Meet The Bachrach BallBusters

by nick 8/4/2009 5:53:00 AM

[No text]

Richard Bachrach

Nickname- The Boss

Years on BallBusters-4

Position- Owner

Favorite Team- Yankees

Favorite player- Mickey Mantle

Most Embarrassing Moment- When Nick lost his pants rounding third

If you could invite three people to dinner, dead or living, who would they be- Marilyn Monroe, JFK, Pamela Anderson

Three things you hate- insubordination,, incompetence, lateness

Jeff McLaughlin

Nickname- Freight Train

Years on BallBusters-1

Position- Manager

Favorite Team- Mets

Favorite Player- Cleon Jones

Most Embarrassing Moment- none, I don't play

If you could invite three people to dinner, dead or living, who would they be- Abraham Lincoln, Duane Allman, Jesus

Three things you hate- Allan Ageman, Ron Kornfeld, Anyone associated with the Dallas Cowboys

Scott Book

Nickname- The Babe

Years on BallBuster-4

Position-LF

Favorite Team- Yankees

Favorite Player- Don Mattingly

Most Embarrassing moment- In High School I missed a sign and tried to steal home, was out by a mile

If you could invite three people to dinner, dead or living, who would they be- Ron Kornfeld, my Grandpa, Don Mattingly

Three Things you hate- lying, lazy people, glass in the Randall's island outfield

Nick Catalano

Nickname- The Franchise

Years on BallBusters-4

Position-1b

Favorite team- Bachrach BallBusters

Favorite Player- James Sammarco

Most Embarrassing Moment- Losing my pants scoring a run last season

If you could invite three people to dinner, dead or living, who would they be- Ronald Reagan, Jim Morrison, Jesus Christ

Three things you hate- Mark Messier, The NY Yankees and Communism

James Sammarco

Nickname- The Kid

Years on BallBusters-3

Position- RF

Favorite team- The Yankees

Favorite Player- Lou Gehrig

Most Embarrassing Moment- All my throwing errors at SS

If you could invite three people to dinner, dead or living, who would they be- Anu, The Franchise, David Tobin

Three things you hate- String beans, girls with gaps in there teeth, Indian food

Alison McGlincy

Nickname- Trash Mouth

Years on BallBusters- 4

Position- 2b

Favorite team- Yankees

Favorite Player- Don Mattingly

Most embarrassing moment- almost having an "accident" on the field

If you could invite three people to dinner, dead or living, who would they be- Oprah, Lewis Black, Warren Buffet

Three Things you hate- Cigarettes, cottage cheese, jorts (jean shorts on men)

Oliver Hernandez

Nickname- Oliver Mays

Years on Ballbusters-4

Favorite team- Chicago Cubs

Favorite player- Willie Mays

Most Embarrassing moment- Striking out last week with the bases loaded

If you could invite three people to dinner, dead or living, who would they be- Jessica Biel, Diane Lane, Meagan Fox

Three Things you hate- not being able to do something I want to do, traffic, not knowing how to do something I want to do

Jordan Brian Safchik

Nickname- AROD

Years on BallBusters- Rookie

Position- SS

Favorite Team- New York Mets

Favorite Player- Ken Griffey Jr.

Most Embarrassing Moment- " Popping up in 90% of my at-bats"

If you could invite three people to dinner, dead or living, who would they be- Michael Jordon, Tiger Woods, Allan Ageman

Three Things you Hate- Long walks on the beach, Indian Food, Soccer

Kelly Lepore

Nickname- White Shoes

Years on BallBusters-4

Position-3b

Favorite team- Yankees

Favorite Player- Bernie Williams

Most Embarrassing moment- In little league trying to steal home and getting hit in the face with the ball, it knocked me out and my mom yelled, "She has contacts."

If you could invite three people to dinner, dead or living, who would they be- My Dad, George Jefferson, Archie Bunker

Three Things you Hate-Stupid people, interruptions, people not listening when I'm coaching a base

Allan Ageman

Nickname- Rubber Arm, The Ageless Wonder

Years on BallBusters-4

Position-P

Favorite Team- Bachrach BallBusters

Favorite Player- Willie Mays

Most Embarrassing Moment- Getting into a fight and realizing James wasn't behind me

If you could invite three people to dinner, dead or living, who would they be- Sean, James, Wendy

Three Things you hate- liars, slackers and cheats

Kim Antrosiglio

Nickname- Don't call me Bachrach

Years on BallBusters-4

Position- SC

Favorite team- Bachrach BallBusters

Favorite Player- Evan Bachrach (season 1)

Most Embarrassing Moment-Striking out in last weeks game

If you could invite three people to dinner, dead or living, who would they be- My dad, my son Jacob, and my niece Keira

Three Things you Hate-being late, getting lost, losing

Evan Price

Nickname-The Truth

Years on BallBusters-2

Position-DH

Favorite Team- Mets

Favorite Player- Keith Hernandez

Most Embarrassing Moment: Missing a base to end last season, and dropping a ball to cost us a game

If you could invite three people to dinner, dead or living, who would they be- Tupac, John Lennon, JFK

Three Things you Hate- Asparagus, wasting time, NE Patriots

Elizabeth Law

Nickname- Any variation on things being against the law

Years on BallBusters- Rookie

Position-C

Favorite team- Red Sox

Favorite Player- Kelly "White Shoes" Lepore

Most Embarrassing moment- Every time I walk between the lines and have no clue what I am doing

If you could invite three people to dinner, dead or living, who would they be- grandpa, The Dali Llama, Orlando Bloom

Three things you hate- foreigners (like myself), Koala Bears, Kangaroos

Lauren Haak

Nickname-Hack

Years on BallBusters- 2

Position- C, 2b, SC

Favorite Team- Yankees

Favorite player- Mickey Mantle

Most Embarrassing Moment- Striking out at the plate

If you could invite three people to dinner, dead or living, who would they be- my Grandpa, Grandma, Best friend

Three Things you hate- Asparagus, men with too much cologne, dandruff

Alex Roth

Nickname-Lets Get a Drink after the game

Years on BallBusters- 4

Position- C

Favorite Team- Yankees

Favorite player- Arod

Most Embarrassing Moment- Striking out at the plate

If you could invite three people to dinner, dead or living, who would they be- Ben Afleck, Patrick Dempsey, Richard Gere

Three Things you hate- Mondays, Brussel Sprouts, crying children

Scott Hechler

Nickname- Haggy, I change in the bathroom cause I have a foot odor problem

Years on BallBusters- Rookie

Position- RF

Favorite Team- Mets

Favorite player- Derek Jeter (what guy says Derek Jeter?)

Most Embarrassing Moment- Falling on way out of batters box

If you could invite three people to dinner, dead or living, who would they be- Ed Norton, Lauren Conrad, Denzel Washington

Three things you hate- Cigarettes, drama, taxes

Evan Bachrach

Nickname-Hank

Years on BallBusters-4

Favorite team- Brooklyn Dodgers

Favorite player- Kim Antrosiglio

Most Embarrassing moment- Not realizing you can't over run second and being tagged out

If you could invite three people to dinner, dead or living, who would they be- Future John Buckley (to bring me a sports betting almanac), Kim, Jacob

Three Things you hate- the word per se, kimchi, eating at the same old place

Scott Bachrach

Nickname- Hal

Years on BallBusters- 4

Favorite team- Montreal Expos

Favorite player- Babe Ruth

Most Embarrassing moment- Never played

If you could invite three people to dinner, dead or living, who would they be- Jackie Mason, Rodney Dangerfield, Pee Wee Herman

Three Things you hate- Flight delays, incompetence, institution of Marriage

Tags:

Ain't no Stoppin us Now

by nick 7/29/2009 3:37:00 AM

Now, are you all ready?

