Wednesday, May 27, 2009
Monday, May 11, 2009
Shoot-out at Warren Ballfield
BISBEE, ARIZONA TERRITORY - A blistering desert sun scorched the badlands of Cochise County while two teams, the Phoenix Senators and the Bisbee Bees, battled it out in the township of Bisbee this weekend. For the Bees, the doubleheader represented their triumphant return after decades of absence to the glorious Warren Ballfield, which is literally the oldest living baseball field in the world. For the well-dressed, dapper gentlemen and one fine lady from the Phoenix club, it represented a threat to their lives that they undertook in order to help the Bees honor their history before the rambunctious citizens of this lawless, depraved town. As often as the Senators caught fly balls, they were dodging flying rusted milk cans, used horseshoes and an occasional bullet. On the stagecoach route from the capitol of Phoenix to Bisbee, star players Bulldozer Busch and Kid Linker were ambushed by supposed banditos in what was almost certainly a nefarious plot by Bisbeeans to derail a Phoenix victory. Alas, the plot failed, as the same sharpshootin' skills that have made Busch an ace hurler were applied to his ability to handle a six-shot. Busch and the Kid shot their way out of the backstabbin' conspiracy and they showed up to the ballfield 20 minutes before the opening pitch, with women, children and horses all intact. It was a miracle.
The Senators exacted their revenge for these shenanigans by depriving the Bees of their chance at victory for their first game on the field. Jumping out to a 2-0 lead in the first inning and with hurler Sparky Bleich on the mound, the Senators defense played flawless ball and shut down the Bisbee bats for all but the final inning when they squeaked in a single run. Final tally: Phoenix 6 aces, Bisbee one.
The second game reversed the teams' fortunes, with Bisbee dominating the offensive battle and winning the game by a handy margin. While disappointing for the Senators, this result probably saved their lives as they likely would have been round up and shot in the town square if they'd swept the series. As it is, they were still chased out of town by the skin of their teeth and had to enlist the help of a rogue band of Apaches in the area to aid in their escape back to Maricopa County. "The Senators drew blood in Cochise County," declared team captain Stosh Lopata, "and one day, we will return and a split decision will not satisfy our thirst for the necks of these hooligans." "That's right Stoshie. These sumsabeetches will pay!" hollered the most spirited lady ballplayer this reporter has ever seen this side of the Mississippi, Jacki "Crackerjack" Alexander. On that note, these fine players took their final swigs of whatever they had in their canteens, whooped up their horses and rode off into the sunset, guns on one hip and base ball mitts on the other.
The Senators exacted their revenge for these shenanigans by depriving the Bees of their chance at victory for their first game on the field. Jumping out to a 2-0 lead in the first inning and with hurler Sparky Bleich on the mound, the Senators defense played flawless ball and shut down the Bisbee bats for all but the final inning when they squeaked in a single run. Final tally: Phoenix 6 aces, Bisbee one.
The second game reversed the teams' fortunes, with Bisbee dominating the offensive battle and winning the game by a handy margin. While disappointing for the Senators, this result probably saved their lives as they likely would have been round up and shot in the town square if they'd swept the series. As it is, they were still chased out of town by the skin of their teeth and had to enlist the help of a rogue band of Apaches in the area to aid in their escape back to Maricopa County. "The Senators drew blood in Cochise County," declared team captain Stosh Lopata, "and one day, we will return and a split decision will not satisfy our thirst for the necks of these hooligans." "That's right Stoshie. These sumsabeetches will pay!" hollered the most spirited lady ballplayer this reporter has ever seen this side of the Mississippi, Jacki "Crackerjack" Alexander. On that note, these fine players took their final swigs of whatever they had in their canteens, whooped up their horses and rode off into the sunset, guns on one hip and base ball mitts on the other.
Thursday, April 23, 2009
1880's Rules
Rule #1: There is no such thing as a routine play.
Players and fans will quickly learn that there is no such thing as a routine play in vintage baseball. It is a wonderful mix of routine plays gone awry, and difficult plays executed perfectly. This element of the game is the result of using baseball’s early small full finger un-webbed gloves. Every play can be an adventure.
HOME TEAM
Determined by a coin flip by umpire at home plate between each club captain just prior to start of game.
UMPIRE
One umpire, usually positioned 10‘-15’ off center and behind home plate, depending on whether a lefty or righty batter. Umpire may smoke a cigar while calling the game.
UMPIRE ADDRESSED AS “SIR“:
There is absolutely no animated contesting of calls, arguing or quarreling with umpire. Any slight disagreement can result in immediate ejection from game. Umpire is always addressed as “Sir” by the players.
