The Resurrection Life Warriors capped a great season in the EP Round Lake Church League by placing four members of the team on the post-season All-League teams. Rez Life landed two players on the first team and two on the second team.
Not satisfied with just those honors, Rez also earned four Gold Gloves for league play and had the league's MVP, Defensive Player of the Year and Rookie of the Year.
All-League Teams
First Team
Austin Colby was one of two players in the league unanimously chosen to the first team as a utility player. Austin led the league with a .743 average and was second with a .750 on base percentage. His slugging percentage of 1.457 was also second as was his OPS of 2.207. His 41 runs scored led the league and his 46 rbi were second. He set league records with his 14 doubles and 9 triples while finishing tied for third in homers with 6. Austin also paced the league with a .759 average with runners in scoring position and a .750 average from the 5th inning and on.
Jason Merritt also landed a spot on the first team as an outfielder. Jason finished in the top 10 in average, .632 (6th), on base percentage, .694 (4th), OPS, 1.588 (8th), and doubles, 9 (8th). Jason only played in 15 league games otherwise his raw numbers would have had higher totals also.
Second Team
Lee Valle earns 2nd Team All-League laurels based primarily on his defensive prowess. He played third base at an amazing .932 fielding percentage clip which is quite high for a third-sacker. He was no slouch with the bat either, reaching base frequently with a .593 on base percentage. He drew 8 walks in 14 games while banging out 22 hits. Great year for Lee.
Eric Johnson continues his All-League presence with a 2nd team nod. Eric has bounced from 1st team to 2nd team honors in many of the past 6 seasons. While some of his numbers were down this year, his defensive performance helped prop up his overall resume. Eric did hit .538 with 5 doubles, 3 homeruns and an impressive 30 rbi in 16 league games. His 8 sacrifice flies did set a league-record also. Eric handled 61 chances in the infield while having a hand in 7 doubleplays.
Gold Glove:
Infield
Lee Valle gets his first gold statue for his play at third base. He was a unanimous choice at third base for the league and it is well deserved. Lee's defensive exploits received raving compliments from opponents, teammates, and umpires alike.
Outfield
Jason Merritt and Jamy Antoine nearly led to a clean sweep of outfield gold gloves for the Warriors. Both Jason and Jamy handily earned their hardware playing excellent corner outfield positions in a 3-man outfield. The league noticed.
Utility
Austin Colby added some more bling to his mantel with his third straight league gold glove. This one is his first non-infield prize. He manned centerfield in the 3-man set and played a solid amount of innings at shortstop also.
Defensive Player of the Year:
For the first time in the three years of Rez's participation in this league, a shortstop ('06) or centerfielder ('07) didn't win the award. Instead, the Warriors' own Lee Valle earned the honor with his heretofore discussed season at the hot corner. A fielding percentage over .900 at third or short is very good. One over .930 is excellent especially considering Lee had 22 assists and 19 putouts to boot. This is a well-deserved honor and the team applauds Lee's accomplishments.
Rookie of the Year:
Rez continued its domination in this category, winning this award in each of the past three seasons. 2006 saw Austin Colby grab the honor, last season was newcomer Brendan Finn and in 2008 Jason Merritt has kept the award at home. Jason took to the league well this season and looks to be a mainstay on the All-League teams in the future.
MVP:
In a hotly contested debate at the League Meetings, Austin Colby narrowly beat out Living Word's shortstop for MVP honors. While the two players had similar numbers across the board, Austin couldn't compete with his Living Word counterpart's 21 homeruns and 56 rbi. However, as one opposing manager said, 'MVP is not Player of the Year,' he stated. 'It is the most valuable player to his team. I think Austin carried the most value to his team.' Apparently the league agreed as Austin came out on top in a close vote. It's quite an honor to have, but it's a team honor as much as anything else. If a team doesn't compete, play hard and have some success, then individual players don't get recognized. Great compliment to the Warriors from Rez Life.
Friday, August 15, 2008
End of Season Team Awards
At the end of the season, the team received a ballot to vote on some awards for its teammates. Each teammate received one vote (10), Ron Loven got one vote (11) and Austin got an extra vote as team manager/traveling secretary/statistician/media personnel (12). Those results have now been received and will be revealed here....
Gold Glove Infield:
This was a very close vote as four different players received first-place votes (Eric Johnson, Lee Valle, Andy Briggs and Austin Colby) and another player (Jeff Johnson) received multiple second-place votes.
The team played excellent infield defense as a whole on the season and each player who received votes had something to do with that. Without further ado....
Winner: Lee Valle: 6 first-place votes/1 second-place vote
Lee defied age this season going through one of the best stretches of third base play I've seen. Lee played the last 12 league games without an error at third base!!!! That's unbelievable! it wasn't like he was sitting back and watching either, over that stretch he managed 18 assists and 14 putouts. A great season from Lee and a well-deserved honor!
Runner-Up: Austin Colby: 3 first-place votes/4 second-place votes
While Austin played over half his innings in the outfield, when he was in the infield he made it count. He led the team in chances per game and chances per inning played in the infield and managed to pick up 30 assists on the year at shortstop to go along with 24 putouts and 3 doubleplays in just 13 games.
Gold Glove Outfield:
If the infield vote was close like brothers are, then the outfield vote was close like conjoined brothers are. The three main outfielders, Jamy Antoine, Jason Merritt and Austin, all played outstanding in the grass during the year. Implementing a three-man outfield put a lot of pressure on those three but they handled it well and took advantage of the extra chances to make plays. The outfielders combined for 15 assists this season, which is a team record. All three players received at least three first-place votes and at least two second-place votes. Come meet your winner....
Winner: Austin Colby: 5 first-place votes/4 second-place votes
Austin was named on every ballot except one, which is saying a lot in and of itself. In 16 games, he chased down 31 putouts to go with his 3 assists and team-record 2 outfield double plays. He was steady throughout the season but probably earned a few votes for his highlight-reel catches from a few of his first games in the outfield. He was able to make a couple jaw-droppers which voters remember.
