May 29, 2007

Yesterday the Lancer’s season ended with a defeat 4-3 against Prospect in the regional finals.  The Lancers seemed to have a bit of a Prom hangover of sorts in the first few innings.  The Lancers committed three errors in the first two innings leading to two unearned runs.   The Lancers opened the scoring with a two out double by Ryan Hansen but the Knights came back with three in the bottom of the second on a HR, double, and two costly errors.  In the third, the Lancers cut the lead to 3-2 when Kevin Lange stole third and scored on the overthrow.  The Knights extended their lead to 2 with a lead off double followed by a base hit.  This would be the last hit they would get as Phil Wold shut them out in the 4th, 5th, and 6th giving LP a chance to get back in the game.  However, the Lancers failed to get the key hit they needed to get back into the game.  Andy Sawicki drove in a run in the 5th with a sac fly to end the scoring at 4-3 Prospect.  On the day, Andy was 3-3 with an RBI and two stolen bases.  In the 7th inning with two outs the Lancers set the table for a miraculous comeback as we loaded the bases on a walk, single, and walk.  However, we struck out to end the game. On the day, the Lancers struck out 12 times and left six men in scoring position.   I told the players at the beginning of the game to act and play like champions.  I feel that we didn’t have our best effort and the game ended with Prospect winning the regional championship. 

 

I would like to thank all of the seniors and their parents for their years of dedication to the Lake Park program.  It has truly been a pleasure working with them.  I wish the seniors all the luck in the world and to come back to visit often. 

 

The nice thing about high school baseball is that we get to do this all over again starting in a couple of weeks when we start our summer league.  We will be calling players in the next few days to invite them to play.  Look to practice twice next week on Wednesday and Thursday to get ready for the summer season.

 

Here is the box score:

 

 

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

R

H

E

LP

0

1

1

0

1

0

0

3

7

3

Prospect

0

3

1

0

0

0

X

4

4

0

 

LP:      Phil Wold (6-2) 6IP 2ER 4H 6K 2BB

2B:      Hansen

RBI:    Hansen and Sawicki

SB:      Sawicki (2), Andrews (3), Lange

 

Overall Record:         22-14

 

May 25, 2007

Last night the Lancers defeated Bartlett in the opening round of the IHSA playoffs at Prospect.  The win will give Lake Park its first opportunity to win a regional since 2002.  The Lancers last won a Regional title in 2001.  In 2001 the Lancers were one game away from going to state.  Yesterday’s game was back and forth between the two UEC rivals.  Bartlett’s pitcher Chris Thomas threw very well and held the Lancer hitters down until the third inning when Kevin Lange led off with a single and was bunted to second be Dan McKeon.  After an errant pick off throw from the catcher Lange took third and scored on Andy Sawicki’s ground out.  Phil Wold then turned around a good fastball for a long homerun to put the Lancers up 2-0.  The lead didn’t last long though.  In the top of the fourth, the Hawks came storming back with three runs off LP starter Jon Busse.  In the inning Busse walked two and gave up three hits, the big hit being a bases loaded double that cleared the bases.  LP came right back in the bottom of the inning to tie the game at three after Mario Fearon led off with a walk and runner Matt Keally came home on Bryan Woods two out single into left field.  The score remained 3-3 until Bartlett again scored two in the sixth.  A lead off two base error put Bartlett in a position to take the lead.  With one out Bartlett doubled in the go-ahead run.  After a fly out and an infield single, Phil Wold came in to keep LP in the game.  Phil gave up a hit to the first batter that scored the 5th run of the game giving Bartlett the 5-3 lead.  In the Lancer 6th Vito LaPorta and Jon Busse started the inning with hits and were followed by Bryan Woods full count walk.  After a strike out, Dan McKeon grounded one to short and beat the double play to first giving the Lancers an extra out in the inning.  Andy Sawicki came up, tied the game with a line drive single to left center, and took second on the throw to third.  After a walk to Phil Wold loaded the bases the Lancers scored the eventual winning run on a wild pitch.  In the top of the 7th Wold struck out the first and last batter he faced to seal the win for the Lancers.

 

The KJ “Hustle Play of the Day” went to Vito LaPorta for backing up first base from right field.  Vito also made a nice running catch in the 7th.  Nice work Vito. 

 

The Lancers will face Prospect (at Prospect) Saturday at 11am. 

 

Here is the box score.

 

 

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

R

H

E

Bartlett

0

0

0

3

0

2

0

5

9

4

LP

0

0

2

1

0

3

X

6

7

2

 

WP:     Phil Wold (6-1) 1 1/3 IP 1H 2K 0BB

2B:      McKeon

HR:     Wold

RBI:    Sawikci (2), Wold, Woods, McKeon

SB:      McKeon

 

Overall Record:         22-13

 

May 22, 2007

 

Last night the Lancers faced Driscoll Catholic for the first time since I have been coaching here at LP.  It was a well played game by both teams.  The Lancers threw junior Vito LaPorta who has been our tough luck pitcher this season.  The game was scoreless into the fourth until Driscoll scored a run with two outs on an infield single.  The Lancers came storming back with three in the bottom of the inning on a HBP, single, sac bunt, a two run single by Jon Busse, and an RBI double by Brian Norwood.   The Lancers loaded the bases with one out but rolled into a 6-4-3 double play to end the threat and the inning. The score stay 3-1 until the 6th inning.  In the 6th Vito started the inning off with a strike out, then walked the next batter, and hit the next. After another strike out the runners moved up on a double steal.  With one strike on the batter, Vito made a good pitch, which was blooped into left to tie the game.  Another hit and another blooper in front of Matt Keally gave Driscoll the 4-3 lead.  LP threatened in the 6th with Kevin Lange on second but failed to score.  We also threatened in the 7th with men on first and second with one out but grounded into a 4-6-3 double play to end the game. We had our opportunities in the game.  We left nine men on base, five in scoring position.  Driscoll scored all 4 runs after 2 outs, the Lancers didn’t score any after 2.  The only opportunity to score with 2 outs came in the 3rd inning with Dan McKeon on first Andy Sawicki drove a ball over the left fielders head but bounced over the fence for a ground rule double.  The hard thing to believe is that the ball bounced over our 8 foot fence.  McKeon would probably have scored on the play, however LP came away from that inning with nothing.

 

It was a good game to be a part of and should help us get ready for the playoffs.  Our next game will be played on Thursday against UEC rival Bartlett in the Prospect Regional.  This should turn out to be a very good game. 

 

Here is the box score.

 

 

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

R

H

E

Driscoll

0

0

0

1

0

3

0

4

8

1

LP

0

0

0

3

0

0

0

3

9

0

 

LP:      Vito LaPorta (1-2) 6IP 7H 4R 5K 2BB

2B:      Sawicki and Norwood

RBI:    Busse (2), Norwood

SB:      Lange

 

Overall Record:         21-13

 

May 20, 2007

 

It has been a few days since my last update.  It isn’t because we haven’t been playing; it has been that things are getting pretty busy the last few weeks of school.  The Lancers winning streak was snapped at nine games in a 3-2 10 inning game against Larkin on Wednesday.  The game was well played on both sides.  Vito LaPorta started for the Lancers and went five innings giving up only one earned run.  Victor Lies came into the game in the 6th and pitched the rest of the way.  Vic pitched out of a jam in the 9th but Larkin scored the winning run with a sacrifice fly in the 10th.  The game was delayed 45 minutes due to rain and lightning.  Here is the box score.

