Florida Legends Baseball Club

September 30, 2009 - Legends add Kelly, Barnes to 2010 Roster

The Florida Legends have added two more pieces to the puzzle that will get them to Farmington in 2010.

Adderick Kelly, a 6'2", 180lb senior from Trinity Christian in Palm Beach, FL will solidify the Legends middle infield defense in 2010 as he will see time as shortstop and second base. Adderick will also see time on the mound as the right-hander will look to help the Legends in relief situations.

Brandon Barnes, a Junior out of St. Thomas Aquinas, will join Kelly and the other talented Legends infielders in 2010. The 6'1", 170lb infielder will look to be a big part of the Legends lineup in 2010 as well.

September 22, 2009 - 2010 Legends Roster

Your Florida Legends have announced it's first round of commitments for the 2010 season. The 2010 roster will feature some new faces, but lots of old ones as well. 2010 will feature 8 returning players from the 2009 squad that was one game short of the Connie Mack World Series Championship Game. Manny Machado, Andy Suarez, Julian Santos, Rangel Ravelo, Shane Rowland, Jack Lopez, Shaun Zabriski, and David Vazquez will all be wearing the famous Legends' pinstripes in 2010 and hope to lead the Legends back to the Connie Mack World Series.

New faces will also be wearing the Legends' pinstripes during the summer of 2010. Bryan Radziewski and A.J. Salcinas, both Left-Handers from Florida Christian, Andres Perez-Lobo, Right-Hander from Columbus, John Barbato from Varela High School, Montana Dvorak from Deltona will all take the mound and try to pitch the Legends back to Farmington in 2010.

On the offensive side of the ball, The Legends will have Juan Gomes from Southridge High, Kevin Mesquite from Highlands Christian, and Shortstop Adderick Kelly from Trinity Christian join a star-studded cast in the Legends lineup.

The 2010 Legends will mix it's veteran talent, and new faces and will continue to work hard in order to be Farmington Bound in 2010. Look below from the complete list of 2010 commitments.

Julian Santos- OF, Killian High School

Shane Rowland- C, Tampa Catholic

Manny Machado- SS, Brito Private

Rangel Ravelo- 3B, Hialeah High

David Vazquez- OF/INF, Arch. Mcarthy High

Jack Lopez- SS/2B Deltona

Andy Suarez- LHP Columbus High

Shaun Zabriski- RHP, North Broward Prep

John Barbato- RHP, Varela High School

Bryan Radziewski- LHP, Florida Christian

Andy Perez-Lobo- RHP, Columbus

Kevin Mesquite - MIF, Highlands Christians

Juan Gomes- OF, Southridge

A.J. Salcinas-LHP, Florida Christian

Montana Dvorak-RHP, Deltona

Adderick Kelly-SS/RHP, Trinity Chritstian

August 16, 2009 -

Redskins, Legends players highlight CMWS awards
By Christopher Smith The Daily Times

FARMINGTON - The awards keep coming for the Midland (Ohio) Redskins.

A Connie Mack World Series best six players from the Redskins made the All-Tournament team.

Midland, which beat the Dallas DBAT Mustangs 7-1 on Friday for their 11th CMWS title, combined with the Mustangs and Florida Legends to boast all but one of the individual post-tournament award winners. "We get the best of the best. This is a great program," Midland shortstop Deven Marrero said.

"(Manager) Papa Joe (Hayden) takes care of us really, really well. He wants the best so he goes out there and he gets them. We respect him and he's awesome. We've got a lot of talent and it obviously shows."

Marrero hit .471 with 6 RBIs and a .591 on base percentage. Coupled with a perfect tournament from the field, he won the Lincoln Hackim Most Valuable Player in a unanimous vote.

A 17th-round draft pick by the Cincinnati Reds, a team likely would have selected Marerro higher if they thought they could sign him. He'll attend Arizona State in the fall and remains steadfast about wanting to attend school.

"It would have to pay first round, something like that (for me to consider MLB)," he said. "I wanted to go to school from the beginning so it really didn't matter that much."

Marrero's teammates earned their share of acclaim at the CMWS.

