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"Great White Whale" (A-1 Cleaning) Stops Predators 15-14
 | |  | | Todd, Matt & Barry Battle A-1 Cleaning |
Milford, CT (9/7/2003) In their most anticipated game of the season against First Choice Auto (a.k.a. A-1 Cleaning), the Predators fell just short of defeating their nemesis by a score of 15-14. A-1 has been given the nickname "Great White Whale" because of their uncanny ability to find a way to escape with a victory - even when it appears they have been defeated.
Winning the coin toss, the Predators elected to be the visiting team. "Electing to be visitor was a strategy I took directly from my experiences playing against A-1 Cleaning" said Predator GM Matt Kraynak, "A-1 has historically elected to be visitor as their core strategy. Their rationale is to get opponents on their back heels early in the game. I wanted the Predators to take this "psychological" advantage away from A-1. I wanted the Predators to draw first blood and apply pressure on A-1 - something they were NOT accustomed to."
In the top of the first, the Predators drew the first blood they wanted. After singles by Carl Malinosky and Dave Godzilla Weiss, Matt Kraynak crushed a tape measure shot to dead centerfield for a 2-run triple. Todd Slade then drove Kraynak in on a Sacrifice Fly giving the Predators a 3-0 lead. First Choice Auto (herein described as A-1) got one run back on a leadoff double and a 2-out single making the score 3-1. In the top of the 2nd, the Predators scored 3 times after a leadoff double by Rick Ruiz, an RBI single by Dain Runestad, and a frozen rope RBI double by Bob Paradis. Paradis later scored on a an infield error making it a 6-1 Predator lead. In the bottom of the 2nd, A-1 only managed 1 hit but it was a big one a solo home run to right center cutting the score to 6-2.
In the top of the third, the Predators continued to apply the pressure to A-1. After singles by Dave Weiss and Matt Kraynak, Todd Slade singled to drive in Weiss, followed by a clutch 2-RBI triple by Mike Ranilla. Ranilla scored on a sacrifice fly by Rick Ruiz extending the Predator lead to 10-2. In the bottom of the third, with their backs to the wall, A-1 was showing signs of pressure as several arguments broke out among A-1 players and base coaches. Despite this, A-1 began to crawl back into the game squeezing out 3 runs on 3 hits and an untimely Predator fielding error at 1st base. At the end of three innings, the Predators were holding on to a 10-5 lead. The gap began to close after the Predators stranded 2 runners in a scoreless in the 4th inning while A-1 chipped in another run. In the 5th inning, Todd Slade shocked the bench with a solo Home Run over the left field fence giving the Predators an 11-6 advantage. A-1 answered with a flurry of hard hits, scoring 3 in the bottom of the 5th edging closer to the Predators 11-9.
In the top of the 6th, the Predators reached back deep and pressed hard for insurance runs. With one out, Carl Malinosky doubled and scored on a double by Matt Kraynak. Todd Slade followed with a triple driving in Kraynak. Slade came in to score on another clutch hit a single by Mike Ranilla making it a 14-9 Predator lead. A-1 picked up 2 runs using a single and a home run making it a 14-11 game after 6.
In the 7th inning, the Predators were once again held scoreless. With a 14-11 lead heading to the bottom of the 7th inning, the Predators were just 3 outs away from their 1st trip to the League Championship Game. In the bottom of the 7th, A-1 Cleaning the Great White Whale would not be denied. A-1 executed flawless hitting using 6 batters to end the Predators championship quest. With no one out: A-1 smacked 3 singles followed by a double; another single, and a bomb to deep right center to defeat the Predators 15-14. Game over. Season Over.
Matt Kraynak reflects: "As we took the field in the bottom of the 7th - I stood on the mound and scanned the field - player by player - not thinking of how each player was positioned - but rather "soaking in" the moment - thinking about how hard we had fought today; how hard we had worked all season to earn this opportunity, and personally - how LONG I had waited for a chance to bring our team to the ultimate game. In that moment - I was full of pride - thinking how far our team had come; yet at the same time I was very anxious to break through "to the other side" and write a new chapter with "the boys" in our ongoing quest for a league championship. After Dave Weiss gave me the thumbs up from right center - I knew it was time to roll." Todd Slade said: "We played a good game... probably the best game we played all year. We played well - but they were the better team today. Next year - let's take 'Home' and return the favor!" One thing is for certain...
