Know Mercy Softball

Everyone played a big role in Know Mercy's Schnitz Ada Grill Championship Season

2010-07-18T14:40:00.000-07:00

It was a season of extremes for Know Mercy.

The team started with high hopes, building on the foundation of 2009’s consolation round championships – both KM1 and KM2 earned the title – and adding new friends to the roster.

But three losses to open the season and a rare tie against rival St. Matthew’s Monsters did not inspire optimism. In fact, Know Mercy limped to the end of the season with just one victory notched in its belt.

But deep down, the coaching hierarchy knew this team was too good to fail. The roster was full of wily veterans, teen-aged phenoms and skilled newcomers. Plus, they had the league’s best uniforms.

Two big things worked in Know Mercy’s favor. First, the reconfigured playoffs allowed the team to cut loose the baggage of the regular season. And, Chad Zollman was recovered from his basketball injury just in time to anchor what was already an improving defense.

Back by solid leather, mound magician Mike Gillis went to work on the hill, working through CTL-ALT-DEL, keeping the Monsters in check in the second round and twirled what might be the first shutout in Know Mercy history in the semi-finals.

That led to the team’s first-ever appearance in the finals, with a confident St. Matthew’s in the opposing dugout.

The top of the order went right to work, Nick Rodammer, Casey Munger-Dunham and Chad all reached and scored.

The Monsters responded with a run in the bottom of the inning, aided by a rather questionable call. But the surging Know Mercy defense put the brakes on any more scoring.

KM padded the lead with three more in the sixth, with Chad, Jamie Norris and Amy Bonjour coming around, and one more in the sixth when Steve Kutz drove home Jason Stevenson.

The team then shut down the beleaguered Monsters in order to claim the first Know Mercy championship, hoisting high the prize plaque and dousing the coach with ice water.

What was neat about the season was that everyone contributed; it was a tough schedule with an unusual number of early starts and games against ringer-laden tournament teams in the upper division.

But everyone remained in good spirits and worked hard, and that all paid off in the end.

Everyone played a role in the big season:

John Basher: Rookie who showed great enthusiasm and gave all in the field – leading to an injured finger that kept him out for the rest of the season. John went two-for-two in the opener, then broke his pinkie with tendon damage in Game 2. Ouch!

Amy Bonjour: Making her Know Mercy debut, the dedicated Amy appeared in every game and practice and was a solid backstop who could hit the ball hard.

Steve Cairns: Might have had his best year at the plate and in the field. He saved the close second-round playoff game against St. Matthews by racing in from deep right-center to grab a flair – belt high -- that would have driven home the go-ahead run. Game Ball Award: Playoff Game 2

Melissa Carrick: Kidnapped by Hoosiers for part of the season, Mel shined at third base, especially in the big playoff double-header, using her rifle arm to nail a runner at the plate and going two-for-two with the bat.

Aaron Dunham: Aaron’s mashing and bashing propelled the team through the first three playoff games. But one play probably saved the run. In a tight second round games against the rival St. Matthew’s Monsters, a rival batter led off the sixth inning by smacking one into the gap and was not content with a double or even a triple. Seeing Mike Gillis backing up third base, the big gun made a break for the plate -- only to find Aaron Dunham waiting for Mel Carick’s relay throw that was right in target.

Melissa Ferens: Melissa’s played with Know Mercy on the sly for at least two years, but made things official in 2010. Making the crazed commute from Holland, she was solid at the plate and in the field, splitting time at second and in the outfield. Drove in two big runs in game that drove team to the finals.

Grant Ferguson: Was an outstanding bat boy and cheerleader, likely led team in cookies consumed.

Niki Ferguson: Female MVP, showed off Pilates-powered muscles and showed command at the plate and in the field. Responsible for one of the best plays of the season, Niki smothered a tough grounder at second, the, while on her belly, backhanded a throw to Jamie Norris at first base to nail a runner. Game Ball Award, Game 8

Mike Gillis: Always a great pitcher, Mike ramped up his game even higher in the final two playoff games. First he toss what might be Know Mercy’s only shutout in Playoff Game 2 against a solid GE team that had beat KM twice before. Then, with the championship hanging in the balance, Gilly allowed one run in the first – after a very disputable call at second base – then absolutely silenced a potent St. Matthews team, clearing a path for a Know Mercy victory. Game Ball Award, Playoffs Game 3

Steve Korb: Steve is dependably stellar in left field, and practically owned the playoffs, especially the double-header. When GE threatened early, Steve squashed their hopes with a Mays-esque, back to the plate grab to end any scoring chance they might have dreamed about. He went four-four at the plate that day, driving home what proved to be the winning run in the nightcap against the Monsters. Game Ball Award: Game 4

Rebecca Kutz: Made her Know Mercy debut, and sits atop the rankings by going two-for-two in the win against Forest Hills Foods, posting a perfect 1.000 on-base percentage.

Steve Kutz: Steve keeps getting better and better, and can pound the ball with authority!.Drove in big run in championship game.

Mike Light: The professor’s commitment to the Youth of America limited his action. But when available, Mike gave everyone a lesson on how to play leftfield. Game Ball Award, Game 3

Jamie Linari: Know Mercy rookie showed speed on the bases and bravado in the field, playing at least three positions – including third base against a tough opponent in the opener. Game Ball Award, Game 1

Jason Stevenson: Hockey player and marathon runner, Jason added softball to his athletic resume. Jason could smash them harder than anyone, and cemented the regular-season’s lone victory with a double. Game Ball Award: Game 5

Rob Mirque: Rob saw limited action in 2010, but went one-for-two, driving in a big run in the game 4 tie against the Monsters.

Charmayne Mulligan: One inning in the field, one at-bat – and one big injury! Ouch. Charmayne will be back!

Michael Mulligan: Made his return to competitive softball after several years on the shelf. It was clear that Michael knew what he was doing – even if the body wasn’t quite following suit. He broke out against Norman Family Dentistry, but the championship game was his best – going horizontal to make a key play at first base and smashing a line drive hit. Bonus points for making the marathon commute from Battle Creek to get to games in time. Hoo-RAH! Game Ball Award, Game 9

Andrew Murray: Rookie made his softball debut, set record (with Halle) of being the youngest player and led the team in walks, scored a big run in the second playoff game – with a pretty cool slide into third.

Dave “Chipper Skipper” Murray: The coach baked a lot of cookies, ticked off the St. Matthews pitched by gaining key walk to drive in two runs in tie game. Proud to be a part of Know Mercy’s first father-son combination. Game Ball Award, Playoff Finals.

Casey Munger-Dunham: Casey’s on-field skills are legendary. But her off-field contributions are even more impressive. Casey designed and arranged for the fantastic uniforms that are by far the best in the league and she rounded up sponsorship from the Schnitz that kept our share low. Plus she was a sounding board and shoulder to cry on for an occasionally panicking coach.

Jamie Norris: Tadas’ Dad has become a slick-fielding first-sacker to go with his prowess at the stick. If it seemed like Jamie was always on base, it’s because he darn near was, reaching in 15 of 21 at-bats. Amazing. Game Ball Award, Playoff 1

Venta Norris: Dependable Venta used her wheels to beat out multiple throws at first, worked out several walks in key situations and made a big play behind the plate to nail a runner in the first playoff game.

Nick Rodammer: The team’s leadoff hitter – and leading hitter, reaching base an incredible 15 out of 19 times. Nick also shined in the field, asked to share the toughest positions while yearning to play first base – finally getting there in the championship game.

Hannah Ulreich: Rookie made her debut and was solid, making big plays at third base and second base, scored big run in the team’s only regular-season win.

Halle Ulreich: Rookie shares two records, as youngest Know Mecy player – tied with Andrew – and most games played with a non-twin sibling. Fresh off her season at Forest Hills, Halle stepped right in and produced in the field and at the plate. Made big splash in debut, getting team’s first hit and scoring the only run against Victory Club goons. Game Ball Award, Game Seven.

Chad Zollman: A basketball injury kept Chad on the shelf for nearly the entire regular season, but that kept him tanned, rested and ready for the playoff march. Dominating at shortstop, Chad worked with Niki, Casey, Melissa and Hannah to turn double-plays and with Jamie and Michael to pound out runners at first base.

Rachel Zollman: Rachel has a rifle for an arm and a dependable glove in the outfield, but her highlight play of the year involved a first-to-third dash against GE, where she slid so hard into third base that she actually ripped it from its anchor, delaying the game as the umpires tried to figure out how to get the field back together.

CHAMPS!!

2010-07-14T19:54:00.000-07:00

More details to come, but for now, we're celebrating being No. 1!

Pitching and defense drive Know Mercy to championship game

2010-07-08T11:55:00.000-07:00

Sometimes the first inning can set the tone for the whole game.

GE started Wednesday’s semi-final playoff -- part of the Schnitz Ada Grill Playoff March -- game with runners on second and third and two out, and one of their top guns launched a bomb to deep, deep left field. If that drops, the team easily takes a 2-0 lead and Know Mercy faces digging out of deep hole.

But instead Steve Korb charged deep, going all Willie Mays v. Vick Wertz on the batter, a phenomenal catch that seemed to suck the wind out of GE.

Know Mercy responded in the bottom of the frame with Nick Rodammer leading off with a double Schnitz, then scored when Aaron Dunham smashed a Schnitz through the hole, scoring Nick, who arrived at the plate with a dramatic and dusty slide-dive.

That’s all the team would need, using remarkable defensive skills and Mike Gillis’ pitching prowess to power a 7-0 victory over a very good GE team that had already beaten Know Mercy twice this season.

And it’s a good thing Know Mercy was flashing leather because the 90-degree heat was sopping the strength from the team bats for most of the game.

After the first inning run, the team was quieted until the fourth, when Steve Cairns led off with a Schnitz and scored when Niki Ferguson launched a double Schnitz.

The game broke open in the next frame, when then team’s two youngest players set the stage. Andrew Murray worked out a one-out walk and moved to third in dramatic fashion when Halle Ulerich smacked a double Schnitz.

Steve Kutz then brought two runs home with a Schnitz, as did Melissa Ferens. Then Nick and Aaron again teamed up to put a lucky No. 7 on the scoreboard.

Meanwhile, the defense was in shut-down mode. Chad Zollman, pairing again with Niki and Casey at short and Jamie, Nick and Michael Mulligan at first, was relentless.

One GE batter managed a walk, only to be snuffed out at third by Hannah Ulerich.

Lost in the excitement was a great game by Venta Norris, who not only legged out a Schnitz but made a fine play, racing out from behind the plate to scoop up a ball and follow with a strong throw to first.

All that action sets the stage for next week, when Know Mercy appears in the finals.

The team is already assured second place, but a triumph at 7 p.m. — or in an 8 p.m. game, if necessarily — would allow the team to bask in the glory.

Schnitz Ada Grill Game Ball: Presented to Mike Gillis for spinning a shutout on the hottest day of the year, with both great pitching and fielding.

Perfect playoff double-header for Know Mercy

2010-07-01T14:24:00.000-07:00

It was just about a perfect Know Mercy softball day.

Basking in beautiful sunshine, surrounded by a record-number of friends and family and with nearly the full team in the dugout, Know Mercy blasted through the first two rounds of the playoffs.

Nick Rodammer smashed a triple Schnitz in the team’s first at-bat against CTL-ALT-DEL, and the team never looked back, completing two games that featured clutch hitting, tight defense, stellar pitching and contributions from everyone.

Nick’s triple opened the door for a 6-run first inning, and the team added three more in the fourth and one in the fifth, leading to a 10-1 lead in the seventh. C-A-D had a short, two-out rally to score a couple dignity runs, but the outcome was never in doubt.

And the team started strong again in the next game against rival St. Matthews Monsters, pushing across five quick runs.

The Monsters bounced right back, answering with five of their own.

That’s where the tight defense and pitching kicked in, shutting down a potent Monster offense while Know Mercy methodically tacked on runs in the third, fourth and fifth innings.

The team took an 8-5 lead into the bottom of the seventh, and remember that these two squads already played to an 8-8 tie earlier in the season.

Monsters did their best to repeat that scenario. Leading off the sixth inning, one of the team’s big guns smacked one into the gap and was not content with a double or even a triple. Seeing Mike Gillis backing up third base, he made a break for the plate only to find Aaron Dunham waiting for Mel Carick relay throw that was right in target.

The Monsters then showed more life by pushing across two tense runs in the frame before Know Mercy could finally close the door, advancing to the semi-finals, likely against a formidable GE.

Individual highlights:

Jamie Norris is the team’s hottest player, going four-for-four with two big rbi against the Monsters.

Niki Ferguson is en fuego tambien, with two clutch walks and two hits and two runs scored.

Steve Cairns flashed some impressive leather. Playing deep in right-center for one of the main Monsters, Steve raced in to snag a shot that was falling short, grabbing it belt-high and preventing runs from scoring. He was no slouch at the plate, either, again using that blazing speed to score a big run.

Chad Zollman made some amazing plays at short, working with Casey Munger, Hannah Ulerich and Niki to turn several double plays and key force-outs. He also smashed a Triple Schnitz and two Schnitzes, scoring three times.

Steve Korb was four-for-four on the day with the big Double Schnitz that drove home what proved to be the deciding run against the Monsters.

Jason Stevenson was supposed to be in Dearborn, but instead escaped to Ada and contributed three hits.

Amy Bonjour reached base twice and scored against C-T-L.

Aside for extending the record for most games played by non-twin siblings, Ulerich sisters Hannah and Halle were perfect at the plate in the opener, even scoring three times.

Aaron went three-for-four with two runs scored and hit the longest foul ever. Sidekick Casey had two hits and scored two runs.

Any time someone named Melissa stepped to plate, it was bad news for a Know Mercy opponent. Both Melissa Ferens and Mel Carick reached base four times!

Michael Mulligan continues to be on track, smacking a hit and driving another drive with authority.

Mike Gillis kept dangerous Monster batters off balance with is mound magic, and was able to stay fresh when the Chipper Skipper would fill in for a couple innings to stare down C-A-D batters after their confidence was already shattered.

Schnitz Ada Grill Game Ball Game 1: Jamie Norris for extending his already amazing streak to sick levels!

Schnitz Ada Grill Game Ball Game 2: Steve Cairns for his outstanding catch, big hits and bold baserunning to put the Monsters away.

Next week: The semi-finals round of the playoffs, likely against GE.

Special thanks to all the fans who attended, including

Know Mercy holds heads high after double loss

2010-06-24T15:09:00.000-07:00

The end result might have been the usual, but Know Mercy sure looked and felt better after Wednesday’s double-header loss.

With heavy hearts and without some of the team’s top guns, Know Mercy battled Glory Days in the opener, coming behind to claim the lead then watching it slip away — but scored a season-high 10 runs.

