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Lakers Dominate Season Opener
May 21, 2006 --
The Lakers put up 10 runs on 9 hits on there way to a 1-0 record overall and in the Upper 13 League. Matt McCahan led the way going 3 for 5 with 3 RBI's. Greg Aker added a 2 for 3 performance with 2 runs scored and 3 stolen bases. Kyle Peterson and Tim Garceau each added a hit and 2 RBI's for the Lakers.
Jake Mertz went 3 innings allowing the only Merchant run on 4 hits. Winning pitcher, Mark Erickson then took over for 5 innings not allowing a run and giving up 6 hits. Tim Garceau came in the 9th and was flawless with three straight pop outs ending the game.
(click logo for boxscore)
The Lakers(1-0) are back in action Sunday, May 28th for a twinbill with Port Wing Baseball starting at 1pm at Ted Whereatt Field. The Lakers follow that game up with a Memorial Day game against the Bayside Vipers Monday, May 29th at 1:30pm at Ted Whereatt Field.
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Lakers Take Two
May 28, 2006 --
Lakers Walk Away With A Win
The Superior Lakers moved to 2-0 on the season and 2-0 in the Upper 13 as well with a 11-1 win over Port Wing Baseball in Sundays first game of the double header.
The Lakers collected 6 hits, but were lead to victory drawing 14 walks in game one. Greg Aker lead the way with 2 hits and 2 RBI's and dropped a ball in left center for one of the Laker errors (haha), Travis Taran collected 3 walks, scoring 3 runs and going 1 for 1 at the plate, Kyle Peterson went 1 for 2 with an RBI and walked twice, Brett Olson walked twice, scored once and collected 1 hit with an RBI in 2 at bats, and Adam Peterson scored twice, drawing 1 walk and went 1 for 3 at the plate in his return to the Lakers.
Winning pitcher, Brandon Hansen went 7 strong innings facing 26 batters, allowing 1 run on 4 hits, walking 3 and striking out 10.
Lakers Manufactor 13 Runs on 3 Hits... And Win
The Lakers completed the weekend sweep of Port Wing Baseball with a 13-2 win in the evening game at Ted Whereatt Field.
Once again, the Lakers walked their way onto the base paths collecting 13 of them. Kyle Peterson brought in two runs on a hit, Brent Calore and Travis Taran also collected hits as the Lakers were held to 3 hits all game.
Nate Taran got the win going 5 innings, facing 16 batters, allowing 1 run that was unearned on 2 hits, walking none and striking out 8. Greg Aker worked the 6th inning allowing 1 earned run on 1 hit, walking 2 and striking out 1 on a nasty change-up. Brett Olson came in to close out the game in the 7th and did not allow a run and struck out 2.
The Lakers are now 3-0 overall and 3-0 in the Upper 13 League. The Lakers will play the Bayside Vipers in Upper 13 action Monday, May 29th at 1:30pm at Ted Whereatt Field.
Game 1 Box Score- http://www.leaguelineup.com/gamesum_baseball.asp?url=superiorlakers&sid=783004332&GameID=2476281
Game 2 Box Score-http: http://www.leaguelineup.com/gamesum_baseball.asp?url=superiorlakers&sid=783004332&GameID=2561928
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Erickson Pitches A Gem, Lakers Stay Unbeaten
May 29, 2006 --
The Superior Lakers beat the Bayside Vipers 2-0 in Upper 13 League action on a beautiful Memorial Day at Ted Whereatt Field on Monday.
The Vipers out hit the Lakers 5-4 but the key to the game was a first inning error by Bob Eastman on a pop fly to first base by Kyle Peterson. The play allowed the Greg Aker to score from second and keeping the inning alive for Nate Taran's RBI single scoring Tim Garceau who was 2 for 3 in the game.
From there it went scoreless. Mark Erickson out dueled Marcus Besonen for 7 innings. Besonen faced 29 allowing 4 hits, 2 runs, 1 earned, walking 4 and striking out 4. Erickson faced 29, allowing 4 hits, allowing no runs, walking 4 and striking out 10. For the Vipers, Ben Jukich too over the 8th inning and allowed 1 hit but kept the Lakers scoreless. The Lakers sent out Jake Mertz to get the 2 inning save. Mertz faced 10 in 2 innings of work allowing 1 hit, no runs, 1 walk, 1 hit by pitch and striking out 4.
The Vipers drop to 6-2 on the season and 2-2 overall in the Upper 13 while the Lakers stay unbeaten at 4-0 on the season and 4-0 in the Upper 13 League. (CLICK LOGO FOR BOX SCORE)
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Co-Champions Face Off, GarcBomber Goes Off
June 4, 2006 --
The Superior Lakers and Oulu Blue Jays finished in a dead tie last season as co-champions of the Upper 13 League but the Lakers came out on top in both games on Sunday, June 4th at Ted Whereatt Field.
In the first game of the double header, the Lakes came out on top 6-1 pouncing on Oulu pitcher, Joe Caliguirey for 4 runs in the first inning. The runs came in the bottom of the first when Nate Taran got things rolling with a base hit to left field, then a base hit bunt to the third basemen by Kyle Peterson. Nate Taran and Kyle Peterson then scored when Travis Taran hit a slow roller to the first basemen allowing the Laker base runners to get in scoring position for Matt McCahan’s line drive single to right field scoring both. After McCahan, the Lakers drew 3 walks and a hit batsman for 2 more runs. The Lakers lead 4-0 after 1 inning with the reigning “Pitcher of the Year”, Mark Erickson to go to work. Erickson went 6 strong innings facing 22 batters allowing 1 run on 4 hits while walking 1 and striking out 8. Lakers closer, Tim Garceau came into the game and faced 3 batters to notch the win and bring the Lakers to 5-0 on the season.
Lakers: Nate Taran, Bret Olson (2hits), Greg Aker, Kyle Peterson, Travis Taran, Matt McCahan, Jon Bothun (1hit)
Matt McCahan, Jon Bothun (2RBI’s), Mark Erickson (1RBI)
Blue Jays: DJ Lahti (2hits), Jeff Lahti, George Hansen, Kevin Ritsche (1hit)
In the second game, the Lakers won a thriller coming back from a 5-1 deficit after 2 innings of play to win 7-6. For the Lakers, Brett Olson started off the game and lasted for an inning and a third before handing the ball back to Tim Garceau who kept the Lakers within striking distance. Brett Olson allowed all 5 runs on 4 hits facing only 10 batters. The Lakers struck in the 2nd for 1 run when Nate Taran tripled to the right center gap followed up by a Jon Bothun 2 out RBI double to center field. Greg Aker then singled but Jon Bothun was gunned at home plate ending the Laker rally. Both the Lakers and Blue Jays went quiet until the bottom of the fourth inning. Nate Taran started things off with a 9 pitch base on balls that was then erased on Matt McCahan’s fielders choice. Brett Olson’s fly out to first base left the Lakers with 2 outs but they were not done yet. Jon Bothun drew a 10 pitch walk which got the Lakers runners on first and second. Greg Aker then ripped a double down the left field line to plate 2 for the Lakers. Brandon Hansen followed Aker up with a RBI single past the 3rd basemen. Travis Taran then found some grass in the outfield and the plate was set with runners on first and second for the Lakers Tim Garceau. Oulu made a pitching change bringing in “fire baller” George Hansen for Kemp. On a 1-1 count Hansen fired a fast ball on Garceau’s letters and made him pay. Garceau’s home run put the Lakers up 7-5 and gave them their first lead of the game which they would not give back. Oulu put together a rally in the fifth to score 1 run but that’s all they could muster off Garceau who finished as the winning pitcher pitching 5 2/3 allowing 1 run on 4 hits, walking 3 and striking out 6. Kemp got the loss for Oulu allowing all 7 runs.
Lakers: Greg Aker (2 hits); Brandon Hansen, Travis Taran, Tim Garceau(HR), Nate Taran(3B), Jon Bothun (1 hit)
Tim Garceau (3RBI); Greg Aker (2RBI); Brandon Hansen, Jon Bothun (RBI)
Blue Jays: DJ Lahti, Jeff Lahti, Spets (2 hits); Kevin Ritsche, Urbaniak (1 hit)
The Lakers next play the Duluth Xpress on Tues, 5:30pm at Ted Whereatt Field.
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Pufall Field Underwater Sunday as Lakers Piss All Over It
June 11, 2006 --
The Superior Lakers took game one 7-2 over the Ashland C&S Design on Sunday in Ashland. Mark Erickson was the winning pitcher for the Lakers as he went 5 innings, facing 20 batters allowing 1 run on 4 hits, walking 1 and striking out 4. Tim Garceau then came in for the last 2 innings and allowed 1 run, unearned, walking 1, giving up 2 this and striking out 2. Kevin Bebeau took the loss for Ashland going all 7 innings allowing 7 runs on 10 hits, walking 1, and striking out 7. The Lakers were lead by Greg Aker, Adam Peterson and Matt McCahan who collected 2 hits apiece. Nate Taran, Travis Taran, Brandon Hansen and Kyle Peterson each had hits for the Lakers as well. The Lakers finished with 10 hits and 7 stolen bases while only walking once.
Game 1- Greg Aker: 2-4, 2R, 2 SB, 1RBI ---- Adam Peterson: 2-3, 2R, 2SB, 1RBI ----Jon Bothun: 0-1, 1SB ---- Travis Taran: 1-4, 1RBI ---- Tim Garceau: 0-3, 1R, 1SB, 1RBI ---- Kyle Peterson: 1-4, 1R ---- Nate Taran: 1-4, 2RBI ---- Matt McCahan: 2-4 ---- Brent Calore: 0-1, 1BB ---- Sean Ross: 0-2, 1R ---- Brandon Hansen: 1-3, 1SB ---- Eric Halverson: 0-1
Mark Erickson: 5IP, 4H, 1R, 1ER, 1BB, 4K
Tim Garceau: 2IP, 2H, 1R, 0ER, 1BB, 2K
The second game is where the Lakers bats took over. Superior beat Ashland 18-4 in a game where the Lakers had 19 total hits. Starting pitcher, Sean Ross got the win going 4 innings facing 17 batters allowing 2 runs on 2 hits while walking 2 and striking out 4. Brent Calore then came in the game in the 5th but could not record an out facing 4 batters allowing 2 runs on 1 hit while walking 3. Brandon Hansen then went the next 2 innings allowing no runs on 1 hit, walking 1 and striking out 1. Travis Taran finished off the game pitching the last inning allowing no runs on 1 hit batsman and allowing 1 hit. Dave Schrafnagel took the loss for Ashland going 2 2/3 innings allowing 11 runs on 10 hits. The Lakers had 3 home runs in the game. A 3-run HR by Kyle Peterson who was followed by a solo shot by Nate Taran and then a 2 run HR by Brandon Hansen 2 innings later. Travis Taran and Matt McCahan each went 3 for 5 with a double. Tim Garceau and Adam Peterson were each 2 for 3 with a double and 2 RBI’s apiece. Sean Ross, Nate Taran and Jon Bothun each had 2 hits and Mark Erickson also chipped in for an RBI single.
Game 2- Greg Aker: 0-2, 1R, 1SB, 2BB ---- Eric Halverson: 0-2 ---- Adam Peterson: 2-3 (1double), 3R, 1SB, 1HP, 2RBI ---- Scott Peterson: 0-1 ----Travis Taran: 3-5 (1double), 1R, 1RBI ---- Tim Garceau 2-3 (1 double), 1R, 2RBI ---- Brent Calore: 0-1 ---- Kyle Peterson: 1-2 (1HR), 2R, 1HP, 3RBI ---- Mark Erickson: 1-2, 1R, 1RBI ---- Nate Taran: 2-5 (1HR), 2R, 1SB, 2RBI ---- Matt McCahan: 3-5 (1 double), 2R ---- Craig McGrath: 0-0 ---- Sean Ross: 2-5 (1double), 2R, 2RBI ---- Jon Bothun: 2-2, 3R, 1HP, 1SB ---- Brandon Hansen: 1-1 (1HR), 1R, 1RBI ---- Jake Mertz: 0-1
Sean Ross: 4IP, 2H, 2R, 2ER, 2BB, 4K
Brent Calore: 0IP, 1H, 2R, 2ER, 3BB
Brandon Hansen: 2IP, 1H, 0R, 0ER, 1BB, 1K
Travis Taran: 1IP, 1H, 0R, 0ER, 1HP
The Superior Lakers improved their record to 8-0 on the season and 8-0 in Upper 13 League play. The Lakers will next play the Ashland Merchants Sunday, June 18th in a double header starting at 1pm at Ted Whereatt Field.
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Mertz Placed on 15 Day DL
June 13, 2006 --
The Superior Lakers have placed Jake Mertz(New Ulm, Mn) on the 15 day DL due to soreness in his left shoulder. Jake was scheduled to make his second start in a Lakers uniform against the Oulu Bluejays in the 2nd game of their double header on Sunday June 4th but during warm-ups felt sharp pains in his shoulder. Mertz was removed from starting 5 minutes prior to the game and gave way for Brett Olson. Mertz then made the trip to Ashland last weekend hoping to be able to start game 2 and give the lakers 2-3 innings but during warm-ups his shoulder flared up once again. For now the Lakers will turn to Sean Ross and Brandon Hansen to fill in the 2nd spot in the rotation.
Mertz will set up a doctors appointment this week and with good news will hopefully be back for the Lakers tournament in Hinkley, June 23rd-25th.
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Lakers Can’t Cure Hangover, Suffer First Loss
June 18, 2006 --
The Superior Lakers split this past weekend with the Ashland Merchants winning game one 6-4 and dropping the second game 6-2. In Game one Tim Garceau got the win going all 7 innings allowing 4 runs on 8 hits, walking 5 while striking out 4. Joe Norton took the loss for the Merchants surrendering 6 runs in 6 innings of work allowing 9 hits, walked 4 and struck out 4. The Lakers got 2 hits each from Adam Peterson, Travis Taran, Tim Garceau, and Nate Taran as Kyle Peterson also collected a hit. Joe Seegar led the way for the Merchants going 3 for 4.
In game two both teams scored 1 run in the 4th inning and then when the Lakers took a 2-1 lead after the 6th inning the Merchants answered back with 5 runs in the top of the 7th to win 6-2. Brandon Hansen took the loss for the Lakers allowing 5 runs in 2 and 2/3 innings of work giving up 3 hits while walking 4 guys. Sean Ross started the game going 4 complete innings only allowing 1 run on 2 hits, striking out 4 and walking 4. Nate Taran came in for the last out in the 7th inning and allowed 2 hits for 2 runs that were charged to Brandon Hansen. Lee Pingel got the win for the Merchants going all 7 innings allowing 2 runs on 5 hits walking 8 batters and striking out 6. Tim Garceau hit a triple, Kyle Peterson had 2 hits, Brett Olson and Brandon Hansen also had hits. Casey Olson had 2 hits for the Merchants.
The Lakers are now 9-1 overall and in the Upper 13 League. They travel to Hinckley, MN this weekend for a tournament when they will play the host team(Hinckley) at 6pm, Friday night.
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Lakers Match-Up vs. Merchants.. Aker Faces Twins
June 18, 2006 --
The Superior Lakers (8-0) will face the Ashland Merchants (3-5) on Sunday, June 18th at Ted Whereatt Field where Greg Aker will play game one. From there, Aker will travel to the cities for his last hurrah as a pro baseball player for the Minnesota Twins. The Lakers will throw closer Tim Garceau(1-0) and Sean Ross(1-0) at the Merchants who are fighting out the 3rd/4th seed in the Upper 13 League.
Announcements: The Lakers will be taking July 10th- July 21st off for the All-Star break to rest players along with August 4-6th which will be the Upper 13 League Tourney, if anyone is interested in playing those dates, email us at superiorlakers@hotmail.com. Laker Players Fees are due before the Hinckley Tournament.
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Lakers Win Two of Three, Snatch Consolation Trophy
June 25, 2006 --
The Superior Lakers played three games over the weekend, winning 2 of 3 earning themselves the consolation trophy at the Knights Classic in Hinckley, Minnesota.
Game #1-
The Lakers faced off vs. the host team, Hinckley Knights and lost 4-0. Tim Garceau took the loss for the Lakers going 7 innings allowing 4 runs (2 earned) on 6 hits, walking 1, and striking out 4. The Lakers committed 3 errors and could not come through with any timely hits. The Lakers came close to putting a run across in the 3rd inning when Adam Peterson hit a 2 out double to right followed up by a single by Kyle Peterson. Kyle Peterson then attempted to get in a run down in between first and second which allowed Adam to take off towards home. Adam Peterson attempted to plow the Hinckley catcher but he held on and after a scuffle at home plate the umpire then ejected Adam. After that, the Lakers bats went silent. Brandon Hansen and Jon Bothun collected the other 2 hits for the Lakers.
