita was hit by pitch (his 5th HBP of the season). Tyler Dempsey then hammered a double to leftfield to score Steve and Jason. This elevated Tyler's RBI total to 62 for the season--a record that will probably never be broken. Unfortunately, Matt LeVigne was then hit by pitch (his 7th of the season)--and was injured on the play. Shortly afterwards, Matt was permanently removed from the game as a result of this injury. With runners on second and third and just one out, the next two Warriors' failed to put the ball in play as the Warriors settled for two runs and left two stranded.
Matt Carroll was the Warriors' starting pitcher. He allowed two hits in the first inning, but then fielded a tapper back to the mound and made the toss over to Connor Bartle at first base to end the inning with no damage.
Jim Robley reached base on an infield error to lead off the second inning. Jim stole second base and later moved over to third on a ground out to the shortstop. But, the Warriors left Jim stranded as the inning came to a close on another strikeout.
Matt Carroll allowed a double in the second inning, but once again fielded a tapper back to the mound to end this inning without allowing a run to score.
The first four Warriors reached base to start the third inning. Steve Sismelich singled before Matt Carroll walked. Jason Enguita singled. Tyler Dempsey drew a base on balls to force Steve home. But, with the bases loaded and no outs, the Warriors would once again fail to take advantage of its opportunities. Cody Rutledge smashed a line drive in which the shortstop made a nice catch. Then, Connor Bartle hit a fly ball to the rightfielder. Matt Carroll attempted to score from third, but was retired when the rightfielder made an accurate throw to the catcher to end the inning!
Fortunately, Matt Carroll continued to pitch a gem. Cody Rutledge fielded two ground outs from third base in this inning (and recorded four assists in the first three innings of play). And, Matt picked a runner off of first to help his cause in the inning. The Warriors held a 3-0 lead as the game moved into the fourth inning of play.
The Warriors would once again leave a runner stranded at third base with less than two outs in the top of the fourth inning. Jim Robley led off the inning with a base hit to leftfield (one of his three hits of the game). He stole second and advanced to third base on a ground out to the third baseman. But, another strikeout and a pop up ended the scoreless inning.
Matt Carroll quickly got the first two Palos hitters to pop out. Then, the Warriors' committed an infield error before Matt struck out the #5 hitter to end the fourth inning.
The Warriors did not threaten in the top of the fifth inning and were retired in order. Matt struck out two and continued to shut out Palos through five innings of play.
The Warriors finally advanced a runner from third base when Connor Bartle hit a sacrifice fly to score Cody Rutledge with one out. This insurance run in the top of the sixth inning would prove to be helpful in the bottom of the frame.
Palos scored three runs in the bottom of the sixth inning to cut the Warriors' lead to just one run. The clean-up batter hit a ground ball just out of reach of the Warriors' second baseman to score two runs after two were out. He advanced to second base on an ill-advised throw to home and promptly scored on another single to rightfield. Matt Carroll picked another runner off first base to end the inning.
The Warriors put the game out of reach with a six run seventh inning. Rick Sisco, Zac Zavod and Steve Sismelich walked to start the inning. Then, Matt Carroll singled to leftfield to score Rick. With the bases loaded, Jason Enguita hit a hard grounder up the middle that struck the umpire (umpire's interference). Jason was credited with a hit, but only one run scored on the dead ball. Tyler Dempsey walked to score another run (his 64th RBI of the season). Cody Rutledge then hit a sacrifice fly before Connor Bartle and Jim Robley each singled. The Warriors now led by 7 runs as Palos came to bat for the last time.
Matt Carroll quickly retired Palos in the seventh inning. The first two batters grounded out. The third batter walked, but Jason Enguita threw him out when he attempted to steal second base to end the game.
Matt Carroll's complete game victory is just what the doctor ordered for the third game of the Lockport Tournament. The rest of the pitching staff is now rested and ready for the semi-final game which is scheduled for Sunday afternoon.
Friday, July 15, 2011
Pilsen 8, Warriors 5
The Pilsen Wolves scored six runs in the third inning and held on to beat the Warriors by a score of 8-5 in seven innings in the second pool play game of the Lockport Tournament.
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CLICK HERE to view the team and individual statistics through Game #33.
Cody Rutledge was the Warriors' starting pitcher and held the Pilsen Wolves scoreless through the first two innings of play. After the #3 hitter drew a base on balls in the first inning, Jason Enguita ended the inning by throwing the runner out as he attempted to steal second base.
The Warriors wasted a scoring opportunity in the bottom of the frame when Jason Enguita singled and Tyler Dempsey doubled. Both runners were left stranded as the inning came to a close.
Pilsen failed to score in the top of the second inning despite an error by the Warriors' first baseman. The Wolves left two runners in scoring position when Steve Sismelich made a nice play at shortstop to retire the last batter of the inning.
The Warriors scored a run in the bottom of the second inning, but left two more runners stranded. Matt LeVigne singled and went all the way to third base when the ball bounced over the centerfielder's glove. Matt scored when Steve Sismelich reached base on a dropped third strike. Rick Sisco hit a double that bounced off the centerfield fence. With runners at second and third base, the inning ended with a strikeout. The lack of timely hitting over the past couple of weeks has really hurt the Warriors.
Pilsen had a big third inning--scoring six runs on five hits. A homerun to deep leftfield caused the most damage. Two walks early in the inning scored. The Warriors trailed 6-1.
In the bottom of the third inning, Matt Carroll doubled to leftfield. Tyler Dempsey lined a homerun (his 9th of the season) over the leftfield wall. The Warriors cut the Wolves' lead to 6-3.
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Zac Zavod entered the game in relief for the Warriors in the top of the fourth inning. The first two batters he faced hit high fly balls which were caught by the Warriors' outfielders. He then struck out the next hitter to end the inning.
Matt LeVigne doubled to centerfield in the bottom of the fourth inning, but was out attempting to advance to third base on a long fly ball to centerfield off the bat of Steve Sismelich. The Wolves' outfielder made a perfect throw to retire Matt.
Zac Zavod struck out two batters while holding the Wolves scoreless in the top of the fifth inning. The Warriors scored a run in the bottom of the frame--but it wasn't easy. Patrick O'Connor tripled down the leftfield line to start the inning. But, the next two hitters were unable to put the ball in play. With two outs, Trent Sichelski singled to score Patrick. Trent was caught stealing on the next pitch to end the inning.
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The Wolves came through with a key hit to score some insurance runs in the top of the sixth inning. With two outs and runners on second an third, the 9th hitter in the lineup lined a double down the leftfield line. The Warriors trailed 8-4. The Warriors left two more runners stranded in the sixth inning despite getting the first two hitters on base.
Pilsen failed to score in the seventh inning. Steve Sismelich singled and Patrick O'Connor walked. After Zac Zavod singled with two outs, the Warriors had the tying run at the plate. The game ended on a ground out to the shortstop.
Although the Warriors out-hit the Wolves 12-10, the hits were not timely enough. The Warriors now enter bracket play (single elimination) over the weekend.
CLICK HERE to view the team and individual statistics through Game #33.
Cody Rutledge was the Warriors' starting pitcher and held the Pilsen Wolves scoreless through the first two innings of play. After the #3 hitter drew a base on balls in the first inning, Jason Enguita ended the inning by throwing the runner out as he attempted to steal second base.
The Warriors wasted a scoring opportunity in the bottom of the frame when Jason Enguita singled and Tyler Dempsey doubled. Both runners were left stranded as the inning came to a close.
Pilsen failed to score in the top of the second inning despite an error by the Warriors' first baseman. The Wolves left two runners in scoring position when Steve Sismelich made a nice play at shortstop to retire the last batter of the inning.
The Warriors scored a run in the bottom of the second inning, but left two more runners stranded. Matt LeVigne singled and went all the way to third base when the ball bounced over the centerfielder's glove. Matt scored when Steve Sismelich reached base on a dropped third strike. Rick Sisco hit a double that bounced off the centerfield fence. With runners at second and third base, the inning ended with a strikeout. The lack of timely hitting over the past couple of weeks has really hurt the Warriors.
