The great run by the new expansion BlueJays came to an end in an exciting yet disappointing end against a solid Blue Thunder team 10-7. The BlueJays who have pretty much played solid defense throughout the year did not do it this game. Dave Forman who pitched a gutsy game did not have the support needed to beat a very good team like the Thunder. Too many unearned runs.
That said... the BlueJays did not quit!! Down 6-0 in the third they scored 6 runs to tie the game and a chance in the top of the sixth to take the lead. With no outs and a runner at second Brian Allen hit a solid single and the runner from second sped home only to be thrown out at the plate. A big play in the game as it stopped a potential big rally and turned the momentum to the Thunder. The Thunder would score 3 unearned runs in the 6th to basically seal the victory.
Paul Post, Dave Latina, Dave Forman,and Brian Allen each had 2 hits. Other hits came from Pat Alston,Bob Yakatan,and Artie Gianakos.
Jimmy Ansel pitched a gutsy game of his own. Steve Van Gelder led the Thunder with 2 hits
I just want to say how proud I am of this BlueJay's team. They were made up of players who some didn't think much of, players with talent who hadn't played in a while, players who played in the Hobbs league who I had no clue of their talent but gave me more than I ever hoped for. But most importantly they are guys who just wanted to have fun and were unselfish. Whatever they could do to help the team! In all my years in this league without question this has been the most enjoyable team to manage and the friendships we have developed are worth as much as victories. They are winners on and off the field. Not one head cases and unpretentious. My Thanks to all of them!!
I want to congratulate the Blue Thunder on their victory and wish them all the best in the semis as they deserve to be there.
Artie, what a great job you did with your team. I know you will always be shopping, to try to add any pieces that you may need. Your players really look like they have fun,as it should be. Look forward to playing you guys next year.
Artie, Congradulations on putting a great bunch of guys together and having a great season. I know you will be making a few moves during the off season to make your team even better,..... Ralph #21 35-DODGERS
A well run team with a good run in the playoffs. I hope you build but keep the team spirit intact. and wait a minute...better to manage than even the '91 Avis squad? now that was pure joy. Art and Blue Jays great first year , see you next.
Those were the days. But that team was started in 1990. A year after I started playing in 1989 when the powers to be asked if I would start a team from just pool players. That team went 1-17 during the season but made it to the semi finals in the playoffs when I put the best 9-10 players out there and surprised everyone by beating the mighty White Sox and Yankee teams back then. But this current team has been the jewel for me and I hope we continue to develop to the point that we can someday challenge for the championship and if not we'll have fun trying.