GENTLEMAN’S RULE:
In the event an umpire has missed a play, he can request a “Gentleman’s Ruling”. Players involved in play will truthfully sy what transpired and call can be reversed. Also, if umpire misses a rules interpretation, a Captain can request a meeting with umpire (both Captains must be in meeting) and call can be reversed.
HOMEPLATE:
Home plate is 12”x12”x½” wood base that rests loose on ground. It is angled with point toward pitchers box.
BASES:
Bases are loose at each location. Sand, sawdust or hay filled.
PITCHERS BOX:
There is no pitchers mound or pitching rubber. It is a pitchers box that measures 4’ wide x 6’ deep and is outlined in chalk. Front line of box is 50’ from home plate. Pitcher must start and land inside of box on each pitch. Umpire can call no pitch if violation occurs. If violation occurs twice in same at-bat, batter is awarded first base.
BASE COACH:
One base coach only. Must be either Captain or Assistant Captain (named before game). This will lead to base coaching strategies during a game that can impact a play. Example: If base coach is on-deck, batting or on base, there will be situations of no base coach available, therefore, advancing runners must use instinct on bases. Base coach will routinely shift from first base to third base depending on situation of where runner may need most help on next play.
BALKS:
No balk rule to first base. Fake throws and quick pitch is common with runner on first. Pitcher may stand in box, fake two or three throws to first and then quick pitch to plate.
TIMEOUTS:
Can only be called by club Captain. If batter steps out of box, he can be quick-pitched.
CATCHER/PITCHER - Shotgun Position & Pitching Speed:
Catchers gear includes glove, mask and chest protector -- no shin guards. Catchers mitt is by era design and does not resemble today’s modern round mitt but is larger and more padded than fielder gloves. Five finger mitt with no webbing. Catcher may also wear a half-finger glove on throwing hand. Pitching speed is determined by catcher’s “pain threshold” and typically is 70+ MPH with breaking balls and spit balls allowed. To enable pitchers to throw harder, some catchers will move to “shotgun” position with no runners on base -- catcher will stand 20’-30’ behind home plate which allows pitcher to throw his hardest as catcher takes pitch on a bounce.
HIP! HIP! HUZZAH! - ball club gentlemanly cheer
At the end of game, each club will salute the other with a short thank you speech presented by Captain that is followed with team cheer with caps held high of HIP, HIP HUZZAH!
FOUL BALLS (No Strike) & HIT BATSMAN (No Base Awarded):
Foul balls are not counted as strikes and hit batsman is a deadball (counted as a ball) with no base awarded.
BALLS & STRIKES:
7 Balls = Walk. 3 Strikes = Out.
QUICK PITCH:
Since time-outs can only be called by each club Captain, pitchers can throw a pitch as soon as it is returned to the mound. Batters may sometimes revert to modern baseball tendencies between pitches and step out of box momentarily or make adjustments as pitcher is receiving ball, allowing pitcher opportunity to “quick pitch” a strike. Another trick play will involve 2-3 throws to first with runner there. This can lull batter into stepping away from plate or relaxing. When first baseman returns throw to pitcher, pitcher will catch ball, spin and immediately throw pitch to home plate, catching the batter off guard.
NO INFIELD FLY RULE:
This can lead to trick plays by infielders to remove faster runner in place of slower batter and can also induce double plays.
DROPPED THIRD STRIKES:
Dropped third strike (swinging or called) by catcher is a live ball and in force situations, runners must advance. If catcher tags batter, force is removed.
FOUL TIP OUT:
Any foul tip caught by catcher is an out, regardless of count. This will happen once or twice a game.
NO CHECK SWING:
Any shoulder movement on a pitch can be called a strike. Umpire judgment call. A slight intent to swing can be called a strike.
BATTING ETIQUETTE: Strike Zone
Umpire will announce “Strike to the line!”. Batter steps toward home plate and umpire will ask batter for his “desired strike preference.” Batter can call for low strike (belt to knee) or high strike (belt to underarms). Umpire will then announce to pitcher “Striker has requested Low (or High) strikes.” Throughout the entire AB, only low or high strikes will be called against the batter.
FOUL BALLS:
Foul balls into stands must be returned and put back into play. Baseballs are not changed, only if lost or defective, will another new ball enter the game.
HIDDEN BALL TRICK:
Popular defensive play. Since there is no rule requiring pitcher to have ball in hand while on mound, and no time outs between plays, there are many creative opportunities to attempt this play.
EQUIPMENT & ETIQUETTE :
Games are played with 19th century replica equipment including uniforms, baseballs, bats and gloves. Not permitted in vintage base ball includes batting helmets, batting gloves, sunglasses, uniform numbers/names, shoe logos, exterior protective gear (other than catcher). No high fives/low fives, etc., taunting of opposing players, turned caps. Permitted is handshakes, applauding opposing player on a nice play.
