Here's a look at the 2009 Blog Award Winners:
Rookie of the Year - Eric Dundon who in his first full year playing softball anchored the bottom of the lineup and showed some nice pop with 4 doubles, 2 triples and a homerun.
Best First Year Gamer - Jon Zafonte who led the team in batting average, homeruns, runs and doubles.
Best Mid Season Acquistion - Stu Plotkin who hit .657 after joining the team in Week 3.
Pitcher of the Year - Rob Roll who despite a serious early season knee injury and having not pitched before racked up double digit victories by utilizing a very annoying but effective series of pump fakes.
Defensive Player of the Year - SS Adam Goldberg who shifted over from second base to fill in for Rob Roll who became the team's pitcher. Goldberg not only held his own at the position but also excelled making all the routine plays and some spectacular ones as well. Made numerous heads up plays such as catching runners in run downs if they strayed too far off the base.
Defensive Play of the Year - Dave Roll using his man boob to make a catch off his chest at Jones Beach during the second week of the season. Not only was it a nice catch but it came when the score was close in a game the Gamers would go on to win.
Manager of the Year - Craig Shames whose unconvential ABABA lineup of alternating power hitters with on base hitters drew skepticism early in the year and praise at the end of the year. The decision to move Jon Zafonte to third base and install Stu Plotkin at first base solidified the infield defense and the decision to switch Eric Dundon and Dave Roll on the outfield corners did the same in the outfield.
Executive of the Year - Brian Malfettone whose scouting netted the team two of their biggest offensive contributors in Goldberg and Plotkin.
MVP - Goldberg who in addition to playing outstanding defense led the team in runs, rbis and triples and was second in homeruns. He could always be counted on to come up with a big hit when the team needed it the most.
Best On Field Performance - Scott Zimmerman single handedly destroying the Warriors with two homeruns and a triple in the same game.
Best Off Field Performance - Seth Koslow appearing on Bobby Flay's show and stealing the show.
Best On Field Moment - Seeing the look of joy on everyone's faces when we won the championship!
Worst On Field Moment - Seeing the look of horror on everyone's faces when we almost got into a fight with Game Face.
Funniest On Field Moment - Jon Zafonte laughing hysterically after Greg Roll crashed head first into the outfield wall at Jones Beach, showing no regard for human life.
Funniest Off Field Moment - Jon Zafonte using a bridge made out of softballs to walk across a puddle and retrieve a ball that was previously thought to be unretrievable.
Funniest Player - Jon Zafonte
Best Haircut - Dave Roll's Kimbo Slice impression.
Best Celebrity Lookalike - Rob Roll who got mistaken for being Vanilla Ice at McFadden's in RVC.
Best Injured Player - Scott Zimmerman playing most of the season with an injured shoulder.
Best Sick Player - Jeremy Webman who played on November 8th despite coming down with Swine Flu and went 2 for 2 with 2 runs in the first game.
Best Drunk - Greg Roll who not only played hung over half the time including the team's first round playoff game but who also was so drunk that he even missed a game.
Best Alternate - Jimmy Dundon who was among the team leaders in several offensive categories despite only playing in about half the games. He can also be thanked for providing the team's jerseys which some people say inspired the team to greatness.
Best Team Player - Danny Balestas who game to the championship game despite not being able to play and cheered the team on.
Chone Figgins Award For Best Super Sub - Brian Malfettone who played all over the field including second base, third base, and all four outfield positions and even pitched a game.
Best Roll - We are contractually obligated to announce Greg Roll as the winner of this category.
Best Player Named Dave Roll - Dave Roll
Gamette of the Year - Krystin Phelan who maintained a perfect attendance record throughout the year including the end of the year party!!!
Best Fan Not Dating Someone On The Team - Phil Malfettone
Sunday, December 6, 2009
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Tuesday, December 1, 2009
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Monday, November 23, 2009
How We Won The Championship - By Brian M.
Congratulations Guys!
After several years of being the Buffalo Bills of softball, we finally sealed the deal and brought the title to where it belongs, the basement of craig's parents house, where no female will ever see it, but i will be personally grateful to look at the next time I play PS2 down there.
Although the only thing craig ever consulted me on on was my jersey #, I am your self appointed assistant mgr. So let's recap how we got here.
First and Foremost:
STEROIDS
Without this key member of our team we coud not have been here. Without this "jungle juice" we would actually have to use our natural talent instead of Mark Mcgwire in a bottle. Without this "miracle hit", singles by myself, Craig, and Jeremy would have been, well, just far weaker singles, perhaps even dribblers back to the pitcher. I don't want to speculate who else was on the juice or how it was acquired but during a flashforward I had there was a vision of Stu Plotkin testifying before congress without his oriole hat. In it were before and after pics of him. You be the judge.
From my flashforward, I am also glad to announce that we win the 2039 championship (see below) but saddened to announce Greg Roll is not in the photo, as he dies from a binge drinking accident sometime next year. Apparently, we add a black guy to the team at some point between now and then. Sorry Eric, I know how this upsets you.
2) Tylenol
Without this, i think several players, but mostly Greg Roll, could not have made the games on Sunday mornings. He is by far the most giftest softball player while being hungover that I have ever seen. He hits like a man's man and hold's his liquor like daddy's little girl, a rare combination.
3) Rob Roll
Without Rob's array of pump fakes, pump fakes, pump fakes, pump fakes, pump fakes....okay i'll deliver the line now... cricket pitches, and smuckleballs we could not have won. But..... we would have had several hours of our lives back instead of playing softball, as our games would have finished sevearl hours sooner. I don't know about you guys but I am looking forward to next year. Rob will be perfecting a new pitch where he actually shoots the ball out of his ass.....that is one ball that I will let Adam call me off on.
4) Dave Roll's Beard
Perhaps the brawny paper towel guy, perhaps Scott's rabbi, it doesn't really matter, you want this guy on your team. His beard harnesses the same power that Johhny Damon's hair harnessed during the Red Sox championship run in 2003. In fact body hair in general makes us play better and we have a lot of it.
I mean really, have you seen some of the wilderbeasts on our team, it's like the inspiration for the movie Where the Wild Things Are. I'll tell you where they are. In a blue unform. John Zafonte, the townspeople are going to start chasing him with torches. Adam Goldberg, I loved you in star wars. In honor of our Hair-a-tige, here is a preview of next year's uniforms.
5) Gay Sweatpants
Last but not least. Whether it was Adam's maroon pantalones or my aqua trousers, it just seemd like we were playing in a softball league at cherry grove at times. I even worked in the bright orange occasionally, just to ensure there was no confusion whether we were a gay or straight team. I don't know why, but we just felt the need to express ourself in wardrobe as though it was the mid 80's ....and "we were just experimenting". In honor of this our 2010 team name will the "Alternative Lifestyle Allstars".
Here is the trophy, you earned it.
Thanks again for the great season. Your assistant mgr. out.
After several years of being the Buffalo Bills of softball, we finally sealed the deal and brought the title to where it belongs, the basement of craig's parents house, where no female will ever see it, but i will be personally grateful to look at the next time I play PS2 down there.
Although the only thing craig ever consulted me on on was my jersey #, I am your self appointed assistant mgr. So let's recap how we got here.
First and Foremost:
STEROIDS
Without this key member of our team we coud not have been here. Without this "jungle juice" we would actually have to use our natural talent instead of Mark Mcgwire in a bottle. Without this "miracle hit", singles by myself, Craig, and Jeremy would have been, well, just far weaker singles, perhaps even dribblers back to the pitcher. I don't want to speculate who else was on the juice or how it was acquired but during a flashforward I had there was a vision of Stu Plotkin testifying before congress without his oriole hat. In it were before and after pics of him. You be the judge.
From my flashforward, I am also glad to announce that we win the 2039 championship (see below) but saddened to announce Greg Roll is not in the photo, as he dies from a binge drinking accident sometime next year. Apparently, we add a black guy to the team at some point between now and then. Sorry Eric, I know how this upsets you.
2) Tylenol
Without this, i think several players, but mostly Greg Roll, could not have made the games on Sunday mornings. He is by far the most giftest softball player while being hungover that I have ever seen. He hits like a man's man and hold's his liquor like daddy's little girl, a rare combination.
3) Rob Roll
Without Rob's array of pump fakes, pump fakes, pump fakes, pump fakes, pump fakes....okay i'll deliver the line now... cricket pitches, and smuckleballs we could not have won. But..... we would have had several hours of our lives back instead of playing softball, as our games would have finished sevearl hours sooner. I don't know about you guys but I am looking forward to next year. Rob will be perfecting a new pitch where he actually shoots the ball out of his ass.....that is one ball that I will let Adam call me off on.
4) Dave Roll's Beard
Perhaps the brawny paper towel guy, perhaps Scott's rabbi, it doesn't really matter, you want this guy on your team. His beard harnesses the same power that Johhny Damon's hair harnessed during the Red Sox championship run in 2003. In fact body hair in general makes us play better and we have a lot of it.
I mean really, have you seen some of the wilderbeasts on our team, it's like the inspiration for the movie Where the Wild Things Are. I'll tell you where they are. In a blue unform. John Zafonte, the townspeople are going to start chasing him with torches. Adam Goldberg, I loved you in star wars. In honor of our Hair-a-tige, here is a preview of next year's uniforms.
5) Gay Sweatpants
Last but not least. Whether it was Adam's maroon pantalones or my aqua trousers, it just seemd like we were playing in a softball league at cherry grove at times. I even worked in the bright orange occasionally, just to ensure there was no confusion whether we were a gay or straight team. I don't know why, but we just felt the need to express ourself in wardrobe as though it was the mid 80's ....and "we were just experimenting". In honor of this our 2010 team name will the "Alternative Lifestyle Allstars".
Here is the trophy, you earned it.
Thanks again for the great season. Your assistant mgr. out.
Sunday, November 22, 2009
Gamers Eliminated From Turkey Shootout in 2nd Round
Hicksville, NY -
After winning the first championship in team history prior to the start of the annual Turkey Shootout the Gamers had a chance to make history and become the first team to win two championships in one day. However, it was not to be as they were eliminated in the second round of the tournament in controversial fashion.