Are y'all ready?

Now we gonna do it with the fever

Yeah, Come on

Ain't no stoppin' us now

We're on the move (yeah-ee-a, yeah-ee-a)

Ain't no stoppin' us now

We've got the groove

Spice Girls, check it out

There've been so many things that have held us down

But now it looks like things are finally comin' around, yeah

I know we've got a long long way to go, yeah

And where we'll end up

I don't know

But we won't let nothing hold us back

We gonna get ourselves together

We gonna polish up our act, yeah

And if you've ever been held down before

I know that you refuse to be held down any more, yeah yeah

Don't you let nothing, nothing

Nothing stand in your way

And all we gonna do

I want you to listen, listen (That's right)

To every word I say

Every word I say about it

Ain't no stoppin' us now

We're on the move

(You said it, we've got the groove)

Ain't no stoppin' us now

We've got the groove (Whoo-hoo-oo-oo Whoo-hoo-oo)

Ain't no stoppin' us now

We're on the move

(We've got the groove)

Ain't no stoppin' us now

We've got the groove (Yeah)

Look, Lemme tell you this

I know you know someone who's got a negative vibe (Euhh)

And if you only help it will only keep it alive (Sh-yeah)

They really don't have nowhere to go

Ask 'em where they're going

They don't know

But we won't let nothing hold us back

We gonna get ourselves together, come on

We gonna polish up our act, yeah

And if you've ever been held down before

I know that you refuse to be held down any more, Oh oh oh

Don't you let nothing, nothing

(I won't do it) Stand in your way (No no)

And all we gonna do

I want you to listen, listen

To every word I say

Every word I say about it

Ain't no stoppin' us now (That's right)

We're on the move

(Nothing gonna, nothing gonna)

(Stop us now, stop us now)

Ain't no stoppin' us now, Come on

We've got the groove (Whoo-oo-oo yeah yeah)

Ain't no stoppin' us now (No no no)

We're on the move

(On the move, yeah-ee-a, yeah-ee-a)

Ain't no stoppin' us now

We've got the groove (Yeah)

Now, let's see it

Don't wanna stop

Please don't make me stop (I don't wanna)

Don't wanna stop

Please don't make me stop (No-oh No-oh)

Don't wanna stop

Please don't make me stop (I don't want to)

Don't wanna stop

Please don't make me stop

(Uh, y'all spell it out for me)

S-T-O-P-P-I-N

Ain't no (Doo-oo, Yeah-heh-a)

S-T-O-P- (to the) P- (to the) I-N (You got it)

Ain't no (Ain't no, no-no)

S-T-O-P-P-I-N (Go ahead)

Ain't no (Ain't no, no-oh-no, no-oh-no)

S-T-O-P- (to the) P- (to the) I-N (Come on)

Ain't no (No, yeah-ee-a, yeah-ee-a)

Ain't no stoppin' us now

We're on the move

Don't wanna stop, please don't make me stop (Yeah yeah)

Ain't no stoppin' us now (Yeah)

We've got the groove

Don't wanna stop, please don't make me stop

(Whoo-oo, Come around with me)

Ain't no stoppin' us now

We're on the move

"Ain't No Stoppin' Us Now", Mcfadden and Whitehead, 1976

Last night on Randalls Island, your Bachrach BallBusters put Mcgarry Bowen, Deweys Clam Bar, Pauline, Edso Sports and the entire GOD Damn World on notice, we are here, we are poised, we are for brash, we are for real and we are out to win a championship so don't get in our way. In dominating fashion the BB's handled the team from Mcgarry Bowen clinching third place in there division and the seventh seed in the playoffs. "The Ageless Wonder", Allan "Rubber Arm" Ageman pitched and played the game of his life, turning a proffesional double play in the first inning and holding Mcgarry scoreless till the 7th. It was an amazing performance, especially with rumors floating questioning his health after a reported boating accident this weekend, Ageman denied those rumors but a police report from the Suffolk county marine bureau citing a water rescue tell a different story. Every BB hit, accept Jordon "Arod" Safchic, and it was one of the most complete performances I have ever seen by amateurs on a ball field. When the game was over the BB's had clinched there playoff spot and were on there way. Rookie manager Jeff "The Freight Train" Mclaughlin could be seen beaming after taking the BBs to the playoffs in his first season as manager, and for the third time in four seasons, a feat only ever performed by former manager and current BB second basewomen Ali "Trash Mouth" McGlincy. In what has been an up and down season for this club Freight Train was visibly relieved and couldn't be reached for comment as he was waiting on a call from Richard "The Boss" Bachrach along with Hank and Hal Bachrach, who were out of town on business and expected to congratulate the manager. He did release this prepared statement:

"There comes a time when all the cosmic tumblers fall into place and the universe opens up for a few seconds and shows you what is possible" (Ray Kinsella – Field of Dreams). That was last night. For the first time this season we played the game of softball the way it is supposed to be played…..dominant, aggressive, passionate, error-free softball. Sometimes greatness is thrust upon you and sometimes you have to go out and get it….last night this team kicked the door down!! It was the proudest moment of my managerial career."

After an on field celebration the BB's night wasn't over, after a rainout a few weeks back there was a continuation game to play against Deweys Clam Bar. A meaningless game for us but an important one for the clam bar, if they could dispatch the BBs they were in the playoffs, if we beat them they go play golf and the BB's arch nemesis, The Fighting Gators are playoff bound. It was 4 to 4 in the bottom of the 4th when the game began, amazingly and kind of scarily, the freight train had impecable notes on the last game and was still able to tell his fielders where balls were hit from three weeks ago. The Clams put up a run right away for a 5 to 4 lead. It stayed that way till the top of the 6th when the BBs loaded the bases with one out and Oliver Mays at the plate. The great Mays struck out and the Ageless Wonder followed with a fly out ending the inning and putting Deweys three outs away from the coveted playoff birth and seemingly taking the life out of the BBs as this game was of course meaningless to them. Then it happened, top of the 7th, no outs BBs down by one. Kelly "White Shoes" Lepore who already had 4 hits on the day and some dazzling defensive plays, led off with a single. Up came "The Truth" Evan Price, a man mind you mired in a slump all day, being ridiculed for lack of hustle, and this man my friends, this man came through big time. As the Freight Train shouted. "now I need you to hit!", hit he did, sending a rocket deep over the right fielders head and running the bases like a jaguar on the prowl, pouncing on each bag with a ferocity fueled by the desire to win, Evan "The Truth" Price touched them all this day and gave the BBs a 6 to 5 lead. The BBs tacked on 2 more and took an 8 to 5 lead into the 7th. After a leadoff single was erased by a beautiful double play turned by Trash Mouth, the Clams quietly crawled back into there shells and the clambake had begun. A lazy fly ball to Scott "The Babe" Book and the sweep was complete, the Gators were playoff bound and the Clams were going home. We might be brash, and cocky, we might be sore losers and open to cheating, we might argue, we might not always play fair, but we have pride and integrity, and last night when we could have rested up for the playoffs we went out and buried the Clams like we were fighting for our own playoff lives. That shows one thing, this team has character, and character wins championships. Its a good day to be a ballbuster, a good day indeed.

