Everyone,
I write because I've been getting questions about post-season play. Here's what I know:
The Braves can finish no lower than fifth place in the 10-team Majors.
At the moment we are tied with the Rays for fourth place. If both the Rays and the Braves win their games later this week (and that's a big if in our case), I believe that the Braves would rank ahead of the Rays because we had the better record in head-to-head competition. There's an outside chance that the Braves could finish in third place, but realistically we will finish either fourth or fifth.
If we finish either fourth or fifth, our first game in the WFB Little League tournament would be Tuesday, July 7, at 4 p.m. -- possibly against the Rays. If we win that game, our second game would be Saturday, July 11. If we lose our first game, our second game would be Thursday, July 9.
We will play until we either win the tournament championship or lose two games.
The league could change the structure of the tournament, which would invalidate what I've written above. More facts as they become available.
In any case, it would be great if you could let me know if your son will not be available July 7, July 9, and July 11.
Thanks,
Dave
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
Updates: July 1 practice, July 2 Orioles game, July 4 parade, Little League tournament
1. We will practice Wednesday (July 1) from 4 to 5:30 p.m. at Atwater School. I hope lots of guys can make it.
2. I know that Jack, Ryan, Alec, and Connor will be absent for Thursday's regular-season finale. That leaves us with nine guys, which means that no one will be sitting on the Braves' bench. If anyone else will miss the game, please let me know ASAP because we'd have to get a third grader to play up with us.
3. If your son would like to march in the July 4 Whitefish Bay parade with other Braves, please have him get to position 22 at the parade launch site at least 20 minutes before the start of the parade (all of the info except our parade position is in the e-mail I sent earlier).
If he wants to toss or pass out candy to kids watching the parade, that's fine -- but players must supply their own candy. We will not let players throw candy hard. Hand-offs or underhand tosses are fine.
4. The Little League double-elimination tournament begins July 6. If your Brave will be unavailable any days between July 6 and July 18, please let me know.
Thanks!
Dave
2. I know that Jack, Ryan, Alec, and Connor will be absent for Thursday's regular-season finale. That leaves us with nine guys, which means that no one will be sitting on the Braves' bench. If anyone else will miss the game, please let me know ASAP because we'd have to get a third grader to play up with us.
3. If your son would like to march in the July 4 Whitefish Bay parade with other Braves, please have him get to position 22 at the parade launch site at least 20 minutes before the start of the parade (all of the info except our parade position is in the e-mail I sent earlier).
If he wants to toss or pass out candy to kids watching the parade, that's fine -- but players must supply their own candy. We will not let players throw candy hard. Hand-offs or underhand tosses are fine.
4. The Little League double-elimination tournament begins July 6. If your Brave will be unavailable any days between July 6 and July 18, please let me know.
Thanks!
Dave
Game Story: Braves 16, Cubs 1
Coaches Dave and Ross have drilled and hammered the Braves on their defensive responsibilities in practice during the last week-plus. The Braves proved they've been paying attention in a 16-1 victory over the Cubs Monday evening at Water Tower Park.
While the Braves hit well on this windy and rain-interrupted evening, they weren't hammering the ball out of the park. Instead, they took advantage of every Cub mistake, while playing stout defense they deprived the Cubs of any chance to make it a game.
Liam led the parade with stellar fielding in right field and left field. He caught a deep fly ball in right field with no outs and a runner on first base, likely preventing a run. He also cleanly picked up two other singles hit to the outfield, and made strong, accurate throws to the cutoff men. Coach Dave was beaming about Liam's outfield play.
Jason started the game on the mound, and helped his own cause by spearing a liner and grabbing a grounder.
Then the Braves batted around in the first inning. Jason doubled. Chris brought him home with a single to right field. Jack walked, and Alec singled Chris home. Matt walked, Jack stole home on a passed ball. Evan singled, driving in Alec and Matt. Nick singled. Evan scored on a passed ball. Tyler walked, Anthony singled, scoring Nick. Connor singled, bringing Tyler home. Jason came to bat for the second time in the inning, and ripped a hard liner that was snared by the Cubs shortstop. The inning ended with the Braves up 8-0.
More highlights:
Batting: Each Brave reached base at least once, and 10 different Braves scored at least one run.
As Coach Dave pointed out after the game, three Braves took one for the team, getting hit by pitches: Scott, Alec and Tyler, all in the second inning.
Two Braves hit the ball hard, took off running, and never stopped until they cross home plate. In the third inning, with Jason on base, Scott ripped a ball into center field that bounced hard and got past the Cubs centerfielder. Scott made it all the way home. Coach Rick scored it a triple and error by the Cubs, but the boys treated it as a homer and rushed out to greet Scott.
Then, in the fourth inning, Nick smashed a ball down the right field line and zoomed around the bases before sliding safely across home plate. Coach Dave called it a legit inside-the-park home run, as the Cubs made no errors on the play, and joked that he had never seen Nick run so fast. What I noticed was how flawlessly Nick turned at each base.
Connor was 3 for 3 with 3 singles. Jason, Chris, Alec, Nick & Anthony each had 2 hits. Matt walked 3 times. With a single and a walk, Evan drove in 3 runs.
Pitching: Scott made his Braves pitching debut in the 4th inning. Aided by their stingy defense, Jason, Matt, Chris and Evan turned in scoreless innings. Evan finished off the final out with a running snow-cone grab of a soft liner.
Defense: At shortstop, Chris snagged a hard liner by Cubs' slugger Zach Casey. In the 4th inning, with runners on 1st and 2nd and no outs, shortstop Jason scooped out a hard grounder and threw alertly to Matt at 3rd to get the lead runner. (I love watching Jason in the field -- he always has his head in the game.) In addition to his other fine plays, Liam almost threw out the lead runner going to second on a single to right field.
Debuts: In addition to Scott's pitching debut, Jason made his Braves' debut as a catcher in the 6th inning.
Next game: 6:30 p.m. Thursday July 2, vs. the Orioles. Have your Brave at Water Tower by 5:45 p.m. for warmups and practice.
While the Braves hit well on this windy and rain-interrupted evening, they weren't hammering the ball out of the park. Instead, they took advantage of every Cub mistake, while playing stout defense they deprived the Cubs of any chance to make it a game.
Liam led the parade with stellar fielding in right field and left field. He caught a deep fly ball in right field with no outs and a runner on first base, likely preventing a run. He also cleanly picked up two other singles hit to the outfield, and made strong, accurate throws to the cutoff men. Coach Dave was beaming about Liam's outfield play.
Jason started the game on the mound, and helped his own cause by spearing a liner and grabbing a grounder.
Then the Braves batted around in the first inning. Jason doubled. Chris brought him home with a single to right field. Jack walked, and Alec singled Chris home. Matt walked, Jack stole home on a passed ball. Evan singled, driving in Alec and Matt. Nick singled. Evan scored on a passed ball. Tyler walked, Anthony singled, scoring Nick. Connor singled, bringing Tyler home. Jason came to bat for the second time in the inning, and ripped a hard liner that was snared by the Cubs shortstop. The inning ended with the Braves up 8-0.
More highlights:
Batting: Each Brave reached base at least once, and 10 different Braves scored at least one run.
As Coach Dave pointed out after the game, three Braves took one for the team, getting hit by pitches: Scott, Alec and Tyler, all in the second inning.
Two Braves hit the ball hard, took off running, and never stopped until they cross home plate. In the third inning, with Jason on base, Scott ripped a ball into center field that bounced hard and got past the Cubs centerfielder. Scott made it all the way home. Coach Rick scored it a triple and error by the Cubs, but the boys treated it as a homer and rushed out to greet Scott.
Then, in the fourth inning, Nick smashed a ball down the right field line and zoomed around the bases before sliding safely across home plate. Coach Dave called it a legit inside-the-park home run, as the Cubs made no errors on the play, and joked that he had never seen Nick run so fast. What I noticed was how flawlessly Nick turned at each base.
Connor was 3 for 3 with 3 singles. Jason, Chris, Alec, Nick & Anthony each had 2 hits. Matt walked 3 times. With a single and a walk, Evan drove in 3 runs.
Pitching: Scott made his Braves pitching debut in the 4th inning. Aided by their stingy defense, Jason, Matt, Chris and Evan turned in scoreless innings. Evan finished off the final out with a running snow-cone grab of a soft liner.
Defense: At shortstop, Chris snagged a hard liner by Cubs' slugger Zach Casey. In the 4th inning, with runners on 1st and 2nd and no outs, shortstop Jason scooped out a hard grounder and threw alertly to Matt at 3rd to get the lead runner. (I love watching Jason in the field -- he always has his head in the game.) In addition to his other fine plays, Liam almost threw out the lead runner going to second on a single to right field.
Debuts: In addition to Scott's pitching debut, Jason made his Braves' debut as a catcher in the 6th inning.
Next game: 6:30 p.m. Thursday July 2, vs. the Orioles. Have your Brave at Water Tower by 5:45 p.m. for warmups and practice.
Game Night: Scoresheet
[As usual, click to enlarge. Thanks to Coach Rick Rojahn for providing the scoresheet.]
Monday, June 29, 2009
Sunday, June 28, 2009
Update, July 4 parade info
Good morning --
What a great game yesterday, with the Braves coming from behind to tie a very good team. It felt like a win to me, and it was nice that everyone contributed to the outcome.
Meanwhile, Little League teams have the opportunity to march in Whitefish Bay's July 4 parade, so if any of you would like to be part of the spectacle this year please let me know. I have appended the official info that the league is putting out.
Should be beautiful weather for our 5:15 p.m. practice today at Atwater School!
Dave
THE 2009
WHITEFISH BAY
4TH OF JULY PARADE
WFBLL is Position #TBD
Kids and Coaches - wear your hats and jerseys and join us -
Details:
Please make sure you are in spot #TBA between 10:45 and 11:00AM on the 5500 block of Kent Avenue. The parade will begin promptly at 11:30AM.
At the end of the parade, all groups will continue straight on Lake Drive and end at the north end of Klode Park. The tennis courts at Klode Park are a good meeting place for parents to pick up their children.
PLEASE REMEMBER, FOR SAFETY REASONS, WE STRICTLY PROHIBIT THROWING CANDY OR ANY OTHER OBJECTS FROM VEHICLES. There is great danger to children who may jump out into the street, or accidental injury to spectators due to flying objects.
You may have individuals walk near the curb and distribute candy or other items along the parade route. Non compliance may result in forfeiture, removal from the parade or liability resulting from injury. Thank you for your cooperation.
What a great game yesterday, with the Braves coming from behind to tie a very good team. It felt like a win to me, and it was nice that everyone contributed to the outcome.
Meanwhile, Little League teams have the opportunity to march in Whitefish Bay's July 4 parade, so if any of you would like to be part of the spectacle this year please let me know. I have appended the official info that the league is putting out.
Should be beautiful weather for our 5:15 p.m. practice today at Atwater School!
Dave
THE 2009
WHITEFISH BAY
4TH OF JULY PARADE
WFBLL is Position #TBD
Kids and Coaches - wear your hats and jerseys and join us -
Details:
Please make sure you are in spot #TBA between 10:45 and 11:00AM on the 5500 block of Kent Avenue. The parade will begin promptly at 11:30AM.
