Munch Provides Late Punch, Bucks Walk-Off with Win in Game 1, White Dominates Marlins in Game 2

July 30, 2010

Not dead, can’t quit.  That’s the mantra that means as long as you are breathing and have even a single beat of your heart - you are in the game and you refuse to quit on yourself!  The Buckeyes found themselves trailing to Steve’s Sports by one run after giving up the tying and the go-ahead run in the top half of the 7th inning.  Though, with 2 outs in the bottom of 7^th last night, the Bucks were in fact not dead.

After catcher Josh Gaub tried bunting for a base hit and 3B E.J. Pokorny flew out to center, it looked as though the Bucks (26-9, 23-6) were headed to loser’s bracket of the CABL playoffs.  As the Fairview Marlins began to gather around the Bucks dugout awaiting the winner of the game, 1B Matt Brofman drew a 2-out walk.  DH Mike Giampietro came up and hit one in between third and short and as the throw to first was not fielded cleanly, Brofman kept right on going to third.  Giampietro would take second base as Steve’s seemed content to try their luck with SS Randy Munshower…that was first and last mistake.

Munch battled until he was able to pull the ball in between short and third scoring Brofman and Giampietro and providing the Bucks with the victory and with all the momentum going into a Game 2 matchup with Fairview.

“Obviously this was the biggest, the BIGGEST win this year for us…man, that was sweet,” said Giampietro following the game (still out of breath scoring from second base).

Reliever Jay Yorty would end up getting the win after the blown save try in the seventh.  Starting pitcher Dan Hoesel kept the Bucks in the game all night.

And in the playoff scenario like the one carried out in the CABL, you better have some depth on your staff, which is exactly what the Bucks had Thursday night.

In Game 2, Johnny White had the Marlins hitters off their mark just enough to the point that they were literally hitting everything right to the Bucks defense.

The Bucks scored two early runs in the first and could not muster anything else the rest of the night.  Several opportunities came up empty.  Though, with White throwing the way he was, Lake Erie had no choice but to hold their breath and hang on.

Up 2-1 in the bottom of the 7^th the Marlins got their lead-off man aboard and White’s night was done – again the Bucks turned to Yorty to close the door.  This time he did just that retiring the three batters he faced.

The Bucks now must win one of the next two games to earn a trip to the Regional NABF tournament in Youngstown next week.  They will play the winner of the Fairview Marlins and Bedford Bearcats.  Game time is 8:30 at Gordon Park.

Highlights GAME 1: Hoesel (6 1/3 IP, 2R, 8H, 2Ks) – Gaub (3-4, Run, 2SB) – Giampietro (2-4, Run) – Munshower (1-2, 2RBI, BB) – Meyer (2-3, SB)

Highlights GAME 2: White (Win, 6IP, 0ER, 3H, 2Ks) – Trusnik (3-4, Run, SB) – Gaub (0-1, Run, 2BB) – Yorty (Save, K)

Game Notes:  The Lake Erie Buckeyes have now had two “walk-off” hits in the last 2 weeks…and speaking of “walk-offs,” 2B Kevin Moran successfully broke two of his “Walk-Off” maple bats which are manufactured by 3B Kyle Dunn of the Cleveland Blackwolves (the other team the Buckeyes beat with a walk-off base-hit this year). 

Buckeyes Advance Further in Playoffs, Take Down Bedford 10-0

July 28, 2010

The Lake Erie Buckeyes are taking the CABL playoffs one game at a time.  Tuesday night, they kept that approach as they took down the Bedford Bearcats 10-0 in six innings.

The Buckeyes (24-9, 21-6) were on the board right from the start as the Bearcats starting pitcher had very little command of any of his pitches.  CF Tommy Trusnik got things going with a base hit to start the game.  Then Bedford’s pitcher seemed hesitant to throw strikes – he walked SS Kevin Moran, hit C Josh Gaub in the shoulder and walked 3B E.J. Pokorny before giving up a base hit to 1B Matt Brofman.  The Bucks managed to get three runs, but the damage could have been much worse – the Bucks left men on 2^nd and 3^rd with no one out.

Though, one run was all that starting pitcher Jay Yorty would have needed on this night.  While he wasn’t as dominant with the strikeouts (4Ks) Tuesday night, he kept his cool and worked out of a few jams that kept the Buckeyes leading throughout the entire game.

“I just kept telling him to throw strikes…that with the sun setting on Gordon 3 the way it is, these guys aren’t going to touch your fastball, it’s really tough to see,” said Gaub following the game.  “He did walk four guys, but really he was around the plate all night, and that’s what we need in the playoffs.”

One of the bats that definitely got things going Tuesday was that of 3B E.J. Pokorny as he stepped up in the 3^rd inning and laced a triple to center plating another run.  He later would knock in two more runs in the 5^th, which at that point put the Bucks up 6-0.  Pokorny finished with four runs batted in.

The Bucks ended this one in the bottom half of the 6^th inning going up 10-0 and knocking Bedford into the loser’s bracket and sending themselves into a matchup with Steve’s Sports Wednesday night at Gordon Park at 7:30.  (Steve’s Sports blew a 3-0 lead in Game 3 of the CABL Championship Series versus the Blackwolves Tuesday night.  The Cleveland Blackwolves have now earned the first of two bids to NABF Regional’s in Youngstown.  The other bid will come from the CABL playoff tournament champion.)

Highlights: Yorty (Win, 6IP, 0R, 5H, 4Ks) – Pokorny (2-2, 3B, 4RBI, Run) – Moran (2-2, 3R, HB, BB) – Giampietro (2-3, RBI)

Game Notes:  In the two games the Lake Erie Buckeyes faced the Bedford Bearcats this year, they only gave up six hits and surrendered no runs.