Runner-Up: Jason Merritt: 3 first-place votes/6 second-place votes
Jason was named on 9 of a possible 11 ballots including three first-place nods. he was probably the most steady and routine of the three outfielders and set a team-record with 6 assists. He led the team with a .980 fielding percentage from the grass and did an excellent job manning the left-field line. Many a double did he turn into an out. Well played Jason.
Pleasantly Surprising:
This is always a tricky award. Some voters aren't sure what to look for in a 'most pleasantly surprising category.' Here is what I look for: a player whose skill set was better than anticipated - a player who played above his skill set - a player who was so much fun to have on the team that he added value in that regard. Based on the votes that came in, this was a tough one to call for most people. Five people received votes, all of them had at least three total votes and one first-place vote. Lee, Andy, Adam Hey, Jamy and Jason were the vote-getters.
Winner: Andy Briggs: 5 first-place votes/2 second-place votes
Andy joined the team this year based on this recommendation to Austin from Jason, 'He talks a lot about baseball and seems to know what he's talking about. He can't be all bad.' Well said Jay, and a good move by Austin to give him the invite. It paid dividends because not only did Andy fill up the third criteria mentioned above with his jovial disposition and knowledgeable baseball chatter, but he could flat-out play too. Andy allowed this team to play a 5-man infield by doing a fantastic job at shortstop, allowing Austin to play center. He also handled the bat very well, posting a .600+ average for much of the season before a late-season slump ended him at .513.
Runner-Up: Jamy Antoine: 3 first-place votes/2 second-place votes
In his second year, Jamy showed why he is a media darling both at the plate and in the field. He improved his outfield play 100% from last year to this year, getting laser corrective eye surgery helped immensely. Jamy also displayed more consistent power on the season, finishing with 7 doubles, 4 triples, and 2 homeruns while driving home 36 runners, good for third on the team. An excellent year for Jamy and the voters responded.
MVP:
While the other categories were tighlty contested, the MVP vote was the only unanimous vote with every available first-place vote going to Austin. Three players, Eric, Jason, and Andy, were in a dogfight for runner-up honors as each received at least four votes with Andy and Jason getting the other available first-place votes.
Winner: Austin Colby: 10 first-place votes
Austin had the finest church season of his career. He played much more controlled defense, but kept some of the game-breaking plays in his back pocket if needed. He almost hit for the coveted triple-double at the plate too, posting a leauge-record 19 doubles along with another league-record 10 triples, and falling short in homeruns with just 7. He had a cool 55 runs scored (a team record) and 55 rbi. Austin showed his true value when it mattered, hitting an astounding .778 with runners in scoring position and an other-worldly .815 wtih 2 homers and 14 rbi from the 5th inning and on this season. His overall vital line was .766/.760/1.404/2.164 and he captured 4 Player of the Game awards as well as all-tournament at the Bloomington tournament and tournament MVP.
Runner-Up: Jason Merritt: 1 first-place vote/4 second-place votes
Jason had a great first season in the royal blue and white. As mentioned earlier, he played great outfield while hitting .631. He was second on the team in slugging percentage, working that number up to .881. He slugged 14 extra-base hits including 9 doubles, 3 triples, and 2 homeruns. He scored 37 times and drove home 29. Jason's OPS of 1.570 was an excellent number and gives him a great springboard for next season.
Gold Glove Infield:
This was a very close vote as four different players received first-place votes (Eric Johnson, Lee Valle, Andy Briggs and Austin Colby) and another player (Jeff Johnson) received multiple second-place votes.
The team played excellent infield defense as a whole on the season and each player who received votes had something to do with that. Without further ado....
Winner: Lee Valle: 6 first-place votes/1 second-place vote
Lee defied age this season going through one of the best stretches of third base play I've seen. Lee played the last 12 league games without an error at third base!!!! That's unbelievable! it wasn't like he was sitting back and watching either, over that stretch he managed 18 assists and 14 putouts. A great season from Lee and a well-deserved honor!
Runner-Up: Austin Colby: 3 first-place votes/4 second-place votes
While Austin played over half his innings in the outfield, when he was in the infield he made it count. He led the team in chances per game and chances per inning played in the infield and managed to pick up 30 assists on the year at shortstop to go along with 24 putouts and 3 doubleplays in just 13 games.
Gold Glove Outfield:
If the infield vote was close like brothers are, then the outfield vote was close like conjoined brothers are. The three main outfielders, Jamy Antoine, Jason Merritt and Austin, all played outstanding in the grass during the year. Implementing a three-man outfield put a lot of pressure on those three but they handled it well and took advantage of the extra chances to make plays. The outfielders combined for 15 assists this season, which is a team record. All three players received at least three first-place votes and at least two second-place votes. Come meet your winner....
Winner: Austin Colby: 5 first-place votes/4 second-place votes
Austin was named on every ballot except one, which is saying a lot in and of itself. In 16 games, he chased down 31 putouts to go with his 3 assists and team-record 2 outfield double plays. He was steady throughout the season but probably earned a few votes for his highlight-reel catches from a few of his first games in the outfield. He was able to make a couple jaw-droppers which voters remember.
Runner-Up: Jason Merritt: 3 first-place votes/6 second-place votes
Jason was named on 9 of a possible 11 ballots including three first-place nods. he was probably the most steady and routine of the three outfielders and set a team-record with 6 assists. He led the team with a .980 fielding percentage from the grass and did an excellent job manning the left-field line. Many a double did he turn into an out. Well played Jason.
Pleasantly Surprising:
This is always a tricky award. Some voters aren't sure what to look for in a 'most pleasantly surprising category.' Here is what I look for: a player whose skill set was better than anticipated - a player who played above his skill set - a player who was so much fun to have on the team that he added value in that regard. Based on the votes that came in, this was a tough one to call for most people. Five people received votes, all of them had at least three total votes and one first-place vote. Lee, Andy, Adam Hey, Jamy and Jason were the vote-getters.
