It makes me absolutely sick watching the Mets piss game after game away to Atlanta. It's simple, Satan controls baseball.
How many times do I have to see great starting pitching by the Mets only to see it become meaningless by the team's own screw ups. Whether it's making a key error, a huge double play when he Mets are about to put a big inning together, a horrible job by the bulls*** pen. And injuries. Beltran misses the series. Floyd's finger is bothering him. Matsui's poor little back ache.
It's always the same.
I say it over and over. And if you know me a ittle bit, you've heard it from me now a million times. This franchise never changes! Let's go ahead and declare it! 14 F'N years those damn redneck assholes are winning another division crown. How many more years will I have to watch both of these two teams tomahawk me right in the heart and in other places too! God, how many more times?
To hell with the Cubs. To hell with the White Sox. To hell with the Blackhawks. Chicago folks, try this orange and blue piece of crap that is the New York Metropolitans on for size. One week rooting for them, you'll never hate your team again.
Tuesday, May 24, 2005
Saturday, May 21, 2005
Rosary nets 3rd straight regional soccer crown
By Adam Bartolo
Daily Herald Correspondent
Posted Saturday, May 21, 2005
If Rosary’s girls soccer team was seeded lower than Immaculate Heart of Mary, they sure didn’t play like it.
The No. 5 Royals pressured the No. 4 Tigers from start to finish and came away a 4-0 victory Friday to win the Class A IMSA regional, Rosary’s third regional title in a row.
Rosary will face top-seeded Benet in the Lemont sectional at 11 a.m. today.
“It’s our standard,” said Royals coach Kevin Callaghan, who also celebrated his birthday. “We have set a standard and that’s our minimum. We have made some more history.”
With just over eight minutes gone, Rosary grabbed the lead. Catherine Sokolinski sent a free kick from the corner to the goal box where Sam Stavola headed the ball into the top of the net.
“Soko and I have been working on this all season,” said Stavola. “She got me a good ball.”
The Royals struck again midway through the first half. Liz Mehr dribbled in from the right side and sent a bloop kick off the crossbar. Mehr found her own rebound in front of the net and booted the ball home for a 2-0 advantage. The score stayed the same through halftime.
Despite the offense’s play, the key to this game was Rosary’s team defense.
The Tigers boasted two towering and talented players in Lauren Santos and Debbie Kozlowski. But the Royals intercepted passes, blocked shots, and did whatever they had to do to prevent the Tigers from keeping pressure in the offensive zone.
“I have to give a lot of credit to our defense, said Stavola, a forward. “They really stepped it up and we played like a team.”
Callaghan described the double sweeper strategy his defense used.
“I saw IHM play and they are very strong in overlapping and creating numbers on top,” Callaghan said. “So I decided it’s time to put our stop defense in there. I knew by doing that it would stifle anybody coming through.”
That strategy limited the Tigers to 8 shots on goal compared to Rosary’s 18.
But for the final eight minutes of first half, the Tigers looked like they would roar back into the game. They had five legitimate scoring chances, but not even one registered with a shot on goal. Either they shot wide or Rosary goalie Ally Mielke picked off a pass.
As the second half went on, Rosary regained its edge and controlled possession. The Tigers barely threatened over the final 40 minutes.
The Royals added two late goals, one by Annmarie Stanley with 8:28 remaining and another with just over a minute left when Katie Dienhart scored on a 1-on-1 with the goalie.
Next up is Benet, which will be a difficult match but one the Royals believe they are ready for.
“We’ve played them before,” said Callaghan. “I wanted to get there and play with that team. We’ll play them hard.”
The winner of that game goes to the sectional title against the winner of No. 3 Lemont and No. 2 Wheaton Academy, last year’s state champion.
By Adam Bartolo
Daily Herald Correspondent
Posted Saturday, May 21, 2005
If Rosary’s girls soccer team was seeded lower than Immaculate Heart of Mary, they sure didn’t play like it.
The No. 5 Royals pressured the No. 4 Tigers from start to finish and came away a 4-0 victory Friday to win the Class A IMSA regional, Rosary’s third regional title in a row.
Rosary will face top-seeded Benet in the Lemont sectional at 11 a.m. today.
“It’s our standard,” said Royals coach Kevin Callaghan, who also celebrated his birthday. “We have set a standard and that’s our minimum. We have made some more history.”
With just over eight minutes gone, Rosary grabbed the lead. Catherine Sokolinski sent a free kick from the corner to the goal box where Sam Stavola headed the ball into the top of the net.
“Soko and I have been working on this all season,” said Stavola. “She got me a good ball.”
The Royals struck again midway through the first half. Liz Mehr dribbled in from the right side and sent a bloop kick off the crossbar. Mehr found her own rebound in front of the net and booted the ball home for a 2-0 advantage. The score stayed the same through halftime.
Despite the offense’s play, the key to this game was Rosary’s team defense.
The Tigers boasted two towering and talented players in Lauren Santos and Debbie Kozlowski. But the Royals intercepted passes, blocked shots, and did whatever they had to do to prevent the Tigers from keeping pressure in the offensive zone.
“I have to give a lot of credit to our defense, said Stavola, a forward. “They really stepped it up and we played like a team.”
Callaghan described the double sweeper strategy his defense used.
