WELCOME TO THE TC DODGERS 2025 SEASON!!!
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Week 4 6.16.25
Angels Deliver a Defeat to Dodgers
The Dodgers played a great game in the field and scored seven runs on 14 hits. These stats usually will lead to a win, unfortunately for the home squad one bad inning spoiled the whole game. This week’s bad inning occured in the 2nd as the visiting Angels took advantage of hit by pitches and timely hitting to jump out to a 7-0 lead. The Dodgers would chip into the lead cutting it to 8-2 in the 5th inning and then 9-6 after seven innings. It looked like the momentum had shifted and maybe, just maybe, the Dodgers might come back and steal victory from the jaws of defeat. The Angels however had a different idea and snatched old Uncle Mo by scoring three runs in the top of the 8th inning to make the score 12-6. The Dodgers couldn’t match the Angels in the bottom half and the visitors would end up winning 12-7. Both squads move to 2-2 on the year and are both in second place in their respected divisions.
Brad Kustermann pitched a very solid five innings. The right hander had Angel batters guessing and struggling to make solid contact. If not for a rough 2nd inning Kustermann might have been on track for his first victory of the season. Defensively the Dodgers had their best game of the season. Both infield and outfield either made great plays or were just inches away from making them. Offensively the Dodgers were led by Eric Johnson who caught all nine innings and had three hits along with four RBI’s. Andy Peterson also had an excellent day at the dish going 3-4 with two doubles. Yulian Oviedo and Brad Kustermann each had two hits apiece. Chad Manders, Mike Hinzmann, Chad Rolfes, and Joe Adam all had one hit apiece.
CASEY’S Pizza Player of the Game= Eric Johnson and Andy Peterson. Both Dodger players had three hits on the day.
Week 3 6.9.25
A little Rocky II
The appropriate headline for this game would be Stranger Things 2, but that would be redundant and it was already used so what movie could possibly be used to compare this game to? ROCKY II! Just like Rocky Balboa, the Dodgers lost the contest before against the Skeeters, or Apollo Creed. And just like Rocky, the Dodgers would rebound and win in their next bout. The much-improved Mavericks would play the role of Apollo Creed in the sequel. Just luck Apollo Creed the Mavericks would come out punching and eventually look like they were poised for an early round knockout as they took a commanding 15-5. But, like every Rocky fight, the Italian Stallion always answers the bell and so did the Dodgers. Like Rocky the Dodgers would use body blows in the form of 16 walks and 9 hit by pitches. They then would use head shots in the form of five doubles to set up the knockout punch. That knockout punch was in the form of a Yulian Oviedo grand slam homerun. Oviedo would also add another hit and RBI to go 2-3 with 5 RBI's. Chris Bjerke would also have a strong hand in the knockout as he went 3-4 with 4 RBI's. Ross Kramer and Doug Yost each had two hits with Kramer adding 4 RBI's and Yost with 3 RBI's. Yost would also come into the game to pitch in relief allowing only one run in four innings. Martin Cheatham, Mike Hinzmann, Joe Adam, Brad Kustermann, and Andy Peterson all had one hit and multiple RBI's. Chad Rolfes would also add to his TCMABL record of being hit by pitch with two more beanballs giving him 72 in his career. The Dodgers are hoping that their next opponent, the Angels, are more like Glass Joe and not Clubber Lang.
Casey's Pizza Player of the Game= Yulian Oviedo. The man, the myth, the legend went 2-3, 1 hr, 5 RBI's, and scored 4 runs.
Week 2 6.2.25
Markie Deserved Better
(Disclaimer: If you haven't watched Stranger Things this won't make any sense.)
(A disclaimer to the disclaimer: If you have watched Stranger Things this might not make any sense.)
Frank Markie has been around the game of baseball long enough to know that strange things can happen especially when you are pitching. Starting Dodger pitcher Frank Markie deseved better. Just like Barb from Stranger Things, Markie got dragged down to the upside down world of messing up run downs, not catching infield pop ups, unearned runs, and getting an RBI double taken away by an outstanding opposing left fielder's catch.
Chris Bjerke did his best Eleven impersonation however, by using his powers to blast three hits in four plate appearances. Not only that but two of Bjerke's blasts were doubles that led to three RBI's. The aforementioned Markie looked more like Chief Hopper than Barb, at the plate as he did everything he could to avoid being a Demogorgon casualty by using his weapon of choice, a 33" Baum Bat. Markie had two hits and two RBI's on the day. Chad Manders did his best impersonation of Jonathon Byers fighting the Demogorgon with two hits, including a double. There were others who helped in the fight against unchecked government power during the Cold War and an invading species of alien that enjoy eating humans. So, to honor those who fought bravely and valiantly here is a list of others: Ross Will Byers Kramer came back and went 1-3. Bryan Michael Wheeler Lawerence went 1-4. Chad Dustin Henderson Rolfes went 1-3. Doug Lucas Sinclair Yost went 1-4. The Dodgers would end up losing to the Skeeters 9-7. Still, Markie deserved better!
Casey's Pizza of Game:
Chris 11 Bjerke=The versatile newcomer played a great shortstop and went 3-4 with 3 RBI's.
Week 1 5.18.25
Dodgers Sink Pilots in Season Opener
The Pilots have had a difficult time getting into the win column since their opening year. However, the Dodgers were the first team to find out that the Pilots are an improved team and are going to give some +35 teams a run this year. Unfortunately for the Pilots, the Dodgers bats came alive in the later innings and turned a competitive contest into a 22-2 opening day victory. On the day the visiting Dodgers eventually pounded out 22 hits and 22 runs. Couple that with very effective pitching and the Dodgers would comfortably end the game in 7 innings. Offensively the Blue and White were led by Martin Cheatham who tied a Dodger's record with 5 hits in a game. The veteran shortstop went 5-5 with 5 RBI's all while playing with a bum ankle. Yulian Oviedo and Bryan Lawrence each had great afternoons. Both sluggers went 3-4 on the afternoon. Chad Manders, Brad Kustermann, Ross Kramer, and Eric Johnson all had two hits apiece and all had multi RBI's on the day with Kramer tying Cheatham with five total. Mike Hinzmann would also tally two hits on the day with one them being a double. New comer Chris Bjerke also tallied one hit for the visitors.
Chris Bjerke, making his Dodger Debut, also came away with his first victory as a pitcher. He would pitch two innings giving up only one run on one hit and three strikeouts. Frank Markie also pitched a solid two innings not allowing any Pilot runs. Brad Kustermann and Ross Kramer rounded out the Dodger pitching performances for the day. With the win the Dodgers start the season 1-0 as they head to Minneapolis on June 1st to take on the reigning +35 Champion Skeeters, who were also victorious in week 1.
Casey's Pizza of Game:
Martin Cheatham=The veteran shortstop had a Casey's Pizza type day going 5-5 at the plate while hobbling around with an injured ankle.
Week 13 8.25.24
Dodgers Outrank Generals in Season Finale
The Dodgers delivered a very smooth, decisive 9-0 victory over the Generals this past Sunday. Defensively the Dodgers were errorless. Offensively the home team had eleven hits. Pitching was outstanding by Frank Markie. The Dodgers avenged an early season defeat by properly playing their defense which did a great job taking away balls that were hits in the first game. This stymied any offensive momentum that the Generals could come up with. Along with this Frank Markie pitched an outstanding game only allowing five hits and one walk in his complete game shutout.
Offensively the Dodgers took some time to warm up as they only held a 2-0 lead through five innings. This would change in the sixth inning as the Blue and White scored three runs to take a 5-0 lead. The home nine would also put another crooked number up scoring four more runs in the seventh inning to make the final score on the day 9-0. The Dodgers were led by Chad Manders who had three hits on the day. Yulian Oviedo had a nice day at the dish slamming two along with two RBI's. Martin Cheatham, Ross Kramer, Mike Hinzmann, Josh Richards, Chad Rolfes, and Joe Adam all had one hit apiece. With the win the Dodgers end the season 7-6 and in third place in the American Division. They will meet the Angels in the first round of the divisional playoffs Saturday, September 7 at 1:30 at Gleason Park. Winner would then play in the Semifinals against either the Generals or the Skeeters.
Casey's Pizza Coplayers of Game:
Frank Markie= The veteran righthander pitched nine scoreless innings only allowing five hits and one walk.
Chad Manders= Manders caught all nine innings and had a great day at the plate getting three hits, 1 RBI, 1 stolen base, and he scored two runs.
Week 12 8.18.24
Skeeters Avenge Earlier Loss
The TC Skeeters showed why they are one of the best teams in the league as they pounded out 18 hits in an 11-7 win over the Dodgers. The Skeeters avenged an earlier loss to the Dodgers to take sole position of 1st place in the American Division. For the Home Nine it would be one inning that ruined an otherwise respectable performance.
Offensively the Dodgers battled all afternoon and had 13 hits of thier own. Brad Kusterman led the way with an outstanding three hit performance. One of his three hits was an RBI double to get the Dodgers going. Tony Nault who should have had three hits if not for a terrible call by an elderly umpire, did have two hits on the day. Ross Kramer and Yulian Oviedo also had two knocks on the day. Martin Cheatham, Frank Markie, Mike Hinzmann, and Phil Rivera all had one hit apiece. With the loss the Dodgers slip to 6-6 and are currently in fourth place. The Dodgers will take on the third place Generals in the season Finale this coming Sunday at Castle Field.
Casey's Pizza Player of Game: Brad Kustermann= The left fielder/pitcher has a great day at the plate going 3-4 with an RBI double. He also pitched two no hit innings.
Make Up Game 8.14.24
Dodgers Slowly Defeat Mavs
On a rare Wednesday night game, the Dodgers traveled to Lighted Field and beat a plucky Mavricks team 11-1. It took a few innings for the Blue to get going but a run here and a run there added up slowly but surely. Dodger hitters started slowly, but did end up with 11 hits on the day. The Dodgers were led offensively by Yulian Oviedo, Frank Markie, and Brad Kustermann who all had two hits on the evening. Ross Kramer, Tony Nault, Bret Repasky, Josh Richards, and Joe Adam all had one hit apiece.
The story of the game for the Dodgers was the pitching trio of Chad Manders, Frank Markie, and Tony Nault. Manders pitched a fantastic five innings not allowing any runs on four hits to get his second win of the year. Frank Markie came in picked up right where Manders left off pitching a scoreless sixth. Hard throwing left hander Tony Nault came in to finish off the home nine by striking out three batter in his two innings. With the win the Dodgers improve to 6-5 in a tie with the Generals for third place in the American Division.
Casey's Pizza Player of the Game: Joe Adam= The youngster hit the ball hard all night going 1-3, 1 RBI, and 1 stolen base.
Week 10 8.11.24
Angels Show Little Mercy
What's in a name? Obviously nothing when it comes to the Angels. The winged messengers who spread the good news struck down the slumping Dodgers 16-3 in what was listed as the +38 Game of the Week. The Dodgers were treated to a very unenjoyable Sunday as the visitors clobbered 21 hits and scored 16 runs. The contest started out like it might be a slug fest as both teams scored three runs in first three innings for a 3-3 tie. This is where the Angels put a stop to any charity that they might want to share with the Blue and White. Angels starter Nate Ackman pitched a great game only allowing a hot hitting Dodger club to only four hits on the day. Those four hits belonged to only three Dodgers. Yulian Oviedo did what he normally does (destroys baseballs) as he collected two of the four hits which included a double and two RBI's. Martin Cheatham and Phil Rivera each had a single apiece to round out the Dodgers offensive output. With the loss the Dodgers dropped to third place in the American Division.
Casey's Pizza Player of the Game= Yulian Oviedo= Again the Dodger slugger had a nice day at the plate and let's face it, nobody wearing blue and white did much.
Dodgers Succumb to Bad Ideas
This past Sunday the Dodgers took on the league leading Mudslingers and it resembled an SNL skit from the 90’s titled Bad Idea Jeans. Like the skit the Dodgers seemed doomed to have some bad ideas.
Playing one of the best hitting teams on a field that measures 300 ft. all the way around…BAD IDEA. Taking a four run lead early in the game…BAD IDEA. Hitting a homerun before the Slingers…BAD IDEA. Walking a batter to load the bases…BAD IDEA. Saying, “This umpire seems pretty cool,” BAD IDEA.
With so many bad ideas there were some bright spots in the Dodgers 14-4 loss to the Slingers. Tony Nault returned in a big way going 2-3 with a double. Yulian Oviedo finally got on the board with his first home run of the year. Chad Manders, Martin Cheatham, Ross Kramer, and Mike Hinzmann all had one hit apiece in the losing effort. The Dodgers look to get back on track this Sunday when they host the 2nd place Angels at Castle Field at 5:00.
Casey’s Pizza Player of the Game: Yulian Oviedo= The right fielder made a great catch and hit his first home run of the year.Week 9- 8.4.24
Week 8- 7.28.24
Dodgers have a Great Day and Knight
The Dodgers early in the year were not hitting, fielding, or playing good baseball. Everything that could go wrong did. Everything the other team did right did. Unfortunately for the Knights they seem to have entered the rut the Dodgers finally hit their way out of. Both teams seemed to be going in opposite directions in the win/loss column as the Knights had lost two straight and the Dodgers came in winning four straight. These two streaks would continue as the visiting Dodgers won 17-1 over the Knights at the Blaine Baseball Complex.
The Dodgers took the mystery out of the game early as the visitors scored seven runs in the first and four more in the second inning to take a comanding 11-0 lead. These two innings would forshadow how the rest of the game would go for both teams as the Dodgers would continue to hit, pitch, and play excellent defense, while the Knights struggled to consistently do all three of the aformentioned things.
Part of the Knight's problem was Frank Markie. The veteran right hander was up to his old tricks and limited the Knights to only five hits and one run over six innings. Bryan Lawrence came in for the seventh to finish off the onesided contest.
Another part of the Knight's problems was the hitting that Dodgers unleashed on the home nine. The Dodgers had 21 hits on the day, six of those going for extra bases. Two of the top hitters in the 35+ league continued to pound the ball. Ross Kramer and Yulian Oviedo again had multiple hits with Kramer having two hits in three trips and Oviedo having three hits in five plate appearences. Oviedo would also drive in three runs, and both players would have two doubles. Martin Cheatham also had a nice day at the plate slashing a double down the right field line to go along with a first inning single. The shortstops defense was also flawless with some nifty glove work in the field. Josh Richards had a great game for the Blue and White having three hits, playing left field flawlessly, and creating a little controversy by being the beanball bag the Knights tried to use as their frustration got the best of them. Mike Hinzmann would add four hits to the Dodger's hitting attack. Frank Markie would not only pitch a fantastic game, he also helped his cause by having another two hit game. Chad Rolfes had a perfect day at the plate going 2-2 along with two walks. Joe Adam, Phil Rivera, and Brad Kustermann each had one hit apiece. The Dodgers will be trying to win their sixth straight game when they take on the Mudslingers who boast the best record in league.
Casey's Pizza Player of the Game: Josh Richards= The veteran leftfielder had three hits, played excellent defense, and was the target of some Knight's retaliation.
Week 7- 7.14.24
Dodgers Go Streaking
The Dodgers are on a four game winning streak and went over the .500 mark for the first time this year. The Blue and White won two games this past Sunday against the Pilots at Greenfield Park.
Game one was the rain postponement game from earlier this year. The Dodger's hung on to earn an 8-5 victory. Frank Markie started on the mound and pitched four solid innings only allowing two runs on four hits. Brad Kusterman came in to finish the last five innings and secured his first win of the season. Offensively the Dodgers were led by Frank Markie and Ross Kramer who each had three hits. Kramer just missed hitting a homerun and added two RBI's. Yulian Oviedo also had a nice game at the plate as he went 2-4. Chad Manders, Brad Kusterman, Chad Rolfes, Phil Rivera, Eric Johnson all had one hit apiece.
Casey's Pizza Player of the Game: Frank Markie= The veteran right hander pitched four solid innings while adding three hits and an RBI to help his cause.:
Game two was a hit parade in which the Dodgers were the celebrated as the Grand Marshals. The Dodgers rode a solid pitching performance and 25 hits to cruise to a 24-7 victory over thChad Rolfes made his first start of the season on the hill and he scattered 13 hits and limited the Pilots to only five earned runs. Offensively the Dodgers were led by the usual mashers; Ross Kramer and Yulian Oviedo who each had four hits. Oviedo's four hits were made up of three doubles and one triple. Joining the four hit club was Brad Kusterman who went 4-5 that included a double and three singles. Kusterman also had two put outs on the day from right field. Chad Manders also had a great game at the dish as he went 3-4 with four RBI's. Martin Cheatham also had a nice game at the plate slashing two singles. Phil Rivera also had two hits on the day. Joe Adam and Mike Hinzmann also had two hits using some "New boot (shoe) goofin'" energy. Adam also had five RBI's. Frank Markie and Chad Rolfes each tallied on hit. The Dodgers will ride their four game winning streak into Yancey Park to take on the Mavericks this Sunday at 5:00.
Casey's Pizza Players of the Game: Ross Kramer= Four hits, Yulian Oviedo= Four hits, three doubles and one triple, and Chad Rolfes who pitched seven strong innings which going 1-3 at the plate with two stolen Bases.
Week 6- 6.30.24
Manders Pitches a Masterpiece
The Dodgers were finally able to be on the winning end of a close Skeeters game. They were helped by local artist and art teacher Chad Manders who just returned from Paris, France. While in Paris, Manders stayed sharp by working out with the Pirates de Paris who were very impressed with the verteran righthander. These throwing sessions definately helped as Manders pitched a gem against one of the leagues best teams. Manders kept the home nine off balance all afternoon giving up only 6 runs to a very good hitting team. Manders would be helped by some solid Dodger defense along with some timely hitting. Offensively the Dodgers were led by Bret Repasky who came out of retirement to slash three hits in four plate appearances. Repasky also drove in three runs and scored twice while stealing one base. All Star selection Ross Kramer did what Ross Kramer does and that is get multiple hits, in this case two, and filling a stat line with many crooked numbers. Phil Rivera also slugged two hits on the day. Chad Rolfes came up clutch with a big hit that scored two important runs that put the game out of reach and sealed the Dodger win 10-6. Yulian Oviedo, Martin Cheatham, who learned that he was an All Star selection, Mike Hinzmann, Josh Richards all had one hit apiece. The Dodgers will try to reach the .500 mark on Sunday when they finish the rain suspended contest from earlier this year and hopefully will climb above the .500 mark as they will play the 2nd game right after the first game.
Casey's Pizza Player of the Game: Bret Repasky= 3 hits , 3 RBI's, 2 runs, and excellent defense in center field.
Honorable Mention: Chad Manders= Pitched 9 innings complete game.
Week 5- 6.23.24
Dodgers Win!
The Dodgers proved that with age comes a new term, MUDDERS. If you are unfamiliar with this horseracing term it means when a horse that is slow on a dry track excels on a wet, slow, muddy track. With the year of the Monsoon, Dakota Park resembled a mosquito paradise with seven-inch grass and an outfield that was squishier, wetter and softer than Grimace eating Taco Bell in the shower. By the way, did you know that Grimace is a taste bud? Me neither.
The Dodgers mudded their way to an impressive 11-5 victory over the Wobblies.
The visitors clobbered 14 hits some of which nearly flew out of the park, while others were gobbled up by the overgrown infield. The Dodgers would lead the whole game never looking back.
Offensively, the Dodgers were led by Ross Kramer, who went 4-5 with two RBI’s. He also nearly had a homerun and caught all nine innings. Martin Cheatham and Yulian Oviedo also had great days at the plate. Both had three hits in the contest with Cheatham adding an RBI and Oviedo adding three RBI’s. Oviedo had another homerun miss nearly clearing the wall in left field. Chad Rolfes and Frank Markie both had nice days at the dish as they plated two hits apiece. Doug Yost, Brad Kustermann, and Phil Rivera each had one hit on the day.
Defensively, the Dodgers looked like the team of old. Doug Yost pitched a solid four innings, only giving up two runs on two hits. The veteran Frank Markie came in and pitched a solid five innings to scoop up the win. Along with the outstanding pitching, the Dodger’s defense was also strong. Newcomer, Joe Adam flashed some nifty leather at third base as he made a barehanded play that would make any Sportscenter Top Ten. With the win the Dodger’s now have a 1-3 record which manager Chad Rolfes was quoted as saying “It’s better than 0-4.” Next week the Dodgers take on the feisty Skeeters in Northeast Minneapolis.
CASEY’S PIZZA PLAYER (s) of the GAME=
Martin Cheatham- three hits and nearly a fourth are nothing to sneeze at.
Yulian Oviedo- Watching him hit is “Must See!”
HONARABLE MENTION= Ross Kramer. He is in “E” Johnson area which means he could get the CPPG every week with his outstanding play.
Week 4- 6.16.24
Happy Father's Day
The Bullies came to Castle Field and handed the Dodgers their third straight loss. Like any good bully the Bullies did everything a text book bully would do. They exhibited repeated (14 hits), unwanted (scored 15 runs), aggressive (very few soft singles and many hard hit balls) behavior that involve a real (15-5 loss), or perceived (our season is over) imbalance (14 Bullies hits to the Dodgers 6 hits) of power (Bullies are now 3-1 and the Dodgers are now 0-3).
The Dodgers would have the lead early in this one taking a 1-0 lead through inning number one. Unfortunately for the boys in blue, this lead was short lived as the Bullies would score 4 runs in the 3rd inning and one more in the 4th inning, and 7 more runs in the 5th inning to take a comanding 12-1 lead. The Dodgers would make a comeback scoring 4 runs of their own in the bottom of the 5th inning. This, however, would prove to be all that the home nine could muster as the final score would be 15-5.
The Dodgers were led offensively by Ross Kramer and Phil Rivera. Each of these sluggers plated two hits apiece and Kramer had two RBI's to go with his hits. Yulian Oviedo continues to impress as he had a single, but narrowly missed a homerun that drifted just foul. Josh Richards continues his hitting streak with a single in three plate appearances. The Dodgers will try and get their first victory of the season as they take on the Wobblies this Sunday.
Casey Pizza Player(s) of the Game:
Ross Kramer (2 hits, 2 RBI's)
Phil Rivera (2 hits and he was playing with an injured shoulder)
Week 3 - 6.9.24
Yuck!
With week two in a rain delay with the Pilots, the Dodgers took on a very good Generals team and played a game that could be summed up with one word, YUCK! Most of us are old enough to remember the Mr. YUK stickers and there seemed to be stickers on everything the Dodgers did Sunday. Everything for the boys in blue seemed to go wrong. The visiting nine only had four hits on the day. Unlucky hitting, a super slow infield, and excellent Generals fielding and pitching, contributed to the Dodger's day of offensive YUCK. The Dodgers made costly errors, along with the Generals perfectly placed, timely hitting, produced a Dodger's day of defensive YUCK. When you brush away all of the YUCK the Dodgers were on the wrong end of a 9-2 score and are now 0-2 on the season. Offensively the Dodgers were led by Ross Kramer, Yulian Oviedo, Chad Rolfes, and Josh Richards who each had one hit apiece. Manager Chad Rolfes was asked what the Dodgers need to do better. "Everything," Hopefully for the Dodgers Mr. Yuk stickers come off the bats, gloves, and arms quickly as the schedule doesn't get any easier with the Bullies coming to Castle this Sunday.
Casey's Pizza Player of the Game=
Ross Kramer
The centerfielder had a diving catch and went 1-3 at the plate.
Week 1 - 5.19.24
Dodgers Drop Season Debut
The Dodgers and Angels opened the season on a beautiful spring Minnesota Sunday that could have been confused for a southern California afternoon where the two teams professional namesakes call home. Unfortunately for the Dodgers it was the Angels who were looking California and the Dodgers feeling Minnesota. With both teams showing some skill at the plate and some slick fielding, it would be the pitchers that would end up stealing the show. The Dodger's Chad Manders and the Angel's John Barbella locked horns and both would throw complete games. Each club would struggle to get much going for the first two innings, but the Angels would plate three runs in the bottom half of the third inning. This three run lead didn't last long as the Dodgers would score three runs in the top of the fourth and two more runs in the top of the fifth to take a 5-3 lead. Both teams would have chances to score more runs but both pitchers would shut down any threat and the narrow lead would last until the Angel's half of the ninth. Manders who had been brilliant all game and had been battling a sore heal, nearly earned his first win of the season, but the Angels put together an impressive two out rally and scored three runs to walk off the visiting Dodgers. For the Dodgers, Chad Mander's pitching was the story. The veteran righthander limited last years Champions to 11 hits and for most of the game three runs. Offensively for the Dodgers it was feast or famine. The Dodgers were led by Martin Cheatham, Yulian Oviedo, and Brad Kusterman who all had two hits on the day. Oviedo also had three RBI's and Cheatham had a stolen base. Manders also had a nice day at the plate going 1-3 with a stolen base. Manager Chad Rolfes was asked after the game what he thought the Dodgers did well and what needs to improve. "Well, I think we need to hit better." He also went on to say that, "The Dodgers need to fail their way to success." When asked about what he meant he told the media he had beer to drink. The Dodgers have the Memorial Day Weekend off, but will be back in action on June 2nd hosting the Pilots at Castle Field for a 5:00 start.
CASEY'S PIZZA PLAYER OF THE GAME:
Chad Manders: 1-3 at the plate and pitched 8 2/3 innings.
Honorable Mention: Martin Cheatham and Yulian Oviedo
Week 9 - 7.30.23
Dodgers Right the Ship with a Devastating Victory
The Dodgers were going into this match up versus the unpredictable Wobblies with confidence but also with a level of caution. The Dodgers have been bitten by this team in the past and were certain they didn't want a repeat. The Dodgers started with all the right decisions as Brian Lawrence started on the bump for the boys in blue and was dominant against this Wobblies line up. Lawrence pitched 5 innings facing 21 batters. Lawrence only allowed 6 hits with 5 strikeouts with no free bases allowed, ending his outing with a 1.20 whip and .000 era. Brad Kustermann relieved Lawrence in the 6th. Kustermann was effective as he shut down the Wobblies line up through two innings.
Offensively the Dodgers were dominant as they’ve seen Wobblies starter, Kris Gigstad, a number of times in the past. Through 7 innings, the Dodgers hitter’s were seeing the ball well as they totaled 18 hits as a team while scoring 15 times. Notable offensive standouts for the boys in blue were Eric Johnson, Chad Manders, and Martin Cheatham. Johnson’s day was impressive as the slugger had a perfect outing going 5 for 5, scoring twice and bashing in 3 runs for the Dodgers. Johnson added to the Dodgers lead with 2 runs scored. Chad Manders also contributed well with 3 hits, one walk and one hit by pitch. Manders also took 2 bases for free, getting into scoring position for the Dodgers. Manders touched home plate 3 times this outing. Martin Cheatham added 3 hits of his own and also scored 3 times. These three players alone scored for a total of 8 runs of the Dodgers 15 total for this outing. Ross Kramer, Tony Knautl and Mike Hinzmann all had a fabulous night batting .500 contributing 6 hits combined with 5 runs scored. Nault hauled in an impressive 4 rbis while Hinzmann clobbered in 3 of his own. Kramer also had one rbi.
It was a great night for the Dodgers as they bounced back after a true Slingers beating the week before, taking out the Wobblies in a 15-0 victory in 7 innings. Dodgers take on the tough Bullies next.
Casey’s Pizza Player of the Game:
Eric “E” Johnson!!! E continues to be a dominant force in the Dodgers lineup and adds talent defensively as he literally plays anywhere in the field. 5 for 5 with 3 rbis aint nothin’ to shake a stick at!
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Week 8 - 7.23.23
Mudslingers Shellac the Dodgers
The Slingers are a newfound dominant force in the 35+ TCMABL National Division and League. The Dodgers this Sunday did their best to try to subdue this force but their efforts were futile as the Slingers took an early 5 run lead in the top of the 1st. Dodgers Ace, Frank Markie, really threw a 9 inning gem against this Slingers force. Markie looked strong, determined and accurate. The Slingers line up, however, just hit every…damn…ball… thrown to them. The Slingers tallied 20 hits on the day with three doubles. Although Markie did sit down 5 Slingers batters in strike outs, timely and aggressive base running and solid hitting won the Slingers the day on a 10-0 victory over the Dodgers.
The Dodgers had 7 hits, 6 walks and only 2 strikeouts against the Slingers hurler, but could not score a run. Philly Rivera was top dog for the Dodgers offensive line up. He hit a respectable .667 on the day with 2 hits in 3 abs. Next up was Ross Kramer who one hit and two walks with a stolen base. Brad Kustermann, Chad Manders, Frank Markie and Tony Knault were the only other Dodger batters with one hit a piece. Martin Cheatham also had a good eye at the plate with 2 walks. Chad Manders and Bryan Lawrence also had a walk a piece.
The Dodgers will look to bounce back next Sunday versus the Wobblies at Derrick Keller Field in St. Louis Park.
Casey’s Pizza Player of the Game:
Philly Rivera!!! The oppo king strikes again with the team leading 2
hits against a stellar Slingers pitching staff. Way to go Philly!
