|
|
 |
|
|
With the completion of a championship season, there must be some awards to hand out. Aside from the fact each player get's a championship trophy, there are some individual efforts that deserve attention as well.
Most Valuable Player of the Year:(Team)
KENNY HAWTHORNE
Offensive Player of the Year:(Team)
HENRY LEDO
Defensive Player of the Year:(Team)
ANDREW DUNNING
Manager of the Year:(League)
MATAHI RIBERA
|
2006 Isotopes All Stars named
Congrads to Catcher Andrew Dunning(.350 avg) receiving his fourth NABA All Star selection. 2B Jeff Gregori(.367 avg) and SS Mark Markunas(.262 avg) also were selected from the Isotopes. This will be their first All Star game. The Isotopes top vote getter SP Jeremiah Batla(7 wins, 3 no hitters one in 7 IP, 5 CG, 1.49 era, 125 K's in 72.1 innings pitched) delined the invitation. Good luck to all of you. The game will be played August 13th at 1:00 pm.
|
Batla throws second no hitter this year
Jeremiah Balta introduced himself to the first place Mad Dogs Saturday handing them a no-hitter, his second one this season. The Topes only managed three hits and one run but that's all they needed to win. Offensively the Topes remained quiet. New comer Rigo Orosco hit a 350+ ft. blast to center for a triple with Geoff Sandin driving him in with a deep sac fly to left scoring the games only run. Defensively the Topes played well when it really mattered, partly due to them causing their own turmoil. In the eighth with a man on first and no outs Markunas caught a sharp liner and turned it into a key 5 - 3 double play bringing them closer to a win. The Mad Dogs did'nt make it easy though in the ninth threatening when Batla pitched out of second and third one out jam in the ninth to end the game. With a quarter of the season done and the 2 - 3 Topes looking up in the standings it's no question the season thus far has been a huge disappointment. Only scoring a dismal 21 runs but on the positive side allowing 18, 7 earned. The Topes will take a well deserved rest for memorial day weekend to return and face another tough opponent in the 2005 champion Benders.
|
Battle for 1ST, Topes win in ten- All-Stars named
At the midpoint of the season Sunday's game with the Tsunami seemed to mean more than the last one. With both divisions beginning to separate, the strong soaring to the top and the weak to the bottom, the Topes reign in first place all season was on the line this past Father's Day. The high flying Tsunami, who handed the Topes their first defeat of the year(5-3), were in line to knock the Topes from their tower - and possibly declare themselves the new kings of the division, if not for just a week.
Manager Matahi Ribera put his big corn-fed white boy Jay Bortoli on the hill to stop the Tsunami and to help keep the Topes a step ahead. The game stayed scoreless until the third when the Tsunami scored first with two runs on three hits and two walks and they scored two more in the fourth. The Topes answered right back with three in the fourth off Temple's sac fly and Blake's single, as well as a passed ball that scored Dunning. With the Tsunami leading 4-3 in the 6th, they scored again on a two run single to add some cushion at 6-3. The Topes knew they were running out of time and outs - needing a big hit to turn things around. Leading off the eighth, Andrew Dunning walked and was followed by an infield single from Bubba Roagn that hugged the line perfectly putting two men on and setting the table for clean-up hitter Geoff Sandin. With no outs Sandin crushed a 1-1 high fastball well over the center fielder's head for a dramatic homerun to tie the game at 6-6. It was just what the Isotopes needed.
Kenny Hawthorne took the hill in relief in the seventh and kept the Tsunami at bay with three scoreless innings - only getting into a bit of trouble in the top of the tenth when leadoff hitter Mike got on off an error. That was followed by a base hit - Tsunami had two on and nobody out. Hawthorne struck out the next hitter and then intentionally walked the next batter to load the bases hoping to turn a double play. The Tsunami number seven hitter slapped a weak pop up in the infield for an infield fly rule out and was thoroughly disgusted with his failure to capitalize, throwing his helmet almost as violently as the Isotopes Manager after one of his routine K's. With two down a sharp line drive hit to first took a wicked spin away from Ribera at the bag looking to squeeze through the gap before the flying Japanese mulleted second baseman Duane Beadles snagged it and was in a foot race to first sliding feet first to avoid a collision for a climatic third out and preventing the go-ahead run.
In the bottom of the tenth leadoff hitter Bojorquez failed to get on and weakly grounded out, giving Dunning some added pressure to get on, he drew a full count walk. The next batter, Rogan, was immediately hit by the pitcher to put two on with one out bringing up the game's current hero Geoff Sandin. Hitting another three run homer would have been incredible, but instead Sandin went down swinging leaving it to Donny Blake to close the door. On the second pitch Blake hit an astro-turf-like bouncer over the pitcher's head up the middle only to be bobbled by the second baseman giving him no time to make a play as pinch runner Geoff Sandin crossed the plate to seal the victory.
The game ball was presented to Duane Beadles for his great defensive plays. The Isotopes (9-2) next game is Saturday at 2:00 p.m. vs. the A's (0-13).
Sunday will feature this year's All Star game with the Isotopes having the most representatives (5): Manager Matahi Ribera, SP Kenny Hawthorne, SP Jay Bortoli, C Andrew Dunning, and OF Geoff Sandin. Please come out and support us on Sunday at Golden Gate Park.
|
Bortoli K's 14, blows past Red Sox 6-1
Coming back from a week off the Topes were in attendance trouble again with six players missing. With three pitchers out, leaving Jay Bortoli as the sole arm on the team for the afternoon. Needing to go the distance, Bortoli blew through the Red Sox lineup striking out 14 and only allowing one run earned. Donny Blake bounced back with three hits and two runs while Julio Bojorquez showed his true leadoff skills with a hit, two BB's and four stole bases-the first one stealing home. Also a team record. Manager Matahi Ribera had three K's giving him six in two games, go coach! The Topes will have another off week retuning to action June 20th.
|
Did you know...
*The Topes had seven shutouts in '06 alone
*Topes pitchers in '06 K'd 37% of all batters faced
*For the fourth consecutive year the Topes team ERA was under 3.00
*Pitcher Jeremiah Batla K'd 188 batters in 110.1 innings
*Pitcher Kenny Hawthorne is one win away from 20 victories
* LF Donny Blake leads the Topes on their all-time hit list with 100 hits in four seasons
*Most runs allowed in a game in '06 was eight, (happened 3x)
*In '06, the Topes blew and lost six leads after the seventh. Topes only had seven losses total, someone needs a bullpen.
* Topes only have losing regular season records against two teams: the Benders (1-2) and the Artichoke Joes (0-1-1)
|
Errors, Errors and more Errors.
Click here to download
The last time these two teams faced each other it was for the final playoff spot, which the Isotopes eventually won and went on to claim their first title. Looking for a little revenge the Miracle drew first blood when they scored on another Bill Buckner error where leadoff batter Yoshioka reached second base on an error and then reached home on another error.
The Isotopes raised the ante by scoring two runs in the bottom of the 1st when catcher Andrew Dunning reached on a single and then made it home on a single by third baseman Ryan Currie – who also made it home after a throwing error.
Up 2-1 the Miracle tied up the game in the third with another Isotopes error. As long as the Miracle batters did not strike out they had a great chance of getting on base due to the poor Isotopes defense.
Top of 7th Duane Beadles started it off with by getting on board with his first single ever as a Isotope. With a couple of walks and a wild pitch Beadles scored the go ahead run off Ryan Currie's bases loaded walk. The Topes never looked back holding onto the lead behind the pitching of utility man Mark Schiller – who found out he would be pitching less than 24 hours before game time. This was his first start and will not be his last, according to Manager Matahi Ribera.
Schiller went eight innings - striking out eight, allowing one walk, and only two hits. Reliever Jay Bortoli pitched the top of the ninth to seal the victory – striking out two of the three batters he faced. For the season – Bortoli has struck out 10 of 16 batters faced, 1 BB, no hits and has 2 saves in 2 opportunities.
The game ball went to Mark Schiller for his outstanding performance on the mound.
On a defensive note, the Topes defense seemed to step it up on Saturday allowing ONLY six errors compared to last week’s team record of seven errors committed. At this rate, we should expect five errors next week and an errorless ball game by June. The poor defense is inexcusable, all double pay opportunities have been blown and have resulted by not getting even 1 out. The infield will be getting a mild face lift next week.
However, at this point in the season, the Isotopes pitching staff has allowed zero earned runs and only five hits in two games.
The Isotopes next game is Saturday, April 10th at Nealon Field at 2:00 vs.. the Rough Riders.
|
Gayest Rule in NABA strikes again!!!!
Remember when the Topes were pounding the Bay Sox 9 - 0 with two outs in the eighth and received a loss due to the gayest rule in league history, well it happened again this week, just a lot different. With the Topes again pounding the opposition, this time the Trojans. It was early in the fourth inning with the Topes up 8 - 0 a Trojans player left early leaving a vacant spot in their lineup. Logically you would think that means an automatic out right? Well not in this league, it's a forfeit! STUPID!!!! The Trojans still had nine players and last I checked that is all that's required for a baseball team. We really hated winning like this despite the big lead, we just wanted to play. The blues checked the rule book, found the rule and had to call the game. They said it was a liability to continue and that either way the Trojans were going to lose so it was pointless to continue anyway. The funny thing about it is manager Matahi Ribera of the Isotopes wrote a email to the league committee the week prior asking for this rule which is called the "Offensive Start Rule" to be changed. Instead of a forfeit it should be a out. How can a team take away a win when their getting their asses rocked 9 - 0 in the eighth and the other team sill has nine players? This rule was created for pussies and virgins! The strange thing was before the game started the Trojans manager handed me his lineup showing 10 batters and no bench players. I immediately explained to him about the gayest rule in the world and how it screwed us a month ago and that he better bat nine and have one bench player to cover their ass. He assured me nobody would get ejected, he didn't mention someone was leaving though. Same problem then. The only exception is a player injury, still, regardless, it's still the gayest rule in the world. No, make it the UNIVERSE!
|
Horrific defense, Topes lose by one run again.
When the Topes get 14 hits and only allow two earned runs and still lose you know what that means...terrible defense, and I mean terrible. 9 errors to be exact, which happens to tie a team record from the '05 campaign against the Miracle. Usually tying a team record is something cool. Hits, runs, rbi's, nope. Lately we've been tying the uncool records. I guess we are too cool for school. Well we need to go back and learn how to play again. The bulk of it was guys filling in for missing players, again. 15 man roster and 9 show up for the second week in a row. No excuses though, all the plays were simple and routine and got absolutely butchered. Last week we couldn't get any run support for Batla and Bortoli, this week no defense. So next week no pitching? Not to worry though, this is the third time the Topes have started a season 1 - 2. But never 1 - 3. Lets see if we can avoid another new team record (1 - 3) next week.
On a brighter note the pitching was superb again. The killer B's combined for 15 K's. Andrew Dunning who is the toughest out in the league had 4 BB's, 2 hits, 3 runs. He also threw out two runners as the catcher. For the season he 5 for 7, 3 2B's, 6 BB's, and 5 runs. Good games were also had by Blake, 3 hits, 1 2B, 2 rbi's and 2 runs. Batla also had 3 hits with one rbi. Rogan also added two hits.
Unfortunately, Bortoli suffers the loss, which is his first in over two plus years. He had eight consecutive wins going into the game.
# 12 Bortoli
4 IP, 7 runs, 1 earned, 3 hits, 6 K's, 3 BB's.
# 19 Batla
5 IP, 1 run, 1 earned, 3 hits, 9 K's, 1 BB's.
|
Isotopes a strike away, lose game
It was only our first loss, but it was only our second game. We lose time to time like everyone else, but this one really stings. Anytime you hold a lead for 8 2/3 innings of a game and give it up with two strikes, it hurts. With four position starters missing it was a bit worrisome, but it was great defensive game for the Topes regardless. A nice pick off from Pratchard, Dunning throwing out a runner at second, Beadles made diving plays for outs, Blake and Sandin running down gap hits in the out field. The bench guys really stepped up as well as the starters. Duane Beadles at second looked like a all star at second. Definitely earned himself a lot more defensive playing time. There was great pitching too, from both sides. Hats off to the Grays squad for a great game and their SP, we jumped on him in the first scoring our only two runs, but he kept us in check after that. Except for 3 time all star catcher Dunning of course(2-2B,BB). In the dugout Dunning kept saying, "this guy is throwing balloons, can't you guys see them...what the F-ck?" Apparently not Andy, the rest of us struck out 14 times...ouch.
Apologies to our pitching staff, SP Bortoli who pitched six strong for the Topes only allowing one run. Pratchard and Batla in relief too. We didn't score runs for you guys. Well hopefully the rest of the team would like to join us next week and we can get back on track with a win.
|
Isotopes get CHEATED, it's a Miracle!
