FINAL PLAYOFF Game, Rexdale Canadian Jays vs. Newediuk Funeral Home - August 26, 2014

Tonight Aaron is missing his team's batting practice to cheer for Ariana and the Canadian Jays as they play their final game for the Season, and as a team!

One team will walk off the field with first place tonight, and the other will go home with the second place title!

 

It was a very hot and humid day here in Toronto.  By the time we got to the field there was a nice breeze blowing, but it was still very humid.  All the kids, from both teams, were here tonight for their final game of the Season.

 

The game started right on time at 6:30 p.m., and Newediuk were up to bat first.  Ariana covered short and our opening pitcher was our Coach's son.  With one out, it didn't take very long for the bases to be loaded.  The next batter struck out and then the next one hit but the catcher was able to get the ball in time to get the out at home...so no runs were scored!

Covering Short.

Newediuk sent their Coach's son to the mound for the bottom of the first.  Our boys and girls got a few nice hits and made it safely on base.  With 3 runs, 1 on base and no outs, Ariana goes up to bat.  After 2 strikes she gets a walk!  The bases were loaded with 2 outs, 4 runs and Ariana on 3rd.  Andy goes to the fence to encourage her to steal home but she is scared...and I don't blame her one bit!  The next batter hits and Newediuk gets the third out at second base.  Ariana's run doesn't count! 

So close!

Ball 4...take a walk!

For the second inning Ariana covers second base and our Coach's son is still pitching.  It was a quick inning as 1 batter was thrown out at first; 1 struck out; 1 walked and the next one was out at first...and Newediuk still doesn't have any runs!

 

Bottom of the second was also a quick one and Ariana is left in the hole as the inning ended.  We still got 2 runs before it was over.  By now everyone knows that the team has this game in their gloves as we have a 6-0 run lead...and Newediuk can only score 5 runs in the next inning!

 

We sent in a different pitcher for the third inning and Ariana covers center field.  Our pitcher struck out his own brother, who is on the other team!  Newediuk got 2 on bases but the next 2 batters struck out before any runs could be scored. 

 

Now we are positive that the Canadian Jays won the game but it is only 7:45 p.m. and the game has to go on until at least 8:00 p.m., so the teams get ready for the bottom of the third.  I don't know why they didn't just wrap up the game...instead of torturing Newediuk!

 

Final inning and Ariana is up to bat first.  Newediuk sent in a different pitcher.  After 1 strike, she walks to first and wasted no time in stealing second.  She stole third and Newediuk tries to thrown her out but they overthrow the ball and she is safe...and on the ground!  She was able to steal home on another overthrow to third...with everyone screaming for her!  Yes, this run counts!  Our next batter is caught and the one after him struck out.  The next batter goes up and has 2 strikes before he gets hit with a pitch, so he walks to first...yeah, we are still alive.  This batter was able to steal bases, all the way home before the final batter struck out.

Trying to steal...

OMG, she did it...and she's safe!

Stealing home while everyone is cheering her on...Go Ariana Go!

Game over...with a score of 8-0, for us, and first place title for the Canadian Jays!!!  Trophies will be handed out at the banquet on September 6th, weather permitting.  

Good Game, Newediuk.

Way to go, Canadian Jays!!!

Way to go team...what a game and what a Season!

PLAYOFF GAME 2, Rexdale Canadian Jays vs. Newediuk Funeral Home - August 21, 2014

We are out on the field again tonight for hopefully the final playoff game between these two teams.  Since the Canadian Jays won the first game on Tuesday night, if they win this game tonight, it will be all over and they will have first place.  If they lose tonight, then these two teams will have to play again next week for first and second places.

When I left work and drove out of the underground parking, it was pouring rain.  I immediately thought the game would be cancelled but when I called home, Aaron said it wasn't raining there!  I am only a 15 minute drive from work and home, and it's raining here but dry at home!

We got to the field just after 6:00 p.m. and most of the kids were already there practicing.  Andy and Aaron couldn't join us tonight as Aaron had to umpire a game for Martingrove.

When the game started around 6:35 p.m., the Canadian Jays were up to bat first.  Our first batter got walked and then the next one had a nice hit and the Jays were able to score their one and only run in this inning.  With 2 outs, Ariana went up to bat...and strikes out to end the inning.  At least she went down swinging...and not looking!



Keep your eye on that ball...