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Week 7 - 7.16.23
Dodgers Overcome Early Deficit vs The Knights
Last season's playoff loss to the Knights left a sour taste in the mouths of Dodgers players and fans everywhere. The Dodgers were determined to not have a repeat. However the Knight’s hitters were not going to go quietly into the night. They came out poppin as they scored two early in the 1st. Dodgers starter Chad Manders found the groove through the next two innings not allowing another run through the 3rd. The Dodgers were able tack on 4 runs in the top of the 4th to put them up 4-2 over the Knights. Somehow, with well placed ground balls and a few well hit line drives, the wheels fell off for the Dodgers pitcher as 7 runs were earned for the Knights in the bottom of the 4th. Manders finished the outing with 5 k’s, 2 bb’s and a hit batsman in 4 innings. Shane Ohland came in relief for one inning, giving up one more run to the Knights, putting the score at 7-10 through the bottom of the 5th. Luckily for the Dodgers pitchers, the offense was on fire as the hitting boys in blue managed to score 14 runs between the 4th and the 7th innings. Pitcher Doug Yost finished the matchup for the Dodgers on the bump.
This game was full of offensive action. The Dodgers batters combined for 22 hits and 20 runs scored with only 3 strikeouts as a team. The Knights batters combined for 18 hits and 16 runs scored with 8 strikeouts. The Dodgers offensive leaders were Doug Yost and Josh Richards. Yost had a respectable 3 hits in 5 at bats slapping in 4 rbi’s and one stolen base for the squad helping his cause on the hill. Richards went 2 for 3 with 2 bases on balls while batting in 3 runners for the Dodgers. As these two men were standouts, there were many boys in blue who contributed offensively this day: Tony Nault and Eric Johnson each had 3 hits and an rbi a piece. Chad Rolfes, Phil Rivera, Mike Hinzmann and Martin Cheatham each had 2 hits while Rivera, Rolfes and Cheatham each had 2 rbi’s. Chad Manders, Ross Kramer and Bryan Lawrence each had one hit.
The final between these two offensive juggernauts was 20-16. The Dodgers found a way to liven the bats for victory after an early, scary deficit.
Next up, The Dodgers take on the undefeated Mudslingers once again. This time home at Castle Field, the Dodgers will hope to walk away with a win after just merely losing the first match up by only a run.
Casey’s Pizza Player of the Game:
Doug Yost!!! Yost had an impressive day at the plate pounding the ball scoring 4 runs for his team and did a fine job in relief on the bump to close down the game and seal the victory for the boys in blue.
Baseball Card photo coming soon! :)
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Week 6 - 7.9.23
Dodgers Bats Die as Generals & Dodgers
Go 9 Rounds in Nail Biter
The Dodgers box score stat lines were empty up and down the board as Generals newly added hurler Scott Stuessy rolled for 8.1 innings of work racking up an impressive 8 strikeouts versus the struggling Dodgers offense. As a matter of fact, only 3 Dodgers hitters walked away with an actual batting average statistic. The rest of the 10 hitting participants had a .000 batting average on the day! The 3 batters that showed up to hit for the Dodgers were Ross Kramer, Frank Markie and Eric Johnson. Kramer had an exceptional day at the plate nearly completing a cycle short of a home run. Kramer hit .750 on the day with a single, double and a triple. Kramer had 1 rbi and scored twice for the Dodgers offense. Frank Markie had a solid eye at the plate with 1 hit and 2 bases on balls. Eric Johnson had one hit and one walk.
Full of defensive follies, this match up went back and forth through the bottom of the 9th inning. In true nail biter fashion, the Dodgers squeaked this victory out in a 5-4 finish as the General’s hitting was equally disappointing.
The Dodgers take on the Knights in Blaine next week hoping for pay back from last season’s playoff shocking 3-6 defeat.
Casey’s Pizza Player of the Game:
Ross Kramer!!! I mean the damn guy almost completed a cycle! Nough said!
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Week 6 - 7.9.23
Dodgers Trounce Mavericks After Postponement
Beginning once again in the 6th inning after a rain postponement from the week prior, the Dodgers came out swinging, slugging 17 total runs against the depleted Mavericks pitching staff. Top offensive contributors for the Dodgers were Martin Cheatham, going 3 for 4 with a walk and 2 stolen bases and 1 run batted in; Josh Richards, who again showed prowess at the plate on a perfect day hitting 3 for 3 with 2 rbi’s and a walk; and Tony Nault. Nault added to his extra base hit could with another double with 2 hits on the day batting in 3 runs and one stolen base. Frank Markie also continued to crush the ball tallying 4 rbis from the Mavs.
The Dodgers pitchers were dominant with a combined 1.29 era in 7 innings. Bryan Lawrence pitched 5 innings striking out 2 and only gave up 4 hits in 19 batters faced, tallying an era of 1.80 on the day. Brad Kustermann came in to relieve Lawrence in the 6th and pitched 2 innings to close the game early in the 7th. Kustermann faced only 7 batters and sat down 3 of them with a nice WHIP stat of .50.
The Dodgers will hope to continue this offensive juggernaut rolling into the latter half of this double header versus the Generals.
Casey’s Pizza Players of the Game:
Josh Richards & Tony Nault!!! These two guys, along with Honorable Mention Martin Cheatham, tallied a total of 6 rbis of the Dodgers 17 runs scored and 8 hits against the Mavericks. Good sticks gentlemen!
Baseball Card photo coming soon! :)
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Week 5 - 6.25.23
Dodgers Hurlers Come Through Grounding Angels
In similar fashion to the week prior, the increment, but well needed rain played a factor during this match up. Luckily the rain was just sporadic enough that the grounds crew were able to doctor the field enough to resume play after about an hour rain delay.
The Dodgers and Angels have a long history of back and forth wins and losses in this league and know each other’s lineups extremely well. The Dodgers sluggers knew they had seen Angels starting ace, John Barbella, on many occasions over the past decade. Offensively, the Dodgers were ready to go as 5 batters in the line up had batting averages of .500 or higher, each with two hits a piece, vs the Angels veteran through 5 innings. Leading the pack was once again Frank Markie, the Dodgers veteran ace. Markie added to his slugging percentage with another double and a hit to help his cause on the bump. He was also hit by a pitch later in the game giving him a perfect batting average for his efforts. Markie also pitched well for five innings only allowing this very talented and disciplined Angels hitting core to score 4 runs with two strikeouts. Eric Johnson continued his dominance at the plate, slugging a triple deep in the gap over the center fielder's head. The triple was one of Johnson's two hits that sparked the Dodgers offense. Ross Kramer also had a short but effective night. Coming into the game late he managed to get in two solid at bats for two hits and 2 runs batted in. Kramer continues to be the solid, reliable hitting machine the Dodgers need coming out of the 4th of July break. Chad Manders and Doug Yost also had two hits and an RBI.
Doug Yost came in to relieve Markie pitching in the 6th inning after an hour rain delay. Yost was fantastically dominant for two innings facing 10 batters while only allowing one hit. Yost collected one Angel strike out and gave up one run, closing down the game prematurely for the Dodgers 8-5 victory as the rain came down hard one last time to kill any last chance of continuing the game past 7 innings. The Dodgers have now taken the last 2-3 games from the Angels in good position to keep this winning streak going beyond the Independence Day Break.
Casey’s Pizza Player of the Game:
Frank Markie!!! Markie is completely tearing the cover off the ball like a friggin crazed Tasmanian Devil! Seeing it well like a neon beacon, Markie has crushed the ball putting his slugging percentage at an impressive .583. Markie also continues to fool batters with great stuff from the bump which is evident from his 1.89 whip after 3 games and 12.2 innings of pitching.
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Week 4 - 6.18.23
Dodgers vs Mavericks Get Drenched
The Dodgers were anxious for this match up to potentially right the ship and bust away from this 0-3 start of the season. Over the years the Dodgers have owned the Mavericks in the winning column stat line, so the men in white were optimistic this day would go well in their favor. The Dodgers started off with a bang against the Mavericks starting pitcher Luke Niebauer who has historically been a dominant pitcher with great control. However, Niebauer struggled to find the strike zone and walked Dodger after Dodger. With a sprinkling of hits as well, the Dodgers soon racked up a 6-0 on the Mavs moving them into a comfortable position towards victory.
…then the rain came…
Castle Field does not drain particularly well and the rain came down in sheets for a good hour. This was the only game in the entire league that resulted in a make up scenario.
The Dodgers and Mavericks will face off once again to finalize the outing on July 9 at noon at the Fernbrook Elementary fields. The make up game with begin in the 6th inning with the Dodgers up 6-0.
Casey’s Pizza Player of the Game…to be continued…
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Week 3 - 6.11.23
The Bullies Bully the Dodgers Into Submission
The Bullies are new to the TCMABL this season but have a squad of solid players who’ve been in the league playing for other teams for years. This team is, many would say, like another all star type team in the league made up of hitters that mash and pitchers who do well to get the job done. Chad Manders started on the bump against this strong Bullies line up. Pitched for 5 innings, Manders was truly “bullied” by this line up allowing them to rack up 11 hits on 3 earned runs. Manders tallied 3 Bully strikeout and one hit by pitch victims. The Bullies soon found themselves with a comfortable lead 5-0 going into the 6th inning.
The Dodgers just didn’t have it this game offensively as the bats were lull and the energy was low. The Bullies pitching staff only allowed 5 Dodgers hits, allowing not a single run to cross the plate. The Bullies won in dominating fashion in all aspects of this game truly bullying this Dodgers squad into submission for a final score of 8-0
Next up: The Dodgers take on the Mavericks for the Dodgers home opener of the season at Castle Field in Anoka.
Casey’s Pizza Player of the Game:
Philly Rivera!!! Rivera earns this honor for his stellar defensive prowess at third base. Philly is a consistently solid defensive player and has been a rock at the corner for the boys in blue. Rivera also went 1 for 3 offensively for the Dodgers contributing one of the only 6 hits on the day. Honorable Mention goes to Chad “Sticks” Rolfes who had a fine day at the plate, seeing the ball well, slugging an .500 average on the outing.
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Week 2 - 6.4.23
Skeeters Pester The Dodgers Once Again
The Dodgers knew what they were up against with the Skeeters this week as these two teams have faced each other on numerous occasions over their TCMABL careers. The Skeeters are a very good hitting, disciplined team at the plate, have quickness on the base paths and have a deep pitching rotation. The Dodgers however have found ways to keep these meetings close and have even walked away in victory from time to time. Since 2019, the Dodgers are now only 1-6-1 versus this pesky Skeeters squad.
This match up looked hopeful as the Dodgers took an early lead on the Skeeters. The Dodgers improved immensely from the week before in the strikeout stat line. Versus the Slingers, the Dodgers racked up 11 strikeouts through their offensive attempts. The Skeeters pitcher Bob Gordon was only able to muster up two Dodgers victims at the plate. The Dodgers rallied for a combined and impressive 12 hits versus the Skeeter veteran. 5 Dodger batters hit .500 on the day and four of the five came through with 2 hits a piece. Martin Cheatham led the Dodgers offensive core as lead off once again and swatted 2 hits and nabbed 2 stolen bases. Ross Kramer also had 2 hits and scored twice for the Dodgers. Eric Johnson continues to bash the ball as he contributed with 2 hits and drove in 2 runs. Frank Markie helped the cause by batting in a run with two hits as well.
The Dodgers had to throw everything but the kitchen sink at the Skeeters to try and nab this win, but in the end, in walk off fashion, and due to many untimely Dodgers errors, the Skeeters pulled ahead in the bottom of the 9th inning to walk off the Dodgers as the Dodgers gave up a 6-5 lead going into the bottom half of the last inning of the game.
Casey’s Pizza Player of the Game:
Eric Johnson!!! Johnson continues to be the Dodgers leader in the line up as one of the most consistent hitters for power in Dodgers franchise history. Johnson went 2 for 4 with 2 rbis. Johnson has also calmly transitioned to one of the Dodgers utility players in the field, locking down consistent defense plays from anywhere in the field for the boys in blue.
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Week 1 - 5.21.23
Newcomers Slingers Stun the Veteran Dodgers
The start of the 2023 season has been in much anticipation for many players in the TCMABL. This season marks an exciting change and future for the league as two new teams have joined, growing to two divisions with five teams a piece. The Mudslingers have created quite a buzz around the league; the rumor was that these dudes are DUDES! Now the term "Dudes" is a phrase used in baseball to describe guys who have the baseball mojo, who have the stuff, the athleticism, the swagger. These are dudes who have youth on their side, individual talent, and team chemistry from a long history playing together in youth Maple Grove baseball programs. The TC Dodgers on the other hand, also share a long history together with many many years in the league. The Dodgers have also acquired new talent as well in Tony Knault, a dude in his own rite and respect, a guy who played for many years and programs including townball teams, the Birdtown Brewers, and the Lyons Pub Warriors. Knault also played college baseball for the Concordia University Golden Bears. Dudes Brad Kusterman and Doug Yost are also huge additions for the Dodgers line up and pitching staff.
Stand out performers for the Dodgers one run loss to the Slingers were Josh Richards, Ross Kramer and Frank Markie all with great appearances at the plate. Josh was nearly perfect against the Slingers fireballers. Richards went 2 for 4 being hit by a pitch and a layed down a nice sac bunt and scored once for the Dodgers. Ross Kramer also hit .500 slugging in 2 runs. Frank Markie had a hit and scored once for the Dodgers and pitched a gem against a very disciplined hitting Slingers lineup. Markie continues to produce and keep opposing teams at bay while on the bump as the Dodgers ace. Other Dodgers offensive contributors were Bryan Lawrence, Phil Rivera and Chad Manders each with a hit a piece. Unfortunately as a team the Dodgers struck out 11 times against a hard throwing Slingers pitching core. The Dodgers will team up against a great Skeeters squad next week and will most likely come down to the wire.
Casey’s Pizza Player of the Game:
Josh Richards!!! Richards started off the season in prime fashion at the plate as he clearly saw the ball well all day for the Dodgers…well except for the one that hit him. Richards also continues to lock down left field for the men in white while producing great play after great play.
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Week 13 - 8/21/22
Wobblies End the Dodgers Streak with a Shocker
It was a ballgame…that is all…
Notable offense for the Dodgers in this 8-10 loss was led by Ross Kramer, Martin Cheatham, Eric Johnson, Patrick Lenton and Josh Richards. Kramer once again had a great day at the plate going 3 for 4 with another double putting his total at 9 on the regular season. Kramer also contributed an rbi and a walk, and plated one run for the Dodgers offense. Martin Cheatham had 2 hits with 2 bases on balls with one rbi. Eric Johnson, Patrick Lenton, and Josh Richards each had two hits and a walk. Chad Rolfes, Phil Rivera, and Bryan Lawrence each contributed a hit.
Bryan Lawrence entered the game to pitch in the 8th inning to relieve Chad Manders who had a rough day on the bump getting shilacked by the Wobblies line up for 14 hits, 8 earned runs of 10 total, 4 walks and only 2 strike outs. Lawrence pitched well for 2 innings, faced 9 batters, only allowed 2 hits with one walk and a strike out.
The Dodgers, with this shocking loss to a Wobblies team who continues to show up with vigor and determination in big games with great momentum going into the first round of the playoffs, locked in the 3 seed to face the Knights in their own first round of the playoffs this Saturday afternoon at Donaldson Park in Richfield.
Casey’s Pizza Player of the Game:
Ross Kramer!!! Kramer nearly had a perfect night at the plate leading the Dodgers with a .750 average on the day with the only multiple base hit for the Dodgers offense.
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Week 12 - 8/14/22
“Nobody Likes An Ugly Walk Off”
With the 2022-23 NFL season ramping up and with only one more regular season game for TCMABL baseball teams to be had, one can only set their memories and mind to the beloved and ever so passionate, and often quoted, Coach Denny Green. The TC Dodgers and Mavericks faced off on Sunday night at the beautiful Castle Field in Anoka and this game took many by surprise as it literally played down to the wire.
Throughout this game one could only wonder if Manager Chad Rolfes played this clip over and over again in his mind. The Mavericks and Dodgers have a long history of many matchups over the years in the TCMABL league so these two teams know each other extremely well. The men in white, however, have found themselves on the winning end of that relationship 8-1 over the last five seasons. Had this game turned sideways for the Dodgers, this Denny Green speech would have been heard from the parking lot during the post game beer swilling: “The Mavericks are what we thought they were, and we let them off the hook!”
One could feel it…especially team Manager Chad Rolfes, as it was clear to see the men in white didn’t have the same energy or pazazz from weeks prior. From Dodger pop ups, to weak ground balls, to stranding nearly twenty base runners through nine innings of play, to uncommon defensive errors, the Dodgers just didn’t look like the team they have been this entire season. The Mavericks on the other hand looked like a team who wanted to settle a score. One could tell this Mavericks ball club came to play this day, in all aspects of the game. It would soon appear this game was going to be an all out pitchers duel, as the score was 2-2 after 6 ½ innings of play. Todd Munson, starting pitcher for the Mavericks had good stuff from the bump. This was a pitcher the Dodgers batters knew very well, but in reality, Munson turned out to be something of a mystery for the Dodgers hitters. Historically, Munson has had a track record of struggling against this Dodgers powerful lineup, but this day, Munson had control through nine innings, struck out 5 Dodgers batters and only gave up one earned run. Munson and the Mavericks defense stranded 15 Dodger base runners throughout the game.
Frank Markie, the Dodgers ace and veteran hurler, started once again and kept the Mavericks hitter’s off balance through 7 innings of work. Markie only allowed 2 runs through 7 innings, sat down 4 Mavs alone and retired 18 batters with help from Dodgers defense. This match up stayed 2-2 into the 8th inning. Chad Manders entered the game to relieve Markie in the top of the 8th inning allowing an unearned run, putting the Mavs up 3-2 over the Dodgers. The Dodgers offense were not able to capitalize in the bottom of the 8th inning making for a nail-biter final 9th inning for the Dodgers. Manders held off the Mavs hitters in the top of the inning and the Dodgers offense were able to get the run back in the bottom of the inning. Tied up 3-3 going into extra innings, the top of the 10th turned out to be one heartbreaker of an inning.
With a missed pop up error, a walk, and a couple errant Dodger defensive throws, the Mavericks plated one more run in the top of the 10th putting them in the lead 4-3. “The Dodgers let the Mavericks off the hook” echoed in the minds of all at Castle Field.
Thinking they had the win locked in and with Munson’s pitch count most likely reaching 120 or higher, the Mavericks put in lefty hurler, Brandon Staresnick. This may have been a gamble from the Mavericks management as the Dodgers have had good statistical success versus Staresnick in past outings. Luckily, for the Dodgers, the middle of the line up was coming up with guys who were due. Chad Manders started off the inning, and with a 2-2 count, burned the left fielder with a little help from the evening sun and ended up at second with a lead off double. Eric Johnson, who has been a double machine this season, continued his reign with another double of his own, crushing the ball to the left center gap, batting in Manders to tie the game at 4-4. Martin Cheatham took Johnson’s place as a courtesy runner at second base. The next batter, clean up hitter, Patrick Lenton made quick work of a Staresnick fastball and smoked a fly ball right to the center fielder. Cheatham had no chance for advancement. Next up, Ross Kramer who has been the Dodgers #2 in double creation, had been kept at bay by the Mavs pitchers with only one hit on the night. Unfortunately Kramer hit a squib back to the pitcher as Cheatham was checked back to second and the play was made at first for the 2nd out in the bottom of the 10th all knotted up. The potential final batter for the Dodgers would be captain and veteran leader, Frank Markie. Sometimes in baseball, teams beat themselves. It’s the way the ball bounces at times. The first pitch to Markie deflected passed the catcher advancing Cheatham to third base. Markie got ahold of an outside fastball sending a bouncer to the second baseman who had to run up and make a tough play. The defenseman slipped, and with an errant throw, failed to make the out at first. Markie was safe at first base and Cheatham scored from third. Dodgers win!!! In ugly, walk off fashion, I’m not sure this writer can say the better team this night won, but that’s why we love this game of baseball - it's so unpredictable!
The Dodgers will host the Wobblies back at Castle Field, this Sunday Aug 21 for the final regular season match up for this season.
Casey’s Pizza Player of the Game:
Eric Johnson!!! Johnson continues his dominance at the plate owning pitchers for doubles. Johnson hit 3 for 5 with another double putting his total on the season at 10 with the game’s only earned run batted in. His goaltending like play behind the dish also saved potential runs from scoring on passed balls late in the game. Johnson’s double late in the 10th inning scored the tying run to give the Dodgers a chance for victory. Honorable mention goes to Frank Markie for a stellar pitching performance through 7 innings and for making the opposing team beat themselves in the end.
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Week 11 - 8/7/22
“On Ne Saurait Faire D'Omelette Sans Casser Des œufs”
1796, a Frenchman by the name François de Charette, once said the title of this post game summary. It translates in English to the old saying we’ve all heard a million times; mostly renowned by none other than Jack Nicolson’s character, The Joker, in the 1989 box office smash, “Batman”.
“You can’t make an omelet without breaking some eggs.” In order to achieve something, it is inevitable and necessary that some mistakes are made or some sacrifices must occur. The men in white, on Sunday night, had an opportunity and the luxury to experiment with their eggs with only three games remaining going up against some teams with losing records, in the hopes of putting all of the ingredients together to make their perfect omelet heading into the playoffs. In breaking eggs, sometimes comes with risk and controversy; do teams dare change the momentum from the great things that have been working? Do they not break eggs in the risk of hurting the feelings of the opposing team because managerial decisions and players’ actions may be read as disrespectful? If so, this would mean that the Dodgers really wouldn't have broken any eggs at all…and this whole analogy would mean nothing and would be the most far-fetched pointless thing a reader has ever read.
The Dodgers took on the Pilots for the second and potentially final time this season. The Dodgers came into this match up with a strong momentum in a 5 game winning streak taking down both powerhouse teams in the Angels and Skeeters. The Pilots, on the other hand, have struggled all season tallying only 50 runs for and 232 runs against on a 0-11 record. The chef-like Dodgers knew this would be a perfect opportunity to do some experimenting and break some eggs to make that perfect omelet going into the postseason. However, not only did the team make mistakes, they also made sacrifices in innings, practice and experience for other players who may do well with consistency and weekly work; not time off. Nonetheless, the risk often outweighs the reward.
Not seen on the bump since 2015, Bartolo Colon…I mean, Chad Rolfes took the hill for the Dodgers as the underdog starting pitcher. The Dodger’s game script was one to get some guys more looks in places they may be useful in the future. Rolfes fulfilled his role nicely as he threw for 5 innings, faced 23 batters, gave up only 6 hits with 2 earned runs of 3. Rolfes walked 2 batters, hit 1 and struck out 2 Pilots. With a whip of only 1.60 and an era of 3.60, it was a great outing for a guy who hasn’t pitched in years. Rolfes could possibly take more of a role for the Dodgers bullpen in future outings. Eggs well spent…
The other two bullpen hurlers the Dodgers threw at the Pilots were Martin Cheatham, who has suffered from elbow soreness in previous seasons and has taken more of a backseat to other pitchers to focus more on his shortstop role; and Ross Kramer, the Dodgers new addition to center field with a great arm and athleticism. With great velocity, Cheatham looked effortless and with new life and passion for the hill. While only getting one inning of work, Cheatham had great stuff as he pitched to 3 batters and struck out 2 of them. The other out came from a defensive play. Ross Kramer, a bit greener in the realm of pitching, pitched the final 7th inning as the Dodgers offense went to work plating 18 runs on the Pilot’s pitching staff. Whenever a team has the commodity of getting some guys innings who normally wouldn’t pitch in a game, that team has to take the opportunity, regardless of the risk involved. Not surprisingly, after playing 6 innings in center field while on one play throwing a laser beam strike to the chest of the first baseman to try to ring up a runner on a fly ball catch, Kramer struggled a bit to find the strike zone from the bump. Kramer faced 8 batters, allowed 3 hits, walked 3 and hit one batter. Unfortunately it wasn’t the inning outing Kramer was expecting, giving up 4 earned runs to the Pilots. Positively, Kramer’s curve ball was great as it dropped in time and time again for strikes. Again, broken eggs, but the omelet is getting bigger and tastier! Kramer pitched one third of the inning as Chad Manders came in to close down the game. Manders faced two batters and retired both tallying two strikeouts.
Offensively for the Dodgers, it was once again a whole team effort. This was a big stat builder for the men in white. Key note sluggers on the day were David “Big Mac” McIntosh, Frank Markie, Eric Joshnon, Martin Cheatham, Bryan Lawrence and Chad Manders. McIntosh led the Dodgers in batting average hitting a perfect game with 2 walks and one hit by pitch. McIntosh bashed in 3 of the Dodgers 18 total runs and plated 2 himself. Frank Markie hit 3 for 4, scoring once and even got himself a stolen base! Eric Johnson, continuing to battle a foot injury, continued his dominance at the plate as a hitter. Johnson had 3 hits of 5 at bats; one of which was another double placing him in the team lead at 9! Johnson had 2 rbi’s and plated 2 runs for his team. Martin Cheatham has really found his groove and eye at the plate as he hit .500 on the day with 3 walks. With a whopping on base percentage of .800 Cheatham found himself running often and also tallied another stolen base. Bryan “Blaw or B-Law” Lawrence also hit .500 with another double sending two runs in for the Dodgers. Blaw walked twice. Chad Manders also had a great day offensively for the Dodgers. Manders had two hits on 5 at bats one of which was a base clearing double for 3 rbi’s. As often the courtesy runner for Eric Joshnson, Manders was able to get on base more often which allowed him to take 3 free bases from the Pilots putting his season stolen base tally at 19. The Dodgers, in full team effort, never letting up as each player completed their role with poise and discipline, while breaking some eggs along the way, defeated the Pilots 18-7. As the farfetched fifth tiebreaker for playoff standings and seeding is runs against, the Dodgers were confident in their team, their omelet, enough to break some eggs along the way to learn, to improve, to trust in one another; all great ingredients going into the 2022 postseason run.
CASEY’S PIZZA PLAYERS OF THE GAME -
David McIntosh & Chad Manders!!! McIntosh was a beast at the plate, continuing his role as the middle of the line up clean up machine! He and his bat are ball magnets; Getting hit by a pitch, walking once and hitting two more, McIntosh got on base for every plate appearance and added 3 runs for the Dodgers offense! BigMac also had an ESPN worthy diving catch in left field which added a nice bump of confidence for his new pitcher teammate! Nice work BigMac!!! Manders had two hits, both nice hard hit line drives, one of which screamed to the left center gap clearing the loaded bases for 3 more runs for the Dodgers. Manders continues to add to his tally on the base paths in stolen bases with 3 more on the day. Manders came into the bottom of the 7th to pitch out of what could have developed into a hairy situation for the Dodgers with 1 out and bases loaded. Like true veteran fashion, Manders jumped up on the hill and struck out the side, closing the game for an 18-7 win for the Dodgers. Honorable Mentions go to Eric Johnson and Martin Cheatham! “E”, in all honesty, could earn this thing every week with his dominant hitting and great play defensively behind the dish. Cheatham had a great day at the plate and was on base more than he wasn't! Cheatham also threw a dominant inning from the bump, looking like he never left it. He will be a useful weapon for any unexpecting team for the rest of the season! We could seriously, easily have 4-5 players of the game this week! Nicely done gentlemen!!!
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Week 10 - 7/31/22
"Dodgers Shoot Down High Flying Angels"
Week 10, for the boys in blue, would bring a very challenging match up versus the high flying, undefeated Angels at Carlson Field at Cedar Knoll Park. The Angels continue to dominate the TCMABL 35+ by stringing together wins with key pitching performances, timely hitting, and aggressive base running as their record going into this matchup sat firmly at 9-0. The Angels house the top two pitchers in the league with both Barbella and Ackman combining 77 k’s holding the top two positions in strikeouts in the league. The Dodgers would potentially have their hands full in the box facing either of these two pitchers. The Angels also are extremely aggressive on the base paths and know how to get players in scoring position by nabbing extra bases. Both Hughes and McKernon would need to be held at bay if the Dodgers would have any shot in keeping the Angels from running up the score. The Dodgers knew they would need to bring top performances by all players to this game in order to take down the Angels a notch. The day did not disappoint for the TC boys in blue.
For years, the Dodgers have competed with very good pitching. This game would hold evidence that indeed the Dodgers arguably have the deepest bullpen in the league and one of the top starting pitchers in Frank Markie. Markie holds the third spot in the league with most strikeouts as a pitcher with 26, tied with Skeeters ace Wangler. The Dodgers knew what they had to do against this Angels offense: keep them off balance and guessing. The Dodgers pitchers did just that.
This matchup turned into an inevitable pitchers duel through the first 5 innings. Surprisingly, neither Barbella nor Ackman started on the bump for the Angels. Instead, the Angels had a different game plan in mind as the aforementioned Sam McKernon began pitching in the top of the first. Frank Markie, the ace veteran for the Dodgers, started once again after coming off a break the previous week on the dl. Both pitchers looked good through 3 innings. However, the Dodgers, in the top of the 4th inning, began seeing what McKernon was delivering and scored 2 runs. The boys in blue were able to mark with 3 more in the top of the 6th inning. Markie was exceptional on the bump for the Dodgers as he did not give up a single run through 5 innings. Up 5-0, the Dodgers were feeling as though all of the ingredients they needed for the win were there. The Angels, however, are so stacked with talent that they do not and would not go down without a fight. They battled back and scored 3 back in the bottom of the 6th narrowing the Dodgers lead to 5-3. Next up for the Dodgers was Bryan “B-Law” Lawrence to give relief to Markie in the top of the 7th. Lawrence did a phenomenal job hurling great stuff as he kept the Angels high flying offense to only 2 hits which would result in 2 runs and struck out 2 hitters. Holding an offensively dominant team like the Angels, with a ‘119 runs for’ in 9 games stat line, to only 5 runs would ultimately be enough for this Dodgers team that averages 11 runs per game.
