Milford Predators Softball: 2007 Season
Predator GM's Office Open: Tentative Winter Meeting Date Set
Milford, CT (1/15/2007) Predator GM Matt Kraynak reports that his office is now open for business and is already busy setting up the Predators 2007 campaign. A tentative Winter Meeting date of Sunday February 18th has been set. Confirmation and follow up notices will be sent shortly.
The GM's office is currently crunching team statistics through season end 2006, and is undergoing an extensive position by position assessment of the team roster. Having a majority of the veteran team in the "forty something" age range - the Predators are pursuing the infusion of younger players as part of their "youth movement" strategy. The GM is also pursuing a veteran outfielder with a "big bat" to generate an extra spark in the lineup that has been lacking in the Predators most recent playoff runs. Additional updates will follow regularly in the coming weeks.
Friday, January 19
Catherine Zeta-Juice Sighting Excites Predator Fans
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| A Zeta-Juice Sighting in Milford... | |
The Predator Press continues to aggressively investigate whether other photos of "Zeta-Juice" may exist.
Friday, February 16
8th Annual Winter Meeting Set - Sunday February 18th - 4:30pm
Milford, CT (2/13/2007) The Predators will hold their 8th Annual Winter Meeting on Sunday February 18th at 4:30pm. Contact GM Matt Kraynak for further details.
The anticipated agenda will include 2007 Personnel Changes; making fun of King Carl Malinosky; Training Plans; making fun of King Carl Malinosky; Statistical Analysis results; making fun of King Carl Malinosky; Hall of Fame Voting, and a spirited discussion of which beer is better to drink.
Tuesday, April 3
First Practice 2007
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| Barry Kresen Appeals To His Fans 4/1/2007 | |
A sampling of the Predator’s core team participated in this afternoon’s practice. As has been the case in recent years – “King Carl” Malinosky was - once again - a no show. For the second straight year - Matt Kraynak was mildly injured while pitching when he was struck with a ball off the bat of Mike Ranilla. Bob Paradis contributed to the practice by cracking one of his favorite bats. Barry Kresen practiced in full uniform – sporting his “strikeout king” cap. Rick Ruiz was optimistic about the season – and looked good at the plate by stroking some strong hits to left field.
As of this practice – we have not heard back from our most recent team sponsor. If we do not hear back soon – we will be forced to pursue an alternate means of funding for the 2007 season. Matt will notify all players by email in the coming days.
With respect to the Predators 2007 roster and management team - some changes are anticipated - however are not yet ready to be revealed. This delay has spawned some wild speculation regarding the potential changes. For example - there may be a surprise twist to the Predators 2007 strategic plan. Specifically - the "youth movement" of 2007 may NOT materialize. Instead - there may be a resurgance of veteran blood coming back into the fold.
Included in the geriatrical rumors is a thought that future Predator Hall Of Famer Mike "Juice" Krajewski may make an appearance with the Predators in 2007. Additional discussion has been swirling about the potential return of Bill Smith from his year-long sabbatical with the Predators San Juan affiliate. There are other rumors indicating the Mike "Cobb" Kraynak will be rejoining the Predator coaching staff as the team's first "attitude" coach. Updates are expected by the end of April.
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| Rick, Bob and Mike at the Predators 1st Practice 4/1/2007 |
Sunday, April 29
April 22nd Practice Reveals Encouraging Results
Milford, CT (4/22/2007) The Milford Predators took to Foote Field for another 2007 pre-season workout. Most of the Predator "regulars" participated - however there were a couple of "no shows" as well. Regardless - the good news was that our hitting looked exceptionally good for this early stage of Spring. Everyone seemed to make very solid contact and spayed the ball hard to many places across the field. Event after being taunted by "King Carl" Malinosky - Matt Kraynak sent several balls over the Foote Field fence and into a wooded area - with a regular single wall bat.
The team looks forward to one final pre-season practice scheduled for April 29th - 6pm at Platt Tech before the "real deal" on May 6th.
Sunday, May 6
Opening Day 2007: Predators Pound Park Lane Deli 24-6 in 5 Innings
Milford, CT (5/6/2007) The Predators opened their 2007 season with a HUGE win over Park Lane Deli - pounding them by a score of 24-6 in just 5 innings at West Shore Field. It was the Predators first win at West Shore Field since the 1990's, and was the Predators largest margin of victory in recent memory.
This afternoon the Predators cobbled a team without loyal veterans Bob Paradis, Carl Malinosky and Dave Weiss. Despite missing these players - the Predators pulled off the convincing win with relative ease. Among the oddities forced by missing key players involved the defensive configuration - where Dain Runestad was moved to shortstop, and Matt Kraynak ended up playing second base for only the second time in his 24 seasons on the team.
