by nick
6/17/2009 11:02:00 AM
Special Recognition to the Following……. First Game Ball: James Sammarco. Long live the King! With my write up last week, I put in a "no win" situation. The home-run guaranty is tough to live up to. Did James shrink from the challenge? Did he go quietly into that good night?........Hell No! Bottom of the 5th inning and the Ball Busters clinging to a 3-1 lead, the Staten Island kid steps up to the plate and smashes a 3-run home run! 6-1 Bachrach lead and the Ball Busters never looked back. Hail the Conquering Hero!!! Cy Young Game Ball: Allan Ageman. Coming off a 3 run performance the previous week, Allan raised his game to a new level. In one of the best pitching performance I have ever seen, Allan held the opposition, a formidable team stoked with great hitters, to one measly run. An unearned run at that! To pitch a 12 to 14 foot arc as consistently as he did was remarkable. Getting most over for strikes. He struck out 5 batters. Allan had defensive help for sure, but he kept us in the game until King James iced it. Outstanding Allan! Defensive Game Ball: Kelly Lepore. Kelly got her groove back last night!! Not only did she hit like an All-Star but her contribution at 3rd base was nothing short of game saving! With Allan doing his best to nurse a 3-1 lead, Kelly made play after play at third base. One in particular stands out. Top of the 5th inning; score 3-1 and runners on first and second with 2 outs and their best hitter up who can also run like the wind. He hits a rocket down the third base line. Kelly backhands the ball and throws a rocket of her own to Nick at first. If she doesn't make that play we probable lose the lead. Instead, inning was over, Allan was out of a jam and King James was coming to the plate! See above! Bravo Kelly Thurman Munson Game Ball: Lauren Haak and Alex Roth. Behind every great pitcher stands a great catcher. We have two! Let’s face it, catching SUCKS! Especially for a women. You have some over-weight, baseball wannabe right up your butt, breathing down your neck and some guy in front of you waving a metal or aluminum club. Not an enviable position to be in (all jokes aside). Then when you finally get to make a play at the plate and someone else takes the throw for you. It is the most overlooked position on the field. Not today. Lauren and Alex did a superb job yesterday doing the small things that always go overlooked, they provided Allan a great target to pitch to, threw the ball back to Allan directly after every pitch so he could keep his rhythm and most importantly, kept Allan from a meltdown when he was protecting a two run lead for most of the game last night. These are the small things that allow a team to win. The both of you did this seamlessly last night!! Bravo ladies!! Charlie Hustle Game Ball: Scott Hechler. The wind in central park last night was created by the legs of Mr. Hechler. Heeding advice from last week, Haggy ran the bases with reckless abandon. He hustled on every play and did not stop to admire any of his hits. It would have helped if he got on base but the effort was there and should be recognized. Keep running like that Scotty-boy and good things will happen. Well done, Scott! I was Dissed Last Week Game Ball: Evan Price. Still nursing a bruised ego from my lack of recognition of his contributions “On the field” last week, I couldn’t pass up the opportunity to pat Evan on the back for a job well done. Still hampered by a disgusting leg injury, Evan was relegated to DH duties. When we needed an insurance run in the last couple of innings, Evan came through with a deep drive to right field that put the final nail in the coffin. Limping to first base there was vindication in his smile… Bravo, Evan. Hitting Game Balls: Oliver, Scott, Nick. Oliver got us going with a 3-run homer in the first inning that set the tone for the Ball Busters and established our lead. No one was happier than our one fan last night (Oliver’s Father)!! Nick returned to action last night after a one game hiatus to put on an exceptional hitting display that secured his place in the lineup and giving us a formidable top of the order to be reckoned with. Scott did nothing to detract from his MVP status by Going 3 for 3 and being involved in every scoring opportunity we took advantage of. Bravo Boys! Coming of Age Game Ball: Elizabeth Law and Ali McGlincy. Ali is graduating from “Average Softballer” to “Superstar Status” and Ellie is graduating from “What is softball?” to “Player on a Mission” status. Ali’s presence on the field is felt every play. She knows every situation and exactly what to do when the ball is hit to her. It’s a comfort to any manager to know you have a player like Ali who is always in the zone. Ellie’s determination and grace on the outfield is evident to all. She even caught a ball last night. Too bad it was in warm-ups!! Regardless, she darted around the field last night like a shooting star!! She had a fierce look of determination on her face and acted as if she belongs. She does!! Bravo Ladies Fan Appreciated Game Ball: Apollo Hernandez!!! Oliver’s father not only showed up last night in full Yankee regalia but rooted for his son’s team like we actually were the New York Yankees. His support for us was genuine and he had his “Proud Papa” moment when Oliver got us on the score boarded with his homerun. He promised to return for the next game and I really hope he does!!! Okay, that’s it. Our next game, next week is a Friday night game at 5:30 in the North Meadow in Central Park field 9. Weather permitting, perhaps we can gather a few fans for that one and celebrate our victory in some watering hole after the game. Just a suggestion… The Ball Buster’s are on a roll. Let the word go forth! It was great to be part of the fun last night in the Park!!! Jeff I am lazy today and just got in and really don't feel like filing a report. I will just add notes and quotesThe Franchise Notes and quotes:Richard "The Boss" Bachrach was once again absent from last nights game as he was scouting some new talent for the playoff push. Currently the boss looks like a genius for firing the Trash Mouth Ali McGlincy as manager and replacing her with the Freight Train Jeff McLaughlin. Jeff has missed two games but when he is present the BallBusters are 5-1 and he has solidified his grasp on the club and on the third base coaching spot, where he is yet to have a runner thrown out at the plate, when asked about playing for the Freight Train Allan "Rubber Arm" Ageman had this to say, "You just want to play for the guy." A stirring endorsement indeed. Rumors are flying the Elizabeth "Law and Order" is angling to move up in the lineup to get more quality at bats. Alex "lets get a drink after the game" Roth forgot her sneakers and was late to the field after stopping home, Oliver MAYS wa salso late to the field, coincidence, probably, but still fun to contemplate!
