Once again sitting as visitors, Florida opened up the game with a BANG! Eleven batters made a plate appearance in the first inning. Tyler Finney started the roll with a hard hit to short where the ball was bobbled, placing Finney on first. Justin Morgan laid a perfect bunt right along the third baseline. The Virginia boys watched the ball in hopes that it would roll foul but it failed to do so as Morgan made his way to first and Finney moved on to second. Mark Weir was patient at the plate and received a walk to load up the bases. Noah Wilcox smacked the ball to left center, bringing in Finney but Morgan was thrown out at third for out number one. Will Jackson hit up the middle but Virginia’s first baseman was unable to handle the throw coming in. This hit produced an RBI as Weir made his way to home. Unable to find his pitch, Bradley Coleman walked and Harden went back to the dugout with a K. With bases loaded, Timmy Farrell worked the pitcher and after a full count walked to bring Wilcox home. Virginia’s pitcher was rattled and Dean Radebaugh was walked with only four pitches, bringing in Jackson. Back up at the top of the order, Finney once again slammed the shortstop for a single with an RBI as Coleman crossed the plate. Morgan came to the plate, but as baseball innings do, inning one had come to an end with a K. The Florida boys took the field with a rush, as Timmy Farrell prepared for batter number one. Virginia’s first batter, Sons, grounded out to Coleman at first who made the unassisted play. Barnett grounded right back to Farrell who serenely scooped up the ball and made the easy play to Coleman on first. Long lived up to his name and shot one out to right center for a triple. Farrell’s brow began to show signs of sweat as Worley stepped to the plate. His famous two homerun game on Saturday make the Florida boys a bit nervous. He hit down the up the middle between first and second, managing to reach first with an error at first. His hit did produce the first run for Virginia. Puryear pulled a ball out to right center and was fielded by Noah Wilcox to end the inning. First Inning = Florida 5 – Virginia 1
Inning number two opened with some hard cuts by Mark Weir but he was unable to connect as did Wilcox. With two outs, Jackson stepped to the plate and ripped a ball out to left field for a single. Coleman earned his way on base and advanced Jackson with a walk. Harden stepped to the plate with two men on and swung with all that he had. A pop-up to first ended the Florida offensive play. With Farrell back on the mound and a solid defense behind him, Florida only faced three batters in the second. The first batter, Davis, went back to the dugout with a big K. Nichols took several pitches and then popped a ground back to Farrell who made the toss to Coleman for out two. Wazeka took one pitch and smacked the ball to Mark Weir at short who made a picture perfect throw to Coleman on first for out number three. Second Inning = Florida 5 – Virginia 1
The third inning brought Farrell to the plate and he laid down a beautiful drag bunt that teetered near the line. With the Virginia defense and the umpire watching carefully, the ball stopped just shy of going foul, earning Farrell a single. Jacalob Akins entered the game as a courtesy runner for Farrell. Radebaugh earned his way to first with a walk. Back at the top of the order, Finney and Morgan both connected with the ball but both were caught for outs one and two. Akins was tagged out in an attempt to steal for out number three. Farrell sent the 9th batter in Virginia’s line-up back to the dugout with a strikeout. He handed Sons the leadoff batter a full count before losing him with a walk. Barnett smacked a hard to handle grounder to Jackson at third for a single. With runners on first and second, Long, once again, slammed a ball deep into the outfield but Okeechobee’s defense was there to handle it for out two. The final out of the inning came from Worley nailing a grounder to Weir at short who made the silk-smooth play to Coleman on first. Third Inning = Okeechobee 5 – Virginia 1
More to come --- keep checking back!
Sunday, August 5, 2007
Sunday Morning Service & Get Well, Mikey!
The boys attended the morning service offered in the banquet hall of the Holiday Inn. They looked very impressive in their matching polo shirts with the Florida State Champions logo embroidered on the front.
It was here that they heard the news about fellow teammate Mikey McCoin who played during the season with the boys. He was seriously injured in a four-wheeler incident back in Okeechobee. The players sent a prayer request up to the minister. The entire room, filled with boys near Mikey's age had and continue to have Mikey and his family in their thoughts and prayers.
Wishing you a speedy recovery, Mikey!!!
It was here that they heard the news about fellow teammate Mikey McCoin who played during the season with the boys. He was seriously injured in a four-wheeler incident back in Okeechobee. The players sent a prayer request up to the minister. The entire room, filled with boys near Mikey's age had and continue to have Mikey and his family in their thoughts and prayers.
Wishing you a speedy recovery, Mikey!!!
Saturday, August 4, 2007
Game #1 vs Mississippi - Win #1 - 6 to 5
Photos courtesy of Jim Hannon
of Times Daily Newspaper
The air was sizzling with the Alabama heat as the Chobee AKA Florida State Champs prepared for the opening game of the Dixie Youth World Series. Okeechobee, taking the role as visitors went to the plate first. Tyler Finney started connected with the ball and grounded to second for out number one. Justin Morgan worked the pitcher and with a full count was sent to first base with a walk. Mark Weir delivered the ball to the first baseman who executed an unassisted out and then sent the ball over to second for out number three. The Mississippi boys came up to bat , facing Noah Wilcox, and started with solid Demetrise Fairley through the right side for a single. He then stole two bases while Noah Wilcox worked on the next two batters, sending them back to the dugouts with their first strike-outs of the World Series. Mississippi's Christian Chauvin also hit through the right side for a single and an RBI. Mississippi's fifth batter, Chase Chancelor, worked Noah and ended up walking. These two runners stole bases and there were now runners on second and third. One more run scored when Chancelor stole home but the other was left on base after Noah Wilcox struck out Joel Coursey. Inning #1 = Florida 0 - Mississippi 2
Noah Wilcox stepped up to the plate and earned a full count after fouling off several pitches. He earned a trip to first with a walk. He stole second and moved on to third on a wild pitch while Will Jackson, Bradley Coleman and Thor Harden worked the pitcher hard ending in strike-outs. Mississippi started inning number 2 with Andy Beets who slammed a ball through the right side and out to right field for a single. Hunter Floyd tapped a bunt that was fielded by Justin Morgan and the throw to Timmy Farrell on first created out 1, advancing Beets to second. Wade Maloney thought he would try the other side but Mark Weir stopped the ball and made the throw for the out at first. Beets advanced to third. Demetrise Fairley hit a hard grounder that somehow evaded Tyler Finney for a single with an RBI as Beets crossed the plage. The third out came from Bradley Moore with a hit to Finney at second for an easy out at first. Inning number #2 = Florida 0 - Mississippi 3
Timmy Farrell started the third inning with his first plate appearance with a solid hit that was caught by the shortstop. Dean Radebaugh laid down a bunt that was fielded by Mississippi's third baseman for the out at first - two down. Tyler Finney laid a ball back to the pitcher who bobbled the ball a bit before making the close, somewhat controversial, play at first for out #3. Mississippi's Brandon Maddox started of our opponents with a big K and although Christian Chauvin got the bat on the ball, Tyler Finney caught it for out #2. Chase Chancelor trotted to first with a walk and stole two bases resting securely on third. However, that was where he would stay with Joel Coursey striking out. Inning #3 = Florida 0 - Mississippi 3
Inning number four was when the Florida boys started coming alive. Justin Morgain started off the inning with a walk and eventually ended up on third with pass balls. Mark Weir, unable to find his pitch, was sent back with a K. Noah Wilcox plunked a ball between right and centerfield. Will Jackson put the bat to the ball for an RBI but unfortunately Mississippi's third baseman got his glove on it as well for out #2 with a play to first. Bradley Coleman walked to first and also landed on third with two pass balls that were thrown to Thor Harden who also walked. Timmy Farrell worked the pitcher, earning a full count, but also walked With bases loaded, Dean Radebaugh poked a nice ball that landed between first and centerfield bringing in Coleman and Harden and moving Farrell on over to third. Tyler Finney laid a grounder back to the pitcher who fielded and threw to first for out #3. Florida's defense, now under the command of Tyler Finney on the mound, sent the Mississippi batters down in three. An easy play by Bradley Coleman to Farrell put Andy Beets out at first. Hunter Floyd was sent back to the dugout in three pitches with a big K. Telvin Keys, batting for Wade Maloney, hit a blooper that was fielded by catcher, Justin Morgan and the play was made at first. This got the (Chobee) Florida boys riled and ready. Inning #4 = Florida 4 - Mississippi 3
After running through the entire line-up in inning #4, Justin Morgan, again, opened inning #5. A pop-up to first created out number 1. Mark Weir earned his way to first with a single to short but was thrown out on a fielder's choice when Noah Wilcox sent the ball flying to second. Will Jackson hit a solid hit to short and created a single when Mississippi's boys opted for the out at second that was fruitless. With Wilcox on second and Jackson on first Brad Colenan sent the ball back to the pitcher who fielded and tossed to first to end Florida's at bat. Mississippi had to face Finney again with the top of the order coming to the plate. Demetrise Fairley flew out to Mark Weir at short and Bradley Moore hit back to Finney who tossed to Farrell at first for out #2. Brandon Maddox watched four balls for a walk as did Christian Chauvin. Maddox with two stolen bases and Chauvin with one moved these players in scoring position. Chase Chancelor hit a solid double straight up through the middle that barely missed Finney's glove for two RBI's. Joel Coursey thought he would continue the trend with a very hard hit out to right field but Thor Harden was all over it for out number 3. Inning #5 - Florida 4 - Mississippi 5.
