2012 Blue Team

Carroll County Blue - Made of Honor

For the second consecutive year we walked down the aisle but can't seem quite able to make it to the altar. You know the saying, "dejas vous all over again". In one of the best played games of the season Blue and Red had peak performances scrapping and clawing in what was to be a nip and tuck game. With the score tied at 4-4 Red was able to push across one more run in the eighth inning leaving Blue one last at bat to comeback. As was the result in last year's championship, Red again prevailed by a single run, 5-4. There were too many sterling plays and hits today to single anyone out for recognition but I do tip my cap to Mel for his competent and enthusiastic leadership in 2012. As our season has concluded I do wish to end on a lighter note so here is the quote of the day: Fred to Neal, "You do better catching the ball with your glove than with your cheek". And, yes, that is not a spelling error in the heading as I have been honored to play with such honorable teammates for yet another year.

Gameday

It's on. G-O B-L-U-E !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Pending Championship

The hopes of Carroll County bringing home a Championship rests solely on the shoulders of Blue in tomorrow's finals. Gray dropped two games yesterday, first to Catonsville and then to Silver. Blue lost a heart-breaker to Howard Red 8-2 and if not for a two out 5 run inning by Red...............oh well. Harford tested the resolve of Blue in the second game finally succumbing to the boys from Carroll County 7-4. Championship to be played on field #1 again at 10:00 a.m. Wednesday. This is the same field where Red downed Blue in last year's championship with their come from behind victory in the last inning. Let's strive for a different outcome tomorrow! GO BLUE!!

Tournament Standings August 16, 2012

Harford defeated the Old Liners yesterday to advance through the loser bracket. They will wait to play the loser of Monday's game between Carroll Blue and Howard Red. In the B Division Silver awaits in the loser bracket to play the loser of Monday's game between Carroll Gray and Catonsville. For both Carroll teams there remain a minimum of two games and maximum of four games before each division champion is crowned. How sweet it could be and should call for a celebration next week.

Tournament Game Result

Potent bats with timely hits and near flawless defense allowed Blue to overcome Glen Burnie 14-2 today. Earlier in the morning Glen Burnie had dispatched Glenelg to the losers bracket by an 8-5 score. Our leftie, Tim, pitched an excellent game and fittingly made an assist on the last out of the game. It took two innings before Glen Burnie decided that it was of no use to hit past 3B as Jim devoured everything. They found no greater success in attempting to go over 3B as Neal was positioned correctly and once it hits his leather you always hear the Fat Lady sing (ole #2 also went 3 for 3 at the plate). Our heavy hitters in the top of the order stung the ball hard every at bat and even Blue's outs were the result of hard hit balls, albeit not always in gaps. Now we wait to meet Howard Red on Monday as they defeated Harford by 6-5 in the other A Division match-up of undefeated teams today. Maintain the "Can Do" attitude and play flawless defense to continue marching through to the Championship.

Season Finale

Thanks to my two on-the-scene reporters I can report Blue took game one from Old Liners while dropping the second game as the Old liners came from behind in the last inning. Blue's season record now stands at 26-16 placing second in the division. Having drawn a bye for the first post season tournament, time and opponent for Monday's game has yet to be determined. How sweet it would be for Caroll's Blue & Gray teams to pull off double championships! Buff the shoes, launder the shirts, but don't starch the shorts for Monday...let's play loose!

Old Liners Update

As Tinker departs for the wilds I will furnish an update on today's games. As reported by 3B coach while standing in the box, Frank Crosetti (aka Zuretti), the game stands at 5-2 them after 2 1/1 innings. Bring two wins home today boys! See you Monday.

P-A-R-T-Y

Once again, the DePalmer household hosted another fantastic picnic. Perhaps my opinion is influenced somewhat by Vince's Lemon Cello (or is it Jello?), but nonetheless, thanks for a great picnic! The drawing for the final four Stables gift certificates were deservedly awarded to two retirees and two Gray team members. In the absence of our ordained minister, Mel provided a wonderful blessing for our repast. The fellowship among both teams' members (and one turn-coat) and spouses is heart-warming. May we all play until there is an over 90 league and then reunite! Now, it's back to business as tournament crowns are at stake. Let's make the State realize that Carroll County is a force to deal with in more ways than one.

Rainout

We're rescheduled for Wednesday. Our destiny is in our hands as with two wins against the Old Liners we take second seed and a bye. Let's go Blue! Tomorrow is time to P-A-R-T-Y at the DePalmer hacienda (HOW DOES ONE SPELL BOCCI?) so let's temper the libations and hydrate with the good stuff in preparation for Wednesday's game.