ERA BASEBALL TERMS AND VERNACULAR:
Vintage ball players typically incorporate era jargon into their on-field chatter including:
“cranks” = fans
“hands down” = out
“hurler” = pitcher
“striker” = batter
“captain” = manager
“ace” = run
“leg it” = running hard
“sky ball” = pop up
“muff” = error
“ginger” = determination
“striker to the line” = batter up
“ballist” = ballplayer
“whitewash” = shutout
“garden” = outfield
“daisy cutter” = hit grounder
“behind” = catcher
Players and fans will quickly learn that there is no such thing as a routine play in vintage baseball. It is a wonderful mix of routine plays gone awry, and difficult plays executed perfectly. This element of the game is the result of using baseball’s early small full finger un-webbed gloves. Every play can be an adventure.
HOME TEAM
Determined by a coin flip by umpire at home plate between each club captain just prior to start of game.
UMPIRE
One umpire, usually positioned 10‘-15’ off center and behind home plate, depending on whether a lefty or righty batter. Umpire may smoke a cigar while calling the game.
UMPIRE ADDRESSED AS “SIR“:
There is absolutely no animated contesting of calls, arguing or quarreling with umpire. Any slight disagreement can result in immediate ejection from game. Umpire is always addressed as “Sir” by the players.
GENTLEMAN’S RULE:
In the event an umpire has missed a play, he can request a “Gentleman’s Ruling”. Players involved in play will truthfully sy what transpired and call can be reversed. Also, if umpire misses a rules interpretation, a Captain can request a meeting with umpire (both Captains must be in meeting) and call can be reversed.
HOMEPLATE:
Home plate is 12”x12”x½” wood base that rests loose on ground. It is angled with point toward pitchers box.
BASES:
Bases are loose at each location. Sand, sawdust or hay filled.
PITCHERS BOX:
There is no pitchers mound or pitching rubber. It is a pitchers box that measures 4’ wide x 6’ deep and is outlined in chalk. Front line of box is 50’ from home plate. Pitcher must start and land inside of box on each pitch. Umpire can call no pitch if violation occurs. If violation occurs twice in same at-bat, batter is awarded first base.
BASE COACH:
One base coach only. Must be either Captain or Assistant Captain (named before game). This will lead to base coaching strategies during a game that can impact a play. Example: If base coach is on-deck, batting or on base, there will be situations of no base coach available, therefore, advancing runners must use instinct on bases. Base coach will routinely shift from first base to third base depending on situation of where runner may need most help on next play.
BALKS:
No balk rule to first base. Fake throws and quick pitch is common with runner on first. Pitcher may stand in box, fake two or three throws to first and then quick pitch to plate.
TIMEOUTS:
Can only be called by club Captain. If batter steps out of box, he can be quick-pitched.
CATCHER/PITCHER - Shotgun Position & Pitching Speed:
Catchers gear includes glove, mask and chest protector -- no shin guards. Catchers mitt is by era design and does not resemble today’s modern round mitt but is larger and more padded than fielder gloves. Five finger mitt with no webbing. Catcher may also wear a half-finger glove on throwing hand. Pitching speed is determined by catcher’s “pain threshold” and typically is 70+ MPH with breaking balls and spit balls allowed. To enable pitchers to throw harder, some catchers will move to “shotgun” position with no runners on base -- catcher will stand 20’-30’ behind home plate which allows pitcher to throw his hardest as catcher takes pitch on a bounce.
HIP! HIP! HUZZAH! - ball club gentlemanly cheer
At the end of game, each club will salute the other with a short thank you speech presented by Captain that is followed with team cheer with caps held high of HIP, HIP HUZZAH!
FOUL BALLS (No Strike) & HIT BATSMAN (No Base Awarded):
Foul balls are not counted as strikes and hit batsman is a deadball (counted as a ball) with no base awarded.
BALLS & STRIKES:
7 Balls = Walk. 3 Strikes = Out.
QUICK PITCH:
Since time-outs can only be called by each club Captain, pitchers can throw a pitch as soon as it is returned to the mound. Batters may sometimes revert to modern baseball tendencies between pitches and step out of box momentarily or make adjustments as pitcher is receiving ball, allowing pitcher opportunity to “quick pitch” a strike. Another trick play will involve 2-3 throws to first with runner there. This can lull batter into stepping away from plate or relaxing. When first baseman returns throw to pitcher, pitcher will catch ball, spin and immediately throw pitch to home plate, catching the batter off guard.
NO INFIELD FLY RULE:
This can lead to trick plays by infielders to remove faster runner in place of slower batter and can also induce double plays.
DROPPED THIRD STRIKES:
Dropped third strike (swinging or called) by catcher is a live ball and in force situations, runners must advance. If catcher tags batter, force is removed.
FOUL TIP OUT:
Any foul tip caught by catcher is an out, regardless of count. This will happen once or twice a game.