Winner: Andy Briggs: 5 first-place votes/2 second-place votes
Andy joined the team this year based on this recommendation to Austin from Jason, 'He talks a lot about baseball and seems to know what he's talking about. He can't be all bad.' Well said Jay, and a good move by Austin to give him the invite. It paid dividends because not only did Andy fill up the third criteria mentioned above with his jovial disposition and knowledgeable baseball chatter, but he could flat-out play too. Andy allowed this team to play a 5-man infield by doing a fantastic job at shortstop, allowing Austin to play center. He also handled the bat very well, posting a .600+ average for much of the season before a late-season slump ended him at .513.
Runner-Up: Jamy Antoine: 3 first-place votes/2 second-place votes
In his second year, Jamy showed why he is a media darling both at the plate and in the field. He improved his outfield play 100% from last year to this year, getting laser corrective eye surgery helped immensely. Jamy also displayed more consistent power on the season, finishing with 7 doubles, 4 triples, and 2 homeruns while driving home 36 runners, good for third on the team. An excellent year for Jamy and the voters responded.
MVP:
While the other categories were tighlty contested, the MVP vote was the only unanimous vote with every available first-place vote going to Austin. Three players, Eric, Jason, and Andy, were in a dogfight for runner-up honors as each received at least four votes with Andy and Jason getting the other available first-place votes.
Winner: Austin Colby: 10 first-place votes
Austin had the finest church season of his career. He played much more controlled defense, but kept some of the game-breaking plays in his back pocket if needed. He almost hit for the coveted triple-double at the plate too, posting a leauge-record 19 doubles along with another league-record 10 triples, and falling short in homeruns with just 7. He had a cool 55 runs scored (a team record) and 55 rbi. Austin showed his true value when it mattered, hitting an astounding .778 with runners in scoring position and an other-worldly .815 wtih 2 homers and 14 rbi from the 5th inning and on this season. His overall vital line was .766/.760/1.404/2.164 and he captured 4 Player of the Game awards as well as all-tournament at the Bloomington tournament and tournament MVP.
Runner-Up: Jason Merritt: 1 first-place vote/4 second-place votes
Jason had a great first season in the royal blue and white. As mentioned earlier, he played great outfield while hitting .631. He was second on the team in slugging percentage, working that number up to .881. He slugged 14 extra-base hits including 9 doubles, 3 triples, and 2 homeruns. He scored 37 times and drove home 29. Jason's OPS of 1.570 was an excellent number and gives him a great springboard for next season.
Thursday, August 14, 2008
Great Finish for Second Place Warriors
The much-hyped pre-season offense reared its powerful head these last couple weeks for the Resurrection Life Warriors posting 41 runs in the final 8 innings of the season. Rez dominated St. Andrew Blue 18-6 in five innings Thursday to complete the regular season with a 13-5 record.
The offense was solid, banging out 22 hits and drawing four walks. Austin Colby, Jamy Antoine, Jon Engbrecht, Lee Valle and substitute Chris Burr all had three hits to lead the attack with Jon capturing Player of the Game honors with two runs, three rbi and a double.
The team came out on top with three runs in the top of the first, started by Austin's triple off the wall to open the game. Andy Briggs lofted a sac fly to score Austin and Jamy, Jeff Johnson, and Jon all singled to plate one more. After the second out, Lee lined a single to score Jeff's pinch runner and cap the inning's scoring.
Blue didn't score in the bottom half, but neither did the Warriors in the top of the second, wasting a single from Andy. The defense was strong again in the bottom half as Austin tied a record set by many, recording all three put-outs in center field.
In the top of the third, Rez put two more runs on the board. Jordan singled with one out and Lee walked. Chris doubled in the gap to score Jordan and make it 4-0. Sub AJ Larson lined a sacrifice fly to right to score Lee for the second run of the inning.
Blue made it a game for a little while in the bottom of the third scoring four times on six hits and a walk. Rez quickly wiped out those four runs by adding four of its own in the top of the fourth. Andy walked to start things and after an out a Jeff single moved him to second. Jon then cranked a deep drive off the wall in left to score both runners and make it 7-4 with one out. After the second out, Lee singled and scored on Chris' second double.
Blue went down quickly in the bottom of the fourth and Rez put the finishing touches on the game with an explosive nine-run top of the fifth.
Austin opened the fifth with a line-drive hustle double to right and scored on Jamy's deep triple to right-center. Jeff hit a sac fly for the second out to plate Jamy and make it 11-4. The two-out bats came out swinging after that. Jon singled, Jordan walkd, Lee laced an rbi-single, and Chris singled to load the bases. AJ singled to score one more and leave the bases loaded for Austin. Austin, desparately trying to hit a grand slam, found the wall in right-center again for a bases-clearing double. Andy followed with a double to score Austin and back-to-back singles from Jamy and Jeff ended the scoring.
Blue managed two runs in the bottom half but it was too little too late and the final score of 18-6 showed Rez Life's dominance.
The final record of 13-5 gives Resurrection Life second place on the season. Look for team awards and league awards later this week.
The offense was solid, banging out 22 hits and drawing four walks. Austin Colby, Jamy Antoine, Jon Engbrecht, Lee Valle and substitute Chris Burr all had three hits to lead the attack with Jon capturing Player of the Game honors with two runs, three rbi and a double.
The team came out on top with three runs in the top of the first, started by Austin's triple off the wall to open the game. Andy Briggs lofted a sac fly to score Austin and Jamy, Jeff Johnson, and Jon all singled to plate one more. After the second out, Lee lined a single to score Jeff's pinch runner and cap the inning's scoring.
Blue didn't score in the bottom half, but neither did the Warriors in the top of the second, wasting a single from Andy. The defense was strong again in the bottom half as Austin tied a record set by many, recording all three put-outs in center field.
In the top of the third, Rez put two more runs on the board. Jordan singled with one out and Lee walked. Chris doubled in the gap to score Jordan and make it 4-0. Sub AJ Larson lined a sacrifice fly to right to score Lee for the second run of the inning.
Blue made it a game for a little while in the bottom of the third scoring four times on six hits and a walk. Rez quickly wiped out those four runs by adding four of its own in the top of the fourth. Andy walked to start things and after an out a Jeff single moved him to second. Jon then cranked a deep drive off the wall in left to score both runners and make it 7-4 with one out. After the second out, Lee singled and scored on Chris' second double.