Pilsen had a big third inning--scoring six runs on five hits. A homerun to deep leftfield caused the most damage. Two walks early in the inning scored. The Warriors trailed 6-1.
In the bottom of the third inning, Matt Carroll doubled to leftfield. Tyler Dempsey lined a homerun (his 9th of the season) over the leftfield wall. The Warriors cut the Wolves' lead to 6-3.
Tyler Dempsey (9 homeruns in 2011)
Zac Zavod entered the game in relief for the Warriors in the top of the fourth inning. The first two batters he faced hit high fly balls which were caught by the Warriors' outfielders. He then struck out the next hitter to end the inning.
Matt LeVigne doubled to centerfield in the bottom of the fourth inning, but was out attempting to advance to third base on a long fly ball to centerfield off the bat of Steve Sismelich. The Wolves' outfielder made a perfect throw to retire Matt.
Zac Zavod struck out two batters while holding the Wolves scoreless in the top of the fifth inning. The Warriors scored a run in the bottom of the frame--but it wasn't easy. Patrick O'Connor tripled down the leftfield line to start the inning. But, the next two hitters were unable to put the ball in play. With two outs, Trent Sichelski singled to score Patrick. Trent was caught stealing on the next pitch to end the inning.
Zac Zavod (effective in 4 innings of relief against the Wolves)
The Wolves came through with a key hit to score some insurance runs in the top of the sixth inning. With two outs and runners on second an third, the 9th hitter in the lineup lined a double down the leftfield line. The Warriors trailed 8-4. The Warriors left two more runners stranded in the sixth inning despite getting the first two hitters on base.
Pilsen failed to score in the seventh inning. Steve Sismelich singled and Patrick O'Connor walked. After Zac Zavod singled with two outs, the Warriors had the tying run at the plate. The game ended on a ground out to the shortstop.
Although the Warriors out-hit the Wolves 12-10, the hits were not timely enough. The Warriors now enter bracket play (single elimination) over the weekend.
Wednesday, July 13, 2011
Lockport Changes Pitching Rules...
STATUS UPDATE: Surprisingly, the Warriors won this appeal!
The Lockport Tournament distributed its rules in an email on July 8th. I printed a copy of those rules and referred to them throughout tonight's game. The rules state that "There are no pitching restrictions at the 14U level. Please keep the best interest of all pitchers' health and safety in mind."
During the first inning, I was handed a packet of tournament information...which included the pitching and scoring logs as well as a copy of the tournament rules. Naturally, I assumed that these rules would match the ones distributed in the email which also matched the rules posted on the tournament's website. Apparently, I was mistaken.
Several of the rules have changed. And, the "new" rules were just recently placed on the tournament's website--within the past day or so.
Now, pitchers are limited to 14 innings for the tournament. Had that been the case before tonight's game had started, we wouldn't have used our pitchers in the same manner. For instance, we certainly wouldn't have pitched Cody Rutledge in the final inning of a game in which we were leading by 15 runs! I've filed a protest regarding this...but chances are that it will be declined (just as when we appealed getting a 4 seed after beating the 2 and 3 seeds outright in pool play in Palos).
In any event, the organization and facilities provided by this tournament have been severely lacking so far. Hopefully, things will improve as we proceed through the tournament.
The Lockport Tournament distributed its rules in an email on July 8th. I printed a copy of those rules and referred to them throughout tonight's game. The rules state that "There are no pitching restrictions at the 14U level. Please keep the best interest of all pitchers' health and safety in mind."
During the first inning, I was handed a packet of tournament information...which included the pitching and scoring logs as well as a copy of the tournament rules. Naturally, I assumed that these rules would match the ones distributed in the email which also matched the rules posted on the tournament's website. Apparently, I was mistaken.
Several of the rules have changed. And, the "new" rules were just recently placed on the tournament's website--within the past day or so.
Now, pitchers are limited to 14 innings for the tournament. Had that been the case before tonight's game had started, we wouldn't have used our pitchers in the same manner. For instance, we certainly wouldn't have pitched Cody Rutledge in the final inning of a game in which we were leading by 15 runs! I've filed a protest regarding this...but chances are that it will be declined (just as when we appealed getting a 4 seed after beating the 2 and 3 seeds outright in pool play in Palos).
In any event, the organization and facilities provided by this tournament have been severely lacking so far. Hopefully, things will improve as we proceed through the tournament.
Warriors Win Lockport Tournament Opener
The Warriors won the Lockport Tournament opener by a score of 17-2 over the Peru All-Stars at Oak Prairie.
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CLICK HERE to view the team and individual statistics through Game #32.
The opening game of the Lockport Tournament was played on one of the remote fields...Oak Prairie. The Warriors arrived at the park at the usual 45 minutes prior to game time for pre-game warm ups. The Tournament Director, umpires and opposing team did not arrive at the park until a few minutes prior to game time!
The field was lacking in most respects. The infield was hard and mostly gravel. The park lacked restrooms of any kind. This was a far cry from the "well maintained fields with grass cut-out infields", "DJ and full concessions" promised in the tournament advertisements! Of course, the primary facility at Dellwood Park is a much nicer facility--which is the location for most of the teams playing in this tournament.
The Peru All-Stars arrived at the park at about 5:55 pm for the 6:00 pm game. With just a few sideline tosses, they were ready to go. Things started off much the same as the previous night with an opening walk of the opponent's lead off hitter--who later scored. The chances of a runner scoring after a lead off walk must exceed 90%. After a single and another walk, the Warriors were fortunate to end the inning with just one run allowed.
The Warriors went down quickly in the bottom of the first inning--three up and three down.
The Warriors committed two infield errors in the top of the second inning, but the inning ended with a line out to Trent Sichelski at second base as Peru left two runners stranded.
The Warriors sent only three hitters to the plate in the bottom of the second inning. Despite getting a two out hit, the inning ended when the runner was out trying to get an extra base from the single into leftfield.
Peru extended its lead to 2-0 in the top of the third inning when the opening batter once again walked. He later scored on a double into leftfield. Jason Enguita threw the runner out as he attempted to steal third base. The inning ended on another line drive to the second baseman.
The Warriors were patient at the plate in the bottom of the third inning and scored five runs on just one hit. Five Warriors walked in the inning. There was an infield error by Peru as well. Jason Enguita made Peru pay with a two out double to centerfield to score two runs. This was one of two doubles for Jason in the contest. The Warriors took a 5-2 lead into the fourth inning.
Cody Rutledge entered the game in relief for the Warriors in the fourth inning. He pitched the next two innings without allowing a run. Cody has now allowed only one earned run in 25 innings of work. His 0.76 WHIP (walks and hits per innings pitched) ratio is by far the lowest in Warriors' history. His strikeout to walk ratio is 7:1--by far the lowest on the staff.
The Warriors put the game away with an 11 run fourth inning. The inning featured four extra base hits. Matt LeVigne hit a double and a triple in this inning. Matt continues his late season hitting surge. He is now second on the leaderboard in some key offensive statistics such as on-base percentage (.553), batting average (.471) and runs batted in (42). He is now tied with Tyler Dempsey for the most extra base hits in the season (18).
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Also in the fourth inning, Jason Enguita hit his 7th double of the season and Steve Sismelich hit his 4th double of the year. Steve reached base in all three plate appearances in this game. Zac Zavod singled in the inning and had three runs batted in during the game.
An interesting note is that all 13 Warriors players now have at least 10 runs batted in this season. Nine players have scored at least 25 runs for the year.
The game was called after five innings due to the ten run mercy rule. The Warriors will face the Pilsen Wolves for the fifth time this season on Friday night at the Oak Prairie field.
CLICK HERE to view the team and individual statistics through Game #32.
The opening game of the Lockport Tournament was played on one of the remote fields...Oak Prairie. The Warriors arrived at the park at the usual 45 minutes prior to game time for pre-game warm ups. The Tournament Director, umpires and opposing team did not arrive at the park until a few minutes prior to game time!
