********************************************

2014 Season Results *****************************************

WALLY'S WINS 50+ CHAMPIONSHIP  

Wallenwein's broke open a 7-7 tie game entering the 7th inning to defeat the Northeast Collision Americans  14-7 and won the 5th annual title!

          ______________________________

 60+ CHAMPIONSHIP

Arnie's Army  3    60+ SPARKS  0

8-20-14

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The Army and 60+ SPARKS celebrate a great 60+ Championship Game !

FINAL 60+ STANDINGS 

Arnie's Army    10-2

60+ Sparks       10-2

Pacemaker's     3 - 9

Stingers            1- 11



GLORY DAYS CHAMPS ARE CROWNED

 8-28-14

            The Glory Days Wood Bat Softball League completed the 2014 season by awarding Championship trophies in the 50+ and 60+ Divisions after exciting final games at J.P. Nicely Memorial Park in West Falls.  The Wallenwein’s Dudas, managed by Rick Ohler, won the 50+ crown while Arnie’s Army coached by Arnie Walker captured the title in the 60+ Division.

            In the 50+ Championship game the Dudas rallied from a 5-1 deficit heading into the 4^th inning to post a stunning 14-7 win over the Northeast Collision Americans.  The Americans jumped to a quick lead behind the hitting of Ken Struck and Dave Corbelli.  Joe Shanahan got the Dudas back in the game with a two run opposite-field homer to make the score 5-3.  The Americans scored 2 runs in the bottom of the frame to make in a 7-3 game with 3 innings to play.  In the top of the 5^th Doug Hayes started a run of 6 straight Dudas singles the produced a 7-7 tie.  The 6^th inning was scoreless as both teams played great defense.  In the top of the 7^th inning the Dudas exploded for 7 runs as Greg Hunt, Ken Horton, Tony DiFilippo, John Cimperman, Dave Richards, Jeff Souder, Shanahan, Sam Cullis and Terry Belz all had consecutive base hits.  Len Mazurkiewicz got the hill win with tremendous support from the Dudas infield.  Shanahan led the Dudas with his HR, 2 doubles and 4 runs-batted-in.

            The 60+ title game featured great defense by both Arnie’s Army and the 60+ Sparks.  Bob Richter on the mound limited the Sparks to just 6 hits and the Army defense was flawless.  The Sparks turned 2 double-plays but it wasn’t enough to stop the Army.  Arnie’s Army scored single tallies in the 1^st, 3^rd and 5^th innings for the 3-0 victory.  Stu Rubin was named the game MVP as he poked 3 hits including a triple and drove in 2 runs.  Gary Steinmetz had 2 hits and Ed Bauman threw out a runner at home plate from centerfield for the 60+ Sparks.

 8-21-14

GLORY DAYS SOFTBALL FINALES SET

           After struggling through a rain shortened season, the Glory Days Wood Bat Softball League has established the teams for Championship games in both divisions.  In the 50+ Division the Northeast Collision Americans will square off against the Wallenwein’s Dudas.  Arnie’s Army, defending Champions, will battle the 60+ Sparks for the Senior Division title.

            Wallenwein’s held off the #1 seeded Sparkle Cleaner Sparks winning 5-4 and advancing to the Championship.  Len Mazurkiewicz on the mound speared two straight line drives headed to centerfield with runners on base to seal the win in the 7^th inning.  Mazurkiewicz also went for 3 at the dish, Sam Cullis drove in the winning while Joe Shanahan and John Cimperman led the Dudas defense.  John Maley went 3 for 3, Larry Jarmuz tripled and Mike Wach doubled for the Sparks.

            The Northeast Collision Americans won their 6^th straight game and continued their tremendous defensive play in a 3-1 over the Tombstone Saloon Surfin’ Birds.  The Americans held the defending Champions off the board until the 7^th inning.  Tony Rusinek won on the hill and added two hits while Ken Struck, Boris Kuvshinoff and John Furey sparked the defense.

            In the 60+ Division Arnie’s Army defeated the Stingers 9-2 behind the hitting of Stu Rubin, Rick Coppola and Charlie Cook.  Dave Weinman was strong in the field as Bob Richter won on the mound.

            The 60+ Sparks beat Johnny & the Pacemakers 9-1 to advance to the final game.  Denny Collins was sharp on the hill with defensive support from Steve Scattoreggio in left field.  Rick Wells went 3 for 3 with a double, Ed Bauman tripled and poked 2 singles while Ken Mamon and Barry Guido each had 2 hits for the winners.  Larry Wisher had two hits for the Pacemakers.

8-14-14

GLORY DAYS PLAY-OFFS BEGIN

            The Glory Days Wood Bat Softball League kicked off their 2014 Play-Off schedule with 5 games in the 50+ Division.  After the dust settled at J.P. Nicely Memorial Park in West Falls just 4 teams remained to compete for the Fifth League Championship.

            The Wallenwein’s Dudas, the #6 seed in the play-offs, knocked off the #2 seed Bishop Burke Knights 3-0 behind the spectacular pitching of Len Mazurkiewicz.  With no score in the 4^th frame the Dudas got RBI singles from Mazurkiewicz and Joe Shanahan.  Dave Richards sparkled at shortstop and drove in the 3^rd run in the top of the 6^th inning.  The Dudas will face the Sparks in semi-final action.

            The Northeast Collision Americans played their usual great defensive game and shut-out the MOGS 4-0.  The Americans led the League with just 2.80 runs allowed per game over the regular season.  Northeast Collision will take on the Surfin’ Birds in the next round.

            The defending champion Tombstone Saloon Surfin’ Birds advanced to a 2^nd round game with an 8-2 victory over the Comfort Window Panes.  John Hulslander got the hill win with great defensive support from Jim Bartram and Dave Vesneske.  Bob Bierk and Tom Tighe both had 3 for 3 days at the dish while Mark Brinkel, Joe Tighe and Jerry Krawczyk added 2 hits each.

            The Brother’s Pub squad pounded out a 12-1 win over the Comfort Funeral Home Cubs in the 1^st game of a double-header.  The #1 seeded Sparkle Cleaner Sparks closed out play with a 13-0 win over the  Pub team.  Larry Jarmuz recorded back- to- back swinging strike-outs on the mound and Tim Bajdas smacked a four-bagger for the Sparks.

            The 60+ Division will start their play-offs with Arnie’s Army playing the Stingers and the 60+ Sparks taking on Johnny & the Pacemakers.  The Sparks and the Army tied for first place with identical 10-2 records. The teams split their season series and tied in the 2 tie-breakers used to determine Play-Off seeds.

 7-31-14

SPARKS SINGE BIRDS IN 50+ PLAY

The Sparkle Cleaner Sparks defeated the Tombstone Saloon Surfin’ Birds 7-4 to clinch 1^st Place in the Glory Days 50+ Wood Bat Softball League.  With the win the Sparks gained a BYE in the 1^st round of the Play-Offs.

The Sparks were led by Larry Jarmuz on the hill and 3 hits each from Guy Muto, Paul Young and Joe Bellanti.  Pete Yuhas tripled while Joe and Tom Tighe each had 2 hits for the Birds.

 The Birds stumbled in the 2^nd game of their double-header losing to the MOGS 9-8.  The Birds led 7-1 but the MOGS rallied and then scored 4 runs with no outs in the bottom of the 7^th inning to win.  Mark Hodin had 4 hits, 2 triples and drove in 6 runs for the winners.

The Northeast Collision Americans swept their DH and moved into 2^nd place.  In the first game they shut-out the Comfort Window Panes 6-0 as Tony Rusinek hurled a 3 hitter.  The Americans went on to beat the Bishop Burke Knights 5-1 as they scored 3 runs in the first frame to take control.  Jeff Benz, Harry Louth and Dave Corbelli all poked key singles. 