We'll be back.
 | | Mike Ranilla on 1st and Todd Slade congratulated after solo HR against A-1 |
Predators Ride Off With 9-3 Victory Over Bridgeport Harley
|  | | Bob and Matt demonstrate the winning score over Bridgeport Harley | |
Milford, CT (9/7/2003) At Grove Circle Field, the Predators defeated Bridgeport Harley 9-3 in the first round of the 2003 playoffs. The win represented the Predators 8th victory of the 2003 season - setting a new team record.
Bridgeport Harley proved to be a much tougher foe than anticipated. The black and orange had a very stingy shortstop and third baseman that kept the Predators predominantly right-handed batters in check. The first runs of the game came in the top of the 3rd after Billy Smith Walked, Carl Malinosky singled and Dave "Godzilla" Weiss stroked a Sacrifice Fly. Malinosky later scored after singles by Matt Kraynak and Todd Slade. Bridgeport Harley added one in the bottom half of the inning closing the Predator's led to 2-1. In the 4th inning, the Predators added a run after Barry Kresen reached on an infield hit and scored powered by Bob Paradis and Mike "Cobb" Kraynak singles.
The Predators added to their 3-1 lead in the 5th. After Matt Kraynak singled and Todd Slade reached by fielders choice, Dain Runestad nailed a 2-RBI single up the middle. Runestad would later score on a sacrifice fly by Barry Kresen - extending the Predator lead to 6-1. Bridgeport Harley answered with one run in the bottom of the 5th and 6th innings making the score 6-3 heading to the final frame. The Predators finished off the scoring in the 7th with three more runs. In the 7th, Todd Slade reached on fielders choice, Mike Ranilla singled and Rick Ruiz reached on fielders choice - knocking in Slade. Dain Runestad hit an RBI single scoring Ruiz, and Barry Kresen knocked in Runestad with an RBI single.
The Predators defense held out well, and Matt Kraynak pitched a "walkless" game - raising his season pitching record to 8-1. With the win, the Predators earned the right to advance to the league's final four round - with a match against long-time rival and nemesis First Choice Auto (A-1 Cleaning). The Predators also earned the right to enjoy Nancy Brunetti's awesome Bananna and Pumpkin breads - that helped the Predators energize for their next game.
 | | Team enjoy's Nancy's Awesome "Power'" Breads; Billy's View; Cobb and Bob at 1st |
2003 Playoff Schedule Set
Milford, CT (9/2/2003) The Milford Sunday Night League announced the regular season-end standings and upcoming playoff schedule. As expected, the top three teams were B&J Hyatt, First Choice Auto (A-1) and the Predators. Due to late finish of the regular season, the playoffs format is short and sweet: Win and move on, or lose and go home. The 3rd place Predators are slated for a matinee encounter against the 6th place Bridgeport Harley club. The game shall be played at 3pm on Sunday September 7th at Grove Circle. The winner of that game goes on to play the winner of "First Choice Auto/A-1" vs. "Nothing In the Tank" for an opportunity to advance.
 | | The 2003 Playoffs Commence September 7, 2003 |
Predators Blast "Eye On Creation" 28-12
|  | | Lots Of Carl Malinosky Fans Came Out Today! | |
Milford, CT (8/24/2003) The Milford Predators capped off their extremely successful 2003 regular season with a 28-12 destruction of "Eye On Creation" at Grove Circle Field. With the win, the Predators finished their 2003 regular season with a record of 7-3, and look forward to the league playoffs that start the first week of September.
Today's game featured some new team and individual records. In just 6 innings, the Predators sent a record 59 batters to the plate, banging out 31 hits, and reaching base an additional 9 times on errors. Todd Slade set a franchise record for runs in a single game, scoring 5 times. Carl Malinosky and Matt Kraynak each scored 4 times apiece as well. In fact, the first 5 batters in the Predator lineup scored a total of 19 runs in 29 plate appearances. Carl Malinosky went 5 for 6 today, setting a Predator franchise record for hitting, finishing the season with a blistering .750 batting average. Carl also had a .769 On Base Percentage and a 1.111 Slugging Percentage in the 2003 regular season. Close on Carl's heels was Dave "Godzilla" Weiss, who also went 5 for 6 today - hitting for the cycle, scoring 3 times while driving in 6. Dave finished the regular season batting .727, with an On Base Percentage of .750 and a team-leading Slugging Percentage of 1.364. Although not a record, it was notable that Dave Weiss and Matt Kraynak each smacked home runs today, ending the regular season in a tie at 3 home runs apiece. The Predators took advantage of Eye On Creation by being aggressive on the basepaths, taking extra bases and "tagging up" even when the ball was in the infield. Overall, the team showed a very nice balance having steady contributions up and down the batting order while maintaining control of the playing field.