It seems there was more to the Miracle victory than just the score on Saturday. The Topes took a quick 4 - 0 in the second showing no mercy on the Miracles starting pitcher. As expected a bullpen change was made and another Miracle pitcher by the name of "Sam" took the hill. Strangely a close relative to Danny Almonte above we think. He did not have a Jersey, like several other Miracle players which at this time of the season is not allowed. Manager Matahi Ribera wanted to be nice and not make a stink of it. But the Jerseys were the least of the problem. It turns out Sam was not on the Miracles official roster and and at least one or more of his under-dressed friends were illegal players too. Sam had a huge impact on the outcome of the game which led to the Topes defeat. Over here we run a tight ship and follow the rules, when others do not do the same to us we get pissed off. If we had known, we would have protested the game and played it through, discovering the players lack of legitimacy later. So on our Christmas wish this year, we hope to face the Miracle in the playoffs for the fourth year in a row and get to personally knock them out of it for the FOURTH year in a row. Like Rasheed Wallace, we garuntee a win.
|
Isotopes K.O.Punch Rough Riders in 7
What a difference a week makes, or is it a day? Who cares, all I know is that last weeks game was broadband cable and this weeks was uploading with a 56K modem on a Commodore 64! Playing the expansion Rough Riders for the first time we encountered what seemed like the slowest game ever, period! It was like Turtles were playing Snails for a jar of molasses. Fortunately there were no suicide attempts in either dugout. Rumor had it though closet Isotopes fan Rick James was seen in the stands again this week. Since he cant beat women anymore, he prefers watching us beat our opponents instead.
The Isotopes wasted no time dismantling the Rough Riders knocking in 14 runs in the first five innings and cruising to a 14-0 victory in seven due to the slaughter rule. Kenny Hawthorne took the hill this week pitching a complete game and going almost perfect not allowing a man to reach first base until the fifth inning. Overall he finished 7IP, 0 ER, 8 K's, 1 BB. Upping his season record to (2-0 0.00 ERA) and career record to (11-1 1.27 ERA), very impressive if you ask me! The Topes offense was on its game as well with Ryan Currie flexing his power blasting a three run homer down the left field line in the 4th bringing it to 13-0. Bojorquez and Ribera also came through with a couple of hits each and Nicol knocking in two with a run as well on the day. On the down side the Topes also continued their strike out woes with 8 K's. Way too many for the third game in and only having a .237 team batting average so far. The pitchers backs must be sore from carrying the hitters so far this season. A game ball was given to Kenny Hawthorne for his performance. Next Isotopes game is this Saturday at Graham Park (Golden Gate) at 10:00 a.m. versus the Red Sox (2-1)
|
Isotopes lose, first time ever under .500
Manager Matahi Ribera had three errors at 1B as the Topes lost their opener to the Miracle 8-7. Heavy drinking will be on the training table for next weeks matchup against the Steelheads.
0-2..BBQ?....nah...1-1 Cham-pion!
|
Isotopes Season Opener 3/28
Isotopes gear up for this opening weekend with a divisional game against the Sea Lions. The Topes took 2 of 3 last season, all of them close games. Golden Glove Ribera feels they have had a solid spring with 8-10 quality practices with 90% full squads and 1 exhibition game under their belt. "I feel we are as ready to play as were going to be." There are still pitching and infield issues to be corrected but will surely pan out once the season begins.
|
Istopes lose, Tsunami keeps pressure on!
The title really says it all, oh wait, Bubba Rogan hit a triple and Jay Bortoli pitched two scoreless.
|
New players fight for postions
With new players joining the team this season positions will be open for competition so here's how they break down.
OF Geoff Sandin is making a run at a starting role with his great speed and defensive abilities. Senior outfielders should realize he could be making a bid for their job come opening day. Could be rookie of the year on the team but his bat is still unproven so only time will tell.
2B Duane Beadles is fighting hard for playing time in the most overrun position on the team with Temple, Robertson and Nicol sharing the position duties as well. His commitment to practice and desire to play is unmatched on the team. The down side is it looks like musical chairs at second base again this season.
SS Julio Bojorquez has been the most impressive defensive pick up in the off season with his soft hands and great range along with his good knowledge of the game. Only new player who has locked a starting position with virtually no competition at SS.
SP/RP Jay Bortoli is the poster-child corn fed white boy who has resurrected from Sacramento NABA traveling south to show his skills in the SFNABA. Dropping some pounds but adding some speed to his fastball. His secret to losing weight was cutting back to a quart of Jack Daniels to every other night instead of his usual every night routine says Bortoli.
Isotopes 2004 Roster:(2003 Stats)
SS Julio Bojorquez(Semi-Pro Mexican League)
SP Kenny Hawtorne(2nd in HITS 20,1st SB 8,1st W-L 9-1,1.47 ERA,95K's,86 IP,Team MVP)
C Anrew Dunning(1st AVG .367,BB 22,RUNS 20,TB 42,All-Star Rep,Defensive MVP,1st in money spent at strip clubs)
LF Donny Blake(2nd AVG .348, 1st in HITS 24)
1B Ryan Currie(.328 AVG, 2nd in RBIs 15)
RF/RP Mark Schiller(Pitched key win over Shamrocks in the season streach)
SP Brad McKeon(5 wins, 89K's, 1.66 ERA, 65 IP, All-Star Rep)
OF Brandon Temple(Only player with the #27 on the team)
CF Bubba Rogan(260lbs. Black Man)
RP Jay Bortoli(Rick Reuschel like intimidation)
2B Duane Beadles(Home Run Record in single game(9)RBI Nintendo
C Kurt Nicol(Backup Catcher)
OF Geoff Sandin(Rookie Season)
1B Matahi Ribera(2003 SFNABA Manager of the Year,impressive .238 avg.)
|
New players step up, defense steps down. Topes win opener!
They say that defense wins championships, who are "they" anyway? Well if "they" saw our game Saturday "they" would say we definitely have no idea about it and for that matter this team isn't winning another one. Well "they" might be wrong. Easily the ugliest defensive game for the Isotopes ever committing 7 errors, which is a now a new team record. With Bill Buckner making cameo appearances at all infield positions it helped keep the Sea Lions close - capitalizing on the Isotopes numerous mistakes. Unfortunately for the Sea Lions they ran out of gas and pitchers before it was all said and done. In the end the Topes came out on top to make the game seem more like a blowout than it really was. Kenny Hawthorne took the hill for the opener and rightfully so being last season's team MVP. Hawthorne went 6 innings strong and got the win, but not without some help from newcomer Jay Bortoli, who inherited a brief 6-3 lead. Two costly errors by golden glove Ribera at 1B lead to eventual runs bringing the game closer at 6-5. Things settled down after that with Bortoli striking out 8 of 10 batters faced and not allowing a single earned run while getting his first save of the season. Holding on to a 6-5 lead in the top of the ninth the Topes busted out seven unanswered runs closing the door 13-5. New addition Geoff Sandin also flexed his muscle hitting a two-run blast to left and ripping a base-clearing double as well, which he scored on due to a throwing error. Sandin closed the day 2-4, 2B, HR, 2 RUNS, and 6 RBI's - arguably one of the best offensive outputs ever by an Isotope. The power portion of the lineup 4-6 hitters were quiet offensively but remained defensively solid for the game. Game balls went to Jay Bortoli and Geoff Sandin. Our next game is this Saturday 4/3 at Nealon Field at 2:00 p.m. versus a good Miracle team. See you there!
|
Pitchers Needed for Phoenix Tournament Oct. 7-10
So here is the deal. The games are October 7-10.
That's Thursday through Sunday. 5 games guaranteed and up to 8 depending on how well we do. Hotel rooms I've already reserved. They can sleep 2- 4 people a night at $54 a night per room. The Airline tickets would be through America West. They were $119 round trip this morning. Very Cheap. Your Tourney fee has already been paid($175)! All our games are at major league spring training fields. Brewers, Royals, A's, Giants, Rangers, Padres, Dodgers, Angels, Mariners etc... They're having a home run and bunting contest and a free BBQ on Friday night as well as free tourney shirt for all players and other prizes. So say you cant miss 2 days work, just come down Thursday night for Fridays games instead and play 3 games at the very least. Whatever you decide it needs to be very, very soon. Please contact me ASAP with your decision.
Thanks,
Matahi
|
Playoff picture unfolds and whats at stake!
July 29th, 2004 Here is the brake down of the four top teams in the Bay Division fighting for the final three playoffs spots.
1st Place
Isotopes(11-3): Six games remaining
Remaining opponents records: 19-36-3 Winning % of .345
2nd Place
Tsunami(12-5): Three games remaining
Remaining opponents records: 25-16-2 Winning % of .609
3rd Place
Miracle(9-6-1): Four games remaining
Remaining opponents records: 23-25-1 Winning % of .479
4th Place
Steelheads(6-4-2): Eight games remaining
Remaining opponents records: 33-34-2 Winning % of .492
|
Rain ruins opener, Topes have to wait
Well I guess thats why they call us the boys of summer rather than spring because we aint playing this weekend. Hopefully mother nature will be kinder next time. Plan on catching us next Saturday(04/01/06) at G.G.P. at 2:00 pm taking on the Blue Claws.
|
Season opener around the corner...are you ready?
Get your game face on because its time to play ball....again. Okay don't sound like your bored already. I haven't been this excited since I last played R.B.I. baseball on Nintendo in my pajamas from 8 am to the late afternoon...wait, that was today. Anyway you may not be as intense as the guy above, but you better be ready. Anything short of winning one game would be unacceptable. We aim high as you can see. With some new younger players and much improved pitching the Topes are feeling pretty good this season. New uniforms and a new home field doesn't hurt either.
So despite all the rain we've had keeping our practices non-existent we still feel we can hit the ground running because its so instinctive once the game begins, or so we hope. So is this like a new team? With five new players and three members from the original 2003 team not returning it does feel like a whole new team in a lot of ways. So the chemistry might be off at first as expected, but the sky is the limit as always. As long as you add quality the cream will always rise to the top. As in our new additions being the cream. Good luck guys, everyone is banking on you, no pressure...
Seriously though, the most exciting thing about this season is our new divisional structure. It creates a new excitement throughout the league. For example: New teams we've never faced, finally! We hope to make all of our first encounters memorable too. So if you've never faced us, take it easy on us please. We finally didn't win it last year so we must be on the decline. Either way, bust out Pabst Blue Ribbon and let the games begin!!! We do not support or endorse under age drinking in any way, that means you Mike Nelson.
|
Time to Defend the Title
Click here to download
As the 2004 season approaches and the Isotopes 2003 celebrations come to a close its time to do it "all over again." Not only was winning it last year damn near impossible, but to repeat will be even more difficult now. Team's just always seem to step up when they know their going to be playing the Champions from the year prior. Unfortunately we were in a similar situation with the A's last season but they kicked our asses. So its not always accurate. None the less the Topes will be a target but they will be ready despite some key losses. The Isotopes will be missing some key ingredient players from last season, Utility man Dave Carson, and NABA All Star Gabe Rodriguez. Some new arms have been picked up though with Jay Bortoli and possible #2 in the rotation starter Chris Barrengo. Also making a bid for the teams few open slots are Duane" what position are you?" Beadles and OF Geoff "reconstructive knee" Sandin. Along with literarily a "walk on" player in the man just known as "Julio" who played semi-pro ball in Mexico for several years. The roster is still undetermined due to the surplus of players but the team surely looks just as strong if not stronger. So with that said, "let the repeat begin"!
|
Topes beat A's 16-4
The 1st place Isotopes(10-2) will bounce back into action on July 17th taking on the Miracle(7-6). Followed next week playing the 2nd place Tsunami(11-4) who are only a half game out and caping off the month of July with their only scheduled double header of the regular season against the Steelheads(6-2-1).
|
Topes cant handle the heat, tie and lose in double header
|
Topes cant stomach a 3-2 lead in 6th, lose 8-4
Starting pitcher Jay Bortoli faced the Benders for the first time Sunday. Jay pitched well through six but unexpectedly ended his day by getting nailed by a line drive and left the game with a broken finger. Bortoli announced today he will be out for six plus weeks. A huge loss for the Topes. For Bortoli it wasn't his middle finger that broke but he might have wanted it to be after he watched his good pitching performance go in the toilet....again! Down 1-2 in the 6th Jeff "Duane Kuiper" Gregori hit a 2 run bomb to left for his first home run of his Topes career which also leads the team at (1). The Benders answered back with a two run homer of their own in the sixth to take a 4-3 lead. With the Benders ahead in the 7th the Topes handed the ball to new comer Seth O'Connell who quickly got a rude awakening from the Benders as they scored 4 runs to take a 8-3 lead in the 7th and never looked back again. As dismal as things may seem the Topes belong to the weakest division in the league and at 2 - 4 are still very much alive. Not one team in the western Ocean division is playing .500 ball...YUCK!
|
Topes cash in the runs, win 15-3!
On a Saturday afternoon game at Sundberg the weather was as hot as the Topes bats. Taking on Ken Hale's Bay Bears in their first meeting ever, the slaughter rule was in effect leaving little doubt who would finish victorious in the end. Jay Bortoli took the mound for his first start ever as an Isotope, defecting from the Sacramento NABA. The Bay Bears top half of the lineup hit well but with the team striking out 12 times and only getting four hits it wasn't enough. The Topes jumped out early with a 5-0 lead but the Bears kept the game close in the top of the fifth knocking in three runs to bring the game closer at 5-3. The Bears fans excitement was short lived when the Isotopes busted the game wide open with ten runs in the bottom of the fifth. Ken Hale's good mix of off-speed junk finally ran its course and eventually he pulled himself from the mound. Bortoli not only did it on the mound but at the plate as well getting two hits, four RBI's and a RUN to go along well with his win. He also received his second game ball for his outstanding efforts. Offensivly Bortoli, Dunning, Rogan and Nicol each had two hits for the day. Making his Isotope debut was Matt Maddigan who got a hit and two runs. Matt was brought on for his great pitching abilities but played third base for the game. Matt will debut against the Benders in a couple of weeks - a perfect matchup for him. The Topes raised their team batting average to a respectable .273 but still had problems in the field committing six errors. Next week's game will be Sunday at 10:00 a.m., Isotopes (5-0) versus the Shockers (2-3) at Silver Terrace. Photographed above: Jay Bortoli
|
Topes edge Benders in climatic fashion 6-5!