No Ticker Tape Parade

Oh if not for one less than stellar defensive inning Blue perhaps would not have lost to Red 12-8 in game one. Tim pitched a better game than the end result. Game two saw Fred take the mound with a liberal substitution of players behind him. Although Blue's bats were still quieted somewhat the hits were timely. Bobby D provided the long ball in both games and everyone else contributed in their own fashion. The words I love to hear from Al never sounded as sweet as for today's final out when I heard, "I'm here". Blue took game two 7-5 in our customary demeanor as we've been here before.

RED

I see 'em comin'. Howard Red 10 a.m. tomorrow at the Sports Complex. Tinker has glove oiled and "permission slip" in hand! Let's take two!

Tinker Returns

In my absence today, I am relying upon my on-the-scene reporter's recitation of Blue's twin bill kill at Old Liners. What I thought, given the scores of the games on the League website, did not hold to be true. What I guessed was an easy first game win was actually a come from behind victory while trailing by several runs in the fifth after having been down by as many as 6 runs. My guess on the second game score of 3-1 might be accurate.....both teams must have exhausted themselves previously and were too tired to leg it to first! It was also reported to me that Tim's second pitch of game two was a strike!! Now that Howard Red has tasted only their second defeat of the season, compliments of Gray, will they be after blood on Wednesday? Saw Doc today who opted to give ole Tinker one more day to study for his test as he knows I'm slow. Hope to see ya'll soon. GO BLUE!

On Three

BLUE ! I'm with you guys in spirit!

Tinker's Thanks

Thanks for all the phone calls, prayers and visits. Tinker just keeps on ticking away and hopes to get back to posting shortly. Congrats on the double victory at Parkville today. And congrats to Gray for clinching the B Division. When in Westminster, beware that parking on Mary Avenue and taking livery service can be VERY expensive!

The Sweetness of Victory

Belongs to Carroll County Gray, 15-11 and 4-3. The fans were treated to two closely played games today. Carroll Gray displayed why they are total win leaders in the BBSSL thus far this year with excellent hitting, fielding and speed. Carroll Blue displayed the wrong side of their Dr. Jeckyll/Mr. Hyde personality as we never know which team will show up on any given day. Congratulations to Gray for their inaugural victories over Blue. I guess the next time we meet it will be on the Bocci Ball Court.

Ashokan Farewell -

A favorite to enjoy while you await today's games write-up.

Skin of the Teeth Wins

I need a few winks after today's dehydrating games but this can't wait. Lewis Carroll would have been hard pressed to pen today's events! Blue descended on Randazzo Field with a full complement of players as Coach Mel instructed us that there would be liberal substitutions due to the heat. Glen Burnie proved to be most gracious hosts as Blue, with a couple of exceptions, couldn't hit their way out of a wet paper bag. With the likes of Bobby D, Al, and Fred hitting dinks, slow rollers and lame ducks all day the only outfield hits came from the least expected. When was the last time you saw Neal, Joe and Greg park hit after hit over the outfielders heads? If not for the 12 Glen Burnie infield errors, Blue would not have escaped with a 17-7 victory. Then the heat took its toll as Blue had to use 3 different third basemen, 4 shortstops and 2 shortfielders not to mention the carousel of outfielders. Jr was called on to play 6 different positions to the point of total exhaustion. Did you ever think you would see Hank forced to pinch run for Jr? We should have had a M A S H tent on site today. Let's pray for that 3" rainstorm tonight as we are too debilitated to take on Gray tomorrow. But for the grace of the March Hare, we would not have won game two 12-1.

DoubleHeader

Preparing for Glen Burnie road trip today. Gatorade, check. Ice in thermos, check. Gatorade, check, Towel wrapped ice bag, check. Gatorade, check. Frozen water bottles, check. Gatorade, check. Maybe it's heat stroke but I better check for the Gatorade again.

Trivia Winner

We have a winner....Jr beat J.Myers by one minute with the correct response. The performer at Stables on Saturday July 21st is the band Bootleg. If you enjoy the cuisine and ambiance of Stables you'll also enjoy being entertained by Bootleg

. Earl, the originator of Bootleg and I go back 50 plus years and I guarantee if you appreciate "music to make you want to dance" Stables is the place to be Saturday July 21st!