With the win, the Predators finished the regular season winning 7 of their last 8, and appear to be peaking at just the right time.
Predators Bounce Bulldogs 13-3 In 5 innings
| |  | | Rick Ruiz & Carl Malinosky 8/3/2003 |
Milford, CT (8/03/2003) At an overcast Platt Field on "20th Anniversary Paper (or Plastic) Bag Day" the Predators took care of business, beating the Bulldogs 13-3 in 5 innings. The Predators exhibited excellent patience at the plate, drawing 6 walks while cracking 14 hits. The Predators also demonstrated supurb defense, cutting off runners at the plate twice in the game.
The game started off as a pitchers dual, with neither team able to score for the first two innings. In the top of the 3rd, the Predators started a nice rally. After Bill Smith walked, Carl Malinosky singled, and Matt Kraynak walked to load the bases, Mike Ranilla singled to drive in Smith and Malinosky. Rick Ruiz later followed with a clutch 2 out single to drive in Kraynak and Ranilla giving the Predators a 4-0 lead. The Bulldogs followed this with a brief rally of their own when their number three batter Danny crushed a 3-run home run to Left Centerfield. The Bulldogs next batter Billy also crushed a ball to deep left center but was snuffed out at the plate on a perfect relay executed from outfield to home by Todd Slade, Carl Malinosky and Dain Runestad.
The Predators went after the Bulldogs again in the 4th inning to open up the game. After Bill Smith and Carl Malinosky singled, Dave "Godzilla" Weiss doubled to drive in Smith and Malinosky. Matt Kraynak followed with a single to drive in Weiss. Mike Ranilla followed with a single placing Kraynak in scoring position. Todd Slade promptly knocked in Kraynak to score on a single to right field extending the Predator lead 8-3.
At this point in the game, the Bulldogs were visibly down and out. The Predators however were not done. In the top of the 5th, after Barry Kresen singled and Dain Runestad walked, Bob Paradise drove a triple to leftcenter scoring Kresen and Runestad. Paradise would later score after Bill Smith grounded to 2nd base. Later, Carl Malinosky singled, and both Dave Weiss and Matt Kraynak drew walks. Todd Slade followed by driving in his 2nd and 3rd RBI's of the game on a single, making it a 13-3 game. With the Bulldogs unable to score in the bottom of the 5th, the game was over.
With the win the Predators advanced their 2003 season record to 6-3 with one game remaining before the playoffs.
 | | Kresen at Plate; Paradis Triple; Runestad & Malinosky 8/3/2003 |
Predators Defeat Eye On Creation 8-7
| |  | | Barry and Zach Kresen consult with Uncle "Cobb" after win |
Milford, CT (7/27/2003) Under the overcast skies at Platt Field, the Predators went to battle with "Eye On Creation" in what turned out to be a very close contest. This day was also "Todd Slade Beer Stein Night" with a special bonus giveaway: Predator-colored fly swatters!
The Predators opened up the 1st inning with a couple of runs after Bill Smith reached on an error, Carl Malinosky singled, and Matt Kraynak drove in Smith with an RBI single. Malinosky came into score after Todd Slade reached base on an error by the EOC shortstop. In the bottom of the first, Eye on Creation capitalized on a Predator error with 3 hits to make it a 3-2 EOC lead. In the top of the 2nd, the Predators got another run after Dain Runestad singled and came in to score on a triple by Dave "Godzilla" Weiss. EOC answered with runs in the 2nd and 3rd inning stretching their lead to 5-3 after 4 innings.
The Predators woke up in the 5th inning, scoring 4 runs after Mike Kraynak singled, Dave Weiss singled, Rick Ruiz singled to drive in Kraynak, Billy Smith tripled to drive in Weiss and Ruiz, and Carl Malinosky singled to drive in Smith. The next scoring occurred in the 6th inning when local favorite Mike Ranilla tripled and scored via a sacfifice fly by Bob Paradis.
With a slim 8-6 lead heading to the bottom of the 7th - the Predators fought off a rally by Eye On Creation eventually winning the game 8-7. Eye On Creation stranded the potential tying and winning runs on 2nd and 3rd base.