Come out and support the BB's in the Playoffs next Tuesday, cause "If you can't be an athlete, be an athletic supporter!!"

Please look out for my playoff preview coming out on Friday afternoon with all the information you need to follow the BallBusters through their playoff journey, including player bios all week long, profiles, and up to the minute updates.

Game Balls by the Human Megaphone, Jeff "The Freight Train" McLaughlin:

Special recognition to the following….. First Game Ball: Evan Price. The Truth delivers!!! In the most crucial moment of the night when all looked bleak, Evan game through with a bases clearing double that not only secured our come from behind victory but also eliminated our nemesis from the playoffs. It was one of those moments when everything was on the line and we were down to our last out of the 6^th inning. If we fail in that moment, we probably lose the game. The Truth game through with a bomb to right field that must have traveled over 325 feet, clearing the bases and proved to be the game winner. Bravo Evan!! David Wright Game Ball: Kelly Lepore: When a right-handed pull hitter is up, generally the oppositions best hitters, Kelly loves to play right on the 3^rd base line challenging the batters… almost mocking them to try and hit it past her. Time and time again Kelly made difficult plays look easy with the best 3^rd base glove I’ve seen in the league coupled with very accurate throws to first base. Last night, Kelly’s glove is where triples went to die!! Bravo Kelly! Tigger Game Ball: Elizabeth Law. While Elizabeth was catching last night, she had the opportunity to contribute to the defensive effort by recording an out off a foul ball. As long has a foul tip goes higher than the batters shoulders; it is considered a pop up whether it is fair or foul. Typically, as you are catching, the reaction time to make this catch is so quick that the catch is rarely made. Not so last night. With cat-like reflexes, Elizabeth leaped to snag a bullet of a foul-tip that turned into a fairly acrobatic catch. The best part of the catch was Elizabeth’s reaction to the catch; jumping up and down like she was on a pogo-stick as the game progressed. I think it took 2-3 more batters before Elizabeth calm down. It was a great moment! Genuine enthusiasm is great to see. Well-done Elizabeth!! Tinker to Evers to Chance Game Ball: Allan Ageman/Jordan Siegman/Nick Catalano. Back in the 1900’s Tinker to Evers to Chance was the most celebrated double-play trifecta in baseball. They played for the Chicago Cubs during that period. The Cubs won two World Series back then and nothing since. Last night, the former Cubs had nothing on Allan, Jordan and Nick. In what has to be the sweetest double play I have ever seen, a sharp ground ball was hit Allan and he fielded it cleanly. In one move he spun and threw a rocket to Jordan at second base that reached the base at the exact same time Jordan did. In one motion, Jordan caught the ball and pivoted and threw a laser to Nick at first that just beat a very speedy runner. The runner on first and the batter were their best two players. It was a hallmark moment. Congrats to the three of you!! A-Rod Game Ball: Jordan Siegman: The A-Rod comparison in this case is only a positive one. Jordan makes fielding plays at shortstop look easy. Very easy! With a great glove and an arm that makes his throws look like they were shot out of a cannon, Jordan threw out runner after runner last night to the complete amazement of everyone watching. My guess is Jordan’s arm is every bit as strong as the real A-Rod. Masterful job a short last night. His play short-circuited many attempted rallies by the opposition. The only one who had an issue with Jordan last night was Nick. He was on the receiving end of all those throws and even though almost every one was chest-high, Nick’s hand must have taken quite a beating last night. Bravo Jordan! Anchor of the Infield Game Ball: Ali McGlincy. Ali is the captain of the infield and the glue that makes it all work. Time after time yesterday she fielded her position flawlessly and was the anchor at second base retrieving throws from the outfield and turning double-plays of her own. With the velocity that Jordan throws the ball, it’s always a challenge to coordinate the catch and make sure your foot is on the base while some 300 pound desk-jockey is bearing down on you looking to take your knees out from underneath you. That’s concentration! Ali plays this most difficult position with sure hands, quick feet and a strong arm. Bravo Ali! Three Amigos Game Ball: Scott Book/Oliver Hernandez/James Sammarco. The outfield’s defensive play was spectacular!! I lost count of how many individual put-outs Scott made in left field. I don’t know too many outfielders who can position themselves better than Scott in anticipation of where he thinks the ball is going to be hit and then tracking down the ball when it’s in the air. He must have had over 10 individual put outs between the two games. With Oliver you can always count on at least one spectacular catch per game. Last night was no exception with another over the head, Willie Mays backhanded catch that certainly saved a home run. To rival that catch, James made a play that definitely cut short a rally by throwing a laser to Jordan covering second base from deep in the right field. One of the defensive gems of the night. Way to go Boys!! One for the Team game Ball: Kim Antrosiglio. Sometimes contributions are more subtle than others with less fanfare but no less important. Several times last night Kim found herself at the plate with runners on first and second with less than two outs. In other words, being a right handed hitter, it is natural to hit the ball to third. I asked Kim to see if she could push the ball up the first base line to allow the runners to advance and sacrificing herself for the good of the team. Hitting the ball to the opposite field is tough for the best hitters and for Kim, who is a somewhat challenged-hitter, its even more difficult. However, last night after a few failed attempts, Kim came through with a well-placed ball to the first base side that eventually set up Evan for his game winning heroics. Kim is the total team player and it showed last night. Bravo Kim! Roy Halladay Game Ball: Allan Ageman. I witnessed a game earlier in the year that Allan pitched that I thought was insurmountable as far as effort is concerned. I believe he one-upped himself last night. In the first game he pitched a shut-out until the bottom of the final inning when the first game was well in hand and only gave up one run in the second game to a team that was good enough to be vying for the final playoff spot in our division. Allan read the umpire’s strike zone early in the game and consistently threw pitches deep in the strike zone that kept the batters off balance the entire game. I think this effort bests his effort in CP that night. Especially since it was a two game performance. Great Job Allan! Fan Appreciation Game Ball. Apollo Hernandez. Once again, Oliver’s father attended our game but this time not without his entourage of family. Accompanying Apollo was his granddaughter Naomi who seemed to really enjoy being out on the field with us. We are 2-0 when Apollo attends our games. He promised to be back for the playoffs!! Thanks for the support Apollo!!

So that’s it. On to the playoffs. I said earlier in the season that I was a “Keeper of the Faith” when things weren’t going so well. Now I believe this is a “Team of Destiny. If last night is any indication, the playoffs could get very interesting. As always, it was fun to a part of the fun in the park last night

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Freight Train Back on Track, BallBusters got the Whole World in there Hands!

by nick 7/16/2009 4:15:00 AM

He's got the whole world in His hands,
He's got the whole world in His hands,
He's got the whole world in His hands,
He's got the whole world in His hands.

He's got my brothers and my sisters in His hands,
He's got my brothers and my sisters in His hands,
He's got my brothers and my sisters in His hands,
He's got the whole world in His hands.

He's got the sun and the rain in His hands,
He's got the moon and the stars in His hands,
He's got the wind and the clouds in His hands,
He's got the whole world in His hands.

He's got the rivers and the mountains in His hands,
He's got the oceans and the seas in His hands,
He's got you and he's got me in His hands,
He's got the whole world in His hands.

He's got everybody here in His hands,
He's got everybody there in His hands,
He's got everybody everywhere in His hands,
He's got the whole world in His hands.

