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"There are three types of baseball players: those who make it happen, those who watch it happen, and those who wonder what happens."
Coach Newman Retiring
After spending 30 years as both a player and coach for St. Anthony's, Coach Newman has decided to retire as Varsity Baseball Coach.
Coach Newman began his association with the St. Anthony's baseball program as a student athlete in 1971 as a freshman on the J.V. team. He spent two years on the J.V. team and helped lead his team to a J.V. championship in 1972 defeating Chaminade and Coach George Toop, who would years later become Coach Newman's mentor at St. Anthony's. In 1973 and 1974 Coach Newman played for the legendary Archie Demarco. Coach Newman was selected as an All League 3rd baseman in 1974 as he hit fourth for the Friars and compiled a .333 batting average.
In 1977 he returned to St. Anthony's and became the J.V. assistant to Hall of Famer John Madden.That first year was a memorable one as they won the division but lost in the finals.At the end of the 1977 season Archie Demarco announced his retirement and thus John Madden and his young assistant John Newman would inherit the team for the 1978 season.
The 1978 season started off slowly but it would have a storybook ending!!! Returning seniors Bob Popko, Don Dacey,"Woody Woodford" and "Bob O" Okeefe would combine with juniors John Avolese,Tony Rapoza, Joe Ondrovic and a youngster named Mike Lopez to give St. Anthony's its first N.S.C.S.A.A. championship. No one will ever forget that last game against St.Dominic that went into extra innings and ended with Mike Lopez scoring on a wild pitch.If you walk along Landing Ave. near the site of the old baseball field in San Remo you can still hear the echoes from the cheering on that great day!!
Coach Newman assisted John Madden on the Varsity from 1978-1980. In 1981 he did not coach because he was student teaching at Oakdale Jr. H.S. as part of his Dowling College requirements. 1982 saw the return of Coach Newman as John Madden turned over the reins of Varsity Baseball to Vinny Winus. Mr. Winus' first act as Varsity Coach was to bring back Newman and make him head J.V. coach.
Coach Newman describes the 1982 J.V. team as one of the best teams he has ever coached! They went on to a perfect season never losing a game or a scrimmage that year. They even defeated the Varsity in a scrimmage that year.It was lead by some great future varsity players like Tony Amarante,Chris Materdomini,Pete Wooley and a freshman named Chris Cornacchio who would later pitch for North Carolina University.
In September of 1982 Coach Newman was hired by the Suffolk County Police Dept. and subsequently would miss coaching the entire 1983 season. However he was back in the saddle in 1984 as Coach Winus asked him if he could assist George Toop,who had left Chaminade, with the J.V. team. A great friendship was born between Newman and Toop that would last for the next 21 years.
After helping Toop that year Coach Winus went to the well again and asked Newman to come and join him with the varsity for the 1985 season. Newman of course said yes and for the next two seasons a Friar Baseball Machine was rolling!!! They would win two consecutive N.S.C.H.S.A.A. championships in 1985 and 1986 and were considered one of the top programs on Long Island. Unfortunately after the 1986 season St. Anthonys would not see another championship for 14 years as bad bounces and heartbreaking losses would be the theme.
After the 1986 season we would not see Coach Newman for the next three years. He was transferred to the Suffolk Police Academy where he became a Recruit Training Officer. Due to his work hours he could not coach but he always kept in touch with his good friend George Toop who had taken over the varsity in 1988. Still, Coach Newman kept on coaching in his free time. He became the coach of the Suffolk Police Womens softball team that competed in the New York State Police Olympic Games. In 1989 he led them to a Silver Medal in the State games held in Albany that year.
In 1990 a decision was made by the athletic directors to start a freshman baseball league for the first time. St. Anthony's would of course participate but they needed a coach....the question was who to call??? George Toop's first phone call was to........that's right John Newman! John excitedly accepted the job and was elated to be back at St. Anthony's and to be with his good friend George Toop once again.
John would coach the freshman team in 1990 and 1991. He remembers it as a great teaching experience and a whole lot of fun teaching fundamentals to the frosh. However after the 1991 season it was once again time for Coach Newman to move up. Coach Toop's health was beginning to fail and he needed another assistant to help with the varsity. Newman would team up with Bob Polo and Toop for the next two seasons and although the teams did not win a championship it was a great time just being with them.
After the 1993 season Coach Toop asked John if he would take the J.V. team in 1994. George was planning to retire after the 1994 season and hoped John would take the varsity in 1995. John once again accepted the change and coached the J.V. in 1994. Coach Toop announced his retirement at the end of the 1994 season and as expected John Newman took over the Varsity in 1995.
Coach Newman would proudly lead the Friar Varsity for the next 13 years to some memorable moments.
In only his third year as head coach in 1997 the team went 22-5 winning the regular season title but losing to Holy Trinity in a hard fought Series Finale. In 1999 the team once again won the regular season title with a record of 18-7 but got knocked out by Chaminade in the Playoffs. The year 2000 will not only be remembered for the millenium but also as the year St. Anthony's reappeared on the baseball map.
Coach Newman said the 1982 J.V. team and the 2000 Varsity team were the two best teams he ever had as a head coach. Led by seniors Bob Paduano,Michael Lombardi,Steve Scandura,Frank Elia,Pat Chilton,Andrew Paollilo, Tim O'Shaugnessy and juniors Mike Striker and Louis Khoury they would lead St. Anthony's to its first title in 14 years and the # 3 ranking in New York State. Frank Elia had one of the most spectacular season pitching performances that year going 7-0 and giving up only one run the entire season.Michael Striker stepping on third to end the championship game defeating St. John The Baptist at New York Tech is a memory that Coach Newman will never forget.
In 2001 the returning seniors from 2000 John Rehm,Joe Viscuso,Tom Lodico,Louis Khoury,Michael Striker,Jason Mulligan,Evan Garcia and John Ryan would once again lead the Friars to the regular season title only to lose to Chaminade in the Playoffs. It was a great run for St. Anthonys between 1999-2001 as the team was 44-10 in league play.
From 2002-2005 the team record of 44-54-1 was not reflective of the effort that was put out by the members of those squads. Many of those games were lost by one or two runs and bad luck seemed to befall those teams at the most inopportune moments.