 

 

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

R

H

E

LP

0

0

0

0

0

2

0

0

0

0

2

6

2

Larkin

0

0

0

2

0

0

0

0

0

1

3

9

1

 

LP:      Vic Lies (4-5) 4 1/3 IP 5H 4 K 2BB

2B:      Lange

RBI:    Lange, Sawicki

 

 

On Thursday Lake Park played their Senior Day.  It was a great day to play baseball and the Lancers were ready to come back to avenge the 10 inning loss from the day before.  Jon Busse was on the mound for the Lancers.  The first inning saw Larkin score 4 runs on only one hit.  The Lancers battled back with one in the second, two in the third, and three in the fourth to take the lead 6-5.  Larkin quickly tied the game with a homerun in the 5th.  The Lancers took the lead again on a sacrifice fly by Ryan Hansen.  The lead held until the 7th.  In the 7th Larkin led off with a triple and scored the tying run on a fielder’s choice as Sawicki’s throw home narrowly missed getting the runner.  Larkin then added two more runs to take a 9-7 lead going into the bottom of the 7th.  Just when we thought we were done for the day, one out with no one on in the bottom of the 7th.  Phil Wold started it all with a swinging bunt to the third baseman.  Victor Lies hit a ground ball up the middle that was fumbled by the second baseman.  Matt Keally drove in Wold with a single to right sending the tying run to third with one out.  After a strike out put us one out away from losing the game Vito LaPorta stepped up and hit a double to left center scoring the tying and winning runs.  What an ending to a great day. 

 

The KJ “Hustle Play of the Day” went to Jon Busse for his intense backing up of plays at first from right field. 

 

 

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

R

H

E

Larkin

4

0

0

1

1

0

3

9

9

0

LP

0

1

2

3

1

0

3

10

17

4

 

WP:  Ryan Overton (3-0) 2/3 IP, 1BB, 1H

2B:      Lange, McKeon, LaPorta

RBI:    LaPorta (3), McKeon (2), Sawicki, Lange, Wold, Keally , Hansen

SB:      LaPorta

 

On Friday the Lancers played a very sleepy game against Larkin.  The umpire had to have a strike zone the size of a postage stamp.  On the day Lake Park walked 12 times on offense and gave up 9 walks to Larkin.  Needless to say the game ran late.  With the game tied 2 to 2 in the sixth Larkin struck for two runs and finished the Lancers off with 5 in the 7th.  We has many opportunities but failed to capitalize. 

 

 

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

R

H

E

Larkin

0

2

0

0

0

2

5

9

8

1

LP

1

1

0

0

0

0

0

2

6

2

 

LP:      Brian Serrano (3-2) 5 1/3 IP, 4H, 4ER, 2K, 6BB

2B:      Hansen

 

 

On Saturday the Lancers played the highly ranked Willowbrook on the road on their Senior Day.  After a woeful end to the UEC season I had a brief talk with the players about bringing some more focus and energy to this game.  From the first pitch of the game to the last, the Lancers played great baseball against a great team.  Phil Wold shut down a very good hitting team and the Lancer bats got hot.  The Lancers pounded out 15 hits on the day with Dan McKeon getting 4 of them.  It was great to see our guys bounce back from a tough loss to Larkin the day before. 

 

The KJ “Hustle Play of the Day” went to Bob Hauschildt and Bobby Gunnells.  Hauschildt was a terror to the opposing on deck hitters with his relentless gathering of foul tips.  Bobby Gunnells keeps hustling and getting him in perfect back up positions behind first base on ground balls to the left side of the field. 

 

 

1

2

3

4

5

6

R

H

E

LP

1

0

2

2

1

7

13

15

0

Willowbrook

2

0

0

0

0

0

2

6

4

 

WP:     Phil Wold (5-1) 6 IP 6H 2ER, 4K 2BB

3B:      McKeon

RBI:    Sawicki (3), Wold (2), Hansen (2), Ostrowski (2), Norwood, Keally, McKeon

SB:      Ostrowski

 

Overall Record:                     21-12

Conference Record:              17-8

 

The Lancers played the LP Girls softball team today.  Too bad the rains kept us from playing a complete game.  The boys were up 11-7 when the sky opened up.  It was fun while it lasted.  I am sure we will do something like this again next year.  Thanks to Coach Allen and Coach Pisano for getting things organized.  Thanks to the softball parents for cooking. 

 

 

May 15, 2007

Today the Lancers start their final UEC series of the year against Larkin.  The Lancers will work to continue their winning streak as well as work to keep getting better for the playoffs. 

 

Big news alert!  The Lancers will play the highly ranked LP softball team on Sunday May 20th at LP East.  The game starts at 2:00 and will be a 7-inning game.  We hope to get a great crowd out there to watch these teams compete against each other. 

 

May 13, 2007

Over the weekend, the Lancers finished their series with Waubonsie Valley.  We didn’t start the DH until 1 pm due to the fact that Waubonsie had prom the night before.  Needless to say we were not too happy starting late.  However, the Lancer kept their focus and also kept their winning streak alive.  We swept Waubonsie for our 9th straight win.  In game one Phil Wold and Victor Lies combined on a great game to lead the Lancers to a 3-2 win.  The Lancers got off to a 2 run lead on two Andy Sawicki RBI singles.  In the 7th Matt Kennedy hit a key sacrifice fly to give the Lancers a 3-1 lead.  We would need that run.  In the bottom of the 7th Wold hit the first batter.  After a line out, a hit, and an error Vic Lies came in to shut the door.  An infield hit loaded the bases with one out and the score 3-2.  The next batter hit the first pitch hard up the middle but Vic got a glove on it and somehow beat the runner with the throw home.  With two outs and the bases still loaded Vic went 3-0 on the next batter.  With a 3-1 count the batter lined a shot to center field, but right to Kevin Lange to end the game. 

 

In game two we took the lead for good in the second inning with a five run inning and went on to win 11-2.  Brian Serrano and Ryan Overton pitched well with Overton getting the win in relief.  Phil Wold was the big hitter of the second game going 2 for 3 with a double and a triple and 4 RBI’s. 

 

The KJ “Hustle Play of the Day” went to Bobby Gunnells in game two.  On a slow roller to third base, Bobby was actually behind our first basemen in case of an overthrow.  Great hustle Bobby!

 

Here are the box scores.

 

Team

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

R

H

E

LP

1

0

1

0

0

0

1

3

9

4

Waubonsie Valley

0

0

1

0

0

0

1

2

7

3

 

WP:     Phil Wold (4-1) 6 1/3 IP 6H 4K 0BB

SV:      Victor Lies (3) 2/3 IP 1H

2B:      Wold, Fearon

RBI:    Sawicki (2), Kennedy

SB:      Lange,

 

Team

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

R

H

E

LP

1

5

0

0

1

4

0

11

8

0

Waubonsie Valley

2

0

0

0

0

0

0

2

11

1

 

WP:     Ryan Overton (2-0) 4IP 2H 2K 3BB

2B:      Wold, Busse, Johnson

3B:      Wold

RBI:    Wold (4), McKeon, Wisniewski, Johnson, LaPorta, Busse

SB:      Lange, Wold, Keally

 

Overall Record:                     19-10

Conference:                            16-6

 

May 11, 2007

The Lancers keep rolling with their seventh win in a row last night against Waubonsie Valley.  The Lancers started sophomore Matt Hammesfahr who pitched 4 scoreless innings before getting into a bit of trouble in the fifth.  Victor Lies came in to help out and the Lancers led 2-1 going into the top of the seventh.  Waubonsie didn’t give up and put the tying and go ahead runs on base with two infield hits.  With runners on second and third Waubonsie’s lead off hitter poked a curve into left field to score the two runs to put them up 3-2.  However the never say die attitude the Lancers have had recently kept us in the game.  With one out in the bottom of the 7th Phil Wold had a great at bat leading to a single.  Victor Lies then came up and hit a double to right center to score Wold with the tying run.  With the bases loaded and two outs, we scored the winning run on a wild pitch. 

