Its biggest and best year ever concludes at Brentwood Breeze
July 19-20, 2008 (Brentwood, CA) – In the opening line of A Tale of Two Cities, Charles Dickens wrote, “it was the best of times; it was the worst of times.” If you didn’t know any better, you would have thought the phrase was penned by the Delta Dawgs. The Dawgs, like many other competitive baseball travel teams, have experienced both in their history. The worst of times simply consisted of one unit winning one championship title the entire year. Now, the club in its fifth season with its biggest contingency of teams compet-ing throughout Northern and Central California has to put those “worst” times behind it this year by finding success throughout season from all seven squads in the 10U through 14U age groups.
“Wow! Who could have ever imagined the kind of year this club had just finished,” said Club President John Zamora. “We accomplished many of our goals and look forward to continuing to build the solid foundation for years to come.”
2008 sure was the best of times. The Dawgs collected 21 team titles in 37 attempts with the Blue 13U amassing seven of those crowns, followed by the youngest Dawgs, the 10Us with five and the Blue 11Us with four titles.
While the Blue 13U ended their season in the Midsummer Classic finals in Manteca, the rest of the Dawgs followed suit at the Brentwood Breeze tournament at Sunset Park, with all six squads finishing in the top four in their respective age groups, including championship titles for the 14U and the Blue 11U.
14U racks up four straight for the title at Brentwood Breeze
The 14U Dawgs returned home for one last tournament in Brentwood, and in what may be their last outing together, as the boys enter high school in two weeks, they played as a team one more time and finished the season the way they started, as Champions!
The weekend started slowly for the Dawgs in what would be their only loss of the weekend against the San Leandro Outlaws. Knowing their season was coming to a close, the boys knew they had to re-group and step up. And step up they did by defeating the Napa Crush, 7-2. The boys kept the momentum going against the San Ramon Heat. Led by Anthony Speiker on the mound and the offensive efforts of Paul Blackburn, Scott Harris and Reid Beckwith, who all pounded doubles, the Dawgs went on to win 10-4.
In a rematch with the San Leandro Outlaws in the semifinal game, Blackburn took the mound and hand-cuffed the Outlaws with a four-hitter en route to the 13-3 win. Blackburn’s three doubles and two-baggers each from Anthony Zamora, Harris, and Beckwith led the offensive barrage. Other solid hits and key defensive plays from Brennan Oshea, Jake Meister, and Colton Stone catapulted the Dawgs to the finals. Poor Stone must have been wearing a bullseye on his jersey as he was hit twice in three at-bats.
The Dawgs went on to claim the championship title against the San Francisco Blue, 6-3. Zack Wilson had an amazing game on the mound, striking out 10 for the win. For the Dawgs it was a great season. Many of the boys will take their games to the next level, playing for the area high schools. Some will play together on the same teams, and some will be on opposite sides for the first time. Some may go on to achieve fame and greatness playing baseball, as others may take a different path. But maybe, just maybe, they’ll all remember how it all started with the Delta Dawgs.
13U Gold reaches semis
The Gold gelled quickly with three new temporary additions as a result of a short-handed squad. A 2-1 record and a semifinal finish for the Gold was a welcome ending. After an undefeated pool play with wins against the Laguna Thunder and the Sting Antelope Crush, the Thunder went on to win the title after the Dawgs loss in the rematch. Coach Jason Saude said, “We’re tremendously proud of our boys for persevering and working hard together over the last eight months, and they adjusted quickly with a change in the team dynamics.”
12Us in baseball heaven
Nothing can compare to the baseball nirvana that the 12Us experienced this year – on top of the three championships they earned, the 12Us also completed a fun and exciting road trip to Cooperstown and Oneonta, NY, in which they returned with a 6-1 record. The team ended their season at the Brentwood Breeze with two solid opening game wins against the LBA Admirals and the Bay Area Naturals to get the No. 1 seeding. However, the Admirals revved up and handed the Dawgs a loss in the semifinal game.
“It doesn’t get any better than this,” said coach Bruce Prybylinski, a former draftee of the New York Yankees who once played for the 1988 Oneonta Yankees, league champs in the New York-Penn League Eastern Division. There he appeared in 19 games, posted a 1.17 ERA, recorded 8 saves, and struck out 27 in 23 innings. “Listen to coach, fellas. He can walk the talk,” said a parent.
11U Gold wins the bronze
It was almost a storybook ending for the Gold, but the baseball gods where nowhere to be found in the semifinal game. Seeded No. 1 going into the playoffs after solid victories against the Brentwood Blast and the Solano Blast, the Brentwood team derailed the Dawgs’ march to a title match against the Blue 11U. Coach Tim Santos said, “It would have been a dream ending to meet up with the Blue in the final, but it wasn’t meant to be.” Overall, we learned a lot this season and being a finalist at the Super NIT earlier this year and the semifinal stage four times are just the beginning.”
11U Gold wins the bronze
It was almost a storybook ending for the Gold, but the baseball gods where nowhere to be found in the semifinal game. Seeded No. 1 going into the playoffs after solid victories against the Brentwood Blast and the Solano Blast, the Brentwood team derailed the Dawgs’ march to a title match against the Blue 11U. Coach Tim Santos said, “It would have been a dream ending to meet up with the Blue in the final, but it wasn’t meant to be.” Overall, we learned a lot this season and being a finalist at the Super NIT earlier this year and the semifinal stage four times are just the beginning.”
Wacky weekend for the wild and crazy guys
To lighten up the weekend before going their separate ways for the offseason, the Blue instituted a “Crazy Shorts Day” for the coaches and “Wear Your Favorite Team Hat” for the players. The formula worked as the team finished with a 3-1 record after dispatching the Solano Blast, Pleasant Hill Hawks, and the Brentwood Blast in the finals. The day ended with more wackiness – coach Roger Kruse was doused with the obligatory Gatorade dump. “I could get used to this,” said the soaked coach, who guided the team to four titles in nine championship games.
10Us continue its ascent
Fresh from winning the Tracy Challenge the week before, the 10Us reached the winner’s circle once again with an appearance in the Brentwood Breeze title game, but it succumbed to the Stanislaus Sting. The team ended with a 2-2 record, with both losses to the Sting and wins against the Tracy Blues and the Sluggers. At the beginning of the year, Coach Aaron Fountain and his staff vowed, “We will improve.” The team lived up to its statement by winning five championships in six tries thereafter.
Elevated to Majors, team closes campaign with 7 titles, 14 Top Four finishes, 22-game four-title win streak, 42 wins and .808 winning percentage, #4 in NorCal USSSA rankings and #3 in Coaches Poll
July 12-13, 2007 (Manteca, CA) – Major League Baseball's All-Star Game, otherwise known as the Midsummer Classic, usually occurs in early to mid-July and marks the symbolic halfway point in the MLB season. For the Dawgs Blue 13U, the USSSA's version of the Midsummer Classic marked the end of a dream season where great accomplishments and baseball glory were achieved. The MLB's erstwhile Classic gradually has lost its luster over the years, but the Dawgs restored some buzz at Manteca's Field of Dreams at the same time Yankee Stadium is playing host to the game as part of the yearlong farewell to the historic ballpark, which will close at the end of this season. The Blue 13U meanwhile will remember this season as their best ever.
Coach Bert Gough gushed, "This has been a phenomenal season for our boys and the organization. It's difficult to describe how our coaches are feeling at this moment after an awesome year like this, and as some of our players will move on to the next level in high school." He followed, "The coaching staff would also like to thank our parents for their unconditional support throughout the season. We are honored to have coached this great group of kids and had a blast the entire time."
At the USSSA tournament, which closed out the season for the Blue 13U, the team challenged itself to reach the top for the last time. The Dawgs had a lackluster opening game against the Monterey Bay Pirates who knocked the sails out of the Blue after turning three double plays in the first three innings and handed the Dawgs a 4-2 loss. The game was highlighted by Michael Allen's tape-measure solo blast to straight-away center that cleared Fenway Park for his 8th round tripper of the season.
The Blue came back with a vengeance against Livermore's Tri-Valley Legends and the East Bay Lookouts from Union City before meeting the Pirates in the Finals for the rematch. Against the Legends, the Dawgs sent 15 men to the plate, chased the Legends' starting pitcher after 1/3 inning, and scored 11 runs before the Legends came up to bat in the first inning.
Dante Mayes singled three times resulting in four RBIs, Austin Halter reached base thrice with two singles, and Justin David also singled three times to post two RBIs and the win from the hill. Jerome Hill contributed with his glove to preserve the shutout with an acrobatic over-the-head grab with runners in scoring position. Jordan Gough was patient at the plate, negotiating two walks and scoring a run in the 12-0 victory.
The win against the Legends secured a playoff spot, assuring the Dawgs to face the Lookouts for the third time this season. The Blue duplicated the 10-0 game that it handed the Lookouts in the Tournament of Champions with Tyler Vistalli's masterful complete game win that was aided by dazzling plays from the defense. The Blue executed two sparkling double plays and had a perfect relay on a ball that banged off the Green Monster, nailing the runner attempting to stretch the long single into a two-bagger. "They made these plays look easy and routine, which they all repeatedly worked on at practice," said Coach Sean Halter.
Vistalli also helped his cause with two singles, two free passes, three runs scored and three stolen bases, while Carlos Jauregui also doubled and scored twice, and Tyler Cox popped a double and knocked in a run, along with his taking part in the web gems.
The Dawgs ride came to an end, which was hard to digest, losing 8-7 in the championship game against the Monterey Bay Pirates, a team in the NorCal USSSA Elite 6 League throughout the year. After spotting the Pirates an early five-run lead, the Blue mounted a furious rally on an Allen three-run shot over the Green Monster and a David ground-rule double down the right field line to score two runs to knot the game at 5-5 before the Bucs pulled away to pad their lead to three runs in the 6th inning. With an "it's not over till its over" attitude, the Blue scored two more runs and got a runner at third, but could not push the tying run across the plate to extend the game. The Pirates were the only team to defeat the Blue twice this season.
Last ditch efforts from Michael Hutchings who smashed his fourth double to drive in his fifth RBI in the tournament and Travis Volpe's double and RBI in the last inning were not enough to overcome the Bucs.
"This amazing year is in the books. These boys created a lifetime of memories that they can all be proud of," said Coach John David. "Their short tenure with the Dawgs will be a season to remember."
Squad comes back after two outs in last inning, then secures 7th title in extra frame
July 4-6, 2008 (Sacramento, CA) – Many U.S. residents prep for Independence Day by cleaning the barbecue grill, buying hot dogs and chips in bulk and raising the flag, but what are we actually celebrating? For the Dawgs Blue 13U, they not only celebrated our nation’s birthday in the state capital, but also their 7th championship title this season in the Fourth of July Tournament, hosted by the USSSA, at the Sacramento Baseball Complex.
The fireworks continued throughout the Fourth of July weekend for the Dawgs after the team completed a 5-0 sweep against the Hard Rival 90, Folsom Flames, the three-time USSSA champion Bombers Baseball Club, and the two-time champion Sacramento Bandits in the final. The Blue ran their season record to 40-7-1 as the team averaged 9 runs per game, compared with 4 against opponents, and batted a .386 average collectively for the weekend. Five different pitchers also combined for solid outings to pick up victories in the unit’s undefeated tourney.
The emotionally charged, tension-filled championship thriller produced a game that will be forever etched in Dawgs lore. As the sky darkened and the flood lights emanated a dim glow in the complex, it looked bleak for the Dawgs. They were down but not out. With two outs and a one-run deficit to the Sacramento Bandits in the last inning of the final, the Blue showed their resiliency and heart of a champion by scoring three runs to take the lead, 6-4.
In the bottom half of the inning, the team could not hold on to the slim margin to close it out as the Bandits tied the game and put the winning run in scoring position. The Dawgs, however, bore down and left the Bandits stranded at third to extend the game. The Blue then claimed the title with another run in extra innings for a stirring 7-6 victory. The only runs the Bandits would surrender in the tournament were to the Dawgs.
Coach Bert Gough said, “This team continues to amaze me! In 15 years of coaching, I have never been around a group of kids who have more desire to lay it out on the line for their teammates. We had many clutch plays with the game on the line and the kids came through every time. This championship will be remembered for a long time.”
For his tying run and game-winning hit against the Bandits and overall outstanding play at the plate throughout the weekend, Austin Halter was named tournament MVP. Halter posted a 13-for-17 clip and an astronomical .765 average.
June 28 - July 4, 2008 (Cooperstown, NY) – The 12U Delta Dawgs traveled to the birthplace of baseball to compete in a week-long tournament against teams from all over the United States. They compiled a 6-1 record, batted over .500 as a team, and hit 22 home runs.
While playing in the tournament was a great experience, meeting kids from across the country and Canada was another important highlight. This was a once in a lifetime experience for the kids and parents alike.
11U Blue and 12U reach finals, 13U Blue and 14U in the semis
June 7-8, 2008 (Sunnyvale, CA) – The stakes were high, as the title of “State Champions” isn’t readily given to anyone, and seeing the list of competitors isn’t for the faint of heart, as only teams looking for the ultimate challenge need apply. At the Northern California USSSA State Championships held at the Twin Creeks Sports Complex in Sunnyvale, the Delta Dawgs faced a daunting task when a “Murderer’s Row” of teams from Northern and Central California entered to compete in the State Championships, one of the most anticipated events of the year in travel ball competition.
The Dawgs returned home exhilarated and victorious after the youngest Dawgs led the pack by winning the title in the 10U age bracket. The 11U Blue and 12U teams also reached the finals, just barely falling short of their goal, and the 13U Blue and 14U units earned semifinal appearances for a top three finish in their respective brackets.
“We were able put together a phenomenal weekend in a big event with the top teams in the region,” according to coaches in the club. “We’re just glad to participate, and for our teams to finish near or at the top of the leaderboard at the end of the tournament was sweet.”
Another one goes on a win streak
The Delta Dawgs 10U baseball team entered the USSSA State Championships at Twin Creeks on a high note. Over the Memorial weekend, the 10Us won their third tournament of the season but that recent success did not satisfy the young Dawgs. The 10Us battled their way to another championship with a 4-0 record and gained the coveted title as State Champions.
“The boys have really come together as a team in the past two tournaments and they have learned to rely on one another’s abilities to accomplish their collective goals,” said Dawgs manager Aaron Fountain.
The Dawgs opened tournament play with a decisive 9-5 win over the Cru’s Crushers of Danville. CJ Sneath and Nick DiCicco each pitched three solid innings while Clayton Creer and Mason Fountain provided excellent defensive support. In the top of the fourth inning, the Crushers got the leadoff runner on base and were preparing to start a rally when the batter hit a line drive towards second base. Fountain, who was playing second base, went to cover the bag on a steal and cleanly picked up the liner on a hop, stepped on second base for the force, and then threw on to first base to complete the double play.
The Dawgs offense was led by Jason Ochoa’s two hits, and by Austin Garcia and Bryce Pryblinski’s two RBIs.
The Dawgs won their second game in convincing fashion as they handed the Tracy Blues a 15-7 loss. Ochoa pitched three solid innings while the Dawgs pounded out 13 hits in only four innings of play. Garcia led the charge with a home run and five RBIs, while DiCicco, Sneath, Andrew Davidson and Cameron Taylor all had multiple hits.
The Dawgs played the Crusher’s again in the semifinal and walked away with a 6-5 win. Jake Ratliff and Ochoa combined to pitch six solid innings as the defense made the appropriate plays when needed. Coach Chris Ratliff stated, “Our defense has struggled at times but we’ve seemed to overcome our mistakes and find a way to win.” Junior Muniz and Davidson drove in three runs in the bottom of the fourth inning to allow the Dawgs to take the lead. The game was tied going into the bottom of the sixth inning, but Ratliff slammed a double into the right- centerfield gap that scored DiCicco with the winning run.
The championship game paired the Dawgs with the Slammers of San Ramon. The Dawgs found themselves trailing 7-5 going into the bottom of the fourth inning but they unleashed a fury of hits that produced eight runs and a 13-7 lead. Ochoa, DiCicco, Pryblinski and Fountain all drove in runs while Ratliff and Garcia drove in two runs each during the attack. The 10Us added a solo run in the fifth inning and held on to beat the Slammers 14-10. The win gave the 10Us their second consecutive tournament championship and fourth overall this season.
Nick DiCicco was named tournament MVP as he boasted a .750 batting average over the weekend (9-for-12) with 7 runs scored and 2 RBIs. DiCicco also pitched in two games providing three innings of relief in one game and 2/3 inning of relief and the save in the championship game.
Slow and steady wins the race
Aesop’s fable concerns a hare who ridiculed a slow-moving tortoise. The tortoise challenged his swift mocker to a race. The hare soon left the tortoise far behind and, confident of winning, he decided to take a nap midway through the course. When he awoke, however, he found that his competitor, crawling slowly but steadily, had already won the race. Although the finish for the 11 Blue, 11 Gold, 13 Gold, and 14U didn’t quite end like the classic fable where they won the race, they came close.
The teams’ slow start didn’t faze them at all, as all bounced back to respectable finishes on playoff Sunday. The 11U Blue won rematches from their early losses to the Livermore Tigers and the Brentwood Blast before succumbing to the Concord Patriots in the championship game for their fifth runner-up placing this season.
The 11U Gold pushed opponents to the limit with close losses, and the 13U Gold salvaged the weekend with a strong 11-2 win against the Headfirst Gamers American in their consolation game. Lastly, the 14U team was a win away from another championship appearance after falling to the eventual 14U champs, the USF Junior Dons, in the semifinals to finish in third place.
High-Caliber Teams Collide in 13U Blue’s Pool The 13U Blue reached the semifinal round of the State Championships to continue its outstanding performance, but all good things eventually come to an end as the All-American Sports Academy, the eventual tournament champions and a Top 10 team in the U.S., halted the Blue’s two-month unbeaten string at 22 games.
The Blue posted a 3-1 record in the hotly contested Majors bracket, consisting of eight strong World Series berth holders, including two highly ranked teams in the country who also have qualified to enter the USSSA’s prestigious “Elite 24” tournament in Florida this summer, an honor reserved for the top two dozen teams in the nation. In addition, the eight teams in the bracket have collectively won 23 USSSA titles this season (excluding other tournaments that are sanctioned by the BPA, Triple Crown, or Super Series).
“A third place finish in our first Majors-only tournament is satisfying,” said Coach Bert Gough after the tournament. “We knew it was going to be an uphill battle in every game with many high-caliber teams in our path to the title. The boys welcomed the challenge and responded by exceeding our expectations.”
While it requires the entire team to assemble the wins, there were several standouts worthy of accolades, including Michael Hutchings and Michael Allen, who combined to ignite the potent Dawgs offense with five fence-clearing homeruns. Allen’s monstrous grand slam in the quarterfinal game sparked the Dawgs and silenced the Bombers Baseball Club from Marin and Sonoma Counties. Also, Justin David’s 0.70 ERA in 10 innings against Redwood City’s NorCal Sting and the Bombers, and Tyler Vistalli’s shutout against Union City’s East Bay Lookouts led the team from the mound.
As the 13Us headed home from Twin Creeks, there were no long faces from this bunch because its streak was broken. In fact, they were excited to get another one started, hoping to finish strongly in the final two months of the season.
12U tune-up for Cooperstown
The Lafayette Admirals derailed the 12U’s quest for their fourth travel ball title this season in the close 7-6 finals loss. “We don’t want to peak too soon,” said a coach with tongue-in-cheek.
