The Southern New England D squad had an outstanding showing of talent this weekend at the New York City “Playing for Life” tournament.

 

Although the team went 1 for four, all games were hotly contested, with the D squad being up in score most of the time.  The final game was an example of the scrappy play, when the team was down by 11 points in the first inning, then held a questionable D level team scoreless for 3 innings while they put themselves up by 2.  Even as they were hobbled and distracted by an injury to one of their players, with contributions from all players on the field, they were a well balanced and focused squad the entire tournament.

 

Robbie Mennino’s tournament play came to an end with a triple fracture to his collar bone, when he dove for a ball that was hit to right field.  Clearly in pain, he stayed in the game to make a remarkable catch on the very next play which ended the inning.  Robbie was missed the rest of the tournament.

 

Gary Freeman was unstoppable in left field as he snagged everything that came his way.  His athleticism and judgement were clearly some of the finest.

 

Julie Elkins was brilliant at first base making every play and not letting anything get by her. Julie’s normal comfort zone is 2nd base, so for her to step up and play in an uncomfortable position and play it perfectly was unbelievable.

 

Aaron Rochman at short stop and Marc Pepin at 2nd base were completely synchronized for the duration of the tournament.  Between them they had five double plays to first. They also both provided key line drive snags with their athleticism.  A Special thanks to both these guys, who do not belong to the Southern New England league, but played their hearts out for us.

 

Rick Cratty played a solid 3rd base, as well as provided infield leadership, which was key to the good infield judgement displayed by all and to help keep morale up so that we stayed competitive.

 

Brian Shaw in left center, was a thrill to watch as he caught everything he could and showed remarkable judgement when getting the ball into the infield.

 

Ori Cruz and Greg Vannoy displayed solid fielding in the right fields.  They both also had key hits exactly when they were needed.

 

Jim Morris was outstanding at the plate.  In the last game he provided two outs with a caught tip, and a throw to first base on a chipped hit at home.

 

Pitcher and co-coach David Jarnes, had an excellent showing with only 1 walk the entire tournament, and providing solid hits every time at bat.

 

Finally, our scorekeeper Stephanie, who was asked to take on a larger role by providing defensive strategy for our players by keeping track of the opposing teams offensive play.  Having Stephanie is always a huge asset, this time she out did herself.

 

Congratulations D Squad!  My Hat is off to each and every one of you.

 

John.