MAJA: Hounds Stumble at the Final Hurdle

It was a brisk Saturday afternoon in the city and  the championship was on the line in Central Park. Weather had prevented this series from happening for about a month, and we were champing at the bit to get on the field. The trophy was on display for all to see, and all that was left was to throw the first pitch.

Our staff ace Margaret took the mound looking to continue her dominance. Unfortunately, our opponents had other plans, and we appeared to be a bit tight from the long layoff. They were able to hit bleeps and bloops all over the field, and were also aided by some Hounds miscues. By the time the top of the 1st was over, we were down 5-0. We fought right back in the bottom of the 1st, Dave hitting a 3-run homer. But after that, they shut us down. They tacked on some runs and we stayed quiet. Final Score: Soft Balls 8, Hounds 3.

For Game 2, coach took no chances and put Margaret right back on the hill. This time our defense was much better, but our bats continued to stay dormant. Let's give credit to Soft Balls too though, they made some nifty plays in the field to keep us off the scoreboard. Both teams matched each other blow for blow until the bottom of the 5th. Soft Balls scored a run on an error and heading into our last licks we were down 1-0.

The first two batters of the inning made harmless outs and now it was Alan's turn up to bat. What happened next will forever shroud this series in controversy. Alan hit a tough ground ball to the 3rd baseman, who fielded it cleanly but his throw pulled the 1st baseman off the bag. Alan was clearly safe; I was pumping my fist knowing we were still alive before I realized the ump had actually called Alan out. A massively blown call at completely the wrong time. There were even guys just walking in the park who saw that the ump blew the call. Who knows what would have happened if Alan had been called safe, but I liked our chances with one of our best hitters(Dave) due up next. Regardless, we're not going to win many games by not scoring any runs, and we shouldn't have left our fate to the umpires. An epic pitcher's duel closes out the 2-game sweep. Final Score: Soft Balls 1, Hounds 0.

The season is over but the dream continues.

MAJA: Hounds Prevail on an Epic Playoff Saturday

Quarterfinal

After a very successful regular season, the 2nd season was upon us. We were faced with a challenge right off the bat, forced to play a single-elimination first round game against the 8th-seeded team, WOJ. The field was immaculate, the sun was shining bright, and we were eager to get on the field. Amy H. came out despite still nursing an ankle injury to support us. After a testy pre-game exchange between the two teams, it was time to play ball.

We were home team, so we took to the field first. Margaret was our starting pitcher and she had a quiet top of the first. Then it was our turn to bat, and we quickly got on the board through a base hit from Jason T. and a home run by Dave. However, after that, we found it difficult to score. Their pitcher was arcing the ball well and handcuffing our batters. Luckily, Margaret continued to pitch very well and the defense behind her was outstanding. 

WOJ found a way to tie the game on a 2-run home run midway through the game. Then the contest became an exchange of great defensive play. WOJ stayed with us blow for blow. We entered the bottom of the last inning tied at 2-2. Iain came up with one out and nobody on. He then drove a ball deep to right, and once it got over the rightfielder's head, we knew the game was over. He circled the bases for a game-winning solo home run. We mobbed him at home plate and all let out a huge sigh of relief as we knew our season would continue. Alan had been saving some shaving cream just for a moment like this, and we all had some fun with Iain as you can see below. Final Score: Hounds 3, WOJ 2.

Semi-Final

Our victory against WOJ meant that we moved on to the best-of-three semi-final against Double D's. They were the defending champs and had given us a tough game in our regular season meeting, so we knew we were in for a fight. Some members of their team had been talking a lot of smack in the build up to this meeting, so the tension between the two teams was high. No one had any way of knowing though the battle that would ensue.

For Game 1, Margaret once again got the starting nod. Double D's was up to bat first, and they came out strong with the help of some suspect Hounds defense. Before we knew it, we were in a 10-3 hole in the 2nd inning and it looked like the game might be getting out of our reach. Fortunately, Double D's pitchers could not find the plate and they walked us back into the game. We exploded for 8 runs in the bottom of the 2nd to storm out in front. We would never look back. The defense settled down, we tacked on some more runs, and we entered their last turn at bat with a 15-10 lead. They scored a couple of meaningless runs before we closed it out. Final Score Hounds 15, Double D's 12.

For Game 2, George took to the mound looking to continue the momentum we had from our big comeback in Game 1. This time, we were up to bat first, and jumped out to a big lead. Dave and Jason C. each had a home run in the top of the 1st, a 3-run shot and 2-run shot respectively. Unfortunately, George's command was off and he walked too many batters. This allowed Double D's to get back in the game. They made it close before the skipper decided to put Margaret in the game in the bottom of the 5th to close it out. She did a phenomenal job, inducing their best player to pop the ball up to 3rd with the bases loaded and two outs. In the 6th, we closed them out 1-2-3 to seal the win and the series. Final Score Hounds 12, Double D's 10.

