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734 Irving Street San Francisco "Right by the ball park!" |
2008
THE SEASON
THE LATEST: ELLIS NEUTERS MAD DOGS IN COMPLETE GAME VICTORY
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Sunday March 30 - BLAZERS Willie Stargell Field - ALAMEDA - 1:00 PM BENDERS 9 - BLAZERS 4 The Rice is Right as Benders Blaze Opening Day Victory Cigars 
Sunday brought sunny skies and stands full of fans to beautiful Willie Stargell Field at Encinal Hs. It also brought another season of Bender Baseball. The conditions couldn't have been more perfect(well maybe a little less wind for the outfielders) and the Benders couldnt have been more eager to strap it on and Play Ball. On the bump for Opening Day was none other than '07 Bender Player of the Year Alex 'you can call me Al' Rice #1. Alex came out Blazing strikes including that all important first pitch of the year(always a good omen). The Blazers would prove to be tough competitors and after opening up with two hard fought singles they brought the meat of the order to the plate with no outs. Al was up for the challenge and K'd their 3,4 hitters followed by a groundout and the inning was closed. The Bender offense was ready for their turn. With the league's base stealing champ, 'Swervin' Gary Kirven#10 on the Dl with Caucasianus Speedus of the ankle,the Benders brought the league's other genetically blessed speed merchant, 'Iron' Mike Gorospe #22 to the leadoff spot. Mike proceeded to do what good leadoff hitters do, which is get on base. Mike worked his way to first with a lead off walk and immediately stole second. After another walk and a few fielder's choices Mike again was in the taking mood, this time taking home on the back end of a double steal. So the Benders score first blood with two walks, three steals and NO hits. Mr. Rice #1 continued to throw strikes and use his defense to his advantage. The Bender D turned out two very nice double plays on the day including an inning ending 5-3 touch the bag-fire to first from Ian 'Van Damme' Santa Cruz #21. Bender outfielders also had a big part in the day's victory with tough Willie Mays basket style plays made by newbie Ryan 'Ryno' Powell #25 and Sean 'Shots!' Flynn #13. The offense was started right from the top with the leadoff spot consisting of Mike Gorospe #22 and Brian ' B-Will' Williams #6 contributing 2 walks, HBP, 2 SB and 2 Runs. The 2 spot consisting of Erik 'E' Wanner #19 and Sean Flynn #13 also was huge providing a double, 2 singles, 4 RBIs and a Run. The bottom of the order also had a very nice day with the 8,9,10 hitters of Alex Rice #1, Dion 'DJ' Jolley #7 and Rookie Aaron 'Wing-Nut' Wing #24 providing a double, 2 singles, 2 steals and 4 Runs. The middle of the order was not quite as loud on this day but definitely chipped in with RBI doubles from Santa Cruz #21, Matt Gire #14 and Lucas Brunette #4. On the mound Al Rice had a very nice day earning the victory. But Al also had help from others as the Benders threw 5 pitchers at the Blazers. A standout performance was also had from Matt 'Mattie' Gire #14 who came in relief to earn a 2 inning save to close the game. All in all a very good game to open the season and very positive things to build on. Of course we have much work to do and I look forward to getting on it all season with this TEAM. |
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Sunday April 6 - @ LEGENDS Marin Catholic High School - 4:00 PM BENDERS 9 - LEGENDS 4 Benders Feeling Jolley after Victory  'this is like deja vu all over again'_________Yogi Berra Another solid game from all aspects of the Benders game. And it all started from the leadoff spot. Last week it was 'Iron' Mike Gorospe #22 finding ways to get on base and score runs. This week the charge was lead by Dion 'DJ Bender' Jolley #7. Dion opened the game with a walk followed by another walk, a HB and Rbi Fc from Ryan 'Ryno' Powell #25(thanks to a nice take out slide from Ian 'Van DammnaCruz' #21). A clutch two out Rbi single from 'Al' Rice #1 and the Benders were off to a 2-0 first inning lead with only 1 hit. This was a nice cushion as the Legends proved pesky for starting hurler and 2007 Mvp/Pitcher of the Year/Ty Old Award winner Rob 'Noxious' Ellis #34. The Legends chipped away with a couple walks and a two out single and the score was 2-1 after 1. Rob would settle down and begin to deal and retired the last 13 batters he faced(one on a sick play on a bunt which was fielded by non other the Rob himself). Line for the day 5 inn, 1 hit, 9 Ks, truely 'Noxious' stuff, Game Ball to Rob! The Armed Forces of the Benders combined for 16 K's on the day! Rob was followed by Erik 'E' Wanner #19(1 inn, 2 Ks), followed by Matt 'Musky' Gire #8(2 inn, 4 Ks) then Al #1(1inn, 1 K). Defense also did their part when the fascist pitching allowed it. A zero error day with nice plays from Rob(on the bunt), Al(web gem quality pop-up grab), Brian 'B-Will' Williams #6(nice pick at first) and quality, consistent plays on the left side from Ian #21 and E #19. Offensively the Benders are still looking to break out and get their hitting stroke. In the mean time, great jobs working the count and taking the free base when it is there. The Benders get 10 BB/HBP and 5 errors from Legends defense. And the Benders took full advantage. Hitting star of the day was of course that leadoff man 'DJ Bender' Dion Jolley #7. Dion not only scored 3 runs but also blasted a solo HOME RUN to leadoff the fifth. Dion has scored 5 runs in the first 2 games and of course is now the team Home Run leader. Great job and game ball to DJ. 'E' #19 also had another nice game from the 2 hole gathering 3 BB and a ringing Rbi Double. Clutch 2 out knocks(Big,Big Hits) were had by Al Rice #1 in the first and third innings. All told the Benders had only 6 hits but took the free passes, put the pressure on the base paths and came away with the 9-4 victory and I must say we looked good doing it(got compliments from the opposition on the Road unis). Next week back home at Encinal but we are Visitors so Grey unis again. Can't wait to get back on the grass and dirt as I am sure you will all agree it is a weird site to see Dion leave a field not having to wash his jersey. Good game Benders, another TEAM effort. |
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Sunday April 13 - @ SUPERSTARS Willie Stargell Field - ALAMEDA - 1:00 PM BENDERS 6 - SUPERSTARS 3 Schummers Stars against Superstars  On a beautiful, sunny day at wonderful Encinal Hs, the Benders Armed Forces increased the heat with 5 hurlers toeing the slab. The game started with Ian 'Hammer Time' Santa Cruz #21 taking the rock. Ian #21 was ready to turn this mutha out and proceeded to drop Hammers on the lead off hitter leading to a three pitch K to open the game. The stars hitters had to pray and we had to plead, Ian please don't hurt 'em, but he proved too legit in his three shutout innings allowing only 2 hits while hamming out 3 K's. Ian was followed by newcomer Aaron 'Wingahh' Wing #24. Aaron wasted no time in proving he was worth every cent of his bail money, err I mean signing bonus. 'Wingahh' had a time at the yahhd as he pahhked hitter after hitter on the hoppa(editors note, Aaron actually doesn't talk like this but he did pitch at ZooMass and did show up at practice wearing Bruins socks, Celtics shorts, a Pats T-shirt and of course a Sox hat, so if the beahhs cold...). Wingahh #24 finished his two innings of work with 3 K's, 1 hit and no earned runs. Wicked good job buddy! Next up Rob 'Noxious' Ellis #4 with ho-hum 5 K, 2 perfect innings(hey strikeouts are facist, Yawn!!). Closing out the game were frequent fliers Alex 'Al' Rice #1 and 'Musky' Matt Gire #14, whom both smelled and looked mahhvalous with two innings of 2 hit ball and no earned runs. All told the Armed Forces allowed no earned runs and struck out 12 while allowing only 6 hits. Awesome job, with S.C. #21 earning a game ball. As the Pitchers did their thing David Schummers #15 was busy having a day of his own. David started his 4 hit day with a patent 'Stats'tm 120 ft base hit over the third baseman's head. And as we have come to know with David this is always the precursor to big things(and usually an E). Well today 'Stats'tm not only brought his quiver of sticks but his glove made the trip as well. Along with his 4 hits which included a near dong off the centerfield wall, David also broke his own customary hit/no field day with a great run saving stop of a smash to second base. Heck of a play and heck of a game, Game Ball. Oh yeah 3 runs scored as well, nice!!! Other offensive standouts were S.C. #21 with 3 knocks,Rbi, Lucas 'LaLuke' Brunette #4 knock, 3 BB, Run, and 'Musky' #14 knock, 2BB and another smashout to left, reminding all to hit em' where they ain't meat!! Benders still working on their hitting but good signs with some loud outs. Look out when we start putting it all together. Despite the 3 unearned runs the Benders played very good defense on the day. Aside from the great play from Schummers, Brian 'B-Will' Williams #6 was a vacuum at first slurping up many picks. Heck of a job on some tough digs, Game Ball to B-Will. Great job also on the left side of the infield with S.C, Rice and Erik 'E' Wanner #19 making all the routine plays and helping out our staff. Another team effort with the Benders moving to 3-0. Great job!! Next week same time(1pm), same place(Encinal) and another tough opponent(Beavers, formally the Steelheads). So join us won't you, as the Benders aim to go 4-0. |
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Sunday April 20 - @ BEAVERS Willie Stargell Field - ALAMEDA - 1:00 PM BENDERS 6 - BEAVERS 3 Wanner Stuffs Beavers with Pinch Home Run in Sixth  The key to winning baseball games is pitching, fundamentals, and three run homers.'_______ Earl Weaver The Benders decided to apply two of the three Earl Weaver points to victory this past Sunday. Pitching..check. Three Run Ding Dong...Check. Fundamentals...well we did play very good defense. But it was a good thing Jim Leyland or Larry Bowa wasn't there to watch our base running as they would have had a Chernobyl meltdown. The Benders also welcomed some familiar sights back to the ball park this Sunday. First it was a welcome return of former Rookie of the Year/Most Improved Player Paul Najera # 2. It was good to see his svelte, taut, athletic body(oh, was that out loud) roaming the centerfield grounds of Encinal. Although he did look noticeably lighter, as was explained he was forced to leave his engorged liver in LaLa Land. Benders also welcomed back a familiar sight to the bump as Erik 'E' Wanner # 19 returned to starting pitching duties. E # 19 turned back the clock and returned to former glory by stuffing Beavers hitters for 4 shutout innings allowing only 1 hit with 3 K's and no BB. Benders pitchers (Wanner # 19, Wing # 24, Ellis # 34, Rice # 1) threw well having only a 1 inning hiccup and allowed only 4 hits on the day. Beavers hitters proved pesky in the bottom of the fifth(which is where a few Benders found themselves at the start of the game). 5 BBs, three seeing eye hits and the Beavers were in front 3-1 and the Benders found themselves behind for the first time this season. This would not last long as the Benders mounted the Beavers with a top of the sixth comeback. After a BB to Mattie Gire # 14 and two K's, Aaron Wing # 24 ripped a shot to short which proved too hot to handle and the Benders scored an unearned run. Now down 3-2 with a runner on and two outs, B-Will Williams # 6 took one for the team wearing a pitch on his sexy new pants and the Benders had two runners and two outs. The Benders then sent pinch hitter and starting pitcher E # 19 to the dish. E proceeded to clutch up and smash a hanging curve ball against a gale force wind(or was that with the wind, can't really remember) approx 336.01 feet to right center for a three run Home Run and the Benders now had their rightful lead back. Rob 'Noxious' Ellis # 34 and Al Rice # 1 proceded to retire the next 12 straight Beaver batters and the game was over. Defensively the Benders made only 1 error on the day and played very sound D. Great game behind the Dish from Dion Jolley 'Time' # 7 who called a great game and along with Rob nailed a would be runner at the plate. Game ball to Dion # 7. Nice plays were made on the left side of the infield from Ian Santa Cruz # 21 and Rice # 1 and and nice stab of a shot on the right side from B-Will # 6. Outfielders also played solid with Ryan 'Ryno' Powell # 25 baiting a runner into trying to take third then gunning him for the assist. Offensively the Benders mustered only 6 hits with the big one being the Dong from game ball winner E # 19. Although, the Benders would have made Billy Beane(not Billy Bean)proud as they drew 9 BBs. Three came from Ian # 21(along with 2 Runs), two from Mattie # 14(along with an RBI knock) and The Wing Dynasty # 24 ruled the bases all 4 times he came to the dish(BB, Single, 2 Err) for a 1.000 obp. Other knocks came from Jolley 'Time' # 7(double) and virgin-no-more Ryno # 25(single). 
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Sunday April 27 - MAD DOGS Willie Stargell Field - ALAMEDA - 1:00 PM BENDERS 5 - MAD DOGS 1 ELLIS NEUTERS MAD DOGS IN COMPLETE GAME VICTORY  Another sunny, brilliant day in Alameda with the stands full of Bender Faithful. On top of it being B-Will Broken Bat Giveaway Day, the fans know when to come for a good show. That is when Rob 'Noxious' Ellis # 34 is scheduled to pitch. Rob came out blazing and euthanized the Dogs bats right from the start with a shutout first including 2 K's. Rob K'd the side in the 4th, 6th and yes the 9th inning where his changeup clocked out at 94(gotta feed the id). The Dogs were only able to escape Rob's tight choke hold on the strike zone for a total of 5 singles. He did enact the Ellis Act which basically evicted Dog's hitters from the batters box and tallied 16 K's yes 16(with father's consent). The Defense is who let the Dogs out in the ninth though, with an unearned run as the only blemish to Rob's total and complete Domination. 9inn 5 H 0ER 16K 0BB (a line score Mr. Zito can only dream to attain......on XBox!!!) Game Ball, no brainer. Well to win you need to score some runs. And who might you ask was up for the task of scoring that first run? Well Breakneck Brian Williams # 6 that's who. After leading off the third with a hard fought walk, Williams took his lead off first with two outs and David "Stats" Schummers # 15 at the dish. Stats slashed a long drive to the left centerfield gap and B-Will was off to the races. B-will never slowed(that would be moonwalking) as he sped for the plate and scored the first run of the game and in the process scored a triple for Stats and made the manager look good. Heck of a job hustling, just the spark we needed. The Dogs pitchers proved tough on this day and seemed to bear down when we had runners in scoring position. But in the fifth the Benders would produce a break. A two out error on a hustle from Dion "DJ" Jolley #7 put that man Stats at the dish. This time "Diamond" Dave decided to make things easier on the base paths and smashed a two run Home Run to right center to put the Benders up 3-0. Big Home Run to maximize the error which was caused by the hustle of DJ. Nice, Mike Scioscia would be proud. The Benders tacked on two more insurance runs in the eigth on a nice double to right from Aaron Wing #24 and a "wear it" RBI from Sean "Holiday" Flynn #13. Offensively the Benders totaled 9 hits with other notables being Erik "E-6" Wanner #19 (2 doubles), B-Will # 6(single), Matt "where there's smoke there's" Gire #14(single) and "In like" Flynn #13(double). Another well executed game from the Benders with an improved effort on the basepaths. But the story of the day was of course Rob Ellis. A nasty effort from such a lovable guy. Also a very nice game behind the dish from "Iron" Mike Gorospe # 22. Much of Rob's success on the day can be traced to the nice pitch calling(number 1) and the trust a pitcher has knowing Mike is always willing to drop to his knees and block balls(wait... that didn't sound right). Anyway good game Mike and nice team win with "Noxious" providing that lethal touch. Benders win 5-1 and improve to 5-0. |
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Sunday May 4 - @ GRIZZLIES Willie Stargell Field - ALAMEDA - 1:00 PM |
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Sunday May 11 - STORM Willie Stargell Field - ALAMEDA - 1:00 PM |
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Sunday May 18 - @ RED GIANTS Flood Park - MENLO PARK - 2:00 PM |
The Whole Thing
A word from E19:
Well I hope you all had a wonderful holiday season and a great New Year! This is an exciting time with playoff football(and no more Niner games thank God, although P. Willis was fun to watch). Playoff football also means baseball season is just a few weeks away, 12 to be exact. This coming season will mark the Benders 5th Anniversary as a Baseball Powerhouse. During these past 4 years we have not only announced our presence with authority but we have won a combined 76 games(regular and post season) which is the most in the SFNABA during this time. We have won a wild card championship, 3 Ocean Division Championships and of course the 2005 SFNABA League Championship. We have also gone into San Quentin and pulled hidden ball tricks and went yard in the yard. We have played tourneys on Big League fields in Az and represented well both with our play as well as with our livers. But above all this we have had fun, and made life long friendships which will live longer than any game will.
Now as we approach our 5th season we once again address our Goal. One goal. To win the whole F$%@in thing!!! Last year we had a great run and the ball games we played in the playoffs were perhaps the best baseball we have ever played. We came close and were just one win from our goal, as I feel, and I am sure you all feel the same that we would have stuffed the Beavers. But that is history. Now we begin our work and our challenges ahead.
AWARDS
Congrats on the Player of the Year Award Alex! I will say it was very much earned and well deserved. Whatever the situation called for, whether pitching a gem(10 inning shutout), Gold glove caliber third base, or clutch knocks. You were the man to answer the call. On top of your incredible baseball skills your a hellava guy and a great teammate. You had a great season and epitomized the Bender Way.
I would also like to congratulate Rob Ellis who racked up much hardware this year. Rob has been the most dominant and I feel most talented pitcher this league has ever seen. This was punctuated by his 3-0 shutout of the leagues other top "lefty". Rob also showed he had a heart equal to his enormous talent when he came in relief the day after his complete game shutout. I would like to congratulate Rob on his 07 accomplishments.
So here you go Rob"Noxious"___
07 Benders M V P !!!
07 Benders Pitcher of the Year or Ty Old award
07 Benders Playoff M V P
Congratulations ! We look forward to you repeating these awards....maybe adding a gold glove or silver slugger???
Speaking of silver slugger... We also have a Best Hitter Award to hand out. This player set the bar so high four years ago with a league shattering 8 home runs. A record that will probably stand for quite some time. And if you have ever seen this man's body you know there will never be a question or need to add an asterisk. So how does a player top such feets, well how about hitting around .500 for almost an entire season. I am of course talking about David "Stats" Schummers. As he learned while hitting balls a mile over fences a few years back, it is all about hitting them where they ain't. This past year hitting where the ain't meant 120 feet down the leftfield line. Just kidding, David had one of those years where everything he hit seemed to find a hole except for a few blasts to center against the Artichokes. So to a guy who has probably spent a grand on baseball bats I am so thrilled to announce you the Benders 07 Silver Slugger Award winner. Great job "Stats" can't wait to see your encore..
We also had a new award this season. This award featured a grenade on a plaque which symbolized players who were willing to dive on a grenade for their brothers. The Teammate Award. In 07 we had a few grenades flying around but luckily we had some guys willing to take the hit. Guys who sacrificed for their team. So the award went to a few guys last year though you could pretty much make this a team award. But the winners are:
Dion Jolley
Dion is a joy to have as your teammate. Always the first to arrive with a smile on his face, Dion puts you in a fun mood instantly. On the diamond there is no player more competitive than Dion. His uniform is always the dirtiest on the diamond whether we have a game or not. In 07 and really every year Dion has played and played extremely well in every role he has been asked. Whether its behind the dish, centerfield, second base, laying down a perfect bunt, ripping a shot to the gap, Dion is your man. His enthusiasm is only matched by his heart which makes Dion such a blessing to have as a teammate and a friend. Thank you Dion for a great 07 and I know another fun season in 08.
Matt Gire
Matt arrived to the Benders with history and a few carry on bags. But Matt quickly stored those in the overhead bin and went right to work. Whether it was gutting out quality innings on the bump or snagging flies in right or showing he was a great hitter in his own right, Matt had a great return as a Bender. Matt showed he had grown as a Man and a ball player and was willing to work and sacrifice to become a Bender. A great teammate and great ballplayer, congrats buddy.