Trivia Question #6

Who is providing entertainment at Stables on Saturday July 21, 2012? The first correct responder to email either Tinker or ccss1994@yahoo.com wins the $10 gift certificate to Stables. (Hint: if you click on Stables Restaurant on the left side of this page, under the Sponsors Websites Heading, you will go to their link and from there you can access their entertainment calendar). (Hint #2: The entertainment is one of Tinker's favorites and I hope to enjoy their performance 7/21/12. If the winner is at Stables that night, I might even buy them a drink).

Pictures and Trivia

Thursday July 19 is team photo day beginning at 8:30 a.m. Remember to comb your hair. The next TRIVIA question will appear this weekend so tune in and remember, first correct responder wins!

Harford Split

Good weather, good attendance, good fellowship accompanied by mediocre results. Harford finally beat Blue by a score of 9-7 in game one. Game two came down to Blue's final at bat with Dave Kenney delivering the game winning smash to propel us to a 6-5 victory. Also, let it be known that I have apologized to #6.9 for not covering second base today as I stood flat-footed and awe struck marveling at his fielding abilities behind second base.

Fifth Trivia Contest Winner

We have a winner as of 8:21. John and Peggy Myers responded with the correct answer of March 14th. I was betting the first responder would have been R'Nealius but I have been informed that he was summoned away at 6:50 this evening and there was no wi-fi capability at the Forum. Keep trying folks as we have five more trivia questions yet to come.

Trivia Question #5

The first correct responder to email ccss1991@yahoo.com or Tinker's email will win the gift certificate to Stables. This one is designed for loyal followers, or the really desperate for a free meal folks, as the answer can be found in a posting over one year ago. What is the date celebrating "R'Nealius Hoffman Day" (not the posting date, but the honorees date [just give month and day])? Tick, tick, tick, as it's the first correct responder!

No Game Today

Old Liners game has been rescheduled for Monday August 6th.

Glen Burnie visits Blue

Today's games results have left me counting all our blessings. Under a tolerable sun we hosted Glen Burnie with a nice crowd on hand (when school has adjourned we seem to draw the children and grand children as well as our loyal partners). Today was the first game of the season that we had our full complement of players to include the cardiac kids, school teachers and T Hall returning to don his new CC Blue shirt. As you faithful await with baited breath for the results, let me ease you into it....the highlight of my day was the pregame breakfast at Baughers Restaurant (the BEST creamed chipped beef I have ever had with a tomato juice chaser for its anti-oxidizing effect)! Yeah Hank, much better than the SOS we survived on in the Army! Game results saw Blue on the losing end of both games, 12-11 and 11-7. I'm thankful for the fellowship of all teammates being present, that nobody was carted off the field, that everyone remembered the words to "Happy Birthday" as we acknowledged our scorekeeper, and Evers gave me and #6.9 a rest in game two (quality bonding time on the bench with Tom). I would be remiss in not mentioning one player-Pete going 7 for 8 at the plate! Time to rest up for Monday's road trip and to get back on our winning ways! Hope everyone has a bang up Fourth of July!!!!

One For The Annals

Blue has recorded an anomalous twin bill killing. Game one was a first for Larry, pitcher, in so much as he threw a perfect game in game one. Solo home runs were made by Blue in each of the seven innings resulting in a Blue victory over Glenelg 7-0. Our leftie, Tim, strode to the mound for game two with the confidence of a gladiator after witnessing Larry's performance. Never in my researched history of slow pitch softball can I find a comparable feat.............A second consecutive perfect game coupled with an identical score of 7-0 favor of Blue. Now it's time to prepare for our encounter with Howard Red Wednesday.

Hot as Hades

As the Blue redactor I feel inept presenting today's games as the loss of electrolytes has me somewhat giddy. Even with the reminder list of items required for today's games sent to our equipment manager last night we had to play without the misting fans, portable AC units and attendants with hand held fans. Although the curmudgeon let me down he had timely hits and played well. 95 degree temps seem to be commonplace when playing at Harford but why did we have to go extra innings to take them 9-7 in game one? Although our run production was down we did play excellent defense including 5 double plays. With the lineup juggled for game two we threw our leftie Tim at them who continued to stifle their potential murder's row until he made an excellent catch of a foul ball resulting in a pulled muscle. Not to despair, Larry came on to finish it off in our 8-7 victory. I had the pleasure of witnessing Evers, playing to my right, field a grounder and rifle the man out at first. It had the velocity of his high school quarterbacking days threading 50 yard slant passes. Not to neglect our third baseman, his arm was also in good form today. And welcome back Kotter, I meant to say Neal, who appears to be resilient as his running, catching and hitting seemed not to miss a beat. Four tough road games loom ahead next week so let's get hydrated, rested and healed.