This was a hard fought series between two good teams. I tip my cap to Double D's as they pushed us to the limit. It's unfortunate that some of their guys chose to act like complete jerks, but that was beyond our control. I am just glad we were all able to keep our cool and let our play do the talking. 

The only thing left between us and the championship is a 3-game series next Saturday afternoon. I know that if we play up to our capabilities that no team in this league can keep us from the Chip. Onward to glory, Hounds.

MAJA: Game vs SCN 8/1/09

MAJA: Final Regular-Season Player Stats

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MAJA: Hounds Cruise Into Playoffs with a Sweep

The final weekend of the MAJA regular season was upon us, and we took to the field knowing we just needed a split to clinch first place overall. Our opponents were Roseman's Ringers, a middle of the road ballclub that was fighting for their playoff lives. Unfortunately for them, they proved to be little challenge for the Hounds.

For Game 1 George took the mound looking to build on his recent strong outings. He pitched well, and did not walk too many batters. The defense behind him was solid. On offense, Jason C. led the charge, going 3 for 3 with a solo HR in the leadoff spot. Jason T. also homered. Pat and Karim drove in 3 runs each. We grabbed a big lead and the skipper decided to put Margaret in the game in the 5th inning to close it out. She did a great job and the result was never really in doubt. Final Score: Hounds 9, Roseman's 4.

For Game 2 , Margaret got the starting nod. She did her thing and kept their hitters off balance. On offense, we had a very solid game, with everyone contributing to the cause. We exploded for 9 runs in the first inning, and we soon realized it was not a matter of if, but when we would mercy them. Our answer came in the 4th inning, when Iain capped off a 3 for 3, 4 RBI game with a 2-run home run. Final Score: Hounds 12, Roseman's 2.

We finished the season with an outstanding record of 13 and 1. No other team displayed such dominance throughout the season. This team was built to win a championship, and we have put ourselves in a very good position to do so. But we have to stay humble as next week we face a single elimination first round playoff game. We have to be prepared for anything, including the possibility of our opponents bringing in ringers. I am confident we will be up to the challenge. 

MAJA: Hounds Sweep; Snatch Victory From the Jaws of Defeat

Coming into the penultimate weekend of the regular season, the Hounds were looking to solidify their position at the top of the standings. In the opposing dugout was SCN, a cellar dwelling club with little left to play for but pride. After a brief weather-related delay, it was time to play ball...

Game 1

For the opener, George took the mound and asserted himself right from the start. The spinner was working and the control was also there. Defensively we were tight, and didn't allow SCN any extra outs or bases. On offense, we scored early and often. Dave and Amelia went 3 for 3 in the third and fourth spots respectively. Amelia had 5 RBIs in the game. Jason C. hit his third home run of the season, a solo shot. It all added up to a mercy victory in the 4th inning. Final Score: Hounds 11, SCN 1.

Game 2

This would prove to be the more exciting of the two games, perhaps our most exciting of the season. We came in with a lot of swagger after having mercied them, but our play was not up to par. Our bats fell silent for long periods and we weren't as tight on 'D' as in the first game. Let's give SCN credit though, they played us very tough. This was clearly their championship game. We exchanged runs before they strung together some solid hits and took a 6-5 lead into the top of the 6th. We were down to our last out of the game with no runners on when we suddenly staged a miraculous rally. Wink, Kari, and Jason all managed to get on base, albeit on bloops. Push was now up with the bases loaded and two outs. She came through with one of the most clutch hits of the year, a clean single to left that scored the tying run. Then our pitcher Prashant laced a fly ball to left that gave their outfielder all kinds of problems. It fell in for a 3 RBI triple and it looked like we were on our way to victory. 

George came into the game in relief, and this time, his control was not as sharp as in game one. He walked a couple, they scored a run, and the winning run was now at the plate with two outs. Luckily, their hitter hit a fly ball to left that was handled easily by Jason C. It was a real nail-biter. Final Score: Hounds 8, SCN 6.

11 and 1. I repeat ,11 and 1. It will all be for nothing though unless we keep playing good ball. We have been having some shaky moments the past few weeks. Let's come out next week with the goal of putting in two solid performances.

Pictures from game vs SCN (8/1/09)

Here are some great shots from our game today. Big up to all those who passed the camera around and made these happen.

MAJA: Team Stats Through 10 Games; MVP Candidates

Here are the team stats through our first 10 games. Some real standouts have emerged:

1. Dave - The big guy is hitting for both average and power. Leads the team in both HRs and RBIs.

2. Iain - Hitting at a .722 clip, which leads the team. Has also flashed the leather big-time.

3. Jason T. - "Shoeless Jason" I call him. All he does is get on base, score runs, and cover tons of ground in the OF. Leads the team in hits(tied), runs scored, and base on balls.