The team stayed to close to Norman Family Dentist before a late-inning collapse put the contest out of reach, but the game included some of Know Mercy’s best defense of the year.

Michael Mulligan was able to shake his frustrating slump. He worked out a walk in the first game — with Steve Cairns coming around to score in his place — and after ripping a shot just foul in the second game he launched one over the shortstop’s head for his first hit. Michael also was sharp in the field.

Niki Ferguson made the most spectacular play of the year. Smothering a tough grounder at second, Niki, while on her belly, backhanded a throw to Jamie Norris at first base to nail a runner. Niki had a big day at the plate, too, going three for three with a run scored in the opener as the lady leadoff hitter.

The scoop was one of several tough plays executed by Jamie, who went a perfect four-for-four at the plate.

Mike Gillis was perfect on the day with four Schnitzes and a walk, plus two runs.

Chad Zollman was finally cleared to play after his knee injury and picked up right where he left off with a Schnitz and stellar play at shortstop. Chad + playoffs = Good things for Know Mercy!

Steve Korb made some outstanding plays running down deep drives in left field.
Halle Ulerich had a bit hit with a run scored in the opener and was flawless in left-center. Big sister Hannah was masterful at third base.

Amy Bonjour worked out a key walk and came around to score, sharing catching duties with Venta Norris, who also reached base.

Steve Cairns drove in two big runs to tie the opener, and came around to score the only run against Norman, who desperately wanted a shutout.

The Chipper Skipper had his best day at the plate with a double Schnitz and two regular Schnitzes with two runs scored in the opener, and drove in Steve Cairns in the bottom of the seventh in the finale after announcing to all that Know Mercy would NOT be shut out.

The Schnitz Ada Grill Game Ball went to Michael Mulligan for his big day at the plate.

The Schnitz Ada Grill Collector’s Card is of the Chipper Skipper, who needs to get some shots of other players to complete the set.

Special thanks to our largest fan section of the year, with Pastor Sarah and Pete Stobie — with Lucy and Amy — and Gayle Gillis, Joni Korb and Niki’s Mom, who keeps an eye on the little ones so Niki can show off her skills on the field.

Remember to keep Casey and her family in your thoughts and prayers.

Know Mercy looks for bright side after rough game against Victory Club 1

2010-06-16T18:34:00.000-07:00

On the bright side, no one was hurt. And Know Mercy is done with teams named Victory Club for a while.

The team was held to one run on five hits in a 15-1 mercy defeat at the hands of Victory Club 1, which simply hit and fielded better than our intrepid squad.

The game started on a bright note, with Halle Ulerich reaching base in her Know Mercy debut. She moved over when Nick Rodammer smacked a Schnitz, followed by Niki Ferguson doing the same.

That loaded the bases for Steve Korb, who drove in Halle in a fielder’s choice.

Sadly, a Schnitz from the Chipper Skipper in the third inning was the only other Know Mercy hit, as the team meekly went 1-2-3 in the second, fourth and fifth innings.

The score could have been worse if not for some nice defense. Mike Light made several nice catches – and one spectacular one – in left field.

Nick had a sweet diving stop on a tough infield shot.

Amy Bonjour raced out from behind the plate to grab a pop-up.

Mike Gillis was his usual mound magician, walking no one and striking out three.

Now Know Mercy can shake it off and head into next week’s doubleheader with a chance to add some victories and head into the playoffs on a high note.

Schnitz Ada Grill Game Ball: Went to Halle for making her debut in style, landing the team’s first hit of the game and scoring the only run.

Clutch hitting, tight defense and pitching leads to Know Mercy victory over Forest Hills Foods

2010-06-02T20:06:00.000-07:00

Too bad Jason Stevenson didn’t know we’re a superstitious group before he signed on for Know Mercy softball.

Jason spent his weekend running a marathon in Traverse City. Four days later, he delivers for Know Mercy in the clutch, driving a bases-loaded double Schnitz in the sixth inning to cement the team’s first victory of the season, a 6-3 battle against Forest Hills Foods..

We can’t prove that running 26 miles among the cherry trees was responsible for Jason’s performance. But we’re going to have to keep the routine going for a couple games.

Wednesday was a must-win for Know Mercy after dropping the first three games to tough teams and then playing to an 8-8, eight-inning tie against an improved St. Matthews team in Game 4.

The team also came with a score to settle. It was Forest Hills Foods that pushed Know Mercy out of the playoffs last season in a disputed forfeit despite not having any bats to use.

And FHF arrived Wednesday down a player, forcing the umpires to grant a concession, switching which team took the field first.

After giving FHF a run in the top of the first, Know Mercy battled back with Nick “Schnitzilla” Rodammer leading off with a double Schnitz.

He was followed by Casey Munger, a day after celebrating a birthday, who drove him home with a Schnitz. Then Hannah Ulerich smacked her first Schnitz,

Mike Gillis drove in Casey, and Niki Ferguson drove in Hannah with a double Schnitz.

Forest Hills added a run in the third inning and another in the fourth for a 3-3 tie.

That set the stage for drama in the bottom of the frame, when Steve Kutz led off with a Schmitz, He moved to third when the pitcher wanted no part of the Schnitzilla, and walked him. Niki came up huge again, with a productive out that pushed Steve across with the go-ahead run.

But Know Mercy needed some insurance.

Mike Gillis strode to the plate with one out and accepted a walk. Then after another out, Jamie Norris also worked the count for a walk, pushing Mike to third. Jamie Linari accepted her free pass.

That set the stage for her sidekick Jason, still sore from his performance in the Bayshore Marathon. He finished 34th in his age group, with an incredible time of 3 hours, 37 minutes and 7 seconds. Impressive.

In his first at-bat Jason skied one so far in the heavens that flights from Ford Airport were diverted – but it landed in the glove of a speedy FHF outfielder.

That wasn’t going to happen a second time, as Jason launched an absolute laser, bringing home Mike and Jamie Norris.

With some breathing room, Mike Gillis’ masterful pitching and Know Mercy’s tight defense shut down FHF for the final two frames to cement the first victory of the year.

The Schnitz Ada Grill Game Ball was awarded to Jason for his super clutch hitting and performance in the marathon. Now that we have a proven formula for success, Jason’s going to have to find a race this weekend. We’ve got a streak!

In other highlights:

Amy Bonjour launched her first hit of the season, a great whack into the outfield.

Rebecca Kutz made her Know Mercy debut, and legged out a hit in her first-ever at-bat.

Andrew Murray worked out his second walk, and is tied for the team lead. Next week he walks across the Rockford High stage to accept his diploma.

To celebrate the big win, we present three collector cards, featuring Jamie Norris, Rebecca and Michael Mulligan.

Know Mercy does not lose to St. Matthew's Monsters

2010-05-31T20:15:00.000-07:00

The pessimist would say Know Mercy did not win Wednesday’s game against St. Matthew’s Monsters.

But the optimist — and we are nothing if not optimists — note that the team didn’t lose, either.

An impressive Know Mercy battled back from a 5-3 hole against a much-improved Monster squad to play to a rare, 8-8, eight-inning tie.

The team continues to show some impressive defense, with left fielders Mike Light and Steve Korb impressing time and again, sharing the Schnitz Ada Grill Game Ball.

Nick Rodammer stacked up a Schnitz and a Double Schnitz, while Niki Ferguson also had two Schnitzes with a run scored.

Casey Munger topped that with three Schnitzes!

Venta Norris reached base twice, and was injured by the Monster first-basemen, who poked her in the ribs, one of several suspect plays by this opponent. Sidekick Jamie Norris also reached twice and scored each time.

Jamie Linari and Rachel Zollman each reached first and came around to score.

Chipper Skipper strode to the plate with the bases loaded and scored two runs without swinging the bat — a Schnitz Gift Card, which is the new name for free passes, or bases on ball. Chipper actually walked again later in the game, which ticked off the cranky Monster pitcher, who refused to shake hands after the game.

While the St. Matthew’s pitcher couldn’t find the plate, Mike Gillis was again perfect, giving no Monster a free pass. That makes Mike the Know Mercy collector’s card of the day.

So close, so far: Know Mercy falls to GE

2010-05-21T16:44:00.000-07:00

So close: That would be the 6-6 score after six innings of the big Schnitz Ada Grill Opening Day 2.0 against GE on Wednesday.

So far: That would be the distance of the three-run homer hit by the GE tall guy with the shaved head who we all feared, effectively killing Know Mercy’s chances for victory.

Alas, the Know Mercy heroes fell just short in their bid for the team’s first win of the season, falling 11-6 to a very good GE team.

The team roared out to a 3-0 lead in the first inning when Nick Rodammer lead off with a Schnitz, followed by Casey Munger-Dunham who hit a Schnitz in her first at-bat of the season.

That set the table for Aaron Dunham to drive home Nick with a Schnitz of his own, and Casey came home when Mike Light hit a deep fly for a sacrifice. Mike Gillis then drove home Aaron.
GE got even and then some, with two runs in the second, three runs in the third and another in the fourth.

Know Mercy battled back in the fourth, when Rachel Zollman raced from first base to third when Nick launched a Double Schnitz, and Rachel slid into third so hard that she ripped the base right out of the ground. That’s power! You think anyone is going to mess with her?

Both Rachel and Nick came around to score when Aaron smashed a Double Schnitz of his own.

The team added one more run in the fifth, when Mike Light poked a Double Schnitz and scored when Mike Gillis ripped his second Schnitz of the game to tie the score.

But GE came back with two runs in the sixth, and the TGWSH smacked his three-run blast to put the game out of reach.

But there were some great highlights for just about everyone.

Casey Munger-Dunham not only distributed what are obviously the best softball uniforms ever, but she also hit the team’s first Triple Schnitz of the season and was flawless in left-center.

What Casey didn’t catch in left-center, Steve Korb grabbed in right-center, hauling in some very tough bombs.

Mel Carrick made her debut and was robbed at least three times, absolutely ripping line drives up the line, each falling just foul. She also made a fantastic play at third, slapping a tag on a GE runner who thought he was going to get through. Not a chance.

Steve Carins had two Schnitzes, and nearly a Double Schnitz. Rachel would offer sliding lessons, but then we’d have to replace all the bases.

Andrew Murray, playing in his first-ever softball game, used his teen-aged wheels to swipe a Schnitz.

Steve Kutz made what I think was his first game at first base and performed well!

Melissa Ferens had a big Schnitz in the first inning and turned some nice plays at second base.

Amy Bonjour played with a heavy heart and did a great job behind the plate.

The Schnitz Ada Grill Game Ball: Awarded to Mike Light for his big hit, scoring the winning run and stellar defense that included two huge throws to nail runners.

The Schnitz Ada Grill Field of Dreams Moments of the Week:

“If you build it, he will come:” Wednesday was the 2010 debut for Aaron, Mike Light, Andrew, Casey and Mel.

“Ease his pain:” John Basher suffered a season-ending injury in the game against the vile Victory Club, breaking his pinkie and enduring some tendon damage, too. Ouch! John promises to be back to pinch run, coach the bases and keep Chip from getting ejected.

“Go the distance:” Jason Stevenson is missing for this game and the next as he prepares for a marathon. There’s a part of me that hopes he reverts to hockey mode mid-race and starts fighting with another runner.

“Hey Dad, wanna have a catch?” Andrew Murray’s appearance marked what is believed to be the first father-son combo in Know Mercy history.

Next week: Schnitz Ada Grill Opening Day 3.0

OK, we have battled two of the top teams in the league for three games. Now it’s time for the soft white underbelly of the schedule with a game against St. Matthews.

But it’s another nasty 6 p.m. game on Ada 1, so plan accordingly.

Ouch! Know Mercy pounded by ringer-laden Victory Club

2010-05-13T07:59:00.001-07:00

It was, I'm certain, the most lop-sided defeat in Know Mercy history. Victory Club dropped a 21-1 mercy defeat on the team Wednesday, but we really weren't as bad as the score would indicate.

We made some errors, but not really all that many. We walked a couple batters, but only a couple. But when a team of ringers hits line drive base hit after line drive base hit, there's really not a lot we can do.

Offensively, we didn't show much. But batting only once in three innings, we didn't get too many opportunities to shake off the rust, either. We also were missing our most potent offensive weapons.

But a Victory Club player announced they dispatched the first-game opponent in just 39 minutes, so it appears they're going to take joy in mercying their way through the league. Have fun, guys.

Which is not to say there were no highlights:

Hannah Ulerich made her Know Mercy debut! Hannah's a player, and I know she's going to shine in the coming weeks.

Venta Norris made a nifty stop of a hard-hit ball to right.

Steve Korb and Melissa Ferens are a potent combo up the middle.

OK, now shake it off!

I'm declaring next week Schnitz Ada Grille Opening Day 2.0 We're playing the team we played in the first game, I'll have the bunting out again and, best of all, Casey informs that we will have our sweet new uniforms! Far as I'm concerned, these first two games were practice and the season starts on Wednesday!

Know Mercy knows rust on Opening Day

2010-05-06T11:34:00.000-07:00

Rust: noun (ruhst) 1) The red or orange coating that forms on the surface of iron when exposed to air and moisture. 2) The stuff on the Know Mercy bats and gloves during the first game of the season.

Know Mercy fell to GE on the Schnitz Ada Grill Opening Day, but the 8-2 final score makes the results seem worse than they actually were.

The rivals scored five of their runs in the second inning — proving that the One Bad Inning Syndrome carries over from year to year — and tacked on three more in the sixth.

Meanwhile, Know Mercy bats were still a little dusty, managing a run in the first and another in the fifth.

But there was plenty to build on, now that everyone has that rough first game of the year out of the way.

Which is not to say there were not some fantastic moments:

Melissa Ferens was a machine, reaching base three times, scoring a run and showing some nice defense at second base.

Steve Korb reached base both times he came to the plate, and scored our other run. But his defense at shortstop was spectacular. When the GE slugger launched one to deep left-center, Steve ran out to take the throw from Rachel Zollman, turned an fired an absolute bullet, right on target, to the plate, where Mike Gillis waited a slapped a tag on a dazed GE runner.

Steve Carins also reached both times he was up, and made a great running grab of a sky-pop off the bat of GE’s best player.

Jamie Linari was plugged into third base with little notice and handled a lot of action in addition to getting on base. She earned the Schnitz Ada Grill Game Ball for her performance. Sidekick Jason Stevenson also launched a hit and covered lots of ground in left.

Nick Rodammer also was two-for-two and was flawless at shortstop.

John Basher’s Know Mercy debut also was stellar with a pair of hits — and expert knowledge about firing up a grill.

Mike Gillis was working his magic on the mound, as we’ve come to expect, issuing no walks and striking out multiple GE batters.

Ouch! Catching can be a dangerous spot, but both of our backstops were banged up while running after hitting the ball. Wish Amy Bonjour and Charmayne Mulligan speedy recoveries!