Bottom of the first and Ariana is covering center field and our # 2 is pitching.  With 1 out and 2 on bases, Newediuk's next batter, a girl, had a very nice hit and brought home 2 RBI's.  Another hit and another run scored.  Two more batters got on base and then another hit brought in the 2 runs needed to end the inning.

Defence...

Top of the second and Newediuk is using the same pitcher...their Coach's son!  The Canadian Jays got a couple walks and a few runs but were only able to score 2 runs before the third out.

Ariana is covering 2nd base for the bottom of the second and the Canadian Jays changed their pitcher.  Although Newediuk got a few good hits, they didn't score any runs in this inning.  Seems like the Canadian Jays were ready and waiting for them!  Andy and Aaron were able to see the rest of the game, as Aaron's game was finished.

Covering Second Base...

Newediuk is still using the same pitcher for the top of the third inning.  With 2 outs and 2 on base, Ariana goes up to bat and gets a walk...the bases are now loaded.  The next batter strikes out and leaves the bases loaded...and no runs were scored.

The Canadian Jays sends in another pitcher for the bottom of the third and Ariana covers the right outfield.  The inning hasn't started and the Canadian Jays had to replace one of the outfielders, as he got stung by a bee!  This was a fairly short inning as 2 batters struck out, 1 walked and another was thrown out at first.  The score is 5-3, for Newediuk, and the teams decided to play another inning.

Newediuk sends in a girl to pitch and it looked hopeful for a while...until the umpire made an unfair call and ended the inning.  The Canadian Jays were able to get 2 runs and tie the game in this inning. 

Bottom of the 4th and Ariana is covering the right outfield.  Newediuk got one player on base after he is hit with a pitch...and he was a quick one, stealing home and scoring the winning run!

Celebration cupcakes for the team...

Although it would have been nice to win tonight...it simply means these two teams will have a chance to play another game, this coming Tuesday!

Good luck to both teams...

PLAYOFF GAME 1, Rexdale Canadian Jays vs. Newediuk Funeral Home - August 19, 2014

Well we are back on a baseball field for another important game tonight.  The Canadian Jays are facing Newediuk Funeral Home tonight for their first playoff game.  

Aaron had to give up his teams batting practice tonight to cheer for his sister and her team.  Sunday afternoon I took them to Diary Queen for ice-cream and Ariana said to him, "I hope you appreciate that I sat in the hot sun and cheered for you and your team, so you have to come to my game!"  When she put it like that Aaron really didn't have a choice, but I know he would have been here anyway.

The game started on time at 6:30 p.m. and Newediuk were up to bat first.  Our pitcher tonight was # 2 and did a wonderful job...that's the most strikes I have seen him pitch all Season.  Ariana covered the centre field.  The first hit went right towards her but she didn't catch it.  She was able to block it and get it back to short in time to keep the runner on first base.  That was the only player Newediuk go on base for this inning, before it ended with no runs scored.


Way to block that ball, Ariana...

Newediuk sent in a girl to pitch and although the pitching wasn't the best, she certainly has the potential to be a good pitcher one day.  All our batters were getting walks and it didn't take long for us to score our first run.  With 1 run, bases loaded and no outs, Ariana is up to bat.  She swung at a couple before getting a walk and then stole second and third.  Andy goes to the fence to encourage her to steal home...I don't think he realized it wasn't Aaron on the field!  There were so many plays where Aaron stole home a couple years ago, at this same field.  At one point she tried to steal and reached halfway and had to run back to third!  I had to tell Andy to move from the fence!

Good swing!

She almost gave everyone a heart attack when she did decide to go for it!  It was so close, but she slide and the catcher missed the ball and she was safe...scoring the 5th run to end the inning.  She got up and looked at me and said "sorry Mom".  She was sorry she got her pants dirty...that's ok, it's black and the sand is grey!


 OMG, that was so close!

Top of the second inning and our Coaches son is pitching, and I have to admit I thought he was going to return the 5 runs to Newediuk.  I was surprised to see that he was pitching strikes today!  Ariana covered second base.  Newediuk only got one player on base in this inning and he was the younger brother of our back catcher.  It was nice to see him trying to steal home but his brother kept him on third base.  The inning ended when our pitcher struck out the third out.  No runs for Newediuk in this inning.  Wow, what happened to these kids tonight?  It's like a whole different team!

Covering second.

Newediuk sent in a new pitcher for the second inning and he was good.  We only got one player on base and the others struck out.  The score is 5-0, for us.