At the end of the parade, all groups will continue straight on Lake Drive and end at the north end of Klode Park. The tennis courts at Klode Park are a good meeting place for parents to pick up their children.
PLEASE REMEMBER, FOR SAFETY REASONS, WE STRICTLY PROHIBIT THROWING CANDY OR ANY OTHER OBJECTS FROM VEHICLES. There is great danger to children who may jump out into the street, or accidental injury to spectators due to flying objects.
You may have individuals walk near the curb and distribute candy or other items along the parade route. Non compliance may result in forfeiture, removal from the parade or liability resulting from injury. Thank you for your cooperation.
Saturday, June 27, 2009
Game Day: Braves 5, Rays 5
[Photo courtesy of Joe Kimple.]
The Braves battled from behind to tie the mighty Rays, 5-5, in a rematch Saturday afternoon at Water Tower Park. (Earlier this season, the Braves beat the Rays in a tense 4-3 thriller.)
If I told you Chris Pritchard led the team effort, you might assume Chris had a couple of mighty clouts. But Chris' magic today came from his quickness and his golden arm.
After the Rays took a 1-0 lead in the first, Matt walked with two outs in the top of the second inning, stole second and third, and scored when Ryan pounded a double to left field.
In the third, the Braves went up 3-1 after Connor singled in Scott, and Jason doubled Connor home. The Braves might have stretched the lead further in the 4th, but Jack was thrown out at home on a very close play.
With a few big hits and aggressive base running, the Rays opened up a 5-3 lead. Runs for the Braves were looking scarce, because the talented Rays are loaded with quality pitchers. So the Braves manufactured some offense.
In the top of the 6th and final inning, Jason walked, and Chris singled to left field. Both runners moved up on passed balls. then Jason scored on a wild pitch with 1 out to cut the Rays' lead to 5-4.
As Coach Dave pointed out after the game, the speedy Jason scoring on a passed ball isn't a big surprise. But Chris moved to third base on the same play, and scored on another passed ball to tie the game.
Chris took the mound in the bottom of the sixth inning, striking out the first two batters (one looking, one swinging) before inducing the dangerous Chris Siebert to fly out to Evan at in foul territory near first base.
You may ask: Why a tie game? The rules of our league stipulate a maximum of 6 innings, no matter where the score stands. That'll change for the playoffs.
While we're on the subject of Chris, kudos to him for fine defensive plays, too: He caught a deep fly ball to center field by the powerful Brandon Turer in the third inning, and speared a hard liner while playing shortstop in the 5th.
Next practice: 5:15 p.m. Sunday (June 28) at Atwater in Shorewood.
Next game: 6:30 p.m. Monday (June 29) vs. the Cubs. Plan to have your Brave at Water Tower by 5:45 p.m. that evening.
Game Day: Beautiful Day
Braves,
Looks like a great day for a ball game! Blue sky, moderate temps, a cooling breeze from the lake.
We will be playing when the sun is at its peak, so sunscreen might be a good idea for players and fans alike.
See you at Water Tower.
Dave
Looks like a great day for a ball game! Blue sky, moderate temps, a cooling breeze from the lake.
We will be playing when the sun is at its peak, so sunscreen might be a good idea for players and fans alike.
See you at Water Tower.
Dave
Friday, June 26, 2009
Sunday practice time change
Sunday practice at Atwater School will be from 5:15 to 6:45 p.m. rather than the previously announced 4 to 5:30 p.m.
FYI, hotmail.com and msn.com are bouncing e-mails from my UWM account back to me, so if you know a Braves family that relies on such snooty services (e.g., the families of Connor, Liam, and Alec) please pass the word along.
Thanks,
Dave
FYI, hotmail.com and msn.com are bouncing e-mails from my UWM account back to me, so if you know a Braves family that relies on such snooty services (e.g., the families of Connor, Liam, and Alec) please pass the word along.
Thanks,
Dave
Practice added for Sunday (June 28)
Everyone,
The Braves will practice Sunday at the usual 4 to 5:30 p.m. time.
The practice will be at Atwater School in Shorewood (unless you hear differently from us).
We worked mostly on team defense at Thursday's practice. Whenever a player on the other team hits a ball EVERYONE on the Braves needs to be moving either into fielding position or to a spot where he is backing up someone else. We worked on that a lot, with pretty good results.
The other thing we worked on last night was short flies to the outfield. Results weren't so good there, largely because our outfielders were hesitant to call off infielders who were aggressively going for over-the-shoulder catches (none of which they made). We've had way too many catchable balls drop in for hits in the past few games. Outfielders need to take charge on these kinds of plays; the play is in front of them, after all.
Overall, it was a good practice. When he was playing third base, Jack K. did a wonderful job of keeping his body in front of ground balls. A couple of hot smashes slammed into his legs, so I suspect he has a bruise or two today. But he stayed in the game, and hit very well in our traditional end-of-practice scrimmage.
Dave
The Braves will practice Sunday at the usual 4 to 5:30 p.m. time.
The practice will be at Atwater School in Shorewood (unless you hear differently from us).
We worked mostly on team defense at Thursday's practice. Whenever a player on the other team hits a ball EVERYONE on the Braves needs to be moving either into fielding position or to a spot where he is backing up someone else. We worked on that a lot, with pretty good results.
The other thing we worked on last night was short flies to the outfield. Results weren't so good there, largely because our outfielders were hesitant to call off infielders who were aggressively going for over-the-shoulder catches (none of which they made). We've had way too many catchable balls drop in for hits in the past few games. Outfielders need to take charge on these kinds of plays; the play is in front of them, after all.
Overall, it was a good practice. When he was playing third base, Jack K. did a wonderful job of keeping his body in front of ground balls. A couple of hot smashes slammed into his legs, so I suspect he has a bruise or two today. But he stayed in the game, and hit very well in our traditional end-of-practice scrimmage.
Dave
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
Practices 4 p.m. Thursday and Friday, Atwater
The forecast for 4 p.m. Thursday calls for partly cloudy skies, a temp of 77, and a gentle breeze off the lake. Perfect baseball weather!
So we'll have a practice Thursday from 4 to 5:30 p.m. at Atwater School in Shorewood. And we'll work on team defense.
The forecast for Friday is great, too, so we'll have a practice then as well. Same time, same place.
PRACTICES
Thursday, 4-530 p.m., Atwater School
Friday, 4-530 p.m., Atwater School
Dave
So we'll have a practice Thursday from 4 to 5:30 p.m. at Atwater School in Shorewood. And we'll work on team defense.
The forecast for Friday is great, too, so we'll have a practice then as well. Same time, same place.
PRACTICES
Thursday, 4-530 p.m., Atwater School
Friday, 4-530 p.m., Atwater School
Dave
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
Game Story: Yankees 13, Braves 11
Sometimes the other team makes good plays and beats you.
That's what Coach Dave told the Braves after a 13-11 loss to the Yankees Monday night at Water Tower Park.
The defensively sound Yankees made two double plays in the game, snuffing out potential Braves rallies. One was a typical Little League double play, a combination of alertness and luck: the Yankees first baseman caught a line drive and stepped on first to double off a baserunner.
But the other DP was special. The Braves had the bases loaded with no outs. Scott hit a hard grounder toward third base. The Yanks' third baseman grabbed the ball, stepped on third and threw to second base to get a second Braves out. One batter later the game was over.
The Braves were down 3-0 entering the bottom of the 1st, but responded with a fine team rally. Ryan walked and moved to second on a passed ball. Connor beat out an infield single, with Ryan smartly holding at second. Evan reached on an infield single, loading the bases. On a 2-ball, 2-strike count, Nick ripped a hard single through the infield, driving in Ryan and Connor. Three batters later, Jack smashed a double to center field, bringing Nick and Jason home. ("I thought it was going to go out," Nick said of Jack's mighty jack.) The Braves were up 4-3.
In the bottom of the third, the Braves lit up the scoreboard again. Chris singled to right, then stole second and third. Ryan walked and stole second. Connor singled, driving in Chris. Ryan scored on a passed ball. Evan was plunked on the helmet by a pitch: it wasn't thrown that hard, and Ev was OK. See for yourself in this video clip, courtesy of Joe Kimple. Nick then lifted a towering sacrifice fly to center field, bringing Connor home and giving the Braves a temporary 7-5 lead.
Unfortunately for Braves fans, the Yankees scored 8 runs in the 4th through a combination of timely hitting, well-executed bunting, heads-up baserunning and Braves miscues. The Braves battled back with 3 runs in the fourth and one in the sixth, but couldn't close the gap.
One bright spot was the return of Connor from the disabled list. Connor singled twice, scored twice and pitched two flawless innings, striking out 5 Yankees. It appears all of our flu victims have recovered, and the Braves are healthy and ready to close the season strong. (Sigh. I hate writing the words "close the season.")
More highlights and notes:
Defense: As he habitually does (though we never take it for granted), Jason made several fine plays at shortstop, including two straight bang-bang throws to Tyler to nab consecutive batters in the second inning. Connor made two strong, accurate throws from center field to home plate to prevent runners at third from scoring. Ryan stuck with a tricky grounder to throw out a runner, and also caught a hard liner to end an inning.
Batting: Ryan, Connor, Evan, Nick and Jack all reached through hits/walks/HBP twice. Tyler, continuing his recent improvement, singled sharply up the middle.
NEXT GAME: 11 a.m. Saturday June 27 is our rematch against the Rays. The coaches will expect to see players about 10:15 a.m. at Water Tower.
That's what Coach Dave told the Braves after a 13-11 loss to the Yankees Monday night at Water Tower Park.
The defensively sound Yankees made two double plays in the game, snuffing out potential Braves rallies. One was a typical Little League double play, a combination of alertness and luck: the Yankees first baseman caught a line drive and stepped on first to double off a baserunner.
But the other DP was special. The Braves had the bases loaded with no outs. Scott hit a hard grounder toward third base. The Yanks' third baseman grabbed the ball, stepped on third and threw to second base to get a second Braves out. One batter later the game was over.
The Braves were down 3-0 entering the bottom of the 1st, but responded with a fine team rally. Ryan walked and moved to second on a passed ball. Connor beat out an infield single, with Ryan smartly holding at second. Evan reached on an infield single, loading the bases. On a 2-ball, 2-strike count, Nick ripped a hard single through the infield, driving in Ryan and Connor. Three batters later, Jack smashed a double to center field, bringing Nick and Jason home. ("I thought it was going to go out," Nick said of Jack's mighty jack.) The Braves were up 4-3.
In the bottom of the third, the Braves lit up the scoreboard again. Chris singled to right, then stole second and third. Ryan walked and stole second. Connor singled, driving in Chris. Ryan scored on a passed ball. Evan was plunked on the helmet by a pitch: it wasn't thrown that hard, and Ev was OK. See for yourself in this video clip, courtesy of Joe Kimple. Nick then lifted a towering sacrifice fly to center field, bringing Connor home and giving the Braves a temporary 7-5 lead.
Unfortunately for Braves fans, the Yankees scored 8 runs in the 4th through a combination of timely hitting, well-executed bunting, heads-up baserunning and Braves miscues. The Braves battled back with 3 runs in the fourth and one in the sixth, but couldn't close the gap.