by nick
6/17/2009 11:00:00 AM
The skies were dark, enthusiasm was low and no one really wanted to play. Coming off a fairly decisive whupping the week before who could hardly blame anyone. But the Ball Busters did show up last night on field 7, almost all of us, and collectively decided to beat the hell out of the opposition. And beat the hell out of them we did. With 2 runs in the first, 5 in the second, 3 in the third, 2 in the fourth, 2 in the fifth and 1 in the 6th, the Ball Busters “Mercy Ruled” the opposition into submission. After the 5th inning, if one team is leading by 12 runs or more they call the game. The game ended after the 6th inning last night. The Ball Busters were victorious 15-3. Even if everyone did not get a hit last night, everyone hit the ball extremely well. Defense was sharp. Pitching was equally sharp and besides some base running lapses (we will get back to that later); it was a complete team victory. Spirits were high at games-end even if the “Beeluuuga” chant never materialized. Sorry Nick! Anyway, we were mired in 5th place going into the game and we will have to wait and see where we wind up this week but this team still has a chance to make some noise come playoff time. I wouldn’t alert the media or let the pigeons loose just yet, but I, for one, am a keeper of the faith!!! Special recognition to the following…… First Game Ball. The Women of Bachrach!! Specifically Ali, Kelly, Elizabeth and Lauren. The hitting display of these four women last night was awe-inspiring! All of them hit screaming line drives all over the field. They were responsible for 8 of our 17 hits. Impressive in its own right but the sheer velocity of how these balls left the infield was eye-popping. Well done ladies!! Purple-Heart Game Ball: Elizabeth Law. First inning playing Short Center. Elizabeth attempts to field a towering pop-up. What does Elizabeth and Michael Jackson have in common??? They both wear gloves for no apparent reason. Coming from Australia, Elizabeth hasn’t learned that the hand the glove is on is actually for catching the ball. Needless to say, Elizabeth tries to bare-hand the catch and her hand swelled like a mushroom. In the cab ride after the game, Ellie made a feeble attempt to blame Allan for some comment he made about “The Alligator” but it fell mostly on deaf ears. Ellie stayed in the game and finished like a champ!! 2nd Purple Heart Game Ball: Ali McGlincy. After hustling down the line on a close play at first and beating out the throw, Ali skinned knees with the first baseman that produced “third-degree” burns on her knee and made it difficult to run to second as the ball got passed the 1st baseman. Halfway towards second base, Ali turned and let go a barrage of the “delicate” language we all know and love her for. No one knew if it was aimed at the first baseman, her knee or just the pain in her leg. Nonetheless, the opposition stayed clear of the Ali the rest of the game. ; ) Defensive Game Ball. Kelly, Ali, Scott and Oliver. Oliver making a home-run saving, Willie Mays-like, over-the-head, back-handed catch in deep center field that took all of his athletic ability. Sensational catch when we were actually losing 3-2 in the early innings. Maybe the inspiration we needed. Scott made another outstanding grab in left field and Kelly and Ali made play after play after play at third base and second base that every inning seemed to stopped another rally. Bravo to the four of you!! MVP Candidate Game Ball: Scott Book. After boldly “informing” the manager of a pre-game lineup change that resulted in Mr. Book batting first in the lineup, Scott did not disappoint. Scott went 3-4 at the plate scorching double after double and was responsible for 6 RBI’s. Couple that with stellar defensive play including a back-handed catch of a line-drive smashed down the left field line and Scott is the early favorite for MVP of the Bachrach ball busters this season. Bravo, Scott! Home Run Game Ball: James Sammarco. There are only a few things in life you can count on. James hitting a home-run in a BB softball game is one of them. One HR is still rolling they other he made from complete hustle (listening Haggy?) and fearless third base coaching! ; ). Way to go James. You are the home run king. Long live the King!! Manny Ramirez “Look at Me” Game Ball: Scott Hechler. Now I know why he drives Allen crazy on the field. With the natural born speed of a gazelle, “Haggy” likes to admire his long fly balls he hits. The only problem is that he likes to admire them from home plate instead of RUNNING!!! Case in point. 