Top of the third and we changed our pitcher again.  Ariana is in the right outfield.  I guess the Coach is giving everyone a chance to pitch tonight.  Also, the score is 5-0 and if Newediuk doesn't score 5 runs now, we are guaranteed to win this game.  Newediuk got one on base and she didn't waste time getting to third base.  With one out, she tried to steal home but is tagged out.  The next batter hits to first and it is caught.  Newediuk has no runs still and we all know we have this game in the bag!

Bottom of the third and most likely the final inning.  Newediuk is using the same pitcher from the last inning.  Our first batter walks after 2 strikes, then he steals second and third.  I couldn't believe it!  This kid was always afraid to run.  It's like a totally different kid!  The pitcher struck out the next batter but he soon started struggling.  The bases are loaded and 1 run is walked in.  Ariana is up to bat and after ducking from a few pitches, she walks to first and another run walks in.  Another walk, Ariana advances to second base and another run is scored.  Time is called to talk to the pitcher and I guess it helped because the next batter strikes out!  The next batter hits and the kid running to second is tagged for the third out.  Ariana is left on third base.  We got 3 runs in this inning bringing the score to 8-0.



Ball 4...take a walk!

The game should have been over but it was around 7:50 p.m. and the teams decided to play another inning.  We already know we won the game but I guess it would be good if Newediuk could get at least one run.

We send in a new pitcher for the top of the 4th.  Ariana is sitting out this inning.  Our pitcher hits the first batter and sends him to first base.  The pitcher struck out his younger brother.  Newediuk got 2 on base but the inning ended with the 3rd strike out and still no runs scored.

We don't have to bat again!



Good Job team!!!

Way to go team...winning the first playoff game!!!

TBA's FINAL Championship Game, RY Cardinals vs. North Toronto A's - August 17, 2014



After playing EIGHT INNINGS of baseball, these 2 teams had just 45 minutes to rest!  Now they are ready to play again for first and second places.

The sun is in and out of the clouds today, so it's been a bit hot.  I couldn't decide whether to keep on my sweater, of if to take it off.  I can only imagine how those boys are feeling on the field!

She got tired of watching the game!

The game started at 12:10 p.m. and the A's were batting first.  Our # 97 opened the game.  Aaron is sitting, and everyone can understand why...he just pitched 7 innings.  With 2 outs and 1 on base, due to a walk, the next batter hits one down the left outfield.  Our # 12 has a hard time getting to ball back to the infield and 1 run is scored.  The next batter struck out to end the inning.

Opening Pitcher.

It's our turn to bat and we get # 42 on base.  The next 2 batters # 7 and # 5 both pop up and are caught.  # 25 gets hit with a pitch, after 2 strikes and he walks to first...whew!  # 12 hits a nice one and sends the 2 on base home, and he is safe on first...way to go!  # 97 goes up to bat and pops up to end the inning.  We have the lead with a 2-1 score.

In the second inning, the A's have 2 on bases after 2 outs and then the next batter hits and brings in a run...game tied now!  Time is called and we changed pitchers to # 2.  The next batter hits and brings in 2 more runs, OMG!  The next batter walks and the bases are now loaded!  One more run is walked in because our pitcher hit the batter!  The A's got a total of 5 runs before it was over.

Next Pitcher.

Our first batter # 17 gets hit with a pitch and walks to first.  # 27 is up next and he too gets hit with a pitch.  The A's pitcher looks like he is feeling the pressure.  He walks our next batter, # 2...and the bases are now loaded.  Time is called and the A's changed their pitcher.  # 11 goes up to bat...he hits and brings # 17 home, and the bases are still loaded!  # 42 goes up...he hits and brings # 27 home, and the bases are still loaded.  This new pitcher is not doing well...it just might be the break we need!  # 7 goes up to bat...he hits and brings # 2 home.   Yes, we're back in this game!  # 5 walks...and forces # 11 home.  # 25 hits and sends # 42 home...but the umpires calls him out at first!  # 12 goes up to bat...he hits and brings home 2 RBI's (# 5 & # 7).  # 97 strikes out and then # 17, who is up again in this inning, hits but is thrown out at first.  Our boys racked up 7 runs in this inning and took the lead with a 9-6 score!



Bringing in the runs.

Another Run!

And another one!

Top of 3rd...it's still anyone's game.  Ok boys, we need some good defence now!  # 2 is still pitching.  He walks one to first and then and RBI comes in for the A's before the third out.  The score is 9-7, still for us.  This is getting intense now!