2006 saw a complete turnaround for the Friar Varsity. After going 9-15-1 in 2005 the 2006 team came out with a vengeance, with the express purpose of reversing the results of the previous season. They did just that going 14-10 in the inaugural "woodbat" only season. Senior Matt Barnathan would be the MVP that year and lead the Catholic League in home runs.
In 2007 led by "Player of the Year" and team MVP Senior Colin Barnathan the Friars would finish 14-13 and just miss making it to the finals after losing a tough playoff series to St. John the Baptist.
Coach Newman finishes his career with a record of 194-137-1 and retires as the winningest baseball coach in St. Anthony's history. He assisted on the championship teams in 1978,1985 and 1986. As head coach he won regular season titles in 1997,1999,2000 and 2001 and the League Championship in 2000. He was selected as Coach of the Year in 1997 and 1999. He was elected into the St. Anthony's Hall of Fame in 2004.
Coach Newman is proud of the accomplishments that his teams have done over the years. He is also proud of the fact that many of his former players have gone on to be baseball coaches and productive citizens in the community.When asked what was his most fond memory of years past he said:
"A few years ago I was cutting the infield grass one summer day when someone came walking across right field. I didn't recognize him right away but as he got closer I realized it was a former player that had graduated 3 years prior. We shook hands and reminisced for a while. Suddenly he said he wanted to thank me. I said for what? He said "for being the best coach I ever had only I didn't know it until after I left St. Anthony's."
Coach Newman would also like to thank all the people that stayed loyal to him throughout the good times and rough times. Especially his former assistant coaches Jim Liebler,Paul Parsolano, John Davide and former J.V. and Frosh coaches Jeremy Doran,Sal Lagano,Dave Cogliano,Jim Jensen, Dan Oneill,Bob Hardwick,Mike Zanni,Gene Buonaiuto,Brian Dorsey,Steve Scandura,Brendan Reynolds,Jim Tomasello. He also wants to wish all future Friar Baseball teams the best of luck and to carry on the proud tradition that has been in place for the past 30 years.
Barnathan Selected to All-Long Island First Team
If being selected as the FRIARS' MVP, Catholic League MVP, and playing in the Long Island All Star Game wasn't enough Colin Barnathan received Long Island's Highest Honor. He was selected as a member of the All-Long Island Baseball First Team. The CHSAA player of the year hit .466 with 30 hits, 20 RBIs and 11 extra-base hits. He had a .741 slugging percentage and a .556 on-base percentage. He also had a 6-1 pitching record with an 0.83 ERA.
Barnathan to Play in LI All Star Game
Colin Barnathan has been selected to play in the third annual HIP Grand Slam Challenge which is a game featuring the best of Nassau versus the best of Suffolk. The game will be played at 7:30 p.m. Saturday 6/9 at Citibank Park, home of the Ducks.
Four FRIARS Receive All-League Honor
Scott Ferrara, Larry Flammia, Chris Walker, and League MVP Colin Barnathan were selected for All-League. All four were a vital part to the FRIARS' success this year and they will be missed as they go to college. All four will be playing baseball at the next level and we wish them luck.
FRIARS Season Comes to a Close
With the league MVP on the hill the FRIARS were confident going into Game 3 against St. John the Baptist. However it wasn't pitching but defense that won the game, or should we say lost the game. The FRIARS fell Friday 7-3 and with it their season ended. The FRIARS committed 4 errors giving SJB four unearned runs. The FRIARS took the lead in the top of the first when Scott Ferrara led off the game with a single and a stolen base and was driven in by Chris Walker. SJB led off the bottom of the second with a walk and a hit batter and those two runners eventually crossed the plate to give SJB the lead. The FRIARS tied the game in the third only to have fall behind in the bottom of the inning. A costly error caused SJB's inning to be extended and they took advantage of it. SJB scored three runs that inning including a two run home run. The FRIARS were able to muster another run but it wouldn't be enough. After the game, Manager John Newman expressed his pride in this year's team. Although the lead did not start off as everyone expected the team bounced back to finish fourth and get within one game of the championship. With a talented junior class returning in addition to the J.V. players who will trying for a spot on next year's team, 2008 should be a year in which the FRIARS have the talent to bring a NSCHSAA championship back to St. Anthony's.
Chaminade Awaits Game 3 Winner
With a 2-1 victory Wednesday, the FRIARS toughest rival earned themselves a spot in this year's NSCHSAA championship. But before the FRIARS can worry about a Chaminade team who finished the year 16-2, they must focus on Game 3 against St. John the Baptist. The pitching matchup favors the FRIARS. SJB threw their top two pitchers in Games 1 and 2. Whereas the FRIARS will be throwing their ace and League MVP Colin Barnathan. Last time around, Barnathan shutdown SJB holding them to 0 runs on 3 hits. If the bats can get going against whoever SJB puts on the mound, the FRIARS should find themselves with a Memorial Day date against Chaminade.
FRIARS Come Up Short in Game 2
With the wind blowing in at Wang Field, it's no surprise that Wednesday's game only had 4 hits between the two teams. Unfortunately for FRIARS fans, one of St. John the Baptist's hits drove in a run. And that's all SJB would need as they defeated the FRIARS 1-0 to even up the series. Nick Faust was on the hill for the FRIARS and did not have his best day but he got himself out of a trouble a couple of times but did not escape the first without giving up a run. After a one out walk got on second after a stolen base, Faust struck out the next batter but was not as lucky with the cleanup hitter. SJB's catcher hit a single up the middle to drive in the game's only run. The FRIARS in the bottom half of the inning loaded the bases with one out but Larry Flammia grounded into a 5-3 double play and ended the best scoring chance the FRIARS would have all day. Scott Ferrara's bloop hit in the 1st and Jon Barone's bunt single in the 5th would be the only two hits the FRIARS would have. Faust went 6 innings striking out 5 surrendering 8 walks. Chris Meccariello pitched the seventh striking out 1 and walking one. Game 3 will be played Friday at 4:00 at SJB.
