Rockies Welcome Cardinals on Opening Day 2012 - Tuesday May 1st
Apr. 26 – Thornhill Baseball kicks off it's 2012 regular season with a Tuesday night tilt between the Cardinals and Rockies. With Dan Masucci and Jon Maningas on the 60-day DL, the Rockies will look for other guys to fill those offensive voids. Dan Simone is expected to get the start on the mound.
Tuesday is calling for light rain with a high of 16° and a low of 5° closer to game time. First pitch is scheduled for 7:30pm at Westmount. The first 10 fans will be receiving rainchecks on Paul Digiandomenico bobble-head dolls that are still waiting to be delivered.
Tuesday is calling for light rain with a high of 16° and a low of 5° closer to game time. First pitch is scheduled for 7:30pm at Westmount. The first 10 fans will be receiving rainchecks on Paul Digiandomenico bobble-head dolls that are still waiting to be delivered.
Thornhill Rockies Stand Alone Atop the League - 2011 Champions
Westmount – When spring training began in April it became abundantly clear what manager Paul D. had on his mind during the offseason. He wanted to win and he wanted to win now! Evident in the collection of players on board, his masterful assembly of a team now realizing their potential has been a labour of love. “Never have I been a part of such a great team. These guys were selected because they were the very best of the best and together we’ve realized that greatness. I couldn’t be prouder for the guys or happier to be Thornhill Baseball Champs in 2011 – it’s been a long time coming and we deserve every minute of this”, he offered to the media after the game.
The Rockies had a game in hand in their best of three series versus the Jays after taking game one convincingly, 9-2. Jon Maningas pitched a complete game one-hitter and fanned 6 Jays’ batters on his way to one of the gutsiest and impassioned performances ever experienced by a Rockies pitcher. “Man that guy was locked in all game long” said catcher Matt St. Pierre. “They couldn’t push a runner over to third even – that’s how dominant he was”, St. Pierre added.
Maningas’ performance in game two came on the heels of Mike Simone’s bossing of the Jays in the series opener and truly highlighted what this team is about. Pitching and perseverance along with an intense desire to win seems to be the common denominator in the fabric that encases the Rockies clubhouse. With more than half of the team able to throw from the hump, the Rockies are fortunate to have not only the deepest bullpen but perhaps the leagues top three or four pitchers.
Game two saw the Rockies jump out to an early lead when Dave Giralico, on top of his dazzling performance defensively, rocked an RBI single up the middle to put an early run on the board. Rattled, the Jays committed an untimely and uncharacteristic error that plated two other runs. That was all Maningas would need in the 5-0 series ending win that handed the TBC hardware to purple.
League MVP went to the Jays ace Buddy Whositz while Paolo Marcello locked up playoff MVP and Rookie of the Year.
With the win, player contracts have been extended and 2012 spring training commences on schedule and as planned, only this time as Champions!
Congratulations to the Thornhill Rockies, TBC’s finest in 2011!
Rockies defeat Blue Jays 2-0 in best of three series
The Rockies had a game in hand in their best of three series versus the Jays after taking game one convincingly, 9-2. Jon Maningas pitched a complete game one-hitter and fanned 6 Jays’ batters on his way to one of the gutsiest and impassioned performances ever experienced by a Rockies pitcher. “Man that guy was locked in all game long” said catcher Matt St. Pierre. “They couldn’t push a runner over to third even – that’s how dominant he was”, St. Pierre added.
Maningas’ performance in game two came on the heels of Mike Simone’s bossing of the Jays in the series opener and truly highlighted what this team is about. Pitching and perseverance along with an intense desire to win seems to be the common denominator in the fabric that encases the Rockies clubhouse. With more than half of the team able to throw from the hump, the Rockies are fortunate to have not only the deepest bullpen but perhaps the leagues top three or four pitchers.
Game two saw the Rockies jump out to an early lead when Dave Giralico, on top of his dazzling performance defensively, rocked an RBI single up the middle to put an early run on the board. Rattled, the Jays committed an untimely and uncharacteristic error that plated two other runs. That was all Maningas would need in the 5-0 series ending win that handed the TBC hardware to purple.
League MVP went to the Jays ace Buddy Whositz while Paolo Marcello locked up playoff MVP and Rookie of the Year.
With the win, player contracts have been extended and 2012 spring training commences on schedule and as planned, only this time as Champions!
Congratulations to the Thornhill Rockies, TBC’s finest in 2011!
Rockies defeat Blue Jays 2-0 in best of three series
Rockies Deliver First Blow in TBC Championship Beating Jays 9-2 (Sept. 27)
Bishops – M. Simone pitched a complete game and was masterful in doing so. After giving up two quick runs in the first inning, he settled down and got better as the game grew on. He would also chip in with a two run single that provided insurance runs for the Rockies in their game one victory over the mighty Jays. Blue Jays bats were stymied all game long when throughout the season they’ve been as strong a hitting team as any in the league. They’re undefeated season ended last night with their loss to the Rockies and so today they are left regrouping for game two of the series.