The field was lacking in most respects. The infield was hard and mostly gravel. The park lacked restrooms of any kind. This was a far cry from the "well maintained fields with grass cut-out infields", "DJ and full concessions" promised in the tournament advertisements! Of course, the primary facility at Dellwood Park is a much nicer facility--which is the location for most of the teams playing in this tournament.
The Peru All-Stars arrived at the park at about 5:55 pm for the 6:00 pm game. With just a few sideline tosses, they were ready to go. Things started off much the same as the previous night with an opening walk of the opponent's lead off hitter--who later scored. The chances of a runner scoring after a lead off walk must exceed 90%. After a single and another walk, the Warriors were fortunate to end the inning with just one run allowed.
The Warriors went down quickly in the bottom of the first inning--three up and three down.
The Warriors committed two infield errors in the top of the second inning, but the inning ended with a line out to Trent Sichelski at second base as Peru left two runners stranded.
The Warriors sent only three hitters to the plate in the bottom of the second inning. Despite getting a two out hit, the inning ended when the runner was out trying to get an extra base from the single into leftfield.
Peru extended its lead to 2-0 in the top of the third inning when the opening batter once again walked. He later scored on a double into leftfield. Jason Enguita threw the runner out as he attempted to steal third base. The inning ended on another line drive to the second baseman.
The Warriors were patient at the plate in the bottom of the third inning and scored five runs on just one hit. Five Warriors walked in the inning. There was an infield error by Peru as well. Jason Enguita made Peru pay with a two out double to centerfield to score two runs. This was one of two doubles for Jason in the contest. The Warriors took a 5-2 lead into the fourth inning.
Cody Rutledge entered the game in relief for the Warriors in the fourth inning. He pitched the next two innings without allowing a run. Cody has now allowed only one earned run in 25 innings of work. His 0.76 WHIP (walks and hits per innings pitched) ratio is by far the lowest in Warriors' history. His strikeout to walk ratio is 7:1--by far the lowest on the staff.
The Warriors put the game away with an 11 run fourth inning. The inning featured four extra base hits. Matt LeVigne hit a double and a triple in this inning. Matt continues his late season hitting surge. He is now second on the leaderboard in some key offensive statistics such as on-base percentage (.553), batting average (.471) and runs batted in (42). He is now tied with Tyler Dempsey for the most extra base hits in the season (18).
Matt LeVigne (2011 OYA Pony League Baserunning Champion)
Also in the fourth inning, Jason Enguita hit his 7th double of the season and Steve Sismelich hit his 4th double of the year. Steve reached base in all three plate appearances in this game. Zac Zavod singled in the inning and had three runs batted in during the game.
An interesting note is that all 13 Warriors players now have at least 10 runs batted in this season. Nine players have scored at least 25 runs for the year.
The game was called after five innings due to the ten run mercy rule. The Warriors will face the Pilsen Wolves for the fifth time this season on Friday night at the Oak Prairie field.
Options for Next Season
For those players interested in playing baseball next season, OYA will be offering a number of options:
The 15U Warriors will be managed by Jeff Kosiek. Similar to our team's approach to this season, the 15U team will provide a development program during the Winter which should help prepare players for their High School tryouts. The team will play in some tournaments and will participate in either the SWILA Colt or SWILA Colt Select League--depending upon the talent assessments at tryouts. The tryouts are scheduled for August 6th at 7th at Centennial #4 from Noon until 2 pm.
The 16U Warriors will be managed by Dennis Bresingham. This team participated in the SWILA Colt Select League in 2011. 15 year olds are eligible to play for this team. The tryouts are scheduled for August 13th and August 20th at 10 am at Centennial #4.
If a player does not make either of the above teams, he may still participate in the OYA SWILA Colt League. OYA currently hosts two Colt SWILA teams for 15/16 year old players. Participation on these teams does not require a tryout.
Please continue to monitor the status of these teams on the OYA website. And, do not hesitate to contact me with any questions regarding next year's options.
The 15U Warriors will be managed by Jeff Kosiek. Similar to our team's approach to this season, the 15U team will provide a development program during the Winter which should help prepare players for their High School tryouts. The team will play in some tournaments and will participate in either the SWILA Colt or SWILA Colt Select League--depending upon the talent assessments at tryouts. The tryouts are scheduled for August 6th at 7th at Centennial #4 from Noon until 2 pm.
The 16U Warriors will be managed by Dennis Bresingham. This team participated in the SWILA Colt Select League in 2011. 15 year olds are eligible to play for this team. The tryouts are scheduled for August 13th and August 20th at 10 am at Centennial #4.
If a player does not make either of the above teams, he may still participate in the OYA SWILA Colt League. OYA currently hosts two Colt SWILA teams for 15/16 year old players. Participation on these teams does not require a tryout.
Please continue to monitor the status of these teams on the OYA website. And, do not hesitate to contact me with any questions regarding next year's options.
Tuesday, July 12, 2011
Warriors Lose to Magic in an Ugly One
The Warriors lost to the 14U Magic by a score of 16-11 in a sloppy game at Centennial #4 on Tuesday night.
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CLICK HERE to view the team and individual statistics through Game #31.
The Warriors played its worst game of the season against the Magic on Tuesday night. Although the Warriors out-hit the Magic 14 to 9 in this one, the extraordinary number of free passes, critical fielding errors and a lack of timely hitting led to a loss.
The first two Magic hitters of the game reached base on walks and promptly scored when the Magic's clean-up hitter singled to centerfield. Steve Sismelich made a couple of assists at shortstop as the inning came to an end with the Warriors trailing 2-0.
Matt Carroll hit a long single to rightfield in the first inning, but was left stranded as the Warriors failed to score.
Three of the first four Magic hitters in the second inning reached base on walks. The Warriors were fortunate to contain the damage to just one run as Jason Enguita threw out a runner attempting to steal third base and Tyler Dempsey struck out the last hitter of the inning with two runners in scoring position. The Warriors now trailed 3-0.
The Warriors scored a run in the bottom of the second inning when Matt LeVigne doubled to deep centerfield to score Connor Bartle. Trent Sichelski walked and Patrick O'Connor reached base on an infield hit. But, the Warriors failed to score as the final two hitters of the inning struck out to leave the bases loaded. The Warriors would leave 14 runners on base in this game!
The Magic scored seven runs on just two hits in the top of the third inning as the Warriors' defense suffered a breakdown. After two Magic hitters reached base on hit by pitches, the Warriors' made consecutive errors on outfield fly balls. This was followed by another error on an infield ground ball and then by consecutive walks. Finally, the Magic delivered its second hit of the inning. The Warriors trailed 10-1 at this point. The Warriors went down quickly in the bottom of the third inning.
The Magic extended its lead to 13-1 in the top of the fourth inning after getting three consecutive hits. Zac Zavod struck out two in the inning.
The Warriors began to fight back with three runs in the bottom of the fourth inning. Tyler Dempsey lined a single over the shortstop's glove to get things started. With two outs, Trent Sichelski walked. Then, Matt LeVigne singled to leftfield to drive in two runs. Matt would later score. The Warriors then loaded the bases, but left three runners on base once again as the inning came to an end.
Jason Enguita pitched the final three innings for the Warriors. The Magic was held scoreless for the first time of the evening in the top of the fifth inning. The Warriors scored two runs in the bottom of the fifth inning. Matt Carroll delivered his second hit of the game before Jason Enguita and Tyler Dempsey doubled. Trent Sichelski walked for his third time of the game. But, the inning ended with the Warriors leaving two more runners on base. The Warriors trailed 13-6.
The Magic scored two runs in the top of the sixth as two more walks came around to score. The Warriors matched the two runs in the bottom of the inning. Zac Zavod singled, Rick Sisco doubled, Steve Sismelich singled and Matt Carroll singled (his third hit of the game). But, the Warriors would leave the bases loaded yet again in this inning.