5th inning. Scott hits a blast to left field knowing quite well” that the female left fielder couldn’t even see the ball let alone catch it. He stands at home plate looking at the ball instead of running, the opposition relays the ball in from LEFT FIELD and almost throws him out at first base!! (Okay maybe that’s a small exaggeration but its how I want to remember it!) Bravo-less Haggy! Manny Ramirez “Mini-Me”: Allan Ageman. After pitching a brilliant game and holding the opposition to just three runs Allan decided to take the fifth inning off. After hitting a weak ground ball to third base, Allan quit running to first base half way up the 1st base line. This act of surrender was not lost on the Bachrach Bench that still needed one run to Mercy Rule the opposition. Of course, still harboring some anger from her injury, Ali let go another barrage of “delicate” language that actually caused the “Corporate Challenge” runners to come to a sudden stop. Needless to say she let Allan have it and morale went up 20 points!! Poorly done Allan! Well done Ali! Ms. Congeniality Game Ball: Alex Roth. For reasons only known to her. Alex let Lauren play and entire game behind home plate. Even after being cajoled into playing, Alex was content to allow Lauren, who was playing superbly, to continue having fun. Excellent example of sportsmanship and teamwork!! Bravo Alex. Throw In Game Ball: Evan Price. Not much to comment on in terms of his contribution on the field last night. Solid first base. Didn’t miss any throws to first. Biggest contribution was during the cab ride to CP. Evan regaled Allan and me with stories of statuesque beauties of conquest in the past. It was a definite “TMI” moment but it did make for a short cab ride. Thanks Evan. Okay, that’s it. On to next week and we will see what adventures await. Noticeably missing this week were the Bachrach Boys, Kim and Nick. An inquiry is being sought after by the executive committee about the mysterious absences!! More details to come…… As always, it was great to be part of the fun last night in the Park!
by nick
5/28/2009 3:32:00 AM
The Curse of Baby Beluga
Baby beluga in the deep blue sea,
Swim so wild and you swim so free.
Heaven above and the sea below, And a little whale on the go.
Raffi, 1992
Mudsharks Clobber BallBusters 10-2
Last night your Bachrach BallBusters, in a hazy night in the park, fell to the Modern Bank Mudsharks by a score of 10-2. Lets start with a history lesson shall we....
Four years ago, right here in these four walls your BallBusters were born. What started out as a grand idea by former manager Ali "now I don't do anything to help the team but play cause you fired me" McGlincy thought it would be fun to join a softball team. After some vigorous research we decided to join EDSO sports and test our athletic chops against some of the other companies in this great city where we are all lucky enough to reside. All we needed was a name. Many names were thrown out from the ridiculous, Bachrach Bobbie Ticklers, to the dull, Bachrach Ball Players, after many arguments and much deliberation it was down to two names, The Bachrach Belugas, accompanied by a chant where we all go Beeluuuuuga, or the Bachrach BallBusters, we all know who won and your beloved BallBusters were born on that day and the Beluga's never mentioned again, until now. I bring you to Central Park, modern day, one week ago, 5-20-09. After a stellar BallBuster victory manager Jeff "The Freight Train" McLaughlin thought it might be fun if we came up with a chant of some kind, to help build team unity, many liked the idea but it was tabled, until yesterday. Before the game began Kelly "White Shoes" Lepore got the team together for a chant, what did they say you ask........they said Beeluuuuuga, Nick "The Franchise" Catalano warned against it, but majority ruled, and the curse of the Beluga was born. Those little white whales feel slighted and are not happy.