“I saw IHM play and they are very strong in overlapping and creating numbers on top,” Callaghan said. “So I decided it’s time to put our stop defense in there. I knew by doing that it would stifle anybody coming through.”
That strategy limited the Tigers to 8 shots on goal compared to Rosary’s 18.
But for the final eight minutes of first half, the Tigers looked like they would roar back into the game. They had five legitimate scoring chances, but not even one registered with a shot on goal. Either they shot wide or Rosary goalie Ally Mielke picked off a pass.
As the second half went on, Rosary regained its edge and controlled possession. The Tigers barely threatened over the final 40 minutes.
The Royals added two late goals, one by Annmarie Stanley with 8:28 remaining and another with just over a minute left when Katie Dienhart scored on a 1-on-1 with the goalie.
Next up is Benet, which will be a difficult match but one the Royals believe they are ready for.
“We’ve played them before,” said Callaghan. “I wanted to get there and play with that team. We’ll play them hard.”
The winner of that game goes to the sectional title against the winner of No. 3 Lemont and No. 2 Wheaton Academy, last year’s state champion.
Thursday, May 12, 2005
DEBACLE!!! Thoughts on Ron Santo
Disgusting.
Watching this loss to the Cubs yesterday was as sick a loss as I remember in a while. I knew once lovely Derrek Lee hit his fourth foul he would hit it out. I knew it!
And this team is .500. That's it. Victor Zambrano trying to throw strikes is like watching Stevie Wonder try to shoot archery. Dae Sung Koo sucks. Mike DeJean sucks. Kaz Matsui is lower than sucks. Jose Reyes gets into 0-2 counts 3 times a game.
And I have a few things to say about Ron Santo. I thought Hawk Harrelson was a lousy announcer. My God! Have you heard Santo on the radio. That voice is like Jimmy Stewart and Harry Caray had a baby suffering from a lifelong hangover. There's nothing informative. Just cheerleading. And hoping for a double play. Hoping for a big base hit. Ron, I don't care what you hope will happen! We know what you want to see! Let the fans cheer. Teach me something for once instead of acting like the glorified cheerleader that you are. You are brutal. Go watch the games at home because you bring nothing to the radio booth.
Watching this loss to the Cubs yesterday was as sick a loss as I remember in a while. I knew once lovely Derrek Lee hit his fourth foul he would hit it out. I knew it!
And this team is .500. That's it. Victor Zambrano trying to throw strikes is like watching Stevie Wonder try to shoot archery. Dae Sung Koo sucks. Mike DeJean sucks. Kaz Matsui is lower than sucks. Jose Reyes gets into 0-2 counts 3 times a game.
And I have a few things to say about Ron Santo. I thought Hawk Harrelson was a lousy announcer. My God! Have you heard Santo on the radio. That voice is like Jimmy Stewart and Harry Caray had a baby suffering from a lifelong hangover. There's nothing informative. Just cheerleading. And hoping for a double play. Hoping for a big base hit. Ron, I don't care what you hope will happen! We know what you want to see! Let the fans cheer. Teach me something for once instead of acting like the glorified cheerleader that you are. You are brutal. Go watch the games at home because you bring nothing to the radio booth.
Monday, May 09, 2005
On my way...
Well I'll be heading down to the Friendly Confines of Wrigley Field this afternoon. And I had to pay for my tickets after a promise they would be free.
So I called him up this morning to ask where and when I could pick them up and when I ask for a specific time, he goes ballistic. He threw a few four-letter words right at me, which was completely uncalled for. What's amazing is he was the boss I really respected. He had my back and I had his. And he turned out to be a complete dick. Pardon my language, but I'm actually being kind.
Aaron Heilman vs. Jon Lister is the pitching match. That's not how he spells his name, but I'm not about to look it up. Let's hope the Notre Dame alumnus stifles the bats of Patterson, Ramirez, Lee, and Burnitz.
Went 4-4 in my softball exhibition game yesterday. Made two catches in left field. One fly ball went way over my head. And I've still got my speed on the bases. The bad news is they actually moved the base lines from 60 feet to 65 feet. Maybe I should try running in my spare time for once.
Man, Portillo's knows how to mix Italian beef and Italian sausage. Throw on the hot giardinara and it's to die for!
Why people get so into the Kentucky Derby, I'll never know. Dad told me George Steinbrenner's horse didn't cover the money. Whatever that meant!
How in the world did Jennifer Garner let a loser like Ben Affleck impregnate her?
Song: Mr. Natural-Bee gees
So I called him up this morning to ask where and when I could pick them up and when I ask for a specific time, he goes ballistic. He threw a few four-letter words right at me, which was completely uncalled for. What's amazing is he was the boss I really respected. He had my back and I had his. And he turned out to be a complete dick. Pardon my language, but I'm actually being kind.
Aaron Heilman vs. Jon Lister is the pitching match. That's not how he spells his name, but I'm not about to look it up. Let's hope the Notre Dame alumnus stifles the bats of Patterson, Ramirez, Lee, and Burnitz.
Went 4-4 in my softball exhibition game yesterday. Made two catches in left field. One fly ball went way over my head. And I've still got my speed on the bases. The bad news is they actually moved the base lines from 60 feet to 65 feet. Maybe I should try running in my spare time for once.
Man, Portillo's knows how to mix Italian beef and Italian sausage. Throw on the hot giardinara and it's to die for!