The Magic led off the top of the seventh inning with another walk that came around to score. The Warriors scored three in the bottom of the inning. Connor Bartle singled. Trent Sichelski was hit by pitch (as he reached base safely in all four plate appearances). Matt LeVigne hit his second double of the game to score Connor. Trent scored on a ground out to shortstop by Patrick O'Connor. And, Rick Sisco hit a sacrifice fly to centerfield to score Matt. The Warriors came up short losing this one by a score of 16-11 in seven innings.
The keys to the game:
CLICK HERE to view the team and individual statistics through Game #31.
The Warriors played its worst game of the season against the Magic on Tuesday night. Although the Warriors out-hit the Magic 14 to 9 in this one, the extraordinary number of free passes, critical fielding errors and a lack of timely hitting led to a loss.
The first two Magic hitters of the game reached base on walks and promptly scored when the Magic's clean-up hitter singled to centerfield. Steve Sismelich made a couple of assists at shortstop as the inning came to an end with the Warriors trailing 2-0.
Matt Carroll hit a long single to rightfield in the first inning, but was left stranded as the Warriors failed to score.
Three of the first four Magic hitters in the second inning reached base on walks. The Warriors were fortunate to contain the damage to just one run as Jason Enguita threw out a runner attempting to steal third base and Tyler Dempsey struck out the last hitter of the inning with two runners in scoring position. The Warriors now trailed 3-0.
The Warriors scored a run in the bottom of the second inning when Matt LeVigne doubled to deep centerfield to score Connor Bartle. Trent Sichelski walked and Patrick O'Connor reached base on an infield hit. But, the Warriors failed to score as the final two hitters of the inning struck out to leave the bases loaded. The Warriors would leave 14 runners on base in this game!
The Magic scored seven runs on just two hits in the top of the third inning as the Warriors' defense suffered a breakdown. After two Magic hitters reached base on hit by pitches, the Warriors' made consecutive errors on outfield fly balls. This was followed by another error on an infield ground ball and then by consecutive walks. Finally, the Magic delivered its second hit of the inning. The Warriors trailed 10-1 at this point. The Warriors went down quickly in the bottom of the third inning.
The Magic extended its lead to 13-1 in the top of the fourth inning after getting three consecutive hits. Zac Zavod struck out two in the inning.
The Warriors began to fight back with three runs in the bottom of the fourth inning. Tyler Dempsey lined a single over the shortstop's glove to get things started. With two outs, Trent Sichelski walked. Then, Matt LeVigne singled to leftfield to drive in two runs. Matt would later score. The Warriors then loaded the bases, but left three runners on base once again as the inning came to an end.
Jason Enguita pitched the final three innings for the Warriors. The Magic was held scoreless for the first time of the evening in the top of the fifth inning. The Warriors scored two runs in the bottom of the fifth inning. Matt Carroll delivered his second hit of the game before Jason Enguita and Tyler Dempsey doubled. Trent Sichelski walked for his third time of the game. But, the inning ended with the Warriors leaving two more runners on base. The Warriors trailed 13-6.
The Magic scored two runs in the top of the sixth as two more walks came around to score. The Warriors matched the two runs in the bottom of the inning. Zac Zavod singled, Rick Sisco doubled, Steve Sismelich singled and Matt Carroll singled (his third hit of the game). But, the Warriors would leave the bases loaded yet again in this inning.
The Magic led off the top of the seventh inning with another walk that came around to score. The Warriors scored three in the bottom of the inning. Connor Bartle singled. Trent Sichelski was hit by pitch (as he reached base safely in all four plate appearances). Matt LeVigne hit his second double of the game to score Connor. Trent scored on a ground out to shortstop by Patrick O'Connor. And, Rick Sisco hit a sacrifice fly to centerfield to score Matt. The Warriors came up short losing this one by a score of 16-11 in seven innings.
The keys to the game:
- Warriors left 14 runners on base.
- Warriors allowed 14 baserunners on free passes (11 walks and 3 hit by pitches). 12 of the Magic's 16 runs were scored by runners that the Warriors put on base. Walks will kill a team!
- The Warriors committed 3 fielding errors in allowing a 7 run inning and another fielding error in the sixth inning that allowed 2 runs to score.
Monday, July 11, 2011
Wolves Win Palos Rumble Tournament
The Pilsen Wolves topped Channahon by a score of 8-3 in the championship game of the Palos Rumble Tournament earlier tonight. Congratulations to the Wolves on this well deserved championship. We look forward to playing them once again on Friday night in Lockport.
Culver's...
We plan to take the Warriors out to Culver's for ice cream after the Magic game on Tuesday night. All players are welcome--including those who are not playing in the game. We'll probably need some help getting players over there and home afterwards.
I apologize for the late notice. Please contact me with any questions.
Sunday, July 10, 2011
Wolves Shut Down Warriors
Pilsen eliminated the Warriors from the semi-finals of the Palos Tournament with a 6-0 shutout win on Sunday afternoon.
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CLICK HERE to view the team and individual statistics through Game #30.
Despite beating the #2 and #3 seeds in head to head play, the Warriors received a #4 seed due to an unusual tiebreaker formula used in this tournament. As a result, the Warriors were matched up with the #1 seed for the second consecutive game.
The Warriors failed to score in the first inning after Jason Enguita reached base on an infield error. Jason was the Warriors' starting pitcher. Pilsen scored two runs in the first inning on three hits. But, Jason was effective on the mound and only walked one batter during his three innings of work.
Trent Sichelski singled to centerfield in the second inning after two were out, but the Warriors once again grounded out to end the inning. The Pilsen infielders made nine assists in the game with most of those coming from the left side of the infield.
Jason held Pilsen scoreless in the second inning when Cody Rutledge had two assists from third base and Connor Bartle made a nice over-the-shoulder running catch down the rightfield line from his first base position.
Patrick O'Connor drew a walk in the third inning, but the inning then ended when Rick Sisco lined out to the centerfielder.
Pilsen scored four runs in the third inning. The first two batters reached base, but Tyler Dempsey then threw out a runner attempting to steal third base. With the score at 2-0 in favor of Pilsen and runners on second and third with two outs, Pilsen's #3 hitter popped a high fly ball out of the park. A moment later, the clean-up hitter popped another fly ball over the wall. Suddenly, the Warriors trailed 6-0!
The Warriors finally threatened in the top of the fourth inning when Steve Sismelich singled to rightfield to lead off the inning. He advanced to third base on two wild pitches. Jason Enguita was hit by a pitch (his 4th of the season). But, the next two batters failed to advance the runner from third base as the Warriors' experienced another scoreless inning.
Cody Rutledge was dominating in relief and did not allow Pilsen to score again for the remainder of the game. But, the Warriors' offense put very little pressure on the Pilsen defense.
The Warriors went down in order in the fifth inning. Jim Robley singled to centerfield in the sixth inning and Rick Sisco reached base on a hard grounder to the third baseman. But, the Warriors failed to pick up a timely hit once again as the inning ended with those two runners stranded.
Matt Carroll singled to leftfield to start the seventh inning. But, Pilsen converted a 6-4-3 double play immediately after that. Tyler Dempsey kept the inning alive with a base on balls before Pilsen's third baseman fielded a ground ball to end the Warriors' hopes in this one.
The Warrior executed its game plan, but failed to generate enough hitting to stay in the game. Jason Enguita was effective and remained in the game until Cody Rutledge had enough innings available under the pitching rules to finish the game. But, four hits wasn't enough for the Warriors to threaten in this one.
Pilsen's manager, Sam Flores, recognized Steve Sismelich with the MVP medallion after the game. He pointed out that Pilsen wanted to recognize Steve for his contributions throughout the four game series so far this season.
The Warriors are now 2-2 against Pilsen. Each team has knocked the other team out of a tournament. The teams will meet again on Friday in the Lockport Tournament and will probably play yet again in the Oak Lawn Tournament.
CLICK HERE to view the team and individual statistics through Game #30.
Despite beating the #2 and #3 seeds in head to head play, the Warriors received a #4 seed due to an unusual tiebreaker formula used in this tournament. As a result, the Warriors were matched up with the #1 seed for the second consecutive game.