Thor Harden stepped to the plate for inning number 6 and tried to rip the ball through the middle but Mississippi's second baseman was not going to let that happen. Harden was out at first. Timmy Farrell worked the pitches and walked to first. Jacalob Akins was placed on first as a speed-up runner and stole second on a pass ball. Dean Radebaugh created the second out with a hard but unproductive cut, as did Tyler Finney. Andy Beets started out Mississippi's offense with a hit up the right side. Florida's first baseman Timmy Farrell fielded the ball with pitcher Finney covering first. A quick toss from Farrell to Finney generated out #1. Hunter Floyd slammed a very hard ball directly toward Mark Weir that under most circumstances would have resulted in a single, but Weir fielded the ball on the move, rolled with the glove in the air and showed the umpire that he had indeed caught the ball. Wade Maloney, re-entering walked to first but the was stranded when Demetrise Fairley hit to Coleman on second, who threw to Farrell on first for the out. Inning #6 - Florida 4 - Mississippi 5.
Knowing it was now or never, the Florida boys went to the plate with winning on their minds. The Chobee parents had all congregated in the bleachers behind the backstops with their rally caps on and the sea of purple erupted with support that threw Mississippi players and fans for a loop. Justin Morgan took three hard cuts at the ball and hit a hard ball to second. Unfortunately, Mississippi's defense made the play for out #1. Mark Weir was hit by a pitch and send to first. Noah Wilcox hit a solid ball that was difficult for Mississippi's shortstop to handle and he reached first, advancing Weir. Will Jackson laid one out to short who opted for the play at third, sending Wilcox back to the dugout with out #2. With Weir on second and Jackson on first, Bradley Coleman stepped to the plate and boy, did he mean business. He didn't waste any time slamming the first pitch into deep right field for a double and an RBI bringing Weir across the plate. This new life caused Chobee fans to literally dance in the stands and even the most docile of parents were doing things they'd never done before. Mississippi's defense was rattled and Thor Harden was struck by a pitch. Jacalob Akins entered the game to run for Harden as a speed-up runner but was unable to advance when Timmy Farrell popped up to first. Ahead by one run, Florida defense had to stand their ground, now under the realm of Mark Weir. Mississippi's first batter, Bradley Moore managed to get the bat on the ball but Mark Weir fielded the grounder and the out was made at first. Brandon Maddox followed suit and hit a grounder to Coleman at second. Coleman to Farrell created out number two. A frenzy developed behind the backstop as the Chobee fans anxiously awaited out number three. Christian Chauvin smacked a ball through short that seemed to evade several Chobee gloves. He stole second base. Chase Chancelor earned his way to first with a walk. Tension grew as the hint of a possible loss loomed. Reaching down and grabbing that deep desire to win Team Florida took command once again. In an attempt to put down the runner on first, Weir threw to Farrell and Chancelor knew he was seriously in a pickle. With several tosses of the ball and Chancelor scrambling, losing his footing and falling to the ground, out number three was made by the Florida boys for the win. The stands erupted with "Way to Go, Florida! Way to go!" Although the boys won, it was by far not one of their stellar performances on the field or at the plate. We are anticipating a great game against Virginia, who beat Tennessee last night. Final score = Florida 6 - Mississippi 5
Keep an eye on the blog for details.
Happy Birthday David!!!!
The players and their families would like to wish David Skinner a happy birthday! A win would be the greatest gift ever!
Enjoy, David!!!
Enjoy, David!!!
World Series Opening Ceremonies
Photo courtesy of Jim Hannonof Times Daily Newspaper
Opening Ceremonies for the World Series will definitely be a night that the Chobee boys will never forget. The boys strutted into the park sporting the new uniforms that were graciously donated by Matt Orr with Waste Services, Inc. The park was humming with the excitement of anxious young men and proud families. The air was filled with booming music as the teams all lined up outside the fence by the third baseline. As each team was called the boys made their entrance through the gate, flying their state flag as the team members’ and coaches’ names were announced to the rowdy crowd. David Skinner, the perfect example of sportsmanship and team spirit, was the player chosen by our team to carry the Florida State flag. As the boys entered the gate, the Chobee, or should I now say, Florida State Champion fans erupted into thunderous applause and cheers that made all those in the park take notice of Team Florida! The boys followed David as he placed the flag in its appropriate place on the fence near right-center field.
Following the announcement of teams, several Dixie Youth Baseball Officials were announced and spoke, as well as David H. Bradford, the Mayor of Muscle Shoals, Alabama. A tear rendering version of the National Anthem had most boys on the field visibly moved, as well as those standing outside the fence.
As if this all wasn’t enough, the boys were invited to take a seat on the field, as “Sweet Home, Alabama” came sounding from the speakers behind the backstop. Then the sky lit up like the fourth of July. An awe inspiring fireworks display that continued for quite some time, ending in a grand finale seemed to draw every emotion from each and every individual in attendance. You could see it in the faces of everyone … we are really here. WORLD SERIES, HERE WE COME!
Just a reminder, we play at 4:00 against Mississippi tomorrow. It is my understanding that the games on the green field will be shown on local TV here. We are scheduled for the green field, so hopefully we will be taped. It is supposed to be copied for the boys so hopefully we can bring back some special memories to share with all those who could not attend. Win or lose, we will face either Virginia or Tennessee on Sunday. The losers bracket plays at 4:00 PM and the winner plays at 7:00 PM. I will try my best to at least put up inning by inning scores via cell phone so you might check the blog often after 4:00 PM. (Remember to refresh to get new scores.)
Here we go, Florida! Here we go!!!
Tuesday, July 31, 2007
We're Going to the World Series!!
As the boys got thirty minutes of rest from the intense first game, the proximity of the field was humming. The Chobee parents were tucked under the pavilion practicing new cheers to keep the team moving in the direction of the state title. Kudos were passed back and forth between Sebring fans and Okeechobee on a well played game and tension grew as it came closer to game time. Both teams took the the outfield to restretch and refocus on the task at hand. Sebring's boys counted and chanted loud ... Okeechobee's boys retorted back even louder. The fervor grew as the boys made their way to the dugouts in preparation for the first inning. With Okeechobee again taking the role as visitor, Tyler Finney stepped to the plate to face Seth Abeln. Earning a full count, Tyler was determined to work the pitcher, fouling away seven balls in hopes of getting the perfect pitch. Well, that never happened and Tyler was walked to first base. Finney stole second base and was advanced to third when Justin Morgan smacked a ball to short and Sebring opted for the play at first. Mark Weir stepped to the plate and after three pitches sent the ball sailing to the left field fence for a double, bringing in Finney. Noah Wilcox followed suit and hit an almost identical hit for a single advancing Weir to third. After Will Jackson saw that this was the place to hit, he also slammed a ball into left center, bringing in Weir and Wilcox. With this extended run, Sebring felt a pitching change was necessary and brought in Daniel Ware to the plate. In attempt to advance Jackson, Bradley Coleman laid down the perfect bunt that put some pressure on the Sebring boys and resulted in a single. Thor Harden reached first with a base on balls. Timmy Farrell battled with two strikes, fouling several off before Ware set him down for the second out. Dean Radebaugh was the last batter to face Ware in inning one with a routine play from third to first. Sebring came to the plate knowing that they better get the bat rolling early, just as Okeechobee did. And THAT they did. With Tyler Finney on the mound, Seth Abeln took a pitch for the team and made his way to first. Alex Griffin hit a ball to third and the play was made at first while Abeln advanced to third. Corbin Hoffner pulled the ball intoright field scoring Abeln and the highlight of Sebring's game was a homerun hit by Jonathan Knight bringing in Hoffner and himself for two R.B.I.'s. With the bases cleared, Buddy Mays was able to sneak a ball past Okeechobee's shortstop for a single and advanced to second base on a pass ball. Tayor Townsend smacked a ball up the right side that was played by Farrell with Finney covering first base. The play was picture perfect but advanced Buddy Mays to third. Daniel Ware sent one flying between short and third bringing in Buddy Mays and Tyler was able to put an end to the streak with a strike out to Lyno Tijerina. The score at the end of the first inning was Sebring four - Okeechobee three.
The top of inning number two was almost carbon copy of inning one. After running through the whole line up in one, Tyler Finney opened the inning working Daniel Ware once again. After fouling off four balls, Tyler settled into a pitch and sent it air-mail to the leftfield fence for a triple. Jacalob Akins entered the game as a courtesy runner for Finney. The fervor in the Okeechobee bleachers began to grow once again. Justin Morgan hit a single to third with an RBI (Akins) and advanced to second with an error from third to first. Mark Weir scrutinized over Ware's pitching and was struck out with a controversial pitch that was called a strike. Noah Wilcox shot the ball up through the middle bringing in Morgan. He then stole second base and moved on to third due to a passed ball. Will Jackson marched to the plate and pounded the ball just as he had done in the first inning, earning himself a double and another RBI (Wilcox). Brad Coleman patiently waited for his pitch that never came and was sent to first with a walk. Thor Harden threw Sebring for a loop with a little hit between the pitcher and third for a single and loading the bases up. David Skinner entered the game as a speed-up runner for Harden. Timmy Farrell took a walk, earning him an RBI (Jackson) but was later thrown out when Jacalob Akins ripped a ball to the second baseman also bringing in Coleman. Akins managed to steal second base but was left there when a hard hit ball by Tyler Finney to centerfield was fielded by Sebring's defense. The score at the bottom of the second inning was Okeechobee eight - Sebring four.