 

I am proud of the fact that we didn’t give up even when down in the bottom of the 7th.  Our players are really starting to believe in their abilities and are trusting each other.  The KJ “Hustle Play of the Day” went to Jon Busse on his hustle backing up a throw to first. 

 

Lake Park plays Waubonsie Valley again in a DH this Saturday at 1:00.

 

Here is the box score.

 

Team

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

R

H

E

Waubonsie Valley

0

0

0

0

1

0

2

3

6

5

LP

0

0

2

0

0

0

2

4

7

1

 

WP:     Victor Lies (4-4) 3IP 2 R 3K 0BB

2B:      Lies, McKeon

RBI:    McKeon, Sawicki, Lies

SB:      Sawicki

 

Overall Record:         17-10

Conference:                14-6

 

 

May 10, 2007

Wow!  What a great game to be a part of.  The Lancers took on Neuqua Valley yesterday and on the mound was their undefeated sophomore left hander that shut us out a couple of weeks ago.  The Lancers came out swinging and came away with a 6-5 win.  It was a fabulous team effort.  We have been playing good baseball lately and have found ways to win games.  When the players believe in themselves, their teammates, and the coaches great things can happen.  The Lancers have now won six in a row and are sitting tied with NV for second place in the conference.  We trail St. Charles North by 3 ½ games.  Victor Lies continues the hot pitching coming in to throw 3 2/3 of scoreless relief.  Victor has won his last three decisions and is throwing the ball very well.  Andy Sawicki and Dan McKeon sparked the offense.  Andy went 3 for 3 with 2 triples and 3 RBI’s. Dan was 2 for 2 with a walk, 3 runs scored, and 1 RBI. 

 

The KJ “Hustle Play of the Day” went to the entire team on their efforts during the day.  We did a great job as a team.  The Lancers take on Waubonsie Valley today at LP.

 

Here is the box score.

 

Team

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

R

H

E

Neuqua Valley

1

1

1

2

0

0

0

5

8

3

LP

2

0

1

3

0

0

X

6

6

4

 

WP:     Victor Lies (3-4) 3 2/3 IP O R 2K

2B:      McKeon

3B:      Sawicki (2)

RBI:    Sawicki (3), McKeon, Wold

SB:      Lange, Andrews

 

Overall Record:         16-10

Conference:                13-6

 

 

May 9, 2007

On Tuesday Lake Park completed it third UEC game against Bartlett.  The Lancers continued their winning ways on Tuesday taking advantage of five walks and three hit by pitches.  Lake Park took at 6 -0 lead in the first inning giving Jon Busse a comfortable lead.  Jon went 4 innings and gave up one unearned run.  The win gives the Lancers a 12-6 UEC record.  The Lancers have won five in a row and seven of their last eight. 

 

The KJ “Hustle Play of the Day” went to Ryan Wegner.  With two outs and a pop fly in the infield Ryan rounded third at full speed hitting a perfect inside corner.  Ryan would have scored if the ball were dropped.  Good hustle Ryan!

 

Today LP faces Neuqua Valley at LP.

 

Here is the box score

 

Team

1

2

3

4

5

R

H

E

LP

6

2

0

2

3

13

12

2

Bartlett

0

1

0

0

0

1

3

3

 

 WP:    Jon Busse (4-2) 4IP 1 H 3K 3BB 0ER

2B:      Lange, McKeon, Wold, Hauschildt, Wisniewski

HR:     Hansen

RBI:    Wold (2), Wegner (2), Fearon (2), McKeon, Hansen, Keally, Hauschildt, LaPorta

SB:      Lange

 

Overall Record:         15-10

Conference:                12-6

 

May 5, 2007

On Saturday the Lancers face UEC opponent Bartlett for the first time in 2007.  In game one the Lancers threw Phil Wold who was pitching on three days rest.  Phil went 5 innings to get the win.  The Lancer offense took care of business in the first inning by spotting Phil a 7-0 lead.  The Lancers were patient hitters in the first game drawing eleven walks.  The big hit of the game came with 2 outs and the bases loaded in the first inning.  Mario Fearon took a 3-2 pitch and lined it into the corner in left for a bases clearing double.  The Lancers went on to win 13-3 in 6 innings.

 

In game two Brian Serrano took the mound for the Lancers.  Bartlett started off strong getting their first two men on and scored a run.  Bartlett went up 2 to 0 in the second inning on a single a sac and a ground out.  The Lancers came back to tie it in the third as Bob Hauschildt’s grounder to first took a bad hop and scored Kevin Lange and Dan McKeon.  Bartlett took the lead again in the 5th after a lead off single, misplayed bunt and a HBP loaded the bases with no outs.  Vic Lies came in to relief Serrano and Bartlett promptly met Vic with a single to right to score the go ahead run.  Vic settled down to strike out the next two batters then Bartlett scored their 4th run on an infield single.  Vic stopped the rally with another strikeout.  In the Lancer bottom of the fifth Kevin Lange started things off with a bunt single and made it all the way to third on a throwing error.  Dan McKeon drove Kevin in with a ground out, Andy Sawicki singled and went to third on two wild pitches and scored on Phil Wold’s infield single.  With two outs the Lancers scored two more runs on a single by Jon Busse and a bases loaded walk to Mario Fearon.  Vic then set the Hawks down in order the final two innings striking out 5 of the six.  Since Vic has been placed in the “closer” role for LP last Saturday he is 2-0 with a save.  Great week Vic!

 

The KJ “Hustle Play of the Day” went again to Bob Hauschildt for moving up to second on a play at the plate.  He read the throw well and hustled into second.   Brian Serrano’s hustle to the mound between innings was a close second.  Let the world know that Brian Serrano also chased down numerous foul balls today.  Good work Brian.

 

The win gave the Lancers a 5-1 record on the week. 

