The Elkhorns battled adversity (again) as they won “everything they could” sweeping up in their 2nd season. “Bring on Kaboom “shouted Presto speaking of the Elite division winners.
The Horns cruised through the round robin and things looked rosy, until the call came on Sunday morning. “The Commish called in the morning with a last minute change in game time and location” said Summer. “Luckily, we were able to get in touch with everyone and sneaked out the first win on Sunday against the Concrete Crushers.” They then took the diamond against the Dirt Bags. It was a bit closer, but again, when you’re a team on a mission, it is tough to stop the big
The fact that a quarter of the team went to the Tom Petty concert the night before and were noticeably “off” when they hit the diamond was of no concern for Summer. “This team is about depth, and good drafts have allowed this organization to have a solid succession plan where anyone can play at any time” boasted Summer.
The final game was a “beaut”. The Herd was actually down 2 runs against Batts of Fury, then Maura mentioned that she would buy a beer for every player that passed over home plate. Well, that would be the death of the opponents as the Horns cost Maura a shopping bag full of “brewskies” en route to the victory.
Here is a description of the final out in the Championship game. Rick pitched his trademark “knuckle slider”. She swung, missed, and the Herd won. Rick turned around and chuckled, “that was anti-climatic”; no truer statement was uttered all year. But when beer was on the line, the other team knew they were done.
Time for a commercial break.
Cowboy hat
Warm up beers $10
New Bat $175
Hugh striking out in the Championships – PRICELESS!
Back to our regular programming.
Injuries were a concern for the Summer GM as he chose to rest players during the round robin. “I sat down in a closed meeting with the Elkhorn GM and really it was a no brainer; we knew this team had depth, and would hold their own. But, there was no way anyone was going to sit much on Sunday, everyone was going to play”.
Playoff homer club included Hugh, Rob, Casual, Presto and Maura.
Year end awards:
- Best comeback player (Casual),,,he batted stellar in the last few weeks! Finally.
- Best fielder female (Kelly), also would have best bunter award, but only one is given out per player!
- Best wounded player (Presto). Hope surgery went OK.
- Best player with internal organs falling out (Hugh).
- Best Closer (Pete), always there in the big games.
- Best starting pitcher (Rick), and closed out the championship season for the Herd.
- Best 2B (Vanessa), actually got thrown out once at first and stood there is shock as most speed merchants do! Speed galore!
- Most HR’s Female (Maura), also stops balls on 1B with her knees!
- Best Catcher (Barb), got better every game throughout the season
- Best recovery from career ending injury (Nicola). Came back with a fury at bat!
- Least games played (Jeff). Still batted .500!
- Most cardiac arrests (Summer), ‘nuff said.
- Most versatile player (Dave), mind you, he never pitched or catched but there is always next year!
- Best infielder (female) Peggy. Corralled a few heaters this year, and a few off the ankles and shins!
- Best home run average (Rob)…Others were closing in on him as Rob ages.
- Best Hosts (Hugh and Tiny),,,, we only were able to hit Ricks’ one time other than their place….thanks! Rick/Vanessa were great hosts as well!
Team assets:
About a half dozen bats 20 bucks
Lotsa used balls 10 bucks
Catchers Mask (yes we have one) 5 bucks
Total 85 bucks (garage sale value)
Team Debts:
None
Thanks to the “commish” for a great year!
It is rumored that the Herd may have earned a move up to 4th division next year. Stay tuned for more info as those crafty Elmwood Elkhorns continue their mission towards the 2028 Super Seniors Co-Ed Canadian Championship!
Thanks for a good season - Summer