The offensive sparks for the Dodgers this week came from Chad Manders, Eric Johnson, Frank Markie and Ross Kramer. To mark first in the top of the 4th, were the Dodgers as Manders found himself hitting Martin Cheatham into a fielder’s choice at 2nd after Cheatham began the inning with a base hit to left field. With 12 stolen bases going into this match up, Manders was the guy to have on base. Luckily Manders successfully stole 2nd on a close play and good throw by the Angels catcher, but ultimately slid under the tag in time. A couple pitches later, Manders then aggressively pursued and stole 3rd; the throw down went errant as then Manders was able to score the first run for the Dodgers. With one out in the top of the 4th, a spark ignited the Dodgers offense as they plated one more in that innings then another 3 in the top of the 6th. Eric Johnson was once again amazing at the plate showing prowess and power. Johnson went 3 for 4 with another double putting him at the top for the Dodgers with 8 on the season. Johnson contributed 2 rbi’s for the Dodgers 7 run finish. Frank Markie, not only dominated this game from the hill; he crushed at the plate as well helping his own cause. Markie had 3 hits on 5 at bats one of which was a screamer of a line drive double in which case had it had a bit more launch angle would have easily flown out of Carlson Field. Ross Kramer continues to be a formidable batter for any opposing team’s pitchers. Kramer hit .500 with another double! Kramer had 1 rbi and a walk to add to his numbers. Other runs batted in for the Dodgers came from Philly Rivera, Bryan Lawrence and Chad Manders.
The Angels are illusive; hard to predict. They were making the Dodgers nervous as the two run cushion just didn’t seem like it was going to be firm enough for the win. In the top of the 8th inning the Dodgers scored 1 run, but the Angels answered right back plating two more runs puting the match up at 6-5. This game was going to come down to the wire. The Dodgers may be more elusive and determined however…it’s how one evolves after years of dodging trolly cars in Brooklyn! They plated one more run in the top of the 9th inning. B-Law and the Dodgers defense were able to shoot down the Angels offense for a 7-5 9th inning nail biter.
CASEY’S PIZZA PLAYERS OF THE GAME -
Frank Markie & Bryan Lawrence!!! Good pitching depth is a total commodity in our 35+ league. Markie and Lawrence both kept this very disciplined, scary, Angels offensive line up down to earth as they only allowed 5 runs to a team that averages 13 runs per game this season. Well done Dodgers slingers!!! Honorable Mention goes to Chad Manders as he created a spark on the base paths scoring the first run for the Dodgers which broke the seal offensively ultimately nabbing 4 extra bases a Dodger base runner. Manders had 2 hits, a walk and was hit by a pitch, with an obp of .800 for the day.
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Week 9 - 7/24/22
"Dodgers Nearly Get Nipped by Skeeters!"
The Dodgers knew that this was going to be the most challenging game of the season thus far having to face a rolling Skeeters team whose track record has put them at the top of the league for years with consistent year to year outstanding, disciplined hitting and quality, deceptive pitching. The Dodgers knew that whatever had to happen, errors would need to be kept to a minimum and they’d have to come out aggressively hitting to match that of the Skeeters offense.
The Dodgers came out swinging, scoring early in the match up, and seemed to have the confidence, aggressiveness at the plate, solid pitching and defense that would seem to lead them to victory. However, every team who has ever battled against Skeeters has learned early on and knows not to be complacent as they can turn the tides at any given point of the game. With the Dodgers ace hurler, Frank Markie, out from his starting role with a back injury, Chad Manders was up to start the outing and face off against the very intimidating Skeeters hard pounding line up. Not overpowering, but in the strike zone, Manders’s off speed pitches seemed to be the key to hold the Skeeters pounders at bay. Manders faced 17 Skeeters batters for 4 innings pitched. Manders only allowed four Skeeters hits, gave up two walks and struck out one hitter. For 4 innings, Manders did not allow a single Skeeter run.
6-0 going into the 5th, the Dodgers offense was poised and aggressive at the plate. In the top of the 1st, the Dodgers plated 3 runs sending the momentum in the right direction giving Manders some security. The Dodgers offense, led by Martin Cheatham, Ross Kramer, David McIntosh, and Eric Johnson scored 3 more times in the 3rd inning. Lead off hitter, Martin Cheatham had a huge game versus the Skeeter’s veteran, Bob Gordon. Cheatham led the Dodgers’ offense hitting 4 for 5 with 2 doubles and 1 stolen base. In true lead off fashion, it was nothing short of phenomenal to witness Cheatham’s swing; something of true beauty as the ball exited his bat into the gaps of left and right center for two doubles on the day. Ross Kramer, the Dodgers clean up to 5 hitter, had another massive day at the plate. Kramer continues to pound the ball adding not only slugging percentage but key basehit runs batted in. Kramer hit 3 for 4 with another double, 3 rbis, 1 stolen base and a walk. Kramer also ran around the bases with vigor while plating 2 runs for his team. David McIntosh also had a great day at the plate with 3 hits in 5 plate appearances. He scored once with 1 run batted in. McIntosh also helped by getting into scoring position with a stolen base. Eric Johnson continues to be a leader for the Dodgers as he hit .500 with another double putting him at a team leading total of 7 on the season! Johnson contributed with 1 walk, 2 rbi’s and scored 3 times for the Dodgers offense. Other notable offensive additions to the cause came from Chad Rolfes and Frank Markie with two hits a piece. Bryan Lawrence added to his double total with one on the day and Philly Rivera added a key hit as well.
Despite the Dodgers expertise at the plate this day, pitching in any given baseball game is often what determines victory for a team. In an almost prophetic manner, the Skeeters were not going down easily as they were soon able to catch up to the Dodgers relief fastball pitchers. In the bottom of the 5th, the Skeeters were able to plate two runs cutting the Dodgers lead down to a nervous 6-2. Through the 6th and 7th innings the Skeeters’ discipline and skill for timely hitting and ball placement allowed their offense to score 3 more runs narrowing their deficit to 5-6. Feeling the pressure, the Dodgers bats came alive once again and were able to plate 2 runs in the top of the 8th. With flame thrower Patrick Lenton on the hill, along with the help of a pinch from the umpire, the Skeeters were able to take advantage of some key bad call balls and were able to get around on Lenton’s fast ball for 3 runs in the bottom of the 8th. Going into the final inning tied up at 8, both teams were determined; however, fortunately for the Dodgers, the flame thrower Lenton has seen this pressure before. Lenton with prowess, held them for the ninth and tenth innings not allowing another run, with the help of some key defensive plays by the Dodger infield.
The top of the 10th inning would serve as the Dodgers catapult as key clutch hitting, and resilience paid off for the Dodgers. Eric Johnson started off the inning for the Dodgers with a lead off walk. Unfortunately Johnson, battling a foot injury, needed a courtesy runner. Last out to run for the Dodgers was Chad Manders, who leads the team in stolen bases with 12. Hearts dropped and stomachs sank as Manders’s confidence overplayed the mental aspect of this game and was picked off at first giving the Dodgers their first out. With the next batter grounding out, the Dodgers felt sunk with a tired pitching staff going into a potential 11th inning outing against this never tiring Skeeters lineup. With two outs, Ross Kramer entered the box. If anyone was going to get this offense going with two outs it was going to be these next three batters. Kramer and McIntosh, with a Mac stolen base, were able to reach 2nd and 3rd with Frank Markie coming to the plate. Markie has been in this league from the onset and the captain knew leaders lead teams to victory. Markie got the Grill fastball he was looking for and put a line drive into right center scoring both Kramer and McIntosh for the victory! As stated earlier, Lenton and the Dodgers defense were able to hold off the Skeeters in the bottom of the 10th. Dodgers closed the gap in the standings putting them even with this Skeeters team at a 7-2 record.
CASEY’S PIZZA PLAYERS OF THE GAME -
Martin Cheatham & Ross Kramer!!! Again, this is a team victory, but Cheatham and Kramer were both dominant at the plate. This was the spark Cheatham was waiting for against a very good Skeeters pitching staff with two doubles. Cheatham also held his shortstop role with confidence, prowess and style making key play after play keeping the Dodgers in the game. The best shortstop in the TCMABL 35+ league deserves this shout out! Ross Kramer continues to bash at the plate! Scoring one of the winning runs after facing a 2 out deficit in the 10th, Kramer is well deserving of this acolaid. He hit .750 with the most Dodger rbi’s on the day with an added stolen base and a walk. The guy doesn’t get out! Frank Markie also deserves an Honorable Mention as he hit the game winning hit plating the two runs the Dodgers needed for victory. Congratulations Gentlemen!
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Week 8 - 7/17/22
Dodgers Break the Dinger Seal!!!
The Men in White took on the Knights for the second, and potentially final time this season this past Sunday. Another hot one topping out at a balmy 92 degrees, this game for the Dodgers was full of good pitching, crushed balls (some mushy), aggressive base running and the best part...not one, single error! The Dodgers were down two key players in ace hurler and captain, Frank Markie, and team skipper, Chad Rolfes. Fortunately, however, team catcher and slugger extraordinaire, Eric Johnson was back after a three week stint on the DL. This matchup was a pretty lopsided one as the Dodgers posted runs early in the game scoring 4 runs in the bottom of the 1st and 6 more in the bottom of the 3rd inning, putting their lead at 10-2 after 3 innings of play.
This day for the Dodgers was about aggressive approaches at the plate. Notable Dodgers offensive contributions came from Eric Johnson, Patrick Lenton, Ross Kramer and Phil Rivera. Johnson was the GOAT, smashing a whopping 3 for 4 day at the plate with 3 doubles - in which case one or two could have easily been triples. The extreme heat and fatigue from battling behind the dish kept the slugger Johnson at 2nd base on those bombs to the gaps. Speaking of bombs, Patrick Lenton, the Dodgers great find and late 2021 season pick up, finally found the pitch he was looking for as he crushed a yard bomb over the Champlin Park High School Varsity Field right field fence into the trees. As a witness, this writer would put the exit velocity of that ball at around 90+mph! The last home run that was hit by a Dodger came from none other than Eric Johnson in the 2019 Championship game versus the Skeeters. Lenton also had a fine day at the plate hitting an average of .750 with 3 hits one of which was that 3 run homer. Lenton had 4 rbi’s on the day. Ross Kramer, a key pick up this season who has filled in the center field role for the Dodgers with style and grace, plated 3 runs with 2 hits, 2 bases on balls and 1 rbi, hitting 1.000 on the day. Kramer also displayed prominent athleticism in center field by snagging not one but two diving plays at fly balls. Last but not least, Philly Rivera, the teams solid 3rd baseman, had a very solid day at the plate with two hits of his own with 2 rbi’s, scored once and stole 2 extra bases.
Pitching wise, the Dodgers received a fine start from Chad Manders. Manders felt good in the heat as he faced 22 batters in 5 innings pitched. Allowed 2 earned runs on 6 hits, sat down 3 batters on k’s but gave them back with 3 free bases on balls. With a 14-2 lead in the 5th inning, Shane Ohland entered the game on the bump to relieve Manders. Ohland pitched specularly to close out the game for two innings. Dominant once again, Ohland only threw to 7 batters, striking out 3 of those and allowing only 1 hit.
This was an all around team effort for the lopsided 15-2, 7 inning, Dodgers victory over the Knights. The Dodgers will face a much more challenging team in the Skeeters next week in NE MPLS. The Skeeters are the reigning champs who continue to bring dominant pitching and hitting to every match up. The Dodgers will need to continue their tenacity if they are going to find a way to swat the Skeeters.
CASEY’S PIZZA PLAYERS OF THE GAME -
Patrick Lenton & Eric Johnson!!! Again, like last week, this writer has determined this to be another legit tie (ok…maybe a little more in favor of Johnson). Although Lenton’s 3 run bomb made for an exciting day, and has potentially broken the seal on the Dodger home run drought, Johnson’s 3 doubles (nearly triples) sparked the Dodgers offensive dominance early. Johnson’s approach to every ball he sees while in the batter’s box is powerful and disciplined. Each of Johnson’s doubles were hit extremely hard and deep into the gaps of the outfield. Well done Gentlemen!!!
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Week 7 - 7/10/22
Dodgers Walk Off Generals!!!
It was another hot July day with reports of possible scattered showers and humidity levels that would slap yo mama! It was so humid in fact there were reports of men ringing out their jocks between innings! Something else that would make anyone want to ring out their shorts was the pitching from the Dodgers staff and a sexy clutch hitting performance by the Dodgers latter half of the lineup. The heat and the humidity seemed to have a deepening effect over the players, however, as the game quickly turned into a sluggish hitting and fielding first half. Overall, if this writer is being honest here, it was a disappointing defensive display by both teams. The Men in White allowed 8 errors, one for each run scored by the Generals, as the Dodgers pitchers did not allow a single earned run. The Generals had 3 fielding errors of their own.
Starting for the Dodgers on the bump once again was veteran hurler, Frank Markie. He pitched well for 6 innings, faced 27 batters with 22 putouts. Markie walked only one General hitter while striking out 3. Again, although the General’s hitters plated 7 runs in 10 innings, not one of those runs were earned by the Dodgers’ pitching staff. Markie only gave up 4 hits on the day. Hitting wise, the Dodgers seemed to be the dominant team, plating 8 runs with 17 hits while 4 were doubles. Leading the aggressiveness at the plate were Ross Kramer, Frank Markie, Martin Cheatham, Chad Rolfes, Phil Rivera and Shane Ohland. This outing was back and forth offensively. The Dodgers scored first with 2 in the first as the Generals answered back with one in the 2nd. After getting one more in the 3rd for the Dodgers, the rest of the game was owned by the Generals as they scored 5 runs between the 6th and 7th innings, putting the score in favor of the Generals 6-3.
The Dodgers felt as if hopes for a victory were as washed up as their sweat soaked undies. With Patrick Lenton taking the hill in the top of the 8th, the Generals were left guessing at the plate as Lenton changed speeds with confidence striking out 5 batters in his 3 innings in relief. Lenton only gave up 3 hits and one unearned run in the 10th through the 3 innings he pitched. The Dodgers batters pulled through in the bottom of the 8th with two more runs putting them closer 5-6. The Dodgers were able to tie the game in the bottom of the 9th with one more run batted in. This set the table for an exciting 10th inning as these two teams were determined for victory. The pesky Generals 4-5-6 hitters put together a nice offensive start in the 10th as they were able to plate one more run putting them in the lead 7-6. Lenton retired the inning.
The Dodgers had one more chance in this rubber match. Patrick Lenton, to enter the box for the Dodgers in the bottom of the 10th inning, was the guy the men in white wanted at the plate. Unfortunately Lenton popped up for out number one. Next up, Frank Markie in true "team captain" fashion, found a hole between third and short. With the tying run at 1st, Chad Rolfes approached the plate. In clutch, die-hard style that Rolfes often displays in situations like this, ripped a line drive to left field moving Markie to 2nd. With one out, Phil Rivera was faced with a tricky decision to either bunt to force the runners in scoring position with two outs or find another way to put the ball in play. With classic “Philly Style”, Rivera poked a "Texas Leaguer" over the first baseman’s head making a difficult play for the right fielder. Fortunately, for the Dodgers, the Generals’ fielders collided and failed to make the play. With bases loaded and one out, Shane “Hold My Beer” Ohland, entered the box. With a simple flick of the wrists and snap of the hips, Ohland hit a screamer line drive to the left field gap scoring both Markie from third and Rolfes from 2nd base. Dodgers win!!!
In a very ugly, hot and drippy, almost frumpy fashion, the Dodgers found a way to walk off the stunned Generals team. Great teams find a way to win. The Dodgers face off again next Sunday evening versus the Knights, this time back at the Champlin Park High School varsity field.
CASEY’S PIZZA PLAYERS OF THE GAME -
Shane Ohland & Frank Markie!!! This was a legit tie. Frank Markie deserves this honor for his leading prowess on the bump for 6th innings while offensively hitting .800 with 4 hits and 2 rbi’s and one hit by pitch. Shane Ohland, a great pick up this season for the Dodgers, continues to bash the ball week to week. Ohland hit .500 on the day with 2 hits in 4 at bats with 2 rbi’s, in which case were the walk off winning runs the Dodgers needed for victory. Ohland also made a laser beam throw from a base hit to left field, throwing out the runner from third trying to score. Honorable mentions go to Chad Rolfes and Ross Kramer. Rolfes had 2 hits, 1 rbi and a sac bunt while scoring once. Ross Kramer’s day at the plate was full of doubles…it seems to be all he does as of late. He went 3 for 6 with 3 doubles!
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Week 6 - 6/26/22
"Dodgers Bats Come Alive!!!"
It was a day of hitting for the boys in blue, this past Sunday, as the Dodgers trounced the Mavericks 15-5 in 9 innings at Yancy Park Field in Edina. The Dodgers offense was once again supported by great pitching performances by Frank Markie, Ross Kramer, and Bryan Lawrence. Combined, the Dodgers pitching staff only allowed 10 hits in 9 innings of play facing 42 batters. Offensively, the Dodgers hitters were poised and aggressive at the plate and basepaths. Their efforts produced 19 hits, one of which was a double from Bryan “B-Law” Lawrence. The Dodgers plated 15 runs with 13 rbi’s, 9 walks and 6 stolen bases on the day. Despite the Mavericks great play as of late this early in the season, this match up turned out to be a pretty typical, one sided display, once again in favor of the Dodgers. These two teams will face off once again on August 14 at Castle Field. This writer is certain the Mavericks will come ready and determined for redemption.
Dodgers offensive highlights from Sunday go to Patrick Lenton, Bryan Lawrence, Chad Manders, Shane Ohland and Josh Richards. Lenton continued to pound the baseball as he hit 5 for 6, touching home plate 3 times, with 3 runs batted in. He added to the Dodgers aggressiveness on the basepaths with one stolen base, but was also caught stealing for one attempt. Bryan Lawrence also had a great day - hitting the only double for the Dodgers, going 4 for 5 scoring twice. Chad Manders hit .500 with 3 hits, scored 3 times and was able to get in scoring position with 3 stolen bases. He added to the lead with 1 rbi. Shane Ohland had similar stats going 2 for 4, plated 3 runs, walked once and was hit by a pitch. Ohland also had 1 rbi on the day. Josh Richards went 3 for 5 with 3 rbi’s and one stolen base. Needless to say this was a solid team effort from all Dodgers batters. They hope to bring this momentum through the 4th of July break into their next outing at the beautiful Champlin Park High School Varsity field versus the 1-5 Generals.
CASEY’S PIZZA PLAYERS OF THE GAME -
Bryan “B-Law” Lawrence!!! B-Law continues to hit the ball hard adding to the Dodgers very strong offensive line up. He has been nothing but outstanding at the plate. With 5 stinkin’ pitches to choose from, Lawrence threw a gem of an outing on the bump in relief for Frank Markie keeping the very good hitting Mavericks off balance and lunging throughout his efforts. Lawrence threw for 3 innings, faced 12 batters and struck out 2 and only gave up one earned run.
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Week 5 - 6/19/22
Dodgers Fall to Skeeters in Low Scoring game as the Dodger Bats Were Much Cooler Than the Weather.
On Sunday, the Dodgers hosted the Skeeters in the first home game of the year at Castle Field. In a matchup of two of the perennially strong teams in the 35 +, everyone expected a close game and the game did not disappoint in that regard. However, as is becoming too often the case, the Dodgers came up short against the Skeeters losing 3-1. Both team's pitchers battled the heat and kept the opposing hitters off balance for all 9 innings. Stellar defense and pitchers getting out of jams all afternoon made for a low scoring game. The Skeeters struck first in the top of the first with one of their patented 2 out 2 run single, this one by Phil Allen. After the Dodgers standed two in the bottom of the first and failed to score, the Skeeters added their final run in the top of the 2nd with an RBI double by Tom Corcoran. The Dodgers cut the lead to 3-1 in the bottom of the 2nd with Phil Rivera scoring a run on an error by the 3rd baseman off a hard hit ball by Ross Kramer. Unfortunately, for the Dodgers on this steamy Fathers Day, that would be their only run. Neither team scored the rest of the way as pitching and defense took over. Casey Johnson pitched 6 strong innings for the win for the Skeeters scattering 3 hits and 7 walks while Matt Grill got the save throwing 3 strong innings giving up only 1 hit. For the Dodgers, Veteran Frank Markie didn't let the heat bother him as he ptched 6 strong innings of his own scattering 10 hits and one hit batter while striking out 3 and giving up only 2 earned runs. Bryan Lawrence came in and held the Skeeters scoreless for the last 3 innings keeping the Dodgers in the game. He gave up 5 hits and walked 1. Stellar defense along with the pitching of Markie and Lawrence kept the Dodgers in the game. The Dodgers gunned down 3 skeeters at the plate to keep the game close. As has been the case all year, the Dodgers had superb pitching but on this occasion the bats didnt match that success and the result was only 4 hits, 7 walks, and 1 run to show for it. What little offense the Dodgers had was led by Josh Richards who had a hit and 2 walks and Martin Cheatham had a hit and walk. The other Dodger hits were by Phil Rivera and Bryan Lawrence. On a 2 game losing streak, the Dodgers head to Edina next Sunday to face an improved Mavs team in a rivalry game. The match up of
3-2 teams will be a big game in determining playoff seedings for the league. The Dodgers need to bring their A game to avoid a 3 game losing streak going into the 4th of July break.
CASEY’S PIZZA PLAYERS OF THE GAME -
Frank Markie and Bryan Lawrence- The Dodgers pitchers battled the heat all day and held the potent Skeeters lineup to just 3 runs. They made key ptches in big situations all game to keep the Dodgers in the game. They even made Tom Corcoran look somewhat human by limiting the damage to 1 rbi in 5 at bats on his 3 hits. Well done boys, the offense owes you some runs.
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Week 4 - 6/12/22
“It Ain’t Over Til it’s Over!
Dodgers' Demise on Error and Missed Opportunities”
For our Dodgers Men in White, the Yogi Berra “It ain’t over til it’s over” quote unfortunately, this time, applied to the Angels tenacity in their come from behind victory in last night’s bout between the top two undefeated teams in the Roy Hobbs League. Hosting their first home game at the newly acquired, and beautiful, Champlin Park High School Varsity Field, The Dodgers came out strong in this outing having flame thrower Patrick Lenton start on the bump. Lenton pitched marvelously through 6 innings only allowing the Angels one run, while the Dodgers offense pestily added to their lead throughout the game, plating four runs. As fatigue settled in for the hurler, Lenton, the Angels were able to muster one more run in the 7th inning placing the game at 4-2, still in the Dodgers favor. The Dodgers seemed to have the victory wrapped up going into the 8th inning with the two run lead.
Chad Manders began the 8th in relief. Seemingly, without the command of the strike zone as he’d shone in previous outings, along with decreased velocity on the fastball from what the Angels were used to seeing from Lenton’s delivery, the Angels were able to pounce on Manders pitches with three hits and a walk. With bases loaded and two outs, with a two strike count, a crafty Angels hitter slapped one to right field past the defender scoring 3 runs, while adding another later in the inning, putting the Angels ahead 6 to 4. Costly errors and tough pop flies in the breeze were the ultimate doom for the Dodgers. The home team was able to plate one more run in the 9th inning making for a possible exciting comeback but ultimately the Angels pitcher and infield were able to make the final plays of the game keeping the final score 6-5, sealing the deal for the Angels as undefeated and the Dodgers going into another tough matchup versus the very good hitting club in the Skeeters. With a depleted pitching staff, the Dodgers will have their hands full attempting to keep the Skeeters offensively at bay.
On a positive note, the Dodgers offense did enough to win. Notable mentions go to Chad Manders, hitting .800 on the day with 4 hits and two stolen bases and plating one run. Patrick Lenton also had two hits, one walk and one stolen base, while scoring once. The Dodgers had 9 total hits; Manders and Lenton combined for 6 of those hits. The Dodgers combined for a team total 7 strikeouts at the plate. Unfortunately, however, when a team allows errors and gives up potential outs, it makes it hard for a pitcher to stay effective.
CASEY’S PIZZA PLAYERS OF THE GAME -
PATRICK LENTON!!! Lenton was a dominant starting pitcher. He threw gas for 7 innings while facing 27 batters only giving up 6 hits and one earned run. He had 4 strikeouts to add to his total. Lenton also contributed offensively with his two hits and a run scored. Honorable mention goes to Chad Manders for his 4 for 5 day at the plate and aggressiveness on the base paths with two stolen bases and a run scored. Unfortunately the pitching wasn’t as dominant as hoped.
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Week 3 - 6/5/22
“It Was a Ballgame”
After the Dodgers first two offensive dominant outings of the season, the men in blue found themselves, after a week's rest, ramping up for an unpredictable outing versus a well disciplined Wobblies core. The Dodgers knew that on any given Sunday, they could potentially face a Wobblies team reminiscent of the 2018 Champs they proved to be.
Frank Markie once again took the hill to start for the Dodgers. Despite Markie’s efforts to throwing good stuff around the strike zone, the crafty Wobblies patiently and consistently were able to slap multiple opposite field base hits frustrating the Dodgers defense. The Wobblies were able to total 8 hits in 4 â…“ innings and marked first in the bottom of the 2nd inning. Fortunately, the Dodgers were able to answer back with whatever the Wobblies plated through the 4th inning.
Tied 2-2 after 5, the Dodgers relief pitchers were dominant leaving the Wobblies batters bewildered and anxious. Patrick Lenton entered the game to relieve Markie in the 4th with bases loaded and one out. Lenton’s fast ball was ultimately too much for the Wobblies line up as Lenton struck out 6 of the 9 batters he faced, confidently working through 2 â…” innings. Offensively, with the help of a few untimely Wobblies errors, the Dodgers were able to pile on 4 more insurance runs between the 6th and 7th innings. With the lead comfortably at 6-2 going into the 8th, Chad Manders took the mound and pitched well, facing 9 batters, giving up 3 hits with 1 strike out. With the defense closing solidly, the Dodgers shook hands, fired up the grill and celebrated their third consecutive win, slaying the Wobblies 6-2. This battle felt much more like what baseball is supposed to feel like - a well pitched, disciplined at the plate, match up between two good teams. The Dodgers must bring their full “A” game next week as they are slotted to go to battle with long-time league leaders in the Angels. The outing between these two, at Champlin Park High School, will be one to keep an eye on.
CASEY’S PIZZA PLAYERS OF THE GAME -
Martin Cheatham!!! For legit play this time…not just a kudas call from this writer for him showing up at the previous game while injured ;) Cheatham had 3 hits in 4 at bats with a walk, and one of those hits was a crushed double to the left field corner. Cheatham also had one run batted in. As our new fill in 1st basemen, Cheatham holds the position confidently and his infield knows it!
Honorable mention goes to Chad Rolfes who steadily had clutch single deep in the count in the 7th inning which drove in 2 runs putting the Dodgers comfortably in the lead going into the latter innings of the game.
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Week 2 - 5/22/22
“For New Teams, Pitching is the Only Commodity that Matters…For Old Teams, it May be Dedication…”
The Dodgers came into week two knowing that they were going to take on a brand new team to the TCMABL Roy Hobbs League, The Pilots, who had themselves come off a bad beat from the week before losing 1-55. As middle aged men, possibly going through midlife crises and still needing that competitive edge that has grown in each one of us from playing as kids, baseball has always fulfilled that need over other sports like softball or golf. We hardballers need this game. It’s what we look forward to week after week, no matter our physical health or what other life challenges or obligations thrown at us, potentially keep us away from the game. We dream about this game; as sore as we are, and as beaten up we may feel on any given Monday morning.
At our age, pitching is a commodity. A team that can muster four to five pitchers, not “throwers” mind you, who can deliver strikes pitch after pitch and mix up speeds can be dominant in our league. Teams that do not - struggle…big time…
The Pilots were on the latter end of that statement. With limited pitching, the new Pilots struggled on the hill giving up 13 hits, 4 of which were multiple base hits, and 18 bases on balls which ultimately led to 20 runs for the opposing Dodgers. The Pilots pitchers were unable to strike out a single Dodgers batter, while managing to plunk 3 Dodger batters. The Pilots gave up 19 earned runs. New teams will struggle to find players and capable arms to get the job done, especially at our age. The Dodgers on the other hand have experienced longevity and success in the league since 2006. One of the founding fathers of the TC Dodgers, Frank Markie, again took the hill as the Dodgers starting Ace. Markie was again effective, pitching 4 innings, facing 19 batters, striking out 3 with 1 walk and 3 hits. Following Markies lead, Chad Manders came into the game to give Markie some rest. Manders pitched two innings, faced 6 batters, striking out 1 and allowed 1 hit. Ross Kramer then came in to relieve Manders for the 7th inning. Kramer faced 6 batters basically going unscathed only giving up 1 run, finishing the game giving the Dodgers a 20-3 victory.
The Dodgers piled on run after run from free bases on balls, hitting, and a bit of help through errors from the opposing team; there’s not much to say except it was a great team effort at the plate and on the basepaths. A keynote can be said for second year Dodger, Patrick Lenton, as he smacked a laser beam line drive that hit the fence 6 inches from a homerun at the very short porch in right field at Greenfield Park in Moundsview. Unfortunately Lenton was held to a single because the ball was hit so damn hard.
The Dodgers hope to continue their winning ways again versus the very unpredictable and disciplined Wobblies team at Pearl Park after the Memorial Day break.
CASEY’S PIZZA PLAYERS OF THE GAME -
Martin Cheatham & Josh Friberg!!! Like true team hard ballers, true Dodgers lifers, and not able to suit up for this game, these two guys still came out to celebrate the Dodgers victory with their team. This season for the Dodgers feels different, it feels special. Good things are here and good things are comin’...watch out!
