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Oshawa Tourney Recap
Leaside Summary
Game One
The Leaside Leafs took on the East York Bulldogs and came away with a 4-1 victory. The story of this game was Josh Howsam, who continues to be nearly unhittable in 2009. After no-hitting Newmarket in 5 and 1-hitting East York in 5 in his last two outings, Howsam topped both of those performances in game one of the Oshawa Invitational.
Howsam tossed a 7 inning complete game, allowing just 2 hits and 1 run. Howsam took a perfect game into the 6th. The first East York batter to reach base came via an error to lead off the frame. Howsam took a no-hitter into the 7th before Victor Simon broke up the bid with a lead off hit. He would come around to score the only East York run with a 2 out base hit to centre. Howsam went 7 innings, allowing 2 hits and 1 run. He did not walk a batter and struck out 8.
The Leafs' bats were almost as impressive. They got to East York ace Shawn Leah with a run in the first, 2 in the 3rd and 1 more in the 4th. Leah scattered 10 hits in a complete game.
Pacing the attack was Davey Wallace, who went 3-3 with 2 RBI. Henry Yap added a double and a single. James Rutherford had an RBI double and a single. Bryan Rock, Kyle Kristenbrun and Jeff Gruchy each added base hits. Yap and Wallace combined to score all 4 runs.
Game Two
In Game 2, the Leafs hooked up with the Etobicoke Rangers. The Leafs jumped out to a 1-0 lead in the first. The Rangers tied it in the 4th, and put up 3 in the 5th to jump ahead 4-1. The Leafs responded with 1 in the bottom of the 5th. In the top of the 7th, a Rob Borden 2 run double made it 6-2 for the Leafs. In the bottom of the 7th, the Leafs made it interesting as they put up 3 runs to narrow the gap to 6-5, but that's as close as they would come.
Lee Maunu was the hard luck loser in this one. Lee did not allow the Rangers to get a hit until the 5th. Etobicoke took advantage of some shaky defence by the Leafs, and capitalized on mistakes. Maunu went 6.1 innings, giving up 6 runs (2 earned). He walked 1 and struck out 3. Desmond Sullivan replaced Maunu in the 7th and recorded the last 2 outs.
At the plate, the Leafs outhit the Rangers 7-4. Davey Wallace was 2-3 with a double, single and 2 runs scored. Bryan Rock had a towering triple, single and drove in 2 runs. James Rutherford had a double and 2 RBI. Kyle Kristenbrun added a single and RBI. Matt Nailer rounded out the hitting with a single of his own.
Game Three
The Leafs faced the Kendal Eagles in a must win game. With 1 in the first, 2 in the second and 5 in the third, the Leafs went up 8-0. The Eagles added 2 runs in the 5th to make it 8-2 and that would be the finals score.
Jorge Frugoni went the distance for the Leafs. Jorge went 7 innings and allowed just 2 runs. He scattered 6 hits, walked 1 ans struck out 5.
Game Four: Semi-Finals
The Oshawa Royals ousted the Leaside Leafs in the semi-finals of the Oshawa Invitational. The Leafs battled hard all weekend but came up just short. The Oshawa Royals put up 2 runs in the 3rd inning. The Leafs responded with 1 in the top of the 4th. That would be all the scoring in this 2-1 game. The Leafs had countless opportunities to win the game but failed to execute. Leaside outhit Oshawa 9-3 in the game, but made 3 errors which led to 1 unearned run. The Royals played flawless defensively.
Desmond Sullivan got the start for the Leafs and was fantastic. He went 5 innings, allowing just 3 hits and 2 runs (1 earned). He walked 6 as he battled through a tight strikezone by the homeplate umpire. He also struck out 3. Gurminder Singh took over in the 6th and retired the side in order.
Henry Yap was the offensive leader for the Leafs, going 4 for 4 with an RBI. Jeff Gruchy was 3 for 4 with a run scored. Andrew Kirwin rounded out the hitting with 2 hits.
Notes
The Oshawa Royals took on the Markham Pioneers in the finals. The Pioneers got by the Etobicoke Rangers in extra innings.
Dustin Turner of the St. Catharines Metros struck out the first 12 batters in order, to start the game against Newmarket. Somehow, the Metros still lost 7-6.
Scores
FRIDAY
OSHAWA ROYALS 8 (WP - Chris Kemlo) vs NEWMARKET HAWKS 1
MARKHAM PIONEERS 4 vs WHITBY CANADIANS 3 (LP - Mike Arsenault)
LEASIDE LEAFS 4 (WP - Josh Howsam) vs EAST YORK BULLDOGS 1 (LP - Shawn Leah)
ETOBICOKE RANGERS 5 (WP - Shawn Silk) vs KENDAL EAGLES 3 (LP - Troy Foster)
TECUMSEH THUNDER 5 (WP - Kyle Trudell) vs ERINDALE CARDINALS 4 (LP - Chris Currie)
ST. CATHARINES METROS 12 (WP - TJ Tavender) vs MILTON RED SOX 2 (LP - Sean Mathe)
SATURDAY
ETOBICOKE RANGERS 6 (WP - Dan McIldoon) vs LEASIDE LEAFS 5 (LP - Lee Maunu)
NEWMARKET HAWKS 7 vs ST.CATHARINES METROS 6 (LP - Dustin Turner)
MARKHAM PIONEERS 1 vs ERINDALE CARDINALS 0
MILTON RED SOX 2 (LP - Adam Scheerer) vs OSHAWA ROYALS 7 (WP - Jordan Prosper)
KENDAL EAGLES 0 vs EAST YORK BULLDOGS 5
TECUMSEH THUNDER 2 (LP - Andrew Pierce) vs WHITBY CANADIANS 5 (WP - Lars Clay)
EAST YORK BULLDOGS 3 vs ETOBICOKE RANGERS 4 (WP - Peter Saweczko)
ERINDALE CARDINALS 6 vs WHITBY CANADIANS 5 (LP - Lars Clay)
LEASIDE LEAFS 8 (WP - Jorge Frugoni) vs KENDAL EAGLES 2
MILTON RED SOX 2 (LP - Adam Ahearn) vs NEWMARKET HAWKS 3
TECUMSEH THUNDER 5 (LP - Jason Horvat) vs MARKHAM PIONEERS 11 (WP - Steve Anderson)
OSHAWA ROYALS 9 (WP - Gary Rose) vs ST.CATHARINES METROS 7 (LP - Eric DeBoer)
SUNDAY
SEMI FINALS
ETOBICOKE RANGERS 3 (LP - Brian Rutledge) vs MARKHAM PIONEERS 4 (WP - Jason Graham)
LEASIDE LEAFS 1 (LP - Desmond Sullivan) vs OSHAWA ROYALS 2 (WP - Dave Anderson)
FINALS
MARKHAM 2 (LP - Paul Hadfield) vs OSHAWA 4 (WP - Geoff Davidson)
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Elimination Schedule Released
June 17, 2009 --
Last week, the Senior A Elimination bracket was released. For the second year in a row the Leaside Leafs have drawn the Oshawa Royals. Last year, the Royals beat the Leafs 4-0. The Royals eventually made the finals and lost to the Windsor Stars. As finalists, the Royals represented Ontario at the National Championships for the second straight year. There is no doubt that the Leafs will be in tough against the powerful Royals. This game is definitely the biggest game of the 11 first round matchups.
Other notable matchups include the Windsor Stars (the host and frontrunner) taking on the Burlington Brants. Also, the Thornhill Reds will take on the Markham Pioneers in what is sure to be a good game.
Other GTBL Matchups
Newmarket Hawks vs. Erindale Cardinals
East York Bulldogs vs. Strathroy Royals
Martingrove White Sox vs. St. Catharines Metros
Thornhill Reds 2 vs. Etobicoke Rangers
The Rest
Tecumseh Thunder vs. Lakeside Lizards
Glanbrook Grizzlies vs. WAA
Brampton Battlecats vs. Milton Red Sox
Whitby Canadians vs. Oakville A's
Players to Watch
There will be some excellent talent on display as usual. Here are some of the key players to keep an eye on.
