Another great experience with a bunch of talented players and great guys. While the Marlins could have won another ring in the 45 division, I'm sure the team will be back stronger than ever and at the cusp of winning another ring next year. I was honored to have pitched for them.
The 52+ division, however, was completely different. With metal bats in hands, our Albany Hornets team got clobbered in 4 of the 5 Round Robin games. Obviously, we didn't get to the playoff round.
It was especially tough heading into our doubleheader day on Thursday because we were already out of it. Nevertheless, we had a great time.
We lost to Clearwater, Rhode Island, New Orleans and Delco (not sure where they are from). Three of those 4 teams made the semi-final round. South Maryland made it; New Orleans did not.
What Billy Smith, Mike Lannon, Al Wolfer and I learned is that the absolute best pizza joint on the planet is at John's Pass in Madeira Beach. We couldn't get enough. Oh, we also learned we can't go into this tournament with 4 pitchers. In fact, Billy, who has never been a pitcher, got our only win in relief.
Billy, John Reel, Mike Lannon and Al Wolfer led the Hornets hitting attack.
And thanx to the others who came to play: Wayne Newcomb, Steve Van Gelder, Mike Eplite, Skip Lyons, Mark Josefski, Matt Kelly, Jim Connolly, John LaTorre, Mike Jacobson (he's from Alabama) and Dennis Scimeca. It was a lot of fun.