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Week 1 - 5/15/22
DODGERS BEGIN THE 2022 SEASON WITH RISING STARS!!!
With what seemed to feel like another everlasting winter, the presence of spring baseball arriving once more has been a welcomed ticket for many middle aged hard ballers. Some could argue that the year 2022 for Minnesota sports teams, so far, has left sports fans feeling optimistic yet anxious but ultimately defeated and feeling once again like “here we go again…” With our beloved Minnesota Timberwolves and Wild going down and getting knocked out quite quickly in the playoffs, and having to wait patiently for star players such as Edwards, Towns, Kaprizov, and Fiala to take the stage once again next season, us sports fans now hopefully and blissfully turn our gaze to that of the Twins, a team who has found themselves on the losing end of the stat line for quite some time. This year projects a potentially different story as our young Twins sit comfortably at 3 games ahead of the competition in the Central Division. Now granted it is still only May, but It appears that the Twins off season roster moves have paid off, coupled by the good fortune of star players staying healthy thus far. As far as the TCMABL league is concerned however, in comparison, the TCMABL Dodgers have also made some well timed off season roster additions, gaining much needed depth in the roster after losing some very critical starting players. Brand new to the Dodgers roster this summer are Ross Kramer and Shane Ohland with Patrick Lenton playing 3 games as a Dodger last season. Rich Cousin also adds to the Dodgers’ depth chart with his second year as one of The Blue and White.
The Dodgers started off their 2022 ball season with a bang taking on the Knights away in Blaine on a partly cloudy and breezy, beautiful Spring afternoon. With much anticipation by many to witness these new talents finally in action on the field, the Dodgers newcomers didn’t disappoint as they were clearly top stars of the day. However, one would be amiss if they didn’t consider the Dodgers’ Ace, Frank Markie, as one of those shining stars as Markie started the game for 5 innings, taking down 17 batters, allowing six hits with two earned runs. The veteran hurler was dominant as he alone sat down 9 batters. Hitting for the Dodgers was again a team effort but the new stars clearly dominated the stat line on the day. The brightest star, Patrick Lenton, the Dodgers 1.5 year rookie, batted 1.000 hitting 5 for 5 with a double and scored 4 times of the Dodgers 22 runs on the day. Next up, Ross Kramer; a new and dedicated addition to the Dodgers roster - a speedy, disciplined center fielder with a great eye at the plate. Kramer had 2 hits in 3 abs while being hit by pitches twice in his efforts. The third star added to this exciting Dodger line up is Shane Ohland. Shane comes to the Dodgers after a long stint with the Minnetonka Saints, a team that played well in the Federal League for years. Shane pitched two remarkable innings coming off some long deserved time off, yet it appeared Ohland never lost a beat. Ohland faced 13 batter’s striking out 4. Other notable stars for the Dodgers were, once again, Eric Johnson, who had 2 singles and a double on the day with 4 runs batted in. Eric remains the Dodgers’ dominant scare at the plate for all other opponents in the league. David “BigMac” McIntosh also had a stellar day batting .400, scoring 3 times with 2 stolen bases. With a 22-6 victory over the Knights in the first week of league play, the Dodgers roll into week 2 with confidence and all the right added ingredients to grow these stars into the fusion they need for a dominant playoff run.
CASEY’S PIZZA PLAYERS OF THE GAME:
Patrick Lenton & Frank Markie: Paul…also known as Patrick Lenton was showcased on the TCMABL Twitter Feed as the league’s Players of the Week. Well earned, Lenton was dominant at the plate with precise patience and timing against extreme off speed pitching from the Knights. Again, Patrick hit 5 for 5 on the day batting in 4 runs. Markie, on the defensive side of the game, gave the Dodgers the stellar start they were looking for versus a very unpredictable, good hitting Knights team. Markie kept the opposing hitters off balance for 5 innings, striking out 9 in the process.
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8/22/21
DODGERS LEAVE TOO MANY IN
FINAL REGULAR SEASON OUTING LOSS
This was not the offensive momentum the Dodgers were looking for heading into the playoffs. Against a Skeeters team who’s starting pitchers never fail to deliver, all cylinders need to be firing for an opposing team to pull ahead. The men in white simply couldn’t get the job done at the plate. The Dodgers managed to accumulate 10 hits on the day with two extra runners coming from a base on balls and a hit batsman. From those 12 base runners, however, the impatient Dodgers could only muster 2 runs in the match up. Leading the Dodgers offensively were Bob Andresen who had a .500 night with 2 hits, and Chad Manders and Eric Johnson who hit two a piece and each with a stolen base. Josh Richards, Chad Rolfes, and Josh Friberg all had one hit a piece. Martin Cheatham added to that with a double of his own. Josh Friberg had the only two runs batted in for the Dodgers depleted offense.
Defensively, the Dodgers were relatively effective and were able to redeem some highlights by completing 4 double plays on the day; two of which came from doubling off runners from caught line drives. Chad Manders, who attended a dinner party and partook in one too many libations the night before, completed the game throwing nine innings, facing 43 batters giving up 11 hits, one hit batsman, 5 walks and 2 strike outs. Manders gave the Skeeters 5 earned runs as his Dodgers defense ate up the majority of the Skeeters’ connections. It was a very windy day at Castle field which benefited both teams as hard hit fly balls hung up in the air for easy putouts.
Luckily for the Dodgers, this team had help from others around the league and were able to retain their 3 seed spot heading into the playoffs. The Dodgers will get the rematch they were hoping for versus the Voyageurs this upcoming Saturday for the first round of the playoff tournament. The Dodgers need to figure out how to effectively hit offspeed pitches otherwise it’ll be a short playoff for the 2021 season end.
CASEY’S PIZZA SLICE PLAYERS OF THE GAME -
CHAD MANDERS, BOB ANDRESEN & JOSH FRIBERG. Manders pitched nine innings for a complete game (with a bit of a hanger...we’ve all been there right?...) and had two hits and a stolen base. Bob Andresen seemed to be the only Dodger-offensive spark hitting .500 with two hits. Andresen also contributed turning two double plays on his own snagging two line drives doubling up runners at first. Josh Friberg stayed steady as he delivered the only two runs for the Dodgers.
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8/18/21
ANGELS ARE HUMAN AFTER ALL...
For a team sitting at 11-0 that has seen nothing but success in a league that has always been competitive and evenly matched across the board over the years, and has shown dominance in the realm of not only wins but also holds so many league leader stats, one might wonder if the team in red has been embodied by some kind of secret divine entity. The talent of the Angels has seen unprecedented results this season so far. This writer is not only a fan of the guys on the squad but also a respectful competitor of the team; the Angels have never been a team to take lightly. They mash the ball from the plate, they have a solid reliable defense, and their pitching has been dominant through every matchup. Needless to say, the boys in blue didn't really have any winning expectations coming into the match up; especially with so many of the Dodgers being banged up or absent. Nonetheless, the Dodgers would eventually discover just how human these Angels actually are...
Luckily for the Dodgers, ace hurler Frank Markie, was back in action starting the matchup on the hill coming off a demanding, short turn over week for baseball. Markie had great stuff as the Angels found themselves a bit off balance at the plate through the first six innings of play. The Angels did score first in the top of the first going up 1-0, but the Dodgers were able to answer right back in the bottom of the inning. Markie threw brilliantly as he faced 31 batters but only gave up 6 hits (2 hits through 6 innings), 1 base on balls with two strikeouts. The Dodgers defense came to play as the team provided Markie with solid play after play producing 23 putouts through six. Patrick Lenton, the Dodgers newest member, served as a sigh of relief for the Dodgers defense as he ate up ball after ball firing them from short stop giving the Dodgers and Markie the defensive leadership they’ve been looking for since all-star Martin Cheatham went down with a nagging elbow injury. Fatigue eventually set in for the veteran pitcher, Markie, as the Angels middle line up finally began timing Markie's pitches and were able to produce 4 runs in the top of the 7th inning. The Dodgers hopes for a win dwindled as they surely felt there was no way out of this 4-1 deficit with only three chances left to mark. The Dodgers were able to muster one more in the bottom of the 7th making it a 4-2 ball game.
It's often proven time and time again that baseball is obviously a team game and that it takes everyone to win. The bottom of the line up for the Dodgers proved to be angels of their own as the Dodgers came to bat in the bottom of the 8th. Clutch performances were had as Josh Richards's stellar performance continued as he was hit by a pitch for the second time on the night. The next two batters went down with Josh Friberg coming to the plate with two outs. Friberg found the fastball he was looking for all night as he blasted a flyball to left center for a double, sending Richards to third with two outs. This was the momentum the Dodgers needed as the hits, walks and hit batsman kept coming for the boys in blue as they soon found themselves plating 5 runs in the bottom of the 8th with two outs. Bryan “B-Law” Lawrence came in to pitch for the last two innings saving the game for the Dodgers not allowing another Angel run, ending the game 7-5; an unforeseen but well deserved victory for the Dodgers. The Dodgers are looking at the possibility of miraculously thrusting themselves into the 2 seed going into the playoffs if they can find a way to beat the Skeeters this upcoming Sunday evening.
CASEY'S Pizza Players of the Game = Josh Richards!!! This victory for the Dodgers was a true team effort as there are many honorable mentionable players that contributed to the win. However, Richards had a .500 night at the plate posting a hit, a walk, scoring once with an RBI and getting plunked by wild pitches two times to boot! As the Dodgers ever solid and trustworthy left fielder, Richards also ran down a screaming flyball that was sure to reach the left field corner for the Angels hopeful batter had he missed it, but Richards buried those hopes to the ground as he snagged it with an awesome effort after getting hit in the shin at the plate thus dooming the Angels hopes for a rally. Honorable mentions go to Josh Friberg for his part in the spark in the 8th with his double ultimately sending the Dodgers to victory. Frank Markie also pitched 7 innings of a gem giving the Angels only two hits through 6. To do that against a dominant hitting team like the Angels is a feat in itself!
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8/15/21
"IT'S A GREAT DAY FOR A BALLGAME; LET'S LOSE TWO!!"
It's not quite the quote the Dodgers were looking for having to post results for two games versus the Voyageurs on Sunday. These two teams were forced to complete their game one from earlier in the season when the field lights went out on them in the top of the 9th due to a lights out city ordnance. League rules force teams to replay innings that were not finished in these circumstances, even though the Dodgers were up by a run in the top of the 9th with a runner on third and one out. WIth the opportunity to throw Martin Cheatham, the Dodgers hard throwing closer, the boys in blue surely would have taken game one. The Dodgers unexpectedly faced a pitcher they hadn't seen in a while. This pitcher may have been tossing lobs in the 30 mph range and the Dodgers couldn't time it effectively. The Dodgers went down 1-2-3 for their replayed top of the 9th. It didn't take long for the Voyageurs to score in the bottom of the ninth as their core line up hit the ball hard enough that the Dodgers infielders couldn't handle and gave them the win, giving Chad Manders his first loss of the night.
Game two, from the start, was a frustrating defensive struggle for the Dodgers as they continued to give the Voyageurs opportunity after opportunity. With errors plaguing this team, the Voyageurs soon took a 4-1 lead in the 4th. Chad Manders started on the hill for the Dodgers and was able to keep the Voyageurs mostly at bay not giving up too many hard hit balls posting 4 strike outs, 2 walks, 8 hits and only 2 earned runs. Frank Markie plugged into short stop, in place of an injured Martin Cheatham, did a fine job defending the position making an outrageous over the head snag catch in shallow left field. The Dodgers hitters could not figure out the Voyageurs starting pitcher, who was tossing more of what seemed like underhand softball pitches than hardball fastballs. Nonetheless, it was extremely effective as the Dodgers failed to score enough runs to be victorious leaving their total at only 3, falling to the Voyageurs 3-6. The Dodgers only had 7 hits wth 5 strikeouts with what seemed like every hard hit ball recording as an out as they were directly at the opposing defensive players. The Dodgers hitters were able to draw 7 base on balls and were hit by 3 pitches. Eric Johnson and Frank Markie each had two hits a piece with Johnson smacking another double on the day.
This was obviously not the day the Dodgers had anticipated as their record fell to 6-5 putting them in the 4th seed heading towards the playoffs. The boys in blue have a tough match up against the undefeated Angels this Wednesday; another make up game at the lustrious Castle Field in Anoka under the lights for a nighttime match up. Hopefully the Dodgers can find some hidden tricks up their sleaves and wake up the bats in victory to gain momentum into their final regular season game.
CASEY'S Pizza Players of the Game = Voyageur Pitching! The majority of the games the Dodgers have won this season, the Dodgers have posted 13 to 14 runs. This game they were held to 3. They also ousted the Dodgers in their post game parking lot game being the last ones to leave in celebration. Three upright V's is a tough one to beat!
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8/8/21
Pesky Wobblies Give Dodgers a Run for their $$$
Let's be real...no one's gettin' paid in this league; however, by $$$, for these 40+ baseball grinders a chance for a top three position in the league's playoffs is just as good. The Dodgers were hopeful that the pregame determination would smoothly run into an easy victory. The Wobblies however had something else in mind. Sitting in the 5th place position themselves at a 5-5 record, the Wobblies could easily make a run for one of the top three positions. They came out hot giving the Dodgers' ace hurler, Frank Markie, and the Dodger defense headache after headache as they managed to post 4 runs after 3 innings of play. The Dodgers were able to come back with 2 runs of their own, but the Wobblies were not waivering as they continued to add hits and runs scoring a total of 8 runs on the day.
There were some definite questionable calls during the game that may have impacted or shifted this game towards the benefit of a side...a bobbled ball by the first basemen and a questionable glove tag on the base, a hit ball caroms off the leg of a batter called a hit with the play ending with the batter at 2nd base, shaky defenses turning close plays into questionable plays. Ultimately these kinds of baseball gaffs happen every week to every team in one way or another; however, they often do not determine who wins or loses. This victory for the Dodgers came down to effective pitching and hitting. The Dodgers came alive in the 6th inning scoring 6 runs inevitably putting the Dodgers in control 11-8, then posting two more in the 7th ending the days slugfest 13-8 victorious for the Dodgers.
Key hits came off the bats of Eric Johnson, who went 3 for 5 on the day with a double and a triple with 2 base on balls and another stolen base. Martin Cheatham, Chad Manders, Frank Markie, and new addition to the Dodgers squad, Patrick Lenton, all had a double with at least one rbi a piece. Chad Rolfes, Josh Richards, and Bob Andresen also added a hit a piece to put the Dodgers team total to 12 on the day.
The Dodgers increase to a 6-3-1 record placing them in the third spot with 3 games to go before playoffs. With a very difficult schedule ahead having to face the Voyageurs, first place Angels, and second place and reigning champions, Skeeters, The Boys in Blue and White will need to continue to place runs with steady hitting and crafty pitching in order to end the regular season in a top three position for a playoff run.
CASEY'S Pizza Player of the Game = Eric Johnson! Johnson once again was an offensive spark for the Dodgers, hitting .667 on the day with an .800 on base percentage and a 1.667 slugging percentage, crushing a double and a towering triple that one hopped the fence plating 3 rbi's and scoring himself 3 times.
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8/1/21
RIVALRY??? Maybe Not So Much...
Sunday night's match up between the previously proclaimed rivals, the Mavs and Dodgers, by this writer, which was presumed to be a heated, mudslinging contest, in actuality, turned out to be more of a well behaved, respectful game between bros. It was a basic game; nothing too flashy and not a whole lot of emotional excitement. Sure, there were batter's hit, things said, and body language noticed, but the two teams were civil and focused on the game of baseball. It was a game that could potentially be summed up with a question: "What determines baseball victories? A team that hits, or a team that walks?"
A sports analyst reviewing post game stats might argue it would definitely be the latter. The Dodgers were out their ace slinger Frank Markie so Chad Manders had to take the hill as the starter for the second consecutive week. With midseason elbow soreness plaguing the Dodgers pitchers, the team was unsure how this game would play out. However, Manders, along with the leadership of catcher, Eric Johnson, were able to creatively craft a mix of junk that would leave the Mavericks batter's off balance at the plate through 6 innings allowing only 1 earned run out of 4 scored for the Mavs. Manders tallied 3 strike outs and allowed 8 hits with one walk. Brian Lawrence entered the game in the 7th performing another nice outing for two innings only allowing 5 hits and one earned run with no walks. Chris Arseneau closed out the game nicely, throwing heat like nothing the Dodgers have seen since the glory years of #8. Arseneau faced five batters with one K, a BB and an earned run. With the Mavericks newly found hitting talent, they are ones not to take lightly as they managed to tally 14 total hits as a team for the day compared to that of the Dodgers' 8 hits.
On the other side of the coin, The Mavericks pitchers struggled to find the zone. It was expected by the Dodgers, that the Mavs ace hurler, Luke Niebauer would have come out to produce an outing similar to what the league stats has shown to this point in the season; the contrary was evident, however, as Niebauer was forced out of the game early in the 4th inning giving up multiple walks, hits and runs by the Dodgers' anxious and agressive plate appearances. The Mavericks bullpen continued to laden their team with walks tallying a total of 23 free bases for the Dodgers; the stat line is a shocking one with 19 base on balls and 4 hit batsman.
The outing ended in a final score of 14-6 as the Dodgers evened the score from the previous match up between these two teams. Chances are this rivalry will again be tested as a true rubber match come the play offs later this month.
CASEY'S Pizza Player of the Game = Eric Johnson...again...:) We should name this thing the "Eric Johnson Pizza Player of the Game" because Johnson seems to be the all star week after week with exemplary performances as the team's protector of the dish. Johnson hit 1.000 with the only double for the Dodgers, bringing in 2 rbi's, scoring 3 times with 5 bases on balls. Johnson also tallied three more stolen bases putting him well in the lead as the Dodgers main base theif!
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7/25/21
DODGERS GET ROLLED BY ACKMAN
The Dodgers were feeling confident in their play from their last two victories and were very much looking forward to their match up against the unbeaten Angels. It would have seemed that this match up would either have been a pitching duel or a hitting display from both teams. Neither scenarios were the case and in fact, the Angels were dominant in both factions. This game ended much in the reminiscent way of the 2017 Dodgers vs. Cubs Championship game where the Dodgers were forced to face none other than Nate Ackman in that match up. The Dodgers ended up losing to Ackman 0-4 in that game with only 2 hits. Ackman went the distance pitching all nine innings. Sunday would bode similarly for the Dodgers against Ackman. Only managing to scrounge together a total of 7 hits in Ackman's 9 innings pitched, the Dodgers once again fell to Ackman in his dominating performance on the hill. Dodgers hitters combined for 9 strike outs and a team batting average of .209.
From the other dugout, Chad Manders threw for 7 innings with Bryan Lawrence finishing up the game in the 8th. Manders was hit hard by the patient and talented Angels lineup. Plagued by timely patient 2 strike hitting and a few lucky squibs, the Angels soon found themselves in a comfortable 7-1 lead after 6 innins. Although not allowing a walk, Manders hung too many good pitches as the Angels tallied a total of 17 hits with 7 eared runs. The Angels throttled the Dodgers to conclude the victory 9-1 handing the Dodgers their third loss on the season. Lawrence finished the game nicely in his solo inning with two strike outs, giving up two hits with no runs. It will be a long road ahead for the Dodgers if they cannot figure out a way to time effective pitching. With a tough schedule ahead with the second place 6-3 Mavericks up next, the Dodgers will most likely face the Mavericks ace Luke Neibauer who has managed to stay at the top of the league's leader board with 28 k's. What will the Dodgers do? Who will come to play that day? We will see...
CASEY'S Pizza Slice Player of the Game = Martin Cheatham. Cheatham was the most successful Dodger to go the distance with Ackman accumulating 3 of the team's seven hits. Cheatham also contributed beautifully in the field, as always, with his smooth delivery at shortstop. Honorable mentions go to Mike Marquardt who tallied two hits and one walk. Both players, Cheatham and Marquardt, had an OBP of .750. Josh Friberg also needs a mention as he was the only Dodger seemingly unscathed by Ackman, drawing a hit by pitch, cracking one basehit and drew a walk. Friberg may need to instruct a clinic for the Dodgers on how to approach Ackman in their next meeting.
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7/18/21
DODGERS ROLLIN'
The boys in blue faced the Knights Sunday evening. The Knights coming off of a two game losing skid, tried their best to hold off the inevitable Dodger offensive onslaught that would ultimately catepolt them to a 13-3 victory. On the flip side, the Dodgers were coming off a win and looking forward to another successful victory. This match up wasn't a very flashy one nor was it anticipated to become a heated contest like games in the past recent weeks. It was just a good game between two good teams.
The bats for the boys in blue were alive as the team was able to tally a total of 16 hits, including two triples by catcher Eric "Big D" Johnson and 5 runs batted in. Frank Markie also had a big night contributing 2 singles and a double with 2 rbi's. Markie was again the Dodgers ace as he completed the shortened game pitching seven innings only giving up 3 runs to the Knights as the Dodgers ten-runned their opponent in the seventh inning. Markie tallied 5 more strike outs for a season total of 27 tying him for a spot at the top of the leagues' pitcher strike out leader board with the Angel's ace, John Barbella. Other offensive stand outs for the Dodgers were David "Big Mac" McIntosh going 2 for 2 with 2 bb's scoring twice and batting in one. Josh Friberg and Chad Manders also had a great day at the plate with two hits a piece.
Again, a great team effort from all members and consistent great play is rolling these Dodgers with great trajectory towards a true winning streak as they look toward's next week's match up versus the undefeated Angels. We'll see if this anticipated match up will in deed turn out to be the shoot out it's expected to be.
CASEY'S Pizza Players of the Game = Well deserved tie between Eric Johnson and Frank Markie. Johnson continues to be the Dodgers leader behind the dish both defensively and offensively at the plate dominating TCMABL 35+ Division pitching. Johnson hit .750 with two triples and a single, tallying 5 rbi's, scoring twice. Markie continues to lead the team on the mound as the Dodgers' ace with a great outing in seven innings sitting down 22 batters out of 32 faced with 5 k's and 0 bb's. Offensively, Markie went 2 for 3 with one base on balls and a double.
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7/11/21
THE DROUGHT IS OVER
Sam Elliot might be one of the most iconic cinematic cowboy characters of our time; try to imagine his voice narrating this write up...
...The tumbleweeds seemed to dance over the terrain of the desert like surface of Rice Lake field. One might reckon the playing field was more of a dust bowl basin than actual grass. This Minnesota summer drought has wreaked havoc on most living things round these parts. It was three past high noon when the Dodgers in white mosied in with a new life that some might say hasn't been seen in a fortnight. Not soon after, the Generals rode onto the scene short a handful of their own pose but were able to hold their own through the first four innings of this stand off. Fortunately the Dodgers Ace "Gunslinger" Frank Markie was poised and delivered his best as he faced 36 Generals and eliminated 26 of them with 8 strike outs. Markie, like an intense raging bull, pounded ball after ball tallying a 5 for 6 day at the plate with 3 rbi's and 4 runs. A much wiser man than me once said, "You either eat the bar, or the bar will, well...eat you..." Makie ate the bar to kill this drought.
...Ok, I threw in some random Big Labowski quote there... but only Sam Eilliot can do Sam Elliot like Sam Eilliot...so we'll leave it at rest right there I reckon...
Other stand out offensive contributers for the Dodgers were Eric Johnson batting 3 for 5 with a ground rule double, Martin Cheatham who went 2 for 3 with 2 walks and two stolen bases, and Chris "Get This Monkey Off My Horse" Arseneau who smashed the ball all game going .500 with 2 rbi's. There were notable others as the Dodgers as a whole contributed to the 14-7 romping of the Generals. Arseneau also closed and saved the game with a fine ninth inning facing four batters, sitting down 2 with one walk.
CASEY'S Pizza Player of the Game = Frank Markie, our captain, our Sam Elliot!
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6/27/21
A New Rivalry is Born
In the passion of a heated battle things are said, actions are had and rivalries are born. The Minneapolis Grays held this moniker for the Dodgers for years; however, after this match up the Mavericks have now been dubbed the new rivals. Emotions ran high from both teams, but the bottom line for this day's match up was that the better team won as the Dodgers fell to the Mavericks 4-8. Errors kill pitchers and pitchers determine hitters. The Dodgers looked rough as error after error plagued the boys in white as the Mavericks took a quick 4-0 lead after 3 innings. From feilding errors to base running, the Dodgers again looked lethargic and old - which lead to much frustration and panic for this team, yet also left a new found passion for future Mavericks domination. This writer was not at this game and has had to resort to reflecting on it through heresay and the word of his teammates. From what this writer has learned the title for this write up speaks for itself. Nough said. The Mavericks will see a different team come August 1 and had better be ready for the real Dodgers.
CASEY'S Pizza Player of the Game = ??? yea right...
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6/20/21
BAD WEATHER TIMING
Really Minnesota!?!?!? No rain all of June, and on game day Sunday, June 20, you throw intermittent showers at us!?!? Despite the fact that the game could have been played as Castle Field in Anoka was looking very playable with the sky's clearing, an unfortunate combination of earlier spotty rain, tough decision making for both players and team managers, Father's Day pressures, and powers possessed by field managers, ultimately cast the deciding vote to postpone the game.
The match up vs. the unbeaten Angels will be postponed to TBD. Stay tuned...
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6/13/21
Dodgers and Voyageurs Kiss Sister’s in the Dark
The arousing aromas of baseball in the air...the canister candles lit...Barry White softly creeping into the hearts and loins of each player...the mood was set...
Baseball great, and sexy beast, George Brett, once said, “If a tie is like kissing your sister, losing is like kissing your grandmother with her teeth out." Sunday night for the Dodgers and Voyageurs offerred all the ingredients for what would ultimately wind up to be a hot date with their sisters! On the bright side, both teams avoided kissing their toothless grandma’s. The two well-deserving teams of the win will need to battle out the ninth inning once more when they meet for the second time on August 15, as the lights went out on the match promptly at 10pm due to a city ordinance.
After a bit of crafty hitting by both teams through six innings, the Dodgers found themselves in the lead 10-4. Chad Manders was the starting hurler as he pitched a sound six innings keeping the Voyageurs mostly off balance allowing nine hits with four earned runs, one walk and four strikeouts. Bryan Lawrence started the 7th and worked through the 8th innings and pitched strikes but the middle of the Voyageurs line up is full of hefty lumberjacks who love nothing more than swingin’ the axe! They were able to plate six more runs to tie the outing at 10 apiece.
During the top of the ninth the Dodgers were striking back with runners on 2nd and 3rd with only one out...batter up...click...dark. Nobody on the field had any clue that there was a city ordinance that would cut the lights out at 10 pm sharp. Shaking hands in the dark with the opposing team after a 3 hour back and forth battle?... yep! Kissing your sister in the dark…
The boys in blue were lead at the plate by Eric Johnson who went 2 for 3 on the day with an rbi, 3 stolen bases, and two runs who also hit a double down the right field line in the top of the 9th to start the Dodgers, Voyageur slaying rally just to be squashed by the lights going out resulting in a negated ninth inning effort. Manders also contributed 3 hits and another 3 stolen bases which resulted in 3 runs.
Part two of the match which will be the final ninth inning played will take place before these two teams battle it out on August 15 at Castle Field. Let's hope the Dodgers don't wind up kissing their toothless grandmas. The Dodgers get the very tough unbeaten Angels for Week 5
CASEY'S Pizza Player of the Game = Eric Johnson who I’m sure is itching to have that double back in the new ninth to be played later on. Honorable mentions go to Chad Manders with six strong innings of pitching and a solid hitting display and Martin Cheatham who was complete butter at shortstop while striking the ball hard at the plate all game; just right at the defense.
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6/6/21
“This Game is #@$&!% Hard!!!”
The Great Yogi Berra was one of the best baseball orators from all of baseball history. There are three of his quotes that pretty much sum up the way this last Sunday’s matchup versus the unpredictable Knights went for the boys in blue. The first being: “This is Deja Vu all over again.” Then, “Baseball is ninety percent mental. The other half is physical”, and finally, “The game of baseball isn’t over until it’s over.”
The Dodgers started this match up with the same lull in performance they left off with last week from the loss versus the Skeeters. Aside from the day being the hottest outing so far recorded this season, there was this lingering energy-less vibe in the dugout and on the field as the Dodgers soon found themselves in a five run deficit after the top half of the first inning. They managed to knock off a few from the deficit as they then were able to score two runs in the bottom of the first. As the second through fourth innings progressed both teams were able to tally seven runs as the ball was smacked around the field despite both team’s hurlers’ fine efforts in throwing strikes. From the looks of how the game was progressing it surely seemed like the Dodgers were doomed to face the same feat as the week before.
Baseball is a mental game above all else. Berra’s second quote really rang true as base running mistakes held the Dodgers back from an early lead over the Knights killing a bases loaded no out rally as a Knight’s were able to double up the Dodgers on an infield fly ruling. A couple bad reads on pop ups and fly balls in the wind also required the boys in blue to work that much harder. Luckily for the Dodgers, the other half of Berra’s quote, the “physical” side, saved the day as the Dodgers were able to collectively put up 14 runs with 14 hits, three of which were doubles, and five stolen bases.
