Never Say Die

After what seemed to be a sure loss, the Blue Crabs lay down a record breaking 6th to take a commanding lead over the Newark Bears. Going into the 6th the Blue Crabs were down 4 nothing when after two outs Patrick Osborn hit a solo home run. His would be the first of 11 runs scored that inning as the Blue Crabs would send a total of 15 batters to the plate to face two different pitchers.

All of tonight's offense took place in the 6th inning. After two fly outs by Travis Garcia and Mike Just, Patrick Osborn hit a solo home run. James Shanks would single and score on a home run hit by Jeremy Owens. Again with the bases clear Jermy Acey would single and he would score on a home run by catcher Octavio Martinez. With the bases clear Chuck Jeroloman would walk, and move to second on a single hit by John Ramistella. Both runners would advance a base on a walk drawn by Mike Just. Chuck would score on a walk drawn by Travis Garcia. Mike and John would both score on a 2 RBI single hit by Patrick Osborn. Patrick and Travis would both score on a 3 run home run hit by James Shanks. Jeremy Owens would single but would be stranded there as Jermy flied out to end the inning.

Defensively we had some sloppy plays but were overall very impressive. Starter Kenny Baugh went 5 innings for the win allowing only 8 hits and 4 runs, only 2 of which were earned. Kenny walked three batters while striking out 4 and was charged with one balk. Center Fielder Jeremy Owens saved a run in the bottom the 5th throwing the runner out at the plate from center field. Jimmy Serrano pitched the 6th, a scoreless hitless 1-2-3 inning. Edward Rodriguez pitched in the 7th and 8th allowing 3 hits but no runs while striking out three. Jason LaVorgna closed out the game in only his third appearance since joining the Blue Crabs. Aided by the defense of John Ramistella, Jason got the first two batters in order with fly outs. He allowed one hit before getting the final out of the game on a called strike out.

In Other Blue Crabs News: With the win the Blue Crabs keep their lead over Long Island at 5.0 games, and 8.5 games over Bridgeport. With their loss tonight Camden is for all intensive purposes eliminated from the play off race for the first half as they fall to 10 games behind with 9 to go. With only 9 games to go the Blue Crabs only need to gain 4 more games ahead of Long Island to close out the first half and secure their first playoff bid in team history. Should Long Island and the Blue Crabs end the season with a tied record, the Blue Crabs would win the tie breaker as they have taken 7 of 10 games against the Ducks in head to head play. Tomorrow's game is set for an 11:05 am first pitch.

110 Wins

After hearing about York's 150th win last night I got interested in finding out the number of wins the Blue Crabs have had so far in their short existence.

With a full season record last season of 74-66 and 36 wins so far on this season we have reached 110 wins. The hundredth win occurred June 7th with a win against Newark 3-1.

Congratulations is in order to the boys on reaching 110 wins in only a season and a half!

Blue Crabs Unable to Get out of the Hole

Joe Gannon was brutalized in the first two innings of the game, creating a hole that the Blue Crabs couldn't quite climb back out of.

Joe went 5.1 innings for the loss, allowing 10 hits and 11 runs all earned. He surrendered 4 homeruns including one grand slam. He walked 5 batters and struck out 4. Although he was brutalized in the first few innings he got back to form allowing only 2 runs between the 3rd and when he left the game. Vinnie DeChristofaro pitched in what may be his most impressive outing of the year, going 1.2 innings allowing no hits while walking 2 and striking out one. Vinnie was pulled in the 8th in favor of our other lefty Matt Schweitzer who pitched an inning of scoreless and hitless ball. He walked and struck out no one.

Travis Garcia led off the scoring with a 2 out home run in the first inning. Travis who would go 4 for 4 on the day with a walk had a home run and 3 doubles, along with 4 RBI and 4 runs scored. In the third following a Mike Just single, Travis would double. Mike would score on a Sacrifice Fly by Patrick Osborn, and Travis would score on an errant play that got James Shanks on. In the 7th our bats would again get hot, as John Ramistella and Mike Just both led off with singles. Both would score on Travis's second double of the night. Travis would score his 3rd run of the night on a fielder's choice single by Jermy Acey. Our finally rally would come in the 8th and would fall one run short. With one out, John Ramistella would double and score on Travis's third double of the night. Patrick Osborn would then get on via a dropped fly ball by the right fielder. Travis and Patrick would score on James Shanks's 3 run bomb. With two strikes, Richard Giannotti got a two out single, but it wouldn't prove to be enough to start a 9th inning rally.

In Other Blue Crabs News: With only 10 games left in the first half, as there will be a make up game for the Blue Crabs and Camden played on the 9th of July, the Blue Crabs remain 5.0 games ahead of Long Island, 9.0 games ahead of Camden, and 9.5 games ahead of Bridgeport. The outcome of tomorrow nights Camden Bridgeport game will eliminate one of those two teams from the play off race. Long Island is playing York, who after some recent acquisitions including Pete Rose Jr., who have been on fire getting their 150th win in team history last night. Hopefully York will continue to manhandle Long Island allowing us to pick up some additional ground on the Ducks.

Blue Crabs Rally Back with a Big 4th

After the first inning, it appeared as if the Barnstormers would return the favor of a high scoring shut out. The Stormers broke out to a 3-0 lead after the first, making it 4-0 in the 3rd whereas the Blue Crabs had only one 1 hit in the first three innings.

That story would change however in the 4th when the Blue Crabs would send 10 batters to the plate scoring 6 of them. After seeing 3 called strikes in his first at bat Jeremy Owens wasted no time in swinging to lead off the fourth, driving in a towering homerun to end the shut out. Jermy Acey would then double on an errant play by the third baseman, he moved to third on an errant play by the catcher while our catcher Lance Burkhart was walked. Richard Giannotti would ground out for the first out of the inning but still scored a run. Octavio Martine would single and scored Lance Burkhart. Octavio would score on a John Ramistella single and John would score on a Mike Just double. Mike would score on a single hit by Travis Garcia. Travis would however be stranded at 1st at the man who started the rally Jeremy Owens would strike out to end the inning. Once the Blue Crabs took the lead they would not relinquish it, although it was threatened in the 5th when the Stormers tied the game, the tie however would only last the half inning, as we would score in the bottom of the fifth. Jermy Acey would single and score on an Octavio Martinez game winning RBI single. Two additional runs of insurance would come in the 6th when Jermy Acey would crack a two run bomb after Jeremy Owens had been walked with 2 outs.

After a rough start our pitching staff got everything under control. Ryan Bicondoa pitched an uncharacteristically low 4.1 innings allowing 8 hits, allowing all 6 runs all earned, while striking out 3 and walking 3. He also allowed one home run in the no decision. Edward Rodriguez had an incredible outing from the pen, going 3 innings allowing only one hit while striking out two for the win. Vinnie DeChristofaro would face one batter walking him. Byron Batson would then come in to face two batters walking one and getting the other out. Matt Hensley would close out the game going for the 4 out save, his 4th save of the season. He got two strike outs and walked no one allowing only one hit.

In Other Blue Crabs News: With the win we remain in first place, 5.0 games ahead of Long Island, and 9.0 games ahead of Camden and 10.5 games ahead of Bridgeport. We are still in need of an everyday first baseman but hopefully we will be able to pull this first half out as a win and then can spend the second half rebuilding what we lost to affiliated ball. Tomorrow we head north to Newark to face the Bears in a 3 game series, tomorrow's game being at 7:05, Tuesday’s at 6:05 and Wednesday’s day game at 11:05 AM.

Winning Style

The Blue Crabs posted their second win in as many nights while donning their usual Friday night reds. The Blue Crabs pitching staff combined for a shut out in the third game of this four game series.