The 12U will use the Tournament of Champions next week as another tune-up for their much-anticipated trip of the season – an appearance in Oneonta, NY, at the end of the month to participate in the Cooperstown All-Star Village tournament. The 12U team is hoping to gain momentum, peak at the big event, and come home with the title from the legendary home of baseball.
This is the second straight year that the Delta Dawgs will be sending a unit to the CASV tournament to compete against other teams in the country.
10U barks back for 3rd title, 13U Blue wins fourth consecutive and sixth overall this season
May 24-26 (Redding, CA) –While our grateful nation paid tribute to our heroes past and present over the Memorial Day weekend, the Delta Dawgs honored and played America’s favorite pastime at the Baseball Players Association’s (BPA) Western Regional Championships in Redding. Nearly 50 teams from Northern California and the Pacific Northwest competed for the title in five age groups.
The Dawgs returned home with two more titles after the 10U squad, led by Aaron Fountain and his coaching staff, posted its third championship title of the season in a come-from-behind 6-5 victory against the Tualatin Timberwolves in the finals. The 13U Blue, led by Bert Gough and his staff, kept its win streak intact at 19 games after a 6-0 weekend to record its fourth consecutive championship (and sixth overall). “The good news continues to keep rolling for the Dawgs, and we are extremely pleased to see the outstanding results,” said club president John Zamora. “We’ve always stressed, however, that our ball club is not just about winning on the field, but it’s also about the life lessons we can teach our players as they mature.”
Other units also found success. Our 11U Blue reached the finals for a runner-up finish, and the 12U and 11U Gold (after a tough battle against the Blue) reached the semifinals.
Shh! but it’s six and counting...
The 13U Blue continued its torrid performance and walloped the ball throughout the weekend to run its season record to 30-4-1. The Blue earned its fourth championship in a row, after posting a team batting average of .331 and ERA of 1.94 for the weekend. The team held its opponents to a .183 batting average while scoring 7.3 runs per game, compared to less than 1.7 runs for the competition.
In Game 1, the Dawgs faced the Redding Vipers and won 8-3 behind Justin David’s one-hit, five-strikeout performance in three innings of work. Michael Allen’s double for two RBIs and Michael Hutchings’ three-run homer over the left field fence at Des Moines Field highlighted the opening game and jump-started the tournament for the Dawgs.
“The streak is alive,” said coach Sean Halter. “We have several gamers on this squad who would do anything for the team’s benefit.” Crashing over foul fences, sliding headfirst into home plate, throwing flawless relays to nab runners at home, and diving for fly balls are not unusual for this group of boys
After seeing Justin David crash over the left field foul fence in his attempt to record the last out in a tight ballgame against the Napa 13s Baseball, coach John David said, “My eyes ALMOST welled up after I saw him barrel head-over-heels over the fence. My initial reaction was – did he catch it?” Although the ball sneaked out of his glove, the play brought the crowd to its feet and a loud ovation rang out after the display of what Dawgs Baseball was all about – a 110 percent effort. The Dawgs went on to win the game, 7-1.
In the third game of pool play, Travis Volpe (4-for-4) and Tyler Cox (3-for-3, three RBIs, and three stolen bases) lifted the offense, while Austin Halter took care of the pitching duties for the win against the Vancouver, WA-based Showtime 13Us that brought the Dawgs closer to a playoff spot. Jerome Hill’s solid glove work and decisive RBI proved to be the difference in the 7-3 game.
Jordan Gough’s work on the mound and his scorching bat that produced a run, a single, and a double in the subsequent game against North Medford, Oregon’s Red Fury secured the playoff berth for another run at a title. The Dawgs blanked the Fury 13-0.
The Dawgs prevailed over Redding’s North State Elite after Tyler Vistalli struck out eight and scattered three hits in six innings to advance to the final. His two-run shot over Yankee Stadium’s right-center field fence also provided some cushion and allowed the Dawgs to advance after the 6-2 final.
Finally, in the battle of the last unbeaten teams in the tournament, the Dawgs and the Puyallup (WA) Knights clashed in the championship game for the ages. Dante Mayes posted six strikeouts and pitched a complete game for the 3-1 victory. Carlos Jauregui also recorded his third double in the tournament to excite the fans. But, it was the defense that kept the Dawgs in the lead, after a perfectly executed 7-6-2 relay, a run-down play at home, and a runner caught stealing in the last inning deflated the charging Knights.
The Blue knocked off two No. 1 seeded teams on their way to the title, including the Knights, who entered the game with an impressive 35-1 season record before the Dawgs handed them only their second loss of the year.
Coach Bert Gough said, “Our team really proved its mettle in this tournament. We faced some very good teams and we battled every inning. We are proud of their competitiveness and humility; this is an extremely classy group of young men.”
Keeping up with the Big Dawgs: 10Us become three-time champions
The 10U Dawgs entered the Big League Dreams in Redding during the Memorial Day weekend with dreams of their own (a championship). The young Dawgs worked hard all season in preparing themselves to make a strong showing. The 10Us opened the tournament on Saturday morning with a strong performance in the steady rain against the Tualatin Timberwolves of Oregon, beating them 14-8. Nick DiCicco threw three strong innings and Bryce Prybylinski closed it out with one inning of relief. The Dawgs bats were led by Austin Garcia's triple and two RBIs and Jake Ratliff's double and RBI. When all was said and done the young Dawgs battled their way through the slick terrain and muddy conditions around home plate to earn an opening game win.
After a five minute break and still drenched by the rain, the young Dawgs had to brave the elements again by playing back-to-back games against the Home Run Park Spartans of Washington. The Dawgs withered in the cold as they lost to the Spartans 14-3 and ended the first day of competition with a 1-1 record.
Sunday proved to be a better day for the Dawgs as they enjoyed dry weather while unleashing their bats in a 16-8 win against the Graham Eagles of Washington. All eleven Dawgs players hit safely in the game but they were sparked by a home run from Bryce Prybylinski, three hits by Jason Ochoa, and two hits each by Cameron Taylor, CJ Sneath, Austin Garcia, and Clayton Creer. The young Dawgs blazed the base paths with a team total of 36 stolen bases in the win. The Dawgs ended pool play 2-1 and in a four way tie for first place with the Timberwolves, Spartans, and Eagles.
In the tournament semifinal play the Dawgs were once again paired up with the Home Run Park Spartans. The 10Us had their revenge as they opened the top of the first inning with four runs. Austin Garcia provided the damage when he unleashed a bomb into the left center field gap that quickly found its way to the 312’ marker in left center field of BLD’s Fenway Park. However, the Spartans responded with three runs in the bottom half of the inning when they delivered a three-run homer that also found the left center field gap. From that point on the Dawgs tightened their defensive noose and only allowed two more runs in the game. The Dawgs continued to put runs on the board and eventually walked away with a 14-5 win. Cameron Taylor had a triple and scored three runs, Junior Muniz had two hits and scored a run, and Mason Fountain added two hits, two runs scored, and took one for the team.
The championship game had the Dawgs facing off with the Timberwolves for a second time. The Dawgs displayed strong pitching by Bryce Prybylinski, Jason Ochoa, and Austin Garcia, as well as outstanding team defense led by Andrew Davidson and Jake Ratliff, who played left field and threw a runner out at home plate. Austin Garcia again provided the fireworks when he blasted a solo home run to right center field and eventually earned the tournament MVP honors. The Dawgs found themselves down 5-4 in the bottom of the fifth inning but they showed their desire to win as they scored two runs to put them ahead and then they sealed the victory with a line drive double play that Jason Ochoa caught on the run and fired to Mason Fountain at second base for a force out. The 6-5 victory gave the 10U Dawgs their third championship in their first season of tournament play.
Home runs galore for 11U Blue
The City of Redding knew that the 11U Blue team was there to play before the tournament even began. The final round of the Homerun Derby, sponsored by Worth and BPA, consisted of two of the Dawgs’ own Charlie Sides and Steele Eich vying for the “King of Swat” crown. Sides ended up victorious, taking home the title (and a new bat) and setting the tone for the weekend.
The Dawgs cruised through pool play with a perfect 3-0 record. In the opening game, Steele Eich recorded the win, pitching four strong innings and giving up only three hits before Roger Kruse came in to close it out and earn the save. Coach Roger Kruse added that Matthew Lautz played “the game of his life behind the plate.” Malik Hutching was 2-for-3 with 2 RBIs to lead the offense in the 6-4 win over the Tacoma (WA) Performers.
Early Sunday morning, the Dawgs offense went to work on a Vacaville team, scoring 15 runs, including a two-run homer by Roger Kruse in the fourth inning followed by a Kyle Abono three-run homer in the fifth to help the Dawgs earn a 15-8 victory.
Later that day, the Dawgs took on the Washington Blue Lightning where Ryan Yray went the distance with a complete game victory. But Ryan didn’t do it alone, Peirce Mallonee made a number of spectacular catches in the outfield that kept the Dawgs on top 6-4.
On Monday, the 11U Blue played the 11U Gold where Steele Eich threw a complete game one-hitter with the help of John Velasco and Talon Majewski who added key hits for the offense. This win advanced the Dawgs to the championship game. Unfortunately, the Dawgs couldn’t keep their winning streak alive. They came out flat against the Dragons of Issaquah, Washington, who were ready to play that day. “Our road trip to Redding, the longest of the year, was well worth it,” said Roger Kruse. “We have home run derby winners on our team and our boys played well.”
A Message from Coach Tim
The 11U Gold team has so many things to be proud of! I am thrilled at the level of play you have shown at such speed, considering this is your first year in tournament ball! You have come up against mostly AAA teams, and we are playing .500 ball. I couldn’t ask for anything more!
We had some monumental things happen for our team in Redding. Jimmy Darling hit a Grand Slam, bringing our team to the field and our fans to their feet! Something none of us will ever forget. It was the first for our team! Then, the kids battled against a team that shut out nearly everyone they played, scoring no less than 10 runs, except against us! We held the Issaquah Dragons, who ultimately won the Championship, to a 5-1 loss. It was amazing to see The Dragons come over to our stands and show our players the respect they did, by giving us a hand, in front of our stands. They are a class act organization. You played hard and they recognized it. They were by by far one of the most talented teams we’ve seen this year. Their display of sportsmanship is something I hope our kids learn by. We ended up in 3rd Place against some strong AAA teams. It’s always hard to play our “brothers” in the semifinals, but it feels good to know that at least one of us Dawgs teams will see the Championship Game! It was a great weekend! -- Coach Tim
Blue 13U continues its three-tourney winning streak
May 3-4, 2008 (Martinez, CA) – Widely regarded as one of the greatest NBA coaches of all time, Pat Riley may have trademarked the term “Three-Peat,” but the Dawgs 13U Blue team earned the right to use the phrase after winning their third consecutive tournament championship at the Martinez Waterfront Park in celebration of Cinco de Mayo.
The 13U Blue hitters were hot as the fiery habanero chiles and had a fiesta, as they clobbered 50 hits and attained a team batting average of .446 for the weekend. Jordan Gough and Tyler Vistalli led the charge, hitting .700 and .667, respectively, while Mike Hutchings hit .500 during the Dawgs four wins. During the Dawgs’ winning stretch, they have gone 13-0 with titles in Fremont, Twin Creeks, and Martinez, and have won 22 of their last 24 games.
“It is always a challenge to win a tournament considering the level of competition in travel ball. We are very fortunate to have won three in a row,” said Coach Bert Gough. Although some luck may be involved, it is tenacity and a strong work ethic that eventually push a team over the top. “This is a special group of kids who have worked hard to earn their accolades. Success doesn’t happen by accident. It is the result of hard work and maximum effort,” he followed.
The entire Dawgs roster contributed mighty heavily throughout the weekend. Dante Mayes had an outstanding tournament with one victory and a save on the mound and eight RBIs at the plate, while Mike Allen kept his home run streak alive with a laser shot over the 325’ deep fence. Allen has hit round-trippers in three consecutive tournaments to deflate opponents and excite the Dawg pound with each home run swat. To get in the action, Austin Halter collected six hits and a .462 average, and Travis Volpe provided outstanding leadership behind the dish and at the plate. Carlos Jauregui, Jerome Hill, and Tyler Cox all hit over .300 for the weekend, including three doubles and two triples between them. Justin David was visiting our nation’s capital but provided two wins from the mound during the streak. Coach Gough added, “I am proud of their ‘team first’ attitudes. We have 11 MVPs willing to put others before themselves. That’s why they are champions.”
Coach Sean Halter pointed out, “We don’t gauge success solely by the number of trophies in our case; these kids are also learning life lessons that we expect to carry on into high school and beyond. We are truly impressed by the character of this team.”
April 19-20, 2008 (Sunnyvale, CA) – To celebrate the long illustrious career of umpiring legend Arty Hernandez – a familiar face in hundreds of Little League, Cal Ripken, Babe Ruth, travel ball, high school, and college baseball games in the Bay Area – the United States Specialty Sports Association (USSSA) hosted “The Arty Show” baseball tournament in his honor at Sunnyvale’s Twin Creeks Sports Complex.
The sold-out event that gathered nearly 60 teams from Northern and Central California produced three more championship titles for the Delta Dawgs baseball club who entered seven teams in the mid-April event. The Dawgs’ 13U Blue squad captured its fourth travel ball title this season, and the 12U and 10U both collected their second each. With their victories, the three teams earned the right to enter the Northern California Travel Ball’s season-ending Tournament of Champions in June, which is reserved for only the top eight teams in the 10 through 14-and-under age groups that have qualified throughout the year. In addition, these three teams, including the 11U Blue and 11U Gold have qualified to enter the USSSA World Series to be held throughout the country later this summer.
Back-to-back for 13U Blue
The 13U Blue continued to excel and earned back-to-back titles in consecutive weekends after completing another sweep to end the Arty Show with a 4-0 record, and raised its overall season tally to 20-4-1 in six tournaments.
Coach Bert Gough said to his troops, “Success doesn’t happen by accident. It is the result of hard work and maximum effort. This team can get even better.” The Dawgs have won 17 of their last 20 games.
Strong pitching and hitting were aligned again this weekend for the 13U Blue who produced a .440 team batting average and a 1.52 team ERA. On their way to topping Castro Valley’s Headfirst Gamers, Livermore’s Tri-Valley Legends, Santa Clara’s All-Star Academy Spartans, and Union City’s East Bay Lookouts, the Dawgs recorded the best scoring average at 9.8 and the best differential at 8.5 in its bracket during the tournament. In their last two tournaments, these Dawgs have outscored their opponents by a wide 90-to-14 margin, after surrendering only a scant five runs in the Arty Show. The Dawgs pitching staff blanked its opponents in 22 of the 24 innings played.
On their way to the championship, the Dawgs – then ranked number five by the USSSA in Northern and Central California – dispatched the number one, number four, and number six ranked teams in the Gamers, Spartans, and Lookouts, respectively.
Travis Volpe, named the tournament MVP, maintained his consistency from behind the dish and on the plate. He duplicated his phenomenal effort from the previous tourney with another monster 10-hit weekend to record a gaudy .714 average in 28 at-bats over two tournaments.
10U pups lead the pack
The 10U Dawgs had their finest weekend thus far. The young pups displayed fine defense, strong pitching, and an explosive offense as they scored a total of 45 runs, while only allowing 9 runs on their way to the champion-ship.
The 10Us took care of the Los Altos-Mountain View (LAMV) Wolf-pack and LAMV Mustangs with wins of 11-0 and 15-0 to start the competi-tion. CJ Sneath and Jason Ochoa proved to be too much to handle for both the LAMV teams as they each hurled three-inning shutouts. The rest of the pack provided plenty of run support and the defense was superb.
In the playoffs, the Dawgs trounced the Mustangs again in the 9-1 semifinal victory. Mason Fountain pitched three strong innings and Jake Ratliff closed it out with a solid inning in relief. The rest of the pack, including Nick DiCicco, Cameron Taylor, and Clayton Creer ran wild with solid hitting, base running, and defense during the win.
The undefeated Dawgs then faced another 3-0 team in the finals, the gnarling NorCal Bears from Fremont. The 10Us knocked NorCal’s starting pitcher out of the game in the first inning, as they posted six runs early runs. Sneath continued his fine pitching and went three strong innings, before giving way to Ochoa. The Bears would claw their way back into the game and got to within one run late in the game, 9-8. However, the young Dawgs showed their mettle, scoring an insurance run in the top of the sixth, and then sealed the deal with a game-ending double play in the 10-8 final.
The Dawgs earned their second championship this season as C.J. Sneath was named tournament MVP for his outstanding play. Other notable performances included fine hitting by Junior Muniz, Bryce Prybylinski, and Andrew Davidson.
12U corrals the competition
The 12U Dawgs continued to pile on the travel ball awards with its second championship title this season in Sunnyvale. The Dawgs struggled to start the tournament as it faced an uphill battle against the Los Altos-Mountain View Mustangs. Down early by six runs, the Dawgs mounted a valiant effort and clawed back before falling 8-6. Steven Ochoa led the near-comeback with a three-run triple.
The 12Us recovered in the second game versus the Gilroy-based Silicon Valley Mavericks in the 11-3 victory and would never look back on its way to the crown. Mitchell Zamora was superb on the mound to handcuff the Mavericks. Extra base hits from Brady Navarro with two doubles and Ochoa with two triples lifted the offense, as both combined to hit 6-for-6 in the game and posted four RBIs each. Tristan Pryblinski also came through with a two-run double to pull away.
The semifinals against the Brentwood Boys produced a 10-2 win for the Dawgs. Marcus Wise held the Boys in check from the hill, while Trent Davis led the offensive charge to put the Dawgs in the championship game against LAMV Mustangs once again. The result would be different in the rematch as the Dawgs soared with a balanced attack from the get-go: Connor Radelich scored and singled for an RBI; Adam Raudebaugh tripled to score a run; Devin Clifford, Max Rethage, and Pryblinski combined to slam five singles; Ochoa smashed his fourth triple of the tournament; and last but not least, Navarro was a double short of going for the cycle after his three-run homer and five RBIs sealed the scoring. The pitching combo of Rethage and Zamora corralled the Mustangs with their performance from the mound.
The MVP award was presented to Marcus Wise for his outstanding all-around performance throughout the weekend.
11U Blue splashes to its third, 13U Blue sweeps to its third, and 13U Gold reaches its first final in 2008
April 12-13, 2008 (Fremont, CA) – In an unprecedented weekend at the Fremont Sports Complex, the Delta Dawgs added two more competitive travel ball titles to its 2008 trophy collection from the USSSA’s Games Galore tournament. The 11U Blue team became a three-time champion after a dramatic Dawg fight against the Livermore Lightning and the 13U Blue unit also earned its third title of the travel ball season after completing the sweep against Stockton’s Club All Star. Both teams recorded spotless 5-0 records in the tournament. Four other Dawgs squads also had successful weekends with semifinal appearances in their age groups, and the 13U Gold, in just its third month of competition, reached the finals for first time in its division.
“It was an unbelievable weekend seeing two of our teams on the winner’s podium and five others in contention for the championship,” said club president John Zamora. “We’re excited for all of them who are vastly improving in each tournament. Winning the titles is just an added bonus.”
The hallmark of all successful baseball teams is that it takes every one in the lineup to execute plays and to produce outstanding results. Zamora attributes many of the organization’s success and gives credit to the overwhelming support system that has continued to rally behind the Dawgs since it was organized with one team in Brentwood over four years ago. Now it has seven units with over 80 players coming from Antioch, Byron, Discovery Bay, Moraga, Oakley, Orinda, Pittsburg, Stockton, and Tracy. “Our coaching staffs have been terrific with their countless hours on the field, our parents have laid a solid foundation for the wholesome character of our players, our community has provided access to practice fields, and local businesses have contributed resources that allow us to function,” added Zamora.
