Bammel Falls to 1-1 on a Humid Softball Night

Associated Press - Wire Feed

NCS BASEBALL FIELD - There's an old fall co-ed softball saying that wisely states, "You can't steal first base." Actually, you can't steal any bases in co-ed softball and it's an old baseball saying, not a softball saying. Nonetheless, the point still applies. Bammel had a tough time getting runners to first, second and third base on Monday night as they lost for the first time in the 2011 season to a sound Champions church of Christ team --- albeit a team raising the eyebrows of several scouts while fulfilling the co-ed requirement by the slimmest of margins. The loss drops Bammel to 1-1 on the season but that is marked improvement over other professional ball clubs in the Houston area.

Given the interruption of a rainout last week (September 19), it was understandable that the team chemistry might suffer after the extended layoff. However, no one could predict the dire straits of the roster as only nine players showed up for the Monday nightcap against Champions. The team astutely played the hand it was dealt by organizing an outfield of Taylor Rathbun, Macy Archer and Robyn Archer from left to right field. This combination of youth and speed was balanced by a battle-tested infield consisting of Caleb Davis (3b), Jason Dyniewski (ss), Cassie Miller (2b), Taylor Huff (1b), Dennis Huff (p) and Danielle Savaria (c). It came as no surprise that the team tried to limit wear-and-tear on some of its players with "mileage" while letting the young whipper-snappers roam the spacious outfield landscape.

The defensive alignment worked well as every player was involved at various points in the game. Cassie, Jason and Dennis danced like stars with one another while turning several key force-outs at 2B. Caleb and Taylor were steady stalwarts at the corners while the three-man outfield kept the plays in front of them. The outfield numbers were reinforced midway through the contest as Taylor Mulder was enlisted into duty and took up post in LF. Without any time to watch game film, the team was able to limit the damage by the Champions bats and hold their opponent to five runs --- a total that would ensure victory on many softball nights.

Unfortunately, the lack of roster depth was exposed on the offensive side as Bammel was done in by a combination of off hitting, consistent Champions defense and a surplus of humidity. Several players noted how the humidity really reduced the carry of the ball though it was later pointed out that most of the balls were ground ball outs to the infield. In fairness, the team was also hurt by inconsistent pitching at times as Jason Dyniewski had trouble with his control and reached his pitch count of 30 underhand pitches early in the evening. Talking with reporters after the game, Mr. Dyniewski alluded to the development of a blister on his pitching hand though many beat writers were baffled by this claim. The lone bright spot on offense came in the sixth inning as Macy Archer scored from first base on an opposite-field double from Dennis Huff. Alas, it would not be enough on this night as Bammel fell 5-1.

Even in a losing effort, there were several positive story lines to keep a close eye on for the remainder of the season. It was noted that the Dennis-Taylor Huff combo is likely the first father-daughter combination in recent, if not all, Bammel co-ed softball history. Additionally, Robyn Archer admirably put aside pre-game grievances over lack of a contract extension to continue the Archer family consecutive games streak --- currently at 2 --- of manning the outfield with her brother, Macy. Most importantly, Cassie Miller exhibited a disciplined approach in the field to remain unscathed and healthy as she prepares to take leave on family vacation next week.

Sadly, contract discussions with Dr. Bob Stewart are on-going and talks with Hillary Wiese have deteriorated to the point that she was not present in the clubhouse on Monday night. Rumor has it that she was still recovering from a lavish birthday blowout though her agent declined to comment.

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Fans are in for a great show next week as Bammel has a double-header on the schedule against Spring Creek and Champions. The general public will be treated to a two-games-for-the-price-of-none deal as the team picks up next Monday, October 3 with games at 7pm and 8pm. All fans arriving at the park early will be able to meet their favorite Bammel players who will be handing out autographed hymnals.

See you at the park!