Kenny Rayborn pitched 6 innings of scoreless ball scattering 5 hits while walking 3 and striking out 3. Matt Schweitzer pitched the 7th allowing only one hit while striking out 2 batters the first looking. Mike James pitched the 8th walking two while striking one out. Jimmy Serrano finished the game off in the 9th facing only three batters and striking out the last batter looking.

Offensively we were on fire. Getting out to an early one nothing lead in the second following a lead off double by Captain Jeremy Owens who would score on a single hit by catcher Octavio Martinez. We would keep that slim lead until the 5th when we would add two runs of insurance. John Ramistella led off the inning with a single and would move to second when Mike Just got on. John came home on an RBI double hit by Travis Garcia; Mike would score on a ground out by Patrick Osborn. Mike Just would again score after being walked in the 7th and stealing second, and again he would be brought in by Patrick Osborn this time however on a RBI single. In the 8th we had three runners get on base in order with Jermy Acey getting on in error but was pinch run for by Richard Giannotti, and Octavio Martinez singled and Chuck Jeroloman was walked. All three runners would score on a 3 RBI Triple hit by John Ramistella.

In other Blue Crabs News: With the win we extend our lead over Long Island to 5 games, 8 games over Camden and 10.5 games over Bridgeport. Also we announced that we released LHP Wayne Franklin.

Retro Jersey Rock?

Tonight the Blue Crabs, who have only been around 2 years, donned retro style jerseys that can best be described as polo’s with Blue Crabs on the front and stripes around the torso. The jersey’s that were auctioned off for a charity might have been the key to tonight’s come from behind win.

Kenny Baugh made the start for the Blue Crabs, going 6 innings for the win and the quality start having only allowed 3 runs, all which were earned. The three runs all came in the second and were the result of 4 hits, 5 walks and 2 strikeouts. Kenny pitched 2 1-2-3 innings in the 4th and the 6th. In the 7th we saw Matt Schweitzer come in, he pitched an inning of scoreless and hitless ball. Mike James pitched the 8th, allowing only one hit while striking out one. Closing out the game was righty Matt Hensley who allowed one hit and struck out two.

The Blue Crabs hitters used the long ball to their advantage hitting 3 home runs. The first was hit by Jermy Acey in the second, the second by James Shanks in the 5th both of which were hit with two outs. The final homer of the night was hit lead off by Lance Burkhart in the 6th. Mike Just single in the 3rd on a bunt attempt, and moved to third on a Travis Garcia double, both runners would score, Mike on a single hit by Patrick Osborn and Travis on a double play hit into by Jeremy Owens to tie the game. The Blue Crabs broke the tie and took the lead in the 5th on the Shanks home run. The Blue Crabs would then go on to score at least on run in each of the next 3 innings including Lances homerun in the 6th and two runs in the 7th. John Ramistella scored the final run in the 8th.

In other Blue Crabs News: We have finally extended our lead over the Long Island Ducks to 4.0 games with the win, we are also 8.0 games ahead of Camden and 10.0 games ahead of Bridgeport. With only 13 games left in the first half extending our lead over Long Island is a huge plus for us in this playoff push. We take on Lancaster again tomorrow night for the third game of the series.

Late Inning Rally Not Enough

The Lancaster Barnstormers got out to an early lead and never let it go. After the Blue Crabs defense was able to keep the game close until the 7th, the 8th was a whole different story. In an outing that saw Blue Crabs batters fan a record 12 times against one pitcher, we used 7 pitchers of our own.

Knuckleballer Joe Gannon started the game, going 7 innings for the loss. He allowed 3 runs all earned on 5 hits, while walking 4 and striking out 4. He allowed one home run, a two run homer in the 7th after walking the lead of batter of the inning. Our bullpen however collapsed in the 8th allowing 7 runs between the 4 pitchers that saw action. Edward Rodriguez allowed two runs on a hit and a walk before being replaced by lefty Matt Schweitzer who allowed a hit and a run. Jimmy Serrano would get the first out of the inning, but walked 2 batters and allowed two runs to score. Before he finished the 8th Byron Batson allowed 3 hits and two runs. Vinnie DeChristofaro started the 9th but hit a batter before coming out. Finally Mike James closed out the game going the entire 3 outs of the ninth. Mike allowed no hits and walked no one, giving probably the best performance out of the pen tonight.

Offensively we were quite, not getting on the board until the 7th. James Shanks led off the inning with a triple and would come in to score on a RBI single hit by Richard Giannotti. After the troublesome 8th by the bull pen the Blue Crabs would rally though it would no be enough. Mike Just, all-star game MVP, was walked with one out, and moved to second on a single by Travis Garcia. Mike would score on an RBI single hit by James Shanks. James would move to second on a single by Captain Jeremy Owens. The three base runners, Travis, James, and Jeremy would all score on a 3 RBI double by the catcher Lance Burkhart. Back in action tonight was Jermy Acey who pinch-hit for the slumping Chuck Jeroloman.

In Other Blue Crabs News: We remain in first place despite the loss. We are 3.0 games ahead of Long Island, 9.0 games ahead of Camden, and 10.0 games ahead of Bridgeport. Also we need a first baseman, while the efforts of both Octavio Martinez and Patrick Osborn are appreciated, a solid first baseman would make this playoff push that much easier. It not only would help us for the obvious reason of having a good first baseman but also would give us the chance to allow Patrick Osborn to get back to his old self. Tomorrow we face Lancaster again in game two of the four game series.

All Star Game

The 2009 All Star game is a win for the Liberty division. As the game was not broadcast over the internet I got my inning by inning plays from the AtlanticLeagueBaseball.com blog. I appreciate their efforts in reporting the game so I am able to pass along to you how well our boys did.

Mike Just was hitting lead off. He was 2 for 5 on the day with 2 runs scored, 2 RBIs and a stolen base. He drove in the game tying RBI and scored the game winning run. He was named All Star Game MVP, most impressive for someone who wasn't even on the fan ballot.

Travis Garcia was 1 for 4 on the day with a walk. He played the entire game at short stop.

James Shanks was 0 for 3 with a walk. He was the designated hitter for the entire game.

Jeremy Owens was 0 for 1 with a walk. Sometime between his at bat in the 4th and the top of the 7th he was pulled out of the game for Wayne Lydon.

Both of our pitcher pitched in one inning of relief, Ryan Bicondoa pitched in the 3rd and Matt Hensley pitched in the 7th.

Ryan faced 5 batters. He allowed two hits and a walk while striking out one batter. He allowed no runs.

Matt faced 3 batters. He allowed one single and then got help from his everyday defense in Travis Garcia and Mike Just as the next batter hit into a 6-4-3 double play. Matt then got the last out of the inning on a swinging strike out.

Once again congratulations is in order for all the Blue Crabs All Stars. The entire team looks to come home Thursday for a 4 game stand against the Lancaster Barnstormers.

Blue Crabs Big Win

After dropping the first two games of the series the Blue Crabs come back to win the third in red jerseys no less. The only blemish on the game was a solo shot homerun hit in the bottom of the second inning.

That home run would be the only run given up by any of the 4 pitchers the Blue Crabs used in the game today. Starter Kenny Baugh went 6 innings for his 4th win of the season. He allowed the only run on a homerun, and only 4 other hits. He walked only one batter while striking out 3. Lefty Matt Schweitzer would come in to pitch the 7th and one out of the 8th, allowing only 1 hit while walking one and striking out two. To finish off the 8th was set up man Mike James who got his batters down in order on a ground out and a fly out respectively. Closer Matt Hensley finished off the Patriots allowing only 1 hit while striking out one. He continues to cut away at his ERA getting it down to an impressive 0.77.

