I have talked with the D-backs coach, and we are not able to arrange a game. They only have 9 players, and they were unable to come up with a team on any of the proposed dates. So our season is finished, with a 6-2 record.
Some thoughts....I really think we got better as the season went on, which we should have. We were heavy on 7th graders, and it is a big jump to the big diamond. But they responded well.
We had a couple injuries and days where kids had to be gone. Josiah and Mickey missed games due to injury. Cody, Neil, and Nick also had games missed due to various trips/obligations. But we were able to play thru the missing guys.
We had a good group of kids. Jeff brought it up, and I totally agree, that we were a very positive group, even when things weren't going well. Both Jeff and I hear players from the other teams whining at their pitchers for not throwing strikes, or getting on them after a bad at bat. We had our moments of inattentiveness to what was going on, but nobody got down on their teammates. Both Jeff and I were really proud of the guys for positive attitudes.
I did get a little frustrated at the inattentiveness occasionally at the games. One of our guys would get on base, and there was occasionally no cheering or words of support. Our high school team does a good job of cheering on their teammates. I hope the guys take note, and can do so in the future.
I wish we could have practiced more. But the guys are busy with track, and I'm busy, and there are concerts, and all that other stuff. But hopefully this served as a nice break-in to jr hi ball.
After the last game we went around the huddle, and had everybody say their favorite thing of the season. And all of them were good stories. Matt talking about his 3 RBI single, Spencer talking about Matt getting beaned in the butt for the game winning RBI. Andrew talked about a certain opponent grunting after he grounded out--and how funny that was. Josiah simply liked being healthy enough to play baseball.
It was nice to see that stuff, and the guys noting their success. In the last game, Cody asked me to play left field. He wanted to play 3rd most of the year. But every time he played left field, he was catching balls. He and I both realized he did a really good job for us there.
Neil's favorite moment was when he had the "fight" with Nick over who got to play 2nd base. Neil convinced me, and then had a great play to kill an opponent rally. Good stuff.
So anyway, the 2010 NSCLL Indians are done. I kept stats. If you are interested in your batting or pitching stats, let me know. I'm not gonna send them out as a team, but I would be happy to send out for an individual.
Best of luck in Junior High ball for the guys. Thanks to the parents for concession stand duty, and umpiring that you did, and book keeping and pitch counting. And for the 7th graders, maybe I'll see you next year!
Wednesday, May 26, 2010
Rays review
3 walk off wins in a week, and the last two were come from behind wins. Against the Giants the top of the order came thru, with Andrew and Ben walking, Jerald with a base hit, and Michael with a base hit. Against the Rays, Andrew reached on an error, Ben reached on an error, Jerald got a double, and Michael reached on an error. So not all on us, but we hit the ball, and that got us our chances.
The story of the game was the great pitching by Andrew. A complete game, 7 innings, 94 pitches, and only 4 runs allowed, 3 earned. He did a great job of mixing his pitches to keep the batters off balance. But the defense helped out, with 14 defensive outs. Andrew did his part with 7 strikeouts, and only 2 walks. That is an awesome stat/ratio in this league.
Andrew also scored 2 runs on the day, going 1-3, with a walk. Jerald had a nice day at the plate going 3-4, with 2 singles and a double. Mickey went 3-3 on base, with 2 walks and a single.
Great team effort. The guys were really focused for the game, and when they are, they play really well.
The story of the game was the great pitching by Andrew. A complete game, 7 innings, 94 pitches, and only 4 runs allowed, 3 earned. He did a great job of mixing his pitches to keep the batters off balance. But the defense helped out, with 14 defensive outs. Andrew did his part with 7 strikeouts, and only 2 walks. That is an awesome stat/ratio in this league.
Andrew also scored 2 runs on the day, going 1-3, with a walk. Jerald had a nice day at the plate going 3-4, with 2 singles and a double. Mickey went 3-3 on base, with 2 walks and a single.
Great team effort. The guys were really focused for the game, and when they are, they play really well.
Giants review
Nice come from behind win. Lost the lead in the 5th, but scored two in the 6th for the W. Pitching wasn't the greatest, giving up 10 runs, but fortunately our bats did some talking. Though some of it wasn't bats, as we walked oodles of times. Andrew had 3 walks and a single. Josiah had a couple walks too.
Cody had a nice day with the bat, going 2-3 with a single and a double. Michael also had 2 hits.
Cody had a nice day with the bat, going 2-3 with a single and a double. Michael also had 2 hits.
Tuesday, May 18, 2010
And how could I forget...
3 cheers for Matt's backside. Got the game winning RBI, takin' one for the team.
Good job
Another interesting game. A few too many walks by both teams to call it a "good" game. But the guys hung together, and got the W.
Lot things I liked. Good attitudes the whole game. When Ben was struggling on the mound, I didn't hear a bunch of whining, I heard supportive comments from the defense. We don't clap like trained seals when we are on the bases either.
This was a good team effort, but I want to point out some good individual efforts. Stacey and Mickey both did well for us on the mound. Stacey had a 4 pitch inning, which was awesome. He is not a strikeout king, the other team will hit the ball. But as long as we play solid defense, we will be fine. Mickey was solid in relief.
Neil had a really nice game. Got his first clean base hit of the year, the last one on the team to do so. He also had a super bunt in the 5th to move Cody over in a tie game. He also made a nice defensive play in the bottom of the 6th.