Look for J. Maningas to start game two for the Rockies and Blue Jays ace to counter for the visiting side. Inclement weather is expected throughout the day which may threaten game two at Westmount. Either way, the Rockies are one win away from winning their first TBC Championship in franchise history. A feat that all can taste!
Rockies lead TBC Championships 1-0 in a best of three game series.
Look for J. Maningas to start game two for the Rockies and Blue Jays ace to counter for the visiting side. Inclement weather is expected throughout the day which may threaten game two at Westmount. Either way, the Rockies are one win away from winning their first TBC Championship in franchise history. A feat that all can taste!
Rockies lead TBC Championships 1-0 in a best of three game series.
Late Inning Rally Sooths Early Rockies Tension
Westmount – Don’t let the score of last night’s game fool you. After five rather uneventful innings, the Rockies found themselves playing catch-up after falling down 7-4 to the proverbial “back against the wall” White Sox. Anxiety was wide ranging before purple put the ball in flight sounding off for 14 runs in the sixth inning to take a convincing lead. They would hold on to the lead eliminating the Sox and now move on to play the victors in the Red Sox and Yankees Series in another best-of-three semi-final series. The National League pennant awaits.
Game 1: Red Sox/Yankees vs. Rockies @ 7:30 (Westmount)
Game 2: Rockies vs. Red Sox/Yankees @ 7:30 (Westmount)
Game 3: (if necessary) Red Sox/Yankees vs. Rockies @ 7:30 (TBD)
Game 1: Red Sox/Yankees vs. Rockies @ 7:30 (Westmount)
Game 2: Rockies vs. Red Sox/Yankees @ 7:30 (Westmount)
Game 3: (if necessary) Red Sox/Yankees vs. Rockies @ 7:30 (TBD)
Rockies Take Game One and Prep for Series Sweep (Sept. 15)
Westmount – Under the gorgeous September sundrenched sky the Rockies kicked off their 2011 playoff run with a convincing win over the fourth seeded White Sox last Sunday afternoon. In a game that saw flawless pitching from team ace Paolo Marcello who thre a complete game shutout, the Rockies team defence was also up to its typical run-yielding antics limitting just one baserunner beyond second base. In turn, the offence was sparked by timely hitting and aggressive base running which was also typical of the Rockies temperament all season.
Game two of the best of three series goes this evening where Mike Simone will look to continue his season-long dominance on the mound. Minor injuries to Jon Maningas (hand blisters) that only hindered, but certainly did not stop him, from producing runs should be healed for the game. Out of the line-up this evening will be utility veteran Blair Capel who suffered a wrist sprain while breaking up a double play with an aggressive slide into second base. Team health otherwise is as good as it’s been all season and all others are expected to be in the lineup for tonight's match-up.
Game two of the best of three series goes this evening where Mike Simone will look to continue his season-long dominance on the mound. Minor injuries to Jon Maningas (hand blisters) that only hindered, but certainly did not stop him, from producing runs should be healed for the game. Out of the line-up this evening will be utility veteran Blair Capel who suffered a wrist sprain while breaking up a double play with an aggressive slide into second base. Team health otherwise is as good as it’s been all season and all others are expected to be in the lineup for tonight's match-up.
Yanks Buried in Rocky Avalanche (Aug. 28)
Bishop’s Cross – After an early exchange of runs, Rockies bats proved superior in their second of three preliminary round-robin matchups versus the Yankees on Sunday. Couple that with another outstanding performance on the mound from Dan Simone and quick relief from Jon Maningas later in the game, and the big purple machine locked up top seed going into quarter final action next week.
Eliminated from the 2011 playoffs are the Orioles, Nationals, Mariners, and Pirates.
Eliminated from the 2011 playoffs are the Orioles, Nationals, Mariners, and Pirates.
Marcello No-no’s Orioles through 5 in Playoff Opener (Aug. 22)
Westmount – Even Mother Nature and her typical unpredictable way couldn’t cool an otherwise blazing Paolo Marcello during yesterday afternoon’s Orioles’ drubbing.
Just minutes before the opening pitch, rain hurled itself sideways through the skies and left field conditions less than ideal and the game itself in some doubt. But the skies would clear nicely and the field cooperated in lock step and there was Rockies post-season action ahead.
Water-drenched baseballs made tossing curveballs virtually impossible, so Paolo resorted to working his fastball in and out on batters who couldn’t solve him all afternoon long. Five innings and three shattered Oriole bats later, manager Paul D. opted to have closer Mark D. come in for the save in order to preserve Marcello for the later rounds. A sound decision considering Mark came in to buckle down the hatch denying the Orioles bats a moment to breathe let alone start a rally.