In the Isotopes brief history they've only played in 31 games. Sunday's game was more memorable than most of them. It wasn't a title game, or a no-hitter, in fact we aren't even half way through the season, it was simply a great game played by two great teams down to the wire. The much anticipated game against the Benders at Moscone park had all the competition and excitement the Isotopes had been thirsty for since the beginning of the season. With the exception of the Miracle game the Topes have cruised through the schedule with very little interference from their opponents. The Benders at 6-1 coming off a heart-breaking loss to the Fog last week had no intentions of losing again or in similar fashion, but once again, it came down to the last at bat. Mark Schiller took the mound for the Topes with a respectable 2-0 record to start the season. He felt the pressure of facing off with one of the league's elite teams but maintained his composure and kept the game close enough for the Topes to have a shot at a win. The Blue arrived late and everyone realized we had only one umpire. Finally a big match up and both teams had to deal with questionable plays and close calls during the course of the game. A real disappointment. The Benders wasted no time jumping out on top 2-0 in the second rattling Schiller early. Jumping all over his first pitch fastballs waking up the Topes dugout and putting them behind in a rare deficit. The Topes barked right back in the bottom half with two runs as well. Geoff Sandin hit a monster triple knocking in Ryan Currie, following immediately after by Donny Blake who hit a single bringing in Sandin to tie the game at two a piece. Matching run for run in the third and fifth innings the game remained close all the way to the bottom of the ninth tied 4-4. The Benders did not want to re-live last week again. Kenny Hawthorne led off with a single but Andrew Dunning hit into a double play killing the rally and the potential winning run and forcing extra innings. The Benders escaped in what seemed like Deja Vu, or at least temporarily. Schiller pitched nine beautiful innings but had to pass the torch to Matt Maddigan in the tenth with the team hoping he could hold the Benders at bay. The Benders had different plans as leadoff hitter Schunmers ripped a triple in the gap to right immediately following with pinch hitter Olaf slapping a single to right giving the Benders a 5-4 lead and knocking the wind out of the Topes sails. Maddigan got the Benders to hit into a double play magnificently played by Shortstop Julio Bojorquez to slow down the Benders momentum and help keep the deficit to a minimum damage at one run. The Topes felt the pressure and the possibility of their first loss, but knew they still had one last chance. Donny Blake opened the inning with a roped single to center representing the tying run. Matahi Ribera came up and battled through about 16 pitches with endless foul balls but came up short with a pop up to short. With one down Schiller hit into what seemed like the game ending double play but Blake was called safe at second with the solo umpire making the tough call from home. With two down Maddigan hit a single to left scoring Blake and tying the game at 5-5. Now the Benders were slowly feeling Deja Vu. Maddigan was not done, not only did he tie the game with his hit but he stole second and third base putting the winning run on only 90 feet away and all the pressure in the world on the Benders and Isotope Bubba Rogan. Rogan who had struck out twice already quickly found himself in a 1-2 count. The very exhausted Benders pitcher still on the mound from the start of the game with two strikes and two outs threw a fastball belt high and Rogan hit a lazy single just out of the reach of the Benders shortstop giving the Topes the dramatic 6-5 lead and the victory. The Benders gave the Topes a real good game. Easily the best competition since last year's Steelheads. The two teams do not face off again in the regular season, but a playoff game is very possible. Game balls went to Bubba Rogan and Mark Schiller. The Topes (7-0) this week take on a familiar face in the Tsunami (4-3) at Sweeney Field on Saturday at 2:00 p.m. See you there!
|
Topes edge out Pigs 3-2
Kenny Hawthorne had his shortest start as an Isotope, but not because he got rocked early. Shoulder problems in the middle of the first led to an early exit with another sore arm coming in with Jason Reed. Facing off with half his old baseball buddies on the Pig Roasters Jason kept the Luau in check with three shutout innings before passing the ball on to team ace Jay Bortoli. Jay pitched six strong striking out 10 and only allowing 2 runs. The Pig Roasters had pitching success as well with their starter throwing a one hitter into the eighth. In the top of the eight with the game tied at 1-1, Donny Blake with the only hit thus far got his second one advancing base runner Geoff Sandin to second and then to third and home on a throwing error from right. Sandins run would give the Topes a 2-1 lead. The Pigs responded quickly with a leadoff bunt single, who then swiped second and scored on a base hit tying the game 2-2 in the bottom of the ninth.
Top of the 10th with 1 out and a 0-2 count Bubba Rogan ripped a single to right center. Rogan then stole second and third with base ease. With two outs Andrew Dunning came up and hit a single in the hole between 3B and SS scoring Rogan the go ahead run and giving the Topes a 3-2 and never looking back.
The Pig Roasters played very well, but the Miller Lites and the Van Wilder shirtless sheep skin jacket look would lead to their eventual demise.
|
Topes edge Tsunami, remain in 1st!
July 24th, 2004 Andrew Dunning opened up his Hefty garbage bag and threw the whole team inside it and on his back and carried them to victory Saturday over the once 1st place Tsunami(12-5). In what was the biggest game of the season the Topes(11-3) trailing the Tsunami by 0.5 a game out of first emerged victorious and regained first place taking the season series over their fiercest division competitors 2 of 3. Kenny Hawthorne was on the mound keeping the game close enough for the Topes who provided him with good defense and timely hits. The biggest moment of the afternoon was when catcher Andrew Dunning came up in the fifth with the bags juiced and the Topes trailing 4-1 and blasted a roped a line drive shot over and passed the left fielder that rolled so far even a man in a wheel chair could have rounded the bases in time. For Andrew Dunning it was his first Home run ever and arguably the most memorable for the Topes this season. Dunning finished the day 3 - 5, 2B,Grand Slam HR, 6 RBI's and 2 Runs scored. Mark Schiller came in the for the eighth and held the lead recording his first save of the year and preserving the win for Hawthorne. Dunning was given the game ball for his superior performance. Brandon Temple also had his debut start at 2B with five plays and zero errors. The Topes will travel to San Rafael next week in their only double header of the season against the 4th place Steelheads(6-4-2) with game two being played under the lights, a first for the Isotopes. The Topes were 0-2 against the Steelheads last season, but beat them when it mattered most in the playoffs leading to their first championship. Andrew Dunning is pictured above.
|
Topes flex muscle and show Super Stars the Camel Clutch, win 21 - 3 in seven. 1/2 game out of 1ST.
Okay, so Hogan did'nt do the Camel Clutch but we are the former 2 time champs looking to get back into the title match. This game was more of a sparing partner than a title bout though. The game got ugly, real quick. Not to go into crazy detail but everyone contributed in some manner for a rare easy victory. A well deserved rest for the boys as the Topes look towards having the next two weeks off before returing to action. A big double header for first place will be waiting for the Topes when Artichoke Joe's comes to Flood Park on July 16th. The Isotopes are just a half game out of first, winning 3 of their last 4 games with command. Now done with a very tough first half of the schedule the Topes look to make a dominant run against many weak second half opponents. Ten straight home games at our new home field should help. The Topes have made the playoffs every year and plan to be there this year too.
|
Topes gamble Batla, split series
Someone convinced manager Matahi Ribera it would be a good idea to start the teams most dominant pitcher in game two and play your other ace coming off six weeks on the DL in game one. Whooo-what?!? Well if we had known the Chokers pitching was going to absolutely go into the toilet game two we would have done other wise. Losing the first game 6 - 2 and winning the second game 23 - 0 it was obvious who had the pitching depth. Jay Bortoli who started game one just couldn't find himself this afternoon. Six weeks on the DL will do it to you. Or maybe he was thinking about the sandwich and beer his mother had brought for him after the game?? Either way he pulled himself out in the 4th with two on and no outs and the Topes trailing 3 - 1. The Topes passed the ball to newly acquired pitcher Nick Burns who was lights out. Nick introduced himself by striking out the side for his debut. Nice job, I think we'll keep you another week maybe? Catcher Dunning said he had never caught anyone who had thrown that hard. Jeremiah heard the comments and now Jeremiah and Andrew possibly are splitting up soon due to the comments...updated story will be in next weeks GLOBE magazine. It should be the first story after Brad Pitt explains how he loves being a dad to his 27 adopted children. Regardless of Burns great relief work the Topes couldn't manage a run and had a huge 3 run error in the ninth putting the game out of reach. Final Artichoke 6 Topes 2. Nick Burns debut still put up nice numbers with 6 IP, 1 ER, 10 K's.
Game two displayed Topes pitching stud Jeremiah Batla who cruised through five innings of work effortlessly. With the score 17 - 0 Kenny Hawthorne returned to the hill to close out the game. Hawthorne and Batla combined for 2 hits allowed, zero runs, zero BB's and 9 K's. Topes win with ease, final score 23 - 0. Topes remain a game out of first place with nine left to play.
|
Topes get pounded 13-3, bats and defense slowly sinking.
It seemed as if watching the Giants might had infected the Topes play on Sunday. In one of their most embarrassing losses ever the Topes looked like a team that had not practiced in three weeks. Well, that's because they didn't. Hard work pays off and lack of effort shows and unfortunately it's starting to show. The Bay Sox faced the Topes for the first time slaughter ruling them in seven and probably wondering if the Isotopes really won it the last two years in a row or not? The Topes look to rematch the Bay Sox Saturday at 10:00 am followed by the Titans at 2:00 pm. The Topes must at least split the double header or their playoff hopes will begin to look slim.
|
Topes Maddogs tie 5-5, questionable calls ruin outcome
Remember when Tom Brady obviously fumbled that football four years ago against the Raiders and they called it a foreword pass. Then the NFL eventually made up a rule to cover their ass, the "tuck" rule...yeah that was a real bad call. Well if you were at the Isotopes game Saturday you could have witnessed two consecutive calls that were just as bad. The Umps were obviously in a rush to get "home" and catch the Golden Girls 24 hour marathon on TBS. I'm going to propose that we have all our players put on a video game and we can let the computer simulate the outcomes instead. To sit through three hours of a great game and in the final minutes have two calls that even Stevie Wonder couldn't believe is a waste of our time. I'm not even going to talk about the rest of the game other than that it was two great teams swapping punches with the home team getting the last opportunity taken away from two horrendous calls. We would have rather lost than had a tie like that. We tip our caps to the Maddogs for a great game and hope to see them in the playoffs.
|
Topes smash Shockers 17-2 in seven
The Topes played at Silver Terrace for the first time ever on Sunday - playing the Shockers, who literally got "shocked" once they arrived at the dismembered field. To say the field resembled Hiroshima after it was bombed in 1945 would be an understatement. If Kevin Costner had a tight budget and filmed a baseball movie there it easily would have been titled, "Field of Screams." The field had more brown grass than a hippy on Haight Street and the two teams had to play with awareness to avoid the fields many pot holes and loose rocks. With the Shockers as the home team and playing only eight men the Topes took advantage of the huge gaps in the two-manned outfield. The Isotopes went down quietly in the beginning with Shockers starter Iman striking out four of the first seven batters he faced. Shortly after trouble began for Iman and the Shockers in the third inning once the Topes became familiar with his curve ball. By putting the ball in play and keeping the Shockers defense off balance for most of the game the Topes cruised from that point on. Five Topes would cross the plate in the third giving them the early 5-0 lead - they never looked back again. Kenny Hawthorne took the start and cruised through the line up, striking out 11 and only yielding two hits and two walks in six innings pitched. Big offensive days were abundant as well, first with Mark Markunas hitting two doubles, two RBI's, and a run - he also received the game ball. Manager/first baseman Matahi Ribera had three walks, three runs, three RBI's and a triple. Outfielder Geoff Sandin also added three hits, three RBI's, a stolen base and a run. The Topes slaughtered the Shockers 17-2 in seven innings raising their season record to 6-0. Next week's big game is Sunday at 10:00 a.m. Isotopes (6-0) versus the Benders (6-1) at Moscone Field #4. Don't forget this Sunday is also Mother's Day - order your Vermont Teddy Bear - mention the Topes name and you'll get no discount - go to the Hanky and mention Andy's name to get a two-for-one lap dance special - always remember kids... "Sweats, no undies."
|
Topes sweep Double header with ease
After getting their butt's kicked the week before by the fellow Bay division Bay Sox the Isotopes returned the favor in true fashion. With a 14-4 victory in eight the Topes definitely rebounded from their embarrassing loss the week before 13-3. Jay Bortloi went the distance as the Topes bats came alive with 13 hits. Bortoli improved to 3-0. In game two the Topes handled division rival Titans 10-4 as Art Ramirez got his first start as an Isotope going the distance as well. Art had pitched 9 innings that prior Sunday for his other team in the Roberto Clemente league, finishing the six day stretch with 18 innings pitched. Donny Blake, Geoff Sandin, Bubba Rogan and Mark Markunas each had 3+ hits.
|
Topes sweep Steelheads, clinch playoff birth, Magic # is at 2!
August 2nd, 2004 The playoff bound Isotopes locked up a post season birth as they swept the struggling Steelheads. The Steelheads watched their record drop to 6-6-2 with their playoff hopes growing slim. Meanwhile the Isotopes captured their 13th win of the season matching their season high from last year but with four games still remaining. At a 13-3 record overall and a 1.5 game lead over the Tsunami(13-6) locking up first place and a first round playoff bye is all that matters now. The Topes only need one more win combined with a Miracle loss to secure their first Bay division title.