Offensively our bats finally picked up with a monumental 3rd inning. Second baseman Mike Just led off the inning with a single and would move to second on a ground out by first baseman Octavio Martinez. John Ramistella would walk and come in to score along with Just on a 2 RBI double hit by James Shanks. James would stretch the double to a triple on an error by the center fielder. Shanks would come in to score on a Travis Garcia 2 run home run, his second home run of the series. In the 5th we would get another run as James Shanks would double and come in to score on a Patrick Osborn double. Our final run would come in the 8th after Jeremy Owens would triple and score on a Lance Burkhart single.

Butch Hobson was thrown out of today's game after arguing a play that got John Ramistella called out at 3rd in the 7th. Also not in action for the second game of the series was Jermy Acey who said he was feeling so so after apparently hurting himself base running in the first game. It appears as though it is nothing serious and he should be back following the all-star break.

In Other Blue Crabs News: With the win we remain in first place, 3.0 games ahead of Long Island, and 9.0 games ahead of Camden and 10.0 games ahead of Bridgeport. Following the All-Star break there will be 14 more games.

Blue Crabs Break up a Perfect Game

Going into the 6th inning Somerset Patriots starting pitcher Kip Bouknight was pitching a perfect game and on his way to ending out the 6th facing only 3 batters when Blue Crabs catcher Octavio Martinez would get on first by an error committed by the first baseman. Kip was still left with the possibility of a no hitter and a shut out.

Both the no hitter and the shut out would be broken up by John Ramistella, though Kip would be pulled before the shut out was broken. John broke up the no hitter in the 6th with a single only to get out on a fielder choice. John would however provide the teams only offense by hitting a solo home run with two outs in the 8th.

Defensively we seemed to struggle, allowing the Patriots to score 14 runs against us. Starter Kenny Rayborn went 4 innings giving up 8 hits and 6 runs 4 of which were earned. Kenny walked two batters and struck out two. He was replaced by lefty Vinnie DeCristofaro who faced 2 batters, walking one and giving up a hit. Both runners would score and both runs would be earned. DeCristofaro was replaced by Jimmy Serrano who would pitch one inning allowing 2 hits, 1 run, which was earned. Jimmy walked, hit and struck out one batter. Edward Rodriguez who pitched 2 innings of relief replaced Jimmy in the 6th. Ed allowed only 2 hits and one run that was earned while striking out 3 batters in one of his best performances since moving back to the bullpen. Finally Jason LaVorgna pitched in the 8th where he would face 10 batters, giving up 5 hits and 4 run none of which were earned. Jason walked one and struck out no one.

In Other Blue Crabs News: With the loss we remain in first place, 3.0 games ahead of Long Island, and 8.0 games ahead of Camden and 9.0 games ahead of Bridgeport. We have one more game before the all-star break and hopefully we will be able to pull out a win. Eric Crozier was in action again tonight with the Baysox, he hit yet another homerun in as many nights this time of the 3 run variety. It would be my estimation that if he keeps up like this it won't be long before he is back in the Majors.

Eric Crozier

The signing of Eric Crozier by the Baltimore Orioles is bittersweet for me. While I am incredibly proud of everything he has accomplished this season and proud of him for making it back to affiliated ball, I am saddened to see him leave the Blue Crabs.

Over the past season and a half I have had a chance to get to know Eric as a player and a friend. He has always been a gentleman both on the field and off. He was always working to improve his swing and to be the best he could be on the field. Eric would always take the time to talk to the fans and sign anything you asked him to. This year for him has been one of his best, hitting .314, slugging .549 and an on base percentage of .400 in 50 games. He amassed 175 at bats with 55 hits and 30 runs. He had 13 doubles, 2 triples and 8 homeruns. He brought in 24 runs, walked 25 times and struck out 37 times. But Eric has always been a man of more then just his stats.

As a person, Eric could always be counted on. There were several times throughout the off-season that I was able to get in contact with him and get his help for my college classes. He gladly offered quotes for me to use in my paper and I will always be grateful for that. Before and after every game I could count on a hug from him to wish him luck or congratulate him on yet another stellar performance. I will surely miss seeing him everyday, but I happy to see him working his way back to the Majors. I will do my best to keep the readers of this blog and his fans up to date on his stats from the Bowie Baysox. Again I wish him the best of luck in this and all his endeavors.

On the Road With the Boys

I again have the pleasure of reporting on the team while on the road with them. In what could be a potential Championship Preview the Southern Maryland Blue Crabs dropped the first of a three game series to the Somerset Patriots before a record crowd.

The Blue Crabs appeared to be feeling the loss of first baseman Eric Crozier and were unable to string their hits together in a timely fashion. None of the Blue Crabs 7 hits were hit in succession thus causing us to leave 7 batters stranded. We didn't get on the board until the 4th inning when Travis Garcia would lead off the inning with a home run. It was his tenth of the year and the only one hit in the game. We would get another run in the 9th after catcher Lance Burkhart got his first triple of the season with one out. He scored on first baseman Octavio Martinez's RBI ground out. But the run would come as too little too late as we were behind by 3 runs.

Travis After his Homerun!

Our pitching has also suffered some hard blows following the signing of both Jim Ed Warden and John Halama. Knuckle Baller Joe Gannon was back in action tonight starting the game and going 6.1 innings for the loss. He allowed only 6 hits with 5 runs, 4 of which were earned. He walked 3 batters and struck out one. Coming in to relieve Joe was newcomer and potential situational lefty Vinnie DeCristofaro who would face one batter and give up a hit before coming out of the game. His replacement was Byron Batson who pitched 2/3rds of an inning in relief. After his last appearance where he got the loss after giving up a grand slam he seemed in much better control tonight getting two outs and allowing one hit. Wayne Franklin who is predicted to be a starter pitched 2/3rds of an inning of relief, facing 3 batters, one of which he walked. Finally Jason Lavorgna would pitch the final out of the 8th.

In Other Blue Crabs News: Despite the loss we still remain in first place, 3.5 games ahead of Long Island, 9 games ahead of Camden, and 10 games ahead of Bridgeport. Reactivated tonight was bullpen catcher Anthony Perry. Eric Crozier played in his first game with the Bowie Baysox going 1 for 4 with a solo Homerun. Tomorrow night's game is also a 7:05 pm start.

First baseman Eric Crozier has been signed a contract with the Baltimore Orioles. He's been assigned to AA Bowie Baysox.

Rained Out

Due to the conditions of the field the Blue Crabs have announced that today's game has been canceled.

A Shutout Win

Although the pitching staff combined to allow 8 hits none of the pitchers would allow a run to score. Starter Ryan Bicondoa, set up reliever Mike James and closer Matt Hensley pitched a 3-man shutout giving Ryan his 5th win of the season and Matt his 3rd save.

Offensively the Blue Crabs were relatively quite. Scoring only 2 runs on 5 hits. The Blue Crabs batters were struck out 10 times collectively and only walked once. First Baseman Eric Crozier scored the first run of the game after hitting a one out double. He would come in to score on the RBI single hit by Captain Jeremy Owens. After that run scored in the 4th the Blue Crabs would have to wait until the 8th for a run of insurance. After the first two batters of the inning struck out, right fielder John Ramistella hit a single. He would then steal his third base of the season advancing to second. Designated hitter Jermy Acey would bring Rambo home on an RBI single. Third baseman Patrick Osborn would hit another single before the inning would end on another strike out.

Defensively the Pitching was unbeatable. Starter Ryan Biconda went 7.1 innings for the win. He allowed all 8 of the hits, walking one batter and striking out two. Mike James came in to pitch ending the 8th inning with a strike out and a fly out not allowing either of the base runners he inherited to score. Closer Matt Hensley pitched in the 9th allowing only one base runner on a walk. He struck out one batter, got a batter to fly out and the last batter to ground out.