The Warriors failed to score in the first inning after Jason Enguita reached base on an infield error. Jason was the Warriors' starting pitcher. Pilsen scored two runs in the first inning on three hits. But, Jason was effective on the mound and only walked one batter during his three innings of work.
Trent Sichelski singled to centerfield in the second inning after two were out, but the Warriors once again grounded out to end the inning. The Pilsen infielders made nine assists in the game with most of those coming from the left side of the infield.
Jason held Pilsen scoreless in the second inning when Cody Rutledge had two assists from third base and Connor Bartle made a nice over-the-shoulder running catch down the rightfield line from his first base position.
Patrick O'Connor drew a walk in the third inning, but the inning then ended when Rick Sisco lined out to the centerfielder.
Pilsen scored four runs in the third inning. The first two batters reached base, but Tyler Dempsey then threw out a runner attempting to steal third base. With the score at 2-0 in favor of Pilsen and runners on second and third with two outs, Pilsen's #3 hitter popped a high fly ball out of the park. A moment later, the clean-up hitter popped another fly ball over the wall. Suddenly, the Warriors trailed 6-0!
The Warriors finally threatened in the top of the fourth inning when Steve Sismelich singled to rightfield to lead off the inning. He advanced to third base on two wild pitches. Jason Enguita was hit by a pitch (his 4th of the season). But, the next two batters failed to advance the runner from third base as the Warriors' experienced another scoreless inning.
Cody Rutledge was dominating in relief and did not allow Pilsen to score again for the remainder of the game. But, the Warriors' offense put very little pressure on the Pilsen defense.
The Warriors went down in order in the fifth inning. Jim Robley singled to centerfield in the sixth inning and Rick Sisco reached base on a hard grounder to the third baseman. But, the Warriors failed to pick up a timely hit once again as the inning ended with those two runners stranded.
Matt Carroll singled to leftfield to start the seventh inning. But, Pilsen converted a 6-4-3 double play immediately after that. Tyler Dempsey kept the inning alive with a base on balls before Pilsen's third baseman fielded a ground ball to end the Warriors' hopes in this one.
The Warrior executed its game plan, but failed to generate enough hitting to stay in the game. Jason Enguita was effective and remained in the game until Cody Rutledge had enough innings available under the pitching rules to finish the game. But, four hits wasn't enough for the Warriors to threaten in this one.
Pilsen's manager, Sam Flores, recognized Steve Sismelich with the MVP medallion after the game. He pointed out that Pilsen wanted to recognize Steve for his contributions throughout the four game series so far this season.
The Warriors are now 2-2 against Pilsen. Each team has knocked the other team out of a tournament. The teams will meet again on Friday in the Lockport Tournament and will probably play yet again in the Oak Lawn Tournament.
Saturday, July 9, 2011
Warriors Split Final Two Pool Games
The Warriors staged another dramatic comeback to beat Palos by a score of 12-8 in the morning game. Pilsen crushed the Warriors by a score of 14-5 in the afternoon game. The Warriors went 2-1 in pool play and will advance to the semi-finals of the Palos Thunder Tournament.
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CLICK HERE to view team and individual statistics through Game #29.
Palos got off to a fast start in the morning game. The first two hitters reached base before the third hitter hammered a three run homer. Jim Robley entered the game in relief and struck out three batters--but Palos scored four runs in the inning. The Warriors went down in order in the bottom of the frame.
Jim Robley held Palos scoreless in the second inning with the assistance of an over-the-shoulder running grab by first baseman Connor Bartle on a ball that was hit down the rightfield line. Tyler Dempsey led off the second inning with a homer (his 8th of the season). The Warriors then loaded the bases, but left three stranded when the final batter of the inning hit a fly ball to the leftfielder.
Palos scored another four runs in the top of the third inning on four hits--including another homerun. The Warriors committed two errors in the inning and trailed Palos by a score of 8-1 as the game moved into the bottom of the third inning. Palos then struck out the side to end the Warriors' hopes in the bottom of the frame.
Matt Carroll entered the game in relief in the top of the fourth inning. Matt did not allow Palos to score a run for the remainder of the game as he pitched three flawless innings. After walking the first hitter that he faced, he retired the next nine batters in order while striking out five. The Palos manager would later recognize Matt with the MVP award for this ballgame.
The Warriors offense came alive in the bottom of the fourth inning. Cody Rutledge got things started with a three run homer (his 2nd of the tournament). The next two Warriors made out--but the Warriors would go on to score seven more runs after two outs! Some of the big hits included Trent Sichelski's line drive into leftfield, Patrick O'Connor's line drive at the shortstop and Rick Sisco's single into rightfield. Matt Carroll also drove in two runs with a single to centerfield before Jason Enguita doubled to drive in two more runs. The Warriors held a 11-8 lead.
The Warriors would tag on an insurance run in the bottom of the fifth inning when Matt LeVigne singled to leftfield to score Cody Rutledge--again with two outs! Matt had a big game--reaching base in all three plate appearances.
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The Warriors would not fare as well in the afternoon game against Pilsen. Matt Carroll singled down the leftfield line in the first inning, but the Warriors were unable to bring him home.
Pilsen left two runners stranded in the bottom of the first inning after Steve Sismelich recovered to hold Pilsen scoreless after an infield throwing error earlier in the inning.
The Warriors took the early lead after scoring three runs in the top of the second inning. The first two hitters made outs. But Matt LeVigne drew a walk before Trent Sichelski, Jim Robley and Patrick O'Connor singled in succession.
Trent Sichelski singled during both plate appearances in the Pilsen game and reached base in all five plate appearance for the doubleheader. Sam Flores, the Pilsen manager, recognized Trent with the MVP award after this game.
Pilen came right back with four runs to take the lead in the bottom of the second inning. The first five hitters reached base in the inning. Jim Robley limited the damage after entering the game in relief. Jason Enguita also contributed by throwing out a runner attempting to steal third base. Pilsen scored four, but left the bases loaded when Jim Robley struck out the lead-off hitter to end the inning.
The Warriors went down quickly in the top of the third inning when Pilsen converted a strike out-throw out double play on an attempted steal of second base. Pilsen then hit two homeruns in the bottom of the frame to extend its lead to 7-3.
The Warriors would not threaten again until the top of the fifth inning when the bases were loaded with no outs. But, the Warriors failed to score mostly as the result of a double play on a fly ball in which the rightfielder made the catch and threw accurately to home plate to retire the runner attempting to score from third base.
Pilsen continued to score runs in each of the remaining innings despite three pitching changes. A three run blast in the bottom of the fifth extended the lead to 12-5. Another homerun (Pilsen's fourth of the game) in the bottom of the sixth inning brought the "Runs Allowed" total to 14 for the game--which is anticipated to significantly damage the Warriors' seeding position coming out of pool play in this tournament.
CLICK HERE to view team and individual statistics through Game #29.
Palos got off to a fast start in the morning game. The first two hitters reached base before the third hitter hammered a three run homer. Jim Robley entered the game in relief and struck out three batters--but Palos scored four runs in the inning. The Warriors went down in order in the bottom of the frame.
Jim Robley held Palos scoreless in the second inning with the assistance of an over-the-shoulder running grab by first baseman Connor Bartle on a ball that was hit down the rightfield line. Tyler Dempsey led off the second inning with a homer (his 8th of the season). The Warriors then loaded the bases, but left three stranded when the final batter of the inning hit a fly ball to the leftfielder.
Palos scored another four runs in the top of the third inning on four hits--including another homerun. The Warriors committed two errors in the inning and trailed Palos by a score of 8-1 as the game moved into the bottom of the third inning. Palos then struck out the side to end the Warriors' hopes in the bottom of the frame.
Matt Carroll entered the game in relief in the top of the fourth inning. Matt did not allow Palos to score a run for the remainder of the game as he pitched three flawless innings. After walking the first hitter that he faced, he retired the next nine batters in order while striking out five. The Palos manager would later recognize Matt with the MVP award for this ballgame.