NO CHECK SWING:
Any shoulder movement on a pitch can be called a strike. Umpire judgment call. A slight intent to swing can be called a strike.
BATTING ETIQUETTE: Strike Zone
Umpire will announce “Strike to the line!”. Batter steps toward home plate and umpire will ask batter for his “desired strike preference.” Batter can call for low strike (belt to knee) or high strike (belt to underarms). Umpire will then announce to pitcher “Striker has requested Low (or High) strikes.” Throughout the entire AB, only low or high strikes will be called against the batter.
FOUL BALLS:
Foul balls into stands must be returned and put back into play. Baseballs are not changed, only if lost or defective, will another new ball enter the game.
HIDDEN BALL TRICK:
Popular defensive play. Since there is no rule requiring pitcher to have ball in hand while on mound, and no time outs between plays, there are many creative opportunities to attempt this play.
EQUIPMENT & ETIQUETTE :
Games are played with 19th century replica equipment including uniforms, baseballs, bats and gloves. Not permitted in vintage base ball includes batting helmets, batting gloves, sunglasses, uniform numbers/names, shoe logos, exterior protective gear (other than catcher). No high fives/low fives, etc., taunting of opposing players, turned caps. Permitted is handshakes, applauding opposing player on a nice play.
ERA BASEBALL TERMS AND VERNACULAR:
Vintage ball players typically incorporate era jargon into their on-field chatter including:
“cranks” = fans
“hands down” = out
“hurler” = pitcher
“striker” = batter
“captain” = manager
“ace” = run
“leg it” = running hard
“sky ball” = pop up
“muff” = error
“ginger” = determination
“striker to the line” = batter up
“ballist” = ballplayer
“whitewash” = shutout
“garden” = outfield
“daisy cutter” = hit grounder
“behind” = catcher
1860's Rules
1860's Base Ball Terminology
Club Nine...................Team
Hurler.........................Pitcher
Umpire.......................Umpire
Aces............................Runs
Player Dead...............Out
3 Hands Dead............Side Retired
Match..........................Game
Behind........................Catcher
Cranks........................Fans
Foul Tic......................Foul Ball
Striker........................Batter
Leg It!..........................Run!
Huzzah!.....................Hurrah!
1860 Base Ball Rules and Customs
Base ball is a gentleman's game:
Matches are conducted according to the highest standards of sportsmanship, gentlemanly behavior, courtesy and respect for others.
There is no : swearing, spitting, scratching, consumption of alcohol, chewing of tobacco or wagering.
Gentleman shall forbear from commenting on umpires judgement.
The Umpire:
Calls foul tics immediately.
May ask players and cranks for assistance in making calls.
Does not call balls, and may call strikes, if deemed necessary.
Levies fines, on the spot, for ungentlemanly conduct.
In Hurling:
The ball must be hurled underhanded, not jerked or thrown.
The ball must be delivered as near as possible to center of home plate.
A Striker is dead when:
A batted ball is caught on one bound off the ground, fair or foul, or on the fly, fair or foul.
After three swinging or called strikes. Foul tics are not strikes.
Other Differences:
Players do not wear gloves or other protective equipment (Note: players may wear period correct gloves that are similar in size to batting gloves.)
There is no sliding, leading off or stealing of bases.
The striker may not over run first base.
A batted ball is determined fair or foul by where it first hits the ground. ONCE A BALL STRIKES FAIR GROUND, IT IS ALWAYS FAIR!!
Players crossing home plate safely must then proceed to the tallykeeper's table, placed one hand on the table, raise the other hand and ask the tallykeeper to please tally his ace for his team. He is then instructed to strike the tally bell. Only then does his ace count.
A runner may not advance if the striker's ball is caught on the fly. He will be instructed to return to his base and may not be put out A runner may advance at his own risk if the striker's ball is caught on one bound, fair or foul.
Club Nine...................Team
Hurler.........................Pitcher
Umpire.......................Umpire
Aces............................Runs
Player Dead...............Out
3 Hands Dead............Side Retired
Match..........................Game
Behind........................Catcher
Cranks........................Fans
Foul Tic......................Foul Ball
Striker........................Batter
Leg It!..........................Run!
Huzzah!.....................Hurrah!
1860 Base Ball Rules and Customs
Base ball is a gentleman's game:
Matches are conducted according to the highest standards of sportsmanship, gentlemanly behavior, courtesy and respect for others.
There is no : swearing, spitting, scratching, consumption of alcohol, chewing of tobacco or wagering.
Gentleman shall forbear from commenting on umpires judgement.
The Umpire:
Calls foul tics immediately.
May ask players and cranks for assistance in making calls.
Does not call balls, and may call strikes, if deemed necessary.
Levies fines, on the spot, for ungentlemanly conduct.