 

Here are the box scores:

 

Team

1

2

3

4

5

6

R

H

E

Bartlett

0

0

1

0

2

0

3

6

3

LP

7

0

0

3

1

2

13

7

2

 

WP:     Phil Wold (3-1) 5 IP 3 R 0 ER 6H 3 K 1 BB

2B:      Sawicki, Kennedy, Fearon

3B:      Sawicki

RBI:    Fearon (4), Sawicki, Wold, Hansen, Lies

SB:      LaPorta (2), Lies

 

 

Team

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

R

H

E

Bartlett

1

1

0

0

2

0

0

4

7

4

LP

0

0

2

0

4

0

X

6

8

1

 

WP:     Victor Lies (2-4) 3IP 8 K 0 BB 2 H

2B:      Sawicki

RBI:    McKeon, Busse, Fearon, Wold

 

Overall Record:         14-10

Conference:                11-6

 

May 4, 2007

The Lancers concluded their series with East Aurora yesterday at Lake Park and won the third game 12-1.  Matt Hammesfahr (sophomore) was brought up to pitch for LP and did a great job.  Matt struck out 6 while walking 2 and giving up 2 hits in his varsity debut.  The Lancer bats struck early and often to put the game out of reach early.  The big hitters yesterday were Andy Sawicki (HR and 4 RBI’s), Phil Wold (2 doubles and 3 RBI’s), Jon Busse  went 2 for 2 with 2 runs scored and Victor Lies was 2-3 with 2 RBI’s.

 

Just today the Lancers found out that they will be playing Bartlett on Thursday may 24th in the opening round of the Prospect Regional.  This is good news for the Lancers since we face Bartlett in our next three games.  We should be very familiar with them.  We also played Prospect this year. 

 

Here is the box score.

 

Team

1

2

3

4

5

R

H

E

East Aurora

0

1

0

0

0

1

2

1

LP

2

5

5

0

X

12

10

1

 

WP:     Matt Hammesfahr (1-0) 5 IP  OER  2 H  6 K  2 BB

2B:      Wold (2), Fearon, Busse

HR:     Sawicki

RBI:    Sawicki (4), Wold (3), Lies (2), Fearon

SB:      Busse

 

Overall Record:                     12-10

Conference:                            9-6

 

May 3, 2007

What a difference a day makes.  The Lancers played East Aurora Wednesday and won 11-1 in 6 innings.  The Lancers opened the game up in the 2nd inning with 6 runs on three hits.  Jon Busse’s triple got things going.  Ryan Overton got his first start of the year and pitched a great game.  He threw 6 innings and gave up only 2 hits and walked none.  The Lancers seemed to have found some energy yesterday and it was great to see.  One of our goals on the day was to have our pitcher complete his warm ups before the lead off batter was ready in an inning.  This happened, and the umpire had to get the batter to the plate.  We hustled all day and had many KJ “Hustle Play of the Day” nominees.  Mike Andrews was nominated for his head up back up of 2nd base on an overthrow, Phil Wold was nominated for his heads up play on the bases, and there were others, but the KJ “Hustle Play of the Day” went to Bobby Hauschildt on taking home on a wild pitch that didn’t stray too far from home.  Now, this may not seem like much of an accomplishment, but you have to understand that Bob is not the fleetest of foot.  Great job Bob!

 

 

Team

1

2

3

4

5

6

R

H

E

LP

1

6

0

3

0

1

11

9

3

East Aurora

0

0

1

0

0

0

1

2

4

 

WP:     Ryan Overton (1-0) 6IP 2H 1K 0BB

2B:      Wold, Kennedy, Ostrowski

3B:      Busse

RBI:    Kennedy (3), Wold (2), Hauschildt

SB:      Sawicki

 

Overall Record:                     11-10

Conference Record:              8-6

 

 

May 2, 2007

Last night the Lancers played East Aurora.  I am sure that as people read this they will think that because we played East Aurora that we must have won and won big.  Let me tell you that East played the best game I have ever seen them play.  They threw a pitcher that I would be happy to have out there for the Lancers.  At the end of the day it was East Aurora 3 and the Lancers 0.  We basically were beat in all aspects of the game.  They made almost all of the routine plays, and a few great ones.  I am not ashamed of losing this game, because we were just outplayed.  My pre-game talk to the players included things like intensity, hustle, focus, and not taking anything for granted.  Apparently, my guys weren’t up to the challenge ahead of them yesterday.  This has been the pattern so far this season.  We tend to sit back and let things happen instead of making things happen.  We need to be more consistent with our effort and our focus.  There seem to be players on the team that aren’t really into this season.  We have some players that are really underachieving which is disappointing to everyone involved.  We have some other players that haven’t stepped up to take advantage of opportunities.  It bothers me that at this point in the season we don’t have a set line up.  KJ and I have a phrase that we like to use and it goes like this.  “Players that make errors or misplays in the field cost a team more runs than they contribute with their bats.”  We have an outfield situation that is open for the taking yet we have few guys that are stepping up.  We have other players that are just going to pitch sitting on their butts not doing any of the tens of drills that they can do to improve themselves.  I absolutely hate LAZY people!!!!  We have players that sulk when their names aren’t called in the starting lineup or if they are replaced in the game with a teammate. Then, we have some players that aren’t in the game but they are working hard and are great teammates.  However, most of the things that KJ and I teach about being a great player and a great teammate aren’t being done on a consistent basis.  I talk about every day when you (the players) come out to the field they have a job to do.  They have to play hard, focus, and get the job done.  We want to punch in and work our butts off until we punch out.   Our players need to realize to reach our potential things need to change. Change doesn’t take a long time, it can happen right now if we choose.  People need to be mentally tough when things aren’t going so well and to have a short memory for what has happened through the first part of the season.  We can still have a very successful year but it has to start now.  If we play tentatively and play not to make mistakes, we will not win games.  What do we have to lose!  Nothing!  Play 100% and be confident and aggressive. 

 

Last night the Lancers were voted the #8 seed by the coaches in the Schaumburg Sectional.  We will probably get a home game (not at LP) against UEC rival and #9 seed Bartlett. 

 

Here is the box score:

 

Team

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

R

H

E

East Aurora

0

0

2

0

1

0

0

3

6

1

LP

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

2

2

 

LP:      Phil Wold (2-1)  3IP  2 R  3K  0BB

SB:      Ostrowski

 

Overall Record:         10-10

Conference:                7-6

 

May 1, 2007

Last night the Lancers played Streamwood and won in 11 innings.  Vito LaPorta started for the Lancers and went 5 strong innings giving up three runs but not allowing many hard hit balls.  Victor Lies came on in relief in the 6th inning and finished the game with 6 innings of 1 hit, shut out ball for his first win of the year.   Victor also contributed big with the bat going 3 for 4 with 4 rbi’s.  The game had many tense moments in extra innings as the Lancers left men in scoring positions in the 8th, 9th, and 10th.  However, Victor Lies came through with a bases loaded 2 run single in the 11th for the game winner.  The Lancers added two more on Phil Wold’s steal of home and Mario Fearon’s single. This great game showed a lot of character. I was happy to see us stay focused to win this game.

 

The KJ “Hustle Play of the Day” went to Dan McKeon.  Dan actually backed up right fielder Matt Kennedy as Matt made a diving attempt for short pop fly.  Dan’s hustle kept the runners from advancing.  Great job Dan.

 

Team

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

R

H

E

LP

2

0

1

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

4

7

16

3

Streamwood

1

1

0

1

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

3

11

2

 

WP:     Victor Lies (1-4)  6 IP 1 H 0 R 5K 0 BB

2B:      Sawicki (2), Fearon

RBI:    Lies (4), Sawicki, Fearon

SB:      McKeon, Wold, Andrews, Wegner

 

Overall Record:                     10-9

Conference Record:              7-5

 

April 30, 2007

Over the weekend the Lancers played Streamwood and a double header against Neuqua Valley.  In Friday’s game Phil Wold pitched a complete game 3 hitter with 11 strikeouts and three walks.  He overcame three runs in the first inning and settled down nicely. However the Lancers trailed Streamwood 4-2 going into the bottom of the 7th inning.   Andy Sawicki led the inning off reaching on a dropped third strike.  Kevin Lange doubled with one out, Phil Wold drove Andy in with a ground out.  Then Victor Lies singled to tie the game at 4.  Mario Fearon stepped up and was the day’s hero with a walk-off HR to end the game.  The KJ “Hustle Play of the Day” went to Mike Andrews for backing up first base on a dropped third strike.  Good job.

