Solus 7 - BBs6

by nick 4/16/2010 3:20:00 AM

Last night your Bachrach BallBusters lost on opening night to a team called Solus by a score of 7-6. It was a typical opening day BallBuster performance, lots of mental mistakes, some untimely errors, and some lack of clutch hitting, but all in all the promise was there and the future looks bright. I walked in this morning to some people who will not be named talking a bit about the lineup or the in game decisions that were made, or the errors. I will say this, this line up has lead the BB's to the playoffs 4 out of 5 years. Our manager lead us to the playoffs in his first year last year. We have many rookies and new players this year who will hopefully add depth and strength to an already powerful roster, but one game is no reason to hit the panic button. The Hallmark of the BB's is consistency.

First off I would like to welcome our newbies. Matt "The NEW Babe, Born Again" Conroy, who has proven to be probably our strongest new ballplayer with a bat and a quiet professionalism to his game that has been sorely missed by this club, Larry "The All American" Villar who played a stellar SS and showed flashes of brilliance with his bat, Jason "String Bean" Taxier, who proved that those skinny legs don't break when he exerts himself, Jeff "NEW Trash Mouth" Segal, who can both run his mouth and his legs, he is fast boy, but if only we could teach him to recognize how many outs there were he might have a future on this team, you can only run on anything with two outs Jeff, good rule to live by. And finally the two ladies, the lovely Julie "people love to coach me on the sidelines" Rodrigues, who adds yet another talent to the most talented group of female ball players in the league, and of course making her triumphant return, Tara "T-Dinero" Horowitz, whose bat and glove have not been hurt by her long vacation, it was good to have her back on the field standing next to me.

At the end of the day the game but not hope was lost. We did not lose because of the errors in the field. I will take the blame for this loss solely on my large, bulky shoulders. With a chance to tie the game, runners on first and second and two out, the mighty Franchise came to the plate. A base hit ties the game, anything else give us the lead, and yours truly hit a weak grounder to the pitcher, ending the rally and the game. The Franchise, never one to run had this to say, "I let the team down plain and simple, opening day jitters and some changes in the lineup rattled me, I assure you the same mistakes will not be made again, it is a long season."

The future is bright my friends, so if you can't be an athlete, be an athletic supporter.

NOTES AND QUOTES:

Conspicuous by there absence, Kim "Don't call me Bachrach" Antrosiglio, and Alex"Lets get a drink after the game" Roth, conspicuous by being there Brian"I think I'm a coach" Powe, Rich next time there's a game please tell him you need him too stay late.

Game Balls to Follow......

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Season Preview

by nick 4/15/2010 7:37:00 AM

Few things can warm a mans heart as much as opening day. This evening your Bachrach BallBusters take the field for there 5th season of existence. A turbulent offseason has brought many changes to the today's opening day lineup and an opportunity for some new stars to shine. Gone are stalwarts Scott "The Babe" Book and Ali "trash Mouth" McGlincy, starting DH Evan "The Truth" Price is opening the season on the 15 day dl, and Alex "Let's get a drink after the game" Roth has retired. Now for the good news. Making her triumphant return after missing last season for personal reasons is Tara "T-Money " Horowitz, she will slide nicely into second base and the clean up role vacated by McGlincy. The team will also return starters Nick "The Franchise" Catalano, Allan "Rubber Arm" Ageman, Kelly "White Shoes" Lepore, Jimmy "The Kid" Sammarco, Oliver MAYS, Lauren "The Hack" Haak and Kim "don't call me Bachrach" Antrosiglio. That core along with a host of new faces who will earn there nicknames along the way, make for the beginning of what will be a very exciting season. Can the BallBusters make the playoffs once again for the 4th time in 5 years? Stay tuned, and if you can't be an athlete, be an athletic supporter!

BREAKING NEWS:

The office of Richard "The Boss" Bachrach has just released this statement:

Dear Fans and Employees of The Bachrach Empire

I want to first thank you for your continued support throughout the years. Hank, Hal and myself look forward to another successful season. With all the turn over on the roster we felt we needed some consistency. To that end we have just signed Jeff "The Freight" Train McLaughlin to a one year contract to manage the BallBusters once again this season. We are sure that this team has the talent to go deep into the playoffs, and Freight Train knows those are our expectations, anything less is unacceptable. Thank you, and Go BallBusters.