Inning three started out slow for the Chobee boys. Justin Morgan laid a beautiful line drive up the middle but Sebring's Corbin Hoffner snagged it in mid-air for out number 1. Mark Weir was able to put the bat to the ball. However Sebring's defense had different plans and a play from second to first became out number two. Noah Wilcox finally got a piece for a single up the middle and a stolen base. Will Jackson hit into the same groove for a single that eventually brought in Wilcox. Brad Coleman was walked and stole second base. With Thor Harden coming to the plate and runners on second and third you could see the sweat begin to dribble down the brows of Sebring's players, coaches and fans. I am sure that the memory of the grand slam in the district tourney in Okeechobee was weighing heavy on their minds. After a brief conference, Sebring opted for the intentional walk, loading up the bases. Unfotunately their plan was successful as Timmy Farrell was sent back to the dugout with the third out. Sebring opened the inning with Jonathon Knight. He managed to hit the ball over to third and recieved a single due to an overthrow which then advanced him to second. He stole third successfully and awaited there as Buddy Mays struck out, Kyle Yarborough hit to Bradley Coleman near second base who threw to Weir for the out at second and Weir to Farrell on first for out number three. A picture perfect double play. At the end of the third inning the score was Sebring 4 - Okeechobee 9.
Okeechobee's stint at the plate in the fourth inning was quite short. Nate Green sent Jacalob Akins back to the dugout with a K and the next two outs were quick plays from third to first and short to first respectively. Sebring seized the opportunity to jump after sending the Chobee boys back to the field in three batters. Lyno Tijerina battled at the plate fouling off two balls after receiving two strikes then nailed the ball to third. He was out number one with the play at first. Gunner Westergom also battled fouling off three balls then sent a shot up the middle for a single. Seth Abeln pulled a ball up the third baseline for a double, scoring Westergom. Alex Griffin hit a solid ball between first and second base for a double, scoring Abeln. Corbin Hoffner joined in the hitting streak with a rock hard shot straight up the middle, scoring Griffin and landing on second. Unfortunately, that is where he would remain for the Knight strike out and third to first play on Buddy Mays' hit. The score at the end of the fourth inning was Sebring eight - Chobee nine.
The fifth inning was another short inning at the plate for Chobee. Sebring's defense was not going to give up easily. Starting out the inning with a strike out by Weir and two walks (Wilcox and Jackson), Chobee's at bat ended quickly with a double play off Brad Coleman's hit to short, to second and first for outs two and three. Although Tyler Finny had been pitching now for four innings he showed no signs of letting Sebring get away with a streak like they had in inning four. Good accurate pitching gave way to the Sebring boys putting the bat on the ball but Chobee's defense stood tall and pulled three outs in three batters: short to first, short to first, and second to first. The score remained tied at eight to nine, Chobee's favor.
In the sixth inning, Thor Harden started off with a nice hit up the left side for a single and advanced to second on an error by the third baseman. Timmy Farrell laid down a beautiful bunt advancing Harden and earning a single. Farrell advanced to second when the first baseman failed to catch the throw from the pitcher. Jacalob Akins returned to the dugout with a K and the next two batters' (Finney and Morgan) hits were easily fielded by Sebring's infield for three outs. Sebring's Gunner Westergom came to the plate took two pitches and tapped the ball to third. Will Jackson made the easy play to first. The next two batters (Abeln and Griffin) sent identical hits through the middle each for a double. Griffin received an RBI and major kudos as Abeln crossed the plate to tie up the game. Coach Morgan decided at this point that Tyler Finney had done his job and done it well and called upon Timmy Farrell to take the mound. on the first pitch, Corbin Hoffner sent a fly ball to right field that was nearly uncatchable, but Thor Harden gave everything his soul had and was in awe as the ball hit his glove. Griffen was in awe as well because he had already taken off for third and was unable to tag up before he was called out at second, ending the inning. Stress began to mount as the score was tied at the end of the sixth inning.
Okeechobee opened the seventh inning with strong batter Mark Weir. He clobbered the second pitch straight up the middle for a double. Noah Wilcox hit to second and Weir made them choose the play at first before bolting off to third. Will Jackson also shot a line drive up the middle, scoring Weir and placing himself securly on first base. The next two batters (Coleman and Harden) were unable to get on base. Sebring, now down by one had to step up to the plate and make something happen. Jonathan Knight worked Farrell hard making him throw six pitches fouling two away before sending a shot just beyond Tyler Finney at second base for a single. Buddy Mays in an attempt to slam a homerun caught on top of the ball resulting in a small blooper back to Farrell on the mound. Farrell to Coleman on first for out number one. Taylor towsend hit a sacrifice bunt to advance the runners and turned on the wheels for a single. Daniel Ware took a hit from Farrell and Lyno Tijerina took for balls. In a matter of minutes Farrell had the bases loaded. You could see the determination on the Chobee boys that they were not going to go back to Chobee once again falling to Sebring. Farrell fired pitch after pitch ... full count ... the croud was roaring from both sides of the field ... the last pitch .... Gunner Westergom swung with every ounce of energy in his body but ... did not hit the ball. OUT THREE. CHOBEE IS GOING TO THE WORLD SERIES WITH A WIN OF NINE TO TEN!!!! Of course the Chobee crowd burst into tears as did the Sebring crowd but what was amazing was the amount of sportsmanship between the two teams. The Chobee boys had been in the same shoes as the Sebring boys and remembered that feeling all too well. Several of the Chobee boys returned to the Sebring line up after trophies were handed out and congratulated them on a game of a lifetime. We are proud of the Chobee boys and very impressed with the Sebring boys as well.
Good luck boys ... and represent Chobee well in Muscle Shoals, Alabama. SWEET HOME ALABAMA!
The top of inning number two was almost carbon copy of inning one. After running through the whole line up in one, Tyler Finney opened the inning working Daniel Ware once again. After fouling off four balls, Tyler settled into a pitch and sent it air-mail to the leftfield fence for a triple. Jacalob Akins entered the game as a courtesy runner for Finney. The fervor in the Okeechobee bleachers began to grow once again. Justin Morgan hit a single to third with an RBI (Akins) and advanced to second with an error from third to first. Mark Weir scrutinized over Ware's pitching and was struck out with a controversial pitch that was called a strike. Noah Wilcox shot the ball up through the middle bringing in Morgan. He then stole second base and moved on to third due to a passed ball. Will Jackson marched to the plate and pounded the ball just as he had done in the first inning, earning himself a double and another RBI (Wilcox). Brad Coleman patiently waited for his pitch that never came and was sent to first with a walk. Thor Harden threw Sebring for a loop with a little hit between the pitcher and third for a single and loading the bases up. David Skinner entered the game as a speed-up runner for Harden. Timmy Farrell took a walk, earning him an RBI (Jackson) but was later thrown out when Jacalob Akins ripped a ball to the second baseman also bringing in Coleman. Akins managed to steal second base but was left there when a hard hit ball by Tyler Finney to centerfield was fielded by Sebring's defense. The score at the bottom of the second inning was Okeechobee eight - Sebring four.
Inning three started out slow for the Chobee boys. Justin Morgan laid a beautiful line drive up the middle but Sebring's Corbin Hoffner snagged it in mid-air for out number 1. Mark Weir was able to put the bat to the ball. However Sebring's defense had different plans and a play from second to first became out number two. Noah Wilcox finally got a piece for a single up the middle and a stolen base. Will Jackson hit into the same groove for a single that eventually brought in Wilcox. Brad Coleman was walked and stole second base. With Thor Harden coming to the plate and runners on second and third you could see the sweat begin to dribble down the brows of Sebring's players, coaches and fans. I am sure that the memory of the grand slam in the district tourney in Okeechobee was weighing heavy on their minds. After a brief conference, Sebring opted for the intentional walk, loading up the bases. Unfotunately their plan was successful as Timmy Farrell was sent back to the dugout with the third out. Sebring opened the inning with Jonathon Knight. He managed to hit the ball over to third and recieved a single due to an overthrow which then advanced him to second. He stole third successfully and awaited there as Buddy Mays struck out, Kyle Yarborough hit to Bradley Coleman near second base who threw to Weir for the out at second and Weir to Farrell on first for out number three. A picture perfect double play. At the end of the third inning the score was Sebring 4 - Okeechobee 9.