The Dudas of Wallenwein’s won both ends of their double header with wins over Brothers Pub and the Comfort Funeral Home Cubs.  In a 14-2 win over the Pub Len Mazurkiewicz led the offense with 3 hits.  The Dudas then beat the Cubs 9-4 behind the slugging of Sam Cullis and pitching of Greg Hunt.  The Cubs were led by Lance Over with an RBI single scoring John Marshall who had tripled.  Bruce Pienkowski at 3^rd base recorded 6 straight put-outs for the Cubs.

In 60+ play the Sparks upset Arnie’s Army 13-6 and clinched a first play tie.  Both teams have identical 7-2 records and are equal in the League tie-breakers. Bob Hanlon, Rick Wells and Ed Bauman went 4 for 4, Jeff Becker had a 3 for 4 night with 2 RBI’s while Denny Collins got the mound win.  Andy Farber doubled while Kevin Batt and Bob Richter each went 2 for 3 in defeat.

Johnny and the Pacemakers defeated the Stingers 11-8 as John Roedel led the attack with 3 hits.  Mike Hallinan went 3 for 4 and drove in 4 runs for the Stingers.

50+ Standings:                                                 60+ Standings

1.   Sparks         10-1                          1. Arnie’s Army     7-2
2.   Americans     7-3                          2. 60+ Sparks       7-2
3.   Knights          7-3                          3. Pacemakers    3-6
4.   Birds              6-4                          4. Stingers            1-8
5.   Dudas            5-5
6.   Panes            4-5
7.   MOGS            2-6
8.   Brother’s       1-7
9.   Cubs              1-8      

7-24-14

CUBS WIN IN 50+ PLAY

The Comfort Funeral Home CUBS snapped a 16 consecutive game losing streak dating back to May 30, 2013 to highlight 50+ Glory Days Wood Bat Softball play.  The CUBS took out their frustration on the MOGS with a 22-5 thrashing delighting their loyal fans.

In the CUBS victory Dominic Patterson helped his hill win with a 5 for 5 day at the plate.  Lance Over was outstanding at shortstop while he and John Marshall went a combined 9 for 9 driving in 7 runs.  Bruce Pienkowski sparkled at 3^rd base and added 5 hits while Coach Fred Marshall went 3 for 4.

In the CUBS 2^nd game of their double-header they lost a 9-1 decision to the Sparkle Cleaner Sparks.  Don Ripper drove in the lone CUBS run, Bob West was 2 for 3 and Brian Andrzejewski added 2 hits       . Larry Jarmuz got the mound win for the 9-1 Sparks as Guy Muto went 2 for 3 and Kevin Mann poked 2 doubles.

The Tombstone Grill Surfin’ Birds split their DH.  In the first game they fell to the Knights 7-5 as winning pitcher Mike Hallinan started a game ending double-play with 2 Birds on base.  Kevin O’Brien drove in 4 runs and Kevin Larson had 3 hits for the Bishop Burke Knights.  Ed Engels, Don Seider, and brothers Tom and Joe Tighe each added 2 hits for the Birds.  In the Birds 2^nd game of the day they pounded Brother’s Pub 14-3.  John Hulslander got the mound victory.

The Wallenwein’s Dudas had a tough day as they dropped both ends of their double-header.  The Northeast Collision Americans won 5-2 with a great team defensive effort and 2 hits by Dave Corbelli.  In their 2^nd game the Dudas saw the Comfort Window Panes rally for 2 runs in the 7^th inning leading to an 8-7 loss. Marty Cerny got the pitching win as Tom Urbanski, Jonathan Backus, Tom Rickert and Joe Weaver all added 2 hits.

In 60+ Division play Arnie’s Army swept a DH against Johnny & the Pacemakers by scores of 9-4 and 16-0.  In the first game Dave Weinman went 4 for 4 and Charlie Cook had 3 hits in 4 at-bats including a double.  In the 2^nd game shut-out win Andy Farber smacked a four-bagger as Bob Richter, Ron Palmowski and Bart Neckers each chipped in with 2 hits.

The 60+ Sparks won 2 against the Stingers by scores of 14-2 and 16-2.  Denny Collins got both pitching wins.  Barry Guido went 6 for 7 over the sweep.

50 +Standings:                                                             60+ Standings

1. 1.      Sparks            9-1                                        1.  Arnie’s Army    7-1
2. 2.      Knights           7-2                                        2.  Sparks             6-2
3. 3.     Surfin’ Birds    6-2                                        3.  Pacemakers    2-6
4. 4.     Americans       5-3                                         4.  Stingers          1-7
5. 5.     Panes               4-4
6. 6.     Dudas              3-5
7. 7.     MOGS              1-6
8. 8.     Brother’s Pub 1-6
9. 9.     CUBS                1-7            

7-17-14

KNIGHTS SNAP SPARKS STREAK

The Bishop Burke Knights defeated the Sparkle Cleaners Sparks to end their 8 game winning streak in Glory Days 50+ Wood Bat Softball play at J.P. Nicely Park in West Falls.  The win moved the Knights into sole possession of third place in the standings with a 6-2 record.

Sparkle Cleaners won the 1^st game of their double-header with a come from behind 8-7 victory over the Wallenwein’s Dudas.  Trailing 7-4 in the bottom of the 7^th inning the Sparks rallied with 7 hits to steal the win.  Guy Muto singled in Tom Dilamarter for the winning run.  Larry Jarmuz was the winner on the hill as Dave DiPietro doubled, Paul Bauchle went 3 for 3 while Paul Young was sharp at 2^nd base for the winners.   The Dudas were led by a double from Terry Belz and a triple by Sam Cullis. 

In the second game the Knights jumped out to a 4-0 lead and held on for a 4-3 triumph.  Mike Hallinan and Carl Bueme each went 2 for 3 at the dish for the Knights.  Tim Bajdas tripled and drove in 2 runs for the Sparks as they suffered their first defeat of the season.

The MOGS (Mostly Old Guys) split their double-header and earned their 1^st win of the year.  In the opener the Northeast Collision Americans prevailed 3-1.  Tony Rusinek got the pitching win with great defensive support from Ken Struck and Boris Kushinoff.

The MOGS broke into the win column with a 7-1 win over the Brother’s Pub team.  Bill Grossman was the defensive star at 3^rd base.  Bob Richter earned the hill win as the MOGS recorded their first 7 run inning in the top of the 3^rd frame to secure the victory.  John McKenna and Denny McMullen each had 2 hits in defeat.

In the final DH of the day the Comfort Window Panes split with a win over the Comfort Funeral Home Cubs and a loss to the Tombstone Saloon Surfin’ Birds. The Panes beat the Cubs 11-4 as Marty Cerny won on the mound while Tom Urbanski, Jonathan Backus and Bob Kurowski provided the offensive power.  The Cubs were led by John Marshall at 3^rd base with 3 hits, Paul Vaccare went 2 for 3 with a double and Bob Barry with an RBI single.

The Surfin’ Birds defeated the Panes 7-1 to close out play.  Jim Bartram homered, Jerry Krawczyk poked 3 hits while John Grabon and Ed Engels went 2 for 3.  Don Seider played a great defensive game at 3^rd base for the winners.  Joe Sell had 2 hits for the Panes.

Games in the 60+ Division were canceled due to field conditions.  A full slate of DH’s will be played this week.

50+ Standings

1.     Sparks                        8-1
2.     Surfin’ Birds              5-1
3.      Knights                     6-2
4.      Americans                4-3
5.      Wallenwein’s            3-3
6.      Panes                        3-4
7.      MOGS                        1-5
8.      Brother’s Pub           1-5
9.      Cubs                          0-6         

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6-26-14

SURFIN’ BIRDS KNOCKED OFF 50+ PERCH

The Tombstone Saloon Surfin’ Birds had their 9 game winning streak over 2 seasons ended and they dropped out of 1^st place with a 4-1 loss to Wallenwein’s in Glory Days 50+ Wood Bat Softball League play.  Wallenwein’s won both their games in the new double-header format at J.P. Nicely Park in West Falls.