Rockies also welcome back Dan Massucci who had been away all season studying weeds in Montana. Dan was beaned in his return and showed off his blazing speed that was sorely missed during his absence.
The Rockies now prepare for their next round-robin game versus the Yankees (Aug. 28th at Bishop’s Cross, 7:45pm with tickets still available) and their third game versus the White Sox (Aug. 6th at Dufferin Regional, 7:30pm) with tickets disappearing fast!
Just minutes before the opening pitch, rain hurled itself sideways through the skies and left field conditions less than ideal and the game itself in some doubt. But the skies would clear nicely and the field cooperated in lock step and there was Rockies post-season action ahead.
Water-drenched baseballs made tossing curveballs virtually impossible, so Paolo resorted to working his fastball in and out on batters who couldn’t solve him all afternoon long. Five innings and three shattered Oriole bats later, manager Paul D. opted to have closer Mark D. come in for the save in order to preserve Marcello for the later rounds. A sound decision considering Mark came in to buckle down the hatch denying the Orioles bats a moment to breathe let alone start a rally.
Rockies also welcome back Dan Massucci who had been away all season studying weeds in Montana. Dan was beaned in his return and showed off his blazing speed that was sorely missed during his absence.
The Rockies now prepare for their next round-robin game versus the Yankees (Aug. 28th at Bishop’s Cross, 7:45pm with tickets still available) and their third game versus the White Sox (Aug. 6th at Dufferin Regional, 7:30pm) with tickets disappearing fast!
That’s a Wrap - Rockies Clinch Top Seed in NL Division After Regular Season Finishes
Westmount – Rockies bats busted out again last night with an offensive explosion versus the White Sox. The win was necessary in order to lock up top spot in the NL and secure the easier route to the Championship Series, a route that should be anything but easy.
The Rockies finish the regular season with the third best record in the league on the heels of a terrific 9-0 start to the 2010/11 campaign - a campaign that for some is far from over. “We deserve a Championship” said manager Paul DiGiandomenico. “We’ve gone from a losing expansion team scraping the bottom of the league’s standings to a respectable and formidable opponent. The moves we’ve made to make this club better would make a Championship sweet. I want this one real bad and so does this team” he added.
For a wrap-up on the 2010-11 regular season standings and post-season seedings, see the standings link. The Rockies will match up against the Orioles on Sunday August 21st and White Sox a week later to open round robin play.
The Rockies finish the regular season with the third best record in the league on the heels of a terrific 9-0 start to the 2010/11 campaign - a campaign that for some is far from over. “We deserve a Championship” said manager Paul DiGiandomenico. “We’ve gone from a losing expansion team scraping the bottom of the league’s standings to a respectable and formidable opponent. The moves we’ve made to make this club better would make a Championship sweet. I want this one real bad and so does this team” he added.
For a wrap-up on the 2010-11 regular season standings and post-season seedings, see the standings link. The Rockies will match up against the Orioles on Sunday August 21st and White Sox a week later to open round robin play.
Rockies Hope 19-Run Red Sox Drubbing Sees Them Back On Track Offensively
Bishop’s Cross – With their 6-run first inning, Rockies bats were geared up for Sunday’s match-up versus the division trailing Red Sox. With just two wins in their last 6 bouts, bats fell silent for some time before Dan Simone’s lead off double to the right field gap changed the clubs’ defunct offensive output and began the ever contagious hit parade.
Starter Mike Simone fanned 4 Red Sox batters over 4 flawless innings while third baseman Jon Maningas went 4 for 4 at the plate with two doubles and 5 RBI. Paul Bahous was impressive with four hits of his own and 4 RBI in the rinse.
The Rockies will play their final game of the schedule versus the White Sox on Wednesday night at Westmount however three rain out games from April are yet to be announced before playoffs in September and October.
Starter Mike Simone fanned 4 Red Sox batters over 4 flawless innings while third baseman Jon Maningas went 4 for 4 at the plate with two doubles and 5 RBI. Paul Bahous was impressive with four hits of his own and 4 RBI in the rinse.
The Rockies will play their final game of the schedule versus the White Sox on Wednesday night at Westmount however three rain out games from April are yet to be announced before playoffs in September and October.
All Star Weekend Wrap Up (July 18)
Bishop's Cross - All Star Weekend wrapped up Saturday at Bishop's Cross with a very lively atmosphere that enjoyed the Home Run Derby just as much as the game itself. The scorching hot day featured 8 big swingers representing both Richmond Hill and Thornhill Leagues as well as a cast of 20 guys for Thornhill and 16 for Richmond Hill to compete for bragging rights. Originally scheduled to make appearances in the All Star Weekend Festivities were Rockies' Jon Maningas, Daniel Sinaguglia, Michael SImone and Daniel Simone. However, due to weekend commitments, the lone representative for the Rockies was Jon Maningas.
