Draw The Curtains On 2010

Turn out the lights... the party's over. And it's been a great one. In fact.. 86 games worth! This has been a baseball season unlike any other for the FiveKelleyBoys. With one playing in every level --- 'D', 'C', 'B', 'A' & 'AA' --- we have logged some serious hours at a lot of parks in a lot of parts of the tri-state area.. It's been a privilege and an honor to be part of the whole thing.

The season, while starting off very slowly, really picked up mid-stream and things panned-out well for each of the boys. Griffin enjoyed his first year of kid-pitch. Paxton was named to his first AllStar team. And Duncan, Holden & Cameron all qualified for the City Tournament with their respective teams.

As of this evening, the two 'fkb' teams remaining in 'City' took their final bow. Duncan's Heat & Holden's Highlanders each hung up their second losses of the tourney. And with that, the 2010 Season ends. A couple pre-season tourney games (back in early April), a whole ton of regular season games, an AllStar game, and 8 post-season games... for a grand total of 86 games.

Thanks, boys! It's been fantastic to be along for the ride this season. We're very proud of each of you.

City Tournament - Week 1 UPDATE

With 1 week of the City Tournament under their belts... Cameron, Holden & Duncan have each had varying experiences. The tourney is a '2&out' sort of affair. Very straight-forward... lose 2, and you're out. And here's how the boys have faired thus far.

Cameron's Heat - Playing 2 games in less than 24 hours, the Heat travelled to Northern Kentucky and to Blue Ash (OH) last night and this afternoon. The Heat had a pretty fantastic season in general, and Cameron really came into his own as he managed the move to 'AA' with confidence and success. Last night's game was tough to handle... the Heat got through 6 innings trailing 3-2, and then, with their gloves apparently taking an early exit, the Heat watched 4 runs get hung on them. Batting last in the 7th, there wasn't enough Heat to come back from 5-down. And then today we travelled north to ol' Crosley Field in Blue Ash (see picture) to take on a team from Goshen. All even at 4-apiece going into the 7th inning, Goshen managed to sneak 2 across in their half of the frame. And that was the difference. So there ya have it... 2 losses, in less than 24 hours. And so the Heat's 2010 season comes to a close. I thanked Cameron this afternoon for having us along for a very enjoyable season. Proud of you, dude! Can't wait until next year.

Holden's Highlanders - the Highlanders drew the Bridgetown Sparks to open the week's play. And much to a lot of our collective surprise... we watched the Highlanders go down to the tune of 4-0. However, the Highlanders rebounded in their 2nd game... and for the 2nd year in a row they got to personally punch the ticket of their arch-rivals, the Westside Bulldogs. Bye-bye Buldogs, Highlanders move on. And then today, the Highlanders played the Eastside Cats. Highlanders 7, Cats 4. Congratulations, Holden (and Heat). Good luck as your tournament continues.

Duncan's Heat - similar to Holden's hated Bulldogs, Duncan's Heat has the Covedale Storm. And guess who the Duncan's Heat drew in their first tourney game. Yep... the Storm. Unfortunately, while this match-up is almost always a knock-down fistfight often decided by a margin of only 1 or 2 runs, the Storm that showed up this morning THROTTLED the Heat that came to the park. This one was actually kind of difficult to watch. But hey... this is a '2&out' tournament. And Duncan's Heat will live to play again in a couple days. Hopefully they return to their form. Good luck, Duncan. And step-up Heat... let's get things back on track in this next game.

The KelleyFive!

The Second Act... Movin' On To POSTSEASON!!!

Congratulations to the boys on closing a very long and (as you'll read here) SUCCESSFUL season. Great news to share here.

First... big 'CONGRATS' to Cameron's Heat who handed the Delhi Eagles only their 2nd loss in 22 games last night. Cameron had a great game... and in what would require 2 extra innings before it was all done, his RBI was critical in the Heat's win, FINAL SCORE: 2-1.

Second... (for any of you who've been following since the beginning of the season, this is AMAZING...) after a very sluggish start to things, 3 (THREE!!!) of the boys' teams have qualified for the City Tournament. Cameron's Heat, Holden's Highlanders & Duncan's Heat will all be moving on to the big show -- games start next week.

Third... another round of 'CONGRATS' to Holden's Highlanders, who closed the season by winning their Division OUTRIGHT! Way to go, Holden. More hardware for the collection.

So, looking back... it's been a pretty fantastic season (and it's not over yet!). The boys logged somewhere between 80-100 games (I'll have a more specific idea when I get around to doing the exact tally). And after what proved to be a really tough start to things... congratulations to each of the boys for not getting too frustrated, and never giving up. I always tell them... keep working at it, give it your best, good things will happen. Well... that applies here. 3 out of the 5 of them are moving on to the City Tournament (and one of them, by virtue of winning their Division). A fourth (Paxton) was selected to his AllStar game. And even Griffin had a fantastic season --- very much enjoying his first season of 'kid pitch' baseball. Always fun to see that time come after a couple years of t-ball, and then another couple years of 'coach pitch'. Great job, Griffin!

There will be more posted about the City Tournament. But I want to say right now... OUTSTANDING JOB, BOYS!!! Thanks for a terrific and entertaining season. It's been a joy and you each have a LOT to feel great about. I'm so proud of you all!

AllStar Action

The Hidden Valley Lake All-Star Game was played yesterday (shown in pic, Paxton and a Rockets co-rep for the Ohio AllStars). And even with some pretty impressive storms making their way through the complex (causing a few delays)... it was a great day. This is the 5th or 6th year we've been treated to having at least one KelleyBoy chosen to represent his respective level of AllStars. And It was a great day.

Given the make-up of this year's new 'mega league' (including teams from ALL OVER), the teams were split into the 'Indiana AllStars' vs. the 'Ohio AllStars'. These events are always great... team / player introductions, National Anthem (complete with VERY dramatic rolling thunder from the approaching storms), lots of 'production'.

The Ohio AllStars scored first. And over the next 4 innings, the teams would leapfrog one another... 1-0, 1-2, 3-2... until it was all tied up at 4-apiece. The Indiana AllStars had the final say based on the merit of a pretty amazing (and LEGITIMATE) grand slam. Final score: Indiana 8, Ohio 4.

The game was followed by a HomeRun Derby. And with a twist of pretty delicious irony (given how the game itself was ultimately decided by a longball), the Ohio AllStars would walk-away victors in the HR Derby. Awesome!

Again... it was a very entertaining day. Congratulations to Paxton for his first-ever selection to an AllStar team --- goodness knows you earned it). Proud of you, buddy! Thanks for a great afternoon at the park.

Regular Season Wrap-Up

Beautiful, sunny & HOT day for baseball this past Saturday. Four games to report on.

