Red Sox Weekend Schedule

The guys stayed alive in the TOC last night with a 9-1 victory over the Lawndale Yankees.  You can find the game recap here.  The win gets them back in the winning column after dropping their first TOC matchup against the Lennox Pirates 12-8.  The stats for both games have been added to the stats page.


Our next TOC game is Saturday at 12PM at Westchester LL.  We will meet at Ladera at 9AM for warmup and to organize a caravan to the game.  The Ladera LL Closing Day Ceremonies will also be taking place on Sat so I recommend that you arrive at the park promply at 9.  

Given the 12PM start time, we are planning to buy the team a light "brunch" that they will eat prior to the game.  Please send $5 with your player to cover the cost.

Westchester LL is located Wiley Post just south of Manchester.  I usually take Airport to  Manchester (right) and then make a left on Wiley Post.

Finally, we hope to have absentee ballots available on Sat morning for the Ladera LL election.  Please take the time to review the email the Cathy sent last night.

_____________________________________

Lawrence Gilliam
Minor Division Standings
http://LaderaRedSox.shorturl.com   - Stats
http://LaderaRedSox.blogspot.com  - Blog

Red Sox Game Reminder

We play today at Tri Park at 5:15.  Please arrive at Tri Park by 4:15.  We will NOT be meeting at Ladera to form a caravan.

_____________________________________

Lawrence Gilliam
Minor Division Standings
http://LaderaRedSox.shorturl.com   - Stats
http://LaderaRedSox.blogspot.com  - Blog

Red Sox Practice and Game Information

We will practice on Wednesday at 6PM at Ladera.

Our next TOC game is on Thursday at 5:15 at Tri Park.  Please arrive by 4:15 for warm up and team verification.  If the early start is an issue, please speak with the coaches to determine if one of us can pick your player up for the game.

Tri Park is located on Prarie and 154th Street. 

Ric Berry recommends that we take:
Prarie South to 154th Street
Right on 154th Street
Right on Doty
Left on 158th Street

_____________________________________

Lawrence Gilliam
Minor Division Standings
http://LaderaRedSox.shorturl.com   - Stats
http://LaderaRedSox.blogspot.com  - Blog

Red Sox Practice Today 5PM at Ladera

We will practice at Ladera at 5PM today.  Most likely, we will be on the Sr. field.

Red Sox Practice Reminder

We will practice on Sat morning at 9:30 AM at Ladera.

The stats page has been updated.


_____________________________________

Lawrence Gilliam
Minor Division Standings
http://LaderaRedSox.shorturl.com   - Stats
http://LaderaRedSox.blogspot.com  - Blog

Red Sox TOC Parents Meeting

Sorry for the late notice.  We will hold a quick parent's meeting to get organized for TOC at the park TODAY at 6:30 PM. 

Lawrence

Red Sox Additional TOC Information

I forgot to mention that all players must have their Little League patch on their uniform jersey.  If you are missing the patch, let us know so that we can find extras.

Lawrence

Red Sox TOC Info

I have attached the TOC bracket and field locations.  On the bracket, we are Ladera 2.

Our first game is on Sunday at 2PM at Aviation Park.  TOC regulations require teams to check in with tournament officials 30 minutes prior to the game.  We will need to present a certified birth certificate and 2 utility bills for proof of residence at each game.  Please bring these items to our Thursday game against the Dodgers.

When possible, we will arrange a meet time at Ladera before each TOC game for warm up and then caravan to the game.  For Sunday's game, we will meet at Ladera at 11AM.


TOC is a double elimination tournament. 

If we win on Sunday, the next game will be on Friday 6/15 at 5:15 PM at Tri Park.
     If we win that game, the next game will be on Monday 6/18 at 5:15 PM at Aviation Park


If we lose on Sunday, the next game will be on Thur 6/14 at 5:15PM at Tri Park
    If we win that game, the next game will be Sat 6/16 at 12:00 PM at Westchester Park
    If we lose, the Sunday game, we're out

Red Sox Game Schedule

Our game that was originally scheduled for tomorrow (Tue) against the Dodgers has been moved to Thursday so that the coaches can attend a mandatory Tournament of Champions meeting. 

We will play the Dodgers on Thursday at 6PM.  There is no game tomorrow.

If we win the Thursday game, we will play the Braves on Friday to determine the overall season championship.

TOC games will start on Sat.

It is quite possible that we will play on Thur, Fri and Sat of this week.

Red Sox Game 19 Summary - "Just Let Your Soul Glo"

The Red Sox moved to 7-2 in the second half (14-5 overall) with a thrilling 5-4 victory over their nemesis, the Braves, on Sunday evening.  In a game that featured enough highlights, plot twists, injuries, foul language (bad coach), and drama for a primetime television soap opera, the Red Sox demonstrated grit and determination to earn the victory and keep their unblemished (4-0) record in games decided by 1 run.  With the win, the Red Sox sit tied atop the 2nd Half standings with the Braves who are experiencing a 2 game slide.

 

1st Inning

The Braves sent staff ace, Malik, to the mound to start the game.  The Red Sox wasted no time as Jonathan Phelps led off the first inning with a bloop, infield singe to third base.   Grant Craddolph stepped to the plate and tripled with a blast to right-center field, scoring Jonathan.  Grant would add a run, scoring on a wild pitch.   Desmond Box and Bailey Goldstein drew walks to continue the early rally.  Kyle Reece sent a long, high fly ball to left field that was handled by Braves left fielder, Blake, for out number 3. 

 

Tristan Williams took the mound for the Red Sox in the bottom half of the first.  After going 0-2 in the count, Braves lead off batter, Devin, send a soft ground ball that stuck in the grass to reach on an infield single.  Devin would display the "wheels" and score on a series of wild pitches and passed balls.  Tristan threw to Jonathan to get out 1 on a ground ball to the mound.  Braves starting catcher, Trevor, reached first on an infield single to third, and Devin J reached on a fielder's choice play.  Out 2 was recorded by Grant who fielded a pop fly to short stop.  In the only t-ball moment of the game,  Trevor and Devin J scored on the same wild pitch to bring the Braves run count to 3 in the inning.  Malik reached first on an infield fly ball but was thrown out at second by Red Sox catcher, Derek Marshall throwing to Grant at second.

 

At the end of 1, the score was 3-2 Braves.

 

 

2nd Inning

 

The Red Sox would battle back in the 2nd with left fielder, Dominic Vasquez, reaching on a HBP.  Dominic did a great job on the base paths moving to 2nd and 3rd on a wild pitch and passed ball.  The Braves would succumb to Tball-itis in the next sequence.  Grant drew a walk, sprinted and rounded first to draw the attention of the Braves pitcher.  An overthrow to second allowed Dominic to race home to score.  On the overthrow, Grant advanced hard to third base.  The normally sure armed Braves, followed with another overthrow into the Braves dugout, allowing Grant to score.   Derek drew a walk in the inning but was left stranded as Malik settled in to record out 3 with a strike out.