11U Dawgs Keep the Faith and Walk on Water
Wow! How about them Dawgs! The 11U Blue squad of the Delta Dawgs muscled their way to a 3rd championship in five tournaments at the “Games Galore” gathering in Fremont, streamrolling to a 5-0 record and a 20-12 victory in the championship game against the Livermore Lightning.
We all know real dogs run in packs, and have that one special dog that leads the pack, but not this pack of "Dawgs". This pack is special and relies on each other for their successes on the baseball field. "Each and every player steps up when one is down. They work in tandem and keep their eye on the prize," said Coach Roger Kruse.
With that, inevitably, every Dawg has his day, and this day belonged to John Velasco, who would walk away with the team MVP after batting .636 for the tourney, including two three-run jacks for six RBIs in the final. Also flexing their muscles behind this mammoth offensive machine were Kyle Abono, Roger Kruse, Malik Hutchings and Ryan Yray, who all batted at or above .500 for the tournament. Matt Lautz, Charlie Sides, Austin Garcia, Talon Majewski, and Pierce Mallonee rounded out the pack and rode atop the defensive wave. Steele Eich, who although was physically out due to injury, stayed with his pack and exemplified why this is such a close family of Dawgs. Through hard work and an undeniable team spirit, this team has amassed a 22-2-1 record so far this season. The Dawgs hope to add to their winning record as they enter the second half of their 2008 season.
13U Blue Flying High
High confidence reigned throughout the tournament for the 13U Blue, as the players established ambitious goals of bringing the title home with an undefeated record and posting at least 50 runs. The team exceeded expectations by outscoring Reno’s Nevada Outlaws, USF Baseball, San Mateo Cobras, and Club All Star, 51-9.
The Dawgs were never threatened as the offense executed great fundamental baseball in several big innings and the pitching staff combined to lift the team from start to finish. Catcher Travis Volpe led the team with 8 runs scored, 6 RBIs, and 10 hits, including a double and a triple. He also held runners in check by nailing down four would-be stealers who were wandering too far off from the bag to end innings. In the championship game, Michael Allen belted a solo shot over the 300 ft. fence in left center to cap the scoring for the Dawgs. “The coaches never blinked or raised an eyebrow when we heard about their lofty goals,” said coach John David.
13U Dawgs Discover Pot of Gold for First Final
The club’s newly formed 13U Gold team reaped the rewards of hard work and went on to the championship game of the Games Galore tournament against a formidable Morgan Hill Coyotes for its first final appearance.
“Even though we came up short, the coaching staff could not be happier, given we did so well with so many new players to the team” said coach Mike Amthor. Some of the players had not even played together before this tournament in Fremont. Nonetheless, the team went 3-2 during the weekend.
All of the Dawgs had incredible success at the plate. Mikey Amthor hit 8-for-ll, Mitchell Majewski hit 6-for-14, and Tyler Saude hit 6-for-12. Newcomer Jeff Ericksen hit 5-for-8 and was superb on the mound. Bopper Williams, who recently joined the team, also pitched four shutout innings during the weekend. “Our bats were on target, as we just plain outscored our opponents to get to the championship game,” according the coach Jason Saude.
The Dawgs had a great time and received an outpouring of support from parents and family. “We could not have a better group of supportive and involved parents. All of the parents are proud of their players. Their support really shows in the level of cheering that can be heard during our games” added a fan and parent, Julie Amthor. The 13U Gold is now on the right track and ready to win tournaments. Most importantly, the players are having fun, the parents are involved, and the coaching staff is proud of the results from the hard work of everyone. There is awesome chemistry between all players and all cannot wait for the next tournament.
All teams in contention entering the playoffs
March 29-30, 2008 (Manteca-Ripon, CA) – The organized, uniformed, steady and rhythmic walking Delta Dawgs traveled to Manteca and Ripon to close out the first quarter of the 2008 season at the March-to-Manteca tournament, sponsored by the USSSA. Each team survived pool play that allowed all of them a chance to claim the titles and displayed a tenacious Dawg attitude entering the playoffs. While there will be no championship titles this weekend, the Dawgs organization was upbeat and excited about its remaining schedule. “The coaching staffs couldn’t be more pleased to see the results that we are seeing so far,” said club president John Zamora. “One of our goals at the beginning of the year was to have each team in contention on playoff Sundays, and all of our teams are consistently delivering and surpassing our expectations.”
All of the Dawgs units have found tremendous success thus far with six championship crowns and numerous playoff and finals appearances in four tournaments to date – the 11U Blue, 13U Blue, and 14U teams garnered the Baseball Players Association March Madness titles in Manteca and Ripon in early March; and then a week later, the 10U, 11U Blue (becoming the first multiple winner this year), and 12U squads claimed the TPR March Madness Tournament trophies in Tracy. “We’re looking forward to seeing the boys mature and get better in each tournament,” followed club vice-president Ward Radelich. “It may take longer for some than others, but as long as we continue to work hard and have that patience, perseverance, and tenacity in what we’re doing, we will do fine.”
13U Blue Runs into Major Roadblock
The 13U Blue jumped out of the gates and stormed ahead, scoring first in each of its first three games against Yuba City’s Sutter Rush, Livermore’s Tri-Valley Legends, and the 13U Gold. The squad never relinquished a lead once it went ahead of its opponents, until the semifinal game against the would-be tournament champions in the 13U division, the Club All-Star Blue. Although the team had several runners put on base via the walk, the 13U couldn’t get the bats going to generate the runs against the Major team from Stockton. “Our boys have a lot to be proud of after a 3-1 weekend,” said coach Sean Halter. “This was a big tournament for the 13U age group that had 16 teams playing for the top spot, and we finished in the Top 3.”
13U Gold Runs into Blue
The 13U Gold reached the quarterfinals after an undefeated record in pool play, winning a see-saw 11-10 battle against the Folsom Flames. The Gold duplicated its run production against the Volcanoes Baseball Club from Rocklin, 11-5 in its second game. Coach Mike Amthor said, “Coming back from a big deficit in the last inning against the Flames showed the character of this team. These boys won’t give up until the last out.” The 13U Blue ended the Gold run in the playoffs after keeping the score close up to the latter innings.
11U Blue Streak Snapped
The 11U Blue had its winning record snapped and ended the tournament with a 1-1-1 record. The Blue managed a 5-5 tie against the VYAA Bomberz, a Major team and eventual champions from Stockton, in their opening game of pool play, but bounced back to score big runs against the Brentwood Blast in the game that followed. The high-powered 11U Blue offense couldn’t get untracked as the Scrappers from Gustine stifled the hitters throughout the game and eliminated the Dawgs. “Each game is a learning experience and we will only get better if we learn from them,” said coach Bill Yray. “I’m confident these boys will continue to get better going forward.”
O-for-Orinda
The Lamorinda Monarchs and the Bombers Baseball Club, both from Orinda, combined to hand the 10U team three losses in the tournament. “We are capable of doing better and there are many reasons to be optimistic after this weekend,” said coach Chris Ratliff. “We definitely learned many nuances of travel ball play and our staff will take what we’ve gained from this tournament to make the necessary improvements in future games.”
Ka-Boom! 11U Gold Turns Down the Noise
It seems as if Mother Nature was against the 11U Gold throughout the weekend, as it had to contend with “volcanoes” and “lightning” to get to the playoff round. The Gold came away unscathed, winning 8-3 against the Volcanoes Baseball Club from Auburn and 10-4 versus the Livermore Lightning. The team, however, could not rally past the Brentwood Blast in the narrow 9-8 loss in the quarterfinal game. Coach Ron Martin was elated, “A run away from getting into the semis is not bad. We had a great time keeping ‘the noise’ down -- for the most part.”
12U Finishes Strong Again
The 12Us opened solidly against the Folsom Flames, 11-0, but was on the other end of the losing score against the Pleasanton-based Tri-Valley Dawgs in their second game. Nonetheless, the 12Us entered the playoffs and clinched a semifinal berth after defeating the San Ramon Rage 11-0 in the quarterfinals. The 12Us held on to their slim lead in the semifinal game but had to go extra innings before falling to the Cali-fornia Sting Gold from Roseville, 8-7. The 12Us have finished in the Top 3 position in 7 of their last 8 tournaments dating back to the Fall of 2007. Coach Steve Ochoa said, “The last ten yards of the 100 yard dash are always the most difficult, and the Dawgs are learning what that means.”
Mistlin Sports Park Hosts 14Us
At Ripon’s Mistlin Park, the 14Us started the tournament with an uplifting win, nipping the UC Legends by a score of 11-10. The Dawgs valiantly came back from early deficits to secure the win against their Brentwood peers. The team then struggled a bit against Saratoga’s Athletics and the eventual 14U champions, Volcanoes Baseball Club, in the quarterfinals. “Our team has been working hard and is making good progress,” said coach Jim O’Shea. “If we give ourselves a chance to move on by consistently getting into the playoffs, we\'ll take it.”
Mad dash to titles lead to double-triple for Dawgs; 10U and 12U claim first titles in 2008; two in a row for 11U Blue; 13U squads both gain semifinal spots
March 8-9, 2008 (Tracy-Davis, CA) – In the blockbuster comedy produced ages ago when all of the Dawgs players, including most of their coaches and parents, weren’t even born yet, the brilliantly simple plot of “It’s a Mad, Mad, Mad World” concerns a caravan of motorists who witness a terrible accident on a dangerously winding California desert highway. The auto-crash victim, Smiler Grogan, before kicking the bucket reveals in his dying words that he has hidden a fortune of stolen cash, “three hundred and fifty Gs,” which sends the drivers on a rambunctious race to see who can claim the loot first!
At the TPR Baseball March Madness Tournament in Tracy and Davis, seven Dawgs teams scrambled for a different kind of prize – a Baseball Players Association (BPA) title – and for the second consecutive week, three teams from the club discovered their pot of gold by the end of the early spring weekend. In fact, their “loot” was priceless – it will forever evoke memories of happy days gone by with the Delta Dawgs. The 10U, 11U Blue, and 12U teams claimed BPA titles, while the 13U Blue and 13U Gold were both a win away from getting into a classic match up in the championship. “It doesn’t get any better than this,” said club vice president Ward Radelich. “When these kids get older, they can proudly look back on their achievements and their successes with this ball club.”
Fundamental Baseball is Key for 10U Dawgs
The 10U Dawgs became the first to claim the prize in the wild race. The newest and youngest members of the Dawgs baseball club secured their first tournament championship after just their third try of playing competitive baseball by winning the Tracy tournament with a 3-0 record. The young Dawgs bats came to life, outscoring their opponents 37-2, after posting victories of 11-1, 11-1 and 15-0, during the weekend. CJ Sneath provided some of the thunder with a blistering home run and Jake Ratliff added two triples to lead the team.
The Dawgs were aggressive on the base paths in all three games and constantly kept the pressure on their opponents. The Dawgs arms were also impressive during the tournament as they were led by starters Jason Ochoa, Nick DiCicco, and Mason Fountain. “These boys have been working extremely hard and it was nice to see their efforts shine through,” said Coach Kyle Creer.
This was just the third tournament for the Dawgs who gained valuable experience with their championship win. The Dawgs have stressed good sportsmanship and teamwork throughout the season.
Manager Aaron Fountain stated, “We’ve been working hard on the basics and I think things are beginning to click.” The Dawgs also played great fundamental baseball from start-to-finish. To get championship Sunday off the blocks, the Dawgs started an inning by getting their leadoff batter on base. The next batter faked a bunt while the runner stole second base. That same batter then moved the runner to third base with a ground ball to the second baseman. The third batter in the inning also hit a ball to the second baseman allowing the runner to score from third base. “If we can manufacture runs and make the routine plays on defense, then we should perform well during the rest of the season,” added Fountain. The young Dawgs will try to continue to build on their success and will play again in the March-to-Manteca Tournament held at the Big League Dreams on March 29th and 30th.
12U steamrolls to fourth title
The 12U Dawgs became a four-time champion after winning the BPA-TPR March Madness tournament held at the Tracy Sports Complex. Entering just its second year of travel ball competition, the 12Us picked up where they left off from last season with a strong run-producing lineup and solid pitching staff. The Dawgs outscored their opponents 51-7 and went undefeated during the weekend at 5-0, mowing down the Merced Force, Atwater Thunder, Folsom Flames, and the East County Maniacs twice on its way to the crown.
After hearing the successes of the 10U and 11U Blue teams who claimed championship titles earlier in the day in the same tournament, the 12U Dawgs also got into the act and revved up their play to get up on the winner’s podium. “The boys showed us what they can do,” said Coach Rich Navarro. “The challenge for them is to maintain or exceed this level of play in our next tournaments.” The 12Us had solid hitting from all players, which included homeruns from Adam Raudebaugh and Marcus Wise. Narrowly missing homeruns with triples were Trent Davis, Brady Navarro, Max Rethage, and Raudebaugh. The pitching corps was deep with Mitchell Zamora, Devin Clifford, Connor Radelich, Tristan Prybylinski, Navarro, and Davis. “When we can get our pitching and hitting in sync, we have the potential to go far in every tournament,” added Navarro.
11U Blue, 13U Blue, and 14U win titles, three others go to semis
March 1-2, 2008 (Manteca-Ripon, CA) – The Baseball Players Association (BPA) held its own March Madness Tournament to trump the NCAA during the first weekend in March at Manteca’s Big League Dreams and Ripon’s Mistlin Fields. While the basketball tournament has built a legacy that includes dynasty teams and dramatic underdog stories, the Delta Dawgs may have spawned its own dynasty-in-the-making after three teams won the championship titles in their respective age groups and three other units reached the semifinals, all just one win away from getting into the Big Dance. Club president John Zamora and the teams disagreed and are not resting on their laurels, “It’s definitely and extremely too far to be calling our teams a dynasty. We still have a lot of work to do and it just simply raised the bar for each other.” According to Zamora, “The titles just mean that we have to work harder to maintain the level of play that we are capable of playing.”
Are You Gellin’? 13U Blue in Sync
For the 13U Dawgs, they appeared to be the Cinderella team when they were matched up against two teams in which they have not had a winning record, but the overhauled Dawgs managed to catapult themselves to the number one seed in their pool with knockout performances. The 13U started the tourney with a convincing 9-1 win against the Laguna Thunder from Elk Grove. Michael Allen lifted the offense with a perfect 3-for-3 game at the plate to produce two RBIs and score two runs, while Tyler Vistalli quieted the Thunder bats with a six-strikeout complete game win.
The road to the playoffs got harder against the experienced Silicon Valley Xtreme, but the Dawgs were up to the task by closing out the Gilroy team, 3-0. Justin David handcuffed the Xtreme with his masterful hook for a three-hitter and extended his flawless streak of allowing no earned runs in his last three outings. The Dawgs couldn’t generate much offense but made most of their opportunities that were highlighted by triples from Carlos Jauregui and Travis Volpe.
In the playoffs, the Dawgs exploded against Auburn’s Placer Hillmen, scoring nine runs in the first inning after two were out and the bases empty. The first inning rally was enough when they padded their lead after Jerome Hill delivered clutch hits to put the game away. Austin Halter mopped up in the latter innings for the save. The Dawgs also have been winning games lately with eye-popping defensive plays. Great fundamental baseball was at its finest when the Dawgs executed outfield assists and perfect relays whenever their opponents attempted to mount rallies. The 11-7 final against the Hillmen placed the Dawgs in another championship game, a rematch against the Xtreme.
The championship game was a nail-biting thriller and closer than the 7-1 final score indicates. The Dawgs jumped out to an early 2-0 lead and tightly held on to its slim lead until the sixth inning when it raced past the Xtreme with four late runs to get some breathing room. Dante Mayes struck out seven and played superb defense from his position in the complete game win. Michael Hutchings buoyed the offense with four RBIs and two hits, and Jordan Gough singled and dropped a textbook-perfect sacrifice bunt to surprise the Xtreme.
In receiving their BPA March Madness trophies and medals, Hutchings and Volpe received the Offensive and Defensive Players of the tournament, respectively, and Hill was recognized with the Coaches Award for his exemplary attitude and overall inspirational performance. Coach Bert Gough said, “It was tough giving these awards to just three players. They all deserve the accolades.” Gough continued, “We have ten outstanding role players with phenomenal attitudes that set them apart from other teams. No one is considered ‘Da Man’ on this team.”
14U Comes Out Swinging
The 14U Dawgs started the new season with a new coaching staff, new teammates, and a new attitude. And it showed this first weekend in March when the Dawgs won their first tournament of the year.
They batted .343 as a team for the weekend. The offensive attack was lead by Anthony Zamora who batted .625, followed by Reid Beckwith batting .555, and Scott Harris who batted .500 in the tournament. Harris also delivered some excitement during the Dawgs only loss of the weekend, by taking one over the left field stadium wall at Angels Stadium, estimated at over 400+ feet, for the 14U’s first home-run of the season.
Pitching also was really looking good with Beckwith shutting out the Raptors, allowing only 3 hits, in the 8-0 victory. Steven Zaharias pitched a 3-hitter with 6 strong innings in the Championship Game against Rocklin-based Hank’s Bombers. Harris collected a save in the bottom of the 7th to shut down any efforts by the Bombers to take the title 3-2. The 14U finished the weekend with a 3-1 record.
The 14U only has been together for a couple of months now, but it sure doesn’t look like it. With strong defensive efforts, including several diving catches by Nick Rehtage and Chad Eddens, and superb infield play from Brennan O’Shea, Mitch Packard, and Jeff Skilling, the team looks unbeatable. And from behind the plate Zamora, who is new to the position, made several key plays. It was a great weekend for the 14U; the games were won by all nine players. They played with heart and made their families proud! The 14U can now look forward to the weekends to come and more wins in the future!
11U Blue goes a perfect 4-0
At the BPA March Madness Tournament in Manteca the Dawgs 11U Blue went a perfect 4-0, putting up an impressive 42 runs in 18 innings of play (an average of 2.33 runs per inning) while giving up only 6 runs. Steele Eich led the offense, batting at an astronomical .727 clip with 14 RBIs. The lefty touched them all twice, earning the Offensive Player of the Tournament award for the second time this year. Two newcomers to the Dawgs, John Velasco and Austin Garcia batted .500 during the weekend, contributing to the offensive attack at the Field of Dreams.
Antioch native Kyle Abono was the receipient of the Defensive Player of the Tournament award for his sterling work with the glove. Ryan Yray received the Coaches Award of the Tournament for his hard work and consistency, and Matthew Lautz pitched a combined shutout against the Roseville Baseball Club, giving up only 1 hit. “The kids are really starting to come together and all the hard work put in at practice every week is paying off as we handled every opponent we faced in the tournament,” said coach Remington Beatty. “I found myself sitting on the bucket just relaxing and watching the game with the confidence in my team that the game was in our control,” said manager Roger Kruse.
Four of six teams reach playoffs, two others end on high notes
February 16-18, 2008 (Brentwood- Manteca-Tracy, CA) – To celebrate the accomplishments of the man who has been referred to, for over two centuries, as “The Father of his Country,” and often other Presidents of our nation, the February holiday gathered over 150 competitive baseball teams from Northern and Central California, the Pacific Northwest, and western Nevada to compete in the USSSA’s Super NIT tournament held in Brentwood, Manteca, and Tracy.
Brimming in their new white uniforms, the Dawgs opened the season with great success, as all teams had outstanding performances throughout the weekend. “We couldn’t be more proud of our players, fans, and coaching staff for playing great baseball and respecting our pastime,” said John Zamora. “We’re looking forward to seeing the same or more from our squads throughout the year.”