Okeechobee's stint at the plate in the fourth inning was quite short. Nate Green sent Jacalob Akins back to the dugout with a K and the next two outs were quick plays from third to first and short to first respectively. Sebring seized the opportunity to jump after sending the Chobee boys back to the field in three batters. Lyno Tijerina battled at the plate fouling off two balls after receiving two strikes then nailed the ball to third. He was out number one with the play at first. Gunner Westergom also battled fouling off three balls then sent a shot up the middle for a single. Seth Abeln pulled a ball up the third baseline for a double, scoring Westergom. Alex Griffin hit a solid ball between first and second base for a double, scoring Abeln. Corbin Hoffner joined in the hitting streak with a rock hard shot straight up the middle, scoring Griffin and landing on second. Unfortunately, that is where he would remain for the Knight strike out and third to first play on Buddy Mays' hit. The score at the end of the fourth inning was Sebring eight - Chobee nine.
The fifth inning was another short inning at the plate for Chobee. Sebring's defense was not going to give up easily. Starting out the inning with a strike out by Weir and two walks (Wilcox and Jackson), Chobee's at bat ended quickly with a double play off Brad Coleman's hit to short, to second and first for outs two and three. Although Tyler Finny had been pitching now for four innings he showed no signs of letting Sebring get away with a streak like they had in inning four. Good accurate pitching gave way to the Sebring boys putting the bat on the ball but Chobee's defense stood tall and pulled three outs in three batters: short to first, short to first, and second to first. The score remained tied at eight to nine, Chobee's favor.
In the sixth inning, Thor Harden started off with a nice hit up the left side for a single and advanced to second on an error by the third baseman. Timmy Farrell laid down a beautiful bunt advancing Harden and earning a single. Farrell advanced to second when the first baseman failed to catch the throw from the pitcher. Jacalob Akins returned to the dugout with a K and the next two batters' (Finney and Morgan) hits were easily fielded by Sebring's infield for three outs. Sebring's Gunner Westergom came to the plate took two pitches and tapped the ball to third. Will Jackson made the easy play to first. The next two batters (Abeln and Griffin) sent identical hits through the middle each for a double. Griffin received an RBI and major kudos as Abeln crossed the plate to tie up the game. Coach Morgan decided at this point that Tyler Finney had done his job and done it well and called upon Timmy Farrell to take the mound. on the first pitch, Corbin Hoffner sent a fly ball to right field that was nearly uncatchable, but Thor Harden gave everything his soul had and was in awe as the ball hit his glove. Griffen was in awe as well because he had already taken off for third and was unable to tag up before he was called out at second, ending the inning. Stress began to mount as the score was tied at the end of the sixth inning.
Okeechobee opened the seventh inning with strong batter Mark Weir. He clobbered the second pitch straight up the middle for a double. Noah Wilcox hit to second and Weir made them choose the play at first before bolting off to third. Will Jackson also shot a line drive up the middle, scoring Weir and placing himself securly on first base. The next two batters (Coleman and Harden) were unable to get on base. Sebring, now down by one had to step up to the plate and make something happen. Jonathan Knight worked Farrell hard making him throw six pitches fouling two away before sending a shot just beyond Tyler Finney at second base for a single. Buddy Mays in an attempt to slam a homerun caught on top of the ball resulting in a small blooper back to Farrell on the mound. Farrell to Coleman on first for out number one. Taylor towsend hit a sacrifice bunt to advance the runners and turned on the wheels for a single. Daniel Ware took a hit from Farrell and Lyno Tijerina took for balls. In a matter of minutes Farrell had the bases loaded. You could see the determination on the Chobee boys that they were not going to go back to Chobee once again falling to Sebring. Farrell fired pitch after pitch ... full count ... the croud was roaring from both sides of the field ... the last pitch .... Gunner Westergom swung with every ounce of energy in his body but ... did not hit the ball. OUT THREE. CHOBEE IS GOING TO THE WORLD SERIES WITH A WIN OF NINE TO TEN!!!! Of course the Chobee crowd burst into tears as did the Sebring crowd but what was amazing was the amount of sportsmanship between the two teams. The Chobee boys had been in the same shoes as the Sebring boys and remembered that feeling all too well. Several of the Chobee boys returned to the Sebring line up after trophies were handed out and congratulated them on a game of a lifetime. We are proud of the Chobee boys and very impressed with the Sebring boys as well.
Good luck boys ... and represent Chobee well in Muscle Shoals, Alabama. SWEET HOME ALABAMA!
Thursday, July 26, 2007
Game #5 - The Beginning of the End
Game number five was a little slow in getting started. We had a brief delay due to rain and finally got started. The first inning opened with Corbin Hoffner on the mound for Sebring and was a short at bat for Okeechobee. Mark Weir ripped a nice single through the middle and stole second but was left stranded. Corbin Hoffner struck out two of our boys for the first and third outs and the Sebring defense made a solid play from short to first for the second. The Chobee defense was tough and stood their ground behind pitcher Mark Weir. All three of the first three batters got a hold of the ball but could not battle against the Chobee fielders. A fly to centerfield was caught by Noah Wilcox. A routine play from second to first (Coleman to Farrell) produced the second out, and a fly ball to Finney at short ended the inning. The inning was scoreless.
The second inning was quick for the Chobee at the plate. (3 up and 3 down, as the saying goes) However, the two separate delays due to lightning caused tension to grow because this inning lasted forty-five minutes including delays. Although all three batters (Jackson, Coleman and Harden) got the bat on the ball for good solid hits, Sebring defense was not going to let it be that easy. With Sebring at bat, Jonathan Knight bunted and raced to the base for a single and managed to steal second and third. However, Mark Weir ended that thought by sending the next three Sebring batters back to the dug-out with their first strikeouts of the game. Once again, no score at the end of inning number two.
Inning number three seemed like a rerun of one and two. Okeechobee's at bat was short Dean Radebaugh stroked a nice single up the middle and stole second but was unable to score with the other three batters of the inning unable to produce a hit. Sebring was able to connect with the ball in inning three but Okeechobee's defense remained tough. A great play from short to first (Finney to Farrell), and two fly balls (one to Coleman at second and the other to Wilcox in centerfield) ended yet another scoreless inning.
Sebring opened the fourth inning with Daniel Ware on the mount. He didn't toss too many pitches because the Chobee boys were all over the ball. However, Sebring's boys only allowed one hit by Will Jackson with a single to shortstop. He was left on base. With Mark Weir still on the mound, Sebring make him work. Their first batter of the inning, Corbin Hoffner, patiently worked through six pitches and earned a walk to first base. A solid double zinged past Weir and into the outfield for a double and advanced Hoffner to third. A bunt by Buddy Mays gave him a single, allowing Hoffner to score. Jonathan Knight scored when Taylor Townsend ripped a single between short and third for a single but Mays, Townsend were later thrown out in a triple play when Daniel Ware hit a ball to third for the unassisted out made by Will Jackson who whipped the ball to Farrell on first for the second out. Farrell fired back to Jackson on third nailing Buddy Mays for the third out. As cried from the Chobee croud of "Whoop! There it is!" could be heard around the park, Sebring's hitting streak was squashed.
Okeechobee came in from the field knowing that it was time to put the bat to the ball. Almost the entire line-up saw a plate appearance during the fourth inning. Thor Harden started the inning by taking a hit for the team and Jacalob Akins entered at first as a speed-up runner. Timmy Farrell pulled a single up the right side, advancing Akins. Dean Radebaugh placed a perfectly batted bunt advancing Akins and Farrell and giving himself a single. Jacalob Akins and his quick feet scored on a wild pitch from Sebring's Daniel Ware. Tyler Finney ripped a ball past Sebring's third baseman scoring Farrell. With Okeechobee having no outs at this point, Sebring felt it necessary to make a pitching change and Seth Abeln came to the mound in attempt to end the inning. Justin Morgan watched one ball and then slammed a ball through the middle for a double. Radebaugh scored but Tyler Finney was thrown out heading for home - out #1. With Justin Morgan awaiting his turn to cross the plate, Mark Weir slammed a high ball out to centerfield. The sacrifice fly allowed Morgan to advance to third with two outs now on the board. Noah Wilcox placed the ball just over the shortstop for a single bringing in Morgan and earning himself a single. Noah's running skills tested Taylor Townsend but he arrived safely at second with a perfect photo-op play. Will Jackson stepped up to the plate in the mindset that he was going to keep this streak rolling. He took several hard cuts at the ball, fouling one off and then ripped a beautiful hit out to centerfield. Unfortunately Sebring's fielder gave it everything he could and made the catch. Sebring's at bat was short but sweet (for Okeechobee, anyway). Two easy plays and a strike out delivered by Mark Weir put them back into the field in three batters. The score at the end of inning number five was Sebring two to Okeechobee four.
Okeechobee's hopes of having inning six roll through the batting order like five were squelched. Although Thor Harden was able to earn a walk, Jacalob Akins (speed-up runner) was caught when Timmy Farrell hit a ground ball to second for a single. A strike out and easy play ended the inning. Although Mark Weir had pitched five innings, he showed no signs of easing up in the sixth. He started off the inning with two strike outs (one swinging and one looking). Jonathon Knight hit a ball just past the shortstop for a single but was left stranded when Buddy Mays hit a grounder to shortstop that was fielded by Tyler Finney for an easy throw to first, ending the inning. At the end of inning six the score remained Sebring two - Okeechobee four.