In Other Blue Crabs News: With the win we remain in first place still 4 games ahead of Long Island, 9 games ahead of Camden and 10 games ahead of Bridgeport. Tomorrow night we look to sweep the series and go in the road trip on a high note. The Blue Crabs have also recently acquired 4 new pitchers, 3 relievers and a starter. Bryon Batson is a right-handed reliever has already been in action since being signed playing in the June 13th game where he took the loss after giving up a grand slam to Bluefish Brandon Sing. Jason LaVorgna is also a right-handed reliever but has yet to see action as a Blue Crab. Vinnie DeChristofaro is a left-handed relief pitcher that comes to us from the Grand Prairie AirHogs to complete the trade of outfielder Mike Conroy. Wayne Franklin is a left-handed starter expected to start tomorrow's game. He comes to us from Camden after having spent most of 2007 and 2008 with the York Revolution.

The ERAs, records and previous clubs of the New Pitchers:

Byron Batson: 6.86 ERA, 1-2 record, Camden Riversharks/Newark Bears

Jason LaVorgna: (Last Season) 4.88 ERA, 2-2 record, Kingsport (APP) /Savannah (SAL)

Vinnie DeChristofaro: 2.70 ERA, 0-1 record, Grand Prairie AirHogs (AA)

Wayne Franklin: 11.74 ERA, 0-1 record, Camden Riversharks/York Revolution

All Stars

Blue Crabs selected to the 2009 All Star Game:

Eric Crozier - 1B
Mike Just - 2B
Travis Garcia - SS
James Shanks - DH
Jeremy Owens - OF
Ryan Bicondoa - P
Matt Hensley - P

Congrats Boys!

A Low Scoring Win for the Crabs

In a game were only 3 runs were scored, two solo shot homeruns made all the difference for the Blue Crabs. The game winner was hit by our catcher Octavio Martinez, his first home run of the season.

While the game winner hit by O was hit to lead off the inning in the 6th, the first homerun of the night was hit by Patrick Osborn with two outs in the 4th. The Blue Crabs only had 5 hits on the night, the two home runs and singles by Eric Crozier in the 4th, John Ramistella in the 6th and James Shanks in the 7th. With the hit in the 7th James extends his hitting streak to nine games. Based upon the last few line-ups it appears as though Butch has decided to Platoon Chuck Jeroloman and Patrick Osborn at 3rd as Patrick continues to work through some lingering pains, and to Platoon Mike Just and Jermy Acey at 2nd. We'll see if Butch keeps it this way or if things change.

Defensively the Blue Crabs were again nearly flawless. Starter Kenny Baugh went 7 innings for the win, his 3rd of the season. Kenny surrendered 6 hits and no runs while walking 4 and striking out 3. Edward Rodriguez came in to pitch in the 8th getting the first batter to ground out and then giving up 3 singles resulting in an earned run scored. Lefty Matt Schweitzer would close out the 8th getting a strike out and a fly out. After getting warm 5 times in yesterday's game and seeing no action Mike James was called in to close out the game and go for his 3rd save on the season. After getting the first batter to ground out, Mike would deflect a low hit off his glove pick it up and throw the next batter out at first. Mike would slightly falter giving up a single to Riversharks lead off man Wayne Lydon but would combine with catcher Octavio Martinez who would throw to short stop Travis Garcia to get out Lydon attempting to steal ending the game in dramatic fashion.

In other Blue Crabs News: With the win we extend our first place lead, now 4 games ahead of Long Island, 8 games ahead of Camden, and 9.5 games ahead of Bridgeport. Tomorrow we again face the Riversharks in game 3 of the 4 game home stand. Also tomorrow the Atlantic League is expected to announce the all star team rosters.

Another Big Win for the Blue Crabs

After falling behind 3-0 in the second inning the Blue Crabs and starter Kenny Rayborn were able to slowly pick away at the Riversharks lead and pull out the win. This is the first win for Kenny since losing his last 3 straight, after starting the year 3-0 he hit a rough patch dropping the next 3 games.

The Blue Crabs only used 2 pitchers in the game, as Rayborn would go 8 for the win. He scattered 8 hits allowing only 3 runs 2 of which were earned, he walked 3 batters and struck out 4. All three of the runs were giving up in the second inning after getting the first two outs. After giving up his first hit of the game to Brian Burgamy he would move to second on a bunt single laid down by Christopher Walker. The runners would advance and one would score on an arrant throw by John Ramistella on the Catcher Jacobs single. One final run would score against the Blue Crabs following a walk and a single. After that inning however the Blue Crabs defense pulled out all the stops, diving to make plays such as Patrick Osborn's play in the 4th. The team became a well-oiled machine with one goal, keep the Riversharks from getting past 3rd base which they did remarkably well. In the 8th two Riversharks players would be ejected from the game, Coach Joe Ferguson and second baseman Junior Spivey after a called strike out. In the 9th right-hander and new closer Matt Hensley would come in to go for his second save on the season. After striking out the first batter he would give up a single who would get out on the feilder's choice hit into by the next batter. Matt would walk lead off batter Wayne Lydon and then get Bryant Nelson to ground out to second baseman Mike Just. Matt would only surrender the one hit, and the one walk while striking out one, keeping his ERA at a minuscule 0.84.

Offensively we appeared to get out to a slow start. Getting only one hit in the first 3 innings off of designated hitter Jermy Acey it appeared as though we may lose this one early on. However in the 4th with one out third baseman Patrick Osborn hit a double and would come in to score on the throwing error following Eric Crozier's single. In the 5th again with one out catcher Lance Burkhart would get hit by a pitch and score. Captain Jeremy Owens would lead off the 7th with a hard hit double and move to third on the James Shanks single, with the bases loaded following a Lance Burkhart walk second baseman Mike Just would step up to bat. He would hit into a double play but would also score the lead runner Owens to tie up the game. For the dramatic final run we would go to the 8th, with two outs Eric was walked. He moved to second on a Travis Garcia single and in would step the Captain Owens. He knew he had to make it safely to first to give the team a chance of scoring Eric. So after working a 2-2 count he got his pitch and hit the ball and ran with all his might to beat out the throw. Probably about 5 feet from the bag J.O. dove sinking his shoulder into the dirt flipping in a sort of barrel roll and arriving safely at 1st scoring the speedy Eric Crozier. He was doing everything he could to ensure the runner got home and it would be more then enough as the boys would hold off the Riversharks for the win.

In other Blue Crabs News: With the win we remain in first place, 3.0 games ahead of Long Island, 7.0 games ahead of Camden, and 8.5 games ahead of Bridgeport. There are only 20 games left in the first half so every win is huge for the Blue Crabs. Also because the Blue Crabs do not face the Long Island Ducks before the end of the half and they are our closest competitors. Tomorrow we face the Riversharks again and it is also the last day of the All Star Voting.

Blue Crabs Get One Back

The last time the Blue Crabs faced Blue Fish pitcher Esteban Yan he dealt them their first and only shut out of the season. However the Blue Crabs were able to pull the win out this time with on a John Ram Stella homerun.

After 5 innings of scoreless ball third baseman Chuck Jeroloman would get on base and move to second on a Mike Just single to left. Both Chuck and Mike would come in to score on the John Ramistella homerun. In the next inning Eric Crozier would be walked and then get out on a fielder’s choice hit into by Jeremy Owens. Owens would score following a James Shanks single and a ground out by catcher Lance Burkhart. Our fifth and final run would come on a James Shanks sacrifice fly that scored Travis Garcia after he singled and advanced to third on an Eric Crozier double.