In the first round the Gamers took on the Warriors (not the Warriors from their division) in a best of three series. But with the Gamers still fired up from having won the title the games weren't even close.
In the first game the Gamers, boosted by the additions of Rich and Andrew from Darkside, got of a quick 6-0 start highlighted by a bases clearing double from Andrew. As impressive as that was it paled in comparison to the thirteen run explosion they had in the second inning to blow the game wide open. They would go on to win 23-8 with Rob Roll hitting a 3 run homerun to win the game by run rule. Unfortunately, for the Gamers it was not all good news as they lost outfielder Dave Roll to a hamstring injury.
In a scene straight out of Saving Private Ryan, one of the Gamers other outfielders Greg Roll, was benched at the start of the second game. Having already lost one Roll to injury on the day the Gamers were under strict orders to make sure that they didn't lose another one. Without Greg and Dave in the lineup the second game was a lot more competitive as the Gamers only led 2-1 after three innings. But their bats finally woke up with a five run 4th inning which segwayed into a ten run explosion in the fifth to pad the cushion. Jon Zafonte homered, one of three homeruns for him during the tournament, and Scott Zimmerman continued his hot hitting with a two run double part of a 4 for 4 day. From there the Gamers would go on to win 18-10.
After those two easy wins the Gamers had a long lay off and that seemed to affect them at the start of the second round as their bats cooled down. Although losing Zimmerman, Brian Malfettone and Dave Roll could be to blame as well. Whatever the reason they were unable to get anything going offensively losing a pitcher's duel 9-7 to a team that they believe was losing an illegal bat. After that bat was taken out of play they didn't score another run but it didn't matter as the Gamers couldn't sustain any long rallies to overtake them.
Despite the controversial loss it was a good day overall for the Gamers who won their first championship and added an impressive sweep of the Warriors on top of it.
After winning the first championship in team history prior to the start of the annual Turkey Shootout the Gamers had a chance to make history and become the first team to win two championships in one day. However, it was not to be as they were eliminated in the second round of the tournament in controversial fashion.
In the first round the Gamers took on the Warriors (not the Warriors from their division) in a best of three series. But with the Gamers still fired up from having won the title the games weren't even close.
In the first game the Gamers, boosted by the additions of Rich and Andrew from Darkside, got of a quick 6-0 start highlighted by a bases clearing double from Andrew. As impressive as that was it paled in comparison to the thirteen run explosion they had in the second inning to blow the game wide open. They would go on to win 23-8 with Rob Roll hitting a 3 run homerun to win the game by run rule. Unfortunately, for the Gamers it was not all good news as they lost outfielder Dave Roll to a hamstring injury.
In a scene straight out of Saving Private Ryan, one of the Gamers other outfielders Greg Roll, was benched at the start of the second game. Having already lost one Roll to injury on the day the Gamers were under strict orders to make sure that they didn't lose another one. Without Greg and Dave in the lineup the second game was a lot more competitive as the Gamers only led 2-1 after three innings. But their bats finally woke up with a five run 4th inning which segwayed into a ten run explosion in the fifth to pad the cushion. Jon Zafonte homered, one of three homeruns for him during the tournament, and Scott Zimmerman continued his hot hitting with a two run double part of a 4 for 4 day. From there the Gamers would go on to win 18-10.
After those two easy wins the Gamers had a long lay off and that seemed to affect them at the start of the second round as their bats cooled down. Although losing Zimmerman, Brian Malfettone and Dave Roll could be to blame as well. Whatever the reason they were unable to get anything going offensively losing a pitcher's duel 9-7 to a team that they believe was losing an illegal bat. After that bat was taken out of play they didn't score another run but it didn't matter as the Gamers couldn't sustain any long rallies to overtake them.
Despite the controversial loss it was a good day overall for the Gamers who won their first championship and added an impressive sweep of the Warriors on top of it.
Gamers Defeat Gameface To Win ABA D Level Championship
Hicksville, NY -
Just hours after they knocked off Just The Tip to reach the Championship Game and just one hour before they were scheduled to play in the Turkey Shootout the Gamers (12-4) defeated the two time defending league champions Game Face (12-3) to win the first championship in their team history.
These two teams were on a collision course since the second week of the season when they almost got into a fight during the second game of their double header which the Gamers swept. With that incident still fresh in everyone's minds emotions were running high throughout the game.
For a while though it seemed like the Gamers were going to coast to an easy victory jumping out to an early 7-0 after their first two at bats. However, Game Face answered right back with an 8 run explosion in the bottom of the 2nd inning as is their m.o. That 8 run inning was the sixth time this year that the Gamers have given up five or more runs in an inning. Avoiding the big inning was one of the Gamers goals coming into the game but they were unable to do so.
At that point all signs were pointing to an epic back and forth classic that would come down to the final at bat. Unfortunately, for Game Face it never came down to that. The Gamers offense was just too explosive on this day continuing their assault with six more runs in the top of the 3rd highlighted by a three run homerun by Brian Malfettone. They would add three more in the 4th and five more in the 5th while shutting out Game Face the rest of the way to win the championship via run rule. A very surprising outcome considering the battles these two teams waged earlier in the season.
Offensively, the Gamers were led by Scott Zimmerman who went 3 for 3 with 5 rbis, Stu Plotkin who went 2 for 2 with a walk and 3 rbis, and Jimmmy Dundon who was 4 for 4 with four runs scored. All in all, it was a total team effort as every player scored at least one run and nine different players drove in at least one run.
Just hours after they knocked off Just The Tip to reach the Championship Game and just one hour before they were scheduled to play in the Turkey Shootout the Gamers (12-4) defeated the two time defending league champions Game Face (12-3) to win the first championship in their team history.
These two teams were on a collision course since the second week of the season when they almost got into a fight during the second game of their double header which the Gamers swept. With that incident still fresh in everyone's minds emotions were running high throughout the game.
For a while though it seemed like the Gamers were going to coast to an easy victory jumping out to an early 7-0 after their first two at bats. However, Game Face answered right back with an 8 run explosion in the bottom of the 2nd inning as is their m.o. That 8 run inning was the sixth time this year that the Gamers have given up five or more runs in an inning. Avoiding the big inning was one of the Gamers goals coming into the game but they were unable to do so.
At that point all signs were pointing to an epic back and forth classic that would come down to the final at bat. Unfortunately, for Game Face it never came down to that. The Gamers offense was just too explosive on this day continuing their assault with six more runs in the top of the 3rd highlighted by a three run homerun by Brian Malfettone. They would add three more in the 4th and five more in the 5th while shutting out Game Face the rest of the way to win the championship via run rule. A very surprising outcome considering the battles these two teams waged earlier in the season.
Offensively, the Gamers were led by Scott Zimmerman who went 3 for 3 with 5 rbis, Stu Plotkin who went 2 for 2 with a walk and 3 rbis, and Jimmmy Dundon who was 4 for 4 with four runs scored. All in all, it was a total team effort as every player scored at least one run and nine different players drove in at least one run.
Saturday, November 21, 2009
Gamers Cruise Into Championship Game
Hicksville, NY -
With the field at Burns Park in Massapequa submerged under water the Gamers' first round playoff matchup with Just The Tip was delayed half an hour and moved to Cantiague Park in Hicksville.
The sudden change of plans seemed to effect the Gamers as they fell behind by six runs in the top of the first inning only escaping further damage when Rob Roll snared a line drive and turned it into a double play. With a six run deficit to make up right off the bat the Gamers' championship hopes looked bleak. Five minutes later those hopes were alive when as the Gamers responded in a big way in the bottom of the first with an eleven run outburst capped off by a two run inside the park homerun from Roll.
After holding Just The Tip scoreless in the second inning the Gamers tacked on six more runs in the second inning on a leadoff homerun from Adam Goldberg, his team leading 5th, and a grand slam from Scott Zimmerman. Brian Malfettone also homered but unfortunately that did not count due to the two homerun rule. Later in the game Stu Plotkin and Adam Goldberg would be victimized by that as well.
With a 17-6 lead after 3 innings the Gamers turned their attention to trying to win by run rule which was 12 runs after 5 innings. They had a chance to do just that after Brian Malfettone's RBI single in the 4th put them up 12. But unfortunately Jimmy Dundon, on to close out the game, couldn't escape a bases loaded jam, allowing one run to score a throwing error that kept the game alive. After failing to score in the bottom of the fifth the Gamers held Just The Tip scoreless again in the top of the 6th ending the inning of an around the horn double play started by Seth Koslow at third base and turned by Craig Shames at second base. (Shames was splitting time at second base with Danny Balestas who earlier in the game made a nice diving stop to get a force out at second base.)
With the game now in the bottom of the sixth the Gamers just needed to score one run in order to lock up the victory and they managed to do so after Stu Plotkin hit a double with one out. After a walk to Koslow, Scott Zimmerman came up huge again with a single to left to score Plotkin.
The Gamers will now turn their attention to Game Face in Sunday's championship game. These two teams have been a collision course all year after almost getting into a fight earlier in the year so it's only fitting that it would come down to this.
With the field at Burns Park in Massapequa submerged under water the Gamers' first round playoff matchup with Just The Tip was delayed half an hour and moved to Cantiague Park in Hicksville.
The sudden change of plans seemed to effect the Gamers as they fell behind by six runs in the top of the first inning only escaping further damage when Rob Roll snared a line drive and turned it into a double play. With a six run deficit to make up right off the bat the Gamers' championship hopes looked bleak. Five minutes later those hopes were alive when as the Gamers responded in a big way in the bottom of the first with an eleven run outburst capped off by a two run inside the park homerun from Roll.
After holding Just The Tip scoreless in the second inning the Gamers tacked on six more runs in the second inning on a leadoff homerun from Adam Goldberg, his team leading 5th, and a grand slam from Scott Zimmerman. Brian Malfettone also homered but unfortunately that did not count due to the two homerun rule. Later in the game Stu Plotkin and Adam Goldberg would be victimized by that as well.
