Zog: Hounds Crash to 4 and 2

For Game 6, it was over to the infamous Colonel Charles Young Field in Harlem. This field has never been a Hounds favorite, but we showed up with our game faces on, ready to bounce back from our loss in the previous game. 

Our opponents were NY AILA(whatever that is), who were winless coming in. That was a bit misleading though, as they were actually a good ballclub. They had decent pitching, reliable fielding, and their hitters made their swings count.

George was starting pitcher and generally pitched well despite his usual control issues. Unfortunately our fielding was a bit suspect, aided in no small part by the field conditions. We let NY AILA take a huge lead on us, and it was bound to be an uphill struggle from there. We mounted a good comeback led by Amelia, Dave and Justin, who all hit big HRs to get us closer. Amelia was actually a double shy of the cycle. Diana made a critical catch at home to retire one of their sluggers. But both teams had been taking a lot of pitches, and eventually we ran out of time. The game was called after 4 innings due to time limit, final score: NY AILA 20, Hounds 16.

If we can take heart from one thing after tonight's loss, it's the great spirit we showed to fight back from that big deficit. Definitely a promising sign for the future. We are now halfway through the season with a record of 4 and 2. I would say it's been a good first half. We definitely need to regroup and come out strong for our next two games, which are in rapid succession on June 21 and June 24.

Last but not least, a fond farewell to Nina, who has to relocate and therefore won't be able to play with us anymore. We wish her nothing but the best and would welcome her back with open arms anytime. Good luck, Nina!

Hounds Lose 17-9

For Game 5 it was over to Roosevelt Island's Capoboanco Field. Capobianco must be Italian for "really messed up field" because it had a lot of problem areas and sure gave us a hard time.

Our Opponents were a team named Empty Pitchers and they were actually a pretty solid bunch. We jumped out to a quick 5-0 lead in the top of the first, but they matched us blow for blow and eventually went out in front. Once they got their big lead we were never able to make it close again. The bats fell asleep and the fielding was shaky, not a good combination. Final Score: Empty Pitchers 17, Hounds 9.

The disappointment of taking our first 'L' of the season was muted by an epic BBQ after the game. And I say epic because the burgers took a reeeally long time to cook. Thank God we had the Yuenglings to keep us company while we waited.

Hounds Officially Registered for MAJA Sports Central Park Summer League

Looks like opening day will be Saturday, June 20th.

Team Stats: Through First 4 Games

Here are the team stats through the first third of the season. Keep in mind that it was hard to accurately score those rain-drenched games. These stats are by no means 100% accurate, but they are pretty close. Send me a private message if you see something that needs to be corrected.

Hounds Crush NYIT 24-6

For Game 4, the Hounds headed to Chelsea Park to take on the NYIT Bears. Let's give the Bears credit, they were a good if somewhat inexperienced team. We came out strong though and never let up. Frankly, we cleaned their clocks, and the result was never really in doubt.

The offense was on point, scoring early and often. Every Hound contributed in some way. Wink had an outstanding game, going 4 for 4 in the leadoff spot and making a spectacular over-the-shoulder catch at short. Cindy did her usual thing of getting on base and she also made a couple of great catches in the outfield. She even had her own cheering section after a while. Braden had a huge game, hitting a home run and driving in 4. Mega hit a tape measure HR. Grant came in the game midway and went 2 for 2, playing a solid left. Karim did a great job, coming out despite his injury to support the team and keep score.

George was starting pitcher and pitched well despite some control problems. The defense behind him was tremendous from start to finish, never giving NYIT hope for a comeback. Complete. Team. Victory. Hounds win 24-6. We washed down the victory with some drinks and billiards at Billy Marks West.

The Hounds are now 4 and 0 and in prime position through the first third of the season. Let's stay humble though, because we all know what Yogi said.

Hounds Overcome Protest of Game 2

I am happy to report that a ruling came down from the league on Game 2. Thankfully, the league has sided with us and found no validity to the Rams' protest. The victory officially goes to us, we are now 3 and 0 and tied for first place.

Photos from Game 3

Many Thanks to Amy & Mega for taking these great shots.