Wet Powder Doesn't Fire

12-4-16 sounds like and stinks like fertilizer. 16 games having been re-scheduled --ugh! Traversing from Hampstead to the field this morning I envisioned the foggy rain falling over the ridges of Northern Carroll County as though it was powder smoke coming from the cannons to the North. Amazingly the infield dirt was dry and the lining equipment was at the site, but alas.................

Trivia Question - With a bonus

The first correct responder emailed to ccss1994@yahoo.com will win our fourth gift certificate to Stables plus an additional bill bearing the face of our President during the Blue and Gray era (compliments of Tinker) if you also name that game's winning pitcher. Who got the first hit in Carroll County Senior Softball's inaugural game in 1994 (he also ended his career with a hit)? Hint for the bonus--His namesake portrayed Col. Sherman Potter.

Blue and Gray & Trivia Are Coming

For our followers, today's games have been postponed due to unplayable field conditions. Next game is Monday when the Blue & Gray will compete. To celebrate this momentous occasion the Trivia question will appear tomorrow (Thursday) so the gift certificate award may be presented prior to the game (that is if the winner is in attendance). Furthermore, keeping with the theme of Blue and Gray being representative of our Civil War heritage and proximity to Gettysburg, I will post daily appropriate vignettes until the conclusion of our game. Here's to good luck on the trivia and friendly brother versus brother competition come Monday!

Playground Day

It appeared that we converted the Sports Complex field into a playground today. Both games against Glen Burnie were see-saw events through the first five innings. Bob D. experienced the slip n slide in left center while Dave played tag (if u can- which they didn't), the outfielders played on the carousel, and one batsman attempted to play hop-scotch on his way to first (I heard Mel loud and clear, but the next time I hit the canvas I request Hank to be my corner cut man!). (Just kidding Evers-I will run through that brick wall for you - or continue crawling to the base). Welcome Tim and Howard. Yes, Howard had to wait for his second at bat to get his first hit in the Senior Circuit---a Home Run! The other round tripper of the day goes to Al (#22)-kudos! Tom (#6.975) played stellar defense combining with Al for DPs and also a solo DP (musta' been that mini cinni some kind soul shared with him). Jim played on the trampoline to spear a screaming liner while Joe had a perfect day at the plate. A highlight of the Blue victory in game one (15-9) comes from our winning pitcher, Larry, snagging a hot shot and doubling the runner off 1B. Game two saw Tim take to the mound for his first start in 2012. Tim gets credit for the win while Larry gets credited with a save. Game two score Blue 13 - Glen Burnie 10. So good to have our DL guys in attendance to cheer us on and to have Yasuko back tending to the score book.

Amazing Grace

One week from today it will be our Battle of The Blue & The Gray. Trivia Question to be posted before Sunday June 17th. Stay tuned.

Today's Skirmish

Merriam-Webster's definition of skirmish is key to today's softball foray with Red. Skirmish = "a minor fight in war incidental to larger movements". We knew they were coming by land but what we didn't know was that they brought along precision sharp-shooters. With laser accuracy, Howard Red hit them where we weren't and those few we stood a chance with were handled in Blue fashion (flawlessly). We still have four opportunities to render their bats silent with over two-thirds of the season remaining. First game in favor of Red 14-5. Second game score in favor of Red 11-7. As the numbers show, Blue did not post the offensive numbers to which we are accustomed as the Red outfield was positioned perfectly when we hit with power. Our munificent hosting led to our redound outcome so come Monday it is time to become a redivivus offensive force.

GET UP BLUE

Time to check your equipment and prepare to skirmish the Red. Field maneuvers at 0900 hrs. (That's 2 Bells for you seaman). Today (June 6th) also marks the 68th anniversary of our Allied forces storming the beaches at Normandy.

Bluesmen- It's To Arms

Be prepared Wednesday as the Reds are invading our home turf. Take no prisoners!!!