Why people get so into the Kentucky Derby, I'll never know. Dad told me George Steinbrenner's horse didn't cover the money. Whatever that meant!
How in the world did Jennifer Garner let a loser like Ben Affleck impregnate her?
Song: Mr. Natural-Bee gees
Saturday article
West Aurora glad to scratch out runs any way it can
By Adam Bartolo
Daily Herald Correspondent
Posted Saturday, May 07, 2005
West Aurora and Wheaton North may not have played a pretty baseball game, but the Blackhawks were able to scrap out a 4-2 win against their DuPage Valley Conference foe Friday in Aurora.
Both teams had opportunities to score, but it was the Blackhawks (16-8, 8-5) who found ways to push runners across the plate.
Trailing 2-1 in the third inning, the Blackhawks scored twice without a hit. Andy Beatty led off with a walk and Dan Kraabel tried to bunt him to second, but the ball trickled under the third baseman’s glove and both runners were safe.
Following a sacrifice bunt, Ryan Dennis got hit by a pitch to load the bases for Brandon Copp. He grounded out to second, but the tying run scored. With Nick Golich batting, Kraabel scored the go-ahead run when Pat Kirchhofer’s pitch sailed to the backstop.
But for a team that’s been struggling to score runs lately, West Aurora coach Dave Rowell was happy to see his team score no matter how they did it.
“It was nice to get a couple of those (base runners) in today even if it wasn’t pretty,” Rowell said. “We get them on base but we just don’t always score them.”
The Falcons (12-14 4-9), on the other hand, spent most of the day trying to figure out the Northern-Illinois bound Copp.
Despite not having his most dominating stuff and pitching on three days rest for the first time this year, Copp pitched a solid game. He threw 117 pitches over seven innings, allowing 3 singles and 3 walks, while striking out 11.
He had some trouble locating his pitches, but he mixed his curveball, fastball and changeup effectively, keeping Wheaton North’s hitters confused.
“I couldn’t locate my fastball inside and outside,” Copp said. “But I was fortunate to keep them off balance.”
Even after the game was delayed in the fifth inning for 30 minutes by lightning, the strikes continued coming as Copp fanned four of the next five hitters.
Copp also added a sacrifice fly in the bottom of the sixth to make the score 4-2.
In the seventh, the Falcons looked like they might rally. Dave Lindberg led off with the second of his 2 singles. The next batter, Kevin Small, lined a shot to the right fielder Kraabel. He dove to make the catch, but the ball bounced on the grass. Lindberg, unable to tell if the ball was caught, froze halfway between first and second. Kraabel recovered, and fired the ball to second base for the force out.
The next batter popped out and then Kevin Smith smashed a line drive that seemed headed toward right field. But second baseman Jason Lowe leaped for the catch to end the game.
Falcons coach Dan Schoessling was frustrated with his team’s lack of execution on offense and defense, but was pleased with his team’s ability to push Copp. Schoessling said these kinds of games will help come playoff time.
“We took some good at-bats against him,” Schoessling said. “We’re better for facing a good pitcher. That’ll definitely help us down the road.”
By Adam Bartolo
Daily Herald Correspondent
Posted Saturday, May 07, 2005
West Aurora and Wheaton North may not have played a pretty baseball game, but the Blackhawks were able to scrap out a 4-2 win against their DuPage Valley Conference foe Friday in Aurora.
Both teams had opportunities to score, but it was the Blackhawks (16-8, 8-5) who found ways to push runners across the plate.
Trailing 2-1 in the third inning, the Blackhawks scored twice without a hit. Andy Beatty led off with a walk and Dan Kraabel tried to bunt him to second, but the ball trickled under the third baseman’s glove and both runners were safe.
Following a sacrifice bunt, Ryan Dennis got hit by a pitch to load the bases for Brandon Copp. He grounded out to second, but the tying run scored. With Nick Golich batting, Kraabel scored the go-ahead run when Pat Kirchhofer’s pitch sailed to the backstop.
But for a team that’s been struggling to score runs lately, West Aurora coach Dave Rowell was happy to see his team score no matter how they did it.
“It was nice to get a couple of those (base runners) in today even if it wasn’t pretty,” Rowell said. “We get them on base but we just don’t always score them.”
The Falcons (12-14 4-9), on the other hand, spent most of the day trying to figure out the Northern-Illinois bound Copp.
Despite not having his most dominating stuff and pitching on three days rest for the first time this year, Copp pitched a solid game. He threw 117 pitches over seven innings, allowing 3 singles and 3 walks, while striking out 11.
He had some trouble locating his pitches, but he mixed his curveball, fastball and changeup effectively, keeping Wheaton North’s hitters confused.
“I couldn’t locate my fastball inside and outside,” Copp said. “But I was fortunate to keep them off balance.”
Even after the game was delayed in the fifth inning for 30 minutes by lightning, the strikes continued coming as Copp fanned four of the next five hitters.
Copp also added a sacrifice fly in the bottom of the sixth to make the score 4-2.
In the seventh, the Falcons looked like they might rally. Dave Lindberg led off with the second of his 2 singles. The next batter, Kevin Small, lined a shot to the right fielder Kraabel. He dove to make the catch, but the ball bounced on the grass. Lindberg, unable to tell if the ball was caught, froze halfway between first and second. Kraabel recovered, and fired the ball to second base for the force out.