Josh Howsam, P, Leaside
Davey Wallace, SS, Leaside
James Rutherford, OF, Leaside
Henry Yap, IF, Leaside
Bryan Rock, C, Leaside
Chris Kemlo, P, Oshawa
Kenny Rogers, IF, Oshawa
Darryl Reid, 1B, Oshawa
Mark West, P, Newmarket
Geoff Cullen, 1B/P, Erindale
Kevin Treichel, OF, Erindale
Joe Kirby, IF, Burlington
Steve Carter, P, Windsor
John Picco, P, Windsor
Tom Grubb, OF, Windsor
Dan Romanycia, 1B, Tecumseh
Matt Stezycki, IF/P, Tecumseh
Sean Grimes, P, Lakeside
Shawn Leah, OF/P, East York
Jake Gallo, P, East York
Andy Ryder, SS, East York
Steve Charles, OF, Strathroy
Jeff Helps, SS, Strathroy
Mike Czerwieniec, P, Glanbrook
Tim Sogan, OF/P, Glanbrook
Barry Keith, P/IF, WAA
Dustin Turner, P, St. Catharines
Joe Roach, 1B, St. Catharines
Steve Baldinelli, OF, St. Catharines
Steve Foley, OF, Martingrove
Mike Benyo, 1B, Brampton
Taylor Lawton, SS, Milton
Mark Capone, 2B, Etobicoke
Mike Janes, P, Etobicoke
Kyle Hill, P Etobicoke
Dave Benson, OF, Thornhill 2
Harman Brar, P, Thornhill
Travis Skelton, OF, Thornhill
Justin Pennell, OF, Thornhill
Mark Cheeseman, P, Markham
Steve Horsley, P/IF, Markham
Steve Anderson, IF/P, Markham
Jesse Dynes, 1B, Markham
Mark Petrou, OF, Markham
Mike Arsenault, P, Whitby
Lars Clay, P, Whitby
Jeff Jarockis, OF, Oakville
Gord Robertson, P, Oakville
Marc Walton, P, Oakville
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Hap Walters Preview
July 13, 2009 --
This weekend will feature some great baseball in St. Catharines. The annual Hap Walters tournament is set to take place and it will host some of the best teams from around the province. Last year, rain whiped out the final day of play in the tournament. As a result, five teams shared in the prize pool: the Burlington Brants, Windsor Stars, Markham Pioneers, Leaside Leafs and Oshawa Royals. Hopefully this weekend the teams are more fortunate, and a single winner will be declared.
Pool A features the host team, the St. Catharines Metros. The Metros boast one of the best pitching staffs in the province. Dustin Turner, Brian Essery and TJ Tavender form a tough trio. The Windsor Stars are also in this pool. The Stars are arguably the favourites to win the tournament. The Stars were runner-ups in 2005. The Stars are the defending champions and are putting together another fine season. Dane Little has emerged as the teams best pitcher. Given the fact that Steve Carter, Brad Boussey and John Picco are still on the team, it is no wonder why this team is considered to be the most dangerous team around. They seem to be swinging some hot sticks this season as well. They are hitting over .300 as a team. They’re anchored by Tom Grubb and his 7 homeruns. The Newmarket Hawks are also in pool A. The Hawks are fresh off a great week. They are a tournament tested team and they usually do well in every tournament they play in. Last year they made the final 5 in the eliminations. The Burlington Brants round out the pool. They have lost a lot of their punch from last season and have struggled as a result. Trevor Woodjetts is a good, young pitcher. Joe Kirby is an on base machine and is still around to provide veteran leadership.
Pool B is arguably the toughest. It has the Oshawa Royals, Markham Pioneers, Etobicoke Rangers and Whitby Canadians. The Royals were last year’s Ontario runner-ups. They have also won another major tournament this season, winning the Oshawa Invitational. Kenny Rodgers is back in the fold and the return of Darryl Reid is a key as well. The strength of this team is their pitching staff. They are very deep, and will never have a shortage of arms for tournament games. The Pioneers sit atop the GTBL standings and were runner ups in Oshawa. They were a game away from a Nationals appearance last summer. They return all their key players: Jesse Dynes, Mark Cheeseman, Steve Anderson, Steve Horsley, etc. Etobicoke was a semi-finalist in the Oshawa tournament earlier this year. They also beat the Stars in Windsor this season as well. Mike Janes is the key to this team’s pitching staff. AJ Iafrate is having a monster season so far. Mark Capone and John Zamora provide quality bats as well. The Canadians are a new team to A baseball. They are not having success in the EOBA league this year, but they had an impressive showing in the Oshawa tournament earlier this summer. Mike Arsenault has the ability to steal a game.
Pool C consists of the Milton Red Sox, Erindale Cardinals, Windsor Athletics and your Leaside Leafs. The Red Sox were semi finalists in the London tournament a couple of weeks ago. They lost a couple of key arms from last year’s team but always manage to compete and win ball games. The Erindale Cardinals are a hard hitting team, and are the leaders in the COBA league. They seem to be having a lot of pitching success this season, which doesn’t bode well for Erindale’s competition. Geoff Cullen, Frank Coccia and Kevin Treichel anchor a very scary lineup. WAA is another team who manages to do well in tournament play. Barry Keith and Bobby Gilligan are two pitchers who have the ability to shut teams down. Keith is also the team’s best hitter. The Leafs have one of the most potent offences in the province. Davey Wallace and Henry Yap are having tremendous seasons. James Rutherford and Bryan Rock are also having solid seasons as well. Josh Howsam has developed as the ace of a team that all of a sudden looks to be very deep with pitching.
The Leafs take on WAA Friday night at 8:30 PM. Saturday morning at 10 AM, they take on the Cardinals. They complete round robin play at 5:30 on Saturday against the Milton Red Sox.
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Hap Walters Tournament - Leafs Fall Short
July 20, 2009 --
This weekend, the St. Catharines Metros hosted some great games at the Annual Hap Walters Tournament.
Pool A saw the Metros sweep by going 3-0. They beat Newmarket, Burlington and Windsor. The highlight was a 1 hitter by St. Catharines pitcher Brian Essery, against the Windsor Stars. John Picco of Windsor countered with a 2 hitter in the loss. The Stars went 2-1 and won the wild card. Newmarket went 1-2, and Burlington went 0-3.
Pool B winners were the Markham Pioneers. The Pioneers had wins over Etobicoke, Oshawa and Whitby, to go 3-0. Oshawa went 2-1 and narrowly missed a wild card berth. Etobicoke went 1-2, and Whitby went 0-3.
Pool C winners were the Leaside Leafs. The Leafs, WAA and Erindale all tied at 2-1, but the Leafs went through on tie-breaking rules. WAA finished second and Erindale finished 3rd. Milton was 0-3.
Leaside’s Games
ERINDALE 9 vs. LEASIDE 4
In game one, the Erindale Cardinals got by the Leaside Leafs 9-4.
The Cardinals jumped out to a quick lead. They put up 3 in the 2nd and 2 more in the 4th to go up 5-0. The Leafs battled back by putting up 2 in the 5th and 2 in the 6th to make it a 5-4 game. In the 7th, the Cardinals put the Leafs away for good, by putting up 4 runs to win 9-4.
Lee Maunu took the loss for the Leafs. He went 6.2 innings, and gave up 9 runs (7 earned). He gave up 11 hits and walked 1, while striking out 1. Nick Bubela came into strike out the only batter he faced.
At the plate, Davey Wallace, Andrew Kirwin, Kyle Kristenbrun (double), Bryan Rock and James Rutherford (double) all had 2 hits each. Matt Nailer and Henry Yap (double) added a hit each. Leaside outhit Erindale 12-11, but that obviously wasn't enough.