McAleer Goes 7, Ferrara Goes Yard in FRIARS Win
The most important thing you can do in a series is win game 1 and the FRIARS realized this. They took a lead early and never looked back as they defeated St. John the Baptist 7-3 Tuesday. The FRIARS led off the game with 3 consecutive singles, and with a couple of errors by SJB and a bloop hit by Bill Ruggiero the FRIARS found themselves ahead 3-0 before SJB could even get up to the plate. Eddie McAleer retired SJB in order the first inning but quickly found out that all the innings wouldn't be that easy. SJB got a run in the 2nd stranding 2 runners in scoring position and loaded the bases in the 3rd but couldn't score. It looked like McAleer had their number. However, SJB fought their way back into it with 2 runs in the 4th. Although SJB got close, they never lead or even tied the FRIARS. After giving up a run in the second, the FRIARS responded with one of thier own. Matt Parker ripped a 1 out double to drive in Ruggiero which would prove to be the winning run. Parker finished the day 2-3 with 2 RBIs. In the top of the fifth with the score 4-3 the FRIARS gave their starter some insurance. MVP Colin Barnathan led off the inning with a walk followed by a sac bunt by Ruggiero. With one out and a runner in scoring position, Larry Flammia stepped to the plate and drove a double to outfield to drive in Barnathan. Parker followed with a single to drive him in and the FRIARS went up 6-3. Leading off in the top of the 6th Scott Ferrara showed us all why he loves playing at SJB. Ferrara sent the first pitch of the inning over left centerfield fence to put the FRIARS up 7-3. Ferrara hit 1 home run during the regular season and this was his 1st of the playoffs and both were at SJB. McAleer pitched the complete game giving up 3 earned runs on 8 hits while striking out 3. Game 2 will be played at Wang Field in Oyster Bay Wednesday at 4:00. Nick Faust will take the hill for the FRIARS in hopes of sending his team to the championship.
McAleer Get Nod For Game 1
Manager John Newman announced at practice Monday that Eddie McAleer will be the game 1 starter. Last time around McAleer went 8 innings against St. John the Baptist giving up 2 runs on 6 hits while striking out 10 and only walking 2. A similar outing Tuesday will help give the FRIARS the edge over a SJB team that has struggled lately with the lumber and whose number one pitcher isn't available for game 1. Game time is scheduled for 4:00.
FRIARS-SJB Preview
In terms of playoff series, you couldn't ask for a better one. Third seeded St. John the Baptist and the fourth seeded FRIARS should have nothing but an exciting series. It's been a while since these two teams last met. It was in the second week of the season in which SJB won the series 2-1 but any of those games could of went another way. Game 1 of the series went 10 innings before being called due to darkness. After giving up 2 runs in the first innings, starter Eddie McAleer didn't allow SJB to cross the plate in the 7 innings. Larry Flammia pitched 2 innings of relief and was as dominant as McAleer was. The FRIARS would lose the continuated game in the 11th inning. After taking a lead the FRIARS made two errors in the bottom half of the inning and SJB won the game without getting a hit in last inning. Game 2 looked like it would come down to the end...and it did. Colin Barnathan held SJB to just three hits. The FRIARS had opportunities the whole game but it wasn't until the 6th innning that the offense came alive. The FRIARS had a 7 run 6th and went on to win the game 7-0. Game 3 was played following the continuated game. Nick Faust was on the hill and although he only allowed 3 hits, he walked 6 and hit 3 batters as the FRIARS lost game 3 4-2.
Now looking ahead to Tuesday, things should play out much differently. The only two players whose spot in the lineup is the same as the last time against SJB is Scott Ferrara and Colin Barnathan. The lineup has been revamped since then including the addition of Chris Walker who was injured the first time these two teams met. On the other side of things, the pitching staff has been doing very well. McAleer is coming off a strong start against Holy Trinity. Although Faust struggled in the beginning of the year and especially against SJB, he is following two impressive starts. In his last outing he went 5 innings on his way to picking up a win against St. Mary's and the game before that he went 10 innings striking out 10. If the series goes to Game 3, there is nobody else the FRIARS would want on the hill other than Barnathan. Finishing the year with an ERA below 1 and shutting out SJB in his start against them, things look good for the FRIARS if this series goes to three. The game 1 starter will be announced Monday at practice and game 1 will be held Tuesday at 4:00 at St. John the Baptist.
McAleer Goes 7, Ferrara Goes Yard in FRIARS Win
The most important thing you can do in a series is win game 1 and the FRIARS realized this. They took a lead early and never looked back as they defeated St. John the Baptist 7-3 Tuesday. The FRIARS led off the game with 3 consecutive singles, and with a couple of errors by SJB and a bloop hit by Bill Ruggiero the FRIARS found themselves ahead 3-0 before SJB could even get up to the plate. Eddie McAleer retired SJB in order the first inning but quickly found out that all the innings wouldn't be that easy. SJB got a run in the 2nd stranding 2 runners in scoring position and loaded the bases in the 3rd but couldn't score. It looked like McAleer had their number. However, SJB fought their way back into it with 2 runs in the 4th. Although SJB got close, they never lead or even tied the FRIARS. After giving up a run in the second, the FRIARS responded with one of thier own. Matt Parker ripped a 1 out double to drive in Ruggiero which would prove to be the winning run. Parker finished the day 2-3 with 2 RBIs. In the top of the fifth with the score 4-3 the FRIARS gave their starter some insurance. MVP Colin Barnathan led off the inning with a walk followed by a sac bunt by Ruggiero. With one out and a runner in scoring position, Larry Flammia stepped to the plate and drove a double to outfield to drive in Barnathan. Parker followed with a single to drive him in and the FRIARS went up 6-3. Leading off in the top of the 6th Scott Ferrara showed us all why he loves playing at SJB. Ferrara sent the first pitch of the inning over left centerfield fence to put the FRIARS up 7-3. Ferrara hit 1 home run during the regular season and this was his 1st of the playoffs and both were at SJB. McAleer pitched the complete game giving up 3 earned runs on 8 hits while striking out 3. Game 2 will be played at Wang Field in Oyster Bay Wednesday at 4:00. Nick Faust will take the hill for the FRIARS in hopes of sending his team to the championship.