As for how the bloodbath went down, a typical jittery first inning by the BallBusters opened up an early 6 run deficit the the quiet BallBuster bats could not over come. Every BB rally was squashed as the Sharks defensive wizardry made it difficult to overcome the early lapses. Oliver MAYS was once again tardy to the field and not warmed up, Allan "Rubber Arm" Ageman's hot bat was quieted and he hit into a rally killing inning ending double play, Jimmy "The Kid" Sammarco once again took an inning to overcome his jitters (more on that later), Scott "I'm going back to sneakers" "Haggy" Hechler decided to try to hit homeruns from the leadoff spot popping up ball after ball and over running a base hit in the outfield, Ali "now I don't do anything to help the team but play cause you fired me" Mcglincy refused to do something as simple as write down the lineup, Nick "The Franchise" Catalano continued to try to hit for power killing a rally with a sac fly when a hit would have netted to, Evan "The Truth" Price dropped a routine out at first base, Scott "The Babe" Book, on of the few defensive and offensive bright spots for the BB's took Allan and Jimmy on a tour of Central Park before the game tiring them both out, Elizabeth "breaking the" Law, another bright spot offensively selfishly celebrated her line drive hit up the middle while the team was losing by six, Lauren "I'm no hack" Haak celebrated her return to the field with a strike out, Kim "Don't call me Bachrach" Antrosiglio small ball and speed were no match for a strong Shark defense, and Alex "Let me buy your gold" Roth refused to enter the game in the last inning choosing to let the BB's clean up there own mess, all in all a game to forget indeed.
Make sure to come see the BB's play a double header in the park next Friday. If you can't be an athlete, be an athletic supporter.
Notes and Quotes:
Jeff "The Freight train" McLaughlin was off on a scouting assignemnt last night and missed the game. Richard "The Boss" Bachrach and Hank and Hal Bachrach were attending the summer meeting looking to upgrade the team and also were not present at the game, when word reached them of the performance they were said to be furious and Hank and Hal were seen speaking to the Boss about changes. The BallBusters are said to be implementing caffeine testing before next weeks game as some peoples early jitters, as mentioned earlier, are rumored to be a result of to much RedBull and Iced Coffee.
by nick
5/21/2009 3:51:00 AM
"The Headlines read these are the worst of times
I do believe its true
When people lock their
doors and hide inside
Rumor has it its the end of paradise
But I know, if the world just passed us by
Baby I know, you wouldn't have to cry"
Styx- The Best of Times
Maybe on the outside these are the worst of times, but on the 5th floor of 39w37th st, where The Bachrach Group and The world renowned Bachrach BallBusters preside that is a load of crap. We all have place to come everyday, an opportunity to make a living in the toughest of economies, the support of our peers and our management, the world and our futures in the palm of our hands if we continue to work hard and fight together and a softball team that is clicking on all cylinders. So indeed these are The Best of Times!
Last night your Bachrach BallBusters, in what was probably one of the most complete team performances I have ever had the pleasure to be a part of, defeated the ball club from Neilson Norris by a score of 14-5. What started out as a close game shortly became a blow out when the juggernaut we call the BallBusters came to life. Errors were few, hits were many and spirits were high. Ali "trash Mouth" McGlincy and Kim "Don't call me Bachrach" Antrosiglio, both playing out of position proved softball smarts and athletic ability are transferable, Ali looked like she was wearing a pair of white shoes of her own filling for Kelly "White Shoes" Lepore at the hot corner she made some plays that were just out of control, and Kim, playing second for the first time in her career and looked like an old pro, handling her chances with class and sophistication and looking like she had played in that spot all her life. As for the bats...the hit parade was running strong as every hitter in the BallBuster lineup had at least one hit, and everyone contributed to a 14 run explosion the left our opponents shaking in there boots, and two runs away from being mercy ruled.
I would also like to give some special thanks to Jeff "The Freight Train" McLaughlin, the manager of the BallBreakers, I mean BallBusters for his passion and for filling in for me on my blog while I have been out. The response to his game ball segment has been so positive that I have asked him to partner with me when I am around and add that to all the write ups, thanks Freight train!