Kenny Hawthorne(6-1) and Jay Bortoli(3-0) each went the distance in their two games as the Topes cruised past the Steelheads 4-1 and 11-7 to complete the long afternoon. The Topes will take on the Shockers Saturday at Sundberg at 10:00 a.m.
|
Topes up 7 - 1 in 9th almost let another one get away
With the Topes 2005 ace Jay Bortoli out for six weeks with a broken thumb, 2006 sensation Jeremiah Batla took the ball Sunday knowing he has to carry the load for a while. None the less he pitched outstanding as expected and kept the Steelheads off balance when needed. Good defense came into play as well with the Topes turning three double plays killing potential Steelhead rallies early. With the Topes up 2 - 1 in the eighth looking to have another nail biter finale, they posted five runs on one hit and all with two outs to take a commanding 7 - 1 lead into the ninth instead. Feeling good about the lead the Topes put former pitching ace Kenny Hawthorne on the hill to close out the game. Kenny had not pitched in a year due to shoulder problems but felt the time was right to give it another try. Well if you saw last weeks game against the Benders in the 7th inning it was a mirror image. The Steelheads jumped all over Hawthorne scoring four runs in a third of an inning bringing the winning run to the plate. Now only up 7 - 5 in the bottom of the ninth with two runners on and one out and no other pitchers available, Jeremiah Batla re-entered the game. Thankfully the Steelheads went down quietly and the Topes raised their pathetic record to 3 - 4. Due to Jeremiahs re-entry he received the win and the save. Huge fantasy points!!! Game ball goes to Jeremiah raising his record to (3 - 2). Offensive props to Jeff Gregori going 2 - 3 with 2 rbi's and a run. Batla also added three rbi's. Next week the Topes look to take on the 2005 Bay Conference Champion Bay Sox at the ever so ghetto field only known as "Jefferson".
|
Topes win 5-3. Batla K's 18, Blake goes deep!
Never have the Topes anticipated an opener quite like this one. The boys got to play the Benders at Encinal field. For some reason on that Sunday it reminded me of Rocky IV. You know, when Rocky had to fly to Moscow to fight Ivan Drago. Well this Sunday we finally got to be Rocky and just like the movie, we won. Not only did we win, it was against our new division rivals, the Benders. More significantly, it was our first win against them in over two years. Also, our first win Encinal. In fact the last time we beat them it was game three of the SFNABA championship in 2004. They've had our number for awhile. Alas, it was only the opener and we take this win with a grain of salt. They are still, to me, the team to beat.
Game balls went to Jeremiah Batla and birthday boy Matt Chasse. Jeremiah Batla pitched another CG striking out 18. Also had two great Maddux-like defensive plays preventing potential tying runs.
Matt, freshly turned 24, in his first game with the Topes, reached base all four ABs going 2-2, 2BB, run and an rbi. Matt also knocked in the first score of the season. Welcome to the team!
Other solid performances included cleanup hitter Donny Blake hitting a two-run Jimmy Jack over the right center field fence giving the Topes an early 3-0 lead. Blake has now homered twice at Encinal, both times off the same pitcher. They are still friends though.
Let us not forget other newcomers Dan Meewis and Brady Moran. In Dan's first AB with the Topes he drew a BB on Benders Ace Rob Ellis. Immediately following was Brady Moran in his first Topes AB dropping a surprise bunt beautifully. The bunt was thrown away and Moran reached first with Meewis scoring easily, bringing the score to 5-3, and your final. Batla ended the game striking out the side.
Special thanks to Ty, new manager Eric and the Benders for hosting and giving us another good game as expected!
|
Spring training begins March 5th!
January 4, 2005 --
Isotopes look to have a 90% player return with some strong new arms being added come this 2005 season. The Topes are also currently talking with local park and recreation departments to secure a home field for the 2005 season. Possible cities include: Redwood City, San Carlos, Belmont, San Mateo, Menlo Park and Foster City.
TRYOUTS*TRYOUTS*TRYOUTS!!
*Walk-on team tryouts are also welcome by contacting manager Matahi Ribera* Please click on the "Contact Info" tab to the left for further information.
All returning team's must have team deposits in Febuary 11th 2005!
If you plan on coming back this season your money and paper work must be in by Febuary 11th. A team garage sale is in the works to help ease the high cost of the league, but will probably be after the payment deadline of Febuary 11th. Good weather is a must, and Febuary is not the month for good weather. All players who participate will recieve an even share of the profits.
|
Topes fall to 1-2, Pitching dominates, Bats dominated
April 27, 2005 --
If you only saw the Isotopes pitching stats with three games played you would not only think they were 3-0, but also killing their opponents...not the case. In three games played the Topes pitching staff has a team era of 1.29 with 34 K's in 28 innings, very impressive. There is more to the game than pitching though as you know, defense and hitting. Defensively the Topes have allowed 14 errors, one every two innings. Offensively the team batting is a .204 avg. and in the last two games is a .116 avg. The top seven are 3-33 and bottom seven are 4-25, but that is where the problem is, 14 batters. Being the ONLY TEAM that actually plays everyone, times have changed and the Topes have recognized that and will make the proper adjustments to maintain competitiveness. This is easily the most talented team they've ever had, but talent is only one element of success. The Topes will take on division rivals in the Steelheads(3-0) at 2:00 pm Saturday April 30th, Golden Gate Park. The Topes swept the Steelheads last season in a double header.
|
Bortoli blanks Steelheads, Topes win 3-0
April 30, 2005 --
The Topes desperately needed a win Saturday to avoid a 1-3 start and Jay Bortoli made sure that was not going to happen to his team. Taking on the first place Steelheads (3-0), Bortoli came out with firing with his most dominating performance as a Isotope going the distance for his first complete game shutout. Bortoli struck out eight, walked two and only allowed two hits keeping the Steelheads bats quiet. Isotopes also played good defense with CF Bubba Rogan making a diving catch then picking off the runner at second for a 8-4 double play. The team also recorded 11 hits with Donny Blake leading the charge knocking in the games first runs with a two run double - finishing the day 2-4,2B,3B,2RBI's. Andrew Dunning and Jason Reed also had a pair of hits on the day. The Isotopes (2-2) return to .500 and look to play another first place team in the Maddogs (5-1) next Saturday at Golden Gate Park 2:00 pm.
|
Topes keep pressure on, sweep double header; 1st place or bust
May 24, 2005 --
With a 1.33 team era is doesn't take a lot of runs to give your team a chance to win. Regardless the Topes felt generous and put up 17 runs and only allowed 2 in a double header sweep Saturday. Finishing their season series against the Tsunami, SP Jay Bortoli pitched a one hitter as the Topes cruised past the Tsunami 13-1 in seven. Bortoli improved to ( 2-0 ) for the season, with 25 K's in 23.1 innings pitched and a microscopic era of 0.39. Eventually the Topes had to turn their real attention to the prize of the day in the Titans who were the new kids on the block. The Titans, currently in 1st place, making the Topes feel out of place in 5th and wanting to prove it would be a short lived stay at the top if the Isotopes had something to say about it. Emergency SP Jason Reed stepped up huge as penciled in starter Art Ramirez went AWOL for their big game. One would think with 30 minutes before game time Jason Reed had little time to prepare mentally or physically. Not the case as Jason pitched outstanding, striking out the side to start the game, proving it was all down hill from there. Only allowing 1 run through 7, Jason kept the Titans in check. Team Ace Ken Hawthorne came in the eighth and ninth innings to close out the game while earning his first save of the season. The Topes finish the double header sweep with a 4-1 win over the Titans. The Titans played well but had costly errors that Topes capitalized on every time. Not to mention the dominant pitching and strong defense having an errorless game which is rare in this league. The Topes have the next 21 days off as they plan to rest and bottle their winning momentum they've achieved in recent weeks for future opponents.
|
Isotopes lose again, allow 11 runs in second inning against Benders
July 17, 2005 --
If all you heard about Sundays big game was that the inept hitting of the Topes got 12 hits in the first seven innings against a very tough Benders team you would probably feel good about their chances of winning....wrong! You would have needed to erase the bottom of the second innings to do that, then the game would be 3-3. The Topes bats were not the problem this day, the defense was terrible again and the starting pitching was equally as bad. Losing their second game in a row, a feat they've only ever done once before in their three year existence, you can safely say the Isotopes aren't playing good ball at all right now. The Benders coming off a couple tough losses as well showed no mercy Sunday hammering the ball constantly making the Isotopes defense have to earn their out's with no avail. On the brighter side the Isotopes anemic 7-8-9 hitters went 6-10 scoring two of the three Isotopes lowly runs. The Benders hitting was so good they had only one strike out for the whole afternoon, a rare feat against the Isotopes usually dominant pitching staff. The Topes fell to 7-5-1 and look to rebound this Sunday in a double header against the Sea Lions (6-7) and Bay Bears (5-9). The Topes are 0-2 against both teams and have been out scored 0 - 6 and 1 - 6 in each meeting. Heavily missed team Ace Jay Bortoli (4-0, 0.96 era) who missed the last two games will make his return to the Topes Sunday for game 1. Also (cant get a day off) rookie Brian Lewis will start game 2.
|
Topes sweep Double header, keep pressure on
July 24, 2005 --
|
Topes down 5-4 in 7th, deliver K.O. punch in 8th to win 13-5 over Fog
August 6, 2005 --
Now we know why they call them the "Fog". The foggy weather was enough to contemplate suicide, and at some points it seemed like players were going to trailing 5 - 4 in the seventh. Regardless, un-sung heroes stepped up Sunday to over come a one run deficit and prove it truly is a "Team" sport. Whether you get five hits or five K's, everyone contributes positively when you win. The game was full of highs and lows but in the end we got our tenth win and maintained 2nd place for another week. Hopefully we will see you Sunday as the Isotopes (10-5-1) take on the Steelheads (14-2). In their only match up of the season the Topes won 3-0 with Jay Bortoli (5W-0L) pitching a complete game shutout.
|
Isotopes beat Steelheads 19 - 2.
August 15, 2005 --
The Steelheads game smelled like a delicious pre-playoff BBQ! Unfortunately the wieners on the field got burnt with not much to say about the highly anticipated game. The Steelheads clinched the Bay Division a week earlier and heading into our game with no desire to win. Once we figured that out we just wanted to go home as soon as we got there. All the Topes knew is they had to keep winning to maintain second place for another week. With a double header this Saturday the Isotopes(11-5-1) look to take on the Wildugs(2-13) for the first time. With a win the Topes will guarantee a playoff birth and with a sweep they will lock second place. The Isotopes have swept their last three double headers. Both games will be Saturday the 20th at Crocker Amazon at 10:00 am and 2:00 pm. Game 2 time subject to change.
|
Topes cash in runs on Wildugs 20-1,11-1 both in 7
August 20, 2005 --
Not much to say about this double header. 31 runs, 30 hits in 14 innings played.........................NEXT! The Topes finish the season next week against the Miracle. Also the Topes have caught on fire at the right time winning six in a row and out scoring their opponents in that time 84 - 16. Useless info: The victory was the Isotopes 50th win in three seasons counting playoffs bringing them to 50 - 17 - 1 lifetime.
|
P-L-A-Y-O-F-F-S!!!
August 27, 2005 --
When it comes to playoffs the Isotopes are 3 - 3. For the third consecutive season the Topes have earned their way into the playoffs. Congratulations to the boys on clinching 2nd place in the Bay Division. What are our expectations? Well if you've been around lately then you should know nothing short of a championship would be acceptable. We are just trying to see how long can we stay on top, and let me tell you every year it gets harder. You can also bet that nobody wants us to win it again. Let's gets some new blood in there right? Not if we have anything to say about it. It won't be easy but we've got the playoff experience and determination to do it again. You don't win it two years in a row by accident. We don't care who we play, we just want good games with a deserving winner. Lastly we want to thank every team we faced this year for all the great games. Also thanks to all the umpires.....well most of you and a special thanks to Ken Hale and his staff for putting another quality season together again. Thanks for the memories Ken and we wish you success in whatever it is you pursue.
|
Isotopes get Flood Park as Home Field
February 19, 2006 --
The Isotopes finally have a place that they can call home for the first time. For most of the players, a short drive to Flood Park located in Menlo Park is welcomed and long over due. Taking the Marsh St. exit off 101, and a left onto Bay Road you'll find the field deep behind the large Oak trees. Flood Park also host concerts, family picnics and other large group events. We're here strictly for the baseball though. The field is well kept and is definitely one of the nicer venues the league has to offer. The dimensions are 355ft all the way around from left - center - right. So we should see a handful of "real" home runs this season. Flood field also has the largest foul ground area of any SFNABA field. Catcher Andrew Dunning will be busy this year chasing a lot more pop-ups that usually aren't playable. The games will happen between the final two months of the season, July and August giving the Topes a real home field advantage going into the playoff stretch.
There are also clean urinals conveniently located behind the diamond backstop - A rare quality with SFNABA fields. The down side is a honor system charge for guest parking. Only players and Umpires park for free.
|
No - No Sea Lions, Yes - Yes Batla
April 22, 2006 --
Kenny Hawthorne did it twice and Brad Mckeon once. What is it you ask? They eached pitched the most dominant games in Isotopes history, a one hitter. Well, that dominance was surpassed today. #19 Jeremiah "Bullfrog" Batla debuted for the Isotopes on the hill in their season opener throwing a no-hitter against the Sea Lions. Not only did he throw a no hitter, he struck out 17 and walked only one. The game only lasted 2:04 minutes - needless to say Batla works quickly. Oh yeah, the 17 K's also set another new team record for strikeouts in a game. Brad McKeon who pitched for us in 2003 has came out of retirement this season had held the previous record with 16 in 2003 against the Division champion Steelheads. Don't worry Brad, you still hold the Isotopes career records for lowest ERA (1.66) and K's per 9 (12.32)for now........?