The next batter popped out and then Kevin Smith smashed a line drive that seemed headed toward right field. But second baseman Jason Lowe leaped for the catch to end the game.
Falcons coach Dan Schoessling was frustrated with his team’s lack of execution on offense and defense, but was pleased with his team’s ability to push Copp. Schoessling said these kinds of games will help come playoff time.
“We took some good at-bats against him,” Schoessling said. “We’re better for facing a good pitcher. That’ll definitely help us down the road.”
Wednesday, May 04, 2005
This week in Bartolo-land
Well we wrote two articles last week. I even got to enjoy a catered meal at the socccer tournament I covered on Friday night. Actually it was coffee cake and a bottle of water, but it was still good. I got a full 40 hours of work in too.
Mother's Day is coming up. I wish there was a Son's Day.
My softball league kicks in this week. I can't wait.
Can we banish that piece of crap Tom Glavine back to the Braves? I seriously don't know if he hurt us worse when he was with Hick-lanta or now as a member of the Metrpolitans. I'll be blunt. The best thing that can happen is for him to get seriously hurt. If he pitches a certain number of innings, his option for next year automatically kicks in.
A few more Met notes. I feel okay about them, certainly better than the last three years. They've hung in there without three of their top starting pitchers. Right now, they're not consistent. They score no runs for eight innings and then score five in one inning. The offense is potentially incredible, but not reliable. Diaz, Wright, and Reyes still have a lot to learn. And I never thought Cliff Floyd would be as good as he is. For all the injuries he's had, it's good to see him playing well.
Big thumbs up for Rob Van Dam's DVD. Actually, no. Make that Five Stars!
Fantasy baseball is improving. I am gaining ground and climbing out of the cellar in both leagues.
I think I'm going to get a 1974 Bee Gees record called Mr. Natural. There weren't any big hits on it, but it was the beginning of their move towards R&B music. I heard the title cut off of the recrods and it was a great song. By the way, I own more Bee Gees records than any other artist. In my collection of music, that's a good accomplishment.
Mother's Day is coming up. I wish there was a Son's Day.
My softball league kicks in this week. I can't wait.
Can we banish that piece of crap Tom Glavine back to the Braves? I seriously don't know if he hurt us worse when he was with Hick-lanta or now as a member of the Metrpolitans. I'll be blunt. The best thing that can happen is for him to get seriously hurt. If he pitches a certain number of innings, his option for next year automatically kicks in.
A few more Met notes. I feel okay about them, certainly better than the last three years. They've hung in there without three of their top starting pitchers. Right now, they're not consistent. They score no runs for eight innings and then score five in one inning. The offense is potentially incredible, but not reliable. Diaz, Wright, and Reyes still have a lot to learn. And I never thought Cliff Floyd would be as good as he is. For all the injuries he's had, it's good to see him playing well.
Big thumbs up for Rob Van Dam's DVD. Actually, no. Make that Five Stars!
Fantasy baseball is improving. I am gaining ground and climbing out of the cellar in both leagues.
I think I'm going to get a 1974 Bee Gees record called Mr. Natural. There weren't any big hits on it, but it was the beginning of their move towards R&B music. I heard the title cut off of the recrods and it was a great song. By the way, I own more Bee Gees records than any other artist. In my collection of music, that's a good accomplishment.
Monday, April 25, 2005
Ecclesia, sports, etc.
Well, my peeps, I hope you enjoyed my latest article. I may have another one in there by Thursday. I actually purchased a baseball bat for my softball league, which starts very soon. As the probable leadoff man, I have to find my swing again.
Now a few thoughts.
I could use a new DVD. I think the Rob Van Dam One of a Kind one could be on the horizon. The guy is an amazing athlete with his combination of martial arts and deliberate wrestling. Nobody else is like him. His laid back yet cocky demeanor is out of left field. As I've said, I've met him and he is a very cool dude.
Victor Zambrano is a better hitter than he is a pitcher. He and Latroy Hawkins should get together and see how lousy pitching can actually get.
Victor Diaz needs to be here and start for the Mets in right field.
The two most exciting moments in sports are the first 2 rounds of the NCAA basketball tournament and overtime playoff hockey.
The first day of the NFL draft went great for the Jets. I have no idea what Terry Bradway was thinking about with some of the later picks.
Ecclesia was solid yet again. Great Harvest bread was there. I had this cinnamon pecan bread which was great.
It's easy to get lazy with praying and reading the Bible. I know I need to, but sometimes it's just tough.
I'm really looking forward to joining a community group once my job at the Daily Herald winds down in late May, early June. There's just something there I need to feed on.
All the interesting girls I meet have one of three strikes.
1) They don't like country music.
2) They're too young or too old.
3) They have boyfriends.
Number three annoys me in particular...
Now a few thoughts.
I could use a new DVD. I think the Rob Van Dam One of a Kind one could be on the horizon. The guy is an amazing athlete with his combination of martial arts and deliberate wrestling. Nobody else is like him. His laid back yet cocky demeanor is out of left field. As I've said, I've met him and he is a very cool dude.
Victor Zambrano is a better hitter than he is a pitcher. He and Latroy Hawkins should get together and see how lousy pitching can actually get.
Victor Diaz needs to be here and start for the Mets in right field.