Under the hot sun, the derby kicked off Saturday afternoon at 1:00pm where Jon Maningas was the 3rd hitter in the line up. The Home Run Derby was for metal bats, however, after 2 batters totalled 1 home run, Jon Maningas attempted to represent the Rockies by attempting to win the Derby with a wooden bat. Jon took his first few swings and failed to get on the board early. After a few more good swings and hot line drives directly into the fence, the outs added up quickly and ended the day early for Jon who failed to hit one with wood. The winner was from the Thornhill Dodgers where fellow Thornhill slugger Mike Godin slugged a total of 8 home runs in his 2 rounds to earn the title 'Home Run Champion of 2011".
The game followed up and did not disappoint. The Thornhill squad fell into a deep hole early falling behind 4-0. Jon Maningas, representing the Thornhill Rockies in the game went 2-3 from the field with 2 HBP's and 2 runs. Jon was seen off the field shrugging his shoulders and seemed to be bothered by it, but the Rockies will have enough time to allow him to rest and prepare himself to start playing the way they know he is capable of.
The resilient Thornhill All Star squad fought and clawed back to eventually tie the game at 4-4 going into the top of the fourth inning. After back and forth exchanges, the two teams found themselves tied at 6-6 going into the 7th inning where the momentum would shift strongly in favour of the Richmond Hill All Stars.
Richmond Hill's 3 and 4 hitters hit back-to-back home runs to not only give their team the lead, but propel the Richmond Hill All Stars to their third consecutive win over the Thornhill team 9-6. One of the best parts of the game was not only the competition, but the culmination of great players making great solid plays all afternoon.
"It was a great experience and I look forward to showing up those punks in the Home Run Derby next year", Jon speaks of the All Star Festivities.
Next in line for the Rockies, they look to bounce back against an unstable Pirates sqaud and hopefully get back to their feet.
Under the hot sun, the derby kicked off Saturday afternoon at 1:00pm where Jon Maningas was the 3rd hitter in the line up. The Home Run Derby was for metal bats, however, after 2 batters totalled 1 home run, Jon Maningas attempted to represent the Rockies by attempting to win the Derby with a wooden bat. Jon took his first few swings and failed to get on the board early. After a few more good swings and hot line drives directly into the fence, the outs added up quickly and ended the day early for Jon who failed to hit one with wood. The winner was from the Thornhill Dodgers where fellow Thornhill slugger Mike Godin slugged a total of 8 home runs in his 2 rounds to earn the title 'Home Run Champion of 2011".
The game followed up and did not disappoint. The Thornhill squad fell into a deep hole early falling behind 4-0. Jon Maningas, representing the Thornhill Rockies in the game went 2-3 from the field with 2 HBP's and 2 runs. Jon was seen off the field shrugging his shoulders and seemed to be bothered by it, but the Rockies will have enough time to allow him to rest and prepare himself to start playing the way they know he is capable of.
The resilient Thornhill All Star squad fought and clawed back to eventually tie the game at 4-4 going into the top of the fourth inning. After back and forth exchanges, the two teams found themselves tied at 6-6 going into the 7th inning where the momentum would shift strongly in favour of the Richmond Hill All Stars.
Richmond Hill's 3 and 4 hitters hit back-to-back home runs to not only give their team the lead, but propel the Richmond Hill All Stars to their third consecutive win over the Thornhill team 9-6. One of the best parts of the game was not only the competition, but the culmination of great players making great solid plays all afternoon.
"It was a great experience and I look forward to showing up those punks in the Home Run Derby next year", Jon speaks of the All Star Festivities.
Next in line for the Rockies, they look to bounce back against an unstable Pirates sqaud and hopefully get back to their feet.
TBC Gears Up For Mid-Season Classic with Four Rockies Representatives
Bishops Cross – This coming Saturday afternoon four Rockies players will dawn their purple jerseys in the 2011 All-Star weekend Classic. Dan and Mike Simone, Jon Maningas and Dan Sinaguglia all had their names submitted to league office by Rockies manager Paul DiGiandomenico to commence the selection process. League voters selected the four Rockies stars to participate apropos of their blistering numbers and overall contributions to TBC’s best record in the senior division.
Rockies pitcher and third baseman Jon Maningas is poised to assault all incoming baseballs and will try his best to duplicate the performance of Robinson Cano in the MLB derby alike.
“If he’s not the most feared hitter in the league right now, I don’t know who is” said Orioles pitcher Phil Esposito who has been victimized time and time again by Maningas’ timely extra base hits. Heavy praise for a guy who selflessly puts team success over personal achievement. Maningas’ bat has been torrent all season long and hitting out of the four-hole on a regular basis is just one of the reasons why the Rockies have their 9-1 record.