Pups Get Their Feet Wet
The 10Us had a rollercoaster weekend, starting with a close 11-6 opening day loss to the Elk Grove DirtBags, but the young team strongly bounced back with a 12-2 win against Petaluma’s Athletic Edge for the Dawgs’ first win of the season. The San Ramon Slammers then handed the 10Us their second loss of the tournament to close out pool play. Both of the Dawgs losses were to the two finalists in the 10U bracket. Undeterred, the 10Us ended their weekend on a high note with a 16-5 outburst against Cru’s Crushers from Danville. The 10Us had no trouble putting runs on the board, scoring 34 in four games for an 8.5 average per game against 26 run, or 6.5 average, for its opponents. An upbeat coach Aaron Fountain said, “We’re not surprised by the excellent results we had this weekend. We’re excited to get more games under our belts in the next several weeks.”
Going for the Gold: 11Us Edged Out of the Title
“When’s the next tournament?” asked an excited 11U Gold coach Tim Santos. “The majority of our players have never even played tournament ball before, so we’re obviously pleased with the early results.” After two early defeats against the San Jose Shock 7-5 and Alamo Blues 10-1 to open their season, the 11U Gold regrouped and battled back to get the “Ws” against the Pleasant Hill Hawks 10-6 and a rematch win against the Shock 9-6 to enter their first championship game in their first-ever try of tournament ball. The 11U Gold faced the Hawks again for all the marbles but the Pleasant Hill team turned the tables around and eked out a 4-3 victory to nab the title. 11U Dawg RJ Prince was named to the 11U All-Tournament Team… great job, RJ!
11U Blue Steamrolls to the Finals But Mound Gets in the Way
In one of the biggest tournaments to date, the 11Us steamrolled through its first four games and ended the tournament with a 4-1 record. “The hard work and tireless effort that the boys have put in during the past few weeks have paid big dividends,” said Coach Roger Kruse.
The 11U Blue was an offensive machine throughout the weekend, outscoring their opponents 45-15. After a close 4-3 win against the Concord Patriots, the 11U Blue unleashed its firepower with convin-cing 19-3 and 16-4 victories against the Reno Blue Devils and Folsom Thunder, respectively, to snatch the first seed after pool play and straight to the semifinal game against the Ceres-based California Mojo. The Dawgs handcuffed the Mojo for a spot in the finals, before succumbing to the Brentwood Blast in a tight 3-2 final. With the tying run at third, a smash hit caromed off the mound directly into the hands of the defense for the final put out. 11U Dawg Steele Eich was named to the All-Tournament Team...Terrific job, Steele!
And Then There Were Four: 12Us on a Roll
Strong pitching and consistent hitting buoyed the 12U team all the way to the semifinal game before suffering a tough 7-2 defeat at the hands of the East Bay Hackers from Castro Valley, the evenutal 12U champions. The 12Us were on a win streak of two shutout games in the playoffs against the San Ramon Xtreme 8-0 and the Brentwood Blast 7-0, but ran into the hot-hitting East Bay Hackers again to derail the Dawgs’ path to the championship game. The 12Us ended their tournament with a strong 4-2 record. “The boys definitely came to play this weekend and can proudly hold their heads up high,” said Coach Ward Radelich. “This is just the beginning and there’s more great Dawgs baseball to come.”
13U Gold Reaches Semis
“We came very close,” said 13U Gold Coach Ed Feldman. “Our staff is pleased to see this team improve as we get more tournament game experience.” The 13U Gold opened their season in front of the hometown crowd against the Brentwood Boys and closed with a 4-4 tie before gaining its first win against Tracy’s Hard Core Baseball, 7-2. A close loss to the Tri-Valley Stars, 5-3, and a rebound win versus Rocklin’s Volcanoes Baseball Club, 9-3, set up the rematch against the B-Boys in the semifinal game. After a see-saw battle, the B-Boys squeaked out a 9-8 win to close out the Dawgs weekend. Austin Newton earned a spot on the All-Tournament Team for the Dawgs... Congratulations, Austin!
Off-season conditioning completed–check! Uniforms ordered–check! Gears in the bag–check! Snowboards stored away–check! Rosters firmed up–check! Field assignments reserved–check! Coaches well rested–not! With the fifth season on the horizon, there’s no rest for the weary as the Delta Dawgs baseball club gets ready to field its largest number of teams in 2008. “With seven of our teams playing competitive baseball this year, the staff is extremely excited to get the season going,” said club president John Zamora. “We’re ready to put in a lot of work to prepare for our first tournament and we’re looking for a lot energy and enthusiasm that we expect from our players as they take the fields.”
The Dawgs will immediately test their mettle in the biggest tournament of the year at the United States Specialty Sports Association’s (USSSA) Super NIT championships during the President’s Day weekend in mid-February. The Super NIT will gather more than 150 teams from Northern and Central California and will award each champion in the 9-and-under through 14-and-under age groups a berth to the USSSA World Series that will be held throughout the nation this summer or a spot in the Elite 24 Championships, which will be held in Florida, also this summer. Each Dawgs team will attempt to gain entry into these invitational events by winning the concurrent NIT tournaments that will be held in Brentwood, Manteca, and Redding.
According to Zamora, “Our teams are comprised of veterans and rookies alike, but with a lot of hard work, we should be able do well and put on a good showing.” The Dawgs are a nonprofit organization that will begin its fifth year in Brentwood and are made up of players from its surrounding areas including Antioch, Discovery Bay, Knightsen, Oakley, and Pittsburg.
The success of a travel baseball team can’t always be measured by wins and losses, ratings, rankings, trophies or medals. While those are prized reminders of a team’s accomplishments and serve to gauge how far it has gone, what’s more important are the mental and emotional health of players and the things they learn from baseball to achieve excellence in life, such as team building, fun, commitment, skill development and relationship building, among many others. With this emphasis in mind, the Delta Dawgs, comprising players from the surrounding Delta communities, have made great strides and found success since the organization was founded four years ago in Brentwood.
For their hard work, the Delta Dawgs reached the pinnacle once again during the November to Remember tournament in Concord and Pittsburg, hosted by the United States Specialty Sports Association (USSSA). Each of the organization’s teams continued to show improvement in all facets of the game in their season-ending tournament, and each reached their respective championship games to add to the Dawgs’ winning tradition.
In recapping the year, the 11-and-under team was crowned the Baseball Fever champs, the 12Us earned the April’s Fools, Games Galore, and September to Remember titles, and the 13Us became a five-time champion, to augment a competitive showing against teams from around the nation in the Cooperstown All-Star Village tournament last summer.
“All of these would not be possible without the terrific support that we’ve had from our teams’ parents and the community,” said Dawgs co-founder Ward Radelich. “We appreciate all their efforts throughout the years.”
While the titles are worthy accomplishments, the club also tries to teach its players to be the best they can be. In the words of Club President and Co-founder John Zamora, “We had another exciting year and we are extremely pleased to see our players grow and develop their skills in and out of baseball. We are also confident that our players can continue to deliver and perform to the best of their abilities to reach the top echelons of competitive baseball and make their Dawgs experience the best ever.”
Andrew Davidson of the 11U Dawgs expressed the true spirit of what it means to be a part of the program when he said of his goals, “Always to try my hardest and work on being better than I was yesterday.”
13U reaches 16th finals, ends season on a high
November 3-4, 2007 (Pittsburg, CA) – There would be no fireworks, bonfires, or Guy Fawkes-type plots on this Sunday afternoon, but the 13U Dawgs had many reasons to celebrate. The 13Us concluded their abbreviated fall season on a high note in their last United States Specialty Sports Association (USSSA) competitive baseball travel tournament in 2007. Held at City Park in Pittsburg during the first weekend in November, the Dawgs successfully reached their 16th championship final in the last three years and fell shy of gaining their 6th championship title. The Dawgs finished as runners up for the 2nd time during their fall season at the hands of a strong Santa Cruz-based NorCal Waves team during the weekend. In their first game of pool play, the Dawgs were swept into the NorCal Waves juggernaut after the Dawgs battled back from an early four-run deficit when Marcus Wise crossed the plate to get the team back into contention. The Waves then broke the game open in the fourth inning with a strong lineup to notch the win.
The Dawgs rebounded with a 10-0 victory in the nightcap of pool play against Hardcore Baseball from Tracy. Justin David, Tyler Vistalli, Scott Harris, and Mike Allen combined to allow only one hit to the Tracy team to win going away. David and Harris, who also both scored twice in the game, lifted the offense with Cory Lingenfelter who also added two singles, a run, and an RBI.
The playoff opener produced similar results on the second day of the tournament when Vistalli handcuffed the Starmaker Stallions from Belmont with a complete game no-hitter on seven strikeouts and only two walks in the 10-0 win for the Dawgs. From behind the dish, Jordan Gough called another great game to handle the pitching staff with aplomb. Anthony Norris also buoyed the offense with two hits, two runs scored, and two RBIs which included a sacrifice squeeze bunt to rattle the Stallions and place the Dawgs into the finals.
The championship game pitted the Dawgs and the Waves once again. The game began with Allen locked in a pitcher’s duel before the Waves nipped away in the 4-0 final to earn the November to Remember USSSA title. Justin Chase, who batted .750 during the weekend, and Austin Halter singled twice each to help the offense, but the team just ran into a formidable pitcher to secure the title for the Waves. In accepting the USSSA trophy, Waves manager Ken Nakagawa said at the closing ceremonies, “Congratulations also go to the Dawgs. You’re a first class organization with a great group of kids and coaches.”
During their six-tournament fall schedule, the Dawgs collectively batted .321 as a team, posted a 3.36 earned run average, and earned a championship crown, two runners-up titles, and two top-three finishes. The 13Us will now go on temporary hiatus to recharge until 2008.
October 20-21, 2007 (Brentwood, CA) – Early American writers described “Indian Summer” well when they wrote, “The air is perfectly quiescent and all is stillness, as if Nature, after her exertions during the Summer, were now at rest,” and “Sometimes the rain is followed by an interval of calm and warmth which is called the Indian Summer; its characteristics are a tranquil atmosphere and general smokiness.” These passages from John Bradbury and Hector St. John de Crevecoeur were written nearly an eternity ago but are as relevant today as they were way back then. A spell of warm, sometimes quiet, hazy weather definitely came to Brentwood after moderate sprinkles blanketed Sunset Park over a mid-autumn day in October, in time to allow the boys of summer to enjoy their games in perfect playing conditions. The 12U, 13U, and 14U Delta Dawgs were in action at the USSSA’s Indian Summer tournament and were in near-perfect form. The teams were in contention all the way to the end and finished near the top of the leaderboard.
12U Steals its Way into the Finals
The 12Us kick-started the tournament with a 12-0 victory over the Brentwood Boys, a team they have met in the past several tournaments and have battled in close games. The Turlock Renegades then turned the tables around on the Dawgs when it handed the team a 10-0 defeat in the last game of pool play.
As the No. 2 seeded team in the playoffs, the 12U team waited until the last inning to score two runs to make its way into their 9th finals. Down by one run in the 6th inning, the three-time USSSA champions capitalized on timely hits, relied on speed on the bases to steal bags with abandon, and executed a squeeze play to perfection that proved to be the difference in the 2-1 final.
In the rematch against the tough and undefeated Renegades, the Dawgs could not muster the runs they needed in the final and fell 3-0 for their sixth runners-up finish. The Renegades were a worthy opponent after it outscored four of its opponents 33-0 to win the title. “We just ran into a hot team with the big bats and a strong pitching staff from Turlock during the weekend, and our experience this weekend makes us a better team going forward,” said Coach Ward Radelich.
13Us Squeezed Out; Power Outage Derails Track to Finals
After a quiet start in their game against the San Rafael-based North Bay Xtreme, the 13U Dawgs sparkled, 12-1, in the dark of night with a 12-run explosion in the fifth inning to close the game early in their first game of pool play. Seven free bases and seven hits sent 18 Dawgs up to the plate in the late inning outburst that put the Dawgs in good standing going into their second game.
However, the Dawgs went cold with the weather after the 4-2 loss against the two-time USSSA champions Solano Athletics. The team average with runners in scoring position would prove to be its downfall after stranding seven runners on base. The Athletics threw a mix of pitchers against the Dawgs that frustrated the 13Us throughout the game. Nonetheless, with the strength of its pitching staff that allowed the fewest runs on average at three per game in the tournament, the Dawgs were seeded No. 1 in the tightly contested bracket that had all evenly matched teams tied at 1-1 after pool play.
The Dawgs had to contend against the Xtreme in a rematch for a spot in the finals. The semifinal game started solidly for the Dawgs who grabbed an early two-run lead, but they could not duplicate the fireworks in the diamond when they needed a spark. The 13Us missed many scoring chances after another and had twice as many hits as the Xtreme. The Xtreme played “small ball” with two squeeze plays that proved to be the difference in the game. For the Dawgs, two runners were called out at home with close bang-bang plays and 10 more runners were stranded on base in the narrow 4-3 loss. “We were just one or two hits away from getting the win and getting us back into the finals,” said Coach Bert Gough. “Our success depends on whether we take advantage of the opportunities we create for ourselves.”
14U Gets Off the Ground
With a collection of new players, the 14U Dawgs finally got some action after a long layoff. The Walnut Creek Bulldawgs handed the hometown Dawgs an 8-1 loss in their tournament opener, but then recovered to even its record in pool play after a thrilling 7-6 win against the UC Legends, also from Brentwood.
With the cobwebs out of the way, the Dawgs mounted a valiant effort in the semifinal game against the Bulldawgs which was nip and tuck all the way. The 14Us were not able to hold an early lead and had to battle back into contention in the 12-10 final. “We’ll continue to get better the longer we play together,” said Coach Chet Winham. “We have a good talented team and a great foundation for a promising future. It’s just a shame that our season is almost over.”
October 6-7, 2007 (Brentwood, CA) – A bench-clearing brawl, sometimes known as a basebrawl, is a form of ritualistic fighting that occurs in baseball when both teams leave their dugouts, bullpens, or benches and charge the field to fight one another. Brawls usually result from an escalating infraction, often stemming from being hit by a pitch, or an altercation between a base runner and an infielder stemming from excessive contact in an attempted tag out. None of these occurred, and far from it, at the USSSA Fall Brawl Tournament held in Brentwood’s Sunset Park.
The Dawgs, however, charged out of their dugouts to congratulate or receive high fives from their counterparts after well-played games. In true sportsman-like fashion, each team demonstrated a Dawgs value of respecting the game, their opponents, and themselves by playing the game the way it should be played. The Dawgs took cue from a famed coach who once eloquently said, “If you prepare with rigor, dedication, and commitment, if you compete to the best of your ability, always fight, and never give up, and if you are magnanimous, humble, and gracious in victory and can accept defeat with equanimity and without alibis, then, gentlemen, you are winners.” The three Dawgs teams that participated in the Fall Brawl were all winners and continued the club’s “winning” tradition
11U Finishes in Top 3
The 11U team ended the tournament in 3rd Place after posting a 2-2 record. After a narrow 9-5 loss against the San Leandro-based Manor Jr. Dodgers in the team’s opener, the Dawgs recovered and defeated the Bulldog Baseball Club of Vacaville twice with scores of 13-6 in pool play and 8-7 in the playoffs. The Morgan Hill Thrill then topped the Dawgs 8-4 in the semifinal game to close out their weekend. “The boys made great strides and took another big step towards elite status,” said Coach Roger Kruse. “The teams we played and played well against are Major teams in the age group.”
Overall in the 11U tournament, the Dawgs posted the best scoring average with 7.5 runs per game. With their finish, the team moved up in the USSSA points standings to the 8th position overall in Northern and Central California. The 11Us also are named as one of only two teams rated in the USSSA Coaches Poll in the age group and AAA division.
12U Enters Playoffs as No. 1 Seed
The 12Us completed pool play in good position with an undefeated record against the West Coast Federals from San Mateo and the B-Wood Boys from Brentwood, 11-3 and 17-4, respectively that elevated the team to the No. 1 seed and straight to the semifinal game.
With high hopes and full of confidence coming into the game, the 12Us however ran into tough pitching in the rematch against the B-Wood Boys to fall 10-1 and finish in the 3rd Place position. “We have every reason to feel good about ourselves in this tournament in spite of the minor setback,” said Coach John Zamora. “We learned a lot about ourselves, our abilities, and our character.”
The 12Us ended with the best scoring average in the tournament at 9.7 per game. The team also continued to gather momentum towards the top of the Northern and Central California USSSA rankings and moved up into the No. 3 position in the Power Ratings category that factors the strength of their opponents and No. 5 in the Point Rankings, based on points earned after each tournament. The team also ranks highly in the Coaches Poll with a No. 3 ranking.
Offensive Machine Sputters for 13U
The 13U Dawgs opened strongly and swept out the Nevada Dustdevils from Sparks, 13-3, to begin the tournament. A nine-run third inning that sent 13 runners to the plate was all the Dawgs needed for the victory. The second game late into the night against Vacaville’s Bulldog Baseball Club was tougher to take as the Dawgs surrendered a big inning to fall behind 9-1 early in the game. But with their bite and resiliency, the 13Us battled back from the eight-run deficit to score seven more times to excite the crowd before time was called after a sprinkler system “malfunction.”
The team, which recorded the second lowest average runs allowed and the second highest average runs scored in the tournament, could not get the offense going and was punchless in the playoffs against the eventual 13U champions, Demons Baseball Club from Davis, falling 5-1. Coach Sean Halter said, “I know this team can do better than what we brought this weekend. We’re looking forward to our next showing.” After the tournament, the 13Us slipped from the No. 4 to the No. 9 position in the points standings, but maintained a high Coaches Poll rating at No. 4.
September 8-9, 2007 (Brentwood, CA) – To commemorate one of the most significant events in recent U.S. history, competitive baseball travel teams from Northern and Central California gathered at Brentwood’s Sunset Park to play America’s game and challenged each other for the title in the “September to Remember” tournament hosted by the United States Specialty Sports Association (USSSA). We will never forget the innocent victims and the brave heroes lost in the tragic episodes of the sorrowful disaster that have instilled our hearts and lives. The Delta Dawgs also won’t forget this memorable September weekend when both the 12-and-under and 13-and-under squads won championship crowns in their own backyards. Both units have now qualified to enter the USSSA World Series at the end of the season in July next summer.
During the tournament, the 12U and 13U squads each posted 5-0 records, and as a result of their finishes, are now ranked No. 5 and No. 4, respectively, in their age groups and AAA division in the Northern California USSSA point standings. Against the competition, the 12Us outscored their opponents 46-7 and recorded the best run differential in their bracket at nearly 8 per game, while allowing only 15 hits and committing only two errors in five games.
Similarly, the 13U team batted nearly .400 for the weekend and outscored their opponents 55-31. They also recorded the best run differential at 5 per game and the best scoring average at 11 per game in their division. The team ERA remained stellar at 2.72.
These championship titles are the third for the 12Us in eight championship appearances since early this year, and the fifth for the 13Us in 15 championship games over the past two years. The younger Dawgs topped the Dixon Rams 7-2 in the final and the veteran Dawgs beat the Bears Baseball Club from Albany 12-10 in an action-packed championship game knockout where the Dawgs battled back from a four-run deficit with six runs in the final inning to win the crown.
One for the Thumb... Finally!