Starter Joe Gannon would pitch 6.1 innings for the win, scattering 10 hits, and giving up 3 runs all earned with 2 walks and 1 strike out. All three of the runs were scored in the bottom of the seventh off of a Ryan Radmanvich double. After giving up another hit following the double, Joe would be taken out of the game and Mike James would come in to pitch 2/3rds of the inning closing out the 7th allowing no hits or runs and striking out no one. In the 8th would be Matt Schweitzer who walked two batters and got two out, he allowed no runs and no hits from the 4 batters he faced. The duty of closing out the game and getting the last 4 outs of the game would be given to righty Matt Hensley. He would get the four batters he face out in order on two ground outs and two fly outs. Hensley who spent time in the Majors with the Anaheim Angles in 2004 pitched in 16 games, all relief finishing 13 of those games so closing out games is nothing new to the right-hander. In his minor league career he has 11 games finished, with 7 saves. He also has 82 games started though most of his starts from 2000-2003.

In Other Blue Crabs News: With the win the Blue Crabs remain in first place though Long Island too keeps winning, the standings have the Blue Crabs ahead 3 games on Long Island, 6 games on Camden and 8.5 games ahead of Bridgeport. The Crabs come home tomorrow to start a 4 game series against Camden and then go on the road for a 3 game set against Somerset before the All Star Break. This is the first time the Riversharks come to play us at home this season, we are currently 3-3 against them on the year. Hopefully we will be able to pull out a series win and hopefully the Long Island Ducks hot streak will cool down so we can gain a higher lead over them. With only 21 games left in the first half every win is a big one. Remember to vote for your favorite players to make it to the All Star game as voting ends Tuesday June 16th. Once the final roster is announced I will post it here for my readers.

Homeruns Abound

Almost all the runs scored in tonight's game we off of homeruns. The Blue Crabs however would be at the short end of the runs as they would not be able to score enough to surpass the Blue Fish.

Our first run came off the first pitch of the game as John Ramistella hit a bomb. Two outs later Eric Crozier would get a single but would be left on base. In the third Jermy Acey would single with two outs and then Patrick Osborn would hit an inside the park homerun, the first of it's kind for the Blue Crabs scoring himself and Acey. Travis Garcia would led off the 4th with a single and would come in to score on a James Shanks bomb homerun to the left field power ally. The final run scored by the Blue Crabs would be another John Ramistella home run to left. These five runs would however not be enough.

After the signing of John Halama earlier today the Blue Crabs attempted to use the bullpen to win this game. Jimmy Serrano started the game going 3 innings give up 3 runs all earned on 6 hits. All three runs were homeruns, two belonging to former Blue Crabs Enohel Polanco. Blue Crabs newcomer Byron Batson would pitch the next 2.2 innings. His first inning of relief was an impressive 1-2-3 inning however his second inning wouldn't be so successful. After giving up a led off double he would allow a single before getting the first out of the inning, a strike out. Byron would hit Luis Lopez to load the bases for Brandon Sing who would hit a game winning Grand Slam giving Byron the loss in his Blue Crabs debut. Byron would give up an additional run in the 6th before being relieved. Edward Rodriguez would pitch the next 1.1 innings giving up no runs on one hit and one strike out. Finally Mike James would pitch the 8th inning, giving up two hits and one run that wasn't earned. He struck out and walked one batter.

In Other Blue Crabs News: Despite the loss we remain in 1st, 3.0 games ahead of Long Island, 5.0 games ahead of Camden and 7.5 games ahead of Bridgeport. We have also signed two new relief pitchers, Byron Baston who pitched tonight and Jason LaVorgna. Tomorrow the Blue Crabs face Bridgeport in game 3 of the series and then come home for 4 games against the Camden Riversharks.

Halama is a Brave

The Blue Crabs have announced that Left Handed Starter John Halama has been signed to a contract by the Atlanta Braves. He was scheduled to start tonight against the Bridgeport Blue Fish so in his place will be relief Pitcher Jimmy Serrano, I would expect a pitching by committee tonight. We wish the best of luck to John Halama and congratulate him on making it back to affiliated ball.

Another Big Win

The Blue Crabs can thank James Shanks for the win tonight, getting 5 of the 6 RBIs in the game and hitting a crushing grand slam homerun to the opposite side of the field insured the Blue Crabs victory tonight over the Bridgeport Blue Fish.

After Captain Jeremy Owens led off the second inning with a triple James Shanks would bring him in on a sacrifice fly for his first RBI of the game. Things would be quite on both teams until the 6th where the Blue Crabs would start to dominate offensively. Jermy Acey led off the inning with a single and would be sacrificed over by Patrick Osborn, Eric Crozier would then walk and Owens would single loading the bases. After working to a 2-2 count James Shanks would get his pitch and crush it over the opposite field wall for a 4 RBI Grand Slam his first of the season and second for the Blue Crabs. Though it would not be needed; an additional run was brought in by catcher Lance Burkhart on a single.

The Blue Crabs pitching was again phenomenal as starter Ryan Bicondoa went 7 innings giving up 6 hits and 2 runs both earned. He walked only one batter and struck out 3. He gave up one homerun to Blue Fish right fielder Brandon Sing. Edward Rodriguez would come in for the second time in as many days to pitch 2/3rds of an inning of relief. Giving up only one walk and nothing else. To finish off the game was typical situational lefty Matt Schweitzer who struck out Ryan Radmanovich looking to end the 8th. In the 9th Matt was unstoppable despite giving up one walk he worked around it getting two more strike outs and a fly out. Matt struck out Jesse Hoorelbeke looking that would get Jesse kicked out of the game as he said something to the umpire. Despite not having save man Jim Ed Warden the Blue Crabs bullpen appeared as strong as ever.

In Other Blue Crabs News: We remain in first place 4.0 games ahead of Long Island, 5.0 Games ahead of Camden and 8.5 games ahead of Bridgeport. Tomorrow we face Bridgeport at 6:05.

Jim Ed is a Met

Blue Crabs closer Jim Ed Warden had his contract purchased by the New York Mets and is reporting to their AA team the Binghamton Mets. We wish him the best of luck and hope to see him in the Major League soon.

Blue Crabs Drop Rubber Match

After the Blue Crabs and Patriots split the double header the Blue Crabs lost tonight's game. After the Patriots took a 2-0 lead in the 3rd inning the refused to relinquish it despite several rallies on the part of the Blue Crabs.

Starter Kenny Baugh pitched 5 innings and got the lost in the 7-6 decision. He surrendered 7 hits and 4 runs only 3 that were earned. He struck out 4 batters and walked two while giving up one homerun to Short stop Teuris Olivares in the 4th. Coming in to relief pitch in the 6th inning was Edward Rodriguez who has previously been in action in the starting rotation. Rodriquez pitched 2/3rds of an inning surrendering one hit and 2 runs both of which were earned. He walked one batter and struck out no one. Matthew Schweitzer also pitched 2/3rds of an inning surrendering one hit and no runs while striking out one batter looking. Mike James also pitched 2/3rds of an inning of relief surrendering two hits and one run that was earned. He didn't walk or strike out anyone. Finally Jimmy Serrano pitched the final two innings surrendering no hits or runs but walked 3 batters and struck out one.