With a 17-6 lead after 3 innings the Gamers turned their attention to trying to win by run rule which was 12 runs after 5 innings. They had a chance to do just that after Brian Malfettone's RBI single in the 4th put them up 12. But unfortunately Jimmy Dundon, on to close out the game, couldn't escape a bases loaded jam, allowing one run to score a throwing error that kept the game alive. After failing to score in the bottom of the fifth the Gamers held Just The Tip scoreless again in the top of the 6th ending the inning of an around the horn double play started by Seth Koslow at third base and turned by Craig Shames at second base. (Shames was splitting time at second base with Danny Balestas who earlier in the game made a nice diving stop to get a force out at second base.)
With the game now in the bottom of the sixth the Gamers just needed to score one run in order to lock up the victory and they managed to do so after Stu Plotkin hit a double with one out. After a walk to Koslow, Scott Zimmerman came up huge again with a single to left to score Plotkin.
The Gamers will now turn their attention to Game Face in Sunday's championship game. These two teams have been a collision course all year after almost getting into a fight earlier in the year so it's only fitting that it would come down to this.
Thursday, November 19, 2009
Playoff Preview
Massapequa, NY -
After a two year hiatus the Gamers (10-4) returned to action this Fall with a new look roster. Expectations were high despite the long layoff and the Gamers did not disappoint finishing in second place in their division.
Defense was the key to their success as their plus minus rating of +95 lead the division. They were the only team to give up fewer than 100 runs on the season and on average only gave up 6.6 runs per game. The next closest team was at 12.67. The pump faking antics of original Gamer Rob Roll, in his first season as a pitcher, can be thanked in large part for helping tighten up the defense.
Roll will be on the mound on Saturday when the Gamers take on Just The Tip in a first round playoff showdown. These two teams split their early season matchup but keep in mind that the Gamers played with only nine guys. On top of that they were missing Brian Malfettone, Seth Koslow and Jimmy Dundon and had not yet added Stu Plotkin to the team. They had also not yet set their defense with Greg Roll playing out of position at shortstop, Adam Goldberg at third, and Dave Roll in rightfield. With their defense now in order and a full roster on hand the Gamers should be in much better shape.
Due to time constraints the format will consist of just one nine inning game as opposed to the traditional 2 out of 3 format. This figures to benefit the Gamers who would have been without several key players had the format caused the games to drag on into the afternoon.
The game will be played at Burns Park in Massapequa at 9:30 am. Burns Park is one of the better fields on Long Island as it has a turf field. It was chosen since it is well suited to handle wet field conditions. As a result this game figures to get played regardless of weather conditions the day/night before.
If the Gamers win they will take on Game Face, who won the division, and then knocked off the #4 seed the Warriors on Wednesday night at Cantiague Park in a 2 out of 3 series. Game Face won the first game in dramatic fashion coming from five runs down in the bottom of the seventh inning and then winning on a walkoff grand slam. They then held on to win by two runs in the second game to secure the sweep.
The championship game will likely be held at 8 am at Cantiague Park in Hicksville prior to the start of the Turkey Shootout which is scheduled to start at 9:30. In the Shootout the Gamers are now scheduled to play the Warriors a high powered offensive team that went 9-2 during the Fall.
Between a playoff game on Saturday, possible championship game on Sunday and then the Turkey Shootout on top of it the Gamers are on in a for a long weekend. But if they pull through they could win win a league championship and a Turkey Shootout championship all in the same day.
After a two year hiatus the Gamers (10-4) returned to action this Fall with a new look roster. Expectations were high despite the long layoff and the Gamers did not disappoint finishing in second place in their division.
Defense was the key to their success as their plus minus rating of +95 lead the division. They were the only team to give up fewer than 100 runs on the season and on average only gave up 6.6 runs per game. The next closest team was at 12.67. The pump faking antics of original Gamer Rob Roll, in his first season as a pitcher, can be thanked in large part for helping tighten up the defense.
Roll will be on the mound on Saturday when the Gamers take on Just The Tip in a first round playoff showdown. These two teams split their early season matchup but keep in mind that the Gamers played with only nine guys. On top of that they were missing Brian Malfettone, Seth Koslow and Jimmy Dundon and had not yet added Stu Plotkin to the team. They had also not yet set their defense with Greg Roll playing out of position at shortstop, Adam Goldberg at third, and Dave Roll in rightfield. With their defense now in order and a full roster on hand the Gamers should be in much better shape.
Due to time constraints the format will consist of just one nine inning game as opposed to the traditional 2 out of 3 format. This figures to benefit the Gamers who would have been without several key players had the format caused the games to drag on into the afternoon.
The game will be played at Burns Park in Massapequa at 9:30 am. Burns Park is one of the better fields on Long Island as it has a turf field. It was chosen since it is well suited to handle wet field conditions. As a result this game figures to get played regardless of weather conditions the day/night before.
If the Gamers win they will take on Game Face, who won the division, and then knocked off the #4 seed the Warriors on Wednesday night at Cantiague Park in a 2 out of 3 series. Game Face won the first game in dramatic fashion coming from five runs down in the bottom of the seventh inning and then winning on a walkoff grand slam. They then held on to win by two runs in the second game to secure the sweep.
The championship game will likely be held at 8 am at Cantiague Park in Hicksville prior to the start of the Turkey Shootout which is scheduled to start at 9:30. In the Shootout the Gamers are now scheduled to play the Warriors a high powered offensive team that went 9-2 during the Fall.
Between a playoff game on Saturday, possible championship game on Sunday and then the Turkey Shootout on top of it the Gamers are on in a for a long weekend. But if they pull through they could win win a league championship and a Turkey Shootout championship all in the same day.
Sunday, November 8, 2009
Gamers End Season With Split Against Warriors
New Hyde Park, NY -
With the #1 seed for the playoffs in sight the Gamers (10-4) came out strong against the Warriors, (6-8) exploding for 8 runs in the first inning easily setting up a 15-2 run rule victory.
The eight run explosion was highlighted by consecutive triples from Adam Goldberg, Greg Roll, and Jon Zafonte. Stu Plotkin and Brian Malfettone then followed with sucessive doubles keeping the rally going until it was capped off by a bases clearing double from Craig Shames.
In the second inning Greg Roll hit a 2 run homerun to get the inning started off on the right foot and the Gamers plated 5 more runs highlighted by a Plotkin double, a triple from Eric Dundon, and rbi singles from Danny Balestas and Jeremy Webman.
In the second game the Gamers came out flat against a Warriors team fighting for their playoff lives. After failing to score in the first two innings the Gamers went ahead 3-2 after scoring 3 runs in the third on RBI singles from Dave Roll and Goldberg and a sac fly from Zafonte. But the Warriors answered right back with four runs of their own off of Malfettone, who was making his first pitching appearance of the year. Malfettone actually pitched really well, picking up a strikeout, and making one of the plays of the year, bare handing a throw from Plotkin after a grounder to first base, to narrowly get the speedy Jimmy Mac hustling down the line.
Despite that defensive play, a diving catch from Greg Roll and Plotkin throwing a runner out at home, the Gamers still found themselves trailing by six runs going into the 7th inning. They rallied furiously including a 3 run homerun from Goldberg but still fell three runs short.
The Warriors will now await the results of the other games today to find out if they made the playoffs while the Gamers will take solace knowing that they locked up the #2 seed with the split.
With the #1 seed for the playoffs in sight the Gamers (10-4) came out strong against the Warriors, (6-8) exploding for 8 runs in the first inning easily setting up a 15-2 run rule victory.
The eight run explosion was highlighted by consecutive triples from Adam Goldberg, Greg Roll, and Jon Zafonte. Stu Plotkin and Brian Malfettone then followed with sucessive doubles keeping the rally going until it was capped off by a bases clearing double from Craig Shames.
In the second inning Greg Roll hit a 2 run homerun to get the inning started off on the right foot and the Gamers plated 5 more runs highlighted by a Plotkin double, a triple from Eric Dundon, and rbi singles from Danny Balestas and Jeremy Webman.
In the second game the Gamers came out flat against a Warriors team fighting for their playoff lives. After failing to score in the first two innings the Gamers went ahead 3-2 after scoring 3 runs in the third on RBI singles from Dave Roll and Goldberg and a sac fly from Zafonte. But the Warriors answered right back with four runs of their own off of Malfettone, who was making his first pitching appearance of the year. Malfettone actually pitched really well, picking up a strikeout, and making one of the plays of the year, bare handing a throw from Plotkin after a grounder to first base, to narrowly get the speedy Jimmy Mac hustling down the line.
Despite that defensive play, a diving catch from Greg Roll and Plotkin throwing a runner out at home, the Gamers still found themselves trailing by six runs going into the 7th inning. They rallied furiously including a 3 run homerun from Goldberg but still fell three runs short.
The Warriors will now await the results of the other games today to find out if they made the playoffs while the Gamers will take solace knowing that they locked up the #2 seed with the split.
Sunday, November 1, 2009
Gamers End Regular Season With Doubleheader Sweep
Hicksville, NY -
With four of their players stuck in traffic the Gamers (9-3) had to start the first game with only 7 players including an injured Craig Shames who was not supposed to be playing. As a result they fell behind after the first inning by a score of 5-2.
It looked like they would be in for a long day but they rallied for two runs in the fourth inning as Stu Plotkin and Brian Malfettone singled, Jeremy Webman hit a sac fly, and Dave Roll added another run scoring hit. After giving up two runs in the fifth inning the Gamers were able to get those right back in the sixth as Malfettone came up huge again with a 2 run double to dead center that scored Plotkin and Jimmy Dundon.
Still trailing by a run in the 7th inning the Gamers exploded for a ten spot to put the game out of reach. The rally started when Greg Roll singled and then Tom McGrath doubled. McGrath who showed no signs of rust in his first game action of the year was 6 for 7 on the day. After Shames walked, Rob Roll came up and hit a well timed Grand Slam. With a 2 home run limit on a short field, the fact that Roll still had that homerun to use was the difference in the game. The Hustlers hit about 9 homeruns but after the first two those all went for outs. Meanwhile the Gamers saved their homerun for when it counted most. Dundon had hit a two run shot in the first innning for their other homerun.