“The game isn’t over until it’s over.” The Dodgers had a great eighth inning rally, which was sparked by a bunt single off the bat of Chad Manders. He also contributed two other hits going 3 for 5 on the day. The Dodgers, as a unit, had a great eye at the plate, as they tallied 9 bases on balls. Average wise, Frank Markie, blew up the day with a perfect streak of three at bats with three hits. The big guy even stole home on a first and third throw down scenario! David Macintosh had a big day with two singles and a double on the day and Martin Cheatham also killed it with a single, double and three walks for his offensive contribution. It was a team effort on the hill as Markie, Lawrence and Cheatham combined for a total 8 strikeouts. They threw strikes all game as they were able to limit the Knights to only five walks. The Knights have always been a good hitting team. They fought but luckily our Dodgers turned up victorious in the end.
Let’s hope the Deja Vu does not hold up and continue going into next week's battle versus the crafty Voyageurs in Chaska at Veteran’s Park.
CASEY'S Pizza Player of the Game = Frank Markie who pitched five innings of strikes and determination, but overall outshined all other Dodgers at the plate with a 1.000 average performance, hitting three singles with three RBI’s, a walk and a stolen base. He’ll be missed next Sunday vs. the Voyageurs.
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Dodgers Get Clipped By Skeeter Swarm!
Have you ever been camping in the deep woods or even just hangin out in the yard on a typical Minnesota summer day, and right around dusk the skeeters come out and completely ruin your night because you just didn't prepare properly for the outing? There seemed to be a lull in energy or a haziness in intensity right from the get go as The Dodgers on Sunday forgot to pack their Skeeter defending essentials as they fell 6-10 to the reigning Champs. The whole Skeeter crew were swattin' and smackin' the boys in blue all night long as there really wasn't much else the Dodgers could do to ward off their attack. However, The Dodgers struck first as they took a 1-0 lead in the first. It didn't last long unfortunatley as The Skeeters answered back with three of their own. Frank Markie pitched strikes for 5 innings, faced 32 batters but only gave up 4 walks. The Dodgers were challenged and frustrated as the Skeeters peskily dinked and dunked lobbed fly balls and weak liners into the shallow outfield all game. The Skeeters could not be fooled as they rolled to a 8-1 lead through the first five innings. The Dodgers showed some life in the 6th through 8th innings as they were able to tack on a few to make it somewhat of an exciting day. A rally in the 7th inning was squashed by a few Malaria-symptom-like costly base running mistakes and untimely hitting that put a gash in the Dodgers sails before closing out the match. Highlights, again, came from none other than Bob Andresen who hit nearly everything that came his way as he went 3 for 4 with one run on the day. Chad Manders and Eric Johnson both added to efforts with two hits a piece. With a well received Memorial Day Weekend break and hopefull well rested bodies and mental energy, the Dodgers will resume the swatting vs the Knights at Castle Field in Anoka on June 6th. This weeks...
CASEY'S Pizza Player of the Game = Eric Johnson who brought his skeeter swatter for a .500 hitting performance with two singles, a double and two rbi's.
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Welcome Back Sports Fans!!!
A Great Day for an Opener!
The 2021 TCMABL season is underway after a long Covid stint of sitting around, drinking too much beer, injuring ourselves playing disc golf and table tennis, trying to remember to put pants on for Zoom meetings, and logging countless hours of Tic Tok viewing. But alas, the die hards were back out there with a new found zeal for the game and a readiness and anticipation for the season. The fresh smell of newly grown grass whisped through Carlson Field at Cedar Knoll Park last Sunday as the well rested TC Dodgers took on the Wobblies for their away kick off opener to the season. The word on the street was that the Wobblies were a bit more affected by the habits set in by Covid and hadn't practiced or gotten together during the preseason. It showed a bit as Wobblies had a shaky performance in the field committing one error after another. Their usually dominant hurler, Brian Smith, was also battling a sore shoulder. The Dodgers were able to pounce on them quickly with hit after hit and a tenacity that many hadn't seen since before the pandemic. The big bats for the Dodgers came from non other than Phil "The Drill" Rivera as he went 3 for 4 on the day with three singles. Bob "Give me that Stick!" Andresen followed up with a stunning 3 for 4 day himself, having two singles and a nuke double that everyone in the stadium thought was gone. Eric Johnson and Martin Cheatham also rounded out the day nicely each hitting .500. Cheathem leads the team with 3 rbi's. Frank Markie started on the hill for the Dodgers, as the crafty veteran put down 13 batters in 5 innings with 5 k's on the day. Manders and Cheathem relieved the outing wth another combined six strikeouts. Up next for the Dodgers, the boys in blue and white get to swat the Skeeter's away at Pearl Park in Minneapolis.
CASEY'S Pizza Player of the Game = Bob Andresen who scorched the ball all game with 2 hits and a double coming into his rookie season as a Dodger!
Three is the Magic Number
The Dodgers avoided the high seed 1st round curse in the Roy Hobbs Division Playoffs as they narrowly defeated the Mavericks 3-2. Like the old School House Rocks video says "3 is the magic number".
The first 3 of the day are the names: Manders, Marquardt and Mcintosh. The three M's played a huge role in helping the Dodgers beat the Mavs 3-2. Mike Marquardt had two hits on the day, but none was bigger than his walk offf single that scored Chad Manders. Manders had a hit during the game and a top ten diving catch, but it was his 9th inning walk that would prove to be a backbreaker for the Mavs. Manders reached 2nd on an errant throw from the catcher. Two pitches later he would score the winning run on Marquardt's single. David Mcintosh also had a nice day at the plate as he had two hits and he would score the tying run in the 6th inning.
The second 3 of the day was of course the 3 runs produced by the blue and white. Hats off to the Mavericks as they played a great game. The Dodger's struggled all day to get hits, baserunners and score runs.
The last 3 is of course Wes Robertson. Robertson's masterful pitching performance allowed the Dodgers to stay in the game and eek out the win. The lefty only allowed 2 runs in 8 innings. Somewhere on Sunday morning there was a TRI-athalon apologizing to Wes Robertson for being to easy. With the win the Dodgers advance to the semi-finals and are currently in the 3rd inning of that contest, which was rain delayed until Saturday.
CASEY'S Pizza Player of the Game= Mike Marquardt who had two hits, including the walk off single. He also played his usual stellar center field.
"We're Goin Streakin!"
Frank the Tank said it best in the movie Old School, "Come on everybody, we're goin streakin!" Luckily for the Dodgers, and mankind, their version of streakin was fully clothed. The Dodger's winning "streak" hit 10 games and along with it came the Roy Hobbs Division Regular Season title. "You're my boy Blue."
The Dodger's have been getting into a habit of spotting their opponents a first inning lead way to often and this was the case again on Sunday. The Dodgers seemed like they were still thinking about that nice Saturday they had at Home Depot, or Bed Bath and Beyond as the Grays scored 5 runs in the top of the 1st. The Dodgers were still down 5-0 until the 3rd inning as they rung the bell three times to cut the visitors lead to 5-3. The Dodgers would add another run in the 4th inning to make the score 5-4. The Grays would plate just one more run that would extend their lead to 6-4 in the 5th frame. At this point the Dodgers started ...to play hardball. And I got to admit. I'm impressed. The home nine would score 5 runs in the bottom of the 6th to take a 9-6 lead. "You're my boy Blue." They would also tack on another run in the bottom of the 8th to round out the scoring. The Grays went quietly in the top of the 9th, and the Dodgers winning streak of 10 games was complete and a beer bong was in order. Because, Once it hits your lips, its so good!
The story behind the story would be the pitching of Wes Robertson. The lefty would surrender 5 first inning runs, and it looked like his afternoon on the hill might be shorter than Frank the Tank's marriage. But, Wes is a pitcher buddy, and he'll find a way out for us. And a way out he did find as Robertson limited the visitors to only one more run the rest of the way for a complete game victory. Robertson earned his 5th win of the season.
Offensively the Dodgers used a mix of hits, walks and hit by pitches to score double digits for the 10th time this season. The Dodgers had 8 hits and 8 walks on the afternoon along with 2 hit by pitches. The home nine were led by Wes Robertson who not only pitched a complete game, but had 2 hits. Mike Marquardt, Eric Johnson, Mike Hinzmann, Frank Markie, Josh Richards and Chad Rolfes all had one hit apiece. The Dodgers will be taking on the Skeeters this Sunday to try and continue the win streak and to avoid the fate of Joseph "Blue" Polaski in the playoffs. "Your still my boy Blue!"
CASEY'S PIZZA and SPEAKER CITY PLAYER of the GAME= Wes Robertson The lefty pitched a complete game and had 2 hits.
Dodgers Outjoust Knights
Two months ago the Dodgers defeated the Knights 18-2. Looking at the score one would surmise that a rematch would produce the same results. If you thought that was the case then you don't know much about the Roy Hobbs Division. The game in early June wasn't exactly accurate as the Dodgers are not 16 runs better than the Knights, and the Knights are not 16 runs worse than the Dodgers as was proven this past Sunday. Playoffs are nearing and as the Dodgers and Grays know any team can beat any team no matter past results or record. ie Wobblies. The fact that the Dodgers escaped with a 12-9 victory over the Knights is also proof that the standings and a team's win loss record really mean nothing this time of year.
Early on in the contest it looked as though the Dodger's were going to score early and often as the visitors had bases loaded for much of the inning, but were only able to score 2 runs. The Knights seemed unimpressed as they scored 3 runs of their own to take an early 3-2 lead. The Dodgers offense was efficient in the middle innings taking a 6-3 lead after 4 innings and then widening the margin to 12-4 through 7 innings. Frank Markie would keep the men in shining arm at bay. The veteran righty went 7 innings allowing only 3 earned runs en route to his 3rd win of the season. The Knights would put together a rally in the 8th inning to cut the score to 12-8 and then score another in the bottom of the 9th inning to make the tally 12-9. Fortunately for the Dodgers that would be all the home nine would score allowing the Dodgers to win their 9th straight game and improve to 10-1 on the year.
Offensively the Dodgers did what they had to do. The Blue and White had 13 hits coupled with 6 walks. Multiple Dodgers had two hit games and those hits usually came with runners in scoring position. Martin Cheatham, Chad Manders, Wes Robertson, Eric Johnson, and Phil Rivera all had 2 hits. Cheatham, Johnson and Rivera also had 2 RBI's and Robertson had 3 RBI's. Mike Hinzmann, Frank Markie, and Josh Richards each chipped in with 1 hit apiece. With the win the Dodgers remain in first place with a huge game this Sunday against the second place Grays. These two teams played an extra innings slugfest earlier this year with the Dodgers outlasting the Grays 16-10.
CASEY'S PIZZA PLAYER of the GAME= PHIL RIVERA The heart and soul of the Dodgers had two key hits and made a great play on a slow roller that most 3rd basemen would have let roll. Rivera is also the first Dodger to appear on a TCMABL baseball card. So all you youngsters make sure you have this card for autographs in the coming weeks. On second thought maybe the youngsters shouldn't :).
Dodgers Walk Off Voyageurs
The Dodgers and Voyageurs were two of the original TCMABL teams dating back to 2007. The series between the two foes was tied 6-6 coming into the 2018 campaign. The Dodgers like a year ago won the first meeting between the two 13-6 to take a slim overall 7-6 lead in victories. A year ago the Dodgers were looking to keep pace with the Grays for first place when the Voyageurs came to Castle and put a hurt on the Blue and White. The Dodgers never seemed to recover from that loss as it led to a late season swoon and an early exit from the playoffs. George Santayana said, "Those that cannot remember the past are doomed to repeat it." It looked for much of the game Sunday that the Dodgers had the memory of a goldfish as the home nine were behind for 8 innings. Much of the game was similar to the beating of last year as the Voyageurs got timely hitting and great defense to take an early 4-0 lead. The Dodgers unlike a year ago did answer with 3 runs in the bottom of the first to cut the lead to 4-3. The Voyageurs would add to their lead by scoring a run in the 3rd and then 5 runs in the 5th to take a commanding 10-6 lead. It looked like the Dodgers were repeating history, but looks can be deceiving. Three key plays kept the Dodgers from repeating history. These three plays alone seemed small, but when they combined with each other they became huge. Play 1 was the pitching of Frank Markie. The righthander came in the game for relief and shut down the Voyaguers bats. Play 2 was a fantastic running catch by left fielder Josh Richards to end the 6th inning and keep the Voyaguers from scoring 2 more runs. Play 3 was late in the game and probably saved the braintrusts of the Dodgers who elected to not bunt with runners on 1st and 2nd in the bottom of the ninth with nobody out and down 2 runs. Instead of bunting, Mike Marquardt blasted what looked like a for sure double, but the fleet of foot centerfielder Aaron Kim tracked down the blast. Martin Cheatham alertly tagged up from 2nd to 3rd which allowed the Dodgers to have a man on 3rd base with less than one out down only 1 run. The wheels were set in motion for a fantastic finish as Chad Manders would steal 2nd base and Eric Johnson who was already 4-4 on the night was wisely intentionally walked. Mike Hinzmann would double down the left field line and the Dodgers who looked doomed to repeat history for much of the game escaped with a 12-11 walk off win.
Offense was the name of the game as each team pounded double digit hits. The Dodgers were led by Eric Johnson's perfect evening as the catcher went 4-4 with 2 doubles. Martin Cheatham and Mike Hinzmann each had 3 hits on the evening. Frank Markie not only saved the Dodgers on the mound he also helped himself out at the dish with 2 hits. Chad Rolfes and Jeff Fisher each had two hits on the evening. Mike Marquardt had one hit as did David Mcintosh, Josh Richards, and Phil Rivera. The Dodgers as a whole had 20 hits on the evening. The Dodgers with the win stay in 1st place and will be tested again this Sunday against the Kinghts.
Casey's Pizza Player of the Game= Eric Johnson. The humble catcher had a perfect evening going 4-4, 2 doubles and being intentionally walked. He also caught 9 solid innings to help the Dodgers win.
Dodgers Win, Have it the "Eyes" do
Master Yoda may have been the greatest at walking in the history of any galaxy far away or close by. The little man even had his own walking stick! The Dodgers seem to be listening to the 900 year old when it comes to drawing walks this season. So it's not surprising that the Dodgers did most of their damage this past Sunday via the walk in their 7-1 victory over the Angels. The Blue and White have 5 players in the top 10 for walks this season and Sunday only helped solidify the Dodgers hold on the top spots for free passes. As Yoda once said, "Patience my young Dodgers and come the walks will." This patience paid off as the Dodgers used 6 of their 11 total walks to take an earlly 4-0 lead in the first inning. These runs alone would have been sufficient as ERA leader Wes Robertson pitched another brilliant game. The lefty stifled a very good hitting Angels team allowing only 4 hits and striking out 5 in 7 innings. The South Dakota Southpaw earned his 4th victory of the season to lead the Roy Hobbs lead in victories and ERA.
Offensively the Dodgers bats were very quiet, but being patient and selective allowed the visitors to score 7 runs on only 4 hits. A win is a win and the Dodgers will take them any way they can get them. The four hits on the day were the lowest the potent Dodgers lineup had mustered in a game all year. But, as Yoda said, "Pesky those Dodgers are. Games you win matters not how." Martin Cheatham, Mike Hinzmann, David Mcintosh and Jeff Fisher all had one hit apiece for the Dodgers. The Dodgers improved to 8-1 on the season and are still in first place in the Roy Hobbs League. This lead will however be tested this Sunday as the Blue and White take on the Voyageurs at the Castle for a true night game at 7:00.
CASEY'S PIZZA PLAYER of the GAME= Guest picker this week: Yoda says:
"Easy pick was! Wes Robertson great he did pitch." Can't argue with a Jedi that is 900 years old.
Dodgers Double Digit Mavs
For the second straight week the Dodgers defeated the Mavericks by double digits. Last week in the tropical heat the Dodgers won 17-0. This week with the weather a bit more bearable the Dodgers handed the Mavs their fourth straight loss by a score of 20-9.
The much improved Mavs made the home nine work for this win despite the score. It was the Mavs who would take an early 4-0 lead. It was also the Mavs who would be leading after 4 innings. It looked like it might be a slow death by a thousand paper cuts for the Dodgers as the Mavs hit single after single. The Blue and White would awake finally with Chad Rolfes getting the hitting started with a single in the 3rd inning. The Dodgers would eventually tie the score only to see the Mavs take another 4 run lead at 9-5. This however would be the closest they would come to stealing a victory from the Dodgers. The Dodgers would enact their own version of death by a thousand paper cuts as they would only get 10 hits, but used 14 walks to slowly send the contest out of reach.
Chad Manders was on the hill for the Dodgers and he would be the first to say he didn't have his best stuff. However, he did grind out 6 innings and gained the win. Defensively the Dodgers played very good baseball only committing 2 errors on the day.
Offensively the Dodgers were led by the aforementioned Manders. The former Park Center star showed off his offensive prowess with 2 hits, one double and 5 RBI's on the day. Josh Richards also had a nice day at the plate with 2 knocks as did 3rd baseman Phil Rivera who also had 2 hits. Martin Cheatham, Eric Johnson, Chad Rolfes and Jeffrey Fisher alls had 1 hit apiece. The Dodgers with the win improved to 7-1 and tied for 1st place. They Dodgers will be looking for their 7th straight win, but it won't be easy against a very tough Angels team this Sunday at Cedar Knoll.
CASEY'S PIZZA PLAYER of the GAME: Chad Manders: The veteran righty won his 2nd game of the year and went 2-3 with 5 RBI's.
Best Day Ever!
Each week ESPN radio has a show called, Best Week Ever! On this show the hosts take a look at what atheletes or teams had the best week. If there was a TCMABL version of this show that Dodgers would have been the headline team. The Blue and White may have had one of the best days in TCMABL history as they outscored their opponents 27-0.
Game One
The Dodgers and the Mavericks had to make up their opening day rainout so it was agreed upon to do so on Sunday at 12:00. I am sure when this was scheduled nobody thought about an excessive heat warning and having to play 2 games. As it was, the game was played at high noon at Garden Park. A much improved Mavericks squad was ready to play and fired up to take down one of the leading teams in the league. For the first 5 innings the contest was close as the visiting Dodgers only had a 4-0 lead and those 4 runs were tough to get. With the Mavericks mounting a rally in the 5th inning, David Mcintosh made a catch for the ages that ended this threat. Mcintosh dove and backhanded a sure double to keep the Mavs off the board. This great play seemed to wake up the Dodgers and their bats. From then on it was a deluge of Dodgers hits as they scored 13 more runs to rout the home nine 17-0. The offense should get a lot of the attention as the Dodgers pounded out 17 hits and 17 runs, but it was the South Dakota Southpaw that stole the show. Wes Robertson was back on the mound after his injury and he looked as good as ever. The lefty only allowed 3 hits in 8 dominating innings to earn his 3rd win of the season.
Offensively the Dodgers had many stars. Five Dodgers had a multi-hit game. Mike Hinzmann had 4 hits, Wes Robertson and Eric Johnson had 3 hits, and Chad Manders and Josh Richards had two hits apiece. Martin Cheatham, Chad Rolfes and Jeff Fisher each had one hit.
CASEY'S PIZZA PLAYER of the GAME= Wes Robertson and Eric Johnson. Both played awesome in the Florida type heat.
Game Two
Most managers hate doubleheaders mainly because they are hard to win and easy to lose. This was not the case for the Dodgers. The exhausted visitors headed north to play the reigning league champion Wobblies. It was the Wobblies that seemed to struggle with the temps more than the Dodgers. Both teams seemed tired in the early going as pitching was the name of the game. The Dodgers had their veteran righthander Frank Markie toeing the rubber and he didn't disappoint. Markie made it difficult for the Wobblies all afternoon as he only gave up 4 hits and no runs to the champs. The Dodgers also seemed a little off, but were able to put together a few innings to take a commanding lead of 10-0. This game would only go 8 innings as the Dodgers 10 runned the Wobblies and improved to 6-1 on the season. Offensively the Blue and White were led by Chad Manders who had 3 hits including a double. Eric Johnson and Phil Rivera also had nice afternoons by both having 2 hits games. Pretty much everybody else in the Dodger lineup had one hit to help the visitors to thier sixth win of the season.
CASEY"S PIZZA PLAYER of the GAME= Frank Markie and his awesome pitching and Eric Johnson who was behind the plate again on the hottest day of the year.
The first place Dodgers have a rematch of the Mavericks this Sunday at the Castle.
Dodgers Quietly Take Care of Voyageurs
As the Dodgers were hitting their way to another victory, a 13-6 win over the Voyageurs, some of the visiting nine wanted to pull the old silent treatment prank on one said player. You know when a player hits a homerun and everybody pretends they didn't notice as the Said Player is trying to give highfives. Unfortunately, this idea was concocted too late, so the next best thing would be to mess with him in the write-up. Some of the ideas were to only refer to him as his number. Another was to pretend we were a team on the old Nintendo baseball game, Baseball Stars and only use part of a name or intials. I was against this as I still have a huge problem with R. Clemens throwing left handed and shutting down my all star lineup led by B. Ruth and W. Mays (B. Ruth was at least a left handed hitter).
After looking at the stat sheet there was no way I could leave out Said Player's name. I mean really Said Player had 4 hits on the day. If I mention those that had one hit on the day like Mike Marquardt, Frank Markie and Chad Rolfes certainly Said Player should be mentioned. He had twice as many hits as Chad Manders, Eric Johnson, David Mcintosh and Phil Rivera who all had 2 hits on the day. Wes Robertson's and Jeff Fisher's 3 hits were not enought to eclipse Said Player's hit total. I have to mention him, as using only his initials wouldn't be adequate.
As I kept looking at the stat sheet Said Player not only had 4 hits, but he had 2 doubles and 6 RBI's. I thought Wes Robertson's and Jeffrey Fischer's 2 RBI's on the day were impressive. They both also had 2 doubles and their names were mentioned. I love a good prank, but there's no way I could go along with this. I mean seriously 4 hits, 2 doubles and 6 RBI's is a great game, not to mention Said Player also pitched 7 strong innings only allowing 1 earned run to pick up the win on the mound. So, this is the part where we all decide it's time to give high fives and congratulations to Said Player. M.C. you had an outstanding game and thus Old Number 39 is this week's CASEY'S PIZZA PLAYER OF THE GAME. . OKAY! if one must know who Said Player is first name rhymes with Smartin and last name rhymes with Smcheatham. I am glad that I couldn't go through with this prank and hopefully in the future the Dodger players keep their minds on the game instead of playing jokes on one another. Let this be a lesson to you all.
Gray Day Turns Sunny
With the threat of a possible rain out the Dodgers and Grays waited an extra 30 minutes to see if the game would actually be played. The extra time must have allowed both teams' bats to become primed and ready. Usually when you see a score of 16-10 and a combined hit total of 38 hits one assumes that pitching was non existent. That however really wasn't the case. Both teams used their best hurlers, but this day belonged to the hitters.
This slugfest started with some humble beginnings however. For the first three innings each team could only plate one run. One could feel though that a storm was brewing as both teams stranded numerous runners in the first three frames. It would be the Dodgers to get the first crooked number of the day as they took a 4-1 lead in the top of the 4th. It didn't take long for the Grays to answer with their own crooked number as they scored 5 runs in their half of the 4th inning to take a 6-4 lead. It looked as though the Grays would again cruise to their 4th victory of the year by scoreing 3 runs in the bottom of the 6th to take a 9-4 lead. The Dodgers had other ideas and decided to hit themselves back into the game. They would cobble together 2 runs in the top of the 7th to cut the score to 9-6. Then in the top of the ninth the Dodgers would use some walks along with some timely hitting to score 4 runs to take a 10-6 lead going into the bottom of the 9th. The Grays would be down to their last out in the 9th before making a rally to tie the score at 10 apiece.
With the the Grays avoiding a loss and making a two our rally the momentum seemed to be with the home nine. This however was not the case, as the Dodger bats came alive again to score 6 runs in the top of the 10th inning to take a commanding 16-10 lead. The Grays would end up going out tamely in their half of the 10th inning and the Dodgers became a 16-10 winner on a cloudy, misty Sunday. With the win the Dodgers become tied for first place with a 3-1 record.
Offensively the Dodgers had many who had multiple hit games. Martin Cheatham and David Mcintosh both had big days at the plate. Cheatham had 3 hits along with 2 more walks to add to his team leading 10 walks on the season. Mcintosh had 3 hits none bigger than the single that plated two important runs in the 10th inning. Mike Hinzmann had 4 hits on the day and Frank Markie had 2 knocks. Chad Manders, Mike Marquardt, Eric Johnson, Chad Rolfes, Phil Rivera and Josh Richards each had one hit apiece. Chad Manders recorded his first win on the mound of the season as he came in relief of starting pitcher Frank Markie. The 3-1 Dodgers will host the Voyageurs this Sunday at Lighted Field.
Casey Pizza Players of the Game= This week there were a lot of Dodgers to chose from, but it turned out to be a tie between David Mcintosh and Martin Cheatham. Mcintosh's 3 hits along with his 2 RBI's made him a very worthy recipient. Cheatham just keeps getting on base by walk and hits, as well as playing a flawless shortstop makes him just as worthy this week. Congrats gentlemen on your Casey's Famous for Pizza Award.
A Win, and a Loss
With nobody out in the top of the 7th the Dodgers nearly lost. Not the game, but their excellent pitcher Wes Robertson. Robertson took a wicked line drive off of his forearm, before somehow recovering from the blow and then throwing a rocket to record the out. The Dodgers would go on to win the game versus the Angels 12-2 and Robertson's X-rays were negative. All good news for the 2-1 Dodgers. Robertson's injury status is day to day. Him able to thow out the runner with a sphere growing out of his forearm left most to wonder; Is Wes Robertson the Chuck Norris of the TCMABL Roy Hobbs Division? Let's see. The only thing that was in pain after the hit was the ball when it hit Robertson's arm. Wes Robertson is the reason Waldo is hiding. Wes Robertson once bowled a perfect game with a marble. Wes Robertson doesn't steal bases, he gives them as gifts.
The game itself was a Dodger's win that came basically in three innings. Besides Robertson's outstanding performance on the mound the Dodgers scored the bulk of their runs in two innings, the 1st and 5th innings. They would take a healthy 6-0 lead into the bottom of the 2nd only to see it get cut to a 6-2 lead entering the bottom of the 5th. The Dodgers answered with 3 runs to take a commanding 9-2 lead over the visiting Angels. The Dodgers would score 3 more runs to ten run the Angles 12-2. Wes Robertson, who wasn't even there drove in the final 3 runs. When umpires make a call they ask Wes Robertson, "Was that call okay Sir?"
Offensively the Dodgers were led by Eric Johnson, David Mcintosh and Mike Hinzmann who all had 2 hits and 2 RBIs. Chad Manders, Mike Marquardt and Phil Rivera each had one hit apiece.
The Dodgers will take on the 1st Place Grays this Sunday at the Castle.
CASEY'S PIZZA PLAYER OF THE GAME= Wes Robertson who pitched an outstanding game and made an outstanding throw even though his left arm was numb and growing something from it that resembeled a scene from Alien. Also, Wes Robertson eats pain for breakfast!
Manders Pitches Gem
Veteran right hander Chad Manders did everything he could on the mound to help the Dodgers win their 2nd game of the year. Unfortunately, it wasn't quite enough as the Dodgers fell to the Skeeters 4-3 last Sunday. For much of Sunday's contest the Dodgers, and Manders, seemed to be in complete control leading much of the game. The Dodgers had chances to bust the game open, but were unable to break through. Poor two out hitting cost the Blue and White as the Skeeters stayed in the game. Chad Manders as mentioned above pitched an outstanding game. The righthander hurled 8 outstanding innings allowing only two Skeeter runs. unfortunately for Manders the Dodgers weren't able to hold down the Skeeter bats in the 9th as the pesky ones scored 2 runs to defeat the Dodgers 4-3. Ken Wangler the Skeeter righthander also pitched a great game as he only allowed 3 runs on 6 hits. Offensively the Dodgers were led by Jae Hung Jung led the the Dodges attack with one hit and a stolen base. It was good to see the South Korean back as he added some much needed energy at the plate and out in the field. Martin Cheatham, Eric Johnson, Mike Hinzmann, David Mcintosh and Jeff Fisher also each had base hits in the contest. The 1-1 Dodgers will look to get back in the win column as they will host the Angels at the Castle this Sunday.
Casey's Pizza player of the Game= Jae Jung Hung
If you come all the way from South Korea to play for the Dodges you automatically are my choice. Chad Manders should get some consideration also.
Outstanding Opener
For the 8th straight season the Dodgers have opened the season with a win. What does this mean for the men in white? Not much, as winning the opener has brought just about every type of season imaginable for the Dodgers. It does however make the Dodgers 1-0 and tied for first place as the home nine defeated the Knights 18-2 last Sunday.
The Dodgers bats did most of the talking in this contest, as they pounded out 16 hits coupled with 12 walks. Not to be outdone ace lefty starter Wes Robertson pitched as though it were mid season. The South Dakota Southpaw pitched 6 innings striking out 10 Knights while only allowing 1 run on 4 hits. Offensively any number of Dodgers could be player of the game as ten players had at least 1 hit. Martin Cheatham was not one of the ten, but the shortstop drew 4 walks. Cheatham became pirate worthy as that is one good eye. Copyright: Rich. New comers Jeff Fisher and Josh Friberg both made good impressions on their opening debuts. Fisher had a solid single and recorded his first RBI of the season while Friberg battled strong in his first at bat this millennium.
Offensive stars were a plenty for the home nine. Chad Rolfes was perfect at the plate with 2 hits and 2 RBI's. David Mcintosh, Eric Johnson, and Mike Marquardt all had two hits on the day along with at least 1 RBI. Mike Hinzmann chipped in with a 3 single day. Chad Manders, Wes Robertson, Frank Markie, Phil Rivera and Jeff Fisher all had one hit apiece. Mike Marquardt also came into pitch the 7th inning lowering his ERA somewhat.