Twin Bill Kill

Finally on the field again to face Bel Air, Blue flashed the leather and then jumped out to a 5-0 lead after one inning. With the exception of two "made for Baseball Bloopers" plays we were flawless on defense and took game one by a score of 12-1. Many of us have watched the "Bloopers" too frequently but the play that is highlighted came while we were at bat: Unfortunately, although none of us were laughing it left(fielder) one of us in stitches, (Neal has confirmed that he required 8 sutures). Although Mike Price has not been medically released to play yet, he provided a critical service today...thanks for the livery service to Carroll Hospital Center for ole #2! Does anyone know the phone number for Samios' drive up window so Neal can pickup his pain killer prescription with expediency? Game two was a horse of a different color as our first hit didn't come until the third inning. The top of the order stung the ball but unfortunately to Bel Air's perfectly positioned outfielders. Blue's bottom half of the batting order picked them up to gain the lead. If not for one 5 run inning and another 4 run inning Blue played excellent defense. Going into the final frame, three more Bluesmen decided to enter the "Bloopers" show which allowed Bel Air to score four runs. Fred gained the "W" in game two as we prevailed 10-9. Kudos to Al for his round-tripper! Also to Chance for digging out the throw! (Chance, you old Sage, your "Care Package" also included oregano and basil to complement the scallions).

Trivia Challenge- Winner

The first correct responder via email to ccss1994@yahoo.com will win our third gift certificate to Stables. Who holds the record for most wins as a manager for Carroll County Senior Softball? Tinker will kick in an additional "fin" if you also correctly state the number of his career wins. Good luck. (Yasuko- you're invited to participate even though you have maxed on your wins for this season). Here's a hint: Answer can be found under the History Of Carroll County Senior Softball link on left side of blog. We have a winner as of 10:19 a.m. Several correct answers but first in first wins! Our next question will be posted prior to the Battle of the Blue & Gray. The correct answer is Henry Licthfuss and because Jr. can add up to 175 (the total wins Henry recorded), it's costing ole Tinker $5. By the way, his first response gave the incorrect wins total so I'm assuming Eileen checked his arithmetic!!! Where would we be without the women looking over our shoulders? Thanks to all who participated.

Pre-Memorial Day Games

Evers queried me on the ride home from Bowie as to what today's blog would contain, for which I replied, "don't know, it just comes as I type". Knowing so many of us have served our country in the Army, Navy and Marines, I have chosen a theme based upon our upcoming Memorial Day. What we do today in no way equates to the strenuous sacrifices made by those that we honor on Monday but our efforts are analogous to the tasks our Veterans attacked. If not for the supreme sacrifices of our honorees on Memorial Day we might be speaking another language and competing in European football or playing ping-pong. God Bless our Veterans! Now for today's skirmish... With a decimated regiment we had to attack Silver with our infantry and light artillery. If our heavy artillery gunners (Fred, Bob & Tom) had seen the short fence they would have been salivating but, alas, they chose to sail their Battleship Iowa somewhere else. Our 105 split-trail howitzers had to get the job done for our grunts, jarheads and 60mm mortars as the only 155mm gun was Jim who could reach the fence. Facing Silver's newest Big Bertha gun, who parked two, and their precision volleys of t'weeners we fell flat and lost game one 12-5. Never say die Blue rallied in game two and found the rhythm and stroke. Multiple double plays, key hits, Tinker elevating with his 4" vertical leap and blazing speed to leg a triple, and Al finally learning to touch second base propelled Blue to a 13-5 victory. As we are facing the "commie Reds" on Wednesday, 5 Star General Evers has provided special disposition for our AWOLS as we need you. Now for Al's travails: don't despair, as I researched that crisp umpire's shirt and hat and found that it is available from zoogstercostumes.com and he is one of Silver's player's brother-in-laws! And for you anxious followers, the next trivia question will appear between now and Tuesday May 30th.

Hi O Silver

Boys, it's the time to "run like the speed of light" and "make clouds of dust" tomorrow when we travel to Silver. Wonder who will be to my left as I have learned my usual sidekick, Tonto(Tom has been hankering for a nickname for two seasons), will be missing.

Raindrops keep falling on our heads

Perhaps we should switch to a sport that has an indoor venue....ugh.

Sports Center Highlights

Robinson Cano needs to tune in tonight to see how to play second base like Al! The same goes for Reynolds, Tollison, Betemit, Flaherty or whoever else may play 3B for the Orioles, to see how to pull off a 5-2 double play such as Mel did today. And what about Bobby D. with his spectacular outfield play!!!! Hot bats empowered Blue to prevail 17-5 in game one. We also employed one of our February indoor plays only this time it was not an imaginary runner but an imaginary third baseman that the relay throw from left field was meant for. The "perfect strike" was stopped by the runner's neck who was advancing to third (not to worry, I coulda taken him if it had progressed beyond words--he was only an old retired MSP Trooper). {By the way, where were you Evers?} Game two began in an all too customary fashion with Blue's bats having cooled. With a slow start but persistent pace, Blue took game two 11-1. Larry pitched two excellent games, although he has yet to get his first shutout of the season. Hope Freddie P recovers from batting practice and Oscar recoups soon and Timmy gets out of school as 290 innings will surely take its toll on Larry. If anyone has a second CC cap, please carry it to each game so TH doesn't have to trade caps with Chance (a white hat on the "young" silver haired Chance does him no justice).