Game #2-
In the second game the Lakers faired better against Maple Plain winning 8-0. Mark Erickson was dominate going all 7 innings facing 23 batters allowing no runs on 1 hit, walking 1 and striking out 10. Erickson allowed only 3 base runners all game, but picked off one of them. The Lakers collected 2 hits from Adam Peterson and Tim Garceau and doubles from Kyle Peterson and Mark Erickson. Matt McCahan, Sean Ross, Travis Taran, and Greg Aker also had a hit each.
Game #3-
In the consolation game the Lakers faced off against the Upsala Blue Jays winning 10-3. Brandon Hansen got the win going 6 strong innings allowing 3 runs (1 earned) on 4 hits, walking 4, hitting 1 batter and striking out 4. Nate Taran came in to pitch the 7th facing 3 batters, striking out 2. For the Lakers bats, Matt McCahan and Adam Peterson both hit homeruns with McCahan’s being a 3-run HR. Sean Ross, Nate Taran, Travis Taran, and Tim Garceau each collected hits.
The Lakers now 11-2 overall and 9-1 in the Upper 13 League will travel to Ordean Field in Duluth to play the Duluth Xpress, Tuesday at 6pm.
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Nate "Heart of a Lion" Taran Pitches Lakers to an 11 inning Win
June 27, 2006 --
The Superior Lakers faced off against the Duluth Xpress in a non-conference game Tuesday night at Ordean Field with the Lakers winning 5-4 in 11 innings as daylight faded. In the top of the 11th inning, Kyle Peterson started things off with a 9 pitch at bat before singling to left field. Mark Erickson came in to courtesy run for the injured Peterson. Travis Taran then struck out, Matt McCahan popped out to 3rd base before Jon Bothun singled to right field moving Mark Erickson over to 3rd base. That set up Brandon Hansen to hit a first pitch blooper just out of the right fielders diving attempt to score Mark Erickson for the go ahead run. Sean Ross ended the inning hitting a line drive that one hopped the 2nd basemen who forced Hansen out at 2nd base.
Lakers pitcher, Nate Taran threw 158 pitches over those 11 innings to earn a win. Taran allowed 4 runs (2 earned), 7 hits, 5 bases on ball and struck out 7. The Lakers face 5 pitches from the Xpress. Jake Eiler started for the Xpress who allowed 1 run on 2 hits in 2 innings of work. Brad Anderson then came in for the next 2 and 2/3's and allowed 3 runs on 4 hits. The Xpress then turned to Cloquet native Eric Hagen who allowed no runs on 1 hit in the next inning and a 1/3. Ryan Bruns then came in for the next 2 innings and allowed no runs on 2 hits. The Xpress then put in Josh Gow who ended up being the losing pitcher for the game. Gow gave up the winning run in the 11th inning and allowed 5 hits.
For the Xpress bats, Brandon Swartz and Carl Sienert both had 2 hits apiece. Brian Lewis, Mike Lewis and Darren Carlson collected the other 3 hits for the Xpress. The Lakers pounded out 14 hits combined, 3 coming from Kyle Peterson. Greg Aker, Nate Taran, Travis Taran, and Brandon Hansen each had 2 with Hansen's last hit being the game winner. Matt McCahan, Jon Bothun and Alex Conboy also had 1 hit apiece.
The Lakers now 12-2 overall and 9-1 in the Upper 13 League will travel to Port Wing this Sunday for 1-9 inning game starting at 1:30pm.
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Upper 13 League Round-up; Lakers Clinch Playoff Berth
June 27, 2006 --
The Superior Lakers are the first to clinch a playoff birth after just 10 games. The Superior Lakers (9-1) are 5 games in front of the 4th place teams (Merchants and C&S) with 5 to play but having won both series against each team allows the Lakers to at least clinch a 3rd place finish this season which means the Lakers will be returning to the playoffs for their 3rd straight season.
The Bayside Vipers are in the 2nd spot with a 7-3 record and controll their own destiny when it comes to playoffs and the Upper 13 League trophy. The Vipers have a 3 game lead over the 4th place teams and will need to beat the Lakers twice in order to win the Upper 13 League.
The Oulu Blue Jays are in the 3rd spot with a 6-4 record and like the Vipers will controll their destiny with playoffs. Although a long shot for retaining the Upper 13 League trophy they shared a year ago with the Lakers, they still have 1 remaning game left with the Lakers and Vipers but will need help from other teams.
The Ashland Merchants and Ashland C&S Design are sitting at 4-6 and are tied for 4th in the Upper 13 league. They play each other twice in the next 5 games. One team will need to win both of those games and knock off a team above them to have a shot at the playoffs.
The new comers of the Upper 13 League, Port Wing Baseball is sitting at 0-10 and is in last place. They were eliminated from any chance at the playoffs this past weekend being swept by the Oulu Blue Jays.
(click Laker logo for Upper 13 League Standings)
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Lakers Dominate in Port Wing
July 2, 2006 --
The Superior Lakers defeated Port Wing Baseball 24-3 Sunday afternoon in Port Wing, Wisconsin. Winning pitcher for the Lakers was Adam Peterson who pitched 6 and 2/3's innings allowing 3 runs on 5 hits while walking 6, hitting 2 and striking out 6. Jon Bothun came in for the last out of the game, he walked one and got Port Wing to ground out to end the ball game.
The Lakers bats were hot, pounding out 20 hits in 7 innings of work. Adam Peterson had a single, double and triple to go along with 5 RBI's. Nate Taran, Tim Garceau and Matt McCahan also had 3 hits apiece. Travis Taran and Jon Bothun each had 2 hits while Kyle Peterson, Eric Halverson, Brandon Hansen and Phil Karaba each had 1. All 10 players for the Lakers had at least 1 hit.
Port Wing had singles by Nick Reigo, Dasi Reigo, Matt Bailey, Chad Tuura and Jared Gustafson. Losing pitcher Jared Gustafson pitched 3 innings allowing 14 runs on 12 hits.
The Superior Lakers move to 13-2 on the season and 10-1 in the Upper 13 League. They next play the Bayside Vipers Sunday, July 9th at Ted Whereatt Field in a double header which starts at 1pm. If the Lakers win 1 of the games, they clinch the Upper 13 League title.
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Upper 13 League Round-Up (Week 11)
July 4, 2006 --
After week 11 in the Upper 13, there is a different look to the leaders this year to in years past. Perennial powerhouse, the Oulu Blue Jays who have won numerous titles in a row, will be fighting for a playoff birth in the last 4 weeks of the season instead of fighting for an Upper 13 League title. Oulu lost to the Bayside Vipers on the 4th of July week giving them a 3 game deficit to make up to reach the Vipers spot for 2nd place. The Oulu Blue Jays cannot catch the Superior Lakers. The Lakers who shared the Upper 13 League crown last season with the Oulu Blue Jays will either win it outright this year or the Bayside Vipers will win come from behind this season and take it themselves. This leaves the Blue Jays in the playoffs for now with a game lead on the Ashland C&S Design. Oulu and Ashland will face off in a double header this up coming weekend in Ashland. C&S won the only game these teams have played.
The Superior Lakers are sitting on top at 10-1 with a 2 game lead over the 8-3 Bayside Vipers. The Bayside Vipers would have to sweep the upcoming weekend series to take over the top of the league but if the Lakers win 1 game, they will have clinched the Upper 13 League title. The Lakers clinched a playoff birth 2 weeks ago could be joined by the Vipers this weekend with either a win by themselves or a C&S loss. The Lakers beat the Vipers 2-0 earlier in the season.
The Ashland Merchants who sit in the 5th spot and a very bleak shot of sneaking into the playoffs but are not out of it yet. In order for the Merchants to reach the playoffs they will need to win their remaining 4 games and have help from other teams. The C&S Design will have to beat Oulu twice and lose their other 2 games and the Oulu Blue Jays will have to lose their remaining 4 games in order for the Merchants to make a playoff appearance.
Port Wing (0-11) has been eliminated from playoff contention since week 9.
Week 12 Schedule :
Superior Lakers @ Bayside Vipers 1:00pm (2)-Ted Whereatt Field
Ashland C&S Design @ Oulu Blue Jays 1:00pm (2)-Oulu
Port Wing Baseball @ Ashland Merchants 1:00pm (2)-Pufall Field
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Vipers "Snake Out" at Lakers, Take Upper 13 League Lead
July 12, 2006 --
The Bayside Vipers got the best of the Superior Lakers, taking both games of a doubleheader, 4-1 and 6-3, Sunday at Ted Whereatt Field in Superior.
Vipers 4, Lakers 1
In the first game, winning pitcher Marcus Besonen (5-3) threw a complete game, striking out five, while giving up four hits, one run, one walk and a hit batter.
Losing pitcher Mark Erickson also worked a complete game, striking out six, giving up four earned runs on four hits, with a walk and a hit batsman.
The Lakers got on the scoreboard first after Besonen retired the first two batters of the game. Adam Peterson singled and Kyle Peterson drove in brother Adam with an RBI double for the Lakers’ 1-0 lead.
The Vipers’ Chris Adams led off the bottom of the third with a ground-rule double, advanced to third on a groundout and was driven in by a Robby Trettin single.
Billy Tafs reached base on a throwing error by Laker catcher Kyle Peterson, which advanced Trettin to third.
Trettin then scored on a Jay Paxton ground out to give the Vipers a 2-1 lead.
Bayside’s Nick Garramone led off the bottom of the fourth with a single. He was sacrificed to second on a bunt from John Jenness and driven in by a Sean Cummings single, as the Vipers added two more runs in the inning.
For the Lakers, Brandon Hansen, Greg Aker, Adam Peterson and Kyle Peterson, each had a hit.
For the Vipers, Robby Trettin, Nick Garramone, Chris Adams and Sean Cummings each had a hit.
Vipers 6, Lakers 3
In the second game, winning pitcher Darran Greene (7-0) went the distance, allowing three runs on five hits, while striking out three and walking two.
Losing pitcher Nate Taran pitched an inning and 2/3, giving up six runs on seven hits with a strikeout and two walks.
Tim Garceau was the reliever and went the rest of the game, giving up a hit, a walk and striking out four.
A Trettin walk, followed by a Tafs single was cashed in by a Jay Paxton three-run home run to give the Vipers the early lead.
Paxton powered the Bayside offense in the second inning with a sacrifice fly to score Sean Cummings. A Besonen triple gave the Vipers a 6-0 lead.
That was it for the scoring for the Vipers, who only had one runner reach second base off of Garceau.
The Lakers scored all three of their run in the sixth inning. Greg Aker led off with a single, but advanced to third on an error.
Aker was driven in by a groundout off the bat of Adam Peterson. Kyle Peterson followed with a double to left centerfield and then scored on Tim Garceau’s single. Garceau stole second and third and scored on another error to make the score 6-3.
That was all the Lakers could muster off of Greene, who allowed one base runner in the top of the seventh, on an infielder error, and then he retired the next three batters to end the game.
The Lakers and the Vipers are now tied for first place in the Upper 13 with 10-3 records.
With victories, the Vipers are guaranteed second place in the Upper 13 League and a playoff spot.
The Vipers have two league games remaining, against the Ashland Merchants and Port Wing.
If Bayside wins both of those games they will be the Upper 13 League champs and will have a No. 1 seed in the playoffs.
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Solid Pitching Fuels Lakers
July 21, 2006 --
The Superior Lakers improved to 15-4 on the season with a double header sweep over White Bear Lake Township, Saturday afternoon at Ted Whereatt Field.
The Lakers won the first game 3-0 riding the back of Brandon Hansen who went 7 strong innings, scattering 6 hits and relying on solid defense getting 9 ground outs with 3 of them being double plays. The Lakers were lead by Kyle Peterson and Tim Bouvine who each had a double and an RBI. Greg Aker, Tim Garceau, Travis Taran and Brent Calore each collected hits as well.
In the 2nd game the Lakers won 4-0 on 6 shutout innings from Nate Taran who only allowed 2 hits and struck out 8. Kyle Peterson came in to finish the game in the 7th and struck one guy out, walked a man, and allowed a hit just before turning a inning ending double play with Greg Aker who was playing 1st base.
The Lakers only had 3 hits in the 2nd game with two of them coming from Brandon Hansen and one from Phil Karaba who punched a curveball into right field. Hansen, Brent Calore and Kyle Peterson each had an RBI.
The Lakers will travel to Oulu, Wis tomorrow for a 1:30pm match-up for what people thought might of been the championship game. Well things didnt shake up that way as the Lakers need to win out and have the Bayside Vipers lose one game to win the Upper 13 League. The Lakers are guaranteed a playoff spot and a 2nd seed in the upcoming WBA playoffs. Mark Erickson will start tomorrows game.
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Lakers Sink in Oulu
July 23, 2006 --
The Superior Lakers dropped yet another Upper 13 League game to the Oulu Blue Jays 13-4 in Oulu, Wis on a hot and humid Sunday afternoon.
The Lakers ace, Mark Erickson was not himself as he went 2 and 2/3's of work allowing 6 runs with only 2 being earned. Erickson took himself out of the game after walking his 7th batting in under 3 innings. Tim Garceau came in and did not fair any better going 4 and 1/3's allowing 5 runs on 7 hits. Greg Aker closed out the game going the last inning allowing 2 runs on 2 hits.
Dean Werner started out slow but finished strong throwing all 9 innings for the Oulu Blue Jays. Werner gave up 4 runs, and allowed 8 hits. Werner allowed 3 runs and 3 hits in the first inning and sailed from then on out.
For the Lakers offense, Tim Garceau and Kyle Peterson each had 2 hits while Travis Taran, Nate Taran, Matt McCahan and Brandon Hansen each had 1 hit apiece.
The Oulu Blue Jays were lead by DJ Lahti and George Hansen who each had 3 hits while Steve Lahti, Justin Hariman each served up 2. Joe Calaguire and Rick Hansen each chipped in a hit as well.
The Lakers now 15-5 on the season and 10-4 in the Upper 13 League will play its final home game this upcoming Sunday against Ashland C&S Design at 1:30pm.
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Lakers Pull Together in WBA Playoffs
August 13, 2006 --
The Superior Lakers will be making their first WBA State Tournament appearance after going 2-0 on the weekend in WBA Playoff action. The Lakers who have been playing very poorly lately pulled together to beat last years state tournament runner-up, Everest Merchants, 5-4 in 10 innings. Lakers ace, Mark Erickson went 9 innings allowing 4 runs(2 earned), giving up 6 hits, walking 3 and striking out 8. Winning pitcher, Brandon Hansen came in for the 10th inning allowed 1 hit and kept the Merchants scoreless to get to the bottom half of the inning. Matt McCahan and Travis Taran drew walks and then after 2 bunt attempts by Tim Bouvine to move the runners over he smashed a hard ground ball that was knocked down by the Merchants 3rd basemen who could only throw out Bouvine. This set up Brent Calore with 1 out for a game winning hit past the 3rd basemen to give the Lakers the 5-4 win. The Lakers had 2 hits from Matt McCahan and Nate Taran while Jon Bothun, Kyle Peterson, Brandon Hansen, Tim Bouvine and Brent Calore each had 1 hit apiece. This was the 3rd time in 3 years the Lakers won the first game of regional play with them losing the past two seasons in the championship game to get to state.
The Lakers moved on to play the host team, the Augusta Athletics on Sunday. The Lakers won 4-0 on a complete game shutout performance by Travis Taran who allowed only 4 hits while walking 2 and striking out 6. The Lakers got 3 of their runs in the 5th when Hansen and Bothun drew walks followed up by a single to left by Nate Taran had the bases loaded for Kyle Peterson with one out. Peterson hit a ball to the left fielder that would have only plated 1 run if it hadn't of took a bad hop past the left fielder but instead it cleared the bases putting Peterson at 2nd base. The inning ended when Travis Taran hit a fly ball to the center fielder who threw out Peterson at 3rd base trying to tag from 2nd. The Lakers then struck again in the 6th when McCahan walked, Calore singled and then 2 batters later, Brandon Hansen hit an RBI single to centerfield. The Lakers went quietly in the 7th but with 2 outs in the bottom of the 8th, Phil Karaba made his WBA playoff appearance as he watched a questionable strike 3 call made on him for the last out of the inning. As Karaba walked back to the dugout he thought to himself how sweet it would be to make the last play of the game and with 2 outs in the top of the 9th his dream came true. The ball was hit pretty deep to right field but the wind hung the ball in the air for Karaba to camp under it and make the final out sending the Lakers to the WBA State Tournament. Karaba said after the game, "It was nice to go out there and do something for the team. Paco had confidence putting me out there and I made the play, thats what good ball players do.. make plays."