One bright spot was the return of Connor from the disabled list. Connor singled twice, scored twice and pitched two flawless innings, striking out 5 Yankees. It appears all of our flu victims have recovered, and the Braves are healthy and ready to close the season strong. (Sigh. I hate writing the words "close the season.")
More highlights and notes:
Defense: As he habitually does (though we never take it for granted), Jason made several fine plays at shortstop, including two straight bang-bang throws to Tyler to nab consecutive batters in the second inning. Connor made two strong, accurate throws from center field to home plate to prevent runners at third from scoring. Ryan stuck with a tricky grounder to throw out a runner, and also caught a hard liner to end an inning.
Batting: Ryan, Connor, Evan, Nick and Jack all reached through hits/walks/HBP twice. Tyler, continuing his recent improvement, singled sharply up the middle.
NEXT GAME: 11 a.m. Saturday June 27 is our rematch against the Rays. The coaches will expect to see players about 10:15 a.m. at Water Tower.
Evan takes one for the team
If Evan ever gets tired of baseball, I think he has a career in show biz waiting.
Thanks to videographer extraordinaire Joe Kimple for the clip.
Game Night: Scoresheet
[Click to enlarge.
Thanks, as always, to Coach Rick for the scoresheet scans.]
Monday, June 22, 2009
Game Night: Yankees 13, Braves 11
The Braves battled hard, but good defense by the scrappy Yankees scuttled potential comebacks as the Yanks prevailed, 13-11 Monday night at Water Tower Park.
I'll post a game story on Tuesday. But here's a hint about one of the more unusual events Monday night: if you seen Evan Howell in the meantime, ask him how his head feels.
Jim Higgins
I'll post a game story on Tuesday. But here's a hint about one of the more unusual events Monday night: if you seen Evan Howell in the meantime, ask him how his head feels.
Jim Higgins
Sunday, June 21, 2009
Updates from Coach Dave: Sick Bay, Yankees game, Little League Night at Miller Park
Everyone,
First of all, a happy Father's Day to all of the dads out there in Braveland! No practice today in honor of the occasion.
Second, we may have all of our swine-flu guys at the game Monday! If your Brave will miss the game (because of illness or any other reason) please let me know.
Third, we look forward to seeing players at 5:45 p.m. Monday for warm-ups before our game with the Yankees.
Fourth, I will pick up tickets for Brewers night today, and will distribute them Monday evening to the families who signed up.
Dave
First of all, a happy Father's Day to all of the dads out there in Braveland! No practice today in honor of the occasion.
Second, we may have all of our swine-flu guys at the game Monday! If your Brave will miss the game (because of illness or any other reason) please let me know.
Third, we look forward to seeing players at 5:45 p.m. Monday for warm-ups before our game with the Yankees.
Fourth, I will pick up tickets for Brewers night today, and will distribute them Monday evening to the families who signed up.
Dave
Saturday, June 20, 2009
Game Report: Pirates 14, Braves 7
The Braves fell behind big early, then battled their way back into the game, but ultimately lost to the Pirates 14-7 on a warm Saturday evening at Water Tower Park.
Pirates slugger Kyle Rogers homered twice, and the slick-fielding Pirates snuffed out potential Braves rallies in the 5th and 6th innings with strong defense.
Pirates coach Dave Arnold told me that Rogers has hit about a dozen homers this season.
While the Braves were disappointed with losing, many bright spots are worth noting from this exciting game.
Matt, our last available pitcher in uniform tonight, took the ball in the top of the 5th inning with nobody out and Pirate runners on 1st and 2nd. He struck out a batter. Then, after a walk loaded the bases, Matt induced a pop-up that Alec grabbed, and a ground-out that ended the inning.
Entering the bottom of the third inning, the Braves were down 10-1, but woke up with a furious rally that was fueled as much by aggressive baserunning as by hitting. With 1 out, Tyler started the excitement by drawing a walk. Nick ripped a hard single to center field. Matt singled up the middle, loading the bases. Scott's infield single scored Tyler. Jason blasted a pitch down the left-field line that became a ground rule double when the ball bounded out of play, bringing Nick and Matt home. Then, with Chris batting, both Scott and Jason (from second base) scored on a passed ball. Chris walked, stole second, went to third on Alec's groundout and stole home.
This all happened so quickly I'm not sure I got all the names right. The outcome was a 6-run inning, and a credit to the Braves' resiliency.
More highlights and notes:
Pitching: Evan put up a goose egg in the 4th inning, striking out a batter and helping himself by grabbing a ball in play and throwing to Tyler for the 3rd out.
Fielding: Jack, with a phalanx of family and friends watching in the stands, grabbed a flyout in right field, and made several smooth pickups at third base. Matt helped himself grabbing a pop-up on the mound, and Alec made a fine running catch of a flyball in center field.
Batting: Nick was 2 for 2, his other hit a booming double to center field. Ryan doubled, also to center field. Chris started our potential last-inning rally with a single up the middle.
NEXT GAME: 6:30 p.m. Monday June 22 against the Yankees; players should be there at 5:45 p.m., per the Braves coaches.
Pirates slugger Kyle Rogers homered twice, and the slick-fielding Pirates snuffed out potential Braves rallies in the 5th and 6th innings with strong defense.
Pirates coach Dave Arnold told me that Rogers has hit about a dozen homers this season.
While the Braves were disappointed with losing, many bright spots are worth noting from this exciting game.
Matt, our last available pitcher in uniform tonight, took the ball in the top of the 5th inning with nobody out and Pirate runners on 1st and 2nd. He struck out a batter. Then, after a walk loaded the bases, Matt induced a pop-up that Alec grabbed, and a ground-out that ended the inning.
Entering the bottom of the third inning, the Braves were down 10-1, but woke up with a furious rally that was fueled as much by aggressive baserunning as by hitting. With 1 out, Tyler started the excitement by drawing a walk. Nick ripped a hard single to center field. Matt singled up the middle, loading the bases. Scott's infield single scored Tyler. Jason blasted a pitch down the left-field line that became a ground rule double when the ball bounded out of play, bringing Nick and Matt home. Then, with Chris batting, both Scott and Jason (from second base) scored on a passed ball. Chris walked, stole second, went to third on Alec's groundout and stole home.
This all happened so quickly I'm not sure I got all the names right. The outcome was a 6-run inning, and a credit to the Braves' resiliency.
More highlights and notes:
Pitching: Evan put up a goose egg in the 4th inning, striking out a batter and helping himself by grabbing a ball in play and throwing to Tyler for the 3rd out.
Fielding: Jack, with a phalanx of family and friends watching in the stands, grabbed a flyout in right field, and made several smooth pickups at third base. Matt helped himself grabbing a pop-up on the mound, and Alec made a fine running catch of a flyball in center field.
Batting: Nick was 2 for 2, his other hit a booming double to center field. Ryan doubled, also to center field. Chris started our potential last-inning rally with a single up the middle.
NEXT GAME: 6:30 p.m. Monday June 22 against the Yankees; players should be there at 5:45 p.m., per the Braves coaches.
Schedule issues
After this evening's game (Sat June 20), the Braves will have four regular-season games remaining. Here is the schedule:
Monday, June 22, at 6:30 p.m. against the Yankees
Saturday, June 27, at 11 a.m. against the Rays
Monday, June 29, at 6:30 p.m. against the Cubs
Our June 16 game against the Orioles was rained out. Initially we were told that it would be made up Thursday, June 25, but that turns out NOT to be the case. Both teams would like the game to be made up on Thursday, July 2, at 6:30 p.m. But of course nothing is official until it appears on the Little League web site.
Dave
Monday, June 22, at 6:30 p.m. against the Yankees
Saturday, June 27, at 11 a.m. against the Rays
Monday, June 29, at 6:30 p.m. against the Cubs
Our June 16 game against the Orioles was rained out. Initially we were told that it would be made up Thursday, June 25, but that turns out NOT to be the case. Both teams would like the game to be made up on Thursday, July 2, at 6:30 p.m. But of course nothing is official until it appears on the Little League web site.
Dave
Beautiful Day for Baseball
Braves,
What a beautiful day for a ball game! Look forward to seeing everyone up at Water Tower by 4:15 p.m.
Sounds as if Chris and I missed a great game against the Phillies Thursday. They are an excellent team -- everyone should feel good about our two games against them.
Dave
What a beautiful day for a ball game! Look forward to seeing everyone up at Water Tower by 4:15 p.m.
Sounds as if Chris and I missed a great game against the Phillies Thursday. They are an excellent team -- everyone should feel good about our two games against them.
Dave
Friday, June 19, 2009
Game Report: Phillies 10, Braves 7
Team,
The Braves were able to beat the flu and field a team to face the Phillies. However, the Phillies were able to erase a 4-0 deficit and hold on to beat the flu-weakened Braves 10-7. Behind the solid pitching of both Alec and Evan, the Braves held the Phillies to three scoreless innings. The Phillies did all their damage in two innings … scoring 4 runs in the second and 6 runs in the fourth. But the Braves did not give up and scored 3 runs in the final inning only to come up short.
The Braves are now tied for second with the Phillies at 8-3 trailing the Dodger at 10-0-1. Our next game is at 5pm on Saturday, June 20th vs. the Pirates who tied the powerful Dodgers this past Wednesday. The Pirates are a very good team and will come into our game with a lot of confidence. This should make for another exciting game so don’t miss it!
Lastly, I want share a compliment we received from one of the Phillies coaches following tonight’s game … he approached me unsolicited and said “you have a really nice team” and had nice things to say about every player. So, parents and players, keep up the good work. We’ll see you on Saturday.
Ross
The Braves were able to beat the flu and field a team to face the Phillies. However, the Phillies were able to erase a 4-0 deficit and hold on to beat the flu-weakened Braves 10-7. Behind the solid pitching of both Alec and Evan, the Braves held the Phillies to three scoreless innings. The Phillies did all their damage in two innings … scoring 4 runs in the second and 6 runs in the fourth. But the Braves did not give up and scored 3 runs in the final inning only to come up short.
The Braves are now tied for second with the Phillies at 8-3 trailing the Dodger at 10-0-1. Our next game is at 5pm on Saturday, June 20th vs. the Pirates who tied the powerful Dodgers this past Wednesday. The Pirates are a very good team and will come into our game with a lot of confidence. This should make for another exciting game so don’t miss it!
Lastly, I want share a compliment we received from one of the Phillies coaches following tonight’s game … he approached me unsolicited and said “you have a really nice team” and had nice things to say about every player. So, parents and players, keep up the good work. We’ll see you on Saturday.
Ross
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
Thursday's game (June 18)
Everyone,
Players should meet at Water Tower Thursday (June 18) at 3:45 p.m. to get ready for the 4:30 rematch against the Phillies.
Chris, Kathy, and I leave for a few days in Door County Wednesday morning, so we will miss the game. Please contact Ross with info about your son's availability and anything else that relates to Thursday's game.
The best way to get in touch with him is via e-mail, which he seems to check several times each minute. His e-mail address is ross.harmsen@pkware.com.
You have Ross' phone numbers on the laminated card you received at the beginning of the season.
Thanks, everyone. We'll be back for Saturday's game (June 20) (players should be at Water Tower by 4:15 p.m. for that one).
I look forward to hearing about a seventh victory in a row when I check e-mail Friday morning!