The two most exciting moments in sports are the first 2 rounds of the NCAA basketball tournament and overtime playoff hockey.
The first day of the NFL draft went great for the Jets. I have no idea what Terry Bradway was thinking about with some of the later picks.
Ecclesia was solid yet again. Great Harvest bread was there. I had this cinnamon pecan bread which was great.
It's easy to get lazy with praying and reading the Bible. I know I need to, but sometimes it's just tough.
I'm really looking forward to joining a community group once my job at the Daily Herald winds down in late May, early June. There's just something there I need to feed on.
All the interesting girls I meet have one of three strikes.
1) They don't like country music.
2) They're too young or too old.
3) They have boyfriends.
Number three annoys me in particular...
Thursday, April 21, 2005
This was a tough one to put together, but it's good
Batavia makes it 2 straight over Knights
Kaneland’s 4 errors prove costly as Schmitt tosses complete game
By Adam Bartolo
Daily Herald CorrespondentPosted Thursday, April 21, 2005
Batavia’s baseball team took advantage of its speed, timely hitting and four Kaneland errors to top the Knights 6-3 Wednesday in Batavia.
Leadoff hitter Colin Schweigert ignited the Bulldogs offense all day long. He reached base four times, twice on singles, once on a walk, and another time on an error. He finished with 3 runs scored and 4 stolen bases.
“Coach (Matt) Holm wanted me to learn how to lead off. So I had to watch pitches better,” said Schweigert. “And everything just went right for us today.”
Every time Kaneland scored, the Bulldogs (7-7, 3-2) would immediately counter.
In the bottom of the first, Batavia trailed 1-0. Schweigert reached first base on a fielding error and Danny Schmitt singled. Schweigert went to third and Schmitt advanced to second on the throw. Justin Fitch laced a single to tie the score.
Schmitt, Batavia’s starter, went seven innings and struck out seven. He worked hard to deal with the blustery winds, but kept improving as the game went on. His arsenal of pitches kept the Knights off balance.
“These are the days that the good pitchers really stand out,” said Holm, referring to Schmitt. “It’s when they’re struggling and still have a good game.”
Kaneland starter Matt Weiland didn’t quite have the same good fortune. He too pitched a gutsy game, but he received little help from his fielders, which was most evident in fourth inning.
The Knights (4-9-1, 1-4) had gone ahead 3-2 in the top of the fourth. Kevin McMahon belted a triple over the right fielder and pinch-runner Cory Ellingwood scored on a sacrifice fly by Chris Boroski.
In the bottom of the inning, the first two Bulldogs, Nick Radziwon and Jack Scalcucci, got on base, thanks to two errors. Scalcucci swiped second, putting two runners in scoring position for Nate Barajas. He lined a single to center to bring both runners home, and Batavia led 4-3.
But the damage was far from done. The next batter, Schweigert, hit a bunt single to advance Barajas to second. Schmitt hit a grounder to Weiland, who fired the ball to third base. The ball deflected off the fielder’s glove, loading the bases. Two batters later, Matt Douglas singled to right, bringing home Barajas and Schweigert.
Kaneland coach Kip Rogers seemed upset at his team’s defense.
“Matt pitched a good enough game to keep us around, but our defense didn’t take care of their end of the bargain,” Rogers said.
The Suburban Prairie North Conference opponents will finish their three-game set today in Maple Park.
Kaneland’s 4 errors prove costly as Schmitt tosses complete game
By Adam Bartolo
Daily Herald CorrespondentPosted Thursday, April 21, 2005
Batavia’s baseball team took advantage of its speed, timely hitting and four Kaneland errors to top the Knights 6-3 Wednesday in Batavia.
Leadoff hitter Colin Schweigert ignited the Bulldogs offense all day long. He reached base four times, twice on singles, once on a walk, and another time on an error. He finished with 3 runs scored and 4 stolen bases.
“Coach (Matt) Holm wanted me to learn how to lead off. So I had to watch pitches better,” said Schweigert. “And everything just went right for us today.”
Every time Kaneland scored, the Bulldogs (7-7, 3-2) would immediately counter.
In the bottom of the first, Batavia trailed 1-0. Schweigert reached first base on a fielding error and Danny Schmitt singled. Schweigert went to third and Schmitt advanced to second on the throw. Justin Fitch laced a single to tie the score.
Schmitt, Batavia’s starter, went seven innings and struck out seven. He worked hard to deal with the blustery winds, but kept improving as the game went on. His arsenal of pitches kept the Knights off balance.
“These are the days that the good pitchers really stand out,” said Holm, referring to Schmitt. “It’s when they’re struggling and still have a good game.”
Kaneland starter Matt Weiland didn’t quite have the same good fortune. He too pitched a gutsy game, but he received little help from his fielders, which was most evident in fourth inning.
The Knights (4-9-1, 1-4) had gone ahead 3-2 in the top of the fourth. Kevin McMahon belted a triple over the right fielder and pinch-runner Cory Ellingwood scored on a sacrifice fly by Chris Boroski.
In the bottom of the inning, the first two Bulldogs, Nick Radziwon and Jack Scalcucci, got on base, thanks to two errors. Scalcucci swiped second, putting two runners in scoring position for Nate Barajas. He lined a single to center to bring both runners home, and Batavia led 4-3.