Buckeyes End Beavers Season with 6-0 Victory

July 27, 2010

The Lake Erie Buckeyes had one goal Monday night – win.  There really was no other choice if they wanted to salvage their shot at a trip to the NABF Regional’s in Youngstown, OH next week.

The Buckeyes (23-9, 20-6) were dominant on the defensive side of things as starting pitcher Randy Munshower was back to his usual self, throwing strikes and baffling the opposition.  The bats, however, took a little while to get going.  Maybe it was the layoff of playing one game in the last eight days, but 5 of the first 9 batters went down swinging.

“I wasn’t too concerned…like I said, we haven’t had the chance to swing the bats for awhile.  I think tomorrow will be a different story,” said Manager Mike Giampietro following the game.

The Bucks got on the board in the 3^rd inning when with 2 outs, 2B Kevin Moran singled in A.J. Meyer who had reached on an error and stole second base.  Then, like clockwork, Moran would slap another base hit to left field in the bottom half of the fourth to put the cap on a 4-run inning.  The Bucks would add another run in the 6^th for good measure and go on to win 6-0.

The Bedford Bearcats took down Winking Lizard 8-3 and will meet the Buckeyes Tuesday night at 6:30 at Gordon Park.  The playoffs now become double elimination.

Highlights: Munshower (Win, 6IP, 0R, 3H, 9Ks) – Moran (2-3, 2RBI, Run, BB) – Kazimer (2-3, 2B, 2R)

Game Notes:  The Lake Erie Buckeyes struck out 9 times Monday night – the only other time the Bucks came remotely close to matching the CMBC debacle of 12 K’s earlier this season…time to regroup Tuesday night.

Buckeyes Set to Beavers Sunday

July 23, 2010

The Lake Erie Buckeyes (22-9, 19-6) dropped a meaningless game versus the Ohio Titans Thursday night losing 6-0.

“We had one terrible inning…they scored six,” explained Manager Mike Giampietro.  “We got some of our pitchers some work and that’s all I really wanted to accomplish.”

The Buckeyes now know they’ll be facing Beavers on Sunday at 11:00 a.m. at Gordon Park in the first matchup of the CABL playoffs.  It’s win or go home, at least on Sunday.  The winner of Sunday’s contest will face the winner of the Bedford Bearcats and Winking Lizard on Monday night.

Buckeyes Gear Up for Playoffs with game vs.  Ohio Titans 6:30 (BW college)

July 22, 2010

The Buckeyes (22-8, 19-6), still waiting to see who they will match up against in the CABL playoffs, will play the Ohio Titans Wednesday night Baldwin Wallace College at 6:30 in non-league contest.  The Buckeyes playoffs will not start until Sunday (7/25).

“We’re gonna try and get a lot of our pitchers a couple innings and guys at bats before next week,” said Manager Mike Giampietro.

Stay tuned for the upcoming CABL playoff schedule.

White Throws No Hitter; Yorty throws 1-Hitter as Buckeyes Pound Elyria Twice

July 15, 2010

John White Jr. and Jay Yorty got plenty of run support Wednesday night versus the Elyria Buffaloes.  Though, neither pitcher needed more than a run as both completely shut down the Buffalo hitters.

The Buckeyes (20-8, 17-6) finished the first game in 5 innings after going up 12-0 early.  Even more impressive about White’s no-hitter, was that he did it in only 49 pitches.

“Good things happen when you throw strikes,” said catcher Josh Gaub of White’s performance.

Gaub, RF Tommy Kazimer, 2B Dan Hoesel and DH Mike Giampietro all had two hits a piece pacing the Bucks offence.

Yorty picked up right where White left off striking out 8 of the 18 batters he faced, surrendering only one hit.

Again, the Bucks bats wreaked havoc on the Buffaloes pitching staff, knocking out 10 hits and ending the game in the 5^th inning up 11-0.

What these two wins do for the Bucks chances to play in the League Championship Series remains to be seen – the Blackwolves came from behind last night and knocked off the Fairview Marlins, which means they remain one game out of 1^st place on top of the American Division.  As it stands right now, the Bucks will need the Marlins to lose one of their two remaining games to even have a shot at second place.

Lake Erie will be back in action in another must-win game Friday night versus Winking Lizard at Gordon Park at 7:30.

Highlights GAME 1: White (Win, 5IP, 0R, 0H, 4Ks) – Giampietro (2-3, 2R, 4RBI) – Hoesel (2-3, RBI, 2R) – Gaub (2-3, 3B, 2B, 2R, RBI) – Kazimer (2-3, Run, RBI)

Highlights GAME 2: Yorty (Win, 5IP, 0R, 1H, 8Ks) – Munshower (2-3, 2RBI, run) – Hoesel (2-3, 3B, 2B, 2RBI, 2R)

Game Notes:  The Lake Erie Buckeyes have now put together 3 consecutive seasons of 20+ wins since forming in 2008.

Buckeyes Finally Get the Best of Blackwolves, Win 4-3

July 13, 2010

All year long the Lake Erie Buckeyes have had trouble holding leads late in the game.  Monday night versus the Blackwolves, with the game tied and bases loaded with two outs, 2B Dan Hoesel gave the Bucks the clutch hit they so desperately needed plating the winning run and giving the Buckeyes their first win versus the Blackwolves this season.

After the Buckeyes (18-8, 15-6) fell behind 1-0 in the top half of the first inning, they quickly went back on top 3-1.  The Blackwolves, who were also atop the American Division coming into the game, would battle back and score a run in the 3^rd and in the 5^th.  Once again, it felt as though the Bucks were going to let a golden opportunity slip away.