Laurie London, 1958

Last night on Randall's Island, the house the Bachrach built, your Bachrach BallBusters, in an incredibly important game for their playoff hopes trounced the Emblem Health Bombers in a double header by the scores of 15-1 with a mercy rule after 5, and 22-2 with a forfeit after the third, a combined score of 37-3 in 8 innings. It was a blood bath! The gravitas of the game and situation was apparent from the get go when the front office was at the game, both Richard "The Boss" Bachrach and Scott "Hal" Bachrach were seen patrolling the side line, in what was surely a ominous sign for BallBuster manager Jeff "The Freight Train" McLaughlin. But I tell you this my friends, the BallBusters responded to there manager being on the hot seat in grand fashion. Every BallBuster in the lineup had at least one hit and scored at least one run. Our bats bashed hit after hit after hit pounding the Bombers into a frustrated submission that almost caused an on field confrontation between BB pitcher Allan "Rubber Arm" Ageman and the Bombers left fielder, a tall lanky gentleman. Newly minted BB short stop Jordan " don't call me AROD" Siegman looked very comfortable in his new role in the field. Why do we call him AROD, cause just like Yankee superstar Alex Rodriguez, under pressure Jordon faltered, when the BB's had secured there victory he hit bomb after bomb finishing the day with a triple and two home runs, as well as a few other assorted base hits. Jimmy "the kid" Sammarco flourished in his new position as right fielder. With the pressure of SS off his back every time he came to the plate he hit a home run, he must have had 4, but who's counting. All the BB's, The franchise, Scott "The Babe" Book, Oliver Mays everyone crushed the ball and played brilliantly in the field. Evan "The Truth" Price showed his leg was healed running the bases like a gazelle on a triple and a home run, and the Ageless wonder Allan Ageman saw third base for the first time in his career legging out a triple.

How were the BB' ettes you ask? Once again proving we have the best roster of women in edso sports, every girl got a hit and played seamless defense. Kelly "white shoes" Lepore, Ali "Potty mouth" McGlincy, Kim "don't call me Antrosiglio" Bachrach and Ellie "being in this country illegally is against the" Law all put on a performance for the ages, Ms. Law actually got the RBI that plated the last run in game one officially ending the game.

Your BallBusters, barring a complete collapse, are playoff bound and set to make some noise.

If you can't be an athlete be an athletic supporter!!!

Notes and Quotes:

When asked his reaction to the performance the Freight Train said this "Complete Annihilation....we didn't Mercy Rule them we stole their pride"! I know my job was on the line today and I want to thank the team for responding the way they did. This is the team and lineup that is taking us through the end of the year and the playoffs. No disrespect to other members of the BB's but with this lineup in place I can't see many teams beating us. " McLaughlin was seen leaving the field with the boss and Hal, could a contract extension be in the works?

When asked if she made it to the bathroom in time after struggling throughout the game with issues Ali "potty mouth" McGlincy had no comment. Alex "MIA" Roth missed yet another game as did Scott" "Haggy" Hechler, were they together for an early evening tryst? No one is sure but after the performance of the BB's both of them will be relegated to bench duty going forward, hope it was worth it Mrs. Robinson, I mean Alex :)

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Freight train Derailed? Changes are afoot after Disastrous BallBuster Performance

by nick 7/7/2009 5:59:00 AM

To quote Grammy award winning artist Beck

Soy un perdedor
I’m a loser baby, so why don’t you kill me?

Last night in a disgraceful performance the team from Kilarney Rose disposed of your Bachrach BallBusters by a score of 8-2. It was a bloodbath that may lead to changes and more blood if the BB's have any hopes of making the playoffs this season. There will be no game balls this week cause at the end of the day we were all losers.

Lets start at the beginning.

Nick "The Franchise" Catalano

The Franchise is in serious jeopardy of being dropped in the order after an 0-3 performance. His defensive wizardry cannot make up for the fact that he flew out in all three of his at bats embarrassing himself in front of his wife and son who had traveled many miles to come see him perform in the park. His son RJ could be seen behind the fence crying after the game, no doubt embarrassed about his fathers performance at the plate.

Scott "All I do is hit pop ups and ignore the fact that I am fast" "Haggy" Hechler.

You run 90mph, hit the damn ball on the ground. Another BB lucky enough to have his family there to support him and he disappointed, misjudging a fly ball and going hitless at the plate. His spot on the club is in severe jeopardy after that performance and a trip to the minor leagues is a real possibility.

James "There's a whole in my glove" Sammarco

How many more errors will he be allowed to make before a switch to the outfield, his natural position, is afoot? His bat is way to potent to ever take out of the lineup but the BB's can ill afford to let his glove continue to give away games as they try to mount a playoff push. To quote a team source that requested to remain anonymous, "I love the kid but we need better defense at SS". And not for nothing but throw the ball friggen over hand to Ali, shes not a friggen Geisha.

Jordon "The Superstar" Seigman

Here's this kid, a nice kid mind you, that is probably one of the most highly touted prospects ever to walk into the building, a college ball player, natural athlete, plays in leagues across the globe. So here he comes to the plate for his big debut and what does he do, he grounds out to 3rd and reaches on an error. Your gonna get your shot kid, but I hope thats not all your ever gonna bring to the table.

Girls

Thats right I am lumping all of you together in one category. All we need from our women, some of the more talented women in the league, is a little more heart and fire and wanting to win. Hitting the ball and getting out at first should not be cheered. It's not about playing, its about winning. I for one do not want to spent a 13hour day in Manhattan and get home at 11pm at night for the thrill of seeing Alex"Lets get a drink after the game" Roth make contact with the ball at the plate, I want to effin win the game, and unless we do I am not cheering or congratulating her "effort". It's not how you play the game, it's whether you win or lose.

Allan "Rubber Arm" Ageman

Probably one of the top 5 pitchers in EDSO softball but for one game I would like to see him suck it up and not publicly yell at his teammates on the field, He's sounds like Johan Santana, I did my job you guys suck. Win like a team, lose like a team, keep the problems in house.

Jeff "The Freight Train" McLaughlin

Managing the BB's is a thankless job, no credit for wins and blame for losses. The honeymoon is over, bottom line is only one manager in BB history has taken us to the playoffs two out of her three years, Ali "Trash Mouth" McGlincy. Richard "The Boss" Bachrach does not tolerate losses, your days could very well be numbered. When asked about the performance the Freight train called it "Heartless, gutless and sloppy."

Richard "The Boss" Bachrach

Where are you? There is something to be said for fighting with the troops El Presidente. You have been conspicuous by your absence and your silence has spoken volumes enough. Maybe its time to return to the field and reclaim control of your club, haven't the inmates run the asylum long enough?

The bottom line is this, going forward team management is going to do whatever is necessary to make this team win. No egos, no being insulted and no more games. This team is built to win championships, its time we start producing, loyalty doesn't pay the bills, w's do.

Notes and Quotes:

Rumors are flying about the status of the Freight Train's contract and how long he will be retained as manager, more news to follow. When asked if she would be interested in once again managing the BB's Ali McGlincy had no comment. Conspicuous by his absence rumors were rampant that Evan"The Truth" Price was considering surgery options on his injured leg including amputation. After the game there was even talk of bringing back exiled outfielder Matt"Don't call me Matty" Rundle, when reached by phone he had this to say " I have complete faith in Mr. Bachrach and the entire organization to put out a product capable of winning a championship with or without me." That seems like an open door to me.