But Opening Day is reason to celebrate no matter the final score, and we enjoyed some post-game fellowship with cookies and hot dogs.

Lost and found: Left in the picnic area were a green water bottle — at least it appears to be water. Some of you people are pretty wild — and a young fan’s gray sweat shirt with a polo logo. I’ll bring both to the next game.

Next week: We’re playing at 7:30 on the same field. Yea! But it’s against the Victory Club goon squad. Boo! But Casey thinks we’ll have our uniforms by then, so we’ll look really cool. And I think we’ll have some of the players we were missing this week! Yea!

Unified Know Mercy to celebrate Opening Day

2010-05-02T16:12:00.000-07:00

Know Mercy softball starts the 2010 season with a new look and some new friends.

After two seasons as two teams, the powerful Know Mercy franchise is once again one. Some powerful bats are returning, and we've drafted some fence-busting newcomers to the Orange and Black.

And, we have collectibles!

Here are is the first card in the limited edition Know Mercy set:

Mike Light returns to Know Mercy after a spectacular rookie season on KM2, where he flashed some amazing leather in leftfield and shortstop, and was a commanding presence atop of the batting order.

Mike also coaches his children's teams when not educating the youth of America at Grand Rapids Community College.

Best of Times, Worst of Times for Know Mercy 1

2009-07-24T09:34:00.000-07:00

It was a great night for Know Mercy 1 in their double headers.

Even though we were playing and hitting on all cylinders, we could not defend the almighty Victory Club. However, we kept it to a very respectable 5-1 in 7 innings proving to ourselves that if we can hang with Victory Club, we can hang with any team!

Because the night was somewhat of a blur with all the excitement in the double header, I am going to combine the player summary's from both games into one recap.

I want to first give a HUGE thanks to Eric, JJ and Steve for subbing in for us on such short notice. All of you came up big for us and we couldn't have one without you!

Also, to Steve and Joni. On behalf of the whole team, we were so excited and glad to have you at the game last night. Thanks :)

Steve K. - had a near perfect night at both the plate and in the field. He caught countless balls in left field adding up out after out for the other team. His hits were amazing and powerful and got him on base several times and scoring 2 for us!

Bo – I know you like outfield, but you are so great at the mound.20I think you found your new home :) Having only 2 walks or so in two games, he proved himself invaluable. He got on base several times and scored once. His “coaching” and guidance really comes in handy too. Next year back to coaching maybe??

Todd – Had a couple of good hits allowing him to score a run, but his highlight was his signature move. For those who haven't seen it, Todd plays superman and flys to catch the ball. It is so pretty, well until he comes crashing down, but he always holds onto the ball! He always provided many double plays to all infield positions. Lo-light, him getting a bad call when sliding into second and almost getting kicked out of the game. Loved the passion though!

John- Struggled a little bit at the plate at first but who wouldn't after 2 weeks vacay. We are all so jealous! He did great at 2nd base though and played it like a pro. He racked up several outs on his own and as part of double plays. I don't think anything got by him there. He was a mad man!

Steve S. - Even though barely having his shoes tied when he had to take the plate for the first time, he was never phased. He had several good hits including a double that he ended up later scoring on. In the field was the same thing from this awesome competitor. It didn't matter where he played in outfield, he caught everything that came out his way. He proved to have that same killer instinct at first too.

Eric – We can't forgot the highlight of the night, and even the season. The Eric/Tina play was one that will be talked about forever. I will tell my kids and grandkids, and have them pass on this great story. Playing against Victory Club in a tight game, their tall, young flashy hitter Shawn was at the plate.

He hit deep like normal and Tina was able to get under it in time. Catching it proved tricky with the amount of spin it had on it. It was in her glove, but in an instance, popped out. Then like an angel out of nowhere (or Eric out of right center) he swept in right in time as it bobbled out of Tina's glove to slide below and sweep the ball up right before hitting the ground. The played cleared our bench and gave us the boost we needed to know that we were in this. He also played solid in the outfield and covered everything that came his way and used his amazing arm to whip the ball infield. He had a great triple but was unable to score due to the lamo behind him. Sorry Eric :(

Tina – Well, her highlight is noted above, but she mostly liked to leave the drama behin d and just handle the outs on her own. She was absolutely amazing in the field and was responsible for out after out throughout the night. She got on base several times last night too :)

Jill – Jill was our lone run against Victory Club. Using her sharp eye, she got on base and her quick legs did the rest. Thanks for getting us on the board! She also got into the other teams head when she was catching and giving Bo signals. The other team got so flustered that there were some words, but we didn't have to say anything because the Ump turned around before any of us could and ripped them a new A**. Good times :) Also did great at right field providing back up for 1st and 2nd and getting the ball in quick.

Jo – lit it up in the second game at the plate. She had solid powerful hits that got her on base 3 of 4 times! I think that is a game high :) Her great and smart running added another point to the Know Mercy board for us. She was also not to be messed with at third which the other teams learned the hard way. She was also part of a double play too!

Jen – Not to be outdone by Jo, Jen did her own thing at the plate and killed it to. She got on base a coup le of times and scored shortly after Jo did to give us an early lead against Forest Hill Foods. She took one for the team and gave up her base and filled in wherever needed. That girl can play anywhere and do great :)

JJ – We miss you! Can't you play next year?? Pleeeease. She also got on base 3 times and scoring once. She kept awesome books, was a great cheerleader and never made a mistake on defense, no matter where we put her ( and we did put her everywhere). She also brought her own cheering section to give us the best crowd we have had all year.

Thanks everyone for a great couple of games last night. We play next week at 6:00 and it is also for the Consilation game. However, we have tougher competition so let's bring it.

Know Mercy 2 mashes the Monsters

2009-07-23T09:20:00.000-07:00

It was, perhaps, our best game of the year.

Know Mercy 2 beat a very solid St. Matthew’s Monsters team 8-3 with stunning defense and pitching matched with timely hitting to move into the consolation championship game.

Battling darkening skies and approaching rain, the team jumped out to a quick 3-0 lead in the first with Mike Light, Casey and Chad all coming around to score, muscled in by Rob Ferguson.

The Chipper Skipper then worked out a walk to lead off the second, then moved around on hits from Steve Cairns and Casey.

Then the defense and pitching took over. Mike Gillis didn’t issue a single walk and kept Monster sluggers uncomfortable with his array of junk.

And the defense was spectacular. Not a single error! (The dropped ball at first doesn’t count, as you can’t assume the second out of a double play.)

One inning in particular stands out. Monster mashers actually got the ball into the outfield three times.

First, a fly ball to left-center expertly handled by Rachel Zollman.

Then, there was a short bloop that looked like it might drop in until the Professor turned on the jets and made an awesome grab.

Finally, a deep, deep fly back to left-center with Rachel scrambling back as all of us watched the Monsters season die in the webbing of her glove.

Know Mercy tacked on two more runs in the third and one each in the fourth and fifth innings.

St. Matthew’s didn’t go quietly, adding two runs on a home run that nipped the corner of short left field line. But the defense snuffed it out, ending the game on a dribbler to Gilley to Rob Mirque as the rains started to fall harder.

Keep in mind, this was a team that mercied us less than a month ago, putting up 10 runs in their first inning, and none of them were cheap. Holding them to three and scoring eight against their tight defense is a good sign for next week’s battle for the consolation crown.

How about some highlights!

In addition to her two great plays, Rachel Zollman had two big hits, and displayed some brilliant base-running, catching the Monsters napping in the field and hustling home for the final run.

Steve Cairns was on base three times, with two hits and a walk.

Niki Ferguson had three big hits and a run. Sidekick Rob, making his official 2009 debut, had two hits and did some fine scooping at first base.

Chad. Beast. Two for three with two runs scored and all-around fantastic play at short.

Casey. Beastette. (In the best ways) Two for four with a walk and a run scored, flawless play at second.

Rob Mirque also reached base two times and scored, and made a great dive back into first after the Monster second baseman made a nice stab on a line drive. Bride Cindy also reached base.

Kathy Breslin earned the game ball by playing hurt after tweaking a leg and attracting our cheering section, proving for sure that they’re not fair-weather fans.

Mike Light gave his usual lesson on timely and solid hitting, going two for three with a run scored.

Mike Gillis had his eye on that short right field fence, but settled for a big double in addition to his expected mound magic.

Base-running is not the Chipper Skipper’s specialty. First he sent Niki into a tag while coaching, then ran through Rachel’s stop sign at third to get nailed at the plate. But he picked up another walk and drove a hit.

Next week! The Big Consolation Championship at 7 -- err, 6:30, yeah, 6:30 -- at Leonard Field. I believe we play the Double Baggers, unless CTRL-ALT-DEL pulled off a miracle in the rain.

Know Mercy 1 gets playoff win with heavy hearts

2009-07-19T19:30:00.000-07:00

It was a bitter sweet victory for Know Mercy 1 last night as we mercied St. Matthews Monsters with a final of 13-3 in 5 innings, but played with heavy hearts.

Here is a breakdown to re-live our solid win.

Jo brought her usual big bat for a couple of solid hits and scored twice. Not much came her way on the fleld but she was ready as usual, even though missing her awesome backup Steve Korb.

Jill -Got a little flustered after missing a tough pop up to right but used her good eye to get on base after that. We were a little bummed though with a somewhat normal uniform from her :(

Tina - Had some very solid hits. Even though she didn't get on base, she was able to get two RBI's to help us pad our lead. We will take those any day!

JJ - Scored early in the game to help us in the 2nd inning and give us a commanding lead. As always she covered 2nd great and we were SO grateful to have her and Steve fill in for us. We loved having you!

Steve - Wow, I would've thought this guy has been playing all year! He covered left field like it was going out of style getting many outs for us on D. He also rocked it at the plate with two runs for us. We hope you didn't pull anything and can fill in this week too. Let us know!

Viggy - Man were those some hits!! He had some huge hits to right field and got on base every time but was only able to score once. Sorry :( Only had a couple plays at first but got the runner out everytime!

Brian - Oh Brian, I think you took 5 years off my life with the pickle you got in between 3rd and home. On a positive note though, you made it home in one of the only successful pickles I have ever seen. He also scored twice. You also had a great catch in the outfield.

Bo - Another great game pitching. I know you like fielding better, but we all really appreciate you pitching this season. Did a great job on the mound once again. Had a couple of hits too to score twice!

Todd- Once again didn't come home without a bruise or two :) His hitting has come around for two solid hits and scoring twice thanks to some great dives/slides to make sure he was safe!

GREAT GAME EVERYONE!!

KM2 says "Beat it!" to CTL-ALT-DEL in big mercy win

2009-07-08T20:32:00.000-07:00

Clearly the media can’t get enough of the whole Michael Jackson saga. Sadly, Know Mercy 2 has a media member at the helm, so we need to continue our tribute to the King of Pop for one more day.

KM 2 had an “Off the Wall” success against CTL-ALT-DEL with a 15-1 mercy win that closes out the regular season with a 4-5 record.

The team finished a game ahead of friendly rivals Know Mercy 1, and moves on to Forest Hills Foods next week for the first game of the playoffs.

After poking out three runs in the first, the team pounded out 10 runs in the second, putting the game away.

So, “Enjoy Yourself” and read the highlights, right here in “Black and White.”

Mike Gillis must have been humming “Wanna Be Startin’ Somethin’” as he strode to the plate, because he led off the game with a triple. He scored two runs, didn’t walk a single batter, then turned in some great plays at short to end the game.

When Jamie Norris looks at “The Man in the Mirror,” he sees a guy who went three for three with a run scored and some nice defense at first. He hopes to saying “Baby Be Mine” by the next game!

Rob Mirque got on base and scored a run, then said “Don’t Stop ‘til You Get Enough” and did it again! Then sidekick Cindy, the “P.Y.T. (Pretty Young Thing)” had a big walk and came around to score, too.

Chad Zollman launched a massive bomb in his first at-bat, but was robbed by a “Smooth Criminal” who ran all the way from left to left-center to poach the ball from a teammate. Chad also had a hit and a run.

Do you “Remember the Time” Kathy Breslin had two big hits? And she came around and scored a run, too!

Casey Munger-Dunham is just “Invincible,” reaching base all four times and scoring three runs.

And “Dangerous” Nikki Ferguson had three hits, then decided to show off her pitching prowess, closing the door in a one-two-three fourth inning.

“Say, Say, Say,” did you see Steve Carins out there? Two hits and a run scored! But he’d like me to quote a Pantera song instead.

Mike Light missing the next game? “I Want You Back!” Mike got robbed in the first, but then had two big hits and scored a run.

Rachel Zollman still sports a mark on her hip from when someone said “Shake Your Body Down to the Ground” in the first game and took that nasty tumble. But she’s a trooper and has been kicking butt ever since!

If you think the Chipper Skipper has been on a roll lately, “You Are Not Alone.” Chipper’s been on base six straight times!

Know Mercy 2 weapons blast Forest Hills Foods

2009-07-01T22:15:00.000-07:00

The players on Forest Hills Foods seemed like nice folks. Alas, they had no idea what was headed their way Wednesday when Know Mercy 2 arrived with a complete arsenal, blasting, pitching and defending its way to a 15-3 mercy win.

It was a close game for the first three innings. Mike Gillis scrambled around the bases for an in-the-park home run in the second, bringing Casey with him.

Forest Hills pushed then across two runs in the third. But then KM2 turned on the engines, stacking up six runs in the fourth, four more in the fifth and three in the sixth to send the game into mercy territory.

It was a super-solid effort, with contributions from every member. How about some highlights?

Oh, it was overcast and even drizzled a bit. But who needs the sun when you have Casey Munger’s brilliant smile to brighten the field? Casey’s hitting always gets attention. But she made an awesome play in the final inning. A Forest Hills player dropped a ball in the no-man’s land in the outfield behind second base. As Chad and Joel lamented not getting to the ball, Casey picked it up and fired a laser to Angie at first base to nail the runner – possibly the first outfield-to-first putout in KM2 history.

Mike Gillis recovered after some scary medical news to snap right back into form on the mound – and at the plate, too, with a homer and a triple and two runs scored.

Speaking of twos, the Zollman couple was in top form. Chad showed off the guns by nailing two runners who are probably still trying to figure out how the throw beat them.

And lovely bride Rachel says we can keep the patronizing free passes handed to women when a guy walks with two outs. With two ducks on the pond, Rachel strode to the plate and promptly slapped a hit to bring both of them home.

Not to be upstaged, our other Mike -- Prof. Light – put on his usual lesson in big hitting, with three knocks and a run!

Kathy Breslin is smacking the ball with authority, with two hits and walk with a run scored. And she bring cool fans to cheer us on!