Dave
Players should meet at Water Tower Thursday (June 18) at 3:45 p.m. to get ready for the 4:30 rematch against the Phillies.
Chris, Kathy, and I leave for a few days in Door County Wednesday morning, so we will miss the game. Please contact Ross with info about your son's availability and anything else that relates to Thursday's game.
The best way to get in touch with him is via e-mail, which he seems to check several times each minute. His e-mail address is ross.harmsen@pkware.com.
You have Ross' phone numbers on the laminated card you received at the beginning of the season.
Thanks, everyone. We'll be back for Saturday's game (June 20) (players should be at Water Tower by 4:15 p.m. for that one).
I look forward to hearing about a seventh victory in a row when I check e-mail Friday morning!
Dave
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
Braves Rainout Theater: Bloopers Edition
With an assist from Mother Nature, we are proud to once again bring you an online edition of Braves Rainout Theater.
Braves players, please note: Don't do any of this in our games. Thanks.
Braves players, please note: Don't do any of this in our games. Thanks.
Braves game rained out
Our game against the Orioles this evening was rained out, despite a loud "let us play!" cheer led by the Braves (with most other teams joining in).
The makeup is tentatively scheduled for Thursday, June 25, at 4:30 p.m.
We are hoping for better weather for our next game, Thursday June 18 at 4:30 p.m. against the Phillies.
Dave
The makeup is tentatively scheduled for Thursday, June 25, at 4:30 p.m.
We are hoping for better weather for our next game, Thursday June 18 at 4:30 p.m. against the Phillies.
Dave
Monday, June 15, 2009
Fielding a team for Tuesday (June 16)
Everyone,
Today Tyler joined Nick and Jack in the swine-flu sick bay. Connor woke up this morning not feeling good. And Alec is at camp until late Wednesday.
We will patch together a team to take on the Orioles Tuesday evening. I just don't know right now who will be on that team.
Tyler, Alec, and Nick seem to be out for sure. If Connor can play Tuesday and/or if Jack -- the first of our guys to get swine flu -- is cleared to play, we'll have nine guys and no problem. If Connor and Jack are both out, we'll get a kid from Minors to play for us.
Parents, please let me know ASAP if my understanding of your son's availability for Tuesday's game is incorrect. And if there's any change in any player's status, let me know that too.
Thanks!
Dr. Dave
Woodburn Street MASH unit
Today Tyler joined Nick and Jack in the swine-flu sick bay. Connor woke up this morning not feeling good. And Alec is at camp until late Wednesday.
We will patch together a team to take on the Orioles Tuesday evening. I just don't know right now who will be on that team.
Tyler, Alec, and Nick seem to be out for sure. If Connor can play Tuesday and/or if Jack -- the first of our guys to get swine flu -- is cleared to play, we'll have nine guys and no problem. If Connor and Jack are both out, we'll get a kid from Minors to play for us.
Parents, please let me know ASAP if my understanding of your son's availability for Tuesday's game is incorrect. And if there's any change in any player's status, let me know that too.
Thanks!
Dr. Dave
Woodburn Street MASH unit
Sunday, June 14, 2009
Saturday, June 13, 2009
A Day of Rest
Braves,
We will not have our regularly scheduled Sunday practice. After two great games Friday and Saturday, the guys deserve a day of rest. In any case, I don't think there's anything we coaches could say to get them to play much better than they've played during their current six-game winning streak!
Dave
We will not have our regularly scheduled Sunday practice. After two great games Friday and Saturday, the guys deserve a day of rest. In any case, I don't think there's anything we coaches could say to get them to play much better than they've played during their current six-game winning streak!
Dave
Game Day: Braves 12, Phillies 10
At some point this season, the Braves will lose a close game. But not today, as the team squeaked past the very tough Phillies in a 12-10 nail-biter.
The victory left the Braves, with an 8-2 record, in sole possession of second place in WFB Majors. The Phillies’ record fell to 6-3.
As usual with our guys, it was a total team victory. The first inning featured the team’s first home run of the season, a titanic blast to straightaway center field by Nick. Alec took two for the team in the early going, getting hit by hard pitches in both the first and second innings. Connor smashed doubles to the outfield fence in both the first and second innings.
The highlights didn’t end there. Matt made a sensational catch of a pop fly in short right field to end a Phillies’ rally in the third inning. Scott, playing catcher, fired a strike to second base to snuff out a Phillies’ rally in the fourth inning. In the Braves’ half of the fourth, Chris clouted an RBI double to the fence. In the fifth Jason turned on the afterburners to beat out an RBI infield single with two out, knocking in a run that proved to be very important.
Then came the fateful sixth inning. The Braves were leading 12-7, but no lead is safe against the dangerous Phillies. And indeed, the Phillies didn’t give up. One run scored. Another run scored. Evan strode to the mound to try to save the game with one out, Phillies dancing off the bases, and the top of their order coming up.
Evan knew what to do – throw strikes and trust the defense. A third run scored, but Evan got one batter to pop up to Jason and the last batter to hit a grounder to short. Jason scooped it up, fired to Chris at first to beat the runner by a step, and your Braves had sole possession of second place!
-- Dave
* * *
This Day in WFBLL Braves History
First home run: Nick
The victory left the Braves, with an 8-2 record, in sole possession of second place in WFB Majors. The Phillies’ record fell to 6-3.
As usual with our guys, it was a total team victory. The first inning featured the team’s first home run of the season, a titanic blast to straightaway center field by Nick. Alec took two for the team in the early going, getting hit by hard pitches in both the first and second innings. Connor smashed doubles to the outfield fence in both the first and second innings.
The highlights didn’t end there. Matt made a sensational catch of a pop fly in short right field to end a Phillies’ rally in the third inning. Scott, playing catcher, fired a strike to second base to snuff out a Phillies’ rally in the fourth inning. In the Braves’ half of the fourth, Chris clouted an RBI double to the fence. In the fifth Jason turned on the afterburners to beat out an RBI infield single with two out, knocking in a run that proved to be very important.
Then came the fateful sixth inning. The Braves were leading 12-7, but no lead is safe against the dangerous Phillies. And indeed, the Phillies didn’t give up. One run scored. Another run scored. Evan strode to the mound to try to save the game with one out, Phillies dancing off the bases, and the top of their order coming up.
Evan knew what to do – throw strikes and trust the defense. A third run scored, but Evan got one batter to pop up to Jason and the last batter to hit a grounder to short. Jason scooped it up, fired to Chris at first to beat the runner by a step, and your Braves had sole possession of second place!
-- Dave
* * *
This Day in WFBLL Braves History
First home run: Nick
Friday, June 12, 2009
Game Night: Braves 5, White Sox 4
The parents of our Braves players practice a variety of noble professions: professor, lawyer, veterinarian, architect, journalist, pharmacist. But if the Braves' recent trend of 1-run games continues, we may have to recruit a cardiologist.
The Braves defeated the well-coached White Sox 5-4 in a rematch of two teams that played just a few nights ago. It must have been one of the fastest 6-inning games of the season. Both teams made excellent defensive plays. Both teams also made errors or mistakes that cost them runs. No fan could feel cheated by the intensity level of the action.
This was the Braves' third 1-run victory. That's "testimony to good teamwork and good pitching," Coach Ross told the Braves in his postgame remarks.
Braves player Jack was ill and couldn't make the game. Coach Dave said he told Jack's mom that the Braves were going to try to win the game for Jack Kivley, and they did so.
Chris proved in striking and dramatic fashion that he is the Braves' counterpart to both Prince Fielder (fearsome lefty slugger) and Trevor Hoffman (efficient closer).
The Braves came to bat in the top of the last inning, trailing 4-3. Jason ripped a ground-rule double to left field (had it not bounded out of the field of play, he might have gotten more), and went to third on a passed ball when Scott walked. Then, with one out, Chris smoked a huge double to right field, scoring both Jason and Scott, and giving the Braves a 5-4 lead.
On the mound in the bottom of the last inning, Chris faced the White Sox's best hitters. Chris struck out the first batter looking, and struck out the second batter swinging when catcher Anthony hung on to a foul tip. After a walk, Chris struck out the White Sox's slugger to end the game.
The Braves swing right back into action Saturday morning June 13, with Picture Day at 10 a.m. followed by a game against the Phillies at 11 a.m.
More highlights and notes:
BATTING & BASERUNNING: In the top of the first inning Connor and Chris worked a double steal, with Connor swiping home for the Braves' first run. In the second inning, Matt singled, and hustled all the way to third on fielder misplays. Then, with 2 outs and 2 strikes, Nick ripped a hard single through the infield to drive Matt home with the Braves' second run. Alec tripled to right field in the 4th, and scored by stealing home on a passed ball.
FIELDING: Jason continued his excellence at shortstop, vacuuming two hard grounders in the third inning and throwing the runners out.
PITCHING: Alec, with his distinctive neo-submariner motion, pitched three innings and struck out six batters. He grabbed a pop-up to snuff out a White Sox rally in the 4th inning.
The Braves defeated the well-coached White Sox 5-4 in a rematch of two teams that played just a few nights ago. It must have been one of the fastest 6-inning games of the season. Both teams made excellent defensive plays. Both teams also made errors or mistakes that cost them runs. No fan could feel cheated by the intensity level of the action.
This was the Braves' third 1-run victory. That's "testimony to good teamwork and good pitching," Coach Ross told the Braves in his postgame remarks.
Braves player Jack was ill and couldn't make the game. Coach Dave said he told Jack's mom that the Braves were going to try to win the game for Jack Kivley, and they did so.
Chris proved in striking and dramatic fashion that he is the Braves' counterpart to both Prince Fielder (fearsome lefty slugger) and Trevor Hoffman (efficient closer).
The Braves came to bat in the top of the last inning, trailing 4-3. Jason ripped a ground-rule double to left field (had it not bounded out of the field of play, he might have gotten more), and went to third on a passed ball when Scott walked. Then, with one out, Chris smoked a huge double to right field, scoring both Jason and Scott, and giving the Braves a 5-4 lead.
On the mound in the bottom of the last inning, Chris faced the White Sox's best hitters. Chris struck out the first batter looking, and struck out the second batter swinging when catcher Anthony hung on to a foul tip. After a walk, Chris struck out the White Sox's slugger to end the game.
The Braves swing right back into action Saturday morning June 13, with Picture Day at 10 a.m. followed by a game against the Phillies at 11 a.m.
More highlights and notes:
BATTING & BASERUNNING: In the top of the first inning Connor and Chris worked a double steal, with Connor swiping home for the Braves' first run. In the second inning, Matt singled, and hustled all the way to third on fielder misplays. Then, with 2 outs and 2 strikes, Nick ripped a hard single through the infield to drive Matt home with the Braves' second run. Alec tripled to right field in the 4th, and scored by stealing home on a passed ball.
FIELDING: Jason continued his excellence at shortstop, vacuuming two hard grounders in the third inning and throwing the runners out.
PITCHING: Alec, with his distinctive neo-submariner motion, pitched three innings and struck out six batters. He grabbed a pop-up to snuff out a White Sox rally in the 4th inning.
Absences
Everyone,
In the past couple of days I have heard a lot of buzz about the three confirmed cases of swine flu at Cumberland School, which seven members of the Braves attend (at least until the end of school Friday). I am sure that I would have been informed if any Braves had the disease.