Heading into the bottom of the 7^th, the Buckeyes were one batter away from getting the top of their lineup up.  Giving the Bucks the spark they needed, LF Raphael Martinez singled to right center.  After CF Tommy Trusnik was unable to get down his first two bunt attempts, he was forced to swing away and managed to hit a line drive just out the reach of the Wolves second baseman.  SS Kevin Moran would sacrifice the runners over and the Wolves were forced to intentionally walk catcher Josh Gaub to load the bases for 1B Matt Brofman.  Brofman would ground out to the pitcher who couldn’t field the ball cleanly, yet was still able to get the lead runner at the plate keeping the game deadlocked at 3-3.

Then with the bases loaded, two outs, Hoesel did his thing lined the game winning hit into right field.

“This was huge…huge,” explained manager Mike Giampietro.  “On a night where the umpiring was less than spectacular both ways, I’m glad we came out on the winning end.”

How huge was this win?  The Bucks need some help; though still have a shot at first and even a more realistic chance at second place, which would then put them into the League Championship best-of-three series versus the National League first place team (TBD).

The Bucks will have to continue to take of business Wednesday night as they will be forced to play two games against the Elyria Buffaloes at 6:30 at Gordon Park.

Highlights:  Munshower (Win, 7IP, 3R, 6H, 5Ks) – Trusnik (3-4, 2B, 2R, SB) – Hoesel (3-4, 2RBI, 2R)

Game Notes:  The win Monday night for Bucks was the first victory against the Wolves in their last 5 meetings dating back to last year.

Buckeyes Blow Late Lead, Game Sunday

July 12, 2010

Asking your starting pitcher to go out and throw a complete game is not unreasonable.  However, asking your starting pitcher to go out and throw eight plus innings and over 140 pitches is in fact unreasonable.  The Buck’s had no other choice due several players “no-showing” Sunday afternoon.

“Jamie gave us a chance and we collectively blew this one,” explained frustrated catcher Josh Gaub following the game.  “We have not had consistent lineup or pitching rotation all year, and this afternoon it showed.”

After the Buckeyes (17-8, 14-6) took a 5-2 lead going into the seventh inning, things completely unraveled.  Errors, miscues and a dropped ball on a stolen base attempt collectively allowed 3 runs to score. 

The game remained tied until the 9^th inning when Kowalski simply ran out of gas at 140 pitches and C-town plated 3 runs.  The Bucks rallied in the bottom half of the 9^th to score two, but left the tying run on second base to the end the game.

If the Bucks get the same turnout from their players this week as they did Sunday, it could make for a very long week – they play Monday (Blackwolves), a double-header Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday.

Highlights:  Trusnik (2-4, 3RBI, 2R, SB) – Meyer (3-5, 2B, 2RBI, 2R) – Gaub (2-4, 2RBI)  

Game Notes:  The 140 pitches and 8 + innings of work by Jamie Kowalski was the longest outing of any starting Buckeyes pitcher all season.

Buckeyes Knock off Steve’s 6-4 with late Rally

July 10, 2010

The Buckeyes Friday night dug themselves into a 4-run deficit early against Steve’s Sports.  Starting pitcher E.J. Pokorny, nursing a sore right elbow, did not have his usual stuff and turned the ball over to Dan Hoesel after just 2 innings of work.  Hoesel kept Steve Sports bats in check for the rest of the game.

It wasn’t until the 5^th inning when the Buckeyes (17-7, 14-5) erupted for 6 runs and took the lead for good.  The comeback was completed when catcher Josh Gaub singled in the tying run and 1B Matt Brofman laced a triple into the right-center gap plating Gaub.  Brofman would later score on a groundout from Hoesel.

Hoesel worked out of jam in the 6^th inning when the 3B Pokorny turned an inning-ending double play that all but deflated any hopes of Steve’s getting back into the game.

The Buckeyes will take on the C-town Woodies on Sunday at 2:00 p.m. at Brookside.

Highlights:  Hoesel (Win, 5 IP, 2H, K) – Munshower (1-4, 2B, 2RBI, Run) Brofman (1-4, 3B, RBI, Run) – Gaub (1-3, RBI, Run, SB) – Kazimer (2-3, Run)

Game Notes:  The two innings pitched by Pokorny was the shortest outing of any starting Buckeyes pitcher all season.

Buckeyes Fall Apart in the 6^th, Lose 4-2 to Winking Lizard

July 8, 2010

The Buckeyes scored two early runs and tried to hold on to that lead just a little too long.  After 3 errors, a couple miscues and a few hits, Winking Lizard had erased the 2-0 deficit and added two more runs themselves in the bottom half of the 6^th inning.

The Buckeyes (16-7, 13-5), playing with only nine players Wednesday night, got a pretty good pitching performance out of Johnny White (3-2).  Though, the bats became stagnant and Lake Erie dropped a critical division game coming down the home stretch.

“This one set us back…we’re not done by any stretch, but this one hurts,” said frustrated Manager Mike Giampietro.

The Bucks will have no time to sulk, as they take on National Division rival Steve’s Sports Friday night at Gordon Park at 7:30.

Highlights:  Hoesel (2-3, Run, SB) – Giampietro (2-3)

Game Notes:  The Buckeye’s catcher Josh Gaub struck out for the first time this season Wednesday night.  Nine Buckeyes in total struck out Wednesday night, also a first.

Bucks Take Tournament Finale Game Saturday Afternoon

July 6, 2010

The Lake Erie Buckeyes went 1-2 this past weekend at the Mentor Firecracker Classic Tournament.