Casey's Pizza Player of the Game: Chad Rolfes
This was a tough one to pick as most expected Wes Robertson or Eric Johnson to top the list. They were numbers 2 and 3 respectively. Robertson sort of has the Michael Jordan MVP syndrome as you could pick him every week, but you know you can't. No one can argue with Rolfes's perfect day except for Jeff Fisher who was also perfect at the plate. 2 hits trumped 1 hit in this case however. The Dodgers head into their next contest 1-0 and will take on a talented Wobblies team this Sunday at 5:00 at Harmon Killebrew Field.
Dodgers Lose to Wobblies in Playoffs
The Dodgers lost to the eventual champion Wobblies in the first round of the Roy Hobbs Playoffs.
Dodgers Defense Wins
In 1991 the Minnesota North Stars were a below average hockey team. They scored very few goals, played terrible defense and goal tending was suspect at best. Something happened however late in the season. Jon Casey, who's record was below .500 and his goals per game was nearly 3, got hot. During that Stanley Cup run Casey spurred on the upstart North Stars into the Stanley Cup finals where they would eventually lose to a stacked Pittsbugh Penguin team in five games. Another goalie seems to be getting hot late in the TCMABL season and his excellent play at 3rd base helped the Dodgers earn a regular season sweep of the Grays. Phil Rivera used some of his hockey goalie skills to make three outstanding plays that saved the home nine from certain defeat. His double play to end the game capped off a great day for the veteran 3rd baseman from Califorina. Rivera also did it with the bat as he singled, scored a run and walked once.
Wes Robertson also did his part as usual as the South Dakota Southpaw recorded his 5th win of the season to lead the 35+ division in wins. Robertson allowed 11 hits and 5 earned runs to one of the best hitting teams in all of the TCMABL. He also had two hits and an RBI to round out an outstanding afternoon. Mike Marquardt also had an excellent day in the field and at the plate. The Bloomington native had 3 hits as well as throwing out his second runner at the plate in as many weeks. It would take these outstanding efforts to hold of the Grays as free baseball was a bonus for the crowd at castle. It would be the Dodgers that would hold on to win the contest in 10 innings 8-6.
Offensively the Dodgers pounded out 12 hits and again did a nice job hitting with runners on base. Mike Hinzmann had two hits in the contest. Martin Cheatham, Eric Johnson, Pat, the bat, Ralston and David Mcintosh all had one hit apiece. With the win the Dodgers secured third place in the division and will take on the Wobblies next Saturday in the first round of the Roy Hobbs League Playoffs.
Casey's Pizza Player of the Game= Three player this week: Phil Rivera, Wes Robertson and Mike Marquardt. If this was hockey they would be the three stars of the game.
Cliches=Canards
Cliches are unoriginal thoughts that are used to explain why things are the way they are. Usually the cliche is boring and not true. No part of life uses them more than sports. In football it's "Defense Wins Championships." If this were true the Vikings would have a trophy case full of Lombardi Trophies. In basketball it's "Guards win games, centers win championships". Not sure many could name the center who plays for Golden State or Cleveland. In hockey it's "A two goal lead is the hardest to keep". Simple math would say different.
Baseball is no different. The cliche that "Good pitching beats good hitting" is only a half truth as the 2018 Dodgers have proven. For much of the season the Dodgers have had very good pitching only to see them turn into losses. Good pitching needs good defense, situational hitting and a little luck to make it a full truth. The Dodgers on Sunday made this cliche sound like scripture as they beat the Skeeters 12-2.
Frank Markie did his part to make the clicke viable as he pitched brilliantly. The veteran right hander stymied one of the best lineups in the Roy Hobbs league. Markie pitched 7 innings allowing only 4 hits and two runs while striking out 6. What isn't mentioned in the stat line is the Dodgers picked up the defense and each other. If there was an error the other eight picked up the slack to negate any damage done. There were also some defensive gems that helped Markie along the way. The throw out by Eric Johnson and the tag by Martin Cheatham that ended a would be stolen 2nd base. The defensive play of the day was a laser throw from centerfielder Mike Marquardt that shot down a runner at the plate. Marquardt also made a diving catch early on to set the defensive tone for the Blue and White.
Good, situational hitting also helps make the cliche seem 100% true. Ask any pitcher and they will tell you that pitching with a healthy lead is much easier than if it is close. The Dodgers hitters seemed to hit better when they could sniff the RBI's. The team as a whole had 11 RBI's and 17 hits. Eric Johsnon has been hearing, "Keep hitting the ball hard and good things will happen." The catcher had been snake bitten for much of the 2018 campaign, but he kept hitting the ball hard and went 4-4 with 2 RBI's including a triple. Other Dodgers with mutliple hits were Mike Hinzmann who had 3 hits, Chad Manders and Wes Robertson chipped in with 2 hits apiece. Martin Cheatham, Frank Markie, Chad Rolfes, David Mcinstosh, Josh Richards and Phil Rivera all had one hit apiece. Hopefully the Dodgers can make the cliches "Take one game at a time" and "It's good to be hot going into the playoffs" a reality as they close out the reagular season against the Grays.
Casey's Pizza Player of the Game= Eric Johnson who had 4 hits, threw out 1 runner and called a great game behind the plate.
Voyageurs Pelt Dodgers
The name voyageur means one who transported fur during the fur trade. They were not the ones who trapped or hunted the animal for it's fur. It was said that most 17th, 18th and 19th Century Voyageurs didn't even realize how valuable their cargo really was. This could not be said for the 21st Centruy Voyageur. The visiting canoe men transported the Dodgers from third place to fourth place, and treated the cowhide like it was a prized mink pelt from yesteryear. The Dodgers struggled all afternoon sneaking anything past the left side of the Voyageur Nine. Not only did the visiters play great defense they also treated the cowhide like it needed to be dried, scraped and beaten. The visiters clubbed 14 hits on the day coupled with 6 walks to take an early 3-0 lead. The Dodgers would struggle to rack up many hits partly due to the subperb defense of the Voyageurs and partly due to Ryan Saralampi who pitched a brilliant ball game. The Dodgers were never really in the game ats any sort of rally was ended by some nifty plays by the Green and White. In the end it would go down as a 9-4 defeat. The 4th loss of the year would exceed all of the losses incurred by the Dodgers all last year. There were some bright spots for the Castle Dwellers as Bret Repaski remained hot as he, Wes Robertson and Eric Johnson all had two hits on the day. Chad Manders, Mike Marquardt and Chad Rolfes each had one hit apiece. The Dodgers look to end their losing ways this Sunday as they travel to Minneapolis to take on the red hot Skeeters.
Casey's Pizza Player of the Game= Eric Johnson who had two hits and played steller defense behind the plate.
Dodgers Saved From the Island
Like a bad rerun of Gilligan's Island, the Dodgers were hard to watch the last two weeks. Like Gilligan himself, the Dodgers seemed to ruin every great opportunity. Just when things started looking good someone would play the part of the bumbling first mate and make a devastating blunder that would cost the rest of the team. On Sunday the Dodgers were rescued, and not even Gilligan himself could mess it up as the Dodgers defeated the Wobblies 10-2.
The Blue and White however did feel like castaways as the home Wobblies hit their way to an early 2-0 lead. This lead wouldn't last long as Wes Robertson and Brett Repaski played like the professer as they turned coconuts into useful pitches and hits. Wes Robertson sailed through seven strong innings only allowing three hits and two early runs. Bret Repaski had three hits in four trips and finished off the home nine pitching the last two innings to preserve the win. In the field the Dodgers looked like the team that made it to the championship game a year ago. The defense was as beautiful as Mary Ann, while the offense resembled the flashy movie star Ginger. The Dodgers collected thirteen hits on the day with Martin Cheatham, Eric Johnson and Pat Ralston all having two hit days. Wes Robertson, Mike Hinzmann, Josh Richards, and Mike Marquardt all had a hit apiece. With the win the Dodgers escaped Loser Island. Hopefully they won't follow the castaways as they too were rescued from the island only to get stranded on the same island again. Nobody wants to see that rerun again.
Casey's Pizza Player of the Game= Martin Cheatham who had two hits and played outstanding defense.
Dodgers Doomed by Cubs
The Cubs and Dodgers were supposed to play a baseball game this past Sunday, but it was clear by the scoring that a Canadian football game broke out. YOU MIGHT WANT TO BRUSH UP ON YOUR CFL RULES. With a prime time start at Castle Field the two squads traded blows early and often. The Dodgers elected to receive and on the kickoff they fumbled the ball out of bounce on the two yard line. On the very next play veteran quarterback Frank Markie was blind sided for a safety and the Cubs took an early 2-0 lead. On the ensuing punt the Dodgers kicker Chad Rolfes booted a beautiful punt that was downed at the Cubs 1 yard line. The Cubs took over on their 1 yard line only to go two and out. (CFL only has three downs). CFL superstar Pat Ralston broke through the line and tackled the cubs punter for a safety that tied the score at 2-2. (I know pretty far fetched but I need to get 5 points some how. The Cubs then punted the ball to the Dodgers where return man Martin Cheatham had one of his signature spin moves and the Dodgers had great field position at the 53 yard line. (CFL football has a bigger field) The Dodgers beautiful drive stalled on the Cubs 25 yard line. Chad Rolfes booted the field goal through the uprights to give the Dodgers a 4-2 lead. On the ensuing kickoff Rolfes again booted it into the endzone where Cub players were unable to return it out. Special teams standout Phil Rivera tackled the return man three yards into the end zone scoring a single or "rouge" for the Dodgers. At the end of the 1st quarter the Dodgers led the Cubs 5-2. The start of the 2nd quarter saw the Cubs have thier most impressive drive of the night. Cubs quarterback Bernie Rossum connected with tight end Rick Hillard for a 25 yard touchdown. With the extra point booted through the Cubs retook the lead 9-4. The Dodgers went two and out and were forced to punt to the Cubs. This time Rolfes punt was shanked and the Cubs were in business. With 0:14 left in the first half the Dodgers defense became stingy as linebacker Chad Manders tackled the Cub runner one yard shy of the first down. The Cubs took thier final timeout and the 32 yard field goal went wide right. Unfortunately for the Dodgers they were unable to take the ball out of thier end zone and the Cubs socred a rouge of their own to take a 10-5 lead into the lockerroom.
The Dodgers defense would be the story in the second half as the Cubs offense was shutdown for much of the quarter. On the Dodgers second drive of the third quarter Markie threw a long strike to All Pro receiver Brett Repaski who weeved his way down to the Cubs two yard line. The Dodgers would score on the very next play as fullback David Mcintosh ran through the Cubs to score his 10th touchdown of the year. The extra point try failed because of a bad snap and the Dodgers retook the lead 11-10. The Cubs would score on the ensuing kickoff as the Dodgers special teams disappointed. The Cubs however were also unable to secure the ball on the extra point. At the end of the 3rd quarter the Cubs led 16-11. The Dodgers would put togehter a 12 play, 67 yard drive only to see it stall at the Cubs 21 yard line. Rolfes again booted the kick through the uprights to cut the Cubs lead to 16-14. With the 3 minute warning looming the Dodgers took over at their own 10 yard line on a Cubs fumble. Unfortunately for the Dodgers they were forced to punt with 1:35 seconds left. The Dodgers defense once again stood tall and forced the Cubs to punt. Quarterback Frank Markie threw a 3rd and 25 pass to Mike Marquardt with only 0:05 seconds left. This set up one last play for the Dodgers. Frank Markie's hail mary throw was knocked down and the Dodgers came up just short losing to the first place Cubs 16-14. Hopefully next week the Dodgers will get back to playing baseball as they take on the Wobblies at Van Cleve.
Casey's Pizza Player of the Game= Brett Rapaski, besides being an all-pro Canadian football player, had 2 double and three RBI's. He also pitched three scoreless innings.
Padre's Day
Benjamin Franklin coined the phrase that the only sure things were death and taxes when he was describing the United States Constitution in 1789. If Franklin were alive today and played for the Dodgers he definately would have added, "and John Ripplinger will be the starting pitcher for the Padres. The Dodgers and Padres have played each other a total of ten times and Ripplinger has started nine of those games. So for the Dodgers it was no big surprise that Ripplinger once again toed the rubber when these two rivals met last Sunday afternoon. A month earlier the veteran lefty made life miserable for the Dodgers and this past Sunday was no different. Ripplinger pitched eight strong innings only allowing two runs against an offense that had been scoring double figure runs the last two weeks. The Dodgers could not seem to get the big hit with runners on base and the Padres did get the big hits with runners on base. Wes Robertson, who pitched well enough to win, mixed and matched keeping the potenet Padre offense in check for most of the game. For six innings the game was a pitchers duel as the Padres plated 3 runs and the Dodgers only mustered up 1 run. Unfortunately for Robertson and the Dodgers the Padre's bats came alive in the top of the 7th inning to give the visitors a 5-1 lead. The Dodgers would answer with a run in the bottom of the 8th, but some poor baserunning and a strange umpire call would end the threat leaving the score 5-2. The Padre's would add another run in the top of the 9th to make the score 6-2. The Dodgers had a threat in the 9th, but were unable to turn a lead off double by Mike Marquardt into any runs. The Dodgers with the loss fell out of 1st place in the Roy Hobbs Division. Offensively, the Dodgers were led by Mike Marquardt and Wes Robertson who both had 2 hits apiece. Martin Cheatham, Mike Hinzmann and Josh Richards all had one hit apiece. The Dodgers look to rebound against the 1st place Cubs this Sunday.
Casey's Pizza Player of the Game= Mike Marquardt and Wes Robertson who both had two hits apiece.
Dodgers Handle Mavs
Last year the Vikings in week 14 traveled to Carolina to take on the Panthers. The Panthers were a good team, but the Vikes needed a win to keep pace with the Eagles who had the best record. Well, as you know the Vikings did what the Vikings do and they lost. They also lost home field advantage in the playoffs including the Championship game. We also know how that went. Two years ago the Dodgers were trying to win another game to improve their position in the TCMABL playoffs. They traveled to Minneapolis to take on the Mavericks who were only playing for pride. Like the Vikings the Dodgers got bumped by the Mavericks and in turn lost their higher seed in the playoffs. This would hurt the Dodgers as they would lose in the first round of the playoffs.
This memory was burned in the mind of the Dodgers which has allowed the visitors to not take any team lightly. A lesson was learned as the Dodgers handled the Mavs 16-5 on Sunday in Minneapolis.
The Dodgers didn't mess around as they scored five runs in the 1st inning to extinguish any hope of the Mavs taking a quick lead like they did on that fateful day in 2016. The Dodgers would add four more runs in the 3rd inning, four more in the 4th inning and three more in the fifth inning to take a commaning 16-3 lead. Offensively the Dodgers took advantage of Maverick walks and errors to score many of thier runs. As a team the Dodgers had nine hits, but with the walks and errors, they were able to score in double figures for the 2nd straight week. The Blue and White were led by Bret Repasky who had two hits in three plate appearances. Martin Cheatham, Chad Manders, Mike Hinzmann, Frank Markie, Josh Richards and Phil Rivera all had one hit apiece.
Frank Markie took the hill and pitched four strong innings giving up two runs with only one of them earned. Bret Repasky pitched a strong fifth inning and Chad Manders and Martin Cheatham finished off the game. With the win the Dodgers remain in a tie for first place in the Roy Hobbs Division.
Casey's Pizza Player of the Game= Bret Repaski 2-3 at the dish and pitched and outstanding 5th inning.
Dodgers Weeble Wobblies
In the 1970's there was a kids toy called Weeble Wobbles. They were the precurser to playmobile sets that kids, and some adults, still set up and play with. These Weeble Wobbles were egg shaped and wouldn't fall over no matter how hard you pushed them down. They seemed to pop back up and return to normal. The Dodgers seemed to be able to push the Wobblies down, but like the toy they kept bouncing back up. For much of Sunday's contest it seemed like the Dodgers would keep the Wobblies down and out, but the Wobblies kept popping back up using four double plays to end Dodger rallies. This allowed the visitors to stay in the game and make the home nine struggle to make a close score into a ten run rule score. Through much of the game the Wobblies stayed within striking distance of the Dodgers, but were unable to solve Wes Robertson. The hard throwing lefty kept a good line up at bay hurling a complete game only allowing 5 hits and 1 run. Robertson also had 9 strikeouts enroute to his third win of the season. Offensively where does one start? The Dodgers pounded out 18 hits which included 6 doubles. Martin Cheatham and Pat "the Bat" Ralston led the way each slamming 3 hits apiece. Ralston in his 2nd game as a Dodgers is hitting a cool .667 while Cheatham raised his average to a robust .440. Mike Marquardt kept his tremendous hitting going as he slugged 2 hits. Josh richards and Wes Robertson also kept their fine hitting by each having 1 hit apiece. Eric Johnson, Frank Markie and Phil Rivera finally found some luck as there hard hit balls finally found some grass as each had 2 hits. David Mcintosh and Chad Rolfes also kept their fine seasons at the plate going as both had 1 hit in 3 at bats. With this much offense the Dodgers finally did keep the Wobblies down by scoring 11 total runs to win their 5th game of the year.
Casey's Pizza Player of the Game= Pat Ralston who had 3 hits and Martin Cheatham who also had a 3 hit performance.
Dodgers Swat Skeeters
A week after the Dodgers sort of, kind of defeated the Padres due to an illegal player, the Blue and White got a real, hard fought win over the scrappy Skeeters.
It was fitting that the ageless wonder, Bartolo Colon, now a Texas Ranger was in town pitching the same day the Dodgers ageless wonder, Frank Markie was. Both veterans share many of the same qualities: Exceptional fastball in their past, they both change speeds and they both know how to win games without that youthful fastball. Unlike Colon however, Frank the Tank was able to come away with a win, while the Big Sexy lost a 2-0 duel with the Twins. Markie would pitch eight strong innings giving up four earned runs while scattering ten hits.
The Skeeters would take an early lead on a beautiful Sunday evening at the Castle. This lead would not last long as the Dodgers answered with four 1st inning runs to take a 4-1 lead. Martin Cheatham, Josh Richards and Mike Marquardt all had big hits in the inning. The Skeeters as expected wouldn't go away as they would tie the score at 4 apiece. The Dodgers would again answer by scoring two runs to retake the lead with David Mcintosh and newly acquired Pat Ralston having the big hits in the inning. The Dodgers would then add an insurance run in the bottom of the 8th as Eric Johnson blasted an RBI double to right center field. The Skeeters would add another run to cut the lead to 7-5, but Martin Cheatham closed the door to earn his 3rd save of the year.
Offensively the Dodgers were led by the aforementioned Cheatham who along with Eric Johnson and David Mcintosh all had two hits apiece. Pat Ralston, Mike Marquardt, Josh Richards and Mike Hinzmann all had one hit. The Dodgers improve to 4-1 and slide into a share of first place with the Grays and the Cubs.
So what did we learn about the Dodgers this week: Good defense, Good baserunning and few timely hits usually equals a win.
The Casey's Pizza Player of the Game= Martin Cheatham who had 2 hits, 2 stolen bases, a huge tagup from 2nd to 3rd which then resulted in the game winning run, and a save.
Cubs Comeback to Defeat Dodgers
The Cubs once again foiled an outstanding Dodger effort to beat the league champs. A rematch of last years championship game went the way of the home nine 5-4. With short fences and a nice breeze blowing out it looked like the long ball might come into play. But just like last week, it was the pitchers who dominated the game as neither team left the yard. Unlike last year's championship game it would be the Dodgers who scored first. In the top of the 2nd inning the Dodgers scored three runs using some walks and some timely hitting. David Mcintosh and Chad Rolfes each singled helping the visitors during the inning. Chad Manders, who pitched a gem, would hold this lead until the bottom of the 5th inning. The Cubs would tie the game at 3-3. This however wouldn't last long as the Dodgers scored another run to take a 4-3 lead. Manders, who kept Cubs hitters guessing all afternoon long, dodged some tense innings and kept the Dodgers in the lead going into the bottom of the ninth. Along with Manders excellent hurling, the Dodgers played sparkling defense behind the veteren right hander. Eric Jeppesen and David Mcintosh made several rally killing catches in the outfield. All of this helped the Dodgers hold onto the slimest of leads going into the bottom of the 9th. With one out the Cubs would tie the score 4-4. A sharp single to center one batter later would be the undoing of a dandy Dodger victory as the Cubs would score and win the game in walkoff fashion. Both teams played a great game and it definately lived up to the game of the week billing that the TCMABL website labeled it. Unfortunately the Cubs once again proved to be a thorn in the side for the Dodgers. The loss dropped the Dodgers to 2-1 and into 2nd place behind the Cubs.
Chad Manders showed that he can be a very strong starting pitcher. He pitched eight strong innings allowing 8 hits and 3 runs. He also went 1-2 at the plate. David Mcintosh not only made a Willie Mays catch in centerfield, but he also went 2-4 at the dish to lead the Dodgers in hits for the day. Martin Cheatham, Mike Hinzmann, Frank Markie and Chad Rolfes all had one hit apiece. The Dodgers look to get back in the win column as they travel to take on the Padres this Sunday at 5:00.
Casey's Pizza Player of the Game= Tie between Chad Manders and David Mcintosh.
Dodgers Defeat Grays
When the Dodgers arrived at Castle Field this past Sunday they were greeted with a 15 mph wind that was blowing from the west/northwest. With the 1-0 Grays on the docket for the day, many felt a high scoring game was a forgone conclusion. The Dodgers who had scored 16 runs in their opener, and the Grays with one of the most powerful lineups in the Roy Hobbs League, one could see how this could happen. Jon Scholtz and Wes Robertson were evidently two people who didn't feel this way, as the Grays righty and the Dodgers lefty had other ideas. Both pitched brilliantly throughout the game. Robertson however would come out the victor as the Dodgers snuck a run across in the 8th on their way to a 3-2 victory. Both pitchers were able to keep the others hitters off balance all afternoon which made the strong gusts blowing out irrelevant.
The Dodgers would start the scoring by tallying a run in the bottom of the 2nd highlighted by David Mcintosh's double. He would later score to give the home nine a 1-0 lead. The Grays would answer two innings later as the plated two runs across in the top of the 4th inning to take a 2-1 lead. Scholtz would keep the Grays in the lead with his outstanding pitching for the next two innings, but in the 7th inning the Dodgers would score a lone run on Wes Robertson's triple which scored Mike Hinzmann from first. One could feel the famous words of Chris Berman's "rumblin, bumblin, stumblin". The Dodgers would add another run in the bottom of the 8th as Chad Manders sun ball allowed Paul Wells to score from third to make the score 3-2 Dodgers. Martin Cheatham came in to get his first save of the year which helped Robertson get his 2nd win of the young season.
Offensively for the Dodgers Chad Manders and Martin Cheatham both had two hits apiece. Wes Robertson, Eric Johnson, David Mcintosh and Brett Rapaski each had one hit on the day. With the win the Dodgers stayed even with the Cubs in first place. These two teams will be playing this Sunday in a showdown for first place in the division as the Dodgers travel to play the Cubs.
Casey's Pizza Player of the Game=Wes Robertson. 1 for 3 with a triple and an RBI and pitched 8 great innings.
Sloppy Seventh
For the seventh straight year the Dodgers have opened the season with a victory. Some of the victories have been well played contests, where both teams looked in mid season form. This was not one of those contests. Both the Voyageurs and Dodgers set defensive baseball back many years as both teams struggled to field the ball, throw the ball and catch the ball. The Blue and White could blame their shoddy defense on Van Cleve, but excuses are for losers. Luckily for the Dodgers their bats made up for the lack of defense, excuses or not, the Dodgers would have been losers.
Wes Robertson took the hill for the Dodgers and pitched around, through and over many team inflicted jams. It looked like the Dodgers might be in for a long day as the Voyageurs flashed some nifty glove work that eliminated a first inning Dodger rally. Robertson limited a potentially big Voyageur inning by only allowing the home nine one run. The Blue and White would tie the game in the 2nd inning and then take the lead 3-1 in the top of the 3rd inning. The bottom of the 3rd inning resembled what some used to call a "Dodger Inning", as the visitors kicked and threw the ball all over the diamond. This allowed the fur traders to tally three runs to take a 4-3 lead. The Dodgers would tie the game in the 4th, but another "Dodger Inning", allowed the Voyageurs to score three more times to take a 7-4 lead. Fortunately for the Dodgers the Voyageurs would see themselves have some fielding issues. Couple this with some great Dodger at bats, and the end result would be a 16-7 victory for the visitors.
Wes Robertson, despite all of the defensive laps, came away with the victory and Martin Cheatham came in for a six out save. Offensively the Dodgers were led by Mike Marquardt who had his first four hit game for the Dodgers including a line drive double. Chad Manders and Josh Richards had huge games offensively as each slugger hat three hits. Mike Hinzmann also had a three hit day. Martin Cheatham and Chad Rolfes both had two hits apiece. Wes Robertson and Eric Johnson would each have one hit. In all the Dodgers pounded out 19 hits in all in their opening day victory. The Dodgers have Memorial Day off and will host the Grays on June 3 at Castle Field.
Dodger's Fantastic Season Ends
Herm Edwards once said, "You play to win the game!" Herm of course is correct, but when a team who's history is as snakebitten and futile as the Dodger's history has been a Championship defeat stings, but is hardly something the Blue and White are going to lament over. The Dodgers did play to win the game, unfortunately the bats and some untimely poor defense did in the regular season champs. The Dodger's were only able to muster up two hits on the afternoon, and when runners were in scoring position it seemed that big, two out hits were not in the cards as the Dodgers stranded seven baserunners. Even with the inept offense the Dodgers were able to keep the game close, in fact for five innings the score was 1-0 Cubs. They Cubs would add two runs in the 6th inning and one more in the 7th to take a commanding 4-0 lead. Neither team would score again and the Dodgers hopes of a championship vanished by a score of 4-0. The Dodgers would be runner-ups and finish 2nd place behind the Cubs, who have won both 35+ league championships. The Dodgers would like to congratulate the Cubs on their championship as it was very well deserved. The Dodgers, even with the loss, have nothing to hang their heads about and will be back hungrier than ever next season. Maybe next season not only will the Dodgers play to win the game, but they will win the big game!
Dodgers Defeat Padres to Advance to Championship
The Dodgers advanced to the Championship game with the Cubs with two of the most unusual victories. The first was a forfeit win over the Mavericks, and the other was a slugfest, come from behind win that at one point the ESPN stat geeks would have given the Dodgers about a 0.5% chance of winning. But, like Loyd Christmas said, "So your telling me there's a chance," the Dodgers went from Dumb and Dumber in the first three innings to looking more like an Oscar winning movie the rest of the game. As stated earlier the Padres came out and after three innings would have had about a 99.5% chance of winning. They did everything a team that is handing it to the other team does. They hit, they stole bases, they took the extra bases, they got great two out hitting and they played great defense. All of this produced a comfortable 9-0 lead for the Padres. Most in attendance, probably thought a Padres vrs. Cubs/Grays championship game was a forlorn conclusion, except the Dodgers. With such a huge deficit to overcome the Dodgers became more relaxed (maybe they too thought it was over) and just started to play baseball. With this mentality a funny thing happened; success. The Dodgers began to hit the ball, and after 4 innings of play the 9-0 lead became a 9-4 lead and the Blue and White seemed to have some momentum back. This was started by big hits from Josh Richards, Chad Rolfes and Phil Rivera who would end up going a combined 7 hits in 9 at bats. With a more reasonable score the ESPN stat geeks suddenly changed the win percentage to 68% Padres and 32% Dodgers. In the 5th inning more of the same, as the Dodgers pounded out hits and used Padre errors to flip the script and take a 12-9 lead. This was a lead they would not relinquish and would eventually eclipse the 20 run mark on their way to a 23-11 win. Of course a win like this has many important pieces and the three Dodgers mentioned above deserve much of the accolades for the impressive comeback. It was also the little things that were done that became big in the end. Martin Cheatham came in relief and stopped the bleeding, Wes Robertson came and pitched the rest of the game and came up with a huge RBI hit. Eric Johnson was brick wall behind the plate keeping Padre baserunners at bay. David Mcintosh had gigantic hits that led to taking the lead, and overall, the Dodgers played sparkling defense. The Dodgers will now play the Cubs, one of the most decorated teams in the TCMABL this Sunday for the Championship. There were two things the Dodgers learned from the Padres game: #1. Don't get down 9-0 after three innings and #2. The only win percentage that matters is the one at the end of the game which the Dodgers are hoping is 100% at around 3:00 this coming Sunday.
Dodgers defeat Wobblies; REGULAR SEASON LEAGUE CHAMPIONS
On June 3, 2007 the TC Dodgers played their first game in the TCMABL against the Red Sox. The Dodgers won thier inauguaral game 12-3 with Frank Markie, Eric Johnson and Phil Rivera leading the way in the lopsided victory. It would take the Dodgers 11 years to win a championship, but on Sunday with a convincing 8-3 win over the Wobblies, the Dodgers did just that and the long wait was over for Markie, Johnson and Rivera. With their fate in their own hands, the Dodgers knew that if they won they would be regular season champs. One would think the pressure would be on, but the Blue and White played as if it were opening day. Wes Robertson, Frank Markie and Bret Repaski shared the pitching duties. All three almost had the same stat lines as each gave up one run. Frank Markie went one more inning than the other two hurlers to pick up the victory. Offensively, the Dodgers had nine hits, which by itself doesn't sound impressive, but they also drew five walks and three hit batters to help score eight runs. Chad Manders had a historical day setting the Dodgers single season stolen base record with three steals to break the record of 21 steals in a single season. Manders would also have two hits to go along with his thefts. Wes Robertson and Frank Markie also had great days at the dish. Both sluggers had two hits a piece and two RBI's apiece. Eric Johnson, David Mcintosh and Jae Jung Hung all had one hit a piece. The day was bittersweet for the Dodgers as this was the last game for Jae Jung Hung as he and his family are moving. The Dodgers wish Jae and his family good wishes and best of luck in their new adventure. With the win, the Dodgers set a new club record with 11 wins. The Dodgers will take on the Mavericks in the first round of the playoffs Saturday, September 9.