All in all, it was a total team effort in the first game as every player scored at least one run led by Dundon and Plotkin who had three each and Adam Goldberg who chipped in two as part of a 2 for 4 day. Goldberg also played his usual stellar defense even turning a double play to end the game, one of three double plays that the Gamers turned on the day.
In the second game it was more of the same as the Gamers followed up their 16-7 win with a 13-4 victory. Offensively they were led by Zafonte went 4 for 4 and Dundon who went 3 for 4 as both hit three run homeruns. Meanwhile the trio of McGrath, Webman and Shames went a combined 8 for 9 to spark the bottom of the lineup.
With the game easily in hand Shames told Greg Roll that if he hit a homerun in his next at bat that he could chose where he wanted to play defensively. However, when Zafonte used the Gamers second homerun on his three run shot that was no longer possible. So Greg went out and hit a shot to left center that went off the top of the fence coming as close to hitting a homerun as you could without actually hitting a homerun. That was good enough to allow for Shames to make good on his promise so the Gamers mixed things up defensively in the middle innings with Greg Roll making his season debut on the mound. He served up a solo homerun but otherwise pitched brilliantly over 2 innings, including turning the rare 1-6-3 double play, before giving way to Dundon for the save. The revamped defense also saw Rob Roll, Zafonte and Goldberg make their first appearances of the year in the outfield although in Zafonte's case it wasn't by choice as he lost a hard fought contest of Rock, Paper, Scissors with Greg Roll prior to the 7th inning.
The Gamers will now await word of their playoff opponent. Pending the outcome of the Game Face game today the Gamers will either be the first or second seed for the post season.
With four of their players stuck in traffic the Gamers (9-3) had to start the first game with only 7 players including an injured Craig Shames who was not supposed to be playing. As a result they fell behind after the first inning by a score of 5-2.
It looked like they would be in for a long day but they rallied for two runs in the fourth inning as Stu Plotkin and Brian Malfettone singled, Jeremy Webman hit a sac fly, and Dave Roll added another run scoring hit. After giving up two runs in the fifth inning the Gamers were able to get those right back in the sixth as Malfettone came up huge again with a 2 run double to dead center that scored Plotkin and Jimmy Dundon.
Still trailing by a run in the 7th inning the Gamers exploded for a ten spot to put the game out of reach. The rally started when Greg Roll singled and then Tom McGrath doubled. McGrath who showed no signs of rust in his first game action of the year was 6 for 7 on the day. After Shames walked, Rob Roll came up and hit a well timed Grand Slam. With a 2 home run limit on a short field, the fact that Roll still had that homerun to use was the difference in the game. The Hustlers hit about 9 homeruns but after the first two those all went for outs. Meanwhile the Gamers saved their homerun for when it counted most. Dundon had hit a two run shot in the first innning for their other homerun.
All in all, it was a total team effort in the first game as every player scored at least one run led by Dundon and Plotkin who had three each and Adam Goldberg who chipped in two as part of a 2 for 4 day. Goldberg also played his usual stellar defense even turning a double play to end the game, one of three double plays that the Gamers turned on the day.
In the second game it was more of the same as the Gamers followed up their 16-7 win with a 13-4 victory. Offensively they were led by Zafonte went 4 for 4 and Dundon who went 3 for 4 as both hit three run homeruns. Meanwhile the trio of McGrath, Webman and Shames went a combined 8 for 9 to spark the bottom of the lineup.
With the game easily in hand Shames told Greg Roll that if he hit a homerun in his next at bat that he could chose where he wanted to play defensively. However, when Zafonte used the Gamers second homerun on his three run shot that was no longer possible. So Greg went out and hit a shot to left center that went off the top of the fence coming as close to hitting a homerun as you could without actually hitting a homerun. That was good enough to allow for Shames to make good on his promise so the Gamers mixed things up defensively in the middle innings with Greg Roll making his season debut on the mound. He served up a solo homerun but otherwise pitched brilliantly over 2 innings, including turning the rare 1-6-3 double play, before giving way to Dundon for the save. The revamped defense also saw Rob Roll, Zafonte and Goldberg make their first appearances of the year in the outfield although in Zafonte's case it wasn't by choice as he lost a hard fought contest of Rock, Paper, Scissors with Greg Roll prior to the 7th inning.
The Gamers will now await word of their playoff opponent. Pending the outcome of the Game Face game today the Gamers will either be the first or second seed for the post season.
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
Gamers Split During Revenge Week
Levittown, NY -
When the Gamers played the Warriors this past week at Stokes Elementary School in Levittown it was more than just a matchup between possible playoff opponents. Moreover, it was a matchup between the past and the present with the future of both teams hanging in the balance.
That's because the Gamers return after a two year hiatus was only made possible when Gamers manager Craig Shames decided to leave the Warriors, along with Jeremy Webman and Danny Ballestas in order to start a new team. A decision necesitated by the Warriors addition of several players to their summer team who played with them on their fall team last year.
Now the only question is whether or not Shames, Webman and Ballestas will go back to the Warriors next summer or if the success of the Gamers will lead to them playing again over the summer. If their play in game one was any indication it looks like the Gamers will be together for a while.
Sparked by the return of Scott Zimmerman to the lineup the Gamers clicked on all cylinders winning easily 16-1. Zimmerman, who missed a month with a shoulder injury, came back in a big way hitting two homeruns and narrowly missing a third when he got a triple in the 5th inning that knocked in the mercy rule clinching run. The triple and two homeruns marked the single best statistical game any player has had this year for the Gamers and now gives them 8 different players that have hit homeruns this year.
But it was the play of Webman, Ballestas and Shames that was the big story on the day. Webman went 1 for 2 with a walk, an rbi, and a run scored, Shames went 2 for 3 with 2 runs scored and had a clutch double in the first inning to set up the Gamers first run, and Ballestas had a monster game at the plate going 3 for 3 with a huge 2 run hit in the 3rd inning that broke the game open.
The second game was a different story though as the Gamers bats fell silent. Not even a heroic, Willis Reed like effort from Shames, who tried to play through a sprained ankle, could lift the team to victory. Rob and Dave Roll went a combined 6 for 7 with 4 runs scored at the top of the lineup but with little help the Gamers fell easily 9-4.
They will look to bounce back next week against the Hustlers (4-4) in their last regular season matchup of the season.
When the Gamers played the Warriors this past week at Stokes Elementary School in Levittown it was more than just a matchup between possible playoff opponents. Moreover, it was a matchup between the past and the present with the future of both teams hanging in the balance.
That's because the Gamers return after a two year hiatus was only made possible when Gamers manager Craig Shames decided to leave the Warriors, along with Jeremy Webman and Danny Ballestas in order to start a new team. A decision necesitated by the Warriors addition of several players to their summer team who played with them on their fall team last year.
Now the only question is whether or not Shames, Webman and Ballestas will go back to the Warriors next summer or if the success of the Gamers will lead to them playing again over the summer. If their play in game one was any indication it looks like the Gamers will be together for a while.
Sparked by the return of Scott Zimmerman to the lineup the Gamers clicked on all cylinders winning easily 16-1. Zimmerman, who missed a month with a shoulder injury, came back in a big way hitting two homeruns and narrowly missing a third when he got a triple in the 5th inning that knocked in the mercy rule clinching run. The triple and two homeruns marked the single best statistical game any player has had this year for the Gamers and now gives them 8 different players that have hit homeruns this year.
But it was the play of Webman, Ballestas and Shames that was the big story on the day. Webman went 1 for 2 with a walk, an rbi, and a run scored, Shames went 2 for 3 with 2 runs scored and had a clutch double in the first inning to set up the Gamers first run, and Ballestas had a monster game at the plate going 3 for 3 with a huge 2 run hit in the 3rd inning that broke the game open.
The second game was a different story though as the Gamers bats fell silent. Not even a heroic, Willis Reed like effort from Shames, who tried to play through a sprained ankle, could lift the team to victory. Rob and Dave Roll went a combined 6 for 7 with 4 runs scored at the top of the lineup but with little help the Gamers fell easily 9-4.
They will look to bounce back next week against the Hustlers (4-4) in their last regular season matchup of the season.
Sunday, October 11, 2009
Gamers Dominate In Sweep
Westbury, NY -
A week after an anemic offensive performance that cost them a game the Gamers (6-2) bounced back in a big way sweeping the Hackers by a combined scored of 44-2 in interleague play. The tone was set for the day when they batted around twice in the bottom of the first inning of game one scoring 22 runs in the process.
The big first inning was capped by a homerun from light hitting outfielder Craig Shames. "You know its a rout when even Craig hits a homerun," infielder Brian Malfettone said. Malfettone would later add a homerun of his own in the second inning breaking out of a 2 for 11 slump with a 3 for 3 performance.
Stu Plotkin and Adam Goldberg also homered for the Gamers who pounded out 27 hits led by three a piece from Goldberg, Jon Zafonte and Jeremy Webman. Everyone else had at least two hits expect for outfielder Eric Dundon who walked and singled in three trips to the plate.
In the second game it was more of the same for the Gamers who scored five runs in the first inning setting up another easy victory by the score of 16-1. Both Goldberg and Plotkin homered again and Rob Roll had a big 3 run double in the fifth inning to put the game away. There were even some nice defensive plays as Goldberg made a diving catch at short, Plotkin a leaping catch at first, Shames a sliding catch to snag a line drive in the outfield and fittingly a sliding catch by Dundon down the right field line to end the game.
All in all, it was a very impressive performance by the Gamers who moved back into first place with the victories. If they continue to hit like they did today they will be very tough to beat.
A week after an anemic offensive performance that cost them a game the Gamers (6-2) bounced back in a big way sweeping the Hackers by a combined scored of 44-2 in interleague play. The tone was set for the day when they batted around twice in the bottom of the first inning of game one scoring 22 runs in the process.
The big first inning was capped by a homerun from light hitting outfielder Craig Shames. "You know its a rout when even Craig hits a homerun," infielder Brian Malfettone said. Malfettone would later add a homerun of his own in the second inning breaking out of a 2 for 11 slump with a 3 for 3 performance.