The Warriors offense came alive in the bottom of the fourth inning. Cody Rutledge got things started with a three run homer (his 2nd of the tournament). The next two Warriors made out--but the Warriors would go on to score seven more runs after two outs! Some of the big hits included Trent Sichelski's line drive into leftfield, Patrick O'Connor's line drive at the shortstop and Rick Sisco's single into rightfield. Matt Carroll also drove in two runs with a single to centerfield before Jason Enguita doubled to drive in two more runs. The Warriors held a 11-8 lead.
The Warriors would tag on an insurance run in the bottom of the fifth inning when Matt LeVigne singled to leftfield to score Cody Rutledge--again with two outs! Matt had a big game--reaching base in all three plate appearances.
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The Warriors would not fare as well in the afternoon game against Pilsen. Matt Carroll singled down the leftfield line in the first inning, but the Warriors were unable to bring him home.
Pilsen left two runners stranded in the bottom of the first inning after Steve Sismelich recovered to hold Pilsen scoreless after an infield throwing error earlier in the inning.
The Warriors took the early lead after scoring three runs in the top of the second inning. The first two hitters made outs. But Matt LeVigne drew a walk before Trent Sichelski, Jim Robley and Patrick O'Connor singled in succession.
Trent Sichelski singled during both plate appearances in the Pilsen game and reached base in all five plate appearance for the doubleheader. Sam Flores, the Pilsen manager, recognized Trent with the MVP award after this game.
Pilen came right back with four runs to take the lead in the bottom of the second inning. The first five hitters reached base in the inning. Jim Robley limited the damage after entering the game in relief. Jason Enguita also contributed by throwing out a runner attempting to steal third base. Pilsen scored four, but left the bases loaded when Jim Robley struck out the lead-off hitter to end the inning.
The Warriors went down quickly in the top of the third inning when Pilsen converted a strike out-throw out double play on an attempted steal of second base. Pilsen then hit two homeruns in the bottom of the frame to extend its lead to 7-3.
The Warriors would not threaten again until the top of the fifth inning when the bases were loaded with no outs. But, the Warriors failed to score mostly as the result of a double play on a fly ball in which the rightfielder made the catch and threw accurately to home plate to retire the runner attempting to score from third base.
Pilsen continued to score runs in each of the remaining innings despite three pitching changes. A three run blast in the bottom of the fifth extended the lead to 12-5. Another homerun (Pilsen's fourth of the game) in the bottom of the sixth inning brought the "Runs Allowed" total to 14 for the game--which is anticipated to significantly damage the Warriors' seeding position coming out of pool play in this tournament.
Friday, July 8, 2011
Connor Bartle
Connor Bartle is 8-0 this season
Connor Bartle will take the hill on Saturday morning against his home town Palos Thunder team. Connor has been very effective this season:
Innings Pitched: 24.3 (ranked 2nd)
Earned Run Average: 1.73 (ranked 3rd)
WHIP: 1.15 (ranked 4th)
Strikeouts: 21 (ranked 2nd)
Wins: 8 (ranked 1st)
Connor has also been contributing with his bat. His batting average is now at .458 (ranked 3rd). He is a contact hitter and has only struck out 4 times in 90 plate appearances! His on-base % is just below .500 (.494). He's scored 26 runs and drove in 25. Overall, Connor's had a very solid season.
Plate Appearances
As the 2011 season progresses, many of our hitters are now approaching 100 plate appearances. The following players have exceeded 90 plate appearances for the Warriors this season:
These numbers exclude OYA Pony League plate appearances, which approached another 100 for most of our players. The OYA Pony League also provided about 40 innings pitched for most of our Warriors' pitchers. This additional experience on the mound helped several of our pitchers in their development.
- Steve Sismelich (102)
- Matt Carroll (97)
- Tyler Dempsey (95)
- Jason Enguita (93)
These numbers exclude OYA Pony League plate appearances, which approached another 100 for most of our players. The OYA Pony League also provided about 40 innings pitched for most of our Warriors' pitchers. This additional experience on the mound helped several of our pitchers in their development.
Warriors Win Palos Tournament Opener
The Warriors topped Channahon by a score of 12-7 in seven innings on Friday night in Palos. The final score was not representative of how competitive this game was throughout the evening. The Warriors were fortunate to get by this first opponent before playing the final two pool play games on Saturday.
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CLICK HERE to view the team and individual statistics through Game #27.
The Warriors lost the coin flip for the third consecutive tournament game, so Channahon was the home team. Channahon's starting pitcher made quick work of the first inning--allowing just one baserunner when Matt Carroll successfully bunted for a hit.
Five of the first six Channahon hitters reached base in the first inning as Channahon jumped out to an early two run lead. Cody Rutledge entered the game in relief with the bases loaded and just one out. Cody retired the next two hitters as Channahon left three runners standed.
Cody Rutledge led off the top of the second inning with a homerun over the leftfield wall. The Warriors trailed 2-1.
Cody Rutledge continued to pitch through the fourth inning. He held Channahon scoreless and allowed just one hit in 3 2/3rds innings of work. Cody has been outstanding all season. He has allowed only one earned run in 20 innings this season! He averages one walk for each five innings pitched. Channahon's manager recognized Cody as the Warriors' MVP after this tournament game.
The Warriors did not score in the top of the third inning despite drawing two walks. In the fourth inning, Channahon's defense began to break down. The Warriors scored four runs on three hits. With the bases still loaded and no outs, the Warriors had a chance to put the game away. Instead, the next three hitters failed to advance the runners and the Warriors left three runners stranded.
In the top of the fifth inning, the Warriors once again left the bases loaded. The Warriors left 8 runners stranded in three innings of play. These lost opportunities generally come back to haunt a team.
Tyler Dempsey entered the game in relief in the bottom of the fifth inning. Tyler walked the bases loaded, but Channahon did not score as the inning ended on a deep fly ball to Matt Carroll in centerfield.
The Warriors finally came up with a timely hit in the top of the sixth inning when Steve Sismelich lined a double into leftfield to score Trent Sichelski with two outs. Matt Carroll then singled to score Steve as the Warriors extended its lead to 7-2.
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Tyler Dempsey struck out two in the bottom of the sixth inning. Then, the Warriors scored five insurance runs in the top of the seventh inning--of which most of the runs scored with two outs. Matt Olinksi narrowly missed a homerun as the ball lined off the rightfield wall. Matt LeVigne and Trent Sichelski also contributed with timely base hits.
The insurance runs came in handy as Channahon's bats came alive in the bottom of the seventh inning. Jake Price hit a three run homerun in the inning before the game ended on a fly ball to Trent Sichelski in rightfield.
CLICK HERE to view the team and individual statistics through Game #27.
The Warriors lost the coin flip for the third consecutive tournament game, so Channahon was the home team. Channahon's starting pitcher made quick work of the first inning--allowing just one baserunner when Matt Carroll successfully bunted for a hit.
Five of the first six Channahon hitters reached base in the first inning as Channahon jumped out to an early two run lead. Cody Rutledge entered the game in relief with the bases loaded and just one out. Cody retired the next two hitters as Channahon left three runners standed.
Cody Rutledge led off the top of the second inning with a homerun over the leftfield wall. The Warriors trailed 2-1.
Cody Rutledge continued to pitch through the fourth inning. He held Channahon scoreless and allowed just one hit in 3 2/3rds innings of work. Cody has been outstanding all season. He has allowed only one earned run in 20 innings this season! He averages one walk for each five innings pitched. Channahon's manager recognized Cody as the Warriors' MVP after this tournament game.
The Warriors did not score in the top of the third inning despite drawing two walks. In the fourth inning, Channahon's defense began to break down. The Warriors scored four runs on three hits. With the bases still loaded and no outs, the Warriors had a chance to put the game away. Instead, the next three hitters failed to advance the runners and the Warriors left three runners stranded.
In the top of the fifth inning, the Warriors once again left the bases loaded. The Warriors left 8 runners stranded in three innings of play. These lost opportunities generally come back to haunt a team.