In Hurling:
The ball must be hurled underhanded, not jerked or thrown.
The ball must be delivered as near as possible to center of home plate.
A Striker is dead when:
A batted ball is caught on one bound off the ground, fair or foul, or on the fly, fair or foul.
After three swinging or called strikes. Foul tics are not strikes.
Other Differences:
Players do not wear gloves or other protective equipment (Note: players may wear period correct gloves that are similar in size to batting gloves.)
There is no sliding, leading off or stealing of bases.
The striker may not over run first base.
A batted ball is determined fair or foul by where it first hits the ground. ONCE A BALL STRIKES FAIR GROUND, IT IS ALWAYS FAIR!!
Players crossing home plate safely must then proceed to the tallykeeper's table, placed one hand on the table, raise the other hand and ask the tallykeeper to please tally his ace for his team. He is then instructed to strike the tally bell. Only then does his ace count.
A runner may not advance if the striker's ball is caught on the fly. He will be instructed to return to his base and may not be put out A runner may advance at his own risk if the striker's ball is caught on one bound, fair or foul.
Sunday, April 12, 2009
Saturday, April 4, 2009
Seadog's Revenge
PEORIA TOWNSHIP, ARIZONA TERRITORY - Jude "Seadog" Clark (aka "One tough son of a swashbuckler") stared down a serious medical threat in California, then rode his horse straight to Peoria to stare down the opposition and rally his Phoenix Senators team to a miraculous victory over the Bisbee Bees last Saturday. While unable to play on doctor's orders, the aptly named Seadog played third base coach, serving as a stoic inspiration to his teammates as they struggled to keep up with a relentless Bisbee Bees squad. For the vast majority of the game, Bisbee played flawless defense and swatted balls around the garden with ease. For much of the day, the Senators were three or four aces behind and could not seem to find a way to catch up.
Then, something happened. The Senators performed a miraculous four-run rally in the ninth inning that tied up the game. Never having confronted a tie scenario in the history of base ball before, Phoenix and Bisbee put their heads together and had a gentlemanly discussion about what to do next. Should we call it a draw? Should we keep playing innings until there is a winner? Ultimately, the two teams, which have an enduring friendship that goes back to the very first days of base ball in the Arizona Territory, agreed to play one last tenth inning, win lose or draw. Alas for the Bees, the Phoenix bats kept booming in the tenth just as they were in the ninth. The Phoenix Senators legged out the Bisbee Bees by a score of 13 aces to 9.
The Phoenix victory sets up the ultimate revenge match to be played in May, in Bisbee. There, the Senators will play before a hostile crowd of Bisbeeans, many of whom are likely to be gun-slinging hooligans from what this author knows of the rowdy residents of that lawless border town.
Then, something happened. The Senators performed a miraculous four-run rally in the ninth inning that tied up the game. Never having confronted a tie scenario in the history of base ball before, Phoenix and Bisbee put their heads together and had a gentlemanly discussion about what to do next. Should we call it a draw? Should we keep playing innings until there is a winner? Ultimately, the two teams, which have an enduring friendship that goes back to the very first days of base ball in the Arizona Territory, agreed to play one last tenth inning, win lose or draw. Alas for the Bees, the Phoenix bats kept booming in the tenth just as they were in the ninth. The Phoenix Senators legged out the Bisbee Bees by a score of 13 aces to 9.
The Phoenix victory sets up the ultimate revenge match to be played in May, in Bisbee. There, the Senators will play before a hostile crowd of Bisbeeans, many of whom are likely to be gun-slinging hooligans from what this author knows of the rowdy residents of that lawless border town.
Sunday, March 29, 2009
Stosh Lopata to captain reinvigorated Senators
PHOENIX, ARIZONA TERRITORY - Club owner Neil "I'm Not Steinbrenner" Singh announced this morning that Mike "Stosh" Lopata, a veteran all-star acquired from the Chicago White Stockings last year, will take over the helm for the Phoenix Senators as their new field manager. The change comes among a number of shifts in the club's organization as the team moves from the scrappy fledgling motley crew it was last year to the well-oiled, professional batting and striking machine it hopes to be as it moves into the 20th century. "Between my Arizona beachfront real estate business--telegram me for details--and serving as local counsel for the Pony Express as it upgrades in technology from horses to stagecoaches, I heard a team consensus that it was best to spread some of the core functions of our club among our key players. Plus, Stosh is a tough son-of-a-gun even if he is a city slicker from Chicagoland and I know he'll keep the gun-slinging roughnecks on our roster in check." The team will announce further changes involving additional club members shortly, but wanted the public to know about Stoshie in time for his debut as manager for today's game against the arch-rival Bisbee Bees.