First Game Ball. Team Game Ball. In the old days at Yankee Stadium it was called "5 O'clock Lightening". That's when the late innings of an afternoon game would be played and "Murderer's Row", the nickname for the Yankee lineup would start hitting and pound their opponents into submission. Last night we had 7 O’clock Lightening when we turned a 6-5 game into a 14-6 romp. 8 runs in the 6th inning and everyone contributed. Team effort! Second Game Ball. Scott Book. As always, solid at the plate with excellent hitting and driving in runs. But, his play in left field was outstanding! No less than 3 times, fighting a vicious sun, Scott held runners at 3rd base and prevented them from scoring with sensational throws from the outfield. I believe the single biggest contribution in keeping the game close until we blew it out. Defensive Gem of the Game: Ali McGlincy. 4th inning with a runner on third with one out and the score is 6-4 in our favor. A smash down the 3rd base line that Ali, substituting for Kelly at third and fighting the same sun Scott is fighting, backhands the ball and starts her throwing motion to first. Only to fool the runner at third into breaking for the plate. She holds onto the ball and turns and tags the runner out on third. Damn fine play Ali! ROTY Candidate: Rookie of the Year candidate: Elizabeth Law. With no experience at softball but with an approach to the game that can only be described as "Joyful", Elizabeth, with new glove in hand, redefined the way to play short field. If you can't catch it, throw your body in front of the ball but don't let it get by you. Time and time again last night Ellie sacrificed her body stop one line drive after another to keep runners from advancing. Coupled with her new found swing at the plate, Ellie is definitely a candidate for ROTY. Well done Elizabeth! Return to Action Game Ball: Nick Catalano. "The Franchise" returned from his 3 week hiatus and never missed a beat. At least 8-10 put outs at first base on some good but difficult to handle throws from the other side of the diamond. Also had some unassisted put outs. At the plate, Nick showed no rust showering lines drives to the outfield although he did pop out with the bases loaded. No harm no foul. Welcome back Nick. I Told You I Could Hit Game Ball: Scott Hechler. I heard the rumor and teammates said to have faith but, truth be told, I hadn't seen it so far this season. Well, last night "Haggy" came to play. Rocketing line drive after line drive, he showed that he really deserves to be in the lead off spot and his speed speaks for itself. He made me a believer. Well done! Hitting Game Ball: Too numerous this week to count!! Everyone hit but special mention goes out to the usual suspects. Oliver, Allan, Evan, Scott and of course James. Familiar sights were James and Oliver running around the bases with more tape measure home runs. They have become the poster boys for a hitting barrage of late that seems relentless. Great job! Fielding Game Ball: Kim Antrosiglio and Allan Ageman. Kim, not even figuring to be in the line-up got the last minute call-up from management to not only play but to play a different position, 2nd base! Not only did she represent well throwing out at least one runner at first but also covered 2nd base on a variety of throws without faltering once. Allan, as well as pitching another stellar game, made at least 4 key defensive plays on line-drives hit back up the middle to save what surely would have been base-hits and additional RBI’s. Well done by both of you. Coach of the Night Game Ball: Richard Bachrach. Fighting off the “Evil” first base coach for control of the runners as they past 2nd base, Richard showed extraordinary wisdom in knowing when to send runners home and when to hold them at third. Even when he had to literally “hold them” at 3rd base. His work was as strong a reason as any why we where able to extend our innings and put so many runs across the plate. Some may say he is too conservative but the last two nights we played softball we have scored 18 and 14 runs; respectively. Pretty hard to argue those numbers. The Battery Game Ball: With Allan pitching well to a bevy of woman behind the plate, Game Balls to Alex and Heather (aka Tara) Rae. Both Alex and HR were outstanding behind the plate and Heather even corralled to pop-ups behind the plate and Alex knew when to allow another ball to roll foul instead of trying to make a play on it and allowing a run to score. All three plays were heads-up plays. Well done, ladies!
So that’s it. Congratulations to you all on another complete team effort. Another victory leaving us at 3-2 for the season and 3 out of 4 wins in our last 4 games. Nice game everyone!!!
And like a wise women once told me....
"If you can't be an athlete, be an athletic supporter"
Notes and Quotes:All seems to be heading in the right direction for this years club as evident from the lack of front office chatter. Richard "The Boss" Bachrach seems please with the effort of this years team and had this to say, "Like I say every year this team is built to win a championship and anything less is unacceptable, the pieces are in place and seem to be working well. Now it's up to the players to make that a reality and bring home the championship that this organization deserves." Hank and Hal Bachrach have been off scouting and were not available for comment. After the game, as usual, Alex "Come to my house and sell your GOLD at a premium" Roth was seen whispering in peoples ear to grab a drink after the game, and by people I mean the men. Scott "Haggy" Hechler seemed to solidify his grip on the leadoff spot with a three hit ballgame and impeccable base running skills, though rumor has it he is in negotiations with management for them to buy him a pair of cleats so he doesn't fall down again, with his foot odor problem finally under control, maybe that will happen. Rookie of the Year candidate Elizabeth "Being this good should be against the" Law has promised to bring down numerous "athletic supporters throughout the season, we shall see how successful she is in accomplishing that task, should be interesting to see who else she convinces to come support the BallBusters.