Blue went down quickly in the bottom of the fourth and Rez put the finishing touches on the game with an explosive nine-run top of the fifth.
Austin opened the fifth with a line-drive hustle double to right and scored on Jamy's deep triple to right-center. Jeff hit a sac fly for the second out to plate Jamy and make it 11-4. The two-out bats came out swinging after that. Jon singled, Jordan walkd, Lee laced an rbi-single, and Chris singled to load the bases. AJ singled to score one more and leave the bases loaded for Austin. Austin, desparately trying to hit a grand slam, found the wall in right-center again for a bases-clearing double. Andy followed with a double to score Austin and back-to-back singles from Jamy and Jeff ended the scoring.
Blue managed two runs in the bottom half but it was too little too late and the final score of 18-6 showed Rez Life's dominance.
The final record of 13-5 gives Resurrection Life second place on the season. Look for team awards and league awards later this week.
Thursday, August 7, 2008
Rez Dominates to Claim 2nd Place
Resurrection Life left no doubt in the minds of the onlookers Thursday night about who the second place team should be this season: The Warriors. Rez used a barrage of extra-base hits from up and down the lineup to embarrass Life Church 23-1, ending the game after just three innings due to the mercy rule.
The team finished the night 23-30 from the plate with six doubles, two triples, and five homeruns - not including a sixth that didn't count. Austin Colby and Jason Merritt both went 4-4 on the night from the one and two spots in the order. However, Jordan Schumack earns Player of the Game with a perfect 3-3 night with two runs, five rbi, a triple and a homerun, his first on the year.
The two substitutes, Chris Burr and AJ Larson, finish a combined 6-6 scoring six times and driving home eight.
In the top of the first, Austin opened things up with a single and moved to second on Jason's single. Eric Johnson then doubled home Austin to start the scoring. Andy Briggs singled to plate Jason and after a Jeff Johnson walk, Jordan cleared the bases with a triple to left-center. After a groundout double play, the offense picked it up again as Adam Hey reached on an error and moved to third on Chris' double. AJ then launched one down the right-field line and burned home for an inside-the-park homerun. Austin finished the inning's scoring with a more conventional homerun, calmly depositing a ball over the left-center field fence. Rez ended the inning up 9-0.
Life was unable to take advantage of the wind blowing out stranding a lead-off walk and not scoring during its half of the first. Back-to-back solo homeruns from Jordan and Jon Engbrecht pushed the score to 11-0 after one and half innings.
Life managed to get on the board in the bottom half of the second, hitting a solo homerun to deep right. However, it was hardly even a blip on the radar of the potent Warrior offense on this night as the team proceeded to score a season-high 12 runs in the top of the third to put the game away.
Chris opened up with a triple and scored on AJ's single. Austin singled and AJ scored on Jason's double off the wall. Eric stroked a single to plate Austin and Andy lined out to score Jason. Jeff then doubled to deep left to make it second and third with one out for hot-man Jordan. Jordan came through with another hit, a run-scoring single. Jon walkd to load the bases for Adam who singled to socre Jeff's pinch runner, Andy. Chris took care of cleaning up the bases, blasting a grand slam to deep left. AJ wasn't done though, singling to keep the party going and Austin followed suit. Jason doubled again to score AJ and Eric crushed a mile-high fly ball to deep left to plate Austin and end the game's scoring, 23-1.
Life meekly went down in order in the bottom half and Rez walked away as the undeniably superior team.
Rez is now 16-8 on the year (12-5 in league play, tied with Life for 2nd place, but Rez has the tie-breaker). The Warriors can finish with what would be a franchise-high 13 wins in the Round Lake league with a victory over St. Andrew Blue next week. The game is at 5:50 on field #3.
The team finished the night 23-30 from the plate with six doubles, two triples, and five homeruns - not including a sixth that didn't count. Austin Colby and Jason Merritt both went 4-4 on the night from the one and two spots in the order. However, Jordan Schumack earns Player of the Game with a perfect 3-3 night with two runs, five rbi, a triple and a homerun, his first on the year.
The two substitutes, Chris Burr and AJ Larson, finish a combined 6-6 scoring six times and driving home eight.
In the top of the first, Austin opened things up with a single and moved to second on Jason's single. Eric Johnson then doubled home Austin to start the scoring. Andy Briggs singled to plate Jason and after a Jeff Johnson walk, Jordan cleared the bases with a triple to left-center. After a groundout double play, the offense picked it up again as Adam Hey reached on an error and moved to third on Chris' double. AJ then launched one down the right-field line and burned home for an inside-the-park homerun. Austin finished the inning's scoring with a more conventional homerun, calmly depositing a ball over the left-center field fence. Rez ended the inning up 9-0.
Life was unable to take advantage of the wind blowing out stranding a lead-off walk and not scoring during its half of the first. Back-to-back solo homeruns from Jordan and Jon Engbrecht pushed the score to 11-0 after one and half innings.
Life managed to get on the board in the bottom half of the second, hitting a solo homerun to deep right. However, it was hardly even a blip on the radar of the potent Warrior offense on this night as the team proceeded to score a season-high 12 runs in the top of the third to put the game away.
Chris opened up with a triple and scored on AJ's single. Austin singled and AJ scored on Jason's double off the wall. Eric stroked a single to plate Austin and Andy lined out to score Jason. Jeff then doubled to deep left to make it second and third with one out for hot-man Jordan. Jordan came through with another hit, a run-scoring single. Jon walkd to load the bases for Adam who singled to socre Jeff's pinch runner, Andy. Chris took care of cleaning up the bases, blasting a grand slam to deep left. AJ wasn't done though, singling to keep the party going and Austin followed suit. Jason doubled again to score AJ and Eric crushed a mile-high fly ball to deep left to plate Austin and end the game's scoring, 23-1.
Life meekly went down in order in the bottom half and Rez walked away as the undeniably superior team.
Rez is now 16-8 on the year (12-5 in league play, tied with Life for 2nd place, but Rez has the tie-breaker). The Warriors can finish with what would be a franchise-high 13 wins in the Round Lake league with a victory over St. Andrew Blue next week. The game is at 5:50 on field #3.