Dodgers Earn 10th Victory and a Share of 1st Place
In the Cheers episode, Cliff on Jeopardy know-it-all Cliff Claven finally gets his chance when he qualifies for a spot on Jeopardy. With catagories like Civil Servants, Bar trivia, and Beer Cliff is a shoe-in to win. With a $20,000 dollar lead Cliff and all of America assume he is going to win. The final jeopardy answer of Archibald Leach, Bernard Schwarz, and Lucille LeSueur stumps the mailman and he comes up with the question, "Who are three people who have never been in my kitchen." With everybody laughing about the answer unbenounced to Alex Trebec however is the fact that Cliff bet it all and of course snatches defeat from the jaws of victory. Well, the Dodgers seemed to be in the same predicament as Cliff Clavin. With the Grays losing to the Skeeters and the Dodgers playing a 4-6 Padres team it seemed everything was staked in the Blue and Whites favor. With the luck of the Vikings, the Dodgers knew that the Padres are way better than their record shows, and the contest on Sunday would be anything but a sure thing. It didn't look good for the home nine as the Padres jumped out to an early 3-0 lead after ther first half inning. The Dodgers would answer in their half of the first with one run. The Padres would add to their lead with another run in the top of the fourth inning to make the score 4-1. The Dodgers would answer with four runs of their own to take one run lead. The big inning was led by a bases loaded walk to Mike Marquardt and an RBI single by Phil Rivera. The 5-4 lead by the Dodgers would be short lived as the Padres plated four of their own runs in the top of the fifth to retake the lead 8-5. Again, the Dodgers battled back and scored three runs in their half of the fifth to knot the score at 8-8. In the top of the eighth it looked as though the Padres might take the lead as the lead off man reached first on an error and then took off for second on the first pitch. The ball carromed off the runner sending the ball into short left field and the runner to third base with no outs. This is where Martin Cheatham, who came in for Dodger starter Chad Manders, took over. Cheatham struck out the next three batters with a 1-2 combination of a devastating curve ball and a dominating fast ball. With this momentum the Dodgers scored a solo run in the bottom of the eighth to break the tie and take a 9-8 lead. The Dodgers would tack on another run to make it a 10-8 lead that would stick and the Dodgers earned their tenth win of the season tieing the mark set in 2012. Martin Cheatham, who came in for relief, pitched brilliantly allowing zero runs, zero hits to earn the victory. Along with Cheatham's pitching, the Dodgers defense again was excellent. The star of the Defense and The Casey's Pizza Player of the Game was Phil Rivera. Rivera played an outstanding third base robbing Padre hitters all evening and the third bagger also had a huge hit to help the home nine in the victory. Offensively the Dodgers were led by Eric Johnson who had two hits including a double that scored two runs. Martin Cheatham, Mike Hinzmann, Chad Manders, Mike Marquardt, David Mcintosh and Phil Rivera each had one hit apiece. The Dodgers unlike Cliff Clavin came up with the correct question of, "What are the real names of Cary Grant, Tony Curtis and Joan Crawford." The Dodgers will try again to get the correct question as they finish up the season taking on the Wobblies this coming Sunday.
Dodgers Make History and Repeat History
The Dodgers made history by going back in time and completing the 2nd half of the Cubs game that was suspended on June 4th because on an umpire injury. The game picked up with one out in the bottom of the 5th with a runner on 1st base and the Dodgers leading 2-0. Frank Markie who had pitched beautifully on the June 4th portion of the game would pick up right where he left off. The Cubs would go down 2,3 and not score in the 5th. They would however plate two runs in the bottom of the 6th to tie the game 2-2. This lead was short lived as the Dodgers scored one run in the top of the 7th only to see the Cubs score one run in the bottom of the 8th to tie the score again 3-3. The Dodgers would answer with a three run 9th to take a commanding 6-3 lead into the bottom half of the ninth. In years past Viking like luck usually would doom the Dodgers when playing the Cubs. ie *Dropped fly ball, pick off at 2nd base that wasn't really a pick off, tieing run getting thrown out at home to end game, etc.* Frank Markie, who had witnessed almost all of these bizarre plays and many more in his Dodger career, took care of business in the bottom half of the 9th allowing the Dodgers to finally beat the Cubs for the first time 6-4. Along with Markie, Martin Cheatham had a huge part in allowing the Dodgers to make history as he had two hits that garnered 3 RBI's for the shortstop. Wes Robertson also did his part going 2-2 with a double, triple and 2 RBI's. Bret Repaski, Paul Wells, and David Mcinstosh also had two hits apiece. Mike Hinzmann also chipped in with one hit on the day.
The Dodgers may have made history on the suspended game, but the game that followed resembled a blast from the past as the Cubs trounced the Dodgers 9-2 in the night cap. The Cubs took out their frustration of losing the first game by clubbing 20 hits. The game would be close for four innings with the Cubs leading by a slim 2-1 margin, but that's as close as the game would be. The Cubs scored two runs in the 5th, three in the 7th, and two more in the 8th to finish off the Dodgers 9-2. With the win the Cubs move one game behind the second place Dodgers and two games behind the first place Grays. offensively the Dodgers could only muster up seven hits. Martin Cheatham, Chad Manders, Wes Robertson, Eric Johnson, Frank Markie, Bret Repaski and Eric Jeppeson each had one hit apiece. The loss moves the Dodgers one full game behind the first place Grays. The Dodgers will try and get back on the winning track by taking on the Padres this Sunday at Castle.
Dodgers Complete Mavs Sweep
The past two years have taught the Dodgers to never, never, never judge a team by thier record, especially the Mavs. Each of the past two seasons the Mavericks have made life miserable for the Dodgers. Losing a close game two years ago and winning last season's finale. Even this years first game was much closer than the score made it seem. With a winless Mavs team hungry for thier first victory of the season the Dodgers learned thier lesson well from prior Mavs vrs. Dodger games and came out and played one of thier most complete games of the year. The Dodgers scored early and often taking a commanding 9-0 lead into the top of the fifth. With injuries to some key pitchers Brett Repaski was asked to make his first start of the year. In a game that would have made Jim Kaat proud, the righthander worked quickly and effectively keeping both hitter and fielder on thier toes. Repaski pitched five strong innings only letting the visiting Mavs score runs in the top of the fifth. The Mavs took advantage of a tiring Repaski and cut the Dodgers lead to 9-4. The Dodgers would answer with five more runs to end the game early in the 8th inning and turned the lights out on the Mavs and themselves as the timer for the lights automatically turned them off as the game ended. A fitting way to end a critical game for the Dodgers as they are still chasing the first place Grays. The defense was outstanding for the Dodgers, but the offense was also very good. The home nine pounded out 11 hits, 9 walks, 9 steals and scored 14 runs. The Dodgers were led offensively by Eric Johnson who laced an RBI triple in the 7th inning along with a single earlier in the game. Phil Rivera and Mike Hinzmann would also have two hits on the evening. Martin Cheatham, Brett Repaski, David Mcintosh, Josh Richards and Chad Rolfes each had one hit apiece. Chad Rolfes set a new Dodger record (and most likely league record) by getting hit by three pitches in the tilt and Brett Repaski earned his first win of the season. The Dodgers have two big games coming up this Sunday. They will finish the first Cubs game that was suspended due to an injury sustained by the umpire, and then they will play the Cubs in the originally scheduled game right afterwards at Castle Field.
Marquardt and Markie Help Make Dodgers Victorious
Thanks to some timely hitting and some aggressive base running the visiting Dodgers were able to defeat the Voyageurs 10-7 in 13 innings. The Dodgers looked like they might run away with a victory, as they did the week before, as they built a 5-1 lead through 3 1/2 innings. The Dodgers would score one run in the first inning, two runs in the 2nd inning and two more runs in the 4th inning. This nice cushion would disappear as the Voyageurs answered in their half of the 4th inning with two runs to cut the Dodger lead to 5-3. Frank Markie continued to pitch brilliantly keeping the score 5-3 until the bottom of the 7th inning. The Voyageurs would use some well placed bunts, some shoddy Dodger defense and some timely hitting to score 3 runs and take a 6-5 lead going into the top half of the 8th inning. The Dodgers offense had been stymied since the 4th inning by Voyageur's starting pitcher Ryan Saralampi, who would pitch all 13 innings. This would change with one swing of Frank Markie's bat. Markie would hit a solo homerun to deep left center field to tie the game at 6-6. Neither squad was able to score a run in the final frame and the Dodgers entered territory that a year ago usually meant trouble. This year's first extra inning outcome would be different, but it wouldn't be easy. The Dodgers scored a run in the top of the 11th to take a 7-6 lead and it seemed that Martin Cheatham was going to finish off the Voyageurs in the bottom of the 11th. With two outs and a runner on second the Voyageurs used a well placed ground ball to tie up the score. It would take the Dodgers two more innings to finally take the lead for good. Mike Marquardt, who played exceptional defense at 3rd base, would become one of the heroes as he lined a double down the left field line to score two runs to make the score 9-7. The Dodgers would add another run to take a 10-7 lead. This time Cheatham shut, and locked the door for the win mowing down the Voyagers 1-2-3. Cheatham came in relief for Markie and pitched 6 strong innings only giving up one run to earn his first victory of the year. The Dodgers were led on offense by Eric Johnson who led the Blue and White with 3 hits on the day. The afore mentioned Marquardt would have a nice afternoon with 2 hits that drove in 2 runs. Josh Richards also ripped two hits that produced 1 run. Martin Cheatham, Chad Manders, Mike Hinzmann, Frank Markie, and David Mcintosh all had one hit apiece. The 7-1 Dodgers remain 1/2 game out of first place as they take on the visiting Mavericks this Sunday at Castle Field.
Dodgers Wear White Win Game
After suffering their first loss of the season, the Dodgers decided to wear their traditional tops to see if a losing streak could be avoided. Avoiding a loss to the surging Skeeters would take more than a jersey top change however. The Dodgers would need to make a checklist of things that would need to be done in order to come away with a victory. On top of that list was DEFENSE: The Dodger defense has been anything but stellar in many of the prior Dodger games. Against the Skeeters the Dodgers would play great D as Martin Cheatham, Phil Rivera and Paul Wells each made great plays to save runs or end innings. DEFENSE=CHECK. The next item on the Dodger checklist would be OFFENSE: The Dodger offense has been up and down this season. Against the Skeeters the Dodgers had one of those up games. The Dodger's offense pounded out 19 hits on the day and scored 12 runs. Chad Rolfes led the way with 3 hits in 4 at bats. OFFENSE=CHECK. The next item on the Dodger list was using the speed that the Blue and White possess. Against the Skeeters the Dodgers took an extra base with hustle and stole 10 bases on the day. This put runners in scoring position and Dodger hitters delivered, which had also been an offensive problem this season. SPEED=CHECK. With the list complete, and another superb pitching performance the Dodgers were able to build an early lead and keep adding to it. Wes Robertson started on the hill for the Dodgers going four strong innings and receiving his 4th win of the season. Frank Markie would spell Robertson and pitch two scoreless innings. Newcomer Bret Repaski also showed his versatility by pitching a scoreless inning to seal the Dodgers sixth victory of the season 12-2. Offensively the Dodgers were led by Chad Rolfes who had 3 hits and scored 2 runs. Martin Cheatham, Mike Hinzmann, Wes Robertson, Eric Johnson, Frank Markie, Bret Repaski, Mike Marquardt all had 2 hits apiece. Chad Manders and Phil Rivera each had 1 hit apiece. Some more good news for the Dodgers, Eric Jeppesen came off the IR list to play in the outfield and hit, and Jae Jung's injured wrist seemed to be healing well. All hands on deck are going to be needed as the Dodgers head for the home stretch. The Blue and White will have their hands full again this Sunday as they travel to Van Cleve to take on a very good hitting Voyageurs team.
Grays Halt Dodgers Streak
If you walked up to a baseball field before the game it is usually easy to tell what age level the players might be. 35+ players usually are a little gray (no pun intended) in the beard, a little wider above the hips and a little longer in the tooth. One could also detect last Sunday's Grays vrs. Dodgers game was a 35+ contest by the pregame music which included NWA and some 1990's alternative rock headlined by Pearl Jam. The music made most harken back to their glory days (unfortunately no Bruce Springsteen was played). Frank Markie would be the first one to tell you that he is one of the afore mentioned gray beards, but with age comes experience and wisdom. The Dodger's starting pitcher may be older, but he still knows how to pitch. Markie, like he has all year, pitched brilliantly for 7 innings. In a game that featured two of the better hitting teams in the league, Markie allowed 4 earned runs while only allowing 5 hits. It would be his pitching, along with Gray's pitcher Jon Scholtz, that would make last Sunday's contest one to remember. The game would be a contest of whatever you can do, I can do better. Both pitchers battled each other, each only allowing 1 run apiece for the first 3 innings. The offense would come around for both teams as the Grays broke the 1-1 tie in the bottom of the 4th inning scoring 2 runs to take a 3-1 lead. This lead wouldn't last long as the Dodgers would counter with 3 runs in the top of the 5th to retake the lead 4-3. The Grays of course would score 2 runs in the bottom of the sixth with the Dodgers scoring 2 runs in the top of the 7th to regain a 6-5 lead. The Grays then would score 1 run in the bottom of the 8th inning to knot the score up at 6's. As happened all afternoon, the Dodgers scored 1 run in the top of the 9th to take a 7-6 lead. But the Grays had to one up the visiting nine, as they scored 2 runs in the bottom of the 9th for a walk off win. The loss by the Dodgers ended their five game winning streak and pushed them a 1/2 game behind the Grays in the standings. Offensively the Dodgers were led by Frank Markie also. Markie plated two hits in four trips as did Bret Rapaski, who also had a double. Chad Manders, Mike Hinzmann, Wes Robertson and Eric Johnson all had one hit apiece. The Dodgers continue their pursuit for 1st place as they take on a surging Skeeters team who is only 1/2 game behind the Blue and White.
Dodgers Defeat Dads (Padres)
In 1991 Ned Flanders started a store in the Springfield Mall that catored to lefthanded people called the Leftorium. Of course Homer hoped it would fail and it nearly did, but if the Leftorium was near the Dale Street Recreation Center Field business would be booming. Last Sunday's matchup between the Padres and Dodgers featured two of the best pitchers in the league, Wes Robertson and John Ripplinger who both are southpaws. Neither pitcher disappointed as the contest would be a duel between the two leftys. It would be the Dodgers who would strike first by scoring 1 run in the 2nd inning and another lone run in the 3rd inning to take a 2-0 lead. Chad Manders would have the big hit in these innings singling home a run. The Dodgers would add on to their slim lead in the top of the 6th scoring 2 runs thanks to a sacrafice fly by Mike Marquardt and a line drive single by Chad Rolfes. With the score 4-0 Dodgers, Bret Repaski clubbed a shot over the centerfielder's head, down Dale Street, onto Highway 36 then merging onto 694. Maybe a little hyperbole, but with a massive centerfield/infield the ball kept rolling and rolling and Repaski motored around for an inside the park homerun his first of the season to make the score 5-0. The Padres would mount a two out comeback in thier half ot the 9th inning, but Robertson finished off the Padres keeping the Dodgers in sole possession of 1st place. Wes Robertson has pitched brilliantly all season, but this was his best performance. The lefthander pitched a complete game stiking out 8 batters while allowing 8 hits and only one earned run. The Dodgers were led offensively by Chad Manders who had a great game as well. Manders had 3 hits in 3 at bats and had 4 stolen bases. Phil Rivera also had a nice afternoon at the dish singling twice. Chad Rolfes and Bret Repaski each had one hit apiece. After the game the 5 lefthanded players to have played in the game decided to check out Ned Flanders Leftorium. Next week the Dodgers have a rematch with the talented Grays in a matchup for first place.
UGLY WIN
It was said that baseball defensive video drills guru Tom Emanski loved great defensive baseball. Thankfully Mr. Emanski was no where near Lighted Field this past Sunday. In what could only be called an Ugly game, the Dodgers did come away with a victory over the Mavericks. With multiple errors, hit by pitch, walks and stranded runners it looked as if both teams were interested in losing Sunday's contest. The Mavericks tend to have a knack for making life difficult for the Dodgers and this past Sunday was no exception. The Mavericks looked like the undefeated team as they were sharp in the field and got the timely hits on their way to taking a 4-1 lead after 3 innings. The Dodgers defense was not sharp and the clutch hitting wasn't there most of the afternoon for the Blue and White as they left 18 runners on base. With that said, the Dodgers did wake up and scored 5 runs in the top of the 4th to take a 6-4 lead. The big hits coming from Martin Cheatham and David Mcintosh, former Mavs. This lead however was short lived as the Mavericks would use some less than stellar Dodger defense to tie the game 6-6. It would stay that way until the 7th inning as the Dodgers pushed 2 runs in only to see the home Mavs copy it to retie the game at 8's. Frank Markie and Mike Marquardt would have two big hits in the final 2 frames which spurred on a scoring bonanza for the Dodgers. The visiting nine would score 5 runs in the 8th inning and 4 more runs in the ninth inning to take a commanding 17-8 lead. The Mavs would score a lone run in the bottom of the ninth to make the final a very deceiving 17-9 game, as all in attendance would verify that the final score was much closer than it appears. The victim of the Dodger defense was veteran hurler Frank Markie. Markie again, as he has all year, pitched a very good game. Markie received his well earned 2nd win giving up only 3 earned runs. Martin Cheatham would finish off the game pitching the 8th and 9th innings to slam the door shut on the Mavs. Offensively the Dodgers were led by David Mcintosh who continues to swing a hot bat going 2 for 2 on the day with 3 walks. A plethora of Dodgers would each have one hit during the contest to add up to 10 hits for the day for the visiting Dodgers. Martin Cheatham, Mike Hinzmann, Frank Markie, Mike Marquardt, Jae Hung Jung, Bret Repaski, Josh Richards and Eric Johnson all had one hit apiece. The Dodgers will enjoy a Sunday off for the 4th of July before they tangle with the 3-1 Padres in a battle for 1st place in the league.
A Tale of Two Games
For the Dodgers, Sunday's game against the Voyageurs seemed like two different games wrapped in one game. If each game had a summary it could go like this; It was the best of times, it was the worst of times, not necessarily in that order.
The worst of times came first in this tale as the Dodgers fumbled their way through the first half of the contest by making errors instead of plays. Giving the vaunted Voyageur hitters any help with sloppy play is a recipe for disaster. This is exactly what the Dodgers did in the first 5 innings of the game. This sloppiness, coupled with excellent hitting, enabled the Voyageurs to take a commanding 10-4 lead going into the bottom of the 5th.
This leads us into the best of times in our story as the Dodgers would outscore the Voyageurs 9-0 in the final 4 1/2 innings to win the game 13-10.
The best of times could be an accurate description for many Dodger hitters who helped the team overcome the worst of times start. The newcomer Jae Hung Jung showed why he was drafted by the Dodgers as he had an excellent running catch to save some runs and at the dish he laced 3 singles to go 3-4 on the day. Martin Cheatham also belted three hits along with his usual 2 stolen bases. Wes Robertson also had 3 hits on the day including a double and a triple. It was his triple that proved to be the turning point. With 2 outs in the bottom of the 5th Robertson had 2 strikes before lacing a triple to left center scoring two runs to cut the 10-4 lead to 10-6. After this at bat the offense seemed to take off for the rest of the game as Mike Hinzmann would hit a 2 run homerun, Mike Marquardt would hit a single plating 2 RBI's and Martin Cheatham would also single tallying an RBI. Four Dodger players tallyed 3 hits for the day. As mentioned Jae Hung Jung went 3-4, as did Mike Hinzmann and Martin Cheatham. Wes Robertson who had to pitch with some shoddy defense behind him had a perfect 3-3 day along with 4 RBI's. Mike Marquardt, Chad Rolfes and Bret Repaski all had 1 hit apiece.
Wes Robertson pitched the first half of the game giving up 5 earned runs and was awarded the win. Martin Cheatham came in for the old school Mike Marshall type save pitching the final 3 frames to ensure the Dodgers a come-from-behind win. With this win the Dodgers become 3-0 for the first time in team history. The Blue and White will try to continue the winning streak taking on the Mavricks this coming Sunday.
Dodgers Down Wobblies in 7
Unlike past years, the Dodgers became 2-0 for the first time since 2012. In week 2 the Dodgers were battling the Cubs when a tipped pitch hit the umpires right arm opening up a large gash that required medical attention. The game was suspended in the 4th inning with the Dodgers leading 2-0 and will be resumed when the Dodgers meet up with the Cubs in August.
Week 3 worked out much better for the Dodgers and the umpire as the Dodgers defeated the Wobblies, and the umpire left the game unscathed. In the past the Dodgers have struggled with the Wobblies, but this would not be the case this year. The Dodgers jumped out to an early 3-0 lead with the big blows coming on Wes Robertson's single scoring Chad Manders and Mike Hinzmann's two run homerun. Frank Markie, the steady veteran right hander, again took the mound and pitched brilliantly. Markie let his defense make the plays for him and he kept the Wobblies guessing at the plate. Markie pitched 5 innings allowing only 3 hits and 1 run to pick up his first victory of the season. The Dodgers did much of their damage offensively in the middle innings as the blue and white scored 4 runs in the 3rd inning, 2 runs in the 5th and 4 runs in the 6th inning to take a commanding 13-3 lead. With the ten-run rule in effect the Dodgers would cruise to a 7 inning win to become 2-0 on the season.
Offensively the Dodgers were led by Eric Johnson and Martin Cheatham who each had 2 hits. Chad Manders, Wes Robertson, David Mcintosh and Frank Markie all had one hit apiece. Chad Manders also had 3 stolen bases and scored 3 runs. Cheatham and Mike Marquardt also had stolen bases in the Dodgers win.
The Dodgers look to become 3-0 on the season as they take on the Voyageurs at Castle Field this Sunday evening a 5:00.
Deja Blue
The 2017 Dodgers defeated a talented Grays team 9-3 on a cold, blustery opening day. The last four years have started with the Dodgers notching victories in their first showing only to see that momentum get slowed by poor performances in the following weeks. This is what the Blue and White hope to avoid this year.
Wes Robertson, the hard throwing lefty was the major reason the Dodgers are in the win column. He pitched a complete game keeping the Grays off balance all afternoon. He scattered eight hits with 11 strikeouts and only allowed three runs, two of which were earned. The Dodgers bats started as chilly as the northwest breeze at Castle Field as they could only muster up two hits in the first five innings. The Grays didn't fair much better, but they did push across a lone run in the top of the 3rd inning to take a 1-0 lead. The slim lead would hold up until the bottom of the 6th inning as the Dodger bats finally warmed up and allowed the home nine to score two runs to take a 2-1 lead. Robertson wouldn't allow another run until the 8th inning and the Dodgers would score two runs in the 7th and then five runs in the 8th to take a commanding 9-2 lead. The Grays would score a lone run in their half of the 9th frame, but it wouldn't be enough as the Dodgers defeated the Grays 9-3.
Offensively the Dodgers were led by Chad Manders, Eric Johnson, and newcomer Bret Rapaski who each had two hits apiece. Rapaski not only hit the ball well, he also played excellent defense in his Dodgers debut. Chad Manders also drove in three runs with his two hits. Martin Cheatham, Wes Robertson, David Mcintosh, Frank Markie, Mike Marquardt, Josh Richards and Mike Hinzmann all had one hit apiece. On the day the Dodgers pounded out `13 hits and scored 9 runs. The Dodgers next game will be on Sunday, May 21 at 5:00 against the Cubs at Lighted Field.
Dodgers Lose...
With the departure of three former Mavericks to the Dodgers the past two seasons definately made the Marvericks first win of the season a sweet one for the home nine. This new rivalry game for the Dodgers has given them fits. Last year the Dodgers squeeked out a victory and this year the Mavs outplayed the Blue and White to earn their first win of the season 12-10. The Mavericks seemed to hit 'em where they ain't all day as the Dodgers outfield was busy. Couple this with some Dodger errors and the Mavericks led 10-2 after four innings of play. The Dodgers would shore up the defense and then score 3 runs in the sixth inning and 5 runs in the seventh inning to cut the Mav's lead to 11-10. Unfortunately for the Dodgers, this would be all the runs they would get, and an insurance run by the Mavs in the eighth inning, made the comeback stall and turned a nice comeback into a mode point by days end. The Dodgers were led offensively by Chad Manders who rapped three hits talling four RBI's on the day. Wes Robertson and Phil Rivera had two hits apiece on the day. Mike Marquardt, David McIntosh, Chad Rolfes, Eric Jeppeson and Mike Hinzmann each had one hit apiece in the Dodger loss. Frank Markie took the hill and was the victim of some shabby Dodger defense as he only gave up four earned runs. The good news for the Dodgers is that they didn't lose any ground for the playoffs and will face the Braves this Saturday in Anoka in the first round of the playoffs.
Third Times the Charm For Dodgers
Someone needs to tell the Dodgers that baseball games should only go nine innings. For the third week in a row the Dodgers played extra baseball. Unlike the other two games, the Dodgers came out on the winning end of a 4-3 score. Wes Robertson took the hill for the Dodgers and pitched six very good innings. Unfortunately for Robertson, he was the victim of some bad luck and timely Skeeter hitting. This didn't allow him to record the win he deserved. Strong pitching and strong defense would be the perfect recipe for a Dodger victory. Martin Cheatham, the Cheetah, would spearhead this effort at shortstop as did Phil Rivera who each made all the plays on the right side of the infield. Offensively, the Dodgers struggled for much of the afternoon. Scoring two runs in the first inning it looked as though it might be enough. But the Skeeters are a very good hitting team, and they would take the lead 3-2 in the top of the sixth. The Dodgers wood score the tying run in the bottom of the 8th on a Josh Richardson single. Nick Curtis relieved Robertson and would shut the door on the Skeeters. The Dodgers would have chances to end the game, but were unable to until the bottom of the 11th inning when Martin Cheatham smashed a hot shot off the third baseman allowing Mike Marquardt to score the winning run. Offensively the Dodgers were led by Martin, the Cheetah, Cheatham, Wes Robertson and Josh Richardson who each had two hits. David McIntosh, Chad Manders, Nick Curtis and Mike Hinzmann each had one hit apiece. With the win the Dodgers Sealed 4th Place in the National League. The Dodgers end the regular season playing the Mavericks this Sunday in Minneapolis.
Dodgers comback in 9th only to lose in extra innings
The Dodgers found something worse than playing 13 innings only to tie, that is to tie the game in the bottom of the 9th only to lose it in the 11th. For the 2nd straight week the Dodgers found themselves playing extra baseball, this time with the 1st place Piranhas. Frank Markie pitched 10 great innings, doing his best Jack Morris impersonation, only to have his defense let him down early in the game and the bats not getting anything going until the 9th. The Dodgers battled back in the bottom of the ninth with 3 straight hits from Martin Cheatham, Chad Manders, and Eric Johnson's clutch 2 run game tying triple. Unfortunately for the Dodgers, he was thrown out at the plate trying to score the winning run on a possible game winning sacrifice fly. That summed up the Dodgers day at the plate perfectly. That 8-2 double play was the 2nd unconventional double play hit into on the day. the other being a 6- 2 double play earlier in the game. The Dodgers offensively were led by Martin Cheatham's 3 hits and one hit each for Chad Manders, Eric Johnson, Nick Curtis, and Josh Richards. The silver lining for the day was that despite the loss the Dodgers clinhed a playoff berth. If the last two weeks are any indication, the Dodgers can challenge anyone in the playoffs in the wide open.National Division. Next up for the Dodgers is the home finale against the 35+ Skeeters with a chance to clinch the 4 seed.
Dodgers and Cadillacs Kiss Sisters
The Dodgers and Cadillacs battled for 13 innings only to end In a 10-10 tie. A tie, against one of the best teams in the league usually would be a good thing. However, that was not the case this week. The Dodgers had a 4 run lead in the bottom of the 9th only to see it evaporate. Thanks to a two out game saving play by Martin Cheatham, the Dodgers were able to keep the score tied and send it to extra innings. The Dodgers would take the lead in the 12th only to have the Cadilacs tie it up in the bottom half. This time Chad Rolfes would make a great defensive play to keep the Dodgers hopes alive. The umpire determined that the 13th would be the last inning and the game ended in a tie. Nick Curtis was solid again pitching 3 innings, giving up only 2 runs on 3 hits and striking out 6. Offensively the Dodgers were led by Patrick Rach, who had 3 hits with Chad Rolfes, Martin Cheatham, David Mcintosh, Phil Rivera each having two hits a piece. Wes Robertson had one hit, a big home run. Mike Hinzmann, Chad Manders, and Nick Curtis added single hits as well. Next up the Dodgers take on the Piranhas with a chance to clinch a playoff berth.