LEASIDE 9 vs. MILTON 3
The Leafs needed help from WAA and a good win against Milton to have a chance to move on. In game 2, the Leafs went up 9-1 early and went on to win 9-3.
The Leafs put up 12 hits once again in this one. Henry Yap had 3 hits (2 singles, double). Andrew Kirwin, James Rutherford and Collin Cummins added 2 hits each. One of Cummins' hits was an absolute bomb to centre field that hit the roof of the factory out in centre field at McKenzie Park. Bryan Rock, John Traiforos and Davey Wallace all added hits.
Desmond Sullivan was terrific for the Leafs. He pitched a complete game, allowing just 3 runs (2 earned). He scattered 4 base hits, while walking 6 and striking out 6.
LEASIDE 3 vs. WAA 1
The stage was set for both teams to have a shot at advancing to the semi finals. Leaside needed to win by 2 or more runs in order to advance. WAA needed to win or only lose by 1 run. The Leafs got that accomplished, but barely. The final score was 3-1.
Leaside appeared on its way to another big win, by putting up 1 in the 1st and 2 in the 2nd. WAA ace Barry Keith settled down and kept the Leafs off the board the rest of the way.
Leaside countered with it's own ace, as Josh Howsam was fabulous once again. Howsam went the distance and allowed WAA only a 3rd inning run. Josh scattered 6 hits. He walked 1 and struck out 5. Davey Wallace (double), Andrew Kirwin (double), Collin Cummins and Kyle Kristenbrun had the 4 hits. Wallace had a big 2 out, 2 run double in the 2nd.
With the win, the Leafs were off to play the host St. Catharines Metros in the semi-finals.
ST. CATHARINES 5 vs. LEASIDE 4
Once again, the Leaside Leafs fell short in the semi-finals. The host Metros of St. Catharines, edged the Leafs 5-4 in an exciting ball game.
The Metros got on the board in the top of the 1st. With 2 outs, and nobody on, the Metros managed to string together a couple of hits and a couple of walks, to score 3 and chase starter Jon Rubin from the game. Gurminder Singh came on in relief, and pitched 4.1 innings, surrendering 2 runs. Both runs came in the 3rd, and put the Metros up 5-0. The Leafs showed some life in the 4th, as they put up 2 to make it 5-2. Matt Nailer and Andrew Kirwin drove in the runs. Garrett Gilroy came on to replace Singh in the 6th, and pitched 2 scoreless innings, to give the Leafs an opportunity in the bottom of the 7th. With 2 outs, the Leafs put together a rally. Davey Wallace was able to drive in 2 runs on a single, to cut the lead to 5-4. With a runner on 3rd, the game ended on a questionable called third strike. Both teams played a flawless defensive game. The Leafs outhit the Metros 10-6.
Davey Wallace had 3 hits. Kyle Kristenbrun and Clarke Markle had 2. James Rutherford, Matt Nailer and Andrew Kirwin all had base hits.
RECAP
The Windsor Stars beat the Markham Pioneers 4-1 in the other semi-final game. The Stars went on to beat the St. Catharines Metros 2-1 in the finals.
Congratulations to the Stars on capturing the Hap Walters Tournament. A congratulations and big thank you also go out to Mark Walters and the St. Catharines Metros organization.
This weekend featured some great baseball. The Leafs can be proud of reaching the semi-finals once again, in a major tournament. The Leafs were also semi-finalists in Oshawa, where they lost 2-1 to the hosts in the semis. The Markham Pioneers were finalists in Oshawa and were also semi-finalists in St. Catharines. The Stars were semi-finalists in the Windsor tournament and as mentioned, were victorious here in St. Catharines.
This was a great prep for the Elimination tournament, which will take place in London two weekends from now.
Pool A
St. Catharines 12 (WP - Dustin Turner) vs. Newmarket 2 (LP - Dan Dobson)
St. Catharines 1 (WP – Brian Essery) vs. Windsor 0 (LP – John Picco)
Newmarket 10 vs. Burlington 0
Windsor 3 (WP - Steve Teno) vs. Newmarket 2 (LP - Neal Baker)
St. Catharines (WP - Dan Estey) 4 vs. Burlington 2
Windsor 4 (WP - Jason Lauzon) vs. Burlington 0 (LP- CJ Cabrero)
Pool B
Oshawa 11 vs. Whitby 1 (LP – Lars Clay)
Markham 4 (WP - Brad Binns) vs. Whitby 3 (LP – Mike Arsenault)
Markham 8 (WP - Steve Horsley) vs. Oshawa 5 (LP - Brett Backman)
Oshawa 13 (WP - Jordan Prosper) vs. Etobicoke 2 (LP - Mike Janes)
Markham 5 (WP - Mark Cheeseman) vs. Etobicoke 4 (LP - Curtis Saunders)
Etobicoke 9 (WP - Dan McIldoon) vs. Whitby 3 (LP – Jeff Kingdon)
Pool C
Erindale 8 vs. Milton 7 (LP – Adam Scheerer)
Erindale 9 (WP - Ian Bala) vs. Leaside 4 (LP – Lee Maunu)
WAA 9 (WP - Mitch Kramer) vs. Erindale 8
WAA 5 (WP - Jared Hurst) vs. Milton 2 (LP – Ian Zettle)
Leaside 9 (WP – Desmond Sullivan) vs. Milton 3 (LP – Kevin Cooper)
Leaside 3 (WP – Josh Howsam) vs. WAA 1 (LP – Barry Keith)
Semi Finals
St. Catharines 5 (WP – Steve Baldinelli) vs. Leaside 4 (LP – Jon Rubin)
Windsor 4 (WP - Dane Little) vs. Markham 1 (LP - Steve Anderson)
Finals
Windsor 2 (WP - Brad Boussey) vs. St. Catharines 1 (LP - Dan Estey)
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2009 Eliminations Preview
July 27, 2009 --
This upcoming weekend is the time that all teams have been waiting for since last August. 22 teams make their way to London, Ontario with the hopes of being crowned Ontario champions, and representing the province at the Senior Nationals in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia. This weekend seems to bring out the best in all individuals and teams. This year, despite having the toughest way into the Nationals, Ontario will only be given one berth to the big dance. Thus, getting to Nova Scotia will be that much tougher. The last three years Ontario has had two representatives. It seems logical to give two berths to Ontario, as no other province has to endure a 20 plus team double knockout tournament to reach the Nationals. Here’s a look at the first round matchups, and a brief synopsis on the teams.
GAME ONE Newmarket Hawks vs. Erindale Cardinals (8PM, LDBA)
This game features two teams with contrasting styles. Newmarket wins games with pitching, defence, and capitalizing on other teams’ mistakes. Erindale traditionally wins by outslugging opponents.
The Hawks are arguably the most underrated team in the province. They don’t necessarily have the big bat in the middle of the lineup, or the shutdown pitcher; but there are many tough outs throughout, and they have very solid pitching. They are led by the versatile Liam O’Brien, who can play many positions, and is having a great year at the plate. Paul Versteeg-Lytwyn is also having a terrific year in the batter’s box. CF Kevin Holloway is among the province leaders in stolen bases, and he is one of the better fielding outfielder’s around. Neal Baker and Adam Kallio have been the best pitcher’s all year long for the Hawks. But as mentioned, they are deep in pitching, and they have many solid pitchers who can get the job done. They usually make deep runs into the Eliminations every year, due to good pitching and defence.
The Cardinals have been one of the best hitting teams in the last decade or so. This year, they have combined that good hitting with good pitching. That combination has led to the Cards being at the top of the COBA standings all season. They have lost their last two games, but what’s most impressive about their season is the fact that those two losses are their first losses by more than one run. The Cardinals also have a tournament win under their belts, after capturing the London tournament. 1B Geoff Cullen has been the most feared hitter in the province over the past few years. RF Kevin Treichel is a big homerun hitter as well, and he compliments Cullen very well. 2B Frank Coccia won the COBA MVP last year. He is a solid hitter and is very good defensively. They don’t really have a standout pitcher, but as mentioned, they have been receiving solid pitching all year long.