Griffin's Dodgers: Going up against the Westside Bulldogs, the Dodgers traded blows throughout the game. The lead changed more times than I could tell you. In the end, the Bulldogs came out on top. But it was truly a great game. Griffin caught a super game, walked, scored a run, and took a pitch to the head (but the best place to hit a KelleyBoy and NOT hurt them is in fact the skull).

Paxton's Rockets: The unfortunate task of drawing the league-leading Harris Motors BBA to close the season was at the hands of the Rockets today. The outcome was not in favor of the Rockets. But Paxton had an awesome hit and delivered his usual stellar performance in the field.

Duncan's Heat: The season started with the Harrison Hawks, and that's how it would close. The first match between these two teams would not be the Heat's proudest moment of a very long season. But with a sense of poetic revenge... the Heat trailed the vast majority of this season-closing game, only to come back in the end and grab victory! Woooo! Fantastic fielding by Duncan!

Holden's Highlanders: One of the Hidden Valley Lake teams (not sure which one, to be honest) came to town today. And while the game remained competitive throughout the first 3 frames... HVL tore it open later in the game and went home to Indiana the victors. Holden was the Highlanders first player to get on base, and scored their first run too. Great fielding on his part as well.

Winding It Down

As the regular season nears completion (things are supposedly required to be wrapped up by end of this weekend - although with all the rainouts thru-out the season still needing to be made up, hard to imagine), another couple games to report on from last night.

Holden's Highlanders faced-off against the Sparx. This one got off to a rough start. With Holden struggling mightily on the mound (see pic) --- he just couldn't seem to find his stuff --- the Highlanders found themselves down 8-3 by end of the 4th inning. Holden, just as he seemed to be hitting his groove, had to be pulled from the game because of reaching his pitch-count. However, the Highlanders bats came to life and by the middle of the 7th inning everything was tied at 10-apiece. Holden had one of the nicest hits I've seen him get all season. And all the boys seemed to 'find it' as they fought their way back into the game. Unfortunately, the Sparx plated one final run during their last at bat. Final score: Sparx 11, Highlanders 10. Tough break, guys.

Cameron is out of town this week. I'm only aware his Heat played twice in the past few days. I'm not even sure who they played against. The Heat won 7-0 this past Sunday. And they came up short last night, 6-5. Hurry back, Cameron. Miss ya, bud.

Take The Good w/ The Bad

Three games last night. Each came with their own highlights.

Griffin's Dodgers fell short to the crew from Jaeger. However... CONGRATULATIONS to the Dodgers for being the first team all season to score more than 10 runs on the undefeated Jaeger boys. Quite the feat! Griffin caught the game. Also, while at bat... he got one walk and then got on base again for his troubles --- taking a shot to the ribs that's bound to leave a mark. Way to take one for the team, buddy!

Paxton's Rockets resumed a game (started last week, only to be halted thanks to weather) against the Sunman (IN) Indians. Losing in the end, the Rockets really did play a very good game. And the boys all actually walked away heads held high, knowing they had given a VERY good team a run for their money. And Paxton is still riding pretty high on the recent announcement of his selection to this year's AllStar Team. Way to go, Pax!

Holden's Highlanders fell to the Mack Fire team. This Mack team totally obliterated the Highlanders earlier in the season. But last night's game was MUCH more competitive, with a final score differential of only 8 runs. The really good news of the evening for the Highlanders... they learned prior to the start of the game they had already qualified for this year's City Tournament. Excellent work, Holden! Hard work pays off. Really. Proud of you, dude.

AllStar News (and.. more rain)

Congratulations to Paxton for being named to his first AllStar Team!!! It's been a rough season for Paxton and the Rockets. But true to how he goes about anything he puts his mind to... he's gone out there every time and given it his all (which has been consistently terrific). Paxton keeps alive the now 5-year-running stretch of having at least one KelleyBoy named to his respective AllStar Team. Way to go, Pax! We're all very proud of you.

As for the weather... UGH! We're coming into the final week of the season. And hard as that is to believe, we've still got a LOT of games to get in. This morning's 'rogue' showers that made their way through the area have now put us ANOTHER 4 games in the hole. It's gonna be a VERY hectic / busy next 7 or 8 days.

Double Ouch

Duncan's Heat took two shots to the chin this evening (at the hands of the Westside Sharks, complete with a few players who looked old enough to drive home from the game themselves --- and in 'B' ball when the players aren't supposed to be older than 13, certain things just kinda stand out).

Game #1: This one was anybody's game in the bottom of the 6th inning. While at bat in the final part of the game, the Heat plated their first run of the evening to draw within 1 of the Sharks. Unfortunately, that's how the game ended. Final score: Sharks 2, Heat 1. Duncan went 1 for 2 and got a base on balls too. Also... he handed in a steady defensive performance at 2nd base.

'Game #2': Picking up a game that had been stopped in progress earlier this season... after 5 innings, the Heat was knotted up with the Sharks, 6-all. So, following tonight's first game, both teams took the field with all elements as they had been that earlier night (however many weeks ago). The Heat came to the plate first and were unable to push any runs across. And then, just like that (if you blinked, you maybe even missed it)... the Sharks got one run in. Final score: Sharks 7, Heat 6.

Heads up high, Heat. Look at it this way, boys... you held your own in a couple of games against several kids who are very possibly pondering entering their Freshman year in high school this coming fall. Be proud.

Half-N-Half

Cameron's Heat took on Our Lady of Victory today. After a TON of rain last night and a pretty crumby morning of weather, we ended up with yet another beautiful day for baseball (perhaps Ruth was in the the mood to enjoy some baseball today).

Game #1 - This one got to the 5th inning knotted at 5-apiece. When the Heat came up to bat in the their half of the frame, they exploded for 6 runs. The Heat then managed the final 2 innings to ring up an 11-8 win. Cameron had a fantastic game. Going 2 for 2 at the plate, and getting on base a total of 4 times (one from catcher's interference, one by taking a walk)... Cameron had 1 RBI, scored two runs and nailed a Victory boy trying to steal 2nd Base with a killer throw from behind the plate. Excellent game, Cameron!

Game #2 - Through five innings, all was tied up at 3-apiece. And while I'm not often one to 'cry foul'... this one was determined by the umpires. An AWFUL display of confusion at third base... a Victory boy was clearly out trying to make it to third. The field ump called him 'safe' while the plate ump called him 'out'. The plate ump has the power to over-rule the field ump... and today, for whatever reason, the plate ump (who had called the boy 'out') conceded and allowed the field ump (who's vantage point was blocked by a body) to have final say. Next Victory kid up to bat knocked that very kid on third across the plate. And that brought things to the eventual final score: Victory 4, Heat 3. Cameron played about half the game in right field. Cameron... keep your head. Don't let a call like that (no matter how bad it was) get to you.

In Memory Of...