 

Team

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

R

H

E

Streamwood

3

0

0

0

1

0

0

4

3

1

LP

0

0

2

0

0

0

4

6

10

3

 

WP:     Phil Wold  (2-0) 7 IP  3 H  11 K  3 BB

2B:      Lange

HR:     Fearon

RBI:    Wold, Fearon (2), Lies, Keally

 

Saturday LP took on Neuqua Valley and in game one LP got smacked 15-0.  Wow!  We faced a tough lefty and gave up runs early to a good hitting team. Jon Busse didn’t quite have his location Saturday and we made a few errors that didn’t help.  The KJ “Hustle Play of the Day” went to Bobby Gunnells as he continued to back up the pitcher every time our catcher threw back.  He is always hustling!

 

Team

1

2

3

4

5

R

H

E

LP

0

0

0

0

0

0

1

2

Neuqua Valley

1

4

6

4

X

15

13

1

 

LP:      Jon Busse (3-2) 2 1/3 IP  10 R  6 ER  7 H  2 K 4 BB

2B:      Sawicki

 

In game two Brian Serrano continued his great pitching with 5 solid innings.  Victor Lies came in to shut the door with the tying run on base.   The Lancer bats woke up for game two as LP pounded out 13 hits.  Andy Sawicki went 3 for 4 with 2 doubles and 3 RBI’s.  Every started had a hit in game two.  The KJ “Hustle Play of the Day” went to Ryan Hansen as he continued to hustle out to his position each inning.  Keep up the good work Ryan.

 

Team

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

R

H

E

LP

2

1

0

2

0

1

0

6

13

3

Neuqua Valley

1

0

0

0

3

1

0

5

7

1

 

WP:     Brian Serrano (3-1)  5 IP  6H  3 K  0 BB 4 ER

Save:   Lies

2B:      Sawicki (2)

3B:      McKeon

RBI:    Sawicki (2), McKeon, Hauschildt, Hansen

SB:      Sawicki, Kennedy, Lange

 

Overall Record:                     9-9

Conference Record:              6-5

 

 

April 27, 2007

There should be baseball today thanks to the Lake Park Booster Club and their generous donation of a field tarp for the baseball program.  We are going in the right direction as far as our field is concerned.  The next step is a press box, concession stand, storage area.   This has been a dream of mine for year. For this dream to become a reality, we need some things to come together first.  We are looking for licensed contractors to donate their time to help build the structure, building supplies, and donations to make this happen.  I am sure with the help of the parents of current and former players as well as our alumni we can make this dream come true.  If you are not a contractor but own a business, the Lake Park Booster Club has a corporate sponsorship program when can be found at http://www.lphsboosters.org/join2006corporatesponsor.cfm .  I really appreciate any help that all of you can give. 

 

In baseball news, I would like to mention Mike Romito of the sophomore team,.  Mike currently had a streak of 21 straight plate appearances where he reached base safely.  This is a tremendous accomplishment.  Congrats Mike!

 

The varsity will be playing Streamwood HS today at 4:30 at Lake Park.  Tomorrow we play Neuqua Valley.

 

 

April 25, 2007

The Lancers’ modest three game winning streak came to a screeching halt yesterday as the lost to Elgin 7-6.  Victor Lies pitched another great game but wasn’t supported by the defense as LP allowed 6 unearned runs to score.  This was an especially painful loss since Victor is now 0-4.  He is probably the best 0-4 pitcher in the state.  The Lancers got out to a 6-1 lead thanks to some good hitting in the 3rd inning.  The big hit was a bases loaded double by Phil Wold to clear the bases.  We scored 5 times in the inning.  However, Elgin came right back with three unearned in the bottom of the inning.  We have to be able to put teams away when we are up.  In our 5 of our 8 losses we were either tied or winning the game at the 5th inning or later.  The fact of the matter is that if we intend on being a good team, which I believe we can be, than we need to win the close ballgames.  Right now, we are finding ways to lose.  It is rather disheartening to see.  We also made some base running mistakes yesterday that didn’t help our cause.   Although I am very disappointed in losing yesterday’s game, today is another day and we hope to make our team better today.   We are supposed to open up with Neuqua Valley tomorrow if the rain lets up.  We did put our brand new tarp to use and have it on the field right now.  Hopefully, we will be able to play Thursday.

 

Team

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

R

H

E

LP

1

0

5

0

0

0

0

6

8

5

Elgin

1

0

3

0

3

0

X

7

6

1

 

LP:      Victor Lies (0-4) 6 IP 6 H 5 K 0 BB 1ER

2B:      Kennedy, Sawicki, Wold

RBI:    Wold (3), Kennedy, Busse

SB:      Ostrowski

 

Overall Record:         7-8

Conference:                4-4

 

April 24, 2007

Yesterday Lake Park played Elgin in an Upstate Eight match up.  Brian Serrano pitched a great game for the Lancers in the 2-0 win.  Brian pitched a complete game and gave up 5 hits while striking out 7 while walking nobody.  The Lancers got on the board early when Kevin Lange walked, stole second, and scored on Dan McKeaon’s single.  Andy Sawicki hit a double to score McKeon which was all the Lancers needed.  Today Victor Lies pitches against Elgin and looks to keep the Lancer streak alive.  Currently the Lancers have won three in a row.  Good defense, pitching, and timely hitting have been the answer.  I do feel however that we can hit much better.  The Lancers are finally back to .500 at 7-7. 

 

The KJ “Hustle Play of the Day” went to Matt Keally.  Matt reached on an error by the shortstop and when the left fielder dropped the ball continued going to second.  The key to the play was that Matt didn’t slow down around first.  He made the outfielder stop him, which he didn’t.  Great job Matt!

 

Team

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

R

H

E

Elgin

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

5

3

LP

2

0

0

0

0

0

X

2

4

1

 

WP:     Brian Serrano (2-1) 7 IP 7 K 0 BB 5 H

2B:      Sawicki

RBI:    Sawicki, McKeon

SB:      Lange, Sawicki, Ostrowski

 

Overall Record:                     7-7

Conference Record:              4-3

 

 

April 23, 2007

The weekend weather was the best of the year and the Lancers warmed up with it.  Over the weekend Lake Park played St. Charles East at Elfstrom Stadium and won 6-2.  We then played Buffalo Grove at home on Saturday and won 7-3.  Both games were played well by the Lancers.

 

On Friday the guys were really pumped up to play at Elfstrom.  The Lancers jumped out to a 5-0 lead with five runs in the second inning.  Victor Lies opened the inning with a single and was quickly brought home by a Phil Wold double.  Mario Fearon then drove Phil and himself home with a towering HR to left.  After a walk to Vito LaPorta and a double by Bryan Woods, Dan McKeon drove them both in with a two strike single to conclude the scoring.  Jon Busse got the complete game win and pitched himself out of a few jams along the way.  It was good to see the Lancers play with a lead and be able to play aggressive baseball.  On the night we stole 6 bases 3 by Kevin Lange. 