Sunday, March 8, 2009
Showdown at Papago
March 8, 2009
Papago Park - Phoenix, Arizona
In what was feared to be the next shoot-out at the OK Corral, the Phoenix Senators had a scheduled match with their territorial cousins, the Bisbee Bee's...or at least they 'thought' they were going to have a match. After licking their wounds from a lopsided encounter a few weeks ago, the Senator's had blood in their eyes and were determined to put a whoopin' on the Bee's.
As it turned out they didn't have to...the Bee's forfeited when only two ballists showed up! Nobody is saying they were scared to show up or anything, but ya' never know! The Phoenix ballclub doesn't take too kindly to being beat up on and this was a week to let the Bee's know it wasn't going to happen again.
So, instead of playing a match and in the spirit of being a gentlemen's game, the Senator's and Bee's conducted a spirited scrimmage and had a good work-out instead. There are plenty of games ahead and the rivalry is becoming stronger than ever. In the meantime, the Senator's will just have to be content with a forfeited victory.
Monday, February 23, 2009
Saturday, January 24, 2009
Senators Face a Divided House
SUN CITY, COUNTY OF MARICOPA, ARIZONA TERRITORY - The formidable Phoenix Senators had to settle for a split decision during their last outing on January 17, 1886, a grueling two-match day in Sun City. The gentlemen from the capital first took on the Sun City West Redstockings at eleven o'clock in the mornin' under a bright blue sky. The city slickers built a quick lead and never lost it, hanging on for a 13-6 victory. A couple of hours later, battered, bruised and battle-worn, they courageously took on a second challenge from the well-rested Sun City Blackstockings, who for their part were playing their first match of the day. In a closely fought and emotional desert duel in which the actual Mayor of Sun City presided as umpire, the men in black sox edged out Phoenix by a score of 6 aces to 3.
In total, the Phoenix Senators have played a total of seven matches this season, winning five of them. Three matches were played against their inter-territorial rivals the Bisbee Bees, as part of a seven-game series in which the Senators have taken a commanding 3-0 lead so far. Their only losses have been a pair of nail-biters against the Sun City Blackstockings. The remainder of their agenda this season is as follows:
In total, the Phoenix Senators have played a total of seven matches this season, winning five of them. Three matches were played against their inter-territorial rivals the Bisbee Bees, as part of a seven-game series in which the Senators have taken a commanding 3-0 lead so far. Their only losses have been a pair of nail-biters against the Sun City Blackstockings. The remainder of their agenda this season is as follows:
February 8, at Bisbee Bees
February 22 in Tempe, hosting the Bees
March 8, at Bisbee Bees
March 29 in Tempe, hosting the Bees
Mid-May, date to be specified, Territorial Championship in Bisbee, Arizona
Monday, January 12, 2009
Senators Swat the Bees
PEORIA, ARIZONA TERRITORY - The Senators Hosted the Bees at what was their first home game ever. The weather was unseasonably warm for January with a game time temperature of 68 degrees. The sun was high and the air currents warm for a noon start. The cranks were found removing sweaters and coats, basking in the warm air.
The Bees struck first as they were the visiting team. They pushed one ace across the plate in their first appearance as strikers. The Senators came right back and pushed a few aces of their own. The aces were kept low as a dynamic defensive show was put on by all ballists on both squads.
The Senators took a seven aces to five aces lead in the 7th inning, and the score remained the same until the top of the ninth inning. The Bees bats came to life as they were able to push two aces across the plate to tie the game, however, the Senators still had their last chance to win with the home field advantage.
With the breeze shading towards right center garden, the Senators took advantage of a game weary Bees hurler. Although the Senators bats were alive, the Bees defense wasn't ready to give up. The Senators worked to get two strikers on the sacks but faced a two men dead situation and still needing to tally one more ace to claim victory.
As one watched, the intensity level peaked as the Bees hurler dug deep as he faced the last striker. The Bees hurler did his job as the Senators striker swatted a lazy fly ball in the infield. The Senators runners left the sacks on contact and took advantage of an errant play by the Bees middle maintainer as the winning ace was tallied.
[Unknown Reporter believed to be Lance "Bulldozer" Busch"]
The Bees struck first as they were the visiting team. They pushed one ace across the plate in their first appearance as strikers. The Senators came right back and pushed a few aces of their own. The aces were kept low as a dynamic defensive show was put on by all ballists on both squads.
The Senators took a seven aces to five aces lead in the 7th inning, and the score remained the same until the top of the ninth inning. The Bees bats came to life as they were able to push two aces across the plate to tie the game, however, the Senators still had their last chance to win with the home field advantage.
With the breeze shading towards right center garden, the Senators took advantage of a game weary Bees hurler. Although the Senators bats were alive, the Bees defense wasn't ready to give up. The Senators worked to get two strikers on the sacks but faced a two men dead situation and still needing to tally one more ace to claim victory.