Okeechobee opened the seventh inning at the top of the order. Tyler Finney started out, battling hard at the plate with multiple foul balls. He finally got a hold of the ball and sent it sailing to right field but unfortunately their fielder was there as well. Justin Morgan hit a beautiful shot up through the middle and David Skinner entered as a courtesy runner. Mark Weir punched a small but beneficial hit to toward the pitcher that earned him a single. Noah Wilcox slammed a ball directly at the shortstop who opted for the play at second. Will Jackson ended the inning with a pop fly to short. Inning seven was one of the longest bouts that Sebring had at the plate. Six batters made an appearance. Taylor Townsend received a base on balls and Daniel Ware flew out to left field. Lyno Tijerina received a walk and Gunner Westergom executed a beautiful bunt to load the bases up. Seth Abeln hit a solid hit to centerfield, bringing in Townsend but it was easily fielded by Noah Wilcox. Knowing that we needed to stop Sebring in their tracks, Mark Weir dug down deep and struck out their last better, Alex Griffin.
Final score - Okeechobee 4 - Sebring 3
The second inning was quick for the Chobee at the plate. (3 up and 3 down, as the saying goes) However, the two separate delays due to lightning caused tension to grow because this inning lasted forty-five minutes including delays. Although all three batters (Jackson, Coleman and Harden) got the bat on the ball for good solid hits, Sebring defense was not going to let it be that easy. With Sebring at bat, Jonathan Knight bunted and raced to the base for a single and managed to steal second and third. However, Mark Weir ended that thought by sending the next three Sebring batters back to the dug-out with their first strikeouts of the game. Once again, no score at the end of inning number two.
Inning number three seemed like a rerun of one and two. Okeechobee's at bat was short Dean Radebaugh stroked a nice single up the middle and stole second but was unable to score with the other three batters of the inning unable to produce a hit. Sebring was able to connect with the ball in inning three but Okeechobee's defense remained tough. A great play from short to first (Finney to Farrell), and two fly balls (one to Coleman at second and the other to Wilcox in centerfield) ended yet another scoreless inning.
Sebring opened the fourth inning with Daniel Ware on the mount. He didn't toss too many pitches because the Chobee boys were all over the ball. However, Sebring's boys only allowed one hit by Will Jackson with a single to shortstop. He was left on base. With Mark Weir still on the mound, Sebring make him work. Their first batter of the inning, Corbin Hoffner, patiently worked through six pitches and earned a walk to first base. A solid double zinged past Weir and into the outfield for a double and advanced Hoffner to third. A bunt by Buddy Mays gave him a single, allowing Hoffner to score. Jonathan Knight scored when Taylor Townsend ripped a single between short and third for a single but Mays, Townsend were later thrown out in a triple play when Daniel Ware hit a ball to third for the unassisted out made by Will Jackson who whipped the ball to Farrell on first for the second out. Farrell fired back to Jackson on third nailing Buddy Mays for the third out. As cried from the Chobee croud of "Whoop! There it is!" could be heard around the park, Sebring's hitting streak was squashed.
Okeechobee came in from the field knowing that it was time to put the bat to the ball. Almost the entire line-up saw a plate appearance during the fourth inning. Thor Harden started the inning by taking a hit for the team and Jacalob Akins entered at first as a speed-up runner. Timmy Farrell pulled a single up the right side, advancing Akins. Dean Radebaugh placed a perfectly batted bunt advancing Akins and Farrell and giving himself a single. Jacalob Akins and his quick feet scored on a wild pitch from Sebring's Daniel Ware. Tyler Finney ripped a ball past Sebring's third baseman scoring Farrell. With Okeechobee having no outs at this point, Sebring felt it necessary to make a pitching change and Seth Abeln came to the mound in attempt to end the inning. Justin Morgan watched one ball and then slammed a ball through the middle for a double. Radebaugh scored but Tyler Finney was thrown out heading for home - out #1. With Justin Morgan awaiting his turn to cross the plate, Mark Weir slammed a high ball out to centerfield. The sacrifice fly allowed Morgan to advance to third with two outs now on the board. Noah Wilcox placed the ball just over the shortstop for a single bringing in Morgan and earning himself a single. Noah's running skills tested Taylor Townsend but he arrived safely at second with a perfect photo-op play. Will Jackson stepped up to the plate in the mindset that he was going to keep this streak rolling. He took several hard cuts at the ball, fouling one off and then ripped a beautiful hit out to centerfield. Unfortunately Sebring's fielder gave it everything he could and made the catch. Sebring's at bat was short but sweet (for Okeechobee, anyway). Two easy plays and a strike out delivered by Mark Weir put them back into the field in three batters. The score at the end of inning number five was Sebring two to Okeechobee four.
Okeechobee's hopes of having inning six roll through the batting order like five were squelched. Although Thor Harden was able to earn a walk, Jacalob Akins (speed-up runner) was caught when Timmy Farrell hit a ground ball to second for a single. A strike out and easy play ended the inning. Although Mark Weir had pitched five innings, he showed no signs of easing up in the sixth. He started off the inning with two strike outs (one swinging and one looking). Jonathon Knight hit a ball just past the shortstop for a single but was left stranded when Buddy Mays hit a grounder to shortstop that was fielded by Tyler Finney for an easy throw to first, ending the inning. At the end of inning six the score remained Sebring two - Okeechobee four.
Okeechobee opened the seventh inning at the top of the order. Tyler Finney started out, battling hard at the plate with multiple foul balls. He finally got a hold of the ball and sent it sailing to right field but unfortunately their fielder was there as well. Justin Morgan hit a beautiful shot up through the middle and David Skinner entered as a courtesy runner. Mark Weir punched a small but beneficial hit to toward the pitcher that earned him a single. Noah Wilcox slammed a ball directly at the shortstop who opted for the play at second. Will Jackson ended the inning with a pop fly to short. Inning seven was one of the longest bouts that Sebring had at the plate. Six batters made an appearance. Taylor Townsend received a base on balls and Daniel Ware flew out to left field. Lyno Tijerina received a walk and Gunner Westergom executed a beautiful bunt to load the bases up. Seth Abeln hit a solid hit to centerfield, bringing in Townsend but it was easily fielded by Noah Wilcox. Knowing that we needed to stop Sebring in their tracks, Mark Weir dug down deep and struck out their last better, Alex Griffin.
Final score - Okeechobee 4 - Sebring 3
Wednesday, July 25, 2007
Wilcox leads the Boys into the Finals!!!
Tuesday, July 25, 2o07 started out gloomy and rainy but as the skies cleared it painted the way to victory for Okeechobee. Okeechobee showed up at the field ready to play ball but were sent back to their hotel for a brief rain delay. The delay didn't slow the Chobee boys down a bit though. They played a great defensive and offensive game against Springhill, who played just as well. The Chobee boys (visitors) opened with bats on fire but Springhill was ready to tackle our hits. Tyler Finney and Justin Morgan had solid hits that were caught. Mark Weir sent a ball through the Springhill infield between first and second for a double but was unable to cross the plate before the inning ended. Noah Wilcox strutted to the mound with nothing but business on his mind. Striking out the first two batters (the first batter swinging and the second looking) set the stage for the remainder of the day. The inning ended with only three batters making plate appearances when a fly ball to left field was caught by Thor Harden. The game was scoreless at the end of inning one.
Inning two was short for both teams and also ended scoreless. Springhill's pitcher took our first batter but the next two battled. Timmy Farrell hit a grounder directly to the second baseman who made the unassisted play at first. Thor Harden, one of Chobee's hardest batters, hit to second base as well and was thrown out at first. Springhill started the second inning similar to the first with Noah Wilcox sending the first two back to the dugout with "a big K." They managed to get one hit through the infield and a batter walked for two men on base. The men each stole a base but failed to score with a fly ball to Bradley Coleman at third. No runs were scored for either team in the second inning.
In inning three Bradley Coleman had a hard hit to centerfield that was caught by the Springhill defense and Tyler Finney hit a hard grounder between second and third for a single. This at bat ended with a great defensive play from Springhill when Justin Morgain fired a hard shot down the left side. Okeechobee's defense was ready to get this game rolling and only three batters faced Noah Wilcox in the next two innings. A routine third-to-first play put down batter one and Noah struck out the next two batters. Okeechobee also had two batters strike out in the fourth. A rip by Will Jackson split through the shortstop for a single but the inning ended with a pop-up by Timmy Farrell to first. Springhill fell victim again with a routine second to first play and two strike outs. At the end of the fourth inning the score remained zero all.
Chobee boys knew that they had to step it up a notch and get some runs across the plate. The bats were rattling in inning number five. Thor Harden slammed a ball that pegged the bottom of the fence behind the left fielder's head for a single. Dean Radebaugh placed a ball just past the first baseman for a single and advancing Harden. Tyler Finney slipped one by the shortstop and Justin Morgan slammed a single through the third baseman, earning two RBI's as Harden and Finney crossed the plate. Once again Noah Wilcox only allowed three batters to make an appearance. An easy out was acheived with a hit to Tyler Finney at second who then threw to Farrell at first. Noah did the rest by striking out the next two batters. Okeechobee two to Springhill's zero was the score at the end of the fifth.