No baseball today. The day was spent honoring the memory of Ruth Ellis. The boys will miss their Mawmaw --- very, very much. Rest in peace, Ruth.

Beautiful Evening For Baseball!

Three more games this evening. And what a beautiful evening it was.

Duncan's Heat throttled the Friar's Club. In one of those 'total team' performances, the Heat enjoyed themselves while rolling on to an 11-4 victory. Duncan split his time this evening playing 2nd Base, Left Field and Right Field. Great game, Heat! Way to go, Duncan!

Holden's Highlanders hit the road out to Hidden Valley, IN to meet up with the Bandits. In a fairly uncharacteristically flat outing, the Highlanders fell short of the finish line. Holden spent his evening manning 2nd Base and Shortstop. Too bad, Highlanders. Holden, as always... great game. Get 'em next time.

Cameron's Heat went to Green Hills to face the Pioneers. Going into the game, all had been advised this is a very good team. And they were. But!... the Heat, while needing extra innings to do it, came home with a 3-2 victory. Cameron caught a terrific game. He only got one at-bat... and managed to pop-up a bunt higher than I think I've ever seen a bunt go before. Yeah... maybe the third base coach will think twice before giving Cameron the 'bunt' sign again. :) All in all, great game, Cameron!

Tuesday, June 8th

Three games to report on...

Griffin's Dodgers played a 'marathon' 3hr game against the Friar's Club. The Dodgers took the Friars the distance, but landed on the wrong side of a 10-3 outcome.

Paxton's Rockets manned-up to the Covedale Storm. Pax had a great game in the field... including a fairly acrobatic catch in CenterField with the clear thinking of firing the ball into 2nd Base to double-up the runner. Rockets lose, 6-3.

Cameron's Heat played a team from Norwood. The Heat prevailed, 10-5. Cameron went 1 for 4, with an RBI and scored a run himself. He also made the last out of the game, blocking homeplate and tagging out one of the Norwood boys.

Full Weekend!!!

Two birds with one stone... it's Sunday evening and this update is for the whole weekend. Starting with yesterday (Saturday)...

Paxton's Rockets FINALLY got their first win of the season. I've been saying (and saying and saying...) these boys have been 'right there' for a LOT of the season. And this was the game. Paxton has a great game... 1 for 1 at the plate, scored a run, snagged a line drive while manning shortstop. The Rockets handed the Oak Hills Jr Highlanders a loss to the tune of 7-4. Way to go, Paxton! Great stuff.

Griffin's Dodgers met up with the Delhi Eagles. Griffin struggled at the plate, going 0 for 2. He also caught and delivered his usual strong performance. Too bad... the Dodgers were no match for the Eagles. Final score: Eagles 13, Dodgers 3. I have to tell you though, Griffin still hasn't really stopped grinning since that great win earlier this past week. Keep smiling, buddy. Next chance is coming up soon.

Duncan's Heat squared-up with the West End Pirates. Duncan's team is in their first year of 'B' ball. And they've been giving 'B2' teams their money's worth most of the season. Yesterday, the good guys prevailed. Duncan will tell you it wasn't his best game. But, a tough outing at the plate aside, Duncan was solid at second base and in right field. AND, Duncan was the one to ultimately put a tag on one unfortunate Pirate caught in a pickle. Stick with it, Duncan! Way to run him down.

Holden's Highlanders were in for a long one yesterday. They ended up playing almost 2 full games against the Bond Hill Bluejays. The first game went extra innings (and, truthfully, was won and lost by BOTH teams half a dozen times in the final 3-or-so innings). Final for the first game: Bluejays 17, Highlanders 16. A little background... we were cleared from a field last week due to a pretty wicked thunder & lightning storm. It happened to be against the SAME Bluejays we played yesterday, so the plan was to pick-up THAT game (as it stood at time of being suspended this past week) following the regularly scheduled game. So after a very long extra-innings contest, both teams once again took the field. The Highlanders were down, 3-2, top of the fourth inning when we started. Over the next several innings, ALL the Highlanders got in on the action and DESTROYED the Bluejays. Final score: Highlanders 13, Bluejays 2. Holden had an amazing day... all told (both games) 4 for 4 at the plate with 1 single, a bunt, 2 (TWO) 3-RBI doubles, a walk, 4 runs scored. Additionally, Holden delivered a total of 4 strong innings throwing off the mound and spent the balance of his time manning third base with some great fielding plays. Great day, Holden! Way to go.

And then today, Sunday...

Cameron's Heat pretty much sleepwalked through their first of two games against the Lawrenceburg Tigers. At the end of it, the Heat would suffer their first shut-out of the season... losing 7-0. In game 2, the Heat didn't really have much more to say. They did manage to plate 1 run. Final score: Tigers 10, Heat 1. Cameron had a very solid day catching and going 3 for 5 at the plate. Cameron... dude, this is WHY we sometimes need short memories. Get over it, forget it and move on. Couple of games coming up this week waiting for the Heat to get back on the right track. Get 'em, buddy!

Lastly --- CONGRATULATIONS to the Cincinnati Elder Panthers. Falling short this afternoon in the 2010 Ohio State Championship game, the Panthers recorded a 27-5 record this season. Great season, and state runners-up. Outstanding, Elder. Way to go!!!

Uh-ONE, Uh-TWO... (In Memory of Harry Caray)

(imagine Harry Caray calling games out west @ Chavez Ravine...) Dodgers Win! Dodgers WIN!! DODGERS WIN!!!

Griffin's Dodgers put their first win of the season in the books this evening. And, yes... we're all well aware of the fact it's June. But play along, will ya? The Dodgers faced, for the second time this season, the Cincinnati Browns. The game see-sawed throughout the first couple innings. But the Dodgers seized control over the final two innings and sent the Browns packing with a 16-12 beat down. Griffin caught a great game (see him in the pic, sizing up the competition during pre-game) --- also contributing a couple stolen bases and 1 run scored to an overall GREAT game by the entire Dodgers team. Griffin... I told you, buddy... keep going out there and giving it your best. Good things will happen.

Paxton's Rockets travelled (once again... and I'm beginning to seriously ponder to whom I should submit the gas voucher, cuz the traveling with this particular team has been a bit outta control this season) to Hidden Valley this evening. Paxton had a very good night. Excellent fielding, solid hitting, a run scored... he had himself a solid outing. However, when all was said and done, the Rockets ended up on the short end of a 12-2 final score. Pax... I PROMISE!, keep giving it your all and something's gonna give. It's... just... GOT TO! Proud of you, buddy. Keep up the good work.

Cameron's Heat rolled the team from Springdale Cleaners this evening. Cameron was his usual solid self behind the plate. He struggled a bit at the plate this evening (making great contact, but couldn't BUY a legit hit to save his life). Tonight's success resulted from a great team effort... some pretty awesome pitching, plenty of good hits, etc. Springdale never really had a chance. Final score: Heat 12, Springdale 3.