Boosters Beat Bad News Dodgers
For the last three years the Dodgers for whatever reason turn into a version of the Bad News Bears when playing the Boosters. Errors, baserunning gaffes, and poor hitting have done in the Dodgers each year and this year was no different. Wes Robertson played the role of Kelly leake, minus the cigarettes and motor cycle. Leake, I mean Robertson, pitched extremely well only to have his defense let him down with errors and misplays. Robertson also hit like Kelly Leake as he stroked a double and single to lead the Dodgers in hitting for the afternoon. Robertson wasn't the only Dodger to assume a role in the 2016 version of the Bad News Bears. Tanner Boyle, Mike Engelberg, Timmy Lupus and Toby Whitewood were all played by different Dodgers throughout the game. Sorry skip, but Coach Buttermaker would also have to be included as he really had nothing to do with how bad the team played. The difference in this years version compared to Walter Mathiou in the original was no cooler of Coors was consumed during the game... unfortunately for Coach Buttermaker.
The Dodger afternoon could be summed up by plagerizing the great Tampa Bay coach John Mckay, "The offense wasn't good today, but we made up for it with our aweful defense." Offensively the Dodgers were led by Robertson who had two hits. Martin Cheatham, Josh Richards, Eric Johnson and Mike Hinzmann each had one hit apiece. The Dodgers look to make this game an abberation as they try to win against the always formidable Cadillacs this Sunday.
Dodgers Reach .500
The Dodgers reached .500 by scoring early and holding on to defeat the Greys by a score of 13-7. The Dodgers bats were on fire early on in the contest as they scored six runs in the first inning and three runs in the second inning to take a commanding 9-0 lead. With the bats hot, the real story early on was the return of Nick Curtis. Curtis had been one of the best pitchers in the league two years ago, but had to have surgery and missed all of last season. Curtis looked like he had never missed a game, let alone a season as he was dominate for three innings. Curtis only allowed one hit and had three strikeouts in his return. He would be limited to a strict pitch count, but showed that he is definately ready to go for the Blue and White. The Dodgers have great memories, and building a huge lead doesn't gaurantee victory, as was shown last season against the Muskies. With this in mind, the 9-0 lead didn't go to the heads of the visitors, but rather it served as a battle cry so that no let up would occur. The Greys have some very good hitters and this was proven in the 5th and 6th inning as they cut the Dodger lead to 9-5. But, with the Muskie Memories still lingering, the Dodgers would answer scoring single runs in the seventh and eighth innings and adding two more runs in the ninth frame to hold onto a 13-7 victory and increasing the winning streak to three games. The offensive output was led by Eric Johnson who went 3-5 with three RBI's. Mike Hinzmann also had three hits in four trips to the plate. David Mcintosh, Wes Robertson and Nick Curtis each had two rips apiece for the Dodgers. Martin Cheatham, Frank Markie, Chad Rolfes, Mike Marquardt, and Josh Richards all chipped in with one hit apiece. The Dodgers totaled 16 hits on the day, but the stat of the day besided Nick Curtis's return and awesome pitching, was the Dodger defense that only committed one error on the afternoon. The Dodgers will be looking to increase the winning streak to five games this Sunday as they take on a talented Booster team.
Dodgers Do Little Things for Big Win
The Dodgers made it two in a row downing the Muskies 4-3 in WALK off fashion. After a satisfying victory over the Generals the week before the Dodgers were facing a team that three weeks before dominated the blue and grey. Things have changed in three weeks for the Dodgers as solid, fundamental baseball, timely hitting and great pitching have taken over for the home nine. This would prove huge in the rematch, as the Dodgers eeked out a come from behind 4-3 win. The Dodgers were led by Wes Robertson who pitched his best game of the season. The dominate left hander used off speed pitches to set up a devastating fastball to keep Muskie hitters guessing all afternoon. Robertson pitched all nine innings giving up 3 runs on eleven hits. The South Dakota Southpaw also struck out eight hitters while limiting the Muskies to only two walks. Robertson's excellent pitching coupled with fantastic Dodger defense kept the Dodgers in the game even after the Muskies took an early 2-0 lead. The Dodgers would answer as Martin Cheatham would score to cut the Muskie lead to 2-1 after three frames of baseball. The Dodgers would score again to tie the game in the 6th inning at 2-2. The score would stay that way until the top of the 9th when the Muskies scored one run to take a 3-2 lead into the bottom of the ninth. The bottom of the ninth would prove to be the decider as Eric Johnson legged out an infield single. Chad Manders would have to run for Johnson as he hurt his leg. Manders would go on to steal second and third base to set up a dramatic comeback. He would later score on a bases loaded single from Wes Robertson. With one out, and bases loaded, Mike Marquardt would walk allowing Mike Hinzmann to score the winning run. Back to the little things that allowed the Dodgers to win: Chad Manders pinch running and stealing second and third base, Chad Rolfes moving runners into scoring position with a great sacrafice bunt, David Mcintosh's diving attempt on a fly ball and keeping it in front of him, Patrick Rock's gun from left field throwing out a would be double, and excellent baserunning and defense all afternoon by the Dodgers. Offensively the Blue and White were led by Martin Cheatham who had three hits and two stolen bases. Chad Manders not only stole two bases in the ninth inning, he also whapped two hits keeping his hot hitting streak alive. Eric Johnson, Mike Hinzmann, Wes Robertson, Mike Marquardt, and David Mcintosh all rounded out the Dodger offensive attack with one hit apiece. The Dodgers look to make it three in a row as they take on the Greys this coming Sunday.
Dodgers Demote Generals with 14-4 Victory
The Dodgers finally ended their four game losing streak with an impressive 14-4 win over the Generals. The Generals have been a thorn in the sides of Dodger teams for years, but Sunday would prove to be different. Wes Robertson took the hill for the Dodgers, and from the first batter it was apparent that the lefthander was going to be tough to beat. The South Dakota native pitched a brilliant five innings only giving up three runs on five hits with seven strikeouts. Chad Manders would spell Robertson and pitch the final three innings giving up only one run on two hits. These dominant pitching performances, coupled with the Dodgers' offense, allowed the home nine to cruise to its largest victory of the year. The Dodgers would struggle early as they scored two runs in the second inning and would not score again until the 5th inning. The Generals would actually have the lead scoring three runs in their half of the 5th and lead 3-2. The Dodgers, as mentioned above, would answer with three runs of their own highlighted by some nifty hitting by Eric Johnson, Chad Manders and Josh Richards. Another three run inning in the 7th would give the Dodgers a comfortable 8-3 lead. With Manders only allowing one run the Dodgers ended the game early with a six run 8th inning highlighted by Phil Rivera's two run double to make the score 14-4. Offensively the Dodgers were led by Chad Manders who had four hits and threee RBI's. Eric Johnson and Josh Richards each had a three hit game and Mike Hinzmann chipped in with two hits of his own. Phil Rivera, Mike Marquardt and Martin Cheatham each had one hit apiece. The Dodgers, along with the rest of the TCMABL have the 4th of July Weekend off. The Blue and White have a rematch with the Muskies on July 10th in Hamel.
Braves Bats Blast Dodgers
For the last few years the Braves and Dodgers have locked horns in very low scoring, close games. Usually good pitching, along with adequate defense, brings these contests to the last at bat. None of this would come to fruition, as the Braves out blasted the Dodgers 15-11. The day started off like any other day in Phoenix, Arizona as game time temps hovered around 96 degrees with a hot southwest wind gusting at times to 20-30 mph. The problem with this is it's Minnetonka, Minnesota and the Hopkins Baseball Field is facing Northeast. Put these things together and balls were flying all over the park. The Dodgers would strike first as David Mcintosh singled home Martin Cheatham who reached first on a single and then stole second. With the Dodgers leading 1-0 the Braves came to bat, and bat they did. The Bravos scores eight runs in their half of the first highlighted by a Grand Barthel bomb to left. With the score 8-1 the Dodgers would answer with two runs in the second and three runs in the third to cut the lead to 9-6. The Braves would answer again in the 4th innings with one run and four runs in the 5th inning, again highlighted by Bathel's second homer of the day. The score now read 14-6, but again the Dodgers would make a mini comeback to score four runs of their own in the 7th inning and one more in the 9th inning. Unfortuanately for the Blue and White it wouldn't be enough as the Braves went on to win 15-11. Offensively the Dodgers finally came alive as four hitters had two or more hits. Mike Hinzmann and three hits and Nick Curtis, Martin Cheatham, Wes Robertson all had two hits apiece. David Mcintosh, Mike Marquardt and Frank Markie would each have one hit apiece. Chad Manders was the unlucky pitcher starting in the gale force winds blowing straight out. This, coupled with shoddy defense would do in the veteran righthander. He would be relieved by Frank Markie, who again showed his craftiness keeping the Dodgers in the game. Chad Manders would relieve Markie and learn from his mistakes earlier in the game to shut the door on the Braves in the 8th inning. The Dodgers look to end their losing streak when they take on the Generals this Sunday.
Black Sox Block Dodger Comeback
For a time Sunday it looked as though the Dodgers might get beat and blanked in the hit column. For nearly six innings the Dodgers couldn't muster a hit and trailed the Black Sox 3-0. The sixth inning however would be the turning point for the Dodgers as they would score three runs on one hit. That one hit was provided by Eric Jeppson which plated one of the three runs that knotted up the score 3-3. The Black Sox would answer in the seventh with a run to take a 4-3 lead. The Blue and White would answer with two runs of their own in the seventh and take a 5-4 lead. This score would hold through the eighth. Unfortuanely as the storm clouds rolled in so did the Black Sox bats as they would score five runs and put the game out of reach for the Dodgers. Like in the opener against the Knights, Wes Robertson pitched a brilliant game. The South Dakota Southpaw scattered nine hits allowing four runs. Some mistakes in the field and the lack of hitting by the Dodgers made Robertson's pitching performance even more outstanding as he kept the Dodgers in the game. Offensively the Dodgers were led by Eric Jeppeson who had two hits and one RBI. Chad Manders, Mike Marquardt, Paul Wells and Chad Rolfes each had one hit apiece. The Dodgers look to end their three game skid next week against the Braves.
Muskies Make the Most of Their Opportunities
In a game that was very close until the 6th inning the Muskies made the Dodgers lose their second straight contest 9-3. On what was to be a perfect Sunday afternoon, the home Muskies scored two runs in the first inning and never looked back. The Dodgers had chances in the 3rd and 4th innings to put runs on the board, but the lack of two out hitting again doomed the Blue and White. This however was not the case for the Muskies who exhibited excellent two out hitting from the 6th inning on. Chad Manders was on the hill for the Dodgers and did an excellent job for the first 6 innings. Manders had a sharp curveball that allowed him to change speeds and keep the Dodgers in the game. Manders gave up three unearned runs and was the victim of some timely hitting by the Muskies. Offensively the Dodgers struggled again as they were only able to scrounge four hits against two very good Muskie hurlers. The Dodgers were led by Frank Markie, Mike Marquardt, Eric Johnson and Josh Richards who all had one hit apiece. The Dodgers hope to snap this mini losing streak as they take on the Black Sox this Sunday.
Mighty Mets Mash Dodgers in Late Innings
The Dodgers are at least consistant as they have won the opening game each of the last three seasons. The bad part of this consistency is they have then gone on to lose the next game. Hopefully for the Dodgers this consistency comes to an end because the next two games were also losses the past two years. The Dodgers were hoping to buck the trend as they took on the Metropolitans in a clash that usually produces a lot of runs. The Dodgers would draw first blood as they scored one run in the first inning as Martin Cheatham would double and then later score. This would be the only bright spot for the Dodgers as they were limited to only six hits on the day. The Mets would tie the score in the second inning and it would stay that way until the top of the fourth. The Mets would add two more runs in their half and take a commanding 3-1 lead. The Dodgers had chances, in spite of their lack of hitting, but they weren't able to get the big hit when they needed it most. The veteran hurler Frank Markie was again the victim of very little offensive support. Markie pitched an excellent game only giving up four earned runs. The game would stay 3-1 until the eighth inning as the Mets scored a lone run to make the tally 4-1. The flood gates would open for the mets as they scored four more runs in the 9th inning to completely pulled away 8-1 from the home nine. Offensively the Dodgers were led by Eric Johnson who had two hits, including a double. Martin cheatham, Nick Curtis, Mike Marquardt and Patrick Rock each had one hit apiece. This week the Dodgers take on the Muskies in hopes of starting a winning streak.
Dodgers Open Season with Win
The 2016 Dodger season started with good hitting, good fielding and excellent pitching. The Dodgers were able to avenge last years final game with the Knights by a tally of 12-6. For the Dodgers the first inning turned out to be the game winning inning as the blue and white plated seven runs. Martin Cheatham led things off with a single through the left side and the Dodgers never looked back. The Knights would answer with three runs of their own in the top half, but Wes Robertson was able to dispell some early inning wildness and zone in on the small strike zone to end what could have been a very big inning for the Knights. With the score 7-3 the Dodgers would add four more runs in the top of the 4th inning. The big hit came from newcomer Mike Marquardt who doubled and would end the day with three hits and three RBI's. The story for the first seven innings however, was Robertson's pitching. The South Dakota Southpaw was able to locate his fastball and change speeds to throw off a good hitting Knights team. Robertson would end his day on the mound striking out seven Knights and allowing only six hits. Frank Markie would come in and finish the last two innings and secure the 12-6 victory for the Dodgers. Offensively the Dodgers were led by Marquardt who had three hits and three RBI's. Nick Curtis who was injured all of last season was a welcome site as he had two hits along with an RBI. Eric Jeppesen and Mike Hinzmann each had two hits each scoring a run along with tallying one and two RBI's for the day. Martin Cheatham, Chad Manders, Eric Johnson, Wes Robertson, Frank Markie and Phil Riveria each had one hit apiece with Manders, Markie and Robertson each having at least one RBI on the day. The Dodgers head home to Hamel to take on the Mets who also enjoyed an opening day win.
Dodgers Finish Disappointing year with a loss
The 2015 Dodger season ended with a silent thud as the Blue and White lost the season finale 10-3 to the Knights. With the playoffs out of reach, and many veteran Dodgers suffering through a tough season in the field and at the plate, the Knights took advantage and placed themselves into 3rd place in the American Division. Trailing 2-1 in the 5th inning the Dodgers looked as though they might be able to end the season on a high note, but it wasn't to be as Nate Achman pitched a very nice game. Everytime the Dodgers would threaten the Knights would extinguish all Dodger scoring threats. The Knights would continue to score and finally put the game out of reach in the 7th inning en route to a 10-3 win. Offensively the Dodgers batted all 14 players and mustered only 8 hits. The Dodgers were led by Jon Lipinski who had 2 hits with an RBI. Frank Markie, Eric Jeppsen, Eric Johnson, Phil Rivera, Wes Robertson and Chad Manders each had 1 hit apiece. Congratulations goes out to Eric Johnson as the Dodgers elected the catcher to represent them in the All Star Game played in September. Also thanks to all of the people who supported the Blue and White this year and we hope everyone has a great offseason. See you next year.
NLB Nail Dodger Post Season Hopes Shut
The Dodgers knew going into the game that their playoff hopes hinged on this game and some outside help. The Dodgers needed a win and for 6 innings it looked like this might happen. Unfortunately for the home nine, they had to play one of the best hitting teams in the league, NLB. We're not sure what NLB stands for, but the Dodgers and most of the TCMABL know that it doesn't stand for Noisome (bad) Lousy Batters. Wes Robertson, the hard throwing lefty, showed why he is one of the best pitchers in the league as he stymied NLB hitters for six innings. Wes, with his fast ball and devastating curve ball, was the story as he kept the Dodgers in the game and at one point protected the Dodgers 3-1 lead. As stated above, the NLB are very good hitters and a third time through the lineup proved to be too much as they bunched a few hits, along with some Dodgers errors, to take a 5-3 lead in which they wouldn't relinquish on their way to an 8-4 victory. Patrick Rock was the Dodger offensive hero as he came up with runners in scoring position and came through both times. Rock's first RBI came on a single up the middle and his second RBI came on a groundout where Rock was behind in the count and fouled many tough pitches with two strikes. Josh Richards had a nice day at the plate with two hits and Mike Hinzmann also chipped in with two doubles. David Mcintosh, playing basically with one healthy shoulder, also singled to round out the Dodger offense. The Dodgers take on the Knights next Sunday to finish their 2015 campaign.
2 0ut of 3 Ain't Bad
Meatloaf once said that "2 out of 3 ain't bad", and the Dodgers would agree, even though the 1 that is missing was a cluncker against the Boosters. The Dodgers put last weeks drubbing by the Boosters behind them and hit their way to a 15-8 victory over the winless Mavericks. Patience was the key to the victory as the Dodgers drew 12 walks coupled with 14 hits to score 15 runs. Martin Cheatham and Eric Johnson were the offensive stars as they each had 3 hits. Along with thier 3 hits apiece, Johnson had 2 doubles and 4 RBI's, and Cheatham, playing against his former team, had a double and 3 stolen bases. David Mcintosh, also a former Maverick, had 2 hits as did Phil Rivera. Nick Allerson, Chad Manders, Paul Wells and Mike Hinzmann each had one hit apiece. Chad Manders hurled for the Dodgers as he kept Maverick hitters on thier toes for 5 innings. Eric Johnson and Martin Cheatham came in relief and finished off the home nine from Minneapolis. With the win the Dodgers kept alive thier slim playoff hopes. They take on the NLB next week at Century College.
Dodgers get dumped by Boosters 12-1
Nothing to see here, move along. The Dodgers lose big against the Boosters.
Dodgers Deny 7 Game Defeat Streak
Frank Markie, as he has all year, pitched a masterful 8 innings of baseball to lead the struggling Dodgers into the win column. Not only did Markie star on the mound, he also was the star at the plate. Markie came up with three big hits, including a double, that plated 4 RBI's on the day for the veteran right hander. The Dodgers would seem to be on their usual path as the Wobblies would score first to take a 2-0 lead. It would be different today though as the Dodgers answered back with 4 runs to take a 6-2 advantage of the visiting Wobblies. The Wobblies would cut the lead to 6-5, but that is when the Dodger bats came alive. Martin Cheatham and Eric Johnson would lead the charge as the Dodgers would score 5 more times to put the game out of reach and secure a 11-5 Dodger victory. Markie led the way for the Dodgers with 3 hits including a 2 RBI double. Martin Cheatham and Jon Lipinski each had 2 hits apiece. One of lipinski's hits was a well struck triple that scooted past a diving centerfielder. Eric Johnson, David Mcintosh and Phil Rivera each had one hit apiece. Great fielding, great pitching and good hitting finally all came together for the White and Blue 9 (13). The Dodgers look to continue a different kind of streak (winning) as they take on a very good Boosters club next Sunday.
Cubs Cut Down Dodger Comback
Wes Robertson now knows how Frank Markie has felt the last two weeks. Robertson pitched a brilliant complete game with only a loss to show for his efforts. The South Dakota south paw kept Cubs hitters off balance all afternoon and kept the Dodgers in the game. The Dodger hurler scattered 11 hits and only gave up 3 runs in the 8 innings he pitched. Unfortunately the Dodger bats again were stymied this time by John Barbella for most of the game, as the only run scored in the first 8 innings was off of a Cubs error. This run however would allow the Dodgers to stay tied with the Cubs 1-1 for the first 4 innings. The Cubs would punch across another run in the 5th inning to take thier first lead of the game. They would also plate another run in the 6th inning to take a 3-1 lead. This would hold up until the top of the 9th when the Dodgers made a bid for a comback tie. The inning would begin harmlessly ast the first two Dodger hitters were retired leaving the Blue and White with only one out to work with. A base hit by Chad Manders and a walk would put 2 runners on with 2 outs. Eric Johnson, the Dodger catcher who played outstanding defense, would be down to his last strike when he lined a clutch double down the right field line. Manders would score easily from second and the speedy Wes Robertson tried to score from first, but as they did all day, the Cubs played solid defense and successfully completed a perfect cutoff throw that cut down Robertson at the plate and end the contest: Cubs 3 Dodgers 2. Offensively the Dodgers struggled only having 4 hits. Eric Johnson, Martin Cheatham, Chad Manders and Josh Richardson were the only Dodgers to reach on hits. The Dodgers try to end this losing streak next week vrs. the Wobblies who are also 1-7.
Deja Vu Dooms the Dodgers
Frank Markie pitched his best game of the year, unfortunately he wasn't rewarded with anything but a... Insert scratching record sound here. Yes, it seemed like the White and Blue had seen this before. Take a lead and then squander it, and then lose in extra innings. In a game that was played in extreme tropical heat, the Dodgers showed why they may be better than their 1-6 record. Defense was the key early on as the Dodgers limited the Piranhas to only 3 runs in the first 5 innings. Frank Markiepitched nice ball game and kept the Dodgers in the game as the offense again seemed to struggle early on. The Dodgers would open the scoring in the first inning by plating a run. This was short lived however as the Piranhas would tie the game in the top of the 3rd. The Piranhas would score 5 more runs and take a 6-2 lead into the bottom of the 6th inning. The Dodgers would answer with 4 of thier own runs to knot the score at 6-6. The game would see no more scoring as the final frame of the 9th inning ended. The Dodgers had many chances in each the 7th, 8th and 9th innings but where unable to get a big hit to push across the winning run. In the top of the 10th the Pirhanas Scott Bohnen blasted a 2 run homerun to take an 8-6 lead and again put the Dodgers on losing end of a close game. In the Dodgers 6 losses 4 of them have been 3 runs or less and 2 of those losses were in extra innings. The Dodgers were led offensively by Eric Johnson who had 3 knocks and Wes Robertson and Josh Richards who each had 2 hits apiece. Chad Manders, Patrich Rock, Phil Riviera and Mike Hinzmann each had 1 hit apiece. The Dodgers look to end this 5 game losing streak as they take on the Cubs at Dakota Park next Sunday at 5:30.
Markie Pitches Masterpiece in Loss
Frank Markie pitched his best game of the year, unfortunately he wasn't rewarded with anything but a loss. The Dodgers lost a difficult contest 5-4 to the Braves last Sunday. Markie went 8 strong innings scattering 12 hits. Markie kept the Braves off balance all evening and made it difficult for the Bravos to score. The Dodgers bats were once again fairly queit. This wasn't the case in the first inning however, as the Blue and White scored two early runs to take a 2-0 advantage. David Mcintosh once again did what he does and doubled to left center to set an early tone for the Dodgers. Martin Cheatham then singled in Mcintosh to give the Dodgers the early 1-0 lead. The Dodgers would score again to take a 2-0 lead. This lead wouldn't last long, as the Braves quickly scored 2 runs to even the contest. The game would be tied for another 6 innings until the Dodgers inched a run home in the top of the 8th inning. But, just like the first inning the Braves would answer with 3 runs in thier half of the 8th to take a 5-3 lead. The Dodgers would score another run and did threaten to score more, but the rally came up a tad short and the Dodgers came away with a 5-4 loss to drop thier record to 1-5. Offensively the Dodgers were led by David Mcintosh who had 2 hits and 2 RBI's. Chad Manders, Eric Johnson, Mike Hinzmann, Frank Markie and Martin Cheatham all had one hit apiece. On the injury front Eric Jeppeson's year unfortuanely may have came to an end as he dove for a fly ball and fractured his wrist. The Dodgers wish Eric a quick comeback.
Voyagers' Hitters Halt Dodger Comeback
The Dodgers went quietly in the first inning scoring no runs. The bottom of the first inning seemed to start off normal, but that changed quickly as Voyager's leadoff hitter Mike Wickman drilled a double and that seemed to open the flood gates for the Voyagers' hitters as they scored 8 runs in the top of the first. The Dodgers would fight back to eventually cut the Voyagers lead to 10-6, and it seemed as though there might be a huge comeback. Chad Manders, second homerun in 2 weeks, and Martin Cheatham each hammerd homeruns to help the Dodger cause, but the Dodgers were unable to stymie the Voyager hit parade. The Voyagers would add another 8 runs to the Dodgers 4 runs and earn thier 4th victory of the season 16-10. The Dodgers were led offensively by Martin Cheatham, who had 2 hits including that mammoth homerun shot. Wil Conde, Eric Johnson, David Mcintosh, Eric Johnson, Josh Richards, Eric Jeppson and Mike Hinzmann all had one hit apiece. The Dodgers look to improve on thier 1-4 record taking on the always talaented Braves team that is coming off a tough loss to the Knights.
Generals Defeat Dodgers in Commanding Fashion.
The Dodgers knew going into the game that the Generals are on of the upper tier teams in the TCMABL. The fact that their only loss this season was to the defending champion Rebyls in a hard fought 3-2 loss, was reason enough to figure the Dodgers would need to play flawless baseball. Unfortunately for the Dodgers this was made difficult, as the Blue and White had to play short handed with 4 regular positions players absent. The Generals could have cared less as they pounded out 18 hits and scored 15 runs in an abbreviated game due to the ten run rule. Chad Manders was on the hill and was the victim of many soft, Texas League hits that seemed to fall just out of Dodger fielders reach. These hits continued throughout Mander's tilt on the mound which helped the Generals to gain a commanding lead. With players playing out of position the Dodgers found some highlights as Phil Rivera did an admirable job at shortstop making some very tough plays. Offensively Chad Manders led the crew, as he homered on the 2nd pitch of the first inning. Manders also had a single which gave him two knocks for the day with 3 RBI's. Will Conde, the ageless veteran, also chipped in with two hits, as did Wes Robertson. Josh Richards, Paul Wells and Collin Richardson each had one hit apiece. In the end the Dodgers lost 15-5. They look to improve this week as they take on a talented Voyageur club as Van Cleve Park on Sunday.
Skeeters Hit Their Way Over the Dodgers
The Dodgers knew the Skeeters could hit and play good defense. The hope was that the Skeeter bats would be quiet and the gloves would be sieve like. Unfortunately they didn't and the Dodgers lost for the 2nd straight week. From the get go the Dodgers were fighting from behind. The Dodgers were the recipients of bad luck as a promising 1st inning was stymied by an unusual u-5-3 double play that ended the scoring threat. The Dodgers lone lead came in the top of the 3rd inning when Frank Markie singled home Mike Hinzmann from 3rd base. That would be the last time the Dodgers would lead as the Skeeters scored 3 runs in thier half of the 3rd inning and then 2 more in the 4th inning. The Dodgers would climb within a run in the top of the 5th, but the Skeeters added 3 more runs to dash any hopes of a Dodger come back victory. The Dodgers would put up another run, but it wasn't enough as the Skeeters held on for the 8-5 win. Jon Lipinski started on the hill for the Dodgers and pitched two innings giving up only 2 earned runs. Wes Robertson and Frank Markie came in relief and did a nice job slowing down the Skeeters hitting attack. Again, defense was an issue as the Skeeters scored 2 unearned runs. David Mcintosh led the way again for the Dodgers, as he belted 3 hits including an RBI double. The ageless Will Conde also was a major contributor as he had 3 hits, two of them doubles. Eric Jeppesen and Chad Rolfes also had multi hit games each accumulating two hits apiece. Eric Johnson, only had one hit, but it was a huge one as he sprinted his way around the bases for a triple. Wes Robertson, Frank Markie, and Jon Lipinski each had one hit on the day. The Dodgers record now stands at 1-2 as they face the Generals next week at Century College.
Dodgers Lose Big Lead and the Game
What started out as blowout for the Dodgers, quickly turned into a disappointing loss for the Blue and White. The Dodgers started out with 8 runs in the first two innings, but were unable to cruise to an easy victory as the Muskies fought back with 10 runs in the middle innings to take the lead 13-10 in the 6th inning. The Dodgers would answer with 3 runs in the 8th inning but the Muskies answered with an unearned run in the 9th inning to break the the 13-13 tie. The Dodgers were unable to score in the bottom frame of the 9th and lost a very winnable game. Frank Markie was on the mound for a second straight week and pitched 3 good innings. The Dodger defense was the issue on this day as it allowed the Muskies to take advantage and score 7 unearned runs en route to thier victory. Jon Lipinski, Chad Manders and newcomer Wes Robertson were also pitchers who were victimized by the Dodgers shoddy defense. As good as the defense was in the opener, it was as bad in this game. David Mcintosh continued to swing a hot bat as he had 2 hits and scored 3 runs. Eric Johnson showed why he is one of the best hitters in the league as he had 3 hits in 4 trips with and RBI. Mike Hinzmann also chipped in with 2 hits. Wes Robertson, Frank Markie, Josh Richards, Chad Rolfes and Martin Cheatham each had 1 hit apiece.
Dodgers Win Opener
The Dodgers opened the 2015 season with a hard fought, extra inning battle with the Padres. This would be the rematch of the TCMABL Quarterfinal playoff matchup of a year ago which saw the Padres send the Blue and White home for the season. On this day however the outcome would be in favor of the Dodgers as they held of the Friars in ten innings. Frank Markie started on the mound and did an excellent job keeping a very good hitting Padres team under control. Markie game up 6 runs in 7 innings. Jon Lipinski came in relief and swooped up the victory giving up only 1 run. At the dish the Dodgers only had 7 hits, but had 12 walks which led to three big innings including the top of the tenth where the Dodgers plated 3 go ahead runs for the win. Newcomers David Mcintosh and Martin Cheatham led the way with Mcintosh having 2 hits and Cheatham having 1. Along with their hitting, these two played sparkling defense which ending 4 Padre scoring threats. Frank Markie, Paul Wells, Chad Rolfes, and Mike Hinzmann each had one hit apiece.
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