“As a pitcher you always want to trust your stuff against the leagues best hitters, but sometimes pitching around a guy and putting him on base with a free pass is the best option. He can burn you in so many different ways.” Esposito concluded.
Similarly, Dan Simone’s bat has been hot all year long. Coupled with his speed on the base paths and overall baseball acumen, his selection was a responsible one. Meanwhile, all Mike Simone has done this season is silence talented Yankees bats on two seperate occasions and has arguably been the team’s most valuable pitcher at the midway point. He’s faced some of the leagues best hitters in some tight situations and has been consistently masterful. Another very responsible selection for this years’ All-Star team.
Dan Sinaguglia, widely revered as the leagues top shortstop and easily the leagues strongest arm, will display his ability while tending to the left side of the infield. He might even see some time on the mound closing things out in the event of a tight affair.
The game begins at 1:30pm on Saturday however the festivities kick off at noon with the Homerun Derby contest for spectators to enjoy. Following the game, a fan appreciation BBQ will take place where players will be signing autographs and taking pictures.
Congratulations to the four Rockies reps and continued success in the second half of the season and of course in the All-Star festivities this coming weekend!
Rockies pitcher and third baseman Jon Maningas is poised to assault all incoming baseballs and will try his best to duplicate the performance of Robinson Cano in the MLB derby alike.
“If he’s not the most feared hitter in the league right now, I don’t know who is” said Orioles pitcher Phil Esposito who has been victimized time and time again by Maningas’ timely extra base hits. Heavy praise for a guy who selflessly puts team success over personal achievement. Maningas’ bat has been torrent all season long and hitting out of the four-hole on a regular basis is just one of the reasons why the Rockies have their 9-1 record.
“As a pitcher you always want to trust your stuff against the leagues best hitters, but sometimes pitching around a guy and putting him on base with a free pass is the best option. He can burn you in so many different ways.” Esposito concluded.
Similarly, Dan Simone’s bat has been hot all year long. Coupled with his speed on the base paths and overall baseball acumen, his selection was a responsible one. Meanwhile, all Mike Simone has done this season is silence talented Yankees bats on two seperate occasions and has arguably been the team’s most valuable pitcher at the midway point. He’s faced some of the leagues best hitters in some tight situations and has been consistently masterful. Another very responsible selection for this years’ All-Star team.
Dan Sinaguglia, widely revered as the leagues top shortstop and easily the leagues strongest arm, will display his ability while tending to the left side of the infield. He might even see some time on the mound closing things out in the event of a tight affair.
The game begins at 1:30pm on Saturday however the festivities kick off at noon with the Homerun Derby contest for spectators to enjoy. Following the game, a fan appreciation BBQ will take place where players will be signing autographs and taking pictures.
Congratulations to the four Rockies reps and continued success in the second half of the season and of course in the All-Star festivities this coming weekend!
Rockies Return to Earth and Show Mortality After All (July 11)
Westmount - Former U.S. Open Champion Shane Van Boening once said, “You have to learn how to lose before you can learn how to win.” Given his track record as former champion, his assertion must hold some truth at least.
The white-hot NL leading Rockies were cooled and humbled on Sunday evening falling 7-3 to their NL rivals in the Nats. The loss came after a sweltering 9-0 start to the 2011 season, the organization’s best ever string of wins.
The Nationals have been tailgating the Rockies since opening day and with the win move to within a rear-view mirror position now six points out and 2 games in hand.
“Sometimes you have to take a step backward in order to take another step forward. We hate to lose as much as anyone but I think this loss is a character building loss. Complacency reminds us all of what can happen if we’re not at our collective best when it counts, and I think we got too comfortable tonight. We’re mistaken if we think we’re untouchable in this league no matter how improved we are from last year - the Nats just proved that we're beatable. I’m confident that this blip will serve us both in the balance of the season and again come playoff time. We’ll be okay so long as we remain modest and hungry for the pennant.” Blair Capel candidly reflected with reporters after the game.
The Rockies (9-1) match up well against this Wednesday’s opponent in the Phillies (2-6) who lost a squeaker themselves versus the A’s yesterday in a battle of AL basement dwellers. The Rockies are in tough again following the all-star break with a highly anticipated match-up versus the AL leading Blue Jays (6-0-1) on July 17th.
The white-hot NL leading Rockies were cooled and humbled on Sunday evening falling 7-3 to their NL rivals in the Nats. The loss came after a sweltering 9-0 start to the 2011 season, the organization’s best ever string of wins.
The Nationals have been tailgating the Rockies since opening day and with the win move to within a rear-view mirror position now six points out and 2 games in hand.