A little story about that. I make my entire game lineup before hand. I accidentally had Neil in right and 2nd. Nick heard that, and said, "I wanna play 2nd". I said "ok". Neil then said he had only got to play 2nd once, and Nick had twice so Neil "demanded" 2nd base. I said "Ok Neil, you a good lawyer, take 2nd". And then Neil went out and made the good defensive play to end the inning. Nick however, claims he would have made the play too.
A note about Cody getting nailed on a stolen base attempt at 3rd after Neil bunted him to 2nd. That is one me. I hollered at Cody to go, as their pitcher was working out of a windup. I have discussed with the guys that they have the green light any time an opposing pitcher works out of a windup. (The reason being is it takes a lot longer to deliver the ball) Cody didn't quite get the jump he needed, and Taylor Hill of the Cubs made a super throw over to nail Cody. I like being aggressive on the bases, and it cost me that time.
In other good things of note, Ben and Jerald reached base in all 4 of their plate appearances. Everybody on the team got on base at least once.
So Friday at 6:30 at the East Diamond brings a rematch with the Giants. And then Saturday at 1:30. Let me know if you can't make it.
Lot things I liked. Good attitudes the whole game. When Ben was struggling on the mound, I didn't hear a bunch of whining, I heard supportive comments from the defense. We don't clap like trained seals when we are on the bases either.
This was a good team effort, but I want to point out some good individual efforts. Stacey and Mickey both did well for us on the mound. Stacey had a 4 pitch inning, which was awesome. He is not a strikeout king, the other team will hit the ball. But as long as we play solid defense, we will be fine. Mickey was solid in relief.
Neil had a really nice game. Got his first clean base hit of the year, the last one on the team to do so. He also had a super bunt in the 5th to move Cody over in a tie game. He also made a nice defensive play in the bottom of the 6th.
A little story about that. I make my entire game lineup before hand. I accidentally had Neil in right and 2nd. Nick heard that, and said, "I wanna play 2nd". I said "ok". Neil then said he had only got to play 2nd once, and Nick had twice so Neil "demanded" 2nd base. I said "Ok Neil, you a good lawyer, take 2nd". And then Neil went out and made the good defensive play to end the inning. Nick however, claims he would have made the play too.
A note about Cody getting nailed on a stolen base attempt at 3rd after Neil bunted him to 2nd. That is one me. I hollered at Cody to go, as their pitcher was working out of a windup. I have discussed with the guys that they have the green light any time an opposing pitcher works out of a windup. (The reason being is it takes a lot longer to deliver the ball) Cody didn't quite get the jump he needed, and Taylor Hill of the Cubs made a super throw over to nail Cody. I like being aggressive on the bases, and it cost me that time.
In other good things of note, Ben and Jerald reached base in all 4 of their plate appearances. Everybody on the team got on base at least once.
So Friday at 6:30 at the East Diamond brings a rematch with the Giants. And then Saturday at 1:30. Let me know if you can't make it.
Sunday, May 16, 2010
Nice Game
Good win against the Padres yesterday. Went by too fast actually, I was having such a good time. And I think the players did too. Not because we won, but everybody was just out enjoying the day, and enjoying playing baseball.
As for the game itself....great pitching by Andrew and Mickey. Andrew was doing a good job, but I pulled him, because I wanted Mickey to get some work too. A shutout is always a nice thing out of your pitchers, no matter the level of baseball. They struck out 9 and walked or plunked 5. I will take that ratio any time.
Our batting was pretty solid yesterday too. I think we had more clean basehits yesterday, than our 4 previous games combined. Nick, Matt, and Josiah got off the schnide and got their first basehits of the year. Matt's was the big bomb, a 3 RBI single.
We have taken a lot of walks this year, but we only walked 3 times, which is interesting. I like baserunners, but I would much rather see the guys out whacking the ball around.
On the offensive side, Ben reached base on all 4 at bats (reached on 2 errors, a walk and a hit), and Matt went 2 for 3. Michael was the only guy that didn't reach base at least once, though he was still putting it in play, and making the Podgers/Dodres field it.
Defensively, we were pretty solid, we did have two errors tho. In the first inning, Andrew did a good job of knowing to cover first from the pitcher's mound, when Jerald had to go to his right to field a ground ball.
Last week of baseball, unless we can get something arranged for after this week, with an Ames team, or the Diamondbacks. One date being looked at is Memorial Day night at 7PM.
Here are the "volunteers" for the concession stand for our last 3 games.
Monday 6:30 Ben and Cody
Friday 6:30 Andrew and Mickey
Saturday 1:30 Jerald and Spencer
As for the game itself....great pitching by Andrew and Mickey. Andrew was doing a good job, but I pulled him, because I wanted Mickey to get some work too. A shutout is always a nice thing out of your pitchers, no matter the level of baseball. They struck out 9 and walked or plunked 5. I will take that ratio any time.
Our batting was pretty solid yesterday too. I think we had more clean basehits yesterday, than our 4 previous games combined. Nick, Matt, and Josiah got off the schnide and got their first basehits of the year. Matt's was the big bomb, a 3 RBI single.
We have taken a lot of walks this year, but we only walked 3 times, which is interesting. I like baserunners, but I would much rather see the guys out whacking the ball around.
On the offensive side, Ben reached base on all 4 at bats (reached on 2 errors, a walk and a hit), and Matt went 2 for 3. Michael was the only guy that didn't reach base at least once, though he was still putting it in play, and making the Podgers/Dodres field it.
Defensively, we were pretty solid, we did have two errors tho. In the first inning, Andrew did a good job of knowing to cover first from the pitcher's mound, when Jerald had to go to his right to field a ground ball.