The Lakers now 18-6 will open up state tournament play Saturday at 10:30am against the Sparta "Millers" in Osseo, Wisconsin. If they Lakers win that game they will play at 7:30pm that night with the championship game coming Sunday at 1:00pm. The Lakers lost to Sparta 2-0 last season in the regional final game.
Other Upper 13 League action:
Haugen-8 Bayside-6(Bayside Eliminated)
Oulu-5 Whittlsey-0
Osceola-10 Oulu-0 (Oulu Eliminated)
Independent League:
Sparta-8 St. Croix 4 (St. Croix Eliminated)
2006 WBA State Finals: Osseo, WI
August 18th, 19th, & 20th, 2006
Friday August 18th
Game 1: La Crescent Cardinals vs Osceola Braves @ 6:30pm
Game 2: Eau Claire Bears vs Haugen Knights @ 9:00pm
Saturday August 19th
Game 3: Superior Lakers vs Sparta Millers @ 10:30am
Game 4: Rib Lake Lakers vs Grantsburg Honkers @ 1:00pm
Game 5: SEMIFINAL GAME - Game 1 winner vs Game 2 winner @ 4:30pm
Game 6: SEMIFINAL GAME - Game 3 winner vs. Game 4 winner @ 7:00pm
Sunday August 20th
Game 7: STATE CHAMPIONSHIP - Game 5 winner vs Game 6 winner @ 1:00pm
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Lakers Can't Crack Open Millers, Lose in Extras
August 20, 2006 --
The Superior Lakers made their first state tournament appearance against the Sparta Millers on Saturday August 19th in Osseo, WI losing 3-2 in 11 innings. The Millers struck first in inning number one getting a triple and a single off Lakers pitcher Mark Erickson for a run. The Lakers tried to answer back in the bottom half of the inning with 2 hits of their own, but stranded both runners leaving the score 1-0 after 1 inning of play. Things went quiet until the top half of the 4th inning when Sparta struck again with a hit, an error and a sac bunt bringing home their second run of the game putting the score at 2-0, Millers after 4 complete. The Lakers chipped away at the lead in the 5th when Tim Bouvine led off with a single, and then a Phil Karaba sac bunt moved him to 2nd base. Brandon Hansen then singled but Bouvine was only able to get to 3rd base. After Hansen stole 2nd base putting runners at 2nd and 3rd with 1 out, Jon Bothun hit a slow ground ball to the first basemen that put the Lakers back in the game but still down 2-1. The Lakers almost tied it up in the next inning when Kyle Peterson singled to right field followed up by an error on Travis Taran’s ground ball to the shortstop but the inning was haltered when Matt McCahan didn’t get a bunt down and watched strike 3 for the first out. Brent Calore hit a sharp ground ball to the left side hole but the shortstop made a great play and threw out Travis Taran trying to get to 2nd leaving the Lakers with 1st and 3rd with 2 outs. Tim Bouvine then lined out up the middle to the shortstop for the last out of the inning stranding 2 runners.
Both teams did nothing with the sticks until the bottom of the 9th with the Lakers trailing 2-1. After a McCahan pop out to the 3rd basemen, Brent Calore ripped a 1 out double to the left center gap giving the Lakers a chance. Tim Bouvine then grounded out to the shortstop setting the table for Phil Karaba. Karaba ripped a line drive down the right field line and Brent Calore scored to tie the game and force extra innings. Both teams were set down in order in the 10th but in the 11th it was Miller time. Brandon Hansen walked the first two batters of the inning and after a sac bunt put runners on 2nd and 3rd with 1 out he walked another loading the bases for the 7 hitter who hit a deep fly ball to right field giving Karaba no chance to work his magic and giving the Millers a 3-2 lead. The Lakers went in order in the 11th flying out twice and a ground out to end the game and end their chances at winning a WBA State Tournament.
For the Lakers pitching, Mark Erickson went 8 innings getting the no decision. Erickson allowed 2 runs (1 earned), giving up 6 hits, walking 2 and striking out 5. Tim Bouvine went the next 2 innings allowing no runs, giving up no hits, walking none and striking out 1. Brandon Hansen took the loss giving up 1 run on no hits, walking 3 and striking out none.
The Lakers offense had 9 hits, but none big enough to break open the game. Travis Taran had 2 hits while, Jon Bothun, Kyle Peterson, Nate Taran, Tim Bouvine, Brent Calore, Brandon Hansen and Phil Karaba each had a hit apiece.
The Lakers now 18-7 overall on the season will enter the Casey Gadzik Tournament in Solon Springs, WI this weekend where the will face off with Spring Valley at noon on Saturday. The loser of that game plays at 4pm while the winner will play at 8pm. The championship game is set for Sunday at 5pm. The Lakers are 4-2 overall in this tournament in years past and have finished 2nd and 3rd.
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Lakers Split Day 1 of Gadzik Tourney
August 26, 2006 --
The Superior Lakers went 1-1 in the Casey Gadzik Memorial Tournament on Saturday falling 2-0 to Sping Valley and then beating Bloomington Valley 5-0 in the night cap.
Game one has little or no highlights as the Lakers were held hitless until the 7th inning when Brandon Hansen sprayed a single down the right field line. Brandon Hansen also took the loss giving up 1 unearned run on 3 hits, striking out 3 while walking 3 batters. Kyle Peterson went the last 2 innings giving up another unearned run and surrendering 2 hits while walking none.
The Lakers faired better in the 2nd game getting a complete game shutout from yet another Taran. Josh Taran pitched 7 strong innings allowing no runs while giving up 2 hits, walking 3 and striking out 7.
The Lakers offense finally came around pounding out 5 runs on 7 hits. Sean Ross and Phil Karaba had 2 apiece, each with doubles. Also collecting hits were Nate Taran, Tim Bouvine and Mark Erickson.
The Lakers now 19-8 on the season will play for the consolation trophy tomorrow at 1pm in Solon Springs, Wisconsin. The Lakers notched a consolation trophy in the Hinckley Knights Tournament earlier in the season.
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A.P. Sets Date: July 28th Nearing
November 21, 2006 --
Superior Laker manager Adam Peterson has set his wedding date for July 28th, 2007 at 1:30pm. The lucky lady you may ask? Donna Schank from Marlton, New Jersey. Adam and Donna met in Hays, Montana where they were both teaching in the middle of nowhere and they now have settled in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Adam is teaching 8th grade science at Rio Rancho Mid-High School and coaching varsity baseball Rio Rancho High School, while Donna is working toward a Ph.D. in the history of the U.S. West and the University of New Mexico. She earned her M.A. from the University of Scranton in Pennsylvania.
Bachelor party donations can be sent to Kyle Peterson....
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Downs Tabbed Opening Day Starter
May 11, 2007 --
The Superior Lakers will open their season with two scrimmage games on Saturday, May 12th. Tom Downs will face the new comers of the Upper 13 League, the Proctor Padres, at 12:00pm while Tim Garceau will match up against the reigning Upper 13 League Champions, the Bayside Vipers at 2:45pm.
Tom Downs will get the opening day nod having only pitched one game in the past 7 years. Downs, 1-0, last season will go up against a veteran team in the Proctor Padres. Manager Kyle Peterson asked outfielder Phil Karaba what he thought about the decision to make Downs the opening day starter... Karaba replied, "he better get his shit together."
The Lakers will open up the regular season against Port Wing Baseball on Sunday, May 20th at 1:30pm in Port Wing.
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Lakers Downs'd in Opener, Bounce Back Against the Vipers
May 12, 2007 --
The Superior Lakers start our their season at the record of 1-1. The Lakers lost to the Proctor Padres 8-7 in the opener giving the Padres their first win of the season. Tom Downs started the game for the Lakers going 2 2/3 of work surrendering 7 runs (6 earned). Downs was starting his second game in 7 years and did not fair well giving up 5 hits, walking 5 and hitting another batter in his no decision effort. Brandon Hansen came in to finish the last inning and a third and took the loss allowing a run in the 4th inning. Hansen allowed 2 hits, walked 1, and struck out 2 batters.
The Lakers offense hit hard to start but fizzled in the later innings. Leading the way were Kyle Peterson who was 2-2 with an RBI and a double. Greg Aker went 2-3 with a triple and 2 runs scored. Hansen also had an rbi single to go along with his pitching performance.
The Lakers faired better in the 2nd half of the double header beating the Bayside Vipers 3-2 in another 5 inning game. Tim Garceau started the game and got the win for the Lakers allowing 1 run in 3 innings of work. Garceau gave up 4 hits, walked 2, and struck out 3. Corey Goblirsch worked the last 2 innings getting the save allowing one run in the 5th. Goblirsch gave up 1 hit, walked 4, and struck out 4.
The Lakers offense took advantage of the chances they got against lefty Marcus Besonen scoring twice in the first and once in the 4th. Aker lead the way going 2-3 with a run scored. Peterson went 1-2 with a run scored and Brandon Hansen chipped in at 1-2 with an rbi to give the Lakers their 3rd run.
The Lakers(1-1) will next travel to Port Wing on Sunday, May 20th to play 1-9 inning game to kick off the Upper 13 League season.
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May 24, 2007 --
Greg Aker, who closed the books on a rewarding University of Minnesota Duluth athletic career this past fall, will be taking his pass-catching act overseas this summer as part of Team USA, which will compete in the 2007 World Championship of American Football.
The six-country tournament is set for July 7-15 in Kawasaki, Japan and will mark the first-ever appearance by a United States team.
Aker, a 5-foot-11, 195-pound wide receiver from Superior, is one of 45 players selected from a pool of 2006 college seniors representing all NCAA and NAIA level.
He’ll be joined in Japan by eight other NCAA Division II players, including a pair of North Central Conference products — running back Kyle Kasperbauer from the University of Nebraska-Omaha and defensive back Jason Hoffschneider from the University of North Dakota.
In 2006, Aker received All-NCC acclaim for the second time in as many years (first team in 2006 and second team in 2005) and was one of 24 finalists for the Harlon Hill Award as the most outstanding player in NCAA II football. He tied for the NCC lead in regular season receptions (68, the second highest single-season total in team history) and caught more passes in league play (59) than any other league player.
The three-year starting wide receiver was credited with 135 catches over the past two years, the most receptions ever accumulated by a Bulldog in back-to-back seasons. Aker, who was a member of both the Daktronics and the d2.football.com Division II All-Northwest second teams last season, finished his playing days with 179 catches for 2,211 yards — good for third place on UMD’s all-time charts in both departments.
As a junior, Aker topped the NCC in touchdowns (12 against league competition) and scoring (12 points per game) and went on catch at least one pass in each of his final collegiate 33 outings. Aker, a three-time all-conference performer on the baseball diamond with the Bulldogs as well, was bestowed with UMD’s Outstanding Senior Male Athlete Award last month.
Team USA, which is being coached by John Mackovic, will train at San Jose State University from June 20 to July 4 before departing for Japan. At the 2007 World Championship of American Football, Team USA will square off with Germany and Korea in pool play while the other pool is comprised of two-time defending champion Japan, Sweden and France.
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May 27, 2007 --
The Superior Lakers now 2-2 on the season and 1-1 in Upper 13 League play were downed by the Oulu Blue Jays on Sunday, 7-2. The pitching match-up was one of the better ones that you would see in the Wisconsin Baseball association with Mark Erickson of the Lakers matching up with Keith Ritsche of the Oulu Blue Jays. Ritsche got the win going 7 innings allowing 2 runs on 6 hits, walking 3 and striking out 3. Erickson stole the show in the no decision going 6 innings allowing 2 runs(1 earned), only giving up 2 hits, walking 2 and fanning 10 Blue Jays.
Both Oulu and Superior showed some homerun power with Keith Ritsche hitting a solo shot in the first for Oulu and Steve Lahti hitting a 2-run dinger in the 7th to give the Blue Jays the lead for good. For the Lakers, Matt McCahan hit a solo shot in the 2nd and Kyle Peterson went 2 for 4 with an RBI in the 3rd.
The Lakers will be back in action tomorrow against the Merchants of Ashland. The game will be held at Pufall Field in Ashland. Game time expected to be 1:30pm. Tim Garceau will be on the hill for the Lakers.
(Click Photo For Box Score)
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May 28, 2007 --
The Superior Lakers bounced back on Memorial Day beating the Ashland Merchants 5-2 at Pufall Field. The Lakers got a great performance from their pitcher Tim Garceau. Garceau went 8 innings allowing 2 runs(1 earned), 6 hits, walked 5 and struck out 7. Corey Goblirsch came in for the 9th and earned his first save of the season allowing no runs on 1 hit, walking 1 and striking out 1.
The Lakers offense was hot to start but fizzled in later innings. Tim Garceau added to his stat line going 3 for 5, hitting a triple with 2 RBI's. New comer, Corey Goblirsch collected his first Laker hits of the season going 2 for 4 with a double and 2 RBI's. Greg Aker continued his speedy ways going 2 for 4 with a double and a walk. Kyle Peterson moved into the 2-hole and continued his hitting ways going 2 for 4 with a double, a walk and an RBI. Brent Calore and Tim Bouvine each chipped in with a hit apiece.
The Lakers(3-2 overall, 2-1 Upper 13 League) will next be in action Saturday when they will take on the Spooner Carinals in Spooner at 1pm. Greg Aker (0-0, 2.1 IP, 1 Hold, 0.00 ERA) will be the starting pitcher. The Lakers will round out their weekend at home against the Bemidji Mudcats at 1pm. The game against the Mudcats will be at the "Babe Ruth Field".
(Click Photo For Box Score)
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Aker Debut Brutal, Lakers Win In Comeback Fashion
June 3, 2007 --
The Superior Lakers downed the Spooner Cardinals Sunday but didn’t do it very easily. The Lakers scored one in the top of the first thanks to a Greg Aker double and a Tim Garceau sacrifice fly but couldn’t hold the lead any longer than that half inning. The Lakers starting pitcher, Aker, came into the game with a team leading ERA of 0.00 but lasted only three batters, jumping that ERA up to 7.71. Aker beaned the leadoff batter and then walked 2 more before being yanked. Corey Goblirsch took over with bases loaded and gave up two runs that were charged to Aker. Goblirsch went the next 3 innings giving up 3 runs, none of which were his nor earned. Goblirsch gave up 3 hits, walked 1, and struck out 4.
After the Lakers found themselves down 6-1 in the 6th inning, Kyle Peterson walked, Tim Garceau singled, Corey Goblirsch hit into a fielders choice that left Garceau and Goblirsch on 1st and 2nd but after a double steal they were both in scoring position for Matt McCahan’s single down the right field line that brought the score to 6-3. In the 7th, Tim Bouvine walked, Ryan Stariha sacrificed him over to 2nd, Aker singled to right to bring in Bouvine. Aker then stole second and Peterson hit a one hop double to left-center to bring the score to 6-5. In the 8th inning, McCahan singled to center, then Brandon Hansen - Stariha - Aker all walked tying the score at 6-6. Peterson then hit in the winning run when the 3rd basemen bobbled the ball and was unable to throw him out.
Winning pitcher, Brandon Hansen pitched the following 4 innings after Goblirsch giving up 3 runs(2 earned), allowed 3 hits, walked 2 and struck out 2. Tim Garceau came in for the 2 inning save with no runs on 1 hit, walked 2 and struck out 2.
The Lakers (4-2 overall and 2-1 in the Upper 13 League) will next be in action Thursday against the Duluth Xpress at 6pm and then are back in Upper 13 League action Sunday with a double header against the Proctor Padres starting at 1pm in Proctor.
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Xpress 'Run A Train On' Lakers
June 8, 2007 --
The Superior Lakers were crushed 19-0 at the Babe Ruth Field in Superior Friday night by the Duluth Xpress. Tim Bouvine got the loss for the Lakers going 3 innings, giving up 7 runs on 10 hits, while striking out 2. Tom Downs came in for one out in the 4th but gave up 5 runs on 3 walks and 2 hit batsmen. Tim Garceau finished the last 2 outs of that inning giving up no runs, walked 2, hit 1, and struck out 1. Sean Ross took the hill for the last 3 innings of the game giving up 7 runs, 7 hits, hit 2 men, walked 2 and struck out 3. The Lakers offense was no where to be found with Greg Aker, Phil Karaba and Ross each getting hits.