Stu Plotkin and Adam Goldberg also homered for the Gamers who pounded out 27 hits led by three a piece from Goldberg, Jon Zafonte and Jeremy Webman. Everyone else had at least two hits expect for outfielder Eric Dundon who walked and singled in three trips to the plate.
In the second game it was more of the same for the Gamers who scored five runs in the first inning setting up another easy victory by the score of 16-1. Both Goldberg and Plotkin homered again and Rob Roll had a big 3 run double in the fifth inning to put the game away. There were even some nice defensive plays as Goldberg made a diving catch at short, Plotkin a leaping catch at first, Shames a sliding catch to snag a line drive in the outfield and fittingly a sliding catch by Dundon down the right field line to end the game.
All in all, it was a very impressive performance by the Gamers who moved back into first place with the victories. If they continue to hit like they did today they will be very tough to beat.
Saturday, October 10, 2009
Week 5 Preview: Interleague Play
Westbury, NY -
The Gamers (4-2) should be 5-1 in sole possession of first place. Instead as they get set to take on the Hackers (1-3) during interleague play they find themselves in a 3 way tie for first.
That's because last week they struggled mightily on offense failing to score more than 8 runs in either game. Luckily, they were able to salvage a split with a come from behind victory in game 2 but they won't be that lucky if they can't get their offense back in high gear this week.
The return of Greg Roll and Jeremy Webman to the lineup and the long awaiting season debut of Tom McGrath should help matters and it is expected that Gamers manager Craig Shames will be shaking up the lineup a little bit.
Either way the Gamers need to take care of business the old fashioned way. By taking pitches, working the count, and getting on base by using the whole field. Anything short of a dominant sweep will be unacceptable.
The Gamers (4-2) should be 5-1 in sole possession of first place. Instead as they get set to take on the Hackers (1-3) during interleague play they find themselves in a 3 way tie for first.
That's because last week they struggled mightily on offense failing to score more than 8 runs in either game. Luckily, they were able to salvage a split with a come from behind victory in game 2 but they won't be that lucky if they can't get their offense back in high gear this week.
The return of Greg Roll and Jeremy Webman to the lineup and the long awaiting season debut of Tom McGrath should help matters and it is expected that Gamers manager Craig Shames will be shaking up the lineup a little bit.
Either way the Gamers need to take care of business the old fashioned way. By taking pitches, working the count, and getting on base by using the whole field. Anything short of a dominant sweep will be unacceptable.
Sunday, October 4, 2009
Sluggish Gamers Split Against Legends
Levittown, NY -
On paper it seemed as though the Gamers (4-2) would have a decided advantage over the hometown Levittown Legends (1-5). And then they played the games. Perhaps it was the hour delay to the game or the fact that no one could find the field. Or maybe it was the fact that Greg Roll, Scott Zimmerman, and Jeremy Webman were missing from the lineup. Either way the Gamers could not get their bats going failing to score more than ten runs in either game.
Luckily for them they were able to play solid defense to keep the games close. In the first game, they got off to a quick 2-0 start after Jimmy Dundon doubled in a run and the newly acquired Stu Plotkin followed with a triple. But after that they failed to score more than one run in any other inning with the bottom of the order going a combined 3 for 14.
The second game wasn't much better offensively for the Gamers as they were shut out for the first three innings before rallying for 2 runs in the fourth and 3 more in the sixth capped by a two run triple from Jimmy Dundon. However, they still trailed by two runs going into the bottom of the 7th inning. Craig Shames led off with a single and Eric Dundon followed with one of his own. That set the tables for the top of the lineup and Jon Zafonte came up huge with a two run double to tie the game somehow scoring Rob Roll all the way from first base despite Rob having a bad knee.
After holding the Legends scoreless in the top of the eighth inning they squeezed across a run in the bottom of the innning as Dave Roll lead off with a single and eventually scored on a single to centerfield by Brian Malfettone. It wasn't pretty but in typical Gamers fashion they were able to grind out an impressive come from behind victory.
On paper it seemed as though the Gamers (4-2) would have a decided advantage over the hometown Levittown Legends (1-5). And then they played the games. Perhaps it was the hour delay to the game or the fact that no one could find the field. Or maybe it was the fact that Greg Roll, Scott Zimmerman, and Jeremy Webman were missing from the lineup. Either way the Gamers could not get their bats going failing to score more than ten runs in either game.
Luckily for them they were able to play solid defense to keep the games close. In the first game, they got off to a quick 2-0 start after Jimmy Dundon doubled in a run and the newly acquired Stu Plotkin followed with a triple. But after that they failed to score more than one run in any other inning with the bottom of the order going a combined 3 for 14.
The second game wasn't much better offensively for the Gamers as they were shut out for the first three innings before rallying for 2 runs in the fourth and 3 more in the sixth capped by a two run triple from Jimmy Dundon. However, they still trailed by two runs going into the bottom of the 7th inning. Craig Shames led off with a single and Eric Dundon followed with one of his own. That set the tables for the top of the lineup and Jon Zafonte came up huge with a two run double to tie the game somehow scoring Rob Roll all the way from first base despite Rob having a bad knee.
After holding the Legends scoreless in the top of the eighth inning they squeezed across a run in the bottom of the innning as Dave Roll lead off with a single and eventually scored on a single to centerfield by Brian Malfettone. It wasn't pretty but in typical Gamers fashion they were able to grind out an impressive come from behind victory.
Saturday, October 3, 2009
Weak 3 Preview
Levittown, NY -
After getting rained out last week during their highly anticipated matchup with the second place Hustlers the Gamers (3-1) are set to return to action against the Levittown Legends (0-4).
The game will be held on the home turf of the Legends at the Fred Niest Complex. Not to be confused with the Fred Durst complex which Rob Roll suffers from. The game will be held, weather permitting, at 10:45 am.
The Gamers will be unveiling their new lineup in this game as they made several roster moves over the last week. Slugging thirdbaseman and food network tv star Seth Koslow was kicked off the team for refusing to introduce Gamers manager Craig Shames to Giada DeLaurentis. In his place the team recalled Danny Ballestas from their Triple A Meadowlands affiliate.
They also announced that they were suspending catcher Jeremy Webman for 2 weeks for dropping a pop up in last week's game against Game Face. Additionally, they will be without infielder Tom McGrath who will be down in Florida rehabbing at their extended spring training facility. McGrath has yet to play for the Gamers this season.
Outfielder Scott Zimmerman might also have to miss the game with a shoulder injury. Despite the losses of Koslow, Webman, McGrath and Zimmerman the Gamers shouldn't miss a beat as they announced the signing of one of the Island's premier sluggers. Speculation is running rampant as to who it might be but we are not expected to find out until a dramatic pre game ceremony. Jimmmy Dundon will also be filling in as an extra hitter.
After getting rained out last week during their highly anticipated matchup with the second place Hustlers the Gamers (3-1) are set to return to action against the Levittown Legends (0-4).
The game will be held on the home turf of the Legends at the Fred Niest Complex. Not to be confused with the Fred Durst complex which Rob Roll suffers from. The game will be held, weather permitting, at 10:45 am.
The Gamers will be unveiling their new lineup in this game as they made several roster moves over the last week. Slugging thirdbaseman and food network tv star Seth Koslow was kicked off the team for refusing to introduce Gamers manager Craig Shames to Giada DeLaurentis. In his place the team recalled Danny Ballestas from their Triple A Meadowlands affiliate.
They also announced that they were suspending catcher Jeremy Webman for 2 weeks for dropping a pop up in last week's game against Game Face. Additionally, they will be without infielder Tom McGrath who will be down in Florida rehabbing at their extended spring training facility. McGrath has yet to play for the Gamers this season.
Outfielder Scott Zimmerman might also have to miss the game with a shoulder injury. Despite the losses of Koslow, Webman, McGrath and Zimmerman the Gamers shouldn't miss a beat as they announced the signing of one of the Island's premier sluggers. Speculation is running rampant as to who it might be but we are not expected to find out until a dramatic pre game ceremony. Jimmmy Dundon will also be filling in as an extra hitter.
Sunday, September 27, 2009
Game Cancelled
Today's game versus the Hustlers scheduled for 11 am at Cantiague Park in Hicksville has been rained out.
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
Rob Roll Still At Jones Beach
According to officials from Jones Beach, Rob Roll, starting pitcher for the Gamers, has still not yet left the East Field at Jones Beach despite the fact that his game ended 4 days ago.
Apparently, Roll, who drew the ire of Game Face on Sunday when he took upwards of twenty seconds to deliver a pitch has refused to leave the field as a matter of principle.
"Just like I told those clowns on Game Face, I'm in no rush," said Roll while being interviewed on his cell phone. "I can take as long as I want to leave. There's no time limit. There's nothing in the rules that says I have to leave."
Eyewitnesses claim that they saw Roll act as if he was going to leave on several occassions. They said that he would open his car door, then close it, then fake like he was going to open it four or five times, before finally opening it. He would then drive forward a few feet before going in reverse, repeating that process several times.
Despite the fact that beach officials were screaming at him to hurry up and go him Roll has not yet been deterred from making his point. "If they don't like it they should do something about it," he asserted.
"That's one stubborn SOB," lifeguard Mike McKenzie said. "He really needs to make up his mind already."
Apparently, Roll, who drew the ire of Game Face on Sunday when he took upwards of twenty seconds to deliver a pitch has refused to leave the field as a matter of principle.
"Just like I told those clowns on Game Face, I'm in no rush," said Roll while being interviewed on his cell phone. "I can take as long as I want to leave. There's no time limit. There's nothing in the rules that says I have to leave."
Eyewitnesses claim that they saw Roll act as if he was going to leave on several occassions. They said that he would open his car door, then close it, then fake like he was going to open it four or five times, before finally opening it. He would then drive forward a few feet before going in reverse, repeating that process several times.
Despite the fact that beach officials were screaming at him to hurry up and go him Roll has not yet been deterred from making his point. "If they don't like it they should do something about it," he asserted.
"That's one stubborn SOB," lifeguard Mike McKenzie said. "He really needs to make up his mind already."