In the first inning - Park Lane Deli jumped out to a 2-0 lead. In the bottom of the first - the Predators answered right back. Rick Ruiz singled and scored on an RBI single by Glen Mulhrenden. After Kevin McTigue reached by Fielders Choice and Fred Bialka walked - Matt Kraynak crushed a bomb to deep left center for a three-run Home Run - giving the Predators a 4-2 lead. In the top of the second - Park Lane Deli put up three runs to take the lead for what would be their second and final time. The Predators struck hard in the bottom of the second - scoring 14 times before it was over to take a commanding 18-5 lead. Among the scoring highlights in the second inning included two 3-run home runs struck by Todd Slade and Fred Bialka.
After a scoreless third inning - Park Lane Deli managed to squeek one run in on an error. In the bottom of the fourth - The Predators stormed forward with an additional six runs. Rick Ruiz led off the inning with a doubled and scored on a single by Glen Mulhrenden. Todd Slade singled and came into score on a single by Kevin McTigue. Glen Mulhrenden came home on a Sacrifice Fly by Fred Bialka. Kevin McTigue came into score on a Double by Matt Kraynak. After Dain Runestad singled, Kraynak scored on a single by Mike Ranilla. Runestad later scored on a Sacrifice Fly by Barry Kresen to make the game 24-6. The Predators shut down Park Lane Deli in the top of the 5th to seal the win.
Rick Ruiz had a solid day fielding at third base, as well at the plate going 3 for 5 including two singles and a double. Rick also scored 4 times. Kevin McTigue went 3 for 4 and scored 4 times as well. Everyone in the Predator lineup scored this afternoon - and most amazingly - the top 5 Predator batters scored 17 times out of 21 total plate appearances. Fred Bialka drove in 5 and Matt Kraynak drove in 4 in this afternoon's scoring fest. The Predators start the season off on the right foot - raising their record to 1-0.
Wednesday, May 9
REVISED SEASON SCHEDULE AS OF MAY 9, 2007
Milford, CT (5/9/2007) A revised schedule for the Milford Sunday Night League has been issued. The new schedule was necessary as a record 17th team joined the league. The Predators will still play a 12 Game Regular Season - however the season will now run through August 19th and the Predators will have the weekend of August 5 OFF. The revised schedule is being provided via email - and is also viewable in both the "Calendar" and "Schedules" pages of this web site.
Sunday, May 20
Predators Overcome 6-run Deficit to Sink Gippers 12-8
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| Todd Slade and the triumphant Predators after taking out Gippers at Foote Field |
This afternoon's matchup for the Predators did not start off very well - as Gippers opened up a 6-0 lead in the top of the first inning. The Gippers leadoff batter belted a shot to the left field fence and hoofed out an in-the-park home run. (There was a play at the plate however the throw was a little high and wide). Gippers added 5 more runs on six singles and a walk. In the bottom of the first, the Predators manufactured 4 runs of their own. With one out - Gipper's issued 4 consecutive walks to Todd, Carl, Fred and Bob - forcing home a run. Gippers then switched their pitcher to face Matt Kraynak. Kraynak promptly lined a single to left driving in 2 runs making it a 6-3 game. Dave Weiss followed with an RBI single cutting the Gippers lead to 6-4. After shutting down Gippers in the top of the 2nd - the Predators added another run. Barry Kresen reached on an error and scored on a double by Todd Slade making it a 6-5 game after 2.
In the third inning, after Gippers went down in order - Matt Kraynak crushed a solo home run over the fence in leftcenter - tying the game at 6-6. The next scoring came in the 5th inning when Gippers retook the lead 7-6 an a couple of scrappy hits. In the bottom of the 5th - Matt Kraynak led off with another home run blast to left center - tying the game for a second time at 7-7. The Predators followed by added two more runs - taking the lead for good. Mike Ranilla walked, Dain Runestad singled, and Barry Kresen reached on fielders choice to set up the next scoring opportunity. Rick Ruiz knocked an RBI single, as did Todd Slade making it a 9-7 Predator lead after 5 innings.
Gippers managed to squeeze another run in the 6th - which was answered by three Predator runs in the bottom half of the inning. Carl Malinosky, Fred Bialka and Bob Paradis hit back-to-back singles to open the Predators sixth - loading the bases for Matt Kraynak. With the Gippers outfield playing very deep - Kraynak hit a high but shallow fly the dropped in front of the outfielders. On the play - Malinosky scored but Bialka was forced out at third. (Kraynak was given an FC and awarded an RBI by the official scorer.) After Dave Weiss walked - Mike Ranilla reached on error pushing in a run. Dain Runestad pushed across the final Predator run across on a fielder's choice play. With that - the Predators claimed their 2nd win of the 2007 season by a score of 12-8 - and a terrific shot in the arm heading into the 2007 Memorial Day weekend break.