 

The KJ “Hustle Play of the Day” was shared by Bobby Gunnells for backing up first base on a drop third strike and to our bus driver Jerry who got us home in no time flat taking many great short cuts along the way.

 

 

Team

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

R

H

E

LP

0

5

0

1

0

0

0

6

8

1

STCE

0

0

0

0

2

0

0

2

7

1

 

WP:     Jon Busse (3-1)  7IP 2R 7H 6BB 5K

2B:      Wold, Woods

HR:     Fearon

RBI:    Fearon (2), McKeon (2), Wold

SB:      Lange (3), McKeon, Woods, LaPorta

 

Overall Record:         5-7

Conference Record:  3-3

 

On Saturday LP played sectional opponent Buffalo Grove.  The Lancers played another great game even after getting home late on Friday night.  Phil Wold got his first start and win of the year throwing 6 strong innings. The Lancers were again able to play aggressive baseball stealing 10 bases on the day without getting thrown out.   Dan McKeon was 2 for 4 on the day with 3 RBI’s and 2 stolen bases, Kevin Lange was 2 for 2 with 3 runs scored, 2 RBI’s and 3 stolen bases, and Mike Andrews was 2 for 2 on the day.

 

The KJ “Hustle Play of the Day” went to Kevin Lange, not for any one play, but for his play the entire day.

 

Team

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

R

H

E

Buffalo Grove

1

2

0

0

0

0

0

3

4

1

LP

2

0

2

3

0

0

X

7

6

1

 

WP:     Phil Wold (1-0) 6 IP, 3 R 4 H 4 K 4 BB

2B:      Lange, McKeon

RBI:    McKeon (3), Lange, (2), Lies

SB:      Lange (3), McKeon (2), Sawicki (2), LaPorta (2), Andrews

 

Overall Record:                     6-7

Conference Record:              3-3

 

 

April 20, 2007

Yesterday the Lancers played conference opponent St. Charles East.  Victor Lies pitched his best game of the year but the Lancers fell short 5-2.  The Lancers left a lot of runners on base early in the game which allowed STCE to stay in the game.  We need to have our middle of the order hitters step up and pick our team up.  We have to be able to put the ball in play hard and force the defense to make plays.  I am looking for any player to step up and help this team reach the potential that I know is there.  The KJ ‘Hustle Play of the Day” wasn’t just a play.  Let me describe.  Kevin Lange continued to hustle on and off the field despite having a rough start to his day.  Kevin came up in the bottom of the 6th and tied the game with a tremendous homerun to left field.  He than made an awesome throw home in an attempt to cut down the go ahead run in the 7th with two outs. 

 

I have also talked to the players about being more intense.  Here is what I ask of every one of our 21 players on a daily basis.  We have a job to do for two plus hours a day.  Give me 100% during that time.  Give me hustle, heart, desire, focus, and intensity for this time.  I know it is hard for players that are not playing or playing much to get up for the games.  However, we are in this as a team. If a player is not “into” the game, they will not get into the game.  I am looking for a player to take their opportunity and run with it.  We have had numerous line ups this year because we haven’t had the stability to put the same kids out there everyday.  KJ and I are looking and trying to find the right combination.  We are hoping today is the day.  It can be.

 

Here is the box score

 

Team

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

R

H

E

STCE

0

0

0

1

0

1

3

5

8

2

LP

0

0

1

0

0

1

0

2

6

4

 

LP:      Victor Lies (0-3) 6 2/3 IP 5 R 10K 3BB 7 H

HR:     Lange

RBI:    Lange and Sawicki

SB:      Ostrowski (2), LaPorta, Andrews

 

Overall Record:         4-7

Conference:                2-3

 

 

On Wednesday LP faced South Elgin and won 11-2.  It was a much-needed win for the Lancers. 

 

The KJ “Hustle Play of the Day” went to Bryan Woods. Bryan beat a ground ball to second base allowing Dan McKeon to reach first and also kept the inning alive.  Great job Bryan.

 

On the mound, Vito LaPorta pitched a good game getting his first varsity win.  Dan McKeon was four for four on the day.

 

Here is the box score

 

Team

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

R

H

E

LP

0

1

0

1

2

1

6

11

9

1

South Elgin

0

0

2

0

0

0

0

2

1

4

 

WP:     Vito LaPorta (1-1) 6IP 1H 2R 6K 5BB

RBI:    Woods (2), Sawicki, Lange (2), Gunnells, Hansen (2)

SB:      McKeon, Lies

 

April 18, 2007

Monday LP picked up a game against Glenbard West.  This last minute game was not on the schedule.  The Lancers came out and to put it bluntly stunk up the place.  It was by far our worst game and effort of the season.  I truly hope that these young men don’t accept losing.  We play each game to win and should play with heart and intensity.  We are a much better team than what we showed on Monday.  Today we play South Elgin. 

 

Team

1

2

3

4

5

R

H

E

LP

0

0

1

0

0

1

4

5

Glenbard West

3

0

2

6

X

11

7

0

 

LP:      Victor Lies (0-2)  3 IP 5 Runs 2 ER, 2 K, 3 BB, 4H

RBI:    Ostrowski

SB:      McKeon

 

Overall record:           3-6

Conference:                1-2

 

April 16, 2007

Actually I have not been able to post to my website due to the fact that I have been too depressed the last week due to the weather.  Today is a new day and a new week of baseball.  The varsity will play Glenbard West at Glenbard West today in a game that we just picked up.

 

Last Tuesday the Lancers faced St. Charles North for the final time this season.  The Lancers took advantage of some North miscues to go up 3-0 in the third.  STCN quickly came back with 2 in the bottom of the third on a wild pitch at double steal.  From there is was back and forth all game.  STCN finally went up 2 in the bottom of the 6th which concluded the scoring.  The Lancers played a hard fought intense game.  It was a much better effort for the Lancers. 

 

The KJ “Hustle Play of the Day” went to junior Mike Ostrowski.  Mike had a perfect read on a ball in the dirt and took second without a throw.

 

Team

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

R

H

E

LP

0

1

2

0

1

1

0

5

4

3

St. Charles North

0

0

2

0

3

2

X

7

6

6

 

LP:      Jon Busse (2-1) 5 1/3IP, 0K, 6BB, 4ER

RBI:    Ostrowski, Sawicki, Wold, Hauschildt

SB:      Wold (2), Ostrowski, LaPorta

 

Overall Record:         3-5

Conference:                1-2

 

April 10, 2007

Yesterday the Lancers faced the #2 ranked North Stars from St. Charles North.  LP wasn’t able to generate much offense and our pitching wasn’t able to keep STCN from scoring 8 runs after two outs.  The game was relatively close at 5-1 when STCN opened the game up with 6 runs in the 6th inning to complete the scoring.  Lake Park lost 11-1 in 6 innings.  The thing about this game that bothered me is that is seemed as if we weren’t up to the challenge of playing a quality team.  We had no fire or enthusiasm.  It is a shame when we can’t get up for this quality conference opponent.  Before the game I talked to the players about how this is a game that isn’t played on paper.  STCN was ranked #2 in the area.  I am sorry to say, that we played yesterday’s game based on the rankings and not based on what could take place on the field.  I hope that we have the expectations as players that we can compete and win games against good teams. I know the coaching staff believes in the abilities of this team.  We need to be able to go out and play with confidence.  Yesterday for the most part we did not.  I am still looking for some team leaders to step up and take this team to the next level.  I am currently accepting applications.