Last week of baseball, unless we can get something arranged for after this week, with an Ames team, or the Diamondbacks. One date being looked at is Memorial Day night at 7PM.
Here are the "volunteers" for the concession stand for our last 3 games.
Monday 6:30 Ben and Cody
Friday 6:30 Andrew and Mickey
Saturday 1:30 Jerald and Spencer
Thursday, May 13, 2010
Game on! Saturday 1PM
The Padres are good to go to play us on Saturday at 1 at the East Diamond in SC. Our game on Tuesday was to be in Gilbert. However since we were off on Saturday, and the Padres are playing at East at 10PM, with their expanded roster of 17 players, they are good to go to play a doubleheader.
Let me know if you can't make it. I know Cody is out, and Neil is out. We can play with 8, or I may snare a pool player D-Ray to get us to 9, if somebody else can't make it.
thanks for your flexibility in all this!
Let me know if you can't make it. I know Cody is out, and Neil is out. We can play with 8, or I may snare a pool player D-Ray to get us to 9, if somebody else can't make it.
thanks for your flexibility in all this!
Tuesday, May 11, 2010
Tuesday game at Gilbert is Cancelled
The field at Gilbert is too wet to play today. Tentatively, we are looking at a 1PM in Story City on Saturday for a makeup.
Wednesday, May 5, 2010
eh.
Well we did some good things, but not enough of them. And then defensively, walks, combined with timely hits by their part, and untimely errors on our part gave the W to the D-Rays.
I talked to the guys about getting outs when you have a lead. We tried to make some plays, but it didn't happen. Then we had our circus music plays, where we looked like 9 year olds out there throwing the ball around.
Pretty much an ugly game. It shouldn't take 2 hours to play 3.5 innings of baseball. But such is life.
Josiah did a good job of pitching, for his first attempt of the year. He got a little tired, then combined with some errors, the start of the 3rd inning went cuckoo. Then Jerald gave up some walks, then some hits, and that is problematic in any level of baseball.
Andrew had a nice day at the plate, getting on base all 3 times up. Andrew, Ben, Jerald, and Michael all had base hits.
No game until next Tuesday. I don't see a practice in there before then. I have stuff going on, or the field is busy, or the kids are busy. So, any improvement is on them.
I talked to the guys about getting outs when you have a lead. We tried to make some plays, but it didn't happen. Then we had our circus music plays, where we looked like 9 year olds out there throwing the ball around.
Pretty much an ugly game. It shouldn't take 2 hours to play 3.5 innings of baseball. But such is life.
Josiah did a good job of pitching, for his first attempt of the year. He got a little tired, then combined with some errors, the start of the 3rd inning went cuckoo. Then Jerald gave up some walks, then some hits, and that is problematic in any level of baseball.
Andrew had a nice day at the plate, getting on base all 3 times up. Andrew, Ben, Jerald, and Michael all had base hits.
No game until next Tuesday. I don't see a practice in there before then. I have stuff going on, or the field is busy, or the kids are busy. So, any improvement is on them.
Monday, May 3, 2010
Game on Wednesday
We are moving our Thursday game to Wednesday--6:30 at East Diamond.
Also our game on Thursday May 13 is being scratched due to a concert moving. No makeup date yet.
Also our game on Thursday May 13 is being scratched due to a concert moving. No makeup date yet.
Saturday, May 1, 2010
Nice win
A little windy, but a nice day for baseball. Good win for the Indians. First off, great pitching by Andrew and Stacey. Andrew get the G-men off balance with a mix of fast and curve balls. And Stacey didn't throw hard, but really messed with the timing of the batters.
As for Stacey, he hadn't pitched this year, and I was going to give him an inning to see how he would do. And he did good, so I gave another inning. And so on. I had Josiah and Mickey warming up in the pen, but our defense did a good job of getting outs. That is how baseball should be played. They hit the ball, we field it, we get them out. And other than a few problematic errors, for the most part, we did that.
Andrew, Cody, Josiah, Spencer, and Jerald all caught some high pop ups. With that wind, they were no simple catches. Josiah's was probably the best, on a ball hit deep to center.
I'd still like to see more base hits. In 3 games this year, we only have 7 base hits. Jerald had two today, and Ben had 1. But to that, when the other team is walking you all the time, that is tough too. We got walked 15 times today. Aye carumba!
Andrew surrendered two in 3 innings of work, and Stacey walked 3 in 4 innings. Awesome! In this league, anytime you surrender less than a walk an inning, good things will happen for you, and they did.
Thing we need to improve on is watching me give signs, and doing what the signs are. Couple missed bunt and steal signs today.
But again, real happy with the effort. No practice on Sunday. Tentatively, we are going to play Wednesday at 6:30 at the East Diamond. Not 100% done deal tho. Stay tuned. Good job Indians!
As for Stacey, he hadn't pitched this year, and I was going to give him an inning to see how he would do. And he did good, so I gave another inning. And so on. I had Josiah and Mickey warming up in the pen, but our defense did a good job of getting outs. That is how baseball should be played. They hit the ball, we field it, we get them out. And other than a few problematic errors, for the most part, we did that.
Andrew, Cody, Josiah, Spencer, and Jerald all caught some high pop ups. With that wind, they were no simple catches. Josiah's was probably the best, on a ball hit deep to center.
I'd still like to see more base hits. In 3 games this year, we only have 7 base hits. Jerald had two today, and Ben had 1. But to that, when the other team is walking you all the time, that is tough too. We got walked 15 times today. Aye carumba!