Wednesday, August 6, 2008
What a Weekend for the Warriors
Seven games. The Resurrection Life Warriors pushed through seven games on Saturday. The team pushed through fatigue and dehydration to win four games and finish third place in the consolation bracket.
It was a great day for softball and the Warriors took advantage with each player getting between 25 and 28 plate appearances. There were several good teams there and Rez Life competed with each team it faced. The class A ASA Church softball state champion Mt. Olivet squad was nearly up-ended by the Warriors in a defensive contest, before Olivet went on to win the entire tournament.
Three players from Rez earned All-tournament honors; Austin Colby who had a sizzling 20-24 day at the plate including 5 doubles, one triple and one homerun; Jamy Antoine who knocked in 15 rbi to lead the team and had two 5+ rbi games including one with a cycle; Jason Merritt who played a great defensive tournament in the outfield and hit .630 on the day.
Game one was a tight contest until Rez blew it open in the top of fifth with six runs en route to a 18-10 victory. Rez opened the game with four runs in the top of the first using singles from Austin, Jason, Andy Briggs, Jamy, Brad Seibert and Lee Valle.
Opponent, Riverof Life, answered with one run in the bottom of the first. The Warriors got that one back after Austin tripled and scored on Jason's rbi single. After shutting River down in the bottom of the second, the Warriors opened things up with four more runs in the top of the third to go up 9-1. Andy, Jamy, and Brad loaded the bases with two singles and a walk with one out. An error allowed one run to score and Jordan Schumack cleared the bases with a deep double to left field.
However, the game was far from over as River of Life erupted for nine runs in the bottom of the third. River had 10 his and used one error to plate the nine runs. Undeterred, Rez plated three more runs to regain the lead in the fourth. Austin doubled and scored on Jason's deep triple. Chris Burr then ripped a double to score Jason. An Eric Johnson single moved Chris to third and a Jamy fly ball scored Chris.
Good defense kept River from scoring in the bottom half and Rez put the game away with six runs in the final inning. With one walk, Jordan and Jeff Johnson drew walks and after the second out, the offense really got it going. Austin singled to score two and Jason reached on an error to score another one. Chris singled to plate two more and Eric provided the big blow, ripping a triple to plate Chris. A wild throw allowed Eric to score on the play to end the inning's scoring.
River went down quickly and Rez started the day 1-0. Austin earned Player of the Game honors with a 4-4 game, four runs scored, two rbi, a double and a triple.
Mt. Olivet beat Rez in the second game, 9-3, as both defenses played very well. Olivet scored four runs in the first and Rez bounced back with two runs in the top of the third. Jordan singled, Jeff doubled to put runners at second and third for Austin who lined out to right-field to score Jordan. Jason singled to plate Jeff and make it 4-2.
Olivet added one run in the bottom of the fourth to make it 5-2 heading into the sixth. The Warriors missed their best chance in the sixth, leaving the bases loaded without scoring. With one out, Austin singled and moved to second as Jason reached on an error. Eric singled to load the bases but Andy flew out to left to end the threat. Olivet then opened the game up with four runs in the bottom half.
Rez added one run in the seventh, but it wasn't enough. Jamy singled and eventually came around to score on Jeff's sac fly. Jeff earned Player of the Game with a double, run scored and rbi.
Game three was a bit of a letdown, as the Warriors kind of coasted after the tough loss to Olivet and fell to an inferior team 8-7. Crossroads scored four runs in the bottom of the seventh to win the game and push the Warriors from the 10 seed to the 12 seed in the consolation bracket.
The team had a tough game getting the big hit, stranding 16 runners in seven innings. Andy Briggs had four hits and Adam Hey earned his first Player of the Game with a perfect 3-3 day with two rbi. Jamy added two rbi during the game and Austin, Eric and Lee all had two hits.
In the first game of the consolation bracket, Rez manhandled TLC 20-5. Austin opened the game with an inside-the-park homerun. Jason singled and moved to second on a single from Andy and came home on Eric's single. After an out, Brad singled to load the bases and Lee singled to plate Andy. Jordan lofted a sac fly to score the fourth run of the inning.
TLC pushed one across in the bottom half and Rez added four more runs in the top of the second to go up 8-1. Jamy had a two-run double and Brad had a two-rbi single in the inning.
TLC made it close in the top of the second, taking advantage of three walks while scoring three runs. Both teams went scoreless in the third and Rez opened up the lead with four runs in the fourth. Lee, Jordan, Adam and Austin provided the rbi in the inning.
TLC didn't score in the bottom half and Jamy drove a blast into the right-center gap for a homerun. TLC again went scoreless in the fifth and Rez racked up seven more runs in the sixth. Jamy again provided the big blow with a huge bases-loaded triple to give him six rbi on the day en route to Player of the Game honors. He finished 4-5 with 4 runs, 6 rbi and a single, double, triple and a homerun.
Jason, Brad and Lee all had four hits in the game too while Austin and Eric added three apiece.
Game five of the day was against RAGS and it was a much closer contest. Rez won 10-7 but stranded 10 runners in the game. The first inning was all Rez needed as the team scored six runs on seven hits and a walk. Jason mashed the shot of the tournament with a deep drive over the left-fielders head for an rbi triple. The Warriors added two more runs in the second on singles from Eric, Jamy, Brad and Lee.
Leading just 8-6 going into the bottom of the fifth, Rez added two insurance runs. Lee singled and after a forceout Jeff drove a triple to score Jordan. Austin singled to score Jeff and make it 10-6. RAGS added one run in the sixth, but that was it and Rez held on 10-7.
Lee captured Player of the Game with three hits, a run and three rbi.
That was the end of the magic for a while as the Warriors fell in the consolation semi-finals 14-7 to eventual consolation champions Real Life.
Although the team had 16 hits and drew one walk, it was only able to score 7 runs. Austin snagged POG again with three hits, two runs, on rbi and a double.
The final game of the day was a fun one, as Rez dominated 13-0 from start to finish. Life Fest managed just two hits in the game while Rez mashed out 20. Three guys had four hits in the game, Austin, Eric and Jamy with Eric earning his first Player of the Game of the tournament. He also had two rbi on the day.