And of course Mike Gorospe
If you looked in a dictionary that had pictures next to the definitons, Mike's photo would be next to many. Teammate, Friend, Husband, Father, Wingman, Guy-who-picks-up-too-many-bar-tabs, Pigroaster(well maybe not that one). Mike is a teammate who is willing to sacrifice anything for his team. This is a guy who has caught 18 innings without getting an at bat, which speaks volumes for his dedication as well as how bad our coaching is. Mike is always there when you need him and I am proud to call him my catcher, my teammate and most importantly my friend. Thanks for all your dedication and hard work. You ARE the Benders heart. And congratulations to you and Sasha on the pregnancy! We look forward to adding another player to the roster.
We also have another very big award to hand out. This is named after Mike and for all he represents. This is the Iron Mike Award. The winner of this award showed heart and determination through personal tragedy and had a breakout year. The winner is non other than Ty. Ty fought through an enormous amount of grief but put together an All-Star performance while hovering around an .000 era through much of the season. A wonderful baseball season from a great teammate and great guy. Congratulations. Oh and in case you guys didn't know Ty also had a freak eye injury after the season which led to needles in his eye and almost a loss of vision. Only a man with such will and determination like Ty could go through such pains yet be willing to sacrifice for the Benders.
Last but certainly not least we have the Rookie of the Year award. This could have also been the best dressed award as it went to a ball player whose wristbands really brought out his eyes. This award went to Sean Flynn #13. Sean is always a guy who is there when you need him. Willing to pinch run and get picked off whenever called upon. Take a called third strike just to test the umpires sense of humor"are you kidding me?". Seriously Sean is a dedicated Bender willing to do whatever asked and along the way becoming a better ballplayer. Wrapping a big Rbi in the playoffs stands out. Sean is a very hard worker, a great guy, and a great Bender. I look forward to playing with him this season and watching his progression as a ballplayer.
Congrats to all the winners of the 07 awards. I expect this season to bring many more great performances and with much hard work and a little luck we can once again hoist the trophy we all can enjoy. The Championship Trophy!!
Well I hope you all had a wonderful holiday season and a great New Year! This is an exciting time with playoff football(and no more Niner games thank God, although P. Willis was fun to watch). Playoff football also means baseball season is just a few weeks away, 12 to be exact. This coming season will mark the Benders 5th Anniversary as a Baseball Powerhouse. During these past 4 years we have not only announced our presence with authority but we have won a combined 76 games(regular and post season) which is the most in the SFNABA during this time. We have won a wild card championship, 3 Ocean Division Championships and of course the 2005 SFNABA League Championship. We have also gone into San Quentin and pulled hidden ball tricks and went yard in the yard. We have played tourneys on Big League fields in Az and represented well both with our play as well as with our livers. But above all this we have had fun, and made life long friendships which will live longer than any game will.
Now as we approach our 5th season we once again address our Goal. One goal. To win the whole F$%@in thing!!! Last year we had a great run and the ball games we played in the playoffs were perhaps the best baseball we have ever played. We came close and were just one win from our goal, as I feel, and I am sure you all feel the same that we would have stuffed the Beavers. But that is history. Now we begin our work and our challenges ahead.
AWARDS
Congrats on the Player of the Year Award Alex! I will say it was very much earned and well deserved. Whatever the situation called for, whether pitching a gem(10 inning shutout), Gold glove caliber third base, or clutch knocks. You were the man to answer the call. On top of your incredible baseball skills your a hellava guy and a great teammate. You had a great season and epitomized the Bender Way.
I would also like to congratulate Rob Ellis who racked up much hardware this year. Rob has been the most dominant and I feel most talented pitcher this league has ever seen. This was punctuated by his 3-0 shutout of the leagues other top "lefty". Rob also showed he had a heart equal to his enormous talent when he came in relief the day after his complete game shutout. I would like to congratulate Rob on his 07 accomplishments.
So here you go Rob"Noxious"___
07 Benders M V P !!!
07 Benders Pitcher of the Year or Ty Old award
07 Benders Playoff M V P
Congratulations ! We look forward to you repeating these awards....maybe adding a gold glove or silver slugger???
Speaking of silver slugger... We also have a Best Hitter Award to hand out. This player set the bar so high four years ago with a league shattering 8 home runs. A record that will probably stand for quite some time. And if you have ever seen this man's body you know there will never be a question or need to add an asterisk. So how does a player top such feets, well how about hitting around .500 for almost an entire season. I am of course talking about David "Stats" Schummers. As he learned while hitting balls a mile over fences a few years back, it is all about hitting them where they ain't. This past year hitting where the ain't meant 120 feet down the leftfield line. Just kidding, David had one of those years where everything he hit seemed to find a hole except for a few blasts to center against the Artichokes. So to a guy who has probably spent a grand on baseball bats I am so thrilled to announce you the Benders 07 Silver Slugger Award winner. Great job "Stats" can't wait to see your encore..
We also had a new award this season. This award featured a grenade on a plaque which symbolized players who were willing to dive on a grenade for their brothers. The Teammate Award. In 07 we had a few grenades flying around but luckily we had some guys willing to take the hit. Guys who sacrificed for their team. So the award went to a few guys last year though you could pretty much make this a team award. But the winners are:
Dion Jolley
Dion is a joy to have as your teammate. Always the first to arrive with a smile on his face, Dion puts you in a fun mood instantly. On the diamond there is no player more competitive than Dion. His uniform is always the dirtiest on the diamond whether we have a game or not. In 07 and really every year Dion has played and played extremely well in every role he has been asked. Whether its behind the dish, centerfield, second base, laying down a perfect bunt, ripping a shot to the gap, Dion is your man. His enthusiasm is only matched by his heart which makes Dion such a blessing to have as a teammate and a friend. Thank you Dion for a great 07 and I know another fun season in 08.
Matt Gire
Matt arrived to the Benders with history and a few carry on bags. But Matt quickly stored those in the overhead bin and went right to work. Whether it was gutting out quality innings on the bump or snagging flies in right or showing he was a great hitter in his own right, Matt had a great return as a Bender. Matt showed he had grown as a Man and a ball player and was willing to work and sacrifice to become a Bender. A great teammate and great ballplayer, congrats buddy.
And of course Mike Gorospe
If you looked in a dictionary that had pictures next to the definitons, Mike's photo would be next to many. Teammate, Friend, Husband, Father, Wingman, Guy-who-picks-up-too-many-bar-tabs, Pigroaster(well maybe not that one). Mike is a teammate who is willing to sacrifice anything for his team. This is a guy who has caught 18 innings without getting an at bat, which speaks volumes for his dedication as well as how bad our coaching is. Mike is always there when you need him and I am proud to call him my catcher, my teammate and most importantly my friend. Thanks for all your dedication and hard work. You ARE the Benders heart. And congratulations to you and Sasha on the pregnancy! We look forward to adding another player to the roster.
We also have another very big award to hand out. This is named after Mike and for all he represents. This is the Iron Mike Award. The winner of this award showed heart and determination through personal tragedy and had a breakout year. The winner is non other than Ty. Ty fought through an enormous amount of grief but put together an All-Star performance while hovering around an .000 era through much of the season. A wonderful baseball season from a great teammate and great guy. Congratulations. Oh and in case you guys didn't know Ty also had a freak eye injury after the season which led to needles in his eye and almost a loss of vision. Only a man with such will and determination like Ty could go through such pains yet be willing to sacrifice for the Benders.
Last but certainly not least we have the Rookie of the Year award. This could have also been the best dressed award as it went to a ball player whose wristbands really brought out his eyes. This award went to Sean Flynn #13. Sean is always a guy who is there when you need him. Willing to pinch run and get picked off whenever called upon. Take a called third strike just to test the umpires sense of humor"are you kidding me?". Seriously Sean is a dedicated Bender willing to do whatever asked and along the way becoming a better ballplayer. Wrapping a big Rbi in the playoffs stands out. Sean is a very hard worker, a great guy, and a great Bender. I look forward to playing with him this season and watching his progression as a ballplayer.
Congrats to all the winners of the 07 awards. I expect this season to bring many more great performances and with much hard work and a little luck we can once again hoist the trophy we all can enjoy. The Championship Trophy!!
2007
THE PLAYOFFS
We ease into the second season with a 12-8 record as a wildcard having to win on Sturday and Sunday to advance.
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Saturday September 8 - MIRACLE Willie Stargell Field - ALAMEDA - 2:00 PM BENDERS 13 - MIRACLE 2 In a 7 inning mercy rule game we take what they give us and add some of our own. Big shot home run by IAN SANTA CRUZ (21) - game ball. Next. |
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Sunday September 9 - PIG ROASTERS Balboa - San Francisco - 10:30 AM BENDERS 13 - PIG ROASTERS 2
Next.
Back to opening day and our good friends, rivals and favorite atoms - THE ISOTOPES. This is our 4th year in a row we've made the division championship series. We knocked up the 'topes last year and, well, they're looking for a bit of patback i'm sure. |
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Saturday September 15 - @ ISOTOPES Flood Park - MENLO PARK - 10:00 AM OCEAN DIVISION CHAMPIONSHIP 3 game series concluding on Sunday if required. BENDERS LOSE SERIES IN 3 GAMES We couldn't withstand a late game rally by the 'topes in game 3 and that was that. To add injury to insult yours truly got poked in the eye during the post game wake and spent months on DL with a Hyphema. You don't wanna know what this is much less get one. It does have a catchy alterantive name though - "eight ball hemorrhage". Anyway, at one point they sat me down, told me to hold reeeeeeeeal still, don't blink and shoved a large needle thru my eye where the iris meets the white part to drain out a bunch of fluid. I'm living the opening scene from Un Chien Andalou (you'll just have to google that). So there's my excuse for not updating the website for - uhhh - 4 months. 2007 THE SEASON |
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Sunday April 1 - OPENING DAY Our good friends, rivals and favorite atoms THE ISOTOPES Willie Stargell Field - ALAMEDA - 1:00 PM BENDERS 3 - ISOTOPES 5 Benders get shoved off cliff by the spectacular pitching of Jeremiah Batla (19).
Hordes of men left on base. Offensive impotence. Defensive miscues. And I gave up a two run jack to Donny Blake (35) - nice shot - no more fastballs for you. Ol' BEN (1) was a rock for our side showing that we can still, at least, throw some stones at the competition.
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Saturday April 7 - @ TITANS Big Rec Graham - SAN FRANCISCO - 2:00 PM BENDERS 3 - TITANS 6 Benders poop pants in extending losing streak to four games. Great pitching by the Titans and they made the defensive plays as well. Beat us fair and square upside the head.
More self flagellation in order but the lead sentence says it all.
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Sunday April 15 - TITANS Willie Stargell Field - ALAMEDA - 1:00 PM BENDERS 11 - TITANS 5 This game was proof positive that if you hit a baseball it will go somewhere. In fact we hit it a whole bunch
of 'em - a nice change up from the previous two weeks of futility. However, our defensive poopitis remains with hopes it doesn't turn into a chronic condition. Starting pitcher and manager
ERIK WANNER (19) had the play of the day picking off a runner on third base with a great move. This was crucial at the time since the defense was resistant to the idea of helping the pitcher get outs.
We've had very good pitching over the first 3 games with a team ERA around 2.00 so the math says we're giving up over 3 un-earned runs a game. That said, the bats are coming alive with just about
everyone getting some good swings in. We'll try and keep that going. PIX HERE
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Sunday April 22 - @ REBELS Willie Stargell Field - ALAMEDA - 1:00 PM RAINOUT - POSTPONED |
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Sunday April 29 - @ TSUNAMI Willie Stargell Field - ALAMEDA - 1:00 PM BENDERS 14 - TSUNAMI 0 Well what can I say but great game. From the opening pitch to the final out there was definitly a focus and determination to get the job done. A couple of walks(Gary Kirven 10, Lex Robins 5) big double (Ben Kamekona 1) and clutch rbi knocks(Carlos Montalvo 23, Dion Jolley 7) and the Benders staked their deadly pitching to a 5 run lead. Turns out 1 would have been enough as the pitching was just lethal(as it has been all year).
Lead of course by the man Mr. Fabulous Rob Ellis 34 who while wearing his finest dress socks looked completly GQ in striking out 11 and allowing a measly infield single in 4 innings of work.
He was followed admirably by trusty righties Matt Gire 14 and Eric Hand 36.
Whom must have been watching the Benders defense the last couple of games as they added to the strikeout total with 4 of their own and again a measly infield single.
Through 4 games the Benders pitching staff is holding batters to a .180 bat avg and averaging 1.5 strikouts per inning (kudos to our catchers Mike Gorospe 22 and Dion Jolley 7).
Defense made strides of improvement - a very positive step.
The hitting star of the game turned out to be none other than Return of the Bender Graham Chong 30 who collected 3 hits, a couple of ribbies and continues to hit the ball hard.
All in all lots of offense leads to a 14-0, 7 inning victory against the Tsunami. |
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Saturday May 5 - @ MIRACLE Milpitas High School - MILPITAS - 12:00 PM BENDERS 13 - MIRACLE 7  LEX (5) put on a display of homer eroticism with a grand slam in the second. As a humourous play on the word slam we've included this striking pose with what appears to be an ad placement for our latest sponser - Usinger's Salami. E (19) added to the total of balls lost by lofting yet another jack over the left field fence. By the 6th inning, GQ (34), HAND (36) and the offense had the Miracle strapped to the gurney in anticipation of another mercy killing but they decide they'd have none of that and rose up to get back in the game. Two effecient and scoreless innings (7th and 8th) by yours truly (33) aided by some great defense - ALEX RICE (24) - and pitch calling - IRON MIKE (22) - helped quash the rebellion and allowed IAN (21) to close out the game. And now more narrative and some inspiring words from our fearless leader E (19): “You know winning ? It's like better than losing!?!” : Eppie Calvin “Nuke” Laloosh Benders Win 13-7 and many heroes and game balls to go around. But no game balls bigger than those of the Grand Salami himself, Lexual Chocolate, Lex Robins #5. With the Benders stranding the bases loaded in the first, Alexi would have none of that in the second. And so with a tear in his eye he launched a 2-0 fastball into the Great Mall of Milpitas parking lot for the Benders first Home Run of the season and it was a Grand Slam no less (here is where the VH1 popup tells you Erik Wanner #19 hit the Benders first and previously only Grand Slam in their illustrious history). A tremenous blast which staked the ever deadly Mr. GQ Rob Ellis #34 (who arrived wearing his finest Gators) to a 5-1 lead. Rob responded with 4 hard fought innings against a gale storm wind which dropped his fastball to legal limits and his offspeed stuff from filthy to a mere unkempt level. The offense continue to pour it on with 12 walks/Hbp (how's the bruise Lucas #4?) and 11 hits lead by Matt Gire #14 with 3 hits, including a triple. David Schummers #15 returning from runway modeling work in Milan contributed 2 ribbies on 2 hits and never looked better on a hard line out to short (you better Work!). The table of the Bender feast was set by Erik Wanner #19 who filled in Gary Kirven's #10 leadoff shoes with 2 walks, 3 runs, 2 hits (one being a Bomb Home Run, which at that point the wind somehow was blowing in) and a patent 'Gary Slide into First' tm. Once again though pitching remained the Benders headline story. The arms race continued Rob's lead with Eric Hand #36 pitching 2 solid innings followed by His Tyness the Magician #33. Ty continuing to baffle opponents and keep his crystal clear .0000000 ERA intact with 2 near perfect innings. The game was closed out with El Caballo Ian Santa Cruz who learned first hand the tenacity of the Miracle hitters and their ability to find the holes. Yet he shut the door to their shananigans with 2 K's. Game Over. Excellent game, another true team effort. Next week, tough, tough game with the Bay Sox who I am sure feel like they owe us something (maybe a call sometime - we're not that cheap, jeez). PIX (by General Franko) HERE |
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Saturday May 12 - BAY SOX Silver Terrace - SAN FRANCISCO - 10:00 AM BENDERS 4 - BAY SOX 2
More Pitching. A-RICE (24) 6 scoreless, almost perfect innings. DAN WOOD (44) 2 - scoreless innings. And HAND (36) to finish it up.
Some spectacular defensive plays from the Sox center fielder kept this game close. PIX HERE 
GAME BALL:ALEXANDER (24) |
| Monday May 28 - Memorial Day Suoi Cat - VIET NAM  General Franko Thank you |
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Saturday June 2 - @ ISOTOPES Flood Park - MENLO PARK - 10:00 AM BENDERS N0THING - ISOTOPES 6  'Hey maybe you haven't been keeping up on current events, but we just got our asses kicked pal!'___Private Hudson Well for the first time in team history the Benders were shutout. Lets make this the last time!!! Not much to say about this game except it is history. We turn the page and hopefully use this to get better and make some people pay. There were however some bright spots to be pointed out(believe it or not). Very nice pitching by Eric Hand, Alex Rice, Ian Santa Cruz and of course The Ty. Suspect Zero #33 continues to work his magic in his quest for perfection(.000 ERA) with 2 solid innings. A very nice all-around game from Dion 'its peanut butter Jolly time' #7. Dion's game began with a creamy smooth diving stop at second, stealing a base hit. He also did it with the baseball bat with a chunky line drive single. Good game D. |
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Sunday June 10 - @ FOG Big Rec Nealon - SAN FRANCISCO - 10:00 AM BENDERS 7 - FOG 3 A scrappy Fog team put the bat on the ball and men on base. We've had a rivalry and some memorable games with the Fog going back to the begining of everything. This was a closer game then the score would indicate with the Fog bringing the tying run to the plate in the 9th. Nice job pitching for the other side by Mark Wolfe (7). Nice hit on that slider, Franz (29) coming around to score later in the 2nd inning. This was the only earned run allowed by our pitching staff. ERIK WANNER (19) assasinated the baseball with a shot all the way up the grassy knoll at the Big Rec field for a standup triple. Good defense, pitching and some wacking = win. And now some additional commentary from our leader E19: "It's not how you play the game, it's how you win it"___Beastie Boys (Shadrack/Paul's Boutique) This should be our motto for this year. We are not yet quite playing the baseball the Benders and our fans (Frank) are used to, but we are getting the wins. And that is what is important so great job!! Game Ball this week went to none other than "The Ty". The Ty has been using an array of deceptive pitches and body motions to go along with smoke and mirrors to completely fool hitters this year. This continued again Sunday with Ty pitching 4 solid innings and keeping the opposition Lost in the Fog. This game did see an end to his perfect season as he gave up only his 1st earned run all season but "The Ty" is most certainly a perfect 10 in our book. Great game buddy. On the defensive side of the diamond the Benders did have their share of web gems. Starting with leftfielder/pitcher Matt "Predator" Gire #14. Matt helped the cause early in the game with a very nice knee slide catch of a sinking line drive to rob the Fog of a hit. Definite web gem. While pitching later in the game Matt then gathered another skull for his collection. Matt and the Benders were recipients of another fine defensive play during the 7th inning. Following a leadoff walk the Fog lined a sure single up the middle to start a potential rally. This however was just a tease as shortstop Erik "E" Wanner #19 came out of nowhere to snag said line drive, then fire to first to complete the 6-3 doubleplay and end any rally. Offensively the Benders are still trying to find their way. The familiar sights and sounds of Gary Kirven #10 were a very much welcome site. Gary returned to find his wheels right where he left them with 3 steals and run. Good to have you back! Paul Najera #2, coming back himself from the DL, showed no ill effects and legged out 2 infield hits. Ocho Cinco you're next!! All the Benders speed was on display this weekend as both David "Schummers" Schummers #15 and Erik "E" Wanner #19 legged out booming triples. Things of beauty to watch the "white lighting" bolt around the bases. The Benders Armed Forces were once again the story of the game. Along with The Ty, and Matt, Rob "GQ" Ellis discoed his way to the ballpark to add 6 K's in 2 innings. All toll the trio allowed only 1 earned run and struck out 9. Great job!! Also great job by the catching core of "Iron" Mike Gorospe #22 and Lex "unleash the power within" Robins #5 who both by the way added to the offensive hit total with a knock apiece. Next week Father's Day game at Willie Stargell Field, Encinal High School. Game time 1pm and we are playing the Blue Claws who always play us tough. Bring Pops out to the park and we will get some BBQ and hopefully a win for the old man. 