Bottom of the 3rd and we get 2 walks  (# 27 and # 2).  # 11 goes up and hits one and is safe on base...the bases are loaded now.  # 42 hits but gets caught.  # 7 hits and sends # 27 home.  # 2 is out at third.  # 5 hits and the bases are loaded again.  # 25 goes up and we all want another home run...but he gets caught!  All of that and we only get 1 more run.

Safe!  I figure if I want action photos, I will have to lock my camera on this kid.

Top of the 4th and Aaron is sent out with the defence, to cover first base.  # 17 is pitching now.  After a couple of hits in the outfield, the A's scored another run before the inning ended.  The score is now 10-8, for us, and still any teams game.

Let's strike out those A's now... 

The A's changed both their pitcher and catcher for the bottom of the 4th. # 12 walks to first. # 13 hits but is thrown out at first. # 17 hits and is safe on first. # 27 walks, and the bases are loaded. Aaron is up to bat now and fouls one just behind third base.  He hits the next pitch into the right outfield and he is safe on first, bringing an RBI.  I am positive if # 27 could run faster Aaron would have made it to second with that hit!  Holy smokes, how on earth did he hit that ball that far?  Then I noticed that his bat was different.  He was using his Marucci bat earlier and Andy told him to change it, so now he used the Demarini bat instead.  This bat and the monthly pass at Playdium's batting cage is really worth it!  # 17 scores and then # 42 is caught, for the third out.  Aaron is left on second base.  The score is now 12-8, still for us.
 

Nice hit, but straighten out that foul!

Top of the 5th and Aaron is still covering first base.  One got caught and one is thrown out at first.  One ball is fouled over the fence and it's coming right at us. Thank God, we have a ball player sitting among us (# 13's older brother)...and he catches the foul before anyone gets hit!  The A's now have 1 on base with 2 outs.  The next batter hits and our short drops the catch.  The A's have one in scoring position and one on first.  The next batter hits to short and our defence is able to get the third out at first.  No runs for the A's in this inning and the score is still 12-8.

 

Come on boys, I know you're tired...but don't miss those! 

Bottom of the 5th...if we get a few more runs I think we will win this, as all the players look tired.  # 7 hits and is safe on first.  # 5 hits and he is safe on first, and advances # 7.  # 25 hits and is caught.  # 12 hits and is caught.  Oh my, 2 outs already!  # 13 hits...and it drops.  He's safe on first and brings in 2 RBI's.  # 17 hits and he is safe on first.  # 27 hits and is safe on first, and brings in an RBI.  Oh God, 2 outs and Aaron is up to bat.  Hopefully he can hit another one!  Two strike and 3 balls, he turns to the Umpire and asks what the count is...this kid, oh my goodness!  Although he gets the sign to hit it out of the park, he didn't swing...and it's Ball 4.  He walks to first base, with a sneaky look on his face!  I guess you have to give him credit for being able to read the pitch.  He later tells us that the pitches were crossing the plate the end and he noticed that the Umpire wasn't calling it!  The bases are now loaded with 2 outs and the score is 15-8.  We just need 3 runs for mercy.  # 11 goes up to bat and strikes out to end the inning...and left the bases loaded!


STRIKE!!!

Ball 4...whatever works is good enough for me!!!

Top of the 6th and we send out the same defence.  The first kid should have been out at first but our short throws to ball too high...Aaron needed a ladder to catch that ball!  The next batter struck out and another one is out at second base...but our defence took too long to get the ball to first, to get a double play.  The third out happened when a batter ran into our back catcher at home plate.  That player got ejected from the game!  I have to wonder though...is that really punishment, since he now gets to rest while the other players have to play despite being obviously tired!  The A's didn't get any runs in this inning.

Bottom of the 6th.  # 42 hits and is safe on second. # 7 bunts but is out at first...and # 42 advances to third.  # 5 hits and is caught.  # 42 scores on a wild pitch.  # 25 walks.  Time is called and the A's coach hands the ball the the smallest kid on the team!  Seems like they've exhausted all their pitchers.  # 12 walks and # 44 is sent in as a pinch runner for him.  # 13 goes up to bat and strikes out to end the inning.  The score is now 16-8, for us.  On to the final inning, I hope.


I wonder what they are talking about...maybe MineCraft or Clash of Clans!!!

Top of the 7th.  I forgot who is pitching but I believe it was still # 17.  I was distracted by another parent and didn't keep track but I know time was called at one point.  I believe there was one out and there were players on base.  The ball is handed to # 25.