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| The Predators May 20th 2007 in their victory over Gippers 12-8 |
Sunday, June 3
Predators Lose Tight One to The Pros 18-17
Milford, CT (6/3/2007) This afternoon Predators took on "The Pros" at West Shore Field. As bad fortune would have it - the Predators were undermanned from the start - missing Matt Kraynak (due to a family emergency) and Dave Weiss due to a back injury. As a result - the Predators had to play with the minimum nine players and three outfielders.
The game was well-fought - however The Pros got the best of the Predators late in the game - scoring 10 runs over the final three innings to leave the Predators standing on the field. Frank Bevacqua and Kevin McTigue each homered for the Predators in their first loss of the 2007 season. The Predators record fell to 2-1 in the 18-17 loss.
Sunday, June 10
Predators Fall Short To Sampson Lawncare 11-8
Milford, CT (6/10/2007) This afternoon the Predators took on Sampson Lawncare in a first-ever meeting of the two teams at Foote Field. With the game tied 4-4 after four innings - it appeared this game would come down to the wire. Unfortunately for the Predators, Sampson Lawncare scored seven times over the 5th, 6th and 7th innings while the Predators were only able to score fours runs all in the 5th inning. For the second straight week - the Predators gave up heavy runs late in the game to lose - this time by a score of 11-8.
Bill Holsworth went 3 for 4, while Rick Ruiz, Kevin McTigue, Todd Slade, Bob Paradis, Barry Kresen and Mike Ranilla each collected 2 hits apiece. With the loss - the Predators record leveled out to 2-2.
Sunday, June 24
Predators Cut Down By Arboretto Bushcutters 9-4
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| Frank Bevacqua batting against the Bushcutters June 24, 2007 |
Matt Kraynak returned to play with the Predators for the first time since late May, and found himself struggling to throw strikes. Brian Latham made his first appearance with the Predators since the 2000 season, filling in at shortstop for "King Carl" Malinosky.
With the loss - the Predators season record fell to 2-3.
Sunday, June 24
Predators Burned by M&R Heating and Cooling 22-11
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| Barry Kresen batting against M&R Heating and Cooling |
The Predators trailed M&R 5-1 after 1; 8-3 after 2; and 13-7 after 5 innings before falling to pieces in the 6th inning. In the 6th - the Predators committed 3 crucial errors between good hitting by M&R to yield 9 runs in the top of the 6th. This gave M&R a commanding 22-7 lead. The Predators mounted a modest rally in the bottom of the 6th scoring 4 times and loaded the bases with 2 outs before Matt Kraynak flew out to deep right center to end the game. This was the 4th straight loss for the Predators - their longest losing streak since the 2002 season. Today's loss also marked the first time since the 2000 season that Predators have gone winless during the month of June. The Predators look to get back on track when they face the Bulldogs on July 8th.
Sunday, July 8
Predators Late Rally Thrown Away in Loss to Bulldogs 13-12
Milford, CT (7/8/2007) At Washington Field this afternoon, the Predators looked to break a 4 game losing streak - their longest since the 2002 season. After one inning - the the Predators found themselves on the short end of a 6-2 game. In the 3rd inning the Predators tied the game at 6-6 powered with a triple by Bob Paradis, singles by Todd Slade and Fred Bialka, and a 2-Run double by Carl Malinosky. In the 4th inning the Bulldogs reclaimed the lead 8-6 - a lead which did not last very long. The Predators took a 9-8 lead in the 5th inning using a walk by Bob Paradis, single by Frank Bevacqua, a 2-run double by Todd Slade and an RBI single by Carl Malinosky. After the Bulldogs tied the game 9-9 in the 6th - today's match turned into a wild single inning battle.
In the top of the 7th the Predators rallied. With men on 1st and 2nd - Todd Slade hit an infield blooper that was declared an "infield fly" - even though it appeared the ball was not catchable. With 2 outs and runners on 1st and 3rd, the Bulldogs elected to give "King Carl" Malinosky an intentional walk to load the bases for Fred Bialka. Bialka promptly pulled a shot down the right field line that went for a three run triple - giving the Predators a 12-9 lead. In the bottom of the seventh - with no one on base and 2 outs - the Predators were seemingly set to win - however it was not to be. The Bulldogs used an error and 3 hard hit balls to get the tying and winning runs in scoring position. The last Bulldog hitter squibbed a grounder to Matt Kraynak at the pitchers mound - who fell to the ground to smother the ball. Kraynak rushed his throw - awkwardly throwing it wide of 1st base - enabling the tying and winning runs to score. Today's game turned into a tragic loss for the Predators.