Offensively we scored 6 runs on 12 hits. All 6 runs were earned while we collectively walked 3 times and struck out 10 times. Of those 10 strikeouts 3 were made by Chuck Jeroloman who was playing at 3rd tonight as Patrick Osborn was out of action again. James Shanks also had a multiple strikeout night although he also hit a 2 run homerun in the 4th; he had 3 RBIs on the night. Catcher Lance Burkhart also had 2 strikeouts with an RBI single in the 6th. Short Stop Travis Garcia had a stellar day going 3 for 4 with a walk, 2 runs scored and an RBI. The Blue Crabs batters faced 6 different pitchers. Captain Jeremy Owens hit into a fielders choice RBI in the forth to score Travis Garcia and then would come into to score on James' homerun. After back-to-back singles by Travis Garcia and Eric Crozier in the 6th they would each come into to score on a fielder's choice by James Shanks and a single by Lance Burkhart respectively. The final run of the game was scored by Richard Giannotti who led off the 9th with a ground rule double. He did however run all the bases for a in the park homerun that was recalled because the ball ended up lost in the tarp that covers the bullpen mound during rain delays. He would however get to cross the plate in a manner that counted off an Eric Crozier RBI single.

In Other Blue Crabs News: We remain in first place despite the loss 4 games ahead of both Camden and Long Island and 7.5 games ahead of Bridgeport. The team left after the game tonight for Bridgeport where our next 3 games will be played. The York Revolution resigned also former Blue Crabs Short stop George Sandel.

First Place Teams Split the Double Header

The two first place teams in the league split tonight's double-header. The Blue Crabs took the first game 4-2 and the Patriots were victorious in the second game 4-1 which only went 5 innings. The second game was played in a steady rain that didn't really pick up until the 5th inning and would result in the game being called early.

Blue Crabs starter Joe Gannon went 5 innings for the win bringing his record to 4-5. He surrendered 5 hits and 2 runs only one which was earned; he walked 1 batter and struck out 2. Lefty Matt Schweitzer pitcher 2/3rd of an inning of relief. He got Patriots first baseman Josh Pressley to hit into a double play. Righty Matt Hensley would then come in to get the final out of the inning. Closer Jim Ed Warden would pitch the 7th and get his 13th save of the season. He gave up one hit.

Our offense came off an interesting play and some timely hits. John Ramistella led off with a double and would advance to third on a sacrifice bunt by Jermy Acey. Patrick Osborn would single and bring John home for the first run. Eric Crozier would single and advance Patrick to second, but then get out on a fielder choice hit into by Travis Garcia. Travis who went hitless in first game would get an RBI on the play but would break his 17 game hit streak. The next two runs were scored both by James Shanks and the runs were both batted in by batters who in turn would end up stranded on third. In the 4th it was Ramistella for the Game winning RBI, and in the 6th it was Mike Just for his only hit of the double header.

In the second game of the double header we played through rain that seemed to affect the Blue Crab hitters more then the Patriot hitters. We were able to only score one run coming off the bat of Travis Garcia. He had a solo shot homerun in his first at bat. The start of his new hit streak hopefully. Eric Crozier was given the night off so Patrick played at first, but however he would come out of the game in the 5th inning and Eric would play 1st in the unrecorded 6th inning.

Kenny Rayborn pitched the entire game taking the loss bringing his record to 3-3. He surrendered 9 hits, giving up 4 runs all earned striking out 1 and giving up one homerun.

In other Blue Crabs News: We remain in first place 4.0 games ahead of Camden, 5.0 games ahead of Long Island, 8.5 games ahead of Bridgeport. There are roughly 25 games left before the end of the first half. We don't see Long Island again until after the first half is over but we do have a 4 game series against Camden at home. Also missing at the game tonight were bullpen catcher Anthony Perry and outfielder Daisuke Yoshida who after being deactivated from the roster have both gone home. Anthony is playing in a summer league in his hometown and is expected to return sometime in August.

Mike Conroy Traded

The Blue Crabs have announced that they have Traded Outfielder Mike Conroy to the Grand Prairie Air Hogs in the American Association for future considerations. Mike played in 17 games with the Blue Crabs amassing 50 at bats, 11 hits, 8 runs, 2 RBIs, a double and a triple. He was hitting .220. He had 10 strike outs and 8 walks while stealing 2 bases.

The American Association is an independent league played in the middle of the United State with teams stretching from Minnesota to Texas. They play in a 96 game season going from the middle of May until the end of August. It is a ten team league with 2 divisions. Grand Prairie is currently in 3rd place in their division 7.5 games behind the division leader.

We wish him the best of luck for the remainder of this season.

Tonight's game has been rained out. It will be made up tomorrow as part of a double header. Game time is set for 6:05.

Pitching Preview

As the two first place teams in the league look to face off for the first time this season I thought it would be appropriate to do a little pitching match up for the first series. For the Blue Crabs we are expected to start Joe Gannon and the Somerset Patriots are expected to start Kip Bouknight in tonight's game. Both pitchers are right handed.

Joe Gannon:

• He has started 7 games for the Blue Crabs and pitched in 8.
• He has a 4.95 ERA with a 3-5 record.
  
• Pitched 47.1 innings surrendering 54 hits, and 30 runs 26 earned.
• Averages: 5.9 innings, 6.8 hits and 3.8 runs a game.
  
• Allowed 4 homeruns, walked 23 batters while striking out 18.
• Opponents are hitting .284 against the knuckler.
• In his last outing he went the entire 7 innings for the complete game win allowing only one run to score.
  

Kip Bouknight:

• He has started in 8 games for the Patriots.
• He has a 4.94 ERA with a 3-2 record.
• Pitched 43.2 innings surrendering 48 hits, and 24 runs all earned.
• Averages: 5.4 innings, 6 hits and 3 runs a game.
  
• Allowed 5 homeruns, walked 16 batters while striking out 30 and hitting two.
• Opponents are hitting .284 against the right hander.

For Wednesday's game probable starters are for the Blue Crabs Kenny Rayborn, and for the Patriots Brian Adams. Brain is the only left handed pitcher expected to start in the series.

Kenny Rayborn:

• He has started 8 games for the Blue Crabs.
• He has a 3.02 ERA with a 3-2 record.
• Pitched 47.2 innnings surrendering 52 hits, and 18 runs 16 earned.
• Averages: 5.9 innings, 6.5 hits, and 2.3 runs a game.
  
• Allowed 3 homeruns, walked 19 batters while striking out 27 and hitting one.
• Opponents are hitting .281 against the righty.
• After starting out the season 3-0 he has be unable to secure the win losing his last two starts.

Brian Adams:

• He has started 8 games for the Patriots.
• He has a 3.64 ERA with a 5-2 record.
• Pitched 47.0 innings surrendering 48 hits, and 21 runs 19 earned.
• Averages: 5.9 inning, 6 hits and 2.7 runs a game.
  
• Allowed 4 homeruns, walked 10 batters while striking out 38 and hitting one.
• Opponents are hitting .265 against the lefty.

Expected starters for Thursdays final game between the two first place clubs are for the Blue Crabs Kenny Baugh and for the Patriots Jared Gothreaux.

Kenny Baugh:

• He has started 8 games for the Blue Crabs.
• He has a 5.75 ERA with a 2-2 record.
• Pitched 40.2 innings surrendering 55 hits, and 27 runs 26 earned.
• Averages: 5.1 innings, 6.9 hits and 3.4 runs a game.
  
• Allowed 3 homeruns, walked 14 batters while striking out 28 and hitting three.
• Opponents are hitting .337 against the righty.
• He is 2-1 in his last 3 starts, going 5 innings for the win in his last start in game one of the double header against Newark.

Jared Gothreaux:

• He has started 8 games for the Patriots.
• He has a 6.15 ERA with a 2-5 record.
• Pitched 41.0 innings surrendering 65 hits and 33 runs 28 earned.
• Averages: 5.1 innings, 8.1 hits and 4.1 runs a game.
  
• Allowed 4 homeruns, walked 11 batters while striking out 30 and hitting four.
• Opponents are hitting .355 against the righty.
  

A Pitcher's Duel Works to The Advantage of the Crabs

In yet another low scoring game the Blue Crabs found a way to get the win tonight. After the first 11 batters had been sat down in order by the two starters, John Halama would give up the first single of the night in the bottom of the second.