For the 13Us, the Dawgs fans in the stands waited with bated breath as the Bears, which were down by two, put the tying runs on base and the lead run at the plate. Then, it happened – trumpets blared, drums rolled, and the skies parted – the last out was called after a slow grounder to the second baseman and a putout at first base that elicited jubilant whoops of joy from the boisterous crowd. The team had clung tightly to its tenuous lead and held off the Bears to claim the title.
A relieved but spirited Coach Sean Halter said after the comeback win, “The gorilla’s finally off our backs. We worked so hard for this title, which is definitely very satisfying. It’s especially sweet after finishing in the runners-up position ten times before. This fifth championship win will certainly be one for the memory books after the way we came back against the Bears.”
To open the tournament, the Dawgs posted solid wins against the Fairfield-based Solano Slammers 8-0 and the Rohnert Park-based North Bay Bombers 16-5 in pool play. As the No. 2 seeded team going into the playoffs, the Dawgs had a tougher road to the championship game, needing to win three consecutive matches on the last day of the tournament to take the title. The Dawgs were up to the task by recording an 8-6 victory over the Slammers in the quarterfinal rematch and an 11-10 squeaker versus Suisun’s Solano Bombers in the semifinals.
Against the top-seeded Bears in the final, the Dawgs handed the Albany team their first loss of the season and ended the Bears’ 12-game win streak after the Dawgs rallied from 7-2 and 10-6 deficits to excite the hometown crowd and garner the crown. Coming into the tournament, the Bears and the Bombers were both ranked No. 1 in the Majors and AAA divisions, respectively, as rated by the USSSA.
“We faced a lot of strong teams in this tournament,” said Coach Bert Gough. “In the past month, the Bears had already won two competitive travel ball tournament trophies and the Bombers also had already claimed a title,” according to Gough.
“It was a great team effort. Up and down the lineup, all of our boys played well and were cohesive until the end. They never gave up and the results showed. They all had the heart of a champion,” followed Coach Eric Lingenfelter.
12U Formula for Success: Squeeze Plays, Staff Aces, and Hot Bats
The 12Us matched up against the Dixon Rams and found themselves in a pitching duel that would eventually turn in favor of the Dixon jumped out to an early two-run lead, but the Dawgs answered back with one of their own in the bottom half of the first inning before the pitching battle that continued through the final inning with a 3-3 tie. The Dawgs then delivered home the winning run in the 4-3 final score when a perfectly executed squeeze bunt with two strikes proved to be the difference.
The Dawgs then faced the Antioch Rivercats and jumped out to a quick six runs in the first inning and didn’t look back as they tallied an 11-1 victory. The Dawgs completed pool play against the Moraga Captains. Strong pitching continued for the Dawgs and combined with a strong offensive attack, the Dawgs prevailed 15-0, which guaranteed the No. 1 seeding going into the playoffs.
In the semifinal game, the Dawgs silenced the Solano Bombers and came out on top 9-1 behind solid pitching and hard hitting by the hometown team, which catapulted them to the championship game.
The championship game featured a rematch against the tough Dixon Rams in which the Dawgs literally squeezed a victory the previous day. Adam Raudebaugh, who was not in the lineup against the Rams in the opener, was a one-man wrecking crew and helped land the Dawgs to a 7-2 win to claim its first championship in the fall season and third overall. Raudebaugh clobbered a pair of two-run homers, giving the Dawgs all the runs they needed. Good pitching and good defense usually are keys for successful baseball and the Dawgs got some stellar defensive plays. Combined with their sizzling bats, they were hard to beat.
“The offense, defense, and play execution were clicking this weekend,” said Coach Bruce Prybylinski. “They were all exciting games to watch and the boys deserved this title.”
At the end of each championship game, the USSSA awarded the tournament MVP trophies to Adam Raudebaugh and Michael Allen in their respective age groups for outstanding overall performance during the weekend. In the 12U final, Raudebaugh, who attends Brentwood’s Bristow Middle School blasted a pair of two-run homers and Allen, a Hillview Junior High student in Pittsburg, batted .500 during the weekend.
Not to be forgotten is the Dawgs’ 11U team, which was also in contention and finished in 3rd Place as semifinalists. Delta Dawgs club president John Zamora said, “We are ecstatic and extremely proud of all our teams playing this weekend. The Dawgs were one of several teams that came to represent the surrounding Delta communities and they did not disappoint us with their character and play.”
Squad Goes Back to School after Winning 10th Finals Medals
August 25-26, 2007 (Brentwood, CA) – For most, summer vacation is down to its final weeks, but that didn’t keep droves of competitive baseball travel teams away from a Back-to-School Bash tournament held at Brentwood’s Sunset Park during the last weekend in August. As soon as the Little League World Series crowned its champion in Williamsport and the Major League pennant races started to heat up, the competitive baseball travel season, hosted by the United States Specialty Sports Association (USSSA), got underway.
Moving up into an older age group for their new travel ball campaign, the 13U Dawgs greeted their new season in fine fashion and entered the championship game for the fourteenth time in the last two years. “It’s a great way to kick off the start of another season,” said Coach Bert Gough. “We’re pleased to see the boys gelling early in the year, especially with several new players just joining the team.”
The Dawgs batted slightly under .300 for the weekend and outscored their opponents 28-14, splitting four games en route to another medal finish. Dawgs pitchers were also superb, posting a 2.35 ERA that kept their opponents within striking distance in each of its games.
Dawgs Buck the Broncos in Opening Season Victory, 13-2
The opening game matched the Dawgs against the Brentwood Broncos, another hometown team full of players that is just getting their feet wet in travel baseball competition. The Dawgs sprang out of the gates with four runs in the first inning and five more runs in the second on their way to a 13-2 win.
With the bases loaded in the opening frame, Mike Allen brought the crowd to its feet after the Broncos intentionally walked him for an easy RBI without having to swing the bat. Allen was again intentionally given a free pass to load the bases in his next at-bat, but Austin Halter then delivered a grand slam to continue the run production for the Dawgs. Cory Lingenfelter also scored three times for the Dawgs and pitched four innings of one-run ball to post the victory. Lingenfelter and Allen led the Dawgs offense with batting averages of .583 and .500, respectively. Allen also threw five innings in relief in two games over the weekend, striking out nine and giving up only one hit.
Laguna Thunders Ahead to Hand Dawgs Their First Loss, 7-3
The team had a tougher time against the Laguna Thunder from Elk Grove, which handed the Dawgs their first tournament loss. The Dawgs surrendered three unearned runs with botched plays and the Thunder capitalized with four runs in the late innings. The Thunder also stifled the Dawgs with a strong pitching performance from their closer. Earlier, with Davarian Redd on base, Justin David lifted the offense with a two-run homer to cap the scoring for the Dawgs, but it was not enough in the nightcap. Throughout the weekend, the Dawgs showed its bite by putting pressure on its opponents when scoring early and often to begin the game. They’ve also quickly bounced back and stayed competitive after early deficits. According to Coach Sean Halter said, “I like what I’m seeing from this team. Their resiliency and attitude will take them deep into many tournaments.”
8-0 Semifinal Win Against Brentwood Blast Propels Dawgs to Championship Game
The playoffs on the second day of competition pitted the Dawgs against another Brentwood team in the semifinal game. As the No. 2 seeded team coming into the game, the Dawgs beat the Brentwood Blast 8-0 after scoring early with three runs. Tyler Vistalli scored twice from the leadoff position with two singles and Jordan Gough reached base twice, delivered an RBI, and also scored once to help lead the offense, while Marcus Wise and Justin Chase anchored the defense with solid plays in center and second base, respectively. “We can definitely compete when both the offense and defense are clicking,” said Coach Eric Lingenfelter.
Opportunities Slip Away but Dawgs Stay Close in 5-4 Thriller
The Dawgs, a former four-time USSSA champion, tried valiantly to win an elusive fifth title after overcoming an early 3-0 deficit in the championship game. Mike Allen delivered a blow to the Turlock Diamond Dawgs with a prodigious three-run homer of Ruthian proportions to tie the game in the first inning. The Dawgs crowd simply watched in awe as the ball disappeared into the balmy night sky. Delta Dawgs fans will have to start waving rubber chickens at their opponents when Allen steps to the plate. The slugger was given four intentional passes during the tournament, two of which came against Turlock following his first-inning blast.
The final game was a thriller from start to finish. Despite three bases-loaded situations, the hometown team couldn\\\'t take advantage of its scoring opportunities, which included the tying and winning runs on base in the final inning. The game ended with a razor thin 5-4 victory for the Turlock team who had previously scored three runs in their last at-bat in their side of a semifinal game to set up the match with the Dawgs. The hometown Dawgs were hoping they could turn the tables around and do the same, but they came away in second place for the tenth time in fourteen tries.
Anthony Norris scored twice and Carlos Jauregui singled twice to help lift the team despite the 12 strikeouts thrown by the opposing pitcher. “It’s not bad for our first tournament of the season,” said Halter. “This team is ready for a promising and fun year. We’ll continue to play better as we get more comfortable with each other.”
It’s Back to School, Fellas...
In the end, after all the excitement, it’s time for the Dawgs to get back to school and hit textbooks rather than baseballs, beginning a new chapter in their pursuit of academic excellence. “Mixing in the fun of competitive baseball is not bad,\\\" said Gough. \\\"Our organization continues to underscore that education is still the number one priority for our players. They’re excited to get back to hitting the books and back to playing baseball just as soon as the last out was called.”
July 28-29, 2007 (Brentwood, CA) – The Delta Dawgs completed the 2006-2007 competitive travel baseball season in fine fashion at its hometown practice facilities in Brentwood’s Sunset Park during the last weekend in July. At the “Feel the Heat” tournament, hosted by the United States Specialty Sports Association (USSSA), the 11U squad reached the finals but fell short in their quests for additional championship crowns. The 10Us finished in 3rd Place and the 13Us finished in 4th Place after the eventual tournament champions handed the Dawgs a loss in the semifinal game. “The organization and the coaching staff are extremely proud of what the teams have accomplished this year, said Delta Dawgs president John Zamora. “Each unit continued to progress at each tournament and we’ve seen the maturity and skill levels step up a notch each time they stepped onto the field.”
The 10U team finished with a 1-1-1 record in Brentwood. For the year, the 10Us earned a championship title in the Baseball Fever tournament earlier this year and finished in second place three times in other tournaments. The USSSA has ranked the 10Us #2 in Northern California on both the Point System (ratings based on points earned after each the team’s finish in a USSSA tournament) and the Coaches Poll (points earned from each registered coach in the USSSA listing), and #21 in Power Rating (ranking based on strength of schedule and teams played). “Our coaches and our parents provided the boys a tremendous amount of support throughout the year and I thank them for their continued guidance in making this a great season,” said manager Roger Kruse.
The newly-established 11U team was also successful during the year. The unit was elevated to the Majors division mid-year and finished with two championship titles and six finalists’ medals. The 11Us ended the season with a 3-2 record in Brentwood and 26-18 overall to finish their USSSA ranking at #8 in points and #16 in the power ratings. Coach Ward Radelich said, “We couldn’t ask for anything better. These boys delivered what we asked of them and we look forward to bigger and better things from them next year.”
The veteran 12U squad, a four-time USSSA champion, felt sluggish and ended the year 39-34 after a lackluster 1-2 performance in the Feel the Heat tourney. The team, however, had many things to be proud of during the year with four 2nd Place finishes and ninth overall in its history. The 12Us also had a memorable trip this Summer, participating in the Cooperstown All-Star Village Tournament and coming home with a 7th Place finish overall in the event and a Top 5 ranking in the team skills competition. The USSSA ranked the 12U Dawgs #1 in the Coaches Poll, #5 in points, #12 in power ratings in Northern California. “The boys had a great time and are already working hard to develop their skills for the new season, said Coach Sean Halter.
Lastly, the 13Us completed the Brentwood tournament with a 2-2 clip and an overall USSSA record of 24-40 during the 2006-2007 Season. The unit also ended the year with a #3 ranking based on points. Coach Chet Winham said, “It’s terrific to see our boys showing their resiliency and toughness in each tournament. They conducted themselves well and exemplified how players should act on and off the field as the season progressed. We wish them luck as they continue playing the game.”
The Delta Dawgs will now enter a limited Fall Ball Season and look forward to another great year. To our fans and supporters, thank you and see you at the ballparks!
July 14-15, 2007 (Manteca, CA) – The Dawgs broke free and continued their quests for championship titles at the Jail Break tournament, hosted by the United States Specialty Sports Association (USSSA), in Manteca’s Big League Dreams Park over the mid-July weekend. All four of the local squads made strong showings against teams from Northern California and Nevada.
The 12-and-under unit reached their 13th championship title game and the 11U squad gained another second place trophy for the fifth time after winning two USSSA titles in the past. The 10Us, a three-time finalist and a former USSSA champion, and the 13Us also earned semifinal berths and a top four finish during the weekend.
The tournament director said, “It’s always a pleasure for me and the umpiring crew to see the Dawg blue and gold on Sundays. All the Dawgs and the organization – from its players, parents, coaches, and fans – serve as great models of what a competitive baseball travel team is all about.”
12U Reaches 13th Championship Final, Fifth Title Remains Elusive
The 12U Dawgs, a four-time USSSA champion, could not snap its skid of winning first runners-up awards and collected its ninth overall after falling to the Livermore-based Tri-Valley Legends in the championship game.
The Legends evened their record against the Dawgs and short circuited the team’s power surge to derail its run at another championship title. It was the solid performance in pool play and the playoffs that catapulted the Dawgs into another finals appearance with victories against the Carnage from Manteca and the Oakdale Colts.
The Dawgs rallied for two runs with two outs in the bottom of the last inning to narrowly escape an opening game win, 5-4, against the Carnage. The Colts then turned the tables around and snatched victory from the Dawgs with a two-run homer in the last inning to hand the 12Us a heartbreaking 4-3 loss in pool play.
In the playoffs, the undeterred Dawgs paid the Colts back in a tense extra inning 8-5 victory for the 12Us in the rematch, after scoring three runs in the eighth inning with an out remaining. Ryan Smith, named as the most valuable player by the team for the weekend, delivered the winning blow for the Dawgs with a two-out, two-run double to excite the partisan crowd. Smith batted .400 during weekend to lead the offense. Justin David also pitched solidly against the Colts; allowing only one earned run in five innings of relief to keep the Colts stabled, and sent the Dawgs onward to the championship game.
“It would have been sweeter winning our fifth title, but we can’t complain getting into another championship game and accepting our ninth first runners-up finish,” said Coach Sean Halter. “All of these games were character-building, and it just makes us want to work harder the next time to get over the hump.”
Storm Prevents 11U Team from Capturing its 3rd USSSA Title Crown
For the 11Us, the team split their pool play contests after getting a victory against the Roseville-based Renegades crew and posting a loss to the Solano Storm from Fairfield, the eventual tourney champions.
The 11U Dawgs, a former two-time USSSA champion, met the Storm again in the finals after routing the Nevada-based Wingfield Red Sox, 15-0, in three innings. The local team, however, could not overcome the strong Storm club for its first win against the Dawgs this season in three games. Coach John Zamora said, “The boys continued to play well and have fun, and like the other squads, we hope to build on this going forward. The Dawgs will always contend each and every week.”
Let’s Play Three! 13U Stays Tough in Stirring Comeback
The 13U Dawgs played a triple header on the first day of the tournament, falling to Santa Clara’s ASA Dynasty, 8-1, before putting together two uplifting wins in a row against the Nevada-based Carson Valley Cougars, 12-1, and the Folsom-based Gold Rush, 7-5. “It’s great to see the team maintain its focus in the third game of the day. It was a great comeback win for us to overtake the Gold Rush in the late innings,” said Coach Bill Jackson. In the semifinals, the West Coast Nationals of Clovis eliminated the Dawgs to end their run.
Elevated to Majors, team closes campaign with 7 titles, 14 Top Four finishes, 22-game four-title win streak, 42 wins and .808 winning percentage, #4 in NorCal USSSA rankings and #3 in Coaches Poll
July 12-13, 2007 (Manteca, CA) – Major League Baseball’s All-Star Game, otherwise known as the Midsummer Classic, usually occurs in early to mid-July and marks the symbolic halfway point in the MLB season. For the Dawgs Blue 13U, the USSSA’s version of the Midsummer Classic marked the end of a dream season where great accomplishments and baseball glory were achieved. The MLB’s erstwhile Classic gradually has lost its luster over the years, but the Dawgs restored some buzz at Manteca’s Field of Dreams at the same time Yankee Stadium is playing host to the game as part of the yearlong farewell to the historic ballpark, which will close at the end of this season. The Blue 13U meanwhile will remember this season as their best ever.
Coach Bert Gough gushed, “This has been a phenomenal season for our boys and the organization. It’s difficult to describe how our coaches are feeling at this moment after an awesome year like this, and as some of our players will move on to the next level in high school.” He followed, “The coaching staff would also like to thank our parents for their unconditional support throughout the season. We are honored to have coached this great group of kids and had a blast the entire time.”
At the USSSA tournament, which closed out the season for the Blue 13U, the team challenged itself to reach the top for the last time. The Dawgs had a lackluster opening game against the Monterey Bay Pirates who knocked the sails out of the Blue after turning three double plays in the first three innings and handed the Dawgs a 4-2 loss. The game was highlighted by Michael Allen’s tape-measure solo blast to straight-away center that cleared Fenway Park for his 8th round tripper of the season.
The Blue came back with a vengeance against Livermore’s Tri-Valley Legends and the East Bay Lookouts from Union City before meeting the Pirates in the Finals for the rematch. Against the Legends, the Dawgs sent 15 men to the plate, chased the Legends’ starting pitcher after 1/3 inning, and scored 11 runs before the Legends came up to bat in the first inning.
Dante Mayes singled three times resulting in four RBIs, Austin Halter reached base thrice with two singles, and Justin David also singled three times to post two RBIs and the win from the hill. Jerome Hill contributed with his glove to preserve the shutout with an acrobatic over-the-head grab with runners in scoring position. Jordan Gough was patient at the plate, negotiating two walks and scoring a run in the 12-0 victory.
The win against the Legends secured a playoff spot, assuring the Dawgs to face the Lookouts for the third time this season. The Blue duplicated the 10-0 game that it handed the Lookouts in the Tournament of Champions with Tyler Vistalli’s masterful complete game win that was aided by dazzling plays from the defense. The Blue executed two sparkling double plays and had a perfect relay on a ball that banged off the Green Monster, nailing the runner attempting to stretch the long single into a two-bagger. “They made these plays look easy and routine, which they all repeatedly worked on at practice,” said Coach Sean Halter.
Vistalli also helped his cause with two singles, two free passes, three runs scored and three stolen bases, while Carlos Jauregui also doubled and scored twice, and Tyler Cox popped a double and knocked in a run, along with his taking part in the web gems.
The Dawgs ride came to an end, which was hard to digest, losing 8-7 in the championship game against the Monterey Bay Pirates, a team in the NorCal USSSA Elite 6 League throughout the year. After spotting the Pirates an early five-run lead, the Blue mounted a furious rally on an Allen three-run shot over the Green Monster and a David ground-rule double down the right field line to score two runs to knot the game at 5-5 before the Bucs pulled away to pad their lead to three runs in the 6th inning. With an “it’s not over till its over” attitude, the Blue scored two more runs and got a runner at third, but could not push the tying run across the plate to extend the game. The Pirates were the only team to defeat the Blue twice this season.
Last ditch efforts from Michael Hutchings who smashed his fourth double to drive in his fifth RBI in the tournament and Travis Volpe’s double and RBI in the last inning were not enough to overcome the Bucs.