Everyone pitching in!

Ok boys, let's wrap up this game now.  One hit and the batter is safe on first.  Another hit brings in an RBI, but that batter is out at second.  Ok, 2 outs, we got this game now.  The next batter pops up in the infield and someone shouted 'call it'.  I heard mine and I though it was Aaron's voice but I wasn't paying attention as another parent was talking to me!  Then one of the parents said to me, "do you realize that that was the winning catch?" My moment of pride quickly turned into disappointment...damn it, I didn't have my camera on! I am hoping someone has a photo they can share.  The final score was 17-8, although someone thinks the A's have 11 runs.  I am not sure how they counted it or if I missed a couple runs.  Either way it doesn't matter...our boys won the game!
 

Come on, keep your eyes on that ball...and it payed off!

I don't know how either team did it as I am sure all the players were exhausted...that was 15 INNINGS OF BASEBALL!!!  I know I need a massage for sure...sitting on these metal bleachers for the entire game wasn't easy!

 

Well done boys...

If there's 2 teams that deserve to be in the top 2 spots, it definitely has to be these 2. There are some amazing players in both teams.





It wouldn't be a great ballgame, unless there were 2 amazing teams!

It was a moment of pride for all...parents, coaches and players. All the sacrifices...the sweat, the tears, the extra laundry, and the lost sleep, was worth it in the end. 





OUR TEAM



Congratulations to all our boys on winning their first TBA, together...I believe you've earned bragging rights!  The entire team certainly played with their hearts and souls today!!!  I am so proud of each and every one of you!

Looking forward to the OBA's in 2 weeks...

TBA's Championship Game 1, RY Cardinals vs. North Toronto A's - Sunday, August 17, 2014

I have to admit that no one in our house was excited to go to the field this morning.  We knew we were going but none of us had (for lack of a better word) the interest to go.  Then we got held up in traffic...this early on Sunday morning!  We ended up reaching the field around 8:30 a.m. and the other boys were already out on the field practicing.

Since the team won both games they played this weekend, this could have easily been the final game.  Our boys were in the better position as they haven't had any loss as yet.

The game started on time at 9:00 a.m. and our boys were up to bat first and although we got one player on base, we couldn't score the run.

Aaron took his place on the mound as the A's got ready to bat.  His pitching wasn't the best for this inning, and understandably so due to what happened just as the game was about to start.  With 2 outs the next batter was thrown out at first, and the boys started to walk off the field...but the umpire calls the batter safe! Wow, that looked close but I have to admit there was post blocking my view so I can't be sure. It didn't take long to get the the third out before any runs could be scored.

Opening the inning against the A's (Championship Game # 1) - August 17, 2014

In the second inning, I didn't notice that the A's pitcher was a leftie...until Ariana pointed it out!   With 1 out, our # 97 gets on base. Then # 12 sacrifices himself to bring # 97 home to get the first run in the game. Our next batter pops up and is caught, to end the inning.

 

Aaron is back on the mound for the bottom of the second and he seems to be a little more settled now.  It took 5 pitches, 3 strikes and 2 fouls, to get the first out...ok this is more like him!   I still cannot believe it took just 4 more pitches to end the inning.  This can only happen when a pitcher and a team work together!  Obviously the A's didn't get any runs in this inning.

 

That's more like it!

Top of the third and with 1 already out Aaron is up to bat.  After 1 strike, 1 foul and 3 balls, he walks to first and eventually steals second. The next batter advances Aaron to third, but the batter is out at second. The next batter hits and Aaron makes it home, but that batter is out at first, and Aaron's run doesn't count...what a shame!
 

All that running...and it doesn't count!!!

Aaron is back out for the third inning.  He walks the first batter but he is picked off on second!  The A's get their first 1 run in this inning.  With 2 outs the next batter hits and the ball goes to short.  There are 2 boys near 2nd base and both miss getting the third out...are you kidding me?  The next batter hits in the same place and they get their act together and get the out this time!  Game tied  at 1-1 now.

Neither teams scored in the 4th inning as it was 3 up 3 down for both sides. Both pitchers are simply amazing.

With one out, Aaron is up to bat again in the 5th inning. He walks after a full count but is thrown out at second.  The inning ended and no runs were scored for us.

Aaron is still pitching in the 5th inning and it was a quick one with no runs being scored for the A's.