Halama pitched in his 9th game of the season and improved his record to 8-1 with the win. He pitched 8 innings giving up 6 hits, 1 run that was earned, and he struck out one batter and walked no one. After giving up a lead off double in the 3rd inning, the runner Michael Sandoval would advance to 3rd on a sacrifice bunt and then come into score on a sacrifice fly hit by Newark newcomer Felix Martinez. That would be the only run given up by the Blue Crabs. To close out the game and get his league leading 12th save of the season Jim Ed Warden pitched a scoreless 9th giving up a single and striking out one batter.

Offensively the Blue Crabs were kept quite until the 6th. After singling in his first at bat, second baseman Mike Just would lead off the 6th with another single, followed by a single by tonight's right fielder Richard Giannotti. Giannotti would move to second on a fielding error by his counterpart Jay Gibbons and Just would move to third. Travis Garcia who had yet to have a hit in tonight's game brought in both runs for the Game Winning RBI after he hit a stand up double. This extends his hit streak to 17 games making him more then halfway to the record set by York's Chris Ashby last season. A run of insurance came in the 7th when catcher Lance Burkhart would be walked and come in to score on a James Shanks single. Not in action tonight was everyday First Baseman Eric Crozier, only his 3rd day off of the season. He is normally substituted by catcher Octavio Martinez however since placing bullpen catcher Anthony Perry on the Inactive List the non-playing catcher has had to catch the bullpen on the road so Third Baseman Patrick Osborn filled in at first. Chuck Jeroloman played at third and after having a long hitting strike, he has yet to hit in his last 5 starts. Collectively the Blue Crabs were stuck out 9 times, 7 of which came off of Newark Starter Bobby Brownlie. Second Baseman and former Newark Bear Mike Just was the only Blue Crabs player to have a multiple hit game.

In other Blue Crabs News: With the win the Blue Crabs advance their lead over everyone, moving to 4.0 games over Long Island, 4.5 games over Camden and 8.5 games over Bridgeport. They have tomorrow off and then look to face the Freedom Division first place team and defending champions Somerset Patriots in a three game series starting Tuesday. Tuesday's predicted starter for the Blue Crabs is knuckleballer Joe Gannon. He is 3-5 on the season with 7 starts; he has a 4.94 ERA and pitched in two complete games. He has surrendered 54 hits, 30 run 26 of which were earned, and 4 homeruns. Not including new starter Edward Rodriguez, Joe has the 3rd lowest opponent’s average, and is the only starter to have not hit a batter.

The Curse is Broken

The Blue Crabs were finally able to win in red jerseys, however they would only be able to win the first game in the double header against Newark. Both teams seemed to have their bats quieted following yesterday rain delay. After combining for 23 runs in the first game of the series the teams only had 9 runs between the two games tonight.

In the first game the Blue Crabs started Kenny Baugh who would get the win going 5 innings, allowing 3 hits and 2 runs both earned. Kenny walked, hit, and struck out two batters. After giving up a solo shot in the first Kenny calmed down and didn't allow another run until the 4th. After giving up a single he hit two batters and walked in a run. He would however get back to form in the 5th sitting the Newark batters down in order. Matt Hensley came in to pitch in the 6th and despite giving up a lead off single he was able to get the next three batters out in order and set up the potential save for Jim Ed Warden who would come on in the 7th. Jim Ed faced 4 batters, struck out two, walked one and gave up no hits. This save would be his 11th of the season making him perfect in his save attempts.

Offensively in the first game we were pretty quite. Though we were able to get the win we only had 6 hits. Our first run came in the first after a lead off single by John Ramistella who would come into score of an RBI ground out by Travis Garcia. The winning run and RBI both belong to Eric Crozier who in the top of the sixth hit a two run bomb off the scoreboard. He scored himself and Patrick Osborn who had been walked. Travis Garcia extended his hit streak to 15 games by safely hitting in this game.

Travis would extend his hit streak to 16 games in the second game on a solo shot in the 6th, which would count for our only run in the second game. His previous two at bats he had struck out swinging, and worked the count in his home run at bat to full. Collectively the Blue Crabs struck out 10 times which is one shy of their team record for strikeouts in a game. We were unable to get a hit until the 5th inning where we would get back to back singles that would go to waste as the next 3 batters would get out. Mike Conroy was in action in the second game for the first time in a long time, he was 2 for 3 on the day and made one out in the field.

Defensively we started Ryan Bicondoa who would go the whole game and get the loss. He gave up 3 runs all earned on 6 hits, he hit one batter, struck out 3 batters, and walked no one. The first two Newark runs would come off a 2 run homerun hit by Newark Left Fielder Michael Hernandez in the second inning. Following that troublesome inning Ryan would have back to back 1-2-3 innings and seemed set to get the three batters down in order in the fifth. After giving up a lead off single to start the fifth he got the next batter to hit into a double play. Then things went down hill as Ryan gave up back-to-back singles and then an RBI double to lead off man Tike Redman. Ryan would only allow the one run and got the last out of the inning on a strike out. Things would get heated on the double play that ended the bottom of the 6th. Jay Gibbons got on after being hit accidently by a pitch and would slide hard into second trying to prevent the double play but would be called out. He and Blue Crabs Short Stop Travis Garcia would have a bit of a pushing and shoving match that would clear both benches. No one was however hurt or ejected.

In other Blue Crabs News: After splitting the double header we remain in first place, 3 games ahead of Long Island, 3.5 games ahead of Camden and 8.5 games ahead of Bridgeport. Tomorrow's game against Newark is scheduled for a 4:05 pm start, and we are planning on starting southpaw John Halama. They have Monday off as does the entire league and then they come home for a 3 game stand against Somerset, the first meeting of the two teams this season. All three games are scheduled for 7:05 pm starts.

Rained Out

Today's game in Newark has been rained out. It will be made up tomorrow as part of a double header. New game time is 4pm. There will be two 7 inning games played. This will be the 4th Double Header the Blue Crabs have been a part of this season. They have split two and swept one. Expected Pitchers are Kenny Baugh in the first game and Ryan Bicondoa in the second game.

On the Road with the Boys

Tonight I was able to make it up to Newark and see the boys play on the road. Unfortunately however the Blue Crabs were unable to win in Newark. I had heard that since Newark was the smallest stadium in the league that it was a hitters park, that outs in other parks may become homeruns in this park and that was evident as at least 5 homers were hit between the two teams including a grand slam for the Newark Bears hit in the 7th.

That Grand Slam would be the nail in the coffin for the Blue Crabs. After getting out to an early lead the Blue Crabs would watch it disappear in the bottom of the second. The Blue Crabs would get the lead again in the top of the 3rd which they would lose in the bottom of the inning, and finally get the lead in the top of the forth and hold it until the bottom of the fifth where Newark would take the lead for the first time and keep it until the end of the game. After Newark’s pitching change in the 4th the Blue Crabs struggled to hit. Eric Crozier had a solo shot homerun in the 7th, and in the 9th Captain Jeremy Owens would hit a 2 out 3 run homer to bring the game to a 13-10 Newark Lead. It would however prove to be too little too late as Chuck Jeroloman would later strike out for the 3rd out of the inning before any more runs could be scored.

Pitching wise we took some blows. Starter Kenny Rayborn went 5 innings for the loss, giving up 7 hits and 7 runs. We would have 3 relievers come in, Matt Schweitzer in the 6th who gave up 3 hits and 2 runs, Jimmy Serrano in the 7th, who had possibly his worst outing of the season, giving up 4 hits and 4 runs on a grand slam, and Mike James in the 8th who would keep the inning scoreless. Matt was the only pitcher not to walk anyone. This will go as Kenny's second loss on the season.