4. Margaret - Where would we be without Maggie Ballgame. Her outstanding pitching and heads-up leadership have made us a much better team than if she wasn't around. Her ERA is a mind-boggling 2.67, unheard of in rec softball.

5. Hounds Team 'D' - The thing I am proudest of this season is our team defense. We have made so many outstanding defensive plays this season. Even when our bats weren't alive, our defense has carried the day.

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MAJA: Hounds Sweep the Defending Champs

Looking to keep the momentum going, the Hounds got up nice and early to play Double D's, the defending champs at Heckscher Field. Unfortunately, our opponents didn't share our punctualness and they didn't have enough people until about an hour after our games were scheduled to begin. Needless to say, the first game was called a forfeit.

For Game 2, they were barely able to field enough, but the game did get underway. The Skipper put Margaret back on the mound, seeing no need to stray from our winning formula. She continued her impeccable run of form and never let Double D's get a big rally. After a team defensive lapse in the 1st inning allowed them to score a questionable run, we proceeded to play that solid Hounds 'D' for the rest of the game. 

On offense, our bats were mostly quiet. The load was carried by the top of the order. Jason T. and George both went 3 for 3, and Amelia drove in 3 runs on 2 hits. We scored 4 runs total, and went into their last at-bat leading 4-2 with a runner on 3rd base and one out. Their hitter then proceeded to hit a comebacker to Margaret. She checked the runner at 3rd, and threw over to the firstbaseman Dave for the 2nd out. The not-very-fast runner at 3rd must not have known what type of team he was playing against, because he tried to score on the play. Dave threw a seed to the catcher Karim who was perfectly positioned, and the runner was out by a mile. Silly, silly man. Final Score: Hounds 4, Double D's 2. We finagled our way into the bar a little early, and after a torturous wait for the food, the promised subs, dogs, and pizza were delivered. It hit the spot.

Our record now stands at 9 and 1. I think it's pretty safe to say that we are in the playoffs. Now it's just a matter of sewing up a top seed and getting some kind of advantage. I've checked the schedule and it seems like our final two opponents are on the weaker end of the spectrum. Let's continue to dominate...

MAJA: Hounds Get Back to Dominating; Record Now 7 and 1

After losing their 1st game last week, the Hounds were eager to take the field again and get back to sweeping their opponents. In front of us lay I'd Hit That, a team who's record stood at .500 coming in. However, some of our stars were absent, so we knew we had to play well to win both games.

For Game 1, starting pitcher was our ace Margaret and she lived up to the billing. She continued her run of impeccable control, and kept the I.H.T. hitters uncomfortable. Behind her, we played good defense, for the most part. We definitely had a couple of miscues, and that allowed them to stay in the game. On offense, the thumpers were not out and we struggled to score. We actually only scored in 2 of the 5 innings that we batted. We scored four in the 3rd and three in the 3rd. They chipped away at our lead before bringing the tying run to the plate in the top of the sixth with two outs. Their hitter lined a shot to right field that scored two and it was starting to look dicey. All of a sudden, the umpire called the batter out for taking too many steps out of the batter's box before making contact. It was a tough way to lose a game for them, but the guy was like 5 feet out of the batting box. Final Score: Hound 7, I.H.T. 5.

Game 2 was a different story altogether. We kept the defense pretty much the same, Margaret once again getting the starting nod. This was more like a true Hounds game. Our pitching and defense was outstanding throughout. We were down 1-0 in the first couple of innings. Then, our offense came alive. Dave had a big 3-run triple, and Iain followed him up with a 2-run home run. We exploded for 7 runs in the top of the fifth, and after that, one could clearly see that I.H.T. were demoralized. Margaret helped her own cause with an RBI double, and Jason C. followed her up with a 2-run homer. We allowed them to score a meaningless run before we closed them out. Final Score: Hounds 12, I.H.T. 2.

Our record stands at a very healthy 7 and 1. With only six games left, we have to feel good about our playoff chances. Next week we face a stiff challenge from a team that also has only one loss. I have no doubt we will rise to the challenge.

MAJA: Team Stats Through 6 Games

Just like that, our MAJA season is almost at the halfway point. Now would be a good time to check out the stats...

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MAJA: Hounds Split But Lose More Than a Game

Having won 4 in a row to start the season, The Hounds were looking to keep the magic going against an outfit called Grass Stains. They were also 4 and 0 coming in, so we knew they would probably be a tough opponent.