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BallBusters Roll On....................

by nick 6/17/2009 11:02:00 AM

Special Recognition to the Following……. First Game Ball: James Sammarco. Long live the King! With my write up last week, I put in a "no win" situation. The home-run guaranty is tough to live up to. Did James shrink from the challenge? Did he go quietly into that good night?........Hell No! Bottom of the 5th inning and the Ball Busters clinging to a 3-1 lead, the Staten Island kid steps up to the plate and smashes a 3-run home run! 6-1 Bachrach lead and the Ball Busters never looked back. Hail the Conquering Hero!!! Cy Young Game Ball: Allan Ageman. Coming off a 3 run performance the previous week, Allan raised his game to a new level. In one of the best pitching performance I have ever seen, Allan held the opposition, a formidable team stoked with great hitters, to one measly run. An unearned run at that! To pitch a 12 to 14 foot arc as consistently as he did was remarkable. Getting most over for strikes. He struck out 5 batters. Allan had defensive help for sure, but he kept us in the game until King James iced it. Outstanding Allan! Defensive Game Ball: Kelly Lepore. Kelly got her groove back last night!! Not only did she hit like an All-Star but her contribution at 3rd base was nothing short of game saving! With Allan doing his best to nurse a 3-1 lead, Kelly made play after play at third base. One in particular stands out. Top of the 5th inning; score 3-1 and runners on first and second with 2 outs and their best hitter up who can also run like the wind. He hits a rocket down the third base line. Kelly backhands the ball and throws a rocket of her own to Nick at first. If she doesn't make that play we probable lose the lead. Instead, inning was over, Allan was out of a jam and King James was coming to the plate! See above! Bravo Kelly Thurman Munson Game Ball: Lauren Haak and Alex Roth. Behind every great pitcher stands a great catcher. We have two! Let’s face it, catching SUCKS! Especially for a women. You have some over-weight, baseball wannabe right up your butt, breathing down your neck and some guy in front of you waving a metal or aluminum club. Not an enviable position to be in (all jokes aside). Then when you finally get to make a play at the plate and someone else takes the throw for you. It is the most overlooked position on the field. Not today. Lauren and Alex did a superb job yesterday doing the small things that always go overlooked, they provided Allan a great target to pitch to, threw the ball back to Allan directly after every pitch so he could keep his rhythm and most importantly, kept Allan from a meltdown when he was protecting a two run lead for most of the game last night. These are the small things that allow a team to win. The both of you did this seamlessly last night!! Bravo ladies!! Charlie Hustle Game Ball: Scott Hechler. The wind in central park last night was created by the legs of Mr. Hechler. Heeding advice from last week, Haggy ran the bases with reckless abandon. He hustled on every play and did not stop to admire any of his hits. It would have helped if he got on base but the effort was there and should be recognized. Keep running like that Scotty-boy and good things will happen. Well done, Scott! I was Dissed Last Week Game Ball: Evan Price. Still nursing a bruised ego from my lack of recognition of his contributions “On the field” last week, I couldn’t pass up the opportunity to pat Evan on the back for a job well done. Still hampered by a disgusting leg injury, Evan was relegated to DH duties. When we needed an insurance run in the last couple of innings, Evan came through with a deep drive to right field that put the final nail in the coffin. Limping to first base there was vindication in his smile… Bravo, Evan. Hitting Game Balls: Oliver, Scott, Nick. Oliver got us going with a 3-run homer in the first inning that set the tone for the Ball Busters and established our lead. No one was happier than our one fan last night (Oliver’s Father)!! Nick returned to action last night after a one game hiatus to put on an exceptional hitting display that secured his place in the lineup and giving us a formidable top of the order to be reckoned with. Scott did nothing to detract from his MVP status by Going 3 for 3 and being involved in every scoring opportunity we took advantage of. Bravo Boys! Coming of Age Game Ball: Elizabeth Law and Ali McGlincy. Ali is graduating from “Average Softballer” to “Superstar Status” and Ellie is graduating from “What is softball?” to “Player on a Mission” status. Ali’s presence on the field is felt every play. She knows every situation and exactly what to do when the ball is hit to her. It’s a comfort to any manager to know you have a player like Ali who is always in the zone. Ellie’s determination and grace on the outfield is evident to all. She even caught a ball last night. Too bad it was in warm-ups!! Regardless, she darted around the field last night like a shooting star!! She had a fierce look of determination on her face and acted as if she belongs. She does!! Bravo Ladies Fan Appreciated Game Ball: Apollo Hernandez!!! Oliver’s father not only showed up last night in full Yankee regalia but rooted for his son’s team like we actually were the New York Yankees. His support for us was genuine and he had his “Proud Papa” moment when Oliver got us on the score boarded with his homerun. He promised to return for the next game and I really hope he does!!! Okay, that’s it. Our next game, next week is a Friday night game at 5:30 in the North Meadow in Central Park field 9. Weather permitting, perhaps we can gather a few fans for that one and celebrate our victory in some watering hole after the game. Just a suggestion… The Ball Buster’s are on a roll. Let the word go forth! It was great to be part of the fun last night in the Park!!! Jeff I am lazy today and just got in and really don't feel like filing a report. I will just add notes and quotesThe Franchise Notes and quotes:Richard "The Boss" Bachrach was once again absent from last nights game as he was scouting some new talent for the playoff push. Currently the boss looks like a genius for firing the Trash Mouth Ali McGlincy as manager and replacing her with the Freight Train Jeff McLaughlin. Jeff has missed two games but when he is present the BallBusters are 5-1 and he has solidified his grasp on the club and on the third base coaching spot, where he is yet to have a runner thrown out at the plate, when asked about playing for the Freight Train Allan "Rubber Arm" Ageman had this to say, "You just want to play for the guy." A stirring endorsement indeed. Rumors are flying the Elizabeth "Law and Order" is angling to move up in the lineup to get more quality at bats. Alex "lets get a drink after the game" Roth forgot her sneakers and was late to the field after stopping home, Oliver MAYS wa salso late to the field, coincidence, probably, but still fun to contemplate!