"You can't bottom out much worse than that" said Kraynak, "We need to forget this game now and move on. I know we are a better team than what our current record shows. Personally I'm having a hard time regaining the passion to play week to week - especially with this kind of result. Maybe this lowpoint helps me and our team turn the page on the events of the last several weeks".
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| "KIng Carl" Malinosky Strokes a Single in the 1st Inning July 15, 2007 |
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Predators Dismiss "Bases Loaded" 18-3 in 5 Innings
Milford, CT (7/15/2007) At Platt Tech Field - the Predators snapped a 5-game losing streak by pounding "Bases Loaded" by a score of 18-3 in just 5 innings. The Predators finally opened up their offense for the first time in several weeks - with 12 runs in the 3rd inning and 6 runs in the 4th to put away Bases Loaded.
Additional details to follow......
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Sunday, July 22
Predators Will Leverage Deep Bench for Today's Match Against The Kings
Milford, CT (7/22/2007) The Predators will be without the services of several key starters including Rick Ruiz, Barry Kresen, Carl Malinosky, and Frank Bevacqua. Fortunately for the Predators - their deep "on-call" bench is ready to take over. This afternoon's tentative lineup is below:
RC Brian Potok
LF Todd Slade
P Kevin McTigue
C Fred Bialka
SS Brian Latham
1B Matt Kraynak
LC Dave Weiss
2B Dain Runestad
3B Bob Paradis
RF Mike Ranilla
Th Predators look for their 2nd straight win today when they take on The Kings.
Sunday, July 22
Predators Overrule The Kings 13-8
Milford, CT (7/22/2007) The Predators returned to their winning ways by taking out the "Kingdom Life Kings" at Washington Field by a score of 13 to 8. The Kingdom Life Kings drew a record fanbase to the game (at least 45 exuberant people in addition to their full team.) Despite being far outnumbered in their fanbase (and relative decibel level) the Predators took care of business all the way to a fine victory.
In the top of the first - the Predators drew first blood. With one out - Todd Slade and Kevin McTigue singled and Fred Bialka reached base by fielder's choice. Brian Latham (filling in for "King Carl Malinosky at Shortstop) singled to drive in Slade. Matt Kraynak hammered his first triple of the season - driving the ball to the fence down the left field line - in the process knocking in 2 runs. Kraynak immediately scored on a single by the hot-hitting David Weiss giving the Predators a 4-0 advantage. The next scoring came in the bottom of the 2nd when The Kings rallied for 7 runs - taking over the game 7-4. The Predators scored 2 runs in the top of the 3rd after Fred Bialka singled and later scored on a triple by Brian Latham. Matt Kraynak followed with a single to centerfield driving in Latham and cutting The King's lead to 1 run. The Kings would add one more run in the bottom of the third inning to give them an 8-6 lead. It was at about this time when the Kings commenced an odd (and rather futile) strategy of taking every first pitch Kevin McTigue threw - even though 95% of those pitches were perfect strikes.
Down 8-6, the Predators chipped away scoring 2 in the 4th on an RBI single by Fred Bialka and a Sacrifice Fly by Brian latham. In the 5th inning - the Predators finally broke the game wide open. After David Weiss, Dain Runestad and Bob Paradis each drew walks to open the inning, Mike Ranilla hit a clutch 2-RBI single to give the Predators a 10-8 lead. Bob Paradis subsequently scored when Bill Smith grounded to 2nd base, and Mike Ranilla scored on an RBI single by Brian Potok. After Todd Slade singled, Potok scored the Predators 13th and final run on a single by Kevin McTigue.
It was a good "healthy" win for the Predators - who appear to have righted their ship.
Sunday, July 29
Predators Take Out "Eye On Creation" 17-7 in 6 Wet Innings
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| Bob Reaching for a Sacrifice Fly - July 29, 2007 | |
After Eye On Creation picked up a run in the top of the first, the Predators got to work. In the bottom of the first, after Frank Bevacqua singled and Todd Slade walked, Fred Bialka singled to load the bases for Matt Kraynak. Kraynak drove a shot over the left fielder's head falling for a 3-run triple to give the Predators a 3-1 lead. Dave Weiss knocked in Kraynak with a single to close the inning out at 4-1. In the top of the 2nd inning, Predator pitcher Bill Holsworth walked the first three batters of the inning wile fighting the light rain and nasty crosswinds. Before the top of the 2nd was over - Eye On Creation had scored 5 times to retake a lead at 6-4. The next scoring would take place in the bottom of the third when the Predators pulled off another classic rally. After Frank Bevacqua and Todd Slade singled, Carl Malinosky singled to drive in two. Fred Bialka drove in Malinosky with a triple. After Matt Kraynak drew a walk - Dave Weiss singled to drive in Bialka. Brian Potok singled to drive in Kraynak - and Dain Runestad walked. Still with no one out and bases loaded - Bob Paradis reached on a low pitch turning over a sacrifice fly to drive in a run. Not to be outdone - Bill Holsworth did the same. Mike Ranilla singled and Barry Kresen singled to drive in Runestad. Frank Bevacqua drove in the 9th run of the inning with a single to give the Predators a solid 13-6 lead.