As one watched, the intensity level peaked as the Bees hurler dug deep as he faced the last striker. The Bees hurler did his job as the Senators striker swatted a lazy fly ball in the infield. The Senators runners left the sacks on contact and took advantage of an errant play by the Bees middle maintainer as the winning ace was tallied.
[Unknown Reporter believed to be Lance "Bulldozer" Busch"]
Sunday, December 7, 2008
Senator's take the sting out of the Bee's
December 7, 2008
Territory of Peoria, Arizona
Following a week of licking their wounds from their first loss of the season, the Phoenix Senators brought out the lumber early and often in a 22-12 route of the Bisbee Bee's.
With the bad taste of their defeat last week still in their mouths, the Senator's piled on 15 runs in the first three innings and then withstood a last inning rally to douse any chances of a Bee's comeback. Mike Lopata led the attack with a two of the longest triples ever recorded and Ben Miller contributed with another homer aided by his swift speed. Larry Bleich capped off the third with a grand slam homer that found the gap and the route was on.
Showing a tremendous 1-2 punch in the order and brilliant flashes of leather, Lance Busch and Zalek Linker proved they are among the leagues best. JD Marli added insurance runs at the most crucial times and fielded 2nd base flawlessly. Adding another dimension, he even brought his father along as a fill-in player...'Pops' came through with an RBI at just the right time!
The weather was cold, but the bats were hot and the result is another winning streak in the mix and the Phoenix Senators are starting to show their swagger. With one month off to rest and heal some minor injuries, the Senators are gearing up for upcoming holiday tournament play January 10-11, 2009.
Wednesday, December 3, 2008
Media Coverage of Holiday Tournament
It may not have been Matthew Brady taking photo's, but we did manage to have a local photographer from the Northwest Valley territories snapping photo's of the baseball tournament and we have a link to the site for all to see...
www.freedomgalleries.com/dnsun/main.php?g2_itemId=2400 If that does not work, go to: www.yourwestvalley.com. Then scroll down to Local Photo Galleries and click on Vintage Baseball in Surprise. There are representative pictures of each team.
In the future we will surely have better photo's for all to admire!
Saturday, November 29, 2008
Holiday Tournament Results from Surprise, Arizona
Territory of Surprise, Arizona
The sky was clear and the sun bright overhead; a perfect setting as the Phoenix Senators laced up their spikes to battle the Sun City Blackstockings. Perhaps considered the most versatile and prolific team in the Vintage Baseball League, the Blackstockings looked to put another notch on their belt in their first ever match with the Senators.
In an epic battle that went into extra innings, the Blackstockings finally prevailed and defeated the Phoenix Senators 8-7, thereby ending the perfect record the Senators had achieved to date. In what could be called a 'moral' victory, the Senators showed passion and perseverance by scoring two runs in the top of the 7th to tie the score...Mike "Sloth" Hayton supplied the key blow by smacking an RBI triple to send the game into extra innings.
Every Senator contributed in the battle either defensively or with the bat: Lance "Bulldozer" Busch showed his power and speed by starting the game with a solid triple and was pushed across the plate by Rob "Wheels" Greenspan's solid single. Ben "the Beard" Miller continued to flash speed and solid defense and Jude "Seadog" Clark patrolled right field like a pro.
"JD" Marli, "Stosh" Lopata and "Buddha" Linker continue to shine at the plate and in the field and the cranks in the stands could be heard chanting their names with each plate appearance. The Bisbee Bee's still in attendance took note of this performance and acknowledged the fight the Senator's put up. A big "huzzah' was the sign off for the day.
Thursday, November 20, 2008
Captain Singh
...by the way - we will be without our illustrious captain, Neil 'crazy legs' Singh for our Holiday Classics game. Neil is taking 'vacation time' to offer his services (legal and/or physical) to the victims of Hurricane Katrina. He is headed to Mississippi for a few weeks and we wish him well. This is an extraordinary gift he is offering to those in need and I am sure this will be fulfilling for him as well. Three 'huzzah's' for Neil.
Revised Schedule and update on Holiday Classic
A revised schedule of 2008/2009 for the Phoenix Senators has been posted on the Sportsvite.com team page. Games have now been scheduled through May '09. You will note that games played at our home field at Papago Park begin at 12:00 pm; games played at the Bisbee Bee's park ( Varney Park) are scheduled to begin at 1:00 pm. We have a few week-ends without games due to holidays and/or scheduling conflicts, but this provides for opportunities should they arise with the Sun Cities leagues.
Speaking of our fellow clubbers in the Northwest, the following information was passed along with regards to our November 29 matches:
Prior to each match, the participating teams will be introduced to the "cranks". Each team will come out and line up on the 1st base or 3rd base lines (starting at home plate). The announcer will call each players name, nickname and hometown. The hometown is generally where they grew up. When their name is called, they will take one step forward and 'don' their caps. Ballists stay in place until all players and coaches are announced.