Sunday, September 20, 2009
Gamers Sweep Double Header In Controversial Fashion
Long Beach, NY -
Well the media was right. It was indeed the "Bash at the Beach". Although that had little to do with the action on the field. With the Gamers (3-1) comfortably ahead in the second game by a score of 12-4 going into the top of the 5th inning tempers started to flare when the first baseman on the other team, upset at how long it was taking Rob to pitch, starting talking shit to Jimmy. It didn't take long for the benches to empty but luckily an all out brawl was averted. However, due to that altercation Game Face refused to continue playing and forfeited the game.
The altercation was reminscient of that scene in Mighty Ducks 2 when Team USA goes face to face against Iceland during a practice session. It is now almost inevitable that these two teams will meet again in the championship game. And when that happens the Gamers will be boosted by the confidence they gained during this impressive sweep.
In the first game they used their 2 home run limit to perfection cashing in three run homeruns from Jon Zafonte and Greg Roll. Zafonte's blast was a huge hit tying up the score after three innings. From there it was a classic back and forth contest. Game Face went ahead after scoring 5 runs in the fourth and 2 more in the fifth but the Gamers answered with 6 in the fourth and 3 in the sixth to go ahead for good. Jimmy Dundon came on to pitch the seventh innnig for his first save of the season.
In addition to the homeruns from Zafonte and Greg Roll the Gamers also received big offensive performances from Rob Roll and Adam Goldberg who added three hits a piece and from the newly acquired Seth Koslow who went 2 for 3 with a big 2 run single in his first at bat. The bottom of the lineup also came up big with Craig Shames, Dave Roll, and Eric Dundon scoring 2 runs each. Defensively, they overcome a tough sun field to make the big plays when they counted. Dave Roll had the play of the game when he used his man boob to help him make a catch.
In the second game, the Gamers blew the game open with a ten run outburst in the second inning aided by 6 walks to the bottom half of the lineup. After Rob singled, Zafonte and Goldberg hit back to back triples to put an exclamation mark on the rally. In fact, they might have kept scoring but Scott Zimmerman was thrown out at third base trying to stretch a double into a triple. Defensively they were led by Zafonte who made a great play getting their captain picked off of third base after a ground out.
All in all, it was an impressive week for the Gamers as they showed a lot of fight both literally and figuratively against the defending league champions. In what amounted to a statement game the Gamers made a very big one. The rest of the league must take notice now.
Well the media was right. It was indeed the "Bash at the Beach". Although that had little to do with the action on the field. With the Gamers (3-1) comfortably ahead in the second game by a score of 12-4 going into the top of the 5th inning tempers started to flare when the first baseman on the other team, upset at how long it was taking Rob to pitch, starting talking shit to Jimmy. It didn't take long for the benches to empty but luckily an all out brawl was averted. However, due to that altercation Game Face refused to continue playing and forfeited the game.
The altercation was reminscient of that scene in Mighty Ducks 2 when Team USA goes face to face against Iceland during a practice session. It is now almost inevitable that these two teams will meet again in the championship game. And when that happens the Gamers will be boosted by the confidence they gained during this impressive sweep.
In the first game they used their 2 home run limit to perfection cashing in three run homeruns from Jon Zafonte and Greg Roll. Zafonte's blast was a huge hit tying up the score after three innings. From there it was a classic back and forth contest. Game Face went ahead after scoring 5 runs in the fourth and 2 more in the fifth but the Gamers answered with 6 in the fourth and 3 in the sixth to go ahead for good. Jimmy Dundon came on to pitch the seventh innnig for his first save of the season.
In addition to the homeruns from Zafonte and Greg Roll the Gamers also received big offensive performances from Rob Roll and Adam Goldberg who added three hits a piece and from the newly acquired Seth Koslow who went 2 for 3 with a big 2 run single in his first at bat. The bottom of the lineup also came up big with Craig Shames, Dave Roll, and Eric Dundon scoring 2 runs each. Defensively, they overcome a tough sun field to make the big plays when they counted. Dave Roll had the play of the game when he used his man boob to help him make a catch.
In the second game, the Gamers blew the game open with a ten run outburst in the second inning aided by 6 walks to the bottom half of the lineup. After Rob singled, Zafonte and Goldberg hit back to back triples to put an exclamation mark on the rally. In fact, they might have kept scoring but Scott Zimmerman was thrown out at third base trying to stretch a double into a triple. Defensively they were led by Zafonte who made a great play getting their captain picked off of third base after a ground out.
All in all, it was an impressive week for the Gamers as they showed a lot of fight both literally and figuratively against the defending league champions. In what amounted to a statement game the Gamers made a very big one. The rest of the league must take notice now.
Saturday, September 19, 2009
Week 2 Preview: Bash at the Beach
Jones Beach, NY -
In what could be a playoff preview, the newly re-established Gamers (1-1), will take on two time defending league champion Game Face (2-0) in what the media is dubbing as the Bash at the Beach.
It will be a key early season test for both teams but especially for the Gamers who are hoping to use this matchup to make a big statement. "We need to have a good showing against Game Face not just for our own confidence but also to let the rest of the league know that there is a new force to be reckoned with," manager Craig Shames stated.
Those sentiments were echoed by boisterous centerfielder Scott Zimmerman who in less eloquent terms said, "it's time to nut up or shut up."
After playing last week with just nine players the Gamers should be back at full strength this week as outfielder Brian Malfettone returns to the team. They will also be boosted by the debut of star slugger Seth Koslow.
While the outcome is still undecided one thing is for sure. It's going to be a hard fought back and forth battle that neither team will soon forget. The battle lines have been drawn in the sand. It's time for the Gamers to find out what they're made of.
In what could be a playoff preview, the newly re-established Gamers (1-1), will take on two time defending league champion Game Face (2-0) in what the media is dubbing as the Bash at the Beach.
It will be a key early season test for both teams but especially for the Gamers who are hoping to use this matchup to make a big statement. "We need to have a good showing against Game Face not just for our own confidence but also to let the rest of the league know that there is a new force to be reckoned with," manager Craig Shames stated.
Those sentiments were echoed by boisterous centerfielder Scott Zimmerman who in less eloquent terms said, "it's time to nut up or shut up."
After playing last week with just nine players the Gamers should be back at full strength this week as outfielder Brian Malfettone returns to the team. They will also be boosted by the debut of star slugger Seth Koslow.
While the outcome is still undecided one thing is for sure. It's going to be a hard fought back and forth battle that neither team will soon forget. The battle lines have been drawn in the sand. It's time for the Gamers to find out what they're made of.
Game Preview
Here's a look at this week's matchup as the Gamers take on Game Face in a huge early season matchup.
Field Conditions
The game will be held at Jones Beach East a well groomed fenced in park that is notoriously windy since it's located right near the ocean. It's Long Island's answer to Candlestick Park. Early in the morning you might also experience hazy conditions that could make it hard to see the ball. The conditions won't favor one team over the other although a homerun limit could be an advantage for the Gamers since Game Face is known for their power.
Weather Report
Sunny mid to upper 60's at game time. No rain. Should be a great day for some softball.
Scouting Report
Game Face is the pre season favorite to win it all in our division. They dominated last week outscoring their oponents by 20 runs in two impressive blowout victories. They have a lot of power hitters who tend to hit the ball to centerfield. They don't have a lot of team speed but they are agressive on the basepaths looking to take the extra base whenever they can. It will be imperative to get the ball in quick from the outfield and cut down on the number of errors made.
Projected Lineup
After scoring 30 runs last week the Gamer's patented ABABA lineup will be back.
*Subject to change
1. Rob Roll - P
2. Adam Goldberg - SS
3. Jon Zafonte - 1B
4. Greg Roll - LF
5. Seth Koslow - 3B
6. Brian Malfettone - DH
7. Scott Zimmerman - LCF
8. Craig Shames - 2B
9. Dave Roll - RCF
10. Jeremy Webman - C
11. Eric Dundon - RF
Field Conditions
The game will be held at Jones Beach East a well groomed fenced in park that is notoriously windy since it's located right near the ocean. It's Long Island's answer to Candlestick Park. Early in the morning you might also experience hazy conditions that could make it hard to see the ball. The conditions won't favor one team over the other although a homerun limit could be an advantage for the Gamers since Game Face is known for their power.
Weather Report
Sunny mid to upper 60's at game time. No rain. Should be a great day for some softball.
Scouting Report
Game Face is the pre season favorite to win it all in our division. They dominated last week outscoring their oponents by 20 runs in two impressive blowout victories. They have a lot of power hitters who tend to hit the ball to centerfield. They don't have a lot of team speed but they are agressive on the basepaths looking to take the extra base whenever they can. It will be imperative to get the ball in quick from the outfield and cut down on the number of errors made.
Projected Lineup
After scoring 30 runs last week the Gamer's patented ABABA lineup will be back.
*Subject to change
1. Rob Roll - P
2. Adam Goldberg - SS
3. Jon Zafonte - 1B
4. Greg Roll - LF
5. Seth Koslow - 3B
6. Brian Malfettone - DH
7. Scott Zimmerman - LCF
8. Craig Shames - 2B
9. Dave Roll - RCF
10. Jeremy Webman - C
11. Eric Dundon - RF
Friday, September 18, 2009
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Monday, September 14, 2009
Kanye West Upstages Post Game Press Conference
In an unexpected turn of events, musician Kanye West emerged from the crowd last night during the Gamers post game press conference and stole the microphone from Jon Zafonte just as he was accepting his award for play of the game. West then shocked the crowd when he declared that Greg Roll really should have won the award.
"No disrespect to you Jon but Greg really should have won this award. His diving catch in the 6th inning of the second game was one of the greatest catches of all time. One of the greatest catches of all time! It doesn't matter that he made 27 errors before that. That catch was sick."
Zafonte was obviously taken back by what transpired. After West gave him back the microphone he was speechless. When approached by reporters after the press conference he commented, "at first I was really excited that Kanye was here, but then after he spoke I wasn't that excited anymore."