Other game notes: Mike "Cobb" Kraynak arrived to the field without his cleats, and had to race home to retrieve them. He had to be pulled from the starting lineup and inserted later as EH. Dave "Godzilla" Weiss made his triumphant return after missing 3 straight games due to situations beyond his control. Freddy Bialka made his final regular season appearance for the Predators before he heads off on a tour to promote his latest book titled "One Swing Fits All". Predators veteran 2nd baseman Mike "Juice" Krajewski was sighted in the stands of this afternoon's game in street clothes. Mike maintains a .750 batting average and on base percentage in the 2003 season.
 | | Krajewski in the stands; Todd Slade Beer Stein & Swatter; Ranilla after Triple |
Predators Harpoon Shark Bites 23-4 in 5 Innings
|  | | Bob, Carl and Todd on "Bob Paradis Bandana and Keychain Giveaway Day" | |
Milford, CT (7/20/2003) In the 2nd game of today's doubleheader, the Predators took their aggressions out on the unsuspecting Shark Bites by destroying them 23-4 in just 5 innings of work. The Shark Bites never even knew what hit them.
In the 1st, the Predators drew first blood (as Predators should) on a single by Bill Smith and a Home Run by "King" Carl Malinosky. After the Shark Bites scored 3 in the bottom of the 1st, the 2nd inning went by with no scoring. In the top of the 3rd Shark Bites took a 4-2 lead. This would not stand - no way - no how. The Predators squeezed one more run in the 3rd after Billy Smith singled and scored on a base hit by Todd Slade making it a 4-3 game. In the 4th inning, the Predators dug their talons in - exploding for 9 runs on a mix of walks and excellent hitting. Bill "The Hammer" Holsworth doubled and scored; Mike "Cobb" Kraynak reached on an infield hit and scored; Barry Kresen, Carl Malinosky, Matt Kraynak and Todd Slade each walked and scored. Rick Ruiz, singled and scored; Bill Smith reached on an error and scored; hot hitting Mike Ranilla smacked a 3-run triple and scored, and Bob Paradis belted an RBI single to cap off the scoring - for the moment.
With a commanding 12-4 lead heading into the 5th, the Predators toyed with the Shark Bite some more - this time bringing 16 players to the plate and erupting for 11 more runs. In the 5th inning, Dain Runestad, Freddy Bialka, Rick Ruiz, and Mike Ranilla each singled and scored. Bill Smith reached on error and scored. Barry Kresen walked and scored; Bill Holsworth, Carl Malinosky and Todd Slade each doubled and scored; and for the second time this season, Matt Kraynak and Bob Paradis each crushed 3-run home runs in the same inning.
After the game, the team admired their new toys as part of the "Bob Paradis Bandana and Keychain Giveaway". The team also shared cupcakes to celebrate "King" Carl Malinosky's birthday - and spent some quality time together washing it all down with plenty of beer later that evening.
Predators Lose Sloppy Game to Pro Drywall 11-10
| |  | | Mike "Cobb" Kraynak and His Chain a.k.a."Rosary" Look On in Loss To Pro Drywall |
Milford, CT (7/20/2003) The Predators came into the 1st game of today's doubleheader riding a 3 game winning streak that included a sound beating of Pro Drywall last Sunday. Today the Predators let one get away on a scattered collection of fielding errors, baserunning mistakes and some impatience at the plate.
In the 1st inning Pro Drywall jumped out to a 4-0 lead after they threaded a few base hits between Predator fielding errors. In the bottom of the 1st - Rick Ruiz led off with a single but was caught off the bag after a fly ball to left field by Bill Smith. Carl Malinosky doubled but was left stranded after Matt Kraynak flew out against the "short" left field fence. After Pro Drywall picked up a run in the top of the 2nd, the Predators answered with a run of their own after Mike Ranilla singled and later scored on a single by Dain Runestad. ProDrywall picked up another run in the 4th to which the Predators answered with an 8-hit 4th inning. Barry Kresen, Rick Ruiz, Bill Smith, and Matt Kraynak each singled and scored; Todd Slade doubled with an RBI, and Carl Malinosky hit a triple with 2 RBI's. Mike Ranilla and Freddy Bialka each singled with an RBI in the same frame.
Into the bottom of the 5th, Pro Drywall carried an 11-6 lead. In the bottom of the 5th, the Predators scrapped for 1 run on a single by Bill Smith and an RBI Triple by Matt Kraynak. The Predators added 2 more in the 6th after a single by Todd Slade and a 2-run Home Run by Bill "The Hammer" Holsworth making it an 11-9 game. In the bottom of the 7th with 2 outs, the Predators started a rally that ended short. Rick Ruiz reached on an error and scored - after which Billy Smith singled and Carl Malinosky doubled - placing the tying and winning runs on 2nd and 3rd. With a chance to win the game, Matt Kraynak received a good pitch however popped out to end the game. It was a disappointing loss for the team, but a game that was full of lessons to be taken to future games.