 

The KJ “Hustle Play of the Day” went to Ryan Hansen who coaxed a walk to load the bases with the game 5-1. Ryan then sprinted to first to earn the “H PoD”. 

 

Here is the box score:

Team

1

2

3

4

5

6

R

H

E

St. Charles North

2

1

2

0

0

6

11

11

0

LP

0

0

1

0

0

0

1

6

3

LP:      Brian Serrano (1-1) 5 2/3 IP, 11 H, 4K, 3BB

HR:     Lange

RBI:    Lange

SB:      Wold

 

Overall Record:                     3-4

Conference:                            1-1

 

The weather hasn’t really been very good over the past week.  The Lancers played last Thursday against South Elgin and Jon Busse shut down the Storm offense with another 7 inning complete game shut out.  The Lancers scored all of their runs in the third inning and won 3-0. 

 

The KJ “Hustle Play of the Day” went yet again to Danny McKeon for running out a line drive out in the infield. 

 

Here is the box score.

Team

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

R

H

E

South Elgin

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

4

1

LP

0

0

3

0

0

0

X

3

4

1

WP:     Jon Busse (2-0)  7IP, 4H, 8K, 2BB

2B:      Lange, Sawicki

RBI;    Sawicki

SB:      Lange

 

Overall Record:         3-3

Conference:                1-0

 

 

 

 

April 5, 2007

The weather outside is more like December than it is April.  What the heck is going on?  We are set to open our conference schedule today against the newest team in the UEC South Elgin.  I am sure if we do play that South Elgin will come out fired up for their first ever varsity UEC game.  It is important for us to match their enthusiasm and to play good solid baseball.  Our record is 2-3 but I feel we are much better than that.

 

If we do play today, “Someone is going to win, it might as well be us!”

 

April 2, 2007

On Saturday the Lancers finished the spring break with a varsity double header against Glenbard East.  In game one Glenbard threw a hard throwing pitcher and the Lancer hitters swung at too many less than desirable pitches.  The final score was 6-2.  The score was tied at 2 after five innings.  Victor Lies had an improved outing on the mound and Phil Wold pitched a scoreless 7th.

 

In game two the Lancers had their chances to come away with the split but Glenbard East didn’t die and scored 3 runs in the top of the 7th to overcome a Lancer 2 run lead.  Jon Busse had a huge 2 run triple to give LP the lead in the bottom of the 6th.

 

In the Lancers’ three losses over the break we were tied or winning all three past the 5th inning.  We could easily be 5-0.  However, we have some areas of our game that we need to improve upon to win the close ones.  I am confident that we will.  Here are the box scores.

 

Team

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

R

H

E

GE

0

2

0

0

0

4

0

6

7

2

LP

0

1

0

0

1

0

0

2

7

4

 

LP:      Lies (0-1) 6 IP, 6H, 7K, 3BB, 3 ER

2B:      Woods

RBI:    Ostrowski and McKeon

SB:      Kennedy and Andrews

 

Team

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

R

H

E

GE

2

0

0

0

2

0

3

7

8

1

LP

2

0

1

0

0

3

0

6

8

3

LP:      Lange (0-1) 2 IP 3H, 3K, 1BB, 3ER

3B;      Busse

RBI:    Busse (2), Lange, Fearon, and Lies

 

Overall Record :        2-3

 

 

March 31, 2007

The game vs. Glenbard North yesterday at Glenbard was a classic pitchers’ duel.  Jon Busse took the mound for the first time since last summer for the Lancers and he matched up against a tough pitcher from Glenbard that was throwing well.  Jon matched him pitch for pitch in the complete game effort.  Actually, Jon had a no-hitter going into the 7th inning. 

 

The Lancer bats were quiet most of the day.  We did have a few scoring opportunities but the GN pitcher shut us down.  In the top of the 7th with the score tied at 0 Mike Ostrowski started the inning with a single to left.  After two Lancer hitters went down quietly Kevin Lange proceeded to hit a line drive double down the left field line.   The play at the plate was very close, but Mike Ostrowski slide in safe as the ball got past the catcher.  This was all Busse needed.  Jon escaped a bases loaded jam in the 7th with a strike out follwed by a game ending ground out.

 

The KJ “Hustle Play of the Day” went to Danny McKeon as he advanced to second base on a throw to get Matt Kennedy.  Dan took advantage of the bad throw to put himself into scoring position.  Good work Dan!

 

Here is the box score.

 

Team

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

R

H

E

LP

0

0

0

0

0

0

1

1

5

2

GN

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

1

2

 

WP:     Jon Busse (1-0) 7 IP, 1H, 3K, 3BB

2B:      Lange

RBI:    Lange

SB:      McKeon

 

Overall Record:         2-1

 

 

March 30, 2007

The Lancers took on sectional opponent Schaumburg yesterday in the home opener.  Things looked good for LP early on as w scored the first three runs of the game.  Brian Serrano looked tough on the mound too.  In the fifth with the score 3-0 LP the Saxons bats finally came alive and they put up four runs to take the lead 4-3.  The Lancers didn’t waste any time getting the lead back.  Actually it only took three batters in the bottom of the fifth.  Kevin Lange was hit by a pitch, Dan McKeongot a two strike base hit, then Andy Sawicki hit a triple to clear the bases and give the Lancers the lead 5-4.  Mario Fearon added a double to score Sawicki to make the score 6-4.  Phil Wold came in to shut the door pitching two scoreless innings.  The seventh inning wasn’t without its moments though.  With the Lancers leading 6-4 Wold walked the first two batters and threw a wild pitch to put the tying run in scoring position with no outs.  He then proceeded to induce a comebacker, strikeout, and groundout to end the scoring opportunity and the game for the save.

 

The Lancers played very good baseball during the day.  The KJ “Hustle Play of the Day” went to Vito LaPorta.  Vito hit what appeared to be a routine ground ball to the second baseman.  When the ball was bobbled (not dropped) for a moment Vito beat the throw.  It goes to show that we should hustle at all times and not to assume anything. 

 

Here is the box score.

 

Team

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

R

H

E

Schaumburg

0

0

0

0

4

0

0

4

8

0

LP

1

0

2

0

3

0

X

6

9

0

 

WP:     Brian Serrano (1-0) 5 IP, 2 K, 7 H, 7 BB

Save:   Wold (1)

2B:      Sawicki, Keally, Fearon

3B:      Sawicki

RBI:    Sawicki (3), Fearon, McKeon

 

Overall Record:         1-1

 

March 28, 2007

Yesterday the Lancers finally opened the 2007 season against Prospect High School.  The Lancers went up by three in the first inning on RBI hits from Dan McKeon and Mario Fearon.  The Lancers took the lead in the 4th after Matt Kennedy doubled, Matt Keally singled, then Kennedy came home on a wild pitch.  In the 5th, 6th, and 7th the Lancers had men in scoring position but couldn’t find the big hit to break the game open.  In the top of the 6th we left the bases loaded with no outs.  Prospect came through with five runs in the bottom of the 6th on only one hit to take the lead 8-4. The Lancers didn’t give up and scored two of their own in the top of the 7th and had the tying run on base when the game ended. 