In double-deader #1 of the evening the Wallenwein’s Dudas beat the Surfin’ Birds 4-1 behind the pitching of Greg Hunt and defensive play of Steve Lazickas.  John Cimperman had 2 hits and scored 2 runs for the winners.  The Dudas held off the Mostly-Old-Guys 15-9 in the 2^nd game of the DH.  Hunt got the hill win while Doug Hayes smacked 4 base hits and Dave Richards scored 3 runs.  The MOGS rallied for 7 runs in the bottom of the 7^th frame to make things interesting.  Greg Keurian was on base 4 times and Stu Rubin made a spectacular Willie Mays type over the shoulder catch for the losers.

In the 2^nd DH the Sparks of Sparkle Cleaners defeated the Comfort Window Panes 8-3 and then held on to beat the Brother’s Pub Purple Hearts 8-7.  The Sparks were led by Mike Wach’s four-bagger and a 2 for 3 day at the plate for Joe Bellanti.  For the Panes Mike Cerny, Tom Richert and Tom Urbanski each had a multi hit game.  The Sparks held a 8-1 lead in the 4^th inning against Brother’s Pub and hung on to win with great defensive plays by Wach, Tom Dilamarter and Tim Bajdas who also drove in the winning run with a two-bagger.  Steve Scattoreggio had 3 hits while Denny Collins got both hill wins for the Sparks.  John McKenna poked 3 singles for the Purple Hearts.

In the final double-header the Comfort Funeral Home Cubs were swept by the Bishop Burke Knights and Northeast Collision Americans.  The Knights prevailed 8-2 behind the pitching of Mike Hallinan and 2 RBI’s each from Kevin Larson and Scott Chase.  The Cubs were led by John Marshall and Don Ripper who each smacked 2 hits while Bob Barry had 2 RBI’s.  The Americans won 2-1 and scored the winning run in the top of the 7^th inning on an RBI double by Harry Louth scoring Jeff Benz from 1^st base. Tony Rusinek got the win and John Furey went 3 for 3 at the plate for the Americans.  John Marshall and Kevin Maguire each went 2 for 3  for the Cubs.

In 60+ Division play Arnie’s Army remained on top of the standings with a 13-2 victory over the Stingers.  Armando Severo, the senior player in the League at 79, poked 2 hits for the winners.  Mike Hallinan and Len Mazurkiewicz each had 2 hits for the Stingers.

The R&R BBQ Sparks scored 7 runs in the 4^th inning to break a 6-6 tie and pulled away from Johnny & the Pacemakers for a 17-6 win. Ed Bauman was the winning pitcher and added a triple.  Jeff Becker smacked a HR, Rick Wells tripled while Ken Mamon and Bob Stampfer each doubled for the Sparks.  The Pacemakers were led by John Roedel’s 3 hits, a triple by Dave Stepien and a double by Paul Werner.

STANDINGS 50+ Division

Sparkle Cleaners           6-0

Knights                            4-1    

Surfin' Birds                    3-1

Americans                       3-1

Wallenwein's                   2-2

Comfort Windows           2-3

Brother's Pub                  1-3

MOGS                               0-4             

CUBS                                0-5

STANDINGS 60+ Division 

Arnie's Army                             4-1

R&R BBQ Sparks                     4-1

Johnny & the Pacemakers     1-4

Stingers                                   1-4

6-19-14

R&R BBQ PULLS OFF 60+ UPSET IN GLORY DAYS PLAY

The R&R BBQ Sparks upset defending champs Arnie’s Army 8-5 to end their 12 game win streak in 60+ Division Glory Days Wood Bat Softball League play.  Ed Bauman got the mound win as Ken Mamon, Rick Wells, Jeff Becker, Gary Steinmetz and Don Ripper all chipped in with 2 hits. Bob Stampfer threw out an Army player at home plate from RF.  Charlie Cook tripled and Armando Severo had 2 hits for the Army.  In the 2^nd game of the double-header Arnie’s Army prevailed 7-2.  Cook went 3 for 3 with Arnie Walker and Tom Scheifflee adding 2 hits each

The Stingers defeated Johnny & the Pacemakers 8-4 in the 2^nd game of their DH to earn their first win in two seasons.  Mike Hallinan got the hill win adding 2 hits with defensive support from Rich Nassoiy and Carl Markiewicz.  The Pacemakers won the 1^st game 9-4 as Larry Heliniki got the win while Dave Stepien stroked a double & triple.

In 50+ Division DH play the Knights split their two games.  They beat the Wallenweins Dudas 8-6 and dropped the 2^nd game 5-3 to the Sparkle Cleaners Sparks.  Mike Hallinan knocked in 2 runs and got the hill win against the Dudas.  Larry Jarmuz got the pitching win for the Sparks with great defensive support from Guy Muto and Joe Bellanti.  Paul Young went 3 for 3 with a triple, Tim Bajdas had a 2 for 3 day and Kevin Mann went 3 for 3 with a three-bagger.

The Comfort Funeral Home Cubs dropped both of their games losing to the Tombstone Saloon Surfin’ Birds 11-0 and then falling 4-2 against The Comfort Window Panes.  John Hulslander got the win for the Birds with offensive support from Mark Brinkel, Jim Bartram, Joe Tighe, John Grabon and Dave Vesneske.  The Birds have yielded just 4 runs in their last 6 games.  Bob Barry had 2 hits and was strong in LF for the Cubs. In the second game the Panes rallied to win after an early 1-0 Cubs lead.  Paul Vaccare had two hits for the Cubs.

The MOGS lost the first game of their DH 11-4 to the Northeast Collision Americans.   The second game was suspended after 6 innings due to rain with Brother’s Pub and the MOGS deadlocked at 5-5. Mark Hodin doubled & tripled while Kelly Schultz drove in the 5^th run to tie the game for the MOGS

STANDINGS:

60+ Division

Arnie’s Army                         3-1

R&R BBQ Sparks                  3-1

Johnny & the Pacemakers    1-3        

Stinger’s                                1-3

50+ Division

Sparkle Cleaner’s              4-0

Tombstone Saloon             3-0

Knights                               3-1

Northeast Collision             2-1

Comfort Windows               2-2

Brother’s Pub                     1-2

Wallenwein’s                       0-2

MOGS                                 0-3

Comfort Funeral                  0-3

6-12

60+ Glory Days Show-Down

In 60+ Glory Days Wood Bat Softball League play 2 teams remain undefeated and will now play a double-header this week at J.P. Nicely Park in West Falls.  Arnie’s Army and the R&R BBQ Sparks will square off to determine which team rules 1^st place.

Arnie’s Army, defending League champions, pounded Johnny & the Pacemakers    13-4.  Stu Rubin led the attack with a triple and 2 singles.  Dave Weinman had a double and 2 singles driving in 4 runs.  John Roedel had 2 hits, Gary Kimmel-Hurt poked a double and Paul Werner was strong on defense for the Pacemakers.

R&R BBQ stayed undefeated with a 14-5 win over an improving Stingers team.  Winning pitcher Ed Bauman had 5 hits with 3 RBI’s.  Daryl Szarpa, Steve Scattoreggio, Rick Wells, Don Ripper and Bob Hanlon each poked 3 hits for the winners.  Peter Rich went 2 for 2 with a double, Mike Hallinan smacked 2 doubles and Carl Markiewicz poked a double and was strong at 1^st base for the Stingers.

Standings:

Arnie’s Army            2-0

R&R BBQ                  2-0

Stingers                   0-2

Pacemakers             0-2

GLORY DAYS RETURN

6-5-14

            The Glory Days Wood Bat Softball League returned to play a full slate of games after 3 weeks of rain postponements. The defending Champions for both the 60+ and 50+ divisions won games and remain undefeated.

            In the 60+ Division the 2013 Champions, Arnie’s Army, defeated the Stingers 23-3.   Dave Raponi went 3 for 4 with a double and triple for the Army.  Mike Hallinan had 2 hits for the Stingers.