Good, Better, Best

This evening's good news was that the Franklin County Wildcats had to come to OUR part of the midwest for a game against Paxton's Rockets (instead of the other way around, and we have logged more than our fair share of miles to Indiana this season). The better news tonight was, while getting destroyed by the Wildcats just a week ago (18-0 in just two innings), the Rockets took 'em for the full ride this evening. The Wildcats prevailed, 7-0. But, considering 3 of those runs came on errors, Paxton and the Rockets have a lot to feel good about. They even shut-down the Wildcats, holding them scoreless, for the last three innings. This evening's best news... Paxton had a stellar game. The Rockets only had 2 base hits this evenings and one of them was a charge Paxton sent to right field. Paxton also took a fastball to the back, shook it off and ultimately made his way around to third base before that inning was ended. And lastly, Pax caught an awesome game. Running things from behind the dish, he got pretty beat up this evening. And at game's end, he was the first to bounce up and start talking about the next game. He's a tough one to keep down. Be proud, Pax! You did great tonight.

Lotta Ball...

It's been a great weekend. Starting this past Thursday night with Holden's graduation, followed by a grad party Friday night, and then 5 games between Saturday & Sunday. The weather was pretty much picture-perfect (but WOW it got hot out there!)

Saturday...

Paxton's Rockets took on the Hidden Valley Thunder. The Rockets had troubles getting much of anything going. This was one of those 'blink and miss it' kinda games. Pretty much over before it even started. But we all KNOW the Rockets are 'right there'... they just need a break or two. Good job anyway, Paxton! Keep working, buddy.

Duncan's Heat played @ Veteran's Park (pretty fitting for the Memorial Day weekend, eh?), facing off against Underground Sports. The Heat delivered some good pitching... and, unfortunately, the boys from 'Underground' were teeing-up on LOTS of it. Tough to watch... the Heat didn't have a bad game, but 'Underground' had a very good game. Next time, Duncan! Keep your head up.

Holden's Highlanders were in a real brawl with the Westside Bulldogs. Looking to avenge an earlier-in-the-season 1-run loss to the 'dogs, the Highlanders brought it! I've mentioned what a great rivalry that's existed over the years between these two teams. And this week's game didn't disappoint. It required extra innings (2 of them), but the Highlanders ultimately sent the Bulldogs packing, 16-15. Great game, Holden!

Sunday...

Cameron's Heat split a doubleheader against Lourdes this afternoon. The Heat's bats were largely AWOL in game #1... with Cameron getting a hit and working his way around to score the Heat's only run in a 4-1 loss. In game #2, the Heat stepped-up. And in ANOTHER extra-innings outing (man, there have been a LOT of those lately), the Heat won, 5-4. Excellent, Cameron!

We Interrupt This Blog...

Congratulations, Holden!!! And Happy Graduation!!! Holden graduated from 8th grade last night. It was a terrific ceremony, followed by a very nice reception. Holden put together an AMAZING grade school campaign. Check out some of the stats...

- First Honors... THROUGHOUT
- Straight 'A's with the exception of 5 'B's over 9 years
- Perfect Attendance 4 of 9 years (last miss, over 3 years ago)
- 2,500+ Accelerated Reader Points
- 2x 'Principle For A Day
- Crown Bearer for May Crowning Ceremony
(the list goes on, but these are surely some of the bigger highlights)

Among many honors received by Holden last night...
Elder High School Placement Test Scholarship
Marlene Menchen Scholarship
Farmer Family Foundation Scholarship
Mike Moehring Good Sportsmanship Scholarship
Overall Achievement ALL SUBJECTS
(again, the list goes on... but these are some of the 'biggies')

Holden also delivered an outstanding speech at commencement (and, yes, his words brought a tear or two to my eyes). Congratulations on a fantastic 9 years, Holden. We're all very proud of you. And we love you very much.

'AA' Heat Suffers First Loss

Cameron's Heat went up against Colerain last night. It just wasn't meant to be. The Heat struggled on the mound, and Colerain took advantage of that. The Heat also committed too many fielding errors to come back from. It was just one of those games. Final score: Colerain 16, Heat 9. Now with 3 wins and 1 loss, Cameron's team gears up for this weekend's doubleheader against Lourdes. Go get 'em, bud.

A Thriller & A Laugher

Two more games this evening, folks. And it was another beautiful evening for some ball. Perhaps we're getting 'paybacks' for all the rain we had a bit earlier in the season.

Paxton's Rockets hit the road to visit the Hidden Valley Lake Monsters. The Rockets jumped right out to take an early 1-0 lead. After several innings of back and forth... we were in for yet another game of extra innings, all knotted up at 8 runs apiece. The Rockets ended up on the short-end of a 9-8 final score. But they have a lot to be proud of. All the boys hit tonight. They were aggressive (and SMART) on the base paths. There was also some pretty awesome fielding. Paxton (shown in pic) had a great night... two base hits, two stolen bases, one run scored, and flawless performances at 2nd Base and Center Field. Super game, Paxton. Proud of you buddy!

Holden's Highlanders have the Avondale Indians to thank for tonight's win. And while I kind of hate to say it (goodness knows we've been on the wrong end of more than a few games this year), it was almost as if the Indians never even showed up at all. The Highlanders never even broke a sweat as the went away winners. Great outing, Holden! Another quality win.

3-Way Tuesday

Three of the boys hit the field this evening. And here's how it went...

Griffin's Dodgers faced-off against JB Yeager Sports. And as long as there's been a KelleyBoy playing baseball... JB Yeager Sports has always been a machine. Not sure where they find those boys, or what they feed them... but they are ALWAYS great. Couple that with the fact several boys on Griffin's team are playing organized baseball for the FIRST TIME... and tonight's game was a tough one. Congrats to the Dodgers though... they kept the final deficit to less-than 10 runs. Dodgers lose, 12-3. Griffin earned his keep suiting-up behind the plate this evening. Just keep going out there, buddy... good things will happen.

Paxton's Rockets travelled (ALL THE WAY) to Brookville, IN to take on the Franklin County Wildcats. Really no other way to put it folks... this was a good ol' fashioned trip to the woodshed. Unfortunately for Paxton and the Rockets, they were on the receiving end of the whoopin'. Suffering their biggest loss of the season thus far, the Rockets went down by a score of 18-0. Paxton split his time between catching and playing center field. Way to go, Pax! Always proud of you.

Cameron's Heat took on the Westside Chargers. The Heat might have been suffering a bit of 'jet-lag' following this past weekend's performance... as it took a couple innings to get things in gear. But... as the game moved on, the Heat opened things up and ended up winning by a score of 9-6. Cameron caught a great game and kept the Chargers' base runners honest. He also drove in two runs with one base hit. Excellent, Cameron! Heat improves to 3 wins, 0 losses.