GAME TWO Burlington Brants vs. Windsor Stars (3 PM, LDBA)
If this was the first round matchup in last year’s Eliminations, it would have been the best of the first round. This year, Windsor has continued winning as usual, while Burlington has taken a step back.
The Brants are almost a completely different team than the one that went to Windsor for the 2008 Eliminations. The team has had trouble winning ball games this season, but have remained competitive in almost all the games they have played. They went 0-3 at the Hap Walters but could have easily been 2-1. The good news for this team is that C JR Crosby will make his way to London with the team. After moving to Ottawa, JR has decided to join the Brants for this upcoming weekend. Over the past few seasons, he has been the best catcher in Ontario. Trevor Woodjetts is the unquestionable ace of the team. He is a first year senior player, but the Tiffin University graduate has a bright future ahead of him. OF Roger Lambert has put together a stellar season, and his hit 4 homeruns. Despite a sub par season for his standards, SS Joe Kirby is the team’s best player.
The Stars have been the team to beat over the last few years. They are the defending champions. Despite the fact that everyone is always gunning for them, the Stars always seem to get the best of their opposition. The main reason is the deadly pitching staff they throw at opponent’s game in and game out. As if former minor leaguers Steve Carter and John Picco weren’t enough; Brad Boussey has regained his dominant form, and the team has added lefties Steve Teno and Dane Little. Little has put together the best season in Ontario. The Wayne State grad has been lights out all season long. OF Tom Grubb has excelled this season. He is right up at the top of the homerun leader board in the province. CF Kris Klassen exemplifies consistency. He is a great bat at the top of the Windsor lineup. If they are able to add OF Adwin Springer and SS Jason Chapieski from Troy Jet Box, it is hard to fathom how anyone can beat these guys. The Stars have won three of the past four Elims.
GAME THREE Tecumseh Thunder vs. Lakeside Lizards (5:30 PM, LDBA)
Even though the Tecumseh Thunder are coming off a sub par year, they have proven that they can still win the big ones. That was evidenced by their impressive come back win against the Windsor Stars in the Wiseman Tournament final game. After being down 11-1, the always potent Tecumseh lineup slugged their way back into the game and won. They are led by pitchers Kyle Trudell, Rob Blunck, Matt Stezycki, and Andrew Masojc. OF Tom Beale leads the team in batting average, while 1B Dan Romanycia leads the province in home runs. The defence is led by SS Bill Gillen, who makes major league plays. First baseman Romanycia only made one error this year, and has proven that he has more to his game than a powerful bat. Beale also runs everything down in centrefield. Because of the amount of power this team possesses, they are never out of any game.
Lakeside Lizards - Key Player: LHP Sean Grimes.
GAME FOUR East York Bulldogs vs. Strathroy Royals (3 PM, Emslie Field)
The East York Bulldogs made an appearance at the Nationals in 2006, but seem to have taken a couple of steps back since then, as they rebuild their team. Over the last couple of years, the team has lost a lot of key veteran players such as Joe Callaghan, Derek Gauthier, Shaun McGuire and Adam Sarginson. Still in the fold is team ace and cleanup hitter Shawn Leah. The hard throwing righty is a very good pitcher, and has been dominant over the years. He also has a very powerful bat, and can change a game both on the mound and at the plate. SS Andy Ryder is probably the team’s best hitter, and he also has a great glove. If P Jake Gallo can get healthy, the former OUA pitcher of the year can beat any team in the province. Although they have not had a successful season in terms of wins and losses, this team still has the potential to be very good.
Strathroy Royals - Key Players: OF Steve Charles, LHP Jordan Townshend, SS Jason Helps.
GAME FIVE Glanbrook Grizzlies vs. Windsor Athletic Association (5:30 PM, Emslie Field)
Glanbrook went 2 and out last year, but that was due mostly to a tough draw. They take on a WAA team who traditionally does well in tournament play.
The Grizzlies will not impress anybody with their record this season, but anyone who takes them lightly will be heading home early. The Grizzlies possess one of the best pitching staffs in the province. They also have a plethora of bats that can get it done. Mike Czerwieniec, Andrew Page, Chris Cooney, Ryan Colling, Taylor Buck and Mike Grilli form a very deep rotation. Czerwieniec has only given up 1 earned run in COBA play this year. Cooney and Colling are former COBA pitchers of the year. Tim Sogan, Lou Proietti (who has returned from pro ball in Italy) and Adam Cholewka are a good hitting trio who can carry this team deep into the tournament. Corrie Morrison is also having a fine year at the plate. The team has been hurt by a short bench all season, but that won’t be the case this weekend.
WAA has traditonally fared pretty well in tournaments in recent years. They do not have a great record this season, but a lot of that has to do with playing in a very tough Can-Am league. They went 2-1 at the Hap Walters and failed to make the semi-finals due to tie-breaking rules. Barry Keith has been great both at the plate and on the mound. He has been the best pitching and hitter for the team. He came over from the Tecumseh Thunder. After spending a year with the Thunder, Bobby Gilligan is also back in the fold and is one of the best hitters and pitchers also.
GAME SIX St. Catharines Metros vs. Martingrove White Sox (8 PM, Emslie Field)
This game pits one of the best teams in the province over the years, with an up and coming team in the White Sox.
The Metros seem to finally be reaching the potential they have shown over the past few years, after an impressive showing as a semi-finalist at the Hap Walters. The Metros are playing the best baseball they have played in recent years. The team is now hitting .300 and boasts 7 players who hit at a clip of .300 or better. Joe Roach, Rocco Spano, Justin Czorny, Steve Baldinelli, Jonathan Paul, Andrew Soroachan… the list goes on with this team. All can hit. In addition to a very deep lineup, the Metros possess what is arguably the best pitching staff in Ontario, next to the Stars. Brian Essery and Dustin Turner are two of the most dominant pitchers around. Turner is the best power pitcher in the province. TJ Tavender, Baldinelli, Dan Estey and Ian Horner all provide a lot of pitching depth. Eric DeBoer is a guy who can be counted on to finish off games in the late innings. The Metros appeared in the finals in 1999.
The White Sox are the most improved team in the province. After going 6-19 in their inaugural season in 2006, Martingrove already has the most wins they have ever had in a season. They are playing over .500 in a tough GTBL league. Kevin Horton has put together an impressive team that might be poised to cause a few upsets. Ryan Donnelly has put together a fine season on the mound. Inderpal Rai, who has come over from the Kitchener Panthers, is a guy who has the ability to shut any team down. OF Steve Foley is new to senior ball, but he is no stranger to success. Foley has played in the Northern and Frontier Leagues, and had a lot of success doing it. One will be hard pressed to find a better hitter than him. OF Steve Correia has been the team’s best hitter since ’06.
GAME SEVEN Leaside Leafs vs. Oshawa Royals (3 PM, Labatt Park)
This game looks like it is shaping up to be the best of the round one matchups. These two teams are no strangers to each other, as they are GTBL foes. This is a rematch from round one of last year’s Eliminations in Windsor. The Royals won 4-0. The Royals also bested the Leafs 2-1 in the semi finals of the Oshawa Royals’ Invitational earlier this year.
The Leafs potentially have the best hitting lineup around. One through nine, they are tough to get out. SS Davey Wallace, who is a UBC grad, has put together the finest season of all hitters in Ontario. He has an average over .500, and has a knack of getting hits when the pressure is on. He is also a great fielder and leader. 2B Henry Yap is a tremendous leadoff hitter who always seems to be on base. OF James Rutherford seems to have rebounded from an off year, and is once again establishing himself as an elite player in Senior baseball. C Bryan Rock is the team’s most versatile player, and is arguably the toughest out on the team when he is on. Josh Howsam anchors a deep pitching staff. He is yet to lose since his first start of the season. He no hit Newmarket over 5 innings, and took a no hitter into the 7th against East York. Lee Maunu and Paul Nusca provide a dangerous top of the rotation. Desmond Sullivan, Jorge Frugoni, Gurminder Singh, Garrett Gilroy, Paul Kandola and Andrew Morales also provide depth to the pitching staff.