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Mercy Mercy Me

by nick 6/17/2009 11:00:00 AM

The skies were dark, enthusiasm was low and no one really wanted to play. Coming off a fairly decisive whupping the week before who could hardly blame anyone. But the Ball Busters did show up last night on field 7, almost all of us, and collectively decided to beat the hell out of the opposition. And beat the hell out of them we did. With 2 runs in the first, 5 in the second, 3 in the third, 2 in the fourth, 2 in the fifth and 1 in the 6^th, the Ball Busters “Mercy Ruled” the opposition into submission. After the 5^th inning, if one team is leading by 12 runs or more they call the game. The game ended after the 6^th inning last night. The Ball Busters were victorious 15-3. Even if everyone did not get a hit last night, everyone hit the ball extremely well. Defense was sharp. Pitching was equally sharp and besides some base running lapses (we will get back to that later); it was a complete team victory. Spirits were high at games-end even if the “Beeluuuga” chant never materialized. Sorry Nick! Anyway, we were mired in 5^th place going into the game and we will have to wait and see where we wind up this week but this team still has a chance to make some noise come playoff time. I wouldn’t alert the media or let the pigeons loose just yet, but I, for one, am a keeper of the faith!!! Special recognition to the following…… First Game Ball. The Women of Bachrach!! Specifically Ali, Kelly, Elizabeth and Lauren. The hitting display of these four women last night was awe-inspiring! All of them hit screaming line drives all over the field. They were responsible for 8 of our 17 hits. Impressive in its own right but the sheer velocity of how these balls left the infield was eye-popping. Well done ladies!! Purple-Heart Game Ball: Elizabeth Law. First inning playing Short Center. Elizabeth attempts to field a towering pop-up. What does Elizabeth and Michael Jackson have in common??? They both wear gloves for no apparent reason. Coming from Australia, Elizabeth hasn’t learned that the hand the glove is on is actually for catching the ball. Needless to say, Elizabeth tries to bare-hand the catch and her hand swelled like a mushroom. In the cab ride after the game, Ellie made a feeble attempt to blame Allan for some comment he made about “The Alligator” but it fell mostly on deaf ears. Ellie stayed in the game and finished like a champ!! 2nd Purple Heart Game Ball: Ali McGlincy. After hustling down the line on a close play at first and beating out the throw, Ali skinned knees with the first baseman that produced “third-degree” burns on her knee and made it difficult to run to second as the ball got passed the 1^st baseman. Halfway towards second base, Ali turned and let go a barrage of the “delicate” language we all know and love her for. No one knew if it was aimed at the first baseman, her knee or just the pain in her leg. Nonetheless, the opposition stayed clear of the Ali the rest of the game. ; ) Defensive Game Ball. Kelly, Ali, Scott and Oliver. Oliver making a home-run saving, Willie Mays-like, over-the-head, back-handed catch in deep center field that took all of his athletic ability. Sensational catch when we were actually losing 3-2 in the early innings. Maybe the inspiration we needed. Scott made another outstanding grab in left field and Kelly and Ali made play after play after play at third base and second base that every inning seemed to stopped another rally. Bravo to the four of you!! MVP Candidate Game Ball: Scott Book. After boldly “informing” the manager of a pre-game lineup change that resulted in Mr. Book batting first in the lineup, Scott did not disappoint. Scott went 3-4 at the plate scorching double after double and was responsible for 6 RBI’s. Couple that with stellar defensive play including a back-handed catch of a line-drive smashed down the left field line and Scott is the early favorite for MVP of the Bachrach ball busters this season. Bravo, Scott! Home Run Game Ball: James Sammarco. There are only a few things in life you can count on. James hitting a home-run in a BB softball game is one of them. One HR is still rolling they other he made from complete hustle (listening Haggy?) and fearless third base coaching! ; ). Way to go James. You are the home run king. Long live the King!! Manny Ramirez “Look at Me” Game Ball: Scott Hechler. Now I know why he drives Allen crazy on the field. With the natural born speed of a gazelle, “Haggy” likes to admire his long fly balls he hits. The only problem is that he likes to admire them from home plate instead of RUNNING!!! Case in point. 5^th inning. Scott hits a blast to left field knowing quite well” that the female left fielder couldn’t even see the ball let alone catch it. He stands at home plate looking at the ball instead of running, the opposition relays the ball in from LEFT FIELD and almost throws him out at first base!! (Okay maybe that’s a small exaggeration but its how I want to remember it!) Bravo-less Haggy! Manny Ramirez “Mini-Me”: Allan Ageman. After pitching a brilliant game and holding the opposition to just three runs Allan decided to take the fifth inning off. After hitting a weak ground ball to third base, Allan quit running to first base half way up the 1^st base line. This act of surrender was not lost on the Bachrach Bench that still needed one run to Mercy Rule the opposition. Of course, still harboring some anger from her injury, Ali let go another barrage of “delicate” language that actually caused the “Corporate Challenge” runners to come to a sudden stop. Needless to say she let Allan have it and morale went up 20 points!! Poorly done Allan! Well done Ali! Ms. Congeniality Game Ball: Alex Roth. For reasons only known to her. Alex let Lauren play and entire game behind home plate. Even after being cajoled into playing, Alex was content to allow Lauren, who was playing superbly, to continue having fun. Excellent example of sportsmanship and teamwork!! Bravo Alex. Throw In Game Ball: Evan Price. Not much to comment on in terms of his contribution on the field last night. Solid first base. Didn’t miss any throws to first. Biggest contribution was during the cab ride to CP. Evan regaled Allan and me with stories of statuesque beauties of conquest in the past. It was a definite “TMI” moment but it did make for a short cab ride. Thanks Evan. Okay, that’s it. On to next week and we will see what adventures await. Noticeably missing this week were the Bachrach Boys, Kim and Nick. An inquiry is being sought after by the executive committee about the mysterious absences!! More details to come…… As always, it was great to be part of the fun last night in the Park!

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The Curse of Baby Beluga

by nick 5/28/2009 3:32:00 AM

The Curse of Baby Beluga

Baby beluga in the deep blue sea,
Swim so wild and you swim so free.
Heaven above and the sea below, And a little whale on the go.

Raffi, 1992

Mudsharks Clobber BallBusters 10-2

Last night your Bachrach BallBusters, in a hazy night in the park, fell to the Modern Bank Mudsharks by a score of 10-2. Lets start with a history lesson shall we....

Four years ago, right here in these four walls your BallBusters were born. What started out as a grand idea by former manager Ali "now I don't do anything to help the team but play cause you fired me" McGlincy thought it would be fun to join a softball team. After some vigorous research we decided to join EDSO sports and test our athletic chops against some of the other companies in this great city where we are all lucky enough to reside. All we needed was a name. Many names were thrown out from the ridiculous, Bachrach Bobbie Ticklers, to the dull, Bachrach Ball Players, after many arguments and much deliberation it was down to two names, The Bachrach Belugas, accompanied by a chant where we all go Beeluuuuuga, or the Bachrach BallBusters, we all know who won and your beloved BallBusters were born on that day and the Beluga's never mentioned again, until now. I bring you to Central Park, modern day, one week ago, 5-20-09. After a stellar BallBuster victory manager Jeff "The Freight Train" McLaughlin thought it might be fun if we came up with a chant of some kind, to help build team unity, many liked the idea but it was tabled, until yesterday. Before the game began Kelly "White Shoes" Lepore got the team together for a chant, what did they say you ask........they said Beeluuuuuga, Nick "The Franchise" Catalano warned against it, but majority ruled, and the curse of the Beluga was born. Those little white whales feel slighted and are not happy.

As for how the bloodbath went down, a typical jittery first inning by the BallBusters opened up an early 6 run deficit the the quiet BallBuster bats could not over come. Every BB rally was squashed as the Sharks defensive wizardry made it difficult to overcome the early lapses. Oliver MAYS was once again tardy to the field and not warmed up, Allan "Rubber Arm" Ageman's hot bat was quieted and he hit into a rally killing inning ending double play, Jimmy "The Kid" Sammarco once again took an inning to overcome his jitters (more on that later), Scott "I'm going back to sneakers" "Haggy" Hechler decided to try to hit homeruns from the leadoff spot popping up ball after ball and over running a base hit in the outfield, Ali "now I don't do anything to help the team but play cause you fired me" Mcglincy refused to do something as simple as write down the lineup, Nick "The Franchise" Catalano continued to try to hit for power killing a rally with a sac fly when a hit would have netted to, Evan "The Truth" Price dropped a routine out at first base, Scott "The Babe" Book, on of the few defensive and offensive bright spots for the BB's took Allan and Jimmy on a tour of Central Park before the game tiring them both out, Elizabeth "breaking the" Law, another bright spot offensively selfishly celebrated her line drive hit up the middle while the team was losing by six, Lauren "I'm no hack" Haak celebrated her return to the field with a strike out, Kim "Don't call me Bachrach" Antrosiglio small ball and speed were no match for a strong Shark defense, and Alex "Let me buy your gold" Roth refused to enter the game in the last inning choosing to let the BB's clean up there own mess, all in all a game to forget indeed.