It’s a Know Mercy 2 tradition to have someone named Nikki in every game. But with Nikki Ferguson on the road in Colorado, Nikki Weber stepped up with two walks, two hits and two runs scored. Hmmm, what would happen if we had two Nikkis in one game?

Joel Ackerman is just a monster! Two big hits and two runs, and even playing two positions!

Angie had an un-Angie-like day at the plate, but probably because she was worn out by all the super scooping, stretching and snagging she was doing at first base. If it’s in the area code around first, Angie’s gonna catch it!

The Steves can make a case that they’re as offensive-minded as the Mikes. Mr. Carins had two hits – and was called out in a controversial play at the plate where he appeared safe to everyone except the guy paid to make the call. Then, the early arriving Mr. Kutz muscled a hit and a run scored.

Jamie Norris, no doubt enjoying his waning days of a quiet house and sleeping through the night, had a big hit and was flawless at second base. Sidekick Venta gets points for coming to the game to cheer on the team! Good luck, Venta!

Chipper Skipper was on base twice and drove in two runs – and came out to the hill to close off the game in the final inning.

Next week: Another 7 p.m. game. (Yeah!) It’s the make-up game against CRTL-ALT-DEL.

Air Todd and Bumping Bo highlight big KM1 win

2009-06-28T16:15:00.000-07:00

Sorry this is soo overdue. I couldn't skip over the great accomplishments of the game!

Here are some highlights.

Jill - Showing up in bikini bottoms may have thrown off many, but she brought her game. Getting on base and coming in to score a much needed point for us was great but she did get robbed when she was called out first even though safe by a mile.

Jen - A woman of all trades. When we needed to make adjustments this game due to lack of guy infielders, Jen got moved around while John played second. As you know, we can put that girl anywhere and she does great! She covered the plate great and has great game in the outfield. She got on base twice too!

Jo - Was on one end of one of the plays of the game where she was on 3rd when a runner went home, but she quick tossed it to Bo who was covering home and put the runner into a pickle. They ended up getting the player out..more about that later! She also got on base twice and came in to score once.

Tina - Had her two best hits of the season. Her first one was great, but the fielder just got her out by a hair. Her second but most important was in the last inning when she nailed it and sent Brian C. for 2nd all the way home for the win. Great job!

Steve - It meant so much to us that you could even make it to the game with everything going on. Always solid I would say that the highlights would be two great hits where you came in and scored on one. You always have the cutest cheerleaders too!

John - Oh John where have you been! We will overlook the one strike where you swung straight up because you had great hits and got on base twice and scored once. He also helped us out bigtime by covering 2nd base and doing a great job. Thanks ;)

Brian - This was his best game yet. He is like a fine wine and gets better with time. He got on base a season high of his of 3 times. His best hit was into left field which sent the teams slowest runner from 2nd base to home to tie the game. Is that even possible? His speed also helped us win the game by scoring the game winning run!

Bo - Where do I begin? I will not highlight (well maybe a little) the play with Jo where they had the runner in a pickle and Bo tagged him out. The runner didn't take it well and chest bumped Bo! Really!! I think Bo gets a share of the game ball because he did awesome on the mound but even better at the plate. Bo had a game high of 3 hits, but even more impressive, scoring 3 times. Not only that, his (assistant) coaching is so helpful :) Thanks!

Todd - For those who didn't get to see it, Todd had the best catch of the season. He has had a couple of good ones before, but this one took the cake. He flew in the air and snagged the ball mid air. I wish I could describe it better. Lets just say that the other team and their fans even cheered and said that is a great catch. He got on base 3 times and scored in the last inning to put us with 1 point to tie and 2 to win. It was a close play and he slid in and was safe. All was very impressive, but he did struggle walking the next day :)

GREAT JOB to everyone. As the twins said, good things happen to good people and "karma." We all know that we were screwed going into the last inning but we persevered and won. I am so proud of all of you. Please let me know who won't be in next week. The only one I have that won't be there so far is Nick. Thanks!

Know Mercy 2 has a bad inning, then pulls close

2009-06-24T21:12:00.000-07:00

Know Mercy 2 fell vicitm to the one-bad-inning syndrome once more, but come back strongly to St. Matthew’s Monsters in a time-shortened game.

The team gave up 10 big runs in the first inning – not through errors or walks, but well-placed hits – but limited the monsters to just 4 more runs in the rest of the game.

Know Mercy bounced back with 4 runs in the first, and steadily chipped away at the Monster lead, but fell short, 14-11.

The top of the order was just stellar, with Mike Light, new friend Joel, returning Rob and Jamie all reaching base in every at-bat.

Each of the Steves -- Carins and Kutz – had a hit in two at-bats, and each made huge catches in centerfield.

Even the Chipper Skipper contributed a walk and a hit in his two trips to the plate.

The female part of the order showed some lumber, too. Kathy Breslin has found her stroke, getting on base three times, including a beautiful smash to right-center.

The magnificent Casey had two big hits, and Nikki ripped a hit and came around to score.

Cindy, fresh from her Parisian honeymoon, was her usual stead self behind the plate.

Next week: We finally have a 7 p.m. game against another lower-division team, and will be missing Nikki, and possibly Mike, whom we are keeping in our prayers.

Know Mercy 2 falls to goon squad

2009-06-10T22:02:00.000-07:00

OK, the Lena Lou/O’Brien’s Market/whoever-is-sponsoring-them-this-year team was not as loathsome as usual, but they beat the stuffing out of a short-staffed Know Mercy 2 team.

Playing again with just four females, KM2 scored five runs and showed some nice hitting and defense. But that wasn’t enough to stop the Goon Squad, prompting a mercy loss in the sixth inning.

Naturally, whenever the KM2 gang gets together, there are highlights to be shared.

Kathy Breslin is hitting the ball harder and harder, smashing her first hit. Kathy also is responsible for attracting a personal cheering section to each game!

Mike Gillis went three-for-three and threw his usual assortment of nasty junk at Goon batters, once again issuing no free passes.

Mike “The Professor” Light started the game with a triple and scored our first run. He ripped another hit in the sixth, and showed off his powerful arm in left field.

A Goon Squad outfielder didn’t show Casey Munger-Dunham the proper respect. Chump. Naturally, she drilled the ball over his head for a triple and came around to score.

Talk about dedication! Chad Zollman was ready to play in work clothes. Nearly the victim of a Goon Squad conspiracy to delay Rachel in traffic, he changed – don’t ask where – and joined the triple-and-run-scored club.

Nikki Ferguson slapped a hit and made her usual assortment of fine throws across the diamond.

Some Goon Squader was swinging for the fence, and made the mistake of trying to clear Steve Carins. Not gonna happen. Steve made a spectacular catch.

It’s all coming back to Rachel Zollman, who is starting to hit the ball with authority. She scored her first run of the season.

Steve Kutz is getting better and better, ripping a drive for a hit in two at-bats.

Chipper Skipper did not get another massive bruise, which is about the best you can say about his performance.

Two items of good news. First, we’re done with the tough part of the schedule, and now can focus on some lower-division teams.

Second, we finally have a 7 p.m. game, which should make it easier for all!

Know Mercy 1 gets close? Really?

2009-06-10T21:31:00.000-07:00

Yes, folks. That is what I am still saying as I am shocked about the game.

Such a great and exciting game, but not the outcome Know Mercy wanted.

Who knew that it would come down to the last play. Viggy, you had the runner out by a mile (well at least 3 feet).

It wasn't even close.

For those that weren't at the game, we were tied up and there were two outs and Nick threw the ball to Viggy, who was covering the plate and tagged the runner before she even got near the plate.

Instead of ending the inning in a tie, the run counted and we lost by one.

Ouch.

The lighting at the end of the tunnel though is that we played a really good team and did one heck of a job.

We had few errors and played solid and are subs did great.

Thanks so much JJ, "sister" Janet, and our rookie/babysitter Jordan!

That just shows you that you are not even safe in the stands, we may pull you to play :)

Jill - Stepped it up in playing left center and never let the ball get behind her and had great throws to hit the cut off person! It must be the pig tails :)

JJ - Not much rust here. She did a great job fielding and was the perfect fit between Todd and Nick hitting them both for outs. We need you next week too, JJ, if interested.

Sister Janet - Great arm at 3rd base with on target throws. Also, what a great hit to left field. I thought it would drop in.

Jordan - Who would've guessed that you have never played softball in your life. You were an asset. You filled in right field wonderfully! Great arm and killer speed both in the field and on the bases to make it home and score :) Thanks so much for joining us!

Nick and Viggy - You each got robbed on offense. Viggy with two deep right field hits that were caught and Nick with the hit that was only a couple feet short of the fence. Both of you played great on offense and are always assests. We are going to miss you the next two weeks Viggy.

Steve - We were so glad to have you back this week. Great job covering left field all game and having many great catches and cleaning up everything your way. Great hitting too! Thanks for bringing the cheering section along with Viggy's girls.

Brian - Oh yeah, he is feeling it now. He, too, is catching everything hit his way and hitting the cut-off's right away to keep the runners from advancing. His key walk helped advance runners, too. We always love seeing your little baby!

Todd - Had a few great catches at short. Sometimes I wonder how he snags them, but he does! Thanks for grabbing that one a few feet behind the pitcher, she is slow sometimes!

On the bright side, our schedule gets easy next week and on. We are missing Brian V. and Jill. Anyone else? Bill can we expect you? Please :)

If anyone else can't make it, please let me know right away.

Know Mercy 1 falls short, but Bo, Tina and Brian had big days

2009-06-05T17:56:00.000-07:00

We did still have some highlights though even though we were mercied...again.

Tina - Great long hit that went over the second baseman's head and dropped in the outfield. So pretty. That one will drop and get you on every time.

Brian - After getting a little flustered in the beginning, he stepped in up to snag some balls in the outfield and had a great hit toward the end of the game. He has shaken off the rust and is ready to go to close out the season :)

Bo - Stepped in for a struggling pitcher -- Nikki -- and did a great job on the mound and didn't walk a single person. Great job!

Looking ahead is all positive. John will we back next week. Our schedule gets much easier after next week too.

Big hits and great defense drive Know Mercy 2 to victory

2009-06-03T21:16:00.001-07:00

I can imagine the conversation between two other team captains in the Wednesday night coed rec league.

“Hey, I see you’re playing Know Mercy 2 soon.”

“Yup. I think we’ll do well.”

“Me, too. Oh, wait, I think Mike Light and Angie are playing that week.”

“What? Oh, man! We’re toast!”

“Sorry, Dude.”

All I’m saying is to look at the record. When Mike and Angie are added to the already muscular KM2 mix, good things happen.

First there was the defeat of friendly rivals Know Mercy 1 in the second game. Then, we had Wednesday's 11-7 triumph over a very good Glory Days team from the upper division.

A short-handed KM2 jumped out to a four-run lead in the first inning, when Mike Light, Casey Munger-Dunham, and Angie Bond-Patton all reached base, followed by a Nikki Ferguson double that brought some home and a Steve Carins triple that cleaned off the rest.

Lots of fans came out to support Know Mercy 2.

The team added two more runs in the second inning, but the Glory Days added five runs to the one they score in the first to tied the game.

But KM2 roared right back. Casey and Angie got on base, as they always seem to do. But then the Chipper Skipper brought them both home with a double.

The team tacked on three more runs in the sixth inning that proved to be huge when the Days crew made a last-inning attempt to tie the game, only to have a near-rally snuffed out.

Kudos to the infield defense for making Glory Days weep. Nikki and Mike Light were picking and chucking, and Angie scooping – over and over.

Many of those grounders came because mound magician Mike Gillis knows how to slip pitches over the dish in a way that produces grounders from big swingers.

How about some individual highlights?

Mike Light went three for three with two runs scored in addition to his fine defense.

Casey continued her torrid hitting, with four hits – including a triple – and a walk, and scored three times.

Angie had four hits and scored three runs.

Pete Stobie came out of the stands to help out, and had an awesome Know Mercy debut, with two hits and two outstanding catches covering a lot of ground in a very sunny right field.

Steve, Rebecca and Olivia Kutz.

Speaking of debuts, beautiful Olivia Kutz came to her first-ever game. Proud Papa Steve Kutz, who can’t be getting much sleep, had a hit in two at-bats.

Jamie Norris flashed some leather at second base and had two hits and a run scored.

Kathy Breslin was doing a fine job behind the plate, then turned heads by running up the baseline on plays to first – possibly a first in this league. Kathy later revealed she has years of experience as a catcher. This is very good to know!

Jamie Norris and the lovely Venta, a right-fielder on the disabled list.

The win gives KM2 a record of two victories and three losses. Looking ahead is a 6 p.m. game next week against a deadly Victory Club team. Note the time, 6 p.m., not 7 p.m.

KNow Mercy 1 romps in mercy win

2009-05-21T07:14:00.000-07:00

Maybe it was the warm weather, or the smaller field, or getting humiliated last week, or having John H. back, but Know Mercy 1 came to play and went for blood. We knew it would be tough with Jen and Brian out, but we were ready!

After shaking off a little rust after the first inning with a 3-3 tie, the rest was history. We went on to score 15 more while they scored 1 before the game was called with the "mercy" rule.

We knew this team was good because they beat Know Mercy 2, but we were like the movie "Angels in the Outfield" yesterday. With so many highlights, I am bound to forget a couple so please feel free to add them on and forward them.

Lets start off with our game ball winner Jo. Wow! I would have her tested for some HGH after that game :) After making a quick adjustment with Nick from playing 3rd and moving to 2nd, she showed that she owned that area. I think she may have even knocked Todd and Nick of the bag when they were playing short! She showed she could handle it better than anymore. What was my favorite? When you palmed the grounder ball to throw the out? Really who does that? Or when she was quick to field balls and get tag the runner and tag the bag. How many outs did you get anyway :)

Jill- Played awesome coverage in the outfield hugging the fence when needed and never letting the ball fall behind her. Great communication with John too so they never collided when both running full speed at it. Way to hit the cut off too! Good eye on the ball and base running to advance the bases!

Tina- Award for causing most drama, but not how you might think! After getting on base and advancing to 2nd, the ball was hit deep. Tina ran to 3rd and was sent home. It was really really close and she was tagged but was a photo finish :) She was called safe which sent the pitcher for the other team in an absolute frenzy and I thought he was going to hit Tina but end up just throwing a hissy at the mound instead! Way to get in their head Tina :)

Mary- Shaking off both the sun in her eyes and the rust of not playing in a year, offered a much needed extra female. Filling in at first, she was part of a couple of great double plays and could use those long legs to stretch her body while still touching the base. Great job!

Nikki- Took a couple of walks due to her intimidating stance at the plate :) I think the new pitching style is working. The ball has more spin and is coming in a little quicker. We'll see next week though!