The Royals were semi-finalists in last year’s Eliminations. Just like the Stars, they are the epitome of success in Senior baseball. They win their games in a very similar manner as well. The Royals play great defensive baseball, with timely hitting and dominant pitching. Playing the game this way has resulted in a lot of success for this team over the last four years. Kenny Rodgers and Darryl Reid are back in the fold, and form the best 3-4 punch in the province. Mike Dahiroc, Jesse Murphy and co. are great on the bases. Tyler Plumpton is also a big part to this team’s success. The pitching staff includes guys like Chris Kemlo, Brett Backman, Jordan Prosper, Geoff Davidson, Derek Howe, Adam Anderson and Gary Rose. They have enough pitching and experience to carry them deep into Monday. The Royals have gone to the Nationals the last two seasons. They won the Elims in 2007.
GAME EIGHT Brampton Battlecats vs. Milton Red Sox (5:30 PM, Labatt Park)
These two COBA opponents are very familiar with each other. Brampton and Milton have improved considerably over the years. Brampton leads the season series 2-1.
The Red Sox have lost two of their top pitchers in Derek Howe and Tyler Wilson, but that hasn’t stopped them from playing good baseball. They are just under .500 in COBA play, but a finals appearance in the London tournament shows this team has the ability to win ball games. They are only a couple of years removed from their provincial ‘B’ championship, and they made a nice run last year in the ‘A’ Eliminations. SS Taylor Lawton is a great player both offensively and defensively. Nick Mazorotto and Steve Lauzon have carried the load offensively this season for the team. Newcomer Jason Egbuna has come on strong as of late, and is leading the team in average. Veterans Ian Zettle and Adam Ahearn will be counted on heavily to provide this team with good pitching efforts. Combined with rookie P Adam Scheerer, this team has a chance to upset some teams.
The Battle Cats are in the midst of their finest season in team history. They are playing .500 baseball right now in the COBA league. They have already eclipsed their highest win and point total. Lefty Mike Burke is the team’s best pitcher. 1B Mike Benyo is the team’s best and most consistent hitter. Jesse Edmunds leads the province with 4 saves . The biggest reason for the team’s success might be the influx of Junior players who enjoyed great success in 2006. That Junior team won the Canadian Nationals, and those players have now graduated to provide depth and talent to a team who was just a few players away from being competitive.
GAME NINE Etobicoke Rangers vs. Thornhill 2 (8 PM, Labatt Park)
The Rangers take on a team that is struggling to win games in the GTBL.
The Rangers have been one of the elite teams in the province for many years. Over the past couple of seasons, they have gotten a lot younger, but still continue to win games. 1B AJ Iafrate is having a dominant summer. He is hitting for average and slugging for power. The addition of IF John Zamora from Brampton has been good for the team. 2B Mark Capone still remains the team’s best player, and is a silent leader. Mike Janes is a tremendous pitcher who has an uncanny ability to step up when it counts the most. He is battling arm injuries, but seems to be recovering. This team will be counting a lot on its younger Junior players if it wants to make a deep run. Ryan Panas, Andrew Hyde, and Brett Sanders are three Junior players who have the ability to make an impact. If Kyle Hill of Troy Jet Box pitches, he has the ability to steal a win for the Rangers as well. Etobicoke has won 3 provincial titles since 1998. The last one was in 2004.
Thornhill 2 is the defending ‘B’ champion, but has had some trouble adjusting to ‘A’ baseball. This is a team that is learning how to win in a more competitive GTBL league, and is also dealing with the loss of ace Ryan Butkowsky and OF Darryl Pui. Other players seem to be having a hard time filling the void left by these impact players. If anyone is going to be picking up the slack, it has to be the team’s best hitter, Dave Benson.
GAME TEN Thornhill Reds vs. Markham Pioneers (5:30 PM, Byron)
These two GTBL foes take on eachother in what promises to be a very good first round game. Markham leads the season series 2-1.
The Reds have always been a team that has gone deep into the Eliminations every year. If they do so again this year, it will be no surprise. OF Justin Pennell has come aboard to provide a scary middle of the lineup. Adding his power bat to a lineup that already features UT Harman Brar and 1B Steve Wilson in the middle, spells disaster for opponents. OF Travis Skelton is one of the best leadoff hitters in the province. Brar is also the team’s ace, and pitches well on bigger stages. Jeremiah Groulx and Mike Stein need to have good starts in order to give this team a chance to go deep. If the pitching is solid, this team will be making another deep run, because their offence can be very dangerous.
The Pioneers are right near the top of the list when it comes to the Elite in the province. They go deep into every tournament they play in, including the Eliminations. Year in and year out, they are a team to watch out for. You can say the same for this season. The team returns all their key players from year’s past, and they have also added some players from the Ajax Spartans, who have folded. Their pitching staff is one of the best. It also includes one of the best pitchers around in veteran Mark Cheeseman. Steve Horsely and Steve Anderson give the Pioneers one of the most dominant trios in the province. The hard throwing Anderson is also one of the team’s best hitters. 1B Jesse Dynes is the team’s biggest offensive threat. With good pitching, solid hitting, and good coaching, this team will once again look to go deep into Monday. Markham won the Elims in 2003 and were finalists in 2001.
GAME ELEVEN Whitby Canadians vs. Oakville A’s (3 PM, Aldridge)
Whitby will be playing in the ‘A’ Eliminations after playing in the ‘B’s’ the last few years. Oakville is one of the most improved teams in Ontario over the last two seasons.
The Canadians have added some key players from the now defunct Ajax Spartans. P Mike Arsenault has come over from the Spartans, and provided the Candians with a solid ace. Lars Clay has been a solid pitcher for Whitby over the years. Jon Thiebaud is having a great season, and has been hitting all year long. Former Ajax OF Andre Steer is a tough out at the top of the lineup, and is even tougher on the bases. Rob Patterson has cooled off a bit after a hot start, but he still has very good power numbers. Everyone is going to have to play to their potential if they want to make a deep run.
Oakville has put together another solid season in COBA. They have combined solid pitching, excellent defence, and timely hitting all year long. As a result they are near the top of the COBA standings. They are very deep in pitching. Gord Robertson, Marc Walton, Julian Richards and Matt Chisamore have the ability to win any game they pitch. Walton and Robertson are also solid hitters as well. Jeff Jarockis is one of the best hitters in Ontario, and is a force in the middle of the lineup. They put together a nice run last season in Windsor, and expect them to do the same this season.
ELIMINATION RANKINGS
1. Windsor Stars (30-9) (Can-Am)
2. Oshawa Royals (24-4) (GTBL)
3. Markham Pioneers (20-8) (GTBL)
4. St. Catharines Metros (19-9) (COMBL)
5. Erindale Cardinals (24-11) (COMBL)
6. Leaside Leafs (14-11) (GTBL)
7. Oakville A’s (16-9) (COMBL)
8. Newmarket Hawks (17-10) (GTBL)
9. Etobicoke Rangers (17-16) (COMBL)
10. Glanbrook Grizzlies (12-16) (COMBL)
11. Tecumseh Thunder (16-22) (Can-Am)
12. Thornhill Reds (10-13) (GTBL)
13. Martingrove White Sox (8-5) (GTBL)
14. Windsor Athletic Association (11-19) (Can-Am)
15. Lakeside Lizards (11-5) (SSBL)
16. Brampton Battle Cats (13-13) (COMBL)
17. Milton Red Sox (12-18) (COMBL)
18. Strathroy Royals (10-8) (SSBL)
19. East York Bulldogs (9-15) (GTBL)
20. Whitby Canadians (6-17) (EOBA)
21. Burlington Brants (6-21) (COMBL)
22. Thornhill B (4-17) (GTBL)
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Leafs Lose in Finals
August 3, 2009 --
The Leaside Leafs went into Monday as the only unbeaten team left in the field of 22. The only other two teams left were perennial powerhouses: the Windsor Stars and Etobicoke Rangers. The Leafs, who were under the impression that they would receive a bye into the finals as the only unbeaten team left, were surprised to find out that they would be playing the Rangers on Monday morning. The Stars watched and waited to see how the game would unfold.