In the bottom of the fourth, after Fred Bialka reached base by a fielders choice, Matt Kraynak singled to left to drive in Bialka. In the process - the left fielder bobbled the ball and took his time throwing the ball back in - so Kraynak took advantage by advancing all the way to third base. Kraynak later scored when Brain Potok reached by fielders choice - giving the Predators a 15-6 lead. With the rain coming down harder - runs were at a premium. In the bottom of the 6th with the Predators holding a 15-7 lead, the Predators needed only 2 runs to win, and got them. After Frank Bevacqua singled, Todd Slade drove a shot to deep left. At first the ball appeared as if it was going to be caught - but went sailing over the left fielder for a two-run Home Run and the game ending blow.
Game Notes: Bill Holsworth did well as pitcher today despite the weather conditions. Unfortunately with his performance at the plate - he is no longer batting .750 ;) On the bright side - it was great to see Bill and his family join us in the rain.
Barry Kresen made a statement today by registering two strikeouts - one looking and one swinging (without contact). Barry did manage to squeeze in an RBI single between the two "K's". Barry also spilled some beer during our post-game wrap-up meeting - obtaining a key tiebreaker in the event one is needed for the 2007 Strikeout King crown.
David Weiss continues to climb out of the DEEP HOLE he was in early this season. Over his last 10 plate appearances, Weiss has 6 singles and 3 walks - raising his average from .200 to .409.
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| Billy Holsworth Pitching with Bob, Todd and Carl July 29, 2007 |
Tuesday, July 31
7/31/2007 SCHEDULE CHANGE: Game Scheduled for August 5th - 4pm at Washington vs New Breed
Milford, CT (7/31/2007) The Milford Sunday Night League has rescheduled the Predators Game against New Breed to be played 4pm at Washington Field on Sunday August 5th. Matt will send out a notice accordingly via email.
Sunday, August 5
Predators Squander Big Lead - Lose to New Breed Degenerates 17-7 in 6 innings
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| A Man With A Lot To Think About - Fred Bialka 8/5/2007 | |
Milford, CT (8/5/2007) The Predators set up camp at Washington Field to battle the "New Breed" Degenerates in hopes of extending their modest 3-game winning streak. Although the Predators started off very well- things quickly unraveled - leaving the Predators on the short end of a 17-7 loss.
The Predators scored first with 5 runs in the top of the 1st inning. After Frank Bevacqua and Todd Slade opened the game with back to back singles - Kevin McTigue doubled to drive in 2. McTigue would later score on a single by Rick Ruiz. Shortly thereafter, Bill Holsworth would drive in 2 runs after he singled to left center - giving the Predators a 5-0 lead. After holding New Breed scoreless in the 1st - the Predators added a run in the bottom of the 2nd after Todd Slade reached base by Fielders Choice and later scored on a single by Fred Bialka. The Predators found themselves in control over New Breed with a 6-0 lead heading into the third inning.
The New Breed Degenerates awoke in the bottom of the 3rd to score 5 times on 4 hits and a Predator fielding error - quickly closing the Predator lead to 6-5. After holding the Predators scoreless in the 4th - New Breed took an 8-6 lead in the bottom of the 4th by scoring 3 times - again taking advantage of a Predator fielding error and following up with solid hitting. New Breed again extended their lead to 10-6 by the end of the 5th inning. With time running out in the top of the 6th - the Predators managed to score only one more run. After Todd Slade singled - he came all the way around to score after Kevin McTigue crushed a shot against the left field fence. Slade scored 3 of the Predators 7 runs this afternoon. In the bottom of the 6th - the New Breed Degenerates put the Predators away by scoring 7 times with relentless hitting and some fielding miscues by the Predator defense. With the loss - the Predators season record fell to 5-6 with one regular season game remaining.
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| Frank Bevacqua on 1st and Rick Ruiz coaching vs. New Breed Degenerates 8/5/2007 |
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7th Inning Blast by Paradis Caps Off Predators Epic Win Over Gippers 24-23
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| Ranilla and Runestad on Base 8/12/2007 |
Milford, CT (8/12/2007) The Predators pulled off an unprecedented comeback this afternoon to defeat Gippers 24-23 at Grove Circle Field. The Predators climbed out of a 12-0 1st inning deficit to knock out one of the best teams in the Milford Sunday Night League for the second time this season.