Although we had players in scoring position in the 6th inning, we couldnt' get the players home. The A's got 2 players on base and also didn't get any runs. Someone said Aaron has around 84 pitches now.  I don't know what the maximum allowed is but I am wondering if he will be able to pitch the entire game.

We are up to bat in the 7th inning and the A's are still using the same pitcher. He is just as good as Aaron! Our # 12 hits a nice one and he limps all the way to second base, wow.  With no outs and 2 on base, time is called and the A's changed their pitcher. One out and Aaron is up to bat, he walks and the base is now loaded. Our next batter hits one in the outfield but is caught for the second out. Number 12 is sent home but is tagged out! This is one of the decisions where you wonder what the heck the coach was thinking!!! The poor kid has a limp, even I wouldn't have sent him home. All of that and we didn't get any runs. If they score now, we would lose the game and have to play Game 2.

Top of the 7th and I was surprised to see Aaron still on the mound. I guess they are going to max him out! After he strikes out the first batter, time is called and he is replaced with # 97. That was the longest he has pitched this Season...and the most pitches so far. Last year he pitched an entire game for the SOBA tournament but the pitch count was less as he was younger then. Almost 7 full innings, 91 pitches, and only 1 run scored...that's an average of approximately 14 pitch per inning, amazing!  I am impressed that he was able to pitch so many innings and haven't loaded the bases once!

A special 'job well done' to the the back catcher(s) for Aaron...# 44 and # 13.  No Pitcher is worth a darn, if he doesn't have a great back catcher!
 

Picking up where Aaron left off.

Number 97 takes over and with two outs and 1 in scoring position, the next batter is walked and the bases are now loaded...OMG we only need 1 out! Time is called and we changed our pitcher to # 17. The next batter has 2 strikes on him when our pitcher throws to third. The batter on third runs home and our boys got the ball back to the catcher in time to tag out the kid at home. Thank God, it's over. I was thinking a tie is better than a loss. There was so much screaming and cheering and then I realized...the game is going into overtime, there's no tie's in the championship game!

OMG, definitely a "some things are priceless, for everything else there's mastercard" moment!

Top of the 8th inning (overtime) and the game is getting very intense.  Our # 7 gets a walk to first and advances to second.  The A's pitcher balks and # 7 gets third base.  Then # 5 hits and # 7 is able to score!  # 25 hits and is safe on first base and # 5 is now on second.  Both # 5 and # 25 advance on a wild pitch.  # 97 is batting and hits a nice one and makes it to 3rd base.  # 5 and # 25 are both called out at home.  One was clearly out but one was definitely safe!  That was clearly a bad call by the Umpire.  We have 2 on bases...one in scoring position, with 2 outs and then # 12 pops up and is caught!  Inning over and the score is 2-1, for us.  The A's need just 2 runs to win this!

Number 17 is back on the mound for the bottom of the 8th.  He hits the first kid, on the helmet so he gets a free base.  The next 2 kids pop up and are caught.  OMG, we only need 1 out for this to be over!  The next batter is walked so there are 2 on bases now with 2 outs.  This would be one of those moments where time would be called and the ball would be handed to Aaron.  Except Aaron cannot pitch again for today!  The next batter goes up and hits, and he should have been out at first...but the ball goes past our first basemen and there was no backup in the outfield.  The A's 2 players on base scores...and they just won the game!

The A's celebrating their win!

These 2 teams are tied right now, with 1 loss each. 

Forty-five minutes for the boys to pull themselves together and get something in their stomachs before the start of the final Championship game. One team will walk away with first place...but both have earned a spot in the OBA's in 2 weeks.

Good luck to both teams in Round 2...

I know I recorded some of the players' jersey numbers, something I don't normally do, but I got caught up in the excitement and it was the only way I could keep track of what was going on.  I do apologize if anyone is offended!

TBA's - August 15-17, 2014

This is what the team(s) have been preparing all Season for...the TBA's (Toronto Baseball Association)!!!

While the majority of teenagers are thinking about opening day for the CNE, the boys are focused on winning their first TBA game tonight at Stan Wadlow Park!

"The Canadian National Exhibition (CNE) is Canada’s largest community event and one of the top 10 agricultural fairs in North America.  Founded in 1879 as the Toronto Industrial Exhibition, the CNE has enjoyed a distinguished history as a “showcase of the nation”. It was “the place” where people came to experience the best and the brightest from the latest innovations in technology and commercial products to the greatest performers of the time.  The name of the fair was changed from the Toronto Industrial Exhibition to the Canadian National Exhibition in 1912, to better represent what the fair had become: A Show Window of the Nation." 