Garrett Gilroy took the mound for the Leafs in what turned out to be the semi-final game. The Leafs put up 2 in the first to go ahead 2-0. In the bottom half of the frame, AJ Iafrate singled home Rob Borden to make it 2-1. In the top of the 2nd, the Leafs added one more to go up two. The Rangers responded again. This time they put up 2 to make it 3-3. In the bottom of the third, the Rangers put up 2 more runs, courtesy of a Tim Deacon double. This chased Gilroy from the game. He gave up 5 runs in 2.1 innings. Coming into the game, he had an ERA of 0.50. Gurminder Singh came on to relieve Gilroy, and went the distance from there. He held the Rangers at bay, tossing 4.2 shutout innings. He allowed just 2 hits and 1 walk. This gave the Leafs an opportunity to come back. And that is what they did. In the top of the 6th, Henry Yap hit a 3 run double with 2 outs and a full count. The Leafs went up by 1. In the bottom of the 6th, Tim Deacon doubled to lead off the inning, but Singh held him right there. The Leafs would put up 3 more in the top of the 7th, and won by a score of 9-5.
The battered and bruised Leafs now had to take on the Windsor Stars in the finals. The Stars had to beat the Leafs twice, and that is what they did.
In the first game, Josh Howsam and Adam Myers hooked up in a classic pitcher's duel. Low scoring games are nothing new to the Stars, who boast a star studded pitching staff. In the top of the third, Kris Klassen doubled with 2 outs. On the next pitch, Tom Grubb doubled him home. Just like that, the Leafs were down 1-0. That would be the only run of the game, and the Leafs would drop a heartbreaker. Leaside had runners on 2nd and 3rd with 2 outs in the bottom of the 7th. Myers was able to strike out Henry Yap to end the game. The strikeout was just the 9th time Yap has struck out all year. Howsam was his usual self in this one. Pitching on two day's rest, he went 7 innings. He gave up just 4 hits (none after the Grubb double in the 3rd). He walked 3 and struck out 3. Myers pitched all 7, giving up 4 hits, 4 walks and striking out 9. The Leafs chose a horrible game to get shutout for the first time all year.
In a now do or die situation for both teams, the Windsor Stars put up a 5 spot on 2 hits in the top of the first off of Desmond Sullivan, who was pitching on 1 days rest. Sullivan settled down and would only allow 1 more run the rest of the way. He pitched 7 innings, allowing 6 runs (4 earned), on 6 hits and 3 walks. He struck out 5. The Leafs seemed to have nothing left, and lost the game 6-1.
Leaside battled injuries to key players, and made a great run, but didn't have enough left in the tank to get it done. James Rutherford sprained his wrist in the Glanbrook game on Saturday night, and didn't return for the rest of the weekend. Jeff Gruchy broke his wrist in the first Etobicoke game, and had to be rushed to the hospital. Andrew Kirwin tore his hamstring in the Windsor game, and also had to be rushed to the hospital. Colin Cummins was forced to leave the Windsor game with a strained hamstring as well. All in all, the Leafs could really build on this run. They knew all along how good of a team they were. They believed in themselves, and really came together both on and off the field.
There were a lot of gutsy performances on Leaside's end. Bryan Rock caught all 8 games, and came up with some big hits throughout the entire weekend. He was named the tournament's top catcher. Desmond Sullivan and Josh Howsam both tossed 2 games apiece on nearly no rest. Sullivan threw a 2 hit gem against Glanbrook on Saturday. Andrew Kirwin was 11 for 26 with 6 RBI and he did not strike out. Jorge Frugoni threw a complete game 3 hitter, allowing just 1 unearned run against Lakeside. Paul Nusca threw a complete game 5 hitter against Etobicoke. It was only his second time pitching all year. Gurminder Singh came on to 2 hit Etobicoke over 4.2 innings. Both Nusca and Singh are former members of the Etobicoke Rangers. The Leafs' pitching staff allowed just 26 hits in 7 games, after game 1 against Oshawa. Coming into this tournament, the Leafs had not won more than 2 games in a row all season. They rattled off 6 straight to start the tournament, before losing twice to the Stars. The two losses in a row to Windsor ties the Leafs for the longest losing streak they have had all year at 2.
The Leaside Leafs would like to congratulate the Windsor Stars on another championship run. They got the best of the Leafs not once, but twice; and exhibited a lot of class in doing so. When Kirwin tore his hamstring rounding second base, Windsor shortstop Anthony Dufour could have easily thrown the hobbling Kirwin out at third, but Dufour conceded the base. It is things like that, that make the Stars who they are. A major league-like pitching staff doesn't hurt either!! Good luck to Windsor at the Nationals in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia.
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Elimination Results
Round 1
1. Newmarket 4 vs. Erindale 7
2. Burlington 5 (LP - Trevor Woodjetts) vs. Windsor 9
3. Tecumseh 2 (LP – Kyle Trudell) vs. Lakeside 5 (WP – Alex McLeod)
4. East York 3 (LP – Victor Simon) vs. Strathroy 4
5. Glanbrook 5 (WP – Andrew Page) vs. WAA 4 (LP - Barry Keith)
6. St. Catharines 3 (LP – TJ Tavender; HR - Steve Baldinelli) vs. Martingrove 9 (WP – Ryan Donnelly)
7. Leaside 9 (WP – Jorge Frugoni) vs. Oshawa 5 (LP – Geoff Davidson)
8. Brampton 2 vs. Milton 6 (WP – Adam Scheerer)
9. Etobicoke 9 (WP – Brian Rutledge) vs. Thornhill B 3
10. Thornhill 6 (WP – Jeremiah Groulx; HR - Justin Pennell [2]) vs. Markham 5
11. Whitby 0 (LP – Mike Arsenault) vs. Oakville 1 (WP – Gord Robertson)
Round 2
12. Burlington 1 (LP – Travers Thompson) vs. Tecumseh 5 (WP – Andrew Masojc)
13. East York 2 (WP – Shawn Leah) vs. WAA 0 (LP - Bobby Gilligan)
14. St. Catharines 2 (LP – Dustin Turner; HR - Steve Baldinelli) vs. Oshawa 4 (WP – Jordan Prosper)
15. Brampton 14 vs. Thornhill B 2
16. Markham 7 (HR - Steve Anderson) vs. Whitby 2 (LP – Lars Clay)
17. Windsor 3 (WP - Dane Little) vs. Lakeside 4
18. Strathroy 0 vs. Glanbrook 7 (WP – Chris Cooney)
19. Martingrove 5 (LP – Inderpal Rai) vs. Leaside 6 (WP – Lee Maunu)
20. Milton 0 (LP – Adam Ahearn) vs. Etobicoke 1 (WP – Dan McIldoon)
21. Thornhill 11 vs. Oakville 5
Round 3
22. Newmarket 5 (WP – Dan Dobson) vs. Tecumseh 4 (LP – Kyle Trudell)
23. East York 1 (LP – Pat Smith) vs. Oshawa 2 (WP – Brett Backman)
24. Brampton 12 vs. Markham 5