Andrew surrendered two in 3 innings of work, and Stacey walked 3 in 4 innings. Awesome! In this league, anytime you surrender less than a walk an inning, good things will happen for you, and they did.
Thing we need to improve on is watching me give signs, and doing what the signs are. Couple missed bunt and steal signs today.
But again, real happy with the effort. No practice on Sunday. Tentatively, we are going to play Wednesday at 6:30 at the East Diamond. Not 100% done deal tho. Stay tuned. Good job Indians!
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
Game move
First up, reminder this Saturday to be at Jewell at 2:10 for pictures. If you didn't get a form, you can get one there, but bring a check. And as a reminder, no obligation to purchase pictures. The game is at 3. The field is behind the high school.
Now for a game move. The Jr Hi Dance for this Friday has been postponed to Thursday May 6. We had a game scheduled that night. It is against the Devil Rays, another R-S based team. I know where my priorities are, but I'm guessing the majority of both teams would prefer to go to the dance.
So assuming both us and the DRays won't be able to field a team, we need to move the game. How does Wednesday May 5 look? I know that is church night, but I also know a lot of church youth groups are done by May. So I wanted to find out if that will work or not. Please email me with a yay or nay on Wednesday May 5 to replace Thursday May 6.
(above)Junior High Dance
Now for a game move. The Jr Hi Dance for this Friday has been postponed to Thursday May 6. We had a game scheduled that night. It is against the Devil Rays, another R-S based team. I know where my priorities are, but I'm guessing the majority of both teams would prefer to go to the dance.
So assuming both us and the DRays won't be able to field a team, we need to move the game. How does Wednesday May 5 look? I know that is church night, but I also know a lot of church youth groups are done by May. So I wanted to find out if that will work or not. Please email me with a yay or nay on Wednesday May 5 to replace Thursday May 6.
(above)Junior High Dance
(below)Bob Freakin Feller of Van Meter, Iowa, one of the all time Indian Greats, and the greatest baseball player ever from the state of Iowa. He ain't a dancer.
Saturday, April 24, 2010
Indians vs Pods/Dods
First some pregame stuff...Gilbert had 17 kids out for Juniors BB. Not enough for two teams, but a bit unruly for one team. They did not have enough jerseys for one team, so they are officially the Padres, but some kids wear Dodgers uniforms. They don't all come to every game. They split it up some how. So anyway, that's why the two jerseys.
Nice to see Coach Paul Rhodes there. His son batted 2nd and went 1-4 today.
The field was really wet this morning. The league has a new pump, and Jeff and I took about 40 gallons of water off the field. Was still soggy by 2nd base, but glad we got the game in.
Weird plays at the end....Jerald hit into an infield fly (runners on 1st and 2nd and 3rd with 0 out). He was automatically out. The SS dropped the ball. Jerald was still out. However runners can advance at their own peril, whether the ball is caught or not. With the dropped ball, Andrew ran home. They threw home, but the catcher never tagged Andrew, he just stood there, so the run counted.
Next batter, something happened and Spencer came home, probably should have slid, but in my judgment, was not required to. Found out later, both Andrew and Spencer both missed home plate. The Padres coaches saw, and hollered at David the umpire. However David said I can't tell you, you need to run an appeal. Padres coaches were unaware of that process. That is what we talked to the guys about after the game. If they see an opponent miss a base, they need to take the ball, step on the base/plate, and say, "Mr. Umpire, the runner missed the base/plate". The umpire will then agree or disagree. But the umpire cannot unilaterally call somebody out for missing a base/plate. So even though we never touched the plate, the run counts, per baseball rules.
As for our performance, lotsa errors and walks by the Pods/Dods helped our cause. We only had 4 true base hits today, 1 each by Michael, Jerald, Mickey, and Cody.
Everybody scored today but Matt and Mickey. Jerald and Josiah each scored 2 runs. Everybody put the ball in play today except Josiah, fresh off the DL. Josiah did have two walks tho. Spencer, Jerald, and Michael all put the ball in play 4 times.
Hustle down the line got us a couple runners today. Matt, Jerald, and Spencer all got on base because of Padre errors, that the Padres could have corrected if our guys weren't hustling.
Our base running was much improved today, then Jos almost got picked at 3rd for talking to me, and not paying attention. A couple guys did miss signs tho to steal.
Our pitching was ok today, but not great. Too many walks. Our defense had a couple errors that hurt our pitchers. But our defense also bailed out pitchers too. Andrew had a nice unassisted double play. We had a guy or two thrown out at the plate. Mickey whispered a hint to Jerald that the runner at first was sleeping after a pitch. Jerald took advantage, fired over, and picked the runner off. Nice communication guys! Michael and Cody each caught fly balls in the outfield in the same inning. That's real baseball, they hit the ball, we field it.
Ben and Spencer did a good job behind the plate. They let a couple get by them that scored runs, but for the most part, they kept the balls in front of them.
Practice on Sunday from 1 to 2:30. If you have family stuff, that is fine no big deal. But if you want the kids out of your hair, send 'em over.
Nice to see Coach Paul Rhodes there. His son batted 2nd and went 1-4 today.
The field was really wet this morning. The league has a new pump, and Jeff and I took about 40 gallons of water off the field. Was still soggy by 2nd base, but glad we got the game in.