John- No rust here. Killer offense. I don't know what play I liked better. There was the great snag in the outfield, but I think it would have to be while he was playing catcher and Nick launched an absolute rocket home and boy could John handle it for the tag to crush the other team from scoring! Great play :)

Viggy- Let the tradition of threatening the cars passing by continue almost nailing a white truck driving by. But he would have the last laugh with a home run to bring in a couple and score 3 points. Also covered everywhere needed with great D.

Nick- He knew that with Viggy hitting one over the fence, that meant that only one more over the fence was allowed and he wasn't going to waste his chance! As soon as he got up after Viggy he nailed on deep into left and yes, over the fence! And lets talk offense. Could it be his rocket to John from the outfield to home, or his acrobatic catch while playing infield or being part of a double play. Too many to choose from. All I know is I'm not letting him go to class until the season is over :) Oh yeah, also sorry for yelling "take a seat" to you. I was a little pumped and it came out louder than expected. HA HA.

Bo- Was ready to hit a homer but took one for the team so we wouldn't have an automatic out. He kept the ball in play for some AWESOME hits and as always had great wheels to advance on the bases. Great outfield play as always and wonderful coaching tips!

Todd- Decided to show the young stud Nick that he too could do some acrobatic tricks in the infield with a fly dive catch. There was also a Weber to Weber play which result in a double play. Good team work, now take a seat! Great hitting too to advance runners and get home.

EVERY SINGLE PERSON SCORED IN THIS GAME. No wonder we were unstoppable. Wonderful job to all! I have Bo, Tina and John out for next week. We still are set on guys and girls though. Anyone else out?

Know Mercy 2 shows togetherness in tough loss

2009-05-20T20:20:00.000-07:00

Before the game against Norman Family Dentistry, it was predicted that they’d try to kick our butts and steal our cookies.

Let me state for the record that our victory cookies were indeed protected from those Norman thugs.

The butt’s a little sore, though.

I’m proud of our team. We’re unified to a fault. When one person makes an error, we ALL make an error. At least that’s what happened in the first inning. Solidarity!

Without gloves turning to stone, the bats were uncharacteristicly silent, pushing only one run across the plate.

Make no mistake; the Dentists are a good team. Maybe not as good as we made them look on Wednesday, but they pitched well and made only two errors.

I’ll write this one off as a fluke. We’ll never field that poorly again, and we’ll never score so few runs.

But even in the depths of despair, there were some highlights.

How about Rachel Zollman patrolling left-centerfield with two fine catches, including one running grab? She also showed off an absolute gun of an arm.

Will anyone ever try to score when Chad Zollman is the cutoff man? For the second game in a row, the combo and Chad and Mike Gillis nailed a runner at the plate.

Angie Bond-Patton was her usual spectacular self, with a double an single in three at-bats.

Nikki Ferguson also was on base twice and showed her powerful arm.

Steve Carins had a hit and made a couple nice snags in left.

In other exciting news, congrats to Rob and Cindy Mirque who head off on a wonderful honeymoon!

Next week: Trouble with a capital T. We’re going to be missing a whole bunch of folks: Casey, Cindy and Kathy on the ladies’ side, and Chad, Mike L, and Rob on the male side. We have a week to find some friends.

KM1 holds heads high after tough loss

2009-05-14T19:55:00.000-07:00

Ok, I have finally gotten myself out of bed and opened the shades and am trying to pick up the pieces of our loss last night.

I won't have as much to say as Dave for obvious reasons but will try to highlight some key plays.

Jill, aka Jugs, coming with a new look, Jill got some much needed confidence and had a great hit and got on base. It was really close but the first basemen got distracted and pulled his foot off the bag.

Tina- got into the swing of things with a couple of great catches in the outfield to limit runs. Yes, we could've lost by more if we didn't have some of those catches :)

Jo- Always solid and scooping up those line drives and throwing people out at first. Had some solid hits to get on base too.

Jen- Great at 2nd as always and has really improved on keeping the ball in front of her even though sometimes she has had to sacrifice her body! Great hitting too. You will be missed next week!

Brian is finding his mojo in both the outfield and hitting. He had a big catch that was followed by a "I caught it!" He had some good hitting too and with his speed, he can't be touched!

Bo- Thanks for helping out with coaching tips too. He got a great catch in the outfield to avoid a homerun and more people scoring. He also is a great catcher and gives me pitch calls :)

Viggy- The man can play anywhere. Good stretches and throws all over the field to throw or catch those other Know Mercyers out! If it weren't for that dumb no grace foul rule, he would've been good for a home run or two :)

Steve Korb- Again, he had some great catches in the outfield. Not easy with a team that wasn't having the ball drop anywhere and everywhere they wanted. He even went up against the fence and tried to snag a deep deep hit. Great effort!

Todd- T O double d. Did great at short stop and covering the pitcher when she missed some balls! Also, was able to turn a double play to first. Good line drive but then got cursed with the no grace foul rule too.

Nick R. Oh what could've been. 99 out of 100 times that hit would've been a home run. I still want drug testing done on Chad Z. He had quite a throw. Way to go for it though! Great fielding too in every position you played!

So we didn't win. Yeah it stunk that we got blown out. The only thing that I can think of is that Dave has been putting HGH into his cookies. How else could this be the same team we beat last year? Just kidding.

But we had a lot of fun and rallied (kind of) late. We are getting it together and will have many wins to come. Bill we need you back to pitch ASAP though! I hope you all had fun last night though. I had a great time!

Know Mercy 2 overpowers friendly rival

2009-05-13T22:15:00.000-07:00

Mercy wins are fun – unless they come at the expense of your friends.

Know Mercy 1 and Know Mercy 2 have engaged in some epic battles over the past three years. But Wednesday’s game ended up as a bit of a one-sided affair, with KM2 flexing its offensive and defensive muscles in a 15-3 victory.

There were plenty of highlights for folks in both dugouts.

Rookie Mike Light made his debut by smashing three hits and coming around to score each time.

Casey Dunham. Beautiful … lethal. Casey tried to lower expectations before the game, saying she had not swung a bat in over a year. Right. She reached base four times in four at-bats and scored four runs.

Jamie Norris extended his on-base streak to an amazing 10 at-bats with a hit in the first inning and walk in the fourth. Alas, it was snapped on a grounder in the sixth inning. But that amazing streak should stand as a KM2 record for a looong time.

Nikki Ferguson. Beautiful … deadly. Nikki mashed a key hit in the fourth inning and showed her usual steady defense at the hot corner.

Steve Kutz is either brave or crazy. Just hours after his bride Rebecca brought Olivia into the world, Steve was playing softball. And he was describing diaper duty with gusto that could only come from a new dad. Congrats Steve and Rebecca!

Rachel Zollman. Beautiful … dangerous. Rachel tried taking out KM1 first-baseman Brian Vigna in the first inning, except that Viggy is the immovable object, sending Rachel hurtling up the baseline and creating a nasty scrape.

Sidekick Chad Zollman put on a hitting and fielding clinic. One spectacular blast cleared the fence with room to spare, but was just foul. There were several amazing plays at short, including one racing backwards into the outfield and another snaring a blazing line drive that had double written all over it. But the wildest came after KM1 bomber Nick Rodhammer blistered a shot to deep left and was thinking homer all the way. But Mike Light fired a relay to Chad, who turned and delivered a spot-on rope to Mike Gillis covering home to beat a diving and sliding Nick by a foot. It was stunning.

Cindy Mirque. Beautiful … stealthy consistent. Cindy was on base two out of three times, following a Game 1 performance where she reached three of four times. Awesome!

We’re thinking Steve Carins is liking this trade so far. He offered flawless defense and two hits in two at-bats with a run scored.

Angie Bond-Patton. Beautiful … menacing. Any day Angie comes to play is a good day! Two doubles, a run scored, sparkling defense at two positions.

The team leader in home runs? That would be mound magician Mike Gillis, who smashed his second round-tripper of the season and confounded KM1 bats with his usual assortment of nasty junk and pin-point precision.

Chipper Skipper expected all kinds of sympathy when he arrived home with an ever-darkening bruise that stretches across his entire bicep. “Oh, my brave and gallant warrior, how you sacrificed your body for your team!” is what he expected. “No sympathy for you! You’re showing it off! You’re proud of it!” is what he got. OK, he is wearing a short-sleeved shirt to work on Thursday, just in case anybody asks why he is typing with one hand.

He did buy a proper first-aid kit after the game, just in case.

Special thanks: Super fans Venta Norris and Jim Boles provided much support from the bleachers!

Super-special thanks: Aaron Dunham is on the DL, but still came through with a clutch performance by baby-sitting Angie’s young ones so she could be at the game.

Injury alert: Kathy Breslin is recuperating from a leg injury sustained in Game 1. Get better soon, Kathy!

Next game: A 7:15 start – finally – against old rivals Norman Family Dentistry, which tends to be a very good team.

Know Mercy 2 shakes off rust, but falls short in season opener

2009-05-06T20:02:00.000-07:00

It didn’t result in a victory, but Know Mercy 2 shook off the winter rust with a fine 7-5 performance against JHL Lawncare in the 2009 season opener.

The team got on the board early, with newcomer Chad Zollman kicking off his KM2 career with a double, and coming around to score the season’s first run.

JHL added three in the second, two in the third and one each in the fifth and sixth.

KM2 bats went quiet for a couple innings – well, four of them – but the top of the order lit the fuse in the sixth.

C-Zoll continued to announce his presence with authority with a smash, then Nikki Ferguson set the table for mound magician Mike Gillis, who launched the first homer of the season to score three runs.

Steve Cairns started the seventh with a drive, followed by Cindy Mirque’s amazing third walk of the game.

Dave “Chipper Skipper” Murray then shot one down the first base line that landed fair by a foot and kicked foul, scoring Steve. Cindy, still working on her catcher-spiking moves, was nailed at the plate as Chipper ended up at third, bringing the pulling the team within two.

Alas, that’s where it ended.

But here are some individual highlights:

Nikki had three hits, and sparkled with some late-game defense, grabbing a screamer behind third, planting then shooting an absolute laser across the diamond to nail a runner.

Rob Mirque had two hits and flashed some fine leather at first base. New bride Cindy is the leading candidate for the “Most Improved Player – Female Division,” reaching base three times and making strong throws back to the mound, which Mike deeply appreciated. Plus, she brought awesome Chicago popcorn and caramel corn.

“Most Improved Player – Male Division” has to be Steve Kutts, who had a nice hit and caught the only fly ball of the game. But he’s still in the doghouse for making his very expectant better half chase a foul ball on Sunday.

Speaking of new moms, Rachel Zollman delivered just eight weeks ago and looked sharp!

Her sidekick, Chad, was perfect at the plate and possibly gave a squirrel a concussion.

Kathy Breslin made her KM softball debut and picked up style points for outfield play. She’s a keeper! We like her!

Steve Cairns was stolen from KM1. We’re fairly open about it. He flashed leather and lumber.

Mike Gillis baffled JHL batters with his assortment of junk balls, walking just one and tossing the season’s first bomb!

“Chipper Skipper” had a single and a triple, and a weak pop to the pitcher that was heard to possess “multiple layers of suck.” So there’s room for improvement there.

Next week: An early season showdown against Know Mercy 1.

2009 scheules for Know Mercy 1 and 2

2009-04-27T17:57:00.000-07:00

May 6
KM 1 vs. Norman Family Dentistry (H), Ada 2, 7:15
KM 2 (H) vs. JLH Lawncare, Ada 2, 6:15

May 13
KM 1 (H) vs. KM 2 Ada 1, 6:15

May 20
KM 1 (H) vs. JLH Lawncare, Leonard, 7:15
KM 2 (H) vs. Norman Family Dentistry, Ada 2, 7:15

May 27
KM 1 (H) vs. Chiropractic Unlimited, Ada 1, 6:15
KM 2 (H) vs. Cadena Heating and Cooling, Ada 2, 6:15

June 3
KM 1 vs. Victory Club (H), Ada 1, 6:15
KM 2 vs. Glory Days (H), Ada 1, 7:15

June 10
KM 1 (H) vs. Glory Days, Ada 2, 6:00
KM 2 (H) vs. Victory Club, Ada 1, 6:00

June 17
KM 1 vs. Forest Hills Foods, Ada 2, 7:00
KM 2 vs. CTL-ALT-DEL, Ada 1, 7:00

June 24
KM 1 (H) vs. Double Baggers, Ada 1, 7:00
KM 2 (H) vs. St. Matthew’s Monsters, Ada 1, 6:00

July 1
KM 1 vs. CTL-ALT-DEL, Ada 2, 6:00
KM 2 vs. Forest Hills Foods, Ada 2, 7:00

July 8
Make-up or tournament

July 15
Make-up or tournament

July 22
Tournament

July 29
Tournament

Softball season is closer than the weather would have you think

2009-03-04T08:17:00.000-08:00

Can you believe that softball season is almost here! Let the fun and fellowship begin.

First things first. We need you to pay ASAP to keep your spot on the team, and our spot in the league.

In the past, Trinity paid right away and the individuals paid them back. Unfortunately, there was a shortfall last year and Trinity can't afford for that to happen again. Please send your money in this week to Trinity. Make checks payable to Trinity Luthern and put a note in that it is for softball and who it is for.

Please e-mail me right away if you are unable to pay this week or no longer interested in playing. The price this year is $55 per person, and we will give money back if that turns out to be an over-charge, based on the league fees divided by the number of players.

For jerseys this year you can either wear on old one from previous years, or an orange or white shirt. Easy enough :)

Also, we will be playing on Wednesday nights again and will have two teams. We won't know how teams will be split until practices start and we see where people can play and who has signed up.

We will be playing at Ada Park again. Also, we will start practices in the next couple of weeks depending on weather, most likely on Sunday again at Ada Park.

START RECRUITING! Do you know a female interested in playing? We need a few more, preferrably three. We would like them to be part of Trinity but that is not mandatory. If they are interested in playing softball and having fun, they can join! Please let Nikki or Dave know if you know someone.

Please let us know if you have any questions.

Here are the people who are interested:

Rob and Niki Ferguson
Steven Kutz
Mike Light
Rachel and Chad Zollman
Brian Vigna
Nick Rodammer
Bo and Tina Schmitz
Brian Cunningham
Rob and Cindy Mirque
Jamie Norris
Bill Bush
JJ
Jo Weinman
Jen Yoder
Jill Bracken
Steve Korb
John Hall
Steve Cairns
Mike Gillis
Casey Munger
Aaron Dunham
Dave Murray
Todd and Nikki Weber

I think that is everything!

We're so excited to have you on board this year. Here's to a great season!