Tyler Dempsey entered the game in relief in the bottom of the fifth inning. Tyler walked the bases loaded, but Channahon did not score as the inning ended on a deep fly ball to Matt Carroll in centerfield.
The Warriors finally came up with a timely hit in the top of the sixth inning when Steve Sismelich lined a double into leftfield to score Trent Sichelski with two outs. Matt Carroll then singled to score Steve as the Warriors extended its lead to 7-2.
Steve Sismelich (39 runs scored for the season)
Tyler Dempsey struck out two in the bottom of the sixth inning. Then, the Warriors scored five insurance runs in the top of the seventh inning--of which most of the runs scored with two outs. Matt Olinksi narrowly missed a homerun as the ball lined off the rightfield wall. Matt LeVigne and Trent Sichelski also contributed with timely base hits.
The insurance runs came in handy as Channahon's bats came alive in the bottom of the seventh inning. Jake Price hit a three run homerun in the inning before the game ended on a fly ball to Trent Sichelski in rightfield.
Warriors Action Shots
We captured photos of some of the Warriors' players in action at Humphrey #2 last night (CLICK HERE to visit the photo website):
Monday, July 4, 2011
Happy Independence Day
Sunday, July 3, 2011
Warriors Win Lombard Tournament Championship!
The Warriors won the Lombard Summer Classic Tournament championship on Sunday. This was the team's second tournament championship of the season (and the second in the past 8 days)! No other Warriors' team has won more than one championship in the same season. And, this team has three more tournament to play.
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CLICK HERE to view the team and individual statistics through Game #26.
The Warriors faced the Tinley Park Bulldogs in a rematch of the morning's game for the tournament championship. Tinley Park won the coin toss and elected to be the home team this time. But, the Warriors took advantage of batting first by scoring six times in the first inning to put the Bulldogs in a deep hole.
Tinley Park's starting pitcher set the table for the Warriors by hitting Steve Sismelich with a pitch (Steve's sixth HBP of the year--tied with Matt LeVigne for the lead in this unfortunate category), then walking the next two hitters. Tyler Dempsey then hit a fly ball to centerfield, which was dropped, to score Jason Enguita for the first run of the ballgame. The next three batters all reached base--a double by Cody Rutledge and singles by Matt Olinksi and Connor Bartle. Trent Sichelski lined a single into leftfield to score the sixth run of the inning. The Warriors hit Tinley Park's starting pitcher hard--and ran his pitch count up to the point that he had to be removed from the game early into the third inning.
Tyler Dempsey was effective as the Warriors' starting pitcher. Tyler allowed just one unearned run in four innings of work. The home plate umpire squeezed the strike zone considerably in the third inning, but Tyler struck out the Bulldogs' clean-up hitter to end the inning with the bases loaded.
In the fourth inning, the Bulldogs first two batters reached base. But, the Warriors then turned an unusual double play. The catcher, Jason Enguita, threw down to first base to retire the batter on a dropped third strike. Then, Connor Bartle fired back to Jason to retire the runner attempting to score from third base on the play. Tinley Park rarely tested Jason after watching him make a few throws to second base during warm-ups between innings.
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The Warriors failed to score in the second inning despite Rick Sisco's single to rightfield to start the inning. But, the Warriors scored two runs in the third inning after Matt Olinski grounded out to the shortstop to score Cody Rutledge--who singled to centerfield earlier in the inning. Cody had three hits in this championship game.
The Warriors put another two runs on the board in the fourth inning when Trent Sichelski and Patrick O'Connor started the inning with base hits. Steve Sismelich put the ball in play with a ground out to shortstop to score Patrick. The Warriors led 10-2 at this point.
The Warriors scored four more runs in the fifth inning to take a 12 run lead. Tyler Dempsey homered once again--his third of the day and seventh of the season. This was an unusual play in that Tyler was obstructed by the first baseman. The umpire properly ruled that he would have scored had the obstruction not happened, so Tyler was credited with a homerun rather than a triple on the hit. Tyler now holds the all-time Warriors' record for homers in a season--topping Grant Lewis' five homers in 2008 (Grant currently plays for Sandburg High School). Tyler's 55 runs batted in (RBI) total for the season is another all-time record...and one that may never be broken (except by Tyler adding to his record with approximately 13 games left to play in the season).
Later in the inning, Connor Bartle doubled to leftfield but was later called out for interference on a ground ball to the shortstop off the bat of Matt LeVigne. Once again, the umpires got this one right as Connor definitely hindered the fielder's ability to play the batted baseball. But, the Warriors continued to hit the ball consistently and to hit the ball hard. Trent Sichelski singled for the third time in the game and Rick Sisco singled to reach base in all three of his plate appearances as the Warriors ended up scoring four times in the inning.
The Warriors held a 12 run lead as the game moved into the bottom of the fifth inning. Cody Rutledge made fast work of the fifth inning, retiring three Bulldogs' batters--and striking out the last two hitters of the game. The game was called after five innings due to the mercy rule...the fourth consecutive mercy rule win for the Warriors in the Lombard tournament.
CLICK HERE to view the team and individual statistics through Game #26.
The Warriors faced the Tinley Park Bulldogs in a rematch of the morning's game for the tournament championship. Tinley Park won the coin toss and elected to be the home team this time. But, the Warriors took advantage of batting first by scoring six times in the first inning to put the Bulldogs in a deep hole.
Tinley Park's starting pitcher set the table for the Warriors by hitting Steve Sismelich with a pitch (Steve's sixth HBP of the year--tied with Matt LeVigne for the lead in this unfortunate category), then walking the next two hitters. Tyler Dempsey then hit a fly ball to centerfield, which was dropped, to score Jason Enguita for the first run of the ballgame. The next three batters all reached base--a double by Cody Rutledge and singles by Matt Olinksi and Connor Bartle. Trent Sichelski lined a single into leftfield to score the sixth run of the inning. The Warriors hit Tinley Park's starting pitcher hard--and ran his pitch count up to the point that he had to be removed from the game early into the third inning.
Tyler Dempsey was effective as the Warriors' starting pitcher. Tyler allowed just one unearned run in four innings of work. The home plate umpire squeezed the strike zone considerably in the third inning, but Tyler struck out the Bulldogs' clean-up hitter to end the inning with the bases loaded.
In the fourth inning, the Bulldogs first two batters reached base. But, the Warriors then turned an unusual double play. The catcher, Jason Enguita, threw down to first base to retire the batter on a dropped third strike. Then, Connor Bartle fired back to Jason to retire the runner attempting to score from third base on the play. Tinley Park rarely tested Jason after watching him make a few throws to second base during warm-ups between innings.
Warriors' catcher, Jason Enguita
The Warriors failed to score in the second inning despite Rick Sisco's single to rightfield to start the inning. But, the Warriors scored two runs in the third inning after Matt Olinski grounded out to the shortstop to score Cody Rutledge--who singled to centerfield earlier in the inning. Cody had three hits in this championship game.
The Warriors put another two runs on the board in the fourth inning when Trent Sichelski and Patrick O'Connor started the inning with base hits. Steve Sismelich put the ball in play with a ground out to shortstop to score Patrick. The Warriors led 10-2 at this point.
The Warriors scored four more runs in the fifth inning to take a 12 run lead. Tyler Dempsey homered once again--his third of the day and seventh of the season. This was an unusual play in that Tyler was obstructed by the first baseman. The umpire properly ruled that he would have scored had the obstruction not happened, so Tyler was credited with a homerun rather than a triple on the hit. Tyler now holds the all-time Warriors' record for homers in a season--topping Grant Lewis' five homers in 2008 (Grant currently plays for Sandburg High School). Tyler's 55 runs batted in (RBI) total for the season is another all-time record...and one that may never be broken (except by Tyler adding to his record with approximately 13 games left to play in the season).