But the damage was far from done. The next batter, Schweigert, hit a bunt single to advance Barajas to second. Schmitt hit a grounder to Weiland, who fired the ball to third base. The ball deflected off the fielder’s glove, loading the bases. Two batters later, Matt Douglas singled to right, bringing home Barajas and Schweigert.
Kaneland coach Kip Rogers seemed upset at his team’s defense.
“Matt pitched a good enough game to keep us around, but our defense didn’t take care of their end of the bargain,” Rogers said.
The Suburban Prairie North Conference opponents will finish their three-game set today in Maple Park.
Tuesday, April 19, 2005
Heaven's Bells
A knockoff on AC/DC? Yeah, but it basically means the Mets have recalled electrifying relief pitcher Heath Bell and disabled the splendid lefty Felix Heredia! I love this. That's the best move in baseball history since the Yankees got Babe Ruth. In 6.2 innings, Me. Bell struck out 11 batters and didn't allow ONE HIT or ONE WALK! And now he's mowing down Philly in the 9th. Sevn homers, Mets win. If only my fantasy teams were doing this well...
Monday, April 18, 2005
Ecclesia recap
Great service last night. I saw a few people I haven't seen in several months.
Clayton talked about Moses, which is where we'll be for the next two weeks. I was sitting right near where he was speaking. I had my hair combed back (with gel Dad) and had on a silk black t-shirt. When he gets to the story of the plagues, he comes over to me and says "Let my people go."
Now in Ecuador, I played Eve while he was the snake. Now I'm the Pharaoh. Evidently, I qualify to play all the evil characters! I guess Judas Iscariot and King Saul are in store now.
The setup was certainly unique, if not bizarre. The whole floor was covered in Corn Flakes. Apparently, the reference comes out of Exodus 16. I was told it took 40 boxes of cereal to make the whole floor look the way it did.
Afterward, about 10 of us went to Culver, a Dairy Queen knockoff sitdown restaurant, which has good root beer. I just don't trust frozen custard or butterburgers. And the employees wear the absolute worst uniforms I have ever seen in a fast food restaurant. They even make Steak n Shake look halfway decent. The point is though, it was a good time, and it kind of reminded me of the old latter high school days. Those were good days.
Clayton talked about Moses, which is where we'll be for the next two weeks. I was sitting right near where he was speaking. I had my hair combed back (with gel Dad) and had on a silk black t-shirt. When he gets to the story of the plagues, he comes over to me and says "Let my people go."
Now in Ecuador, I played Eve while he was the snake. Now I'm the Pharaoh. Evidently, I qualify to play all the evil characters! I guess Judas Iscariot and King Saul are in store now.
The setup was certainly unique, if not bizarre. The whole floor was covered in Corn Flakes. Apparently, the reference comes out of Exodus 16. I was told it took 40 boxes of cereal to make the whole floor look the way it did.
Afterward, about 10 of us went to Culver, a Dairy Queen knockoff sitdown restaurant, which has good root beer. I just don't trust frozen custard or butterburgers. And the employees wear the absolute worst uniforms I have ever seen in a fast food restaurant. They even make Steak n Shake look halfway decent. The point is though, it was a good time, and it kind of reminded me of the old latter high school days. Those were good days.
Garbage time
Here's a story from Friday at CPK. We had just opened the patio so it was really busy. Around 2 p.m., my tables started to reduce. Finally I'm left with one before I leave. It's a table of 5 people: 2 moms and 3 little kids. And these were picky moms. These are the kinds who say, "If you want another soda now, you have to drink water with dinner."
All kinds of stuff. Two minutes after they ordered, they apologized and told me they wanted their salad immediately. I can't describe the detailes of this salad without getting writer's cramp.
So I close their check and think they're gone. Three minutes later, the bussercomes to me and tells me they want to see me. Apparently the little boy had a Game Boy Advance, which has really small game cartridges. Tey thought they had left one of the games on a plate and that I had thrown it out. So three of us take this full huge can of trash outside the restaurant and start digging through this for a good ten minutes.
Finally we realize after no luck, that even if we find the game, it's ruined anyway. So I go back inside to tell them the bad news. Just as I'm getting there, the boy realizes that the game was in his BACKPACK the whole time!
All I could really do was laugh.
All kinds of stuff. Two minutes after they ordered, they apologized and told me they wanted their salad immediately. I can't describe the detailes of this salad without getting writer's cramp.
So I close their check and think they're gone. Three minutes later, the bussercomes to me and tells me they want to see me. Apparently the little boy had a Game Boy Advance, which has really small game cartridges. Tey thought they had left one of the games on a plate and that I had thrown it out. So three of us take this full huge can of trash outside the restaurant and start digging through this for a good ten minutes.
Finally we realize after no luck, that even if we find the game, it's ruined anyway. So I go back inside to tell them the bad news. Just as I'm getting there, the boy realizes that the game was in his BACKPACK the whole time!
All I could really do was laugh.
Sunday, April 17, 2005
SIX!!!
That's six wins in a row! I'm going to Rookie's to watch today's game with the Mets and Marlins. A.J. Burnett vs Tom Glavine.
It's very encouraging watching this team and how they are coming together so well. I like teams that are resilient and versatile. These guys (Reyes, Beltran, Diaz, Minky (I'm not spelling it out!)) use speed and intelligence as well as natural talent to win. To me, that makes baseball even more fun to watch. Just a thought... How about 157-5? And to quote Carlito... "Dat's kooill!"