Predators Take Out Pro Drywall 9-3
| |  | | Matt updates the team on latest schedule changes after 9-3 win at Foote Field |
Milford, CT (7/13/2003) In a rare regular season appearance at Foote Field, the Predators extended their current winning streak to 3 games with a 9-3 win over Pro Drywall. A small yet enthusiastic crowd cheered on the mighty Predators to another relatively easy win.
Pro Drywall took an early 1-0 lead in the top of the 1st on a pair of walks, an error, and a fielders choice play. In the bottom of the 1st with two outs, the Predators tied things up. After Carl Malinosky reached on an error, Matt Kraynak ripped a Triple to Left Field. Pro Drywall took a 2-1 lead to the bottom of the 2nd, and once again the Predators responded. Todd Slade led off with a single and later scored when Barry Kresen hit into a Fielders Choice. Bill Holsworth reached on an error and later scored on an RBI single by Mike "Cobb" Kraynak, giving the Predators a 3-2 lead.
After Pro Drywall was held scoreless for their next 2 innings, the Predators blew the game wide open scoring 6 in the bottom of the 4th. In a true "team inning" - Mike Ranilla, Todd Slade, Dain Runestad, Barry Kresen and Mike Kraynak each singled and scored. Bill Holsworth reached on an error and scored - and Bill Smith reached by fielders choice and scored. The 6 RBI's in the 4th inning were courtesy of Dain Runestad, Barry Kresen, Mike Kraynak, Bill Smith, Carl Malinosky and Matt Kraynak. Pro Drywall was able to squeeze out one more run in the 5th inning, but that would be all as the Predators upped their season record to 3-2. The Predators are slated to meet Pro Drywall one more time in the regular season before the playoffs commence in late August.
Predators Rip "Nothing In The Tank" 20-6
|  | | Freddy summarizes our game with a gesture. | |
Milford, CT (6/29/2003) At Grove Circle Field, the Predators needed only 5 innings to flex their muscles and defeat Nothing In the Tank by a score of 20-6. Ironically, the game was not as close as the final score might otherwise imply.
The Predators returned to their preferred traditional form - opening up a huge lead early on. In the top of the 1st, after leadoff walks by Rick Ruiz and Todd Slade, the Predators ripped 7 consecutive hits when Matt Kraynak and Bob Paradis singled, Dave Weiss doubled, Freddy Bialka, Billy Smith, Mike Ranilla and Barry Kresen singled. Mike Cobb Kraynak pushed across the last run of the Predator 1st when he reached on an error. When the dust had settled, the Predators were up 7 runs before NIT had even stepped to the plate. In the bottom of the first, Nothing In The Tank squeezed one unearned run across after their leadoff batter reached base on a throwing error and later scored on a sacrifice fly.
In the top of the 2nd, after Carl Malinosky singled, Matt Kraynak, Dave Weiss and Fred Bialka drew walks to force in a run - Billy Smith hammered a 2 run single to right giving the Predators a commanding 10-1 lead. Just before the top of the 4th inning, the Pitcher and Manager for Nothing In The Tank were warned about throwing fast flat pitches, and that their pitcher would be ejected from the game if he did not soften his pitches. The warning to the pitcher did not help.
In the top of the 4th, the Predators went for the kill. Carl Malinosky led off the inning with an accidental solo home run. Matt Kraynak, Dave Weiss, each followed with a single. The NIT pitcher subsequently issued back-to-back-to-back walks for Billy Smith, Mike Ranilla and Barry Kresen. Mike Cobb Kraynak forced 2 more runs across when he reached on an error. The inning finished with additional walks issued to Rick Ruiz, and Todd Slade, and a bases clearing double by Carl Malinosky making it a 19-1 Predator lead. In the bottom of the 4th, after back to back singles, the NIT cleanup hitter crushed a 3-run home run to make it 19-4. The Predators answered with their final run in the top of the 5th after Dave Weiss doubled, Freddy Bialka singled and Billy Smith hit into a Fielders Choice play. NIT would score 2 more in the bottom of the 5th, but still came up well short of sustaining the game.