by nick
5/13/2009 2:52:00 AM
SummaryAs game 1 began the "Ball Buster’s" took the field confident that their defensive prowess of the previous week was no fluke.....but would their bats come around or would we scrape out another victory? Boy did they ever!!! Singles, doubles, triples, HR's galore! Right field, left field and up the middle. It was a clinic on "hitting it where they ain't". When it was over 18 Ball Buster’s crossed the plate against a pointless 7 runs for the "Gators". It was a resounding pounding! Game 2, not so good. Whether it was the thrill of the first victory, waning enthusiasm, wanting to get home to see Idol or the approaching darkness we quickly found ourselves in a 6-1 deficit. However, whatever reserve the Ball Busters had left in the tank was about to rear its head one more time. With a gallant effort of defensive gems and timely hitting, we clawed back to 6-5 going into the last inning. Alas, it was not meant to be. As darkness made it difficult to play and a BS interference call by the Ump; we went quietly in the last inning. So we split the doubleheader and are now 2-2. But here's the good news.... Good News:In all seriousness, we are a team that will make some noise come playoff time. We are as competitive as anyone in our division. Last night everyone hit, fielded their position well, hit cutoff men, threw runners out at the plate (twice), ran the bases with reckless abandon and ran out every ball. Everyone’s head was in the game and we all encouraged each other. It's what a team should be. In this manager's opinion, who by the way, came prepared with scorebook, posted lineup, two balls (hmmm...), field permits and an encouraging word, we are a team to be reckoned with and will not go quietly into that good night.... Game Balls:First Game Ball: Allan Ageman. Allan pitched two complete games giving up only 16 runs. That's practically a shutout in softball terms. He went 7-8 at the plate hitting three doubles, driving in 7 runs and a stand-up triple on 50-something legs! On top of that, he made two put-outs at home plate to help shut down two separate rallies. Complete performance Allan!! Game Ball: To Kelly and Ali for making key defensive stops. Ali, made play after play at second base taking all kinds of throws and tallying 7 put-outs. She can handle any overhand ball thrown here way (Listening James?). Kelly made THE defensive play of the game at third base. Second game/4th inning and the "Gators" threatening to blow the game wide-open when Kelly fields a ground-ball smash, back handed the ball going towards third and throws the runner out. David Wright maybe doesn't that play. Kelly did! Game Ball: To the four Amigos. Scott, Evan, Oliver and of course, James. Home runs from Oliver and Scott and a couple from James that I think one would have made it out at Yankee Stadium. Each week these four put on a hitting display that is awe-inspiring. Well done gentlemen. Allan should be counted in this group but he already has a Game Ball. OBA Game Balls. On Base Percentage Game Balls have to be given to Haggy and Kim. No powerhouses at the plate to be sure but the two of them have the highest on base percentage of us all. Home runs are great but not if there isn't anyone to drive in. These two turn solo HR's into multi-run HR’s. New Faces: Game Ball to Dave. Perhaps another star first baseman? First base is becoming a luxury position with two quality first basemen. Dave also showed his hitting skills by lacing line-drive after line drive all over the field. Dave is a welcomed addition to the team. Then we have Ellie who showed us all that never having played softball in one's life does not have to be a hindrance. She is a natural athlete. Strong arm and a natural swing at the plate. If she ever picks up a glove on the weekend or goes to a batting cage, she could be dangerous. You represented well, Elizabeth! Finally, there was Tara (aka Heather Rae) who was our mystery guest. A mystery no longer. Another natural athlete with a personality and heckling abilities to rival any of the Ball Busters!!! Another welcomed addition to our team!! FANtastic Game Ball: Game ball to Alex for despite being hurt came out to God-forsaken Randall's Island and cheered us on anyway. True team spirit Alex! Same can be said for our third base coach Richard, who makes this all possible, and Scott B. who were both active participants in yesterday's action Swan Dive Award: This cannot go unmentioned. We actually have two entries!! Both Haggy and Evan fell, for no apparent reason, between first and second running on hits. Haggy seemed to recover quickly but Evan, in true big-man fashion languished in the dirt, flailing his arms and doing a belly crawl to second base. I don't remember if he was safe or out because I was too busy peeing in my pants but that is a vision that will not soon leave my brain. So that's it. The sun shined, it rained, the wind blew sand gusts and we even had a rainbow. Through it all we had a lot of fun and laughs and almost pulled off a sweep. I was glad to be part of it!! Jeff
by nick
4/28/2009 4:09:00 AM
I am subbing for ‘The Franchise” today in writing the game recap. Nick was absent from yesterday’s game administering fatherly duties to newly drafted acquisition Emma Nicole. More on Nick’s absence later!!! Golden Gloves Return to Central ParkThe Ballbreaker’s were victorious 5-3 against a team, Zagat’s Survey, which are no push-over’s. The three main ingredients for a win were present: timely hitting, stellar pitching and superb defensive plays. I had all the stats for this recap this morning but my two pups got to them first and I am now working from a half-chewed piece of paper. Nonetheless, the Ballbreaker’s opened the game defensively in the first inning with scorching defensive plays that signaled no return to last weeks opening inning debacle. That trend continued throughout the game with the Ballbreaker’s turning in 11 assisted outs, 7 unassisted outs and 3 strike-outs against only one error and 3 runs. Leading the way defensively was James Sammarco with 7 put-outs from shortstop against only one error. And even in that error, James displayed his new-found discipline by not throwing the ball away. Kudos also goes to Evan “The Truth” Price who was on the receiving end of everyone of James’ throws as well as Ali’s and Kelly’s and Allan’s. Evan showed remarkable poise at first base, making play after play and making it look easy. Finally, one of the two defensive gems of the night came from Scott Hechler moving smoothly from left to right, in right field, running down a line-drive that was destined to spark a late inning rally. Then, the play of the game, came in the bottom of the 7th when Ollie made a tremendous, game saving, over the head catch of a 350 foot Ruthian blast that was sure to have HR written all over it. Anyway you slice it that is one helluva defensive game! On the offensive end, Game Balls should be given to Ollie, James and Evan. Ollie and James hit back-to-back home runs in the second inning that were key to setting the tone for the game and Evan not only drove in the go-ahead run with a double down the right-field line but also drove in another run with two-out in the 6th inning that gave us a two run cushion going into the final inning. All-in-all, it was a complete team effort. Allan’s pitching was the final piece that secured the victory. That team last night is capable of beating anyone in this division. Hopefully, this is the beginning of a great season!! Of course, what would a NY sports team be without a little controversy??? As the team departed the field last night, questions began to arise about the viability of Evan “The Truth” Price replacing Nick “The Franchise” Catalano at first base for at least part of the next game. Evan’s ability to work the first base bag with craftsmen-like efficiency left teammates in awe of his ability and quietly nudging the manager to consider a change. The Truth vs. The Franchise. Let the debate begin…..