# 19 Jeremiah Batla
IP 9.0
R 1
ER 0
H 0
BB 1
K 17
TP 120
Offensively, the Topes bats didn't heat up until the 5th inning when Mark Markunas hit an rbi single to bring home Jeff Gregori. In the sixth Kenny Hawthorne scored on a wild pitch. In the eighth the topes broke it wide open scoring three runs on three hits.
Topes shortstop Art Ramirez had several outstanding defensive plays as well as a hit that drove in two runs. Left fielder Donny Blake was also impressive at the plate, going two for three with one rbi.
The Isotopes will play their first ever game against The Grays at Riordan High School at 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, April 29.
More on Batla: In their only practice game, which was also Batla's first appearance for the Isotopes, he struck out 14 in five innings. That's 31 K's in 14 innings and 1 hit allowed.
|
Topes beat Bay Sox 8 - 0
June 19, 2006 --
The last time the Topes faced the Bay Sox it was for the Bay Title game, and at Jefferson High School of all places. Our starter Brian Lewis broke his arm(in two places, yuck!) in the second inning and we lost 6 - 4 in the 13th. Well we weren't looking for revenge on Sunday, but we were just looking to get back to .500. Strangely we got both. With no other pitchers available again, Jeremiah Batla took the hill and basically dominated for us as expected. Pitching a nine inning complete game shutout, only allowing two hits, three BB's and striking out 11. Batla raised his recod to 4 - 2. In 52.1 innings pitched Batla has 4 CG, 75 K's, 16 BB's and a 1.55 era...WOW! The 75 K's are just 20 short of Kenny Hawthorne's record of 95 K's in 2003. I wonder if he'll break it? Like how many licks to the center of a Tootsie roll, the world will never know... Anyway, back to the game. The Bay Sox who usually play good defense lost the touch this Sunday with untimely errors that lead to several unearned runs. So when your pitcher doesn't give up anything it doesn't take much to close the door quickly on a opponent. Before we knew it, the score was 8 - 0 and the rest was history. There was some "save that drama for your mama" in the game but nothing worth remembering or repeating, SERIOUSLY!!! Just two good teams going in to two different directions. On a lighter note other great "non pitching" performances were had by Art Ramirez and Mike Nelson on defense. Flawless plays that killed any potential rallies, which were pretty non-existent but no the less worth mentioning. Bubba Rogan and Kenny Hawthorne also added two hits offensively. Rogan's was the deal breaker in the fifth, with two outs and scoring a man on third giving the Topes a comfortable 4 - 0 lead. Mark Markunas and Bubba Rogan also had two runs while Manager "Mendoza line" Matahi Ribera knocked in two runs as well. The Topes look to take on the Superstars next week in their final game at the SFNABA toilet bowl only known as "Jefferson". After this game the Topes will play 10 of their next 11 games against only division opponents at their new home field Flood Park. "We're getting hot at the right time and we plan on taking back first place real soon and not giving it back." Game balls went to Jeremiah Batla and Mark Markunas. Honorable mention to Bubba Rogan.
|
Isotopes outscore Bay Sox 9 - 0, still lose
June 23, 2006 --
On Sunday June 18 the Isotopes won a game - 9 - 0 - on the field. However, the game was lost in the rule book of the NABA.
Seriously Bay Sox - we asked ourselves would we have done the same thing in your situation? HELL NO!!! We overwelmingly agree that no we wouldn't have. We came to play a game on the field. Not to comb through a rule book and look for a cheap win. If that's how you need to win then you'll always be a loser to us.
What it comes down to is the Bay Sox Manager is a win at all costs - no matter how cheap your win is kind of guy - and his actions on the field on Sunday pretty much reflected that. So what if Kenny Hawthorne got ejected. Getting hit twice and having two other Isotopes players get hit was our team's breaking point. Whatever. All we are asking is that the game be won or lost on the field.
May we make a suggestion to any team playing against the Bay Sox: When the Bay Sox dont have enough players to field a team at game time, dont be the nice guy and let it slide like I did because you and your team just want to go out and have fun and play ball. Make them forfeit. Follow the "rules." If you dont it will come back to bite you.
My team showed up to play baseball. The key word being PLAY - as in pitch, field and hit the ball. Not, open the rule book and read some bullshit rule. No worries though "manager", next time you cant bring enough players to the field, we'll know better. You couldn't bring players to the field and you couldn't bring it - period.
We want to make it CLEAR that our team respects the Bay Sox Ball Team. The manager is a different story. If you truly feel good about obtaining a win like this you know nothing about sportrmanship and the game of baseball.
Isotopes Batters Hit = 4
Bay Sox Batters Hit = 0
Isotopes Players Ejected = 1
Bay Sox Players Ejected = 0
Chicken Shit Victories = Bay Sox
Fucked over by the Miracle and Bay Sox in 2006 = Isotopes
|
Batla and Hawthorne stop Tsunami with strong winds (or whiffs), 33K's in 16 innings
August 5, 2006 --
Game 1: Topes 14, Tsunami 1 F/7
A double header Tsunami surged into Flood Park Saturday but the only casualty was, well......the Tsunami. Former Bay division rivals the Topes and Tsunami had many great battles back in the day. Neither team being quite what they were to yester - year but the Topes may be a little closer than their old friends. With each game a must win from here on out the Topes are trying to keep pace with whom ever is in first place. Being only a half game out and a double header at their feet, the possibility of being in first place for the first time since week one had the Topes focused on getting the job done that day.
The Topes took first blood as Geoff Sandin crushed a triple into the gap with two runners on and Donny Blake knocked in Sandin from third giving the Topes a quick 3 - 0 lead. That was enough run support for both games. In the top of the first, Tsunami's SP rolled his ankle while pursuing a weak ground ball play taking him out of the game. The Tsunami were already hurting for pitching so this didn't help. Regardless, the Topes team ace Jeremiah Batla took the mound only giving up two hits and a run in the first inning leaving the score 3 - 1 Topes. Turns out that was the last hit and run the Tsunami would get for the game against Batla. Batla, who arrived late as usual to the game, finally woke up from his slumber in the second and just dominated with 16 K's in seven pitched. The Topes cruised to a quick victory in seven, final score 14 - 1.
*Game ball went to Duane Beadles (57) who was 3 - 3, SB and an RBI. He also had five flawless put - outs at second base. Great game kid!
Other big game contributors:
*Ken Hawthorne (26) 2 - 2, 2 - 2B, 4 RBI's, 2 - BB's and a SB.
*Geoff Sandin also had a 2B, 3B and 2 Runs.
*Batla raised his record to 8 - 2 with 6 CG, 1.44 ERA and his record setting strikeout total to 147 K's so far this season.
Game 2: Topes 7, Tsunami 0
In 2003 and 2004 the Topes were league champs, much of that had to do with Kenny Hawthorne. Kenny amassed a 18 - 3 record in two seasons and went 3 - 0 in the post season. Hawthorne won both deciding game 3 championships against the Shamrocks in '03 and Benders in '04. His arm finally had it and his pitching days were done. Well time heals many things and it turned out Kenny's arm was one of them. Going a couple brief stints in the last few games, Kenny and the Topes felt it was time to try it again. Plus with the division battle for first place coming down to the wire and playoffs around the corner we needed his arm to contend. So for the first time in over a year Kenny took the hill as the SP for the Topes. It was just like nothing ever happened to his arm. In seven innings pitched Hawthorne allowed only 2 hits, K'd 11 and didn't walk one single batter. Not bad for a one-year hiatus. Also Hawthorne earned his 19th career victory. His control was Maddux like and he seemed to get every batter 0 - 2 repeatedly. Batla came in to close out the game with the Topes cruising to a 7 - 0 win. At 8 -7 -1 the Topes are hoping for some help from the Blue Claws and Grays who were playing the 1st place Red Giants and second place S.B. All Stars. Titans are also closely competing for a spot. And yes, we are just like the ever so pathetic NL West. The one thing we all got going for us is the first place bye, when none of our teams are really that deserving of it. Oh well, too bad for the other divisions, one of us will take one the four precious bye weeks guaranteed! It happens every year. Do the 1993 Giants ring a bell? 103 wins and no playoffs???? F U Dodgers and Solomon Torres!
Anyway, game ball time! This one was easy, Kenny Hawthorne, 7 IP, 2 Hits, 0 ER, 0 BB, 11 K's. Domination. Kenny Also hit 3 - 2B's for the afternoon.
Oh yeah, there were some offensive stats too....?
Geoff Sandin, another 3B, 2 BBs and 1 run. Offensive MVP for the day. In fact in Sandin's last three games at Flood he has gone 6 - 9, 2 - 2B's, 2 - 3B's, HR, 9 RBI's, 5 runs and 2 BB's. F#cking Nuts man! Keep drinking those Margi's every Friday night at the chicken eye man!
Batla and Rogan each added two hits for the game.
Isotopes Useless Info:
Topes Record: 8 - 7 - 1
Topes have outscored the opposition: 126 - 48.
Largest margin of defeat: 4 runs (Benders 4 - 8, Artichoke 2 - 6, Titans 4 - 8)
Leads lost after the eighth: 5
Leads lost in ninth with 2 outs: 2
All seven losses are by: 16 runs total
Times Topes have been shutout: 0
Teams Topes have shut out: 5
Most runs scored against Topes: 8
Teams to score more than 6 runs against Topes: 3
|
Topes sweep Red Giants, win division!
August 17, 2006 --
How many hookers can you fit in a Taxi cab....? Andrew says SIX!!!
|
Topes advance to Ocean Conference Champioship
September 10, 2006 --
For the forth year in a row the Topes faced a tough Miracle team in the playoffs, and for the forth year in a row the Topes beat them as well winning Sunday 6 - 1. Hats off the Miracle, see you in the playoffs next year probably? The Topes will face a Benders team who for the most part is the most dominant team the SFNABA has ever seen at 20 - 1 thus far. This series could be viewed as the "real" championship series for the Topes. No offense to the remaining Bay teams in the Mad Dogs and Steelheads, whom the Topes beat both this season. It's just the Benders are clearly the favorites to win it. Anyone who has dreams of sniffing the trophy this year undoubtedly knows that the road to the top spot must pass through Ty and his 18 headed monster in the Benders. Win or lose we are happy to have made it this far. One month ago were in 3rd place in our division. Now we are only four wins away from another title, hopefully - who'd of thunk? In their only meeting this year the Topes lost 4 - 8.
|
Topes hold off Blazers win 9 - 6
April 28, 2007 --
|
Topes make the Giants see Red, pounding 30 hits, 29 runs and a smashed Police windshield to cap it!
May 13, 2007 --
The Isotopes enjoyed a double dipper Saturday at Balboa park by sweeping the Red Giants with an offensive onslaught. Last year the Giants who were the only other threat for the Ocean western division battled them well but fell short as the Isotopes swept them to claim the division into the final weeks of the regular season. Saturday the Topes continued the sweeping tradition with less resistance from the Giants this time winning game one 14 - 5 and game two 15 - 7. In two games the Topes hammered the Red Giants pitchers with 30 hits and nearly matching that with 29 runs. In '05 the Topes did one better getting 30 hits and 31 runs against the expired Wildugs.
Obviously their were HUGE days at the plate so here are a few to mention.
Game Balls went too...
#44 Geoff Sandin RF, have a day kid!
Sandin went 6 for 9, 1 3B, 1 2B, 4 runs, 4 rbis, 1 BB and 1 SB
#57 Jono Stoval CF/SS nice to have a leadoff that other teams cant stand to see, but we love him!
Jono was 5 for 8, 5 runs, 5 rbis, 1 BB and 2 SB
Jono is also the team masseuse and traveling pharmaceutical distributor
#75 Mike Ostler 2B, hit a foul ball that landed right into a police windshield with about six cops standing right there. Aside from breaking the law he also had a nice day at the plate going 4 for 6, 2 runs, 2 rbis, 3 BB and 1 SB. Save some of that for next week against your former team if you can...
Other great performances...
#21 Nick Burns, and we thought he only pitched!
Big Nick was 5 for 9, 3 runs, 6 rbis!
#2 Andrew Dunning C, old as the mountains but can still swing the stick.
Handy was 3 for 8, 1 3B, 1 2B, 3 runs, 3 rbis, 3 BB
#3 Dr. Jeff Gregori 3B/C, oldest guy on the team who will tell you with his infinite wisdom lefties cant play third base..Jeremiah...
The Doc went 3 for 7, 2 runs, 5 rbis and a walk
Last but not least, we had great pitching by #19 Jeremaih Batla SP, #26 Kenny Hawthorne SP, #21 Nick Burns RP. All three combined for 21K's in 17 innings worked.