The boys kept the ball on the bat but could not seem to shake Springhill's defense in the sixth. Noah Wilcox's hit to short was caught as well as Will Jackson's pop up to the pitcher. Timmy Farrell earned a full count and battled back with a foul ball before sending a ball down the first base line for a single. Thor Harden with more effort that a locomotive swung his bat with everything he had. A hard hit ball was caught in right field ending the inning. Two strike outs created quick offensive inning for Springhill. One Springhill batter got a blessing when his ball took an odd hop and evaded the quick hands of Tyler Finney but the Chobee boys did not let that affect their efforts and a smooth shortstop to first play ended the inning. The score at the end of the sixth remained Chobee two - Springhill zero.
The last inning fired up the Chobee boys and they came out battling. Brad Coleman hit a beautiful ball that dropped between second base and centerfield but was fielded by Springhill. Dean Radebaugh's laid down a bunt turned into a single but he was later thrown out in a beautifully executed double play by the Springhill boys when Tyler Finney laid a grounder to their shortstop. The first two batters for Springhill had hitting on their mind but the Chobee boys were not going to let that happen. A high, high fly ball over the plate send Justin Morgan scrambling. He settled under the ball and waited patiently to make the catch. Out number one! A fly ball out to center field was easily caught by Will Jackson for out number two. The next two batters each earned their way on base with singles through Okeechobee's infield. With the possibility of a tie with a runners on first and second, the tension began to mount. Springhill's last batter hit a pop-up directly over Tyler Finney who waved off his teammates and made the play with the confidence of a pro. Final score Okeechobee two - Springhill zero.
This win advanced Okeechobee and a later game between West Volusia and Sebring sent West Volusia home with two losses. Sebring advanced still undefeated into the finals and Okeechobee will face them once again on Thursday. The coin toss went in Chobee's favor and Chobee opted for visitors so that they could come out blaring! Chobee must beat the Sebring boys twice for the State Title. They have done it before in district play and are confident that they can do it again. The first game starts at 4:00 and the second follows thirty minutes after the conclusion of the first game. Check back for the results!!!
Inning two was short for both teams and also ended scoreless. Springhill's pitcher took our first batter but the next two battled. Timmy Farrell hit a grounder directly to the second baseman who made the unassisted play at first. Thor Harden, one of Chobee's hardest batters, hit to second base as well and was thrown out at first. Springhill started the second inning similar to the first with Noah Wilcox sending the first two back to the dugout with "a big K." They managed to get one hit through the infield and a batter walked for two men on base. The men each stole a base but failed to score with a fly ball to Bradley Coleman at third. No runs were scored for either team in the second inning.
In inning three Bradley Coleman had a hard hit to centerfield that was caught by the Springhill defense and Tyler Finney hit a hard grounder between second and third for a single. This at bat ended with a great defensive play from Springhill when Justin Morgain fired a hard shot down the left side. Okeechobee's defense was ready to get this game rolling and only three batters faced Noah Wilcox in the next two innings. A routine third-to-first play put down batter one and Noah struck out the next two batters. Okeechobee also had two batters strike out in the fourth. A rip by Will Jackson split through the shortstop for a single but the inning ended with a pop-up by Timmy Farrell to first. Springhill fell victim again with a routine second to first play and two strike outs. At the end of the fourth inning the score remained zero all.
Chobee boys knew that they had to step it up a notch and get some runs across the plate. The bats were rattling in inning number five. Thor Harden slammed a ball that pegged the bottom of the fence behind the left fielder's head for a single. Dean Radebaugh placed a ball just past the first baseman for a single and advancing Harden. Tyler Finney slipped one by the shortstop and Justin Morgan slammed a single through the third baseman, earning two RBI's as Harden and Finney crossed the plate. Once again Noah Wilcox only allowed three batters to make an appearance. An easy out was acheived with a hit to Tyler Finney at second who then threw to Farrell at first. Noah did the rest by striking out the next two batters. Okeechobee two to Springhill's zero was the score at the end of the fifth.
The boys kept the ball on the bat but could not seem to shake Springhill's defense in the sixth. Noah Wilcox's hit to short was caught as well as Will Jackson's pop up to the pitcher. Timmy Farrell earned a full count and battled back with a foul ball before sending a ball down the first base line for a single. Thor Harden with more effort that a locomotive swung his bat with everything he had. A hard hit ball was caught in right field ending the inning. Two strike outs created quick offensive inning for Springhill. One Springhill batter got a blessing when his ball took an odd hop and evaded the quick hands of Tyler Finney but the Chobee boys did not let that affect their efforts and a smooth shortstop to first play ended the inning. The score at the end of the sixth remained Chobee two - Springhill zero.
The last inning fired up the Chobee boys and they came out battling. Brad Coleman hit a beautiful ball that dropped between second base and centerfield but was fielded by Springhill. Dean Radebaugh's laid down a bunt turned into a single but he was later thrown out in a beautifully executed double play by the Springhill boys when Tyler Finney laid a grounder to their shortstop. The first two batters for Springhill had hitting on their mind but the Chobee boys were not going to let that happen. A high, high fly ball over the plate send Justin Morgan scrambling. He settled under the ball and waited patiently to make the catch. Out number one! A fly ball out to center field was easily caught by Will Jackson for out number two. The next two batters each earned their way on base with singles through Okeechobee's infield. With the possibility of a tie with a runners on first and second, the tension began to mount. Springhill's last batter hit a pop-up directly over Tyler Finney who waved off his teammates and made the play with the confidence of a pro. Final score Okeechobee two - Springhill zero.
This win advanced Okeechobee and a later game between West Volusia and Sebring sent West Volusia home with two losses. Sebring advanced still undefeated into the finals and Okeechobee will face them once again on Thursday. The coin toss went in Chobee's favor and Chobee opted for visitors so that they could come out blaring! Chobee must beat the Sebring boys twice for the State Title. They have done it before in district play and are confident that they can do it again. The first game starts at 4:00 and the second follows thirty minutes after the conclusion of the first game. Check back for the results!!!
Monday, July 23, 2007
Chobee Boys Battle Back!!
Our Chobee boys played ball in true Chobee fashion today in Grand Ridge. They faced off against Marianna at 3:30. Okeechobee being visitors went to the plate first. The first inning was a bit slow but did produce a hit by Mark Weir and a walk to Noah Wilcox. No runners scored. Marianna also failed to score with Noah Wilcox on the mount. They had a single and a double. One runner was thrown out at third and Noah struck out their second and fifth batters.
The second inning was much more beneficial for Chobee. Brad Coleman received a walk and Timmy Farrell took a pitch to arm. Dean Radebaugh attemped a sacrifice bunt that worked in our favor and allowed him to arrive safe at first. Tyler Finney smacked a long ball down the third base line which brought in an RBI. Justin Morgan hit a ball into shallow right field for a single, bringing in another run but was thrown out when Mark Weir hit a ball to short. This was a very short inning for Marianna with only three players making a plate appearance: one play from second to first, a strike out for Noah and a line drive up the middle smacked right into the glove of Noah Wilcox. The score at the end of inning two was Okeechobee two to Marianna's zero.
Okeechobee had a short inning in the forth. Noah Wilcox had a fly ball to short. Will Jackson hit a short ball to the pitcher and was thrown out at first. Thor Harden hit a hard fly ball to right field that was barely caught for out three. Only three batters from Marianna faced Noah Wilcox once again. A short hit to Noah Wilcox produced a quick out at first. A bunt up the first baseline drove Farrell off the base to make the play but Noah quickly and smoothly covered first and the runner was out with a quick toss of the ball. One Marianna batter landed on first with a walk but was later thrown out when his teammate hit a grounder to short. No runs were scored for either team.
Inning four opened with a solid hit to left center from Brad Coleman for a single. Timmy Farrell placed a sacrifice bunt to advance Coleman. Dean Radebaugh bunted a ball that turned into a single. Tyler Finney hit a hard ball to second base and was thrown out at first, but allowed Brad Coleman to cross the plate. Justin Morgan was hit by the ball and advanced to second with a short hit just over the shortstop for a single with an RBI for Mark Weir. The inning ended with a long shot to right field by Noah Wilcox. Marianna had four batters step up to the plate. Caleb Golden hit a fly ball to Bradley Coleman at second. The next batter got pegged but was later picked off at first. A walk placed their next batter on first but he was thrown out when their fourth batter hit a ball to Mark Weir at second base. The score at the end of the fourth inning was Okeechobee four - Marianna zero.
Five batters marched to the plate for Okeechobee in inning five. Will Jackson was thrown out at first after a hit to short. Thor Harden hit a fly ball to center field that was caught by Marianna. Brad Coleman and Timmy Farrell both shot singles through the shortstop. The inning ended with two men left on when Dean Radebaugh was thrown out after a grounder to second base. Marianna came alive in inning number five! Four hits, a struck batter and a walk allowed Marianna to score two runs. The inning ended when Chris Godwin from Marianna popped a ball high above Justin Morgan's head. Scrambling underneath and then settling in, Justin made a picture perfect catch. The score at the end of the fifth inning was Okeechobee four - Marianna 2.