CC Blue - Another One Bites the Dust

Freddie P. took one during batting practice. Can't wait for the reinforcements to come on board. Come on, Howard, Murph, Tim and Tom!!!!

Blue's Rain Delay Shenanigans

Three wonderful hours of male bonding driving to and fro only to have today's games postponed once again to July 30th. Understand that the lead Caddie had non-stop commentary for their listening pleasure.

Blue - On the Road Again

Monday begins a two week road trip. Hope our Traveling Secretary has booked us in ***** hotels!

Who'll Stop The Rain

I have been advised by the Gray team that all food stand items (baked goods, sandwiches and soup) are now half-off as today's game has been postponed(contact Peggy Myers for these deals). Postponement due to Hank not getting to the field in time yesterday to close the dome! Thanks Chance!

Dinner Celebration

Last night fun was poked at some but foremost, fun was had by all! The food provided by Park's Landing was the usual---excellent! Mel, aka Evers, was an exceptional emcee as he recognized all in attendance to include the Johnson's, owners of Westminster Car Care and a sponsor of CCSS and three or four retired players. Tinker announced the first two winners (one in the same) of the team's website trivia contest, Yasuko. As the rules state, Yasuko has maxed out so everyone else now stands a fighting chance as we have eight more questions to follow. Evers read an excerpt from "Let's Play Ball" which accurately depicted why we continue to play this game. In concluding, Evers challenged the audience with MLB trivia questions with five correct responders. In a drawing of the winners names, Oscar was the winner of a free dinner. Next big event is scheduled for tomorrow in the Battle of the Blue & Gray; rumor has it that M*A*S*H tents will be in position.

Trivia Question #2

The first correct responder by email to ccss1994@yahoo.com will be presented with our $10 gift certificate to Stables. Who was the first manager of Carroll Gray? Hope you are watching and have quick fingers on the keyboard!

Appetizers

Ladies and Gentlemen we have enjoyed our appetizers of Hawk today with the main course scheduled for 6p.m. at Parks Landing. Gathering time this evening is 5:30 for our socialization and libations if you are of that inclination. Tonight promises to be enjoyable with a surprize. Come prepared to thank your lovely spouses and guests for their gracious support. Game one saw a return of our batting prowess as we prevailed over the Hawks by a score of 19-3. Game two saw a reconfiguration of our lineup as Evers switched 3B, SS, 2B, SF, and OF and in so doing displayed the versatility of Blue. End result was another Blue victory, 19-8. Kudos to the slug fest put on by the rookie, Fred, Dave, and Bob. The other quasi-rookie, Joe, continues as a hitting machine. So good to see both John & Mike in attendance as well as the wives in attendance.

Who's on first, third, SS, OF and behind the Plate?

Let's see who is healthy enough to man the positions today!

What The World Needs Now Is Love

Given today's email exchanges I thought this tune to be appropriate.

People Get Ready

Food for Thought.

Monday May 7th

Team Dinner at Parks Landing...be there or be square! It's possible that we'll be feasting on Hawks come Monday. Today's scheduled game against Howard Red has been rescheduled for May 30th.

Split

Game one- Glenelg jumped on us with 5 runs in the first only to see Blue counter with 5 of our own. The bats were hot once again enabling Blue to prevail 16-10. As the wind picked up and the temperature cooled so did Blues bats in game number two. In the final inning we found the batting groove but to no avail as Glenelg secured the victory 13-4. Blue's infield saw multiple configurations today as a result of commonly known gracilis strains, semitendinosus pulls, rotator cuff pain, but luckily Evers overcame either a pectoralis major or clavicle contusion (I heard his uttered "OUCH" before he gunned the runner at first base). Stock tip of the day: "Invest in a company that specializes in both orthotics and analgesics catering to the over '60' crowd". At my count, a minimum of seven Blue are severely aching so we need to play through the pain come Wednesday because it's the Reds from Howard.

Initial Trivia Winner

Yasuko was the first correct responder to today's question with the answer of Blue winning 20-8 with "Mr." Larry Bair being the winning pitcher. Stay tuned, as today's recap is slow coming together. Congrats Yasuko.

Trivia Question

To save you research time, we will start with a current event question: What was the score of CC Blue's second game April 25, 2012 season and who was the winning pitcher? Email your answer to ccss1994@yahoo.com The first correct responder will receive our initial gift certificate to Stables Restaurant.