The Lakers (4-3 overall, 2-1 Upper 13 League) are back in action Sunday in Proctor to face the Padres in a twin bill starting at 1pm.
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Erickson K's 15 In Lakers Win, Padres Walk Off With Second Game
June 10, 2007 --
The Superior Lakers split with the Proctor Padres Sunday in Proctor. The Lakers won the first game of the twin bill 8-0 behind a complete game, 2 hit, 15 strike out performance by Mark Erickson. Nick Garramone was the only Padre to get a hit, collecting both hits for their squad. Greg Aker and Kyle Zweber had 2 hits and 2 runs a piece to lead the Lakers offensively.
Game two left the Lakers speechless as they lost 6-4 with a walk off jack coming in the bottom of the 7th inning. Corey Goblirsch took the loss for the Lakers as he carried a 3 run lead into the last inning surrending only a bunt single up until that point. Goblirsch finished giving up 6 runs (5 earned), 4 hits, walked 3 and struck out 4. The Lakers got 2 hits each from Goblirsch, Sean Ross and Ryan Hendry.
The Lakers (5-4 overall, 3-2 Upper 13 League) will be back in action at the Babe Ruth Field in Superior Sunday, June 17th against the Ashland C&S Design for a double header that will begin at 1pm.
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Lakers Come Back “Bronzed” From Musky Fest Tourney
June 24, 2007 --
---The Superior Lakers enjoyed the sunny weather and took home 3rd place in the Musky Fest Tournament in Hayward, Wisconsin. In the first game, the Lakers took on the Grantsburg Honkers at 9am Saturday morning. The Lakers were victorious beating the Honkers 3-2 in the bottom of the 8th inning. Lakers ace, Mark Erickson took the hill and pitched all 8 innings surrendering 2 runs on 5 hits, walking none, hit 1 batter, and struck out 6. Erickson’s stat line wasn’t done as he crushed a deep fly ball to the right center gap to get the sac fly bringing in the game winning run in the bottom of the 8th inning. The Lakers also got 2 hits from Matt McCahan, and Kyle Peterson and Brent Calore each had one apiece.
---The Lakers then played the St. Paul Merchants later Saturday night at 6:30pm. The Lakers were beat 9-6 in yet another extra inning game, this time being in the 10th inning. The Lakers had the lead 3 times and tied the game in the bottom of the 7th inning on a Phil Karaba smash to left field scoring McCahan. “I knew that the game was going to be tied up if a runner happened to be on 2nd base for Killer. He came up to me as the other teams pitcher was warming up and told me he was feeling clutch. When the game is on the line, that’s the most feared player we have on this team” said manager, Kyle Peterson. Karaba finished with 2 hits, Corey Goblirsch added 3 while Kyle Zweber (double), Matt McCahan, Brent Calore, Brandon Hansen, Mark Erickson, and Ryan Stariha all had one hit.
Corey Goblirsch started game 2 for the Lakers going 4 1/3 innings, giving up 4 runs (3 earned), allowing 5 hits, walking none and striking out 5. Kyle Zweber then took the hill for his 1st Laker appearance of the summer and had control problems. Zweber just returned from the DL and only lasted an inning surrendering 2 runs on 4 hits, walking 3, hitting 1 batter, and striking out 2. Brandon Hansen then took over and recorded the loss for the Lakers going the last 4 2/3 innings allowing 3 runs on 5 hits, walking 1 and striking out 2.
---The Lakers moved into the 12:30pm, 3rd place game against the Duluth Xpress. Tim Bouvine started for the Lakers and fared better than his first outing against the Xpress when the Lakers lost 19-0 earlier in the season. Bouvine worked 5 innings giving up 3 runs, allowing 8 hits, walking one and striking out 1. The Lakers offense left Bouvine’s effort stranded at 3-0 but finally got on track heading into the bottom of the 5th when they finally scored a run for the first time in 12 innings against the Xpress. The Lakers found themselves down 2 heading into the 7th and rallied for 3 runs for a walk off win. Zweber walked, Goblirsch doubled and then Matt McCahan hit a single to right to tie the game. McCahan reached 2nd on the throw to home. Calore moved McCahan to 3rd on a ground ball and Hansen hit in McCahan for the win. Kyle Peterson got the win pitching the last 2 innings giving up no runs on no hits, facing only 6 batters. The Lakers got 2 hits from McCahan and Goblirsch and one from Hansen.
The Lakers are back in Upper 13 League action this Saturday against the Bayside Vipers, 1:30pm in Superior. Then will face the Ashland C&S Design Sunday in Ashland at 1:30pm.
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Lakers Drop Two
June 30, 2007 --
The Superior Lakers dropped two Upper 13 League games over the weekend. The first coming Saturday evening against the Bayside Vipers coming up short in a 1-0 loss. Mark Erickson took the loss for the Lakers going all 9 innings giving up the lone run in the first inning. Erickson gave up 5 hits, walked 2, hit one batter and struck out 11. Chris Vendela pitched a complete game shut out for the Vipers to get the win. The Lakers had a hit from Kyle Zweber, Corey Goblirsch, Kyle Peterson, Matt McCahan, Brent Calore and Brandon Hansen.
In the Lakers game Sunday, they were downed 5-4 in another extra inning game, this time going 10 innings. Tim Bouvine went the first 8 innings for the Lakers allowing 4 runs(1 earned), giving up 8 hits while walking 3 and striking out 5. Kyle Zweber took the loss going the last 2 innings giving up a run on 1 hit, walking 1 and striking out 1. The Lakers had 8 hits total getting two apiece from Kyle Peterson, Scott Peterson and Tim Bouvine.
The Lakers will be off for the 4th of July but will be back in action Sunday when they will faceoff against the Port Wing Boilers in a double header starting at 1pm at the Babe Ruth Field in Superior.
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LAKERS TAKE TWO FROM BOILERS
July 8, 2007 --
The Superior Lakers finished off the series sweep of the Port Wing Boilers this Sunday winning both games on a hot and muggy afternoon. The first game went by quick as the Lakers, Mark Erickson threw a 7 inning no-hitter with 12 strike outs. Erickson was one out away from the perfect-o when he walked his first batter of the game, followed by a bean ball before getting the last out to complete the no-hitter. The Lakers only run came in the first inning on a bases loaded walk by Brandon Hansen that plated Kyle Peterson who lead the game off with a walk. Tim Bouvine and Ryan Hendry were the only Lakers to get hits.
Game two was about the same as Tim Bouvine almost matched Erickson's game one performance. Bouvine ended up with a complete game, 2 hit shutout and also fanned 10 batters as Bouvine seemed to get stronger as it got later in the game. The Lakers got some more offense, most coming from the bat of Bouvine who had 2 doubles that led to 3 RBI's. Kyle Peterson added a double and 2 RBI's while Matt McCahan, Brent Calore, and Phil Karaba all had a hit apiece.
The Superior Lakers (10-8 overall, 6-5 Upper 13 League) are back in action this Saturday at home with a double header coming against the Ashland Merchants starting at 1pm. The Lakers will then play host to the Proctor Padres on Sunday at 1:30pm.
(click logo for Upper 13 League Standings)
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Lakers Go 2-1 Over The Weekend
July 15, 2007 --
The Superior Lakers won two and lost one game over the weekend. In game one, the Lakers lost in an extra inning heartbreaker to the Ashland Merchants 2-1. Mark Erickson took the loss going all 8 innings surrending 2 runs, no earned runs, 6 hits, walking 3, and striking out 9. The Lakers offense was no where to be found having only 3 hits total, one each coming from Corey Goblirsch, Ryan Hendry and Brandon Hansen.
In game two the Lakers returned the favor to the Merchants beating them in extra innings 3-2. Tim Bouvine got the win going all 8 innings allowing 2 runs, 1 earned, 9 hits, walking no one, and striking out 6. The Lakers winning run came in the bottom of the 8th when Kyle Peterson walked, moved to 3rd on a failed pick off attempt by the pitcher. After a Bouvine strike out, the Merchants intentionally walked Brent Calore to set up the double play which failed because of a Brandon Hansen warning track sacrifice fly that brought in Peterson for the win. For the Lakers offense; Corey Goblirsch had two hits, while Hansen and Peterson chipped in one apiece.
The Lakers next faced the Proctor Padres winning 11-1. Brandon Hansen got the win going all 8 innings allowing one run on 3 hits, walking 3, hitting 1, and striking out 8. The Lakers offense finally came to life getting two hits from Goblirsch, Calore, and Bouvine while Ryan Hendry, Phil Karaba, Mark Erickson, and Hansen all had a hit apiece.
The Lakers (12-9 overall, 8-6 Upper 13 League) are back in action this Sunday in Oulu, Wisconsin against the Blue Jays for a double header that will start at 1pm.
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SOMETHING NEW!
The Superior Lakers and Papa Murphy's (Superior Location) will be teaming up with a new promotion at Laker ball games this upcoming season. The Lakers will be doing a 50/50 raffle drawing at all home games, that will include a free family size, 1-topping pizza from Papa Murphy's which is located 2433 Tower Ave in Superior, Wi.
Other promotions will be coming
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Sunday, May 20, 2007 ----- Rams Win Crown
Adam Peterson helped create the Superior Lakers, and is now the assistant head coach for the Rio Rancho Rams varsity baseball team. Game story to follow...
Rio Rancho didn't exactly bash its way to a Class 5A state baseball title Saturday night.
The Rams didn't need to.
Joey Garcia and Anthony Haase combined to pitch a five-hitter as Rio Rancho captured its first baseball crown with a 4-1 victory over Mayfield at Isotopes Park.
The triumph put a bow on a remarkable three-day exhibition of pitching and defense by the Rams (24-5), who allowed just two runs and didn't commit an error in 22 innings.
"That's what we had, pitching and defense," said elated Rio Rancho coach Ron Murphy. "To basically play mistake-free baseball for three straight games, that's awesome. My hat's off to these kids."
Haase (5-0) got the pitching win in relief, allowing just one hit and no runs over the final four innings. Haase also pitched a complete game in the Rams' semifinal win over Oñate on Friday.
"We've got a great staff," Haase said. "I'm just proud to be part of it. Once we got the lead, we always felt like we'd find a way to win."
Mayfield (23-6) was looking for its first state baseball crown since 1981 but was hurt by a shaky start Saturday. Trojans pitchers Nathan Enriquez and Gera Sanchez allowed only five hits in the game, but the Trojans fought an uphill battle after the first inning.
Rio Rancho's Ethan Gill opened the game with a single and moved to second base on Patrick Montano's sacrifice bunt. Josh Cappello followed with a bouncer toward the mound that Trojans starting pitcher Nathan Enriquez bobbled for one error. He then threw the ball away for another.
The two errors brought Gill home and put Cappello at third. He later scored on Kyle Hammond's ground ball to give the Rams a 2-0 lead.
"That was really important," Murphy said. "Our team believes when we get two runs, we're gonna win."
Still, Mayfield had its opportunities.
Garcia, starting for the first time in nearly a month after suffering a knee injury, sailed through the first two innings but found trouble in the third. Matt Sullivan led off with a double and moved to third on a sacrifice bunt. But Garcia was able to induce back-to-back pop flies to escape the inning.
The Trojans finally did solve Garcia in the fourth, when Enriquez and Sanchez led off with back-to-back singles and Sam Smith lined an RBI double to left-center. Murphy then brought in Haase to relieve with runners on second and third and no outs.
"I was just trying to minimize the damage," Haase said, "maybe not give up more than one run."
Haase did even better. First, he snared a bouncer up the middle by Sam Perez-Wright and tossed to first for one out. Luis Quinones followed by popping up a bunt, and Sullivan struck out for the third out. The Rams' lead was still intact at 2-1.
"We didn't come up with hits in pressure situations like we usually do," Mayfield coach Miguel Gomez said. "That really hurt. Rio Rancho's pitchers have a lot of poise."
They may not have needed it, but the Rams' pitchers got some insurance in the sixth inning. Garcia walked, Kyle Hammond followed with a single and Sanchez wild-pitched home Rio Rancho's third run.
To Murphy's delight, Zach Martinez brought home the final run with a perfectly executed suicide squeeze.
"It was so important for us to play from ahead," Murphy said, "because we like to run, bunt and do the little things. Mayfield's a scary team, and we did not want Gera Sanchez to get the ball late with a lead. If that happens, we're in trouble."
The Rams also enjoyed a bit of payback against Mayfield, the team that eliminated them from last season's state baseball tournament in the first round.
"It would've felt good to beat anyone tonight," Garcia said. "But that was a little extra. We got a little revenge on an even bigger stage."
Rio Rancho right fielder Josh Walker was the lone player to get two hits in the championship game. For Murphy, who lost his previous two championship games while coaching St. Pius in the 1990s, it couldn't have been sweeter.
"This is really exciting for our whole community," he said. "I've waited a long time for this."
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KAWASAKI, JAPAN – Special teams and defense accounted for 42 points as the United States rolled to a 77-0 victory over Korea in Team USA’s opening game at the 2007 World Championship of American Football on Tuesday evening.
Team USA set seven single-game tournament records including total defense as Korea finished with a net loss of 31 yards offensively and did not record a first down. Team USA amassed a tournament record 289 return yards and nine different U.S. players found the end zone.
Saginaw Valley State’s Bobby Awrey started the game with an 84-yard kickoff return for a touchdown as Team USA jumped to a 28-0 first quarter lead. Awrey also added a 74-yard punt return in the second quarter. The scores were the first kickoff and punt returns for touchdowns in World Championship history.
"That (kickoff) felt amazing," Awrey said. "The guys did a great job. The hole just opened up so wide up the middle of the field. I got to the 20 and realized this is the first play in USA Football history. I’m proud and honored to take that first one back for the team."
Wisconsin-Stevens Point’s Cody Childs was the only other player to find the end zone twice. He scored on a 13-yard first quarter run and a 1-yard fourth quarter scamper.
After Childs’ first quarter score the U.S. defense tacked on two more touchdowns before the end of the quarter. Mary Hardin-Baylor’s Josh Kubiak swooped in and blocked a Korea punt that was recovered in the end zone by Christopher Newport’s Rob Rodriguez. Just over a minute later Wisconsin-La Crosse’s Steve Teeples intercepted an errant K.M Kim throw at the Korea 5-yard line and slipped into the end zone with 5:16 to go in the quarter.
Hobart’s Doug Blakowski extended the US lead to 35-0 early in the second quarter on a four-yard touchdown run to cap a short drive that was set up on a 60 yard punt return by Teeples. Awrey added his punt return two minutes later to give the US a 42-0 halftime cushion.
Teeples is one of six players on the US roster who has played internationally prior to the World Championship. He was a member of the U.S. college all-star team that faced Mexico in the Aztec Bowl in December 2006. Four other Team USA members were on that squad. One other player is playing professionally in Germany this summer.
"Our defense has the capability to score from all positions, not just the secondary," Teeples said "Getting on the board early like that is just something good for the team."
The US defense kept the offense off the field for the first 5:56 of the second half as Northwest Missouri State’s Diezeas Calbert fell on a Korea fumble in the end zone with 10 minutes to go in the quarter. Team USA forced a Korea punt on the next series and it was returned 50 yards for a touchdown by Toledo’s Steve Odom.
The US offense finally got on the field with 6:04 to go in the third quarter. Six plays later Nebraska-Omaha’s Kyle Kasperbauer capped a six-play 76-yard drive with a 42-yard touchdown run to extend the lead to 56-0 with 3:29 to go in the quarter.
Maine’s Manauris Arias intercepted a Korea pass on the next possession and returned it 17 yards to the Korea 8 yard line. Three plays later Childs rumbled into the end zone for his second score of the evening.
Williams receiver John Drenckhahn tallied the lone fourth quarter score for Team USA when he hauled in a 9-yard touchdown pass from TCU’s Jeff Ballard.
"I was very pleased that we came out as ready to play as we did," USA Head Coach John Mackovic said. "We worked so hard for three weeks to get ready and our players were anxious to show what they could do and obviously they got off to a great start in the first quarter."
Team USA will return to the field on Thursday when it meets Germany at 3 p.m. at Kawasaki Stadium. The winner will advance to Sunday’s Gold Medal game.