“This amazing year is in the books. These boys created a lifetime of memories that they can all be proud of,” said Coach John David. “Their short tenure with the Dawgs will be a season to remember.”
Dawgs get into Elite Eight in Cooperstown All-Star Village Tournament
June 30-July 6, 2007 (Cooperstown, NY) – For many, Cooperstown means baseball. For a professional major league baseball player, enshrinement into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown means that his name is immortalized in baseball history. For the 12-and-under Delta Dawgs, one memorable week in July at the Cooperstown All-Star Village Invitational Tournament means that they were in baseball heaven when nearly 20 teams, representing six different states, challenged each other for the tournament title and vied in the team and individual skills competitions.
The 12U Delta Dawgs, a competitive travel baseball team comprised of players from Brentwood and Antioch, played hard against fierce competition and came home from the legendary home of baseball with a respectable 4-4 record and an overall 7th Place finish in the weeklong competition.
During the week, the Dawgs batted over .425 as a team, slammed 15 home runs, and averaged more than 11 runs per game against six for their opponents, outscoring them 91-48 in eight games.
The Dawgs also finished in the Top 5 in the team skills competition for the quickest in the timed relay from the outfield-to-cutoff-to-home plate. “The boys were just awesome to watch,” said Coach John Zamora. “Against many of the strongest teams in the country, they represented their parents, the Dawgs, and their hometowns well on and off the field. The coaching staff and the organization couldn’t be prouder. We are honored to take this team across the country to Cooperstown to compete.” Zamora said.
Every Fourth of July, you’re probably thinking about sitting out on the front lawn with your family and neighbors, eating hot dogs, and watching colorful fireworks burst in the night sky that have become part of the American national tradition. This uniquely American holiday is also marked by parades and backyard barbecues across the country. The 12U Dawgs did all these and more when they spent an unforgettable week in upstate New York playing the game they love and created a special childhood memory they will always treasure.
Dawgs Become the Talk of the Tournament
The Orange County Hawks, a Top 5-ranked 12U team in the entire state of California and the eventual tournament winner, greeted the Dawgs with a 2-0 loss in their first game of the tournament. The Dawgs did not back down. Justin David scattered a scant four hits and surrendered only one earned run in the complete game defeat. Even in a no-out bases loaded situation, the Dawgs were able to shut down the Hawks who came up empty in the scoring opportunity.
After the contest, the Dawgs became the talk of the tournament as the team held their ground against the mighty Hawks, the consensus pick to win the tournament and which had earlier won the team skills, the fastest man in camp, and the home run derby competitions. “Every parent and coach we ran into had heard about the two California teams battling it out in what everyone expected, except for the Dawgs, to be a blowout for the heavily favored Hawks,” said a Dawgs parent. “The Dawgs had definitely gained respect and many fans after a solid performance against OC, which had won another Cooperstown tournament the week before.” The Dawgs trading pins also became a hot commodity as players and coaches alike were clamoring in front of the Dawgs’ bunkhouse doors for a pin. “They’re hard to get,” said a young fan from Maryland.
Fourth of July Fireworks Come Early
The Dawgs were not deterred after an opening loss to the Hawks. The Dawgs released their pent up energy and exploded against New Jersey’s Bridgewater Cougars as eight of 10 Dawgs scored three times each and two others scored twice each in the 19-hit, 28-0 triumph.
The game was highlighted by six Dawgs home runs over the “Green Monster” fence. Adam Raudebaugh hit the first pitch he saw for a lead off home run to start the scoring. Later, the mighty Casey went to bat, Dylan Casey that is, and he hit three consecutive home runs to post six RBIs in the game. Ryan Smith also got into the act with two home runs of his own, including a grand slam, and recorded four RBIs. Each was awarded an “I Fed the Green Monster” shirt for each home run.
Raudebaugh and Kayne Mellor also combined to no-hit the Cougars in four innings of work. “Up and down the lineup, the boys responded well and bounced back with a great game to end the first day on a positive note,” Coach Matt Smith said.
Dawgs Hand Indiana Team a Stinging Defeat
Indiana’s Indy Sting, an undefeated team in the tournament coming into the game became the next Dawgs opponent and victim of the continued run explosion. The Dawgs sent 16 batters to the plate and put 12 runs on the board in the first inning to put the game away early in the stirring 16-4 final. Both Kayne Mellor and Devin Clifford bombed solo shots over the Green Monster to record the Dawgs’ seventh and eighth home runs of the tournament.
Dawgs Remain Spartan Against Deerfield Warriors
The team was relentless in the nightcap under the lights on their way to rout the Deerfield Warriors Gray of Illinois and ran their record to 3-1, again posting 12 runs out of the gates and their third consecutive game in which they scored in double figures in the first inning. In the 16-1 game shortened by the run rule, Tyler Vistalli earned the win with a two-hitter that kept the Deerfield team off-balanced throughout the game. Vistalli also banged out two hits and scored three runs. Justin David (3-for-3 and 3 RBIs), Austin Halter (3-for-4 and four RBIs), and Ryan Smith (2-run homer and his third of the tournament) pounded the ball and kept their hot sticks alive. Mitchell Zamora also ran the Gray ragged with three stolen bases and two singles. “The boys are seeing the ball real well and having a wonderful time so far this week. I think the visit to the Baseball Hall of Fame Museum earlier this afternoon may also have provided the inspired play,” said Coach Sean Halter.
Indians Chill the Dawgs
The Chatsworth Chill from California’s San Fernando Valley and the Illinois-based Channahon Indians handed the Dawgs consecutive losses of 12-10 and 13-7, respectively, in pool play. The Chill battled back as soon as the Dawgs posted runs in the see-saw affair with five lead changes. A two-run homer from Austin Halter started the scoring and the Dawgs recorded runs in each inning, but could not contain the Chill even with their hot bats. Against the Indians, Cory Lingenfelter tried his best to help his cause with three runs scored, two singles, three RBIs, and a solo homer to lead the offense. Dylan Casey was perfect at the plate with three singles and a run scored. “We came out a little flat today and it showed,” said a Dawgs fan. “We know we can come back and we will.”
Dawgs Claw Back with Round-Trippers and Small Ball
In the single elimination format, the under-Dawgs advanced to the quarterfinals with a strong 11-3 win against the higher-seeded River City Raiders from Florida that realigned the Dawgs back into the win column.
Tyler Vistalli pitched a complete game to handcuff the Floridians on six hits and seven strikeouts. Ryan Smith, Cory Lingenfelter, and Austin Halter muscled up and lifted the offense with their towering blasts over the outfield walls. Lingenfelter belted his second home run of the tournament and Smith punctuated the Dawgs win with a grand slam and five RBIs in the game. Smith, a triple away from the cycle, smashed his fourth homer and second grand slam of the tournament to take the team lead. After a brief delay in the rain-lashed game, Halter put the game away with a prodigious three-run homer to the delight of the rain-soaked Dawgs crowd.
Even with the home run blasts, the Dawgs also know how to play small ball as demonstrated by Devin Clifford, who laid out a bunt for a hit and perfectly executed a suicide squeeze to surprise the Raiders. The Raiders also found it difficult to get on the board as Mitchell Zamora easily tracked down all deep fly balls hit his way. “We regrouped and got our heads back in the game,” said Coach Sean Halter. “The team took a pass on last evening’s events to get ready for this game. We know it will get harder as we move on,” Halter said.
Cobras Strike, Eliminate Dawgs from Contention
As one of the final elite eight teams remaining, the Dawgs and the San Gabriel Valley Cobras Black, another California team and eventual finalists against the Orange County Hawks in an all-Golden State final, played in the pouring rain. The teams battled toe-to-toe before the Cobras struck in the late innings with an offensive firepower that the Dawgs could not contain in the 13-3 final.
Ryan Smith hammered his fifth homer of the tournament, ahead of a lead off single by Adam Raudebaugh, to give the Dawgs a brief 2-0 advantage. It was not enough to pull the Dawgs out of the pit and into the semifinals.
The coaches from the Cobra Black literally put a muzzle on the Dawgs from the dugout that quieted the players’ chatter and somewhat put a damper on their exuberance in one of the more important games of the tournament,” said a Dawgs parent. “The way the rules are set, the Dawgs had to negotiate a player injury change at a price. It’s unfortunate for the kids. The Cobra Black showed their true colors,” he said. Nonetheless, the Dawgs will always remember this time of their lives. “We had a wonderful experience and can feel good about what we accomplished this week,” said Coach Eric Lingenfelter.
“The country from coast to coast now knows what Dawgs Baseball is all about. It’s not only about playing good baseball, it’s also about fair play and sportsmanship on-and-off the field – from the players to their parents, siblings, and our supporters,” another proud Dawgs parent said.
A childhood memory could be an old toy, a day in the park with the family, or a conversation with a loved one. The Dawgs added to this list the time they spent at the Cooperstown All-Star Village Tournament with their Dawgs buddies in the summer of 2007. Together, they bunked and spent countless hours chatting the night away to the chagrin of their coaches. They laughed and shared pranks only a typical 12-year old would understand. They splashed in the whimsical gloved-shaped pool and traded pins with new-found friends who shared the same passion for the game. They played beautiful baseball against the nation’s best, but more importantly, they had fun and had great time. Coach John Zamora said, “As each Fourth of July approaches, I’m sure these boys will be thinking about the special week they spent together with their families and friends in Cooperstown and will be talking about the games they played with the Dawgs in the birthplace of baseball.”
June 23-24, 2007 (Manteca, CA) – As we near the Fourth of July, the 12U Dawgs certainly weren’t thinking about eating hot dogs, watching colorful fireworks, or joining any parades in this most American of holidays. Perhaps, their dreams of playing in Cooperstown, the legendary home of baseball, were on the horizon and filled their thoughts. Nonetheless, the Dawgs celebrated in their own hit parade and their own brand of fireworks during the Summer Splash tournament, bursting out of the gates in pool play, as one Dawg after another banged out hit after hit and tallied runs that elated the crowd. The opponents were stunned and never knew what hit them. “I wish I could bottle this display of Dawgs baseball. It was exhilarating to watch the boys play perfect baseball,” said Coach Sean Halter. “Well, almost perfect,” he followed.
Four is the Magic Number vs. Pleasanton Red Sox
In the first game of pool play, the Dawgs spotted the Pleasanton Red Sox a run in the top half of the first inning, but answered swiftly and never looked back with four runs in the home half and four more in each of the next two innings to close the game after four frames in the 12-3 win. The Dawgs sent eight batters to the plate and posted five hits in the first and third innings and seven batters and four hits in the second.
Everyone had a hand in the win. Tyler Vistalli scored twice, drove in three runners, and connected three times, including a triple, to lead the Dawgs. Justin David, Adam Raudebaugh, and Dylan Casey also helped put the game of out reach. David and Raudebaugh singled twice each, tallied two runs each, and pushed across RBIs to shelve the Red Sox. Casey’s single, two-bagger, and an RBI also made for an impressive scorebook. The delighted crowd wanted more and the Dawgs delivered in their second game.
Dawgs Daze Fremont All-Stars
The Dawgs continued where they left off against the Fremont All-Stars 60s. Aggressive base running rattled the 60s and the hot bats sizzled from start to finish. The line in the three-inning 16-0 game: ten batters, six runs, and five hits in the first; eleven batters, seven runs, and six hits in the second; and three runs on two hits in the last inning.
Cory Lingenfelter kept busy on the base paths with three singles, three runs scored, and three RBIs. Not to be outdone, Mikey Amthor smashed two singles and notched three RBIs; Kayne Mellor singled to drive in two more Dawgs; Ryan Smith singled, walked, and scored a run; and Johnny Hemenes touched the plate two times to join the hit and run explosion.
After a frightening errant pitch to the nape of Devin Clifford’s neck that completely missed his protective helmet, the tough Dawg quickly recovered to the relief of the concerned Dawg pound. The cheers grew louder after Clifford crossed the plate. Austin Halter, who had earlier singled twice, then capped the scoring with a two-run round-tripper to send the Dawgs home happy. “Believe me; it’s not always easy having these kinds of games, but we’ll take it and hope to build on it as we move on to the semifinals,” Coach Eric Lingenfelter said.
Tri-Valley Legends End Dawgs Run
In the single elimination game, the Dawgs answered each time the Legends posted a score, but the team found it difficult to deliver the clutch hitting or string together the hits. The Dawgs stranded eight runners in scoring position that would have been the difference in the 4-3 final.
“We went from feast to famine in one day – that’s baseball,” said Coach John Hemenes. “We needed to do a better job adjusting to the pitching from game to game. We’ll learn from this and hope take it up another notch in the next tournament.”
10U and 11U Squads Reach Championship Games
June 23-24, 2007 (Manteca, CA) – As the school year drew to a close, many students found themselves drawn to the outdoors, and heads were filled with thoughts of vacation. For the Dawgs, however, their dreams were filled with notions of playing in “big league” stadiums, as they did in Manteca’s Big League Dreams Park. They basked in the sun, splashed in the turf, and made big waves with their strong performances and fair play.
10Us on a Wild Ride Back to the Top
The 10U team outscored its opponents 50-17 during the weekend and made it to the championship game against the Stanislaus Sting. The Dawgs finished with a 3-1 record and the first runner-up prize after an 11-5 stinging defeat. The 10Us bounced back from their previous weekend performance in Fremont and took it out on the Stanislaus Sting, 13-4, the NorCal Wolf Pack, 9-1, and the Bay Area Showstoppers, 23-1, during pool play. “The boys have recovered and are back on the winning track,” said Coach Jim Novotny.
Maniacs Go Crazy against the 11Us
The 11U squad also made it to the championship game and finished with the first runner-up trophies and a 2-2 record, with both losses coming at the hands of their Brentwood scrimmage partner, East County Maniacs. After going 1-1 in pool play, including a victory against the Fremont All-Stars, the Dawgs started the playoff round with a solid win against the Merced County Force to set up a rematch with the Maniacs. The Maniacs were the better team that day after a close 8-6 win for their first championship title. “We tip our caps off to the Maniacs,” said Coach Steve Ochoa.
12U Tunes Up for Cooperstown
The 12Us again made the semifinal round with convincing victories in pool play against the Pleasanton Red Sox, 12-3, and the Fremont All-Stars 60s, 16-0, to secure the number 1 seed before bowing out in a heartbreaking one-run loss to the Tri-Valley Legends, 4-3, the eventual champs. In three games, the 12Us slammed 34 hits, outscored its opponents 31-7, batted .515 as a team, and had an ERA of 2.77.
Home runs from Austin Halter and Tyler Vistalli, a perfect weekend at the plate for Adam Raudebaugh, and continued torrid hitting from Cory Lingenfelter highlighted the weekend, but all the Dawgs would also figure in the scoring as 8 of 11 players crossed the plate multiple times. “Batting over .600 as a team in the first two games is a good thing,” said Coach Matt Smith. “We had several chances in the semifinals, but the Legends just made the plays.”
13U Making Strides
The 13Us continued to make strides with a 2-1 pool play record, but was edged out of the playoffs due to the runs allowed rule. After a narrow 12-10 loss to the eventual champions, Brentwood Blast Select 13s, the Dawgs recorded wins against the Gold Rush, 8-5, and the Napa Selects, 3-2.
June 16-17, 2007 (Fremont, CA) – One of the ways in which a lot of kids remember their dads is through sports. Most of them may not exactly be a sports renaissance man like Jim Thorpe, Deion Sanders, or Bo Jackson, having great ability in many sports. They may not even be a jock, nor even a casual golfer or tennis player. Rather, the fathers we remember are a spectator of sports.
Always, he stood behind us and supported us every step of the way. Always, never vocal or obtrusive while the games were going on. Always, ready to go whenever we ask him to hit us some ground balls or take BP even after a long hard day at work. Sometimes with a camera in hand, he would separate from the other dads to capture our magic moments on the field. He didn’t like that some of the fathers at the games yelled or instructed their children, as opposed to allowing them to have fun and enjoy the game. One of the many reasons I love baseball is because of my dad. My father may never have been a great athlete; more importantly, he was a great husband, father, and friend, as well as coach. I don’t need a “Father’s Day” to honor him with gifts or a phone call. I think about my father every day, making every day his. Thank you, Dad. To all the dads in the stands, Happy Father’s Day!
11U Dawgs Earn #1 Seed and Semifinal Game
Recently elevated to the Majors division, the 11U Dawgs were flying high with a 3-0 record and a number one seed entering the playoffs with victories against East Bay Hackers, Golden Era Elite, and East County Maniacs. In the playoffs, the Brentwood Blast derailed hopes of another title with a thrilling wire-to-wire nail biter in the Dawgs’ 6-4 loss. “We can’t let up despite the record,” said Coach John Zamora. “It’s a lesson well learned.”
12U Dawgs Gain Semifinal Berth
The 12U Dawgs reached another semifinal game and finished with a 2-3 record at the Father’s Day Classic Tournament in Fremont with wins against the Fremont Shaggers, 7-5, and Half Moon Bay Pirates, 5-1. The Silicon Valley Xtreme, Pirates, and North Bay Xtreme handed the Dawgs tight 5-3, 6-4, and 8-5 defeats, respectively. All games were close with the Dawgs taking a lead into the late innings against the Xtreme teams before they were overcome by the much bigger major teams from Gilroy and Marin and Sonoma counties. Despite their height and weight disadvantage, the scrappy Dawgs showed their big hearts, fought hard, and gained some fans along the way with their effort and intensity.
There were numerous highlights from the 12Us. Cory Lingenfelter batted a .500 clip with three triples, two singles, four runs scored, and five RBIs, including a headfirst dive at home plate on a passed ball. Adam Raudebaugh muscled to an impressive .667 average during the weekend, going 8-for-12 at the plate, while also stealing three bases and scoring four runs. And after a shaky game one, Dylan Casey came back strongly in the quarterfinal game to record a complete game win. “While these individuals shined, the rest of their teammates were also big contributors to our success this weekend. Everyone put in a great effort and the coaching staff is ‘xtremely,’ er, super proud of them,” said Coach Eric Lingenfelter.
13U Squad Finishes High with 3-1 Record
Also going undefeated with a 3-0 record in pool play, the 13U Dawgs had a successful weekend with wins against the Athletics, Clayton Valley Pioneers, and the Pleasanton BlackSox before running into a strong Bruins team from San Jose. The loss eliminated the Dawgs from contention, but the team had a lot to be proud of. “The Dawgs stayed in the game with this major Bruins team that have won four of their last five tournaments, including the State Championships earlier this month,” said Coach Chet Winham. “We hung in there.”
May 26-28, 2007 (Manteca, CA) – Tournaments held during the Memorial Day weekend have always been good to the 12U Dawgs and this year is no exception. At the Miken Madness in Manteca at the Big League Dreams ballparks, the 12Us completed another successful tournament after finishing with a 3-1 record, outscoring their opponents 31-9, and posting a team ERA of 1.50. There would be no titles to claim this weekend though, but the Dawgs played consistently well in all their games. “There’s a method to our madness this weekend,” said Coach Sean Halter. “We seemed to do things in a strange and unorthodox way, but we managed to get the results we expected from the boys.”
Warriors Strike First, Dawgs Laugh Last in 7-2 Victory
The Los Altos Warriors jumped out to a brief lead with two unearned runs in the first inning before the Dawgs answered back with a run of their own in the home half when the Warriors returned the favor with a miscue and four walks. The Dawgs could have coasted to a more comfortable lead after a runner in Mikey Amthor’s hard hit grounder with the bases loaded was called out for obstruction before the ball careened in front of the defense. The Dawgs scored three more times to take the lead for good in the second inning aided by four more walks from the Warriors.