by nick
4/15/2009 3:02:00 AM
Pictured top Little Brady "White Shoes" Lepore and Bottom Little Jacob "You can call me Bachrach" Bachrach
Proud Sons of Kim and Kelly
Welcome Back My Friends
To The Show That Never End
I'm So Glad You Could Attend
Come Inside
Come Inside
Emerson, Lake and Palmer
Last night your Bachrach Group BallBusters opened the 09 season, there 4th in the EDSO sports softball league in glorious fashion. Though the first inning showed some obvious rust, for the most part your BallBusters turned in a stellar performance, that certainly opens up the possibilities for an entertaining and successful season.
New Comers and Old Friends Returning
The highlight of the game and season by far is the return of new mommies Kelly "White Shoes" Lepore and Kim "Don't call me Bachrach" Antrosiglio to the BallBuster lineup in a move that definitely adds stability. Kim went 2-3 at the plate, getting base hits in her first two at bats, and "White Shoes" provided the stability and performance at third base that was missing all last season. Our other new comer, recently signed rookie Scott " I can't dress in the locker room cause I have a foot odor problem" "Haggy" Hechler had a stellar debut as well, cleanly handling his outfield chances and contributing two hits at the plate, quickly making us forget the right fielder who won't be named!
Old Reliables
The BalBusters also returned many four year starters to the game. Lauren"The Hack" Haak, and Alex "Lets get a drink after the game" Roth, both had stellar games. Allan "I may be limping but I'm fine" Ageman showed that his rubber arm hasn't faltered and Nick "The Franchise" Catalano, Scott "The Babe" Book and James"The Kid" Sammarco each had two hits and stellar play in the field. Evan "The Truth" Price was back in his familiar role as DH, and Oliver Mays had a hard time working off the rust from an offseason spent playing fast pitch. But all and all the BallBusters seem primed to make a run for a title this year.
Not to be lost in all this hoopla is the face that the BallBusters were decimated by a score of 13-6 after a disastrous 6 run first inning. But who cares, the future indeed looks bright!
If you can't be an athlete, be an athletic supporter.
Notes and Quotes
Conspicuous by his absence was newly signed BallBuster manager Jeff "The Freight Train" McLaughlin and owner Richard "The Boss" Bachrach fueling rumors Jeff was unhappy with the carpool provisions for Randall's Island games in his contract and busy re-negotiating. Last years manager Ali"Trash Mouth" McGlincy signed her contract too late for game time and will be back on the field next week. When asked about his foot odor issue Haggy had no comment but was seen leaving the field with Alex "Lets get's a drink after the game" Roth who apparently has a foot fetish. New comer Elizabeth "I have a interesting accent" Law was seen on the sidelines learning the rules of the game in anticipation of being a BallBuster. Jimmy "The Kid" Sammarco is apparently growing up, when asked his opinion on the performance he said this "What do you expect when you go out on the field for the first time in a year and try to play a game." From the mouths of babes.
by nick
7/10/2008 8:01:00 AM
Today the BallBusters joined the rank of other famous losers, Iron Mike Tyson, The Buffalo Bills, The Washington Generals, and Jeff Newman when Player/Manager Ali "Trash Mouth" McGlincy's last act as BallBusters manager is placing a call to the League Commisioner forfeiting tomorrow's matchup with Macys, ending the BallBusters season with a record of 6-7.