World Championship Records Set
Kickoff Return: 84 yards, Bobby Awrey, USA Punt Return: 74 yards, Bobby Awrey, USA
PATs: 11, Craig Coffin, USA
Rushing Touchdowns (Team): 4, USA
Team Return Yards: 289, USA
Fewest Yards Allowed: -31, USA
Fewest First Downs Allowed: 0, USA
World Championship Records Tied
Points Allowed: 0, USA
Rushing Touchdowns: 2, Cody Childs, USA
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May 20, 2007 - --The Superior Lakers improved to 2-1 on the season and 1-0 in the Upper 13 League with a win over the Port Wing Boilers 8-0 in Port Wing Sunday. Under a balmy 45 degrees, Tim Garceau worked 5 innings, giving up no runs, allowing a hit, walking 5 and striking out 10. Corey Goblirsch took the hill for the following 3 innings keeping the Boilers off the scoreboard. Goblirsch allowed no hits, walked 1, and struck out 6. Greg Aker entered the game in the 9th for a hold allowing no runs, on no hits, walking 1 and striking out 2.
The Lakers offense pounded out 9 hits. One each by Greg Aker(double), Kyle Peterson, Matt McCahan(double), Brandon Hansen(double), and Scott Peterson with an single that brought in 2 runs. Tim Garceau and Brent Calore each collected 2 hits a piece.
The Lakers(2-1 overall, 1-0 Upper 13) will next play the Oulu Bluejays next Sunday, May 27th at 1:30pm. The Lakers will be playing at the Babe, "Morri Arnovich Field." (CLICK PICTURE FOR BOX SCORE)
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Two More Lakers Getting Hitched
Brent Calore and Jon Bothun are now added to the list of Lakers taking the plunge into marriage. Brent Calore has set the date with Anna Larochelle(Superior, Wi) on April 25th, 2008. Brent and Anna used to work together at Jubilee. They starting talking a year later after Brent left to work at Menards. Brent left Anna a note on her car, so she texted him two days later… and the rest is just details.
Jon Bothun and Katie Barker(Barnum, Mn) will tie the knot as well with their wedding date yet to be decided. Jon and Katie met in class at UWS and Katie has been in a few of Jon’s films that he has produced at UWS. Katie will graduate this May from UWS with a mass communications degree.
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WILL HE? ... OR WON'T HE?
January 29, 2008 --
Well now that the football season has come to an end and the Packers have ended their season a game early the only question on people's minds is will he, or won't he retire for next season. Craig McGrath has been around since it's all started as the Laker 1st base coach and as usual, McGrath has dragged out his announcement and put the Lakers organization on hold. "He is holding this team hostage" said center fielder and best friend Greg Aker, "I don't know what he is going to do. Only he knows that and I don't even know if he knows. But how are the Lakers supposed to know what off season moves to make if we don't know what Mullet is going to do?" The Lakers, who are coming off their worst season in franchise history, do not know whether to move on or plan for the veteran first base coach, turned bench coach due to first base not being in front of the home dugout last season. Fellow teammate and duck hunting partner Phil Karaba said "We just want him back. He's the best ever and has done so much for the game. He's earned the right to take his time and figure out things, but we just want him back... we need him back!" There are people questioning whether or not McGrath has lost a step, or whether he has the desire to go on. But there are others who want to see this man, this ambassador of the game, this legend ride off into the sunset as a champion. So the Lakers enter 2008 with a big question mark. Will Craig McGrath return to the bench in '08? Stay tuned...
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"A New Era Begins"
2008 Superior Lakers
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LAKERS ADD GAMES AGAINST UMD CLUB TEAM
The Superior Lakers will kick off their season a bit earlier than usual in 2009 as they have set up two games against the UMD Club team on May 9th and May 10th with weather depending. The games will be a good tune up for the players that are not currently playing college ball. This is the first year for the UMD Club team as they will play teams such as the Mankato Club team, U of W Madison Club team, and St. Johns JV. The UMD Club team is looking to have one traveling team of 34-35 players and still have enough for the remaining players to split into two teams and play each other on the weekends that the traveling team is gone.
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LAKERS FIND NEW HOME
The Lakers began playing at the "Ted Whereatt Field" in Superior, WI for the first 4 years of their existence. Then as that was closed down to try and make it a respectable baseball field, the Lakers moved to "The Babe" also known as Morrie Arnovich Field in Superior, WI. Field availability and costs were too high there so the move was made this off season. The Lakers will play their home games at the Hermantown Baseball Field which is apart of the Fichtner Memorial Complex located on the Northeast corner of the Maple Grove and Ugstad Road intersection in Hermantown, MN. We hope to see the same great fans that have always supported the Lakers and hopefully bring amateur baseball back to the great city of Hermantown.
Directions from Superior: Directions from Superior to Hermantown's Baseball Field:
1: Start out going WEST on BELKNAP ST/US-2/US-53-BR toward FISHER AVE.
2: Turn RIGHT onto HAMMOND AVE. 1.0 mi
3: HAMMOND AVE becomes I-535 N/US-53 N (Crossing into MINNESOTA). 2.5 mi
4: Merge onto US-53 N via the exit on the LEFT toward 21ST AVE W. 4.2 mi
5: Turn LEFT onto US-53 N/MN-194 W/MILLER TRUNK HWY. 0.5 mi
6: Turn LEFT onto COUNTY ROAD 6/MAPLE GROVE RD. 3.6 mi
7: End at Ugstad Rd & Maple Grove Rd Hermantown, MN 55811
Estimated Time: 21 minutes Estimated Distance: 12.21 miles
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LAKERS BACK IN "HULL RUST" TOURNEY IN HIBBING
The Superior Lakers will head back to Hibbing, Mn to playin the "Hull Rust" tournament again on June 19th-21st. The Lakers will take on the Hibbing Miners in game one at 9pm, Friday evening. Other teams that are in the tournament are the: Grand Rapids Indians, Proctor Padres, Hinckley Knights, Warroad Muskie, Bemidji Mudcats, and Metro Knights. Games will be played at Al Nyberg Field in Hibbing, Mn.
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The Superior Lakers kick off the 2009 season this upcoming weekend with their first ever match up against the UMD Club Bulldogs. This is the first inaugural season for the UMD Club team, who have already notched their first notable win against the club team from the University of Minnesota, with a 20-10 win last weekend. The Lakers will have a new look to them as they are down to four players from the original team that started in 2004. Here is a look position by position.
Pitchers: With long time Lakers ace, Mark Erickson, most likely gone for the season, newcomers, Josh Foreman(Shawano, WI) and Cole Hytjan(Eden Praire, MN) will top the Lakers staff as both just finished up their season for UMD. Another newcomer will be lefty, Joby Davidsavor(Amery, WI) who has pitched for the Osceola Braves prior to joining the Lakers staff. The bullpen will be led by a returning Laker, Josh Taran(Hermantown, MN), who will see a lot of appearances this season. Rounding out the pitching for the Lakers will be Brandon Hansen (Superior, WI), Andy Ross(Superior, WI), Chris Musser(Eau Claire, WI), Zach Sitek(Superior, WI), and Nathan Windschill(Location, Unknown).
Catcher: The Lakers backstop will change hands once again this summer as Matt Uher(Owatonna, MN) will handle the majority of the catching duties. Spelling Uher behind the dish will be Justin Baker(Hermantown, MN), Kyle Peterson(Superior, WI), Nick Garramone(Duluth, MN) Matt Johnson (Superior, WI), Musser and Jason Polikowsky(St. Cloud, MN).
Infield: The Lakers will have a merry go round in the infield this season as they have yet to set an infield. Matt Engelmeier(Hermantown, MN), Baker, Andrew Christensen (Hermantown, MN), Foreman, Peterson, Musser, Ross, Polikowsky and Garramone could all see time at the hot corner this season. Hansen, Ross, Foreman, and Musser will be the main stays at shortstop and second base this season. Ryan Hendry(Superior, WI), Peterson, Garramone, Polikowsky and Cameron Stelljas will be sharing duties at 1st and most likely the DH spot of the lineup.
Outfielders: The Lakers will feature at least 10 outfielders this season and they will include: Uher, Baker, Sitek, Hansen, Davidsavor, Engelmeier, Sean Graskey(Superior, WI), Phil Karaba(Superior, WI), Johnson and Kory Maier(Park Falls, WI).
Lakers Anchor: All in all, the Lakers will have a different look in the 2009 season. A look that will include at least 10 new ball players. The Lakers all time record for their opening game is 4-1. Peterson, Hansen, Karaba and Hendry are the remaining four Lakers that were on the original roster in 2004. The Lakers will be giving the ball to Josh Foreman for game one on Saturday and Joby Davidsavor in game two. Sunday's starter has yet to be announced. Game times are as follows: Saturday @ 1pm & 3:30pm, Sunday @ 2pm. All 3 games will be played at Carlton's baseball field.
Directions to Carlton's Field:
Take I-35 S. 15 mi
Take the MN-45/ CR-45 exit, EXIT 239, toward SCANLON/ CLOQUET. 0.2 mi
Merge onto MN-45 E via the ramp on the LEFT toward CARLTON/ WRENSHALL. 2.7 mi
MN-45 E becomes CR-1. 0.6 mi
Turn SLIGHT RIGHT onto S TERRACE/ CR-3. Continue to follow CR-3. 1.2 mi
Turn RIGHT onto E CHUB LAKE RD. 0.9 mi
Turn RIGHT onto CHUB LAKE PARK RD/ TOWNSHIP 105. 0.1 mi
End at [1400-1499] Chub Lake Park Rd Carlton, MN 55718
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Chubs Lake Dooms Lakers
May 12, 2009 --
The Superior Lakers kicked off their season with a 3 game series against the UMD Club Bulldogs and went 1-2 on the weekend. In the first game the Lakers go out to a 6-2 lead but fell flat in the 8th and 9th inning to lose 7-6. Starting pitcher, Josh Foreman went 6 innings allowing 2 runs(1 earned) on 3 hits while walking 1 and striking out 8. Josh Taran took over from there and took the loss. Taran went 3 innings, giving up 5 runs(3 earned) on 5 hits while walking 2 and striking out 4. Collecting hits for the Lakers were Justin Baker, Chris Musser and Kyle Peterson who had two hits apiece while Foreman, Cameron Stelljes, and Andrew Christensen each had one.
The Lakers fared better in the second game as they got their first win of the season, winning 6-5. Winning pitcher, Joby Davidsavor started the game for the Lakers going 7 2/3 innings allowing 4 runs(3 earned) on 6 hits while walking 1 and striking out 4. Josh Taran saved the game going 1 1/3 innings allowing 1 run(unearned) on 1 hit while striking out 1. The Lakers got 2 hits from Matt Uher, and Matt Engelmeier. Baker, Foreman, Peterson, Stelljes and Nick Garramone each had a hit apiece.
In the series finale, the Lakers had to dig themselves out of a hole right from the start. Starting pitcher, Nathan Windschill allowed 4 runs on 2 hits while walking 5, and not recording an out before handing the ball over to Taran who got the Lakers back to the dugout without giving up another run. Taran finished 3 innings allowing no runs on no hits, walking 2 and striking out 5. Brandon Hansen relieved Taran from there and took the loss going 3 2/3 innings allowing 5 runs(4 earned)on 5 hits while walking 1 and striking out 5. Hansen surrendered a two out, walk off 3-run home run to lose the game for the Lakers, 9-7. The Lakers started out hot offensively scoring 6 of their 7 runs in the first 4 innings but from there the bats quieted. Justin Baker belted a two run home run off fellow Laker, Chris Musser in the 2nd inning. Uher, Foreman, Stelljes, Garramone, and Ryan Hendry also collected hits in the loss.
Next up for the Lakers (1-2 overall) will be the Upper 13 League opener against the Ashland Merchants at 1:30pm. The game will be played at Fichtner Memorial Complex in Hermantown, MN.
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LAKERS WIN UPPER 13 LEAGUE OPENER
May 17, 2009 --
~ The Superior Lakers jump started their Upper 13 League schedule with an 8-4 win over the Ashland Merchants. Lakers pitcher, Joby Davidsavor went 6 innings to get the win, allowing 4 runs on 7 hits while walking 2 and striking out 5. Josh Taran then went the next 3 innings for the save. Taran allowed no runs on 1 hit, walked 2 and struck out 2. The Lakers were led offensively by Justin Baker. Baker collected 3 hits, 2 being doubles and the other a home run. Rounding out the hitting were Matt Uher and Kyle Peterson with doubles while Nick Garramone and Jason Polikowsky each had singles.
The Lakers(2-2 overall, 1-0 U-13) are next in action this upcoming weekend on Sunday when they match up with the Bayside Vipers, 1:30pm at Ted Whereatt Field. They will also play on Memorial Day against the Proctor Padres at Fichtner Memorial Complex in Hermantown, MN starting at 1:30pm.
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LAKERS OUTLAST VIPERS
May 24, 2009 --
~ It took the Lakers 14 innings but they earned their second Upper 13 League win on Sunday by defeating the Bayside Vipers 2-1. The Lakers got great pitching performances out of starter, Josh Foreman and Nate Taran. Foreman went the first 6 innings allowing 1 run that was unearned on 4 hits while walking 1 and striking out 3. Josh Taran turned in a heroic effort going the next 8 innings, not allowing a run on 3 hits while walking 3, hitting another and striking out 7. Tarans efforts allowed the Lakers to finally plate a run in the top of the 15 innings. Nate Taran led off the inning by getting hit by a pitch. Nate Taran went all the way to third on a wild pick off throw by relief pitcher Marcus Besonen. Nate Taran was plated one pitch later as Justin Baker hit a fly ball to the right fielder that was not able to gun down the speedy Taran. The Lakers offense was great until they had runners on base. In 15 innings of play, the Lakers left 21 men on base. For the Lakers, Baker, Foreman, Kyle Peterson and Brandon Hansen each had 2 hits apiece. Rounding out the hitting for the Lakers were Kory Maier, Chris Musser, Jason Polikowsky, Andy Ross, and Nate Taran who each chipped in with 1 hit.
The Lakers are next in action on Memorial Day at Fichtner Memorial Complex in Hermantown, MN against the Proctor Padres. Game time will be at 1:30pm(CST)
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LAKERS POUND PADRES, MOVE TO 3-0 IN LEAGUE
May 25, 2009 --
~ The Superior Lakers continued their winning ways on Memorial Day by defeating the Proctor Padres 11-3 in an Upper 13 League match up. The Lakers sent Travis Taran to the mound for the first time since 2006 when they made the WBA State Tournament. Taran didn't dissapoint as he got the win going 6 innings allowing 3 runs on 8 hits, walking 3 and striking out 4. Chris Musser made his Laker debut on the mound going the next 2 innings allowing no runs on 1 hit but walked 4 and struck out 3. Lakers, Nathan Windschill, was handed the ball in the 9th and he struck out the side.
The Lakers offense was no where to be found until the bats woke up in the 4th inning with 2 outs as they plated 8 runs in that inning. Leading the Lakers was Kory Maier and Travis Taran who each had 2 hits with Taran having 2 doubles. The Lakers also got hits from Kyle Peterson, Chris Musser, Cameron Stelljes, Matt Engelmeier, Andy Ross, and Nate Taran.
The Lakers (4-2 overall, 3-0 U-13 League) are back in action this Friday night when they will travel to Grand Rapids, MN to take on the Indians at 7:30pm. The Lakers will be back home for a game against the Port Wing Boilers on Sunday that will start at 1:30pm.
LAKERS ANCHOR: This was the first game that all three Taran's have been playing for the Lakers at the same time..... Lakers co-owner, Adam Peterson, coached his high school team in Rio Rancho, New Mexico to the 5A State Championship defeating Nationally ranked #7 La Cueva 6-5. Peterson has been the assistant coach for 2 State Championship teams in 3 seasons...... Missing in action today was Josh Foreman who woke up and felt a pop in his neck so he went to the hospital. Luckily the doctors have come to the conclusion that it is just a strained muscle and he will be OK. Merry Memorial Day to all!
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BAKER NAMED PLAYER OF THE WEEK
May 26, 2009 --
Justin Baker has been selected as the Upper 13 League's Player of the Week for the first week of the season. Baker had three hits, including a home run, and three runs scored in the Lakers' 8-4 victory over the Ashland Merchants at Hermantown on May 17.
Baker is currently atop the leader board in doubles(3), HR's(2), while he is second in avg.(.409), and runs scored(6) in only 6 games so far this season.
