Scores

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“A man once told me to walk with the Lord. I'd rather walk with the bases loaded.” — Ken Singleton

Capitalizing on its trademark defense and speed, Worden Williams triumphed over The Draft with a decisive 17-7 victory, securing a spot in the league championship game against Carlsbad Inn. The Dubs established their dominance early, jumping out to a four-run lead in the first inning and ultimately extending the margin to ten by the end of the game.

In typical fashion, the team’s offensive heroics came from an unexpected source: Jimmy Smyth. Smyth delivered his first home run of the season, going 4-for-4 at the plate, driving in four runs, and punctuating a five-run inning that widened the lead from four to nine runs. He was supported by stellar performances from Bob Buscher (4-for-4), Robert Tahimic (3-for-3), and Bob Loperena (2-for-2 with three RBIs). Ken Auerbach also contributed significantly, going 3-for-4 with three RBIs.

Worden Williams’ defense, which led the league in both Runs Against and Run Differential, shone once again. Highlights included Mike Endeman cutting down a runner at home and Bob Buscher’s impressive one-handed grab to retire a runner at first.

The Draft managed to score with a home run by Barry Stangl, one of the league’s incoming managers, but was otherwise stifled by WW’s Mike Endeman. A special mention goes to Bill Mead, who stepped in as The Draft’s pitcher. Despite two challenging five-run innings, Mead displayed commendable composure and effectiveness on the mound.

Umpires Al Cabacungan and Steve Sexton ensured the game proceeded smoothly and efficiently, showcasing why they’re among the league’s best. The game was played without incident, a testament to their professionalism.

Carlsbad Inn and Plotkin Group were battling some strong easterly winds as they began their semifinal game on Alga 3 today. The winds didn’t seem to bother PG, who scored five runs in the top of the first for the early lead. PG had extended the lead to 8-3 in the top of the third, before CBI scored five in the bottom of the inning to tie the game at 8-8. CBI took its first lead at 9-8 in the fourth. Then the momentum changed in the fifth as CBI plated five more runs for a 14-9 lead. CBI scored three in the seventh, before PG rallied to narrow the lead to 17-13 in the eighth. CBI scored three more runs in the bottom of the inning and held PG scoreless in the ninth for the 20-13 victory.

There is an old adage that “a walk is as good as a hit.” This was certainly evident today, as CBI had 12 walks out of 49 total plate appearances. Most of the walks were by the bottom half of the order and 7 runs were scored by batters receiving a free pass. For the hitting attack, the top of the order did the heavy lifting. Randy Agadoni led the way, going 4 for 4 with a home run and 8 RBIs. Jerry Smith went 3 for 4 with 4 RBIs, Larry Wadalavage went 3 for 4, Randy Baird went 3 for 4 and scored 4 runs.

Ken Thompson did a fine job of pitching, holding PG scoreless in three of the last four innings to secure the win. The infield turned several double plays to keep runners off the bases.

Pat Driscoll led the PG hitters, going 5 for 5. David Bosque went 4 for 4, and Keith Richards and Robert Kroger both went 3 for 4. It was good to see Jimmie Martin at the game, keeping score just one week after having knee replacement surgery!

Many thanks to Rick Shaw for umpiring behind the plate and to Greg Lorton for umpiring at second base.