 

Jerrod led off the bottom of the second for the Braves with a walk.  He moved to second on a wild pitch.  Tristan settled in to record out 1 with a strike out.   Blake bunted to reach 1st on a fielder's choice.  Derek threw to Kyle to throw out Jerrod attempting to take third on a wild pitch.  The final out of the inning was recorded by Lawrence Gilliam who threw to Jonathan on a sharply hit ball to second.

 

After 2, the Red Sox led 4-3.

 

 

3rd Inning

 

The Sox went quietly in the top of the 3rd with Malik recording a strike out, Devin J catching a fly ball, and Malik throwing to Devin N on a come backer to the mound.

 

Tristan got the first 2 Braves batters in the bottom of the third on strikes.  Devin J sent a ground ball to the whole between SS and 2nd.  Grant charged the ball and made a strong throw to Jonathan at first that was on time but a little high as Jonathan's foot was off the base on the catch.  Braves second baseman, Robert, drew a walk to place runners at first and second.   Derek and Tristan accounted for out 3 on a great hustle play as Devin J attempted to reach home on a wild pitch.  Derek scurried to retrieve the ball and flipped it to Tristan for the out.

 

With the defense and pitching tightening, no runs were scored in the 3rd.

 

 

4th Inning

 

Trevor Edior relieved Malik on the mound to start the 4th inning.  Facing his next door neighbor, Lawrence grounded out to second for out 1.  Trevor would retire the side in order as he struck out the next batter and benefited from a great play by Jalen on a slow roller to third base off the bat of Jonathan.

 

Grant relieved Tristan on the mound to start the 4th.  He started strong, striking out the first batter he faced.  Braves reserve left fielder, Chris, doubled on a fly ball to center that sailed over the charging Desmond Box's head.  Joshua collected an RBI on a bunt single to score Chris and tie the game.  Red Sox catcher picked up on a flaw in the lead off technique at first and initiated a pick off play that went 2-3-6 (Derek to Jonathan to Tristan) to pick off the base runner.  Braves reserve center fielder, Desmond, and first baseman Devin N  followed with a walks to bring the go ahead run into scoring position with 2 outs.   Grant dug deep to strike out the number 2 hitter in the line up and end the rally.

 

At the end of 4, the game was knotted at 4 apiece.

 

5th Inning

 

As time became a factor, Grant led off the 5th with a walk.  Devin J relieved Trevor on the mound.  Grant moved to second on a wild pitch.  Derek flied out to the pitcher for out 1.   Grant continued to terrorize the base paths as he advanced to third and then took home on a wild pitch for his third run of the tame – giving the Red Sox a one run lead.  Devin J would settle in to get the next two batters on strikes and close the inning.

 

Grant returned to the mound to close out the game and made quick work of the first batter with a K on 5 pitches.  Adjusting for the Braves' proclivity for bunting, the Red Sox instituted "the bunt shift" moving the speedy Tristan the 3rd base to wrestle with the jungle like greens on the infield.  Lawrence moved to short, Bailey to second, and Kyle to right.   Jonathan turned in perhaps the most exciting catch of the year as he laid out in foul territory to snag a line drive down the first base line (can you say WEB GEM).   With one out separating the Red Sox from their first victory over the Braves - ever, Robert and Malik drew walks to put the tying and winning runs on base.  Garnering the strength of 3 years of frustration, Grant Craddolph refused to relent as he fired 4 strikes in a row (2 called, 1 swinging, and 1 that should have been called) to record a K for the last out of the game.

 

Game over …  Close the book … Hear the sweet, soothing melody of the cantata being sung by the obese lady   … The people in Hades no longer thirst for ice water …. Good night now … Thanks for playing  …. As a parting gift, enjoy the year supply of Soul Glo….

Red Sox Win!!!!  Red Sox Win!!!!  Red Sox Win!!!!

 

 

RED SOX GAME CHANGED BACK TO ORIGINAL TIME

Our Sunday game against the Braves will start at 4:30PM - NOT 2PM as previously announced.  Please arrive by 3:30 for warmup.

In other news, the Dodger beat the Braves today to end the Braves unbeaten streak.

Red Sox Game Reminder

We play the Dbacks today at 6PM.  Please arrive at 5PM for warmup.


_____________________________________

Lawrence Gilliam
Minor Division Standings
http://LaderaRedSox.shorturl.com   - Stats
http://LaderaRedSox.blogspot.com  - Blog

Red Sox Practice Reminder

We will practice tomorrow (Thur) at 5PM at Ladera.  See you there.

Red Sox Game 17 Game Summary - Another Close Call

The following game summary was provided by Coach Barry.

The Red Sox pulled out a closely fought 3-2 victory over the surging Nationals on Wednesday evening.   The win takes the Red Sox to 12-5 on the season (5-2 in the second half).  The victory also brings the Red Sox record to 3-0 in games decided by 1 point.  The Nationals go to 4-15 on the season (3-6 in the second half). 

Lawrence Gilliam (3-0,  5.4 ERA) started off on the mound to throw 3  2/3 solid innings allowing 2 runs (1 earned). He also gloved a hard hit one hopper and threw to first for an out. The Nationals started Jordan who also had a strong outing.  The Red Sox defense was tight all the way through. They turned a double play when Tristan Williams (.345 BA, .596 OBP) caught a pop fly at SS and threw to Jonathan Phelps (.528 BA, .630 OBP) at first for the out when the runner didn't tag up. Grant Craddolph (.486 BA, .673 OBP) hit a long high shot to left center for a stand up triple; continuing home to score on a over throw to third. Tristan and Jonathan both scored after getting on with base hits and advancing to home on stolen bases. Jonathan played a great game at first fielding two ground balls hit to first for a couple of outs and also catching throws to first for a few more outs. Kyle Reece (.286 BA, .540 OBP) scooped up a hard hit ground ball in center field and quickly made a throw to Tristan who tagged the runner out at second.  Tristan relieved Lawrence with 2 outs in the 4th and pitched a scoreless 1 1/3 innings to record his second save of the year.

Special thanks to Marie and Greg for handling the score book.  Coach Lawrence will transcribe the scorebook into the stats applications and update the website on Thursday.


_____________________________________

Lawrence Gilliam
Minor Division Standings
http://LaderaRedSox.shorturl.com   - Stats
http://LaderaRedSox.blogspot.com  - Blog

Game Reminder

We play the Nationals today at 6PM.  Please arrive by 5PM for warm up.