If the Lake Erie Buckeyes can take anything away from the weekend, which did not go as planned; it would have to be that the two games they did lose were 2-1 and 3-2 versus the Mentor All-Stars and Fairview Marlins.  In both games, it seemed as though the baseball had eyes as neither starting pitcher, Pokorny or Munshower, were hit hard at all.  Not executing in some key situations cost the Bucks as well.

“Sometimes that’s just the way it goes…I’m glad we showed up to play in our last game and hopefully we can take some of that momentum back into our league play in time for the playoffs,” said Manager Mike Giampietro.

The Buckeyes will take on the Lake Erie Bulldogs in a non-league contest at Walsh Jesuit high school Tuesday night at 6:30, before returning to CABL action Wednesday night against Winking Lizard.

Bucks Take Season Series 3-0 vs. Canes with W on Wednesday Night

July 1, 2010

The Lake Erie Buckeyes were itching to get back on the field after being rained out this past Sunday evening.  Wednesday night the Bucks showed why they remain in the hunt for first place taking it to the Brooklyn Hurricanes 6-1.

The Bucks (15-5, 13-4) got things rolling right from the start as Trusnik, Moran and Gaub all had hits to start the first.  A sacrifice fly and ground out would give the Bucks an early 3-0 cushion.

The Bucks added 3 more in the third inning and that was enough run support for starting pitcher Dan Hoesel to do his thing, going 5 strong innings making the Cane’s hitters look hopeless at times.  Hoesel (2-1) finished with 8 K’s surrendering only one run on 2 hits for the night.  Randy Munshower and E.J. Pokorny both got an inning of work in preparation for the upcoming Mentor Firecracker Classic Tournament this weekend.

The Bucks first game of the tournament will be against the Mentor All-stars at Mentor High school Friday night at 6:15.

Saturday Games:

8:30 vs. Fairview Marlins (Willoughby South High School)

3:45 vs. Vaugnn Vikings (Lake Catholic High School)

Highlights:  Hoesel (Win, 5 IP, 8Ks, 2H, Run) – Gaub (2-3, 2B, 2R) – Trusnik (1-3, 2B, RBI, 2R, SB) – Moran (1-2, 2R, RBI, BB) – Munshower (0-3, ROE, 2RBI)

Game Notes:  The Buckeye’s outscored the Brooklyn Hurricanes 23-9 in the 3-game season series sweep.

Blackwolves Capitalize on Buckeye Miscues

June 22, 2010

The Lake Erie Buckeyes had an opportunity to take over sole possession of first place atop the American Division of the CABL Monday night and came up short.  The Buckeyes fell to the Cleveland Blackwolves 5-3 and did not look themselves for most of the game.

Only two batters into the game, the Blackwolves scored a run when CF Edwin Cabrera dropped a routine fly ball in center field.  A walk, a hit and sacrifice fly later, the Buck’s were already in the hole 2-0.

“It’s tough playing catch up especially against a team that plays ball as well they [Blackwolves] do,” said catcher Josh Gaub.

The Bucks (12-5, 10-4) threatened to get themselves right back into the game in the first inning, but came up empty with back to back strikeouts leaving runners on second and third. 

The game remained 2-0 until the top half of the fourth when Tommy Trusnik got things going with a two-out base hit.  Cabrera would knock Trusnik in tripling to right and Giampietro topped off the two-out rally with a base hit up the middle.

With the game tied, the Bucks beat themselves again after a ball got between the legs of third baseman E.J. Pokorny which ultimately lead to the go ahead run for the Blackwolves.  The Wolves would later tack on two more runs in the fifth.

Lake Erie was able to cut the lead to 5-3, but it wasn’t enough on this night.  Too many mental lapses cost the Bucks this one.

They’ll try to right the ship Wednesday night against the Buffaloes at Talty Field.

Highlights:  Gaub (2-3, 2B, Run) – Trusnik (2-3, RBI, Run) – Moran (2-3) – Giampietro (1-3, RBI)

Game Notes:  Buckeye pitchers Monday night combined for a season worst 8 walks.  RF Tommy Trusnik threw out yet another runner at the plate (his 4^th assist of the season) in the bottom of the fifth inning keeping the Bucks within two runs of the Blackwolves.

Buckeyes Outlast Marlins in 7-5 Victory

June 21, 2010

The Lake Erie Buckeyes had an important task at hand Sunday evening…win.  Not only to keep pace with the Fairview Marlins and Cleveland Blackwolves atop the American division, but to win the 3 game season series and put themselves in a position to win any tiebreakers come the playoffs.

Though, nothing came easy Sunday and the Bucks (12-4, 10-3) had to come up with some timely hitting.  They got the lead in the first inning, though left 2 runners on base to end the inning.  They would leave another three runners on in the second inning as well.  The Marlins were able to tie the game at 1-1, before the Buck’s middle of the lineup did their thing plating 3 more runs.

However, the lead was quickly cut into by the Marlins in the 5^th making it 4-3 Buckeyes.

Again, the middle of the lineup came through for the Buckeyes as SS Kevin Moran lead things off with a single and quickly advanced to second base on a passed ball.  Then, with the two strikes, Moran took off for third base and catcher Josh Gaub sliced one into right field scoring Moran easily.  After walks to Pokorny and Brofman, Mike Giampietro came through with a sac fly to right scoring Gaub.  Lake Erie would add one more before the inning was done and the lead was 7-3.

Starting pitcher E.J. Pokorny did not have his usual stuff, though was still able to hold off a late, seventh inning rally by Fairview to capture the 7-5 win. 