The Isotopes return back home to Flood as they look to take on the Brewers, formerly known as Prince, or maybe it was the A's...ahhh, who cares. In their only game against eachother in '04 the Topes won 16 - 4. Game time is 10:00 am May 19th. See you there!!!!
|
Topes win 6 - 0, Batla blanks Brewers
May 20, 2007 --
The Topes had little struggle against the Brewers Saturday as Jeremiah Batla showed them why he is the best pitcher in the league. Eight innings worked,15 K's, 2 hits and 1 BB allowed. Not too shabby. Jeff Gregori was behind the dish as he called a beautiful game as well. Lets not forget though that the Brewers also had a pretty good pitcher on the mound Saturday, Howie Correa. The Topes had heard of Correa many times but had never faced him. Yet even Howie wasnt enough to beat us Saturday. With timely hitting and dominant pitching by the Topes, coupled with a poor Brewers defense, Correa and his team were left with little to cheer about. Matt Chasse came in to close out a perfect ninth, 3 up and 3 down. It was Chasse, the tall lefty's first work on the mound this season as he proved without question he deserves to pitch more in this very deep rotation. The Isotopes and the rest of the SFNABA will enjoy Memorial Day weekend off next week. They will return the following week to play their old friends and rivals, the Benders...undoubtedly the biggest game of the year so far. With the Topes leading the season series 1 - 0, a win will give the Topes a comfortable lead in the division as well as the tiebreaker in case they finish in first together.
|
Batla beats Benders again, Topes 6 Benders 0
June 2, 2007 --
Shutting out teams isn't something new for the Isotopes, but, doing it to a great Benders team is. The shut out marked the first time the topes have swept the Benders in a season, winning the season opener 5 -3 and this game 6 - 0. Someone please pinch me. We all know the season is far from over but we are in as good of a place as we could hope for at this time. Now with a two game lead in the division and the tie breaker on our side, things are looking pretty good in Springfield for the Isotopes. Batla improved his record to 5 - 0, droppping his era to 1.31 with 80/17, K/BB ratio in 48 innings pitched. 30 of those K's belong to the Benders. Also the Topes have shut out their last two opponents and have not allowed a run in the last 20 innings.
|
Bad base running, defense, Topes Tie scrappy Sea Lions 8 - 8
June 10, 2007 --
Not much to say here. The boys played like shit. So many opportunities to put this one to bed but we kept making terrible decisions on the base paths and defensively at the most crucial of times. If we play like this again next week we might as well give the division up now. It was pathetic... Sea Lions played tough and took advantage our all of our mental blunders, and trust me we had a ton of them. Hats off to them!
|
Topes beat Grizzlies 5 - 0; Clinch Division Title; Batla 10 - 0!!!
June 14, 2007 --
The Topes go back to back for the first time winning the Ocean West Division Title two years in a row. Now with three games to go the boys can relax and not stress on winning as much. Star pitcher Jeremiah Balta improved his record to 10 - 0 by shutting out another first place team this year winning 5 - 0, the other was the Bay Sox, 6 - 0. The Topes will take on the Blue Claws at 2:00 pm at Flood Park this Saturday.
|
Beavers Dam cant hold back Topes, topes win 12 - 5
June 16, 2007 --
Rebounding from last week the Topes win with ease beating the 2006 SFNABA champions 12 - 5. The Topes continued their domination over the Beavers/Steelheads at 7 consecutive wins dating back to 2003. Team ace and SP Jeremiah Batla earned his 6th victory improving his record to 6 - 0. Matt Chasse closed out the game in the ninth with no problems. The Topes bats were impressive as well busting out 17 hits for the day with each player getting at least one hit. Notable performances were had by #3 hitter Geoff Sandin, going 3 - 5 with 5 rbi's and a run. Leadoff hitter Jono Stoval also went off with a pair of hits and scoring 4 times with two SB's. Lastly manager Matahi Ribera extended his hitting streak to seven consectutive hits(tied team record) raising his average to .636.
|
Topes hold off grittyTitans, Batla improves to 7 - 0
July 1, 2007 --
When Jeremiah Batla is pitching we always feel pretty good about our chances. Even so, the Titans whom handed us one of our two only losses came within a hit of doing it again. As I mentioned before though when Jeremiah is pitching our chances are good. Respectfully, the Titans didnt make it easy though. The Topes clinging to a 4 -2 lead in the bottom of the ninth, men at first and second and nobody out and the Titans cleanup hitter and winning run came up. So Jeremiah wiped his brow, sucked down a Red Bull and grew some wings and got out of the jam by striking him out. Then followed with a pop out to right for the second out. In a unusual fashion, we ended the game by picking off the man sleeping at first. It was also Jeremiah's fourth pick off of the game too, not too shabby... Jeremiah improved his record to 7 - 0 and the Topes improved to 9 - 2 - 1 maintianing their 1st place position in the division. At the plate Blake, Burns and Stoval each had a double and a single as well, nice job boys! The Topes next game will be July 7th at Flood Park against the Tsunami at 10:00 am.
|
Topes barely escape Tsunami
July 7, 2007 --
For Matt Chasse he was the starting pitcher for the first time as a Isotope. Chasse was facing a 2 - 10 Tsunami team that had little going for them thus far into the season. The task was simple for Matt and the Topes. Beat these guys quickly and we go home. Well the Tsunami didn't make it easy at all. I'm not going to go into detail but Matt pitched great and the team couldn't get any runs to help him out. Not to mention that SEVEN players were missing and six of the nine Topes who were there were playing out of position. At one point in the game we had lefties playing SS and 2B, a terrible combo - even in softball. On the flip side Jono Stoval who is on the DL was forced to play with a separated shoulder at 1B because we didn't have the bodies. When you have seven guys missing trust me, you don't get seven good reasons for their absence. It especially doesn't make a lot of sense when a guy like Jono Stoval steps onto the field and makes the play of the day with his separated shoulder. With an incredible dive in the seventh that pretty much stopped two runs from scoring and kept us within striking distance to still win the game. Even with Stovals incredible stop and the Tsunami up two entering the bottom of the eighth the Tsunami still had the game in hand. Unfortunately when you are 2 -10 they are reasons for that. They suffered two massive errors in the bottom of the eighth that allowed three Topes to cross the plate giving the Topes back the lead. By that point Nick Burns had the rock which sealed their fate. Nick Burns entered the game in the top of the eighth when it was tied 3 -3. He closed out the game striking out the side and earning the victory. The Topes will enjoy a week off for their big camping trip as we look forward to returning July 21st at Flood to play the Bay Sox. This game has been circled on our calendars the day we received the schedule.
|
Topes shine at All-Star Game - Joey Stoval named MVP!
July 8, 2007 --
Ocean division starting pitcher Jeremiah Batla and closing pitcher Nick Burns dominate Bay division hitters - the two Isotopes aces combined for six scoreless innings, nine strikeouts and only two hits allowed.
Geoff Sandin added a double and a run to contribute to the victory.
All-Star MVP Joey Stovall went two for three, with a double, single and two runs.
|
Topes reverse their caps and go OTT against tough 1st place Bay Sox 6 - 0, Batla improves to 8 - 0!
July 21, 2007 --
It was a pitcher's duel until the eighth inning when the Topes finally broke it open with a six run rally started off by Chris Hales. The Topes went on to produce seven more hits that inning including a triple by right fielder Geoff Sandin. Jeremiah Batla pitched another gem of a game managing a complete game shut out - allowing only three hits, two walks and striking out 12. It was also Jeremiah's 4th shutout this season. Bay Sox starting pitcher #44 pitched a hell of a game as well, but came up short with no run support. Hats off to you. Catch the Topes this Sunday as they face off against the Mad Dogs. The last time these two teams played each other in '06 the Topes won 1-0 with Jeremiah Batla tossing a no hitter against them.
|
Topes spayed the Dogs 13 - 3 in seven
July 29, 2007 --
Believe it or not this game was tight at 2 -2 going into the fifth inning. Sooner than later the flood gates busted open and the Topes released the hounds on the Dogs putting up a 6 spot in the fifth and another four in the sixth. With the score now 13 - 3 and the Topes batting 14 players all of which were getting on base with ease - SP Batla cruised into the 7th shutting down the final batters striking out two of them - whom showed their emotions by throwing equipment, cursing aloud and displaying frustration with little order and guidance. Some of the Mad Dogs, not all, but some may want to look into the Roberto Clemente league as it may be more their speed. The Topes have man handled pretty much all of the expected playoff contenders thus far with little resistance. The Topes will face the Miracle next week at Flood park, 2:00 pm Saturday the 4th. The Topes raised their record to 12 -2 -1 and have maintained their first place status from day one with no looking back.
|
Down 3 - 0 in the bottom of the 9th, Topes win 4 - 3; Its a Miracle!
August 4, 2007 --
With a last minute scratch from SP Jeremiah Batla, manager Matahi Ribera called on his future pitching star Joey Stoval to take the mound. The Topes faced a tough Miracle team - a team that has had a season where their record doesn't indicate how good they really are. Stoval had a tough opponent in Miracle pitcher #33 Gardella. Stoval and Gardella went toe to toe for nine innings in one of the better pitching duels we have seen in a while. The Topes did manage to get on base though, putting two on in the seventh with no outs, stranding them and then one upping it in the eighth by getting the bases loaded again with no outs and stranding them as well - in all - the Topes left ten men stranded - five of them in the 7th and 8th. The game seemed out of reach when - in the eighth inning and the Miracle up 1-0 - the Topes committed two costly errors allowing two more runs to cross the plate and handing their opponent a nice 3-0 lead going into the bottom of the eighth. The Topes have never entered the ninth without a run scored and were facing their first possible shutout ever. Down three runs with three outs left the Topes were ready to show the Miracle why they lead the league in wins.
With Stoval retiring the side on eight pitches in the top of the ninth the Topes knew they had to bring their "a" game to the bottom of the inning to steal this game back from the Miracle. And that they did. The Topes were at the 7-8-9 spot in their lineup and went off. Catcher Jeff "Doc" Gregori started off the inning with a base hit, with 1B Matt "Wicked Haaad" " Chasse following with a walk. Chris Hales - who went three for three on the day - added another hit to load the bases with no outs. Newcomer Mike Rose was put in the line up and proved his place on the team by erasing the shutout by knocking in the first run on a solid base hit to left. At that point Miracle starter Gardella was out of gas and tricks so manager Ben Hu called to his bullpen bringing in a new pitcher - Jason Eda - who coincidentally tried out for the Topes two years prior unsuccessfully. With the bags loaded Eda looking for possible revenge but his back to the wall started off by walking leadoff hitter Jono Stoval, which scored the second run, and then gave up back to back hits, including the game winning RBI from Andrew "Andy Baseball" Dunning. Dunnings game winner was only the Topes second walk off hit in team history. Bubba Rogan had the other in 2004 against the Benders again in the bottom of the ninth with a final of 6 - 5. So the All Star MVP in only his second start - Joey Stoval, struck out eight, walking nobody.
Nice comeback Topes.
Game balls went to # 14 Joey Stoval and the nine hitter # 1 Chris Hales who is quietly hitting .370 - maybe he shouldnt be hitting ninth anymore????
|
Topes edge Grays in meaningless game, 3 - 2
August 26, 2007 --
Entering the final week of the 2007 regular season the Topes were faced with an issue they had never came even close to dealing with...having enough players for the game. Eight Isotopes were out of town for this one. In general good teams have good attendance, bad teams have obviously bad attendance, bad managing too. We've never had a forfeit but it felt like a possibility for the first time in five years. Fortunately that was not the issue and the final installment of "the games that mean nothing" came to a close Saturday. With the division locked up weeks earlier and the first round bye in their pocket the Topes were enjoying their vacation as they sailed into Marchbank Resort, home of the Fog and short people who dress like wanna-be gangsters. So with their sun visors on and beach blankets in hand Nick Burns led off the game smashing a meatball over the right field wall for his first and probably last HR of his entire life....nice hit Nick, now don't get ejected please. Starting pitcher Matt Chasse felt like carving K's into the sand at his favorite nude beach, so on this hot day he fanned five Grays batters in four innings worked to provide a nice ocean breeze for the boys staying in the shade of the dugout enjoying Gatorade Margaritas. Geoff Sandin, Nick Burns and red hot Mike Rose each added three hits keeping the Grays busy with plenty of Cardio in the outfield - Helping them to "tone up" so they can impress the ladies as they too were on vacation with their division locked up as well. Dan "Hydroponic" Meewis also added two hits and pitched two solid innings to boot. Chris Hales came in to close the ninth with hopes of dropping his era under 80. With ease he struck out the first batter and got a double play turned by team M&M to end the season and our vacation with a win. Caps off to the Grays for a good game, maybe we will meet again.....soon?? We finish the season at 16 - 2 -1. Not bad. But alas the season means nothing now and all focus moves to the playoffs, where everyone has a chance. We don't know who we are playing and we don't care. All I can say is anything short of a championship would be a great disappointment. Special thanks to Mike Nelson at second base for making this game possible. Dont quit your day job brotha.
|
Topes top Blazers 8 - 2, back to final four
September 9, 2007 --
For the fifth year in a row the Topes have made it to the final four and for the second year in a row we get to face the Benders. The Topes are 4 -0 against the three other remaining teams this season outscoring them 29 - 8.
All four remaining teams have played in the last three championship series with the Benders making all three championship series - facing each team once (Topes '04, Bay Sox '05, Steelheads '06). Either way, that is the past - and what happened last year ain't going to happen again, period.
There is a right of passage to get to the championship and nothing is more fitting to us than to face our old friends again, the Benders. Game one and two will be played this Saturday at Flood Park at 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. Game three - if needed - will be played Sunday.