Welcome Stables Restaurant - Our Newest Sponsor

First Question to appear by April 30th! We are pleased to announce a new sponsor for Carroll County Senior Softball.
Stables Restaurant and Lounge has joined our growing list of sponsors and as such are offering gift certificates to followers of our site. Here is how it works:
Periodically throughout the season a trivia question will appear on the site with the answer somewhere within this Blog page or History link or Stables webpage link.
The first correct responder to email ccss1994@yahoo.com will receive a $10 gift certificate to patronize the sponsor, good toward a meal, excludes drinks and desserts.
There will be 10 trivia questions during the season and an individual can only win twice. Please click on the sponsor's link periodically for all their other specials and take your friends out to dinner at Stables Restaurant to show our appreciation of their sponsorship. A sample question would be: "What group is providing entertainment at Stables Restaurant on Saturday March 3 2012?" The first correct response of "Twenty Dollar Prophet" would win a gift certificate.
First Question to appear by April 30th, and then periodically through August. When visiting Stables, thank Stan for his generous support of Carroll Blue and Carroll Gray.

Deuces Wild

What a day! Second scheduled doubleheader of the season after Monday's rained out opener. First and foremost I have to highlight #2's (Neal) perfect day at the plate and the stellar error free play of #22 (Al) at second base. Al pulled off a diving play regaining his equilibrium and from his knees fired to Tom at 2B to initiate a double play! Narcissistically, I'll mention Tinker's two legs enjoying 20-20 eyesight to start game one with two consecutive walks followed by two hits. We jumped on Harford from the git-go and prevailed 19-3 in the opener. Thunderous hits started us with Bobby D, Al, Jr and Fred showcasing muscle. Larry went the distance for win #1. In Tinker's rounding of second base (having stepped in a hole) Evers played the last two innings flawlessly in the infield. OO started game two and after two innings of struggling with the wind requested Larry come in to relieve. Having spotted Harford a sizable lead, Larry pitched a scoreless five innings to claim victory #2, 20-8. There were contributions from everyone to include the hitting of Dave, Jim, Jerry & Tom. After two seasons of failed attempts to become a "Bluesman" Joe White is finally on the roster and the man had a great day at the plate punching hit after hit in the gaps (Way To Go Joe!). Now that Evers has begun his managerial career 2-0 I'm celebrating with TWO Black and Tans. Two others to mention with that being double L (Lee Ludwig as 3b coach who excelled and Ben Davis as 1B coach {ain't no greater motivators}). Let's cube today's number on Monday at home! And, yes Chance, the muscle was too sore to run in game two.

Baseball's Sad Lexicon: Tinker to Evers to Chance

Three years ago I started this blog using one of baseball's most famous poems.
Jestingly, I adopted the nom de plume of Tinker while assigning "Evers" to Mel and "Chance" to Hank. As a rookie back then I knew I had joined a great group of men but have grown to learn that as a team we do possess the magic of those great Cubs of yore. 2012 marks the 100th anniversary of only one of four 8 game World Series.
How fitting is it that now Mel is our coach and his beloved BoSox won the World Series in 1912 in eight games. Let's win the Championship for dear Evers. Karma is ours as he even talked John McGraw (Lee Ludwig aka "Daddy") out of retirement.

Historic Rosters: 1906 Chicago Cubs

When men were men! They list only one bullpen pitcher showing 1.0 innings pitched and the other pitchers claimed only 9 saves. No infield bench players other than one first baseman were carried on the roster along with 3 reserve outfielders and two catchers.

Bats

The BBSSL listing of legal and prohibited bats for 2012 can be found under the Baltimore Senior Softball League heading on the left side of this page.

Baseball Bloopers

This is for what Spring Training was designed.
(Please note Hank, Jr., Ray etc- It is only the Bo Sox who accomplish the task!!!

Twenty Six Fridays Until Championship

I have received several comments regarding previous music posts so I have decided to post a new tune each Friday until season's end. I will post from Rolling Stone Magazine's list of top 500 hits and try to choose the ones that may remind you of those halcyon days gone by. Friday 3/3/12 is the only hit from the 40s. The Top 500 contain 72 from the 50s, 204 from the 60s, 141 from the 70s, 57 from the 80s, 22 from the 90s and 3 from 2000s. As you'll notice, over half come from our era of youthful glory.