In addition to their 16 hits this afternoon, the Predators managed to draw 10 walks. By contrast, Nothing In The Tank had a total of 9 hits and drew 0 walks. With the win, the Predators raised their season record to 2-2.
Predators Take Bridgeport Harley For Ride 6-2
| |  | | Todd, Carl, Bob and Cobb shake hands in 6-2 victory |
Milford, CT (06/15/2003) The Milford Predators got into the winning column today with a 6-2 win over Bridgeport Harley. The Predators were led by Dave "Godzilla" Weiss - who went 2 for 3 with a single and a 2 run home run. Matt Kraynak - who was penciled in late to pitch for the missing Billy Smith - scattered just 5 hits over 7 innings in what turned out to be a "game of attrition".
The Predators took a 1-0 lead in the first after Todd Slade tripled to left field and came in to score when Carl Malinosky reached on an error. That lead held until Bridgeport Harley tied things at 1 in the bottom of the 3rd. In the top of the 4th, Carl Malinosky and Matt Kraynak led off with back to back singles - and later scored on an error and a fielders choice play making it a 3-1 game. In the top of the 5th the Predators added a run after Mike Ranilla walked and later scored on a Sacrifice Fly courtesy of Todd Slade. Bridgeport Harley squeezed one more run in the bottom of the 5th making it a 4-2 game. In the 6th inning, after Freddy Bialka singled, Dave "Godzilla" Weiss delivered the "death blow" - crushing a 2 run home run in the right centerfield gap making it 6-2.
In the bottom of the seventh, Brideport Harley started a rally - only to have it quickly snuffed out. After the number 2 and 3 hitters led off with back to back singles - the number 4 batter came to the plate and squatted "like a midget" in a rather weak attempt to draw a walk. The strategy promptly backfired as Matt Kraynak threw a perfect pitch to strike out the batter looking. The last batter subsequently singled to left leading to a "nifty" 7-6-2-6 double play (catching both lead runners in a rundown) ending the game in a most unusual way.
 | | Dave "Godzilla" Weiss Batting; Todd Slade Running; Matt Kraynak Pitching |
Predator 9 Battle But Fall to Former A-1 Foe
Milford, CT (5/18/2003) With a significant core of their team missing 9 Predators set up shop at Platt Field to battle a new team in the league called First Choice Auto. By game time the Predators learned that First Choice Auto was in fact longtime nemesis A-1 Cleaning under their partial sponsor name. The Great White Whale snuck up under our ship! exclaimed Predator GM Matt Kraynak.
Missing several key players including Todd Slade, Dave Weiss, Dain Runestad, Rick Ruiz and Mike Cobb Kraynak the team was faced with having to go with 3 outfielders. In the lineup and slightly out of position were Bill Holsworth at catcher, Matt Kraynak at Pitcher, Bob Paradis at 3rd base, and Billy Smith in Centerfield. Mike Krajewski played 2nd base while Mike Ranilla and Barry Kresen covered left and Right Fields respectively.
After First Choice Auto (A-1) jumped out with 3 runs in the top of the 1st, the Predators got 1 back in the bottom of the inning on a leadoff walk by Billy Smith and a sacrifice fly by Matt Kraynak. A-1 picked up 3 more runs in the top of the 2nd to which the Predators did not answer. In the 3rd inning A-1 scrapped for another run while the Predators picked up 3 more runs on singles by Carl Malinosky and Bob Paradis; and RBI singles by Bill Holsworth, Mike Ranilla and Mike Juice Krajewski making it a 7-4 game after three. A-1 picked up 2 runs in each of the 4th, 5th and 6th innings making it 13-4. In the bottom of the 6th the Predators pushed their last run across on a walk by Carl Malinosky and an RBI Triple by Matt Kraynak. First Choice Auto (A-1) went on to win 15-5.
Although disappointed with the loss, the Predators actually felt pretty good about how well they faired with just 9 players. We played pretty well out there (in the field). We left a pile of guys on base but otherwise we held out well against a pretty solid team said Billy Smith. Smith - who filled in the leadoff spot for Rick Ruiz - walked 3 times and kept the bench upbeat throughout the game. The outfield had their hands full but overcame and our make-shift infield wasnt too shabby either. said Matt Kraynak. We will get our share of wins this year it just a matter of time.