Red Sox Notes

Practice Reminder
We will practice tomorrow, Thur, at 5PM at Ladera.

Game Summary Omission
In a rush to go to press, I omitted an additional game ball to Tristan Williams in the Mets game for shutting down the Mets in the final inning.

Standings Update
The Braves appear to have 1st place locked up as they are leading by 2.5 games with 3 to play.  Their magic number is 2.

In an upset, the Nationals defeated the Dodgers last night in a high scoring affair. 

In the race for 2nd place, the Red Sox (4-2), hold a 1.5 game advantage on the Dbacks and Dodgers (both 3-4).   The Red Sox magic number to clinch 2nd is 3.  Any combination of 3 Red Sox Wins or 3 Dback and Dodger losses clinches 2nd place for the Sox. 


Misc Stats

• The Red Sox are 3-1 in games decided by 2 runs or less.  A key stat that measures the team's resolve to win.
• Red Sox pitchers average 1 strike out per 2.79 batters faced.  That's over 1 per inning.  Tristan and Lawrence lead way with 1 strike out per 2.55 and 2.61 batters, respectively.
• The Red Sox are 1-5 in games where they score 7 runs or less. 
  
• Outside of the division leading Braves, the Red Sox are the only team playing above .500 for the season.
• Kyle is the only Red Sox to play in every game this season.
• The Red Sox have been shut out once this year.
• The Red Sox are 0-2 in games when one of the coaches is missing.
• The Red Sox are undefeated in games immediately following a new moon
  
• (okay I made the last one up)
  

_____________________________________

Lawrence Gilliam
Minor Division Standings
http://LaderaRedSox.shorturl.com   - Stats
http://LaderaRedSox.blogspot.com  - Blog

Red Sox Game 16 Mini Summary – A "W" is a "W"

The Red Sox ended a two game slide by pulling out a nail bitter against the Mets on Sunday.  The Red Sox rallied for 6 runs in the top of the 4th to earn an 8-6 victory and bring their record to 4-2 in the second half (11-5 overall). 

 

The Red Sox got on the board early as lead off batter,  Jonathan Phelps (.528 BA,  .630 OBP), earned a walk and advanced home on two Mets throwing errors.  Derek Marshall also collected a hit in the inning but was left stranded as Met's pitcher Jimmy got on track.

 

Derek (1-0, 9.29 ERA) got the start on the mound for Red Sox and turned in a flawless first inning, striking out the side in order on 16 pitches.

 

Kyle Reece (.281 BA, .540 OBP, 18 runs scored), led off the second inning with a walk.  Kyle used his speed to advance around the bases and score on a series of wild pitches and errors to bring the score to 2-0. 

 

The Mets responded with 5 runs in the bottom of the second as they benefited from 5 walks in the inning.  Team ERA leader, Jonathan Phelps (2-1, 3.46 ERA) relieved Derek on the mound during the inning.  Tristan Williams fielded a ground ball at short stop and threw to Kyle at third to record out 1 of the inning.  Derek, who replaced Jonathan at first base, recorded out 2 on an unassisted ground ball to first.  Out 3 was recorded as Bailey Goldstein threw to Lawrence Gilliam who relayed to Kyle at third to get Chase attempting to stretch a double into a triple.  2 runs were scored on the play. 

 

At the end of 2, the Mets led 5-2.

 

Mets pitcher, Jimmy, continued to befuddle the Red Sox batters as he made it through the top of the Red Sox line up, allowing only a walk to Grant Craddolph (.486 BA, .673 OBP), in the top of the third.

 

Jonathan stayed on the mound in the bottom of the third.  After the lead off batter walked, Grant, who was behind the plate, threw to Lawrence at first base to pick off the runner taking a lazy lead off.  Jonathan struck out the next batter to record out 2.  The Mets would earn 3 more walks and a base hit to score 1 run in the bottom of the third.  Jonathan battled to record out 3 with a strike out.

 

With spirits (and attitudes) in question, the Red Sox returned to the dugout trailing 6-2; needing a rally as time was becoming a factor.

 

Lawrence Gilliam (.406 BA, .604 OBP) got the inning started by legging out an infield single hit to the gap between short and 2nd.  Lawrence would advance to 3rd base on a wild pitch and a passed ball.  The speedy Tristan Williams (.345 BA, .596 OBP) drew a walk.  Following the direction of Coach Barry and Coach Lawrence, Tristan sprinted to first and rounded to second to draw the throw.  Mets pitcher Jimmy fired the ball to second to get Tristan, allowing Lawrence to score.  The next batter, Bailey, drew a walk.  With 2 outs in the inning, and needing 3 runs the tie, slugger Desmond Box (.333 BA, .581 OBP) stepped to the plate.  Desmond, riding the high of just missing a home run by 10-15 feet in the previous game, stroked a towering fly ball to third base that was mishandled by the Mets.  Bailey scored on the play to bring the Red Sox within 2.  Jonathan followed with a walk, Grant was hit by a pitch, and Derek walked to load the bases for Evan Lott (.150 BA, .370 OBP).  Desmond scored on Derek's walk.   Evan drew a walk, bringing in Jonathan to tie the game. Grant scored on Evan's walk to give the Sox the lead.  Lawrence delivered his second base hit of the inning on a line drive to left center to score Derek and give the Red Sox a 2 run lead.  The inning was called, mistakenly, due to the 6 run rule.

 

The Red Sox sent staff work horse, Tristan Williams (3-2, 6.52 ERA) to the mound to close out the game.  Tristan leads the team in innings pitched, games pitched, and strike outs.  Needing base runners, the Mets lead off batter laid down superb bunt.  Derek, who relieved Grant behind the plate, hustled forward and threw a bullet to Jonathan at first to get the out.  The next batter laid down another tough bunt.  Again, Derek hustled forward and delivered a strike to Lawrence covering first for out 2 – TWO PLAYS WORTHY OF WEB GEM MENTION IN A ROW.     Tristan took care of the rest by recording out 3 to close the game.

 

Jonathan earns the win, and Tristan earns the team's first save of the year.

 

There are many Game balls go around this time:

Derek Marshall – for a superb inning of work on the mound and 2 web gem plays behind the plate.

Jonathan Phelps – for excellent relief pitching

Kyle Reece – for two put outs at third base

Lawrence Gilliam – for 2 base hits and solid defense through the game

Terrance Gant and Evan Lott – for displaying a winning attitude when other team members began to doubt

Grant Craddolph – for solid work behind the plate

 

I have attached the usual files.  The game recap can be found via the link on the team schedule .
_____________________________________

Lawrence Gilliam
Minor Division Standings
http://LaderaRedSox.shorturl.com   - Stats
http://LaderaRedSox.blogspot.com  - Blog

 

Red Sox Practice Reminder

We will practice today at 5PM at Ladera.