Parents of our players routinely hold their sons out of practices and games if a guy isn't feeling good, which of course is best for all concerned. If we coaches see any sign of illness we will let the parents know right away.
But I don't anticipate any problems. We seem to have a bunch of healthy kids!
Dave
In the past couple of days I have heard a lot of buzz about the three confirmed cases of swine flu at Cumberland School, which seven members of the Braves attend (at least until the end of school Friday). I am sure that I would have been informed if any Braves had the disease.
Parents of our players routinely hold their sons out of practices and games if a guy isn't feeling good, which of course is best for all concerned. If we coaches see any sign of illness we will let the parents know right away.
But I don't anticipate any problems. We seem to have a bunch of healthy kids!
Dave
Thursday, June 11, 2009
Updates: Games, Picture Day
Braves,
Excellent practice today! The weather was perfect, the guys fielded beautifully, and they pounded the ball against my best pitching in scrimmage! Jason popped a walk-off single to left to win it for his team.
Two items:
FRIDAY June 12, please have your Brave at Water Tower by 5 p.m. so that we can have on-field batting practice. We did this before Tuesday's game and our bats came alive, so I'd like to do it again.
SATURDAY June 13 is Picture Day. Please have your freshly scrubbed Brave at Water Tower no later than 10 a.m. The picture-taking area is at the south end of Water Tower. Please fill out your order forms before you get to Water Tower -- everything's easier that way.
See at Water Tower tomorrow for our rematch against the White Sox.
Dave
Excellent practice today! The weather was perfect, the guys fielded beautifully, and they pounded the ball against my best pitching in scrimmage! Jason popped a walk-off single to left to win it for his team.
Two items:
FRIDAY June 12, please have your Brave at Water Tower by 5 p.m. so that we can have on-field batting practice. We did this before Tuesday's game and our bats came alive, so I'd like to do it again.
SATURDAY June 13 is Picture Day. Please have your freshly scrubbed Brave at Water Tower no later than 10 a.m. The picture-taking area is at the south end of Water Tower. Please fill out your order forms before you get to Water Tower -- everything's easier that way.
See at Water Tower tomorrow for our rematch against the White Sox.
Dave
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
Practice 4 p.m. Thursday, June 11, at Atwater (Shorewood)
Hey Braves, great game last night!
We'll practice Thursday from 4 to 5:30 p.m. at Atwater School in Shorewood. It may be sunny and warm, so please be sure to bring water.
Dave
We'll practice Thursday from 4 to 5:30 p.m. at Atwater School in Shorewood. It may be sunny and warm, so please be sure to bring water.
Dave
Game Story: Braves 8, White Sox 1
The Braves put it all together Tuesday night, scoring seven runs in their last two at bats to break open a close game and defeat the White Sox, 8-1. The victory moves the Braves into a tie for second place in the Majors. Both the Braves and the powerful Phillies have six wins in eight games.
Tuesday’s victory featured power pitching, superb defense when it counted, and timely hitting. The pitching was especially impressive because the White Sox had been one of the highest-scoring teams in the league, averaging 10 runs a game.
Connor allowed no runs in the first two innings, fanning four White Sox. Alec took over in the third inning; the top of the White Sox order was coming to the plate. With one out and White Sox runners on first and third in the scoreless game, first baseman Chris made a diving stab of a soft line drive to get the second out and prevent the runners from advancing. The next batter smoked a line drive toward left-center field. It had two RBIs written all over it, but shortstop Jason leaped high – very high – and snared the ball in the webbing of his glove to end the inning with no White Sox player having crossed the plate.
The game was still scoreless in the bottom of the third. Matt led off with a single and advanced to third base on two groundouts. Then came a wild pitch, and Matt dashed for home plate, scoring standing up for the game’s first run.
Jason took over pitching in the fourth inning, holding the White Sox scoreless. When the Braves came to bat in the fourth, Connor led off with a booming triple over the right fielder’s head. Chris walked and stole second, and Alec rifled a single to the outfield to score both of them. Alec stole second and third, which enabled Ryan to drive him in with an infield single. Braves ahead, 4-0, after four innings.
The White Sox got a harmless unearned run in the fifth inning, and then the Braves’ bats got really hot. Jason and Scott hit singles; they both advanced on a passed ball. Connor lined a single to the outfield, driving in two runs, and then kept on running himself, scoring as the White Sox booted the ball all over the field. Chris lined a double to the fence in right center, stole third, and then trotted home when Alec got his second RBI hit. Four runs on five consecutive hits.
Chris strode to the hill in the final inning with a seven-run lead. The first White Sox batter got on base via an infield error, but Chris struck out the next three hitters to seal the victory.
A complete team victory – the best kind.
The Braves have a rematch against the White Sox Friday, followed by a tussle with the Phillies Saturday at 11 a.m. You won’t want to miss those games!
-- Dave
Tuesday’s victory featured power pitching, superb defense when it counted, and timely hitting. The pitching was especially impressive because the White Sox had been one of the highest-scoring teams in the league, averaging 10 runs a game.
Connor allowed no runs in the first two innings, fanning four White Sox. Alec took over in the third inning; the top of the White Sox order was coming to the plate. With one out and White Sox runners on first and third in the scoreless game, first baseman Chris made a diving stab of a soft line drive to get the second out and prevent the runners from advancing. The next batter smoked a line drive toward left-center field. It had two RBIs written all over it, but shortstop Jason leaped high – very high – and snared the ball in the webbing of his glove to end the inning with no White Sox player having crossed the plate.
The game was still scoreless in the bottom of the third. Matt led off with a single and advanced to third base on two groundouts. Then came a wild pitch, and Matt dashed for home plate, scoring standing up for the game’s first run.
Jason took over pitching in the fourth inning, holding the White Sox scoreless. When the Braves came to bat in the fourth, Connor led off with a booming triple over the right fielder’s head. Chris walked and stole second, and Alec rifled a single to the outfield to score both of them. Alec stole second and third, which enabled Ryan to drive him in with an infield single. Braves ahead, 4-0, after four innings.
The White Sox got a harmless unearned run in the fifth inning, and then the Braves’ bats got really hot. Jason and Scott hit singles; they both advanced on a passed ball. Connor lined a single to the outfield, driving in two runs, and then kept on running himself, scoring as the White Sox booted the ball all over the field. Chris lined a double to the fence in right center, stole third, and then trotted home when Alec got his second RBI hit. Four runs on five consecutive hits.
Chris strode to the hill in the final inning with a seven-run lead. The first White Sox batter got on base via an infield error, but Chris struck out the next three hitters to seal the victory.
A complete team victory – the best kind.
The Braves have a rematch against the White Sox Friday, followed by a tussle with the Phillies Saturday at 11 a.m. You won’t want to miss those games!
-- Dave
Tuesday, June 9, 2009
Game afternoon (Tues June 9), other updates
Everyone,
We play the White Sox today (Tues June 9) at 4:30 p.m. Please have your Brave at Water Tower no later than 3:45 p.m.
If both teams have all their players ready to go at 4:15 p.m., our game might begin early because a second Majors game is scheduled for 6 p.m. and rain is supposed to drift in this evening.
FYI-1: We may try for a practice Thursday from 4 to 5:30 p.m. at Atwater School in Shorewood. E-mail tomorrow letting you know for sure.
FYI-2: The WFB Little League board has its monthly meeting tomorrow (Wednesday) at 8 p.m. in the warming house at Cahill Square. The big topic of discussion will be all stars. The agenda sent out by board prez Scott Deakin is appended.
Dave
* * *
Board Meeting Agenda – June 10, 2009
Ø Review and Approval of Prior Month’s Board Meeting Minutes
Ø Discussion regarding All Stars
o Players selection
o Coaches selection
o Coaches meeting June 11 Cahill 8pm
o List of players
o Team composition – ages
o Eligibility
Ø Ladies game /EOS Party
o When
o Uniforms
Ø Playoffs
o When
o All Star hold
Ø Safety
o Nets
Ø Other
o All Star hold
Ø Safety
o Nets
Ø Other
o Items raised by WFBLL Membership or WFBLL BOD
If you have questions or comments about All stars please come and voice your opinion.
I have a correction to the ages on the team should be as follows
U13/U14 – born between May 1, 1994 and April 30, 1996
U11/U12 – born between May 1, 1996 and April 30, 1998
U10/U11 – born between May 1, 1997 and April 30, 1999
U9/U10 – born between May 1, 1998 and April 30, 2000
We play the White Sox today (Tues June 9) at 4:30 p.m. Please have your Brave at Water Tower no later than 3:45 p.m.
If both teams have all their players ready to go at 4:15 p.m., our game might begin early because a second Majors game is scheduled for 6 p.m. and rain is supposed to drift in this evening.
FYI-1: We may try for a practice Thursday from 4 to 5:30 p.m. at Atwater School in Shorewood. E-mail tomorrow letting you know for sure.
FYI-2: The WFB Little League board has its monthly meeting tomorrow (Wednesday) at 8 p.m. in the warming house at Cahill Square. The big topic of discussion will be all stars. The agenda sent out by board prez Scott Deakin is appended.
Dave
* * *
Board Meeting Agenda – June 10, 2009
Ø Review and Approval of Prior Month’s Board Meeting Minutes
Ø Discussion regarding All Stars
o Players selection
o Coaches selection
o Coaches meeting June 11 Cahill 8pm
o List of players
o Team composition – ages
o Eligibility
Ø Ladies game /EOS Party
o When
o Uniforms
Ø Playoffs
o When
o All Star hold
Ø Safety
o Nets
Ø Other
o All Star hold
Ø Safety
o Nets
Ø Other
o Items raised by WFBLL Membership or WFBLL BOD
If you have questions or comments about All stars please come and voice your opinion.
I have a correction to the ages on the team should be as follows
U13/U14 – born between May 1, 1994 and April 30, 1996
U11/U12 – born between May 1, 1996 and April 30, 1998
U10/U11 – born between May 1, 1997 and April 30, 1999
U9/U10 – born between May 1, 1998 and April 30, 2000
Sunday, June 7, 2009
Coach Dave: Little League All Stars
Everyone,
I think most of you got the message about all-star teams from WFB Little League board president Scott Deakin. If not, I append it below.
There is so much opportunity for bad feelings about all stars that Whitefish Bay hasn't participated for the past several years. This year the WFB Little League board decided to dive into all stars again, and I'm hoping that the board can find a way to minimize bad feelings about the expense of all stars, the selections of which players will be on the all-star teams, and the impact that all stars may have on individual little league teams.
Many of the players on the Braves have little league ages of 11. Guys in that category will be considered for the U-11 all-star team unless they specifically request to be considered for the U-12 team. Basically, the U-11 team will be fifth graders, the U-12 team sixth graders. Kids can be considered for only one team. Generally, players want to stay with their school-grade cohort.
The teams will be chosen Thursday evening by the 10 head coaches of the teams in Majors. Each coach has been asked to submit a confidential list of 10 potential all stars from teams other than his own. Each coach may also nominate players from his own team.
The Braves have lots of players who would perform well if they were part of an all-star team. However, there is no guarantee that ANY member of the Braves will be chosen to take part in all stars. The selection process is subjective, and after the teams are announced hard feelings are almost inevitable.