Barnathan Named League MVP
Colin Barnathan who has been the MVP of this team all year long was named NSCHSAA MVP Wednesday night by the coaches. Barnathan's season has been more than impressive as he batted .464 in the league with 13 RBIs and 2 Home Runs. Even more impressive was his ability to play two positions effectively. Barnathan playing short only made one error on the year. On the hill, he went 5-1 with 0.83 ERA with 38 strikeouts. He is the first MVP the FRIARS have seen in over a decade and exemplifies the best that FRIARS Baseball has to offer.
FRIARS Advance With Win Over St. Dominic
Being named League MVP might go to some guys' heads but not Colin Barnathan in fact he was out to prove Saturday why he deserved the League's highest honor as the fourth seeded FRIARS defeated fifth ranked St. Dominic 3-1 in a single elimanation game of the NSCHSAA playoffs. The FRIARS had runners on 1st and 2nd with nobody out in each of the first two innings but couldn't get that hit to take the lead and then went 1-2-3 in the third and it looked like St. Dominic would have the FRIARS' number once again. That would soon change. With two outs, Larry Cornelia who this season has been the FRIARS best option off the bench ripped a double to left center to keep the inning alive. Colin Frank then drew a 4 pitch walk. A passed ball caused both runners to move up. The FRIARS nine hitter Brian Reutter soon found himself in a position to give his team a much needed lead. He was up to the challenge. Reutter sent a 2-2 pitch back up the middle to give the FRIARS a 1-0 lead. It wouldn't take long for the FRIARS to strike again. Bill Ruggiero led off the bottom of the fifth with a double. After a ground out by Chris Walker the league MVP would step up to the plate and come through like he has all year. Barnathan sent a towering shot over the center field fence to give his team a 3-0 lead and what would eventually become the winning RBI. This is the third consecutive league game in which Barnathan has hit a home run. He did more than just hit in this one though. Barnathan who has proven himself to be the ace of this staff pitched a complete game giving up just 1 run on 6 hits while striking out 8 and allowing only 1 walk. Barnathan found himself in trouble in the 6th (The inning following his home run). St. Dominic had bases loaded with one out but Barnathan got of the jam allowing only their lone run to come on a fielder's choice to the shortstop and getting the next batter to pop out. The FRIARS will play game 1 of the second round Tuesday. The FRIARS will play No. 3 seed St. John the Baptist in a best of three series.
League Leaders
AVG.
Colin Barnathan - .464 - 2nd
Scott Ferrara - .351 - 9th
Matt Parker - .298 - 13th
Bill Ruggiero - .280 - 18th
Larry Flammia - .279 - 19th
Colin Frank - .260 - 25th
Stolen Bases
Scott Ferrara - 7 - T3rd
Home Runs
Colin Barnathan - 2 - T2nd
Scott Ferrara - 1 - T3rd
Larry Flammia - 1 - T3rd
Matt Parker - 1 - T3rd
Chris Walker - 1 - T3rd
RBI
Colin Barnathan - 13 - 3rd
Scott Ferrara - 10 - T5th
Larry Flammia - 10 - T5th
Matt Parker - 9 - T6th
Wins
Colin Barnathan - 5 - T3rd
ERA
Colin Barnathan - 0.83 - 4th
Eddie McAleer - 2.08 - 12th
Strikeouts
Colin Barnathan - 38 - T5th
Eddie McAleer - 38 - T5th
Nick Faust - 23 - 16th
Team Leaders
As the season comes to a close, here are the final stat leaders for the FRIARAS:
AVG.
Colin Barnathan - .466
Chris Walker - .425
Larry Cornelia - .378
Scott Ferrara - .323
Matt Parker - .315
RBI
Colin Barnathan - 15
Larry Flammia - 13
Matthew Parker - 11
Scott Ferrara - 10
Larry Cornelia - 7
Stolen Bases
Scott Ferrara - 11
Andrew Colby - 4
Larry Flammia - 4
Wins
Colin Barnathan - 6
Eddie McAleer - 3
Vinny Parisi - 2
ERA
Colin Barnathan - 0.99
Eddie McAleer - 2.22
Nick Faust - 3.11
Strikeouts
Colin Barnathan - 41
Eddie McAleer - 38
Nick Faust - 29
FRIARS Clinch Home Field in First Round with Win
With a perfect home record, the FRIARS wanted to make sure that they earned the 4th seed and with it a home game in the single elimination first round. To do that, they would need to win a home on game on Holy Trinity soil against a team that had beatem them twice. The FRIARS were more than ready for the challenge. The FRIARS defeated Trinity Tuesday by a score of 8-2. The offense for the FRIARS was provided by their 3 and 4 hitters. But this game they had a new 3 hitter. Chris Walker who was out early due to a thumb injury was moved up in the lineup Tuesday and showed why he belong their. Walker went 3-3 with 2 RBIs including a solo home run in the bottom of the fourth to put the FRIARS ahead 4-2. Then in the sixth, in his last regular season at bat as a FRIAR, Colin Barnathan capped off an amazing season with a 2 run homer to give the FRIARS a 8-2 lead. Barnathan finished the day 4-4 with 3 RBIs. Eddie McAleer picked up the W for his second league win. The FRIARS will face St. Dominic in first round of the playoffs. St. Dominic won the season series 2-1. The game will be played at 11:00 at Merrick Ave.
Trinity Ends FRIARS Hope for 2nd Place
In a series that started opening day, game 2 would start out very different between the FRIARS and NSCHSAA rival Holy Trinity. For the FRIARS lineup had been changed dramatically since that first day. Unfortunately the result was the same. The FRIARS fell Monday to Trinity 7-1. With the FRIARS ace Colin Barnathan on the hill things looked positive as Barnathan struck out 8 of the first 14 batters. Barnathan even helped himself by providing the FRIARS lone run. With the count full, Barnathan sent a shot over the center field fence to give the FRIARS 1-0 lead in the top of the second. However, he did not have as good a day on the mound as his previous outings. Barnathan gave up 7 runs on 6 hits. With the loss the FRIARS at best can finish 4th place giving them a home game in the first round but they win tomorrow against Trinity. Eddie McAleer will be on the hill for the FRIARS.