Mike James pitching in the 8th.

In other Blue Crabs News: John Halama was named pitcher of the month for the league, he was also named pitcher of the month for April/May last season. Despite losing we are still in first place, 2.5 games ahead of Long Island, 3 games ahead of Camden and 8.5 Games ahead of Bridgeport. Expected pitcher for tomorrow's game is Kenny Baugh.

Rain Cuts the Game Short

Only 6.5 innings were played in last night's contest against the York Revolution but it was enough time for the Blue Crabs to pull off yet another win.

The game was a close one from the start with York getting out to an early 1-0 lead in the first. Knuckballer Joe Gannon was pitching for the Blue Crabs and went for the entire 6.5 innings going for his second complete game on the season. He surrendered 7 hits, gave up one run that was earned, walked 3 batters and struck out one. He wouldn't however get any assistance from the offense until the fifth.

Despite being unable to capitalize on a base loaded with no outs 4th it would prove to be unnecessary as we would score the tying run in the fifth and score the winning runs in the 6th. The run in the fifth was scored by John Ramistella off an Eric Crozier RBI single. Travis Garcia lead off the 6th with a single and would come in to score on a homerun hit by our Captain Jeremy Owens. The boys would continue on the play through the rain, as York would be given a chance to bat in the top of the 7th. However York was unable to amass anything more then a single hit and thus we would go into a rain delay. The management let the rain pour for about an hour before calling the game officially and putting it down as a win for the Blue Crabs. We were however greatly entertained by catcher Anthony Perry and his rain delay fun.



In other Blue Crabs News: With the win we remain in first play heading into tonight's game against the Newark Bears. We are 3 games ahead of Long Island, 3.5 games ahead of Camden and 8.5 games ahead of Bridgeport. Also we "traded" infielder Enohel Polanco to Bridgeport, Enohel who wasn't seeing much playing time here due to our high number of infielders but may have a chance at more playing time in Bridgeport due to their recent loss of players to the majors. We wish him the best of luck and hope he has a wonderful rest of the season.

Due to technical difficulties the posts for the last two nights have been unable to be posted. They will be posted as soon as possible.

The Curse of the Red Jerseys

The Blue Crabs are unable to win at home in red jerseys. Not a single home Friday night game has been won where the Blue Crabs wear All-American red jerseys, nor have the Blue Crabs won when wearing their newest red jerseys during day games. The first game of the Double-Header the Blue Crabs wore their new red jerseys and lost, giving starting pitcher John Halama his first loss of the season.

The First game of the double header was delayed by rain but that didn't stop the Revolution from getting out to an early lead off a Keoni DeRenne double. He would come in to score following two groundouts. The Revs would score another run in the top of the 4th after a single by Matt Padgett who would score on the Tom Collaro double. Both runs were charged to Pitcher John Halama, as he would pitch the entire game. He surrendered 6 hits, walked 3 batters, hit one batter and struck out six. He gave up only one fly out that was to the third baseman Chuck Jeroloman.

Offensively in the first game we had one run, scored in the bottom of the 4th after a lead off single by James Shanks who scored on Travis Garcia's single. We simply couldn't string the hits together. The curse of the Red Jerseys was alive and well as what is normally a powerful offense for us was shut down completely.

Our powerful offense however would show its might in the second game of the double header. After a rain delay following the hitless first inning the boys came out swinging for the fences. With the first homerun of the night and the game winning RBI first basemen Eric Crozier hit a bomb to the short porch in left going over the top of the picnic pavilion. Travis Garcia singled and scored on a sacrifice fly by James Shanks. Captain Jeremy Owens would also get on base and come in to score on the second homerun of the inning hit by catcher Lance Burkhart who creamed the ball over the left field wall to the roof of the clubhouse. In the third we would come out swinging again. Designated hitter Patrick Osborn would be walked following a Jermy Acey ground out, and would come home on an Eric Crozier RBI double. Eric would then score on a Travis Garcia single, and Travis would come in to score with James Shanks following his homerun to deep left field. The Last of consecutive scoring innings would come in the 4th where following an Eric Crozier walk Travis would hit a homer getting 2 more RBIs and bring the Blue Crabs lead to 10-0. We got one additional run in the 6th to bring the final score to 11-0.

Defensively our pitching was unbeatable. Making only his second appearance as a starter Edward Rodriguez went 5 innings taking a no-no into the top of the 4th where he gave up his first hit. The 4th would turn out to be his worst inning of the night giving up 3 singles though the Revolution were unable to capitalize on any of them. Edward struck out and walked only one batter on the night. In the 6th Jimmy Serrano would come in and finish off the game. Giving up no runs, he walked only one batter.

In Other Blue Crabs News: The ballots for the all-star game have been announced and our Blue Crabs have the following players available to be voted for:
1st- Eric Crozier
2nd- Chuck Jeroloman
3rd- Patrick Osborn
SS- Travis Garcia
Outfield- Richard Giannotti, Jeremy Owens, and James Shanks
Catcher- Lance Burkhart
DH- Jermy Acey

Following the Split of the double header the Blue Crabs are still in first place, 2 games ahead of Long Island, 3.5 games ahead of Camden and 8.5 games ahead of Bridgeport. Following tonight’s home game the Blue Crabs will take to the road to face the Newark Bears in a 4 game stand with an off day on the 8th. They will then see the Somerset Patriots at home, the first meeting of the two teams all year. The Patriots have the best record in the entire Atlantic League and are 1.5 games ahead of us for that title.

A Surprise Win

As the players filed out of the stadium there was a look of shock on their faces, down 4 to 1 going into the top of the 8th it seemed another sure loss for the boys who were struggling to reach base all day.

A pitching change in the 8th was the downfall of the York Revolution. Right handed relief pitcher David Shafer came in and walked back to back batters on 9 pitches and then would be pulled out of the game for Travis Hughes who would give up a single to Richard Giannotti that would score Lance Burkhart getting him past second base for the first time in the game. Next up was right fielder John Ramistella, only 1-3 on the day; he shocked fans and players alike when on the first pitch he crushed the ball over the left field pavilion bringing the Blue Crabs into a one run lead for the first time in the game. Three batters later short stop Travis Garcia would crush another bomb to the same stop scoring himself and third baseman Patrick Osborn, to give the Blue Crabs a 3 run lead over the Revolution.

Excellent pitching on the day kept the game close and thus allowed for the Blue Crabs to win. Starter Ryan Bicondoa pitched 7 innings for the no decision giving 4 runs 3 of which were earned on 8 hits, with 4 strike outs, 1 hit batter and 1 walk. Right hander reliever Matt Hensley pitched the 8th and got the win. He pitched a 1-2-3 inning with one strike out. Closer Jim Ed Warden also got his men out in order in the 9th and struck out the last batter. Jim Ed also got his 10th save of the season which ties him for the lead in the league. Patrick Osborn was back at third tonight and was part of one out in the 9th; he was one for four on the day with a run scored. John Ramistella was also in action tonight in right field and was 2 for 4 on the day with a game winning homerun and game winning RBI. He had a total of 3 RBIs on the day.

In Other Blue Crabs News: Tomorrow is the double-header against York, starters are expected to be John Halama in the first game, and Edward Rodriguez in the second game. This will be Edward's second start as he makes a transition from relief pitcher to starter. In his last start he went 2 innings of scoreless ball giving up 2 hits and striking out one batter. The Blue Crabs are still in first place at 2.5 games ahead of Long Island, 3 games ahead of Camden, and 8 games ahead of Bridgeport. York and the Blue Crabs are the only teams playing two tomorrow so hopefully we will be able to distance ourselves from the pack and secure our lead.