KM1 settles for consolation runner-up after falling to Old Man's Team in final game

2008-08-02T08:06:00.000-07:00

Game Recap: Old Man's Team 15....KM1 not enough...now for the good part :)

As most of you know, I am slightly competitive.....that said, even though we only won 3 games, I had the ABSOLUTE BEST SEASON EVER! Our team is AWESOME!! How can you be awesome & win only 3 games?? There are many reasons, but in classic David Letterman style, here's the Top 10:

10. Reuniting the "grizzly vets" from years past (Bill, Steve Cairns, John, Steve Korb, Jo, Bo & Tina) resulted in great initial chemistry on & off the field.

9. The not so grizzly members like JJ, Viggy & Eric offered their easy-going personalities & added greatly to the team concept.

8. Sprinkling in fun-loving newcomers Todd & Niki Weber, Jill Bracken & Jen Yoder finished the "special brew" to concoct the GREATEST TEAM EVER!

7. EFFORT was tremendous week in & week out....not ONCE did I see someone not run out a ground ball, even if they KNEW they were going to be out.

6. We had a variety of talents on the field & we all had plays we wish we would have made, but EVERYONE contributed in some fashion during the season.

5. More importantly, NOT ONCE did someone complain about playing time or what position I asked them to play. As your coach, I can't possibly explain how SPECIAL you all have been!

4. Everyone on the team was committed....to the team concept....attendance was spectacular & communication was even better when someone couldn't make it. Again, as your coach, that made my job much easier...thank you all!

3. Even though none of us are spectacular athletes, there were times when we looked like it .....see Jill & Tina's running outfield catches, T-O-Double D's herculean performance against KM2, Jo flashing the leather at 3rd, Bill's shutdown pitching, JJ's solid glove at 2nd, Steve Korb's highlight outfield catches, Niki digging balls out at 1st, John legging out infield base hits with lightning speed, Jen's powerful bat, Eric's "steady eddie" play all season, Steve Cairns getting hit after hit & Viggy's multiple homers during the season.

2. As much fun as we had on the field (FUN on 3!), it paled in comparison to the great times before & after our games. See "Bloody Mary" (no, not the drink), pre-game "warm-ups" & Jen & Brandon's pool parties!

1. The fun led to many incredible friendships made this season will definitely be lasting ones!! I am so pumped for the MSU-Purdue game in November....GO GREEN!!

As I step down from coaching, I know I am passing the ceremonial baton to a great leader in Niki Weber. This is truly a special group of people. I was honored to be your coach. Thanks everyone for making my last coaching season my best...for all the right reasons! I love you guys!

KM-2: Team takes third place in consolation round with 10-4 victory

2008-07-31T20:28:00.000-07:00

Maybe they saved the best for last. Know Mercy 2 earned an impressive 10-4 victory over Johnston Home Lawncare in its final game to take third place in the consolation round, good for a fine plaque.

Aaron Dunham pitched a beautiful game, notching at least five strikeouts – we stopped counting to be polite – and reached base twice in two at-bats.

Sidekick Casey Munger went 4-for-5 with three runs scored, benefitting from the slugging of Dave Fox, batting behind her and going 3-for-3.

Other offensive highlights were Dan Eby launching an epic blast that somehow stayed in the park but landed him on third base, and Steve Kutz ripping two line drive hits and scoring twice.

Amy Fox, manning third, flashed some fine leather by scooping an ankle-high screamer.

KM-2 finished with a 6-6 record, and those losses include two one-run games against very good teams, including the epic two-part battle with the vile O’Brien’s Market.

The winning side of the ledger shows two dramatic come-from-behind victories, a mercy win and a hard-fought game with friendly rivals Know Mercy 1.

The team gets a plaque that might get displayed in the church -- when the coach is done showing it off – but everybody gets some hardware:

Most Valuable Ram: Marvelous Casey Munger led team in hits and tapped her Rolodex to recruit subs when needed. Throws lavish parties. Has a goldfish named in her honor.

Best Streak Award: Jamie Norris reached base in eight straight at-bats, an awesome run he takes into next season. Visits China in the off-season.

Multiple Streaks Award: First-sacker Rob Mirque had a five at-bat streak and a three at-bat streak, played one game in extreme back pain to give us enough guys. Knows how to make exotic drinks.

Yes We Can Award: Amy Fox reached base five times in the mercy win against CTL-ALT-DEL. Can honestly say Barack Obama kept her from playing in one game.

You Drove From WHERE? Award: Spectacular shortstop Dan Eby routinely raced from Traverse City to get to Ada by game time. Hit monster blast in final game.

Fashion Sense Award: Jim Boles wore real stirrup socks – not the sewed-in kind – started making sweet basket catches like Wllie Mays when he started wearing San Francisco Giants cap. Certain to get two hits in every game.

Lightening Legs Award. The Amazing Venta Norris is so fast, she doesn’t even need to hit the ball far to get on first. Reached base three times in four at-bats in playoff game. Discovered she works with a teammate.

Rookie of the Year: Cindy Saum played softball for the first time and performed admirably behind the plate, notched her first hit and scored her second run in the big playoff game against the landscapers. Keeps Masons’ house in order.

Most Improved Hitter: Anne Marie Bessette turned heads in practice by ramping up her offense and never looked back. Was clutch in first game against rival Know Mercy 1 with two doubles. Speaks at least two languages and understands city bureaucrats.

Most Improved Player: Steve Kutz struggled at first to translate his rugby skills to softball, but at the end of the season was solid and consistent at the plate and ran back to snag a deep fly against O’Brien’s. Has massive dog. At least I think it’s a dog. It’s really big.

Bronx Bomber Award. New Yorker Dave Fox went 4 for 5 in glorious come-from-behind win over Norman Family Dentistry. Played four positions. Knows tall people. Has famous wife.

Long Distance Operator Award: Aaron Dunham hit an over-the-fence grand slam, but one foul ball went deep into the Ada 2 parking lot. Kept pitching prowess a secret until last game. Has cool cars and huge white cooler.

Super Sub Award: Angie Bond-Patton launched a two-run walk-off homer for big victory over Norman Family Dentistry, a very tough team. Two-sport athlete.

Pretty in Pink Award: Stacie Rylance was running down flies and scoring runs for KM2 before being lured to the hooligan-infested world of soccer, where she was attacked by a malicious goaltender resulting in an injury prompting biggest cast ever. Looks just like Natalie Portman.

Abracadabra Award: Mike Gillis joined team in mid-season, unleashed his bag of tricks on mound, really pissed off O’Brien’s goons. Last seen sporting a brace that’s nearly as big as Stacie’s cast.

Send Him to Wrigley Award: Cub fan Rob Ferguson went 3-for-3 with three runs scored in C-A-D rout. Partially responsible for wife Nikki being on disabled list. Designs green buildings.

Put Him on Second, Nail Him at the Plate Award: The Chipper Skipper led the team in walks with five — and was tagged out at the plate a team-high three times, too. A little too fond of his bat. Buys chocolate chips in bulk.

Darn, That Hurt Award: Mary Kovac subbed in what was known as “Greatest Game Ever,” took a throw to the head that allowed important run to score. Looking for Sunday School teachers.

See What You Missed Award: Nikki Weber was traded to KM1 before first game, came back in final game and got two big hits and shined at second. Likes Spartans.

One and Done Award: Eric Larson reached base in his first base in his first KM2 game, then was drafted by KM1, leaving with perfect 1.000 on-base percentage.

International Women of Mystery Award: Player X. Saved the day then disappeared. Nothing is known about her. Looks just like Tina Schmitz.

Know Mercy 1 and 2 were not the only folks sporting sweet hardware. Alumni Brian Cunningham came to the final night to show off his medal earned in the Iron Man competition in Lake Placid.

Here's a closer look at the fruit of Brian's labor. Biking, running and swimming are good skills for softball. Maybe we can coax Brian back next season.

KM1 beats KM2 in tough playoff action (Version 1)

2008-07-24T19:22:00.000-07:00

Posted by Brian Vigna:

I'm still blown away by what we accomplished yesterday. Unbelievable team effort. We could have easily folded the tent against such a good team.

When I got home last night it was time to tuck the kids in bed--and their bed time story went a little something like this:

Once about a time, at a far away softball field in a small little town played a group of boys and irls who always gave there best, but often times throughout their season came up a little short.

But something was different about this day--for on most game days it would rain, but not this day. The faith of this team was never lost, but had been rattled over the course of a long and grueling season.

Like the little steam engine that could -- so did they.

The game was played without their fearless leader Bo who was kidnapped by the evil powers that be--as too was another player by the name of Eric. The boys and girls didn't know where to play in the field but calmly got things figured out before the mighty umpires started to unleash their power.

As the game began, the boys and girls found themselves down by 4 runs in the first inning, and that's when something magical happened. One of the boys named T.O.Double D decided to sacrifice his body for the ball to make diving play after diving play.

Fearless Bill the Pitcher glided strike after strike to the opponents with only one walk throughout the game.

Nothing got by Jo, Niki or JJ , and as their opponent continually worked left field, one of the boys by the name of Korb always found himself in the right place to make play after play.

As the game wore on power hitting became the catalist--not only from the boys BUT FROM THE GIRLS. Jen, Jill, Tina, Niki, JJ and Jo all hit the ball HARD (with a chip on their shoulders) to find the base path.

Steve, John, Bill, Todd, Korb and your Daddy provided solid play with powerful hits--netting crucial RBI.

By the games end this team found itself up by 5 runs--holding their oppenent to only 1 run over the NEXT 6 INNINGS (that's unheard of in softball).

The moral: Believe in Yourself and Never Ever Give Up!

The kids slept soundly last night -- either I bored them to sleep or they had the sweetest of dreams : )

The End.

KM1 beats KM 2 in tough playoff action (Version 2)

2008-07-24T19:13:00.000-07:00

Posted by Nikki Webber:

Mason and I thought we would try to do the game recap of our BIG win last night, so Bo could get a feel of all the action.

They won't be as good as his, but we'll try.

After getting down early, morale was in the dumps on our team. A lot of us were thinking, "Here we go again."

At that point, we gathered around and asked ourselves, "W.W.B.D." Yes, what would Bo do. We got into a huddle and decided to go out there and have fun.

I am trying to think of what point we got started. I am going to guess the power hit by J.J. Yes, we all remember.

The hit between the catcher and the pitcher, and the pitcher wouldn't touch it because he was hoping it would roll foul. Well it didn't, and we finally got someone on base.

Even though J.J. wasn't happy with it, (possibly an un-church word or two ;) ) it was what we needed to get started.

Here are some other highlights.

Steve "The Vacuum" Korb, he sucked but in a good way. He snatched everything in the air in left field and sucked up all the grounders there limiting advancing runners. There were at least two innings that he was responsible for two outs. Great catches! Solid hitting as always, too.

Another solid hitter as always was Bill. He had great base running and great hitting. He was great on the mound too. While the other team had to switch pitchers because we were wearing them out, Bill made it through the whole game. You will be greatly missed next week!

John was our great, do anything, play anywhere guy. He even filled in at second for the team. I would say his highlight was his tag at second. We already had two outs and bases were juiced. The ball was hit to Todd, who dished to John. There was a slight bobble of the ball so to secure the out, John tagged the runner. He may not have thought it was high on style points, but saved us from them scoring.

Steve Cairns also was very consistent in the outfield. There were a lot of big hitters that we stopped because of great outfield play. He was also hitting some fast grounders and deep low flys to right field to get on base and help to advance runners.

Viggy got the "rob" of the game, or should I say two "robs." The first was when he had a great hit to right field, center right, and was running to third. He slid into third and his "iron man" body forced the pitcher who was covering to drop the ball.

Two bad things came from that. Viggy was called out! Second, the pitcher was sent packing for the rest of the game and probably season. Great effort though.

The other was when there was a grounder to third and Jo fired it over to him where he so gracefully stretched his 6'2" fame to nab the runner. Unfortunately, the ump didn't see it that way and called the runner safe.

That reminds me, I apologize to all for my dad yelling at the umps from the bench. He is more competitive than I am!

Todd "that is gonna leave a mark" had an outstanding game. Yes, I know I am biased. He even amazed the other team, though. He had a couple of leaping catches that reminded me of something from angels in the outfield. I don't know how he caught those!

And finally, the Weber duo found there bats :) After struggling all season or being inconsistent, we both finally managed to connect with the ball and have some solid hits to advance runners and score. Hopefully we can do the same next week. I know my pre-game strategy will be the same.

Jo was solid at third as usual. You are going to be greatly missed next week. Highlight of the game, or at least funniest part was when Jim was up to bat and she ordered him to drill it to her, and he did!

She responded with the quick scoop and fast throw to Viggy, but blurry vision of a certain ump hindered that play. She also added with great hitting and solid base running.

Jen was also a hitting machine. I think we are on to something for our pre-game warm ups ;) The stress wasn't there and she connected to advance runners and get on base. Great work behind the plate too. Luckily, we didn't have too many plays there because of awesome D all the way around.

Jill had a very good night at the plate. She used her great eye to get on with a walk then followed that up with what would arguably be her best hit of the season to shallow outfield between first and second. Unfortunately the second baseman nabbed it, but I call for a steroid test! No hits to right field this game, but she was ready.

Tina was ready to win it. She had great speed as always on both offense and defense. She closed down the outfield by not letting any balls get passed her. Well, maybe one that went over not only our fence, but the other fence too. I don't think you could've gotten that even if you climbed the fence and reached for it. Great job!

J.J. as highlighted earlier with her early rally to start getting our players on base. J.J. was typical J.J. Always consistent and solid on both O and D. She had good hits, base running, and great defense to lock down the infield.

Not sure if I missed any highlights, but it was a great game.

I hope everyone had as much fun as we did. Also, Todd and I are going to practice at E.K. high school on either Monday or Tuesday, probably around 6:30. I need to practice pitching and he is going to take some cuts. We would love if anyone else can make it. We are flexible on dates and time. Please email me if interested and we can figure something out. If not, see you next week! Go Team!

Noooooooooooooooooooo!

2008-07-18T13:09:00.000-07:00

Yes, that is KM2's center fielder, Stacie Rylance, sporting what might be the largest cast in the entire world!

Ouch! Stacie was injured playing soccer, a sport known to be rife with hooligans who are probably responsible for this injury.

I have not been able to prove that thugs from O'Brien's Market spread some cash around the hooligan underground to make this happen.

Naturally we wish Stacie a speedy recovery. And we should chip in to buy her some pink shirts to match that massive cast.

Our disabled list.

KM2: PLAYoffs Round 2: It's not over until we say it's over!

2008-07-16T20:42:00.000-07:00

Know Mercy 2 did something no other team in the Ada league has done, and that’s emerge from a game against the vile – and getting even more vile – O’Brien’s Market without a loss.

Of course, they didn’t emerge with a win, either. But that could come next week when league bosses figure out how to sort out the six-inning, 7-7 tie.

There’s a lot on the line, as the winner moves on to the semi-finals and loser becomes the favorite in the consolation bracket.
It was clear that these cocky hooligans thought that Know Mercy was going to be just an orange-and-white speedbump on their road to the championship.