On Sunday, The Topes raised their record to 18 - 2 - 1 and have won 15 in a row dating back to Cinco de Mayo. SP Jeremiah Batla also won his 11th game raising his perfect record to (11 - 0). The win was also signifigant, it was his 21st (21 - 3 lifetime) victory making Batla the all-time wins leader for the Topes passing Kenny Hawthorne's 20 victories.
For the season Batla has pitched exactly 100 innings thus far with 144 K's and a microscopic ERA of 1.44. Not too shabby.... Special thanks to the Blazers for a great game, see you all next year.
|
Topes split with Benders; Decisive game 3 Sunday
September 15, 2007 --
Benders won game one 3 - 0 and the Topes won game two 8 - 5. The final and deciding game three will be played today at Marchbank field at 2:00 pm. The winner will move on to face the Beavers for the SFNABA championship.
|
Topes squeak by tough Benders, back to the finals!
September 17, 2007 --
Never in my life have I experienced more ulcers and the constant need for Tums over a two day period than this. Oh wait, there was that World Series the Giants were in a few years back. Nevermind... Regardless, our Ocean Conference championship series was the most intense battle we've ever been in with such a worthy opponent, the Benders. Hats off to Eric, Ty and the Benders. You guys are the class of the league. No other team this year has given us better games. It was a constant tug of war with them giving me enough stress to consider Rogaine - now the series has made me 'officially" bald. But not to worry, I found the missing hair on my back this morning.
Seriously though, so many Topes players stepped up huge for us this weekend. Guys who have played good all year but just went off the charts for the playoffs. Saving the best for last.
I'm only going to mention a few since this thing isn't over yet, but all contributed big.
First off I want to start off with #18, our SS Clay Alarcon. My goodness! You were smoother than one of Jonos $20 fades. Omar Vizquel at short and Derek Jeter at the plate. You were the most clutch performer for us when we really needed it. Your bat was glowing red like you were in a video game man. In the words of Rome, Phenomenal!
Not too far off was #34 RF Dan Meewis. Man you showed me a side of you this week that I always new you had and then some. Three hits in game two highlighted by a monster double to clear the bags and give us the lead for good. Lets not forget the leather, and were not talking about chaps. A great diving catch made in game three to end one of the Benders big scoring threats. Again - phenomenal. Constantly playing hard. You've ensured a starting job from here on out. Keep it up kid!
Now to the Doobie Brothers, Joey and Jono Stoval. Hell, we will even throw in your Dad on the blades tracking down foul balls. You guys were on base more than Gary was as a courtesy runner, and that was A LOT! You two constantly set the table for us, and at times we left you out there - thanks to the tough Benders pitching. But we just got you in enough to keep us in the game and eventually win.
And again with Joey in game three - three hits, two doubles and four shutout innings pitched, not to mention picking off speedy Gary at first. One of two times he was picked.
As always how can we can forget the guy with the rubber arm. Who not only started game one, but game two as well. Like Frank the Tank said, "you're crazy man." 13 innings pitched with exactly 200 pitches thrown. To us you're a freak, to the late wife beater Rick James you're a super freak. Greatest pitcher this league has ever seen. Two Words - Jeremiah Batla.
Lastly, Geoff Sandin the man who knocked in what turned out to be the winning runs. As the #4 hitter, was still in search of his 1st hit in the series - and was facing hard throwing Rob Ellis, the Ace of the Benders. With two men on and the game tied at six all - Geoff raked a single to left knocking in two. Biggest hit of the weekend.
Well we got two wins to go. The Beavers are waiting for us, and I'm not talking about any groupies after our games. This Saturday at Marchbank field in Daly City. 10:00 am first pitch. See you there.
|
Topes sweep Beavers, claim their 3rd title in 5 years
September 24, 2007 --
It was the best of times, its was the worst of times. The Championship series Saturday with the Beavers was truly bitter sweet.
Thinking back to our first season in 2003 - a championship year - only four players remain from that team, After Saturday ended we had earned our third Championship in five years - and two of those four original players announced their retirement.
Not only that, two of the four guys ended their day on the DL. One in the hospital with a split upper lip and the other with a torn muscle in his leg. Thank god there wasn't a game three.
Entering the series with the Beavers with our # 2 starting pitcher injured and in a neck brace and our #3 starter A.W.O.L., Jeremiah Batla had to carry the load, again.
But he got a little help along the way...actually he got a lot of help, especially from #26 Kenny Hawthorne.
We arrived at March Bank field Saturday and it had been lightly raining all morning. The head umpire wanted to go home but we had no choice, we had to play. Next weekend was not an option and everyone was getting tired of not getting to enjoy their football on Sunday. Jeremiah who had started both games the week before (200 total pitches thrown) had to do it once again against the Beavers.
The Beavers played tough but we were able to keep them at bay maintaining the lead for 17 out 18 innings. They were always within striking distance but Jeremiah Batla and Kenny Hawthorne kept them off balance and off the bases when needed. Everyone contributed big again. Jeremiah was the star, but Kenny stole the show.
Batla pitched game one and we won game one with ease, 4 - 1.
Game two was a little different though. We started it off with six consecutive hits and jumped out to a big lead, 7 - 0. Ten of the Topes first 13 batters got a hit. We were determined to end it that day. Jeremiah cruised through his first three innings. But in the fourth his pitch count for the day reached 200 (400 pitches in four games - wow!) and it started to show. He was laboring and our pitching options were running thin as is. Trying to preserve what we did have for a possible game three, we called up our 2003 - 2004 pitching ace Kenny who had been dealing with shoulder problems all year. He knew today was his last game ever as an Isotope. So he said FU#$ it. He got up and went to the bullpen and started to warm up. Jeremiah began to get hit around and struggled in the fourth as he allowed four runs, three of them earned.
The Topes comfortable lead was quickly cut and we were clinging to a 7 - 4 lead into the fifth - all of a sudden the Beavers had men at second and third with one out and the tying runner at the plate. Jeremiah courageously left the game giving it all he had, and he had a lot, 13 1/3 innings pitched to be exact.
Kenny entered the game - having not pitched in months - inheriting a crappy situation and a pumped up Beavers offense.
Talk about storybook ending - Kenny had been the winning pitcher in both of our deciding championship games and was poised to do it one last time. With the five hitter up Kenny threw three pitches to him and that was that. Strikeout! Kenny needed a little more time with the next batter - four pitches. Strikeout! With men at second and third Hawthorne got out of the jam, quickly forgetting about his shoulder pain. Kenny cruised through the Beavers lineup and ended the ninth inning striking out two of the last three batters and finishing the Isotopes greatest season ever as champions.
Their third championship in five years. Not too shabby. In the end, Hawthorne pitched 5 2/3 innings, striking out 7 and only allowed two hits in that time.
As great as it was to win, one of our players was in the hospital, and that is where our day ended - at the hospital. The backbone of our team - catcher #2 Andrew Dunning - was in the ER getting his upper lip stitched . Andrew was pinch hitting in the 8th inning (for #35 Donny Blake, who left the game with a muscle tear in his leg) took a fastball to his mouth and couldn't get out of the way in time. The pitch got away from #36 CJ of the Beavers and Andrew fell to the ground with blood gushing from his mouth. He was immediately rushed to the ER. After the game, when the team arrived at the hospital, I walked into the ER and entered Andrew's room and saw him sitting there with his new hamburger lip and a really creepy smile. I said "I wish you could have been there Andrew". He knew what I meant. All he said to me was, " It's official, we are a dynasty." It sounded cocky, but after all he had done for us the last five years I felt it was appropriate. We received $1000 from the league for our championship, and we thank them for the generous prize. We paid for Andrew's hospital fee of $150 and will save the rest to throw a party. Special thanks to the Blazers, Benders and Beavers for a great playoff series. Also to all the teams in the league who have challenged us this season and making this a great experience for us all. We look forward to the off season and a better 2008 season.
Before I end this I wanted to personally thank all the guys on the team. Most importantly the four who have been with me the longest. # 2 Andrew Dunning, # 35 Donny Blake, #26 Kenny Hawthorne, # 44 Geoff Sandin. You guys have shown incredible dedication as we all have sacrificed so much of our time to be a part of this. You all are class individuals and the main reason we are champions again. Whether you choose to come back next season or not you are Isotopes for life. Thank you.
#3 Jeff "the Doc" Gregori, our unofficial - official assistant coach and starting catcher. You make my shitty job not so shitty. Thanks for you help. I would seriously consider retiring if it wasn't for all your help.
To all the new guys and really new guys, # 19 Jeremiah Batla, #21 Nick Burns and # 57 Jono Stoval from last season and all the guys who joined this year. # 34 Dan Meewis, #8 Mike Rose, #1 Chris Hales, #14 Joey Stoval, #57 Jono Stoval, #15 Matt Chasse, # 18 Clay Alarcon. You guys are all incredible ball players. The talent level you all posses is unparallel in the league and your commitment to the team has had everything to do with our success. I look forward to most of you returning next season, as I know some of you are moving on.
#75 Mike Otsler and # 27 Brady Moran. You two missed most of the season but thanks for trying.
Special thanks to # 19 Jeremiah Batla. Our ace and horse. We all wish you the best of luck in Denver. Thank god we won at least one with you on the team. You are the best pitcher this league has ever seen - period.
Our retiring players, #26 Kenny Hawthorne and # 2 Andrew Dunning. Kenny - best of luck with your marriage to Nicole in 2008. It's time for to teach your pitching skill to the "young ones".
To Andrew - who I know will never read this because you don't know what a computer is. I'm not sure what to say to you other than thanks for five great years. I can say that I wont miss you standing in the dugout before and after the games wearing nothing but your jockstrap. Also, please don't wear sweats to my wedding. Thanks.
Most important to all of our faithful fans. Your cheering throughout the season kept us awake and gave us a reason to continue to play hard everygame.
Lastly to Sayre our scorekeeper and my fiancée. Thanks for being out there every game and keeping the stats. How many more seasons can I squeeze out of you???
|
Isotopes open tryouts this Sunday - 3/16/08
March 16, 2008 - 09:00 AM --
The San Francisco Isotopes are holding their own open tryouts this Sunday at 9:00 am at Burton Park in San Carlos. Pitching, hitting and defensive drills will be held. So if you want to get back into the game and join a great winning tradition with a good group of players this is for you. For additional info please contact manager Matahi Ribera @ wclark22@comcast.net or call at 650 430 1448.
We hope to see you there!
|
One win away from clinching 1st place and playoff bye
With four games remaining the Topes only need one win to lock their 3rd divsion title in five years. A win will also give the Topes a bye in the opening round of the playoffs. Good luck fellas!
|
Isotopes back 2 back Champions!!!
After winning game one 5-4 the Isotopes were only one strike away in game two from winning their second championship in a row. The Benders weren't ready to roll over and die though. So game three was to take place. For game three the Isotopes handed the ball over to starter Kenny Hawthorne(7-1, 2.00 ERA). Hawthorne, coming off only a week's rest, did not have his best stuff, so the Isotopes knew that the bats and defense had to step up big and they did - busting out 17 hits in a thrilling victory. Down 7-5 in the seventh inning with the bases loaded Hawthorne ripped a bases-loaded double to left clearing the bags and giving the Topes an 8-7 lead - never looking back. Every Isotopes hitter had at least one hit while scoring a run or rbi as well. Blake, Schiller and Hawthorne each had three hits. The defense was stellar as well, only committing one error. Outside of pitching the game was damn near perfect for the Topes, which 99% of the time is the other way around. The Isotopes will be competing in Arizona Oct. 7-10 in the NABA World Series. So the only question remaining is can they three-peat??? We will have to wait and see...
|
Isotopes clinch Division Title, but only a championship will quench their thirst!
In a slow but easy win over division rival Bay Bears the Isotopes locked up the Bay Division for their 1st time with their 15th win Saturday. The Isotopes raised their overall record to 15-3 with two games remaining. The Isotopes will be guaranteed a 1st round bye in the playoffs as the impending battle between the Miracle and Tsunami will dictate who they will face in the second round. The Isotopes are 2-1 versus the Tsunami and 1-1 versus the Miracle this season. The Topes who traditionally bat and play ALL their players every game will cut back for the playoffs going with a rare nine man lineup. Putting their strongest team on the field will give opponents a different look to what they have been accustomed to during the regular season. The general attitude of the TEAM is "The first 20 games are to have fun, the playoffs are to win and have fun!" The Topes will cap off the regular season next week as they take on the Blue Claws (3-14-1) for the first time in a double header. Game 1 is at 10:00 a.m. followed by game 2 at 2:00 p.m. at Graham field. See you there, and to our FANS, the greatest in the world, please come out and support us for our final games, we can't win this championship without you!!!
|
Topes get schooled, lose to Maddogs 13-8
The Isotopes went down for the second game in a row Sunday taking on a resurrected and once former Shamrocks team, now named the "Mad Dogs". Last time these two faced was in the 2003 Championship game where the Topes won 7-3 and claimed their first title. Times have changed since then, but this was a regular season game and not a playoff game. The Topes knew they were vulnerable with six players missing and the Mad Dogs looking to kick our ass as that was exactly what they did. By the sixth inning the score was 13-1. The Topes made a small come back with seven unanswered runs and Jay Bortoli shutting them down on the mound in the seventh and eighth innings but still fell short 13-8. Bubba Rogan, Jay Bortoli and Andrew Dunning had great games for the Topes but it wasn't enough to over come the early 13-1 deficit but still made the game respectable. The Topes will get a well deserved week off for the Memorial Day weekend. Next Game will be June 5 versus the Red Sox at 10:00 am.
|
Topes lose third straight , first time ever
Winning 4 - 1 in the eigth, we lost 6-4 in the ninth. What is there to say? We are now 1 - 3. Three straight heart breakers. Not only is this the worst start the Topes have ever had, it as also the first time they've ever lost three in a row and it is the most games they've ever been under .500, two games under. Oh, look, we get to play the undefeated Mad Dogs this week, Yipee!! Stats will not be updated until we return to + .500
|
Topes go 4-0, hammer Red Sox 9-2
In their second meeting ever the Topes took on the Red Sox with much anticipation,finally getting to play an opponent with a winning record! The Topes struck first blood in the second with Mark Schiller scoring on Bubba Rogan's BB forcing in a run with the bags drunk giving them the early lead and never looking back. Mark Schiller on the mound put the car in cruise control going 8 innings deep and striking out eleven bringing his record to 2-0. The Topes yielded their first earned run of the season though with Red Sox player David scoring in the eigth for the Sox bringing the game closer at 9-1. Fireball Jay Bortoli took the mound in the ninth to close out the game 9-2. The Topes gave up their first two earned runs for the year bringing their team ERA to a whopping 0.56! The Isotopes put their 4-0 record on the line taking on Ken Hale's newly formed team the Bay Bears Saturday at 2:00 pm at Sundberg Field. Tickets avaliable at the park urinal.
|
What the heck is an Isotope???