The Predators took the field with only three outfielders to start - as Frank Bevacqua was stuck in traffic at gametime. Bill Smith made his first pitching start in 2 seasons for the Predators and did well by issuing only one walk to Gippers. Gippers came out swinging, pounding seven hits in their first seven plate appearances before the first out was made. By the time the 1st inning was over - Gippers had stacked a 12-0 lead. Not to be outdone - the Predators fought back fiercely in the bottom of the 1st by scoring 10 times. Todd Slade led off the Predator attack with a solo home run - using one of the two home runs allowed per team at Grove Circle Field. (The team home run rule would become a pivotal issue for both teams this afternoon.) During the 1st Inning - Todd Slade would come up a second time to single and score. Matt Kraynak, Rick Ruiz, David Weiss, and Bob Paradis each collected singles and scored in the 1st. Brian Potok singled twice and scored twice in the 1st inning. Dain Runestad and Bill Smith each drew a walk and scored in the 1st.
Gippers roared back in the 2nd with six more runs to take a hefty 18-10 lead. Undaunted, the Predators would add three in the bottom of the 2nd with singles by David Weiss, Dain Runestad, Bill Smith, Todd Slade and a double by Bob Paradis - making it an 18-13 game after 2 innings. In the 3rd inning - Gippers added two taking a 20-13 lead. The Predators answered with three runs to make it a 20-16 game after 3 innings. In the 4th inning - Gippers added three more runs to extend their lead to 7 at 23-16. After being held scoreless in the 4th inning - the Predators made their big move in the 5th inning using singles by Weiss, Runestad, Paradis, Slade and Potok - as well as a timely "In The Park" Home Run by Frank Bevacqua. By the end of the 5th - Gippers found themselves holding on by a string 23-22. In the 6th inning - Gippers went scoreless - while the Predators finally caught up. Rick Ruiz doubled and later scored the game-tying run on a single by David Weiss.
In the top of the 7th - Gippers threatened by opening with two singles. Having already spent their 2 team home runs by the 2nd inning - Gippers continued to shoot themselves in the foot in the 7th when their third batter crushed yet another ball over the left field fence for an automatic out. Gippers inexplicably did the same in the 5th and 6th innings but clearly did not learn from their previous mistakes. With two outs and two on - David Weiss made a run-saving shoestring catch in centerfield to shut down the Gippers threat in the 7th. This set up a fantastic finish for the Predators. With the Predators still having one team home run available to them, Predator 1st Baseman Bob Paradis wasted no time by driving the first pitch he saw over the left field fence to snuff out Gippers and propel the Predators to a 24-23 win. Needless to say - the Gippers squad appeared quite displeased that they let this game get away from them. Gloves were thrown and some arguing among the Gippers team ensued - however none was directed at the Predators.
From the Predator standpoint - todays victory turned out to be one of the finest and most satisfying in the team's 24 seasons in the Milford Sunday Night League. The victory completed the Predator's regular season at .500 with a 6-6 record - which is quite a comeback from their 2 win 5 loss record from early July. The Predators now look forward to the 2007 Playoffs coming off a high note.
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| David Weiss and Dain Runestad vs. Gippers 8/12/2007 |
Sunday, August 19
Playoffs 2007 Round 1: Predators Jump Over "Discount Fence" 21-17
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| Kevin and Matt; Matt at Plate 8/19/2007 |
Milford, CT (8/19/2007) This afternoon the Predators took advantage of very poor pitching by Discount Fence on their way to a 21-17 victory. The Predators drew a team record 17 walks from Discount Fence - whose pitcher was "consistently inconsistent" all afternoon. Between the free passes - the Predators scattered ten singles, a double and three home runs to overwhelm their opponent at West Shore Field in this opening round of the 2007 playoffs.
After yielding 4 runs to Discount Fence in the top of the 1st - the Predators added 3 in the bottom of the inning on a 3-run home run by Kevin McTigue. In the 2nd Inning - Discount Fence continued to hit well - adding 4 runs to take an 8-3 lead. The Predators - fresh off their comeback win over Gippers the previous week were not intimidated. The Predators added 7 runs in the bottom of the 2nd on 2 singles, 6 walks and a sacrifice fly. After holding Discount Fence scoreless in the 3rd - the Predators added 3 more runs. Kevin McTigue opened the Predator 3rd with a solo home run. With 2 outs, Brian Latham singled and Rick Ruiz reached on an error. Two more runs came across after Matt Kraynak, Dain Runestad and Bob Paradis drew back-to-back-to-back walks giving the Predators a 13-8 lead.