“Sometimes you have to take a step backward in order to take another step forward. We hate to lose as much as anyone but I think this loss is a character building loss. Complacency reminds us all of what can happen if we’re not at our collective best when it counts, and I think we got too comfortable tonight. We’re mistaken if we think we’re untouchable in this league no matter how improved we are from last year - the Nats just proved that we're beatable. I’m confident that this blip will serve us both in the balance of the season and again come playoff time. We’ll be okay so long as we remain modest and hungry for the pennant.” Blair Capel candidly reflected with reporters after the game.
The Rockies (9-1) match up well against this Wednesday’s opponent in the Phillies (2-6) who lost a squeaker themselves versus the A’s yesterday in a battle of AL basement dwellers. The Rockies are in tough again following the all-star break with a highly anticipated match-up versus the AL leading Blue Jays (6-0-1) on July 17th.
Slumping Rockies Look to Get Back on Track versus Pirates (July 18)
Bishop’s Cross – Winless in their last 3 games, the Rockies look to pull out of the two-week long offensive and defensive rut that’s been plaguing the otherwise consistent club. Untimely defensive blunders coupled with a dearth of hits and runs have driven the Rockies into this mid-season tailspin when otherwise they’ve displayed consistency throughout.
Losses to the Nationals and again most recently in yesterday afternoon’s match-up with the Blue Jays, the Rockies can take solace in the single point earned in their 1-1 tie against the Phillies despite being up in that game 1-0 with two outs in the 7th and final inning.
The Rockies expect to have their full roster in tow on July 25th when they lock horns with a desperate Pirates team. The week off - after playing 3 games in 7 days - provides the Rockies with some time to heal nagging injuries and time to reflect on their most recent setbacks.
Losses to the Nationals and again most recently in yesterday afternoon’s match-up with the Blue Jays, the Rockies can take solace in the single point earned in their 1-1 tie against the Phillies despite being up in that game 1-0 with two outs in the 7th and final inning.
The Rockies expect to have their full roster in tow on July 25th when they lock horns with a desperate Pirates team. The week off - after playing 3 games in 7 days - provides the Rockies with some time to heal nagging injuries and time to reflect on their most recent setbacks.
Rockies Overcome Canada Day Long-Weekend and Cottage Season Malaise (July 4th)
Westmount – No better way to celebrate the Canada Day long weekend than with a cool 6-1 win over a very tough Athletics opponent. Rockies starter Jon Maningas threw a near perfect game in what was the fastest game in franchise history, a 1 hour and 40 minute workout. The Athletics starting pitcher fared well himself but picked a tough time to be just “good” when Maningas was simply better. The A’s added their lonely run in the bottom of the 7th inning on a lazy sack fly.
RBIs from 6 different players as well as extra base hits from the bottom of the order provided just the right offence to solidify the win in what was otherwise a very hot and blasé afternoon.
Next up for the Rockies, the divisional rivals and second place Nationals who look to avenge their 15-6 defeat in their previous match-up with purple.
RBIs from 6 different players as well as extra base hits from the bottom of the order provided just the right offence to solidify the win in what was otherwise a very hot and blasé afternoon.
Next up for the Rockies, the divisional rivals and second place Nationals who look to avenge their 15-6 defeat in their previous match-up with purple.
Tight Win Over Yanks - Nothing Rocky About This Start! (July 4)
Bishops Cross – In their second meeting of the season, the Yankees and Rockies played to another nail-biting finish on Sunday. Mike Simone who silenced Yankee hitters in his previous outing was up to his old tricks after getting the nod for a second straight match up. “You know, Mike’s the kinda pitcher who can rely on his talent alone but when he really has his head in a game the way he did again tonight, he’s a filthy guy to get around on” catcher Blair Capel spoke to media. Simone’s line was impressive; 6IP, 5H, 7Ks and 3 earned runs allowed.
The Giralico brothers chipped in with 4 ribbies collectively as the Rockies timely hitting was the difference in this, a much tighter 7-5 finale, than the 4-0 shutout from a few weeks back.
The Giralico brothers chipped in with 4 ribbies collectively as the Rockies timely hitting was the difference in this, a much tighter 7-5 finale, than the 4-0 shutout from a few weeks back.
Rockies Bats are Hot - 7-0 Record (July 4)
Westmount - The Rockies took to the field in search of their seventh straight win to begin the season. The game started quickly for the Rockies who tallied runs early and often. Dan Simone took to the hump and improved his season record to 3-0, tossing 4 solid innings before Paul DiGiandomenico's relief. Both guys combined for a total of 3 earned runs and 7 strikeouts.
The game was highlighted by David Giralico's 6 RBI performance further improving his impressive season totals from an offensive production standpoint. Brother Paul Giralico was not too far off himself, producing 3 crucial RBIs in the 23-4 drubbing. The two combined for an incredible 7-9 at the plate with 4 runs and 9 RBI's in the victory.