If members of the Braves -- and/or their parents and coaches -- are disappointed by the all-star selections, I hope we will find a way to react with class and dignity. We have a great team, no matter how many (or how few) of our guys end up on an all-star squad!
Thanks for reading this long e-mail. As always, the coaches appreciate your support.
Dave
----- Forwarded Message -----
From: "Scott Deakin (GE Healthcare)"
To: undisclosed-recipients:;
Sent: Sunday, May 31, 2009 10:15:13 PM GMT -06:00 US/Canada Central
Subject: All Star in WFB 2
This year WFBLL will be participating in All Stars. You are probably all familiar with the Little League World Series, which is the final international tournament of the U11/U12 All Star teams worldwide. Little League also runs this tournament for U13/14 (Juniors), U10/U11 and U9/U10 age groups which can advance to a state tournament.
The past few years we have chosen not to participate in All Stars because a player, once chosen to All Stars, was not allowed to continue playing with his/her LL team. It was a thrill for the 13-15 kids that made the team, but very disruptive to the other 90% of the league. Little League no longer has that rule, so the Board has voted to give All Stars another try this season.
WFBLL will be fielding 4 teams this year in the age groups mentioned above. Here are the details:
* Coaches: coaches for the All Star teams must be currently coaching in their respective leagues (Juniors for U13/U14, Majors for U11/U12, and Minors for U9/U10).
* Players: players will be selected to the teams by the current league coaches. Selection must be unanimous and rosters can have 13-15 players each. There will not be formal tryouts; LL establishes a selection date late in the season so that all kids get a chance to show their talent multiple times, to multiple coaches. Age is governed by Little League’s age rule as follows:
o U13/U14 – born between May 1, 1994 and April 30, 1996
o U11/U12 – born between May 1, 1995 and April 30, 1997
o U10/U11 – born between May 1, 1996 and April 30, 1998
o U9/U10 – born between May 1, 1998 and April 30, 2000
o A player is allowed to “play up” but must declare that desire before the selection process. Players will only be considered for one team, so if they elect to play up and miss the team, they will not be considered for the younger team.
* Team Managers: Little League runs a very tight and organized tournament, but to make sure each team is playing by the rules, they require a fair amount of documentation. Each team will need a parent volunteer to manage the documentation and other miscellaneous for each tournament.
* Schedule (everyone plays the District tournament)
o Coaching applications excepted: June 1, 2009
o Team selection: June 12, 2009
o Team/Player announcements: June 15, 2009
o Practice begins: June 16, 2009
o District tournament: Begins ~July 6, 2009
o Sectional tournament: Begins July 24, 2009 (if the team wins District)
o State tournament: Begins July 31, 2009 (if the team wins Sectional)
o Regional tournament: Begins August 7, 2009 (only for U12, if they win State)
o Little League World Series: Begins August 21, 2009 (only for U12, if they win Regional)
* Eligibility: Players are eligible if they
o 1) Have played in at least 60% of their scheduled league games by June 15th,
o 2) Are able to make the All Star team their first baseball priority (can continue play with his/her LL team, but must make All Stars the priority),
o 3) Can participate without conflict.
o Are living in WFB or have filed a 2D waver with 3 profs of WFB address
* Cost: WFB LL will provide a fixed dollar amount to each team that will cover entry fees and uniform costs for the players selected to the All Star teams. Players may be asked to do some fund raising to help cover the players travel costs should the team advance to the regional, state, or Williamsport level. Uniforms will be provided..
We’re excited to be doing All Stars again! If you have any questions, please contact me or one of the league commissioners.
If you will not be available from July 6 to potentially mid August and wish to remove your son/daughter from the selection please email me with “I wish to remove my son/Daughter from the all star selection” in the SUBJECT line they will be removed.
Regards,
Scott Deakin
I think most of you got the message about all-star teams from WFB Little League board president Scott Deakin. If not, I append it below.
There is so much opportunity for bad feelings about all stars that Whitefish Bay hasn't participated for the past several years. This year the WFB Little League board decided to dive into all stars again, and I'm hoping that the board can find a way to minimize bad feelings about the expense of all stars, the selections of which players will be on the all-star teams, and the impact that all stars may have on individual little league teams.
Many of the players on the Braves have little league ages of 11. Guys in that category will be considered for the U-11 all-star team unless they specifically request to be considered for the U-12 team. Basically, the U-11 team will be fifth graders, the U-12 team sixth graders. Kids can be considered for only one team. Generally, players want to stay with their school-grade cohort.
The teams will be chosen Thursday evening by the 10 head coaches of the teams in Majors. Each coach has been asked to submit a confidential list of 10 potential all stars from teams other than his own. Each coach may also nominate players from his own team.
The Braves have lots of players who would perform well if they were part of an all-star team. However, there is no guarantee that ANY member of the Braves will be chosen to take part in all stars. The selection process is subjective, and after the teams are announced hard feelings are almost inevitable.
If members of the Braves -- and/or their parents and coaches -- are disappointed by the all-star selections, I hope we will find a way to react with class and dignity. We have a great team, no matter how many (or how few) of our guys end up on an all-star squad!
Thanks for reading this long e-mail. As always, the coaches appreciate your support.
Dave
----- Forwarded Message -----
From: "Scott Deakin (GE Healthcare)"
To: undisclosed-recipients:;
Sent: Sunday, May 31, 2009 10:15:13 PM GMT -06:00 US/Canada Central
Subject: All Star in WFB 2
This year WFBLL will be participating in All Stars. You are probably all familiar with the Little League World Series, which is the final international tournament of the U11/U12 All Star teams worldwide. Little League also runs this tournament for U13/14 (Juniors), U10/U11 and U9/U10 age groups which can advance to a state tournament.
The past few years we have chosen not to participate in All Stars because a player, once chosen to All Stars, was not allowed to continue playing with his/her LL team. It was a thrill for the 13-15 kids that made the team, but very disruptive to the other 90% of the league. Little League no longer has that rule, so the Board has voted to give All Stars another try this season.
WFBLL will be fielding 4 teams this year in the age groups mentioned above. Here are the details:
* Coaches: coaches for the All Star teams must be currently coaching in their respective leagues (Juniors for U13/U14, Majors for U11/U12, and Minors for U9/U10).
* Players: players will be selected to the teams by the current league coaches. Selection must be unanimous and rosters can have 13-15 players each. There will not be formal tryouts; LL establishes a selection date late in the season so that all kids get a chance to show their talent multiple times, to multiple coaches. Age is governed by Little League’s age rule as follows:
o U13/U14 – born between May 1, 1994 and April 30, 1996
o U11/U12 – born between May 1, 1995 and April 30, 1997
o U10/U11 – born between May 1, 1996 and April 30, 1998
o U9/U10 – born between May 1, 1998 and April 30, 2000
o A player is allowed to “play up” but must declare that desire before the selection process. Players will only be considered for one team, so if they elect to play up and miss the team, they will not be considered for the younger team.
* Team Managers: Little League runs a very tight and organized tournament, but to make sure each team is playing by the rules, they require a fair amount of documentation. Each team will need a parent volunteer to manage the documentation and other miscellaneous for each tournament.
* Schedule (everyone plays the District tournament)
o Coaching applications excepted: June 1, 2009
o Team selection: June 12, 2009
o Team/Player announcements: June 15, 2009
o Practice begins: June 16, 2009
o District tournament: Begins ~July 6, 2009
o Sectional tournament: Begins July 24, 2009 (if the team wins District)
o State tournament: Begins July 31, 2009 (if the team wins Sectional)
o Regional tournament: Begins August 7, 2009 (only for U12, if they win State)
o Little League World Series: Begins August 21, 2009 (only for U12, if they win Regional)
* Eligibility: Players are eligible if they
o 1) Have played in at least 60% of their scheduled league games by June 15th,
o 2) Are able to make the All Star team their first baseball priority (can continue play with his/her LL team, but must make All Stars the priority),
o 3) Can participate without conflict.
o Are living in WFB or have filed a 2D waver with 3 profs of WFB address
* Cost: WFB LL will provide a fixed dollar amount to each team that will cover entry fees and uniform costs for the players selected to the All Star teams. Players may be asked to do some fund raising to help cover the players travel costs should the team advance to the regional, state, or Williamsport level. Uniforms will be provided..
We’re excited to be doing All Stars again! If you have any questions, please contact me or one of the league commissioners.
If you will not be available from July 6 to potentially mid August and wish to remove your son/daughter from the selection please email me with “I wish to remove my son/Daughter from the all star selection” in the SUBJECT line they will be removed.
Regards,
Scott Deakin
Game Day: Braves 8, Yankees 3
The Braves rapped out 12 hits, including a pair of triples, in a solid team victory Sunday afternoon against a young but scrappy and well-coached Yankees team.
Matt got the scoring started in the top of the 2nd inning, driving in Anthony and Alec with a hard single to center field.
In the words of Coach Dave, Tyler took one for the team that same inning, getting plunked on the leg. In the top of the 4th inning, Tyler delivered a piece of sweet-swinging payback, ripping a single to right field. Mr. T stole second and eventually came around to score on a grounder by Jason.
On the mound, Chris opened up the game by tossing 5Ks in 2-plus innings. Matt battled through a strange rule-book drama (more on that later). Alec continued his recent mastery with two scoreless innings to close out the game. All three pitchers benefited from strong defense. Jack picked a hard hit ball at third and threw a runner out. Chris caught a big fly to center field. And a tip of the catcher's mask to Anthony, who threw out a runner trying to steal second, with Jason applying the tag.
Rule book believe it or not: Bottom of the third, the Yankees batting, bases loaded, one out. Matt pitching. The Yankees batter hit a short fly just past Matt's grasp. Ryan picked up the ball and fired to catcher Nick standing on the plate. So that's easy to figure -- two outs, and the bases are still loaded, right?
Umm, not in this case. When the short pop-up was in the air, one of the umpires invoked the infield fly rule, a rule of sportsmanship designed to avoid situations where the team on defense could let a short fly ball drop to the ground and get a quick double play. Because the umpire had invoked that rule and the ball dropped to the ground, the batter was automatically out, and the other runners could advance at their own risk. Because the runner racing from third was then not forced to run home, he had to be tagged out. So he was called safe.
Yes, this is esoteric and confusing, and I doubt any of our boys had that in mind, nor could we expect them to at this age.
More highlights and note:
Batting: Chris reached safely each time, with a walk, a single and a triple. Connor slammed a triple to left center: the force of hit had me wondering if that would be our first homer of the season. Scott hit two singles and scored twice.
Give the other guys credit: Jason hit a rocket liner down the third base line, which was speared by the Yankees' third baseman.
Next game: 4:30 p.m. Tuesday June 9, vs. the White Sox. Look for a future email from the coaches on particulars.
Matt got the scoring started in the top of the 2nd inning, driving in Anthony and Alec with a hard single to center field.
In the words of Coach Dave, Tyler took one for the team that same inning, getting plunked on the leg. In the top of the 4th inning, Tyler delivered a piece of sweet-swinging payback, ripping a single to right field. Mr. T stole second and eventually came around to score on a grounder by Jason.