Dave "Godzilla" Weiss Gets Protection
Milford, CT (5/9/2003) In a move to preserve his investment, Predators Overlord Dave Guernsey has ordered protection be arranged for outfielder Dave Godzilla Weiss subsequent to his marriage this weekend. Predator GM Matt Kraynak announced the specifics of the arrangement this morning in his weekly radio address. In order to protect Dave Weiss from any possible harm while on his honeymoon, we have allocated 2 teammates (Todd Slade and Dain Runestad) to act as Daves personal bodyguards. Furthermore, we have commissioned former Predator Mike Prentice to represent the Predators as Chief Anesthesiologist. Mike is under strict orders to ensure that Dave, Todd and Dain will not feel any pain while away from the playing field. I am confident that Mr. Prentice is up to the task, and that he will make us all proud. Weiss, Slade and Runestad are not expected back in time for the Predators 2nd game of the season versus First Choice Auto.
Predators Drop Opener at Grove Circle 15-13
|  | | The "Short Porch" at Grove Circle on Opening Day | |
Milford, CT (5/4/2003) The Predators dropped their 20th Season Opening Day game to B&J Hyatt at Grove Circle 15-13. The game started well for the Predators who scored 9 times in the top of the 1st inning. After Rick Ruiz and Carl Malinosky singled, Matt Kraynak launched a 3 run homer over the Left Centerfield fence making it 3-0. After Fred Bialka and Dave "Godzilla" Weiss singled, Bob Paradis ripped a 3-run homer over the Left Field fence making it 6-0. The Predators scored 3 more times in the first with singles by Dain Runestad, Mike Ranilla, Barry Kresen and Rick Ruiz completing the 9 run outburst. B&J Hyatt would not be denied - sending 9 batters to the plate in the bottom of the 1st scoring 4 times. In the 2nd - B&J exploded for 5 runs tying the game at 9 apiece. In the 3rd with 2 outs - B&J took a lead they would not relinquish on a Grand Slam Home Run by their #2 Hitter named Matt (his 2nd HR of the game). The Predators only scratched for a few more runs (2 in the 4th and 6th) but were unable to close the gap.
"We let this one get away big-time" said Matt Kraynak - "We gave them lots of second chances both defensively and offensively. This game is a great example why we must learn to go for the kill - put the other team away as soon as possible."
Dave "Godzilla" Weiss and Bill "The Hammer" Holsworth made their regular season debut with the Predators - going 2 for 4 and 1 for 3 respectively.
1st Practice: Sunday April 13th
Milford, CT (4/10/2003) The Milford Predators commence begin their 20th season "spring training" with a practice on Sunday April 13th - 5:30pm at Foote Field in Milford. If the field is too wet to practice - the team will move on to the nearby batting cages. Later on the team shall do some light lifting of beer mugs....
Final Pre-Season Practice Scheduled
| |  | | Juice, Carl, Todd and Mike at Predators practice April 13, 2003 |
Milford, CT (04/17/2003) The Predators final pre-season practice has been scheduled for April 27th, 4:00pm at Platt Tech Field. At that time - any players who have not yet signed the roster must do so or face exclusion from participating in the beginning of the season.
Last week's split-squad practice with remnants of Nothing In The Tank was a good "warm up". The next practice is expected to be much more work intensive. The first 30 minutes shall be dedicated to a split Infield/Outfield practice, followed by a small amount of batting practice and finally Outfield to Infield relays.
Farewell, Mr. Lanci
Milford, CT (3/19/2003) Today we bid farewell to our former boss, good friend and a patriarch of our softball team. Pat Lanci passed away this past Saturday at the age of 74. Pat was a mentor and role model to many of us who had the privilege of working with him. Matt Kraynak recalls: Mr. Lanci demonstrated what a strong work ethic is all about. Pat was passionate about what he did, and applied himself to the fullest. Pats example was a positive influence on me a 16 year old just learning how to make a living. Others recalled, One moment you might find Pat working the crowd by the Courtesy Booth and then in another moment he would be setting up a front end display or repairing a U-boat. Mike Krajewski recalls: I remember when I dropped a key down a cash register conveyor belt first thing in the morning. Upon arrival, Mr. Lanci rolled up his sleeves took apart the conveyor belt, and retrieved the key. There was nothing too great or too small for Pat to do.
Pat was the Shop-Rite team pitcher for our first game in 1984, and our emotional first win in 1985. Matt Kraynak reflects: The most vivid memory I have of Pat on the field was just after winning our first game in the Milford Sunday Night League. Mr. Lanci was beaming. In my mind I can still see and hear exactly what Pat said at the end of the game. He exclaimed: Hooray for us!!