Spring Training

We were in full swing with the full complement, accepting the two teachers and one vacationer, in attendance today. Our one outfielder, who has not been released to run yet, displayed his mid season jabberwocky form. Guess he had to vent all his pent up energy but made the mistake of directing it at our shortstop. (Remember the power of the pen #4)! Speaking of shortstops, Bob, Jr and even Neal flashed the leather at short today....competition is good, right Chance? We are not in game condition yet but all signs point to another successful season. Why does Larry choose to practice his knuckleball, slide step and all other difficult pitches in his arsenal on me?
Eight weeks until opening day lets keep at it!

1946 Jr Hones His Skill

League Realignment and New Schedule

As a result of the BBSSL meeting this morning the previously published schedule is to be scraped. By what I have been told, it was a unanimous decision to structure the Divisions into equal teams of 6 each in Divisions A, B and C. Joining Blue in the A Division along with Harford, Howard Red, and Glenelg will be Glen Burnie and Oldliners. The league officals have begun work on devising a new League schedule for the 2012 campaign. As soon as the new schedule is finalized it will appear on the League website as well as Blue's & Gray's individual schedules will be updated on each respective team page. The Blue team page can be accessed by clicking on the Web Site for CCSS Blue Team link on the left side of this page as well as Gray's being CCSS Gray Team link.
Remember practice will be conducted on Wednesday 2/22 rather than Monday this coming week. If you have not had the opportunity yet, please view the newly created BLUE Team website and the Gray Team website and check out the Roster, Team Records and Schedule & Results 2012 pages. Constructive criticism is always welcome.

New Website Published

Both Blue and Gray have new web sites that are now accessible from the BBSSL
website under the TEAM PAGES tab. Or, you can access them by typing in your
browser bar www.carrollcountyseniorsoftball.yolasite.com for Blue or typing www.carrollcountygrayteam.yolasite.com for Gray. The easiest means to access from here is to click on "WEB SITE" either Blue or Gray under The Baltimore Senior Softball League Heading on the left side of this page.

Coach Mel (Evers)

I wish to report the results of Chance and Tinker's visit to brainstorm with Evers this afternoon. We found Mel in the good hands of a young Physical Therapist upon arrival to CHC as he was chasing her down the hallway. Her subsequent report was that Mel was surprisingly fast and flexible for his age. Once Mel settled back into his room we were updated with the extent of his examinations (X-rays, CAT scans, MRI,
Carotid testing etc.) which all gave favorable results. Chance and I then realized our visit for brain-storming was for naught as Mel recited that the CAT scan of his head revealed nothing. Nonetheless we stayed to visit while he enjoyed his Lobster Thermador lunch. Evers did mention something about his methodology in setting up the batting order in direct relationship to the order by which he was visited by the team. Guess Jr. is leading off again and Chance & I will follow. Still time for you to bat cleanup this year Neal! In offering my reassurance to Mel that CHC has some outstanding doctors, his response was one of his favorite lines: "Do you know farmer Brown?, he was outstanding in his field". On that note, I knew Mel was fine! Let's keep Mel in our prayers just in case.

Organizational Meeting

Coach Mel provided the hospitality of his home in hosting our 2012 inaugural team meeting. To apprise those not in attendance, the twelve attendees made many decisions on the structure and scope of operations for Blue's 2012 campaign. Coach Mel has emailed all team members the specifics of this meeting but allow me to inform any teammate who does not have an email address of certain dictums. Under duress yours truly accepted the nomination to be team Treasurer. By a close vote of 2 ayes, 8 nays and two abstainers,(thanks Dave and Ben for some face saving),
I am now Treasurer as no one else stepped forward. And I swear to you naysers that I don't speak a word of Caymanese!
With several members volunteering to assist in operations in various capacities the
one I look forward to most is that of old 6.9. TH was nominated and elected, in absentia, unanimously to provide for coffee and doughnuts for all teammates prior to each and every game. To further make TH feel appreciated he was also named to secure Motor Coach transportation for all away games and provide for lunch on our return trips home. Jr. requested that I post Hank's job description. As our team Equipment Manager, Hank, feeling over-whelmed with his job responsibilities, it was agreed that he could delegate some of his tasks to 6.9 as well. Hank's job description includes: Procure 17 individually personalized ladles, secure 16 Pom-Pom cheerleaders, keep score for 14 innings, restitch 13 indoor practice balls, prepare the field for 12 home dates, setup and man 11 dates for Refreshment Stand sales, secure 5 DiMarini bats, provide 2 water buckets and finally, execute 1 back hand spring.
First practice at Carroll Indoor is Monday January 30th commencing 10:00 a.m.
Be There or Be Square!