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THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT THIS SEASON!
The Superior Lakers would like to thank the following supporters of Superior Lakers baseball. Without you, it would not be possible to enjoy playing amateur baseball in the Twin Ports area. THANK YOU!
-Aces on 29th in Superior, Wisconsin
-Superior Beverages(Budweiser) in Superior, Wisconsin
-Buzz Hair Salon in Superior, Wisconsin
-Sammy's Pizza & Restaurant in Duluth, Minnesota
(click photos for Sponsors page)
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LAKERS LOSE FIRST U-13 GAME
June 15, 2009 --
~The Superior Lakers lost their first Upper 13 League game Sunday as they could not get the bats going in a 3-1 loss to the Oulu Blue Jays in Oulu, Wisconsin. The Lakers got on the board in the first inning with a lead off walk from Kory Maier, a sacrifice bunt by Justin Baker, and an RBI single from Josh Foreman. The Lakers offense really sputtered from there as they only had 4 hits on the day from Baker, Foreman, Kyle Peterson and Cameron Stelljes. Taking the Loss for the Lakers was Josh Foreman(0-2) who went 7 innings allowing 3 runs(1 earned) on 6 hits, walking 5 and striking out 2. Chris Musser worked a scoreless 8th inning allowing a hit and striking out 2.
The Lakers(5-4 overall, 3-1 U-13) are back in action this weekend as they will travel to Hibbing, MN for the weekend to play in the "Hull Rust Invitational" tournament. The Lakers will match up with the host team, the Hibbing Miners on Friday night at 9pm. If the Lakers win they will play at 4:30pm Saturday and if they lose they will play at 2pm, also on Saturday. The Championship game, which the Lakers reached last season before being defeated by the Metro Merchants, is on Sunday at 3pm. All games will be played at Al Nyberg Field in Hibbing, MN.
(click logo for tournament bracket, directions to ballfield and campground)
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LAKERS STRIKE GOLD IN HIBBING
June 22, 2009 --
~ The Superior Lakers won the 2nd annual “Hull Rust” in Hibbing, MN this past weekend. The Lakers defeated the host team, the Hibbing Miners, in the opening game in walk off fashion 6-5. The Lakers got down 6-2 after committing 5 errors in the 2nd inning. The Lakers battled back in the 4th, scoring 5 runs that put them ahead 7-6 until the Miners worked across a run in the top of the 7th inning. That set up a dramatic finish for the Lakers as Justin Baker lead off the inning with a single. Baker then stole second and took 3rd on the errant throw to second. Well it just took Josh Foreman one pitch to be the hero as he crushed a ball to the right center gap, plating Baker for the winning run. Rounding out the offense for the Lakers was Foreman with 3 hits, Baker and Kory Maier with 2 hits apiece, while Cameron Stelljes, Cory Wilander, and Brent Engstrom each singled. Winning pitcher, Joby Davidsavor went for the complete game as he surrendered 7 runs (2 earned) on 10 hits while walking 1 and striking out 3.
The Lakers faced off against the defending champions, the Metro Merchants, in the semi-final game. The Merchants defeated the Lakers in last year’s championship game 6-0 but this year would be very different. The Lakers started off flat once again falling to 4-0 after only 2 innings of play. The Lakers, who were facing the same pitcher they saw last year, started to chip away plating 1 run in the 4th, 5th, and 6th inning. The Merchants scored another run in the 6th that left the Lakers down 5-3 headed into the bottom of the 7th. Maier started the inning with a triple to the right-center gap that got the ball rolling. After a Baker ground out, Foreman singled up the middle. Kyle Peterson then singled to right before Chris Musser found the right field chalk line to tie up the game. Stelljes then worked a 9 pitch at bat to get a walk, loading the bases for Matt Uher. Uher put a dent in the ball, one hopping the right-center fence for the game winning hit, defeating the Merchants 8-7 and completing the second walk-off win for the Lakers in one day. Rounding out the offense for the Lakers was Uher with 3 hits. Maier, Baker, Stelljes and Peterson each had 2 hits while Foreman and Joby Davidsavor each chipped in 1 hit apiece. Foreman started on the mound for the Lakers going 6 innings getting the no decision. Foreman surrendered 5 runs (2 earned) on 6 hits, walking 3 and striking out 7. Nathan Windschill took the mound in the 7th, collecting his first win for the Lakers allowing no runs on 1 hit, while striking out 1.
In the championship game, the Lakers played a familiar foe, the Itasca Indians (Grand Rapids, MN). This game was in the books before it started as the Lakers put it on cruise control for the 9-1 win. The story of the game was Josh Taran as he went for the complete game win allowing 1 run on 5 hits while walking 3 and striking out 9. The Lakers got 3 hits and 3 RBI’s each from Maier and Peterson to lead the way while Baker had 2 hits and 2 RBI’s and Foreman and Andrew Christensen each had 1 to round out the Lakers offense.
The Lakers (7-4 overall, 3-1 Upper 13 League) are back in action this Sunday when they are in Proctor, MN to face the Padres at 1:30pm in an Upper 13 League game. They will then be at Ordean Field in Duluth, MN on Tuesday, June 30th to face the Duluth Xpress in a non-conference game at 6:00pm.
(click team photo for link to Minnesota Baseball website's story)
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LAKERS GIVE PADRES THE CHILLS
The Superior Lakers improved to 8-4 overall on the season and 4-1 in the Upper 13 League with their 12-1 win over the Proctor Padres on Sunday. The Lakers pounded out 18 hits on the day with Josh Foreman leading the way with 4 hits that included a double and 2 RBI's. Jason Polikowsky went a perfect 3 for 3 on the day with 1 RBI while Kory Maier, Justin Baker, Kyle Peterson, Matt Uher and Joby Davidsavor each chipped in 2 hits apiece with Peterson collecting 3 RBI's while Maier added 2 RBI's. The real story of the game was Nathan Windschill's 5 innings of work that got him the win. Chilly's dynamic performance was one for the ages as he hit em with fastballs and curve balls all day long. Chilly surrendered only one run on 4 hits while walking 4, hitting another while striking out 6.
The Lakers are back in action Tuesday evening when they face off against the Duluth Xpress in the "bridge battle", 6pm at Ordean Field in Duluth.
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LAKERS RIDE THE FOREMAN TRAIN PAST THE XPRESS
July 1, 2009 --
~ The Superior Lakers continued their winning ways Tuesday at Ordean Field with a 3-0 win over the Duluth Xpress. The Lakers, Josh Foreman took the ball and got his first Lakers win throwing a complete game shutout in doing so. Foreman scattered 5 hits while walking 2 and striking out 8 on the day. The Lakers notched 8 hits on the day with two coming from Matt Engelmeier and Matt Uher. Engelmeier knocked in the 2nd run and Uher belted a solo homerun in the top of the 9th inning. Also collecting hits for the Lakers were Justin Baker, Kyle Peterson, Cameron Stelljes, and Chris Musser added a double.
The Lakers (9-4 overall, 4-1 U-13 League) are back in action this Sunday when they return home to Hermantown to face the Bayside Vipers at 1:30pm. The Lakers sit currently tied for first place in the Upper 13 League while the Vipers are tied for 3rd with a 5-2 record.
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LAKERS OUTSLUGGED, SPLIT SEASON WITH VIPERS
July 5, 2009 --
~ The Superior Lakers took one on the chin a day after celebrating the 4th of July, losing to the Bayside Vipers 9-4 in a slug fest in which the Lakers could not keep up. Marcus Besonen was the answer for the Vipers as he went for the complete game only getting knocked around in the 4th inning in which he surrendered the 4 runs. Besonen finished the game only allowing 7 hits while striking out 10. The Lakers got 4 scoreless innings out of starter Josh Foreman before elbow tightness set in. Josh Taran took the ball in the 5th and a combination of hits and walks put a four up on the board for the Vipers. The Lakers answered back that same inning as Foreman and Kyle Peterson each knocked in 2 runs apiece. Chris Musser went to the hill in the 5th but the Vipers bats were just too much as he gave up four more runs while allowing 3 hits, with 2 being triples. Hansen took to the hill for the last 3 innings and only allowed one run but the Lakers bats were silenced as they went quietly into the evening.
The Lakers (9-5 overall, 4-2 U-13) are back in action this Saturday in Ashland to face the Merchants at 1:30pm. The Lakers will then play in Port Wing against the Boilers for a twin bill starting at 1:30pm.
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LAKERS COMPLETE WEEKEND 3-SOME
July 12, 2009 --
~ The Superior Lakers won three Upper 13 League games this past weekend to put themselves as playoff eligible in the Wisconsin Baseball Association. The Lakers started by defeating the Ashland Merchants on Saturday 17-10. The Lakers got 6 innings out of winning pitcher, Josh Foreman, as he allowed 8 runs but only 2 were earned. Foreman allowed 8 hits, walked 4 and struck out 6. Brandon Hansen took to the hill for the last 3 innings of the game and allowed 1 unearned run in his performance as he walked none, struck out none and allowed 3 hits. The Lakers offense belted out 17 hits in the game as Foreman, Kyle Peterson, and Matt Uher had 3 hits apiece. Justin Baker and Kory Maier each added 2 hits with Maier clobbering a 2-run homer in the 2nd inning. Rounding out the hitting were Chris Musser, Cameron Stelljes, Joby Davidsavor and Brandon Hansen with 1 hit each.
Next, the Lakers had to finish their suspended game with the Port Wing Boilers on Sunday. The Lakers bats stayed hot as they won 13-5 and added another 19 hits. Joby Davidsavor went 7 innings for the win allowing 5 runs (4 earned) on 7 hits, walked 2 and struck out 8. Josh Taran finished the game for the Lakers going 2 innings surrendering no runs and striking out 4. The Lakers got 4 hits from Foreman, 3 from Baker and Musser and 2 from Peterson and Polikowsky while Travis Taran, Uher, Stelljes, Garramone, and Hansen each had 1.
And finally, the Lakers were tested by the Port Wing in game two as the Boilers held a 2-0 lead heading into the 6 inning in a 7 inning game. The Lakers battled back as Peterson drew a walk with 1 out and took 2nd on a wild pick off attempt at 1st base by the Boiler catcher. Musser then drew a walk that set up Stelljes to single to right field, plating Peterson. Stelljes stole second 2 pitches later that set up a thundering ground rule double off the bat of Nick Garramone to plate the two Lakers to take the lead for good. The Lakers scored an insurance run in the top of the 7th to put the final score at 4-2, and completed the Lakers 3-some for the weekend. Winning pitcher for the Lakers was Nathan Windschill who went 5 strong innings allowing 2 runs(none earned) on 3 hits, walked 4 and struck out 4. Josh Taran came in for the 2 inning save as he allowed no runs on 1 hit, and struck out 1. The Lakers were lead at the plate by Baker, Jason Polikowsky, and Uher who had 2 hits each while Stelljes, Garramone and Hansen each added one.
The Lakers are back in action this Sunday when they will take on the Ashland C&S Design in a double header that will start at 3pm in Hermantown at Fitchner Memorial Complex.
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LAKERS SWEEP C&S, EARN SHOT AT THE TITLE
July 19, 2009 --
~ The Superior Lakers completed the season sweep of the Ashland C&S Design on Sunday and have put themselves in a position to win the Upper 13 League. In game one, the Lakers won a pitching duel between Josh Foreman and John Sapiwnik 2-1. Foreman went 6 2/3 innings allowing 1 earned run on 5 hits, walking 5 and striking out 8. Josh Taran came in for his 5th save of the year striking out the only batter he faced and secured the Lakers first playoff birth since 2006 when they lost in the 1st round of the WBA State Tournament. The Lakers offense stumbled against Sapiwnik but scored the 2 runs needed to win the game. Andrew Christensen led the way with 2 hits and Brandon Hansen knocked in the eventual winning run with a line drive single to right field in the bottom of the 6th inning. Justin Baker, Foreman, Matt Uher and Jason Polikowsky each had a hit apiece to round out the Lakers offense.
In game two, the Lakers bats woke up as they won a slug fest 14-9. Kory Maier had 3 hits to lead the hit parade while Justin Baker and Jason Polikowsky each had 2 apiece. Chris Musser, Cameron Stelljes, Nick Garramone and Ryan Hendry each had 1 with Hendry having 4 RBI's. Josh Taran started the game on the mound getting the win going 4 innings allowing 3 earned runs on 2 hits, walked none, hit 1 and struck out 5. Nathan Windschill went the final 3 innings allowing 6 runs(4 earned) on 5 hits, walked 5, hit 1, and struck out 2.
LAKERS ANCHOR: The Lakers(14-5 overall, 9-2 Upper 13 League) now will face off at Fitchner Memorial Complex in Hermantown against the Oulu Blue Jays on Friday evening at 6pm for the Upper 13 League title. The Lakers lost to the Blue Jays earlier in the season 3-1 so in order for the Lakers to win the League out right, the Lakers will have to beat the Blue Jays by 3 runs or more. If the Lakers win by 2 runs, they will be co-champions with the Blue Jays. If the Lakers win by 1 run, they will finish in 2nd place and if they Lakers lose and the Bayside Viper defeat the Ashland Merchants, the Lakers will finish in 3rd but will still be in the Wisconsin Baseball Association Playoffs in August.
*The Lakers have added John Sapiwnik to their WBA playoff roster as each playoff team is allowed to pick up one player from their league for playoffs.
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LAKERS - BLUE JAYS FACE OFF FOR UPPER 13 LEAGUE TITLE
July 20, 2009 --
~ The Lakers(14-5 overall, 9-2 Upper 13 League) will face off at Fitchner Memorial Complex in Hermantown against the Oulu Blue Jays on Friday evening at 6pm for the Upper 13 League title. The Lakers lost to the Blue Jays earlier in the season 3-1 so in order for the Lakers to win the League out right, the Lakers will have to beat the Blue Jays by 3 runs or more. If the Lakers win by 2 runs, they will be co-champions with the Blue Jays. If the Lakers win by 1 run, they will finish in 2nd place and if they Lakers lose and the Bayside Viper defeat the Ashland Merchants, the Lakers will finish in 3rd but will still be in the Wisconsin Baseball Association Playoffs in August.
LAKERS vs. BLUE JAYS FACEBOOK EVENT
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LAKERS FACE BRILL MILLERS IN OPENING ROUND OF WBA PLAYOFFS
July 29, 2009 --
The Superior Lakers will take a 15-6 overall record and a 10-2 Upper 13 League record into the WBA playoffs for the 4th time in 6 seasons. The Lakers got a 2nd seed for finishing second in the Upper 13 League and will face the #3 seed, the Brill Millers in the opening round at Carson Park in Eau Claire, WI on Saturday, August 8th at 7pm. If the Lakers win their first game they will take on either #1 seed, the Hallie Eagles or the #4 seed, the Menomonie Eagles on Sunday, August 9th at Noon with the game also being at Carson Park in Eau Claire, WI.
Lakers All-Time Playoff Records
2004: 1-1
2005: 1-1
2006: 2-1 *WBA State Tournament appearance
Overall: 4-3
THE REST OF THE WBA PLAYOFF BRACKETS CAN BE FOUND HERE ON THE WBA WEBSITE
Lakers Playoff Roster:
#1- Kory Maier
#2- Josh Taran
#4- Kyle Peterson (manager)
#7- Chris Musser
#8- Cam Stelljes
#9- Ryan Hendry
#12- Joby Davidsavor
#13- Cory Maier
#16- Justin Baker
#17- Andrew Christensen
#18- Brandon Hansen
#20- Matt Uher
#21- Nathan Windschill
#22- Matt Engelmeier
#23- Brent Engstrom
#24- Nick Garramone
#33- Andy Ross
#44- Josh Foreman
#45- Jason Polikowsky
Draftee- Jon Sopiwnik (Ashland C&S Design)
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LAKERS LOSE LEAGUE TITLE ON TIE BREAKER, LOSE FORE'M AGAINST XPRESS
July 29, 2009 --
~ The Superior Lakers defeated the Oulu Blue Jays 3-2 last Friday evening but lost the league on a tie breaker of run differential by one run due to Oulu beating the Lakers 3-1 earlier in the season. The Lakers only losses were to Oulu and Bayside in league play while Oulu only loss to Bayside and Superior which gave them both 10-2 records but handed Oulu their second straight Upper 13 League trophy.