Red Sox Practice Reminder

We will practice tomorrow (Thur) at Ladera at 5PM.

Practice Today at 5PM at Ladera

We will be at Ladera for our standing Monday practice.  Practice is from 5 to 6:30.

Lawrence

Red Sox Practice Schedule

We will practice tomorrow (Thur) at 5PM at Ladera.

 

In prep for the big game against the Braves on Sat, we will have a batting cage practice on Saturday at 2:30PM at West Coast Baseball in El Segundo.  Coach Derek reserved the cages from 2:30 to 3:30.   Gametime is 6PM on Sat.

 

Lawrence

Red Sox Practice Reminder

We will practice tomorrow (Monday) at 5PM on our field (Ladera).

Red Sox Practice Reminder

We will practice tomorrow (Thur) at 5PM on our field (Ladera).

Thursday is also the last day to get your order and money in for the first round of Ladera jacket orders.

Red Sox Game Reminder

We play the Mets today at 6PM.  Please arrive by 5PM for warmup.

Red Sox xPractice Reminder

We will practice tomorrow (Monday) at 5PM at Ladera on the Minor Field.

Red Sox - Game Reminders

We play the Nationals today at 6PM.  Please arrive by 5PM for warmup.

We play the Dodgers on Wednesday at 6PM.

I have updated the schedule , the standings and stats page. 

Our loss to the Braves yesterday cemented us in 2nd place.  Even if we drop the next 2 games, we will still be in 2nd place.  We'll need to win the 2nd half of the season to force a playoff for a chance to advance to the Tournament of Champions.  The 2nd half starts this weekend.


_____________________________________

Lawrence Gilliam
Red Sox Schedule
Minor Division Standings
http://LaderaRedSox.shorturl.com   - Stats
http://LaderaRedSox.blogspot.com  - Blog

Red Game - Today's Game Is Rained Out

The fields are are saturated so there will be no game today.

Lawrence

Red Sox Thursday Practice

We will practice on Thursday at 5:30 PM.

We will practice at the top of Kenneth Hahn Park - in the space where the damn used to be.  Enter Kenneth Hahn Park on La Cienega and continue on the road - all the way to the top of the park.  Let me know if you need more specific directions.

Game 7 Mini Summary - The Return of the Ping

The pinging sound of Al, Sc, and C (consult your periodic table) returned to Red Sox land on Sunday afternoon as the team collected 9 hits in their 15-5 win over the Mets.  With the win, the Red Sox remain a game behind the Braves who lead the division.  The Mets remain a half game out of 3rd place trailing the Dodgers.  Tristan Williams (3-0, 7.50 ERA) got the start on the mound for the Red Sox.  Veteran pitcher, Elyas, got the start for the Mets.

 
The Red Sox took an early lead, scoring 5 runs in the first inning.  Grant Craddolph, Jonathan Phelps, Desmond Box, Lawrence Gilliam, and Tristan Williams all scored in the first inning.  Notable hits included a double to right center field by Desmond to score Jonathan, and an infield single by Tristan to score Lawrence.  Evan Lott and Kyle Reece also reached base in the inning as the Red Sox batted around the order.

The Mets got things started in the bottom half of the first with a lead off single by starting short stop, Evan.  Red Sox catcher, Grant, hooked up with Lawrence at short stop, to catch Evan attempting to steal second.  The Mets were held scoreless in the first.
 

The Sox struck for 3 more runs in the second inning.  Runs were scored by Jonathan, Desmond, and Kyle.  Kyle collected an RBI single in the inning. 

The Mets rallied for 5 runs in the bottom of the 2nd.  Red Sox pitcher, Tristan, battled through control problems on the mound, and the Mets showed patience at the plate – forcing Tristan to throw strikes.  The Mets were the benefactors of 5 "free passes" in the inning and 1 HBP.  Jordan Strong delivered a solid rip to right center field to score Evan.  At the end of 2, the score was Red Sox 8, Mets 5.

 
The Red Sox scored 5 in the 3rd with a double by Grant, and consecutive singles by Jonathan, Derek Marshall, and Dominic Vasquez.  Bailey Goldstein, Grant, Jonathan, Derek and Dominic scored in the inning.

 
Derek (0-0, 3.0 ERA) relieved Tristan on the mound in the top of the third inning and retired the side on strikes.  He only allowed 2 base runners, an RBI single by Elyas and a walk to Christian.  Terrance Gant took over left field, relieving Evan in the inning.
 

The Red Sox added 2 insurance runs in the 4th on a single by Jonathan, a double by Derek, and an RBI by Kyle.  To take a 15-5 lead into the bottom of the 4th.  Derek was lights out on the mound in the bottom of the 4th, striking out 2 more batters to bring his total for the day to 5. 

Game Balls go to the following players:

- Tristan for solid starting pitching.

- Jonathan for scoring 4 runs and solid defense at 1st base.

- Desmond for his double to right center field.

- Kyle for collecting 2 RBIs

I have attached the usual files. 
_____________________________________

Lawrence Gilliam
Red Sox Schedule
Minor Division Standings
http://LaderaRedSox.shorturl.com   - Stats
http://LaderaRedSox.blogspot.com  - Blog

Game 6 Summary - Patience is a Virtue

The ability to find new ways to win is a hallmark of a successful team.  The Red Sox demonstrated this trait in its 11-4 victory over the Diamondbacks on Saturday afternoon.  In a game where only 6 hits were recorded (4 by the Red Sox and 2 by the Dbacks), the Red Sox used patience at the plate and aggressive base running to earn the win.  The win takes the Red Sox record to 5-1.

 

1st Inning

Grant Craddolph (2-0, 6.86 ERA) took the mound for his first start of the season.  He was solid in 3 innings of work - allowing only 3 runs.  After out 1 was recorded by Jonathan Phelps on a ground ball to first base, the Dbacks got on track as Devin drew a walk.  Armani followed with a towering fly ball double to right center field.  Red Sox outfielders Desmond Box and Bailey Goldstein hustled to get the ball back in and hold the runners at 2nd and 3rd.  Christian hit an RBI ground ball to Lawrence Gilliam at second base who just missed getting Devin at plate.  Mychal followed with a ground ball to short stop to score Armani.  Tristan Williams fielded the ground ball and stepped on second base to record out 2.  The final out was recorded on a heads up play by Red Sox catcher, Derek Marshall, as he fired to Tristan to nail a runner attempting to steal second base.