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End of Year game Balls

by nick 8/5/2009 10:12:00 AM

Unlike my co-writer, I have a different viewpoint then his myopic, woe is us, team insulting, senior citizen, Fat Albert and the sky is falling description of our efforts as a team and individuals last night. To me, any day in New York City that ends playing softball with people you genuinely like in a park is a damn good day! It’s that plain and simple. We played as a team through 14 weeks of miserable playing conditions, Randal’s Island, glass on the field, rainstorms, dust storms, rain delays, lightening, postponements, bathroom drama, potential fights with the other teams, equipment thieves, line-ups filled with ringers, sub-par third base coaching ; ) and poor umpiring and never once did we lose our sense of team. Occasionally, we got on each other’s nerves, to be sure, (a certain conversation comes to mind from last night! ;)) but we always won and lost as a team. For me, the best part of a work environment is when you get out from behind your desk and actually do something together outside of these four walls. For 14 weeks, we did just that. Bravo to the team for showing up all season long and giving it their best even when, ultimately, our best wasn’t quite good enough. Many thanks for all those that came to our rescue, in a pinch, when we needed to field a complete team. And finally to Richard and Allan for allowing us to be children again for a few hours a week. In recognition of that camaraderie that we shared, I would like to award Season Game Balls to the Bachrach Ball Busters…..

The Starters Team MVP Game Ball: Scott Book. Favorite Moment: “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”. Scott was the clear MVP with a batting average in the 600’s and registering the fewest errors in the field and the most “put-outs” at the plate. Last night was no exception. Stellar team player and most deserving of the award. Bravo Scott

Rookie of the Year Game Ball: Elizabeth Law. Favorite Moment: “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”. Elizabeth had absolutely no understanding of the game of softball, yet that did not stop her from embracing the game with passion and enthusiasm and became a quality hitter. If she couldn’t catch the ball she would willfully throw her body in front of the ball to slow its progress. What she lacked in skill she replaced with courage. Bravo, Elizabeth.

Glue of the Infield Game Ball: Ali McGlincy. Favorite Moment: 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. Ali was the leader of the infield and always understands the situation on the field and where the ball should be thrown. As a former manager, she understands the subtleties of the game. Bravo Ali

The Anchor Game Ball: Kelly Lepore. Favorite Moment. Verbally beating the crap out of Jeff last night! Actually… “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”! Kelly anchored the left side of the infield all year. Excellent glove and throwing arm and regularly contributed at the plate. As I said earlier…Kelly’s glove is where triples went to die!Bravo Kelly.

Home Run King Game Ball: James Sammarco: Favorite Moment: 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!!! James was the King of the long ball all season and had had many games where he it more than one home-run. True flair for the dramatic. Played short stop well until switching to Right Field. Consummate team player. Bravo James.

“Evolution” Game Ball: Evan “Evolution” Price: Favorite Moment: “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”. Evan was our DH/1^st baseman this year and played exceptionally well. Stellar first base play when filling in for Nick and came through in the clutch on many occasions with his bat. Bravo Evan!!

Team Player of the Year Game Ball: Kim Antrosiglio: Favorite Moment: “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, it’s 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”. Kim gave her all for the team all year long. Juggled her schedule to make each game and had one of the highest on base percentage of anyone on the team. Bravo Kim!

Pitcher of the Year Game Ball: Allan Ageman: Favorite Moment: “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!” Allan was a shoe in for this award because he was the “only” pitcher all year! Seriously, Allan was the reason we won a large portion of our games by keeping us competitive until we found a way to win. Excellent, consistent pitching performance throughout the year. Bravo Allan!!

Outfielder of the Year: Oliver Hernandez: Favorite Moment: “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”. I wish I had a dime for every time Oliver made another eye-popping, dazzling catch in centerfield that was beyond belief. Time and time again, he kept us in a game that was threatening to get out of hand. Oliver was our anchor in the outfield with Scott and saved Allan a lot of runs throughout the course of the year. Bravo Oliver!

Athlete of the Year Game Ball: Jordan Siegman: Favorite Moment: 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. Jordan was easily our best athlete and will be force to reckon with next year. He is part a definite part of the future of this team. Bravo Jordan!

Leader of the Team Game Ball: Nick Catalano: Favorite Moment: “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”. In my opinion, Nick was the true leader of the team. Whether it was writing up the batting order, ordering the uniforms, positioning the players or even designating the transportation to the field, it all, pretty much, revolved around Nick. He gave of his time and effort to make sure we were all ready for any given week. Bravo, Nick!