Editors note: It is rare in life that a guy is lucky enough to have an image captured of himself that truly illustrates the nature and dynamic of ones innermost soul. The above image as created by Erik Wanner represents everything I am about, aspire to and all of my hopes, dreams and inspirations all rolled into one dynamic graphic. Thanks buddy. Fran Leibowitz couldn't have done a better job capturing "the real me". |
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Sunday June 17 - BLUE CLAWS Willie Stargell Field - ALAMEDA - 1:00 PM BENDERS 2 - BLUE CLAWS 0
IRON MIKE (22) - strike 'em out / throw 'em out
IRON MIKE (22) - strike 'em out / throw 'em out Yeah - twice. Big plays in a tight game. MIKE GOROSPE (22) The Catcher - Game Ball. "My pitching philosophy is simple - keep the ball way from the bat." ___Satchel Paige Shutout!! Benders defeat Blue Claws 2-0 behind great pitching and equally great defense. Team Captain, Erik 'E' Wanner #19 took the bump for the Benders and proceeded to hurl 6 scoreless innings allowing 2 hits and striking out 6. 'E' battled with a nasty blister and pesky Blue Claw hitters all day. Using an array of change ups and curve balls he kept the hitters off balance including 3 straight filthy 'Benders' for a bases loaded strikeout. Entertaining!! The bullpen was called in the 7th and Alexander 'the Great' Rice #24 answered that call. Alex blazed through 3 shutout innings of his own allowing 1 single and struck out 4 in gathering the save and finishing the shutout for the Benders. The Benders defense was also on point this day in helping the pitching staff preserve the shutout. The defense reassured the Armed Forces they were truly their best friend with not 1 but 5, yes 5 double plays!!! Dion 'Peanut Butter' Jolley #7 looked creamy smooth at second involving himself in all 5 double plays. He started the first one with a slick 4-6-3 and finished the last one with a Omar-esque, bare hand turn on a 6-4-3. Ian 'Backdraft' Santa Cruz #21 made a picture perfect feed in starting a very hard 5-4-3 double play and David 'Stats' Schummers #15 was the man starting that nifty 6-4-3. The other two double plays you ask? Well they were from none other than The Wall, catcher 'Iron' Mike Gorospe #22. Mike hosed two would be base stealers after gloving the third strike to nail down 2, inning ending, strike-em-out-throw-em-out double plays 1-2-4. These were not even close as Dion enjoyed a nice PBJ sandwich and a nap waiting for the runners to slide into his waiting glove for the outs. 'Iron' Mike was a wall behind the dish all day, blocking balls in the dirt and keeping the runners at their respected bases. Great game defense, 5 double plays will be hard to top but I got dinner if we do! Offensively the Benders are still finding their way. One constant all year has been the mighty bat of David 'Stats' Schummers. 'Stats' continued his season long onslaught with a nice 3 for 3 day with two doubles (one just missing a donkey off the mighty screen) and scored the only two runs with 'heads up' base running. Keep it up buddy! Driving in the Benders runs were Ian #21(rbi single) and Matt Gire #14 (rbi double). Brian 'B-dub' Williams #6 helped the cause with a nice pinch-hit line drive single. Benders did however return to their ugly base running ways getting picked off, I don't know how many times. Something to work on guys. All in all a very fun Father's Day with the Benders moving their record to 6-3. Next week back at home again with a 1pm game at Encinal against long time rivals the Mad Dogs. Always fun, hard fought battles so we will need all the Benders help in getting this victory. See you next week..... 
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Sunday June 24 - MAD DOGS Willie Stargell Field - ALAMEDA - 1:00 PM We Lost 12 - 7
Ok so rough game yesterday, but hey that's baseball. We swung the bats a little
better yesterday and base running was an improvement. But of course there are
things to work on and improve.
First kudos out to Alex Rice #24 for a nice day at the plate. 2 singles and a nice drive to right center which was robbed of a double(the way things went yesterday). Also huge day from our Hawaiian Slugger Ben Kamekona #1 who added 3 hits (2 singles, Double) and looked very good at the plate staying on top hitting line drive after line drive. A very welcome sight. Speaking of line drives Brian Williams #6 rapped a screamer for a pinch hit single and Birthday Boy Paul Najera #2 bombed a big double to left. Also nice day from Gary Kirven #10 who slapped 2 singles, stole a few bags and scored 2 of the Benders 6 runs. Defensively a few nice plays were turned in by Erik Wanner #19 who got a chance to break out the detergent with a few diving plays. Also another fine relief inning from The Ty #33 and Rob "Noxious" Ellis #24 with 5 k's in 2 innings. |
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Sunday July 1 - BLAZERS Willie Stargell Field - ALAMEDA - 1:00 PM BENDERS 8 - BLAZERS 7
With emotions(and players) running high the Benders pulled together to fight their way to a bottom of the ninth victory. From the first pitch(Ball One) this game was a battle. Starter Erik 'E' Wanner #19, never one to shy away from a challenge, decided to give the Blazers a running head start. So after walking Everyone and allowing a uhhumm grand slam, the race was on. E settled in to find the strikezone and allowed only 2 more singles and finished with 5 innings 4 k's and just 3 hits. As this was going on, the Bender offense was playing some baseball of their own. Using clutch hitting, great baserunning(yes I said great baserunning) and productive outs, the Benders were able to scratch out runs and eventually take the lead in the 5th. Offensive highlights were many. Alex 'Private Joker' Rice #24 continued on his hot streak with 3 solid line drive singles, two stolen bases and 2 runs scored. Dion Jolley #7 added a clutch rbi single and moved a runner over with an out and was intentionally walked. Gian Allen-Piccolo #37 swung the bat well all day and crushed a sac fly to the warning track in Centerfield and walked to leadoff the ninth which scored the winning run. Lex Robins #5 looked to be right on track with his swing, adding a double and single to the mix. E #19 added a booming double to knock in the go ahead run in the 5th and 'scored' 2 runs as well. So this leads us to our Game Ball winner 'Swervin' Gary Kirven #10 who let his play make all the noise Sunday. Gary had a big sac fly and two rbi singles for three ribbies all toll. But none was bigger than the last. In the bottom of the ninth with the bags drunk and 1 out, Gary lashed a rod through the infield to score the 'walkoff' run and secure our 7th victory. Great game Gary. And great baseball game by the Benders offensive.
Now aside from the first inning, Benders pitchers and the defense held the game together. Rob 'Noxious' Ellis #24 was his typically lethal self. He added 5 k's in his 3 and 2/3 innings and got maybe a win and a save?? Together with Ian 'Backdraft' Santa Cruz #21 the pitchers held the Blazers to 6 hits and 9 k's. Defense also turned 2 more double plays with one on a nice 'deek' by rightfielder Matt 'where there's smoke there's' Gire #14. Matt battled the Alameda sun to snare a high fly in right then fire to second to double up a runner who left early. Great job also from 'Iron' Mike Gorospe #22 who was a rock behind the dish blocking balls all day long and took home a nice souveneir as a reminder. Lex #5 also one to lay it on the line did exactly that. Battling both sun and fence along the first base foul ground, Lex made a nice catch and sacrificed his ankle in the process to make the putout. Solid game from the entire defense, combined with good pitching and an excellent offensive effort made for a dramatic Benders victory 8-7. Good job everyone, you should be proud. 
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Saturday July 14 - @ BEAVERS Paul Goodie - SAN FRANCISCO - 12:00 PM BENDERS 17 - BEAVERS 11
'Ward, I think you were a little hard on the Beaver.' ___June Cleaver
Benders win boat race with Beavers. Gybe Ho!! Well I must say what a fun game. We got to yell at the umpires, bat damn near every inning and play on the pristine cathedral which is Paul Goode Field in the Presidio. Well maybe not quite the last part. The game began with the Benders once again in the giving mood. After a few errors, a tree and umpire aided, little league home run, the Benders found themselves in a 5-0 hole. This would not last long. After putting up a 5 spot of their own in the second, the Benders would not trail again. The stat of the game came from the 6-10 slots in the batting order: Paul Najera #2, Matt Gire #14, Gian Allen-Piccolo #37, Mike Gorospe #22, Rob Ellis #34. The so called bottom of the order was anything but, as they were a combined 8-15, with 13 BB/HBP and 12 Runs!! Complete pests all game, working counts, taking the free pass and ripping hits when they got strikes. Game Ball to you all Gentlemen. Now the top of the order held its own as well, as Dion Jolley #7, Alex Rice #24, David Schummers #15, Lucas Brunette #4, and Erik Wanner #19 combined to go 11-29 with 3 2b's and 3 BB/HBP and 5 Runs. An extremely productive and fun, offensive day. On the bump Rob 'Noxious' Ellis #34 was, as usual, his nasty self. Rob allowed only 3 hits in 6 innings while striking out 10. Game Ball to Mr. Ellis, great job. Alex 'You can call me Al' Rice #24 closed the game with a three inning save. Defensive had a few nice plays with Najera #2 and Jolley #7 relaying on a shot to the gap to nail a runner at third(just like we practice). Also nice defensive mound work from Ellis #34 who was described by the opponents as 'agile as a Hockey Goalie'(Ty would be proud). Great game from everyone, another fine team effort. Next game with be with league rival the Pigroasters. Game will be at 1pm at home at Encinal. These games with the Pigroasters are always a battle. They love to get up for us and I am sure will pull out all the stops. 
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Sunday July 22 - PIG ROASTERS Willie Stargell Field - ALAMEDA - 1:00 PM BENDERS 9 - PIG ROASTERS 0
These are the only Roasters able to make it to Alameda.
We win by forfeit. Please note the Pigs on the sticks fielded a full team. 
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Saturday July 28 - @ GRAYS Riordan High School - SAN FRANCISCO - 2:30 PM BENDERS 0 - GRAYS 1
Grays put the squeeze on Benders.
This game lived up to all the billing and hype and you had to be there to see it. In what will go down as one of the greatest pitched games in SFNABA history Alex 'the Rice is Right' Rice #24, placed himself in the history books with a pitching performance for the ages. Alex dominated the Grays with 10 shutout innings. Let me repeat that. Alex Rice dominated the Grays for 10 shutout innings. Alex never allowed a runner to reach 3rd base during his masterpiece, while graciously granting only 6 singles during his reign and striking out 7. A truly masterful performance and as testament to how good he was Alex actually got better as the game grew longer. Unfortunately for Alex and the Benders, the Grays had a great pitching performance of their own. Justin Hawkins #18 pitched a hell of a game as well, matching Alex's zeros for 10 innings himself. Both pitchers allowed a total of 13 hits and ZERO runs in 20 total innings of work. Unbelievable pitching job from both gentlemen. As great as Alex was throwing the ball, he was also astute in using his defense to his advantage. A very good game was put in by David 'Stats' Schummers #15 at shortstop, who picked everything and made every play routine. Also another you had to see it displays was performed in leftfield, as perennial DH Lucas 'LaLuke' Brunette #4 put his cobweb filled glove to work and made catch after catch, all the while battling a gale force wind. Kudos also to Mike 'Iron Mike' Gorospe #22 who called a great game and caught 10 plus innings. Other great defensive plays were put in by Matt 'GireStarter' Gire #14 who hosed a runner at the plate to secure the scoreless game. Offensively the Benders just couldn't get that big hit. Numerous times, the Benders scratched against the stingy lefty to move runners in scoring position, but the clutch hit seemed to allude their bats. A couple of knocks were put in by Alex Rice who had a respectable 2 for 5 day. Solid singles were also had by Lucas #4 and Paul Najera #2(who also patrolled a nice centerfield). All in all, a combination of great pitching from the Grays and some stiff wind, led to offensive impotence from the Benders. 7 total hits in 11 innings. 
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Sunday August 5 - @ RED GIANTS Willie Stargell Field - ALAMEDA - 1:00 PM BENDERS 16 - GRAYS 7
The Benders, win behind a potent offense, strong defense and gutsy pitching.
The game started with pitcher Matt Gire #14 in the giving mood. After two walks, the Red Giants third hitter - Ben Ferreira (14) hit the first strike of the game for a ding dong to give the Giants the lead 3-0. The Benders would however, do like they have done in many previous games, respond. Respond they did with an 8 spot in the top of the second. Carlos 'C-Los' Montalvo #23 drove in the Benders first of many runs with a kangaroo court, 3-0 swingin', line drive RBI single to left. This was followed up by a booming, oxygen tank needed, triple from Gian Allen-Piccolo #37. After a few walks, a double from David 'Stats' Schummers #15 and Paul Najera's #2 second hit of the inning, the Benders were now up 8-3. The Benders would never trail again. Offensive stars of the game came once again from the potent 'bottom' of the order. Gian was hitting line drives all day and finished with a nice 2 for 4 day with the triple and a decorative Charlie Brown (see photo below) shot. Paul #2 also stroked many a line drive finishing with three hits of his own including a double. Lucas 'La-Luke' Brunette #4 moved back from left to his comfortable DH slot to smack two shots to left for a double and stole a run with some flashy base running (looked like a reverse negative of Gary). Speaking of Gary, it was good to have our catalyst back. Gary Kirven #10 started the game with a line shot to left and finished with 3 stolen bases and an overall mind melt on the opposition. Also a 'Welcome to the Big Leagues' moment was had by Rookie Sean 'the Kid' Flynn #13 who learned the hard way about the SFANBA's umpires' sense of humor. Back on the mound, Matt fought through a bit of wildness but settled down nicely in the third. He gutted out 6 innings for the Benders and surrendered only 1 run after the second. Matt was relieved in the 7th by none other than 'The Ty'. His Tyness proceeded to pour in strikes and shut down the Red Giant offense for his two innings of work and with an added exclamation point finished the game with a K against the Red Giants best hitter (and tightest pants). Benders pitchers allowed only a single run from the 3rd inning on. A gutsy performance by both men. Of course these men did have some help from their 'D'. Once again the Benders put together a very solid defensive day. Short was again held down nicely from Schummers #15 who gobbled up everything which came his way. Defensive plays of the game came from third baseman Erik 'E' (go figure) Wanner #19 who turned a pitcher's best friend, double play from third by fielding the grounder, stepping on third, then firing to first. The play of the game however came in the last inning when 'E' made a webgem lay out to snag a shot down the line at third, then threw to second to nail the force and turn a double into a force out. A nice pick on the back end and overall great defensive day was had by Dion Jolley #7. A good recipe of gutsy pitching, strong defense, and some big hitting leads the Benders to their 10th victory. We are three quarters through the season with some big games still ahead. This Sunday will mark our first doubleheader of the season. This should prove to be a challenge as this will be a lot of baseball. But it will be fun. We will need every Bender to step up and sacrifice to get these wins. We have much still to prove so lets keep working hard. 
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Sunday August 12 - ARTICHOKES - *DOUBLE HEADER* Willie Stargell Field - ALAMEDA - 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM BENDERS 5 - ARTICHOKES 1 BENDERS 9 - ARTICHOKES 11
'It was the best of times, it was the worst of times..'___Charles Dickens-A tale of two games.
Well the day started off with the Benders shoveling mud and finished with the Benders shoveling S#$t. After an early morning landscaping job, the Benders eagerly awaited the arrival of their opponents the Artichoke Joe's. And just in the nick of time they showed, however on hindsight they may have wanted to rethink that. On the mound facing the Joe's was the ever nasty Mr. Lethal Rob 'Noxious' Ellis #34. Rob came back to the Benders from his two week spiritual revival in the Bars of the Midwest looking refreshed and hungry. Rob's pitching line on the day told the story....8IP, 1 H, 1 BB, 14 K. Truly nasty stuff. Offensively the Benders had, well, an off day. In the first game 'Swervin' Gary Kirven #10 started his usual Garyball rally with a walk two stolen bases and score on the catcher's errant attempt to nab him. A patent Gary run will have come to know and love so well. Paul Najera #2 was the hitting star of the game with a clutch two out, 2 run knock which gave the Benders a 4 run cushion. Also Carlos Montalvo #23 had a very respectable 2-3 day with a nice line shot to left. The game belonged of course, to Rob Ellis. Game ball to Rob, great game buddy. Now game two began with the Joe's fully awake and ready to rub the sleep Rob lulled them into out from their eyes. The Joe's took advantage of aggressive hitting and a truly forgettable Bender 4th inning to grab an 11-3 lead by the end of the 4th. To the Bender's credit, they would shake themselves and rally to make a game of it. The defense and pitching would shut the Joe's down from the 5th on which left it up to the offense. Big games offensively came from 'Everybody' Graham Chong 'tonight' #30 who put up 4 rbis, 2 coming from a clutch knock in the 7th. Matt 'where there's smoke, there's' Gire #14 rapped three hits and scored three runs. 'Big Daddy' Gian Allen-Piccolo #37 extolled the power from within to rap 2 hits and a walk in three at bats. However the rally would fall just out of the grasp of the Benders and into the mitt of the Joe's Mays-like centerfielder #25. Hats off to the Joe's starting pitcher who gutted out 9 innings (after catching 9) and hats off the the Joe's team for battling all day. Benders lose 11-9. 
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Sunday August 19 - RED GIANTS Willie Stargell Field - ALAMEDA - 1:00 PM BENDERS 10 - RED GIANTS 4
Well we are at, as Dion would say, "just the tip" of our season. Behind strong pitching and some aggressive hitting, the Benders pull off the season sweep of the Red Giants. Rob "Noxious" Ellis #34 answered the call to the bump and proceeded to shut down the Giant offense for 7 innings. Rob was methodical in his work despite the fact of needing more than the league required number of outs in some innings. Alex "Big Al" Rice #24 finished the day with 2 solid innings of relief work to earn the save.
Several Benders rose to challenge offensively on this day. Stars being Lucas "the Natural" Brunette #4, whose short, powerful stroke was on full display (his hitting wasn't too bad either). Laluke finished with a couple of line shots including a booming double to left center. Mike "Iron Mike" Gorospe #22 rocked the bells with a shot/hustle double down the third base line and a leg'em out shot to short. Other knocks were supplied by Matt Gire #14 (2 hits), Carlos Montalvo #23 (2 hits), David Schummers #15 (3 hits/triple) and Alex Rice #24 (2 hits/double). The big shot of the day was supplied by Dion "Deuce" Jolley#7 who had a big day playing at the 2 Sack position. Dion was able to knock down a 2-hop shot at second and nail the runner by 2 steps at first. The force of the shot had Dion shook up for a couple seconds but he was able to rub the pain out and in his following at bat, drilling a 2 bagger deep into the gap in left centerfield. A pair of game balls to Dion, heck of a job. Other game balls were handed out to Rob #34, Alex#24, and Mike #22. Great job, and another Bender, team effort. |
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Sunday August 26 - @ REBELS Willie Stargell Field - ALAMEDA - 10:00 AM Double Header with the Legends BENDERS 2 - REBELS 7 9 errors - ouch. |
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Sunday August 26 - LEGENDS Willie Stargell Field - ALAMEDA - 1:00 PM BENDERS 4 - LEGENDS 5
The back end of the double-header was much better played but we still came up on the short end of the stick.
For the 4th straight year the Benders make the playoffs. We're either going in backwards or just cleverly conserving energy. We'll soon find out. September 8th at Willie Stargel Field. 
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2006
Close But No Cigar
UPDATE: 9/23/2006
STEELHEADS - LEAGUE CHAMPIONSHIP
With the Benders leading 4-3 in the top of the 9th
Baserunners on 2nd and 3rd
2 outs
The count: 2 balls and 2 strikes to the cleanup hitter
The Steelheads down to their last strike
Brennan Collins (24) hits a single up the middle to score 2 runs to take the lead
We can't recover in the 9th going out with a whimper 1-2-3 and losing the 1st game 5-4.
Having invested everything emotionally in the 1st game we came out flat in the 2nd and faced some super tough pitching from sidearmer Chris Collins (11).
We lost the 2nd game by a score of 7-1 - our worst defeat in years - and the championship.
We got beat fair and square by a better team.
Superb pitching by Kevin Whitehair (32) in the first game.
Leadoff hitter Dan Jin (12) - dude - have yourself A DAY.
Great hitting up and down the Steelheads entire lineup.