            The Raging Sparks upset Johnny and the Pacemakers 11-3 behind the strong pitching of Ed Bauman who added 3 hits.  Ken Mamon, Gary Glynn and Rick Wells each had 3 hits while Bob Hanlon went 4 for 4 at the dish. The Pacemakers were held to just 4 hits with Paul Werner smacking an RBI double.

            In 50+ play the Tombstone Saloon “Surfin’ Birds” beat the Comfort Window Panes 5-0.  John Hulslander tossed a 3 hitter as Don Seider and Jim Betram played great defense.  Mark Brinkel went 2 for 2 with a triple for the winners.

            The Panes played a strong game against the Bishop Burke Knights in the second game of their DH but ended up losing 5-2.  Mike Hallinan got the hill win while Scott Chase added 2 hits for the victorious Knights.

            Sparkle Cleaners swept their double-header by beating the MOGS 8-3 and the Dudas of Wallenwein’s 3-0.  Larry Jarmuz got both pitching wins with Tim Bajdas adding a double and triple in the first game.  In the nitecap the score was tied at 0-0 going to the 7^th frame when Bajdas and Kevin Mann crushed back-to-back triples leading to the Sparks win.  Guy Muto had 2 hits for the winners.  The Dudas turned 3 double plays from the combination of Jeff Souder, Dave Richards and Gerald Greene.

The Purple Hearts of Brother’s Pub split their double-header.  They defeated the Comfort Funeral Home Cubs 10-6 in the opener.  Moon Mullins got the pitching win and added 2 hits.  The Cubs were led by Bob Barry’s defense and 3 RBI triple.  Dom Patterson took the mound loss.

The Purple Hearts closed out the day with a 5-3 loss to the Northeast Collision Americans.  Ken struck and John Furey each had 2 hits for the winners. Gary Steinmetz and Ted Winkey combined for 7 hits and 5 RBI’s over the Brother’s Pub double-header.

5-8-14

GLORY DAYS LEAGUE STARTS PLAY

The Glory Days 50+ Wood Bat Softball League began their 5^th season with a full slate of games at J.P. Nicely Memorial Park in West Falls.  The League has added 2 new teams bringing many new faces and increased competition for the 2014 campaign.

The Tombstone Saloon Surfin’ Birds, defending champions, got off to a quick start and defeated The Mostly Old Guys (MOGS) 9-1.  Winning hurler John Hulslander struck out 2 and went 2 for 4 at the plate.  Mark Brinkel and Jim Bartram each had 3 hits and the defense turned 3 double-plays led by 2^nd baseman John Grabon.  Stu Rubin of the MOGS made several great running catches in the outfield that prevented more Birds scores.

 The Bishop Burke Knights pulled out a come-from-behind 7-6 win over the Brother’s Pub Purple Hearts.  Tom McQuillan got the mound win while striking out 2 batters.  Mike Bailtz drove in the winning run in the top of the 7^th frame.  The game ended on a 3-6-1 double play with the bases loaded.

The Comfort Window Panes knocked off the Santino’s Pizza Shack Hacks 13-6.  John Backus picked up the win in his 1^st career pitching start and also added 3 hits.  Bob Kurowski was a perfect 4 for 4 at the dish while Marty Cerny, Tom Richert, Dave Yox and Julian Leggett each had 2 hits.  Mark Mazzone had 2 hits for the Hacks.

The Sparkle Cleaner Sparks play great overall defense and shut-out the NE Collision Americans 6-0.  Larry Jarmuz got the decision on the mound while Paul Bauchle had 2 RBI’s for the winners.  Tim Bajdas doubled, Paul Young went 4 for 4 and Kevin Mann, Mike Wach and John Clements each poked RBI singles.  Tony Rusinek took the hill loss for the Americans.

STANDINGS:

Surfin’ Birds                          1-0

Knights                                  1-0

Panes                                     1-0

Sparks                                    1-0

Wallenwein’s                         0-0

Cubs                                       0-0

Hacks                                     0-1

Americans                              0-1

Purple Hearts                        0-1

MOGS                                     0-1

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9/9/13

 ARNIE’S ARMY WINS 60+ TITLE

            The inaugural Glory Days 60+ Wood Bat Softball League crowned Arnie’s Army as Champions after they crunched Johnny & the Pacemakers 12-4.  The championship game had been delayed by rain and the Labor Day Holiday.  The Army proved to be the dominant team in the 60+ Division by winning their final 10 games as they marched to the title.

            The Army came out with their wood bats cracking as they took a 7-0 lead after 2 innings.  Their defense was stout as Dave Weinman made a spectacular rover the shoulder running catch to cut off a Pacemaker rally.  Bob Richter won the game on the mound and also went 3 for 4 at the dish. 

Rick Coppola had a 3 for 4 day and knocked in 3 runs.  Joe Colvin was a perfect 3 for 3 while Weinman added 4 hits.  Veteran Armondo Severo slashed an opposite field hit while Dave Raponi, Tom Scheifflee, Kevin Batt, Larry Aronoff and Stu Ruben all made key defensive plays.  Coach Arnie Walker led the Army to a 10-1 overall record in the first year of 60+ action.

The Pacemakers were led by 3 hits from Mike Amoroso and 2 singles by Craig Zielin.  Jeff Sweet made a great catch in the outfield to shut down another Army attack.  Coach John Roedel led the Pacemakers to a 7-4 season record.

8-29-13

BIRDS RULE 50+ ROOST

            The Surfin’ Birds defeated the Sparkle Cleaners Sparks 9-2 and won their 2^nd Glory Days 50+ Wood Bat Softball League Championship.  The Birds won the title in the first year of League play in 2010.  Outstanding overall team defense and timely hitting led to the Championship win.

            The Birds continued their great defensive play and held the highest scoring team in the League to just 2 runs.  The Co-MVP’s for the title game were John Hulslander and veteran John Grabon.  Hulslander got the win on the hill and added 2 hits while Grabon was outstanding at 2^nd base for the Birds and went 3 for 3 at the dish.

            The Surfin’ Birds jumped to a quick lead by scoring 3 runs in the 1^st inning.  Key singles by Doug Dilley, Coach Mark Brinkel and Grabon combined with miscues by the Sparks defense set the tone for the game.  Bob Bierk made the score 4-0 in the third inning with an RBI single plating Pete Yuhas.  Don Seider knocked in the 5^th run and was strong in the field. 

            The Birds put the game out of reach with 3 runs in the 5^th inning as John Wichman and Yuhas each had key singles.  The Sparks could answer with only 2 runs on an RBI single by Dave DiPietro and John Maley’s sacrifice fly. 

            The Birds strong defense was led by Joe Tighe, Tom Tighe, Jerry Krawczyk and Ed Engels in the outfield.  Over their last six games the Birds yielded just 4 total runs as they swooped to the Championship.  

8-22-13

SPARKS VS. BIRD’S IN 50+ FINALS

          The Sparks of Sparkle Cleaner’s and the Surfin’ Birds will meet for the 4^th annual 50+ Wood Bat Softball League Championship.  Both teams advanced to the finals as they won Round II games in the Play-Offs.

            Sparkle Cleaners won their 9^th straight game with a 13-2 victory over the Purple Hearts / Brother’s Pub squad.  Denny Collins was great on the mound with sharp defensive support from Dave DiPietro, Mike Wach, Joe Bellanti, Dave Carlson and Tim Bajdas.  Young had a 3 for 4 day at the dish as Paul Bauchle was a perfect 4 for 4.  Guy Muto added 2 hits as did Greg Bajdas, Tom Dilamarter, John Maley and Kevin Mann.  The Purple Hearts improved over the season to become a very competitive team.  Coach John McKenna and veterans Denny McMullen, John ‘Moon’ Mullins and Mike Hawco led the team into the 2^nd Round of the Play-Offs.  Ed Bauman and Ted Winky each had 2 hits in the loss.