While each player had his highs and lows on the day, everyone got plenty of exercise and enjoyed their shower when they got home. Austin was able to win Tournament MVP for the second straight year hitting .833 while scoring 14 runs while driving home nine.
The team's record is now 15-8 (11-5 league-only) on the season with two games left. The big game is Thursday at 5:50 on field #3 versus Life. Life is 12-4 and a Rez Life victory gives the team the tie-breaker for second place.
It was a great day for softball and the Warriors took advantage with each player getting between 25 and 28 plate appearances. There were several good teams there and Rez Life competed with each team it faced. The class A ASA Church softball state champion Mt. Olivet squad was nearly up-ended by the Warriors in a defensive contest, before Olivet went on to win the entire tournament.
Three players from Rez earned All-tournament honors; Austin Colby who had a sizzling 20-24 day at the plate including 5 doubles, one triple and one homerun; Jamy Antoine who knocked in 15 rbi to lead the team and had two 5+ rbi games including one with a cycle; Jason Merritt who played a great defensive tournament in the outfield and hit .630 on the day.
Game one was a tight contest until Rez blew it open in the top of fifth with six runs en route to a 18-10 victory. Rez opened the game with four runs in the top of the first using singles from Austin, Jason, Andy Briggs, Jamy, Brad Seibert and Lee Valle.
Opponent, Riverof Life, answered with one run in the bottom of the first. The Warriors got that one back after Austin tripled and scored on Jason's rbi single. After shutting River down in the bottom of the second, the Warriors opened things up with four more runs in the top of the third to go up 9-1. Andy, Jamy, and Brad loaded the bases with two singles and a walk with one out. An error allowed one run to score and Jordan Schumack cleared the bases with a deep double to left field.
However, the game was far from over as River of Life erupted for nine runs in the bottom of the third. River had 10 his and used one error to plate the nine runs. Undeterred, Rez plated three more runs to regain the lead in the fourth. Austin doubled and scored on Jason's deep triple. Chris Burr then ripped a double to score Jason. An Eric Johnson single moved Chris to third and a Jamy fly ball scored Chris.
Good defense kept River from scoring in the bottom half and Rez put the game away with six runs in the final inning. With one walk, Jordan and Jeff Johnson drew walks and after the second out, the offense really got it going. Austin singled to score two and Jason reached on an error to score another one. Chris singled to plate two more and Eric provided the big blow, ripping a triple to plate Chris. A wild throw allowed Eric to score on the play to end the inning's scoring.
River went down quickly and Rez started the day 1-0. Austin earned Player of the Game honors with a 4-4 game, four runs scored, two rbi, a double and a triple.
Mt. Olivet beat Rez in the second game, 9-3, as both defenses played very well. Olivet scored four runs in the first and Rez bounced back with two runs in the top of the third. Jordan singled, Jeff doubled to put runners at second and third for Austin who lined out to right-field to score Jordan. Jason singled to plate Jeff and make it 4-2.
Olivet added one run in the bottom of the fourth to make it 5-2 heading into the sixth. The Warriors missed their best chance in the sixth, leaving the bases loaded without scoring. With one out, Austin singled and moved to second as Jason reached on an error. Eric singled to load the bases but Andy flew out to left to end the threat. Olivet then opened the game up with four runs in the bottom half.
Rez added one run in the seventh, but it wasn't enough. Jamy singled and eventually came around to score on Jeff's sac fly. Jeff earned Player of the Game with a double, run scored and rbi.
Game three was a bit of a letdown, as the Warriors kind of coasted after the tough loss to Olivet and fell to an inferior team 8-7. Crossroads scored four runs in the bottom of the seventh to win the game and push the Warriors from the 10 seed to the 12 seed in the consolation bracket.
The team had a tough game getting the big hit, stranding 16 runners in seven innings. Andy Briggs had four hits and Adam Hey earned his first Player of the Game with a perfect 3-3 day with two rbi. Jamy added two rbi during the game and Austin, Eric and Lee all had two hits.
In the first game of the consolation bracket, Rez manhandled TLC 20-5. Austin opened the game with an inside-the-park homerun. Jason singled and moved to second on a single from Andy and came home on Eric's single. After an out, Brad singled to load the bases and Lee singled to plate Andy. Jordan lofted a sac fly to score the fourth run of the inning.
TLC pushed one across in the bottom half and Rez added four more runs in the top of the second to go up 8-1. Jamy had a two-run double and Brad had a two-rbi single in the inning.
TLC made it close in the top of the second, taking advantage of three walks while scoring three runs. Both teams went scoreless in the third and Rez opened up the lead with four runs in the fourth. Lee, Jordan, Adam and Austin provided the rbi in the inning.
TLC didn't score in the bottom half and Jamy drove a blast into the right-center gap for a homerun. TLC again went scoreless in the fifth and Rez racked up seven more runs in the sixth. Jamy again provided the big blow with a huge bases-loaded triple to give him six rbi on the day en route to Player of the Game honors. He finished 4-5 with 4 runs, 6 rbi and a single, double, triple and a homerun.
Jason, Brad and Lee all had four hits in the game too while Austin and Eric added three apiece.
Game five of the day was against RAGS and it was a much closer contest. Rez won 10-7 but stranded 10 runners in the game. The first inning was all Rez needed as the team scored six runs on seven hits and a walk. Jason mashed the shot of the tournament with a deep drive over the left-fielders head for an rbi triple. The Warriors added two more runs in the second on singles from Eric, Jamy, Brad and Lee.
Leading just 8-6 going into the bottom of the fifth, Rez added two insurance runs. Lee singled and after a forceout Jeff drove a triple to score Jordan. Austin singled to score Jeff and make it 10-6. RAGS added one run in the sixth, but that was it and Rez held on 10-7.
Lee captured Player of the Game with three hits, a run and three rbi.
That was the end of the magic for a while as the Warriors fell in the consolation semi-finals 14-7 to eventual consolation champions Real Life.
Although the team had 16 hits and drew one walk, it was only able to score 7 runs. Austin snagged POG again with three hits, two runs, on rbi and a double.