There will be no time to relax as the Buckeyes have a huge game against the Cleveland Blackwolves with whom they remain tied for first place with.  They will meet up Monday night at Brookside Talty field at 7:30.

Highlights:  Pokorny (Win, 7 IP, 9H, 9Ks, 5Runs) – Gaub (3-3, RBI, 2R) – Trusnik (2-3, Run) – Moran (2-3, 2R) – Giampietro (1-2, 2RBI)

Game Notes:  The Lake Erie Buckeyes were forced to start the game with Matt Brofman (1B) and Josh Gaub (catcher) the only fielders playing in their primary positions.

Bucks Take it to Hurricanes, Win 9-2

June 19, 2010

After losing a tough game Monday night against the Fairview Marlins, the Buckeyes middle part of the lineup made certain they were not about to start a losing streak.  The 3 through 7 batters collectively banged out 12 hits, knocking in 7 of the Buckeye’s 9 runs.

Leading the way for the Buckeyes (11-4, 9-3) was DH/Manager Mike Giampietro who has been one of Lake Erie’s most consistent batters this season.  He went 3-4 knocking in 2 runs.  Also matching Giampietro was CF Tommy Trusnik who went 3-4 as well, and knocked in 3 RBI.

“Getting that kind of production out of the sixth and seventh batters really helps our confidence offensively,” said starting pitcher Randy Munshower.  “We feel like we have a chance to score runs in any inning”

Munch did his part again going 5 solid innings, striking out 6 Hurricanes en route to his third win on the season.  3B E.J. Pokorny came in and got some work to finish the game out for the Buckeyes.

The Buckeyes will not have to wait long to get redeem Monday night’s loss to the Fairview Marlins.  They will meet again Sunday evening at Gordon Park at 5:00.  Currently the Buckeyes, Marlins and Blackwolves are all tied for first place at the top of the American division of the CABL.

Highlights:  Munch (Win, 5 IP, 2H, 6Ks, 0Run) – Giampietro (3-4, 2RBI) – Trusnik (3-4, 2B, 3RBI, Run) – Gaub (2-4, 3B, 2RBI, Run) – Pokorny (2-4, 3B, Run…2 IP, 6 Ks)

Game Notes:  The Lake Erie Buckeyes pitchers Randy Munshower and E.J. Pokorny both struck out 6 batters each Friday night – the Bucks pitching staff has been averaging just under 8 Ks / 7IP for the season.

Bucks Can’t Finish Off Marlins, Fall 2-1

June 15, 2010

Monday night the Bucks took the field looking to make it 4 in a row and it was looking like a pretty good bet they would; however, the Marlins had other ideas.

Starting pitcher Dan Hoesel dominated the entire game allowing only one hit through 5 innings pitched.  He began the sixth inning walking the first batter, but was able to get the next batter to pop up to left field.  Outfielder Tommy Kazimer got a bad read on it and his diving attempt came up short.  The Marlins electing to let their next batter swing away, flied out to center and it looked as though Hoesel would work himself out of a jam.  After another walk, Manager Mike Giampietro brought on Jamie Kowalski to hold the lead.  He could not, and walked in the tying run on a very questionable ball four call.

“It wasn’t even close…it was a strike,” explained frustrated catcher Josh Gaub following the game.  “Anyone who plays in this league knows the caliber of umpires we’re working with here.”

The next Marlins batter would single to right scoring another run.  But the damage was done and the Marlins lead 2-1.

Any hope of a comeback was quickly deflated as 1B Matt Brofman was picked off of first base with no one out in the top half of the 7^th.

The Buckeyes (10-4, 8-3) simply clung to their 1-0 lead too long and their 6 hits were not enough to capture the win in this one.  Lake Erie will be back to it Friday night against a tough Hurricanes team – the Bucks battled back to beat the Canes 8-6 in their first meeting.  The game is at 8:00 at Gordon Park.

Highlights:  Hoesel (5 1/3 IP, 1H, 1Run, 0ER) – Gaub (1-3, RBI) – Giampietro (1-2, Run)

Game Notes:  RF Tommy Trusnik threw out his third runner of the year at the plate in the bottom of the sixth inning keeping the Bucks within one run of the Marlins.  The Bucks pitching staff AGAIN held the Marlins hitters to only 2 hits.

Bucks Make it 3 straight with 10-0 Win over ATC

June 14, 2010

The Buckeyes (10-3, 8-2) seem to have found their winning ways again as they took it the ATC Spiders Sunday morning 10-0 ending this one in six innings.

Starting pitcher Jay Yorty returned to the Buckeyes, after short-lived stint with the Ohio Titans, and immediately made his presence felt by going 6 strong innings, striking out 8 batters and not allowing a single run.

“He threw well…too many walks, but no runs through six innings means you’re doing something right,” said manager Mike Giampietro following the game.

Giampietro himself has been swinging a hot bat of late and continued to do so Sunday going 3-3.  Yorty also got plenty of run support from catcher Josh Gaub and 3B Johnny White who combined to knock in 6 of the Buckeye’s 10 runs.  1B Matt Brofman had 2 RBI as well.

Nothing too exciting, just a well-executed “W” for the Bucks Sunday.  They will look to continue their winning streak versus the Fairview Marlins Monday night at Gordon Park.  In their last meeting, the Bucks beat the Marlins 10-0.