Add sensational defense = CHAMPIONSHIP.
Sincerest congratulations.
We had many a fine play also - at least in the first game.
Defense, offense ERIK WANNER (19).
PAUL NAJERA (2) - Monster triple and defensive play.
DAVID SCHUMMERS (15) - A clutch throw out at home coupled with some big D at 2nd base.
Up next - I think we'll take a little trip down to AZ to the national championships and see if we can get some satisfaction down there.
UPDATE: 9/16/2006
ISOTOPES - DIVISION CHAMPIONSHIP
For the third year in a row the Benders have won the Ocean Division and, for the third year in a row, are playing for the San Francisco Championship.
Game 1 - Benders 6 - Isotopes 2
Game 2 - Benders 7 - Isotopes 1
KICK IT !!
First, thanks to the Isotopes for a couple of good games. They finished strong and had us working hard in anticipation of a tough double header.
Great pitching to start it off by Kenny Hawthorne (26) - we were very confused by that offspeed stuff with only BEN (1) and DEMETRIUS (24) able to figure it out.
Andy (2) - threw a couple of our boys out from behind the plate.
Bubba (6) - 3 stolen bases - VERY impressive.
No game balls were given out on our end - this was too much of a team effort.
If I start naming names then I gotta name them all so - you might just as well look at the roster page.
But here's a few anyway:
ROB (34) and HAND (36) combined to pitch two complete games with no earned runs.
17 - SEVENTEEN - K's for ROB (34) and a no-hitter.
BEN KAMEKONA (1) - Mister Playoff - 2 doubles, 3 singles for the afternoon - on base 7 of 8 - Wow.
DEMETRIUS (24) - Great day on defense and with the bat.
GARY BASEBALL (10) - Havoc - STOLE HOME PLATE for freak's sake among other acts of thievery.
LUCAS (4) - 5 singles on the day.
Our catchers - MIKE GOROSPE (22) and DION JOLLEY (7) - they deserve some credit for the minimal runs the opposition scored. Great pitch calling.
Next:
THE CHAMPIONSHIP SERIES
DOUBLE HEADER - Saturday, September 23
Big Rec - San Francisco - 10:00 AM / 2:00 PM
Steelheads
UPDATE: 9/11/2006
PIG ROASTERS
We didn't win this game so much as survive it.
Amazing 12 K complete game performance by our GAME BALL winner ROB ELLIS (34) against the hard swinging / hard hitting Pig Roasters.
Talk about one guy carrying a team on his back.
But that's not the whole story. BEN (1), picking up where he left off from our last playoff appearance a year ago, hit a MONSTER triple to deep, deep, deep center field driving in LUCAS (4) for our first run.
This was off Kevin Anderson (3) who gave up just 2 runs the entire game with some terrific pitching of his own.
So GAME BALL BEN KAMEKONA (1).
In a clutch piece of hitting BEN (1) was driven in from 3rd by IAN SANTA CRUZ (21 - 2006 All star).
And that was all the scoring we could muster against the pitching and defense of the opposition.
We had one more GAME BALL - DION JOLLEY (7). Clinging to a 2-1 lead in the top of the 9th, we walked the leadoff batter on 4 pitches. Start stressing.
The next guy hits it to DION (7) playing 2nd base who swipe tags the runner coming from 1st, pirouettes and throws out the other runner at 1st base. Double Play. Two out and nobody on. ROB (34) K's the next guy. Done deal. We win 2-1.
As mentioned this was some tough pitching we faced so I'm gonna list a few more men who managed to get a hit or reach base:
GARY KIRVEN (10) - Walk, hit, 2 stolen bases, on base 2 of 4.
LEX (5) - Base hit, walk.
LUCAS (4) - Base hit, run scored.
CARLOS MONTALVO (23) - Base hit.
GIAN ALLEN (37) - Base hit.
Thanks to the crew at Riordan High School for providing such a great field to play on.
Up next - the team that beat us in three 2 seasons ago.
NEXT GAME - DIVISION CHAMPIONSHIP - Best two out of three DOUBLE HEADER - Saturday, September 16 - Place to be determined - 10:00 AM / 2:00 PM
Isotopes
UPDATE: 8/26/2006
GRAYS
We close out the regular season beating the Grays 6-4 and ending with a 19-1 mark in league play.
The offense took a while to get going but then capitalized on a very brutal sun field in right for some earned and un-earned runs. 5 in the 8th to be exact.
Super clutch 2 RBI single by our GAME BALL winner - CARLOS MONTALVO (23).
Very nice relief work by DEMETRIUS ADAMS (24) in the 6th coming in relief of yours truly with a man on 2nd and nobody out. No runs scored - my ERA thanks you.
Additional fine pitching to close out the last 2 innings by ERIC HAND (36).
ERIK WANNER (19) - 4 walks - good eye there.
MIKE GOROSPE (22) - an extra fine bunt in the 8th to get on base and start our rally.
An now - we prepare for the second season.
NEXT GAME - Sunday, September 10 - Riordan High School - San Francisco - 10:00 AM
Blazers/Pig Roasters winner
UPDATE: 8/20/2006
BLAZERS - Double Header
With two victories over the Blazers, we sweep every team in our division. Judging from their records and from playing all these guys, this is the toughest division in the league:
Pig Roasters, Miracle, Blazers and Grizzlies.
All of these teams have fought us tough at one point or another.
GAME 1
LEX (5)
LEX (5)
LEX (5)
LEX (5)
LEX (5)
GAME BALL
GAME BALL
GAME BALL
GAME BALL
GAME BALL
DOUBLE
DOUBLE
DOUBLE
DOUBLE
SINGLE
RBI
RBI
RBI
RBI
RBI
Yeah - 5 is the number
The usual nasty ROB ELLIS (34) on the mound - no earned runs - 11 K's.
Nice inning to finish it off from DEMETRIUS ADAMS (24).
SCHUMMS (15) - resurgent manhood.
GAME WINNING HIT - BRIAN WILLIAMS (6).
Benders - 13
Blazers - 3
GAME 2
This game saw spectacular defensive work from our second baseman SABER SHERRARD (11) + an RBI.
Great right field play by PAUL NAJERA (2) + an RBI.
Great pitching from ERIC HAND (36) despite a spot of bother.
IAN SANTA CRUZ (21) hits another home run.
SCHUMMS (15) - continued wacking - 3 hits and a run scored.
And
In the 7th with 1 out and the bases loaded
GAME BALL - ERIK WANNER (19) - stopped the Blazers in their tracks and they scored no more for the game.
Benders - 9
Blazers - 6
Once again we say later to SABER (11) who's going back to Chicago after spending the summer with us. Thanks for the help. We'll try and take it from here.
NEXT and FINAL REGULAR SEASON GAME - Saturday - August 26
Willie Stargell Field - Alameda - 1:00 PM - GRAYS
UPDATE: 8/13/2006
THE ALL-STAR GAME
This was a scoreless game till the bottom of the 5th when the barn burnt down for the opposition.
Our boy ROB ELLIS (34) put on a fearsome display for 3 innings to start off the game.
This was matched maybe not in velocity but in effectiveness by Mike Becker (10) of the Mad Dogs for the Bay Division.
We finally got through by putting our 2 and 3 hitters on - Andrew Dunning (2 -Isotopes) and Chris O'Driscoll (20 - Pigroasters).
This went all according to plan cause we had Hando - Kevin Anderson (3 - Pigroasters) batting cleanup and he did not disappoint.
A three run monster jack in the bottom of the 5th to get us on the board and we never looked back winning 15-1.
Most impressive - maybe it was that BP I threw before the game - huh?
EVERYBODY on this large roster ended up contributing both on offense and defense.
Great pitching by the afore mentioned ROB ELLIS (34) - 3 innings.
Roger Fonseca (22 - Grizzlies) - 2 very nice scoreless innings.
A 4 batter scoreless 6th inning by Jeremy Butterfield (33 - Tsunami).
One run made it across for Josh Feirerstein (25 - Miracle) in the 7th.
Ian Santa Cruz (21 - Benders) got a K in the 8th before straining a hip flexor.
And then we had Hando - Kevin Anderson (3 - Pigroasters) get the next 5 outs in a row to finish it.
Gotta also mention James Anderson (33) of the Mad Dogs / Bay Division - playing some really good baseball both catching - he threw out GARY KIRVEN (10) - and pitching.
GAME BALL - Hando - Kevin Anderson (3 - Pigroasters) - one of the best players this league has ever seen.
EXTRA special thanks to Sayre Happich, official scorekeeper for the 2006 All-Star game.
Thanks to everyone - it was an honor and a privilege to manage the All-Star game for the second year in a row.
OCEAN DIVISION ALL-STARS
Gary Kirven (10 - Benders)
Rob Ellis (34 - Benders)
Ian Santa Cruz (21 - Benders)
Bill Ferreira (52 - Red Giants)
Chris Mercer (7 - Red Giants)
Brian Jaquet (25 - Red Giants)
Chris O'Driscoll (20 - Pigroasters)
Kevin Anderson (3 - Pigroasters)
Neal McSherry (48 - Pigroasters)
Joe Wong (99 - Miracle)
Josh Feirerstein (25 - Miracle)
Roger Fonseca (22 - Grizzlies)
Ivan Hurtado (24 - Grizzlies)
Mark Markunis (7 - Isotopes)
Andrew Dunning (2 -Isotopes)
Jeff Gregori (3 - Isotopes)
Trevor Williamson (3 - Blazers)
Charles Hartnett (27 - Blazers)
Jorge Martinez (21 - Trojans)
Jeremy Butterfield (33 - Tsunami)
Roland Moreno (30 - Tsunami)
UPDATE: 8/12/2006
BLUE CLAWS
Congratulations to Eric Anderson (21) and all the Blue Claws for their 5-4 victory over us Saturday at Big Rec in San Francisco.
Outstanding pitching by Danny Chu (2) throwing a complete game.
Game winning 2 RBI hit by Mike Castillo (20) in the 6th.
Great outfield play constantly tracking down our deep shots.
These guys beat us fair and square refusing to allow a run for the last 3 innings of the game.
We came close especially in the 9th when BEN KAMEKONA (1) hit a monster triple with 2 outs but that potential run died at third base along with our undefeated (in League play) season.
Great pitching by HAND (36) - 6+ and ROB ELLIS (34) - we could not have asked for more.
Very nice job by the bottom of our order:
GIAN ALLEN (37) and JAMIE STEFFEN (26) - on base 5 of 8 between them with an RBI.
BEN KAMEKONA (1) - besides the triple - 2 singles and 2 walks - on base all 5 times - brilliant.
Thanks once again to the Blue Claws for a great game.
NEXT GAME - Sunday, August 20 - Willie Stargell Field - Alameda - 10:00 AM / 1:00 PM
Double Header - BLAZERS
UPDATE: 8/6/2006
MAD DOGS
1350 feet.
That's the distance in base path the Benders gave up in 7 innings of defensive mistakes.
What's that - like a ¼ mile?
And then there were the base running screw-ups on offense.
A little trip to the shame closet in order here.
We took this game REAL serious with practices on Thursday and Saturday but we concentrated mostly on hitting.
On the surface maybe we should spend some time on other things besides swinging the bat but baseball is a curious game and perhaps our hard work did pay off in the end.
Notable whacks included a 2 run homer by James Anderson (33) of the Mad Dogs in the 5th followed by a revenge home run to deep center-right by CARLOS MONTALVO (23) in the bottom of the inning.
GARY (10 - 2006 All Star) agravated a back injury and had to come out of the game in the 3rd. He was done. Not good having the best leadoff man in the league go down.
So we fumbled about through the top of the 7th where things got really ugly - accumulating 540 feet of those errors right there. The Mad Dogs took a 2 run lead 7-5. We deserved to lose this game.
Bottom 7th - leadoff spot coming to bat to start our half of the inning.
GARY (10) sez - "Put me back in."
Under the re-entry rule this can be done - so - OK.
GARY KIRVEN (10) First Pitch - base hit.
And then:
ERIK WANNER (19) Walks.
And then:
LEX (5) Base hit - RBI.
And Then:
IAN SANTA CRUZ (21 - 2006 All Star) - Double - RBI.
And Then:
BEN KAMEKONA (1) Base hit - 2 RBI's.
And then:
CARLOS MONTALVO (23) Base hit - RBI.
And Then:
LUCAS BRUNETTE (4) Double - RBI.
And Then:
JAMIE STEFFEN (26) - Walks.
And Then:
DAVID SCHUMMERS (15) Base hit.
And Then:
PAUL NAJERA (2) Sac fly - RBI.
And Then:
GIAN ALLEN (37) Base hit.
And Then:
SABER SHERRARD (11) Base hit - RBI.
And Then:
BRIAN WILLIAMS (6) Base hit - RBI.
And Then:
GARY KIRVEN (10) Again - Base hit - RBI.
And Then:
ERIK WANNER (19) Sticks a fork in it with double to score BRIAN WILLIAMS (6) as the winning run from third.
Under the mercy rule Benders win 17-7 in 7 innings sending 15 men to the plate, scoring 12 runs and still with only 1 out when the game ended.
Winning pitcher: ERIC HAND (36).
Gut pitching performance: ERIK WANNER (19) 6+ innings.
And Then:
We went and had beers at Scobies.
GAME BALL - GARY KIRVEN (10) - Giving us his best JC impersonation in rising from the dead and leading us to the promised land.
Arf indeed.
NEXT GAME - Saturday, August 12 - Big Rec - Golden Gate Park, San Francisco - 2:00 PM
Blue Claws.
UPDATE: 7/31/2006
SEA LIONS
These guys did not want to lose and it was a one run affair late into the game.
Benders win, eventually, 7-5.
Nice game by the Sea Lions.
GAME BALL - ERIC HAND (36) - complete game - strong finish.
GARY KIRVEN (10) - 2 for 4 including a perfect bunt to start off the game.
LEX (5) - BIG ol' home run for 2 RBI's.
DEMETRIUS (24) - very nice game going 3 for 4.
BEN KAMEKONA (1) - 3 for 4 with 3 RBI's.
Jeez - we only won by 2 runs?
The Sea Lions just kept getting up, getting on base and scoring.
NEXT GAME - August 6 - Willie Stargell Field - Alameda - 1:00 PM
The Dogs Who are Mad (at us i guess).
And - this funky little web site got over 13,000 hits for July. I guess i should be making more of an effort to be entertaining or ... maybe ... sell some Benders crap on line. Whataya think you guys in the Seychelles? You been following us all year. Send hate mail and spam to revolvo@hotmail.com
UPDATE: 7/31/2006
SAN QUENTIN GIANTS
We lost to the Giants 9-2 on wednesday and did not look good at all in doing so. Stretch pitched for SQ and we could not hit him. Tip o' the cap there Stretch - see you next season.
UPDATE: 7/23/2006
PIG ROASTERS - Double Header
Benders win 9-2
Benders win 3-1
We survived 4 games over two weekends playing two teams that had only one loss coming in to our park. It was hot, the games took a long time to play. We had a rain delay - the sprinklers suddenly turned on taking the engineering genius of BRIAN WILLIAMS (6) to figure out how to turn them off.
The first game saw total domination by our #1 starter ROB ELLIS (34) with 13 strikeouts and no runs over 8 innings. This is against a team known for its hitting prowess. The only finger in the eye was Hando (3) playing shortstop. He went 3 for 4 with 2 doubles. Nice job adjusting to Rob.
We scored 3 in the second with RBI's by LUCAS (4), CARLOS (23) and SCHUMMERS (15) and then just kept adding runs.
GARY KIRVEN (10) - 2 for 3 with a walk, triple, run scored, RBI, stolen base.
BEN KAMEKONA (1) - 2 for 3 with a walk, double, run scored, RBI.
CARLOS MONTALVO (23) - 2 for 4, RBI.
GAME BALL - ROB ELLIS (34).
Game 2 saw an INSANLEY great, complete game, 13 strikeout, 1 run performance by our 2005 MVP ERIK WANNER (19).
Backed up by spectacular left field play by PAUL NAJERA (2) and in right field GIAN ALLEN (37).
Killer RBI's provided by LUCAS (4) and CARLOS (23) in the 9th inning helping to chase Hando (3) out of the game.
Speaking of Hando (3) - he may be the best all around player in the league both from the mound and hitting. He pitched a hell of a tough game and came out for the ninth after a hamstring injury running the bases. Hats off.
GAME BALL - ERIK WANNER (19).
SPECIAL MENTION - MIKE GOROSPE (22) - a text book show on how to block balls in the dirt.
SPECIAL MENTION - DAVID SCHUMMERS (15) - 4 put outs at shortstop looking very competent.
NEXT GAME - Wednesday July 26 - The Ballpark in The Prison Yard at San Quentin State Penitentiary - 5:00 PM - SAN QUENTIN GIANTS
UPDATE: 7/16/2006
MIRACLE - Double Header
Benders win 14-4
Benders win 5-3
NEXT GAME - July 23 - Willie Stargell Field - Alameda - 10:00 AM / 1:00 PM
Double Header - PIG ROASTERS
UPDATE: 7/9/2006
GRIZZLIES
GAME BALL - ERIK WANNER (19) - 6 innings, 7 K's, no runs.
GAME BALL - DEMETRIUS ADAMS (24) - amazing defensive performance at 3rd base, 2 RBI's, 2 stolen bases.
GAME BALL - IAN SANTA CRUZ (21) - monster shots out of the 4 hole - double, triple, closed out a scoreless 9th with some truly nasty stuff.
Plenty of other great perfomances from the rest of the crew:
LUCAS (4) with 2 RBIS's.
DAVID SCHUMMERS (15) with 2 hits and 2 RBI'S and some GREAT defensive play at short stop.
CARLOS MONTALVO (23) - triple, single, RBI, 2 runs scored, on base 3 of 4 - typical game.
PAUL (2) - triple.
Benders win 12-2
Welcome back to the roster our old friend and last year's starting short stop - SABER SHERRARD (11).
NEXT GAME - July 16 - Willie Stargell Field - Alameda - 10:00 AM / 1:00 PM
Double Header - MIRACLE
UPDATE: 7/6/2006
SAN QUENTIN GIANTS
It sure was great to be back at the penitentiary. Everybody kind and gracious. So many folks calling out my name to say howdy. Kinda like going back to the old country club after you've been away for a long time. Thanks for the invite and showing us such a great time.
Benders win 7-3 in a contest that shall be known henceforth as "The Erik Wanner Mental Game". More on that a little later.
First a word about the boys:
We gave 'em some ROB (34) KKKKKKK for 4 innings to soften 'em up.
Add a home run and some great defensive play in deep center field (not easy with the inmates camped out there) by PAUL NAJERA (2).
Great catching, stolen base and run scored from MIKE GOROSPE (22).
Nice relief work by HAND (36).
Excellent defense at 3rd base, a hit, a walk, a run scored by DEMETRIUS ADAMS (24).
CARLOS MONTALVO (23) - hit, walk, run scored, defense.
GIAN ALLEN (37) - got our first hit in the 2nd, walk, RBI, caught the last inning.
On base 3 of 4, run scored - SCHUMMERS (15).
The afore mentioned ROB ELLIS (34) who also had 3 RBI's on two base hits.
DAN WOOD (44) - kept score allowing me to pitch a couple of innings and was ready to come in even if he didn't have a Tommy John ligament.
GAME BALL - ERIK WANNER (19).
Erik executed the most sensational and audacious baseball plays I have seen since the Derek Jeter covering home plate thing proving that baseball really is a game of the mind and in that regard E19 is definitely mental.
1) 6th inning.
There's a hit with a man on 2nd and we can't get the guy running to 1st so the ball ends up getting thrown to 3rd in an attempt to get the runner coming in from 2nd.
E19 is covering 3rd.
The ball gets away from him and he starts scampering up the 3rd base line after it.
The runner, seeing this, rounds third and starts thinking about home plate.
Unfortunately for him the ball has not been fumbled away but nobody is wise to this until E19 spins around, dashes to the bag and tags out the astonished guy trying to dive back.
This is the greatest deak play I've ever seen and bailed me out with the final out of a long inning.