How 'SWEEP' It Is

Today was Cameron's 'AA' Heat's first outing. And what a day it was!!! A little background first. At this level, the boys play 7 innings, double-headers every weekend, and a couple more games during the week. It's a relatively brief season, but we're going to get our money's worth. They'll log 24 games over the next 4 to 5 weeks.

Game #1: WOW!, what a game. Taking on the Dominic Blackhawks (an older, more experienced team), the Heat jumped right in the fire and started trading blows. After 7 innings, the score was knotted at 14-all. Folks, these boys (this age, these teams at 'AA' level) can flat-out HIT the ball. Much like a heavy weight fight, these two teams had pounded one another through 11 innings... with the Heat crossing the winning run, walk-off style, in the bottom of the 11th. Final score, 15-14.

Game #2: Cameron caught for this game (shown behind the plate, in the pic above). The Blackhawks never stood a chance in this one. Behind more hitting, and tenacious fielding... along with some AMAZING pitching... the Heat dominated from start to finish. Cameron went 2 for 4. His first hit was a BOMB hit to dead center... and it had an already very-deep-playing center fielder running like mad giving (futile) chase. And Cameron's second hit was a shot down the right field line, driving in what would become the game's ending run ('mercy' rule, his RBI put them up by '10'). Final score, Heat 12 - Blackhawk's 1.

A recap of sorts... 2 games, 2 wins, 17 innings, Heat starting pitching: 27 strikeouts, Heat scoring: 27 runs, Heat hitting: NO IDEA but it was a TON, start to finish: about 7 hours, Cameron 2-for-4 with 1 RBI. What an OUTSTANDING first day in 'AA' ball for Cameron. Thanks, dude. We had a blast! And top it all off with a clear blue sky and temps in the upper-80s. Yeah... it was a fine day.

A Split For The Day

Two of the boys had games today. And after a LOT of rain this week, we were lucky to get any games in at all. But the day started off a little cloudy, plenty warm... and ended up being a beautiful one.

Paxton's Rockets had their hands full with the Hidden Valley Thunder. In fact, the Thunder took it to Paxton's team pretty rough for 4 innings, posting a score of 9-0. The Rockets wouldn't quit though. Through the final two innings the Rockets plated 4 runs. Final score 11-4. Paxton played a solid game behind the plate as well as in the field. Way to go Rockets... never give up! And great game, Paxton. Proud of you, buddy.

Duncan's Heat had a re-match with the Covedale Storm. The Heat 'stormed' out to a 7-1 lead in the first 2 innings. But as mentioned in a previous post, these two teams seem to bring out the best in each other. One rough inning... and next thing we knew we had a real edge-of-your-seat kind of game on our hands. Duncan had a sweet 2 RBI single earlier in the game. And as the Storm took to the plate in what we all hoped would be their last at bat... the Heat was up 8-7. Duncan accounted for the first two outs of the inning... 1 by running down a shot to right field and rifling an assassin's shot to 2nd base to nail the runner & 2 by showing heart, speed and range chasing down another well-hit ball to catch it on the fly. The Heat's pitching took care of the third and final out... handing the Storm just their second loss of the season. Excellent game, Heat. Way to go, Duncan!

Sooooooo Close!

Duncan's Heat had a heartbreaker on their hands this evening. Taking on the Covedale TopDawgs, the Heat jumped out to a 1-0 lead in the first inning. And even after 3 innings, the game was tied 1-1. Covedale came to life over the next three innings building a 7-1 lead by the time the Heat came to bat in the bottom of the 6th (final) inning. The Heat hung in there (showing a LOT of fight and class), coming back 7-6. Unfortunately, with the pull-even run perched on 3rd-base, things came to an end. Tough break, Heat. We're proud of you, all the same.

An update: thus far, between only 4 of the 5 KelleyBoys, 25 games have been put in the books this season. And by my count... well, I've actually LOST COUNT of how many games HAVEN'T gotten played due to rain. I think we're somewhere around 6-10 games in the hole (and I can't STAND make-up games!!!). That's gonna make for a VERY busy end-of-May and month of June this season.

As 'Meatloaf' Would Say...

2 outta 3 AIN'T BAD!!! It was a beautiful baseball day for the boys. Weather... spectacular! Clear blue sky, sunny, 75 degrees. Pretty much tailor-made. And some awesome baseball too.

1 - Griffin's Dodgers got off to a ruff start, spotting the Cincinnati Browns 5 runs in the first inning. But the Dodgers clawed back into the game, taking the lead in the 3rd inning. The inning's scoring began as Griffin stroked a bases-loaded double, knocking in 2 runs. Griffin would also then score on the next batter's hit. And after 3 innings, the Dodgers had gone up 8-7. The game see-sawed over the following / final two innings. The Browns ended up taking the victory, 10-9. But the Dodgers never quit and Griffin had a GREAT game. Way to go, Griff!

2 - Holden's Highlanders faced-off against the Cincinnati Buckeyes. And... through 5 innings, the Highlanders were in the midst of their SECOND perfect game in as many weeks. The 'perfection' didn't hold up, but the Highlanders went on to win 11-0. Outstanding, Highlanders! Holden went 1 for two at the plate and delivered yet another solid performance at (what is known as 'shutdown corner' when he plays) 3rd base. Congrats, Holden!

3 - Duncan's Heat roughed up the Westside Waririors. A very-well played, fundamentally sound game turned in by ALL the Heat. Great pitching and fielding. And EVERYONE was hitting! Duncan went 1 for 3 at the plate, plating 3 runs and scoring one of his own. And... his third RBI was the one that put the Heat up 13-3. Game over. Atta Boy, Duncan!

Overall... it was a super day! Paxton's Rockets had a BYE this week. And Cameron's Heat prepares this coming week for what will be their first game of the season (next weekend).

1 Godfather, 2 Games

Two games this evening. And, pictured here, Duncan's godfather was in town for both of them.

Duncan's Heat had a fantastic game. They took on the DAA Diamondbacks. The Heat enjoyed a very well-played 12-2 thrashing of this evening's opponent. And Duncan had a terrific night too... going 1 for 2 at the plate, 2 RBIs, and scoring a run as well. Well-done, Duncan!

Holden and the Highlanders were pitted against the Westside Bulldogs. Great history between these two teams... for the past several years they typically split a couple games throughout each season. The games themselves are usually among the most competitive you'll ever see. Last year, after splitting two hotly-contested games throughout the regular season, the two teams met up in the City Tournament. Holden and his teammates prevailed... happily ending the Bulldogs' season. Unfortunately (you know the saying... "every dog has it's day"), the Bulldogs went away this evening with a 5-4 victory (with the Highlanders stranding what would have been their 5th run on third-base each of the final two innings). Tough one to swallow. Excellent game, though. Great job, Holden!