            The Surfin’ Birds continued their great defensive play with a 3-0 win over the Northeast Collision Americans.  The Bird’s haven’t given up a run in the Play-Offs behind the shutout pitching of John Hulslander who went 2 for 2 in the box.  Tom Tighe went 1 for 2 scoring a run and knocking in another.  Ed Engels, Doug Dilley and John Wichman combined for a key play at home plate to keep the Americans off the board.    Ken Struck and John Furey each had 2 hits for Northeast Collision.

            In 60+ play Arnie’s Army won the pennant with an 8-1 record.  The Army started the season with a loss but then rattled off 8 straight wins to finish on top of the standings.  They beat the Pacemakers 11-1 behind the hitting of Dave Raponi, Joe Colvin and Armando Severo.  Great defensive plays by Dave Weinman and Stu Rubin keyed the victory.  Johnny & the Pacemakers had a rough outing giving up the most runs in a game they’ve played this season. Tony Kempa, Hank Pawelczyk and Paul Werner each had 2 hits in defeat.

            The Stoner’s beat the NY Stingers 10-7 in a slug fest.  Rick Wells was strong in the field and at the plate in support of hill winner Denny Collins.  Ed Bauman, Barry Guido, Mike Menard and Don Ripper sparkled on defense.  The Stingers were led by Pat Insera, Joe Lacapruccia and Rich Nassoiy with 2 hits each.

            60+ Play-offs will find the Army playing the NY Stingers in Round I while the Pacemakers will tangle with the Stoners.  The winners will meet for the Championship next week.

Final 60+ Standings

1. Arnie’s Army                                           8-1
2. Johnny & The Pacemakers                     6-3
3. Stoner’s                                                  4-5
4. NY Stingers                                             0-9           

8-15-13

PURPLE HEARTS UPSET KNIGHTS

In the biggest upset in Glory Days 50+ Wood Bat Softball history, the 1-13 Purple Hearts / Brothers Pub team beat the two-time defending League Champions Knights 3-1 in a first round play-off game.  The win moves the Purple Hearts into a semi-final play contest along with the Sparks, Americans and Surfin’ Birds.

            John “Moon” Mullins tossed a 5 hitter for the win and also went 3 for 3 at the plate. Mike Hawco, Ted Winke and Denny combined for 5 hits and turned two highlight reel double plays. Pete Rich had 2 hits for the Knights.

The Sparkle Cleaner Sparks won their 8^th straight game with a 9-0 whitewash over the Comfort Funeral Home Cubs.  Denny Collins got the win while Paul Bauchle, Paul Young and Tim Bajdas led the offense.  Dave DiPietro made a spectacular catch in the outfield for the Sparks.  A Lance Over to Ray Orr to Brian Andrzejewski double play highlighted the Cubs effort.

The Surfin’ Birds scored 2 runs in the first inning and held on for a 2-0 win over the Comfort Windows Panes.  John Hulslander gave up just 4 hits on the hill and also had 2 hits.  Mark Brinkel had 2 hits and drove in the winning runs.  Pete Yuhas, Joe Tighe and Bob Bierk had big defensive plays for the Birds.

            The Northeast Collision Americans moved into the final four with a 7-4 victory over the Wallenwein’s Dudas.  Kevin Struck was great on the mound and Ron Bright hit a single which started an Americans 7 hit barrage for 6 runs in the 3^rd inning.  Sam Cullis and Jeff Souder had 2 hits each for the Dudas.

            In 60+ play Arnie’s Army beat the Stoners 7-0 to hold on to 1^st Place with a 7-1 record.  Arnie Walker went 4 for 4, Stu Ruben tripled and Don Birdd played a strong defensive game for the Army.  Mike Menard and Denny Collins each had 2 hits for the Stoners.

            Johnny and the Pacemakers stayed 1 game behind  the Army with a 6-3 win over the winless NY Stingers.  John Roedel and Craig Zielin each poked 3 hits for the winners.  Jack Bushen and Tony Roncone doubled for the Stingers.

 8-8-13

SPARKLE CLEANER’S FINISHES FIRST IN 50+ PLAY

50+ RESULTS

            The Sparks of Sparkle Cleaner’s rallied late in the game to defeat the Panes 5-4 and clinched 1^st place in the final regular season standings in the Glory Days 50+ Wood Bat Softball League. The Sparks beat out the Knights for the top spot based on the 3^rd tie breaker of most runs scored in the season. League single elimination play-offs will start this week.

            Denny Collins got the hill win while Paul Bauchle, Kevin Mann and Mike Wach had the key hits for the Sparks victory. The Panes were led by Bob Kurowski, Joe Miletello and Joe Sell who all had 2 hits in the game.

            The Knights defeated the Purple Hearts 7-5. Mike Hallinan got the pitching victory while Kevin O’Brien had 2 triples and Al Schum cleared the bases with a double.  Mike Hawco and Joe Lacapruccia each had 2 hits for the Hearts.

            The Surfin’ Birds gained 3^rd place with 12-6 win over the Cubs.  The Birds rallied from a 5-1 hole to win the game behind the hitting punch of John Grabon, Joe Tighe and Larry Allen.

            Wallenwein’s pummeled the Americans 17-3 in the final game of the day led by a 7 run 1^st inning. Jeff Souder dominated at shortstop for the winners and poked 4 hits.  Terry Belz, Sam Cullis, John Cimperman and Tony DiFilippo added 3 hits each for the winners giving Tony Roncone his 8^th pitching win of the season.

FINAL REGULAR SEASON STANDINGS:

Sparkle Cleaner’s                      11-3

Bishop Burke Knights                11-3     

Surfin’ Birds                               10-4

NE Collision Americans                9-5

Wallenwein’s                                8-6

Comfort Windows                         5-9

Purple Hearts / Brother Pub        1-13

Comfort Funeral Cubs                 1-13

60+ RESULTS        

             Arnie’s Army continued on top in the standings with a 7-0 whitewash of the NY Stingers.  Solid defensive play and the hitting of Dave Raponi and Tom Scheifflee provided the win.

            Johnny and the Pacemakers stayed close behind the Army in the standings with a hard fought 3-1 win over the Stoner’s.  Craig Zielin, John Roedel and Hank Pawelczyk led the Pacemakers attack.

STANDINGS

Arnie’s Army                             6-1

Johnny & the Pacemakers        5-2

Stoner’s                                    3-4

NY Stingers                               0-7      

__________________________________________________________ 

 7-31-13

TIE FOR 1^ST PLACE IN 50+ SOFTBALL

            The Bishop Burke Knights and the Sparkle Cleaners Sparks enter the final week of regular season tied for first place in the Glory Days 50+ Wood Bat Softball League.  Both teams have a 10-3 record with the Sparks holding a tie breaker advantage by most runs scored in all League games.  The 60+ Division games were washed out this week.

            The Sparks defeated the Comfort Funeral Cubs 9-2 behind another strong pitching performance by Denny Collins who poked a double and then scored on another double by Guy Muto.  In the 4^th frame the Sparks tacked on 4 more runs for a 5-2 lead.  Tim Bajdas, Greg Bajdas, Tom Dilamarter, John Maley and Mike Wach provided the hitting as the Sparks scored in the 6^th to make the score 9-2.   The middle infield of Tim Bajdas and Paul Young had great defensive games.  Mike Waddy played a great game in the outfield and had an RBI for the Cubs.  Ray Orr went 2 for 3 and Lance Over added 2 hits for the losers.

            The Knights kept pace with a tough 9-6 over the Wallenwein’s Dudas.  Pete Rich, Mike Hallinan, Jim O’Brien and Kevin O’Brien provided the scoring punch for the Knights.  The Dudas were led by Sam Cullis defensively and 2 hits each by Jeff Souder and Wilson Curry.

            The Surfin’ Birds won a big game as they beat Northeast Collision 7-1.  The win propelled them into 3^rd place ahead of the Americans by a series sweep.  John Grabon, Mark Brinkel, Tom Tighe and Joe Tighe all had 2 for 3 days for the winners.  John Hulslander had a no-hitter into the 5th inning and finished yielding just 2 hits to the Americans.  Dave Corbelli had 2 singles for the losers.