But we served notice early, posting a run in the first then pushing over four in the second with a combination of patience leading to walks followed by clutch hitting.

O’Brien’s picked up two runs in the second, and KM2 responded with two more, led by the white-hot hitting of Jamie Norris and Rob Mirque, both of whom were two-for-two with two runs scored.

But the treacherous Marketers tacked on one in the fourth inning, two in the fifth and two more in the bottom of the sixth to tie things up as lightening flickered and umpires frankly lost control over what was going on.

While there were a couple yips in the field in that last inning, the game was close because of a number of stellar plays.

We nailed two runners at the plate. One came after an absolute laser of a throw from Casey Munger to Dan Eby to Mike Gillis, and another to end the sixth – and save the game – when Dan Eby screamed one in as the O’Brien’s captain tried some kind of bellyflop slide on Mike.

All kidding aside, there is a difference between gamesmanship and being a poor sport. And there were numerous incidents of poor sportsmanship coming from players from the other dugout.

That included a runner crashing into the first baseman attempting to dislodge the ball instead of heading to the runner’s base to the third base coach getting in Angie’s way as she attempted to field a foul.

I’m proud that KM2 didn’t respond in kind. We’re a classy group that plays hard without resorting to such things.

We battled hard, showed patience at the plate and some aggressiveness on the basepaths that paid off – most of the time.

And next week, we’ll go out there and play that last inning and hold our heads high no matter how things turn out.

Now for some highlights!

-- Dan was two-for-three including a sweet double and was his usual impressive self at shortstop.

-- Steve Kutz had a 6:15 job interview and still made it to the game in time to contribute a base hit.

-- Angie Bond-Patton had two big hits and was flawless in the field.

-- Aaron Dunham raced to the game from a far-flung assignment just in time to step to the plate – cleats still untied – to hit a double in the big rally.

-- Amy Fox made some outstanding plays at second, getting force-outs as O’Brien’s goons came thundering her way.

-- Jim Boles is practically automatic. You can pencil him in for a big hit in every game, and this one came in the first inning.

-- Cindy Saum is getting better and better behind the plate, coming close to making a spectacular play on a short pop.

-- Mound magician Mike Gillis was three-for-three at the plate. Oh, and how sweet was it to see him strike out the O’Brien pitcher in the last inning?

-- The Marketers thought about testing the Amazing Venta Norris as she patrolled right field, but game up after one shot. Clearly she intimidates!

-- The Chipper Skipper added to his team lead in walks by taking one in the big second-inning rally then Nitroed a rocket in the fourth inning. Yes, Nitro is now a verb. That bat is capable of anything.

We’ll soon find out what happens when the game is resumed. If we win, we move on the face Norman Family Dentistry, who beat Know Mercy 1. If we lose, we play our KM1 friends in the consolation bracket. Both of those sound like fun.

KM2 playoffs round 1: Family reunion rewarded with 10-3 victory

2008-07-09T20:13:00.000-07:00

Good things happen when the Know Mercy 2 family gets together.

The team kicked off the 2008 playoff run with a tight 10-3 beating of a friendly Forest Hills Foods, showing off some timely hitting, great pitching and solid defense.

After several weeks of rain, an unmentionable occurrence, and outside obligations, nearly the entire team was together by the end of the game. We should have taken a group photo!

KM2 burst out of the box with seven of the first nine batters scoring, with big hits by Jim Boles, Jamie Norris and Anne Marie Bessette.

Forest Hills scored its first run in the third, and added two more in the next frame through a rare walk and error before KM2 took a collective deep breath and shut the door.

Insurance came in the bottom of the sixth when the suddenly very Chipper Skipper punched a double, moved to third on an Amy Fox dribbler and scored when Steve Kutz made his only at-bat count.

Then Steve and Stacie Rylance came home when Dan Eby, Angie Bond-Patton and Casey Munger came through with clutch hits.

After a quick top of the seventh, FHF moved to the consolation round and KM2 advanced to face the dreaded and undefeated O’Brien’s Market goon squad.

How about some highlights?

Angie was able to play softball after her soccer game was canceled and went three-for-three with a run scored. There is no proof that the Skipper had a hand in getting that game canceled.

Jamie took home the game ball by climbing back on the hill and performing to near perfection. Jamie also was two-for-two with a run scored.

It’s gotta be the stirrup socks and the Giants cap! Fashion plate Jim “Say Hey” Boles recalled Willie Mays with a sweet basket catch in the second.

And how nice was it to see Casey’s beautiful smile again? Casey reached first three times and scored. And her defense at third and behind the plate was flawless. Plus, she and Aaron Dunham brought their new puppies, which did not eat any kids. This week, anyway.

Dan made it all the way from Traverse City by game time, and was two-for-three and played a solid shortstop, even nicely recovering from a bobble to nail a fleet FHF batter.

Sidekick Stacie also was on the road, speeding up from Kalamazoo – don’t ask how or where she changed – and went right to the batter’s box. Stacie had a hit, a run and a fine grab in centerfield.
The Foxes – Amy and David – were solid on defense, with D-Fox showing his versatility and A-Fox making some big plays at second base.

Mound magician Mike Gillis fooled FHF batters with his array of pitches and worked out a key walk in the first.

Mike’s wife, Gayle, played for the first time in four years, and you don’t know how much that warmed the Chipper’s heart. Gayle hasn’t played since an outfield collision with the aforementioned Skipper when they played for a Grand Rapids Press coed team, where she suffered a knee injury that required surgery and long rehabilitation. She came ready to play in case we were short players again, and boldly took some hacks.

Rob Mirque was perfect at first base and at the plate, and his better half, Cindy Suam is our very dependable catcher.

Anne Marie continues to swing a hot bat, reaching base twice and scoring a run.

Special thanks to KM1 members Bo and Tina Schmitz and Steve Korb, who came to cheer us on when their team had a bye week. It's nice to know the KM1 has our back!

I'm so proud of this team. A lot of people traveled great distances and overcame obstacles including a call to the locksmith to get to yet another early start. It's apppreciated.

It was a big win, a convincing win and sets us up perfectly for the epic battle with O’Brien’s next week!

KM 1: Game 8 -- Many Shining Stars in rain-soaked 11-9 defeat

2008-06-26T20:07:00.000-07:00

Down 10-0 early on a miserable night in the elements (muggy, mosquitoes & the eventual downpour), KM1 showed the grit & determination of a team about to make a playoff run.

Unfortunately, the opponent's lead proved to be just too much & we fell to 2-6 overall as a result.

A rough start defensively & at the plate resulted in the large deficit we needed to overcome.

Many teams would have folded & taken the mercy killing....but not KM1!!!

Thanks to Niki "Lights Out" Weber on the mound, who came in for the now permanently retired (YES!!) Bo after the 2nd inning & down 8-0, only giving up 3 runs the rest of the way.

As good as Niki pitched, the game ball went to Steve Cairns. He was our offensive catalyst, going 4-4 & I think scoring 3 of our runs. Steve also made a tremendous running catch in a late inning to hold the opponent in check. I think Steve is going to leave the jeans at home from now on....:)

As Niki said "Take the jeans off him & he's a different guy." Don't worry Todd, she was referring entirely to his softball game....:)

Speaking of tremendous running catches, how about Jill Bracken!!! From my viewpoint behind the plate, that was one of the most impressive things I have seen all season...Jill RACING at a dead sprint into RC & snaring a sure gapper that would have scored at least 2 runs.....SWEET!!!

Another great catch by Tina "The Bear Killer" Schmitz. Chiropractic's best hitter Bear had already crushed 2 balls, plating 5 runs & with a homerun & a triple. On his third trip, he crushed another one, but Tina had it lined up all the way & squeezed it to end another rally.

Bear certainly had my number on the mound, but my wife is way out of his league.

The bright spots didn't stop there....how about:

Steve Korb's blast down the LF line late in the game & brilliant basecoaching.

Viggy's mammoth drive for his 3rd inside the park 3-run homer of the season.

John beating out 2 sure outs with great speed down the line.

JJ steady once again @ the 2nd sack & also a great hit down the LF line.

Jen's crushing hit to LC & solid defense all over the field.

Jo's mammoth blast....oh wait, I mean the shortest hit in history...I think the ball went 2 inches....but seriously, Jo was her usual stellar self at the Hot Corner.

Bo finding his calling heckling the other team behind the plate....he's more annoying than the chick from Old Man's Team...I can't wait for Niki to pitch again!

Bo & Tina will be on vacation next week, but I think our other 5 girls will be there & Bill & Todd should be back.....Go KM1!!!

6PM against O'Brien's Market....Jo has the equipment...you can beat them!!!

playoff run....Playoff Run....PLAYOFF RUN!!!!!!!!!!

KM1: Game 7 -- Old Man's Team gets revenge

2008-06-19T04:59:00.000-07:00

Bill and Nikki perform under the watchful eye of the umpire.

That one dreadful inning got us again.

In a very competitive game, Old Man's Team came back late & took down KM1 11-8. The game started tight & finished almost the same, but we just didn't have enough....enough hits at key times....enough solid defensive plays....enough good pitches....just not enough.

But we still had fun and here were a few highlights (& lowlights):

-- How about Tina's sweet running catch early in the game & nearly an even better one late....I have full confidence next time she'll make that play!

-- How about Jill's sharp liner down the 3rd base line for a hit? Very impressive!

-- How about Viggy's second inside-the-park homer in as many games to get us on the board in the first?

-- How about Niki and Steve Korb's hook-up to pick-off a runner at second?

-- How about Bill walking the lead-off hitter? In many years, I can't remember this ever happening.

-- How about me lobbing in several picture perfect pitches only to have them be crushed into oblivion by the team in red?

-- How about Old Man Frank & the world's most annoying catcher strking out two hitters who have never struck out before? They shall remain nameless. :(

So we stand at 2-5. Next week, we get a chance for our own revenge at 6 pm against Chiropractic Unlimited, who beat us 12-10.

To my knowledge, Todd & Bill will be out. Anybody else? If everyone else can make it, that will give us 6 guys & 6 girls.

Looking ahead, on July 2nd, we play O’Brien's Market at 6pm. Tina and I will be in Petoskey on vacation. Anyone else? Just curious, with only 2 days before the holiday.

Looking even further ahead....Dave & I will be putting out the info for the Labor Day Weekend tournament. It's only $120 per team, so I am sure we can put together at least 1 team, if not two.

As Viggy ordered, I will be practicing my pitches all week so I can admirably replace Bill. See everyone next week!

KM2: Game 7 -- Showing CTL-ALT-DEL some mercy

2008-06-18T20:11:00.000-07:00

I’m not sure CTL-ALT-DEL even saw it coming.

An inspired Know Mercy 2 bounced back from its worst defeat by unloading on a friendly but overmatched team from the third division, flexing its offensive muscle and flashing some nice leather in an 18-5 pounding.

It really wasn’t even that close, with CAD scoring all five of its runs with two outs in the next-to-last inning of the mercy win.

Know Mercy staked out a four-run lead in the first, then blew the game open in the second with six runs.

After tacking on two more in the third, the team essentially announced the game was over when Aaron “Bombardier” Dunham launched an over-the-fence grand slam, part of another six-run frame.

Just about everybody had a moment of glory worthy of hanging on the fridge for all to enjoy.

Let’s start with Amy Fox, who hit the ball hard all last week -- but right at someone. That wasn’t a problem in Game 7, with Amy lashing four hits in five at-bats. Amy also was stellar playing third base. And she had some neat slides, too.

Casey Munger was under the weather, which meant she was only spectacular – four runs scored in five at-bats. Imagine if she was feeling better? Thank you, Casey, for toughing it out when you were feeling low.
Rob Ferguson designs buildings for a living, but he was a one-man demolition crew, with three hits in three at-bats, and came around to score each time.

Our other Rob, Mr. Mirque, was just as good, with three hits in his three trips to the plate. His lovely bride, Cindy, got on base and scored a run, too.

The Norrises also proved to be a dynamic duo. Jamie took a break from pitching to patrol the outfield, making some nice plays. He also boasted two hits an a run scored. The Amazing Venta used her fabulous wheels to get on base three times, crossing home once.

Stacie Rylance passed on a soccer game for a game where she could use her hands, too! Robbed in the first inning, Stacie later smashed a sweet hit.

Our secret weapon was Mike Gillis, a Grand Rapids Press co-worker who heard about how much fun we were having and wanted to join in. Mike opened his bag of tricks on the mound – despite injuring his shoulder earlier in the week, preventing him from throwing over hand.

Steve Kutz hit the ball hard in two at-bats, but was denied when CAD fielders defended well.

The Chipper Skipper leads the team in one category – getting thrown out at the plate. Alas, he might also lead the team in walks and stretched a hit into a double.

The pounding put Know Mercy 2 at 4 wins and three tough losses, and looks to add to the win column against JHL Lawncare, another new team, in a 6 p.m. contest next week.

Alumni news: Running, biking and swimming with Brian Cunningham

2008-06-16T08:35:00.000-07:00

Brian Cunningham

I know a lot of people are wondering why Brian Cunningham isn’t patrolling leftfield for Know Mercy this year, and why Heiki hasn’t been spotted in the stands cheering us on.

They’ve been training hard for Ironman events, and didn’t believe Bo and Dave when they suggested that coed softball was by far the best training for such things. Instead, he’s logged more than 2,000 miles on his bike, roughy the distance of four Aaron Dunham homers.

Here are some action shots from a half-Ironman even in Florida in May. That's not to be confused with a full-Ironman, which you can watch in the movies without sweating.

Heiki Cunningham

KM1: Game 6 -- Total team effort downs Norman Family Dentistry

2008-06-16T06:09:00.000-07:00

With a key theme of having fun, KM1 played a spirited game tonight, getting contributions from everybody for a come from behind 7-6 win in 8 innings over Norman Family Dentistry!

We started off strong in the top of the 1st....with two outs & Bill & I on base, Viggy launched a drive over the RF's head for 3-run inside the park homer & a 3-0 lead.

Bill gave up a single run in the bottom of the 1st, but then shut them down for the next 2 innings. We managed a single run in the 2nd & 3rd, but couldn't plate any in the 4th...so going into the bottom of the 4th we held a 5-1 advantage.

Norman's got some key hits & plated 4 runs to tie it, then took the lead in the bottom of the 5th 6-5. We could have been defeated, but NO....that's when everyone dug down, stayed positive & came off the ropes fighting. Again, everyone contributed & here's how:

Bill - got on base & of course stellar pitching as usual

Jen - sweet catch of a pop-up to squash an early rally

Eric - game-tying RBI & a key assist at 2nd base in the last inning to nab a speedy runner

Jo - Good work with the bat & an absolute vintage GEM at 3rd...snaring a hot shot & firing to.....