Weird plays at the end....Jerald hit into an infield fly (runners on 1st and 2nd and 3rd with 0 out). He was automatically out. The SS dropped the ball. Jerald was still out. However runners can advance at their own peril, whether the ball is caught or not. With the dropped ball, Andrew ran home. They threw home, but the catcher never tagged Andrew, he just stood there, so the run counted.
Next batter, something happened and Spencer came home, probably should have slid, but in my judgment, was not required to. Found out later, both Andrew and Spencer both missed home plate. The Padres coaches saw, and hollered at David the umpire. However David said I can't tell you, you need to run an appeal. Padres coaches were unaware of that process. That is what we talked to the guys about after the game. If they see an opponent miss a base, they need to take the ball, step on the base/plate, and say, "Mr. Umpire, the runner missed the base/plate". The umpire will then agree or disagree. But the umpire cannot unilaterally call somebody out for missing a base/plate. So even though we never touched the plate, the run counts, per baseball rules.
As for our performance, lotsa errors and walks by the Pods/Dods helped our cause. We only had 4 true base hits today, 1 each by Michael, Jerald, Mickey, and Cody.
Everybody scored today but Matt and Mickey. Jerald and Josiah each scored 2 runs. Everybody put the ball in play today except Josiah, fresh off the DL. Josiah did have two walks tho. Spencer, Jerald, and Michael all put the ball in play 4 times.
Hustle down the line got us a couple runners today. Matt, Jerald, and Spencer all got on base because of Padre errors, that the Padres could have corrected if our guys weren't hustling.
Our base running was much improved today, then Jos almost got picked at 3rd for talking to me, and not paying attention. A couple guys did miss signs tho to steal.
Our pitching was ok today, but not great. Too many walks. Our defense had a couple errors that hurt our pitchers. But our defense also bailed out pitchers too. Andrew had a nice unassisted double play. We had a guy or two thrown out at the plate. Mickey whispered a hint to Jerald that the runner at first was sleeping after a pitch. Jerald took advantage, fired over, and picked the runner off. Nice communication guys! Michael and Cody each caught fly balls in the outfield in the same inning. That's real baseball, they hit the ball, we field it.
Ben and Spencer did a good job behind the plate. They let a couple get by them that scored runs, but for the most part, they kept the balls in front of them.
Practice on Sunday from 1 to 2:30. If you have family stuff, that is fine no big deal. But if you want the kids out of your hair, send 'em over.
Game on
Been working on the field this morning, little soggy by 2nd base, but I think we can get the game in. So game on, 1:30 at East Diamond, be there by 1 if you can.
Friday, April 23, 2010
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
News and Notes
Hi gang. Hope the rain doesn't wipe us out this weekend, or we are going to go about 3 weeks without a game. Tough to get stuff rescheduled as we have track, and field space limitations.
Anyway, we have a game this Saturday at 1:30 at East Diamond. We might have a practice Sunday, whether we have rain or not on Saturday, but keep that in the back of your mind.
We got our "formal" picture taking schedule. We are getting pictures at Jewell on May 1 at 2:10PM, ahead of our 3PM game. So please plan on being there at that time. I hope to get forms to pass out to y'all. No obligation to buy. I will also have a family picture day at some future game, where I will line the guys up, and you can take your own pics.
As a reminder, here is our "volunteer" concession stand schedule.
Sat Apr 24 1:30 Neil, Nick
Thu May 13 6:30 Matt, Michael
Mon May 17 6:30 Ben, Cody
Fri May 21 6:30 Andrew, Tyler
Sat May 22 1:30 Jerald, Spencer
We are trying to get last Monday's Giants game rescheduled, no luck yet. Also working on getting a game scheduled with an Ames team.
On the good news front, Josiah will be back to join us for our next game.
Anyway, we have a game this Saturday at 1:30 at East Diamond. We might have a practice Sunday, whether we have rain or not on Saturday, but keep that in the back of your mind.
We got our "formal" picture taking schedule. We are getting pictures at Jewell on May 1 at 2:10PM, ahead of our 3PM game. So please plan on being there at that time. I hope to get forms to pass out to y'all. No obligation to buy. I will also have a family picture day at some future game, where I will line the guys up, and you can take your own pics.
As a reminder, here is our "volunteer" concession stand schedule.
Sat Apr 24 1:30 Neil, Nick
Thu May 13 6:30 Matt, Michael
Mon May 17 6:30 Ben, Cody
Fri May 21 6:30 Andrew, Tyler
Sat May 22 1:30 Jerald, Spencer
We are trying to get last Monday's Giants game rescheduled, no luck yet. Also working on getting a game scheduled with an Ames team.
On the good news front, Josiah will be back to join us for our next game.
Thursday, April 15, 2010
Practice Saturday, Monday cancelled
We are gonna have a practice at 9:30 AM Saturday until 11AM. I know it is short notice, but we are working around games and other such stuff. So try to make it if you can. If you can't please let me know.
I also got a note about needing to cancel our game on Monday from the Dbacks coach. There is a track meet in Jewell, and they don't want us playing baseball on that field while there is a track meet going on. They proposed some new dates for me, haven't checked them yet, but I know the East Diamond is busy, so we won't be able to go there. So pretty much plan on the game Monday being canceled.
I also got a note about needing to cancel our game on Monday from the Dbacks coach. There is a track meet in Jewell, and they don't want us playing baseball on that field while there is a track meet going on. They proposed some new dates for me, haven't checked them yet, but I know the East Diamond is busy, so we won't be able to go there. So pretty much plan on the game Monday being canceled.
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
Moms are safe
Well we didn't 10 run our opponent, so the moms don't have to break out the tube tops.