In the top of the 4th, Discount Fence added three to make it a 2-run game. The Predators responded by breaking the game open in the bottom of the 4th. Todd Slade led off with a walk and was driven in on a double by Fred Bialka. After David Weiss singled to drive in Bialka, Brian Latham cracked a 2-run home run. Rick Ruiz drew a walk and advanced to 3rd on a single by Matt Kraynak. Dain Runestad added a Sacrifice Fly and Bob Paradis had an RBI single. By the end of the 4th - the Predators held a seemingly solid 19-11 lead. Discount Fence proved to be persistent at the plate, gutting out 3 in the 5th to make it a 19-14 game. In the bottom of the 5th, Kevin McTigue and Fred Bialka opened the Predator 5th with walks. With one out, Brian Latham walked to load the bases for Matt Kraynak - who promptly singled to drive in McTigue and Bialka. With those insurance runs - the Predators maintained a 21-14 lead. Discount Fence would mount a minor rally in the 7th - but would fall short as the Predators won 21-17. With the win - the Predators upped their overall 2007 season record to 7-6 and earned a spot in the 2nd round of the 2007 playoffs.
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| Dain Runestad Executing a Force at Second Base August 19, 2007 |
Sunday, August 26
Playoffs 2007 Round 2: Predators Drop Game to New Breed Degenerates 17-10
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| Rick Ruiz needing to return to 2nd base vs. New Breed 8/26/2007 |
Milford, CT (8/26/2007) In their 2nd Round Winner's Bracket match against the New Breed Degenerates - the Predators fell short in a 17-10 loss at Platt Tech Field. The loss forced the Predators to play a 2nd game across town at West Shore Field to keep their 2007 season alive.
With Kevin McTigue unavailable for the early portion of the game - Matt Kraynak took to the pitcher's mound for the first time in 7 weeks. As expected, New Breed came out swinging hard. With one out, three runs already in and the bases loaded, a New Breed batter crushed a line drive directly at Matt Kraynak on the pitcher's mound. Kraynak was fortunate to lift his glove hand in defense. After impacting Kraynak's glove hard - the ball still had plenty of energy to get the 2nd base. Carl Malinosky alertly picked the ball up and turned a double play to end the inning. Kraynak's glove hand thumb was sore and throbbing for the remainder of the game.
In the bottom of the 1st the Predators picked up a run making it a 3-1 game on an RBI single by David Weiss. In the top of the 2nd - Kevin McTigue arrived in time to take over pitching duties. New Breed rallied for 6 runs on 7 singles and a base on balls to take 9-1 lead. New Breed would extend their lead to 10-1 at the end of 3 innings - putting the Predators backs to the wall. In the top of the 4th - New Breed was beginning to pull away - adding 4 more runs to take a 14-1 lead. In the bottom of the 4th - the Predators started to get some offense going. David Weiss and Kevin McTigue opened the inning with singles. With one out - Dain Runestad singled to load the bases. Bob Paradis followed with a single to drive in Weiss and keep the bases loaded. Mike Ranilla hit into a fielder's choice - however Kevin McTigue was cut off at the plate on the play - leaving the bases loaded and 2 outs for Matt Kraynak. Kraynak found a sweet pitch and crushed the ball over left center for a Grand Slam home run - driving in four and closing the score to 14-6.
New Breed would be held scoreless in the 5th - while the Predators were able to add two more in their half of the 5th. After Todd Slade singled and Fred Bialka doubled, David Weiss knocked an RBI single and Kevin McTigue hit a sacrifice fly to make it a 14-8 game after 5. New Breed added 3 in the top of the 6th - and the Predators only added 2 in the seventh to fall short in a 17-10 loss.
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| Carl throwing to Rick against New Breed 8/26/2007 |
Sunday, August 26
Playoffs 2007 Round 2: Predators Eliminate "The Field" 13-2 in 5 Innings to Advance To 3rd Round
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| Carl, Dain, David, Bill and Todd 8/26/2007 | |
Milford, CT (8/26/2007) With their 2007 season on the line - the Predators travelled across town to West Shore Field to face "The Field". Using an 11-run 5th inning rally - the Predators pulled out a 13-2 victory by the 10-run Mercy Rule over The Field. The win extended the Predators 2007 season to continue past the Labor Day Weekend break.
Minutes after their 17-10 loss to New Breed at Platt Tech, the Predators had to drive to West Shore Field for a 5pm elimination game aginst The Field. The Field were an interesting bunch to say the least. They appeared to by hyped up after beating The Kings in their 3:30pm game. Nonetheless - the Predators took one look at The Field - and knew right away there is no way we can let the season end to these guys today.