Niki - Who made a great stretch to nab another speedy runner (also great hustle on the basepaths)

Viggy - The big home run to get us started, but also some nice work with the glove

Steve Cairns - legging out 3 infield hits to keep innings alive & solid outfield play

Tina - some good hustle on the basepaths & a key catch of a deep fly ball to stop a rally

Steve Korb - great play all around with the bat, the glove & agressive base-coaching late

JJ - great work with the stick & STELLAR communication in the outfield

John - also great hustle down the line to beat out throws & another highlight yet to come....

So down 1 going into the top of the 7th....Steve Cairns gets on base AGAIN & with great hustle scores to tie it at 6 after a base hit by Eric (I think). The defense then shut them down in the bottom to force the extra frame.

Top of the 8th, with 1 out, Steve Korb gets us going with a solid double to LC. Then with 2 outs & my heart in my throat (I can admit that now), I hit a seeing-eye single down the RF line, plating Steve to take the lead....then of course was my vintage yet not-so-graceful pickle play for the final out going into the bottom of the 8th.

Needing 3 outs, Eric & Bill (I think) made quick work of the first 2. They then got the tying runner on...so the winning run steps to the plate & drives a high, deep fly ball to RC.....John Hall had it tracked all the way & made the play for the final out!!!

Once again, solid pitching, great effort by everyone hustling out ground balls, hitting the cutoff quickly, great communication & awesome baserunning (except for my pickle). We did all the little things necessary to win a close game.

Our record now stands at 2-4...next week we get Old Man's Team at 6pm on Ada 1...the team we "mercied" in Week 1...so they are going to want revenge!! We will be up to the task & have some more fun just like tonight.

KM2: Game 6 -- Spanked by O'Brien's Market

2008-06-16T06:05:00.000-07:00

As soon as I saw our Game 6 opponents, I knew KM2 was in trouble. New sponsor, same Lena Lou and their collection of bruisers. It's never easy to be on the wrong side of a spanking like that.

But enough wallowing, I say! You don't get to be the Chipper Skipper by staying down in the dumps for too long. Shake it off, my friends!

We shall now look at the bright side, lifting high our glasses that are happily half-full!

--- On the bright side, no one got hurt!

--- On the bright side, their rather large and dorky first and third baseman wore a t-shirt with sleeves. He usually wears a tank top that exposes ALL KINDS of nasty back and underarm hair and holds the bat waaaaay over his head. Not only does the catcher get grossed out by the middle of the game, people all the way in the UP start getting a little testy.

--- On the bright side, Aaron didn't break anyone's car in the parking lot with a mammoth blast. He made some sweet catches in left.

--- On the bright side, The Amazing Venta got on base AGAIN by using her wheels and scored one of our runs.

--- On the bright side, Rob and Cindy were back! Yea! And Rob had a sweet double in the last inning.

--- On the bright side, Casey legged out a hit and scored in the first inning, and made some sweet catches, all after a draining 17-marathon performance by her Rams, leading them deep into the playoffs. Congrats, Casey!

--- On the bright side, Jim Boles returned and did what he does best - ripping line drives.

--- On the bright side, Anne Marie continues to hit, taking a big base in the first inning.

--- On the bright side, Steve added a nice poke and scored. On his last at-bat, the other team thought he was Aaron and told all their outfielders to stand back at the fence.

--- One the bright side, A-Fox hit the ball really hard.

--- On the bright side, we're still not a losing ball club even after dropping two games in a row.

--- On the bright side, D-Fox scored a run and made an all-out effort at short, leaving his blood on the field. At least we think it was his blood.

--- On the bright side, Mary Kovac came out to play and did NOT take a throw off the noggin. Again.

--- On the bright side, Dan and Rob F. and Stacie are due to return next week! Yes!

--- On the bright side, new friend Jill Marsh came out the play and made a nice catch of a fly ball. We might see her again.

--- On the bright side, Jamie filled the stand with some fans and had some nice strikeouts.

--- On the bright side, we're looking at a special batch of slump-busting cookies next week.

--- On the bright side, Chipper Skipper actually hit the ball out the infield -- finally -- and worked out a walk.

--- On the bright side, next week we're playing a team called CTL-ALT-DEL. That's not even a name! Horrible.

--- On the bright side, there might be TWO secret weapons unveiled next week.

--- On the bright side, next week's game is at 7 p.m.!

--- On the bright side, we can shake off this beating and go back to kicking butt, taking names and getting back our winning record. I feel bad for the other team. But not that bad.

KM2: Game 5 -- Old Man's Team ends winning streak

2008-06-16T05:58:00.000-07:00

After winning three close games in a row, it was inevitable Know Mercy 2 would eventually end up on the other side in a tough battle, falling 11-10 to the Old Man's Team.

Tough game, especially since we played most of it short-handed -- and had the umpires been sticklers, we would have been forfeit victims.

The aspects of our game that sparkled so brilliantly last week against Know Mercy 1 were not quite as sparkly this time around, and we squandered an 8-3 lead to fall in a time-shortened contest.

Which is not to say there were not some outstanding achievements, and we'll get to those in a second.

But first, how about the absolutely shocking, shocking incident where the Old Man's Team captain accused us of cheating? Of all the low-down, under-handed, shameful accusations! I'm insulted.

If I were going to cheat and use a player from Know Mercy 1, do they really think I would start yelling "Amy! Amy!" from the moment she pulled into the parking lot? Would I be so brazen? So stupid?

Of course not. I'd quietly send someone out to the outfield, call her "Player X" and act like nothing was out of place.

Speaking of which, next week we have an even earlier game, at 6 p.m. instead of 6:15 p.m. I discovered that Jill, one of our newsroom desk aides, is a softball player in search of a team and keeps her gear in her trunk -- just in case. "Just in case" is next week, because we can't be in such a situation again. She's very nice, and I'm sure you'll like her.

Now, on to the highlights!

Dan had a monster game, going three-for-three and scoring three runs and also flashed some sweet leather at short.

Aaron also went three-for-three and launched a bomb that cleared multiple cars in the parking lot. Next game, I'm parking in Thornapple Kellogg and taking a cab because no car is safe!

But the amazing Venta proved that you don't have to hit the ball into the next area code to get on base. She worked out a walk, then twice used her wheels to drop the ball sort and leg out the hit. Very impressive.

Dave Fox also made a spectacular return from his West Coast adventures, scoring two runs.

There's no way Anne Marie could top her incredible game last week. But she still showed how to swing the bat, with two hits and two runs. Keep it going!

Steve nailed a liner to get on base and made a fine catch in the outfield.

Casey had two hits, scored a run and was her usual Casey-self at two infield positions.

Rob is money in the bank! Three hits in three at-bats.

Jamie again had to contend with an umpire's moving strike zone. And it was most glorious to see him getting a called strike three on the Old Man's Team coach after his ill-fated accusations! Take that!

Stacie showed great restraint in not slugging Dave, who was dancing around the parking lot as she counseled a diabetic on her cell phone.

Et tu, Nitro? The Chipper Skipper was lost at the plate, but made a very nice scoop in the dirt while playing first.

And a special thanks to Nikki Ferguson, who, despite her condition, was moments away from stepping into the batter's box so we could avoid a forfeit.

And let me say: I LOVE THIS TEAM. You guys are wonderful to play with and be with and I feel blessed that I got to meet some new friends and got to know others better. Win or lose, I'm having a ball and I hope you are, too.

KM2: Game 4 -- Hanging on to top friendly rivals

2008-06-16T05:55:00.000-07:00

My only regret is that I have but one game ball to give to my team. Because there were so many special performances in last night's 6-5, six-inning defeat of Know Mercy 1.

It appeared something magic was happening when we held KM1 to just one run in the first inning -- a time when we usually dig a deep hole.

But the shovels were cast aside, as we added two runs in the second and four in the third, then kept the powerful Know Mercy line-up to tack on just one run in the its third and fourth frames and two in the top of the fifth.

The defense was simply amazing -- crisp and clean.

Then the umpire announced the game was to end in the sixth inning -- a surprising call considering the next teams scheduled to play were nowhere near ready. And KM2 responded by shutting the door, preserving its third straight win -- all of them nail-biters.

Anne Marie Bessette earned the game ball with the performance of her life: Two doubles, two runs scored, a base hit and an outstanding snag of a rocket grounder fired by Brian Vigna.

A second game ball would go to Jamie Norris, who matched Bill Bush -- among the best hurlers in the league -- pitch for pitch, showing command through the entire game. His clutch double in the second inning brought
home a run.

Then a share of that ball also goes to Dan Eby. Dan shot a certain double down the line in his first at-bat, only to see it erased by a diving stab by Todd that can only be described as thievery of the highest order. Dan returned the favor by climbing an invisible ladder -- the only possible explanation for the height he achieved -- to snare a
line drive.

Dan and Angie Bond-Patton, playing third, simply locked down the left half of the infield, forcing KM 1's bashers to try and spray the ball in other directions.

The dymanic duo of Casey Munger and Aaron Dunham do so well so often that we take their magic for granted. Aaron had a double and a triple and Casey had three hits and a run scored. Simply stellar!

The same goes for amazingly consistent Jim Boles, who again had two hits in two at-bats and scored a run.

Then you have Rob Mirque playing with a sore back and still smacking two hits, starting the big four-run rally that pushed us over the top.

Steve Kutz did not plow over wayward fielders this week -- but legged out a hit and came around to score.

Chipper Skipper Dave Murray can juggle softballs. He showed off this talent when he was supposed to be playing left field. Maybe he should take the Nitro with him when he heads out to the green spaces.

Venta Norris and Cindy Saum were flawless in right field and behind the plate.

And a round of applause for our friends at Know Mercy 1. That game was so well-played that it could have gone in either direction. We tip our caps to our very worthy opponents.

KM2: Game 3 -- Walk-off win drills dentists

2008-06-16T05:52:00.000-07:00

If Know Mercy 2 has a strategy, it would appear to be lulling opponents into complacency by spotting them 10 or so runs in the first two innings, then quietly chipping away at the lead and crushing their hopes and dreams in the final frame.

For the second straight week, the team rallied from a deep deficit. This time Norman Family Dentistry felt the sting, with a four-run, seventh-inning charge capped by a walk-off home run by Angie Bond-Patton.

The game marked the debut of the new team bat, "Nitro," plucked like Excalibur from the sale rack at Dunhams. Painted shiny blue with menacing flames, the lethal thunderstick no doubt struck fear into the opposing pitcher.

Alas, it didn't appear that way at first., with the dentists drilling Know Mercy for nice runs in the first two innings, eventually working their tally to 12 by the last inning.

With a chill in the air and raindrops gathering momentum, Know Mercy accepted their final opportunity needing three runs to tie the game. And there was little reason for optimism after Dan was upended at second base and fine play from the shortstop deprived Casey from her customary place on-base.

But Jim Boles launched one of his patented drives, and Stacie worked her way on base. That left the Chipper Skipper at the plate in a clutch situation for the second week in a row. Brandishing the dangerous Nitro, Dave poked a double into right-center, scoring Jim.

But Angie knows no pressure. She drove a bomb through the rain over the right-fielder's head. In came Stacie, in came Dave with the tying run -- and in came Angie, ahead of the throw and presenting a glorious walk-off victory.

A team can't roar back from such a deficit without great contributions from everyone. Individual highlights include:

Rob Ferguson had two big hits and scored twice.

Fox Family: "A-Fox " sparkled at third base, snaring a vicious line drive, sidekick "D-Fox" had two hits.

Jamie Norris again showed outstanding command on the bump and remained composed after some defensive lapses forced him to work deeper and deeper.

Jim Boles had two hits and scored two runs, which is so predicable that I was tempted to write it in the scorebook before the game even started.

Anne-Marie Bessette and Venta Norris traded off catching duties in fine fashion, with Venta even providing a vocal fan section and Anne-Marie working her way on base.

Casey Munger had two big hits, and sidekick Aaron Dunham drove a triple so deep that people parked beyond left field no doubt contemplated moving their cars before his next at-bat.

Steve Kutz didn't need a Nitro to frighten, Woe to the infielder who wanders into his path, as one battered shortstop learned.

An outstanding effort all the way around!

KM2: Game 2 -- The best game ever!

2008-06-16T05:48:00.000-07:00

Now, the day after, it can be told that there were people in Know Mercy 2 senior management who were not completely optimistic about the team's chances for Wednesday's game.

After all, we had only two women players, and four men.

Luckily, the injured Rob Mirque offered to gut it out so we'd have five guys. Super Sub Mary Kovac offered her services. Then, a shadowy, mysterious female known only as "Player X" slinked into the picture to give us just enough players to take on a decent St. Matthew's Monsters team.

So, with a patchwork roster and soggy field, the KM2 stepped up to the plate and quickly smacked out three runs. But the Monsters responded by finding the open spaces in the outfield and taking advantage of some mud-soaked infield hits over the next two innings, seemingly stacking up run after run.

Many teams would have thrown in the towel, accepted the inevitable mercy defeat and wallowed in self-pity. But visiting KM-1 coach Bo Schmitz put an end to that, shouting "You're only down 8-3. You can win this!"

A rallying cry was born. The defense shut down the Monsters, with the middle infield combo of Dave Fox and Mary Kovac scooping and tossing. Pitcher Jamie Norris showed great control and nabbed runners -- allowing the Monsters to tack on just one more run for the rest of the game.

Then the offense kicked in. Dave Fox and Jim Boles launched line drives, Venta Norris and Cindy Saum worked out key walks. Rob, despite a promise to just stand at the plate and hope for a walk to avoid further injury, hacked out a hit. "Player X" was doing all kinds of things that we shouldn't talk about, lest we draw attention to her. Look away.

Amy Fox, fresh from covering the Obama rally, arrived mid-game and promptly got on base. Mary Kovac forced a big error and even took a ball to the head, raising a welt that rivaled the pitchers mound.

With the game tied and bases loaded, up stepped coach Dave Murray. Know Mercy veterans know what happens when Dave is up in a clutch situation. People keeping score start writing "infield pop-up" in the book even before the pitch is thrown.

Maybe it was Bo's new bat. Maybe it was the cookies. Maybe it was the shame of the usually glass-half-full Chipper Skipper being unoptimistic before the game.

We might never find out why, but we do know that Dave launched a triple over the head of the centerfielder, clearing the bases. And then got thrown out at the plate. But we won't talk about that part.

Now up 12-9 in the last inning, the newly energized KM-2 went into shut-down mode, denying any further runs and chalking up the team's first win of the year. Yes!

Special thanks to Mary, who came out, played well, played hard and took a shot off the noggin.

Special thanks to Rob, playing through pain when he shouldn't have.

Special thanks to Bo for coaching, keeping score, bringing the bats and keeping us focused.

And special thanks to the mysterious "Player X," without whom there would not have been.