First the bad. We got no-hit. We also had a couple mental errors on the bases, and in not doing backups while fielding.
We lost 8-1, but really, I don't think we played all that bad. We had some physical errors too, but those don't really bother me. The guys are 13 or 14, they are not always gonna make plays.
The thing is, we had some really hard hit balls tonite, but they were right at guys. Finley, Neil, and Andrew all smacked some hard balls. However, we did have our struggles at the bat too. Everybody struck out tonite at least once, except Andrew. We also left 6 runners in scoring position.
We had some nice stuff on defense. Tops in my mind was the grounder to Jerald at first, who had to go to his right to field it, and then there was Neil, covering from 2nd, at 1st, to get the out. That worked like we had practiced it 100 times. Jerald also had some nice backups at short, when our catcher overthrew the pitcher.
Mickey had some nice plays at third, Matt knocked one down at 2nd, didn't initially field it cleanly, but hung with it, and threw the guy out at first. We also executed a run down between 2nd and 3rd fairly well, considering how we haven't practiced it much. I thought Nick did a good job when he was out running the bases.
Though we as a team aren't negative, we still suffer from some indifference. I was kinda disappointed that when we got some baserunners, our dugout wasn't always appreciative of the effort.
I'm trying to get the guys to interact a little more. I made the warmups today that a 7th grader had to play catch with an 8th grader. I really want to see the guys focusing on the game, while in the dugout, and being supportive of their teammates, whether something good happens, or to give them a boost if something bad happens.
Haven't thought about our next practice much. I'm heading out of town, then have some umpiring. Looking like we will have to go with Sunday. Stay tuned...
First the bad. We got no-hit. We also had a couple mental errors on the bases, and in not doing backups while fielding.
We lost 8-1, but really, I don't think we played all that bad. We had some physical errors too, but those don't really bother me. The guys are 13 or 14, they are not always gonna make plays.
The thing is, we had some really hard hit balls tonite, but they were right at guys. Finley, Neil, and Andrew all smacked some hard balls. However, we did have our struggles at the bat too. Everybody struck out tonite at least once, except Andrew. We also left 6 runners in scoring position.
We had some nice stuff on defense. Tops in my mind was the grounder to Jerald at first, who had to go to his right to field it, and then there was Neil, covering from 2nd, at 1st, to get the out. That worked like we had practiced it 100 times. Jerald also had some nice backups at short, when our catcher overthrew the pitcher.
Mickey had some nice plays at third, Matt knocked one down at 2nd, didn't initially field it cleanly, but hung with it, and threw the guy out at first. We also executed a run down between 2nd and 3rd fairly well, considering how we haven't practiced it much. I thought Nick did a good job when he was out running the bases.
Though we as a team aren't negative, we still suffer from some indifference. I was kinda disappointed that when we got some baserunners, our dugout wasn't always appreciative of the effort.
I'm trying to get the guys to interact a little more. I made the warmups today that a 7th grader had to play catch with an 8th grader. I really want to see the guys focusing on the game, while in the dugout, and being supportive of their teammates, whether something good happens, or to give them a boost if something bad happens.
Haven't thought about our next practice much. I'm heading out of town, then have some umpiring. Looking like we will have to go with Sunday. Stay tuned...
Monday, April 12, 2010
Ten run Tube Top Tuesday
In case you didn't know, on any team I coach, it is Ten run Tube Top Tuesday for our Tuesday games. If we ten run our opponent on a Tuesday, all the moms have to wear tube tops to the next game.
It's the law, don't question it.
It's the law, don't question it.
Sunday, April 11, 2010
scrimmage commentary
All in all, reasonably happy with the effort today. One thing I was really happy about, and in all the years I've coached, I don't know if I can say this---every player on the team put the ball in play at least once today. Usually at least one kid either walks or strikes out a couple times. And today, out of 25 plate appearances, we only struck out 5 times. That's great.
We were short staffed, so that made it a little weird, but the guys did ok, and had a nice catch by Ross Barclay of the Rays for us in Left Field.
My biggest disappointment is stranding a lot of runners today. We had our opportunities to score, but couldn't come through with the big hit when we needed it. Or we got our hits with 2 outs, and it is tough to get something going then.
Run down of what I most liked about the guys today....
Spencer did a good job behind the plate today--I liked being able to whisper in his ear alot
Matt got the ball in play a couple times, and got on base both times he hit it
Ben had a nice inning of work on the mound, got himself in trouble, and dug out.
Jerald got on base every time he got up to bat
Cody hustling hard to get on base due to an error by their 3rd baseman
Neil had a heck of a bunt, but got thrown out anyway. If he had hit it 5 feet further, he gets a base hit.
Nick had a nice bloop single to lead off an inning for us. Very important to get lead off batters on.
Twas a good experience for the guys. Glad we got that in before our game on Tuesday--and what a great day today was. Tuesday is looking good weather-wise. Have the guys there by 6PM if you can.
We were short staffed, so that made it a little weird, but the guys did ok, and had a nice catch by Ross Barclay of the Rays for us in Left Field.
My biggest disappointment is stranding a lot of runners today. We had our opportunities to score, but couldn't come through with the big hit when we needed it. Or we got our hits with 2 outs, and it is tough to get something going then.
Run down of what I most liked about the guys today....
Spencer did a good job behind the plate today--I liked being able to whisper in his ear alot
Matt got the ball in play a couple times, and got on base both times he hit it
Ben had a nice inning of work on the mound, got himself in trouble, and dug out.