 

Although I would have loved for the game to have ended in our favor, it was a good day to see what we have to work on.  Our hitters need to be able to put the ball in play with two strikes, and our pitchers need to be able to throw more strikes.  I am confident that we can fix these and go on to have a very successful season.

 

In the JV game the Lancers won 2-1 in five innings.  Ryan Hansen drove in Jon Busse with a ground out in the 2nd and Ryan Wegner squeezed home Bryan Woods in the 3rd.  Ryan Overton got the win and Matt Keally the save.

 

The “KJ Hustle Play of the Day” went to Bryan Woods who was all over the field in the second game.  Bryan read a ball in the dirt and took off before it even hit the dirt easily making it to third.  This set up Wegner’s squeeze (with two strikes).  Great job Bryan.

 

Team

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

R

H

E

LP

3

0

0

1

0

0

2

6

8

2

Prospect

3

0

0

0

0

5

X

8

6

2

 

LP:      LaPorta (0-1)  2 1/3 IP, 1 H, 2 K, 5 BB

2B:      Fearon, Kennedy, Keally

RBI:    McKeon, Fearon, Lange

SB:      Lange and Gunnells

 

Overall Record:         0-1

 

 

Junior Preview

 

Bobby Hauschildt DH / 1B - Bob is a strong hitter and should provide plenty of punch from the left side.

 

Mario Fearon C – Mario is a hard working player that figures to start behind the plate for the Lancers this season.

 

Mike Ostrowski 3B / P-  Mike is a talented player that can swing it from the left hand side.  He will get an opportunity to play 3B and also may see time on the mound this season.

 

Matt Kennedy OF – Matt is a strong hitter with good arm strength from the OF. 

 

Brian Serrano P / Inf – Brian is a talented pitcher that has the ability to get all of his pitches over for strikes.  He will get the opportunity to start on the mound this year for the Lancers.

 

Vito LaPorta P /OF – Vito is a hard working player that will pitch quite a bit for the Lancers this year.  He is also a solid outfielder and should see time there as well.

 

Bryan Woods INF – Bryan is a solid player that is a good hustler and has good pop in his bat.  He should get his opportunities this season.

 

Mike Andrews  OF – Mike is another hard working great person.  He can play the corner outfield positions and has some pop in his bat.

 

Ryan Wegner OF – Ryan is a very good outfielder and provides a solid left handed stick.

 

Bobby Gunnells INF – Bobby is a slick fielding second baseman that is truly a student of the game and a very hard worker.

 

Adam Johnson C -  Adam is a hard working catcher that has improved the swing in the off-season. 

 

John Wisniewski OF – John is another of the Lancers hard working players.  John has a good arm from the outfield.  John is constantly trying to better his abilities as a player.

 

Ryan Overton P – Ryan is this year’s only non-position player.  He has tremendous potential as a pitcher.  He has a live arm and can contribute positively during this season.

 

 

 

March 15, 2007

Well, we have been at this baseball thing for the past few weeks now.  We had a good week of tryouts and kept 21 players on the varsity.  Cuts were difficult because all of the people that came out this year worked hard and were great people.  Here is how the team looks in the preseason.

 

Seniors:

Andy Sawicki Middle Infield – Andy is a three year varsity player and we are looking for him to have a great season this year to complete a successful varsity career.  Andy is a middle of the order hitter with good pop in his bat.

 

Kevin Lange OF/P – Kevin is the fastest Lancer and will probably be our lead off hitter this year.  Kevin will play CF and pitch this year. 

 

Phil Wold 1B/P – We are excited to have Phil back on the mound this year after limited time there last year.  Phil is projected to be one of the Lancers’ starting pitchers. When he is not pitching he will be playing first base.

 

Dan McKeon Middle Infield – Danny is a very athletic player that can make some excellent plays in the field.  He has the potential to be a solid hitter for us this year also.

 

Victor Lies 3B/P – Victor brings 37+ innings of experience and two wins back this year.  He is expected to be one of the Lancers’ starting pitchers and should play a good third base for us this year as well.

 

Matt Keally  2B/P – Matt is a solid player that will get some time in the infield and should be able to contribute some innings off the mound this year for the Lancers. 

 

Ryan Hansen 3B/1B – Ryan is a hard working young man that worked his way onto the team this year.  He is a solid defender that should see some time at 3B as well as 1B this season.

 

Jon Busse OF / P – Jon is a solid outfielder and one of the Lancers better pitchers.  He should play a large part in the 2007 season.

 

At a later date, I will profile the junior class. 

 

 

February 26, 2007

Today is the day that the Lancers will take to the field…er I mean take to the gym for the first day of tryouts.  I am very excited about getting started.  I am happy to say that the snow cannot dampen my mood.   I feel that we will have a solid team this year.

 

I want to wish all of the players the best of luck this week.  We should have all three teams picked by the weekend.  The coaches will make every effort to evaluate the talent in the space and time allotted for each team.  I am confident that my coaches are competent in evaluating baseball talent. 

 

I want the players to understand that they should go into this with excitement but not to be anxious or intimidated.  Go out, give it your best shot, and don’t fear failure. 

 

Good luck to everyone.  Keep coming back to this site, because there is a lot more to come.

 

 

February 12, 2007

There are only two weeks to go before the official kickoff (football term, sorry) of the 2007 Lancer baseball season.   The varsity continues to workout in preparation for this year’s challenges. 

 

It is important for all players interested in trying out for the team this year to have the appropriate paperwork in to the athletic office before the first day of tryouts.  We will not allow anyone to tryout unless they have been cleared through the AD’s office. 

 

On a more personal note, I am feeling good after undergoing a procedure to my heart on Friday.  It was a non-surgical procedure to fix a congenital problem with my electrical system.  I actually had a part of my heart burned! 

Ouch!  However, I am already better than new and physically and mentally ready to go this year. 

 

Talk to you all soon.

 

 

February 5, 2007

 

I am sure that most are disappointed with the Bear’s loss in last night’s Super bowl.  It was however a great run and they were outplayed by the Colts last night.   This game does show how important it is to play solid error free ball to win the big game.  Anyways, on to baseball.

 

Happy New Year to everyone.  I am glad to finally be back to posting my thoughts about the Lancer Baseball team.  We have been in the weight room since November getting our bodies in shape for the upcoming year.   Many of the players have made tremendous strides in the weight room in terms of strength.  It just goes to show that hard work will yield results.  Some of these guys have dramatically increased their strength though a program put together for us by Dr. Phil Claussen.  However, any program is only as good as the effort that is put into it.  We have given our players the opportunity to gain strength for the upcoming season.  Most have taken advantage of this opportunity.

 

As always, I am very excited about the upcoming year.  We had a great run to end the summer league and made it to the finals of the Prospect Sectional losing to Schaumburg.  We will have some quality seniors to mix with a talented group of juniors this season.  Here are my keys to Lancer success in ’07:  solid pitching, solid defense, an explosive offense, and team chemistry.  As always, it is important for teams to throw strikes, field the routine ball, and to be able to score runs.  I will be posting more now that we are three weeks away from tryouts.  I may even re-post some of my classic preseason posts from previous years.

 

Talk to you all again soon.