The Reserves

Hustling Haggy Game Ball: Scott Hechler: Favorite Moment: “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”! Scott was a starter until he pulled out because the games were ending past his bedtime. He played a solid right field and was fleet a foot on the base paths. Bravo, Scott!

Jersey Girl (Bergen County) Game Ball: Lauren Haak: Favorite Moment: “Behind every great pitcher stands a great catcher. 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 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. You did this seamlessly last night!! Lauren was a sometime starter but fulltime believer in the dream. Excellent hitter with a strong arm. Serious softball player. Bravo, Lauren!

Team Spirit of the Year Game Ball: Alex Roth: Favorite Moment: “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”!! Alex is the embodiment of team play and support. She came to every game and supported our efforts whether she played or not. She freely gave up her position so someone else could get a chance. If everyone had Alex’s spirit, there would be no need for armies! Bravo, Alex! Our Fan Fan of the Year Game Ball: Apollo Hernandez: Favorite Moment: “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”!!! Apollo is genuinely one of the nicest people I have ever met. He attended three games for us this year and win or lose he was happy just to lend his support. Oliver’s dad and a real gentleman. Bravo, Apollo! So that’s it. The season is over. All and all it was a lot of fun and we had a bunch of laughs. God willing, we’ll all be able to come back next year and do it all over again!! Jeff

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Like a Rolling Stone

by nick 8/5/2009 2:52:00 AM

"How Does it Feel, How Does it Feel

To Be on Your Own, Like a Complete Unknown

Like A Rolling Stone"

Bob Dylan circa 1968

Last night, in astounding fashion, your Bachrach BallBusters once again failed to get out of the first round of the playoffs in suffering a humiliating loss at the hands of the tarp money fattened team from Barclays by a score of 18 to 6. The BB's knew something was afoot when the club from the world renowned bank arrived in limos and looked nothing like the teams they had seen in the past. There you go tax payers, your tax dollars hard at work buying Barclays an edso city championship and allowing there players to be chauffeured through town in limos while the BB's are left once again, picking up the pieces, and wondering what went wrong. It was a terrible performance all around. The older, out of shape BB's were no match for the best club American tax dollars could buy. This reporter was disgraced to be a part of it as the younger, shapely, tarp paid team ran circles around your heroes. The locker room was closed after the game last night and all interview requests were denied until further notice. Richard "The Boss" Bachrach did release the following statement, "Of course Hank, Hal and myself are very disappointed in yet another first round playoff loss. Its been a long season and like every other ball club we will be judged on our performance between the lines. The people of the Bachrach empire deserve a championship and nothing less is acceptable. We believe the team we put on the field was capable of delivering that and we apologize to the fans and assure them we are just as disappointed as they are, and will fully investigate the seasons short comings, and make any necessary changes."

Should be a busy off season for the bb's indeed. If you can't be an athlete, be an athletic supporter!

Top 5 questions facing the bb's this off season

1. After another playoff disappointment will the boss still sponsor this club or will he look to sell them off? Could this be the end of your Ballbusters?

2. After the game the boss was seen ripping up a large document believed to be the "Freight Train's" managerial contract extension, rumors flew of the Freight Train on hands and knees trying to piece it back together. Some said he was screaming, "Evan (referring to the truth) where are my glasses, what does it say? Was it one or three years, damnit Evan get my glasses." Will the Freight Train be retained when his contract expires on September 1st? If not who will replace the human megaphone as field general?

3. Roster changes. Will there be any changes to the team on the field, the Ageless Wonder didn't look so ageless last night, the rigors of a 13 game schedule catching up with him. Will there be pregnant BB'ettes to deal with? Will there be hiring's and firings? Have the BB's gone as far as they can with this group of players?

4. What will they wear? Every season the Ballbusters seem to change uniforms. Some people were heard complaining that having a name on the back breeds individuality, will they change uniforms for the 4th time in 5 years to bring back a sense of team?

5. Will anyone actually get a drink after the game with Alex Roth?

Notes and quotes

Jordon Arod Seigman, after hitting a meaningless grand slam in the 6th once again proved that his nickname fits the bill. Who was that lovely mystery brunette taking in the game from the BB's dugout?

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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

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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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