Jerald got on base every time he got up to bat
Cody hustling hard to get on base due to an error by their 3rd baseman
Neil had a heck of a bunt, but got thrown out anyway. If he had hit it 5 feet further, he gets a base hit.
Nick had a nice bloop single to lead off an inning for us. Very important to get lead off batters on.
Twas a good experience for the guys. Glad we got that in before our game on Tuesday--and what a great day today was. Tuesday is looking good weather-wise. Have the guys there by 6PM if you can.
scrimmage today
We have a scrimmage today on Sunday from 1 to 2:30 hard stop. Players are to be there at 12:30 to start warming up. If you can't make it, no big deal. A lot of people have stuff on Sunday, and that is fine. Andrew gets to see the Royals/Red Sox down in KC, instead of our glorious Indians/Rays matchup.
Practice on Saturday was ok. Not the most exciting practice. A lot of standing around, as we did live pitching and hitting. But it was something our batters and pitchers needed. As a whole, we did ok considering the amount of practice we had. Batters didn't get a lot of hits into play, which has me slightly concerned, but it may have been the pitchers weren't throwing as many strikes.
Thanks to Mickey and Jerald for coming down to help on the field cleanup. The field is in really good shape. The big fixes were fence repair and working on the infield--moving dirt, adjusting the bases, and fixing the mound.
Practice on Saturday was ok. Not the most exciting practice. A lot of standing around, as we did live pitching and hitting. But it was something our batters and pitchers needed. As a whole, we did ok considering the amount of practice we had. Batters didn't get a lot of hits into play, which has me slightly concerned, but it may have been the pitchers weren't throwing as many strikes.
Thanks to Mickey and Jerald for coming down to help on the field cleanup. The field is in really good shape. The big fixes were fence repair and working on the infield--moving dirt, adjusting the bases, and fixing the mound.
Thursday, April 8, 2010
Weekend practices
Pretty much official now, we are going to have a practice from 1 to 2:30 on Saturday.
Then on Sunday, we are going to have a low key scrimmage/practice with the Rays on Sunday from 1 to 2:30. However, I'd like the guys there at 12:30 for the 1PM first pitch. They are to wear their hat, baseball pants, and a red shirt. Jeff Crisman has the uniforms yet, but we will get them handed out before Tuesday.
Let me know if you can't make the Saturday or Sunday, if you haven't already. We are already down to a 10 man team, so it also would be very, very helpful if you let me know your son can't make a game.
As for Tuesday, try to have the guys there by 6PM. I know it is tough with track and all, but do what you can.
Also a reminder that East Diamond cleanup is Saturday starting at 9, though people will be around for awhile after that. If you can help even for an hour, that would be great.
Then on Sunday, we are going to have a low key scrimmage/practice with the Rays on Sunday from 1 to 2:30. However, I'd like the guys there at 12:30 for the 1PM first pitch. They are to wear their hat, baseball pants, and a red shirt. Jeff Crisman has the uniforms yet, but we will get them handed out before Tuesday.
Let me know if you can't make the Saturday or Sunday, if you haven't already. We are already down to a 10 man team, so it also would be very, very helpful if you let me know your son can't make a game.
As for Tuesday, try to have the guys there by 6PM. I know it is tough with track and all, but do what you can.
Also a reminder that East Diamond cleanup is Saturday starting at 9, though people will be around for awhile after that. If you can help even for an hour, that would be great.
Tuesday, April 6, 2010
no track, no rain, no baseball
Well bummer. Tuesday is our night for the field, but there was a track meet scheduled. Then the meet was cancelled for some unknown reason. So no track or baseball tonite.
So for now, our next Indians events are practice Saturday from 1 to 2:30 PM, and Sunday from 1 to 2:30PM. (Tentative) We may have a scrimmage with the Rays in there that will change some times, but for now, that is what we have. Then our opener is one week from tonite in SC.
Volunteer corner!
This Saturday, starting at 9, we are going to be cleaning up the East Diamond. If you can handle an hour or so, parent or player, that would be nice. We are going to clean up the concession stand, rake up leaves, fix fences, fill holes, and so on. Bring a rake, or a shovel, or some fence fixing type tools. Put in an hour, and leave guilt free!
While the above is optional volunteering, I am also sending out some mandatory volunteering (!). To keep our fees low (Ames and Ankeny are way over $100 bucks a kid for LL), we run concession stands. So we ask the parents to take a shift in the concession stand. We have 5 home games, so I am just pulling names from a hat. Please fill them, and if you can't, please ask another parent to switch please.
Sat Apr 24 1:30 Neil, Nick
Thu May 13 6:30 Matt, Michael
Mon May 17 6:30 Ben, Cody
Fri May 21 6:30 Andrew, Tyler
Sat May 22 1:30 Jerald, Spencer
I will send a confirmation about this weekend in a day or so.
So for now, our next Indians events are practice Saturday from 1 to 2:30 PM, and Sunday from 1 to 2:30PM. (Tentative) We may have a scrimmage with the Rays in there that will change some times, but for now, that is what we have. Then our opener is one week from tonite in SC.
Volunteer corner!
This Saturday, starting at 9, we are going to be cleaning up the East Diamond. If you can handle an hour or so, parent or player, that would be nice. We are going to clean up the concession stand, rake up leaves, fix fences, fill holes, and so on. Bring a rake, or a shovel, or some fence fixing type tools. Put in an hour, and leave guilt free!