 

The Red Sox answered in the bottom half of the first.  Jonathan (.667 BA, .750 OBP) who leads the team in batting and on base percentage, got things started with a ground ball up the middle.  He would reach 2nd and 3rd on wild pitches and eventually score on an overthrow.  Desmond took one for the team (HBP), Lawrence walked, and Kyle Reece took another one for the team (HBP) to load the bases.  Tristan showed patience at the plate as Dbacks starting pitcher, Anthony, struggled with control.  He drew a walk which scored Desmond.  Evan Lott stepped to the plate and collected an RBI – scoring Lawrence on a ground ball that was mishandled by the Dbacks short stop.  Bailey collected 2 RBIs – scoring Kyle and Tristan on a ground ball hit to short stop to bring the total to 5 runs. 

At the end of 1, the score was 5-2 Red Sox.

 

2nd Inning

After a strikeout for out 1, Grant allowed a walk to Shane, and an infield single to 3rd base by Anthony.  Shane would score on wild pitch to bring the score to 5-3.  The Red Sox tightened the strings as Jonathan recorded out 2 on a fly ball to foul territory.  After another walk to Devin, Grant buckled down and recorded out 3 with his second strike out of the day. 

 

Grant singled on a ground ball to center field to start the 2nd, and Jonathan followed with a walk.  Grant and Jonathan moved to second and third on wild pitchers.  With the Dbacks experiencing a case of TeeBall-itus (the dreaded ailment that grossly afflicted Red Sox Land last season), Grant and Jonathan were able to score on the same wild pitch.  Sticking with the theme, Desmond drew a walk to score Grant.  Lawrence collected an RBI on a ground ball back to the box – scoring Desmond.  Kyle, who must have had a ball magnet in his back pocket, was hit by another pitch.  Tristan followed with an infield single.  Both runners were left stranded as Dback reliever pulled it together and recorded out 3 on a strike out.

 

3rd Inning

Terrance Gant and Dominic Vasquez took over for Evan and Desmond in the outfield.  After surrendering a lead off walk to Christian, Grant retired the side on strikes – needing only 9 pitches.  This would close the book on Grant.  In 3 innings of work, he threw 33 of 69 pitches for strikes, allowed 2 hits, 3 runs, walked 5 and struck out 5; another great performance by a Red Sox starting pitcher.

 

Bailey led of the 3rd with a line drive double to deep right center field.  Grant reached on a fielder's choice to place runners at first and second.  Jonathan walked to load the bases.  Bailey hustled home on a wild pitch and displayed a bit of creativity – employing the seldom used "crawl slide" to evade the tag at the plate.  Grant would follow to score the second run of the inning.  Dominic and Lawrence followed with walks to load the bases for Kyle.  The Dbacks countered by bringing in experienced pitcher, Christian Cook.  Kyle collected an RBI, scoring Jonathan on a ground out to the pitcher.  With runners on second and third, Tristan hit a ground ball to short stop.  Lawrence was overcome with sudden case of Teeball-itus and ran "unforced" into the tag between short and third for out number three.

 

At the end of 3, the score was Red Sox 11, Dbacks 3.

 

4th Inning

Derek made his second appearance on the mound this year in relief of Grant at the top of the 4th.  Grant moved to catcher.  Derek turned in a flawless inning, getting the first 3 batters he faced with a total of 14 pitches.  He struck out the first 2 batters that he faced.  Out 3 was recorded by Tristan who fielded a ground ball that took him to his knees.  He scrambled to his feet and threw a bullet to Jonathan at first to get the runner - a play worthy of Web Gem consideration.  In total, Derek faced 3 batters, allow no runners, collected 2 strikeouts, and threw 9 of 14 pitches for strikes.

 

Dbacks pitcher Christian made quick work of the Red Sox in the bottom of the 4th.  He struck out the lead off batter on 4 pitches.  After a walk to the next batter, Grant stroked a line drive to first base.  Dbacks first baseman, Sal, snagged the line drive and stepped on the bag to double up the runner at first – WEB GEM!!!

 

No runs were scored in the 4th inning.

 

5th Inning

Jonathan (0-1, 4.00 ERA) filled the closer role for the Red Sox in the top of the 5th.  Derek moved to first, Lawrence to short, Tristan to third, Dominic to second, and Desmond returned to center.  Jonathan was strong in relief.  After walking the lead off batter, he settled in to strike out the number 2 hitter.  The lead off batter would score on misplayed ground ball.  Tristan and Lawrence combined to get out 2 with a force play at second.  Jonathan would take care of the rest, striking out the last batter of the game.  In one inning of work, Jonathan threw, 15 of 24 pitches for strikes, walked 2, struck out 2, allowed no hits and no earned runs.

 

Game Balls go to the following players:

- Grant for solid starting pitching, solid catching, and scoring 2 runs.

- Bailey for the double to right center field.

- Jonathan for solid work at 1st base, scoring 3 runs, and closing out the game on the mound.

Scoring Note: The original game recap that I posted had Jonathan with an earned run in bottom of the 5th.  I corrected this as the run was scored as the result of an error.  The attached score sheet has not been corrected but the website and the box score is correct.

_____________________________________

Lawrence Gilliam
Red Sox Schedule
Minor Division Standings
http://LaderaRedSox.shorturl.com   - Stats
http://LaderaRedSox.blogspot.com  - Blog

Red Sox Practice Schedule

I hope you all enjoyed this weekend's back to back victories.  I will try to get the game summaries written - but it's looking doubtful at the moment.  I've updated the stats page, and you can find the box scores by clicking on the schedule link below.

We will practice tomorrow at 5PM at Ladera.


_____________________________________
Lawrence Gilliam
Red Sox Schedule
Minor Division Standings
http://LaderaRedSox.shorturl.com   - Stats
http://LaderaRedSox.blogspot.com  - Blog

Red Sox Game 5 Summary - Too Close For Comfort

The Red Sox returned to the "W" column on Monday night with a 6-5 win over the feisty Dodgers.  The win moves the Red Sox to 4-1 on the season and keeps them a half game behind the division leading Braves.  The five inning affair came down to a close play at the plate with Lawrence Gilliam throwing to Grant Craddolph to get a Dodgers runner attempting to steal home.

 

1st Inning

Dodger ace, Morgan, got the start on the mound and made quick work of the Red Sox in the first; retiring the first three batters. 

 

Tristan Williams (2-0, 6.00 ERA) got his fourth start of the year for the Red Sox on the mound.  Phil Lawrence led things off for the Dodgers by reaching base on a mishandled infield ground ball.  The Dodgers stuck first as Phil moved to 2nd and 3rd on wild pitches and then took home on a Red Sox throwing error.  Dodger third baseman, Akia, singled on an infield fly ball but was left stranded as Tristan buckled down and recorded 3 strike outs to get out of the inning.

 

At the end of 1, the Dodgers led 1-0.