The collective sound coming out of the assembled prison population in LOUD choral unison has no description - it wasn't oohs and aahs but perhaps the sound of disbelieving aghastment like they had just seen the most amazing magic trick ever. Everybody was mezmerized. Everyone was fooled.
2) 7th inning.
Guy on 3rd - there's a walk - the guy who walks promptly positions himself between 1st and 2nd daring us to make a play on him so the runner from 3rd can score.
The ball goes to E19.
These people are in big trouble.
E19, unfazed by this provacative move, dances and fakes and chases until he gets the base runner coming off 3rd far enough to the point where he picks him off.
Serious baseball IQ. That's our reigning MVP.
NEXT GAME - Sunday July 9 - Paul Goode Field (Presidio) - San Francisco - 2:00 PM - GRIZZLIES
UPDATE: 7/1/2006
We welcome back two key players from last year's championship team:
Playoff MVP - ERIC HAND (36)
Rookie of the year - DEMETRIUS ADAMS (24)
Eric Hand, our playoff MVP from 2005, is an NCAA champ after the Cal Men's Crew won the 2006 NCAA Team National Championship. Eric rowed on both the Varsity 8 and the JV 8 crews this year. This is in addition
to placing 3rd last year in Varsity 8 and winning the Freshman 8 National Championship the year before. Congratulations from all the Benders.
UPDATE: 6/25/2006
TITANS
Benders win 9-2 but we faced our toughest pitching to date. Tied 1-1 in the 7th, we broke for 2 runs on hits by CARLOS MONTALVO (23) and JAMIE STEFFEN (26) and sac fly by GARY KIRVEN (10) and an error and a hit batsman. This was followed up by an 8th where we batted around with 5 hits scoring five times. That was just about all she wrote except for a GIGANTIC home run by IAN SANTA CRUZ (21) in the top of the 9th.
As mentioned, this was a tight game through 6 innings with great pitching by Alex Gonzalez (19) of the Titans. We just kinda willed our way past this obstacle.
Also, very nice field at Piedmont High School. Kudos to the Titans for securing that.
Admirable efforts:
CARLOS MONTALVO (23) - 2 great defensive plays in the first inning - hit TWICE by the hard throwing Alex Gonzalez (19) - base hit - scored twice.
GIAN ALLEN (37) - Super clutch 2 RBI hit in the 8th to break the game open.
IAN SANTA CRUZ (21) - Good defensive play at third, closed the game out in the 9th and the above mentioned home run.
GARY (10) - Clutch sac fly - 2 RBI's - big double and base hit - stolen base.
BEN KAMEKONA (1) - A couple of nice hits and great defensive play filling in at shortstop.
The STAR of the game:
GAME BALL - ROB ELLIS (34) - FIFTEEN (15) STRIKEOUTS in 8 innings - YOW !!!
See How to pitch.
An amazing performance picking up our hurt frontline starter DAN WOOD (44).
One falls - another gets up. Thanks.
NEXT GAME - Wednesday July 5 - The Ballpark in The Prison Yard at San Quentin State Penitentiary - 5:00 PM - SAN QUENTIN GIANTS
UPDATE: 6/18/2006
TSUNAMI
The Benders suffered our biggest loss of the season when our All Star starting pitcher, DAN WOOD (44), went down in the 3rd with an injury to his ulnar
collateral ligament. That's the Tommy John one.
The only saving grace is that it was not a complete tear. Dan is done for the season.
Here's one opinion about how this stuff happens: "A split-fingered fastball is the worst pitch you can throw. They talk about throwing curveballs, but a well-thrown curveball is not that stressful. A splitter is terrible." There's a ton of other stuff on the net.
We have been blessed with a great team, many victories and a championship. But we've also endured some most unwelcome tragedies. This incident makes us reflect on our team mates who are now unable to play - they were insanely great baseball players and we miss them and we're going to miss Dan being on the mound. But, hey, we got somebody to help with the scorekeeping now and there's still a good left arm and we'll just have to be patient till Dan returns next season.
The game started ominously with Mr. Butterfield (33) K'ing our first three batters - the last two looking. We had a tough go of it until the 4th when we figured things out and scored 6 followed up with 3 the next inning.
Excellent pitching by DAN WOOD (44) and then IAN SANTA CRUZ (21) doing an admirable job carrying the team for 3 1/3 innings of relief pitching. I had the good fortune to close it out in a reasonably efficient manner. The only run scored by the opposition was unearned.
Looking VERY good:
GARY KIRVEN (10) - 2 singles and a walk - 3 runs scored.
ERIK WANNER (19) - double, single and a walk - 3 runs scored.
BEN KAMEKONA (1) - 2 singles - on base all 4 times.
A big welcome back to one of our most important players from last year - Demetrius Adams.
GAME BALL - Yours truly - TY (33) - a few good pitches - thanks to: The Benders, Mike and Ben Rees.
Benders win 15-1 in seven innings.
NEXT GAME - Saturday June 24 - Piedmont HS - Piedmont - 9:00 AM - TITANS
UPDATE: 6/11/2006
A's
We're running on three cylinders - pitching, defense and offense.
Fouled a plug on #2.
Neverthless, a strong showing by our offense against one of the league's best pitchers - Howie Correa (21).
Hammering out 14 hits including a 2 run triple in the first inning by IAN SANTA CRUZ (21) and a 2 run homer by LEX (30).
Two RBI's by BEN KAMEKONA (1) and a crucial RBI by CARLOS MONTALVO (23) for the ever important insurance run.
On the A's side of the ledger - a 2 RBI hit (with 2 outs and 2 strikes) to tie the game at 6 in the fourth inning by Seena Nassiri (2) - that one took some wind out of our sails.
A lead off double by A's manager Michael Enriquez (26) in the 8th sparked a three run rally that - as per script - resulted in us hanging on to a 2 run victory.
Nice pitching on our side to close it up in the 9th by ERIK WANNER (19).
GAME BALL - LEX (30 for the moment) - 4 RBI'S - single, double, home run - scored 3 times.
GAME BALL - GARY KIRVEN (10) - 2 singles and a double, stole third base then stole home - 2 runs scored.
Benders win 11-9
We're 7-0.
A few pictures from the game in 06 PIX and the rest of our schedule in 06 SCHED.
NEXT GAME - June 18 - Balboa - San Francisco - 2:00 PM - TSUNAMI
UPDATE: 6/4/2006
THE ISOTOPES
A 9:00 AM Sunday morning start in foggy Daly City. Coulda been a sleepwalker but instead turned into our best game this year defeating a tough Isotopes team on foreign soil.
Thanks for a great contest Matahi and all the 'topes. Nice pitching from Jay Bortoli (12) This one was much closer than the score would indicate. We managed to put together a four run 7th that was the deal maker. Until then things were pretty tight.
The shocker came in the top of the 5th with one out when Jeff Gregori (3) hit the baseball out into/out of left field, over the hill, through the dale, down memory lane and into a rabbit hole where some chick named Alice was hangin' out. Our left fielder completely disappeared from view chasing it - no fences at this field.
This home run gives the opposition a 3-2 lead and quiets our bench down to not a peep. DAN WOOD (44) bucks up and throws nine more pitches to get us out of the inning with no more damage done.
Well folks, wouldn't you just know it, probably with the 'topes feeling pretty good about themselves, on the very first pitch - bottom of the very same inning ... cleanup IAN SANTA CRUZ (21) hits the ball into the VERY SAME FREAKIN' HOLE !
What a shot - another left fielder disappears - coulda run around the bases backwards.
As a topper we had CARLOS MONTALVO (23) manufacture a 2 run shot in the 7th. It went a long way but still required some hard running.
And now our grand prize winners ::
First - some serious props for GARY (10).
Throughout the 6 games we've played so far, Gary has been consistently spectacular as our lead off hitter. Just this game - 5 stolen bases, 2 solid base hits, 2 RBI's. We might have figured out why. Based on the accompanying photo, looks like Gary's feet don't actually touch the ground. He just flys around. I guess the dust kicked up is some kinda supersonic propulsion system vortex breakdown. Thanks, Gary, on behalf of the entire team.
DAN WOOD (44) - a great 5 inning start against a tough team.
ROB ELLIS (34) - velocity² - 4 innings for the win.
GAME BALL - IAN SANTA CRUZ (21) - massive home run - great defense at 3rd base.
GAME BALL - CARLOS MONTALVO (23) - game breaking 2 run homer - great defense at 1st base.
Benders win 8-4.
NEXT GAME ::
Sunday June 11 - Caldecott - Oakland - 9:30 AM - A's
Uh Oh ...
"is fond of flashing funky dance moves that leave her teammates... well... at a loss for words.
The famous — infamous — Cat dance."
UPDATE: 5/21/2006
BAYSOX CHAMPIONSHIP REMATCH
In a 5 inning rain shortened soak-a-thon we almost coughed it up against yet another opponent that refused to take the pipe and die.
Some major power for the BAYSOX with their cleanup hitter MIKE KNUDSEN (44) smashing a 3 run jack in the second and just barely missing another in the 4th. Haven't seen swings like that since KELLY CORLISS.
We were ahead, behind, ahead then held on for dear life in the 5th.
Two quick outs by ROB ELLIS (34) in 4 pitches - then - with the mound disintegrating into a pile of goey muck the BAYSOX walked two on full counts and then walked two on 4 pitches apiece.
No fault of our pitcher - by this point he was standing in the mound instead of on top.
But Rob bore down and K'd the 7th hitter of the inning in 4 pitches for the win.
Honor Roll ::
GARY KIRVEN (10) - 2 stolen bases, led off the game with a solid single, smashed a MASSIVE RBI double that we thought for sure was going for a home run into the condos, scored three times.
IAN SANTA CRUZ (21) - BIG 2 RBI double in the 1st inning, on base 3 of 4.
JAMIE STEFFEN (26) - 2 solid knocks and a score.
AND our game ball winner for this week ::
LEX (35 for the moment) - 4 BIG RBI'S, on base 3 of 4, really swinging that bat nice right now.
Benders win 10-8 in five inninngs.
2004 CHAMPIONSHIP REMATCH
Sunday June 4 - Place and Time TBD - ISOTOPES
UPDATE: 5/15/2006
GRIZZLIES
This is shaping up to be like last year - every game a fight to the finish.
Special props to the GRIZZLIES and their starting pitcher R. FONSECA (22). We struck out freakin' 9 times, had four 1-2-3 innings and could only get it going (a bit) when he left the game. I'll be managing this guy in the All-Star game is what I figure.
Now, our starting pitcher - ROB ELLIS (34) fanned ten (10) as in 10 in four innings of work giving up 1 hit and no earned runs.
3 innings by DAN WOOD (44) and 2 innings to close it out for the win from JAMIE STEFFEN (26) resulting in 3 total runs for the GRIZZLIES.
Some great defense for a no error day but a tough time for the offense.
However, we do have some heroes and here they are in no particular order ::
ERIK WANNER (19) - first inning RBI scoring GARY KIRVEN (10) - 8th inning walk that was huge - and a spectacular defensive play on a very difficult ball hit to 2nd for a crucial put out.
LEX (9) - super clutch 2 RBI smash in the 8th inning.
IAN SANTA CRUZ (21) - 2 for 4 with a critical single in the ninth.
DION (7) - walk and stolen base and run scored in the 8th.
And finally we have our game ball guy and a true hero of the game.
CARLOS MONTALVO (23) - a great job defensively at 1st base and then re-entered the game batting in 8 hole to wack a HUGE double off the fence in deep left center driving in the winning run from 1st base.
In a game tied 3-3 in the bottom of the ninth - YOW!
Benders win another one run game late 4-3.
CHAMPIONSHIP REMATCH
Sunday May 21 - Willie Stargell Field - Alameda - 1:00 PM - BAYSOX
UPDATE: 5/9/2006
STEELHEADS
Our first forfeit game. The Steelheads came up 2 players short.
This would have been a good game on a beautiful day.
The umps did stay and we had a most enjoyable scrimmage.
Dang it - we've only played two freakin' games so far and it's the middle of May. The team is very frustrated.
Benders win 9-0 on the forfeit.
NEXT GAME - Sunday May 14 - Willie Stargell Field - Alameda - 1:00 PM - GRIZZLIES
BIG BIG BIG GAME COMING UP SUNDAY MAY 21st
Rematch of the championship game - BAYSOX - Willie Stargell Field - Alameda - 1:00 PM
UPDATE: 5/1/2006
RED GIANTS
This was one of the most exciting games we've ever played.
First, we figured it was a good idea to keep running into outs on the base paths. That didn't turn out well. Then after a single, full count walk and a 3 run homer by the Red Giants in the 5th - the first earned runs given up by Dan Wood (44) - we decided to bumble about and give 'em 4 more. 8-0 top of the 5th.
Erik and Rob then combined to shut down the RG's allowing us to crawl back into it.
Nice pitching by the RG's starter and subsequent relievers - they gave us lots of problems.
BUT
3 runs in the 6th - 2 RBI BEN (1)
3 runs in the 7th - RBI LUCAS (4)
2 runs in the 9th to tie it on SCHUMMS (15) RBI single with 2 outs
AND THEN
With 2 outs in the bottom of the 10th Gary (10) makes it to 1st on an E6 - steals 2nd - passed ball to 3rd - dashes for home on a passed ball for the win.
Let's see - Gary (10) scored 4 runs and stole 6 bases.
Game Ball - Rob Ellis (34) - can pitch a baseball just a bit - not too bad.
Game Ball - Gary Kirven (10) - will have to go through the books and add up how many times he's bailed us out.
Nice pitching by our starter Dan Wood (44) - no run support - defensive miscues.
Benders win 9-8
NEXT GAME - May 7 - Willie Stargell Field - Alameda - 1:00 PM - STEELHEADS
UPDATE: 4/24/2006
HOME OPENER - TROJANS
After a whole month of rainouts, Willie Stargell Field field finally dried out enough to get a game in.
Benders win the home opener 10-8.
CHAMPIONS
I'm not a spiritual person and I subscribe to the Vince Lombardi definition of luck - when opportunity meets preparation - but with baseball I have felt the hand of deity guide my throw in a magical arc that defies the laws of physics and makes the man standing at the plate swing in desperation at something that really is not there. I have also encountered spirits that decide to teach me a lesson in humility. They eliminate my hand eye coordination and randomly assign walks, bloopers, bleeders and the occasional home run to my opponents. That freight train starts rumbling in the back of the brain. Saturday was a day that you got out your lucky pants, not shave, didn't pick up strange objects off the ground and start making deals with baseball god - if you can just please let us get through this inning without those guys on second and third scoring …
And so it went in the final game until as suddenly as a heart attack we turned a double play and the Benders were champs.
Many thanks to our worthy opponents - great pitching by Kevin Mapel (22).
Thank you Jason Amanatullah (32) - manager of the Bay Sox.
Eric Hand (36) pitched two complete games in the playoffs including the final victory. Eric is on the varsity crew team at Cal and prior to the Saturday afternoon start, attended rowing practice. In an amazing display of stamina worthy of Juda Ben Hur, Eric comes out and throws a 136 pitch complete game to win us the championship. We gotta get some kinda medal made up for that or at least get the shackles taken off.
We've played a lot of games this season - San Quentin, San Francisco Wood Bat League, SFNABA - all in an effort to get better. These last two weeks we practiced almost every day - batting cage at Alameda, batting practice at various fields throughout San Francisco, infield, outfield, grounders. We practiced till it was too dark to see the ball. Our team had the grace of good fortune but we respected our opponents and worked our asses off in anticipation of a tenacious fight. The four playoff games were the best games this team has played all year. Incredible defense, spectacular pitching and the offense - we scored 37 runs in the four games. What more can you add to that?
All of this was accomplished by players stepping up when it really counted. We were missing critical, key personel for the playoffs:
Lucas (4) - our home run leader and cleanup hitter fractured his arm just before the playoffs and did not play.
Dan (44) - the winner of our pitching award had a leg operation and did not see any playoff time.
Lex (9) - replaced Lucas (4) at cleanup but was unavailable for the final two games.
Yet we just picked it up and kept right on rolling.
So, after the ignominy of choking with 5 outs to go last year we find ourselves heading to the National Championships in Arizona. Thanks to everybody who made this possible. It's awesome.
See SCORES for game details.
Special thanks and much gratitude to Frank Wanner for making our plaques and trophies.
UPDATE: 9/11/2005
MAD DOGS - DIVISION FINAL
We win the Ocean Division for the second year in a row beating the same two teams as last year.
*DOUBLE GAME BALL* BEN KAMEKONA (1) - 4 RBI's - Divisional Playoff MVP - respect.
*GAME BALL* ERIC HAND (36) - 1 ERA complete game victory - total grit - thanks.
Tough pitching from our opposition - Alex Rice (24)
A game befitting the two best teams in the division.
Next Up - Best 2 of 3 with the Bay Sox for the Bay Area Championship
see UPDATE: 8/15/2005
and
a trip to the National World Series in Arizona.
I'm gonna toot - I get to manage my second All-Star game in a row - rock on ...
See SCORES for game details.
UPDATE: 9/10/2005
FOG
No Fog.
Benders win on a sunny day.
Next Up - the Mad Dogs and their innate understanding of the rules of baseball.
See SCORES for game details.
UPDATE: 8/28/2005
FOG
Our largest margin of loss in league play - 3 runs.
We end the season 17-3.
UPDATE: 8/22/2005
THE CLINCH - We outlast the Blue Claws for two wins and clinch 1st place
Before the season started this league was in the process of establishing a two tier division system with new and weaker teams in one and the more established teams in the other. I thought this was a good plan. James Anderson of the Mad Dogs wrote a very thoughtfull critique of this idea which resulted in the scrapping of the new format. Thanks James. We have had tough, competitive games from all of our division rivals. None of the teams could be classified as "weak". Kudos to the Dogs for nipping at us all season long in what has probably been the tightest race for the number 1 spot this league has seen. They just refuse to lose.
Thanks to the following:
Our sponser - Scobies Bar - great times after the games
Our supporters - all the girls that have come to our games - even the cold foggy ones in Daly City
Erik's dad - the maker of our trophys and plaques and of ... Erik
Coach Saunders of the Encinal Jets - hey this program spit out Rollins and Dontrelle
Ronda at Alameda Unifed School District for making the field happen
Dan Hughey - our ump cordinator - we ALWAYS had two
Rod Pruitt - a great ump - thanks for doing most (not all) of our games
Alison - cordinator for the San Quentin games - truly a cool lady and their scorekeeper
The San Quentin Giants - in a fair world they could come play on our field
Jonathan Zeron - the original founder of this team and the "discoverer" of Willie Stargell Field - our home sweet home AND the guy who drafted me as a middle reliever
Everybody who has played with and against us over the last 3 years
So we're gonna say all that stuff now cause the playoffs are coming and who knows how long we'll last.
It's baseball - anything can happen.
UPDATE: 8/21/2005
BLUE CLAWS
C L I N C H
17-2 with one game to go
UPDATE: 8/15/2005
BAY SOX
Yow - are teams gearing up for us? Yet another tough game - scoreless for almost half its length. Ahead - fell behind - took the lead - hung on to the life raft for a one run win.
Serious hats off to the Bay Sox. They did not allow our lead-off hitter on once and played a hell of a clean game. These guys are going to be tough in the playoffs.
See SCORES for highlights.
UPDATE: 8/1/2005
TROJANS DOUBLE HEADER
With no time limits at Willie Stargell Field, this turned into a long, hot day with the Trojans repeatedly poking us in the eye with a sharp stick at the beginning of both games.
Except for the convicts, at no point in season were we down so many runs - in both games. Slowly things turned around to give what looks like large margins of victory for our side but in reality this was the end result of long and protracted war of attrition.
In this type of battle we did have the advantage of carrying a large roster allowing us to send in fresh troops to keep the pressure on the opposition. The unselfish nature and team camaraderie of the squad makes this all possible.
Sunday was also Saber Day in which we honored one of our core group of players and starting short stop. Saber (11) is moving on to Chicago having been accepted into a prestigious learning institution.
We will sorely miss his inspirational rally calls inside the huddle - a lot more rousing than my "don't *uck up" spiel.