And the Yankees are in last. Can you believe it?
Maybe I will stop by and wish my wonderful volleyball teammates good luck... Just maybe...
It's very encouraging watching this team and how they are coming together so well. I like teams that are resilient and versatile. These guys (Reyes, Beltran, Diaz, Minky (I'm not spelling it out!)) use speed and intelligence as well as natural talent to win. To me, that makes baseball even more fun to watch. Just a thought... How about 157-5? And to quote Carlito... "Dat's kooill!"
And the Yankees are in last. Can you believe it?
Maybe I will stop by and wish my wonderful volleyball teammates good luck... Just maybe...
Thursday, April 14, 2005
My latest article
St. Charles East (3-8, 0-1) gave the Daily Herald’s No. 3-ranked Lake Park Lancers a long battle but ultimately came up on the short end of a 5-4 score softball Wednesday in St. Charles.
St. Charles East’s Michelle Snyder took the tough loss. She pitched all nine innings, throwing 155 pitches. She allowed 4 hits, 3 earned runs and struck out three.
Saints coach Eric Ray marveled at Snyder’s performance.
“A lot of heart,” Ray said. “A lot of heart.”
The Lancers (8-1, 3-0) got the early lead by manufacturing a run. Lynsey Ciezki led off the game with a double, advanced to third on a bunt and scored on a groundout. Another run came in on an error and Lake Park led 2-0.
“We always want to score first so we can put pressure on the other team,” said Lake Park coach Cray Allen.
Meanwhile, pitcher Ashley Havertine was having little trouble with the Saints offense. She closed out three of her first five innings by throwing 10 or less pitches.
In the sixth inning, however, Allen lifted Havertine for a reliever.
“Some of our pitchers haven’t gotten much work lately,” Allen said. “I wanted to get both our pitchers some work before we play the tournament in Ohio this weekend.”
All of a sudden the Saints offense came to life. Julie Yonkus and Snyder both knocked RBI doubles to bring the Saints within 3-2.
With runners on second and third, Havertine came back in to pitch. She promptly threw a wild pitch that allowed two runners to cross the plate, giving St. Charles East a 4-3 lead. The Saints were three outs away from an upset win.
But Lake Park had other ideas.
The first two Lancers got on base in the seventh. After Snyder got two outs, an error allowed the tying run to cross the plate.
After a scoreless eighth the Lancers utilized similar tactics that they used to score in the first. Ciezki got on base with an infield single and moved to second on a bunt.
With two outs Stephanie Blagaich lofted a ball that landed in a perfect spot between the second baseman, shortstop and center fielder, bringing Ciezki home.
“I was just trying to put the ball in play with two outs and advance the runner,” Blagaich said.
Blagaich then walked to the mound and struck out the side to end the game.
Despite the disappointing finish, Ray saw this game a step in the right direction for his squad.
“If we can continue to play like that day in and day out, we’re going to do some good things,” Ray said.
— Adam Bartolo
St. Charles East’s Michelle Snyder took the tough loss. She pitched all nine innings, throwing 155 pitches. She allowed 4 hits, 3 earned runs and struck out three.
Saints coach Eric Ray marveled at Snyder’s performance.
“A lot of heart,” Ray said. “A lot of heart.”
The Lancers (8-1, 3-0) got the early lead by manufacturing a run. Lynsey Ciezki led off the game with a double, advanced to third on a bunt and scored on a groundout. Another run came in on an error and Lake Park led 2-0.
“We always want to score first so we can put pressure on the other team,” said Lake Park coach Cray Allen.
Meanwhile, pitcher Ashley Havertine was having little trouble with the Saints offense. She closed out three of her first five innings by throwing 10 or less pitches.
In the sixth inning, however, Allen lifted Havertine for a reliever.
“Some of our pitchers haven’t gotten much work lately,” Allen said. “I wanted to get both our pitchers some work before we play the tournament in Ohio this weekend.”
All of a sudden the Saints offense came to life. Julie Yonkus and Snyder both knocked RBI doubles to bring the Saints within 3-2.
With runners on second and third, Havertine came back in to pitch. She promptly threw a wild pitch that allowed two runners to cross the plate, giving St. Charles East a 4-3 lead. The Saints were three outs away from an upset win.
But Lake Park had other ideas.
The first two Lancers got on base in the seventh. After Snyder got two outs, an error allowed the tying run to cross the plate.
After a scoreless eighth the Lancers utilized similar tactics that they used to score in the first. Ciezki got on base with an infield single and moved to second on a bunt.
With two outs Stephanie Blagaich lofted a ball that landed in a perfect spot between the second baseman, shortstop and center fielder, bringing Ciezki home.
“I was just trying to put the ball in play with two outs and advance the runner,” Blagaich said.
Blagaich then walked to the mound and struck out the side to end the game.
Despite the disappointing finish, Ray saw this game a step in the right direction for his squad.
“If we can continue to play like that day in and day out, we’re going to do some good things,” Ray said.
— Adam Bartolo
A shoot
And since this post is apparently not going to be erased by a faulty system like my last one was, I'd like to take this time to thank you for reading my blog. For the last 6 months, I have filled this space with commentary, writings, feelings, facts, opinions, and rants. This is a rant. This rant will be very direct and very calm. And no comments will be allowed here.
