New Lenox, IL - Tony's look says it all. Gnaturals took one on the chin versus previously winless Storm Riders on an absolute miserable night at the Lions Den that featured 100+ degree heat index, full humidity, no wind, gnats buzzing, and the threat of thunderstorms that never came. Zlogar started the game on the hill for the Gnaturals but was replaced after a couple of innings when he couldn't find the strike zone nor ump Carl was able to call a strike. Gnats chased all night long and chipped away at the Storm Riders, ultimately falling to them by the score of 18-15. If you are a fan of bad defense and apathetic hitting, Tuesday night was your night as the game featured plenty of those elements. Among the highlights were Ken getting back on the hitting track in contributing 3 RBI, and Ryno getting two late hits good for 3 RBI. The loss brings the Gnats summer record to 3-6 as they stay unaffected in the standings sitting a solid 6th place with a likely date in the playoffs versus either Beggars or Ivy League. The regular season finale is Tuesday, July 12th at 6:30 against the Scrappers. It's bring your own booze to the game night so let's see you all out there early to support your pesty Gnaturals finish the regular season on a high note.
Noteables:
Pink Whitney - The official adult beverage of Arik With An A. Arik, looks like you have 8ish waiting for you in Koz's freezer unless Krystal punched down a few. Doubtful that the Digiorno pizza will still be there though.
Inane Stat of the Week - Run differential is a leading indicator of what a team's record should be at any given point in time. The Pythagorean Calculator exists to determine the outcome. Below is the actual records of the Tuesday Men's Softball League heading into tonight's action with projections of what the run differential suggests the record should be as of 8 games played.
What Does This Mean? - Scrappers and Beggars are slightly overachieving by one win each. Storm Riders are not as bad as you think and should have two victories based on their run differential. Everyone else pretty much is who they is.
Bite In The Ass - Not so inane stat, which was written prior to the game last night. Storm Riders did in fact win their first game of the season, which is a boon to all of those who took them straight up on the money line.
3K - The Gnaturals accomplished a rare feat in the 2nd inning of last night's contest as three batters came to the plate and all struck out on foul balls.
Five - Strikeouts on the evening with four on fouls and one looking. That comes out just shy of a quarter of the game the Storm Riders did not need to make a defensive play.
Three in the Third - A tribute to a man almost none of you know, the late Tom Hinsdale. Also Jack recording all three putouts in the third inning spaced around four Storm Rider runs.
Carl Spankler - Don't get him confused with the groundskeeper at Bushwood Country Club, Carl Spackler. Ump Carl absolutely is one of the worst to call a game at the Lions Den. This dude clearly thinks the game is about him and for some reason, the Gnats have drawn his ire as two distinct strike zones existed last night. One in which a Gnat batter was struck in the foot with the ball and it was called a strike. Z was wild but he wasn't that wild with literally no wind during the entire game. Ry didn't fare much better with the Carl strike zone.
If It Makes You Feel Better - Ump Carl called a ball on Gino in the 9:30 game for an illegal delivery. Gino has pitched quite a few games in his time and is anything but deceptive or maniacal on the hill. Maybe Ump Carl went to school with some of you guys and you didn't treat him well?
Insult to Injury - Ry, seen here hurling on Tuesday night for the Gnats, had double duty as he was summonsed to play at 9:30 for Tri-Star. Ry started in the outfield but had to switch to first base after pulling a muscle running down the first base line. Hope you're ok Ry.
Late Night Magic - Zlogar also stayed to play with Tri-Star and made a fine over the shoulder running catch in left field as he approached the fence. Z contributed with some pop as he had a few hits in his stint for the cabinet makers.
Drawing Board - The Gnats had a post-game meeting to discuss the results and how to improve going forward. Seen here is Dom leading the discussion on the finer points of outfielders taking the first step back on fly balls with artist Jeff capturing the notes in charcoal.
It's On Now - Move over Jeff, Zoot Suit has just thrown his hat in the ring on best mustache. We'll compile all of the mustache pics as the years go by and have a vote on New Lenox Settlers Day 2035 to determine the winner.
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