Highlights:  Yorty (6IP, 8K’s, 4H, 0ER) – Giampietro (3-3, Run, RBI) – Gaub (1-2, 2B, 3RBI, Run, HP) – Brofman (1-2, 2B, 2RBI, Run, BB) – White (1-2, 3RBI, Run, BB)

Game Notes:  Three of the eighteen outs recorded Sunday by Bucks were “free” – ATC Spiders were forced to start the game with only 8 players, therefore every time the would-be 9^th batter came up, it was an automatic out.

White Dominates Beavers with 11 Ks, Buckeyes win 4-1

June 8, 2010

There was not too much “wood” to be had for the Beavers Monday night at Gordon Park – starting Buckeyes pitcher Johnny White saw to that.  White at times had the Beavers so far out on their front foot, it was ridiculous.

“I called every pitch, in every count…I think he went 3-2 on one batter the entire game and I still called a curve ball because I knew he’d throw a strike or the batter didn’t have a clue,” explained catcher Josh Gaub following the game. 

The Bucks jumped on top early as Randy Munshower doubled to start the game and quickly was driven in on a base hit from SS Kevin Moran.  The Bucks would add another in the second on sac-fly from Munch.  They wouldn’t score again until the 5^th when Munch doubled again and was driven in by a double from Gaub.  And one batter later, 1B Matt Brofman drove in Gaub.

The seventh inning was more of the same as first-year Buckeye Jamie Kowalski came in and recorded his first save of the year striking out two more Beavers.

The Buckeyes will be back in action Wednesday night versus the Winking Lizard at Gordon Park.

Highlights:  White (6IP, 11K’s, 3H, 0ER) – Munshower (2-2, 2B(2), RBI, 2R) – Gaub (1-3, 2B, RBI, Run) – Brofman (1-3, RBI, Run)

Game Notes:  The 13 combined strikeouts by White and Kowalski matched the 13 K’s by Munshower and Pokorny 2 weeks ago.

Buckeyes “Pad Stats” Friday Night Against Elyria, Win 9-3

June 3, 2010

With the skies of Lake Erie full of lighting Friday night, the Bucks took it to the Elyria Buffaloes en route to a 9-3 victory.

The Buckeyes (8-3, 6-2) jumped up early in the second inning 2-0 when Mike Giampietro and Tommy Trusnik both drove in runs.  The Bucks would tack on another run in the third when catcher Josh Gaub doubled in Randy Munshower.

With only three innings complete, the game was in jeopardy of being completed when the umpire decided to suspend the game for a period of 45 minutes due to lighting.

The Buck picked up right where they left off and would add six more runs before this thing was done.  And not before starting Bucks pitcher E.J. Pokorny went the distance striking out 9 batters.

The Bucks will be back in action Sunday versus the Cleveland Chiefs.

Highlights:  Pokorny (7IP, 9K’s, 5H, 3ER…2-4, Run) – Trusnik (3-4, 2B(2), 2RBI, 2R) Gaub (3-4, 2B, 2RBI, 2R) – Brofman (2-4, RBI, Run) – Kazimer (2-3, Run, BB)

Game Notes:  Center fielder Tommy Trusnik recorded the final out of the game as he tagged out an Elyria base runner at second base…what was he doing there?  An errant throw from the outfield momentarily got away from Gaub at the plate and the Elyria runner tried taking second base, little did he know Trusnik had already moved into position to back up the base.  Nice heads up play.

Buckeyes Late Inning Rally Falls Short

June 3, 2010

The Lake Erie Buckeyes had the bases loaded, two out, and were down one run in the bottom of the seventh.  First Baseman Matt Brofman who was swinging a hot bat came to the plate and lined a ball towards second base that looked as though it was going to give the Bucks the tie and the win…the Blackwolves second baseman had other thoughts as he ran down the liner and ended the game 3-2.

“I was on second and as soon as he hit it I was half way to third and all I saw was our bench leap up as though it was going to drop…then Mike [coaching third base] told me to slow up,” said catcher Josh Gaub.  “This one stings a little.”

Wednesday night the Lake Erie Buckeyes (7-3, 5-2) fell to the Cleveland Blackwolves for the third consecutive time dating back to last year.  Though, they were not without chances in this game.

The Bucks jumped on the board first after Brofman, RF Tommy Trusnik and CF Edwin Cabrera all singled to start the second inning.  In what looked to be a big inning quickly turned for the worst as the setting sun on Lake Erie produced a glare that makes seeing ball out of the pitcher’s hand nearly impossible.  The CABL actually moved the start of all games on Gordon 3 back to 8:00 p.m. this year trying to minimize the impact of the sun.  However, the Bucks had no excuses following the game.

“It’s unfortunate…but the other teams have to deal with the same exact thing for an inning or two,” said Manager Mike Giampietro.

All in all the Buckeyes got yet another strong pitching performance out of Randy Munshower who went all seven innings, 6K’s, 4H, yielding 3 runs, one of which was unearned.

Lake Erie will try and get back on a winning end of things Friday night versus the Elyria Buffaloes at 8:30 at Gordon Park.  The start of the game was pushed back due to tryouts earlier in the evening.  The Buffaloes beat the Blackwolves earlier this year 3-2 making Friday’s game even more significant.

Highlights:  Munshower (7IP, 6K’s, 4H, 2ER) – Brofman (2-4, Run)

Game Notes:  The Bucks were able to reach base safely in all but one inning in the game…they also hit into two double plays in the game – coming into Wednesday night's game, they had not into one. 

Buckeyes Dominate Cardinals 10-0

May 31, 2010

Memorial Day weekend presents many challenges when trying to make sure teams have enough guys to field a team due to get-togethers, cookouts, etc.  The Bucks met that challenge and showed up with 10 guys and simply overmatched the Ohio Cardinals Sunday.