On the mound, Chris opened up the game by tossing 5Ks in 2-plus innings. Matt battled through a strange rule-book drama (more on that later). Alec continued his recent mastery with two scoreless innings to close out the game. All three pitchers benefited from strong defense. Jack picked a hard hit ball at third and threw a runner out. Chris caught a big fly to center field. And a tip of the catcher's mask to Anthony, who threw out a runner trying to steal second, with Jason applying the tag.
Rule book believe it or not: Bottom of the third, the Yankees batting, bases loaded, one out. Matt pitching. The Yankees batter hit a short fly just past Matt's grasp. Ryan picked up the ball and fired to catcher Nick standing on the plate. So that's easy to figure -- two outs, and the bases are still loaded, right?
Umm, not in this case. When the short pop-up was in the air, one of the umpires invoked the infield fly rule, a rule of sportsmanship designed to avoid situations where the team on defense could let a short fly ball drop to the ground and get a quick double play. Because the umpire had invoked that rule and the ball dropped to the ground, the batter was automatically out, and the other runners could advance at their own risk. Because the runner racing from third was then not forced to run home, he had to be tagged out. So he was called safe.
Yes, this is esoteric and confusing, and I doubt any of our boys had that in mind, nor could we expect them to at this age.
More highlights and note:
Batting: Chris reached safely each time, with a walk, a single and a triple. Connor slammed a triple to left center: the force of hit had me wondering if that would be our first homer of the season. Scott hit two singles and scored twice.
Give the other guys credit: Jason hit a rocket liner down the third base line, which was speared by the Yankees' third baseman.
Next game: 4:30 p.m. Tuesday June 9, vs. the White Sox. Look for a future email from the coaches on particulars.
Brrrrr [Dress Warm for Today's Game]
The game-time forecast from the National Weather Service calls for a temp of 54 degrees with icy northeast winds under a lead-gray sky.
Players may wish to wear long-sleeved T-shirts or sweatshirts under their jerseys. Fans may wish to stay home and watch the game on TV.
Historical note: Last time the Braves played the Yankees in Wisconsin, it was the 1958 World Series. Let's have a different outcome today.
Players report at 12:15 p.m.!
Dave
Players may wish to wear long-sleeved T-shirts or sweatshirts under their jerseys. Fans may wish to stay home and watch the game on TV.
Historical note: Last time the Braves played the Yankees in Wisconsin, it was the 1958 World Series. Let's have a different outcome today.
Players report at 12:15 p.m.!
Dave
Friday, June 5, 2009
Game Night: Braves 5, Brewers 4
Coach Dave is fond of calling this level of baseball developmental, meaning that helping youth become better ballplayers is the priority.
Then he must have truly enjoyed Friday's 5-4 Braves victory over the Brewers in a battle of Milwaukee team namesakes at lovely Water Tower Park.
Several Braves players displayed improvement at the plate, on the mound and in the field during this game. Even more impressive, these lads stepped up in a close game in which every single break and close call went against the Braves, and in which the experienced Brewers made several fine catches to rob Braves batters of hits.
Alec took the mound in the top of the 4th inning, with our Braves down 4-3, and promptly turned in a 7-pitch inning that managers dream of. He induced a comebacker from the first batter, which he fielded confidently and whipped to first for an out. The next batter hit a liner up the middle, which Alec coolly grabbed for the second out. Then Tyler snagged a liner near first base to finish off the inning.
Tyler has been working on this hitting; it showed in his at-bats tonight. He put the ball in play in his first AB and nearly beat it out. In his second trip to the plate, he ripped several hard fouls and stayed alive until the Brewers finally retired him.
Evan and Liam also showed a fine blend of plate discipline and sweet swinging in their at-bats. Evan drew a walk and pounded a Texas League single to right field. Liam ripped a double to the outfield.
Scott was a bit gimpy from a recent soccer injury, but there was nothing wrong with his stroke in this game. He drove in three runs, including the game-winner. In the bottom of the second, his hard single plated both Jason and Jack. Then, in the bottom of the fourth, he drove in Jason for the game's deciding run.
More highlights and notes from Friday's game:
Hitting: Nick hammered a double to left-center field in the first inning, and was later robbed of a single by a leaping grab by the Brewers' second baseman. Speedy tablesetter Jason reached safely twice, stole multiple bases and scored twice.
Pitching: Connor struck out 4 while battling calmly through some adversity. Evan struck out a batter to strand a runner on 2nd. Chris struck out 4 in the final two innings, stranding baserunners, and induced ground balls that his crisp fielders Hoovered up.
Fielding: Shortstop Jason smoothly grabbed a hard grounder and tossed to Scott to get the important first out in the final inning. Second baseman Ryan closed out the game with a surehanded pick and throw.
Next game: 1 p.m. Sunday June 7 at Water Tower, vs. the Yankees. Coaches request that players be at Water Tower by 12:15 p.m.
Then he must have truly enjoyed Friday's 5-4 Braves victory over the Brewers in a battle of Milwaukee team namesakes at lovely Water Tower Park.
Several Braves players displayed improvement at the plate, on the mound and in the field during this game. Even more impressive, these lads stepped up in a close game in which every single break and close call went against the Braves, and in which the experienced Brewers made several fine catches to rob Braves batters of hits.
Alec took the mound in the top of the 4th inning, with our Braves down 4-3, and promptly turned in a 7-pitch inning that managers dream of. He induced a comebacker from the first batter, which he fielded confidently and whipped to first for an out. The next batter hit a liner up the middle, which Alec coolly grabbed for the second out. Then Tyler snagged a liner near first base to finish off the inning.
Tyler has been working on this hitting; it showed in his at-bats tonight. He put the ball in play in his first AB and nearly beat it out. In his second trip to the plate, he ripped several hard fouls and stayed alive until the Brewers finally retired him.
Evan and Liam also showed a fine blend of plate discipline and sweet swinging in their at-bats. Evan drew a walk and pounded a Texas League single to right field. Liam ripped a double to the outfield.
Scott was a bit gimpy from a recent soccer injury, but there was nothing wrong with his stroke in this game. He drove in three runs, including the game-winner. In the bottom of the second, his hard single plated both Jason and Jack. Then, in the bottom of the fourth, he drove in Jason for the game's deciding run.
More highlights and notes from Friday's game:
Hitting: Nick hammered a double to left-center field in the first inning, and was later robbed of a single by a leaping grab by the Brewers' second baseman. Speedy tablesetter Jason reached safely twice, stole multiple bases and scored twice.
Pitching: Connor struck out 4 while battling calmly through some adversity. Evan struck out a batter to strand a runner on 2nd. Chris struck out 4 in the final two innings, stranding baserunners, and induced ground balls that his crisp fielders Hoovered up.
Fielding: Shortstop Jason smoothly grabbed a hard grounder and tossed to Scott to get the important first out in the final inning. Second baseman Ryan closed out the game with a surehanded pick and throw.
Next game: 1 p.m. Sunday June 7 at Water Tower, vs. the Yankees. Coaches request that players be at Water Tower by 12:15 p.m.
Updates: Tonight's game, Sunday's game
I finally received confirmation that our Sunday game will begin at 1 p.m. Players should be at Water Tower at 12:15 p.m.
Today [Friday June 5] I would like to have the players at Water Tower by 5:10 p.m. to ensure that everyone gets pregame hitting and fielding work. In addition, please make sure that your Brave brings some fluids. The guys get thirsty on these sunny days!
Thanks,
Dave
Today [Friday June 5] I would like to have the players at Water Tower by 5:10 p.m. to ensure that everyone gets pregame hitting and fielding work. In addition, please make sure that your Brave brings some fluids. The guys get thirsty on these sunny days!
Thanks,
Dave
Thursday, June 4, 2009
Practice report: Baseball, Sportsmanship
Great practice today, Braves -- and perfect weather!
Our end-of-practice scrimmage today was a classic, with a team captained by Jason edging a team captained by Chris, 3-2.
Scott (for Chris' team) and Jason slammed home runs. Jason and Chris, each playing shortstop, made superb catches of tough pop flies.
With two outs in the bottom of the last inning, Chris' team had the tying run at first base and the winning run at the plate. The batter hit a hard grounder to third, where Liam calmly gloved the ball and flipped it to Ryan at second for the game-ending force out.
We did have one "issue" to deal with today. A player in our scrimmage flipped his bat in frustration after striking out. I stopped the scrimmage to tell the guys that I had received complaints after our last game about players throwing their bats and helmets after they had made an out.
I told the players that anyone who does that in a game from this point forward will be removed from the lineup immediately. It violates league rules, and it's just plain immature. Our guys need to be good sports, to respect their opponents, and to act with class and dignity.
I know that players are disappointed when they don't perform as well as they'd like to, but all of them are old enough to have the self-discipline to avoid displays of disgust or anger.
Rick, Ross and I absolutely love this group of guys, and I'm not saying that we have a huge problem. But we have enough of a problem that people complained.
Thanks for your help in reinforcing the coaching staff's messages about good sportsmanship!
Dave
Our end-of-practice scrimmage today was a classic, with a team captained by Jason edging a team captained by Chris, 3-2.
Scott (for Chris' team) and Jason slammed home runs. Jason and Chris, each playing shortstop, made superb catches of tough pop flies.
With two outs in the bottom of the last inning, Chris' team had the tying run at first base and the winning run at the plate. The batter hit a hard grounder to third, where Liam calmly gloved the ball and flipped it to Ryan at second for the game-ending force out.
We did have one "issue" to deal with today. A player in our scrimmage flipped his bat in frustration after striking out. I stopped the scrimmage to tell the guys that I had received complaints after our last game about players throwing their bats and helmets after they had made an out.
I told the players that anyone who does that in a game from this point forward will be removed from the lineup immediately. It violates league rules, and it's just plain immature. Our guys need to be good sports, to respect their opponents, and to act with class and dignity.
I know that players are disappointed when they don't perform as well as they'd like to, but all of them are old enough to have the self-discipline to avoid displays of disgust or anger.
Rick, Ross and I absolutely love this group of guys, and I'm not saying that we have a huge problem. But we have enough of a problem that people complained.
Thanks for your help in reinforcing the coaching staff's messages about good sportsmanship!
Dave
Updates: Practice notes and the ever-fluctuating Yankees game time
Updates from Coach Dave, summarized from the 95 emails he sent earlier today:
PLAYERS, WEAR YOUR GEAR: Please have your Brave wear his cup, sliding shorts and baseball pants to practice today. We will be working on base running and sliding (among other things).
TODAY'S (Thu June 4) PRACTICE: Today's practice will begin at 4 p.m. at the high-school softball field ... unless another team gets there first. The two higher-level teams that often practice there will be elsewhere this afternoon, so I'm hopeful we'll have the field.
Chris and I will be at the field by 3:40 p.m. If we can't get the field, our backup location will be Atwater School in Shorewood. I will call people right away if the practice has to be moved to Shorewood.
Looks like a gorgeous day for baseball!
EVER-FLUCTUATING TIME FOR SUNDAY'S (June 7) GAME VS. YANKEES: Now it looks as if our game Sunday may be played at the originally scheduled time of 1 p.m. The Yankees -- our worthy opponents -- have told the league that they have a strong preference for the 1 p.m. time. I told the league commissioner that the Braves could play at either 1 or 2 p.m.
Confirmation to come when Coach Dave hears the official word.