Inning number six was a bit controversial. Justin Morgan slammed a long, long shot over the left fielder's head. Running like a jaguar, he landed at third with the third baseman dropping the ball. However, he apparently did not tag second base on his way around the bases and a throw to second base undid that wonderful hit. Mark Weir placed a double into left center but did not get the opportunity to cross the plate before the inning ended. This inning was relatively short for Marianna. A play from short to first produced out number one. A fly ball to shortstop - out number two. One batter did shoot a ball up the middle for a double and stole third but was left on base with a full count strike out by Tyler Finney.
In the last inning Okeechobee scored two more runs. Will Jackson and Thor Harden both slammed one up the middle produced singles and were advanced to second and third with a wild pitch. Brad Coleman hit a grounder to short and was thrown out at first but brought Jackson across the plate. Timmy Farrell attempted a bunt to allow Jacalob Akins (running for Harden) to cross the plate but the plan was foiled when Farrell fouled off the ball. With that strategy known, Farrell now had to stay in the box and hit. He slammed a sacrifice fly out to left field and brought in Jacalob. Okeechobee's defense made the last inning very short for Marianna. A fly ball to short, a fly ball to the pitcher (Mark Weir) and a fly ball to second ended the game. The final score was Okeechobee six - Marianna two.
We have just heard that Sebring beat Springhill six to seven, so that places us playing Springhill at 3:30 tomorrow. Keep checking for updates.
The second inning was much more beneficial for Chobee. Brad Coleman received a walk and Timmy Farrell took a pitch to arm. Dean Radebaugh attemped a sacrifice bunt that worked in our favor and allowed him to arrive safe at first. Tyler Finney smacked a long ball down the third base line which brought in an RBI. Justin Morgan hit a ball into shallow right field for a single, bringing in another run but was thrown out when Mark Weir hit a ball to short. This was a very short inning for Marianna with only three players making a plate appearance: one play from second to first, a strike out for Noah and a line drive up the middle smacked right into the glove of Noah Wilcox. The score at the end of inning two was Okeechobee two to Marianna's zero.
Okeechobee had a short inning in the forth. Noah Wilcox had a fly ball to short. Will Jackson hit a short ball to the pitcher and was thrown out at first. Thor Harden hit a hard fly ball to right field that was barely caught for out three. Only three batters from Marianna faced Noah Wilcox once again. A short hit to Noah Wilcox produced a quick out at first. A bunt up the first baseline drove Farrell off the base to make the play but Noah quickly and smoothly covered first and the runner was out with a quick toss of the ball. One Marianna batter landed on first with a walk but was later thrown out when his teammate hit a grounder to short. No runs were scored for either team.
Inning four opened with a solid hit to left center from Brad Coleman for a single. Timmy Farrell placed a sacrifice bunt to advance Coleman. Dean Radebaugh bunted a ball that turned into a single. Tyler Finney hit a hard ball to second base and was thrown out at first, but allowed Brad Coleman to cross the plate. Justin Morgan was hit by the ball and advanced to second with a short hit just over the shortstop for a single with an RBI for Mark Weir. The inning ended with a long shot to right field by Noah Wilcox. Marianna had four batters step up to the plate. Caleb Golden hit a fly ball to Bradley Coleman at second. The next batter got pegged but was later picked off at first. A walk placed their next batter on first but he was thrown out when their fourth batter hit a ball to Mark Weir at second base. The score at the end of the fourth inning was Okeechobee four - Marianna zero.
Five batters marched to the plate for Okeechobee in inning five. Will Jackson was thrown out at first after a hit to short. Thor Harden hit a fly ball to center field that was caught by Marianna. Brad Coleman and Timmy Farrell both shot singles through the shortstop. The inning ended with two men left on when Dean Radebaugh was thrown out after a grounder to second base. Marianna came alive in inning number five! Four hits, a struck batter and a walk allowed Marianna to score two runs. The inning ended when Chris Godwin from Marianna popped a ball high above Justin Morgan's head. Scrambling underneath and then settling in, Justin made a picture perfect catch. The score at the end of the fifth inning was Okeechobee four - Marianna 2.
Inning number six was a bit controversial. Justin Morgan slammed a long, long shot over the left fielder's head. Running like a jaguar, he landed at third with the third baseman dropping the ball. However, he apparently did not tag second base on his way around the bases and a throw to second base undid that wonderful hit. Mark Weir placed a double into left center but did not get the opportunity to cross the plate before the inning ended. This inning was relatively short for Marianna. A play from short to first produced out number one. A fly ball to shortstop - out number two. One batter did shoot a ball up the middle for a double and stole third but was left on base with a full count strike out by Tyler Finney.
In the last inning Okeechobee scored two more runs. Will Jackson and Thor Harden both slammed one up the middle produced singles and were advanced to second and third with a wild pitch. Brad Coleman hit a grounder to short and was thrown out at first but brought Jackson across the plate. Timmy Farrell attempted a bunt to allow Jacalob Akins (running for Harden) to cross the plate but the plan was foiled when Farrell fouled off the ball. With that strategy known, Farrell now had to stay in the box and hit. He slammed a sacrifice fly out to left field and brought in Jacalob. Okeechobee's defense made the last inning very short for Marianna. A fly ball to short, a fly ball to the pitcher (Mark Weir) and a fly ball to second ended the game. The final score was Okeechobee six - Marianna two.
We have just heard that Sebring beat Springhill six to seven, so that places us playing Springhill at 3:30 tomorrow. Keep checking for updates.
Sunday, July 22, 2007
Game 2 against Sebring moves Chobee to losers bracket
Game 2 in the state tournament did not have the momentum of game one for the Jr. Dixie Boys (13 year old) team. Sebring came out to this game with sweet revenge on their minds. The game was very fast paced and Okeechobee defense struggled with many very well hit balls from the Sebring boys. Sebring had racked up six runs by the second inning. Mark Weir and the defense behind him managed to put them down 1, 2, 3 in the third inning. The fourth inning was a very long inning for the Okeechobee defense. The middle of the line up from Sebring got hit after hit scoring six more runs in the fourth inning. Noah Wilcox started inning number 5 with two strike-outs but it was a little too late. The final score was 11-0. This loss places Okeechobee in the losers bracket and they will play Marianna tomorrow at 3:30. Watch for pictures of tonight's game and for information about tomorrow's game.
Pictures from Game 1
Tyler on the mound.
David runs the bases.
Bradley makes the tag at first.
Timmy pitching
Noah at bat.
Justin lays down a perfect bunt.
Mark Pitching
Team MeetingSaturday, July 21, 2007
Okeechobee Blasts San Antonio in the 5th for a 14 to 9 win!!
Okeechobee Jr Dixie Boys (13 year olds) faced off this morning against the boys from San Antonio. Okeechobee's defense along with Mark Weir, the opening pitcher, faced only five batters in the first inning. With two hits and a stolen base, the boys from San Antonio scored one run with one strike-out in the first inning. Okeechobee followed suit in the bottom of the second inning, also bringing in one run within the first five batters. Tyler Finney reached first base after receiving a full count, using his keen eye to force the pitcher to send him with a base on balls. Justin Morgan placed a sacrifice bunt just outside the batting circle and advanced Finney around to second. Quick base running moved Finney around, placing him in opportune position for scoring. A hit to second base by Noah Wilcox allowed Finney to tease the defense of the San Antonio boys and the duo forced San Antonio to make the play at first, allowing Finney to score.
The second inning also seemed like mirror images with both teams facing six batters and allowing two runs a piece. Timmy Farrell reached first after taking a walk on a full count. Thor Harden smacked a double to right-center, sending Farrell to third. With Farrell on third and Harden on second, Bradley Coleman hit a line drive past the shortstop bringing in Farrell and stowing Harden safely at third. Coleman stole second base and then moved to third when Finney hit a hard grounder to second, scoring Harden. Battling hard, the inning closed with a tied score of three all.
In the third inning the San Antonio boys pulled in two more runs with some very well placed hits. Mark Weir and the Chobee boys closed out the inning after facing only five batters. The Okeechobee boys struggled in the third inning and were sent down after four batters. Mark Weir reached first base with a single to short and was later thrown out at second after a grounder to short, hit by Noah Wilcox. Will Jackson took the first pitch and slammed a ball out to center field. Unfortunately, San Antonio's outfielder made the play but Wilcox turned on the wheels and was able to score. At the bottom of the third inning, the score was a close four to five in San Antonio's favor.
In the top of the fourth inning, Okeechobee pulled in Timmy Farrell to the mound and allowed San Antonio two runs with only one hit and one walk. Okeechobee still did not produce the hits that they have shown in previous tournament play. Thor Harden received a walk and Dean Radebaugh's sacrifice hit to the pitcher pushed Harden on to second. Tyler Finney laid a good solid hit through the shortstop, which allowed Harden to cross the plate. After four innings of play the score was four to seven - San Antonio's lead.