25. Windsor 7 (WP - Brad Boussey) vs. Strathroy 2
26. Martingrove 0 (LP – Eric Foley) vs. Milton 3 (WP – Ian Zettle)
27. Erindale 6 vs. Lakeside 11
28. Glanbrook 2 (LP – Mike Czerwieniec) vs. Leaside 4 (WP – Desmond Sullivan)
29. Etobicoke 8 (WP – Curtis Saunders) vs. Thornhill 4 (LP – Miguel Sammy)
Round 4
30. Newmarket 3 vs. Oshawa 4
31. Brampton 1 vs. Windsor 3 (WP - Steve Teno)
32. Milton 6 (WP – Brian Stewart) vs. Oakville 4
33. Erindale 1 (WP - Ian Bala) vs. Glanbrook 0
34. Lakeside 1 (LP – Mike Harmer) vs. Leaside 10 (WP – Jorge Frugoni)
Round 5
35. Oshawa 3 vs. Windsor 9 (WP – John Picco)
36. Milton 6 (LP – Sean Mathe) vs. Erindale 8
37. Thornhill 5 vs. Lakeside 9
38. Leaside 9 (WP – Paul Nusca) vs. Etobicoke 2 (LP – Kevin Breitner)
Round 6
39. Windsor 2 (WP – Steve Carter) vs. Erindale 0 (LP – John DeWolfe)
40. Etobicoke 5 (WP – Mike Janes) vs. Lakeside 2
Round 7
41. Leaside 9 (WP – Gurminder Singh) vs. Etobicoke 5 (LP – Mark Eccleton)
Round 8
42. Windsor 1 (WP – Adam Myers) vs. Leaside 0 (LP – Josh Howsam)
Round 9
43. Windsor 6 (WP – Zach Breault) vs. Leaside 1 (LP – Desmond Sullivan)
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Elims Rankings
1. Windsor Stars 7-1 (5.0 RF, 2.0 RA) (Pre-Rank: 1)
2. Leaside Leafs 6-2 (6.0 RF, 3.3 RA) (6)
3. Etobicoke Rangers 4-2 (5.0 RF, 4.5 RA) (9)
4. Lakeside Lizards 4-2 (5.3 RF, 5.2 RA) (15)
5. Erindale Cardinals 3-2 (4.4 RF, 4.6 RA) (5)
6. Oshawa Royals 3-2 (3.6 RF, 4.8 RA) (2)
6. Milton Red Sox 3-2 (4.2 RF, 3.0 RA) (17)
8. Thornhill Reds 2-2 (6.5 RF, 6.8 RA) (12)
9. Glanbrook Grizzlies 2-2 (3.5 RF, 2.3 RA) (10)
9. Brampton Battlecats 2-2 (7.0 RF, 4.0 RA) (16)
11. Newmarket Hawks 1-2 (4.0 RF, 5.0 RA) (8)
11. Oakville A’s 1-2 (3.3 RF, 5.7 RA) (7)
13. Tecumseh Thunder 1-2 (3.7 RF, 3.7 RA) (11)
13. Martingrove White Sox 1-2 (4.7 RF, 4.0 RA) (13)
13. Strathroy Royals 1-2 (2.0 RF, 5.7 RA) (18)
13. Markham Pioneers 1-2 (5.7 RF, 8.3 RA) (3)
13. East York Bulldogs 1-2 (2.0 RF, 2.0 RA) (19)
18. Whitby Canadians 0-2 (1.0 RF, 4.0 RA) (20)
18. St. Catharines Metros 0-2 (2.5 RF, 6.5 RA) (4)
18. Thornhill B 0-2 (2.5 RF, 12.0 RA) (22)
18. Windsor Athletics 0-2 (2.0 RF, 3.5 RA) (14)
18. Burlington Brants 0-2 (3.0 RF, 7.0 RA) (21)
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Team Summaries
Brampton Battlecats - In their first 'A' Elims, they showed they belong. Eliminated Markham, and barely lost to Windsor on Sunday. Have a chance to be good for a while.
Burlington Brants - Gave Windsor a run for their money, before going 2 and out again.
East York Bulldogs - Could have easily beaten Oshawa, but dropped a tough 2-1 decision to them in round 3.
Erindale Cardinals - Made the final 5, before losing 2-0 in a 64 minute game against Windsor.
Etobicoke Rangers - Look out! They made the final 3, in what was supposed to be a rebuilding year. Lots of young talent on this team.
Glanbrook Grizzlies - Promising 2-0 start, before losing to Leaside and then 1-0 to Erindale.
Lakeside Lizards - Hosts of the tournament made a shocking run to the final 5, before losing to Etobicoke.
Leaside Leafs - Offence is one of the most feared in the province. Pitching staff showed that it is very, very good.
Markham Pioneers - Most shocking loss of the tournament might have been Brampton eliminationg Markham in round 3.
Martingrove White Sox - Big upset with 9-3 thrashing of Metros. Lost both of their games on Saturday.
Milton Red Sox - It doesn't matter which players they lose, they just keep on winning games in this tournament.
Newmarket Hawks - Lost game one to Erindale. Eliminated Tecumseh in round 3. Lost tough game to Oshawa 4-3.
Oakville A's - Very disappointing run for a good team.
Oshawa Royals - Disappointing tournament. Failed to make field of 5, after 9-3 loss to Windsor. Two losses were against tournament finalists.
St. Catharines Metros - Nothing positive comes out of this for a pre-tourney favourite who bows out in 2 games with losses to Martingrove and Oshawa.
Strathroy Royals - Lost 7-0 to Glanbrook in 13 innings! Did not have the same success as they had last year.
Tecumseh Thunder - A very disappointing season for the Thunder. Went 1-2.
Thornhill A - Have a lot of offensive weapons, but no pitching depth.
Thornhill B - May have made the jump to 'A' a bit too early.
Whitby Canadians - Went 2 and out, but had a tough draw.
Windsor Athletics - Went 2 and out, after a 2-0 loss to East York.
Windsor Stars - Yes, they are still the best in the province.
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Leafs Look to 3-Peat
August 17, 2009 --
The Leaside Leafs finished the GTBL season in 3rd place. As a result, they will take on the 6th place Thornhill Reds A in round one of the playoffs. The Leafs have won the last two GTBL titles and are seeking a third straight.
This series will feature the two most dynamic offences in the league. The Leafs will not be at full strength for this one, as OF James Rutherford, 3B Andrew Kirwin, and OF Jeff Gruchy are all still recovering from injuries suffered at the Eliminations.
The Leafs won the season series, 2-0-1. Leaside pasted the Reds twice, by scores of 14-7, and 17-5. They tied the final meeting between the teams 5-5 last week. The key to this best of three series will be the pitching, as both teams seem evenly matched offensively. Leaside will look to keep leadoff man Travis Skelton off the bases. They will also look to keep Justin Pennell in the ball park.
Game 1 is scheduled for Wednesday night in Thornhill. Game 2 is Thursday night at Talbot Park. If necessary, game 3 will be played next Monday night at Talbot.
The first round matchups are as follows:
(1) Oshawa Royals vs. (8) Thornhill B
(Season Series: 3-0 Oshawa. Oshawa wins 2-0, 10-9, 8-0.)
The Royals beat Thornhill rather easily. They swept the series with 9-5 and 14-5 wins.
(2) Markham Pioneers vs. (7) East York Bulldogs
(Season Series: 3-1 Markham. Markham 9-6, 6-5, 7-0. East York wins 9-6.)
(3) Leaside Leafs vs. (6) Thornhill Reds
(Season Series: 2-0-1 Leaside. Leaside wins 17-5, 14-7. Tie 5-5.)
(4) Newmarket Hawks vs. (5) Martingrove White Sox
(Season Series: Tied 2-2. Newmarket wins 9-2, 7-3. Martingrove wins 7-3, 6-1.)
The Hawks sweep the White Sox, winning both games 6-0 and 7-0.
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Leafs Headed to Semi Finals
August 28, 2009 --
The Leafs lost the first game of their best of three with the Thornhill Reds, but they battled back to win the series, after a 9-3 victory over the Reds last night.