White Sox players and personnel were upset with the outcome of the game claiming that the Rockies ran up the score. However it was quickly pointed out by a local reporter that perhaps their own team error column helped the Rockies put up the runs that they did first and foremost. “You have to advance when it’s a force so we really had no option”, said third baseman Maningas. “I think the frustration they have is with their own play first – all we can do is play hard and respect the game which I think we’ve done all season long” he added.
The game was highlighted by David Giralico's 6 RBI performance further improving his impressive season totals from an offensive production standpoint. Brother Paul Giralico was not too far off himself, producing 3 crucial RBIs in the 23-4 drubbing. The two combined for an incredible 7-9 at the plate with 4 runs and 9 RBI's in the victory.
White Sox players and personnel were upset with the outcome of the game claiming that the Rockies ran up the score. However it was quickly pointed out by a local reporter that perhaps their own team error column helped the Rockies put up the runs that they did first and foremost. “You have to advance when it’s a force so we really had no option”, said third baseman Maningas. “I think the frustration they have is with their own play first – all we can do is play hard and respect the game which I think we’ve done all season long” he added.
A Cool Half-Dozen for Rockies (June 15)
Dufferin Regional – There’s nothing like a clear blue sky still radiating with sunshine after a hard day’s work to kick start a ball game, especially when it’s a game that sees the Rockies pick up their sixth straight win of the 2011 campaign. These two teams hooked up in the season opener where the Rockies took the first two points in a 15-4 romp - not too dissimilar to last night’s 11-2 drubbing in fact.
The teams’ torrent start and current pace has been a result of a collection of character guys who want to win, more importantly, they know how to win. Not the least of who is Jon Maningas who leads the team with a blistering 15 RBIs and Dan Simone and Matt St. Pierre both with 9. In connection with several clutch pitching performances, this team is poised for the balance of the schedule and appears to be thirsty for playoff ball already.
The teams’ torrent start and current pace has been a result of a collection of character guys who want to win, more importantly, they know how to win. Not the least of who is Jon Maningas who leads the team with a blistering 15 RBIs and Dan Simone and Matt St. Pierre both with 9. In connection with several clutch pitching performances, this team is poised for the balance of the schedule and appears to be thirsty for playoff ball already.
Slow Start Rockies Pull Through In End (June 13)
Westmount – In a game that pitted the undefeated Nationals (3-0) against the undefeated Rockies (4-0) one could have naturally predicted fireworks in this NL supremacy tilt. And why wouldn't there be fireworks when Nats manager, still irate over being cut from Rockies training camp in April, was in the line-up and expected to get plunked by purple starter Dan Sinaguglia.
Sinaguglia you’ll remember was aggressively shoved and yelled at by the Nats manager before a Rockies game against the Red Sox a few weeks back and claims to have a long memory in a not so aged incident. “He was pissed that we cut him when he was told he had a good chance of cracking the roster. When we put this team together we wanted the best guys available and unfortunately for him there were others who came first. It’s no one’s fault, it’s the way we do things around here in Rockies land – a what can you offer to make us better kind of thing? And he just didn’t have what we needed, so we moved on.” Sinaguglia assured reporters.
On the field, the Rockies weren’t at their very best to start the game. After falling down after one inning, the bats couldn’t seem to push across the usual early runs through the first three innings. However, after the Nats went up in the top of the fourth, the Rockies responded soundly in the bottom of with four runs of their own. They moved on to add nine more in the fifth and sixth innings to deliver the decisive blow to the proverbial Nats chin.
Rockies win 15-6 in a game that was much closer than a final score would suggest.
Sinaguglia you’ll remember was aggressively shoved and yelled at by the Nats manager before a Rockies game against the Red Sox a few weeks back and claims to have a long memory in a not so aged incident. “He was pissed that we cut him when he was told he had a good chance of cracking the roster. When we put this team together we wanted the best guys available and unfortunately for him there were others who came first. It’s no one’s fault, it’s the way we do things around here in Rockies land – a what can you offer to make us better kind of thing? And he just didn’t have what we needed, so we moved on.” Sinaguglia assured reporters.
On the field, the Rockies weren’t at their very best to start the game. After falling down after one inning, the bats couldn’t seem to push across the usual early runs through the first three innings. However, after the Nats went up in the top of the fourth, the Rockies responded soundly in the bottom of with four runs of their own. They moved on to add nine more in the fifth and sixth innings to deliver the decisive blow to the proverbial Nats chin.
Rockies win 15-6 in a game that was much closer than a final score would suggest.
No Erosion Shown in Rockies Victory over Champs (June 6)
Bishop’s Cross – In what was once a David versus Goliath match-up, the new-look Rockies shocked the Thornhill baseball world by upsetting last years champs and did so almost intently and with great humility along the way.
Mike Simone was s-p-e-c-t-a-c-u-l-a-r on the mound working a well balanced and very dangerous Yanks line-up all evening long. He had all four pitches working in harmony and was throwing virtually at his own discretion, frustrating the white linens from the very onset of the game. With his fantastic complete game shut-out last night, Mike pitched his best game in over a year and perhaps even the best game of his early career with the club.