FRIARS Defeat St. Mary's
Nick Faust was on the mound Wednesday for the FRIARS and wanted to prove that Friday's start against Kellenberg in which he went 10 innings striking out 10 was no fluke. And he did just that in the FRIARS 6-1 victory over St. Mary's. Faust was superb going five innings giving up 1 run on 5 hits striking out 5. But unless the FRIARS could muster up two runs Faust would suffer another loss. After Faust got out of a tough fifth inning giving up St. Mary's only run he took himself out of the game due to soreness in his arm. The FRIARS responded to a great outing by their starter. Bill Ruggiero led off the top of the 6th with a single. Larry Flammia moved him over on a bunt. With the tying run on second, the man who has been carrying this team all year long came up big. Colin Barnathan hit a triple to center field fence to not only drive in the tying run but put the go ahead 90 feet away. Barnathan would finish the day 3-3 with 2 RBIs. After failing to execute the squeeze, Matt Parker wanted to make up for not being able to bunt him in...So he drove him in. Parker ripped a double to left center to put the FRIARS in the lead. He went 2-3 with 3 RBIs. Now with the lead all the FRIARS would have to do is hold it. John Barbieri came in to start the 6th. He faced one batter and struck him out. Chris Meccariello followed by striking out the other two batters in the inning. The FRIARS were still fired up and that showed. After the first two batters of the inning popped out the next five would score 4 runs on 5 hits to give the FRIARS some nice insurance. After Meccariello gave up a leadoff hit in the bottom of the seventh, the FRIARS defense would pick him up. The next batter hit a ground ball to Barnathan at short. He stepped on second threw over to first for the double play. The FRIARS victory put them at .500 for the year in the NSCHSAA. Next up on the FRIARS schedule is Holy Trinity.
FRIARS Home Win Streak Continues
The FRIARS may not be playing their home games on St. Anthony soil but no one's complaining. The FRIARS played their last regular season game at Farmingdale Tuesday defeating St. Mary's 6-0. 6 of the FRIARS 7 league wins have come at home. Just another reason home field advantage in the first round of the playoffs could make all the difference. As for Tuesday's game, the FRIARS were not going to underestimate St. Mary's again after falling to them Monday. The FRIARS struck early scoring three runs in the bottom of the 2nd. Scott Ferrara capped off the rally with a 2 run single. He would finish the day 3-4 with 3 RBIs. After allowing 7 runs Monday, the FRIARS pitching staff shutout St. Mary's. Actually, one pitcher shutout St. Mary's. He's the same pitcher who leads the league in ERA and wins. Colin Barnathan has been one of if not the main reason for the FRIARS success this year. He improved his MVP resume by pitching a complete game allowing no runs on 3 hits while striking out 6 and walking only 2. St. Mary's had a couple of opportunities to score but in the 4th inning they had bases loaded and nobody out. After a visit by Coach Pars Barnathan settled down got the following hitter to fly out then struck out the next two batters to stop the threat and send a message to St. Mary's that they weren't going to score in this game. Colin Frank also had a good day from the plate. He went 2-3 scoring twice. He is now .500 over the last three games including his game winning sacrifice on Friday. Larry Cornelia had a tough day from the plate but made up for it with his glove. He had a total of 7 assists taking base hits ans possible runs away from St. Mary's. The rubber match of the series will be played Wednesday at Wang Field. Nick Faust will look to have another quality start. In his last one he went 10 innings striking out 10 keeping the FRIARS in the game that they would eventually win in 13 innings.
FRIARS Win Streak Comes to a Close
After sweeping Kellenberg in which they had to come behind in two of the games, the FRIARS fell to St. Mary's Monday by a score of 7-5. Where in recent games they didn't score until late in the game, the FRIARS took a 3-0 lead in the bottom of the second only to have the lead chipped away at as St. Mary's scored two runs in the third and another three in the fifth. The FRIARS answered with a run in the fifth and sixth to tie the score with one inning to play. St. Mary's got three hits off of reliever Larry Flammia and took a two run lead which would how the game would end. Flammia was charged with his first loss of the year. Starter Eddie McAleer had a tough outing going five innings giving up five runs, four of them earned on eight hits. From the plate the FRIARS had eleven hits, six of them coming from the bottom half of the order. Scott Ferrara went 2-4 with 2 RBIs. Friday's hero Colin Frank went 2-3 with a couple of stolen bases. Brian Reutter had one his better days going 2-3 with a RBI and a stolen base. Colin Barnathan will get the start Tuesday as the FRIARS look to even up the series. Tuesday's game will be played at 4:15 at Farmingdale State College. The game will be played in FSC's new baseball stadium.
FRIARS Comeback & Complete the Sweep in 13 innings
The last time the FRIARS had an extra inning game the result was disappointing but that wasn't the story Friday. The FRIARS defeated Kellenberg 5-4 to sweep their NSCHSAA opponent. FRIARS starter Nick Faust who has had a tough year came out firing. He retired Kellenberg quickly in the FIRST, but things soon turned ugly. With one on and two out Faust was confident about the inning but a single and a walk later soon left the bases loaded for Kellenberg's leadoff hitter. The big third baseman sent an 0-1 pitch from Faust over the left field fence. The FRIARS were down by four and the game was getting closer to the end. The FRIARS were able to get a run in the fifth and sixth but they still needed two runs in the bottom of the seventh if they wanted to stay alive in this game. Colin Frank who ended up being the difference maker in this game hit a single to the hole to leadoff the inning. Brian Reutter followed with a walk. Scott Ferrara kept the rally going with a bunt single that ended up scoring a run on a throwing error. The FRIARS soon had bases loaded, two out, and only down by one run. With yesterday's hero Matt Parker at the plate, The FRIARS soon heard the best call from an umpire they have heard all year...