Leaside put up 2 runs in the first. Davey Wallace and Bryan Rock both singled. Wallace scored on a Colin Cummins double, and Rock scored on a Kyle Kristenbrun groundout. In the second, the Leafs put up 3 more, to go ahead 5-0. Aaron Collins doubled to lead off the inning, and scored on a Clarke Markle double. Wallace and Rock both added RBI singles in the frame. After Leaside starter Lee Maunu retired the first 10 hitters of the game, Thornhill finally put together a little rally in the 4th. They scored 2 runs to narrow the gap to 3. In the fifth, the Reds scored an unearned run, to make the score 5-3. In the sixth, with the bases loaded, Art Stoner, who came in for an injured Cummins, blasted the first pitch from reliever Harman Brar over right fielder Justin Pennell's head. With the big hit, Stoner cleared the bases, and scored himself on a fielding error. That pretty much sealed the deal. Aaron Collins was the offensive star, going 3 for 3, with 2 doubles. Colin Cummins doubled twice. Davey Wallace and Bryan Rock singled twice. The Leafs outhit the Reds 12-5.
Maunu was great on the mound. He went 7 innings, and gave up just 3 hits, which were all in the fourth inning. He walked one batter, and that didn't come until the seventh. He also struck out 7 Thornhill batters. Only 2 of the 3 runs he gave up were earned. Gurminder Singh shut the door in the final 2 innings, giving up 2 hits, and striking out 2 batters.
The Leafs now take on the Newmarket Hawks in the semi finals next week. The Hawks beat Martingrove by scores of 6-0 and 7-0, to get to the final 4. The other semi finals will be Oshawa against East York.
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Semi Finals: At a Glance
#1 Oshawa vs. #7 East York
As expected, the Royals got by Thornhill B rather easily. They put the Reds away with 9-5 and 14-5 victories. The Bulldogs pulled off a stunning upset, as they got the best of Markham. East York won game three by a convincing 10-2 score. Oshawa won the only two meetings between the teams this season, by 2-1 and 11-1 scores. East York is last year's runner up in the GTBL.
#3 Leaside vs. #4 Newmarket
This should be a pretty good series, as the Leafs and Hawks hook up for semi-final number two. The Leafs won the season series 2-1. They beat Newmarket 9-0 and 4-1, but lost once at the Fairgrounds, 4-2. Leaside beat Thornhill A in the quarter-finals, while Newmarket shut down Martingrove with 6-0 and 7-0 scores.
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Leaside and East York Set to Do It Again
September 4, 2009 --
The Leaside Leafs beat the Newmarket Hawks in game 3 of the GTBL semi finals. The end result was a 7-5 victory for the Leafs.
Leaside put up 1 in the 1st on a sac fly by Brad Cormier. In the 3rd, the Leafs put up 3 more to go up 4-0. The runs came via a Cormier 2 run single and a Kyle Kristenbrun sac fly. In the 4th, the Hawks made it a 4-1 game, as Sean O'Brien singled home Takashi Isobe. The Leafs put up 2 in the 5th on a John Traiforos 2 run single, and a Bryan Rock sac fly in the 6th made it 7-1 Leaside. The Hawks put up 4 in the 8th to make it a game, but the Leafs hung on to win 7-5.
Josh Howsam didn't have his best stuff, but he still battled and shut the Hawks down for 7 innings. Howsam allowed just 1 run on 5 hits and 5 walks, while striking out 5. Gurminder Singh came on in the 8th, and got touched for 4 runs on 3 hits. Andrew Morales worked a perfect 9th to pick up his first save of the season.
Henry Yap, Bryan Rock, Collin Cummins and Jorge Frugoni had two hit performances. Davey Wallace, Brad Cormier, Kyle Kristenbrun, and John Traiforos had one hit each.
The Leafs now set themselves up for a rematch of last year's finals. The two-time defending champions will take on an East York that who is coming off impressive series wins against #2 Markham and #1 Oshawa.
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Leafs Complete Series Sweep for 3rd Straight Championship
September 14, 2009 --
The Leaside Leafs left no doubt about who was top dog in the GTBL this season with a 10-3 drubbing of the East York Bulldogs to clinch the league title for the 3rd straight year.
Josh Howsam (9-2) pitched all 9 innings for his 5th complete game and a nice ending to an excellent season. It wasn't all roses though. Howsam struggled early on in this game and, after allowing 3 runs to score in the first inning and then walking the first two hitters to start the 2nd, it looked like it might be a short outing for the tall righty. He settled down quickly though, retiring 17 of the next 18 hitters. Once he settled in, Howsam used a good knuckle-curve to keep the EY hitters off balance (registering 6 strikeouts with the pitch). The defense was also flawless, helping keep Howsam's pitch count down and allowing him to go all 9.
All told, Howsam struck out 8 while allowing 7 hits, 2 walks and a hit batter. All 3 runs were earned.
The Leafs got excellent production on the offensive side from quite a few hitters. Leadoff man Clarke Markle was the spark plug at the top, going 3/6 with 3 runs scored. The middle of the order was also well represented on the stat sheet. Bryan Rock hit his 3rd homer of the year to get the Leafs on the board in the 3rd, Matt Nailer went 4/5 and was on base all 5 times, while wily player/coach Brad Cormier provided plenty of offense with 3 hits and 3 runs of his own.
Ben McPhee took the loss for the Bulldogs.
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Leaside News and Notes
September 22, 2009 --
Former Leaside Pitcher Brook Coatsworth is currently representing the United Kingdom at the 2009 Baseball World Cup. Congratulations Brook, and best of luck.
Current Leaf pitcher Andrew Morales is the OUA leader in earned run average. As of September 22nd, Morales has a 0.53 ERA with the McMaster Marauders. In 17 innings, he has given up 5 runs (just 1 earned). He has given up 11 hits and 9 walks while striking out 6. McMaster sits in second place in the OUA standings.
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Leafs News
October 4, 2009 --
Leaside pitcher Andrew Morales (McMaster) continues to dominate in OUA baseball. Morales tossed 8 shutout innings for the complete game victory, as the Marauders downed Waterloo 1-0 in extra innings. Morales scattered 5 hits. He currently ranks 6th in the league with a 1.38 ERA. He also leads the league in innings pitched, with 39. He has given up 27 hits, 14 runs (6 earned), 15 walks, and 18 strikeouts. McMaster is currently 2nd in the OUA, right behind Morales' former team, Western.
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OSHAWA TOURNEY PREVIEW
June 8, 2009 --
This weekend, the Annual Oshawa Royals Tournament will feature some of the top teams in Senior Baseball going head to head.
Pool A features two of the hardest hitting teams in senior baseball: the Erindale Cardinals and Tecumseh Thunder. The Cardinals are on fire to start the season at 10-2 in the COBA league. The Thunder got off to a slow start, but have picked it up as of late. This Pool also features one of the steadiest teams in the province over the past few years, the Markham Pioneers. Markham is off to a blazing 6-2-2 start, including an extra inning victory over the Leafs this past weekend. The fourth team in this Pool will be the Whitby Canadians, who are new to the A level this year.
Pool B is arguably the toughest. It includes your Leaside Leafs, as well as perennial powerhouse Windsor Stars, who are the defending Ontario Champions, as well as the Etobicoke Rangers, who have won 3 provincial championships in the past decade. The fourth team is the East York Bulldogs, who represented Ontario at the provincials in 2006. The Leafs are off to a slow start at 4-3-1. The Stars are their usual dominant selves at 11-4. The Etobicoke Rangers are 7-5 after starting the season 0-3. The Leafs have beaten East York twice, in two very close games this season.
Pool C features the host Oshawa Royals, who are yet to lose a game this season. The Royals once again boast a deep pitching staff, with great hitting. The St. Catharines Metros are off to a 7-3 start, and on paper have one of the top teams in the province. The tournament specialists Newmarket Hawks, and young Milton Red Sox round out Pool C.
Your Leaside Leafs play the East York Bulldogs in the opener on Friday night at 6 PM in Pickering. On Saturday morning, the Leafs do battle with the Etobicoke Rangers at 10 AM in Oshawa. Later that day, the Leafs take on the Windsor Stars at 4:30 PM at Kinsmen Stadium in Oshawa.
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