Today the CNE sadly signifies the end of Summer...even though it runs for 2 weeks, it ends the day before school reopens!

 

It's only August 15th but I had to go looking for a sweater this morning!  I am not sure what happened to the sunshine and warm temperatures today...it should be interesting for all the people going on the rides at the CNE today!

 

Game 1 - RY Cardinals vs. East York Bulldogs (Friday, August 15, 2014)

 

When we arrive at the field the game between the North York Blues and the North Toronto Athletics was still going on.  At the end of the game it was hard not to notice how happy the Blues were, having just won the game.  If I am correct, the A's was the team to watch.  Our boys have a 1-1 record against the Blues, and they just beat the No. 1 team.  Just goes to show that anything can happen in these tournaments...this is definitely a game changer for sure!

 

The game began at 8:30 p.m. and by the time we made ourselves comfortable, we realized that it was really cold.

 

Our boys were up to bat first in the first inning and had a few nice hits but couldn't score any runs.  When our defence took the field, Aaron remained in the dugout.  I knew in advance, and from the way things happened in past tournaments, that he would be sitting first and he may not enter the game until after the 4th inning.  The Bulldogs were able to get their first run after a nice hit in the outfield and took the lead.

 

In the second inning we got our first run after # 97 hits a nice triple and then the Bulldogs' back catcher overthrows to third and # 97 is able to score!  Although we got more players in scoring position, we didn't get any more runs.

 

In the bottom of the second, our pitcher was getting upset with the Umpire as he wasn't calling his strikes, but the inning still ended before the Bulldogs could score any runs.

 

Neither teams got any runs in the third innings.

 

We got another run in the 4th before it ended.  The same defence went out for the bottom of the 4th and it was a quick inning with no runs for the Bulldogs.

 

The Bulldogs sent in a new pitcher for the top of the 5th and our guys were able to get one run before it was over.  The Bulldogs didn't get any runs in the bottom of the 5th.  The score is now 3-1, for us.

 

Our boys brought in another run in the sixth inning, bringing the score to 4-1.  When the defence took the field, it slowly dawned on us that Aaron is still sitting and it doesn't look like they plan on sending him in.  I have to admit I was a bit upset and lost focus on the game.

 

The game ended and I wasn't sure what the score was.  Someone said 6-3, for us. 

 

We were confused about the lineup and the fact that Aaron was the only kid on the team who didn't go out on the field tonight.  What happened after was very upsetting for us and because I never intended for my blog to be negative, I will not write about the situation that unfolded...and instead focus on the good things!

 

I am a very calm Baseball Mom but there are 3 things in this world that mean the most to me...and NO ONE messes with those 3 things!!!

 

 

Good luck to the team for the rest of the TBA's!!!

 

Game 2 - RY Cardinals vs. North York Blues (Saturday, August 16, 2014)

 

When we woke up Aaron this morning, he was still upset and didn't want to go to the game this morning.  We tried talking to him but he insisted that he wasn't going.  I guess it was a good thing too because he didn't get much rest last night.

 

After making a couple phone calls, Andy convinced him to go to the second game.  They were on their way, already on the 401, when someone called to say that the team won the game against the Blues and didn't have to play anymore games today.  They automatically advanced to the Final game(s) tomorrow.

Rexdale Canadian Jays vs. Martingrove Atlethics - August 11, 2014

The teams in Rexdale are all done with their games for the Season and are just waiting for playoffs.  Tonight's game is a make up of one that was postponed, most likely due to bad weather.

 

We got on the field just around 6:15 p.m. and even though the clouds were covering the sun, it was still a bit hot and humid!

 

For the first inning the Athletics were up to bat first, while Ariana covered the right outfield.  Our pitcher was our coach's son, AGAIN!!!  The back catcher tonight was also playing this position for the first time...yes, at the end of the Season.  The catching together with the pitching wasn't the best combination, so it didn't take long for the Athletics to get their 5 runs.


She caught me taking her photo!

The bottom of the first was quick but we still got 1 run before it was over.

 

Our coach sent in another pitcher, a girl, to start off the second inning.  Ariana covered third base.  Again the pitching wasn't the best and the bases are quickly loaded.  The Athletics got another 5 runs in this inning.

Nice defence, Ariana!