Rumors are rampant the Hank and Hal Steinbrenner have signed on Jeff "The Freight Train" McLaughlin to manage next years club. I have been calling McLuaghlin to see if this was true but he has not returned my calls. Matt "Don't Call me Matty" Rundle has removed his nam from consideration for any position in the club. More news when it comes.......
if you can't be an athlete be an athletic supporter...........
by nick
7/1/2008 6:23:00 AM
Hank and Hal Bachrach in Negotiations with Jeff "The Freight Train" McLaughlin to manage next years BallBusters. He was seen in Bachrach Headquarters and photos were taken of him leaving. Unfortunately the photos are too large and i too inept to be posted on this blog. Matt"Oh Danny Boy" Rundle rumored to be being considered as bench coach. Richard "The Boss" Bachrach staying on as third base coach. Ali "Trash Mouth" McGlincy signs contract to stay on as player. More news as it happens.
by nick
7/1/2008 3:02:00 AM
McGlincy Fired as BallBusters Season Falls Way Short of Expectations
McGlincy in Happier Times with The Franchise's Son RJ, She was Fired over Email last night
Last night your Bachrach Ballbusters ended there playoff hopes and season in a disgraceful performance at Randalls island with a loss to the Fighting Gators by a score of 13-5. That was not the only story as at 3:15am last night an email was sent to the press alerting them that the Richard "The Boss" Bachrach along with Hank and Hal Bachrach finally made the decision to releave player manager Ali "Trash Mouth" McGlincy of her managerial duties over email. McGlincy, who was mysteriously absent from last nights important match up could not be reached for comment and no replacement was immediately named. As for the game it was a disgrace. Without McGlincy's leadership the selfish high paid ballbusters disgraced themselves and fell prey to a more cohesive unit in the playoff bound Fighting Gators. The bat of Nick "The Franchise"Catalano, 3 for 3 including his first career home run, and the amazing glove of Jimmy "The Kid" Sammarco were not enough to overcome the bad plays and selfishness that this club has been showing all season. Scott "The Babe" Book played a more then stellar game as his bat continued to flourish in the leadoff spot, a spot he seems to have put his mark on, and the Ageless wonder himself Allan Ageman proved his on the field skillls were much sharper then his in game decision making skills with three hits of his own including his first career non single a second inning triple. That performance however could not make up for the fact he sent Tara "T-Money" Horowitz to third with two outs where she was easily thrown out and he couldn't throw a strike to a girl with the game on the line, accidentally walking her and causing the one big inning that cost the busters the game, it couldn't make up for the fact that Evan "The Truth" Price once again proved that a bat is the only thing he brings to the table when after another base hit he missed second and was out on appeal for the final out of the game, it couldn't make up for the fact that with the game on the line in the second to last inning Oliver mays decided to try an experiment and bat lefty, striking out, it couldn't make up for the fact that in the biggest game of possibly there lives player manager Ali "Trash Mouth" McGlincy was not on the field and her replacement at second Gundle was unable to handle any of the chances that came her way, and most of all it couldn't make up for the fact that the Ballbusters tried every trick and scam in the book to win, they intentionally walked men to pitch to women, they brought in ringers, and they were sore losers, when you play ball like that your deserve to lose. After the game the Ageless Wonder had this to say, "When you cheat and scheme out there eventually the baseball gods catch up to you, and today they caught up to us. I feel good about our team and our future and I can assure you I am not retiring, I will go under the knife this offseason and fix up a few ailments and be back next year better then ever."
Should be an interesting offseason as the Ballbusters search for there new manager and try to see if they can sign any free agent talent. The Franchise Nick Catalano had this to say, "listen we have a good core team, we lost out to some injuries and pregnancies this year, next year I fully expect us to be back in the hunt not only for a playoff spot but for the Edso championship, that's what this team is built to do win championships." When asked about the dismissal of his friend McGlincy he had this to say, "you can't fire the team so the manager takes the fall, unfortunately she is a victim of circumstance, I have full faith in the front office of the Ballbusters to bring in the right guy or gal to motivate this team, and look forward to working with them. Now I am going to go home, take a few weeks off, and try to get in better shape for next season, this is not an ideal weight for me to be playing at."
Should be an interesting off-season indeed. And remember if you can't be an athlete, be an athletic supporter!
Notes and Quotes:
Laurence "The Imposter" Wilson signed a contract to play for the Ballbusters next season after the game. Matt "don't call me matty" Rundle was designated for assignment fueling rumors he plans to retire. An unidentified source let this space know that the Ballbusters will be scouring the free agent wires this offseason meaning no ones job is safe. When asked about he prospects for returning next season after the birth of her first child, Kelly" White Shoes" Lepore had this to say "I assure you I will be back at the hot corner next season ready to help the Ballbusters win a title."
Though its a bit early a short list has apparently been made by Hank Bachrach of possible managerial replacements, the most popular name being tossed around, Matt "Don't call me Matty" Rundle.......
Subscribe