For Game 1, Margaret took the mound and showed why she is the anchor of our starting rotation. She pitched brilliantly, not walking a single hitter. Behind her, the Hounds played tremendous defense. On offense, Jason C. set the tone with a leadoff home run. We scored 5 runs in the top of the first and that would be all we would need. However, we continued to pound out hits. George, Alan, Amelia, and Dave each went 3 for 3. Jason C., Iain, and Karim also had a multiple-hit game. Ultimately, our lead got too big and the game was called after the 5th inning due to mercy rule. Final Score: Hounds 16, Grass Stains 2.

Game 2 was a different story altogether. George got the nod at starting pitcher. He had a few good moments, but his control was inconsistent, and he walked too many batters. Grass Stains took advantage of their opportunities and built up a 6-2 lead. Fortunately their pitcher was wild too and we stormed back to take the lead. The 2(Amelia), 3(Iain), 4(Dave) hitters led the attack, combining to go 5 for 6 with 3 walks, a homer, and 8 RBIs. The game was very exciting, we went into the top of the last inning leading by 1. We then let the game get out of hand by allowing them to score 7 runs. We were able to get 2 runs on the board before they closed us out to win it. Final Score: Grass Stains 16, Hounds 12.

The end of the game was marred by an injury that struck one of our fellow Hounds. Amy H. hurt her ankle pretty badly as she slid safely into 3rd during a critical juncture of the game. Needless to say our wishes for a complete and speedy recovery are with her, but we have most likely lost her for the season. It's a tough blow for our team, as it will be impossible to replace Amy's tenacity, team spirit, and heads-up play. Get well soon Amy!

MAJA: Hounds Put The Smack-Down on The Jerks

For Games 3 and 4 of our MAJA season, it was over to the Great Lawn to take on the self-described "Crosstown Jerks." We can usually size up an opponent pretty well before the game, and by looking over at their group, we knew we had a shot of sweeping them.

For Game 1, George took the mound and was effective if somewhat erratic. His trademark spinner pitch was not finding the strike zone, so he chose to rely on his simple arc ball and let the defense behind him handle the job. The Hounds rose to the challenge, playing solid 'D' and not giving the Jerks any extra outs to play with. On offense, the production was spread around, and Dave hit another big home run. We built up a big 11-2 lead heading into the bottom of the last inning. George then proceeded to walk the bases loaded, so Margaret came in to close out the game before the damage got any worse. She did a great job of putting out the fire, showing she can be effective as both a starter and as a reliever. The Jerks scored two inconsequential runs before it ended, Final Score: Hounds 11, Jerks 4.

For Game 2, George took the mound again, looking to shake off his control issues from the first game. This time, the Jerks jumped out to a quick 5-0 lead. However, their top-heavy lineup was no match for The Hounds balanced attack over the course of the game, and we quickly turned that 5-run deficit into a lead of our own. The defensive highlight was Diana's nifty double play at 2nd base. Margaret relieved George again, this time in the top of the 4th, and she pitched 3 great innings to get the save. Final Score: Hounds 11, Jerks 7.

The MAJA Hounds are now 4 and 0 and in prime position heading into the July 4th break. If there is one thing we have to watch, it's our attitude towards the ump. I know the ump for these two games was awful, but we have to be careful about antagonizing him. We will definitely see him again this season, and constantly arguing with him will only ensure that the close calls will not go our way. We should let the manager handle any complaints we have going forward.

All in all, a solid effort by the Hounds. Let's stay focused over this long break, because this game can humble you at the drop of a dime. Have a good one.

MAJA: Hounds Sweep Opening Day Doubleheader

The MAJA Central Park season finally kicked off and the Hounds were ready to take the field. It was a rainy day in New York, but it never got heavy enough for the games to get called. We were faced against The Swingers, a solid team that finished in 3rd place the previous season. We knew there was a challenge before us, but we were eager to show what we can do.

For Game 1 starting pitcher was George and he got off to a good start. Our offense was quiet for the first couple of innings, only managing one run. We fell behind 4 to 1 but never felt like the game was out of our reach. Then the bats came alive, Jason T. and Dave leading the charge, each with a solo HR. We chipped away inning by inning before overtaking them in the big 6th. Meanwhile, the pitching and defense continued to stymie the Swingers and we closed the game out. Final Score Hounds 7, Swingers 4.

For Game 2 Margaret took the mound and was her usual consistent self. She stayed ahead in counts, and never let the Swingers string together more than a couple of hits. The defense was outstanding behind her, led by Iain and the two Jasons. On offense, we did just enough to win. Dave hit another solo HR but for the most part we scored our runs playing small ball. We closed it out with a 1-2-3 inning in the 6th. Final score Hounds 4, Swingers 1.

I think we should be very proud of our work out there today. We only gave up 5 runs total in two games, that is very impressive for softball. It's doubly impressive when you consider a lot of us never played together before. If we keep playing like that we will be unstoppable. Nice work, Hounds.