Apparently my beloved volleyball captain Dana has decided she doesn't want to play me in the playoffs this weekend for my team, Order on The Court. Accoring to her, my energy is not making certain people feel comfortable and they want the game on Sunday to be one of peace and tranquility. Apparently these people won't talk to me. They go straight to the powers that be. And so they have simply decided to replace me this weekend in the first playoff game that I would have ever particiapted in.
Now in an environment where everyone wants to be real with each other and everyone wants to do a shoot, this my loyal readers is a shoot. I hate this stinking league's tactics. I hate them for abandoning me. I hate them for not acknowledging how important my role is on that team. I hate them for not talking to me face to face. I hate them for overreacting to people every time someone gets a little upset. I hate them for not accepting the fact that I'm lively when I play. And that they refuse to accept I don't have it in me to just shut up and play. That's not who I am.
And if they think I will just fade away, well, that just ain't happening.
So I think I'll just show up on Sunday. And I won't mind watching my "teammates" get swept right out of the Wheaton Academy fieldhouse.
Dana, you'd better take the $300 you collected from the team that you're going to give to the league commissioner and you had better spend it on recruiting halfway decent players. In other words, someone far better than you. And I promise you, the war has just begun.
Apparently my beloved volleyball captain Dana has decided she doesn't want to play me in the playoffs this weekend for my team, Order on The Court. Accoring to her, my energy is not making certain people feel comfortable and they want the game on Sunday to be one of peace and tranquility. Apparently these people won't talk to me. They go straight to the powers that be. And so they have simply decided to replace me this weekend in the first playoff game that I would have ever particiapted in.
Now in an environment where everyone wants to be real with each other and everyone wants to do a shoot, this my loyal readers is a shoot. I hate this stinking league's tactics. I hate them for abandoning me. I hate them for not acknowledging how important my role is on that team. I hate them for not talking to me face to face. I hate them for overreacting to people every time someone gets a little upset. I hate them for not accepting the fact that I'm lively when I play. And that they refuse to accept I don't have it in me to just shut up and play. That's not who I am.
And if they think I will just fade away, well, that just ain't happening.
So I think I'll just show up on Sunday. And I won't mind watching my "teammates" get swept right out of the Wheaton Academy fieldhouse.
Dana, you'd better take the $300 you collected from the team that you're going to give to the league commissioner and you had better spend it on recruiting halfway decent players. In other words, someone far better than you. And I promise you, the war has just begun.
Wednesday, April 13, 2005
2zday, 2zday
Went to a graduate school fair last night up at Judson College. By the way, it was one of the saddest looking college campuses I have ever seen. It's right next to the Elgin Water Works tower and a bunch of trailer homes. It was not exactly Gordon or Wheaton.
Anyway, there were only about 10 schools and a few were seminaries which is not exactly the direction I'm looking at. Some, like Northern Illinois and Webster Universities, were just business representatives. The woman from NIU tried to convince me and show me how my writing, media, and sports management could set me up for an MBA. I still don't see how she got from Point A to Point B. And if I ever decide to go for sports management, I'll be going to Western Illinois, and not Northern. I wound up taking information from 2 schools. Now Roosevelt University and National Louis are not huge schools, but they could help. I mean a Master's is a Master's. I know they are not huge. But they were the only ones there who seemed to have anything relating to what I was interested in.
It's one of those crossroads. I just hope that whatever decision I make over the next months and years is a profitable one, and of course, I don't just mean financially.
If you want good steaks and chops, buy some Adam's Rib Rubb. This is not the Adam you all know and love, but one out of Carolina. Pork chops are incredible with this stuff on it.
I'm up to 5th place in the Daily Herald League. To quote George Costanza, "I"M BACK BABY, I"M BACK!!!!"
Good loss for the Knicks last night to Toronto, who are they are "battling" for NBA draft lottery position. They can finish between 6th and 10th and right now would be 7th. Let's hope they play well for Coach Herb Williams but keep finding ways to lose.
I'm having deep dish pizza for breakfast. Later.
Anyway, there were only about 10 schools and a few were seminaries which is not exactly the direction I'm looking at. Some, like Northern Illinois and Webster Universities, were just business representatives. The woman from NIU tried to convince me and show me how my writing, media, and sports management could set me up for an MBA. I still don't see how she got from Point A to Point B. And if I ever decide to go for sports management, I'll be going to Western Illinois, and not Northern. I wound up taking information from 2 schools. Now Roosevelt University and National Louis are not huge schools, but they could help. I mean a Master's is a Master's. I know they are not huge. But they were the only ones there who seemed to have anything relating to what I was interested in.
It's one of those crossroads. I just hope that whatever decision I make over the next months and years is a profitable one, and of course, I don't just mean financially.
If you want good steaks and chops, buy some Adam's Rib Rubb. This is not the Adam you all know and love, but one out of Carolina. Pork chops are incredible with this stuff on it.
I'm up to 5th place in the Daily Herald League. To quote George Costanza, "I"M BACK BABY, I"M BACK!!!!"
Good loss for the Knicks last night to Toronto, who are they are "battling" for NBA draft lottery position. They can finish between 6th and 10th and right now would be 7th. Let's hope they play well for Coach Herb Williams but keep finding ways to lose.
I'm having deep dish pizza for breakfast. Later.
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