Not Good, Not Good At All

The boys played down to the level of competition last night and did not have enough to pull it out.  Pitching and hitting were left at home.  Thanks to Trevor for holding the score, giving the boys a chance to get back into the game.

Again, even after many warnings from the coaches, the boys still are not looking down for their signs before stepping into the batters box.  Some got the signs and did not do what they were suppose to do.  I will be checking with the base coaches and there will be disciplinary action taken against the worst offenders.  Players cannot just do their own thing to the detriment of the team.

Pitchers need to throw strikes.  The team we played last nigh scored 10 run, had two base hits.  That gives you an indication  of the gifts that were given to them.  Hitters did not hit either.  Their pitcher was throwing meat up there and nobody was hitting it.  I also an a little leary of the baseballs FAA has issued to use.  They sounded like mush off the bat.  I saw a couple his we had that were hit hard and they went no where.  It may be part of the safety craze these associations are falling into.

Don't get me wrong.   I understand safety.  But this game is played by hundreds of thousands of boys each year and the media spot lights one freak accident and treats it as the norm.

Welcome back Travis!!!!

Travis got his cast off last Friday and he has been given the green light by his doctor to play ball.  I know his parents want him in there, but I still want to take it slow with him.  He is more valuable to us for the whole season than for one game.  He'll play, but I have to consider how much and where.

As you saw on the email sent by Greg Leber, I would really like to get into the tournament that Ballwin will be holding Mother's Day weekend.  Please let Greg know your interest in having you son play.  I do have a few other boys that can play, so do not feel pressured if you cannot.

Completely Bummed

I am sooooo itching to get a game in.  One that counts!

I did some scouting on two of our rivals baseball teams.  The Bullets and Fenix Construction.

The Bullets

Defense

• Their starting catcher, still has a problem catching the ball.  A lot of pass balls and wild pitches. 
• Boys were out of position and not hitting cut-offs.  Standing flat footed because the pitchers were not throwing strikes.  Third baseman had hard time making throw across diamond.
• First baseman made good diving play on pop-up.
• Fenix Construction runners took bases uncontested.

Pitching

• Starting pitcher had better control this year. The Bullets pitching staff has some decent pitchers.  Only saw the two pitchers.  The other pitcher was new.  Since the game was a blowout, I think the coach only put him in for some work.  Does not look like a regular pitcher.  Their best player/pitcher may be out though due to an Achilles strain.

 Offense

• Non-Existent.  Over powered by the power arms of Fenix.  Only scored one run.  No runners.

 Fenix Construction

Defense

• Their catcher picked off a couple players at third base.  Strong throwing arm and good receiver.  Infielders were back on their heels because the Bullets did not hit the ball at all.

Pitching

• Only got to see one pitcher.  Hard thrower with control.

Offense

• Decent hitters.  If our pitchers throw strikes, I do not think they will cause too many problems.  Very aggressive runners.

Rain Rain Go Away

Rain out for opener on April 13th. Lined up a another practice game for next Saturday the 21st.  Game will be at 10:00 - 12:00 against a team out of Affton.  Next game Wednesday April 18th at 6:00PM against our nemesis The Bullets