The Hummingbirds emerged victorious over the Pirates last night. The Pirates blew a 6-1 lead by allowing too many walks, dropped third strikes, committing errors and just displaying all around poor defense in the fifth inning. Jim McQuade hit the ball well as did Ron Smaka. The final play of the game came with two outs, Preller on second, McQuade singles to left - high throw from the left fieder to the catcher. Preller slides into home, catcher still up high getting the throw, finally comes down and puts a tag on JP - umpire called him out. Fuego! Pitching and Defense - Pitching and Defense!
A tough way to end a game -- I think both teams agreed that I was clearly safe at home -- but it's never about one umpire's call. We made some mistakes and lost. Oh well.
You know, I love playing at Gruner. I realize that some teams complain about the drive, but I don't see the big deal. You cut out of work half an hour early (and that's like a gift, right?), car pool with the boys, play on a great field under the lights against first-rate competition. Good times.
As far as the Hummingbirds, I have so much respect for that team. They are not what they used to be (I think Jerry's like 62), but collectively they come to play ball. When you think of their commitment to playing baseball -- driving up to Albany for 6:00 games -- well, those guys are something. You will never read them on this board crowing about how they love the game and play for all that right reasons or any of that, but they wear it on their uniforms games after game, year after year. Just a great team that shows up to compete.
Now as far as an umpire traveling all that way, man, that's tough and probably way too much to ask of our CD umps. They should get a significant raise to work those games. Even if, just like the rest of us, they are less than perfect.
Last note: Hat tip to Jimmy McQuade for that two-out single in the seventh with the 'birds redoubtable closer, Coon, on the mound, who was throwing gas and breaking off some knee-buckling curves. Jimmy is such a fine player in his quiet, understated way and he came up big for us when it mattered most . . . again.
If anyone takes those boys from Kingston lightly in the playoffs, it will surely be their demise! I know that the Silver Marlins are hoping that they wind up in another bracket. We know better than to think that they will go easy.
Side note: If anyone on the Hummers reads this, can you please ask Mike Ferraro to call me in regards to making the trip to Florida this Fall to defend our crown. Thanks! Daytime: (518) 371-7493 Night: (518) 371-5089 Cell: (518) 441-1044