Offensively, Ryan Smith scored three runs in the game, while Adam Raudebaugh’s triple to left-center and a single up the gut excited the sparse early morning crowd. The defense played solidly after a shaky start but Justin David settled the Warriors down and notched the win with an impressive one-hit, five- strikeout performance in three innings of work. Dylan Casey followed with a two-hitter of his own and three Ks also in three innings. “The Warriors helped us out a bit with nine free passes, and we just capitalized on what they gave us,” said Coach Eric Lingenfelter.
Dawgs Blast Out to 11-0 Win
Playing against another local team is never easy. Against the Brentwood Blast Red, however, the Dawgs’ assured themselves a spot in the playoffs with its second win of the day. Everyone on the team shined behind solid pitching from Tyler Vistalli and Austin Halter. Both combined to one-hit and strike out nine Blasts for the victory.
Cory Lingenfelter, Adam Raudebaugh (two 2Bs), Dylan Casey, Justin David, and Johnny Hemenes, all had a multiple hit game, with Hemenes also scoring twice and David posting three RBIs. “It’s always good to end the day on a positive note, with the boys feeling good about the results and accomplishing their goals one day at a time,” said Coach Matt Smith.
What a Long Strange Trip It’s Been: 12U Blazes to Playoff Trail in 13-6 Comeback
All hope was not lost when the Clayton Valley Pioneers took a four-run lead through the fourth inning on one hit. “It was just a strange game,” said the team statistician. “One of our bullpen parents hobbled in crutches after a freakish fall on the dugout steps the day before, our solid hits weren’t finding the holes, the teams were issuing 13 walks between them, batsmen were ducking and getting hit, a runner leaving base too soon on a tag play, three consecutive balks to score a run, consecutive walks to force a run, and a runner stealing home – you name it, this game’s got it.”
And oh yes, a game like this would not be complete without the big hits delivered by the Dawgs. The inning started quietly but ended with a bang. In what would be the most memorable Dawgs rally ever, the team exploded for 10 runs after two outs in the fifth inning, sparked by a mammoth three-run homer from Austin Halter that rolled to the Tiger Stadium fence to tie the game at 6-6. The team was not done as Devin Clifford also connected to drive in three more runs with a bases-loaded triple that had the crowd on its feet before another monster hit; this time from Ryan Smith, who blasted a two-run homer over the center fielder’s outstretched arm to continue the contagious hit barrage. Then, the last strange thing occurred – “Blue” called the third out on the Dawgs for team interference. The Dawgs, he said, were too vocal, loud, and overly excited when a Pioneer misplayed a pop fly in foul territory near the Dawgs dugout.
Cory Lingenfelter, Tyler Vistalli, Kayne Mellor, and Smith scored twice each in the game for the ages. Adam Raudebaugh also made his 2007 pitching debut with good results, allowing only one run. Coach John Hemenes said, “These Dawgs just demonstrated that they can come back from any deficit. It’s a great confidence booster heading into the playoffs with a 3-0 record.”
Razor Thin 1-0 Loss in Extra Innings Stings Dawgs
In the first round playoff game, the Dawgs and the Redwood City-based NorCal Sting battled toe-to-toe in regulation until the Sting was able to string together an extra base hit and a single in extra innings. It’s unfortunate that a team had to come out on the losing end of the score. Each team wouldn’t budge during regulation, which ended in a 0-0 tie.
Justin David and his Sting counterpart frustrated each of their opponents in a duel from the mound. David pitched a superb game over his maximum six innings; he scattered four hits, walked one, struck out seven, and with the help of his sparkling defense stranded five runners at third base. With a season low 2.23 ERA, David also extended his “scoreless” streak to 18 innings in four games.
Aside from a free pass, runners reaching on misplays, and an HBP, the Dawgs could only muster two hits, both of them singles from Ryan Smith and Kayne Mellor. “The loss was hard to take, but we held our ground against a Major team. We can walk with our heads up and say that we gave it our best shot,” said Coach Sean Halter.
Great Effort from All Dawgs
In the same tournament, the 10U Dawgs played .500 ball with victories against the LAMV Stallions and the Davis Dynasty, while recording defeats against the East Bay Cubs and the Santa Clara Young Guns. “The boys put together a great effort this weekend and look forward to improve at each tournament,” said Coach Jim Novotny.
The 11U team salvaged a lopsided win in the consolation game against the Starmaker Diamonds, 13-7, and finished with a 1-1-2 record. The Peninsula Stars blanked the Dawgs, 4-0, in the opening but the Dawgs were able to bounce back and managed to record ties against the North Bay Xtreme Red, 9-9, and the Elk Grove Bulldogs, 7-7, the eventual 11U tourney champs. “A single loss in the tournament is not bad,” said Coach Rich Navarro. “We can do better. We all learned something from each game.”
The 13U squad continues to work hard and their persistence will pay off. The Dawgs had a promising start with a split on the first day, winning against the East Bay Cubs. The Dawgs, however, ran into stronger opponents and finished 1-3.
May 19-20, 2007 (Antioch, CA) – The friendly faces in the crowd, familiar surroundings, and a closer-to-home venue were all the 12U Dawgs needed to enter another travel ball championship title game in the United States Specialty Sports Association’s (USSSA) Spring Jamboree held at the Antioch Community Park. As the team entered the last inning of the semifinal game, coaches waited with bated breath, parents and fans crossed their fingers, and then it happened, the Dawgs recorded the last out and were greeted with high-fives as they earned another championship game berth.
There would be no champagne showers or championship rings, however, as the Dawgs finished in the first runners-up position for the 8th time in 12 attempts overall, after posting a 3-1 record. “This team continues to battle back and is hungry for another title… it’ll come,” said Coach Sean Halter. “Their passion and love of the game will help get them there.”
Dawgs’ 9-2 Win Deals Hurricanes a Blow
The Dawgs began the tournament with a 9-2 opening game victory against the NorCal Hurricanes. Dylan Casey struck out three and scattered three hits and two runs before giving way to Justin David, who also calmed the Hurricanes by surrendering only one hit and striking out four batters in three innings of relief. Casey also helped his cause with two runs scored and posted the win. Recently joining the Dawgs, Travis Volpe and Johnny Hemenes each scored a run, highlighted by Volpe’s triple in the opening frame to drive in two runs. Not to be outdone, Ryan Smith’s two singles in the game and Austin Halter’s tie-breaking double with the bases loaded in the third inning for two RBIs delivered the offensive punch. Both Dawgs also scored two runs in the match. “After the boys got the first inning jitters out of the way, they gained confidence and produced the runs we needed for the win,” Coach Sean Halter said.
Legends Fall to Dawgs 9-1
Tyler Vistalli smashed a double and delivered an RBI in the game, but his pitching mastery lifted the Dawgs to the #1 seed going into the playoffs, after a 9-1 win against the Livermore-based Tri-Valley Legends. In three innings of work, Vistalli gave up no hits or walks, mowed down the lineup in order in each inning, and struck out five batters.
The Dawgs didn’t let up with two quick runs early in the game. Seven different Dawgs were relentless in posting runs in the scoring column with four additional runs in the second inning and three more in the third to complete the tally. The hit parade was also led by other Dawgs. Devin Clifford and Kayne Mellor scored two runs each, Cory Lingenfelter doubled and scored a run, and Travis Volpe and Mikey Amthor both hit two-baggers to push in two RBIs each for the Dawgs. Amthor delivered the knock-out blow to shorten the game due to the run rule. “We played good fundamental baseball in the last two games,” Coach Matt Smith said. “We need to continue to play cleanly and with the same intensity in the playoffs.”
Nearly Flawless Against the Legends, 2-0 Win Catapults Dawgs to Finals
The 12U squad jumped out to an early two-run lead they never relinquished after Justin David and catcher Adam Raudebaugh hand-cuffed the Tri-Valley Legends in a rematch for a spot in the finals. David threw a complete game two-hitter, his second of the season, with a mix of pitches and averaged just 10 pitches per inning. Flawless defense also deserves credit for the solid all-around play. Dylan Casey vacuumed bullets from the hot corner and hurled strong accurate throws across the infield to the awaiting Austin Halter at first. The Dawgs also squashed a would-be Legends rally in the third inning with a perfectly executed 1-6-3 double play. The outfielding trio of Devin Clifford, John Hemenes, and Mikey Amthor patrolled a wide patch of grass and made difficult plays look easy and routine in light of the dusty swirling winds that made the path of the ball somewhat unpredictable.
The Legends also threw a good game, but Tyler Vistalli and Ryan Smith were not deterred. Vistalli’s run scored and Smith’s two singles, two stolen bases, and one run scored sparked the offense to secure the win and sent the 12U Dawgs to their 12th overall title game appearance.
Fifth Title for Dawgs Remains Elusive; Pride Wins its First with 5-1 Win
Playing for their fifth travel ball title and with a 1-0 record against the Golden Era Pride, the Dawgs were optimistic and exuded confidence, but the team could not overcome the hard hitting team with a stingy defense from Dublin. Both teams were in a dogfight for much of the game as the Dawgs tried to match the Pride’s strong hitting and pitching. “The offense just could not generate and duplicate the run production that got us through the tournament and into the finals,” said Coach Eric Lingenfelter. “We didn’t beat ourselves today, we just ran into a team that also played a great ballgame,\" followed Coach John Hemenes. The boys have a lot to be proud of. Many teams have never even reached the big dance, let alone 12 of them as this team has done.\"
Campeónato Finalistas en Manteca
May 5-6, 2007 (Manteca, CA) – Exactly 145 years ago on the morning of May 5th, 4,000 Mexican soldiers smashed the French and traitor Mexican army of 8,000 at Puebla, Mexico, 100 miles east of Mexico City. “Batalla de Puebla” came to be known as simply “Cinco de Mayo,” which is now celebrated on a large scale by colorful parades, mariachi music, folklorico dancing and other types of merry activities. The Delta Dawgs had other reasons to celebrate at Manteca’s Big League Dreams Park during this festive weekend at the Cinco de Mayo tournament. The 10U and 11U squads entered the championship games and both finished in the runners-up positions. “We had our own celebrations going on this weekend and hope to build on these championship game experiences for the next tournaments,” said Coach Ward Radelich.
\"The 10U squad continues to get better each week,\" said Coach Roger Kruse, after the team placed second once again in Manteca. After slowly coming out of the gates with a loss to the Stanislaus Sting, the 10U Dawgs bounced back to win 9-3 and 5-4 against the Orangevale Rattlesnakes and the Folsom Thunder, respectively, to gain a spot in the championship finals against the Brentwood Blast. After a see-saw battle, the Dawgs fell by a narrow 8-7 margin.
The 11U unit also reached the championship game, finishing the tournament in second place with a 3-2 record. The Dawgs split their pool record with a win in their opening game against the IBAC Folsom Dogs, 3-2, and a slim 4-3 loss to the Silicon Valley Express before pulling it all together with consecutive victories against the Brentwood Blast, 2-1, and the Solano Storm Baseball Club, 9-5, to reach the championship game. The San Jose Stars, however, proved to have the upper hand with strong pitching to a 5-1 win and garner the big prize. \"Our first-year 11U team is putting up strong numbers in every game. The boys are also playing competitively well as a unit and continue to get comfortable with each other at each tournament,\" said Coach Steve Ochoa.
11U Dawgs Win Second Consecutive Title
April 14-15, 2007 (Fremont, CA) – On the day ballparks across America celebrated Jackie Robinson Day for integrating the game of baseball and breaking the color barrier, the Delta Dawgs\' 11-and-under squad also joined the commemoration in their own way by playing good fundamental baseball and came back after a stellar performance in their last tournament to win their second consecutive championship in the USSSA travel circuit, winning 4-of-5 games and claiming victory at the USSSA’s Games Galore tournament in Fremont. In a weekend threatened throughout by rain, the 11U Dawgs weathered the storm and turned in solid performances in the tournament, including an exciting extra inning win in the final game.
In the opener against the East County Maniacs, Max Rethage and Mitchell Zamora combined on a 2-hitter en route to a 6-2 win. Zamora went 3-for-3, including a double and three runs scored. Solid pitching would also follow in the second game as Brady Navarro and Logan Frakes combined for another 2-hitter to lead the Dawgs past the NorCal Phantoms of San Jose, 4-1, in the nightcap. Zamora continued with the hot stick, going 2-for-2 and three RBIs.
The playoff opener featured a rematch against a tough Solano Storm team whom the Dawgs defeated to take the Manteca title the previous week. Tristan Prybylinski and Connor Radelich turned in solid pitching performances by only allowing a combined five hits against a strong-hitting Storm baseball club. Rethage went 2-for-3, including a double, and base hits also by Radelich, Prybylinski, and Jordan Dempsey led the Dawgs, but came up short, 7-4, and took their first loss in the last six games.
In the semifinals, the Dawgs again matched up against the NorCal Phantoms and came out on top, 11-7, behind a strong pitching stint and complete game by Mitchell Zamora that sent the team to the championship game. Dempsey’s two hits, two runs scored, and two RBIs led the offensive attack.
In what would arguably be the most exciting game of the year, the Dawgs battled back from an early 7-0 deficit against a solid Pleasant Hill Condor team to eventually tie the game and win the whole shebang in the bottom of the 7th inning, posting an 11-9 victory and claiming their 2nd championship in as many weeks. The Dawgs rallied for three runs in their half of the third after consecutive walks to Steele Eich and Frakes followed-up with base hits by Radelich and Prybylinski. Catcher Steven Ochoa continued to play solidly and called a great game from behind the plate to help hold the Condors to only two additional runs over the next four innings. Ochoa proved how tough he is setting up behind the dish for his fifth consecutive game, third in the day, and settling the pitching staff down to focus on the task at hand.
The Dawgs scored three more runs after Cody Luther led off with a base hit, and twice more in the next inning to force a tie and send the game into extra innings. The Condors jumped out with a quick run to take the lead 9-8, but in the home half, Navarro started with a base hit, advanced in scoring position, and scored on Dempsey’s single to tie the game. The Condors then walk the would-be winning run to set up Eich to provide the heroics. With two strikes against him, he delivered the winning hit to left field, scoring Prybylinski and giving the 11Us the championship title. Coach John Zamora said, “The boys are playing extremely well right now. We hope to keep the momentum going as we head into the second half of the year.”
12U Reaches Semifinals in Fremont
The 12Us had a promising start with consecutive wins against the San Ramon Havoc and the Los Altos Warriors, before the hiccups versus the NorCal Grizzlies and the CA Sting Outlaws. The team tied for 3rd out of 10 teams. In the opener, the 12Us broke loose and created havoc in the 6-1 win against the Havoc. The Dawgs came out sluggish and lethargic after a long rain delay, but in a scoreless game, outfielder Mike Amthor flexed his arm and ignited the excitement when he threw a perfect one-hopper to the awaiting Adam Raudebaugh at the plate to nail a runner by a mile. The Dawgs then erupted for six runs (and possibly more) in the last two innings before the game was called due to time. From the hill, Tyler Vistalli’s seven Ks, including a triple, combined with Justin David’s win in relief kept the Havoc from making much noise.
The Dawgs then claimed a 4-2 victory over the Los Altos Warriors to clinch a playoff spot. Stellar pitching and aggressive base running buoyed the Dawgs as Dylan Casey and Austin Halter teamed up to limit the Warriors to one earned run. After recording a triple in the first game, Cory Lingenfelter continued his torrid hitting with two more hits, two stolen bases, and two runs scored. Devin Clifford also reached base twice and delivered an RBI.
In the last two games of the tournament, the NorCal Grizzlies and CA Sting Outlaws outdueled the Dawgs. The Dawgs were lackluster as the Livermore-based NorCal Grizzlies handed a 4-2 loss to the Dawgs despite only one earned run surrendered by Ryan Smith. Against the Modesto-based Outlaws, Kayne Mellor sparkled with two hits, but they were not enough against the stronger opponent that day. Coach Matt Smith said, “Our pitching staff was phenomenal throughout the weekend with a 2.45 team ERA. We just have to get our run productivity and a crispier defense that we’ve been accustomed to in synch. I’m totally confident this unit can and will do it.”
March 31-April 1, 2007 (Manteca, CA) – Fresh from their strong performances at the Baseball Fever tournament in Woodland, all four Dawgs teams, ages 10 through 13, continued where they left off and ventured to Manteca to play against the top competitive travel teams from northern and central California at the April Fools Weekend tournament, sponsored by the United States Specialty Sports Association. At the Big League Dreams facilities, which featured miniaturized replicas of venerable ballparks such as Yankee Stadium, Fenway Park, Polo Grounds, and the ivy-covered walls of Wrigley Field, the 11-and-under squad didn’t fool around, got busy, and bounced back to win its first ever championship crown. The 10U team didn’t mess around either and continued their roll towards another championship game and finished 2nd. The 12U squad, a four-time champion and seven-time USSSA finalist, was successful as well and entered the playoff brackets, only to be eliminated from title contention on the last day. “This is a proud moment in Dawgs history. All our teams are doing well and having a lot of fun,” said manager John Zamora.
For the new 11U champions, all facets of Dawgs baseball came together at the tournament that featured superb pitching, an explosive offensive attack, and outstanding defensive plays in which the Dawgs outscored their opponents 41-5 to sweep the tournament with an unblemished 4-0 record. In the championship game, the Dawgs met the tough Solano Storm. Rethage and his battery mate Steven Ochoa came up with a pitching plan that included a barrage of change-ups that kept the hard-hitting Storm baffled and off-balance all day. The Dawgs started the scoring with four off the gates, highlighted by an extra base hit from Ochoa and singles from Connor Radelich, Tristan Prybylinski, Jordan Dempsey and Max Rethage. The Dawgs would score two more times in the 3rd before the Storm tried to rally. With the bases full, the Storm smashed a hard grounder but second baseman Radelich executed a web gem by snatching the ball, rolling on the ground, and from his back lofted the throw to the out-stretched glove of the first baseman to beat the runner by half a step. The Dawgs then exploded for five more runs over the next three innings with clutch hitting and aggressive base running. Cody Luther opened the last inning with a base hit and eventually scored on a sacrifice fly to finish the scoring. When all was said-and-done, the 11U Dawgs quieted the Storm to just four runs and secured an 11-4 victory to claim their first championship. “We saw some great Dawgs baseball this weekend. It was a total team victory. Every single kid on this team contributed and without each and every one of them we wouldn’t be where we are now,” Coach Steve Ochoa said.
Although deserved by all, it was an exceptional weekend, both pitching and at the plate for Max Rethage and Brady Navarro, both shared MVP honors for the tournament. Rethage was undefeated and batted .600 at the plate, with six runs scored and six RBIs. Navarro also notched a win and saved another from the mound and went 8-for-11 at the plate for a .727 average, with five runs scored and five RBIs.
March 24-25, 2007 (Sunnyvale, CA) – The phrase “Come Get Some!” can be mistakenly viewed as a sarcastic remark, a challenge, or an insult intended to provoke a response of some kind from the one it is directed at. It can also be compared to fighting words and trash talk, a form of boast or insult that is common in sports and other competitions. It is usually used as a way to intimidate the opposition, but can also be used as humor. It is not in the Dawgs\' genes to intimidate nor trash talk, and at the USSSA tournament in Twin Creeks Sunnyvale the Dawgs simply honored and played the game. Loosely taking cue from Julius Caesar’s famous remark that served to remind the Roman Senate of his military prowess, the Dawgs responded with, “We came, saw, and played the game.”