Glad we were able to send him off on a high note. Benders on 3.
See SCORES for more props and pithy commentary.
UPDATE: 7/25/2005
SAN QUENTIN - TSUNAMI
We were ahead into the middle of the game but 5 errors, somnabulance on the base paths and a sudden loosening of the bowels caused us to poop our pants in front of the inmates and TV camera crew.
To add humiliation to insult to self inflicted injury - it'll all be on display in a National Geographic special coming to a television in your living room and - for the teams that don't like us - well - here is your chance to wallow in some schadenfreude.
The team did escape at the end of the day but my ERA was sent to solitary confinment with no chance of parole till next season.
Sunday saw another serious attempt at self immolation with 7 errors but playing at home and backed by some great pitching from Erik (19) we managed to prevail over the Tsunami.
UPDATE: 7/18/2005
ISOTOPES
After 6 straight tough road games including the penetentiary twice - there's no place like home.
The bats came alive and we just kinda exploded all up and down the batting order.
This is our first regular season victory over the Isotopes and they are a tough, veteran team. We scored a lot of runs but, as with the Fog, we'll take this one with a grain of salt.
Until somebody beats them in the playoffs - they are the champs two years running.
UPDATE: 7/12/2005
SAN QUENTIN - PIG ROASTERS
Tough weekend.
2 run loss to San Quentin followed by a 1 run loss in extra innings to the Pig Roasters.
We're still at/near the top - just gotta work harder to stay there.
The Benders are finally going home after what seems like months of playing road games.
Almost 2 months looking back at the schedule.
UPDATE: 6/27/2005
A's
Both teams at the bottom of our division, A's and Blue Jays, can pull a super tough game out of their back pockets. Underestimate these teams at your peril.
On Sunday the A's held us to our lowest run scoring total this season - 3. Howie Correa (21) of the A's is one of the best pitchers I have seen play in this league and it was exciting to see him throw against our squad.
The A's got kind of a raw deal facing us as a fresh team in the back end of a double header especially when you factor in that 42 runs (yeah 42) were scored in the first game.
A super serious appreciation to the A's for putting together a game like that against us.
That said - Dan Wood (44) kept right up with Howie throwing the first ever complete game shutout in the 3 year history of the Benders.
No walks, a bunch of 1-2-3 innings, lots of K's. No runners reached 2nd until the bottom of the 9th - 2 out when the A's mounted a furious assualt and brought the tying run to the plate - whom Dan then proceeded to K.
Dan Wood (44) - our all-star and one of the best pitchers in this league. Thanks.
UPDATE: 6/20/2005
BLUE JAYS
Ran into a wall on Sunday.
The Blue Jays refused to allow us any runs and it looked like they were going to refuse to lose.
After a mighty effort we were lucky enough to prevail.
This may be the toughest game we've played all season.
UPDATE: 6/18/2005
SAN QUENTIN GIANTS
The San Quentin Giants had a 10-2 record.
When we left they had a 10-3 record.
UPDATE: 6/13/2005
BLUE CLAWS
This game was postponed and will be combined with the August 21 game at Willie Stargell Field.
UPDATE: 6/7/2005
All Star Report From the Ocean Side
I would like to express my deepest thanks to the all stars that played in this weekends game.
First to our worthy opponents - Matahi Ribera and his Bay Division and secondly to our boys from the Ocean.
That game was a true pleasure to be part of and I bet it was the best SFNABA all star game ever played.
For the record here's who we had on the Ocean side:
Eric Anderson (21) - Blue Claws
Ben Kamekona (1) - Benders
Kelly Corliss (22) - Fog
Jeff Graham (4) - Pig Roasters
Chris O'Driscoll (20) - Pig Roasters
Dan Wood (44) - Benders
Andy Laveroni (21) - Fog
Howie Correa (21) - A's
Jose Porras (25) - Blue Jays
Seena Nassiri (75) - A's
Shawn Mazza (4) - Blue Claws
Mike Gorospe (22) - Benders
Coaches:
Brian Williams (6) - Benders
Carlos Montalvo (23) - Benders
EVERYBODY contributed something in this game.
However, special mention must be given to our game ball recipient - Andy Laveroni of the Fog.
Man - that was a display of truly outstanding pitching. Woe to the team that has to face him in a game.
Special mention to Howie Correa of the A's - another great pitcher with just a nasty change-up/palm ball/duece or whatever it was.
Nice play at short stop by Howie also.
Chris O'Driscoll of the Pig Roasters - drove in our first run and scored our last.
Nice play by Seena stabbing that line drive to end the first inning.
Clutch hit Eric Anderson in the 8th.
There were many more awsome plays on both sides.
The final score was 5-4 in favor of the Bay Division but the game was very close and tied 3-3 going into the ninth.
We almost pulled it off in the bottom of the 9th down 2 runs.
Chris O'Driscoll led off with a clutch base hit and Dan Wood wacked a monster shoulda been a triple RBI shot to drive him in.
A spectacular defensive play cut Dan down at third base in a cloud of dust on an extremely close call.
That had to be the most exciting play of the game.
A few Benders notes:
These guys are a big part of the reason I had the honor and privilege of managing this years all star game:
This was Mike's 3rd straight appearance in the all star game.
Thanks to my coaches Brain and Carlos - the Benders are very lucky to have them.
Of the 4 runs scored by our side - Mike, Ben and Dan were directly involved in 3 of them.
Thanks guys for going 3 for 6 against tough pitching and representing our team so well.
For the other managers:
Your guys did a fantastic job representing your respective teams - both Ocean and Bay.
They all deserve an atta boy.
It's was an honor to be on the same field with your ball players.
Thanks very much for a truly great game.
UPDATE: 6/4/2005
Fog
We won this one but will take it with a grain of salt.
The Fog were down some players and we're expecting a tough game when we play them at their home field in the last game of the season.
UPDATE: 5/23/2005
A's
We've scored 87 runs in 8 games
The BENDERS lead the league in scoring
Our All Stars:
Ben Kamekona (1) - The best outfielder in the league and #2 hitter
Dan Wood (44) - Terrific season on the mound
Iron Mike (22) - The rock behind the plate that makes it all possible
The All Star game is Sunday June 5 at Big Rec - Golden Gate Park - San Francisco
Festivities begin at 10:00 AM
The BENDERS coaching staff will be managing this years All Star game for the Ocean division
UPDATE: 5/16/2005
MIRACLE
Highlighted by some great pitching
Big Ben went off in this game
UPDATE: 5/9/2005
FOG
This game was rained out
We will be playing the make up game June 4 at @ 2:00 PM
BALBOA - SUNDBERG - San Francisco
UPDATE: 5/2/2005
DOGS
As advertised - a collision
Double header - both games decided by 1 run
Each teams first loss of the season
Arf
UPDATE: 4/24/2005
BOMBERS
Tip o' the cap to our worthy oppenents
All star defense - center field, catcher
Longest balls hit to center field i've ever seen
The Bombers are a real tough team aiming for the playoffs
See SCHEDULE/SCORES for our side
UPDATE: 4/17/2005
BLUE JAYS
Special mention - Gian (37) - Stepped up when we really needed it
Another total team effort
We're averaging 11 runs per game through 3 games
UPDATE: 4/10/2005
BOMBERS
Tough game
Contribution from evey memeber of the team
UPDATE: 3/17/2005
ALL STAR GAME
This year the All Star game will be held the weekend of June 4,5
As the winners of the Ocean Division yours truly, TY, will be managing the game with help from the BENDERS ballheads
You will note that one of our Q games has been re-scheduled from June 4 to July 23 to accomodate All Star weekend
STEELHEADS - LEAGUE CHAMPIONSHIP
With the Benders leading 4-3 in the top of the 9th
Baserunners on 2nd and 3rd
2 outs
The count: 2 balls and 2 strikes to the cleanup hitter
The Steelheads down to their last strike
Brennan Collins (24) hits a single up the middle to score 2 runs to take the lead
We can't recover in the 9th going out with a whimper 1-2-3 and losing the 1st game 5-4.
Having invested everything emotionally in the 1st game we came out flat in the 2nd and faced some super tough pitching from sidearmer Chris Collins (11).
We lost the 2nd game by a score of 7-1 - our worst defeat in years - and the championship.
We got beat fair and square by a better team.
Superb pitching by Kevin Whitehair (32) in the first game.
Leadoff hitter Dan Jin (12) - dude - have yourself A DAY.
Great hitting up and down the Steelheads entire lineup.
Add sensational defense = CHAMPIONSHIP.
Sincerest congratulations.
We had many a fine play also - at least in the first game.
Defense, offense ERIK WANNER (19).
PAUL NAJERA (2) - Monster triple and defensive play.
DAVID SCHUMMERS (15) - A clutch throw out at home coupled with some big D at 2nd base.
Up next - I think we'll take a little trip down to AZ to the national championships and see if we can get some satisfaction down there.
UPDATE: 9/16/2006
ISOTOPES - DIVISION CHAMPIONSHIP
For the third year in a row the Benders have won the Ocean Division and, for the third year in a row, are playing for the San Francisco Championship.
Game 1 - Benders 6 - Isotopes 2
Game 2 - Benders 7 - Isotopes 1
KICK IT !!
First, thanks to the Isotopes for a couple of good games. They finished strong and had us working hard in anticipation of a tough double header.
Great pitching to start it off by Kenny Hawthorne (26) - we were very confused by that offspeed stuff with only BEN (1) and DEMETRIUS (24) able to figure it out.
Andy (2) - threw a couple of our boys out from behind the plate.
Bubba (6) - 3 stolen bases - VERY impressive.
No game balls were given out on our end - this was too much of a team effort.
If I start naming names then I gotta name them all so - you might just as well look at the roster page.
But here's a few anyway:
ROB (34) and HAND (36) combined to pitch two complete games with no earned runs.
17 - SEVENTEEN - K's for ROB (34) and a no-hitter.
BEN KAMEKONA (1) - Mister Playoff - 2 doubles, 3 singles for the afternoon - on base 7 of 8 - Wow.
DEMETRIUS (24) - Great day on defense and with the bat.
GARY BASEBALL (10) - Havoc - STOLE HOME PLATE for freak's sake among other acts of thievery.
LUCAS (4) - 5 singles on the day.
Our catchers - MIKE GOROSPE (22) and DION JOLLEY (7) - they deserve some credit for the minimal runs the opposition scored. Great pitch calling.
Next:
THE CHAMPIONSHIP SERIES
DOUBLE HEADER - Saturday, September 23
Big Rec - San Francisco - 10:00 AM / 2:00 PM
Steelheads
UPDATE: 9/11/2006
PIG ROASTERS
We didn't win this game so much as survive it.
Amazing 12 K complete game performance by our GAME BALL winner ROB ELLIS (34) against the hard swinging / hard hitting Pig Roasters.
Talk about one guy carrying a team on his back.
But that's not the whole story. BEN (1), picking up where he left off from our last playoff appearance a year ago, hit a MONSTER triple to deep, deep, deep center field driving in LUCAS (4) for our first run.
This was off Kevin Anderson (3) who gave up just 2 runs the entire game with some terrific pitching of his own.
So GAME BALL BEN KAMEKONA (1).
In a clutch piece of hitting BEN (1) was driven in from 3rd by IAN SANTA CRUZ (21 - 2006 All star).
And that was all the scoring we could muster against the pitching and defense of the opposition.
We had one more GAME BALL - DION JOLLEY (7). Clinging to a 2-1 lead in the top of the 9th, we walked the leadoff batter on 4 pitches. Start stressing.
The next guy hits it to DION (7) playing 2nd base who swipe tags the runner coming from 1st, pirouettes and throws out the other runner at 1st base. Double Play. Two out and nobody on. ROB (34) K's the next guy. Done deal. We win 2-1.
As mentioned this was some tough pitching we faced so I'm gonna list a few more men who managed to get a hit or reach base:
GARY KIRVEN (10) - Walk, hit, 2 stolen bases, on base 2 of 4.
LEX (5) - Base hit, walk.
LUCAS (4) - Base hit, run scored.
CARLOS MONTALVO (23) - Base hit.
GIAN ALLEN (37) - Base hit.
Thanks to the crew at Riordan High School for providing such a great field to play on.
Up next - the team that beat us in three 2 seasons ago.
NEXT GAME - DIVISION CHAMPIONSHIP - Best two out of three DOUBLE HEADER - Saturday, September 16 - Place to be determined - 10:00 AM / 2:00 PM
Isotopes
UPDATE: 8/26/2006
GRAYS
We close out the regular season beating the Grays 6-4 and ending with a 19-1 mark in league play.
The offense took a while to get going but then capitalized on a very brutal sun field in right for some earned and un-earned runs. 5 in the 8th to be exact.
Super clutch 2 RBI single by our GAME BALL winner - CARLOS MONTALVO (23).
Very nice relief work by DEMETRIUS ADAMS (24) in the 6th coming in relief of yours truly with a man on 2nd and nobody out. No runs scored - my ERA thanks you.
Additional fine pitching to close out the last 2 innings by ERIC HAND (36).
ERIK WANNER (19) - 4 walks - good eye there.
MIKE GOROSPE (22) - an extra fine bunt in the 8th to get on base and start our rally.
An now - we prepare for the second season.
NEXT GAME - Sunday, September 10 - Riordan High School - San Francisco - 10:00 AM
Blazers/Pig Roasters winner
UPDATE: 8/20/2006
BLAZERS - Double Header
With two victories over the Blazers, we sweep every team in our division. Judging from their records and from playing all these guys, this is the toughest division in the league:
Pig Roasters, Miracle, Blazers and Grizzlies.
All of these teams have fought us tough at one point or another.
GAME 1
LEX (5)LEX (5)
LEX (5)
LEX (5)
LEX (5)
GAME BALL
GAME BALL
GAME BALL
GAME BALL
GAME BALL
DOUBLE
DOUBLE
DOUBLE
DOUBLE
SINGLE
RBI
RBI
RBI
RBI
RBI
Yeah - 5 is the number
The usual nasty ROB ELLIS (34) on the mound - no earned runs - 11 K's.
Nice inning to finish it off from DEMETRIUS ADAMS (24).
SCHUMMS (15) - resurgent manhood.
GAME WINNING HIT - BRIAN WILLIAMS (6).
Benders - 13
Blazers - 3
GAME 2
This game saw spectacular defensive work from our second baseman SABER SHERRARD (11) + an RBI.
Great right field play by PAUL NAJERA (2) + an RBI.
Great pitching from ERIC HAND (36) despite a spot of bother.
IAN SANTA CRUZ (21) hits another home run.
SCHUMMS (15) - continued wacking - 3 hits and a run scored.
And
In the 7th with 1 out and the bases loaded
GAME BALL - ERIK WANNER (19) - stopped the Blazers in their tracks and they scored no more for the game.
Benders - 9
Blazers - 6
Once again we say later to SABER (11) who's going back to Chicago after spending the summer with us. Thanks for the help. We'll try and take it from here.
NEXT and FINAL REGULAR SEASON GAME - Saturday - August 26
Willie Stargell Field - Alameda - 1:00 PM - GRAYS
UPDATE: 8/13/2006
THE ALL-STAR GAME
This was a scoreless game till the bottom of the 5th when the barn burnt down for the opposition.
Our boy ROB ELLIS (34) put on a fearsome display for 3 innings to start off the game.
This was matched maybe not in velocity but in effectiveness by Mike Becker (10) of the Mad Dogs for the Bay Division.
We finally got through by putting our 2 and 3 hitters on - Andrew Dunning (2 -Isotopes) and Chris O'Driscoll (20 - Pigroasters).
This went all according to plan cause we had Hando - Kevin Anderson (3 - Pigroasters) batting cleanup and he did not disappoint.
A three run monster jack in the bottom of the 5th to get us on the board and we never looked back winning 15-1.
Most impressive - maybe it was that BP I threw before the game - huh?
EVERYBODY on this large roster ended up contributing both on offense and defense.
Great pitching by the afore mentioned ROB ELLIS (34) - 3 innings.
Roger Fonseca (22 - Grizzlies) - 2 very nice scoreless innings.
A 4 batter scoreless 6th inning by Jeremy Butterfield (33 - Tsunami).
One run made it across for Josh Feirerstein (25 - Miracle) in the 7th.
Ian Santa Cruz (21 - Benders) got a K in the 8th before straining a hip flexor.
And then we had Hando - Kevin Anderson (3 - Pigroasters) get the next 5 outs in a row to finish it.
Gotta also mention James Anderson (33) of the Mad Dogs / Bay Division - playing some really good baseball both catching - he threw out GARY KIRVEN (10) - and pitching.
GAME BALL - Hando - Kevin Anderson (3 - Pigroasters) - one of the best players this league has ever seen.
EXTRA special thanks to Sayre Happich, official scorekeeper for the 2006 All-Star game.
Thanks to everyone - it was an honor and a privilege to manage the All-Star game for the second year in a row.
OCEAN DIVISION ALL-STARS
Gary Kirven (10 - Benders)
Rob Ellis (34 - Benders)
Ian Santa Cruz (21 - Benders)
Bill Ferreira (52 - Red Giants)
Chris Mercer (7 - Red Giants)
Brian Jaquet (25 - Red Giants)
Chris O'Driscoll (20 - Pigroasters)
Kevin Anderson (3 - Pigroasters)
Neal McSherry (48 - Pigroasters)
Joe Wong (99 - Miracle)
Josh Feirerstein (25 - Miracle)
Roger Fonseca (22 - Grizzlies)
Ivan Hurtado (24 - Grizzlies)
Mark Markunis (7 - Isotopes)
Andrew Dunning (2 -Isotopes)
Jeff Gregori (3 - Isotopes)
Trevor Williamson (3 - Blazers)
Charles Hartnett (27 - Blazers)
Jorge Martinez (21 - Trojans)
Jeremy Butterfield (33 - Tsunami)
Roland Moreno (30 - Tsunami)
UPDATE: 8/12/2006
BLUE CLAWS
Congratulations to Eric Anderson (21) and all the Blue Claws for their 5-4 victory over us Saturday at Big Rec in San Francisco.
Outstanding pitching by Danny Chu (2) throwing a complete game.
Game winning 2 RBI hit by Mike Castillo (20) in the 6th.
Great outfield play constantly tracking down our deep shots.
These guys beat us fair and square refusing to allow a run for the last 3 innings of the game.
We came close especially in the 9th when BEN KAMEKONA (1) hit a monster triple with 2 outs but that potential run died at third base along with our undefeated (in League play) season.
Great pitching by HAND (36) - 6+ and ROB ELLIS (34) - we could not have asked for more.
Very nice job by the bottom of our order:
GIAN ALLEN (37) and JAMIE STEFFEN (26) - on base 5 of 8 between them with an RBI.
BEN KAMEKONA (1) - besides the triple - 2 singles and 2 walks - on base all 5 times - brilliant.
Thanks once again to the Blue Claws for a great game.
NEXT GAME - Sunday, August 20 - Willie Stargell Field - Alameda - 10:00 AM / 1:00 PM
Double Header - BLAZERS
UPDATE: 8/6/2006
MAD DOGS
1350 feet.
That's the distance in base path the Benders gave up in 7 innings of defensive mistakes.
What's that - like a ¼ mile?
And then there were the base running screw-ups on offense.
A little trip to the shame closet in order here.
We took this game REAL serious with practices on Thursday and Saturday but we concentrated mostly on hitting.
On the surface maybe we should spend some time on other things besides swinging the bat but baseball is a curious game and perhaps our hard work did pay off in the end.
Notable whacks included a 2 run homer by James Anderson (33) of the Mad Dogs in the 5th followed by a revenge home run to deep center-right by CARLOS MONTALVO (23) in the bottom of the inning.
GARY (10 - 2006 All Star) agravated a back injury and had to come out of the game in the 3rd. He was done. Not good having the best leadoff man in the league go down.
So we fumbled about through the top of the 7th where things got really ugly - accumulating 540 feet of those errors right there. The Mad Dogs took a 2 run lead 7-5. We deserved to lose this game.
Bottom 7th - leadoff spot coming to bat to start our half of the inning.