Kellenberg's pitcher had ballked allowing Ferrara to cross the plate and tie the game. Extra innings did not bring out the FRIARS' best at least from the plate. The FRIARS were set down 1-2-3 in the 8th, 9th, 10th, and 11th. Their pitching is what kept them in the game. Faust went ten strong innings throwing 139 pitches strking out 10 walking only two and he did not give up a run past the 2nd inning. Although he fought it, Faust came out of the game in the 11th and Junior pitcher Vinny Parisi entered the game. He got into some trouble in the 11th but a great play by third baseman Larry Flammia caused Kellenberg to get doubled up and end the inning. After that Parisi was lights out pitching allowing only one walk and striking out two. The FRIARS loaded the bases in the 12th but were unable to score. The 13th inning would be the one that decide this game. Bill Ruggiero led off the inning with a walk. Before John Barbieri could even think about bunting him over, Kellenberg's pitcher balked and sent Ruggiero to second. The next pitch went to the backstop and put the winning run ninety feet away. Barbieri went down swinging but with two out remaining things looked good for the FRIARS. Colin Frank stepped to the plate looking to get Ruggiero home, and that he did. Frank hit a 1-1 pitch to the outfield and with the pop of the glove, Ruggiero was off to the races. The FRIARS had won the game coming from behind and sweeping Kellenberg. Next up on the FRIARS schedule is St. Mary's who has improved since last year and could give the FRIARS trouble. Momentum however is on the FRIARS side and could be what gives them the edge as they look to continue their winning streak.
7th Inning Rally Lifts FRIARS
Scott Ferrara led off the game with a single into center and it seemed like the FRIARS would have a good day at the plate. Little did anyone know that it would take another twenty two batters for them to get another hit but once the bats got going, they came up big in the FRIARS 8-1 victory over Kellenberg. Colin Barnathan was on the hill for the FRIARS and had another stellar outing. He took a perfect game into the fourth innning and a no hitter into the fifth. He only gave up one run on three hits striking out four and allowing only two walks. Despite his excellent pitching it looked like the FRIARS would fall short for the day because of their inability to cross the plate. Momentum would soon turn. Larry Flammia led off the seventh a drew a 3-2 walk to start the rally. Colin Barnathan followed with single through the left side of the infield. Now with runners at first and second and nobody out, everyone assumed Matt Parker would lay down a bunt to put the go ahead run in scoring position. But Manager John Newman had faith in his five hitter and gave him the sign to swing away. That decision turned out to best one he could've made. Matt Parker sent 1-1 pitch from Kellenberg's starter over the right field fence. The FRIARS weren't done though. Chris Walker drew a walk. Larry Cornelia laid down to move him over, but poor fielding by Kellenberg allowed to reach first safely. Kellenberg intentionally walked Colin Frank which soon backfired. Two batters later, Scott Ferrara sent a deep shot off the center field fence to drive in another two. Bill Ruggiero reached on an error followed by a sac fly by the player who started off the inning Larry Flammia. And with the score now 6-1 Colin Barnathan whose run proved to be the winning one wanted to put the icing on the cake and drove in another two runs with a one out double. The victory did a lot for the FRIARS. It brought them up to .500 on the year as they are now 8-8 overall. It also clinched the first league series win for them. The win was the first league game the FRIARS have won on the road. They go for the series sweep tomorrow at 4:15 at Farmingdale State College. Nick Faust will look to turn things around and pick up his first win of the seaon as he takes the hill.
McAleer Shutouts Kellenberg
Eddie McAleer has been one of most dominant pitchers on the FRIARS' staff this year but until today he had not earned a league win mainly due to a lack of run support. So today he wanted to make sure that wouldn't be a problem as the FRIARS defeated Kellenberg 1-0. McAleer pitched seven innings of scoreless baseball. He struck out seven, and only allowed four hits and gave up one walk. The FRIARS scored in the bottom of the third. With two outs and runners on the corners Bill Ruggiero sent a 2-1 pitch into the outfield to drive in Colin Frank for the winning run. That would be all the FRIARS would need for the win. Kellenberg's closest opportunity to score came in the sixth. They had runners at first and third with nobody out. McAleer got their cleanup to hit a ground ball to Larry Flammia at third. With the crack of the bat their runner was off and Flammia threw a strike to Chris Walker to get the runner. McAleer then retired the next two batters on a fly out and a strikeout to end Kellenberg's threat. Game two of the series will be played at 4:15 at Kellenberg's Merrick Ave field. Colin Barnathan will put his perfect record on the line as he takes the hill.
FRIARS Shutout in Series Finale
Nick Faust pitched the game he had all season holding St. Dominic to just three runs on three hits but the FRIARS couldn't make anything happen with the lumber as they lost 3-0. St. Dominic got a two out rally in the third to make the score 2-0 and added another run in the fourth. The FRIARS didn't have a runner make it past second base. They threatened in the fourth with first and second with one out and then again in the seventh with first and second and nobody out but couldn't get that one hit to put them back in the game. The FRIARS have some time off as their next game is not until Tueday against Kellenberg. The FRIARS still have time to rebound but this rocky first half but will need to win the three remaining series if they wish to put themselves in position to finish in the top half of the standings.
Farmingdale Brings the FRIARS Luck
The FRIARS extended their home win streak Wednesday as they defeated St. Dominic 5-2. Colin Barnathan picked up his team leading fourth win as he allowed two runs, one earned on nine hits striking out five. The game was tied but then in the fourth inning, the FRIARS took control. With two outs and no one Scott Ferrara hits a triple over the center fielder's head. Larry Cornelia then came up and ripped a single up the middle to drive in. Larry Flammia and Colin Barnathan followed with walks. Following the walks Matt Parker who has been one of the biggest bats in the FRIARS lineup hit a single to drive in two. The FRIARS are now 3-0 at Farmingdale and will seek to win the series Thursday at 4:15.
FRIARS Drop Series Opener
The FRIARS got thirteen hits Tuesday but fell to St. Dominic 3-2. The FRIARS struck first in the top of the first scoring a run. St. Dominic responded with two of their own. The FRIARS tied it in the second and the score would remain that way until the fifth inning when St. Dominic got their nine aboard and he would eventually come around to score with what would be the winning run. The FRIARS best chance to score came in the seventh as they got two doubles and a single in the inning but poor baserunning cost them the game. Eddie McAleer had another nice outing allowing only three runs on five hits. Larry Flammia had a great day from the dish going 3-4 with an RBI and a stolen base. Game 2 of the series will be played Wednesday at Farmingdale State College. Colin Barnathan will start the game for the FRIARS and go after win number four.