Good for us!!
Pat was good for us. He will be sorely missed.
Changes Announced at 4th Annual Winter Meeting
|  | | Mike Krajewski observes the coveted "Dumont Piece" at 2003 Winter Meeting | |
Milford, CT (02/16/2003) The Predators held their 4th Annual Winter meeting at Mama Teresas Restaurant to discuss plans for the team's 20th season. Among the attendees were King Carl Malinosky, Barry and Zach Kresen, Bob, Paula and Michele Paradise, Mike Juice Krajewski, Todd Slade, Nancy Brunetti, Dave Godzilla Weiss, Tracy Dobson, Predator Player/G.M. Matt Kraynak and Team Sponsor Dave Guernsey of Starship DJs.
Personnel changes were announced. It was discussed that Dave Godzilla Weiss and Bill The Hammer Holsworth have joined the team, and that Pete Gomis would not be playing this season. Ken Jasmin has been moved to the Injured-Reserve list and veteran player Chuck Schroeder has been included on the teams On Call list. The Predators continue to work behind the scenes on other personnel options through Predators Assistant G.M. Todd Slade.
The team plans to commence practices sometime in the beginning of April. If field conditions permit practices shall take place outdoors in Milford. If the fields are too wet then hitting practice at an indoor facility in Seymour or Cheshire will be pursued.
As was done for the 2002 season, the Predators will focus most of their efforts on batting mechanics. The team will videotape hitting practice for a View, Critique and Drink session at GM Kraynaks house at the end of April or in early May.
Defensively, the team plans to platoon players at the positions of Pitcher, Catcher, First Base, Second Base and Right Field throughout the 2003 season. With Ken Jasmin out indefinitely with a shoulder injury Bob Paradise will assume the primary backup role Shortstop and 3rd base. The positions of Second Base and First base will receive heavy attention during the teams April defensive practices. In a surprise move, the team has decided to engage a three-person panel consisting of Nancy Brunetti, Tracy Dobson and a person to be named later to judge the performance of all players working out at key defensive positions.
This years Dumont Piece originally pointed to veteran player Mike Juice Krajewski but was awarded to Dave Godzilla Weiss as part of his initiation into the club. In a strange ending to the evening, the team's request for more beer was denied by restaurant management.
Starship DJ's Renew Sponsorship for 2003 Season
Milford, CT (1/17/2003)- The Predators are pleased to announce that Starship DJ's of Milford have renewed their sponsorship of the team through the 2003 season. The Predators are grateful for this support - and thank Starship DJ's for this vote of confidence.
Since the early 1980's, Starship DJ's have provided Disc Jockey services throughout Southern Connecticut at Weddings, School Dances, Keg Parties, Family Reunions and more. Starship DJ's have maintained a strong reputation for understanding the customer and delivering all services with professionalism and fun. Visit starshipdjs.com for more information.
Dave "Godzilla" Weiss Joins Predators
| |  | | Dave "Godzilla" Weiss Press Conference Highlights |
Milford, CT (1/30/2003) The Milford Predators held a press conference today to introduce and welcome veteran outfielder Dave Godzilla Weiss to the team. Dave joins the team after several years with the Predators southern developmental squad, the Chattanooga Moonshiners. At Chattanooga during the 2002 season, Weiss batted .400 with a .556 on base percentage and one home run (off the centerfield haystack) in 54 plate appearances. Last season, Weiss was called up during the playoffs and played well in place of the vacationing Mike Ranilla.
Weiss is no stranger to the Milford Sunday Night League. In the late 1980s, Dave played for Predator archrival Scribners Restaurant. After a falling out with Scribners, Dave moved to Japan where he redeveloped his skills as an outfielder for a minor league baseball team. While in Japan, Weiss was given the nickname Godzilla by his teammates, although to this day Dave is not certain why they did this.
Present at the press conference was Predator General Manager Matt Kraynak, Predator players Barry Kresen and Dain Runestad, as well as Peggy Jacobsen the President of the Predator Fan Club - who waited over 4 hours in the cold to get an autograph from the Predators new outfielder. Aging Predator shortstop King Carl Malinosky was a no-show for this very important event in team history.
In addition to the news about Godzilla Weiss, GM Kraynak announced that journeyman utility player Bill The Hammer Holsworth would also join the team in 2003 - in a role to be disclosed later. A press conference for Mr. Holsworth will be held once a shirt large enough for him is found, and Bill returns from his epic 6-week tour of the Scandinavian countries.
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