Kanye's outburst was understandably met with outrage from those watching the press conference. "Kanye is the biggest d-bag out there," Gamers fan Danielle Paviny said. Vicki Kind added, "how selfish do you have to be to upstage someone else's big moment? What a dick."
Zafonte was being honored for his inside the park homerun in the second game. West could not be reached for comment but representatives from MTV insist that unlike Eminem's staged walkout last year this outburst was legitimate.
"No disrespect to you Jon but Greg really should have won this award. His diving catch in the 6th inning of the second game was one of the greatest catches of all time. One of the greatest catches of all time! It doesn't matter that he made 27 errors before that. That catch was sick."
Zafonte was obviously taken back by what transpired. After West gave him back the microphone he was speechless. When approached by reporters after the press conference he commented, "at first I was really excited that Kanye was here, but then after he spoke I wasn't that excited anymore."
Kanye's outburst was understandably met with outrage from those watching the press conference. "Kanye is the biggest d-bag out there," Gamers fan Danielle Paviny said. Vicki Kind added, "how selfish do you have to be to upstage someone else's big moment? What a dick."
Zafonte was being honored for his inside the park homerun in the second game. West could not be reached for comment but representatives from MTV insist that unlike Eminem's staged walkout last year this outburst was legitimate.
Sunday, September 13, 2009
Shorthanded Gamers Just Miss Out On Sweep
Hicksville, NY -
After a two year hiatus the Gamers returned to live game action when they took on "Just The Tip" at Cantiague Park in Hicksville and in game one it looked like they had never left. Game two, however, was an entirely different story.
In the first game the Gamers looked like they were in mid season form with Scott Zimmerman making a sliding catch in the first inning to set the tone. Later in the game rightfielder Dave Roll made a perfect one hop throw to second base to throw out a runner. Not to be out done leftfielder Eric Dundon also nailed a runner trying to get to second base.
The Gamers combined those great defensive plays with timely hitting as they pounded out 28 hits in an impressive 19-12 victory. Offensively, the Gamers were led by new third baseman Adam Goldberg who drove in 7 runs highlighted by a grandslam in the third inning that broke the game open. Another new addition to the team, first baseman Jon Zafonte had a perfect game going 5 for 5 with 4 rbis. With table setters Rob Roll and Craig Shames getting on base a combined ten times there were plenty of opportunities for Goldberg and Zafonte to drive runners in.
On the other hand the Gamers struggled offensively and defensively in the second game as playing with only 9 fielders seemed to catch up with them on what turned out to be a hot day. Despite that they still had a four run lead going into the 7th inning thanks to a grand slam from Greg Roll and an inside the park homerun from Zafonte but 3 errors in the inning lead to an 8 run outburst for Just The Tip. They did manage to rally impressively in the bottom of the 7th inning scoring three times but their rally fell short when Rob Roll flew out and then Craig Shames popped up to end the game.
Despite the disappointment of losing a game that they easily could have won it was still an impressive day for the Gamers as they were able to pull out a shorthanded victory in game one. If they continue to play the way that they did in game one they should be a force to be reckoned with this season.
After a two year hiatus the Gamers returned to live game action when they took on "Just The Tip" at Cantiague Park in Hicksville and in game one it looked like they had never left. Game two, however, was an entirely different story.
In the first game the Gamers looked like they were in mid season form with Scott Zimmerman making a sliding catch in the first inning to set the tone. Later in the game rightfielder Dave Roll made a perfect one hop throw to second base to throw out a runner. Not to be out done leftfielder Eric Dundon also nailed a runner trying to get to second base.
The Gamers combined those great defensive plays with timely hitting as they pounded out 28 hits in an impressive 19-12 victory. Offensively, the Gamers were led by new third baseman Adam Goldberg who drove in 7 runs highlighted by a grandslam in the third inning that broke the game open. Another new addition to the team, first baseman Jon Zafonte had a perfect game going 5 for 5 with 4 rbis. With table setters Rob Roll and Craig Shames getting on base a combined ten times there were plenty of opportunities for Goldberg and Zafonte to drive runners in.
On the other hand the Gamers struggled offensively and defensively in the second game as playing with only 9 fielders seemed to catch up with them on what turned out to be a hot day. Despite that they still had a four run lead going into the 7th inning thanks to a grand slam from Greg Roll and an inside the park homerun from Zafonte but 3 errors in the inning lead to an 8 run outburst for Just The Tip. They did manage to rally impressively in the bottom of the 7th inning scoring three times but their rally fell short when Rob Roll flew out and then Craig Shames popped up to end the game.
Despite the disappointment of losing a game that they easily could have won it was still an impressive day for the Gamers as they were able to pull out a shorthanded victory in game one. If they continue to play the way that they did in game one they should be a force to be reckoned with this season.
Week One Preview: The Gamers Are Back!!!
Hicksville, NY -
After a two year hiatus, the Gamers, Long Island's premiere softball team, will be returning to live game action when they take on "Just The Tip" on Field D at Cantiague Park in Hicksville.
The game was originally scheduled to take place at Stokes Elementary School in Levittown but officials from ABA decided to move the game to Cantiague Park in order to accomodate the record setting crowd that is expected on hand to witness the Gamers return.
Four original members of the team will be on hand including star outfielder Dave Roll who will be ending his two year self imposed softball strike as he hasn't played in a single softball game since the Gamers last took the field. Obviously a hunger strike was never an option.
Expectations are running high for the Gamers this season especially after news late Friday night that they had signed Jimmy and Eric Dundon at the last minute to provide some extra pop in the lineup. However, enthusiam should be tempered since Jimmy will not be in the lineup this week since he could not complete his physical in time.
Also out of the lineup will be slugging 1B Seth Koslow, outfielder Brian Malfettone and infielder Tom McGrath who might be out for a while with a back injury. Despite those key losses the Gamers lineup will still be stacked from top to bottom including the long awaiting debuts for star shortstop Adam Goldberg, third baseman Danny Ballestas and first baseman Jon Zafonte.
The outcome of these games are far from being determined but one thing is for sure. The Gamers are back!!!
After a two year hiatus, the Gamers, Long Island's premiere softball team, will be returning to live game action when they take on "Just The Tip" on Field D at Cantiague Park in Hicksville.
The game was originally scheduled to take place at Stokes Elementary School in Levittown but officials from ABA decided to move the game to Cantiague Park in order to accomodate the record setting crowd that is expected on hand to witness the Gamers return.
Four original members of the team will be on hand including star outfielder Dave Roll who will be ending his two year self imposed softball strike as he hasn't played in a single softball game since the Gamers last took the field. Obviously a hunger strike was never an option.
Expectations are running high for the Gamers this season especially after news late Friday night that they had signed Jimmy and Eric Dundon at the last minute to provide some extra pop in the lineup. However, enthusiam should be tempered since Jimmy will not be in the lineup this week since he could not complete his physical in time.
Also out of the lineup will be slugging 1B Seth Koslow, outfielder Brian Malfettone and infielder Tom McGrath who might be out for a while with a back injury. Despite those key losses the Gamers lineup will still be stacked from top to bottom including the long awaiting debuts for star shortstop Adam Goldberg, third baseman Danny Ballestas and first baseman Jon Zafonte.
The outcome of these games are far from being determined but one thing is for sure. The Gamers are back!!!
Game Preview
Here's a look at this week's matchup as the Gamers take on Just The Tip in the first games of the season:
Field Conditions
The game was moved by ABA at the last minute to Cantiague Park in Hicksville. This is a significant field upgrade as the game goes from being played on an elementary school field with a concrete obstruction in right field to a fenced in field with a well manicured infield. With really short fences in right and right center there may be a homerun limit imposed by the umpire prior to the game. In all likelihood balls hit over the rightfield fence will be called as doubles. This probably won't affect the Gamers since they do not have a lefthanded homerun threat in the lineup.
Weather Report
Game time conditions should be partly cloudly with temperatures in the upper 70's to low 80's. However, since it rained significantly on Friday and Saturday the field conditions are expected to be affected considerably. Expect a slick outfield and slow track on the infield that could make baserunning an adventure. That's if the game is not called due to poor conditions.
Projected Lineup
Here is a look at the projected lineup for the Gamers in game one.
*Lineup subject to change at game time
1. Rob Roll - P
2. Craig Shames - 2B
3. Adam Goldberg - SS
4. Greg Roll - LF
5. Jon Zafonte - 1B
6. Scott Zimmerman - LCF
7. Danny Ballestas - 3B
8. Eric Dundon - RCF
9. Dave Roll - RF
10. Jeremy Webman - C
Field Conditions
The game was moved by ABA at the last minute to Cantiague Park in Hicksville. This is a significant field upgrade as the game goes from being played on an elementary school field with a concrete obstruction in right field to a fenced in field with a well manicured infield. With really short fences in right and right center there may be a homerun limit imposed by the umpire prior to the game. In all likelihood balls hit over the rightfield fence will be called as doubles. This probably won't affect the Gamers since they do not have a lefthanded homerun threat in the lineup.
Weather Report
Game time conditions should be partly cloudly with temperatures in the upper 70's to low 80's. However, since it rained significantly on Friday and Saturday the field conditions are expected to be affected considerably. Expect a slick outfield and slow track on the infield that could make baserunning an adventure. That's if the game is not called due to poor conditions.
Projected Lineup
Here is a look at the projected lineup for the Gamers in game one.
*Lineup subject to change at game time
1. Rob Roll - P
2. Craig Shames - 2B
3. Adam Goldberg - SS
4. Greg Roll - LF
5. Jon Zafonte - 1B
6. Scott Zimmerman - LCF
7. Danny Ballestas - 3B
8. Eric Dundon - RCF
9. Dave Roll - RF
10. Jeremy Webman - C
Saturday, September 12, 2009
Breaking News: Game Time and Location Changed
Our game on Sunday has been moved. It is no longer at 11:30 at Stokes Elementary in Levittown.
IT IS NOW AT CANTIAGUE PARK IN HICKSVILLE ON FIELD D AT 11 AM
IT IS NOW AT CANTIAGUE PARK IN HICKSVILLE ON FIELD D AT 11 AM
Breaking News: Gamers Sign Dundons
Pending physicals the Gamers have reached a preliminary agreement with prized free agent slugger Jimmy Dundon. The deal is also expected to include a provision that would allow Jimmy's son Eric to play as well. Terms of the deal were not immediately disclosed but it is believed to be a substantial offer that would "break the bank".