Ariana is up to bat for the bottom of the second.  After 2 strikes, she gets a walk to first.  Another kid goes up and hits in the outfield, Ariana runs to second and is called to third.  Why???  I will never understand what the coach was thinking!!!  She is thrown out at third.  Although the bases were loaded, we only got 1 measly run in that inning.

 

In the third inning, Ariana covers the left outfield.  Another pitcher is sent in.  By this time the clouds are really dark and the wind is blowing.  You could see all the sand in the field being blown up...this certainly will not help the pitcher!  The Athletics also got their 5 runs in this inning.

 

Bottom of the third and with 2 already out, Ariana goes up to bat.  After ducking from a few pitches, she strikes out to end the game.


Ducking from that pitch!

The final score was 15-2, for the Athletics.

 

Playoffs next week!!!

Two Games in One Night - August 7, 2014

Tonight we had another clash in the schedules and both Aaron and Ariana had their final games for the Season!  Ariana's last game before playoffs start and Aaron's final game before the TBAs and OBAs.  Since both fields were just approximately 20 minutes apart, I was able to go with Ariana and then catch a piece of Aaron's game.

 

First Game - Rexdale Canadian Jays vs. Martingrove Yankees at Rexdale Park.

 

The game started right on time at 6:30 p.m. and the Canadian Jays were up to bat first.  The pitching from the Yankees wasn't the best and the bases were quickly loaded.  With 1 run and the bases loaded, Ariana goes up to bat.  After 2 strikes she manages to hit the next ball and it lands in the infield.  She runs to first and the Yankees' short stop throws the ball to their first baseman...but he overthrows and she is safe!  Ariana advances to second base and the bases are still loaded, the next kid hits a grand slam and brings everyone home.  We only needed 5 runs, so his run didn't count. 



Up to Bat - August 7, 2014.

Wow, they just overthrew the ball...isn't she lucky!!!

Safe on First!!!

For the bottom of the first, Ariana covers the left outfield.  The Yankees had some really good hits and got their 5 runs to end the inning.

The second inning was a quick one and the Canadian Jays only got 1 run in.  Ariana covers second base when the Yankees went up to bat.  She had many opportunities to get outs at second and I was pleasantly surprised to see her catching the balls.  The inning was long but the Yankees got their 5 runs.


Covering Second Base.

Ariana starts off the third inning but strikes out.  I believe the Yankees changed their pitcher because this kid was good!  The Canadian Jays got a couple kids on base but didn't score any runs before the inning ended.

Bottom of the third and the Canadian Jays changed pitcher.  Ariana sat out this inning.  The Yankees got some hits but couldn't score any more runs.

The game ended just after 8:00 p.m. with a final score of 10-6, for the Yankees.

We have enough time to get to Tom Riley Park to catch the rest of Aaron's game.  Andy text me to say Aaron will be pitching tonight but he wasn't sure what inning.

Second Game - RY Cardinals vs. North Toronto A's at Tom Riley Park.

As I was pulling into the parking lot I could see that Aaron was already on the mound.  Even though all the boys wear the same uniform, I would recognize that pitcher from any distance!

While walking to the field I bumped into one of the Coaches and he said 'it isn't one of our better games'!  I was told it was was the top of the 6th inning and there were already 2 outs.  It didn't take me long to realize our defence wasn't awake tonight.  Aaron's pitching was good and the A's were hitting...but our defence were not in this game.  Aaron finally struck out the next kid and got the third out!  Someone said his pitch count was 50 (for the 3 innings he pitched).  The score was something like 9-1 now.

Look who's on the mound - August 7, 2014.

Bottom of the 5th and with 1 out, Aaron is up to bat. He ends up walking to first base and then steals second. The next kid hit and I am not sure where the ball landed but Aaron was called to third, and then the A's threw the ball to third! Aaron had to run back to second and it ended in a rundown...but they finally got him out at third!  I never understand these calls, especially when we need the runs...there was no one one on first, so why was he told to run to third???  The inning ended with no runs scored!

Safe on First!

For the 7th inning, Aaron covers first base.  The boys got two quick outs and then they started making errors again.  The A's weren't able to get any runs in this inning.

The bottom of the 7th was a quick one.  The A's were not making any errors and our boys dropped like flies...and didn't score any more runs!!!  The game ended and it wasn't even 10:00 p.m.


Tonight's Moon - August 7, 2014.

This was the last game for the Season so we should be able to have a life now but the boys are getting ready for the upcoming TBAs on August 15-17.  That only means there will be extra days of practice!!!