GARY (10) sez - "Put me back in."
Under the re-entry rule this can be done - so - OK.
GARY KIRVEN (10) First Pitch - base hit.
And then:
ERIK WANNER (19) Walks.
And then:
LEX (5) Base hit - RBI.
And Then:
IAN SANTA CRUZ (21 - 2006 All Star) - Double - RBI.
And Then:
BEN KAMEKONA (1) Base hit - 2 RBI's.
And then:
CARLOS MONTALVO (23) Base hit - RBI.
And Then:
LUCAS BRUNETTE (4) Double - RBI.
And Then:
JAMIE STEFFEN (26) - Walks.
And Then:
DAVID SCHUMMERS (15) Base hit.
And Then:
PAUL NAJERA (2) Sac fly - RBI.
And Then:
GIAN ALLEN (37) Base hit.
And Then:
SABER SHERRARD (11) Base hit - RBI.
And Then:
BRIAN WILLIAMS (6) Base hit - RBI.
And Then:
GARY KIRVEN (10) Again - Base hit - RBI.
And Then:
ERIK WANNER (19) Sticks a fork in it with double to score BRIAN WILLIAMS (6) as the winning run from third.
Under the mercy rule Benders win 17-7 in 7 innings sending 15 men to the plate, scoring 12 runs and still with only 1 out when the game ended.
Winning pitcher: ERIC HAND (36).
Gut pitching performance: ERIK WANNER (19) 6+ innings.
And Then:
We went and had beers at Scobies.
GAME BALL - GARY KIRVEN (10) - Giving us his best JC impersonation in rising from the dead and leading us to the promised land.
Arf indeed.
NEXT GAME - Saturday, August 12 - Big Rec - Golden Gate Park, San Francisco - 2:00 PM
Blue Claws.
UPDATE: 7/31/2006
SEA LIONS
These guys did not want to lose and it was a one run affair late into the game.
Benders win, eventually, 7-5.
Nice game by the Sea Lions.
GAME BALL - ERIC HAND (36) - complete game - strong finish.
GARY KIRVEN (10) - 2 for 4 including a perfect bunt to start off the game.
LEX (5) - BIG ol' home run for 2 RBI's.
DEMETRIUS (24) - very nice game going 3 for 4.
BEN KAMEKONA (1) - 3 for 4 with 3 RBI's.
Jeez - we only won by 2 runs?
The Sea Lions just kept getting up, getting on base and scoring.
NEXT GAME - August 6 - Willie Stargell Field - Alameda - 1:00 PM
The Dogs Who are Mad (at us i guess).
And - this funky little web site got over 13,000 hits for July. I guess i should be making more of an effort to be entertaining or ... maybe ... sell some Benders crap on line. Whataya think you guys in the Seychelles? You been following us all year. Send hate mail and spam to revolvo@hotmail.com
UPDATE: 7/31/2006
SAN QUENTIN GIANTS
We lost to the Giants 9-2 on wednesday and did not look good at all in doing so. Stretch pitched for SQ and we could not hit him. Tip o' the cap there Stretch - see you next season.
UPDATE: 7/23/2006
PIG ROASTERS - Double Header
Benders win 9-2
Benders win 3-1
We survived 4 games over two weekends playing two teams that had only one loss coming in to our park. It was hot, the games took a long time to play. We had a rain delay - the sprinklers suddenly turned on taking the engineering genius of BRIAN WILLIAMS (6) to figure out how to turn them off.
The first game saw total domination by our #1 starter ROB ELLIS (34) with 13 strikeouts and no runs over 8 innings. This is against a team known for its hitting prowess. The only finger in the eye was Hando (3) playing shortstop. He went 3 for 4 with 2 doubles. Nice job adjusting to Rob.
We scored 3 in the second with RBI's by LUCAS (4), CARLOS (23) and SCHUMMERS (15) and then just kept adding runs.
GARY KIRVEN (10) - 2 for 3 with a walk, triple, run scored, RBI, stolen base.
BEN KAMEKONA (1) - 2 for 3 with a walk, double, run scored, RBI.
CARLOS MONTALVO (23) - 2 for 4, RBI.
GAME BALL - ROB ELLIS (34).
Game 2 saw an INSANLEY great, complete game, 13 strikeout, 1 run performance by our 2005 MVP ERIK WANNER (19).
Backed up by spectacular left field play by PAUL NAJERA (2) and in right field GIAN ALLEN (37).
Killer RBI's provided by LUCAS (4) and CARLOS (23) in the 9th inning helping to chase Hando (3) out of the game.
Speaking of Hando (3) - he may be the best all around player in the league both from the mound and hitting. He pitched a hell of a tough game and came out for the ninth after a hamstring injury running the bases. Hats off.
GAME BALL - ERIK WANNER (19).
SPECIAL MENTION - MIKE GOROSPE (22) - a text book show on how to block balls in the dirt.
SPECIAL MENTION - DAVID SCHUMMERS (15) - 4 put outs at shortstop looking very competent.
NEXT GAME - Wednesday July 26 - The Ballpark in The Prison Yard at San Quentin State Penitentiary - 5:00 PM - SAN QUENTIN GIANTS
UPDATE: 7/16/2006
MIRACLE - Double Header
Benders win 14-4
Benders win 5-3
NEXT GAME - July 23 - Willie Stargell Field - Alameda - 10:00 AM / 1:00 PM
Double Header - PIG ROASTERS
UPDATE: 7/9/2006
GRIZZLIES
GAME BALL - ERIK WANNER (19) - 6 innings, 7 K's, no runs.
GAME BALL - DEMETRIUS ADAMS (24) - amazing defensive performance at 3rd base, 2 RBI's, 2 stolen bases.
GAME BALL - IAN SANTA CRUZ (21) - monster shots out of the 4 hole - double, triple, closed out a scoreless 9th with some truly nasty stuff.
Plenty of other great perfomances from the rest of the crew:
LUCAS (4) with 2 RBIS's.
DAVID SCHUMMERS (15) with 2 hits and 2 RBI'S and some GREAT defensive play at short stop.
CARLOS MONTALVO (23) - triple, single, RBI, 2 runs scored, on base 3 of 4 - typical game.
PAUL (2) - triple.
Benders win 12-2
Welcome back to the roster our old friend and last year's starting short stop - SABER SHERRARD (11).
NEXT GAME - July 16 - Willie Stargell Field - Alameda - 10:00 AM / 1:00 PM
Double Header - MIRACLE
UPDATE: 7/6/2006
SAN QUENTIN GIANTS
It sure was great to be back at the penitentiary. Everybody kind and gracious. So many folks calling out my name to say howdy. Kinda like going back to the old country club after you've been away for a long time. Thanks for the invite and showing us such a great time.
Benders win 7-3 in a contest that shall be known henceforth as "The Erik Wanner Mental Game". More on that a little later.
First a word about the boys:
We gave 'em some ROB (34) KKKKKKK for 4 innings to soften 'em up.
Add a home run and some great defensive play in deep center field (not easy with the inmates camped out there) by PAUL NAJERA (2).
Great catching, stolen base and run scored from MIKE GOROSPE (22).
Nice relief work by HAND (36).
Excellent defense at 3rd base, a hit, a walk, a run scored by DEMETRIUS ADAMS (24).
CARLOS MONTALVO (23) - hit, walk, run scored, defense.
GIAN ALLEN (37) - got our first hit in the 2nd, walk, RBI, caught the last inning.
On base 3 of 4, run scored - SCHUMMERS (15).
The afore mentioned ROB ELLIS (34) who also had 3 RBI's on two base hits.
DAN WOOD (44) - kept score allowing me to pitch a couple of innings and was ready to come in even if he didn't have a Tommy John ligament.
GAME BALL - ERIK WANNER (19).
Erik executed the most sensational and audacious baseball plays I have seen since the Derek Jeter covering home plate thing proving that baseball really is a game of the mind and in that regard E19 is definitely mental.
1) 6th inning.
There's a hit with a man on 2nd and we can't get the guy running to 1st so the ball ends up getting thrown to 3rd in an attempt to get the runner coming in from 2nd.
E19 is covering 3rd.
The ball gets away from him and he starts scampering up the 3rd base line after it.
The runner, seeing this, rounds third and starts thinking about home plate.
Unfortunately for him the ball has not been fumbled away but nobody is wise to this until E19 spins around, dashes to the bag and tags out the astonished guy trying to dive back.
This is the greatest deak play I've ever seen and bailed me out with the final out of a long inning.
The collective sound coming out of the assembled prison population in LOUD choral unison has no description - it wasn't oohs and aahs but perhaps the sound of disbelieving aghastment like they had just seen the most amazing magic trick ever. Everybody was mezmerized. Everyone was fooled.
2) 7th inning.
Guy on 3rd - there's a walk - the guy who walks promptly positions himself between 1st and 2nd daring us to make a play on him so the runner from 3rd can score.
The ball goes to E19.
These people are in big trouble.
E19, unfazed by this provacative move, dances and fakes and chases until he gets the base runner coming off 3rd far enough to the point where he picks him off.
Serious baseball IQ. That's our reigning MVP.
NEXT GAME - Sunday July 9 - Paul Goode Field (Presidio) - San Francisco - 2:00 PM - GRIZZLIES
UPDATE: 7/1/2006
We welcome back two key players from last year's championship team:
Playoff MVP - ERIC HAND (36)
Rookie of the year - DEMETRIUS ADAMS (24)
Eric Hand, our playoff MVP from 2005, is an NCAA champ after the Cal Men's Crew won the 2006 NCAA Team National Championship. Eric rowed on both the Varsity 8 and the JV 8 crews this year. This is in addition
to placing 3rd last year in Varsity 8 and winning the Freshman 8 National Championship the year before. Congratulations from all the Benders.
UPDATE: 6/25/2006
TITANS
Benders win 9-2 but we faced our toughest pitching to date. Tied 1-1 in the 7th, we broke for 2 runs on hits by CARLOS MONTALVO (23) and JAMIE STEFFEN (26) and sac fly by GARY KIRVEN (10) and an error and a hit batsman. This was followed up by an 8th where we batted around with 5 hits scoring five times. That was just about all she wrote except for a GIGANTIC home run by IAN SANTA CRUZ (21) in the top of the 9th.
As mentioned, this was a tight game through 6 innings with great pitching by Alex Gonzalez (19) of the Titans. We just kinda willed our way past this obstacle.
Also, very nice field at Piedmont High School. Kudos to the Titans for securing that.
Admirable efforts:
CARLOS MONTALVO (23) - 2 great defensive plays in the first inning - hit TWICE by the hard throwing Alex Gonzalez (19) - base hit - scored twice.
GIAN ALLEN (37) - Super clutch 2 RBI hit in the 8th to break the game open.
IAN SANTA CRUZ (21) - Good defensive play at third, closed the game out in the 9th and the above mentioned home run.
GARY (10) - Clutch sac fly - 2 RBI's - big double and base hit - stolen base.
BEN KAMEKONA (1) - A couple of nice hits and great defensive play filling in at shortstop.
The STAR of the game:
GAME BALL - ROB ELLIS (34) - FIFTEEN (15) STRIKEOUTS in 8 innings - YOW !!!
See How to pitch.
An amazing performance picking up our hurt frontline starter DAN WOOD (44).
One falls - another gets up. Thanks.
NEXT GAME - Wednesday July 5 - The Ballpark in The Prison Yard at San Quentin State Penitentiary - 5:00 PM - SAN QUENTIN GIANTS
UPDATE: 6/18/2006
TSUNAMI
The Benders suffered our biggest loss of the season when our All Star starting pitcher, DAN WOOD (44), went down in the 3rd with an injury to his ulnar
collateral ligament. That's the Tommy John one.The only saving grace is that it was not a complete tear. Dan is done for the season.
Here's one opinion about how this stuff happens: "A split-fingered fastball is the worst pitch you can throw. They talk about throwing curveballs, but a well-thrown curveball is not that stressful. A splitter is terrible." There's a ton of other stuff on the net.
We have been blessed with a great team, many victories and a championship. But we've also endured some most unwelcome tragedies. This incident makes us reflect on our team mates who are now unable to play - they were insanely great baseball players and we miss them and we're going to miss Dan being on the mound. But, hey, we got somebody to help with the scorekeeping now and there's still a good left arm and we'll just have to be patient till Dan returns next season.
The game started ominously with Mr. Butterfield (33) K'ing our first three batters - the last two looking. We had a tough go of it until the 4th when we figured things out and scored 6 followed up with 3 the next inning.
Excellent pitching by DAN WOOD (44) and then IAN SANTA CRUZ (21) doing an admirable job carrying the team for 3 1/3 innings of relief pitching. I had the good fortune to close it out in a reasonably efficient manner. The only run scored by the opposition was unearned.
Looking VERY good:
GARY KIRVEN (10) - 2 singles and a walk - 3 runs scored.
ERIK WANNER (19) - double, single and a walk - 3 runs scored.
BEN KAMEKONA (1) - 2 singles - on base all 4 times.
A big welcome back to one of our most important players from last year - Demetrius Adams.
GAME BALL - Yours truly - TY (33) - a few good pitches - thanks to: The Benders, Mike and Ben Rees.
Benders win 15-1 in seven innings.
NEXT GAME - Saturday June 24 - Piedmont HS - Piedmont - 9:00 AM - TITANS
UPDATE: 6/11/2006
A's
We're running on three cylinders - pitching, defense and offense.
Fouled a plug on #2.
Neverthless, a strong showing by our offense against one of the league's best pitchers - Howie Correa (21).
Hammering out 14 hits including a 2 run triple in the first inning by IAN SANTA CRUZ (21) and a 2 run homer by LEX (30).
Two RBI's by BEN KAMEKONA (1) and a crucial RBI by CARLOS MONTALVO (23) for the ever important insurance run.
On the A's side of the ledger - a 2 RBI hit (with 2 outs and 2 strikes) to tie the game at 6 in the fourth inning by Seena Nassiri (2) - that one took some wind out of our sails.
A lead off double by A's manager Michael Enriquez (26) in the 8th sparked a three run rally that - as per script - resulted in us hanging on to a 2 run victory.
Nice pitching on our side to close it up in the 9th by ERIK WANNER (19).
GAME BALL - LEX (30 for the moment) - 4 RBI'S - single, double, home run - scored 3 times.
GAME BALL - GARY KIRVEN (10) - 2 singles and a double, stole third base then stole home - 2 runs scored.
Benders win 11-9
We're 7-0.
A few pictures from the game in 06 PIX and the rest of our schedule in 06 SCHED.
NEXT GAME - June 18 - Balboa - San Francisco - 2:00 PM - TSUNAMI
UPDATE: 6/4/2006
THE ISOTOPES
A 9:00 AM Sunday morning start in foggy Daly City. Coulda been a sleepwalker but instead turned into our best game this year defeating a tough Isotopes team on foreign soil.
Thanks for a great contest Matahi and all the 'topes. Nice pitching from Jay Bortoli (12) This one was much closer than the score would indicate. We managed to put together a four run 7th that was the deal maker. Until then things were pretty tight.
The shocker came in the top of the 5th with one out when Jeff Gregori (3) hit the baseball out into/out of left field, over the hill, through the dale, down memory lane and into a rabbit hole where some chick named Alice was hangin' out. Our left fielder completely disappeared from view chasing it - no fences at this field.
This home run gives the opposition a 3-2 lead and quiets our bench down to not a peep. DAN WOOD (44) bucks up and throws nine more pitches to get us out of the inning with no more damage done.
Well folks, wouldn't you just know it, probably with the 'topes feeling pretty good about themselves, on the very first pitch - bottom of the very same inning ... cleanup IAN SANTA CRUZ (21) hits the ball into the VERY SAME FREAKIN' HOLE !
What a shot - another left fielder disappears - coulda run around the bases backwards.
As a topper we had CARLOS MONTALVO (23) manufacture a 2 run shot in the 7th. It went a long way but still required some hard running.
And now our grand prize winners ::First - some serious props for GARY (10).
Throughout the 6 games we've played so far, Gary has been consistently spectacular as our lead off hitter. Just this game - 5 stolen bases, 2 solid base hits, 2 RBI's. We might have figured out why. Based on the accompanying photo, looks like Gary's feet don't actually touch the ground. He just flys around. I guess the dust kicked up is some kinda supersonic propulsion system vortex breakdown. Thanks, Gary, on behalf of the entire team.
DAN WOOD (44) - a great 5 inning start against a tough team.
ROB ELLIS (34) - velocity² - 4 innings for the win.
GAME BALL - IAN SANTA CRUZ (21) - massive home run - great defense at 3rd base.
GAME BALL - CARLOS MONTALVO (23) - game breaking 2 run homer - great defense at 1st base.
Benders win 8-4.
NEXT GAME ::
Sunday June 11 - Caldecott - Oakland - 9:30 AM - A's
Uh Oh ..."is fond of flashing funky dance moves that leave her teammates... well... at a loss for words.
The famous — infamous — Cat dance."
UPDATE: 5/21/2006
BAYSOX CHAMPIONSHIP REMATCH
In a 5 inning rain shortened soak-a-thon we almost coughed it up against yet another opponent that refused to take the pipe and die.
Some major power for the BAYSOX with their cleanup hitter MIKE KNUDSEN (44) smashing a 3 run jack in the second and just barely missing another in the 4th. Haven't seen swings like that since KELLY CORLISS.
We were ahead, behind, ahead then held on for dear life in the 5th.
Two quick outs by ROB ELLIS (34) in 4 pitches - then - with the mound disintegrating into a pile of goey muck the BAYSOX walked two on full counts and then walked two on 4 pitches apiece.
No fault of our pitcher - by this point he was standing in the mound instead of on top.
But Rob bore down and K'd the 7th hitter of the inning in 4 pitches for the win.
Honor Roll ::
GARY KIRVEN (10) - 2 stolen bases, led off the game with a solid single, smashed a MASSIVE RBI double that we thought for sure was going for a home run into the condos, scored three times.
IAN SANTA CRUZ (21) - BIG 2 RBI double in the 1st inning, on base 3 of 4.
JAMIE STEFFEN (26) - 2 solid knocks and a score.
AND our game ball winner for this week ::
LEX (35 for the moment) - 4 BIG RBI'S, on base 3 of 4, really swinging that bat nice right now.
Benders win 10-8 in five inninngs.
2004 CHAMPIONSHIP REMATCH
Sunday June 4 - Place and Time TBD - ISOTOPES
UPDATE: 5/15/2006
GRIZZLIES
This is shaping up to be like last year - every game a fight to the finish.
Special props to the GRIZZLIES and their starting pitcher R. FONSECA (22). We struck out freakin' 9 times, had four 1-2-3 innings and could only get it going (a bit) when he left the game. I'll be managing this guy in the All-Star game is what I figure.
Now, our starting pitcher - ROB ELLIS (34) fanned ten (10) as in 10 in four innings of work giving up 1 hit and no earned runs.
3 innings by DAN WOOD (44) and 2 innings to close it out for the win from JAMIE STEFFEN (26) resulting in 3 total runs for the GRIZZLIES.
Some great defense for a no error day but a tough time for the offense.
However, we do have some heroes and here they are in no particular order ::
ERIK WANNER (19) - first inning RBI scoring GARY KIRVEN (10) - 8th inning walk that was huge - and a spectacular defensive play on a very difficult ball hit to 2nd for a crucial put out.
LEX (9) - super clutch 2 RBI smash in the 8th inning.
IAN SANTA CRUZ (21) - 2 for 4 with a critical single in the ninth.
DION (7) - walk and stolen base and run scored in the 8th.
And finally we have our game ball guy and a true hero of the game.
CARLOS MONTALVO (23) - a great job defensively at 1st base and then re-entered the game batting in 8 hole to wack a HUGE double off the fence in deep left center driving in the winning run from 1st base.
In a game tied 3-3 in the bottom of the ninth - YOW!
Benders win another one run game late 4-3.
CHAMPIONSHIP REMATCH
Sunday May 21 - Willie Stargell Field - Alameda - 1:00 PM - BAYSOX
UPDATE: 5/9/2006
STEELHEADS
Our first forfeit game. The Steelheads came up 2 players short.