After the announcements, each team captain will go to homeplate and the umpire will toss a bat into the air. One of the captains will be designated to catch it. The captains will go hand over hand until one hand 'caps' the top of the bat. Whoever 'caps' the bat will have the option of being home team or visitor. Please have your team arrive at least 30 minutes prior to the start of the match.
The schedule for 11/29/08 is as follows:
2:00 pm - Bisbee Bee's vs Red Stockings
4:00 pm Phoenix Senators vs Black Stockings
6:00 pm Arizona Aces vs Valley Stars
We will be playing 1860's rules. Gloves are optional. Base maintainers must be only two paces off their sack. Gardeners must take a neutral position in the outfield. They may move up or back, but cannot shift side to side.
The next blog entry will tally our results from the tournament.
Monday, November 10, 2008
Phoenix Senators vs Bisbee Bee's - November 9, 2008
PEORIA, ARIZONA TERRITORY - On a day that started under sunny 75 degree temperatures and ended with a chorus of thunder, lightning and hail, the Phoenix Senators downed the Bisbee Bee's by a final score of 15-10 and ran their undefeated record to 4-0. With Bisbee short one player, Senator's Co-Captain Larry 'Sparky' Bleich took on the unique role of playing for both sides. 'Sparky' hurled a complete game for both teams thereby earning the distinct honor of being both the winning pitcher, losing pitcher and getting the save! Fortunately for the Senator's he was the winning pitcher!
As the visiting ballclub to Varney Field, the Senator's played an all-around solid game getting contributions from all strikers and combined this with an vast array of solid defensive gems. Jude Clark played a courageous game behind the plate and earned kudo's from all for his deft handling of the game. Center Gardener Ben Miller and Left Gardiner Mike Lopata patrolled the outfield beautifully and made multiple great defensive catches and throws to keep the game in check. Father/Son tandem Lance Busch and Zalek Linker handled the left side of the infield flawlessly and contributed timely hits with runners in scoring position. Mike Hayton and Rob Greenspan handled the right side of the infield and kept everyone in check..several exceptional one handed snags at 1st base even drew a chorus of cheers from the cranks attending the game.
In contrast to the Prescott game where the Phoenix Senators piled on the runs with the long ball, this game was a masterful display of singles, doubles and timely RBI's by each striker. Contributing to the scoring was new Senator, David M - our Right Gardiner who collected his first two RBI's...good job David.
And to put the game into final perspective, heading into the 9th inning, the sky darkened, the wind swirled and with 'Devine Intervention', the sky opened up with HAIL! With lightning as a backdrop and hail falling, the Senators mowed 'em down in the 9th inning to preserve the victory. Huzzah!
The Phoenix Senator's hope to have their captain, Neil Singh back at the helm soon as he recovers from a calf injury suffered while rounding the bases so frequently! Mend quickly skipper!
Senators smoke out Bees in historic game at Prescott
PRESCOTT, ARIZONA TERRITORY - The Phoenix Senators' young Zalek Linker hit for the cycle, Lance Busch pitched like an ace, Ben Miller terrified the opposition's pitchers, and Sparky Bleich hit so many triples he had to trade his cleats for a pair of running shoes during a 39-16 romp of the Bisbee Bees. The game was the first time the Bees and Senators had faced each other in full uniform in over five decades, and kicked off a season-long rivalry series that will extend into March. The Phoenix crew started off slow and watched the Bees grab a quick lead in the early innings, but the Senator bats seemed to catch fire by the middle of the 5-inning game and there was no looking back. Phoenix wreaked havoc from every spot in the line-up, with Mike Lopata, Rob Greenspan and new recruit Mike Hayton clobbering the ball from the so-called bottom third of the line-up. While the victory was decisive, team captain Neil Singh was quick to caution players and cranks: "The Bees will have only one thing on their mind after this game, and that's revenge. They haven't been practicing as much as we have leading up to this game so as soon as they get back up to their usual level of play, we could be in trouble."
Monday, October 20, 2008
Phoenix Magazine on the Phoenix Senators
Page 66 of the November edition of Phoenix Magazine features a full, two-page article about our very own team, plus some history about our original namesakes from 1915. I was interviewed for the article and there's even mention of Bulldozer Busch. Look for it on newstands!
Sunday, October 19, 2008
Prescott Art Beat interview
Prescott KJZA's Andrew Johnson-Schmit interviewed me for a show broadcast in northern Arizona earlier this Sunday. Here's the first audio segment:
Second segment:
Prescott Art Beat's write-up about us here.
Second segment:
Prescott Art Beat's write-up about us here.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