Make sure to come see the BB's play a double header in the park next Friday. If you can't be an athlete, be an athletic supporter.

Notes and Quotes:

Jeff "The Freight train" McLaughlin was off on a scouting assignemnt last night and missed the game. Richard "The Boss" Bachrach and Hank and Hal Bachrach were attending the summer meeting looking to upgrade the team and also were not present at the game, when word reached them of the performance they were said to be furious and Hank and Hal were seen speaking to the Boss about changes. The BallBusters are said to be implementing caffeine testing before next weeks game as some peoples early jitters, as mentioned earlier, are rumored to be a result of to much RedBull and Iced Coffee.

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The Best of Times

by nick 5/21/2009 3:51:00 AM

"The Headlines read these are the worst of times
I do believe its true
When people lock their doors and hide inside
Rumor has it its the end of paradise
But I know, if the world just passed us by
Baby I know, you wouldn't have to cry"

Styx- The Best of Times

Maybe on the outside these are the worst of times, but on the 5th floor of 39w37th st, where The Bachrach Group and The world renowned Bachrach BallBusters preside that is a load of crap. We all have place to come everyday, an opportunity to make a living in the toughest of economies, the support of our peers and our management, the world and our futures in the palm of our hands if we continue to work hard and fight together and a softball team that is clicking on all cylinders. So indeed these are The Best of Times!

Last night your Bachrach BallBusters, in what was probably one of the most complete team performances I have ever had the pleasure to be a part of, defeated the ball club from Neilson Norris by a score of 14-5. What started out as a close game shortly became a blow out when the juggernaut we call the BallBusters came to life. Errors were few, hits were many and spirits were high. Ali "trash Mouth" McGlincy and Kim "Don't call me Bachrach" Antrosiglio, both playing out of position proved softball smarts and athletic ability are transferable, Ali looked like she was wearing a pair of white shoes of her own filling for Kelly "White Shoes" Lepore at the hot corner she made some plays that were just out of control, and Kim, playing second for the first time in her career and looked like an old pro, handling her chances with class and sophistication and looking like she had played in that spot all her life. As for the bats...the hit parade was running strong as every hitter in the BallBuster lineup had at least one hit, and everyone contributed to a 14 run explosion the left our opponents shaking in there boots, and two runs away from being mercy ruled.

I would also like to give some special thanks to Jeff "The Freight Train" McLaughlin, the manager of the BallBreakers, I mean BallBusters for his passion and for filling in for me on my blog while I have been out. The response to his game ball segment has been so positive that I have asked him to partner with me when I am around and add that to all the write ups, thanks Freight train!

First Game Ball. Team Game Ball. In the old days at Yankee Stadium it was called "5 O'clock Lightening". That's when the late innings of an afternoon game would be played and "Murderer's Row", the nickname for the Yankee lineup would start hitting and pound their opponents into submission. Last night we had 7 O’clock Lightening when we turned a 6-5 game into a 14-6 romp. 8 runs in the 6th inning and everyone contributed. Team effort! Second Game Ball. Scott Book. As always, solid at the plate with excellent hitting and driving in runs. But, his play in left field was outstanding! No less than 3 times, fighting a vicious sun, Scott held runners at 3rd base and prevented them from scoring with sensational throws from the outfield. I believe the single biggest contribution in keeping the game close until we blew it out. Defensive Gem of the Game: Ali McGlincy. 4th inning with a runner on third with one out and the score is 6-4 in our favor. A smash down the 3^rd base line that Ali, substituting for Kelly at third and fighting the same sun Scott is fighting, backhands the ball and starts her throwing motion to first. Only to fool the runner at third into breaking for the plate. She holds onto the ball and turns and tags the runner out on third. Damn fine play Ali! ROTY Candidate: Rookie of the Year candidate: Elizabeth Law. With no experience at softball but with an approach to the game that can only be described as "Joyful", Elizabeth, with new glove in hand, redefined the way to play short field. If you can't catch it, throw your body in front of the ball but don't let it get by you. Time and time again last night Ellie sacrificed her body stop one line drive after another to keep runners from advancing. Coupled with her new found swing at the plate, Ellie is definitely a candidate for ROTY. Well done Elizabeth! Return to Action Game Ball: Nick Catalano. "The Franchise" returned from his 3 week hiatus and never missed a beat. At least 8-10 put outs at first base on some good but difficult to handle throws from the other side of the diamond. Also had some unassisted put outs. At the plate, Nick showed no rust showering lines drives to the outfield although he did pop out with the bases loaded. No harm no foul. Welcome back Nick. I Told You I Could Hit Game Ball: Scott Hechler. I heard the rumor and teammates said to have faith but, truth be told, I hadn't seen it so far this season. Well, last night "Haggy" came to play. Rocketing line drive after line drive, he showed that he really deserves to be in the lead off spot and his speed speaks for itself. He made me a believer. Well done! Hitting Game Ball: Too numerous this week to count!! Everyone hit but special mention goes out to the usual suspects. Oliver, Allan, Evan, Scott and of course James. Familiar sights were James and Oliver running around the bases with more tape measure home runs. They have become the poster boys for a hitting barrage of late that seems relentless. Great job! Fielding Game Ball: Kim Antrosiglio and Allan Ageman. Kim, not even figuring to be in the line-up got the last minute call-up from management to not only play but to play a different position, 2^nd base! Not only did she represent well throwing out at least one runner at first but also covered 2^nd base on a variety of throws without faltering once. Allan, as well as pitching another stellar game, made at least 4 key defensive plays on line-drives hit back up the middle to save what surely would have been base-hits and additional RBI’s. Well done by both of you. Coach of the Night Game Ball: Richard Bachrach. Fighting off the “Evil” first base coach for control of the runners as they past 2^nd base, Richard showed extraordinary wisdom in knowing when to send runners home and when to hold them at third. Even when he had to literally “hold them” at 3^rd base. His work was as strong a reason as any why we where able to extend our innings and put so many runs across the plate. Some may say he is too conservative but the last two nights we played softball we have scored 18 and 14 runs; respectively. Pretty hard to argue those numbers. The Battery Game Ball: With Allan pitching well to a bevy of woman behind the plate, Game Balls to Alex and Heather (aka Tara) Rae. Both Alex and HR were outstanding behind the plate and Heather even corralled to pop-ups behind the plate and Alex knew when to allow another ball to roll foul instead of trying to make a play on it and allowing a run to score. All three plays were heads-up plays. Well done, ladies!

So that’s it. Congratulations to you all on another complete team effort. Another victory leaving us at 3-2 for the season and 3 out of 4 wins in our last 4 games. Nice game everyone!!!

And like a wise women once told me....

"If you can't be an athlete, be an athletic supporter"

Notes and Quotes:All seems to be heading in the right direction for this years club as evident from the lack of front office chatter. Richard "The Boss" Bachrach seems please with the effort of this years team and had this to say, "Like I say every year this team is built to win a championship and anything less is unacceptable, the pieces are in place and seem to be working well. Now it's up to the players to make that a reality and bring home the championship that this organization deserves." Hank and Hal Bachrach have been off scouting and were not available for comment. After the game, as usual, Alex "Come to my house and sell your GOLD at a premium" Roth was seen whispering in peoples ear to grab a drink after the game, and by people I mean the men. Scott "Haggy" Hechler seemed to solidify his grip on the leadoff spot with a three hit ballgame and impeccable base running skills, though rumor has it he is in negotiations with management for them to buy him a pair of cleats so he doesn't fall down again, with his foot odor problem finally under control, maybe that will happen. Rookie of the Year candidate Elizabeth "Being this good should be against the" Law has promised to bring down numerous "athletic supporters throughout the season, we shall see how successful she is in accomplishing that task, should be interesting to see who else she convinces to come support the BallBusters.