Thanks for making it to tonight's games, Timmy. As always... it was great seeing you. And the boys had a blast having you around too. I'll be keeping your dad in my thoughts and prayers.

'The Heat Is On' - VIDEO

Cameron and the 'AA' Heat finally got in some outdoor practice today. They get started at this level later than the other boys. And the past couple weekends have been rainouts. Net... today the 'AA' Heat finally got in some practice hittin' the field. This is Cameron's first year in 'AA'. Today, his team scrimmaged the older 'AA' squad. Nice weather, some very good baseball. All set to some Allman Brothers (play the video). Great stuff!!!

Remember Tom Browning?

Well... we'll get to Tom (Mr. Perfect) in just a moment.

For starters, I have to say... the day was better-suited for football or soccer. Just a few weeks from June, and the wind was whippin' cool (cold) air around like nobody's business!

The day started with Griffin's Dodgers going up against the Westside Bulldogs. Mind you, Griffin's team has not yet played a game this season beyond the third inning. And this morning, they found themselves playing into the 4th and 5th innings with the Bulldogs. Both teams wanted this one badly. But in the end, the Bulldogs bested Griffin's team 13-11.

Duncan's Heat squared-off with J-Taps BBA. I'm never one to make excuses... (however) suffice to say, this is the Heat's first year in 'B' ball. And it's J-Taps' second year. This became fairly obvious soon after the start of the game. Heat loses, 14-4.

Paxton's Rockets had their hands full with Harris Motors BBA. Hats off to 'Harris'... that is one fine-tuned, fundamentally sound little team. Rockets lose, 14-0.

So --- back to Tom Browning. I can still tell you where I was the evening of September 16, 1988. I clearly recall who I was with... and we became fairly riveted to the t.v. screen as Tom Browning threw what became the Reds' first (and only) perfect game. Not to over-dramatize this morning's game between Holden's Highlanders & the Westside Panthers... BUT, Holden's team enjoyed the ride as one of their teammates threw a perfect game. No hits, no walks, no runners making it to base, in ANY way. Period! Highlanders WIN!

1 Up, 1 Down

Busy night for the boys. Kim & Duncan went to the Reds game (KidGlove Game for Duncan's Team). Griffin had practice. Cameron had to work. And... Paxton & Holden each had games.

Paxton's Rockets took on the Covedale Rockets. And folks, for the 3+ innings I was there, the Rockets looked really good. When I left, the Rockets were up 4-2. Later on in the evening when I looped back with Pax, I learned the Rockets had one of those tough innings after I left. Sorry to say, the Rockets went down 8-4. Paxton had his head high though, trooper that he is (nothing ever seems to get that kid down). He felt great about how the team played. Truth be told, they really did play very well (save that 1 inning). And Paxton played a really solid game at shortstop as well. We'll just keep going back at it. Good things will come.

Holden's Highlanders had their way with the Cincinnati Buckeyes! Woo-Hoo!!! In an 11-4 romp, the Highlanders shook-off a dozen or so monkeys from their collective backs. As a whole, the team did great. By the time I had picked Cameron up from work and we made our way to the game, the Highlanders were just a few outs away from sealing the deal. We were there, however, to witness Holden crushing a ball to left-center for a stand-up double. Holden was also his usual rock-steady self at shortstop this evening. Way to go, Highlanders!

Call It A Draw (maybe)

Duncan's 'Heat' took on the Westside Sharks this evening. After 2+ hours of play and knotted at 6 runs each (with a couple of fairly impatient softball teams waiting to get on the field)... the umpires played the old 'time limit' card. So... tonight's game could end up going one of two ways. It could actually be recorded as a tie. Or, with the coaches from each team able to agree to terms, we might get to see the game resumed and have the final inning played through. To be continued (hopefully).

Deja-vu: Back to the Cages

Cameron finally got his turn this afternoon. After having had to sit back and watch the other four boys practicing and playing for the past almost-8 weeks, Cameron and his 'AA' Heat team took some batting practice today (yes... bp, indoors, thanks to the continued rain). Teams at this level get a later start than others (and it's been driving Cameron CRAZY to not be getting things underway). It was a very good afternoon... Cameron got lots of very good time in the cage. He also caught for one of the team's pitchers for about 30 minutes.

Raindrops Keep Fallin' On My Head

Another rainy saturday... and another 4 games postponed. We got 3 games behind last week, and now today another 4. We were able to make-up 1 of last week's games this past week. So, as of right now... we're behind-schedule 6 games.

Hey... Buttermaker!

I'm not sayin' we've got a 'Bad News Bears' thing going on here (at least not yet). But... can a brother get a win? PLEEZ??? Duncan & Holden each had games this evening.

Duncan's Heat played Mazzaro's. The big 'D' went 1 for 3 at the plate. He added a stolen base in the process. The Heat went into the last inning down by only 1 run. And then before ya know it... Heat loses, 7-1.

Holden's Highlanders... well, lets just leave it at they played the defending City Champions this evening. And those defending champs, Mack Fire Department, played as though they've not missed a beat from last year's title. Holden went 1 for 2 at the plate. He pitched and also played shortstop. The final score was... well, unless you had an abacus, it was kind of hard to keep up with the score.

This has been such a non-KelleyBoys start to a season. It's got us all kind of scratching our heads. O well, I know we're early on in the course of things. All things in good time. Right? Right?? Please???

Sunman, Indiana

Ahhhh... Sunman. Home of... well, I'm not quite sure. George's Pharmacy is there. I know because it was offered to me as a 'landmark' as I tried to find this evening's destination. This little blip on the map is also home to the Sunman Elementary School Indians. Other than that... a lot of open space. Don't blink, though --- you're liable to miss it Trust me. I did. But hey, Paxton and I got to spend some quality 1:1 time in the car on the way there and home.

I'll say this much... the Indians can flat-out HIT. And hit they did... often and far! Those boys, at least to me, appear to be corn-fed and bred to play ball. A very good team, indeed. To give you an idea of the setting... a ball hit foul down the third-base line at this evening's field had to be retrieved from what I can only imagine will be a many-acres-big corn field once the crop comes in. The game itself was not much to talk about about. But in all seriousness, win or lose --- I'll take an evening hanging with any of the boys and watching a baseball game over almost anything else that comes to mind. Get 'em next time, Pax. I enjoyed the evening all the same.

Sorry, Folks --- Parks (Are) Closed!

"The moose out front should have told you." Man... I LOVE that movie!!!