            The Purple hearts / Brothers Pub team lost another close game as they fell to the Comfort Window Panes 2-0.  Bob Richter tossed a great game from the mound and contributed 2 hits for the Panes.  Tom Urbanski went 3 for 3 at the dish.  Mike Hawco and Denny McMullen poked 2 hits each for the Purple Hearts.

STANDINGS:

Sparkle Cleaner’s                     10-3  * Sparks have tie-breaker over Knights

Knights                                       10-3

Surfin’ Birds                                9-4  * Birds have tie-breaker over Americans

Northeast Collision                    9-4

Wallenwein’s                              7-6

Comfort Windows                      5-8

Purple Hearts/Brother’s Pub   1-12  *MOPH has tie-breaker over Cubs

Comfort Funeral Cubs              1-12

SPARKS HEAT UP GLORY DAYS PLAY

            The Sparkle Cleaner’s Sparks won their 5^th straight game during a 90 degree double-header sweep to highlight Glory Days 50+ Wood Bat play.  In the 60+ Division Arnie’s Army also earned their 5^th straight victory and took over the top spot in the standings.

60+ Division

            Arnie’s Army swept their DH with a 9-0 shutout win vs. the Stoner’s and an 8 inning 6-3 thriller against Johnny & the Pacemakers.  This win gave the Army sole possession of 1^st Place.  Tom Scheifflee was great at shortstop for the winners while John Roedel had 2 hits for the Pacemakers.  In other action the Stoner’s beat the Stingers 6-0 behind Denny Collins on the hill while the Pacemakers led by Craig Zielin defeated the Stingers 7-2.

STANDINGS:

Arnie’s Army                             5-1

Johnny & the Pacemakers       4-2

Stoner’s                                   3-3

NY Stingers                             0-6                     

 50+ Division

            Sparkle Cleaner’s moved their record to 9-3 by blasting the Northeast Collision Americans 21-3 and winning 11-2 over the Comfort Window Panes.  The Sparks were led by 3 HR’s from Tim Bajdas, 5 hits including a triple by Kevin Mann and great infield defense from Paul Young and Joe Bellanti while Denny Collins got both the mound wins. Joe Militello and Ron Learn each went 3 for 3 for the Panes.

            The Bishop Burke Knights swept their 2 games by beating the Panes 13-3 and the Purple Hearts 11-4.  Kevin O’Brien went 3 for 3 with a grand-slam while Tom McQuillan and Al Schum each added 3 hits in the opener with Mike Hallinan on the hill.  Bob Kurowski had a 2 for 3 day at the plate including a triple for the Panes.  In the 2^nd win Schum went 3 for 3 with a four-bagger, Kevin Larson poked 3 hits including a double and Mike Baetzhold got the pitching victory. 

            The Surfin’ Birds split their double-header and fell one game behind the 1^st place contenders with an 8-4 record. The dropped the opener to the Wallenwein’s Dudas 5-4.  Joe Shanahan of the Dudas threw out the Birds possible tying run at third base in the 7^th frame to cement the win.  Sam Cullis knocked in the winning run, Jeff Souder hit a two-run opposite field long ball and Tony Roncone picked up his 7^th Hill win.  The Birds won their 2^nd game of the twin-bill beating the Comfort Funeral Home Cubs 10-1 paced by a 7 run 1^st inning offensive outburst.   John Marshall, Lance Over, Bob Barry, Barry Guido and Mike Waddy all had great games in the field for the Cubs in front of their many and loyal fans.

            The Americans jumped back from their 1^st game loss by beating Wallenwein’s 12-8.  Key hits by Duane Carr, Harry Louth, Dave Corbelli and Dan Ozimek pushed the Americans to the win.  Cullis had 3 hits and 2 RBI’s, John Cimperman added 3 hits while Greg Hunt and Kerry Hise chipped in with 2 singles for the Dudas.

            In the biggest win of the day, the MOPH / Brother’s Pub expansion team won their first game of the season.  The Purple Hearts scored 6 runs in the first 2 innings and beat the Cubs 7-1.  Gary Steinmetz and Mike Hawco had RBI hits while Ted Winky and Moon Mullins made big defensive plays.  Denny McMullen had 3 hits and scored 2 runs for the Purple Hearts. Ken Lorentz had a solo HR for the Cubs.

STANDINGS:

Sparkle Cleaner’s                                9-3

Knights                                                9-3

NE Collision                                         9-3

Surfin’ Birds                                         8-4

Wallenwein’s                                        7-5

Comfort Windows                                4-8

Purple Hearts/Brother’s Pub                1-11

Comfort Funeral Cubs                         1-11         

7-18-13

ALL DH’S IN GLORY DAYS LEAGUE

            The Glory Days Wood Bat Softball League played a total of 6 double-headers as they returned to action after rain-outs and the July 4^th Holiday.  Arnie’s Army holds down 1^st place in the 60+ Division and Northeast Collision is on top in 50+ play.

60+ Division

            Arnie’s Army swept their DH with a 9-2 win over the Stingers and a come from behind 5-4 win over the Stoner’s.  Dave Raponi led the Army attack with 5 hits on the night and great defensive plays at 3^rd base. Johnny & the Pacemakers won both of their games led by the bats of Paul Werner and Jeff Sweet.  They defeated the Stoner’s 12-3 and a 7-3 win over the Stinger’s in the night cap.   

STANDINGS:

1.      Pacemakers    3-1
2.      Arnie's Army    3-1
3.      Stoner's           2-2
4.      NY Stingers     0-4

50+ Division

            The Sparkle Cleaner Sparks and the Bishop Burke Knights swept their DH’s to move into a 2^nd place tie.  The Sparks prevailed 7-4 over Wallenwein’s Dudas 7-4 as Guy Muto had 3 hits and Denny Collins got the hill win.  In the 2^nd game the Sparks beat the Surfin’ Birds 13-1.  Larry Jarmuz recorded the win and Dave DiPietro had 3 hits. 

            The Knights defeated the Northeast Collision Americans 7-6 in 8 innings.  In their 2^nd game the Knights knocked off the Comfort Funeral Home Cubs 11-2 led by a 5 run 1^st inning.  Pete Rich had 3 RBI’s for the winners.  Fred Marshall had a double and Bob Barry drove in the other Cubs run.

            The Comfort Window Panes split their DH.  In the first game they squeaked by the Cubs 5-4 in 8 innings.  Tom Rickets drove in the winning run in support of winning pitcher Bob Richert.  Greg Voytovich had 4 hits for the Panes. Bob Barry went 2 for 3 with a triple while John Marshall had big defensive games for the Cubs.  In the 2^nd game the Panes held a 5-3 lead over Wallenwein’s going into the bottom of the 7^th frame. The Dudas then scored 3 runs in their last at bat to win 6-5.  Joe Shanahan and Len Mazurkiewicz led the comeback while Joe Sell had 3 hits for the Panes.

            The Purple Hearts / Brother’s Pub team fell to 0-10 as they lost to the Surfin’ Birds 11-0 and NE Collision 10-4.  John McKenna and Moon Mullins had 2 hits in each game for the Purple Hearts.

STANDINGS: 

Northeast Collision                    8-2

Sparkle Cleaner’s                      7-3

Bishop Burke                             7-3

Surfin’ Birds                               7-3

Wallenwein’s                             6-4

Comfort Windows                     4-6

Comfort Funeral                       1-9

Purple Hearts/Brother’s Pub   0-10

 7-3-13

GLORY DAYS PLAY 10 GAMES

       The Glory Days Wood Bat Softball League 50+ Division saw Northeast Collision take over the top spot in the standings while the Lehner Masonry Stoners are unbeaten in the 60+ League. 

60+ Division

            Johnny & the Pacemakers came from behind for a tight 8-7 win over the NY Stingers.  Frank Walsh smacked 3 hits while Mike Ameroso and Steve Schaffer added 2 each.  Paul Werner beat the tag at home plate for the win.  The Stingers were led by Pat Insera and Rich Nassoiy at the dish.