This would have been a good game on a beautiful day.
The umps did stay and we had a most enjoyable scrimmage.
Dang it - we've only played two freakin' games so far and it's the middle of May. The team is very frustrated.
Benders win 9-0 on the forfeit.
NEXT GAME - Sunday May 14 - Willie Stargell Field - Alameda - 1:00 PM - GRIZZLIES
BIG BIG BIG GAME COMING UP SUNDAY MAY 21st
Rematch of the championship game - BAYSOX - Willie Stargell Field - Alameda - 1:00 PM
UPDATE: 5/1/2006
RED GIANTS
This was one of the most exciting games we've ever played.
First, we figured it was a good idea to keep running into outs on the base paths. That didn't turn out well. Then after a single, full count walk and a 3 run homer by the Red Giants in the 5th - the first earned runs given up by Dan Wood (44) - we decided to bumble about and give 'em 4 more. 8-0 top of the 5th.
Erik and Rob then combined to shut down the RG's allowing us to crawl back into it.
Nice pitching by the RG's starter and subsequent relievers - they gave us lots of problems.
BUT
3 runs in the 6th - 2 RBI BEN (1)
3 runs in the 7th - RBI LUCAS (4)
2 runs in the 9th to tie it on SCHUMMS (15) RBI single with 2 outs
AND THEN
With 2 outs in the bottom of the 10th Gary (10) makes it to 1st on an E6 - steals 2nd - passed ball to 3rd - dashes for home on a passed ball for the win.
Let's see - Gary (10) scored 4 runs and stole 6 bases.
Game Ball - Rob Ellis (34) - can pitch a baseball just a bit - not too bad.
Game Ball - Gary Kirven (10) - will have to go through the books and add up how many times he's bailed us out.
Nice pitching by our starter Dan Wood (44) - no run support - defensive miscues.
Benders win 9-8
NEXT GAME - May 7 - Willie Stargell Field - Alameda - 1:00 PM - STEELHEADS
UPDATE: 4/24/2006
HOME OPENER - TROJANS
After a whole month of rainouts, Willie Stargell Field field finally dried out enough to get a game in.
Benders win the home opener 10-8.
I'm not a spiritual person and I subscribe to the Vince Lombardi definition of luck - when opportunity meets preparation - but with baseball I have felt the hand of deity guide my throw in a magical arc that defies the laws of physics and makes the man standing at the plate swing in desperation at something that really is not there. I have also encountered spirits that decide to teach me a lesson in humility. They eliminate my hand eye coordination and randomly assign walks, bloopers, bleeders and the occasional home run to my opponents. That freight train starts rumbling in the back of the brain. Saturday was a day that you got out your lucky pants, not shave, didn't pick up strange objects off the ground and start making deals with baseball god - if you can just please let us get through this inning without those guys on second and third scoring …
And so it went in the final game until as suddenly as a heart attack we turned a double play and the Benders were champs.
Many thanks to our worthy opponents - great pitching by Kevin Mapel (22).
Thank you Jason Amanatullah (32) - manager of the Bay Sox.
Eric Hand (36) pitched two complete games in the playoffs including the final victory. Eric is on the varsity crew team at Cal and prior to the Saturday afternoon start, attended rowing practice. In an amazing display of stamina worthy of Juda Ben Hur, Eric comes out and throws a 136 pitch complete game to win us the championship. We gotta get some kinda medal made up for that or at least get the shackles taken off.
We've played a lot of games this season - San Quentin, San Francisco Wood Bat League, SFNABA - all in an effort to get better. These last two weeks we practiced almost every day - batting cage at Alameda, batting practice at various fields throughout San Francisco, infield, outfield, grounders. We practiced till it was too dark to see the ball. Our team had the grace of good fortune but we respected our opponents and worked our asses off in anticipation of a tenacious fight. The four playoff games were the best games this team has played all year. Incredible defense, spectacular pitching and the offense - we scored 37 runs in the four games. What more can you add to that?
All of this was accomplished by players stepping up when it really counted. We were missing critical, key personel for the playoffs:
Lucas (4) - our home run leader and cleanup hitter fractured his arm just before the playoffs and did not play.
Dan (44) - the winner of our pitching award had a leg operation and did not see any playoff time.
Lex (9) - replaced Lucas (4) at cleanup but was unavailable for the final two games.
Yet we just picked it up and kept right on rolling.
So, after the ignominy of choking with 5 outs to go last year we find ourselves heading to the National Championships in Arizona. Thanks to everybody who made this possible. It's awesome.
See SCORES for game details.
Special thanks and much gratitude to Frank Wanner for making our plaques and trophies.
UPDATE: 9/11/2005
MAD DOGS - DIVISION FINAL
We win the Ocean Division for the second year in a row beating the same two teams as last year.
*DOUBLE GAME BALL* BEN KAMEKONA (1) - 4 RBI's - Divisional Playoff MVP - respect.
*GAME BALL* ERIC HAND (36) - 1 ERA complete game victory - total grit - thanks.
Tough pitching from our opposition - Alex Rice (24)
A game befitting the two best teams in the division.
Next Up - Best 2 of 3 with the Bay Sox for the Bay Area Championship
see UPDATE: 8/15/2005
and
a trip to the National World Series in Arizona.
I'm gonna toot - I get to manage my second All-Star game in a row - rock on ...
See SCORES for game details.
UPDATE: 9/10/2005
FOG
No Fog.
Benders win on a sunny day.
Next Up - the Mad Dogs and their innate understanding of the rules of baseball.
See SCORES for game details.
UPDATE: 8/28/2005
FOG
Our largest margin of loss in league play - 3 runs.
We end the season 17-3.
UPDATE: 8/22/2005
THE CLINCH - We outlast the Blue Claws for two wins and clinch 1st place
Before the season started this league was in the process of establishing a two tier division system with new and weaker teams in one and the more established teams in the other. I thought this was a good plan. James Anderson of the Mad Dogs wrote a very thoughtfull critique of this idea which resulted in the scrapping of the new format. Thanks James. We have had tough, competitive games from all of our division rivals. None of the teams could be classified as "weak". Kudos to the Dogs for nipping at us all season long in what has probably been the tightest race for the number 1 spot this league has seen. They just refuse to lose.
Thanks to the following:
Our sponser - Scobies Bar - great times after the games
Our supporters - all the girls that have come to our games - even the cold foggy ones in Daly City
Erik's dad - the maker of our trophys and plaques and of ... Erik
Coach Saunders of the Encinal Jets - hey this program spit out Rollins and Dontrelle
Ronda at Alameda Unifed School District for making the field happen
Dan Hughey - our ump cordinator - we ALWAYS had two
Rod Pruitt - a great ump - thanks for doing most (not all) of our games
Alison - cordinator for the San Quentin games - truly a cool lady and their scorekeeper
The San Quentin Giants - in a fair world they could come play on our field
Jonathan Zeron - the original founder of this team and the "discoverer" of Willie Stargell Field - our home sweet home AND the guy who drafted me as a middle reliever
Everybody who has played with and against us over the last 3 years
So we're gonna say all that stuff now cause the playoffs are coming and who knows how long we'll last.
It's baseball - anything can happen.
UPDATE: 8/21/2005
BLUE CLAWS
C L I N C H
17-2 with one game to go
UPDATE: 8/15/2005
BAY SOX
Yow - are teams gearing up for us? Yet another tough game - scoreless for almost half its length. Ahead - fell behind - took the lead - hung on to the life raft for a one run win.
Serious hats off to the Bay Sox. They did not allow our lead-off hitter on once and played a hell of a clean game. These guys are going to be tough in the playoffs.
See SCORES for highlights.
UPDATE: 8/1/2005
TROJANS DOUBLE HEADER
With no time limits at Willie Stargell Field, this turned into a long, hot day with the Trojans repeatedly poking us in the eye with a sharp stick at the beginning of both games.
Except for the convicts, at no point in season were we down so many runs - in both games. Slowly things turned around to give what looks like large margins of victory for our side but in reality this was the end result of long and protracted war of attrition.
In this type of battle we did have the advantage of carrying a large roster allowing us to send in fresh troops to keep the pressure on the opposition. The unselfish nature and team camaraderie of the squad makes this all possible.
Sunday was also Saber Day in which we honored one of our core group of players and starting short stop. Saber (11) is moving on to Chicago having been accepted into a prestigious learning institution.
We will sorely miss his inspirational rally calls inside the huddle - a lot more rousing than my "don't *uck up" spiel.
Glad we were able to send him off on a high note. Benders on 3.
See SCORES for more props and pithy commentary.
UPDATE: 7/25/2005
SAN QUENTIN - TSUNAMI
We were ahead into the middle of the game but 5 errors, somnabulance on the base paths and a sudden loosening of the bowels caused us to poop our pants in front of the inmates and TV camera crew.
To add humiliation to insult to self inflicted injury - it'll all be on display in a National Geographic special coming to a television in your living room and - for the teams that don't like us - well - here is your chance to wallow in some schadenfreude.
The team did escape at the end of the day but my ERA was sent to solitary confinment with no chance of parole till next season.
Sunday saw another serious attempt at self immolation with 7 errors but playing at home and backed by some great pitching from Erik (19) we managed to prevail over the Tsunami.
UPDATE: 7/18/2005
ISOTOPES
After 6 straight tough road games including the penetentiary twice - there's no place like home.
The bats came alive and we just kinda exploded all up and down the batting order.
This is our first regular season victory over the Isotopes and they are a tough, veteran team. We scored a lot of runs but, as with the Fog, we'll take this one with a grain of salt.
Until somebody beats them in the playoffs - they are the champs two years running.
UPDATE: 7/12/2005
SAN QUENTIN - PIG ROASTERS
Tough weekend.
2 run loss to San Quentin followed by a 1 run loss in extra innings to the Pig Roasters.
We're still at/near the top - just gotta work harder to stay there.
The Benders are finally going home after what seems like months of playing road games.
Almost 2 months looking back at the schedule.
UPDATE: 6/27/2005
A's
Both teams at the bottom of our division, A's and Blue Jays, can pull a super tough game out of their back pockets. Underestimate these teams at your peril.
On Sunday the A's held us to our lowest run scoring total this season - 3. Howie Correa (21) of the A's is one of the best pitchers I have seen play in this league and it was exciting to see him throw against our squad.
The A's got kind of a raw deal facing us as a fresh team in the back end of a double header especially when you factor in that 42 runs (yeah 42) were scored in the first game.
A super serious appreciation to the A's for putting together a game like that against us.
That said - Dan Wood (44) kept right up with Howie throwing the first ever complete game shutout in the 3 year history of the Benders.
No walks, a bunch of 1-2-3 innings, lots of K's. No runners reached 2nd until the bottom of the 9th - 2 out when the A's mounted a furious assualt and brought the tying run to the plate - whom Dan then proceeded to K.
Dan Wood (44) - our all-star and one of the best pitchers in this league. Thanks.
UPDATE: 6/20/2005
BLUE JAYS
Ran into a wall on Sunday.
The Blue Jays refused to allow us any runs and it looked like they were going to refuse to lose.
After a mighty effort we were lucky enough to prevail.
This may be the toughest game we've played all season.
UPDATE: 6/18/2005
SAN QUENTIN GIANTS
The San Quentin Giants had a 10-2 record.
When we left they had a 10-3 record.
UPDATE: 6/13/2005
BLUE CLAWS
This game was postponed and will be combined with the August 21 game at Willie Stargell Field.
UPDATE: 6/7/2005
All Star Report From the Ocean Side
I would like to express my deepest thanks to the all stars that played in this weekends game.
First to our worthy opponents - Matahi Ribera and his Bay Division and secondly to our boys from the Ocean.
That game was a true pleasure to be part of and I bet it was the best SFNABA all star game ever played.
For the record here's who we had on the Ocean side:
Eric Anderson (21) - Blue Claws
Ben Kamekona (1) - Benders
Kelly Corliss (22) - Fog
Jeff Graham (4) - Pig Roasters
Chris O'Driscoll (20) - Pig Roasters
Dan Wood (44) - Benders
Andy Laveroni (21) - Fog
Howie Correa (21) - A's
Jose Porras (25) - Blue Jays
Seena Nassiri (75) - A's
Shawn Mazza (4) - Blue Claws
Mike Gorospe (22) - Benders
Coaches:
Brian Williams (6) - Benders
Carlos Montalvo (23) - Benders
EVERYBODY contributed something in this game.
However, special mention must be given to our game ball recipient - Andy Laveroni of the Fog.
Man - that was a display of truly outstanding pitching. Woe to the team that has to face him in a game.
Special mention to Howie Correa of the A's - another great pitcher with just a nasty change-up/palm ball/duece or whatever it was.
Nice play at short stop by Howie also.
Chris O'Driscoll of the Pig Roasters - drove in our first run and scored our last.
Nice play by Seena stabbing that line drive to end the first inning.
Clutch hit Eric Anderson in the 8th.
There were many more awsome plays on both sides.
The final score was 5-4 in favor of the Bay Division but the game was very close and tied 3-3 going into the ninth.
We almost pulled it off in the bottom of the 9th down 2 runs.
Chris O'Driscoll led off with a clutch base hit and Dan Wood wacked a monster shoulda been a triple RBI shot to drive him in.
A spectacular defensive play cut Dan down at third base in a cloud of dust on an extremely close call.
That had to be the most exciting play of the game.
A few Benders notes:
These guys are a big part of the reason I had the honor and privilege of managing this years all star game:
This was Mike's 3rd straight appearance in the all star game.
Thanks to my coaches Brain and Carlos - the Benders are very lucky to have them.
Of the 4 runs scored by our side - Mike, Ben and Dan were directly involved in 3 of them.
Thanks guys for going 3 for 6 against tough pitching and representing our team so well.
For the other managers:
Your guys did a fantastic job representing your respective teams - both Ocean and Bay.
They all deserve an atta boy.
It's was an honor to be on the same field with your ball players.
Thanks very much for a truly great game.
UPDATE: 6/4/2005
Fog
We won this one but will take it with a grain of salt.
The Fog were down some players and we're expecting a tough game when we play them at their home field in the last game of the season.
UPDATE: 5/23/2005
A's
We've scored 87 runs in 8 games
The BENDERS lead the league in scoring
Our All Stars:
Ben Kamekona (1) - The best outfielder in the league and #2 hitter
Dan Wood (44) - Terrific season on the mound
Iron Mike (22) - The rock behind the plate that makes it all possible
The All Star game is Sunday June 5 at Big Rec - Golden Gate Park - San Francisco
Festivities begin at 10:00 AM
The BENDERS coaching staff will be managing this years All Star game for the Ocean division
UPDATE: 5/16/2005
MIRACLE
Highlighted by some great pitching
Big Ben went off in this game
UPDATE: 5/9/2005
FOG
This game was rained out
We will be playing the make up game June 4 at @ 2:00 PM
BALBOA - SUNDBERG - San Francisco
UPDATE: 5/2/2005
DOGS
As advertised - a collision
Double header - both games decided by 1 run
Each teams first loss of the season
Arf
UPDATE: 4/24/2005
BOMBERS
Tip o' the cap to our worthy oppenents
All star defense - center field, catcher
Longest balls hit to center field i've ever seen
The Bombers are a real tough team aiming for the playoffs
See SCHEDULE/SCORES for our side
UPDATE: 4/17/2005
BLUE JAYS
Special mention - Gian (37) - Stepped up when we really needed it
Another total team effort
We're averaging 11 runs per game through 3 games
UPDATE: 4/10/2005
BOMBERS
Tough game
Contribution from evey memeber of the team
UPDATE: 3/17/2005
ALL STAR GAME
This year the All Star game will be held the weekend of June 4,5
As the winners of the Ocean Division yours truly, TY, will be managing the game with help from the BENDERS ballheads
You will note that one of our Q games has been re-scheduled from June 4 to July 23 to accomodate All Star weekend
UPDATE: 3/13/2005
The BENDERS are gonna play some REAL baseball
WE’RE BREAKIN’ INTO THE BIG HOUSE, STIR – SAN QUENTIN PRISON
and
WE’RE GONNA PLAY THE GNARLIEST PRISON CONVICT BASEBALL TEAM ON THE PLANET
LIFERS, CONVICTED MURDERERS – FELONS ARMED WITH LARGE METAL CLUBS
As one of the top teams in the bay area last year – WE have been invited to play the San Quentin Giants this season
Game dates are all Saturdays:
June 18
July 9
July 23
Game times: 10:00 AM - We need to be there around 8:30 AM
DETAILS
Each player we need to submit name as on Driver's License, DL#, Social security #, and date of birth - this is to get everyone cleared in
Takes about 1/2 hour to get in, then we try to play as soon after that as we can
No blue jeans, MUST have uniforms
No electronics or cameras
Watch what you bring in your bags, one time a cop found a pipe on some other team
You probably would like to leave after the game. SO DOUBLE CHECK YOUR BAG FOR THAT STRAY ROACH or you might be staying
The players enter as a group, you can't come in late
Players enter wearing their uniforms
NEVER take off your jersey – this is the only way the guards know whom NOT to shoot (thanks to Bart for that tip)
Bags carried in have to be kept real simple with only one extra piece of clothing
The guards will remove excess items and store them in plastic bags at the front gate
The open ball field in the yard has been fixed up with the help of a donation from Metallica, and is in good condition
Right field is pretty short (280?) with a short fence - HEY YOU LEFTY HITTERS !!!!!!!!!!!
Visiting teams take practice until the home team shows up
Every once in a while a siren goes off and EVERYBODY kneels down. Kneel down RIGHT AWAY
Q LEGENDS
Take a good look at the infield and be a little cautious sliding
Inmates have been known to hide knives in the infield dirt
Don’t want to pop up at second with a shive in your gut
Two-thirds of the team members are serving life sentences
Most of the players are in prison for committing violent crimes
There's a couple of hundred guys (inmates) ringing the field and they try to intimidate you with sexual innuendoes
The umps are inmates
What more could you ask for?
Play Ball
The BENDERS are gonna play some REAL baseball
WE’RE BREAKIN’ INTO THE BIG HOUSE, STIR – SAN QUENTIN PRISON
and
WE’RE GONNA PLAY THE GNARLIEST PRISON CONVICT BASEBALL TEAM ON THE PLANET
LIFERS, CONVICTED MURDERERS – FELONS ARMED WITH LARGE METAL CLUBS
As one of the top teams in the bay area last year – WE have been invited to play the San Quentin Giants this season
Game dates are all Saturdays:
June 18
July 9
July 23
Game times: 10:00 AM - We need to be there around 8:30 AM
DETAILS
Each player we need to submit name as on Driver's License, DL#, Social security #, and date of birth - this is to get everyone cleared in
Takes about 1/2 hour to get in, then we try to play as soon after that as we can
No blue jeans, MUST have uniforms
No electronics or cameras
Watch what you bring in your bags, one time a cop found a pipe on some other team
You probably would like to leave after the game. SO DOUBLE CHECK YOUR BAG FOR THAT STRAY ROACH or you might be staying
The players enter as a group, you can't come in late
Players enter wearing their uniforms
NEVER take off your jersey – this is the only way the guards know whom NOT to shoot (thanks to Bart for that tip)
Bags carried in have to be kept real simple with only one extra piece of clothing
The guards will remove excess items and store them in plastic bags at the front gate
The open ball field in the yard has been fixed up with the help of a donation from Metallica, and is in good condition
Right field is pretty short (280?) with a short fence - HEY YOU LEFTY HITTERS !!!!!!!!!!!
Visiting teams take practice until the home team shows up
Every once in a while a siren goes off and EVERYBODY kneels down. Kneel down RIGHT AWAY
Q LEGENDS
Take a good look at the infield and be a little cautious sliding
Inmates have been known to hide knives in the infield dirt
Don’t want to pop up at second with a shive in your gut
Two-thirds of the team members are serving life sentences
Most of the players are in prison for committing violent crimes
There's a couple of hundred guys (inmates) ringing the field and they try to intimidate you with sexual innuendoes
The umps are inmates
What more could you ask for?
Play Ball