“A lot of positives to take from this game tonight (outside of the obvious win over these guys of course) Mike’s performance was sensational. He was unhittable really.” Rockies first baseman Capel spouted during the team’s post game media scrum. He went on to add that if the Rockies are going to be a serious threat in September, Simone’s continued success on the mound will be crucial to that end. “He was a monster for us and he frustrated the hell out of those guys for sure. You could hear them over there getting on each other’s case purely out of frustration.”
Dan Sinaguglia was his usual pestering self on the base paths swiping multiple bags seemingly at will. He was a huge clog in the Yankees game plan and couldn’t be stopped all night long.
Dan Simone shared in the glory with a lead-off double that kick-started a healthy night with the bats for the Rockies. Not to be outdone by his straight steal of home later in the game that really demonstrated his desire to win the game.
The Rockies currently hold the leagues best record at 4-0 and play a very important divisional game versus the Nats on Sunday who are also undefeated at 3-0. While the game last night was indeed a statement game, in terms of the Rockies declaring their intent to challenge for the Championship, next Sunday’s game will take on a whole new set of expectations as the team aims to separate themselves in the tight NL divisional race.
Mike Simone was s-p-e-c-t-a-c-u-l-a-r on the mound working a well balanced and very dangerous Yanks line-up all evening long. He had all four pitches working in harmony and was throwing virtually at his own discretion, frustrating the white linens from the very onset of the game. With his fantastic complete game shut-out last night, Mike pitched his best game in over a year and perhaps even the best game of his early career with the club.
“A lot of positives to take from this game tonight (outside of the obvious win over these guys of course) Mike’s performance was sensational. He was unhittable really.” Rockies first baseman Capel spouted during the team’s post game media scrum. He went on to add that if the Rockies are going to be a serious threat in September, Simone’s continued success on the mound will be crucial to that end. “He was a monster for us and he frustrated the hell out of those guys for sure. You could hear them over there getting on each other’s case purely out of frustration.”
Dan Sinaguglia was his usual pestering self on the base paths swiping multiple bags seemingly at will. He was a huge clog in the Yankees game plan and couldn’t be stopped all night long.
Dan Simone shared in the glory with a lead-off double that kick-started a healthy night with the bats for the Rockies. Not to be outdone by his straight steal of home later in the game that really demonstrated his desire to win the game.
The Rockies currently hold the leagues best record at 4-0 and play a very important divisional game versus the Nats on Sunday who are also undefeated at 3-0. While the game last night was indeed a statement game, in terms of the Rockies declaring their intent to challenge for the Championship, next Sunday’s game will take on a whole new set of expectations as the team aims to separate themselves in the tight NL divisional race.
Rockies Rinse Off Red Sox before Rain Washes Game Completely (May 30)
Bishop’s Cross – For the third game in a row the Rockies pounced on the early lead and didn’t relent. Well, not until lightning roared through the skies and sent everyone home at least.
Dan Simone pitched a marvellous game allowing the Rockies to sit on their heavy run-producing second inning - never to look back after that. Jon Maningas continued his torrent pace with the stick adding two more hits and as many batted in to bring his team-leading totals to 7 and 11 respectively. Matt St. Pierre cashed in two more runs with one stroke of the bat to seal the game for the Rockies before Mother Nature's prying.
Next game June 5th vs. Yankees.
Dan Simone pitched a marvellous game allowing the Rockies to sit on their heavy run-producing second inning - never to look back after that. Jon Maningas continued his torrent pace with the stick adding two more hits and as many batted in to bring his team-leading totals to 7 and 11 respectively. Matt St. Pierre cashed in two more runs with one stroke of the bat to seal the game for the Rockies before Mother Nature's prying.
Next game June 5th vs. Yankees.
Thunder and Lightning in Forecast for Sunday’s Divisional Tilt (May 29)
Weather Network – Sunday should feel like close to 30 degrees according to the popular online weather forecaster, but the skies might suggest a storm is imminent come game time. With the possibility of rain (at 40%) and an expected 5-10mm at that, the Rockies could see their fourth game of the season come to a lightning crashing halt. Yes, lightening is also in the cards for a one Mother Nature and so we leave it in her hands to decide upon the team’s fate Sunday versus the Red Sox.
D. Simone is scheduled to get his first start of the season and will be looking to parlay his enthusiasm into a masterful performance on the mound.
Full weather report:http: //www.theweathernetwork.com/index.php?product=weather&placecode=caon0696#
D. Simone is scheduled to get his first start of the season and will be looking to parlay his enthusiasm into a masterful performance on the mound.
Full weather report:http: //www.theweathernetwork.com/index.php?product=weather&placecode=caon0696#