This game started off very slowly for both teams. The score was only 1-1 after the first inning, and no one scored in the 2nd inning. The next score came in the 3rd inning when Mike Ranilla singled then scored on an RBI single by Carl Malinosky - giving the Predators a 2-1 lead. The next run came across in the bottom of the 4th when The Field tied the game at 2. A brief argument ensued between Kevin McTigue and Chuck the home plate umpire - but otherwise this game was uneventful and running at a snails pace. In the top of the 5th - the Predators got their offensive engine running again - scoring 11 times using 10 hits including a double by Carl Malinosky and a 3-run home run by Matt Kraynak. Rick Ruiz and Dain Runestad each reached base twice and scored twice in the 5th inning, as 9 of 11 Predator players scored. David Weiss did not score - however he contributed a (masterful) Sacrifice Fly. Although Bob Paradis did not score - he drove in 2 runs with a solid single.
With the air taken out of their spirits, The Field went down 1-2-3 in the bottom of the 5th to end the game. Kevin McTigue had a fun time on the mound - especially with a screwball pitch that had great movement today. In fact, The Field struck out 4 times - and looked rather shaky trying to figure out how to hit McTigue's pitches. With the win - the Predators have 2 wins and 1 loss in the 2007 playoffs - and expect to enter their 3rd weekend of Playoffs on September 9th.
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| Fred Bialka, Kevin McTigue, Brian Latham and Todd Slade at West Shore 8/26/2007 |
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Monday, September 3
2007 Playoffs Round 3: Predators To Take On Midwood Electric at Platt Tech
Milford, CT (9/3/2007) The Predators enter their third weekend of Sunday Night League Playoffs at 4:30 on September 9th by taking on Midwood Electric at Platt Tech Field. The only previous meeting with Midwood Electric came on June 26, 2005 when the Predators pulled out a dramatic 8-7 comeback victory in the bottom of the 7th at Foote Field. (See our "2005 Season" link for a description of that game.)
The Predators must win to extend their 2007 season. If the Predators beat Midwood Electric - they will play another opponent to be determined at 5:30 (also at Platt Tech.)
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| Bob Paradis collects another hit against Midwood Electric September 9, 2007 |
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Predators Lose Playoff Battle with Midwood Electric 17-16 in 8 innings
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| Predators Approaching Platt Tech Field September 9, 2007 |
Milford, CT (9/9/2007) The Predators 2007 season came to a close today as Midwood Electric executed a 17-16 comeback victory in extra innings. Although the Predators opened up with a solid start - they were unable to sustain momentum late in the game. In the 5th inning, Predators catcher Barry Kresen sustained a torn achilles tendon that forced him out of the game. (The following day, Kresen underwent surgery to repair his achilles and reports he should be OK by the start of the 2008 season.) Focused on taking the team to the next level, the Predators arrived early at Platt Tech Field to get in some batting practice. Due to the heat and humidity - practice was light - however effective enough to give everyone a good feel before the game against Midwood.
The Predators opened up a 5-0 lead on Midwood in the top of the 1st featuring singles by Carl Malinosky, Brian Latham, Kevin McTigue, Bob Paradis and Mike Ranilla; a 2-Run Double by David Weiss and a 2-Run Home Run by Matt Kraynak. It was the 3rd straight playoff game that Kraynak homered in for the Predators. Midwood Electric roared back scoring 4 times with no one out before going down. The Predators added 2 in the 2nd inning after Barry Kresen singled and later scored on a Brian Latham Home Run taking a 7-4 lead. Midwood scored 3 in the bottom of the 3rd to tie the game at 7. The Predators made a move in the 4th inning by scoring 6 times on a mix of 5 singles and 3 walks to take a 13-7 lead. The six run lead would not last long as Midwood answered with 5 runs in the bottom of the 4th to trail by 1 after 4 innings.
During the top of the 5th - the Predators had the bases loaded and one out when Carl Malinosky hit a ball toward Barry Kresen who was a runner from first base. In attempting to jump over the ball, Kresen sustained a season-ending achilles tendon tear. Kresen hit the ground and was unable to continue play. The Predators did manage to score twice and yielded one to Midwood - leaving the Predators with a 15-13 lead after 5. The Predators added one in the 6th, however gave up three to Midwood. The game was now tied 16-16 after 6 innings.
Neither team would score in the 7th inning, forcing the game to extra innings. The Predators had their 2-3-4 batters up in the top of the 8th - but did not succeed in reaching base. Taking advantage, Midwood Electric won the game after a leadoff double, an intentional walk and a long blast by their 3rd batter of the inning to drive home the winning run.
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| Kresen's Achilles Injury; Dave, Carl, Bob and Mike September 9, 2007 |