Well, as indicated, LOTS of parks are closed today. Four of the boys were scheduled to be in four different locations today (including 2 in different locations in INDIANA). Suffice to say, the rain that came overnight seems to have covered a pretty broad area. Imagine the drill... 6:45-7am, it's raining, four rainout numbers to call, etc. No real problem, though. Of course, at the end of the day, we'd rather have played games than not (gonna have to be made up anyway, and likely in the middle of an already-busy-enough week sometime in the near future). But no biggie. There are plenty of other things going on this weekend to keep everyone more than busy enough.

John Candy ROCKS!

shhhhhhhh... a WIN!!!

The monkey has officially been removed (at least for the time being... lol!). Duncan's Heat finally put one in the 'W' column. After a sluggish '0-2' start... The Heat happened ALL OVER the Friars Club. Winning 12-2, this one never even got to the final inning. Duncan's team delivered an all-around solid performance. Much better pitching, hitting AND fielding (simply AMAZING what can happen when you put those things together!). Duncan had a great evening... a 2-RBI single, a couple stolen bases, a couple fielding gems throwing a runner out at second from Right Field and laying a tag on another runner while playing 2nd Base. Way to go, Duncan!

It was a rare evening... we were all able to be there (as opposed to running to all points, from this game to that game and everywhere in between) and cheer The Heat on. And 'special thanks' to Tim for stopping by. Tim was Holden's coach years ago and does a great job of still making it to a KelleyBoy game when he can. Tim, as you so readily pointed out, it must be because you and Deb were there tonight that Duncan's team clawed into victory lane.

Week 2 - Still Searching For A Win

Another week, another four games. And we're still 0-fer. For those of you keeping track, that now puts the boys atop a big '0-8' for the season. Well, technically speaking, the two games Paxton's team dropped last weekend were pre-season tourney games. So... just like that, it's ALREADY a brighter picture. Thus far, the KelleyBoys are '0-6' to open the season.

Griffin, DAA Dodgers vs. Delhi Eagles - these guys have their work cut-out for them. They're in the first year of 'kid pitch', and the learning curve appears to be ever-looming. Griffin had a great day behind the plate. 'Nuff said.

Paxton, DAA Rockets vs. Mack Highlanders - Still trying to figure out what happened with this one (well, i was there, and I KNOW what happened...) This game was knotted-up 5-all until the fourth inning. And then the wheels fell-off. Pitching got a little rocky, many (many many many) runs were walked across the plate. Next thing you know, it was over. Paxton was terrific at 2nd Base today.

Duncan, Cincinnati Heat vs. Covedale Storm - this has become an excellent rivalry over the past couple years. The two teams pretty much alternate every outing. Unfortunately today was Covedale's turn. In a tightly contested 3-1 game... Duncan had a couple outstanding plays out in Left Field... including one phenomenal run-saving catch.

Holden, DAA Highlanders vs. Bridgetown Sparks - another real 'head-scratcher'. This one was all tied-up (1-all) after three innings. Then it was 3-all. And then, in the final inning, the Sparks went up 6-3. Holden's team couldn't manufacture 3 runs in their final at bat.

All in all... the boys each did very well today. And once again, the weather was outstanding (so who can complain?). We're ALWAYS about having fun and improving when it comes to sports around here. Typically (as will be the case this season, I'm sure), the wins have a way of coming,

PLAY BALL!!! video

Today was Opening Day, KelleyBoys style. Unfortunately, TeamKelley kinda stumbled out of the gate. But hey... every season has to start somewhere. Right?!?

Griffin - DAA Dodgers: The morning started with Griffin's team embroiled in a herculean battle with the UCB Muckdogs... with the Dodgers going down 16-1 (OUCH!)

Duncan - Cincinnati Heat: The Heat struggled today to get much offense going. This game was a lot closer than the final score indicates. But a couple REALLY BAD innings can break one open. Final... Harrison Hawks 11, Cincinnati Heat 1

Paxton - DAA Rockets: We closed the day out in northern KY. Paxton's Rockets hung in there with the Boone County Reds... only to fall in the final inning by a score of 5-2.

(Holden's team opened the season with a BYE, and Cameron's team starts playing games mid-May)

It was a beautiful day. The weather was stellar. We started in Bridgetown, made our way to Harrison (Crosby County) and wound things up in Latonia (Covington), KY. All in all... it's always great to get some games under the belt. As for the '0-fer'... nobody here is gonna lose sleep over that. The boys know ya win some, ya lose some. Here's hopin' the 'ya win some' part is comin' sometime in the near future. :)

@ the Reds Game

Thanks, Holden, for taking me the Reds game this evening! And congratulations on yet another pair of Straight A tix!
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Behind the Plate

Griffin was in full gear this evening. Carrying on a fairly lengthy and storied tradition, Griffin is yet another Kelley Boy who loves being behind the plate. Absolutely gorgeous evening... sunny, 80+ degrees. Weather permitting, we'll start getting some games in this weekend. Big-Time Pumped about that!
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VIDEO - 'Mess Around'

We've been on a run of great weather this week and the boys have been practicing A LOT! Here, in the video --- some sights and sounds from Holden's & Duncan's practices yesterday evening.

Inventory... IT'S GO TIME!!!

What wears ten cleats, has 10 batting gloves (and so on, and so on)? You get the idea. Pictured here... a glance of the boys' preparedness for the season. We're nearly good to go. With the exception of a new bat for Cameron (and you can bet he's gonna be picking up a good piece of that tab), and a couple question marks re: cleats fitting a couple of the boys for the duration of the season... we're in good shape. Gloves, bats, cleats, hats, batting gloves, cups, equipment bags. Practices have continued thus far (except for this evening --- rain has had something to say about that). Cameron's team (AA, Heat) start about a month after the rest of the others' teams --- and his first practice is scheduled for this weekend. So, it's all on. Paxton's team (C, DAA Rockets) has a double-header in a pre-season tournament this weekend (with the possibility of another game or so depending how the double-header goes). Griffin's team (D, DAA Dodgers) has a pre-season game this weekend as well. You can almost hear and smell it, eh? Yeah... the boys are pretty geeked. We all are!

The Great Outdoors!

Sunny, 60 degrees... and lots of baseball! Today 2 of the boys (Paxton and Holden) practiced outdoors. Duncan's team has time slotted at the cages. It's GREAT to be outside, seein' the boys playin ' some ball. Still no official schedules for games. But we DO know games begin 1st or 2nd week of April (very soon!). As of now, we're also getting a very good idea of what each team's practice schedule is gonna look like. Even tho we've been at it for a month or so already, it's all starting to feel 'real'! Lovin' it!
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Another Accomplishment

Well... it's official. We are now in full-out, all-things-baseball mode. Paxton swam his last competitive event this past weekend. Earlier in the season, he qualified for the 'State' level championship in 50 yard backstroke. The State meet was held at Miami University, where Paxton was one of 39 boys to qualify for this particular event. Paxton was just (barely) edged out in his heat (of the overall preliminaries), coming in 2nd Place. When it was all said and done (and the 39 boys had their go at it), Paxton missed the cut for the finals by 1/2 second. Of course he was very disappointed. BUT!!!... tons to feel great about. He's been swimming (and WINNING a LOT) all season against boys who have been doing this for years. This being Paxton's first season, everyone has been blown away by his success. Simply qualifying for State is quite the feat in and of itself. And... the time he swam Saturday was a full second faster than the time he qualified with less than two months ago. So, that's great improvement! I know Paxton is excited about baseball. But I also know he's already thinking about next season's swimming, getting better, getting back to where he wants to be (State), etc. We're VERY proud of you, Pax. Way to go!