10U Finishes Near Top
Fresh from their championship win in their last tournament, the 10U Dawgs once again finished high atop the standings at Twin Creeks. Short-handed, coach-wise and player-wise, their 2-and-2 record still earned the Dawgs another Top 3 finish with wins against Dublin’s Golden Era Dirtbags and the Stampede from Los Altos-Mountain View.
Uh, Oh! 11U Says It Ain’t So
After strong outings in previous tournaments, the bats went silent and the 11Us fell twice after securing a 2-2 tie against the East Bay Cubs. The team didn’t get started and a victory in the following games against the Golden Era Elite and the eventual tourney champions California Sting. “It wasn’t for a lack of trying,” said Coach Ward Radelich. “They played hard and that’s what we ask of them. It just wasn’t our weekend.”
A Bitter Pill for 12Us
The 12Us started strongly with a tight 3-2 win against the Golden Era Pride. Strong pitching kept the Dawgs in contention after stranding five Pride runners in scoring position throughout the game, with four of them at third base. The Dawgs secured the win with a bases-loaded hit in the last inning of a tie game. Following a short game delay, the Dawgs could not keep the intensity against the Silicon Valley Express, who steamrolled out of the bases to hand the Dawgs a lopsided loss. The defeat relegated the 12Us to the consolation game against the Fremont Shaggers, which they handled 8-5. Coach Sean Halter said, “Going 1-1 in pool play normally would put you in a good position heading into the playoffs, but it came down to runs allowed.”
13U Splits Four, Finishes Fourth
A split against EJ Sports Titans and the Carson Valley Cougars earned the 13Us a berth in the playoffs to face the Golden Era Naturals. The Dawgs narrowly escaped with a 10-9 win to set up a meeting against eventual 13U champions, LaMorinda Generals, in the semifinals. The Generals handed the Dawgs a close 6-3 loss to finish in 4th Place.
10U marches all the way to the top; 11U and 12U sizzle to the championship finals
March 10-11, 2007, (Woodland-Davis, CA) – At the United States Specialty Sports Association\'s Baseball Fever tournament, the Delta Dawgs\' 11-and-under, 12-and-under, and 13-and-under teams were hot and fiery despite the early wake up calls and morning chill at Woodland’s Dubach Field over the March 10th weekend, and with Major League Baseball’s Opening Day just weeks away, it’s hard not to get wrapped up in baseball fever. At another venue, the 10-and-under team ventured into Davis to play in the March Madness tournament, sponsored by the Baseball Players Association, and came home to cheers by winning its first ever championship title. The Delta Dawgs found success on the field as three of its four teams earned medals for their strong performances. \"Our teams faced daunting tasks from day one of the tournaments, but the boys were able to regroup and reach the championships,\" said Coach John Zamora. \"We couldn\'t be more happier about the success that all the teams are having so far this year and it was exciting to see the Dawg blue and gold colors all over the ballparks during the championship games,\" Zamora said.
The boys from the Delta Dawgs love baseball more than anything else in the world. But to a few of their parents and siblings, they cannot understand why their sons and brothers would rather wake up early or stay up late playing baseball, rot their brains observing and analyzing opposing pitchers, or swinging their big aluminum sticks than read a book, play chess, or ride their bikes. During the weekend, parents and sons from the Dawgs found common ground – and the boys convinced their kin that cheering for or playing the national pastime isn’t completely off base. The 10U Dawgs captured their first championship of the 2007 season at the BPA March Madness tournament after completing a perfect 4-0 weekend. The Dawgs outscored their opponents 45-13 and slugged 39 hits for a .415 team batting average on their way to the crown. On the mound, five pitchers teamed up, allowing only 18 hits over 21 innings. The championship also earned the 10U Dawgs a berth to the BPA Western World Series in San Diego later this year. Coach Roger Kruse said, \"The boys worked extremely hard leading up to the tournament. They deserve the accolades.\"
In addition to the 10U feat, the 11U and 12U teams reached the championship title games in their respective divisions in the Baseball Fever tournament in Woodland, and both finished as the first runners-up. The two teams overcame early game challenges but ended the tournament with 3-2 records, after facing teams from northern and central California. “Although our road to the title was longer and tougher, it was a much more satisfying weekend for the Dawgs,” Coach Sean Halter said. “The boys should be proud, as we are, of what they’ve accomplished against the odds.\" For the 12U team, it was their 11th appearance in competitive travel ball tournament championships in the last two years, while winning four of them. Meanwhile, the 13U team reached the semifinal game and finished 4th in their group, also in Woodland. Baseball fever is contagious and the Delta Dawgs somehow caught the affliction. But somehow, their parents and siblings didn\'t seem to mind at all.
February 17-19, 2007 (Sunnyvale, CA) – The 10U Delta Dawgs started their 2007 season with a very impressive 3rd Place showing. The Dawgs started pool play against the Pleasanton Beavers. After a quiet five innings at the plate, the bats finally woke up as the Dawgs tried to rally from 5 runs down, scoring 3 runs in their last at bat, but fell just short 5-3 despite an impressive outing on the mound and at the plate by Roger Kruse, who pitched four strong innings with four strikeouts while going 2-for-3 with a double and triple.
The second pool game was against our neighbors, Brentwood Blast. The Dawgs again rallied in the last three innings scoring 8 runs and then held off the Blast for an 8-7 victory. Ryan Yray pitched four strong innings, striking out six, and Adam Novotny came into (and got out of) a tough bases loaded situation to close out the last two innings to get the victory, using a friendly wild pitch that bounced back to catcher Matthew Lautz who tagged out the stealing runner, and with a final strike out. At the plate, Lautz went 2-for-3, Peirce Mallonee went 2-for-2 and Charlie Sides went 2-for-2 and dropped a key RBI sacrifice bunt.
The third pool game saw the cardiac kids hard at work again against the El Dorado Hills Trojans. In yet another back and forth battle, the Dawgs found themselves down 7-6 in the bottom of the sixth. But once again the boys rallied starting with Sides singling to left and then stealing second base. Mallonee then came to the plate and tripled down the right field line scoring Sides and on an errant throw home, Mallonee slid in scoring the winning run 8-7. Lautz and Sides teamed up on the mound and the defense turned two inning ending double plays with Trojan runners in scoring position. At the plate, every Dawg contributed offensively to the win as five different boys scored the 8 runs.
The Dawgs ran into a hot Bret’s Muckdogs team in the final pool game. Although the Dawgs started out hot, scoring 3 runs in the first, the Muckdogs were taking advantage of every Dawg mistake and took the game 11-3. Mallonee threw 1 1/3 strong innings and Novotny pitched two innings, striking out the side in the 3rd. At the end of pool play, the 10U Dawgs were 2-2 and advanced to the playoff round as the 4th seed.
In the semifinal playoff game, the Dawgs faced the #1 seed and undefeated Santa Clara Young Guns, who had destroyed their opponents by no less than 8 runs in their first four games. Unshaken by their opponents, the Dawgs jumped on top in the first on a Lautz lead off triple, Novotny’s bunt single, and Mallonee’s RBI fielder’s choice. The Young Guns came back over the next two innings scoring 6 times to take a 6-2 lead. Again the Dawgs rallied scoring a run in the 4th and 3 in the 5th to tie the game. The Dawgs applied the pressure again in the 6th but couldn’t push the go-ahead run across, narrowly missing on Yray’s line drive down the first base line that was snared by a leaping first baseman. In the bottom of the 6th, the Young Guns were able to score, ending an extremely exciting 7-6 win and leaving the 10U Dawgs with a 3rd Place finish. On the mound Kruse pitched four innings, striking out nine, and Yray threw 1 1/3, striking out two and picking a runner off first to end the 5th. At the plate, Kruse was 3-for-3 and Novotny, Lautz, Yray and Jacob Rothe each were on base at least twice.
February 17-19, 2007 (Sunnyvale/Modesto/Manteca, CA) – Opening Day is unique to baseball. Other sports have season openers, but baseball\'s Opening Day marks the ceremonial beginning of spring. Although still a month away from the official beginning of the spring season, the Delta Dawgs marked their Opening Day and kick started their 2007 campaign in the Presidents Day Super NIT tournament at Sunnyvale’s Twin Creeks, Modesto’s Rainbow Fields, and Manteca’s Big League Dreams facilities. Over 115 teams, spanning from Redmond, Oregon, to the north, Reno to the east, and Long Beach to the south, in six age groups battled for Super NIT titles.
Fans and players alike admit there’s something special about the first game of the schedule. Every team starts the season with a clean slate, and you never know what you may see on Opening Day. It may be the beginning of a fairy tale season, the debut of a potential Hall of Famer, or a spectacular performance. For the four Dawgs teams (10U through 13U) that participated in the holiday weekend tournament, they are well on their way to a promising and successful season, as three of four teams reached the playoff brackets, with the fourth winning a heart-pounding consolation game.
In their second year of existence, the 10U Dawgs gave one valiant effort after another, going 2 and 2 in pool play, and then concluding in the semifinals where they narrowly came up on the short end of a 7-6 game to the eventual champions in the 10U bracket, Santa Clara Young Guns. Led by Coach Roger Kruse, he said, “We’re extremely proud of this team. They learned a lot this week and kept their focus in the game.”
For the first-year 11U team, the Dawgs started slowly in their opening game, but bounced back against the Peninsula Stars to reach the playoffs. The veteran 12U Dawgs similarly started slowly out of the gates with largely uninspired play. The 12Us, however, got a lift in their last game with a gutty, come-from-behind 12-7 victory against the Union City-based East Bay Lookouts. Lastly, the 13U Dawgs entered the playoffs by winning their pool with an undefeated record and reached the semifinals by defeating Bret’s Muckdogs from Reno, before bowing out to eventual 13U champions, North Bay Xtreme, in a tight 7-6 game. The 13Us finished the weekend in 3rd Place.
Coach John Zamora said, “All our teams will learn from this first tournament experience. We’ve got the jitters out of the way and we’re looking forward to another exciting season. We’ll use this experience as the foundation for the rest of 2007. We’re just getting started.”
MVP… MVP… Dawgs Congratulate Strong Performances
Congratulations to all the teams for their strong play at the Presidents Day tournament. Individually, Andrew Rouse of the 13Us and Roger Kruse, Jr., of the 10Us were placed on their respective All-Tournament Teams.
The Dawgs also recognize superb play from others. On the 12U team: Tyler Vistalli went 7-for-10 at the plate and hurled 75 percent of his pitches for strikes (and even throwing 40-of-46 in the strike zone in four innings of work against the Pleasanton Pride); Justin David was Mr. Versatile and played in five different positions that included a quick 1-2-3 inning for the save against the Lookouts; Austin Halter continued his hitting and RBI hot streaks, batting .571 and driving in six runs during the weekend; and Ryan Smith kept the Dawgs in contention with six runs scored and an extra base hit.
On the 11Us, Max Rethage and Mitchell Zamora were the workhorses. Rethage brilliantly pitched 5 2/3 innings of two-hit ball in the win against the Peninsula Stars, while Zamora did not allow a free pass in seven innings of work and earned a save. On offense, Brady Navarro slammed an RBI triple; Tristan Prybylinski collected four hits; and Steven Ochoa banged out three hits, including a three-bagger and a three-run homer. Way to go, Dawgs!
October 22, 2006, (Brentwood, CA) – Just as soon as the first pitch of the 2006 World Series was delivered, the 12U Dawgs concluded their Fall Ball tournament season at the Hardball Challenge and the Fall Ball Bash in Sunnyvale and Brentwood, respectively. During the abbreviated season, the Dawgs finished with a 10-8-1 record, including finals and semifinals appearances in two of the five tournaments entered. Along the way, the Dawgs defeated top ranked teams and formidable opponents that they expect to meet again in future tournaments in 2007.
The team will go on temporary hiatus for the remainder of the year to re-charge and re-energize for the spring 2007 campaign that will conclude at the Cooperstown All-Star Village tournament in July. The 12U Dawgs will remain intact, returning nine players on the current roster for the 2007 season. Good luck, Dawgs!
September 2-4, 2006, (Brentwood, CA) – The first game of the Labor Day Extravaganza tournament at Brentwood\\\'s Sunset Park pitted the Dawgs against a formidable VYAA Bomberz team that had won multiple regional championships, as well as being a contender in past USSSA World Series and Super Series National Championships. With a solid 2-0 victory, the Dawgs avenged a previous loss to the Bomberz when the two teams last met in the championship game of Brentwood’s Summer Blast tournament a month before. Tyler Vistalli scattered three hits and his amazing work on the mound included 10 strikeouts in five innings for the shutout win. The Bomberz quickly put two runners on base to open the game, but Vistalli defused the Bomberz with three consecutive strikeouts against the meat of the Bomberz lineup to silence the inning. The Dawgs posted all of their scoring in the third inning when Justin David led off with a walk, followed by a single from Mitchell Zamora. Adam Raudebaugh then drove the pair home with another hit to plate all of the Dawgs runs. The Bomberz attempted a late comeback, but Devin Clifford answered back with an outfield catch and a throw home for a double play that preserved the win. “This is a big ‘W’ for the Dawgs,” said Coach John Zamora. “All of the boys played well, and it set the tone for the rest of the tournament.”
The Dawgs woofed it up against its canine opponents, narrowly defeating the Woodland-based Bulldogs Baseball Club, 4-3. Dylan Casey posted the second of four double plays in the competition with his diving shoe-string catch and throw to second to nab a runner. Jordan Meier hurled four innings of shutout pitching in relief to secure the victory in the extra inning affair. The pair would also drive in a run each for the Dawgs. In the final inning, Connor Radelich earned a walked, stole a base, and scored from second base after Ryan Smith’s sacrifice bunt caught the Bulldogs napping for the difference in the score. “Late in the game, we had to gamble and the risk paid off,” said a jubilant coach Sean Halter.
In the battle between last season’s top two teams in the USSSA’s Northern California region, the Dawgs came out on top in a thrilling 10-9 nail-biter against the East Bay’s Bears Baseball Club, comprised primarily of All-Stars from Pinole and Tara Hills. The Dawgs evened their record against the high-caliber Bears to two wins and two losses, a team that has given the Dawgs tough competition in previous games. Jordan Meier single-handedly put a run on the board with his fleet feet -- a walk, followed by two stolen bases and a passed ball started the scoring. The Dawgs kept pressure on the Bears with at least a run scored in every inning, as Ryan Smith’s bat roared with his two doubles and two runs scored. The Dawgs would take a commanding 7-run lead, but almost surrendered it when the Bears mounted a furious six-run rally to keep the game close. However, Justin David, who smashed two singles in the game, drove in Smith for an insurance run in the last inning. With the tying run in scoring position for the Bears, David then saved the slim lead by promptly striking out a batter and then inducing a lazy fly ball to end the game. “If you ask me, this by far has been the best game of the tournament,” said Coach Ward Radelich. “We’ve always played tough against the top teams and we’re proud how the boys have played thus far. We’ve got to keep our intensity and focus entering the playoffs.”
Somewhat drained from an early morning contest, the Dawgs mustered a 4-2 win against the Woodland Patriots, a finalist in the last tournament held at Brentwood. Nick West efficiently threw a shutout in three innings of relief for the win and catapulted the undefeated Dawgs to the No. 1 seed entering the playoffs. Austin Halter singled twice and scored once to carry the offensive load. The defense would also record their fourth double play in four games to quiet opposing rallies, which included some nice catches from Cory Lingenfelter from the outfield. “The defense has been tremendous and it’s helping us win ballgames,” said John Zamora.
In the semifinal game against the Hard 90 Rival, the Dawgs fell short 7-5 in a contest overshadowed by strategic folly. Austin Halter posted a 5-RBI game with three hits, but time ran out and the Dawgs were eliminated to finish the tournament in third place with a solid 4-1 record.
August 5-6, 2006, (Brentwood, CA) – Early morning wake up calls, hours long drives to ballparks, or fast food on the go are just some of the typical inconveniences a competitive travel baseball team and their families must endure during the year-round season for a chance to compete against elite teams. But for the 12-and-under (12U) Delta Dawgs, there was baseball bliss when playing a tournament in their own backyard at the Sunset Park Sports Complex.
The United States Specialty Sports Association (USSSA) staged the Summer Blast tournament during the first weekend in August to inaugurate a new competitive baseball season and the hometown boys from Brentwood and Antioch did not disappoint. Playing for the first time in the older age division, the 12U Dawgs launched off the gates with a 4-1 record in the tournament and began the new season with another stellar performance en route to another championship final appearance. For the fifth time in their last eight tournament appearances, the Dawgs reached the championship arena and finished as first runners-up. Finishing atop the standings at the end of nearly every tournament is not new to the Dawgs. This team has also earned four championship crowns during the past year to go along their finalists awards.
Ten teams in the 12U division from Northern and Central California vied for the Summer Blast crown. To reach the finals, the Dawgs pounded the ball, ran the bases, and played nearly flawless baseball. In their first game against the Fremont-based Shaggers which had five lead changes, the Dawgs battled back from three late inning deficits to win a thrilling 8-7 victory. Eight different Dawgs scored in the game led by Austin Halter and Cory Lingenfelter who had two hits each. Nick West also hurled four innings of relief and reached base three times to secure the win.
Against the Woodland Heat in the second game, Tyler Vistalli and Jordan Meier pitched the Dawgs to a 10-0 no-hit shutout that was saved by two assists from Justin David in right field to go along with his two singles and two RBIs. Adam Raudebaugh scored three times and seven other Dawgs crossed the plate to notch the win.
The Dawgs defeated Stockton\'s Club All-Stars in a close 6-4 contest in the last game of pool play. With no outs and the bases loaded in the last inning, the All-Stars still could not overcome the combo of David and Raudebaugh who executed the play of the day – a pitcher-to-home-to-first double play to squelch the rally. The All-Stars would hit another come-backer to end the game and preserve the victory for the Dawgs. Raudebaugh also slammed three hits and Devin Clifford laid down a perfect bunt that scored two runs for the Dawgs.
The semifinals pitted the Dawgs against the undefeated Laguna Thunder from Elk Grove. The Dawgs handily won 8-0 and silenced the Thunder with Vistalli’s two hit pitching gem, Mitchell Zamora’s two RBIs, and AJ Guillory’s speed on the bases and assists from the outfield. Connor Radelich and Lingenfelter also came home twice each to record half of the Dawgs scoring. “Throughout the tournament, everyone in the lineup did their jobs and contributed to the success of the team,” said Coach John Zamora. Overall, the Dawgs batted a .400 clip as a team and averaged over seven runs per game against nearly five to its opponents.
With a four-game unbeaten streak and the championship title on the line, the Dawgs were confident entering the final game to face the Modesto Bomberz, another undefeated team remaining in the contest. The Dawgs jumped out to an early 4-0 lead sparked by Meier\'s triple, but the Bomberz regrouped and scored 13 unanswered runs which were aided by uncharacteristic errant throws and glove work by the Dawgs. “We continue to play hard and get better in each tournament. That’s what we ask from our players and they did. Our caps off to the Bomberz team, they played their game,” said Coach Sean Halter.
The Dawgs are continuing where they left off last season that concluded in July with three championship titles, seven finalist appearances, and an overall 28-20-3 record in a total of 13 tournaments. In the final USSSA standings for the Northern California region, the Dawgs finished as the #1 ranked team in the “AAA” division as a 10U team in the 2005 season, #2 ranked in the “Majors” division as an 11U team in the 2006 season, and is looking forward to another great tournament baseball year in the 2007 season. In the end, getting up early in the morning or eating on the run to play a baseball game is not so bad for the Delta Dawgs. The team and its fans are doing well, having fun, and enjoying the game – especially if home cooked meals and the comforts of home are nearby.