Commack Hands FRIARS First Non League Loss
The FRIARS suffered their first Non-League loss Friday losing to Commack 5-0. Chris Meccariello started the game for the FRIARS and pitched well but Commack's metal bats got the best of him as he let up four runs, three of them earned. John Barbieri came in for the final two innings and only allowed one more run to score but the FRIARS couldn't get the bats going. They only had five hits with none of them for an extra base. Chris Walker returned from the DL and went 0-1. The FRIARS next opponent is Catholic League rival St. Dominic. The series begins Tuesday.
Despite Cold, FRIARS Win Scrimmage
The temperature was low but that didn't stop the FRIARS Friday as they defeated Glen Cove 7-2. The real highlight of the day had to come in the third inning with nobody out and two runners on Glen Cove tried to execute a bunt and run that didn't turn out so well for them. The bunt got popped up to FRIARS pitcher Billy Gardner. Gardner threw it over to Brian Reutter covering first who then tossed over to Daniel Macari covering second and just like the inning was over as the FRIARS executed the triple play. After that inning Gardner didn't allow another runner on as he struck out the side the next two innings. This was Gardner's first time throwing off a mound since tryouts when he sidelined due to tendonitis. The FRIARS have their off week in terms of CHSAA play but they have three games this week. Wednesday they go against Commack, Thursday they face Ward Melville and they end the week Saturday against Grand St.
FRIARS Defeat Ward Melville
The FRIARS' bats came alive against Ward Melville Thursday as they defeated the non-league opponent 12-7. The FRIARS loaded the bases in the top of the first but were only able to score two runs. Ward Melville responded with a run of their own and then tied it in the second. The FRIARS took control of the game in the top of the third. Dan Macari reached on an error followed by a couple of bunt singles by Pat Fullam and Ryan Campbell put the FRIARS in great position to add to their lead. Larry Cornelia then hit a single up the middle to drive in two. Andrew Colby then followed with a RBI single of his own. The FRIARS crossed the plate seven times in the inning giving them a 9-2 lead. Ward Melville got two runs in the fourth but the FRIARS soon crushed any hope of a comeback. Larry Cornelia got his second hit of the day and drove in another two capping off a three run sixth for the FRIARS. Cornelia finished the day 2-4 with two RBIs. Andrew Colby went 3-4 with two RBIs and two stolen bases. Eddie McAleer started the day on the hill and picked up his first win of the year going four innings giving up four run, two earned on five hits. Billy Gardner and Larry Flammia finished out the game only giving up three runs on four hits. The FRIARS next game is Friday against Commack.
FRIARS Drop Series
The FRIARS lost the rubber match of the series against Chaminade Wednesday falling 4-0. The FRIARS had no extra base hits and the best opportunity to score came in the top of the sixth when they had first and second with one out but could not get a runner home. Nick Faust had a tough outing on the hill going four innings giving up four runs while walking four and hitting two batters. The FRIARS now have their off week in which they will play three non-league games against Commack, Ward Melville, and Grand St. With eleven games to play in the CHSAA there is still more than enough time to turn the season around.
FRIARS Name Team Captains
Manager named John Newman named seniors Colin Barnathan, Scott Ferrara, and Chris Walker team captains before Tuesday's game against Chaminade. All three are excellent ball players and have the respect of their teammates. They will certainly help raise the FRIARS spirits and hopefully help lead them to the school's first championship in seven years.
Get in the Flask! FRIARS Take Game 2
With two outs and a runner on, Larry Flammia crushed a 1-0 pitch over the left field fence to cap off a great day for the FRIARS. The FRIARS defeated Chaminade 7-2. After only being able to get three hits the day before, the FRIARS wanted to let Chaminade that this series was just beginning. The FRIARS got eleven hits off of Chaminade pitchers. Scott Ferrara went 2-3 with stolen base and a two run single that helped the FRIARS pull awayun the bottom of the fourth. Larry Cornelia went 2-2 including a bunt single. He would eventually score on Ferrara's double. The most impressive however had to be senior superstar Colin Barnathan. He got the job done on the mound and at the plate. He pitched his second consecutive complete game allowing no earned runs while striking out nine. He even helped himself by going 3-3 from the plate with two doubles, single, walk, and a RBI. The FRIARS flashed the leather today too cutting their errors in half from the day before and turning two double plays saving potential big innings for Chaminade. The rubber match of the series will be played tomorrow at 1:00 at St. Paul's. Nick Faust will take the mound for the FRIARS.
Shaky Defense Costs FRIARS
Chaminade have always given the FRIARS trouble but Monday afternoon it wasn't the Flyers offense that gave them a 5-1 victory but more the FRIARS defense. The FRIARS committed 4 errors. Eddie McAleer had another impressive outing allowing only 2 earned runs while striking out 6. McAleer's ERA now stands at 2.00 but has yet to earn a win in his senior year. The FRIARS got their only run in the third inning. Scott Ferrara standing raced home after a wild pitch by Chaminade. Needless to say the FRIARS did not have a good day at the plate as they only had three with nine strikeouts. Game 2 of the series will be played Tuesday at Farmingdale State. Colin Barnathan will start the game for the FRIARS.
Disappointing Day for FRIARS
The FRIARS started off the continuation of Game 1 by loading the bases and with a two out walk by Colin Barnathan things looked positive. Entering the bottom of the 11th with a one run lead a Chris Meccariello on the hill everything was in the FRIARS favor. With a leadoff single and stolen base, the FRIARS soon found the St. John the Baptist had the tying run in scoring position with nobody out. An error allowed the run to cross the plate but the a win was still in reach...or it seemed so. A hit batter and another error gave SJB the win.
The FRIARS took momentive early in the second game with a leadoff triple by Scott Ferrara and an RBI single by Larry Flammia. SJB responded with two runs of their own in the first inning. They added another two in the bottom of the third. The FRIARS started to chip away at the lead with a run in the fifth. They had other opportunities to catch up but couldn't get that one hit to keep them in the game. Nick Faust was charged with the loss pitching all 6 innings giving only three hits but he had a tough day allowing 6 walks and hitting 3 batters. John Barbieri has been impressive at the plate going 4-6 with 2 RBIs since starting Game 2 and Game 3. The FRIARS most difficult challenge of the season awaits them Monday as they face off against Chaminade. The FRIARS-Flyers matchups are ones that always filled with excitement regardless of which sport and this one shows to be no different.