The Stoner’s scored 6 runs in the sixth inning to pull away from Arnie’s Army in a 12-7 victory.  Denny Collins got the win and added 3 hits.  Stu Rubin and Arnie Walker each had 2 hits for the Army in defeat.

50+ Division 

            The Northeast Collision Americans held on to 1^st place with a DH sweep of the Comfort Funeral Home Cubs.  In the first game 4-1 win Ken Struck and John Furey drove in the key runs.  Barry Guido drove in Kenny Lorenz for the only Cubs run.  In the second game the Americans scored 13 runs in the first 3 innings and won 13-2.  Dave Corbelli and Jeff Gianiodis were the stars on offense for the winners.  The Cubs were led by Lance Over’s triple and 2 hits each by Ed Conboy and Don Ripper.

            The Wallenwein’s Dudas stroked 51 total hits and scored 29 runs while beating the Purple Hearts / Brother’s pub squad 12-3 and 17-2.  Tony Roncone got both wins while Joe Shanahan socked 2 four-baggers in the first game and Sam Cullis did the same in the nightcap.  Jeff Souder had 4 hits in the opener while Len Mazurkiewicz, Terry Belz and Roncone each poked 3 hits.

            The Lehner Masonry Surfin’ Birds swept 2 from the Comfort Window Panes by scores of 12-2 and 12-11.  Mark Brinkel got both mound wins as Joe Tighe had 7 hits while Pete Yuhas and John Wichman added 6 apiece in the double-header. 

            The Bishop Burke Knights and the Sparkle Cleaner Sparks had the only split of the day.  The Knights won the 1^st game 9-5.  Al Schum had 3 hits including a triple and Kevin O’Brien also tripled in support of pitcher Tom McQuillan.  The Sparks rebounded with a 4-0 win in the 2^nd game.  Winning pitcher Denny Collins didn’t allow a Knight past 2^nd base and Paul Young’s triple sparked the offense.  The infield combination of Young, Tim Bajdas, Kevin Mann and Dave Carlson were flawless in the win.

STANDINGS:  

Northeast Collision         7-1

Lehner Masonry             6-2

Bishop Burke                  5-3

Wallenwein’s                   5-3

Sparkle Cleaner’s           5-3

Comfort Windows           3-5

Comfort Funeral             1-7

Purple Hearts                 0-8      

6-27-13

GLORY DAYS GETS BACK TO PLAY

            The Glory Days Softball League got back in action after 2 weeks of rain-outs.  In the 60+ Division the Stoners and Arnie’s Army won their games.  In the 50+ Division Lehner Masonry fell from the       unbeaten ranks with a double-header loss.

60+ Division:

            The Lehner Masonry Stoners scored 3 runs in both the 1^st and 7^th innings on the way to a 7-2 win over 60’s R-US squad.  Denny Collins got the hill win excellent defensive support by Mike Menard, Bob Stampfer and Tom Rabb.   Angelo Daluiso, Barry Guido and Ed Bauman each had 3 hits for the winners.  John Roedel, Paul Werner, Steve Schaffer and Bob Radke all poked 2 hits for the losers.

            Arnie’s Army shut-out the NY Stingers 7-0.  Coach Arnie Walker went 2 for 3 and made a shoe-string catch in left-field.  Bob Richter got the win with great defensive help from Joe Colvin and Larry Aronoff.  For the Stingers Tony Roncone smacked a double, Len Mazurkiewicz had 2 hits and Rich Nassoiy sparkled at short-stop.

50+ Division:

            The Bishop Burke Knights swept a DH to move into 2^nd place.  The Knights defeated the previously unbeaten Lehner Masonry Surfin’ Birds 12-6.  A 7 run 1^st inning put the Knights in charge.  Mike Hallinan went 2 for 3, Kevin Larson had 3 singles and Al Schum smacked a double for the winners.  In their 2^nd game the Knights beat the Comfort Funeral Home Cubs 11-2.  Schum tripled, Hallinan has 3 singles and Jim O’Brien scored 3 runs for the win.  Tom McQuillan got the win in both games.  The Cubs were led by an RBI single by Lance over and a head-first slide into home plate by Dominic Patterson.

            Sparkle Cleaners won 2 games beating the MOPH / Brother’s Pub team 15-1 and then pulled out a thrilling 9-8 win over the Surfin’ Birds.  In the 1^st win Greg Bajdas stroked 3 hits, Paul Young doubled and Joe Bellanti added 2 singles.  In the win over the Birds, the Sparks rebounded from an 8-0 deficit with a 7^th inning rally.  Mike Wach spanked an HR with Tom Dilamarter on base.  In the top of the 7^th with the score 8-7 Tim Bajdas delivered a long-ball down the right field line to score Bellanti and then slid under the tag at home plate to score the winning run.  Denny Collins got both hill wins while Kevin Mann was strong at 1^st base.

            Northeast Collision won 2 games as they pounded the Comfort Window Panes 16-0 and then got their 2^nd shut-out by beating the MOPH / Brothers Pub 5-0.  Boris Kuvshinoff, Ken Struck, John Furey and Dave Corbelli played great defense.   Joe Lacapruccia had 2 hits and was tough in a relief appearance on the mound while Jack Bushen made several running catches in the outfield for the losers.

            The Wallenwein’s Dudas split their DH.  In the first game they beat the Cubs 6-1.  Jeff Souder popped a lead-off four-bagger to start the game.  Dave Richards had five assists and Souder added 7 more to anchor the Dudas defense.  Lenny Mazurkiewicz had 3 RBI’s while Greg Hunt and Joe Shanahan each added 2 hits. For the Cubs Fred Marshall scored on an RBI single by Ray Orr. In the 2^nd game the Comfort Window Panes pulled out a 4-3 win over the Dudas.  Tom Urbanski, Kelvin Jones and John Backus all had 2 hits for the winners.

STANDINGS:

Northeast Collision                  5-1

Bishop Burke                           4-2

Sparkle Cleaners                      4-2

Lehner Masonry                       4-2

Comfort Windows                    3-3

Wallenwein’s                            3-3

Comfort Funeral                       1-5

MOPH / Brother’s Pub              0-6       

6-13-13 

50+ Division  

SURFIN BIRDS REMAIN UNBEATEN

Surfin’ Birds 6  Americans  2

        The Lehner Masonry Surfin’ Birds moved their record to 4-0 with a win over previously unbeaten Northeast Collision.  The Birds have allowed just 9 runs total in their 4 wins.  Doug Dilley and Mark Brinkel had strong defensive games in support of WP John Hulslander.  Tom Tighe 3 for 3 and John Grabon 2 for 3 with 3 runs scored for the winners.

Sparks 5  Cubs  0

        The Sparkle Cleaners Sparks got back on the winning track with a 5-0 whitewash of the Comfort Funeral Home Cubs.  WP Denny Collins allowed just 2 hits which were the only Cubs base runners. With a DP Collins faced just 22 Cubs hitters. Paul Young tripled, Dave DiPietro 2 for 3 and Tim Bajdas a double for the winners. Bob Stampfer tripled for the Cubs.

Knights 15  Dudas  10

        The Bishop Burke Knights moved their record to 2-2 behind the pitching of Tom McQuillan and 3 for 4 performances by Pete Rich, Mike Smith and Jim O’Brien.  Joe Shanahan 3 run HR, Sam Cullis and Terry Belz went 3 for 4 in the loss by the Wallenwein’s Dudas.

Panes 16  Purple Hearts  3

        John Backus and Coach Tom Urbanski had 3 hits each for the Comfort Window Panes. The Purple Hearts & Brothers Pub squad, hurt by injuries, were led by Denny McMullen’s 2 hits.