 

2nd Inning

Morgan stayed on the mound to pitch to the first 2 Red Sox batters at the top of the 2nd and continued his dominance by striking both batters out.   Akia replaced Morgan to face Red Sox third baseman, Kyle Reece (.275 BA, .467 OBP).  Kyle reached on an infield ground ball.  Lawrence (.455 BA, .600 OBP) followed with a single through the 4-3 gap.  Both runners were left stranded on a nice play by Dodger first baseman, Mike, who fielded a well hit ball by Dominic Vasquez (.300 BA, .462 OBP) and stepped on first base for the out.

 

Tristan turned in a nearly flawless performance in the bottom of the second by retiring the Dodger side on strikes.

 

At the end of 2, the score remained Dodgers 1, Red Sox 0.

 

3rd Inning

Bailey Goldstein stepped to the plate at the top of the 3rd and slugged a fly ball to deep right field that was caught by Dodger right fielder Khalid.  Bailey's stroke would be a harbinger of things to come as the Red Sox bats shook of the "i-tus" and came alive.  Grant (.667 BA, .737 OBP) stepped to the plate and singled to get the rally started.  Derek Marshall (.667 BA, .714 OBP) brought Grant in with an infield ground ball single up the middle.  Derek, following 3rd Base Coach Lawrence's instruction to "Get Here!!!!", was caught attempting to reach 3rd on the play for out number 2.  Desmond Box collected his first hit of the year on an impressive fly ball to left field.  Tristan (.455 BA, .625 OBP) followed with a walk.  Dodger pitcher, Akia, dug deep and put an end to the 2 out rally by recording out 3 on a strike out.

 

Tristan stayed on in the 3rd and retired the first batter by catching a high fly ball on the edge of the grass.  Dodger pitcher, Akia, stepped to the plate and helped his own cause by stroking a line drive to deep right field.  The sharply hit ball was misplayed by the Red Sox right fielder, and the swift footed Akia stretched the double into a home run.  Full of grit, Tristan beared down a struck out the next 2 Dodger batters to end the inning.  This would close the book on another solid starting performance for Tristan.  In 3 innings of work, he allowed 2 runs.  He struck out an astounding 8 batters, walked 1 and allowed 2 hits; lowering his season ERA to 6.00.

 

With 3 innings in the bag, the score was Dodgers 2, Red Sox 1.

 

4th Inning

Kyle got things started in the 4th with a walk but was put out on a solid throw from Morgan to Phil as he tried to steal second.  Lawrence followed with a ground ball single to right field.  Lawrence would advance to second on a stolen base as Terrance Gant drew a walk.  With runners at 1st and 2nd, Bailey stepped to the plate and delivered an infield single to 3rd base to load the bases.  Grant doubled to left field to score Lawrence and Terrance.  In his exuberance, he rounded second and met Bailey at third base – forcing Bailey home.  Bailey was put out at home for out 2.  Leading the team with a 1.500 Slugging Percentage and 9 RBIs, Red Sox catcher, Derek Marshall, stepped to the plate and delivered an inside the park home run on a line drive that skimmed the first base line to stay fair.  Grant scored on the home run.  Desmond followed with a walk but was left stranded as the next batter struck out.  In all, the Red Sox rally tallied 4 runs.

 

Grant (1-0, 7.50 ERA) relieved Tristan to start the fourth.  Dodger first baseman, Mike, walked to start the inning.   Red Sox catcher, Derek, recorded his third CS of the season by firing a shot to Tristan at second to catch Mike attempting to steal.  Grant would take care of the rest by recording outs 2 and 3 with strike outs.   The final numbers on Grant: 1 inning of work, 2 strike outs, 2 walks, no hits, and no runs – a performance par excellence. 

 

At the end of 4, the Red Sox led 5-2.

 

5th Inning

Phillip Lawrence relieved Akia for the Dodgers to start the 5th.  Evan Lott was robbed of a base hit by Dodger SS, Kaelin, as he handled a shot off of Evan's bat at short stop for out number 1.  Kyle delivered a double to left field.  Lawrence and Dominic followed with walks to load the bases.   Grant drew a walk to force in Kyle and add a very important insurance run.  Phil would work himself out of the inning with 2 strike outs.

 

Lawrence (1-0, 6.00 ERA) came in to close the game for the Red Sox.  He started strong with a strike out to get out number 1.  He would then load the bases on walks bringing the tying run to the plate.  Lawrence buckled down to record out 2 on a strike out.  The next batter walked, bringing in a run for the Dodgers and making the score 6-3.  Dodger utility man, Jordan Horton, stepped to the plate and hit a towering fly ball to 1st base.  The Red Sox were unable to handle the fly ball and two runs scored on the missed ball and an overthrow to home.  Grant's throw to Lawrence on the mound got away and the Dodgers attempted to send a runner from 3rd to score the tying run.  Lawrence alertly retrieved the ball and flipped to Grant at home who applied the tag on the runner for out 3 – game over on a close call at home – way too close for comfort.  Red Sox 6, Dodgers 5.

 

Game Balls go to the following players:

- Tristan for another solid performance on the mound – 8 strike outs.

- Derek for hitting a home run, scoring a run, driving in 3 runs, and playing solid defense at the catcher position.

- Lawrence and Grant for making the game saving play at home.

In other league news, the Dodgers defeated the Nationals tonight.

You can find the latest standings here.

I have attached the usual documents.
- Score Sheet
- Game Summary

I have also modified the Red Sox schedule to include the new snack responsibilities.  You will also see 2 new columns for each game that allow you to link out to the Game Summary and Box Score for each game.


_____________________________________
Lawrence Gilliam
Red Sox Schedule
Minor Division Standings
http://LaderaRedSox.shorturl.com   - Stats
http://LaderaRedSox.blogspot.com  - Blog

 

Red Sox Practice - Thursday at Jim Gilliam Park

We will practice on Thursday at 5:30 PM.

We will meet at Jim Gilliam Park
4000 La Brea Ave
Los Angeles, CA 90016

http://www.google.com/maps?hl=en&safe=off&client=firefox-a&q=jim+gilliam+park&near=Los+Angeles,+CA&radius=0.0&cid=34052222,-118242778,16563509296775497860&li=lmd&z=14&t=m

If you need directions, shoot me an email.



_____________________________________
Lawrence Gilliam
Red Sox Schedule
Minor Division Standings
http://LaderaRedSox.shorturl.com   - Stats
http://LaderaRedSox.blogspot.com  - Blog

Red Sox - Game Tonight - Reminder

Reminder: We play tonight at 6PM.  Please arrive by 5PM for warm up.