Dave
PLAYERS, WEAR YOUR GEAR: Please have your Brave wear his cup, sliding shorts and baseball pants to practice today. We will be working on base running and sliding (among other things).
TODAY'S (Thu June 4) PRACTICE: Today's practice will begin at 4 p.m. at the high-school softball field ... unless another team gets there first. The two higher-level teams that often practice there will be elsewhere this afternoon, so I'm hopeful we'll have the field.
Chris and I will be at the field by 3:40 p.m. If we can't get the field, our backup location will be Atwater School in Shorewood. I will call people right away if the practice has to be moved to Shorewood.
Looks like a gorgeous day for baseball!
EVER-FLUCTUATING TIME FOR SUNDAY'S (June 7) GAME VS. YANKEES: Now it looks as if our game Sunday may be played at the originally scheduled time of 1 p.m. The Yankees -- our worthy opponents -- have told the league that they have a strong preference for the 1 p.m. time. I told the league commissioner that the Braves could play at either 1 or 2 p.m.
Confirmation to come when Coach Dave hears the official word.
Dave
Wednesday, June 3, 2009
Sunday June 7 game changed to 2 p.m.
Everyone,
Little League has just changed the time of our game Sunday against the Yankees from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. Please adjust schedules accordingly.
Thanks!
Dave
Little League has just changed the time of our game Sunday against the Yankees from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. Please adjust schedules accordingly.
Thanks!
Dave
Picture Day: Saturday June 13
Picture Day is Saturday, June 13. The Braves' slot is at 10:10 a.m. Guys should show up at 10 a.m. so that we can get organized.
I believe that everyone got the picture order forms in the envelope with the Brewers night forms. Picture Day can be kind of hectic, so it's easiest to fill out the form and write a check before you get to Water Tower that day.
If you don't want individual pictures, please have your player show up at 10 a.m. for the team picture. We have a game at 11 a.m. that day, so every would be at Water Tower anyway.
The rain date for Picture Day is Saturday, June 20.
Dave
I believe that everyone got the picture order forms in the envelope with the Brewers night forms. Picture Day can be kind of hectic, so it's easiest to fill out the form and write a check before you get to Water Tower that day.
If you don't want individual pictures, please have your player show up at 10 a.m. for the team picture. We have a game at 11 a.m. that day, so every would be at Water Tower anyway.
The rain date for Picture Day is Saturday, June 20.
Dave
Tuesday, June 2, 2009
Practice update, other updates
Hi everyone,
We will practice Thursday (June 4) at 4 p.m. at the WFB high-school softball field (first choice) or at Atwater School in Shorewood (if the high-school field is taken). I'll let you know the location as soon as I can.
The team is entering the intense part of its season, with nine games in 18 days beginning Friday (June 5).
Please let me know as soon as possible if your son will be missing a game. I sketch out the lineups a couple of days before a game, and it really helps if I know who's going to be there!
A final note: Please remind your Brave that every player on the team will bat last in the order at least once. If a player would like to bat last against a specific opponent, I will try to accommodate his request. Just let me know. For example, Chris has asked to bat last against the Yankees.
Thanks for all your support so far this season!
Dave
We will practice Thursday (June 4) at 4 p.m. at the WFB high-school softball field (first choice) or at Atwater School in Shorewood (if the high-school field is taken). I'll let you know the location as soon as I can.
The team is entering the intense part of its season, with nine games in 18 days beginning Friday (June 5).
Please let me know as soon as possible if your son will be missing a game. I sketch out the lineups a couple of days before a game, and it really helps if I know who's going to be there!
A final note: Please remind your Brave that every player on the team will bat last in the order at least once. If a player would like to bat last against a specific opponent, I will try to accommodate his request. Just let me know. For example, Chris has asked to bat last against the Yankees.
Thanks for all your support so far this season!
Dave
Monday, June 1, 2009
Game Story: Braves 4, Rays 3
In baseball, just like in life, there is a time to run, and a time to stay put. The Braves made the correct hardball decisions at the right time Sunday evening in winning a taut, exciting game against the Rays, 4-3.
This game had plenty of friendly subplots: Several boys on the Braves were coached by Rays coaches on different teams last year in the Minors.
In addition to good basepath decisions, simply getting bats on the ball helped the Braves to victory. Our boys beat out several infield hits when the opponents couldn't field the ball cleanly.
A tone was set in the bottom of the 2nd with the Braves down 1-0. Nick singled through the right side of the infield on an 0-2 count, and moved to second on a passed ball. Then Connor slapped a ball to the third baseman. Nick stayed put at second, and the third baseman had no play. Our boys moved up a base a piece on a passed ball, and Jack drove in Nick with a productive groundout to the right side. (Note the theme: putting the ball in play can be good even when you make an out.)
In the 4th, the Braves were down 3-1, but kept battling a good Rays team. Anthony beat out a single and Chris singled up the middle. Both runners moved up on a passed ball. Jason walked to load the bases. A hard grounder by Connor drove in Anthony. (Note theme: putting the ball in play can be good, even when you make an out.)
Alec may not be the Brave who first makes you think of Maury Wills or Rickey Henderson, but he put on a clinic on how to manufacture a run in the bottom of the 5th. With 1 out, Alec beat out an infield hit (this is why you always run hard to 1st base). He stole second base on a passed ball. Then he stole third, and scored on the overthrow on that play. The game was now tied 3-3, setting the stage for the final inning.
Pitcher Chris shut down the Rays on two Ks and a groundout (Matt to Tyler). The Braves came up to bat against Rays pitcher Chris Siebert, a very talented and experienced player.
Anthony led off with a booming double to right center, and alertly took third base on a passed ball. Chris put the ball in play, but Anthony held third to avoid being an easy out at home. (I'm assuming that Coach Ross was giving helpful advice at third on that play.) Chris took second on fielder's indifference.
Nick came to the plate. Ross and Dave have worked with Nick a bit recently to help him tap his latent power at the plate, and I had high hopes. But I also knew that Chris Siebert was a quality pitcher.
Nick worked the count to 1-2, including a hard foul liner to the right that would have ended the game were it fair. Then he smoked a hard single down the right field line, driving in Anthony and starting the celebration.
Later that night when we were home Nick, who can be a bit reserved in public, told me he remembered the faces of every teammate running toward him after the hit. It was like they were in slow motion, he said, and described what each one did.
More notes and highlights:
Pitching: More mastery by Connor: 5 Ks in his two innings. Stellar relief by Chris over the final two innings: 4Ks and two groundouts.
Fielding: Jason helped himself on the mound by spearing a hard liner for an out (while runners were on 2nd and 3rd). Ryan fielded a hard grounder and fired to the sure-handed Evan for an out.
Injury report: In case you did not hear the explanation, Scott started the game but was unable to continue on an injured ankle. I am not a doctor, but my hunch is he will be OK for our next game, Friday against the Brewers.
This Day in WFBLL Braves History: First walk-off victory
This game had plenty of friendly subplots: Several boys on the Braves were coached by Rays coaches on different teams last year in the Minors.
In addition to good basepath decisions, simply getting bats on the ball helped the Braves to victory. Our boys beat out several infield hits when the opponents couldn't field the ball cleanly.
A tone was set in the bottom of the 2nd with the Braves down 1-0. Nick singled through the right side of the infield on an 0-2 count, and moved to second on a passed ball. Then Connor slapped a ball to the third baseman. Nick stayed put at second, and the third baseman had no play. Our boys moved up a base a piece on a passed ball, and Jack drove in Nick with a productive groundout to the right side. (Note the theme: putting the ball in play can be good even when you make an out.)
In the 4th, the Braves were down 3-1, but kept battling a good Rays team. Anthony beat out a single and Chris singled up the middle. Both runners moved up on a passed ball. Jason walked to load the bases. A hard grounder by Connor drove in Anthony. (Note theme: putting the ball in play can be good, even when you make an out.)
Alec may not be the Brave who first makes you think of Maury Wills or Rickey Henderson, but he put on a clinic on how to manufacture a run in the bottom of the 5th. With 1 out, Alec beat out an infield hit (this is why you always run hard to 1st base). He stole second base on a passed ball. Then he stole third, and scored on the overthrow on that play. The game was now tied 3-3, setting the stage for the final inning.
Pitcher Chris shut down the Rays on two Ks and a groundout (Matt to Tyler). The Braves came up to bat against Rays pitcher Chris Siebert, a very talented and experienced player.
Anthony led off with a booming double to right center, and alertly took third base on a passed ball. Chris put the ball in play, but Anthony held third to avoid being an easy out at home. (I'm assuming that Coach Ross was giving helpful advice at third on that play.) Chris took second on fielder's indifference.
Nick came to the plate. Ross and Dave have worked with Nick a bit recently to help him tap his latent power at the plate, and I had high hopes. But I also knew that Chris Siebert was a quality pitcher.
Nick worked the count to 1-2, including a hard foul liner to the right that would have ended the game were it fair. Then he smoked a hard single down the right field line, driving in Anthony and starting the celebration.
Later that night when we were home Nick, who can be a bit reserved in public, told me he remembered the faces of every teammate running toward him after the hit. It was like they were in slow motion, he said, and described what each one did.
More notes and highlights:
Pitching: More mastery by Connor: 5 Ks in his two innings. Stellar relief by Chris over the final two innings: 4Ks and two groundouts.
Fielding: Jason helped himself on the mound by spearing a hard liner for an out (while runners were on 2nd and 3rd). Ryan fielded a hard grounder and fired to the sure-handed Evan for an out.
Injury report: In case you did not hear the explanation, Scott started the game but was unable to continue on an injured ankle. I am not a doctor, but my hunch is he will be OK for our next game, Friday against the Brewers.
This Day in WFBLL Braves History: First walk-off victory
Pitching practice Monday
Braves parents and players,
In an effort to strengthen our pitching corps, I’ll be holding a pitching practice 6pm Monday, June 1st at Water Tower for any Brave that can make it. I realize this is short notice and there may be other obligations but if you can make it that would be great. Simply respond to this email with a “Yes” or “No” to let me know if your Brave can make it. This practice will finish by 7:00pm.
I look forward to hearing from you.
Ross
A come-from-behind victory
A dramatic victory for your Braves Sunday evening! Clawing their way back from a 3-1 deficit against the Rays, the Braves went into the bottom of the sixth tied, 3-3.
The Rays have their best pitcher on the mound. But AP pokes a double to right-center and moves to third on a passed ball. Chris gets on via an infield single, AP holding at third. Chris steals second, which puts two guys in scoring position, no outs, and cleanup hitter Nick Higgins at the plate.
Nick laces a sharp single to right field. AP scores on the walk-off hit, and the guys on the team go wild!
A very enjoyable game against a good team. Jim Higgins promises a more detailed report on the team blog later Monday.
Dave
The Rays have their best pitcher on the mound. But AP pokes a double to right-center and moves to third on a passed ball. Chris gets on via an infield single, AP holding at third. Chris steals second, which puts two guys in scoring position, no outs, and cleanup hitter Nick Higgins at the plate.
Nick laces a sharp single to right field. AP scores on the walk-off hit, and the guys on the team go wild!
A very enjoyable game against a good team. Jim Higgins promises a more detailed report on the team blog later Monday.
Dave
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