All In Good Time...

Like so many other good things... baseball can't (won't) be rushed in this house. Already with more than a half dozen BP sessions and a handful of various kinds of meetings under our collective belt... two of the boys continue moving through the end of two other sports' seasons. Duncan (on the right, shown in the pic) and his basketball team have finally called it a season. This past weekend saw them take 2nd Place in the Holy Family Tournament. D's team also got got ousted from the City Tournament. Overall, though, their team has so much to be proud of... running the table in the regular season, winning the league, a berth in the City Tournament and runners-up in HF's tourney. Great job, Duncan! Paxton (on the left, shown in the pic) is also still swimming. Sectionals were this weekend. P won one medal and and three ribbons. He's also timed well enough in 50yrd Backstroke (earlier in the season) to swim next week in the Ohio YMCA Championships. Excellent work, Paxton!

Cage Ragin'

Duncan's turn tonight. Here we are, in (YET!) another cage. But it's all good fun. Duncan took some good cuts. And his team looks pretty good (as good, that is, as any team can look this time of year... before all the off-season rust is knocked off). But it's another session under the belt, and another step closer to the real thing. Bring it on!

We Interrupt This Blog...

Congratulations to Duncan. Pictured here with some 'hardware', Duncan's basketball team (Holy Family Cougars) ran the table in their league this season (hence, the trophy). Winning the league with a perfect '9-0' record, the Cougars earned a berth in the City Tournament. City gets underway weekend of March 5th. Also, the Cougars won the first round of Holy Family's annual postseason invitational tourney last night, routing St Teresa 38-17. Way to go, Duncan!

Random Thoughts - Injuries

I mentioned earlier that Duncan missed a portion of last season with a broken arm. It occurred to me this afternoon... Paxton ALSO missed about a month of last season. He took a shot to the eye (playing wiffle ball --- see pic) and ended up with some fairly serious 'downtime'. Without going into the details, it was a very serious injury. Thankfully, he recovered fully. So... just as Duncan is looking forward to an uninterrupted season, Paxton is geeked about getting this season underway for the same reason.

Another day, another boy, another cage

Here's Paxton taking some swings this afternoon. All this 'pre-work' usually has a way of paying off big by the time the boys hit the fields outside. (Different topic... go USA! Beat Canada and take Olympic Gold from them on their home ice!)
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And so it begins...

There's Holden (see pic) in the batting cage this morning. As the 2010 baseball season rolls into motion, a few of the boys' teams have already gotten in some batting practice (BP). Paxton has had a couple sessions over the past 2 weeks. Today was Holden's first of the year. Duncan has BP this coming week. Nothing like seeing everyone in the cages trying to knock off the rust from the off-season. As the season looms, some changes have taken place. Our District (14) and District 6 have agreed to play 'cross-district' schedules. This will mean more games (among other changes such as playing teams we've never played before, playing in places we've never played before). It's looking as though each team's schedule will be expanded to 24 games. Do the math... that's (minimum?) 120 games to be played (not to mention the typical 8 - 10 practices per week) this year for the fivekelleyboys. Here's a quick look at each boy.

Griffin (Delhi Athletic Association, 'D1') --- After having logged 2 yrs in t-ball, and 2 more yrs in Coach Pitch, Griffin (FINALLY) moves into 'real' baseball this season. He and his teammates will, for the first time ever, face-off against kids pitching from other teams. Having gone through 'D'-level ball 4x with the other boys, I can attest to the fact this can (at least occasionally) be some fairly painful ball to watch. Did I say 'painful'? Among changes stemming from District 14 & 6 'merging', one of the new rules this season will be 'no time limits' on games --- o Lord, help us. But it's also VERY exciting to see another one of our boys progressing. Griffin has been an outstanding catcher and infielder in the past. We'll see what comes of this season.

Paxton (Delhi Athletic Association, 'C2' Rockets) --- Paxton has been with the Rockets for 3 years now. They've made some pretty tremendous progress and enjoy the stability that comes from having the same coach and playing with virtually the same teammates over the last 2 seasons. Paxton is also a great catcher. He's his coach's 'little general' behind the plate and does a great job of running the game. On occasion, Paxton will also be put in left or centerfield because of his arm-strength.

Duncan (Cincinnati Heat, 'B1') --- Coming into his third season with the same coaches and teammates, Duncan is looking forward to trying to match / exceed last year's success. This team made it to the City Tournament last season, and I know they have the 'unfinished business' mentality going on. Duncan spends his time changing positions from catcher and 2nd baseman. He loves them both, but he REALLY excels at 2nd Base. Duncan had a broken arm for part of last season, and I know he's looking forward to getting a full (uninterrupted) season underway.

Holden (Delhi Athletic Association, 'A1' Highlanders) --- Holden will be playing for the same coach as Cameron last year. At BP this morning I got to see Holden's team for the first time this season. It's a LOT of the same boys from his team last year, and a handful of boys Holden has played with in years past (and I'm cautiously optimistic about this group's chances... we'll see how things go). Holden has always been a phenomenal 3rd baseman. And over the last 2 seasons, he has become an excellent pitcher. He even threw a no-hitter last season (unfortunately, while Cameron & I were out of the country --- so I'm hoping to 'atone' for that absence this year).

Cameron (Cincinnati Heat, 'AA1') --- This will be Cameron's first year at this level. It's truly amazing to watch the ability of some of these young men as they play. Cameron has ALWAYS been an exceptional catcher (one of my favorite things over the years is to observe the look of frustration on the many opposing players that try to steal 2nd or 3rd while Cameron is behind the plate --- he's an assassin!). And it looks as though he'll carry-on as such this season. This will also be his first season with the 'Heat'. Having played all his seasons in the past with DAA, this will be a bit of a change for him. But, a change he is more than a little excited about.

So there ya have it. A glimpse of the fivekelleyboys and their upcoming baseball season. Things will be more hectic this season than ever before (120 or more games, etc). But we're up for it, and more importantly we're up TO it (though it will be no small feat, I'm sure). I'll be updating this blog as the season unfolds and moves on, so if you think to --- check out how things are going with the boys.