Red Sox Game Summary 4 - Lessons Learned

In a clash of unbeaten teams, the Braves outlasted the Red Sox last night in a 12-7 six inning contest.  The win earns the Braves sole possession of 1^st place in the Minor Division with the Red Sox slipping to 2^nd.  The Braves maintained a slim lead through the early innings.  The Red Sox battled back to tie the game in the bottom of the 5^th.   Both teams played well with the Braves excelling in defense and base running, and the Red Sox making their mark with their bats and solid pitching.  Spring Break vacation plans played a toll on both teams as the Braves suited up 9 and the Red Sox depended on the aid of pool players to fill out the line up.

1st Inning

Tristan Williams (1-0, 7.71 ERA) got the start for the Red Sox and went 3 strong innings.  The Braves got on the board early when Devin walked and was singled in by Robert to make the score 1-0.   Tristan struck out 1 and handled a sharply hit line drive up the middle for out 2.  Out 3 was recorded by Jonathan throwing out a Braves runner attempting to steal 2^nd (put out by Grant).

 
The Red Sox countered in the bottom of the 1^st.  Grant Craddolph (.667 BA .733 OBP) singled against Braves starter Jerrod and was brought home on an RBI infield single by Jonathan Phelps (.700 BA .769 OBP).    At the end of 1, the score was tied 1-1.

 

2nd Inning

The Braves scrambled for 3 runs on 3 walks, aggressive base running, and a controversial no-call by the Blue.  Red Sox pitcher, Tristan, remained calm on the mound and struck out 2 batters and handled a come-backer to the mound throwing to Lawrence Gilliam at 1^st to get out of the inning.
 

The Red Sox kept pace in the second with Desmond Box drawing a walk and advancing to 2^nd on a passed ball.  Kyle Reece followed up with a double.  Lawrence collected an RBI on a ground ball to short.   Pool player, Akia from the Dodgers, followed with a walk.  Bailey Goldstein followed with a solid lick up the middle that was handled by the Braves pitcher for an out.  Kyle stole home to make the score 4-3 Braves.  Grant delivered an infield single but was called out a first when he rounded towards second as opposed to running through on the close play.

 

3rd Inning

The Braves continued their scoring streak with 2 runs in the top of the 3^rd.  Jalen reached on a ground ball to second.  Devin followed with a double to left.  Both runners would score on Red Sox overthrows.  Tristan remained strong on the mound handling another line drive up the middle for out number 1, striking out a batter for out number 2, and picking up an assist on a dribbler up the middle with the put out going to Lawrence at first.  That would close the book on Tristan.  In 3 strong innings, he threw 30 of 66 pitches for strikes, walked 4, struck out 4, and allowed 3 hits and 3 runs.

The Red Sox answered with 1 run in the 3^rd.  Jonathan legged out a grounder to 3^rd for an infield single.  The Braves turned in a superb 1-6-3 double play (Jerrod to Jalen to Devin).  With the bases cleared from the double play, Tristan singled and proceeded to score on aggressive base running – taking home on a wild pitch. 

At the end of 3, the score was 6-4 Braves.

4th Inning
Both teams tightened up the defense and pitching in the 4^th inning as no runs were scored.  Lawrence (1-0, 6.0 ERA) relieved Tristan on the mound for his 4^th appearance this year.   He struggled with control early as he issued walks to the first 3 batters he faced to load the bases.   He was the benefactor of a Web Gem play by Jonathan and Kyle and they combined to nail the runner at third who had taken a huge lead off.  At the time, the count on the number 4 batter was 3 balls 0 strikes,  The great defensive play inspired Lawrence as he regained form and struck out the number 4 and 5 batters on the next 6 pitches to get out of the inning unharmed.

Braves starter, Jerrod, stayed on the mound and continued to perplex Red Sox hitters with his off speed array of pitches.  After striking out the first batter, Lawrence reached on an infield single.  The Braves defense proved its mettle as it turned in another 1-6-3 double play (again Jerrod to Jalen to Devin) to squelch the Red Sox.

5th Inning

Lawrence continued his tight rope act in the 5^th as he again walked the first 2 batters he faced.  This time the Braves capitalized on the charity by scoring a run on a wild pitch.  Lawrence recovered to strike out the next 2 Braves batters on 7 pitches (with 4 of the strikes called).  The third out was recorded on a coach interference play.  This would close the book on Lawrence.  In 2 innings of work, he threw 18 of 24 pitches for strikes, walked 5, struck out 4, gave up 0 hits, and allowed 1 run.

Needing 3 runs to tie and the "game clock" ticking, the Sox showed true grit in the bottom of the 5^th.  Grant got things started with a walk.  Jonathan stepped to the plate and awed the crowd with a towering fly ball triple to left center field to score Grant.  Dominic Vasquez (.333 BA, .455 OBP) followed with a walk.  Jonathan scored on a wild pitch to make it a 1 run game.  Tristan stepped to the plate and delivered a double to left field with Dominic getting caught at 3^rd for out 1.  Tristan used his quickness to score on a wild pitch to tie the game.  Desmond walked but was caught in a pickle on an attempted steal and was called out (2-4-3-4-3-6) – another sound defensive play by the Braves.

 
6th Inning

The marathon affair continued into the sixth (and late into the night).  Jonathan relieved Lawrence on the mound.  Lawrence did Jonathan no favors as he failed to handle a toss from Bailey on a routine ball hit to second (E3).  Joshua followed with an infield single to 3^rd base.  The Braves would scramble for 5 runs in the bottom of the 6^th using sound base running and benefiting from a few Red Sox Tee Ball moments.  Jonathan stayed focused on the mound and got himself out the inning striking out 3 batters.

Braves closer Jalen settled in to close the show.  The Red Sox refused to wilt but came up short.  Kyle lead off with a walk but the Red Sox could not convert as Lawrence followed with a shot to 3^rd that was handled by sure fielding Braves third baseman Robert Togia.  Following a strike out, the Braves recorded the final out of the game on a ground ball (6-5).

 

Game Notes

The Red Sox would like to thank Justin and Akia from the Dodgers for participating as pool players.

 

Current Standings

Braves              4-0

Red Sox           3-1

Dodgers           1-2

DBacks            1-3

Mets                 1-3

Nationals          1-3

 

I have attached the game summary and box score.  As always, they can also be found on the blog.

I have also updated the stats site.

_________________________
Lawrence Gilliam
Red Sox Schedule
http://LaderaRedSox.shorturl.com   - Stats
http://LaderaRedSox.blogspot.com  - Blog

Red Sox Practice - Thur 5PM at Ladera

We will practice tomorrow at 5PM on the Minor Field at Ladera.

See you there.

Red Sox - Practice Schedule

We will practice tomorrow (Monday) at Ladera from 5PM to 7PM.  Monday's at 5PM will be our standard practice time.  We have the Minor Field assigned to us from 5 to 7.

We will play the Braves in a battle of the undefeated teams on Tuesday at 6PM.  Please arrive by 5PM for warm up.  Also, please let me know if you will not make the game.