Atoms of the same element can have different numbers of neutrons; the different possible versions of each element are called isotopes. For example, the most common isotope of hydrogen has no neutrons at all; there's also a hydrogen isotope called deuterium, with one neutron, and another, tritium, with two neutrons. So basically we are named after the ball team on the Simpsons!
|
Isotopes bounce back with win!
Click here to download
June 25, 2003 - 04:00 PM --
After last weeks nightmare game against the A's the Isotopes got back to their winning ways versus the much improved Fog. Donny Blake was on the mound for the first time since 1995 as he led the Topes to victory. The Topes usual aces were given a day off so it was a good opportunity for the team to discover its pitching depth. Gabe Gonzalez came in to pitch for his first time as well, relieving Donny Blake in the sixth. Gonzalez threw three strong innings- allowing no earned runs and striking out seven. The game was not only highlighted by its pitching performances, but by the long ball as well. Dave Carson started off a big fourth inning hitting his first home run of the season, which was also the first home run in history for the young Isotopes team. The Topes put seven on the board that inning and never looked back. Ryan Currie and Henry Ledo also had the long ball going, each with triples combining for five RBIs. The Fog tried to mount a comeback after relieving their starter and cooling down the Isotopes bats with stronger pitching, but it wasn't enough as the Isotopes won 11-7.
Click Here To See Isotopes' Roster, Stats and Pictures.
|
Shockers aren't Shocked, get swept!
The Isotopes played the Shockers for the third and final match up of the season and the Isotopes pulled out the brooms for the series sweep. Winning 12-0 on Sunday with each team only having eight players. Kenny Hawthorne was on the hill after a long break going seven innings and earning the win (5-1) with the slaughter rule in effect. Henry Ledo added to his team leading RBI total (12) with four more and Dave Carson pounded out three more hits, two for extra bags while scoring three times. Carson has finally come around as expected while hitting safely in eight of his last nine at bats giving him the highest batting avg. on the team at .423. Donny Blake also had his first homer of the season knocking in three runs. The Isotopes out scored the Shockers for the season 39-4. Shutting them out the last two games. This week's game is at West Sunset at 2:00 p.m. vs. the Rip Tide.
|
Isotopes having a Mother of a day, win 16-0!
May 11, 2003 - 10:45 PM --
What a Mother of a game for the Isotopes this Mothers Day afternoon as the Isotopes enjoyed a nice victory on a sunny Sunday(finally) at Graham Field. Brad McKeon took the hill for the Topes against the Shockers and was dishing it out with a superior performance and went unmatched with a 1 hitter and 12 K's and only allowing 1 BB through 7 bringing his microscopic ERA down to 0.56. Brad finally earning his first victory of the year,(hard to imagine) adding to his season totals with 16 innings pitched and 31 K's. Unfortunately the Shockers could not get in the groove this afternoon, but tried to be competitive despite Brad McKeon's performance. Gabe Gonzalez, Donny Blake, and Kenny Hawthorne also had great offensive games each with 3 hits. The Isotopes enjoyed their second slaughter in a row having outscored their opponents in the last two games 30-1 and 41-13 for the season.
|
Terrible Defense equals double header split
It was a long day for the Isotopes and the Sea Lions as they split the double header at Graham field with two 7 inning ball games. Game one Brad McKeon was on the mound for the Topes as he struggled early and really never had his good stuff. The Isotopes defensive performances were terrible as well with 10 errors in 14 innings played for the day, six in game one. The Sea Lions jumped ahead 4-2 and never looked back. A late threat in the final inning came up short with the tying run at the plate with no success. The final score was 7-5 as the Topes suffered a rare loss. After a :30 minute break and some burrito's courtesy of Kenny Hawthorne's nice parents, the Topes were recharged and determined not to get swept for the afternoon. Kenny Hawthorne took the hill this time and looked strong throwing hard with a 12 to 6 curveball and good command striking out 8 and only walking 1. The bats finally woke up as well for the Topes as they jumped up to a early lead 4-0 in the 3rd and held on despite a comedy of errors that made the ballgame closer than it needed to be. Andrew Dunning receiving the game ball for the afternoon catching all 14 innings and having a solid day at the plate as well going 3-3 with 2 runs 2 BB's and 1 RBI. The final was 5-3 with the Isotopes victorious and winning the season series 2-1. Next week the Isotopes return to the double header excitement taking on the Red Sox's for the first time ever at 10:00 a.m. at Graham and again at 2:00 p.m. versus the division leading Steelhead's.
|
Isotopes win, McKeon keeps Sea Lions quiet.
June 7, 2003 - 01:00 PM --
The Isotopes Sunday morning game at Graham field was about as attractive as the team’s hangover. Yet the Topes once again relied on their strong pitching to carry them through the battle, while the offense needed some small ball to get runs on the board. Brad McKeon threw eight strong innings, with 11 K's and zero walks, only allowing two earned runs. At 3-4 for the season, the Sea Lions have now dropped under .500 for the first time this year. The Topes improved to 5-1 keeping the heat on the Steelheads for first place in the division. The Sea Lions kept the game competitive, with the Topes having a so-so offensive afternoon, but the Isotopes pitching kept them at bay. Kenny Hawthorne came in for his first save opportunity, putting them down in order, and striking out two in the ninth. The Isotopes pitching had 13 K's total and have had at least 10+ K's per game this season. McKeon improved his record to (2-1) and strikeout total to 42 in 24 innings worked. Jackson Robertson was the only player with two hits, the total for the team was nine. Since the loss to the Steelheads, Sunday’s game was the only other competitive game the Isotopes have had this year. The Topes now prepare for an out-of-division game next week against the A's, who are currently in 1st place and are the leagues defending champions. Coach /player Matahi Ribera had this to say about next weeks big match up, "We've been looking forward to this game all year, aside from the Steelheads match up, we know the A's are last year’s champs and are strong again this year and being the new kid on the block, you can't wait to play the best teams out here. You want to run out and show you're worthy of sharing the same field with them as well. We expect to go to the playoffs 100%, and there is a very good chance of seeing them there too, so this really is our one game to study them inside out, because who knows, we might see them come October.” Next week’s game is at 10 a.m. on Sunday at Graham field.
Click Here To See Isotopes' Roster, Stats and Pictures.
|
Isotopes 2003 Champions!
What a long season it has been for the Topes, but it has finally paid off. Claiming the championship in their first season in the SFNABA. Having to over come games with the Miracle for a playoff berth that could have been avoided to defeating the Steelheads whom they have never beat and finally taking 2 of 3 from the Shamrocks for the title. A lot of people were expecting an A's vs. Steelheads championship but got exactly the opposite with both 2nd place seeds advancing. Kenny Hawthorne lead the Isotopes past the Steelheads and Shamrocks pitching complete game victories in both. Finishing the regular season 7-1 and playoffs 2-0.
All 14 Isotopes players got to play in the title game which made Matahi Ribera very happy. Matahi was also named the SFNABA 2003 manager of the year. Special thanks goes out to Ken Hawthorne for his assistance in the co-manager role as well. The Isotopes will be having an award party in two weeks to celebrate a great season. Thank you all for a championship year and to all our great fans!
(Not in photo above:Dave Carson, Ryan Currie, Jackson Robertson, Mark Schiller)
|
Good pitching, defense, Topes keep rolling!
May 17, 2003 - 01:00 PM --
On a beautiful afternoon at Graham field the Isotopes displayed yet another dominating pitching performance. This time it was Kenny Hawthorne who took the mound and controlled the game with his great command, allowing one walk and five scattered hits through nine scoreless innings. Hawthorne upped his season record to (3-0) with an era of 0.78 and 30 K’s in 23 innings pitched. Solid defense also played a key role as Gabe Gonzalez made some dazzling plays at third for an errorless game. Ryan Currie also contributed with some great plays- a helicopter like tag at first base and scooping two balls out of the dirt. Currie had all three putouts in the ninth to help close out the game. The Seals starting pitcher kept the Isotopes in check as far as hits went, only allowing three, but was wild with 12 walks, one hp, and four passed balls. The Topes still managed to get six runs across the plate, but only really needing one due to Kenny's shutout performance. The Isotopes have won three straight and have not allowed a run in the last 20 innings. During their streak they have outscored opponents 36-1, upping their record to (4-1).
|
Isotopes back to the big show!
After losing half the team last year and the league only getting stronger, the Topes were happy to have captured the title when they had their chance. So with so much optimism this season did the 2004 Topes have such high hopes again??? Well apparently they did. Winning their first division title and holding 1st place for 19 of 20 weeks. Then to the league crown over the red hot Miracle. Now they are back were they belong, in the championship series and the only returning team from last years playoffs. So its not the Shamrocks this time but the Benders. The Topes played the Benders earlier this season naorrowly winning 7-6 in a fantastic battle. The epic battle will begin Saturday. First pitch will be 10:00 a.m. at Graham Field for game 1 and 2:00 p.m. for game 2. Please come out and support us as we try to retain our title.
|
2004 Awards Announced!!
January 20, 2005 --
2004 Team Awards
Team MVP: Kenny Hawthorne (.400 avg, 28 hits, 18 runs, 17 rbi's, 8W-1L, 2.63 era)
Silver Slugger: Geoff Sandin (.346 avg, 28 rbi's, 4 hr's, .654 slg%)
Cy Young: Kenny Hawthorne (8-1, 2.63 era)
Batting Title: Kenny Hawthorne (.400 avg.)
Most Improved Player: Mark Schiller (5W-2L, 45 K's, 3.39 era)
Best Defensive Player: Andrew Dunning (2 errors 23 Starts)
Bullpen Ace: Jay Bortoli (11.6 K's per 9)
Barry Bonds Award: Andrew Dunning (34 BB's)
Rookie of the Year: Geoff Sandin (.346 avg, 28 rbi's, 4 hr's)
|
3-Peat hopes start off with Miracle
March 23, 2005 --
One day shy of a year ago the Isotopes started off their season repeat hopes against the Miracle. Narrowly winning 3-2 the Topes continued where they left off 2003, winning. Finishing the 2004 campaign at 20-4 and their second straight title the Isotopes feel even more confident this spring. Adding three quality pitchers to their already great staff. Every coin is two sided though losing two position players to injuries. Starting SS Julio Bojorquez and backup catcher Kurt Nicol. The Isotopes are ready to defend their title again leaving little doubt they have what it takes to do it.
|
Topes win twice, but not really...
August 19, 2007 --
The week of the game started off quite discouraging me. I recieved a email from the manager of the other team that we were "supposed to play." As in, its been on the schedule for four months "supposed to play." Usually these emails dont consist of positive energy. If I wanted positive energy I'll throw a lawn chair on my front lawn and start shooting at every young punk who drives by my house doing 90 mph. Back to the email, I'm still waiting for the one that says "Hey man! Our boys are ready excited to play you this week as we soooooo always look forward to a great game that we know you will always provide us. In fact, after the game and the smack down you lay (thank you sir, may I have another) on us we would love to take you all out to lunch at Chockskies." Instead, and no blame on the manager for this but here is the "real truth" on this matter. When a team is in the cellar of their respectful division and they all live in the city, coming off a bye week and a hangover and have to play a top opponent that requires driving more than half an hour to the field you can garuntee they aint making it. Just tell me that, I know. Jesus knows too... In five years we have never forfieted, so to all the teams out there who do, get your sh#t together. In fact I'll do you all a favor, call the Roberto Clemente league, they are looking for teams now in fact.
Here is the criteria:
1.) Unifroms, what the f*ck are those??? One sock is yellow, the other one is green and yes that makes Blue and since your shirt is blue you are "All good in the hood G." As long as 50% of you got them we consider you "uniform." Please dont missunderstand this one though. It's not because you followed the dress code, somewhat...barely. Its because you all reek of the same cheap tequilia from the bar you closed at 3:30 am. - and yes, it's the one where most the patrons wear leather.
2.) Carrying 9 players max is oh-tay!! This one is neat beacuse when half of them dont show you can always count on the ample amount for homeless people in the stands to help fill in. In fact, they will tell you that back in the day they played professional baseball at one time. Hey, Icky Woods sells meat door to door so anything is possible.
3.)
|
|
|