Josh Foreman got the win going 7 strong innings only allowing one run on 7 hits, walking 4 and striking out 7. Josh Taran went the next 1 2/3 innings but surrendered a run in the 9th inning on a bean ball with the bases loaded and two outs before being escorted off the field. Brandon Hansen came in for the last our and recorded a save on a ground ball to end the game. The Lakers got hits from Kory Maier, Kyle Peterson, Jason Polikowsky, Cory Wilander, and Chris Musser.
The Lakers next faced the Duluth Xpress in a non-conference game and lost 10-3. The Lakers sent 5 pitchers to the mound to finish out the game but Brandon Hansen took the loss going the first 4 innings allowing 5 runs. Cory Wilander then allowed 2 runs in 2 innings before Brent Engstrom gave up 3 runs(2 earned) in one inning pitched. Chris Musser and Josh Taran pitched an inning apiece to finish the game both tossing scoreless innings. The Lakers got 2 hits apiece from Wilander and Nick Garramone while Polikowsky, Matt Uher, and Cameron Stelljes each had one hit.
LAKERS ANCHOR: The Lakers finished the regular season at 15-6 overall and 10-2 in the Upper 13 League which was good for a 2nd place finish and their 3rd second place finish in 6 years.... One of the Lakers leading hitters and the "ace" of their pitching staff, Josh Foreman, has signed a 10 day contract with the Duluth Huskies and will be playing with them to finish out their season on the 11th of August which means he will only be available if the Lakers make the WBA State Tournament.
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Erickson Wins Pitching Award
For the second straight season, Mark Erickson brings home an Upper 13 League award. In 2004 he took home the "Most Valuable Pitcher" award and "most K's". This season he takes home the "Most Valuable Pitcher" award. Mark pitched in five of the ten league games which got him a 4-1 record. His only loss came to Oulu earlier in the season, but Mark rebounded to beat Oulu in the final game of the season 7-1 to bring the Lakers to a share of the Upper 13 League title. Mark pitched 37 innings in league play, giving up 3 runs, 10 walks, 22 hits, and striking out 31 batters. Mark will again be back to defend his crown in 2006.
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AKER THE RECORD BREAKER
March 23, 2006 --
It’s been business as usual for University of Minnesota Duluth senior outfielder Greg Aker this season at the plate -- working the count into his favor and taking full advantage when an opportunity has presented itself.
“Greg has so much patience and control at the plate,” UMD head coach Bob Rients said. “He’s a competitor who carries out his concentration through an entire at-bat.”
At the Gene Cusic Classic in Florida earlier this month, Aker hit a torrid .533 (25-of-45) and started all 13 contests. The Superior, Wis., native collected 14 RBI, one home run, five triples and five walks while hitting out of the leadoff spot. His bases-clearing three-bagger on March 16 in the sixth inning against Mt. Vernon Nazarene (OH) University essentially sealed a 7-2 UMD victory.
“The biggest thing with Greg is that he’s the same when he gets out or gets a hit,” Rients said. “You never know when he’s in a slump or on a hot streak because he takes the emotion out of his at-bats and that keeps him focused.”
Just three games into his final season at UMD, Aker stepped into the batter’s box and delivered a single of historical proportion.
On March 3, facing then-No. 7 ranked Central Missouri State University at Crane Stadium-Topkins Field in Warrensburg, Mo., Aker supplanted former Bulldog standout Brett Spaeth (1999-2002) as the new UMD hit king with a base hit in the fifth frame, his 179th as a Bulldog.
“I remember the hit,” Aker said. “It was a single to left field and it’s something I’ll cherish. It’s really complementary to be mentioned in the same category as Brett. He hit .500 in 2001 and just to be included with someone like that is pretty special.”
Hits aren’t the only statistical category that Aker has bested Spaeth in since the start of this season. Aker’s reliability has been second to none over his collegiate career. He now has had more at-bats (508) and made more appearances (154) on the diamond that any player in Bulldog history. (Spaeth had 452 at-bats and played in 140 games during his career with the Bulldogs.) In 2005, Aker tied a single-season record for games played (49) with teammate Alex Johnson.
“Greg does all that he can to take care of his body,” Rients said. “He’s been so good that even if he’s fatigued he still has success so it’s hard to take him out of the line-up.”
Aker’s physical durability is only part of his success. He displays plenty of discipline at the plate, too. A highly-capable lefthanded hitter, Aker has led the club in walks every year he’s played and entered this season as the school’s all-time leader in bases on balls with 84.
Since dawning the Bulldog uniform as a freshman in 2003, Aker has provided UMD with substantial amount of offensive support. During his rookie season, Aker grinded out 64 hits, posting a .398 batting average and a .495 on-base percentage in 161 at-bats en route to garnering All-Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference merits. One year later, Aker’s steady play would continue. He started all 41 games played, hit .344 and turned in a .519 slugging percentage. Then, as a junior, Aker burst onto the national scene, earning ABCA/Rawlings Div. II All-Central Region second team honors and All-North Central Conference first team recognition after topping the Bulldog roster in batting average (.431), on-base percentage (.511) and walks (23).
Aker, 21, arrived at UMD with a well-documented athletic resume’. He was named Superior Daily Telegram Player of the Year in 2002 for his contributions to the Superior High School athletic programs. Aker was also cited as Spartans’ Athlete of the Year during his final season as a prep for his exemplary performances in baseball, football and hockey.
“Recruiting him out of high school I saw a very special athlete who can play two sports,” former UMD baseball head coach Scott Hanna said of Aker, who has been a standout wide receiver for the Bulldog football team over the past three seasons. “We sold him on the fact that he could play baseball and football here and he’s the perfect type of athlete for that.”
Aker and the Bulldogs (6-11 overall) will head to Winona, Minn., next Wednesday (March 29) for a doubleheader with former NSIC rival Winona State University.
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Taran's Clash at Bulldog Park
April 8, 2006 --
This upcoming weekend is not only the first North Central Conference play for the Bulldogs and Mavericks but it will also be the first time Nate and younger brother Travis Taran face off on a baseball diamond.
Nate Taran is entering the weekend batting .255 with a triple, scoring 7 runs and plating 8 himself. Nate has also been near flawless in the field only having 2 errors in 55 chances for a .964 fielding percentage.
Travis Taran has started off his rookie season at MSU batting .275 having 1 double and 2 homeruns for a total of 7 rbi's. Travis like Nate has only 2 errors on the season but in 39 chances which gives him a .949 fielding percentage.
The Lakers also have Greg Aker and Tony Doherty playing for UMD as they will be roaming the outfield together.
The Bulldogs (6-15) will look to end a five-game losing skid as they play by hosting Minnesota State University-Mankato (16-8) on Saturday and Sunday (April 9th and 10th). The first pitch of the twinbill at Bulldog Park is set for 1 p.m.
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Mavericks Nearly Sweep Dogs
April 9, 2006 --
The Minnesota State, Mankato Mavericks nearly completed a four game sweep at Bulldog Park on a lovely Sunday afternoon in Duluth. The Mavericks won the first three games only by a total of four runs but the Bulldogs never really threatened. That was until the Bulldogs rallied in the bottom of the 7th in game four to tie it at four to get the Mavericks to extra innings. The Bulldogs went on to win the game in the bottom of the 8th to win 5-4. This leaves the Bulldogs at 7-18, and 1-3 in the NCC.
Laker Player Stats:
Aker 3-11-.273
N. Taran 1-8-.125
T. Taran 3-9-.333 1RBI
T. Doherty 1-8-.125
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Saints, Mavericks, Norse Win.. Bulldogs Lose
April 17, 2006 --
The MNSU Mavericks and St. Scholastica Saints continue to improve on their seasons both completing sweeps while the UMD Bulldogs continue their struggles having been swept by Nebraska Omaha this past weekend. The Mavericks improve to 25-9 and the Saint move to 23-3 while the Bulldogs drop to 7-23. Greg Aker has been moved out of the lead off spot and into the third spot in the lineup. Greg shared his feelings on the switch, "I don't like the 3 hole...because in 4 games this weekend i saw 2 fuckin fastballs that were in the zone. I find myself guessing all the time.. it blows."
The Bulldogs are back in action on the 19th & 21st against Bemidji State(4-24), Saints play host to Northwestern College(13-8) on the 21st & 22nd, and the Mavericks will be playing St. Cloud State(5-22) on the 21st & 23rd.
In community college play the Mesabi Range Norse swept Vermillion CC Ironmen and moved to 19-1 on the season. Tim Bouvine is still nursing a shoulder injury that he had surgery on this past December, but Tim says "its a lot better, I'll probably pitch in a week or two."
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Bulldogs Join Mavericks, Saints in Winning Ways
April 24, 2006 --
BULLDOGS CRUISE PAST NORTH DAKOTA FOR SEASON SWEEP
Freshman third baseman Dave Olson's walk-off homerun put an exclamation point on his career day in the bottom of the seventh inning of game one between the University of Minnesota Duluth and the University of North Dakota Saturday.
Olson's walk-off homerun, which came off of UND's Lucas Sandman, gave the Bulldogs the 7-5 victory at Bulldog Park. The Lakeville, Minn., native smashed two home runs (his fifth and sixth of the year) in the game to account for his four RBI.
The two teams were scheduled to play on Friday but drizzle and threatening skies postponed the games until today.
Senior shortstop Nate Taran went 3-3 with one RBI while sophomore Tony Doherty went 2-4 with a run scored and one RBI.
The Bulldogs finished off the sweep of North Dakota winning game two by a margin of 8-5. Back-to-back-to-back run-scoring doubles in the bottom of the fourth inning by UMD broke a 3-3 tie.
North Dakota starting pitcher Sean Cooley hit two Bulldogs to begin the Bulldog's fourth-inning rally. With men on first and second, Taran ripped an RBI double down the left field line. Doherty followed with a left-center gap double to drive in two more runs. Senior second baseman Alex Johnson gave the Bulldogs a 7-3 lead with the third consecutive double of the inning.
The Bulldogs rolled on, winning two more games on Sunday by scores of 11-5 and 16-9 in game to complete the sweep of their regular season series with North Dakota.
For the weekend Laker players, Greg Aker and Nate Taran both improved their stats. Aker went 6 for 14, with 7 RBI’s and 4 runs scored. Taran went 9 for 13, with 4 RBI’s and 3 runs scored
The Bulldogs are now firmly entrenched in their second four-game winning streak of 2006. UMD improves its overall record to 11-23 and 5-7 in the NCC. The Bulldogs will welcome Winona State to Bulldog Park on Wednesday, April 26, for a non-conference double-header. First pitch is scheduled for 2:00 p.m.
Winning Streak Stands at Ten as Mavericks Roll Over Huskies; Mavericks Have Won 17 of Last 18 Games in Running 2006 Record to 29-9; Dolenc Runs Hitting Streak to 15 Games
St. Cloud, Minn. --- Strong hitting and pitching performances propelled Minnesota State to a pair of North Central Conference wins at St. Cloud State Friday afternoon.
The Mavericks, who have won their last ten games and 17 of their last 18, downed the host Huskies by the scores of 11-0 and 6-2 and now stand 29-9 and 9-1 in NCC games for 2006.
Saints Complete Sweep
The Saint Scholastica Saints Baseball team completed their weekend sweep over the Northwestern College Eagles by defeated them by the score of 5-1 at Wade Stadium on Sunday afternoon.
The win improves St. Scholastica's record to 29-3 overall and 16-0 in the UMAC. It also gives the Saints a 6 game cushion over the Eagles in the conference standings. The Saints will take to the field again next Friday, April 28th against Bethany Lutheran College at historic Wade Stadium as they look to hit the 30 win plateau yet again in team history and stay undefeated in the Upper Midwest Athletic Conference. Make sure to make it down to the Wade to support the Saints as they look to continue their run back to the NCAA Division III Tournament.
Superior Lakers, Mark Erickson pitched 1/3 of an inning surrendering the lone run in the 7th inning of a 7-1 victory.
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Lakers, Nate Taran Named NCC's Player of the Week
April 24, 2006 --
Nate Taran, who played a substantial role in the University of Minnesota Duluth's four-game sweep of the University of North Dakota this past weekend, has been chosen the North Central Conference's Player of the Week.
A senior shortstop from Hermantown, Minn., Taran batted .692 while going 9-for-13 at the plate and drove in four runs in as the Bulldogs rolled past the Fighting Sioux 7-5 and 8-5 Saturday at home and 11-5 and 16-9 the following afternoon in Grand Forks, N.D., for their first-ever NCC weekend sweep. Taran, a fourth-year starter and a 2005 NCC All-Academic Team pick (he maintains a perfect 4.00 cumulative grade point average as a political science major), also had a pair of doubles in the four games with North Dakota.
The Bulldogs, who currently are tied for third place (with Augustanta College) in the NCC standings at 5-7, will take their 11-23 overall record into Wednesday's non-conference doubleheader with Winona State University. First pitch is scheduled for 2:00 p.m. at Bulldog Park.
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Garceau Fined Once Again
April 25, 2006 --
Tim Garceau(Marinette, Wis) of the Superior Lakers has been fined for the second time in three practices. His first fine was $1.50 for wearing game pants to the Lakers first practice(April 15th) of the season. His agent, Jim Dowd, went on to say "we reviewed Tim's contract and he realizes he made a mistake and wants the Lakers and his fans to know he did not do it on purpose." Then came Garceau's second offense. During the last practice Garceau decided to wear a cutoff shirt while pitching batting practice and as he already knew, that is a Laker no-no. Tim was immediately fined $1.75 for his actions and his agent could not be reached for comment.
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TARAN RECEIVES TOP BULLDOG ATHLETIC AWARDS FOR 2005-06
May 3, 2006 --
Laker shortstop Nate Taran is the recipients of this year's E.L. "Duce" Rasmussen Award as the school's top-scholar athletes at the University of Minnesota-Duluth.
In baseball terms, Taran is in the process of completing a perfect game in the classroom. The Hermantown, Minn. native has maintained a 4.00 cumulative grade point average while double majoring in political science and criminology. A two-time NCC All-Academic Team selection (2005 and 2006) and a member of the All-NSIC All-Academic Team as a sophomore, Taran has made the Dean’s List all seven of his semesters at UMD. In each of the past three years, he's also been the baseball representative on UMD’s Athletic Academic Support Center Scholar List for maintaining the highest cumulative grade point average among his teammates. Taran will graduate this May before moving on to the University of Minnesota Law School next fall. On the diamond, the four-year starting shortstop has saved his best baseball for last and currently owns a career-high .303 batting average while topping the 2006 Bulldogs in both games played (35 of a possible 38) and assists (91). Earlier this spring, he was tabbed the NCC's Player of the Week after going 9-for-13 (.692) and driving in four runs while helping UMD to a four-game weekend sweep of the University of North Dakota.
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Aker, Taran Set for Last Hurrah as a Bulldog
May 10, 2006 --
The University of Minnesota Duluth finished the 2006 regular season with a bang by ousting Augustana College 13-3 in the nightcap of a North Central Conference twin bill at Bulldog Park on Sunday afternoon. The Bulldogs fell in the opening contest 8-3. Fifteen UMD seniors made their final home game appearances. Two Lakers, Greg Aker and Nate Taran more than likely will be making their last appearances in a Bulldog uniform. Both have started since their freshman years in 2003.
Greg Aker finished the regular season with an injured foot during the last two weeks but still batted .399, scoring 35 runs, collecting 55 hits, adding 5 double, 6 triples and 4 home runs to go along with 33 RBI’s. Aker struck out 19 times while walking 20, stealing 12 bases and having a perfect fielding percentage with 6 assists. Aker has collected Bulldog records for the most hits in a career (231), most at-bats (633), more appearances than anyone (194), and has a single season record for the most games played (49). Aker has been talked to by the Twins, Cubs, Indians, and Braves as a potential draft choice this upcoming June and if drafted will skip his senior year of football for the Bulldogs to play pro baseball. Aker has been the Bulldogs leading wide-receiver for the past two seasons.
Aker shared his feelings on his time as a Bulldog, “The last 4 years flew by and I can’t believe its over. My experience at UMD was a good one, and I’m glad I went there because my family got to go a majority of the games to see me play. It really hasn’t sunk in that it is all over. I’m going to miss a lot of my teammates, and wish everyone and the program the best of luck in the future."
Nate Taran got red hot to finish the season after a very slow start, he batted .278, scoring 17 runs, collecting 35 hits, adding 4 doubles and 1 triple to reach 21 RBI’s. Taran struck out 21 times while walking 8, stealing 4 bases while having a .930 fielding percentage starting all the Bulldogs game but one. Taran also is the recipient of this year's E.L. "Duce" Rasmussen Award as the school's top-scholar athletes at the University of Minnesota-Duluth and earlier this spring, Taran was tabbed the NCC's Player of the Week after going 9-for-13 (.692) and driving in four runs while helping UMD to a four-game weekend sweep of the University of North Dakota.