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Splitzville

by nick 5/13/2009 2:52:00 AM

SummaryAs game 1 began the "Ball Buster’s" took the field confident that their defensive prowess of the previous week was no fluke.....but would their bats come around or would we scrape out another victory? Boy did they ever!!! Singles, doubles, triples, HR's galore! Right field, left field and up the middle. It was a clinic on "hitting it where they ain't". When it was over 18 Ball Buster’s crossed the plate against a pointless 7 runs for the "Gators". It was a resounding pounding! Game 2, not so good. Whether it was the thrill of the first victory, waning enthusiasm, wanting to get home to see Idol or the approaching darkness we quickly found ourselves in a 6-1 deficit. However, whatever reserve the Ball Busters had left in the tank was about to rear its head one more time. With a gallant effort of defensive gems and timely hitting, we clawed back to 6-5 going into the last inning. Alas, it was not meant to be. As darkness made it difficult to play and a BS interference call by the Ump; we went quietly in the last inning. So we split the doubleheader and are now 2-2. But here's the good news.... Good News:In all seriousness, we are a team that will make some noise come playoff time. We are as competitive as anyone in our division. Last night everyone hit, fielded their position well, hit cutoff men, threw runners out at the plate (twice), ran the bases with reckless abandon and ran out every ball. Everyone’s head was in the game and we all encouraged each other. It's what a team should be. In this manager's opinion, who by the way, came prepared with scorebook, posted lineup, two balls (hmmm...), field permits and an encouraging word, we are a team to be reckoned with and will not go quietly into that good night.... Game Balls:First Game Ball: Allan Ageman. Allan pitched two complete games giving up only 16 runs. That's practically a shutout in softball terms. He went 7-8 at the plate hitting three doubles, driving in 7 runs and a stand-up triple on 50-something legs! On top of that, he made two put-outs at home plate to help shut down two separate rallies. Complete performance Allan!! Game Ball: To Kelly and Ali for making key defensive stops. Ali, made play after play at second base taking all kinds of throws and tallying 7 put-outs. She can handle any overhand ball thrown here way (Listening James?). Kelly made THE defensive play of the game at third base. Second game/4^th inning and the "Gators" threatening to blow the game wide-open when Kelly fields a ground-ball smash, back handed the ball going towards third and throws the runner out. David Wright maybe doesn't that play. Kelly did! Game Ball: To the four Amigos. Scott, Evan, Oliver and of course, James. Home runs from Oliver and Scott and a couple from James that I think one would have made it out at Yankee Stadium. Each week these four put on a hitting display that is awe-inspiring. Well done gentlemen. Allan should be counted in this group but he already has a Game Ball. OBA Game Balls. On Base Percentage Game Balls have to be given to Haggy and Kim. No powerhouses at the plate to be sure but the two of them have the highest on base percentage of us all. Home runs are great but not if there isn't anyone to drive in. These two turn solo HR's into multi-run HR’s. New Faces: Game Ball to Dave. Perhaps another star first baseman? First base is becoming a luxury position with two quality first basemen. Dave also showed his hitting skills by lacing line-drive after line drive all over the field. Dave is a welcomed addition to the team. Then we have Ellie who showed us all that never having played softball in one's life does not have to be a hindrance. She is a natural athlete. Strong arm and a natural swing at the plate. If she ever picks up a glove on the weekend or goes to a batting cage, she could be dangerous. You represented well, Elizabeth! Finally, there was Tara (aka Heather Rae) who was our mystery guest. A mystery no longer. Another natural athlete with a personality and heckling abilities to rival any of the Ball Busters!!! Another welcomed addition to our team!! FANtastic Game Ball: Game ball to Alex for despite being hurt came out to God-forsaken Randall's Island and cheered us on anyway. True team spirit Alex! Same can be said for our third base coach Richard, who makes this all possible, and Scott B. who were both active participants in yesterday's action Swan Dive Award: This cannot go unmentioned. We actually have two entries!! Both Haggy and Evan fell, for no apparent reason, between first and second running on hits. Haggy seemed to recover quickly but Evan, in true big-man fashion languished in the dirt, flailing his arms and doing a belly crawl to second base. I don't remember if he was safe or out because I was too busy peeing in my pants but that is a vision that will not soon leave my brain. So that's it. The sun shined, it rained, the wind blew sand gusts and we even had a rainbow. Through it all we had a lot of fun and laughs and almost pulled off a sweep. I was glad to be part of it!! Jeff

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Win Number 1

by nick 4/28/2009 4:09:00 AM

I am subbing for ‘The Franchise” today in writing the game recap. Nick was absent from yesterday’s game administering fatherly duties to newly drafted acquisition Emma Nicole. More on Nick’s absence later!!! Golden Gloves Return to Central ParkThe Ballbreaker’s were victorious 5-3 against a team, Zagat’s Survey, which are no push-over’s. The three main ingredients for a win were present: timely hitting, stellar pitching and superb defensive plays. I had all the stats for this recap this morning but my two pups got to them first and I am now working from a half-chewed piece of paper. Nonetheless, the Ballbreaker’s opened the game defensively in the first inning with scorching defensive plays that signaled no return to last weeks opening inning debacle. That trend continued throughout the game with the Ballbreaker’s turning in 11 assisted outs, 7 unassisted outs and 3 strike-outs against only one error and 3 runs. Leading the way defensively was James Sammarco with 7 put-outs from shortstop against only one error. And even in that error, James displayed his new-found discipline by not throwing the ball away. Kudos also goes to Evan “The Truth” Price who was on the receiving end of everyone of James’ throws as well as Ali’s and Kelly’s and Allan’s. Evan showed remarkable poise at first base, making play after play and making it look easy. Finally, one of the two defensive gems of the night came from Scott Hechler moving smoothly from left to right, in right field, running down a line-drive that was destined to spark a late inning rally. Then, the play of the game, came in the bottom of the 7^th when Ollie made a tremendous, game saving, over the head catch of a 350 foot Ruthian blast that was sure to have HR written all over it. Anyway you slice it that is one helluva defensive game! On the offensive end, Game Balls should be given to Ollie, James and Evan. Ollie and James hit back-to-back home runs in the second inning that were key to setting the tone for the game and Evan not only drove in the go-ahead run with a double down the right-field line but also drove in another run with two-out in the 6^th inning that gave us a two run cushion going into the final inning. All-in-all, it was a complete team effort. Allan’s pitching was the final piece that secured the victory. That team last night is capable of beating anyone in this division. Hopefully, this is the beginning of a great season!! Of course, what would a NY sports team be without a little controversy??? As the team departed the field last night, questions began to arise about the viability of Evan “The Truth” Price replacing Nick “The Franchise” Catalano at first base for at least part of the next game. Evan’s ability to work the first base bag with craftsmen-like efficiency left teammates in awe of his ability and quietly nudging the manager to consider a change. The Truth vs. The Franchise. Let the debate begin…..

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