STANDINGS

Lehner Masonry        4-0

Northeast Collision   3-1

Bishop Burke             2-2

Sparkle Cleaners       2-2

Comfort Windows      2-2

Wallenwein’s              2-2

Comfort Funeral        1-3

Purple Hearts             0-4

60+ Division    INAUGURAL SEASON BEGINS

The Glory Days 60+ Wood Bat Softball Division, the first of its kind in the Northeast, began play at J.P. Nicely Park in West Falls.  Each team may have 3 players 57-59 years old.  Additional players are needed to fill out teams.  Call John Stegner at 652 4167 or visit www.woodbatsoftball.com

Roedel Raiders 5  Lehner Masonry Stoners 4

        Paul Werner and Frank Walsh 2 hits each for the Raiders coached by John Roedel.  Ed Bauman had 3 hits and Joe Colvin a double for the Stoners.

Stoners 7  Moog Monsters 5

        Denny Collins got the hill win while Mike Menard and Barry Guido added RBI doubles.  Rich Nassoiy 2 hits, Bob Richter doubled as Tony Kempa took the loss for the Monsters coached by Jack Bushen.

5-23-13

BIRDS & AMERICANS UNDEFEATED

The Lehner Masonry Surfin' Birds and Northeast Collision Americans  won their games under dark and misty conditions at J.P. Nicely Memorial Park to improve their records to 3-0.

Lehner Masonry 7  Wallenwein's 2

WP John Hulslander

LP  Len Mazurkiewicz

Bob Bierk 2 Run HR on 1st swing of the season for Birds

Northeast Collision 6  Sparkle Cleaners 2 

WP Tony Rusinek

LP  Denny Collins

Great defense by Boris Kushinoff at SS for Americans

Bishop Burke 12  Comfort Windows 5

WP Mike Hallinan

LP  Bob Richter

Pete Rich & Kevin O'Brien 2 hits each for Knights

Comfort Funeral 4  Purple Hearts / Brother's Pub  3

WP Bill Gonsa

LP  Moon Mullins

Fred Marshall 2 Run HR for Cubs  

STANDINGS:

Lehner Masonry         3-0

Northeast Collision     3-0

Wallenwein's              2-1

Sparkle Cleaners       1-2

Bishop Burke             1-2

Comfort Windows      1-2

Comfort Funeral        1-2

MOPH/Brother's Pub 0-3

5-16-13

NORTHEAST COLLISION DENTS KNIGHTS 11-10

                The Northeast Collision Americans moved their record to 2-0 with a big win over the 2 time defending League Champion Bishop Burke Knights.   Lehner Masonry and Wallenwein’s also won entertaining, one run games to highlight Glory Days 50+ Wood Bat Softball action at J.P. Nicely Memorial Park in West Falls.

            The Americans won the re-match of last season’s Championship game as they scored 5 runs in the 4^th inning to take an 11-8 lead.  A bases loaded walk and 3 errors sealed the Knight fate in that frame.  The Knights rallied and had the winning run on base in the bottom of the 7^th but couldn’t push across the tying score.  Tony Rusinek was the winning pitcher while Ken Struck added 2 hits each for the winners.  Pete Rich and Al Schum went 2 for 4 in defeat.

            The Lehner Masonry Surfin’ Birds won their 2^nd straight with a hard fought 4-3 over the Purple Hearts / Brothers Pub new team.  Jerry Krawczyk went deep, Ed Engels had a key RBI triple and Coach Mark Brinkel went 2 for 2 while driving in the winning run in the top of the 6^th inning.  John Huslander pitched a great game with defensive help from Joe and Tom Tighe in the Birds outfield. The Hearts were led by the hitting of Ted Winky, Joe Lacapruccia and Dale Green. Ed Bauman made some good plays in left-field while Mike Eldridge sparkled at shortstop.

            Wallenwein’s defeated the Sparkle Cleaner Sparks 11-10 in a thriller.  The Dudas scored 5 runs in the 4^th frame and 3 more in the 5^th to move into a 10-5 lead.   The Sparks roared back with 4 in the 7^th but left the tying run on base.  The winning run was driven in from 3^rd base as Jim Kane hit into a double-play.  Greg Hunt made a great leaping catch in right field to control the Sparks rally.  John Cimperman and Dave Richards each went 4 for 4 at the dish in support of winning pitcher Len Mazurkiewicz.  Terry Belz, Hunt and Wilson Curry, the three oldest Dudas, each poked 2 hits in the victory.  For the Sparks Greg Bajdas tripled, Larry Jarmuz doubled while Guy Muto, Al Malke, Mike Wach, Joe Bellanti and Tom Dilamarter all had 2 hits.  

            In the final game the Comfort Window Panes team defeated the Comfort Funeral Home Cubs 11-4 behind a grand slam HR from Bob Kurowski. Julian Laggett and Jon Backus each had 3 hits while Steve Welk, Joe Sell, Jim Navagh and Tom Richert came through with 2 hit apiece.   Pitcher Bob Richter and the entire Panes defense held the Cubs to just 1 run after their first at bat.  Lance Over added 2 hits and was sharp at shortstop for the Cubs.  John Marshall pulled off difficult double play by fielding a shot to third base, forcing the runner from 2^nd base and then throwing to first. 

STANDINGS:

Wallenwein’s                            2-0

Lehner Masonry                       2-0

Northeast Collision                  2-0

Comfort Windows                    1-1

Sparkle Cleaners                     1-1

Purple Hearts/Brothers Pub   0-2

Comfort Funeral                       0-2

Bishop Burke                            0-2      

__________________________________________

 5-2-13

SURFIN’ BIRDS END KNIGHTS STREAK

The two-time defending League Champion Bishop Burke Knights entered the 2013 season riding on a record 13 game winning streak.  That all ended as the Lehner Masonry Surfin’ Birds pulled out a 5-3 win in extra innings as the Glory Days 50+ Wood Bat League opened the season at J.P. Nicely Memorial Park in West Falls.

The Birds scored 2 runs in the top of the 8^th inning and kept the Knights off the board in the bottom of the frame to secure the victory.  Mark Brinkel gained the pitching win with strong defensive support from John Grabon and John Roedel.    Joe and Tom Tighe each had 2 hits while Larry Allen stroked a double for the Birds.  Mike Hallinan took the hill loss for the Knights.

The Northeast Collision Americans defeated the Comfort Window Panes 10-1.  The Americans jumped to a quick 4-0 first inning lead and never looked back. Duane Carr and Harry Louth each had huge triples while the Americans infield combination of Boris Kushinoff and Ken Struck turned 3 double-plays.  Tony Rusinek got the mound victory while holding the Panes to just 8 hits.  Tom Urbanski went 3 for 3 and Bob Kurowski had 2 hits for the Panes. 

Wallenwein’s shut-out the Comfort Funeral Home Cubs 7-0 behind the strong pitching of Tony Roncone who allowed just 4 hits.    Airtight infield play by the combination of Dave Richards, Jim Kane and Sam Cullis kept the Cubs off the board.  Terry Belz added a 6^th inning 2 run single while Jeff Souder pitched in with 3 hits.  Richards, Cullis, Belz and Joe Shanahan each had 2 hits and veteran slugger Wilson Curry smacked a double.  Lance Over had 2 hits in the disappointing season opener loss for the Cubs.

The Sparkle Cleaner Sparks took advantage of some early inning errors with timely hitting to defeat the Purple Hearts MOPH / Brother’s Pub new entry 27-3.  Denny Collins was strong on the mound and got infield support from Tim & Greg Bajdas, Joe Bellanti and Paul Young.  Young socked a 4-bagger and joined Dave DiPietro in scoring 5 runs while Tim Bajdas doubled and tripled. Bob Hanlon, Joe Pagano and Marty Kohler each had 2 hits for the winners.  Denny McMullen had 2 hits for the Hearts in defeat.

STANDINGS:

Lehner Masonry           1-0

Northeast Collision      1-0

Wallenwein’s                1-0

Sparkle Cleaners          1-0

Knights                          0-1

Purple Hearts               0-1

Comfort Windows        0-1

Comfort Funeral           0-1