The Bulldogs (17-30, 8-11 good for 3rd in the NCC) will travel to Mankato, Minn., for the NCC Tournament that begins on Thursday (May 11) against the University of North Dakota (13-27, 4-13 NCC). Game time is set for 11 a.m. The only possible way for the Bulldogs to advance into regional play is to win the NCC Tournament.
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Lakers Open 2006 Campaign Sunday
May 15, 2006 --
The Superior Lakers are back in action for their 3rd season Sunday, May 21st in Ashland, WI to play the Merchants at 1:30pm. The Lakers are 31-19 overall in their first two seasons and have a 2-2 playoff record. They have finished second(2004) and first place(2005) in the Upper 13 League and a have been a game away from the state tournament in both of their first two seasons. They have the same core guys returning, but also some new faces have been added to the lineup. The Lakers consist of a mixture of area players who have played high school and college baseball and a few players from Wisconsin and Minnesota that are staying in this area during the summer.
Coaches
Kyle Peterson (Superior, WI) will remain as the manager of the Lakers but will have three coaches to run in-game situations. Scott Peterson (Superior, WI) will return for this 3rd season as the Lakers third base coach. Craig McGrath (Superior, WI) will be back for his 2nd season as the first base coach and Ray Law (Superior, WI) will be added this season as the Lakers bench coach.
Pitchers
Mark Erickson (Superior, WI) will be back for his 3rd season as the Lakers ace. Mark has won back to back Upper 13 League “Pitcher of the Year” awards. Ben Gramms (Duluth, MN) will also cross the bridge to join the Lakers starting rotation. Erickson and Gramms are currently teammates at the college of St. Scholastica. Another new comer is Jake Mertz (New Ulm, MN) who played a season with the UMD Bulldogs and took home the rookie of the year award in 2004 will be added to the rotation in 2006 as well. The Lakers also added UMD prospect Justin Richards (Staples, MN). In his senior season in Staples, he had a .97 ERA in 9 starts and will join UMD in 2007.
The Lakers will also call upon Dean Bauers (Duluth, MN), Nate Taran (Hermantown, MN), Travis Taran (Hermantown, MN), Brett Olson (Superior, WI), Brandon Hansen (Superior, WI), and Sean Ross (Superior, WI) as relief pitchers.
Tim Bouvine (Superior, WI) and Tim Garceau (Marinette, WI) will be the closers in 2006. Tim Bouvine had surgery on his torn rotator cuff and torn labrum. Tim is still recovering from it and will start the season on the DL but will be back in early July. Garceau also was injured during football season last year while playing for UMD. He was forced to medical red shirt during UMD’s 2006 campaign for baseball. Garceau will start the season as the closer while Bouvine recovers from his injury.
Catchers
Kyle Peterson (Superior, WI) will return as the Lakers backstop for his 3rd season. Peterson has caught every Laker game but four in the past two seasons. Kyle played two seasons at UMD but was hindered by knee surgery in 2005. Travis Taran (Hermantown, MN), Brent Calore (Superior, WI) and Sean Ross (Superior, WI) will help with the catching duties in 2006 as well.
1st Basemen
Matt McCahan (Superior, WI) will be the Lakers first basemen for the 3rd season. Matt played one season at UMD. McCahan hit the only Laker homerun last season and plays very strong defense. Travis Taran (Hermantown, MN) and Andy Raunio (Superior, WI) will also see some time this season at first base.
2nd Basemen
Adam Peterson (Superior, WI) will be back for the majority of the summer in 2006 to help with managing the Lakers and play second base. Adam will be teaching in Albuquerque, NM and will be moving in mid July. Justin Richards Brett Olson and Sean Ross will also see some time at second base.
3rd Basemen
The Lakers will be using a few third basemen in 2006. Returning from last years team will be Travis Taran (Hermantown, MN). Travis currently plays for the Minnesota State Mavericks. Jon Bothun (Superior, WI) will also be playing third base for his 3rd straight season. New comer, Dean Bauers (Duluth, MN) will play 3rd as well when he is not playing high school or legion ball for the Duluth Central squad. Sean Ross (Superior, WI) will fill in when needed at 3rd as well.
Shortstop
Nate Taran (Hermantown, MN) will be back as the Lakers shortstop in 2006. Nate has played three seasons for the Lakers and four at UMD. Taran also is the recipient of this year's E.L. "Duce" Rasmussen Award as the school's top-scholar athletes at the University of Minnesota-Duluth. Nate finished 2nd in the Upper 13 League for the batting title. Justin Richards, Brett Olson and Sean Ross will also see some time at shortstop.
Outfield
Greg Aker (Superior, WI) will anchor the Lakers outfield returning for his 3rd season as the centerfielder. Aker played four seasons at UMD where he is the all-time hit leader. The Cubs, Twins, Braves, and Indians have also shown interest in drafting Aker in the upcoming draft in June. Brent Calore (Superior, WI) will play centerfield when Aker is not in the lineup but will mainly be playing right field for the Lakers in his 3rd season. Brandon Hansen (Superior, WI) will be guarding the left field line as the Lakers left fielder for his third season as well. Eric Halverson (Superior, WI) and Phil Karaba (Superior, WI) will fill in holes in the outfield when called upon. Both Halverson and Karaba were in the top five in batting average last season. Karaba will also be used as a pinch runner. Tim Garceau will also be joining the outfield when his ankle heals 100%.
The Lakers are still unsure about the whereabouts of Mike Lynch (Superior, WI) and Alex Conboy (Silver Bay, MN)
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UMD'S AKER - ALL NCC PICK FOR 2006
May 17, 2006 --
Greg Aker closed out his collegiate baseball career earlier this month, has been selected to the 2006 All-North Central Conference Team.
Aker corralled All-NCC honors for a second straight spring after hitting .382 and topping the 2006 Bulldogs in slugging percentage (.583), hits (55), total bases (84), triples (6), on base percentage (.458) and stolen bases (13). The senior outfielder from Superior, Wis., holds a bevy of club records including runs (63 in 2005) in one season, and runs (177), hits (236) and walks (106) in a career. Aker, who played in more games (179) than any other player in the 35-year history of the Bulldog baseball program, was one of six repeat selections on the 17-member All-NCC honor group.
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Saints, Erickson Season Ends at Regionals
May 18, 2006 --
For the second consecutive year, St. Scholastica defeated UW-Stevens Point in the first round of the NCAA Division III tournament as the Saints defeated the Pointers 4-3 Wednesday morning in Wisconsin Rapids.The Saints took advantage of limited opportunities against Pointers’ pitcher Jordan Zimmermann, scoring four runs on just four hits and leaving no runners on base in the game.UW-Stevens Point scored first with a run-scoring single by Adam Evanoff in the top of the fourth inning. St. Scholastica tied the score in the bottom of the inning when Chad Weiss led off with his third home run of the season.Kyle Wojtysiak gave the Saints the lead for good with a two-run single in the bottom of the fifth inning. Doug Coe hit his 11th home run of the year to bring the Pointers within one at 3-2, but Luke Olin hit a solo home run in the bottom of the inning to regain the two-run cushion.
In the second game, Ripon jumped out to an early lead and then used three two-run homers over the final five innings to put away St. Scholastica 14-8 in Wednesday’s final game at the NCAA Division III regional in Wisconsin Rapids, Wis.The Red Hawks scored four runs in the first inning and then added three more in the fourth to take a 7-6 lead. Bob Abel added a two-run homer in the fifth and Eric Schwendimann and Bo Johnson each homered in a five-run eighth inning as the Red Hawks won their 12th straight game and improved to 33-5 for the season in a game that ended at 12:07 a.m. Ripon, the regional’s top seed, also earned a day off in the tournament and will face either St. Olaf or Coe on Friday at noon. St. Scholastica, which played for the second time in the day, fell to 37-5 overall. After St. Scholastica’s Steve Krauschaar hit a two-run double in the top of the first inning, Ripon rallied with four runs on four hits in the bottom of the first. The Saints added a run on a Brandon Swartz groundout in the second and then took the lead on an unusual play in the fourth. With runners at first and second with two outs, Keith Ritsche hit a double to the left center field gap, scoring the runner from second. After the relay throw to the plate, Ripon catcher Schwendimann attempted to throw out the runner at third base, but the throw sailed into left field, allowing even Ritsche to score for a 6-4 lead.Ripon wasted no time taking the lead back, getting three runs with the benefit of two St. Scholastica errors in the bottom of the fourth. Tyler Haddock’s run-scoring single broke the tie and put the Red Hawks ahead for good.Haddock earned the win despite allowing eight runs over five and one-third innings. Greg Basthemer provided three scoreless innings of relief to earn the save. Ritsche took the loss for the Saints as both starting pitchers were hurt by defenses that combined for eight errors. Five St. Scholastica errors led to seven unearned runs, while three Ripon errors provided the Saints with four unearned tallies.
In the third and final game, the Saints were over matched by St. Thomas getting beat 13-3. Lakers own Mark Erickson took the loss allowing 5 runs on 5 hits in 2 innings of play. The Saints finished 35-6 on the season. It will be Marks decision whether or not he wants the nod, Sunday at Ashland.
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Lakers Owner Back In Town
May 25, 2006 --
Adam Peterson (Superior, WI) is back in town this weekend to play the Port Wing club on May 28th and then the Bayside Vipers on May 29th. He currently teaches high school science in Hays, MT. Adam will be back May 27th thru July 10th. He will anchor his spot at second base during that time and bat 3rd in the line-up. Adam is one of the creators of the Superior Lakers. Adam will be moving to Albuquerque, NM to teach high school science and to be a baseball coach.
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Jukich Goes Day 1, Aker Will Wait
June 6, 2006 --
Day 1 of the MLB draft went like most people thought, Ben Jukich of the Bayside Vipers was selected by the Oakland A’s in the 13th round, 389th overall. The 6’4, 190 lefty who pitched for Dakota Wesleyan University will join the A’s as the first local kid selected in the 2006 draft but hopefully it doesn’t end there.
Greg Aker who currently plays for the Superior Lakers will be hoping for the chance to join a major league team as well. Greg who was a four-year starter at the University of Minnesota-Duluth will not be sitting next to a phone or a computer on day 2, but will be working, working for his step-father who owns Raymond Moe Construction. Many of Greg’s family, friends and supporters will be glued to a computer monitor just waiting for his name to pop up.
Greg Aker thought his top team would be the Minnesota Twins, but after a day 1 selection of eight outfielders, it may come down to another team giving Greg a shot. Lakers manager and one of his best friends Kyle Peterson said, “Greg has grown up playing ball in Superior with a bunch of us that play for the Lakers. We’ve shared success together as teammates but we’ve all felt a day like this was coming for a long time.” Aker was apart of a Superior Blues team that won state and made it to the Ohio Valley Regionals, a Superior Reds team that was the first to even make it to the championship bracket in the Lakeview Tournament let alone win it, and Greg was a 3 year started in centerfield for the Superior Spartans which helped them to one of their best records in school history. Peterson also said, “Akes is the best athlete I have ever played with or against in my life, and whether he gets drafted or not, we all know how good he is and where he belongs, and we’re damn proud that we had the chance to play with him.”
For Greg, this is not the end of the line in his sports career either way. Greg still has a year left of eligibility for football as he plays wide-receiver for UMD. Greg has told his coaches at UMD that if drafted or signed to a major league contract that he will for-go his senior season at UMD.
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Tale of Two Halves: Lakers Move Into WBA Playoffs Shorthanded
August 7, 2006 --
After starting off the 2006 season undefeated at 9-0 the Lakers played one game over .500 the rest of the way going 7-6 in the remaining 13 games. The Lakers started off on fire out scoring their opponents 78-21 in 9 games. Through then next 13 the Lakers only managed 71 runs while giving up 49. The Lakers were in complete control of taking home another Upper 13 League trophy at 9-0 in league play but the Lakers went 1-4 in the next 5 league games and blowing any shot at taking first place. The Lakers at times looked “heartless” during games and it showed with their play on the field.
The Lakers will take a 16-6 overall record and a 10-4 Upper 13 League record in the WBA playoffs this upcoming weekend in Augusta, Wisconsin. The Lakers(#2 seed) will take on the Everest Merchants(#3 seed) at 1pm on Saturday. The Lakers will look a lot different on paper as they due every year come playoff time. Adam Peterson, Greg Aker, and Tim Garceau will not be with the team for the remainder of the season. Peterson is in Albuquerque, Nm teaching high school science and coaching 9th grade baseball while Aker and Garceau will be in training camp for the start of the UMD Bulldogs football season. Jake Mertz who has been on the DL since the 3rd week in the season will stay on the DL after being hopeful that his arm would be ready for the playoffs, and Brett Olson will be in Waterloo playing in the USHL.
Three guys who are not new to the Lakers but haven’t played much all season will be called upon to fill the Laker voids come playoff time. Tim Bouvine, Phil Karaba and Eric Halverson will be called upon to fill the Lakers voids in the playoffs. Bouvine, normally known for his pitching, will be used for his bat as he still continues to work his way back from shoulder surgery. Karaba and Halverson will be used in a corner outfield position.
The Lakers will remain completely the same in the infield with the staff’s ace, Mark Erickson taking the ball in game one against Everest. Erickson usually un-hittable has had some struggles in the past 3 games after starting off 5-0. Erickson (5-3) leads the Lakers in innings pitches (44.2), strike outs (51), wins (5), and ERA (1.61). Catching Erickson like usual will be Kyle Peterson who leads the Lakers offense in average(.333), runs(20), hits(21), doubles(4), tied in homeruns(1), RBI’s (22), walks (12), tied in stolen bases (4), sacrifices (4), and slugging percentage (.444). Matt McCahan will be the bolt that keeps the Lakers infield together at 1st base as he has all season. McCahan has 19 RBI’s while batting .303 with 3 doubles and a homerun on the season. Jon Bothun will play 2nd base and be looked upon to get on base like his team leading .520 on base percentage shows. Bothun is batting .303 with 10 walks and 6 hit by pitches. Nate Taran is the shortstop for the Lakers where he has only 3 errors all season. Taran is batting .288 with 11 RBI’s and has only struck out 2 times all season. Travis Taran will play the hot corner and bat clean up. Taran is batting .321 on the season with 14 RBI’s as he has played both legion ball for Hermantown and amateur ball this summer. Travis Taran may start in game two on the mound if the Lakers are to win the first game Saturday.
The Lakers outfield will look different, but Brandon Hansen will stay the same in left field. Hansen hitting .250 on the season with 7 RBI’s also has a 2.14 ERA in 33.2 innings of work and only giving up 22 hits. Brent Calore will move to center field where he has played the past two seasons in the playoffs. Calore has struggled at the plate this season batting only .086 but still has an on base percentage of .289 because of his 10 walks. The Lakers will turn to Tim Bouvine, Phil Karaba, and Eric Halverson for a the right field position, a DH, pinch hitting and pinch running off the bench. Bouvine has worked his way back from a shoulder surgery but is not ready to pitch. Bouvine is batting .333 in 12 at bats with 2 RBI’s. Karaba and Halverson have played sparingly this year when the Lakers have been short. Halverson is batting .111 this year in 9 at bats and Karaba is at .105 in 19 at bats.
Augusta Site (Augusta Athletics host)
Game 1- 7:30pm Friday 8/11- #1 Augusta vs # 4 Black River Falls
Game 2- 1:00pm Saturday 8/12- #2 Superior Lakers vs #3 Everest
Game 3- 4:00pm Saturday 8/12- #2 Tilden vs #3 Plum City
Game 4- 7:00pm Saturday 8/12- #1 Sparta vs #4 St. Croix Ravens
Game 5- 12:00pm Sunday 8/13- Game 1 winner vs Game 2 winner
Game 6- 3:00pm Sunday 8/13- Game 3 winner vs Game 4 winner
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ERICKSON TAKES HOME PITCHING AWARDS
The inagural season of the Superior Lakers proved to be a gem for one such laker, Mark Erickson. Mark led the lakers in possibly every pitching category for the 2004 season including wins and strikeouts. The two awards that Mark recieved were from the Upper 13 League, where he also led the league in wins and strikeouts. Mark will be back for the 2005 season to the head of a revamped pitching staff.
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