While the above is optional volunteering, I am also sending out some mandatory volunteering (!). To keep our fees low (Ames and Ankeny are way over $100 bucks a kid for LL), we run concession stands. So we ask the parents to take a shift in the concession stand. We have 5 home games, so I am just pulling names from a hat. Please fill them, and if you can't, please ask another parent to switch please.
Sat Apr 24 1:30 Neil, Nick
Thu May 13 6:30 Matt, Michael
Mon May 17 6:30 Ben, Cody
Fri May 21 6:30 Andrew, Tyler
Sat May 22 1:30 Jerald, Spencer
I will send a confirmation about this weekend in a day or so.
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
March 30 practice
Nice warm day for practice. Good to be on the ball field with the exception of the wind. We had a pretty good practice physically tonite. The guys did a pretty good job catching, fielding, and throwing. Our relay race looked a lot better than Sunday.
We did some baserunning, and it was kinda sad. With that said, I'll give the guys somewhat of a break, as with the wind, it was hard to hear me hollering outs.
In case you haven't heard, Josiah has been put on the DL. Fractured his foot or something at school today. Maybe we can get him back in May.
Not sure when the next practice will be. I'm gone this weekend. MAYBE Friday night. Next Tuesday is a track meet, so much of the team will be doing that. So if the guys want to get better, I'm putting it on them. First game is 2 weeks from tonite!
We did some baserunning, and it was kinda sad. With that said, I'll give the guys somewhat of a break, as with the wind, it was hard to hear me hollering outs.
In case you haven't heard, Josiah has been put on the DL. Fractured his foot or something at school today. Maybe we can get him back in May.
Not sure when the next practice will be. I'm gone this weekend. MAYBE Friday night. Next Tuesday is a track meet, so much of the team will be doing that. So if the guys want to get better, I'm putting it on them. First game is 2 weeks from tonite!
Sunday, March 28, 2010
so-so practice today
Kinda hard with as windy as it was. It was hard to hear each other, and it was hard to throw batting practice pitches. Still it was good to get some reps. Matt did a good job today knocking down grounders down 2nd base way. Got Neil and Cody to a practice, so that is good.
Had a fun time with the relay race competition. Two teams of four. Each team had to throw from about home to first, first to short right, and short right to the right field fence and back. Good experience for throwing and catching the ball in a "pressure" situation, while they were "racing" each other.
Next practice is Tuesday from 6:30 to 8. Reminder to get gray pants if you don't have them.
Had a fun time with the relay race competition. Two teams of four. Each team had to throw from about home to first, first to short right, and short right to the right field fence and back. Good experience for throwing and catching the ball in a "pressure" situation, while they were "racing" each other.
Next practice is Tuesday from 6:30 to 8. Reminder to get gray pants if you don't have them.
Saturday, March 27, 2010
Next practices
Next practice is tomorrow, Sunday, from 3:30 to 5PM
Then, we will have practice on Tuesday from 6:30 to 8PM.
Not sure after that.
Practice today went pretty well. Guys are still a little rusty on some things, but that is ok. It's just nice to get them out throwing, and running, and hitting. We booted some balls, swung and missed a lot, and didn't always throw strikes. But we had some good hits, some good defense, and some nicely thrown balls too. So, all in all, I am happy with how things are going.
I know the practice is short notice, so no biggie if you can't make it. But super if you can.
Then, we will have practice on Tuesday from 6:30 to 8PM.
Not sure after that.
Practice today went pretty well. Guys are still a little rusty on some things, but that is ok. It's just nice to get them out throwing, and running, and hitting. We booted some balls, swung and missed a lot, and didn't always throw strikes. But we had some good hits, some good defense, and some nicely thrown balls too. So, all in all, I am happy with how things are going.
I know the practice is short notice, so no biggie if you can't make it. But super if you can.
Schedule is released
The 2010 schedule is up at the league website www.eteamz.com/nscll
We have 10 games. Nice round robin schedule, with 6 teams in the league, we play everybody twice. We may add a game or two in with Ames, if our schedules can sync up.
Reminder: If you are going to miss a game, let me know as soon as possible. I have to manage a pitching rotation with our pitch count rules. So if I was planning on somebody pitching, and then I find out late somebody can't make it, that could put the team in a bind. Of course, I understand sickness, and other stuff comes up at the last minute. But if you have something planned, let me know please!
We have 10 games. Nice round robin schedule, with 6 teams in the league, we play everybody twice. We may add a game or two in with Ames, if our schedules can sync up.
Reminder: If you are going to miss a game, let me know as soon as possible. I have to manage a pitching rotation with our pitch count rules. So if I was planning on somebody pitching, and then I find out late somebody can't make it, that could put the team in a bind. Of course, I understand sickness, and other stuff comes up at the last minute. But if you have something planned, let me know please!
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
Welcome, and first practice
Hello, welcome to post #1. I am going to use this blog for commentary on games and practices, as well as updates to time and date changes of Indians events.
Had our first practice tonite. We had 9/11ths of the team there, so pretty good turnout for a short notice. It was nice to let everybody throw and run a little bit. We went over some of the rules changes for playing on the big diamond. The 8th graders should know them, but it is a big step up for the 7th graders.
Saw some good plays, and some bad plays, but that is to be expected, since most of them had not been on a diamond in 8 months.
It appears we have a good bunch of guys, so I am looking forward to the season. It will go quick. First game is tentatively Apr 13, and the last game about May 25.
Check back here for updates. And a reminder that the next Indians event is practice on Saturday at 1PM at the East Diamond
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