_____________________________________
Lawrence Gilliam
Red Sox Schedule
http://LaderaRedSox.shorturl.com   - Stats
http://LaderaRedSox.blogspot.com  - Blog

Red Sox Game 3 Summary - Picture Perfect on Picture Day

The Red Sox ran their record to 3-0 on the young season with a 14-8 victory over the Nationals on Saturday.  The Sox jumped out to a big lead with early offense and then employed solid defense and pitching down the stretch to take the victory.  The win keeps the Red Sox atop the minor league division; tied with the Braves (3-0) who pulled out a hotly contested game against the Dodgers (1-2) on Sunday evening.

1st Inning

The Red Sox struck early when lead off batter Grant Craddolph (.667 BA .727 OBP) walked and was "swinging bunt" singled in by Jonathan Phelps (.571 BA .700 OBP).  Derek Marshall (.750 BA .800 OBP) followed with a line drive triple to right center field to score Jonathan.  It was Derek's second consecutive game with a triple.  Bailey Goldstein walked and Kyle Reece hit an infield single to score Derek.  Bailey would later score by stealing home on a wild pitch.  Dominic Vasquez delivered an infield single to third base but was left stranded.  In the top of the first, the Red Sox batted around the order and scored 5 runs.

Red Sox starting pitcher Tristan Williams (1-0 4.5 ERA-6) was strong from the start.  He struck out the National's lead off batter to record the 1st out in the inning.  The next 2 batters reached base on a walk and fielders choice play.  These 2 batters would eventually score on wild pitches and passed balls.  Tristan recorded out 2 by fielding a line drive hit back up the middle.  He would strike out the number 5 batter on 3 called strikes. 

At the end of 1, the score was 5-2 Red Sox.
 

2nd Inning

The Red Sox sent the top of the line up to the plate to start the 2nd.  Grant singled on a fly ball to center field to get things started.  Jonathan followed with an RBI line drive single to the hole between short and third.  Next, Derek smacked a fly ball double to right center to score Jonathan and advanced to third on wild pitches.  Tristan and Kyle drew walks to load the bases.  Lawrence Gilliam broke out of his one game hitting slump to deliver an RBI single, scoring Derek.  Dominic followed with a run scoring ground ball to bring Kyle home.  Terrance Gant followed with a walk.  Finally, Grant, on his second at bat of the inning, singled to left field to score Lawrence – ending the inning on the 6 run rule.

Tristan continued his stellar performance on the mound in the 2nd inning.  After walking the first batter, he struck out the next 2 batters on 9 pitches.  Derek recorded the third out by racing to the backstop to retrieve a wild pitch and tagging out the walked runner who was attempting to steal home.  It was a great hustle play by the Red Sox starting catcher.  This would close the book on Tristan.  He went 2 strong innings.  He allowed 2 runs, 0 hits.   He walked 2 and struck out 4.

At the end of 2, the score was 11-2 Red Sox.

3rd Inning

The Nationals brought in Jordan to pitch the 3rd inning.  He held the Red Sox at bay striking out the side.  Tristan walked and was the only Red Sox base runner in the inning..
 

Grant (1-0, 10.0 ERA-6) relieved Tristan on the mound to start the 3rd.  The Red Sox defense showed its versatility as Jonathan moved to catcher, Lawrence rotated to first, Derek shifted to second, and Tristan took over short stop.  Grant came in smoking - striking out the first batter he faced on 5 pitches.   The next batter was retired as Derek fielded a routine ground ball to second and threw to Lawrence at first.  The Nationals, refusing to give in, began a 2 out rally that would yield 3 runs.  The next 6 National batters would reach base on 1 HBP, 1 single, a Red Sox fielding error (E4), and 3 consecutive walks.  This allowed the Nationals to score 3 runs.  Grant battled through the walks (and an over zealous umpire) to record out 3 by striking out the National's number 8 hitter.
 

At the end of 3, the score was 11-5 Red Sox.

4th Inning

The Red Sox added a run in the top of the 4th.  Kyle drew a walk and advanced home on a series of wild pitches and overthrows.  Lawrence followed with a walk but was left stranded.

 

The Nationals battled for 1 run in the bottom of the 4th on 1 HBP and 3 walks.  Grant struck out 2 batters in the inning, and out 3 was recorded 4-3 with Derek throwing to Lawrence.   Grant would end his day on the mound after 2 innings of work.  He allowed 4 runs (3 earned) on 1 hit, 6 walks, and 2 HBPs.  He struck out 4.

 

The Red Sox took a 12-6 lead into the 5th inning.

 

5th Inning

The Sox added 2 insurance runs in the 5th.  Jonathan reached on a fielding error by the Nationals and proceeded to display his knack for running the bases by stealing 2nd and then scoring a series of wild pitches.  Tristan drew a walk and then frustrated the National's pitcher by terrorizing the base paths.  He stole second and moved the 3rd on an over throw.  On the next pitch, he stole home on a wild pitch. 

 

Lawrence (1-0. 7.20 ERA-6 ) relieved Grant to start the 5th.  Out one was recorded on a Web Gem play by Derek at second base and he snared a sharply hit line drive.  Lawrence hit the next 2 batters and then surrendered a single to right field.  Red Sox right fielder, Terrance Gant , quickly fielded the ball and delivered a shot to second base to hold the Nationals to 1 run on the hit.  Lawrence settled in to get the next batter to ground out 1-3.  Lawrence fielded the dribbler and threw to Tristan at first base to record the out.  The game ended with Lawrence ringing up the National's number 3 hitter on 5 pitches.   In total, Lawrence went 1 inning, allowed 2 runs, hit 2 batters,  allowed 1 hit, and struck out 1 to close out the game.

 

The entire team deserves game balls for this win but the following players earned special commendations:

Game 3 Game Balls

Tristan Williams for solid starting pitching and scoring 2 runs

Derek Marshall for 2 extra base hits, solid catching, and a Web Gem play at 2nd

Terrance Gant for quickly handling the sharply hit single to right field - holding the Nationals to 1 run.

 

Game Notes

Evan Lott was on the IL for the day (illness) but kept morale strong in the dug out by cheering the team on.

Special thanks to Greg Phelps for officiating the first couple innings as the Blue was late.

 

Current Standings

Red Sox           3-0

Braves             3-0

Dodgers           1-2

DBacks            1-3

Mets                1-3

Nationals          1-3

 

I have attached the game summary and box score.  As always, they can also be found on the blog.

I have also updated the stats site.

_____________________________________
Lawrence Gilliam
Red Sox Schedule
http://LaderaRedSox.shorturl.com   - Stats
http://LaderaRedSox.blogspot.com  - Blog