The final game of the day was a fun one, as Rez dominated 13-0 from start to finish. Life Fest managed just two hits in the game while Rez mashed out 20. Three guys had four hits in the game, Austin, Eric and Jamy with Eric earning his first Player of the Game of the tournament. He also had two rbi on the day.
While each player had his highs and lows on the day, everyone got plenty of exercise and enjoyed their shower when they got home. Austin was able to win Tournament MVP for the second straight year hitting .833 while scoring 14 runs while driving home nine.
The team's record is now 15-8 (11-5 league-only) on the season with two games left. The big game is Thursday at 5:50 on field #3 versus Life. Life is 12-4 and a Rez Life victory gives the team the tie-breaker for second place.
Friday, August 1, 2008
Big Sweep Pushes Rez to Third Place
The Warriors from Resurrection Life brought their 'A' game to the table Thursday night and it paid dividends with two impressive wins over Living Word and St. Andrew Blue.
The victory over Living Word is especially sweet because to date, Living Word has clinched the league championship and sits with a record of 14-2; both losses coming from Rez Life. The 11-6 victory marks the second consecutive time the Warrior defense has held Living Word's potent offense to just six runs. Living Word averages 16.5 runs per game against the league, but just 9.3 against Rez Life.
St. Andrew Blue, although its record doesn't show it, is a tough opponent. The team has averaged right around 10 runs all year and recently has been playing very well. Blue came out and pounced to a 7-0 lead over Rez before a big second inning propelled the Warriors to a 16-13 victory and a doubleheader sweep.
Game one was more a pride game than anything else. After dropping four straight games to Living Word over three seasons, the Warriors finally got the monkey of their back with an earlier 7-6 last inning victory. This game was for 2008 bragging rights.
The Warriors scored first, pushing one across in the top of the first inning. Three singles from Andy Briggs, Jason Merritt and Eric Johnson led to the run. Living Word answered with one run in the bottom half on a double, walk, and a throwing error from Austin Colby filling in for Lee Valle at third base.
Rez pushed two across with two outs in the top of the second to go up 3-1. Jamy Antoine led off with a single and moved to second on Adam Hey's single. After a Chris Wold, filling in for the team, lineout, substitute Nick Larson lined a single to center to load the bases for Austin. Austin redeemed himself from his defensive miscue lining a single to right-center plating Jamy and Adam.
Living Word ticked off one run in the bottom of the second taking advantage of another uncharacteristic error and two singles. Up 3-2, Rez busted out with eight runs in the top of the third. Jason ripped his second single of the game to start things and moved to second on Eric's second single. Jordan Schumack then singled to score Jason and Jamy lined his second hit to load the bases. Jeff Johnson ripped a single to plate two and after the first out, Chris singled to score Jamy. Nick followed with his second hit to score pinch-runner Andy. Austin lined his second rbi-single of the day and Andy followed with one also. Jason capped the scoring, pushing Austin home with a single.
The defense held strong, only allowing one Living Word run in the bottom of the third to hold a 11-3 lead. In the top of the fourth, Rez went down without scoring. Living Word only managed one run in the bottom half though, making it 11-4 going into the fifth inning.
Rez left the bases loaded in the top of the fifth, squandering a good chance to do some damage and Living Word chipped away a little more with one run in the bottom half. Again, the Warriors stranded runners, leaving men on first and second in the top of the sixth without scoring.
Facing a time crunch, the Rez defense made quick work of Living Word in the bottom half and due to the time constraints, Living Word got to bat its seventh inning first. Although Living Word managed one run, it never really threatened, especially after Andy Briggs made a nice snag on a liner at short an then doubled off a runner on second for two quick outs. A lazy flyball to center ended the game and gave Rez a big victory, 11-6.
Jason Merritt earned Player of the Game with a perfect 4-4 game, scoring one run and driving home another. He also handled two putouts flawlessly while playing middle infield.
Game two didn't start as well as game one ended, with St. Andrew Blue jumping out to a painfully slow 7-0 lead using bloopers and bleeders to frustrate the Rez defense. Rez didn't score in the top of the first before the Blue barage in the bottom half. Blue managed eight hits in the inning and took advanted of one walk to score the seven runs.
In the top of the second, it didn't look good either as the first two Warrior batters went down quickly. With two outs and no one on base, Adam sparked a rally with a seeing-eye single. Chris followed with a single and Nick singled to load the bases. Austin came up and rolled a single down the first-base line to score two and Andy walked to re-load the bases. Jason quickly laced his sixth hit of the night to score two more runs and Eric followed with a run-scoring single. Jordan answered with an rbi-single of his own and Jamy provided the big blow, driving a triple to the wall in center plating Jordan and Eric. Jeff calmly lined a single to score Jamy and it was 9-7 Rez life just like that. A very impressive inning to say the least.
Blue responde with two runs to tie it, but Rez came out in the third and got five more runs to go up for good, 14-9. Chris tripled to deep left to open the inning and Nick singled to make it 10-9. After a lineout, Andy singled to move Nick up and Jason walloped his second homer of the year, a three-run job to deep left field. Eric followed with a liner off the third baseman and out of play for a quick double and Jordan knocked one off the wall in left to score Eric but was just thrown out trying to make it a triple. Jamy, Jeff and Adam all singled to load the bases with two outs, but Chris popped up to end the inning.
Blue was a bit rattled by the 18 Warriors hits in two innings and went down without scoring. Rez expanded its lead to 16-9 with two runs in the top of the fourth inning. Nick singled again and Austin drove a triple off the wall in right. Andy lifted a sacrifice fly to socre Austin but the team stranded Jason's double and came away with just two runs.
Blue did respond this time with three runs of its own, using two walks and three singles. Rez Life couldn't take advantage of an error in the top of the fifth and left two guys on base. Blue added one more run to make it a very close 16-13 game heading into the final frame because of the time limit.
Again, the Warriors couldn't get the big hit, leaving the bases loaded and stranding Jason and Eric's fourth hits of the night as well as Andy's single.