Later in the inning, Connor Bartle doubled to leftfield but was later called out for interference on a ground ball to the shortstop off the bat of Matt LeVigne. Once again, the umpires got this one right as Connor definitely hindered the fielder's ability to play the batted baseball. But, the Warriors continued to hit the ball consistently and to hit the ball hard. Trent Sichelski singled for the third time in the game and Rick Sisco singled to reach base in all three of his plate appearances as the Warriors ended up scoring four times in the inning.
The Warriors held a 12 run lead as the game moved into the bottom of the fifth inning. Cody Rutledge made fast work of the fifth inning, retiring three Bulldogs' batters--and striking out the last two hitters of the game. The game was called after five innings due to the mercy rule...the fourth consecutive mercy rule win for the Warriors in the Lombard tournament.
Warriors Win Final Pool Play Game
The Warriors went undefeated in pool play in the Lombard tournament after beating the Tinley Park Bulldogs by a score of 12-2 on Sunday morning.
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Tinley Park won the coin toss, but chose to be the away team in an usual move. The lead off hitter of the game singled, but was promptly picked off by Matt Carroll. The Bulldogs scored after its #3 hitter tripled and later scored on an infield error.
The Warriors tied the game in the bottom of the frame when Rick Sisco tripled to deep rightfield to score Matt LeVigne with two outs in the inning. The Warriors left two runners stranded in the inning.
Matt Carroll retired the Bulldogs quickly in the second inning. The Warriors took the lead in the bottom of the inning when Matt Carroll doubled down the rightfield line and later scored on a triple to deep leftfield by Steve Sismelich.
Tinley Park tied the game in the top of the third inning with two singles to centerfield and a walk. But, the Bulldogs left two runners stranded when Matt Carroll struck out the final batter of the inning.
The Warriors scored seven runs in the bottom of the inning with three extra base hits--doubles by Connor Bartle and Matt Olinksi and a two run homer by Tyler Dempsey. Steve Sismelich also drove in two runs with a single to rightfield in the inning. The Warriors would never trail again in this one.
Trent Sichelski pitched the final two innings of the game. Trent held the Bulldogs scoreless for the remainder of the game. He continues to throw strikes and his velocity is improving with each outing.
The Warriors scored two more runs in the bottom of the fourth inning when Tyler Dempsey hit his second consecutive homerun with Rick Sisco on base. In the bottom of the fifth inning, Matt LeVigne hit a walk-off homerun to leftfield as the Warriors went ahead by 10 runs in the fifth inning. The mercy rule was applied for the third time in three pool play games.
Tinley Park won the coin toss, but chose to be the away team in an usual move. The lead off hitter of the game singled, but was promptly picked off by Matt Carroll. The Bulldogs scored after its #3 hitter tripled and later scored on an infield error.
The Warriors tied the game in the bottom of the frame when Rick Sisco tripled to deep rightfield to score Matt LeVigne with two outs in the inning. The Warriors left two runners stranded in the inning.
Matt Carroll retired the Bulldogs quickly in the second inning. The Warriors took the lead in the bottom of the inning when Matt Carroll doubled down the rightfield line and later scored on a triple to deep leftfield by Steve Sismelich.
Tinley Park tied the game in the top of the third inning with two singles to centerfield and a walk. But, the Bulldogs left two runners stranded when Matt Carroll struck out the final batter of the inning.
The Warriors scored seven runs in the bottom of the inning with three extra base hits--doubles by Connor Bartle and Matt Olinksi and a two run homer by Tyler Dempsey. Steve Sismelich also drove in two runs with a single to rightfield in the inning. The Warriors would never trail again in this one.
Trent Sichelski pitched the final two innings of the game. Trent held the Bulldogs scoreless for the remainder of the game. He continues to throw strikes and his velocity is improving with each outing.
The Warriors scored two more runs in the bottom of the fourth inning when Tyler Dempsey hit his second consecutive homerun with Rick Sisco on base. In the bottom of the fifth inning, Matt LeVigne hit a walk-off homerun to leftfield as the Warriors went ahead by 10 runs in the fifth inning. The mercy rule was applied for the third time in three pool play games.
Saturday, July 2, 2011
Warriors Take Two on Saturday
The first two pool play opponents in the Lombard Tournament provided little competition for the Warriors as the team won both games by the mercy rule. These two pool play victories assured the Warriors of a Championship game appearance.
CLICK HERE for team and individual statistics through Game #24.
In the morning game, Glen Ellyn's lead off hitter walked and later scored. This represented Glen Ellyn's only run of the contest.
The Warriors failed to score in the bottom of the first inning. But, Glen Ellyn wouldn't stop the Warriors' offense for long. Connor Bartle successfully bunted with runners on first and second to get things started. Trent Sichelski legged out an infield hit to score Connor. The Warriors would never trail again in this one.
In the second inning, a ground ball to second base hit Trent Sichelski hard in the jaw. Trent recovered and retired the runner on a throw to first base before he was removed from the game. This was a gutsy play that was made when this was still a ball game--with the Warriors trailing in the second inning.
Connor Bartle settled in on the mound and pitched into the fourth inning. By rule, he had to be removed from the game after hitting two batters in the fourth inning. However, he allowed just one hit in this appearance.
The Warriors put the first game away with an 8 run third inning. The offense had four extra base hits in the inning--doubles by Matt Carroll and Matt LeVigne, a triple by Matt Olinksi and a homerun by Rick Sisco (his second of the season). Rick continues to surprise opponents by providing power at the bottom of the order. He had a single, double and homerun in this game.
Jason Enguita relieved Connor Bartle in the fourth inning. Jason struck out three and walked none in this appearance. His control continues to improve as the season progresses.
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Glen Ellyn went on to beat Lombard (our afternoon opponent) by the slaughter rule--which was an indication that our afternoon opponent might not provide much resistance for the Warriors. So far, the quality of our opponents in the Lombard tournament has declined considerably compared to last season.
Last year, two 14U Warriors teams were formed due to the big turnout at the 2010 tryouts. Over 65 players tried out for the teams in 2010. One of the 14U Warriors teams was eliminated during pool play with an 0-3 record. The other 14U Warriors team ended up winning the Lombard tournament (its only tournament championship in 2010) after coming from behind in the semi-finals and hanging on to a one run lead over Palos in the championship game. There certainly weren't any twenty run victories in Lombard last season. I'll cover more on this topic in a future post.
After Tyler Dempsey held Lombard scoreless in the first inning, the Warriors put 8 runs on the board in the bottom of the frame. The Warriors drew four walks in the inning--and capitalized with three consecutive hits by Matt Olinksi, Connor Bartle and Matt LeVigne. Matt Olinksi would go on to drive in four runs in this game.
Last year, two 14U Warriors teams were formed due to the big turnout at the 2010 tryouts. Over 65 players tried out for the teams in 2010. One of the 14U Warriors teams was eliminated during pool play with an 0-3 record. The other 14U Warriors team ended up winning the Lombard tournament (its only tournament championship in 2010) after coming from behind in the semi-finals and hanging on to a one run lead over Palos in the championship game. There certainly weren't any twenty run victories in Lombard last season. I'll cover more on this topic in a future post.
After Tyler Dempsey held Lombard scoreless in the first inning, the Warriors put 8 runs on the board in the bottom of the frame. The Warriors drew four walks in the inning--and capitalized with three consecutive hits by Matt Olinksi, Connor Bartle and Matt LeVigne. Matt Olinksi would go on to drive in four runs in this game.
Lombard scored an unearned run in the top of the second inning. But, that would end Lombard's scoring for the day. Matt Olinksi pitched the next two innings--striking out three. And, Trent Sichelski mopped up in this one--striking out two and allowing no runs despite an infield error behind him.
In the meantime, Tyler Dempsey was putting up some amazing numbers in this game. Tyler had two homers (including a grand slam that landed approximately 315 feet from the plate in straight centerfield), three hits, four runs scored and seven RBI in this game--not bad for a day's work.
Tyler Dempsey
The Warriors will play for the tournament's championship on Sunday.
Friday, July 1, 2011
Player Photos Now Available for Viewing
CLICK HERE to view some of my favorite images from this year's individual photo sessions. CLICK HERE to view all of the photographs.
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