FRIARS Get First League Win
"I'm going seven" said Colin Barnathan to Coach Pars during warmups before Game 2 against catholic league rival St. John the Baptist. Not only did Barnathan go seven he was lights out doing it. Barnathan pitched a shutout strking out six and only allowing three hits in the process. It looked like it would be another extra innings game until the FRIARS got going in the bottom of the sixth. Barnathan led things off with an infield single. Anthony Freeman pinch ran and with a past ball the go ahead run was ninety feet away. A ground ball hit by Nick Faust gave Freeman all the room he needed and with a slam of the plate the FRIARS were up 1-0. The FRIARS didn't stop there hitting consecutive singles. THE FRIARS batted around and Barnathan who started off the rally capped off the inning with an RBI single giving the FRIARS a 7-0 lead going into the seventh. Despite a hit batter, Barnathan quickly squashed any hope of a comeback getting the next batter to ground out and striking out the last. Barnathan has now been the winning pitcher for both of the FRIARS wins this season. He ended the game 3-4 with a RBI. John Barbieri offense going 2-3 with a RBI and a stolen base. Larry Flammia went 2-4 with 2 RBIs. The FRIARS will finish Game 1 of the series Thursday at 11:30 followed by Game 3. Nick Faust will be on the hill for Game 3.
Timely hitting, that's baseball
Monday's game was filled with great pitching, a play at the plate, a long ball, the press in the stands, and a couple of scary moments for FRIARS fans. The one thing the did not have was a winner. The game lasted ten innings and was still at a 2-2 tie. The game was finally called due to darkness. It will be resumed at St. John the Baptist at 11:30 before the third game of the series. Scott Ferrara went deep with his first home run of his varsity career. An error on SJB allowed the FRIARS to tie the game up but that would be all for the scoring as neither the FRIARS or SJB could add another. Eddie McAleer was superb for the FRIARS. He threw 114 pitches striking out ten. SJB did not reach second base after the fourth inning. The FRIARS had some opportunity to get the win but could not get the one hit that would put them in the lead. With the bench nearly all used up, Thursday's continuation will certainly be game you won't want to miss.
FRIARS Drop League Opener
The FRIARS trailed early and were never able to muster the comeback as they fell 5-2 to Holy Trinity on Saturday. Junior Pitcher John Barbieri was charged the loss giving up three runs on five hits in three innings. Chris Meccariello finished the final four innings pitching quite effectively until a two run top of the seventh. The highlight of the FRIARS offense was Larry Flammia going 2-3 with an RBI. Colin Barnathan added a RBI giving the FRIARS their first run. Scott Ferrara stole two bases bringing his total to six for the year. The FRIARS will face St. John the Baptist on Monday.
FRIARS Add Another Win in Scrimmage Play
After the FRIARS first game of the season they would have scrimmages to play in preparation for Holy Trinity. On Tuesday, they traveled to William Floyd where they played until it got dark an when the sun set the score was 7-7. Wednesday they went to Islip and despite the long walk to get to the field the FRIARS played welll endind in another 7-7 tie with their opponent. Friday was a long day and with some impressive play the FRIARS defeated Mount St. Michael 11-6. The FRIARS are now 4-0-2 in scrimmages this season.
FRIARS Take Season Opener
The FRIARS saw a lot of things that had not been there in past years. They had timely hits, were aggressive on the base paths, and manager John Newman was coaching third. The FRIARS struck first and had a 5-0 lead going into the bottom of the fifth but Bayshore responded with a 5 run inning to tie the game. The FRIARS then sent a message to Bay Shore responding with a 4 run sixth capped off by a 2 RBI single by Larry Cornelia. Colin Barnathan finished out the game allowing one run on his way to picking up the win. He also added some offense with 2 RBIs including a triple in the fifth. Scott Ferrara ran all over Bay Shore swiping 4 bags. The FRIARS are 1-0 overall. The next game is against Holy Trinity on Saturday.
Season Opener Tomorrow
The FRIARS season officially kicks off tomorrow against Bayshore. To all players: Remember we're away so wear you grey hat, black jersey, & grey pants. Good Luck!
FRIARS Go 3-0 in Preseason Play
Thursday the FRIARS were able to muscle a run and that's all they would need as they defeated Patchogue-Medford. Saturday featured a couple of split squad games. The FRIARS were on the right side of the scoreboard for both. They defeated Center Moriches 12-0 and Riverhead 20-5. The FRIARS season kicks off Monday with a non-league game against Bayshore. They're NSCHSAA season starts a week from today against Holy Trinity.
2007 Team Selected
Congratulations to those 24 players selected to be part of this year's team. The roster has been posted and remember all players must meet downstairs after school on Wednesday to receive their uniforms.
Field Change for 2007
Due to construction that will going on at St. Anthony's the FRIARS will play their home games at SUNY Farmingdale and practices will be held at Otsego Park.
Baseball Kickoff Meeting Recap
This past Wednesday Coach Newman met with the hopefuls for the 2007 team. A lot of interest in this year's team was shown by the nearly 40 boys who showed up including returns from last year's varsity team and last year's championship junior varsity team. Coach Newman encouraged the boys to begin getting ready for tryouts which are now less than a month away.
Welcome to our Site
Welcome to the official home of Friars Baseball. This site has all the information you ever wanted to know about the baseball program at St. Anthony's High School. Led by manager John Newman the team has always been a fierce competitor in the conference. This site contains stats, schedules, standings, directions to the games, and much more. As tryouts begin in March, check back for important info regarding the season. Check out the photos from last season and sign our guestbook. Things coming soon to the site will be info regarding Friars in college playing ball and bios on our coaching staff. Keep on checking back for the latest news from Friartown, USA.
"It is not the critic who counts: not the man who points out how the strong man stumbles or where the doer of deeds could have done better. The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood, who strives valiantly, who errs and comes up short again and again, because there is no effort without error or shortcoming, but who knows the great enthusiasms, the great devotions, who spends himself for a worthy cause; who, at the best, knows, in the end, the triumph of high achievement, and who, at the worst, if he fails, at least he fails while daring greatly, so that his place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who knew neither victory nor defeat."
-Theodore Roosevelt
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St. Anthony's Friars Baseball
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