In the last of the sixth, the Warriors went to their closer, Chris, on the mound and he made quick work putting Blue down in order to preserve the three-run lead.
Jason capped a great night by earning his team-high fourth POG of the season with his 4-5 night with two runs, five rbi, a double and that three-run homer. Great overall offensive performance with 28 hits in the game for the Warriors.
The two wins make Rez Life's record 11-5 overall, just one game behind Life for second place. Life and Rez meet next week for the outright second place title. Rez would hold the tie-breaker with more runs scored on the season. The game is at 5:50 on field #3.
The victory over Living Word is especially sweet because to date, Living Word has clinched the league championship and sits with a record of 14-2; both losses coming from Rez Life. The 11-6 victory marks the second consecutive time the Warrior defense has held Living Word's potent offense to just six runs. Living Word averages 16.5 runs per game against the league, but just 9.3 against Rez Life.
St. Andrew Blue, although its record doesn't show it, is a tough opponent. The team has averaged right around 10 runs all year and recently has been playing very well. Blue came out and pounced to a 7-0 lead over Rez before a big second inning propelled the Warriors to a 16-13 victory and a doubleheader sweep.
Game one was more a pride game than anything else. After dropping four straight games to Living Word over three seasons, the Warriors finally got the monkey of their back with an earlier 7-6 last inning victory. This game was for 2008 bragging rights.
The Warriors scored first, pushing one across in the top of the first inning. Three singles from Andy Briggs, Jason Merritt and Eric Johnson led to the run. Living Word answered with one run in the bottom half on a double, walk, and a throwing error from Austin Colby filling in for Lee Valle at third base.
Rez pushed two across with two outs in the top of the second to go up 3-1. Jamy Antoine led off with a single and moved to second on Adam Hey's single. After a Chris Wold, filling in for the team, lineout, substitute Nick Larson lined a single to center to load the bases for Austin. Austin redeemed himself from his defensive miscue lining a single to right-center plating Jamy and Adam.
Living Word ticked off one run in the bottom of the second taking advantage of another uncharacteristic error and two singles. Up 3-2, Rez busted out with eight runs in the top of the third. Jason ripped his second single of the game to start things and moved to second on Eric's second single. Jordan Schumack then singled to score Jason and Jamy lined his second hit to load the bases. Jeff Johnson ripped a single to plate two and after the first out, Chris singled to score Jamy. Nick followed with his second hit to score pinch-runner Andy. Austin lined his second rbi-single of the day and Andy followed with one also. Jason capped the scoring, pushing Austin home with a single.
The defense held strong, only allowing one Living Word run in the bottom of the third to hold a 11-3 lead. In the top of the fourth, Rez went down without scoring. Living Word only managed one run in the bottom half though, making it 11-4 going into the fifth inning.
Rez left the bases loaded in the top of the fifth, squandering a good chance to do some damage and Living Word chipped away a little more with one run in the bottom half. Again, the Warriors stranded runners, leaving men on first and second in the top of the sixth without scoring.
Facing a time crunch, the Rez defense made quick work of Living Word in the bottom half and due to the time constraints, Living Word got to bat its seventh inning first. Although Living Word managed one run, it never really threatened, especially after Andy Briggs made a nice snag on a liner at short an then doubled off a runner on second for two quick outs. A lazy flyball to center ended the game and gave Rez a big victory, 11-6.
Jason Merritt earned Player of the Game with a perfect 4-4 game, scoring one run and driving home another. He also handled two putouts flawlessly while playing middle infield.
Game two didn't start as well as game one ended, with St. Andrew Blue jumping out to a painfully slow 7-0 lead using bloopers and bleeders to frustrate the Rez defense. Rez didn't score in the top of the first before the Blue barage in the bottom half. Blue managed eight hits in the inning and took advanted of one walk to score the seven runs.
In the top of the second, it didn't look good either as the first two Warrior batters went down quickly. With two outs and no one on base, Adam sparked a rally with a seeing-eye single. Chris followed with a single and Nick singled to load the bases. Austin came up and rolled a single down the first-base line to score two and Andy walked to re-load the bases. Jason quickly laced his sixth hit of the night to score two more runs and Eric followed with a run-scoring single. Jordan answered with an rbi-single of his own and Jamy provided the big blow, driving a triple to the wall in center plating Jordan and Eric. Jeff calmly lined a single to score Jamy and it was 9-7 Rez life just like that. A very impressive inning to say the least.
Blue responde with two runs to tie it, but Rez came out in the third and got five more runs to go up for good, 14-9. Chris tripled to deep left to open the inning and Nick singled to make it 10-9. After a lineout, Andy singled to move Nick up and Jason walloped his second homer of the year, a three-run job to deep left field. Eric followed with a liner off the third baseman and out of play for a quick double and Jordan knocked one off the wall in left to score Eric but was just thrown out trying to make it a triple. Jamy, Jeff and Adam all singled to load the bases with two outs, but Chris popped up to end the inning.
Blue was a bit rattled by the 18 Warriors hits in two innings and went down without scoring. Rez expanded its lead to 16-9 with two runs in the top of the fourth inning. Nick singled again and Austin drove a triple off the wall in right. Andy lifted a sacrifice fly to socre Austin but the team stranded Jason's double and came away with just two runs.
Blue did respond this time with three runs of its own, using two walks and three singles. Rez Life couldn't take advantage of an error in the top of the fifth and left two guys on base. Blue added one more run to make it a very close 16-13 game heading into the final frame because of the time limit.
Again, the Warriors couldn't get the big hit, leaving the bases loaded and stranding Jason and Eric's fourth hits of the night as well as Andy's single.
In the last of the sixth, the Warriors went to their closer, Chris, on the mound and he made quick work putting Blue down in order to preserve the three-run lead.
Jason capped a great night by earning his team-high fourth POG of the season with his 4-5 night with two runs, five rbi, a double and that three-run homer. Great overall offensive performance with 28 hits in the game for the Warriors.
The two wins make Rez Life's record 11-5 overall, just one game behind Life for second place. Life and Rez meet next week for the outright second place title. Rez would hold the tie-breaker with more runs scored on the season. The game is at 5:50 on field #3.
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