Dan Hoesel (1-0) started for the Buckeyes (7-2, 5-1) and was dominating from the get go.  He went four scoreless innings striking out six batters before handing the ball over newly signed OF/P Joseph Ortega.  Ortega quickly picked up right where Hoesel left off striking out his first two batters in the 5^th.  He was on his way to striking out his third and would-be last batter of the game when he felt a twinge in his elbow and had to leave the game.  Third baseman E.J. Pokorny needed only one pitch to end the game as the Cardinals batter looked at a strike right down the middle of the plate.

The Buckeyes sent all ten batters to the plate in the 1^st inning and were quickly up 6-0.  First baseman Matt Brofman and DH Mike Giampietro provided a double and single respectively that plated three runs alone in the inning.

Lake Erie would add three more in the 3^rd and one more in the 4^th to put the game at 10-0, ending the game via the mercy rule.

“It was good to see us show up today…no one likes the Sunday games, let alone Sunday games on Memorial Day weekend, but we took care of business today,” said catcher Josh Gaub following the game.

The Bucks have their biggest test of the young season Wednesday night at Gordon Park when they take on the Cleveland Blackwolves at 8:00.

Highlights:  Hoesel (Win, 4IP, 6K’s, 2H) – Gaub (2-2, 3B, 2R, BB) – Pokorny (1-1, 2B, RBI, Run, 2BB) – Brofman (1-2, 2B, 2RBI, Run, BB)

Game Notes:  In last year’s only regular season meeting with the Blackwolves, the Buckeyes committed 4 errors en route to a 7-1 loss.  The Buckeyes would lose again to the Blackwolves in the CABL playoffs ending their season.

 Buckeyes Beat Up Winking Lizard 8-0

May 27, 2010

Before starting pitcher Randy Munshower ever set foot on the mound, he was provided a 6-run cushion to start the game.  And after that, he was his usual self going 5 innings with 7 K’s and only surrendering one hit to improve his record to 2-0 on the season.

After four straight walks in the top half of 1^st inning brought in a run, Winking Lizard’s starting pitcher continued “adding quarters to the carousel” by walking in two more Buckeyes before 2B Dan Hoesel made him pay by doubling over the center fielder’s head.   

The Bucks (6-2, 4-1) added two more runs in the second and another run in the 7^th while cruising to a 9-0 victory.

“We say it all the time – you’ve got to beat the teams you’re supposed to beat,” explained manager Mike Giampietro. 

That’s about as cliché as they come, though so true in any sport.

Winking Lizard was clearly over matched at the plate.  At times, hitters seemed to be just throwing their bat at the ball hoping to make contact.  Unfortunately for them, the Buckeyes had two of their top arms on the hill.  E.J. Pokorny came on in relief of Munch in the 6^th to close things out and together the two Bucks combined for 13 strikeouts on the night.

The Buckeyes will try to keep things rolling when they step out of league play Friday night and take on Fairview Park (formerly Bubba Q’s) at 7:00 p.m. at Bolken Park.

Highlights:  Munshower (Win, 5IP, 7K’s, 1H) – Dan Hoesel (2-3, 2B, 3RBI) – Gaub (2-3, 2R, 2SB, BB) – Pokorny (2-3, Run, BB  /  2IP, 6Ks, 1H)

Game Notes:  In last year’s meeting with Bubba Q’s, the Buckeyes allowed 14 runs, which was the most runs surrendered by the Bucks pitching staff in any game last season, as well as the 10 total walks.  The Buckeyes lead that game 3-0 going into the 3^rd. 

Bucks Bats Lay Dormant Sunday Afternoon

May 24, 2010

No one likes early Sunday morning games…though, this one was being played at 2:00 p.m. in the afternoon, so one would think that would be enough time for players to wake up, grab a coffee, a bite to eat and come ready to play, right?  Not this Sunday it wasn’t.

The Buckeyes (5-2, 3-1) dropped their first game of the season to CMBC Sunday afternoon being no-hit by the opposing pitcher.  The Bucks outfielder Dan Clark managed to break up the perfect game by drawing a walk in the last inning.

“I know we’re going to lose sometimes and you may have to tip your hat to the other team’s pitcher, but we didn’t play defense like we’re capable of playing,” said Manager Mike Giampietro following the game.

They will try and regroup Wednesday night against Winking Lizard who always plays the Bucks tough.  Game time is 7:30 at Brookside, Talty Field.

Highlights:  None.

Game Notes:  The Bucks had three costly errors that resulted in 3 of CMBC’s 5 runs.

Buckeyes Show Resilience Toping Canes 8-6

May 22, 2010

The Buckeyes found themselves trailing 5-2 in the bottom half of the 5^th inning Friday night against a young Brooklyn Hurricanes team.  That was when the Buckeyes’ vets stepped up and sent 10 men to the plate erasing the 3-run deficit.

The Buckeyes (5-1, 3-0) were up 2-1 going into the 3^rd inning before the Canes took the lead 3-2 and added another 2 runs in the top half of the fifth.  Starting Bucks pitcher Johnny White seemed to be leaving the ball up in the zone and the Canes banged out 9 hits against the Bucks starter.

“He throws strikes…a few were up and when the other team swings the bat, you’re going to have nights like that,” explained Catcher Josh Gaub.