The fifth inning was baseball Okeechobee style. Okeechobee's defense refused to let San Antonio gain any runs. The top of the inning started with two solid hits against Farrell. Although the last three San Antonio batters were able to get the bat on the ball, they fell victim to the quick hands of Okeechbee's defense ending their at bat scoreless. With the rush of a well played defensive inning, Okeechobee's bats came alive with the fierceness that brought them the district title. Mark Weir started the inning with a slammer down the third base line. Followed by Noah Wilcox's well-placed ball to right field. Will Jackson took a hard hit in the back by a San Antonio pitch, shook it off quickly and took his base. This mistake cost San Antonio another run as Justin Morgan crossed the plate. Timmy Farrell also took a ball in the foot which caused Mark Weir to come in. With bases still loaded, Thor Harden came up to the plate. You could see the Okeechobee crowd begin to scoot onto the edge of their seats, in hopes of a repeat grand slam identical to the astonishing feat during the second game of district play against Sebring. Harden slammed a ball far into the outfield, just short of the fence, bringing in three runs: Wilcox, Jackson and Farrell. With Harden on second, San Antonio decided upon a pitching switch. Brad Coleman, facing a new pitcher, smacked a ball past San Antonio's second baseman which brought Harden to third. Mark Weir with his second appearance at the plate in the fifth inning pulled a triple into right field bringing in Harden and Coleman. On his toes, Weir took advantage of a wild San Antonio pitch and came in as well. At the bottom of the fifth inning, the score was quite a new story: San Antonio - seven to Okeechobee - thirteen.
Timmy Farrell returned to the mound in the sixth inning with the strong defense once again behind him. With one out, Ryan Sharber of San Antonio sent a ball out into right field placing him on second. The next San Antonio batter hit a hard grounder to second. Tyler Finney fielded the ball, flipped it to Mark Weir at second who then fired the ball to first in an attempt for a double play. The play was very impressive but missed out number two by a split second. Knowing that they needed to end this inning, Noah Wilcox made a fantastic catch of a solid hit by Ben Suratt for the third out. As Okeechobee came to bat in the bottom of the inning, Will Jackson opened the inning with a hit between the shortstop and third for a single. Thor Harden slammed another ball out over the shortstop's head and Jackson scored on a single by Bradley Coleman. David Skinner was after a sacrifice play to advance our runners but earned his way to first base. Tyler Finney, patiently awaiting his pitch, ended up taking the walk and a hit down the third base line by Justin Morgan allowed Skinner to be tagged out at third, ending the inning.
With Tyler Finney now on the mound, the San Antonio had their last chance at a comeback. Although two runs scored, Finney and the Okeechobee defense fought back. Finney reached deep down with two outs and two strikes on Ryan Sharber, fired a beautiful pitch that threw Sharber for a loop. As Sharber watched the ball pass by and the umpire bellowed the call, the Okeechobee boys knew that they were on their way to playing Sebring tomorrow in the winner's bracket.
Be sure to check back tomorrow for new game highlights.
The second inning also seemed like mirror images with both teams facing six batters and allowing two runs a piece. Timmy Farrell reached first after taking a walk on a full count. Thor Harden smacked a double to right-center, sending Farrell to third. With Farrell on third and Harden on second, Bradley Coleman hit a line drive past the shortstop bringing in Farrell and stowing Harden safely at third. Coleman stole second base and then moved to third when Finney hit a hard grounder to second, scoring Harden. Battling hard, the inning closed with a tied score of three all.
In the third inning the San Antonio boys pulled in two more runs with some very well placed hits. Mark Weir and the Chobee boys closed out the inning after facing only five batters. The Okeechobee boys struggled in the third inning and were sent down after four batters. Mark Weir reached first base with a single to short and was later thrown out at second after a grounder to short, hit by Noah Wilcox. Will Jackson took the first pitch and slammed a ball out to center field. Unfortunately, San Antonio's outfielder made the play but Wilcox turned on the wheels and was able to score. At the bottom of the third inning, the score was a close four to five in San Antonio's favor.
In the top of the fourth inning, Okeechobee pulled in Timmy Farrell to the mound and allowed San Antonio two runs with only one hit and one walk. Okeechobee still did not produce the hits that they have shown in previous tournament play. Thor Harden received a walk and Dean Radebaugh's sacrifice hit to the pitcher pushed Harden on to second. Tyler Finney laid a good solid hit through the shortstop, which allowed Harden to cross the plate. After four innings of play the score was four to seven - San Antonio's lead.
The fifth inning was baseball Okeechobee style. Okeechobee's defense refused to let San Antonio gain any runs. The top of the inning started with two solid hits against Farrell. Although the last three San Antonio batters were able to get the bat on the ball, they fell victim to the quick hands of Okeechbee's defense ending their at bat scoreless. With the rush of a well played defensive inning, Okeechobee's bats came alive with the fierceness that brought them the district title. Mark Weir started the inning with a slammer down the third base line. Followed by Noah Wilcox's well-placed ball to right field. Will Jackson took a hard hit in the back by a San Antonio pitch, shook it off quickly and took his base. This mistake cost San Antonio another run as Justin Morgan crossed the plate. Timmy Farrell also took a ball in the foot which caused Mark Weir to come in. With bases still loaded, Thor Harden came up to the plate. You could see the Okeechobee crowd begin to scoot onto the edge of their seats, in hopes of a repeat grand slam identical to the astonishing feat during the second game of district play against Sebring. Harden slammed a ball far into the outfield, just short of the fence, bringing in three runs: Wilcox, Jackson and Farrell. With Harden on second, San Antonio decided upon a pitching switch. Brad Coleman, facing a new pitcher, smacked a ball past San Antonio's second baseman which brought Harden to third. Mark Weir with his second appearance at the plate in the fifth inning pulled a triple into right field bringing in Harden and Coleman. On his toes, Weir took advantage of a wild San Antonio pitch and came in as well. At the bottom of the fifth inning, the score was quite a new story: San Antonio - seven to Okeechobee - thirteen.
Timmy Farrell returned to the mound in the sixth inning with the strong defense once again behind him. With one out, Ryan Sharber of San Antonio sent a ball out into right field placing him on second. The next San Antonio batter hit a hard grounder to second. Tyler Finney fielded the ball, flipped it to Mark Weir at second who then fired the ball to first in an attempt for a double play. The play was very impressive but missed out number two by a split second. Knowing that they needed to end this inning, Noah Wilcox made a fantastic catch of a solid hit by Ben Suratt for the third out. As Okeechobee came to bat in the bottom of the inning, Will Jackson opened the inning with a hit between the shortstop and third for a single. Thor Harden slammed another ball out over the shortstop's head and Jackson scored on a single by Bradley Coleman. David Skinner was after a sacrifice play to advance our runners but earned his way to first base. Tyler Finney, patiently awaiting his pitch, ended up taking the walk and a hit down the third base line by Justin Morgan allowed Skinner to be tagged out at third, ending the inning.
With Tyler Finney now on the mound, the San Antonio had their last chance at a comeback. Although two runs scored, Finney and the Okeechobee defense fought back. Finney reached deep down with two outs and two strikes on Ryan Sharber, fired a beautiful pitch that threw Sharber for a loop. As Sharber watched the ball pass by and the umpire bellowed the call, the Okeechobee boys knew that they were on their way to playing Sebring tomorrow in the winner's bracket.
Be sure to check back tomorrow for new game highlights.
Friday, July 20, 2007
Friday - Arrival
The boys have arrived in Marianna and are settling down for the night. They will be meeting at 10:30 tomorrow at the field in Grand Ridge to prepare for game one against San Antonio. The games for tomorrow are as follows:
GAME 1 AT 9:00 AM -- SEBRING VS WEST VOLUSIA
GAME 2 AT 11:30 AM-- OKEECHOBEE VS SAN ANTONIO
GAME 3 AT 2:00 PM -- EAST LAKELAND VS MESSER PARK
GAME 4 AT 4:30 PM -- SPRING HILL VS HOST TRI CITY
GAME 5 AT 7:00 PM -- MARIANNA VS WEST SEMINOLE
We will try to post game news and scores when we return to the hotel. So, stay tuned!
GAME 1 AT 9:00 AM -- SEBRING VS WEST VOLUSIA
GAME 2 AT 11:30 AM-- OKEECHOBEE VS SAN ANTONIO
GAME 3 AT 2:00 PM -- EAST LAKELAND VS MESSER PARK
GAME 4 AT 4:30 PM -- SPRING HILL VS HOST TRI CITY
GAME 5 AT 7:00 PM -- MARIANNA VS WEST SEMINOLE
We will try to post game news and scores when we return to the hotel. So, stay tuned!
Tuesday, July 3, 2007
Our Team
We have a very close-knit group of boys who have hearts of gold when it comes to baseball. They have learned at a very early age that hard work and dedication can produce wonderful benefits.
Feel free to leave a general comment on this post for the whole team, or you can leave an individual post on a players posting (where his picture is located) and I will be sure to let him know that he has a comment.
I will try to get the boys to respond to the comments if possible.
Wish us luck!
Feel free to leave a general comment on this post for the whole team, or you can leave an individual post on a players posting (where his picture is located) and I will be sure to let him know that he has a comment.
I will try to get the boys to respond to the comments if possible.
Wish us luck!
Monday, July 2, 2007
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