It would have to be considering that Dundon was highly sought after by "Darkside" one of the nation's top co-ed teams. Dundon who just spent the summer travelling the nation competing in tournaments is expected to be a DH/Pitcher for the Gamers while Eric will likely get the majority of his playing time in the outfield.
This signing is a coup for the Gamers who desperately needed another pitcher with projected opening day starter Rob Roll banged up with a severe knee injury. With the Dundons in the fold the Gamers are unquestionably the team to beat now.
Softball legend Jimmy Dundon and his son Eric are set to sign with the Gamers.
It would have to be considering that Dundon was highly sought after by "Darkside" one of the nation's top co-ed teams. Dundon who just spent the summer travelling the nation competing in tournaments is expected to be a DH/Pitcher for the Gamers while Eric will likely get the majority of his playing time in the outfield.
This signing is a coup for the Gamers who desperately needed another pitcher with projected opening day starter Rob Roll banged up with a severe knee injury. With the Dundons in the fold the Gamers are unquestionably the team to beat now.
Softball legend Jimmy Dundon and his son Eric are set to sign with the Gamers.
Tuesday, September 8, 2009
Preliminary Schedule Set
ABA has posted the schedule for the first 3 games of the year. The schedule is as follows:
9/13: 11:30 am at Stokes Elementary School in Levittown vs. "Just The Tip"
9/20: 11 am at Jones Beach East vs. 2 Time Defending League Champion "Game Face"
9/27: 11 am at Cantiague Park in Hicksville vs. "Hustlers"
9/13: 11:30 am at Stokes Elementary School in Levittown vs. "Just The Tip"
9/20: 11 am at Jones Beach East vs. 2 Time Defending League Champion "Game Face"
9/27: 11 am at Cantiague Park in Hicksville vs. "Hustlers"
Monday, September 7, 2009
Breaking News: Rob Roll To Play Through Pain
You can question his pitch selection, taste in women, and general disposition towards life but there is no questioning his toughness. Rob Roll, the consensus #1 overall pick in the ABA fantasy draft, has stated his intentions to play through a severe knee injury that will likely require off season surgery that he will invariably put off for several more years.
Roll, who injured his knee while playing in a softball tournament this summer, and then proceeded to make it worse by playing in 76 more tournaments, plans on pitching for the Gamers to alleviate the stress on the knee. Considering that you have to bend at the knee in order to pitch probably not the best of ideas but then again this is Rob Roll we are talking about.
Gamer's fans get used to seeing this sight: Rob Roll with an ice pack on his knee
Roll, who injured his knee while playing in a softball tournament this summer, and then proceeded to make it worse by playing in 76 more tournaments, plans on pitching for the Gamers to alleviate the stress on the knee. Considering that you have to bend at the knee in order to pitch probably not the best of ideas but then again this is Rob Roll we are talking about.
Gamer's fans get used to seeing this sight: Rob Roll with an ice pack on his knee
Thursday, September 3, 2009
Player Profile: Seth Koslow
Power hitting third baseman Seth Koslow doesn't just know his way around the hot corner. He also knows his way around a hot plate. Hey Food Network, you can stop the search for the Next Food Network Star. We already know who it is. And it's not that annoying, perky bitch. It's the one and only Seth Koslow.
Koslow, the Gamer's prized free agent acquistion, is a big time slugger who still resides as Meadow School's all time kickball HR leader. His prestigious power will fit nicely right into the middle of the Gamers lineup. However, that's not the only reason he was asked to be on the team.
The other reason, rather, the real reason is that he's one hell of a cook. The man can flat out grill. He even plans to open up his own restaurant one day called the "Why You All Up In My Grill and Bar".
Until then he will be spending his time as the official chef of the Gamers. Hopefully, he can cook up a few extra wins for them this year and be the missing ingredient in their championship stew. (And yes there will be more corny cooking references throughout the season)
Be sure to check out Seth's tv debut this Sunday when he appears on the season finale of Grill It With Bobby Flay at 10:30 am on the Food Network.
Both of these guys can cook but only one can hit 400 foot bombs.
Koslow, the Gamer's prized free agent acquistion, is a big time slugger who still resides as Meadow School's all time kickball HR leader. His prestigious power will fit nicely right into the middle of the Gamers lineup. However, that's not the only reason he was asked to be on the team.
The other reason, rather, the real reason is that he's one hell of a cook. The man can flat out grill. He even plans to open up his own restaurant one day called the "Why You All Up In My Grill and Bar".
Until then he will be spending his time as the official chef of the Gamers. Hopefully, he can cook up a few extra wins for them this year and be the missing ingredient in their championship stew. (And yes there will be more corny cooking references throughout the season)
Be sure to check out Seth's tv debut this Sunday when he appears on the season finale of Grill It With Bobby Flay at 10:30 am on the Food Network.
Both of these guys can cook but only one can hit 400 foot bombs.
Wednesday, September 2, 2009
Player Profile: Greg Roll
His smooth, effortless swing has been credited with ending the Cold War, lowering the crime rate in New York City, and most recently preventing a swine flu epidemic. Some have said that watching him play softball is like witnessing the birth of Jesus. When he slumps the entire world slumps as witnessed by the global economic crisis.
Birds sit on his window sill and sing to him when he wakes up. School children bring him apples. The Dos Equis most interesting man in the world finds him interesting.
Who is he you ask? He is none other than Greg Roll aka the greatest softball player in the history of mankind. And if you don't believe me just ask him. As a matter of fact ask CNN's Money Magazine. They recently named Baldwin the 25th best place to live in America and it is believed that was largely in part because Greg Roll resides there.
If there is a better softball player, no, better human being on the face of Earth he has yet to come forward. There is Greg Roll and then there is everyone else. There is even a Greg Roll movie set to come out in the Fall entitled "That's How I Roll" with Steve-O cast to play the lead.
ABA is even considering an amendment to league rules that would allow Greg to field a team all by himself. Currently a team must play with at least 8 fielders at all times. This amendment would allow Greg to showcase his extraordinary talents including his blazing speed that makes Usain Bolt look like he's running in slow motion.
The Gamers are truly lucky to have this once in a lifetime talent on their roster.
Please send fan mail for Greg to:
830 Atlantic Avenue
Care of Synergy Gym
Baldwin, NY 11510
**Editor's Note**
I was under no duress whatsoever while writing this article. Greg did not pay me to write this or put me up to this in any way, shape or form. Everything I said in this article is 100% true.
Greg is so good at Softball that MLB is using him to promote their latest video game.
Birds sit on his window sill and sing to him when he wakes up. School children bring him apples. The Dos Equis most interesting man in the world finds him interesting.
Who is he you ask? He is none other than Greg Roll aka the greatest softball player in the history of mankind. And if you don't believe me just ask him. As a matter of fact ask CNN's Money Magazine. They recently named Baldwin the 25th best place to live in America and it is believed that was largely in part because Greg Roll resides there.
If there is a better softball player, no, better human being on the face of Earth he has yet to come forward. There is Greg Roll and then there is everyone else. There is even a Greg Roll movie set to come out in the Fall entitled "That's How I Roll" with Steve-O cast to play the lead.
ABA is even considering an amendment to league rules that would allow Greg to field a team all by himself. Currently a team must play with at least 8 fielders at all times. This amendment would allow Greg to showcase his extraordinary talents including his blazing speed that makes Usain Bolt look like he's running in slow motion.
The Gamers are truly lucky to have this once in a lifetime talent on their roster.
Please send fan mail for Greg to:
830 Atlantic Avenue
Care of Synergy Gym
Baldwin, NY 11510
**Editor's Note**
I was under no duress whatsoever while writing this article. Greg did not pay me to write this or put me up to this in any way, shape or form. Everything I said in this article is 100% true.
Greg is so good at Softball that MLB is using him to promote their latest video game.
Tuesday, September 1, 2009
Team Apparel
If you haven't already done so please let me know what jersey size and uniform # you want. Jerseys tend to run small so ask for one size larger than what you would normally get.
If you'd like to order any additional apparel please check out: www.tyjasports.com and then let Rob know what you'd like to order.
Friday, August 28, 2009
The Gamers Are Back!!!!!!!!
From 2005-2007 The Gamers were Long Island's premeire softball team, winning games and the hearts of adoring fans, left and right. Led by the greatest double play combination in the history of men's slow pitch softball, Rob Roll and Rob Rathbun, the Gamers tore through the ABA record books in historic fashion. After scoring 73 runs in one game it looked like the Gamers were an unstoppable force but it all came crashing down when star pitcher Craig Shames suffered a Rick Ankielesque meltdown on the mound in the 7th inning of the championship game, walking 8 batters in a row to give up a 5 run lead.
That loss was so devastating that the Gamers disbanded soon thereafter and were never heard from again. Until now that is. After a two year hiatus, Craig Shames has returned to try and avenge his now infamous meltdown and he's bringing back some of the old gang with him. LCF Brian Malfettone and RCF Scott Zimmerman will be returning as well as the entire Roll crew of Rob, Greg, and Dave. Along with new additions Seth Koslow, Adam Goldberg, Jeremy Webman, Tom McGrath, Danny Ballestas and Jon Zafonte they have set out to restore the Gamers name and finally win that elusive championship.
The Gamers are back baby!!!!
That loss was so devastating that the Gamers disbanded soon thereafter and were never heard from again. Until now that is. After a two year hiatus, Craig Shames has returned to try and avenge his now infamous meltdown and he's bringing back some of the old gang with him. LCF Brian Malfettone and RCF Scott Zimmerman will be returning as well as the entire Roll crew of Rob, Greg, and Dave. Along with new additions Seth Koslow, Adam Goldberg, Jeremy Webman, Tom McGrath, Danny Ballestas and Jon Zafonte they have set out to restore the Gamers name and finally win that elusive championship.
The Gamers are back baby!!!!
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