Gaub and the Buckeyes, trailing 5-2 going into the 5^th inning, were not about to lie down – Mike Giampietro provided the boost the Bucks needed to start the fifth by doubling over the left fielder’s head.  After a walk, 2B Dan Hoesel was told to swing away and quickly dropped a single into left loading the bases with no one out.  After a pop-out to shortstop, Dan Clark worked a bases-loaded one out walk to cut the lead to 5-3.  Shortstop Randy Munshower knocked in another run making it 5-4.  After a force play at the plate, Gaub came up with the bases still loaded and 2 outs.  After the Canes pitcher fell behind 2-0, you could sense he was about groove one – and Gaub made them pay with base-clearing double over the center fielder’s head.  Four veteran Buckeyes clutched up that inning putting Lake Erie up 8-5.

However, this one was far from over.  Hoesel came on in relief for Johnny White in the 6^th inning and had some initial trouble finding his command.  The Canes cut into the lead after the first two batters reached on walks and a double down the left field line plated one run.  Though on the same play, the Canes tried scoring from first base and the Buckeyes relay was able to get former Buckeye Tate at the plate for the second out of the inning and ending any further threat.

Hoesel settled down and was able to earn his first save of the 2010 season.

“Big game for us tonight…we showed some real pride in this one,” said Giampietro following the game.

The Buckeyes will be back in the same place (Gordon Park) Sunday at 2:00 p.m. to take on the CMBC.

Highlights:  Dan Hoesel (2IP, Save, 2Ks, Run, 1H) – Gaub (2-2, 2B, 4RBI, BB, Run) – Munshower (2-2, 2R, RBI, SB, BB) – Giampietro (1-2, Run, BB)

Game Notes:  Gaub, who was 13-14 stealing bases last season was thrown out twice Friday night (he is alleging the 2B never tagged him on one of the attempts).

Buckeyes Thump Marlins 10-0

May 20, 2010

The Lake Erie Buckeyes scored runs in all but the second inning and sent the Marlins home early Wednesday night.  Fairview was really never in this one from start as pitcher E.J. Pokorny dominated throwing a complete game with 9 K’s while giving up only 2 hits.

“I told him to make these guys [Marlins] use the bat.  He settled down, found the zone and the guy swinging never really had a chance,” explained Gaub following the game.  “Not to mention it really helps having his bat back in the lineup.”

The Buckeyes continued to put the bat on the ball as outfielder Tommy Trusnik would drive home Moran in the 3^rd inning, add another run in the 4^th, two more runs in the 5^th off RBI’s from outfielders A.J. Meyer and Tommy Kazimer, before finally tacking on 3 more in the bottom half of the 6^th completing the 10-0 mercy rule.

The Buckeyes take on the Old Brooklyn Hurricanes Friday night at Gordon Park.  It will be the first time the two teams meet.  Game time is 7:30.

Highlights:  E.J. Pokorny (6IP, Shutout, 9Ks, 2H…2-3, 2RBI, Run) – Moran (2-2, 2B, 2BB, 2R) – Gaub (2-3, 2B, RBI, 2R, SB, HB) – Kazimer (2-3, 2B, RBI, 2R, SB)

Game Notes:  Nine of the ten Buckeyes in the starting lineup recorded at least one hit.  Pokorny followed up Randy Munshower’s pitching performance on Sunday by matching his 9 K’s for the game.  The Buckeyes donned their new, alternate black jerseys for the first time last night.

Buckeyes, Munshower Nearly Perfect in Opener

Munch regrouped and was able to wrap things up leading the Buckeyes (3-1, 1-0) to a 4-0 victory and their first win in league play.

“I threw strikes.  Tried challenging them [Bedford] and we got some timely hitting.  All around, I couldn’t ask for much more,” noted Munch after the game.

Moran put the Buckeyes up 1-0 when he slapped a base-hit to left center.  One inning later LF Dan Clark came up with a clutch double that plated two more.  Mike Giampietro knocked in the final run for the Bucks and Munch did his thing and ended the day with 9 K's.

“We were missing some guys today, but I told everyone, you’re gonna get your shot, and some of those guys stepped up.  All in all, I’m definitely happy with the way we came out and played today,” said Giampietro. 

As of yesterday, the Buckeyes have five games scheduled over the course of the next seven days.  They will be back in action Monday night versus Beavers.

Highlights:  Randy Munshower (7IP, Shutout, 9Ks, 1H) – Clark (1-2, 2B, 2RBI, BB, Run) – Giampietro (1-2, RBI, BB) – Moran (2-3, RBI)

Game Notes:  The Bucks won Sunday despite not having their 2009 hitting leader E.J. Pokorny…he was out of town playing in a softball tournament, but expects to be available for the rest of the week.

The Buckeyes opened up play on Saturday against the Ann Arbor Tigers and Ann Arbor A’s.  After a closely contested victory over the A’s 6-4, the Buckeyes took out their frustration banging out 13 hits and knocking off the Tigers 9-1 in the night cap.

However, because of rain Saturday night, all games had to be pushed back.  Thus the Buckeyes were set to face a strong Pontiac Parkers team who also went 2-0 on Saturday.  The game lived up to the hype and the teams battled to a 4-4 tie going into the 8^th inning.  Then, because of tournament times and games that still had to be played, both teams were forced to start the 8^th inning with a man on second base…yes, like they often do in softball.

Needless to say both teams were not happy about this.  Rather than pack things up, both teams agreed to play.  The Buckeyes struck first in the top half of the 8^th on a 2-out, 2-run single by Josh Gaub.

Though, the Parkers would quickly strike back with 3 runs of their own in the bottom of the 8^th and that was the game.

“It’s a shame.  Both teams were playing well and to see it end on something like this…oh well, I guess we both had our shot.  It was good to get outside and I think we can build on this weekend going into our season,” explained Manager Mike Giampietro following the game.

The Buckeyes (2-1) will open up league play in two weeks with the Bedford Bearcats.