Third baseman Graham Saiko wrested the Gold Glove award from his Redskins teammate, combining with Marrero to form a nearly impenetrable left side of the infield.

"We have a really good bond with each other and we call ourselves the Strong Side," Marerro said of his close friend. "He's a tremendous player and a great athlete. Hopefully he'll be in the Major Leagues one day."

Saiko helped his cause in Friday's championship game with a heady double play, employing a snap tag at third and throwing a one-hopper to get a second out at first after catching a sharp grounder. Saiko's play ended the Dallas DBAT Mustangs' greatest threat and prevented them from taking a third-inning lead.

Midland's Alex Panteloidis topped the list of four All-Tournament pitchers. Panteloidis pitched two complete games, including the championship. He allowed one run and eight hits in 14 innings and struck out 12 batters.

"What more can you ask for?" Redskins manager Joe Hayden said, calling Panteloidis' performance the best of the final game.

His opponent, Mustangs starter Corey Brooks, also made the All-Tournament team after throwing a one-hit shutout against the Four Corners Thunder on Tuesday.

Florida Legends' Eddy Pidermann, who threw a no-hitter against the Bayamon (Puerto Rico) Giants, and Redskins' Taylor Rogers rounded out the staff.

"It was nice to leave a mark in the record books," Pidermann said. "I didn't think it was going to be that big, but when I found out there was only six or seven other no hitters in the history, it was a cool feeling to know that I was one of them."

The Legends placed five players on the All-Tournament team, second to the Redskins.

"The team we had was one of the best teams. We're so united and we're just a big family," said outfielder Danny Machado, one of the five. "I'll remember this forever. It was a great experience."

Legends second baseman Eric Acevedo won the individual batting title. Acevedo hit .533 for the tournament, driving in six runs.

"It's such an honor to be recognized on an elite squad that shows some of the best players in the tournament," Acevedo said. "We came here with one goal and that was to achieve greatness. We came close. We weren't able to finish it, but to go home and know that you were recognized as one of the top players, with the tradition, it's a great feeling."

Acevedo, like Marerro, said his next goal is to win a championship at the NCAA level. He'll play for Florida Gulf Coast University in Fort Myers, Fla.

Acevedo said Saturday's opening game, a 10-1 win over the Mustangs, played a key role in his batting title.

"The first day, everyone has jitters. The first game is very tough to get out of the way," he said. "I just thought in my mind that I just had to put the ball in play and that's exactly what I did. I got that line drive off the wall in right field and I guess that was the ice breaker for me.

"Being in great competition makes me a better player and I think I came out of my shell there."

The All-Tournament team also included first baseman Danny Canela (Legends), third baseman Preston Beck (Mustangs), catcher Abel Baker (Mustangs), designated hitter Dane Phillips (Redskins), utility man Jonathan Walsh (Dallas Tigers) and outfielders David Vazquez (Legends), Brian Goodwin (Redskins) and Mason Williams (Redskins).

Walsh of the Tigers won the Big Stick award with three doubles, tops in the tournament. Walsh hit .545 with an .818 slugging percentage. He would've led the tournament in each category but did not qualify for the minimum 10 at-bats or 15 plate appearances.

The Danville Hoots won the C.O. Brown Team Sportsmanship award after losing two close games.

The team stats backed Midland's status as the tournament's best collection of talent. The Redskins led the CMWS in batting average (.345), ERA (2.33) and strikeouts (46).

"We're still really excited. Being national champs is a big thing, especially with all the great teams that are out there now," Marerro said from the airport Saturday. "It's a pretty amazing feeling."

Midland reclaimed its status as the greatest dynasty in CMWS history. The East Cobb (Ga.) Yankees had threatened, winning five of the last 10 CMWS titles entering this year, including a 4-2 win over the Redskins in last year's championship.

The Legends eliminated the Yankees on Wednesday and the Redskins celebrated their second championship in three years, diving on top of Panteloidis near the mound.

The Redskins, aiming for their 20th consecutive appearance next year, return many of their players. More than half of their 20-man roster is 16 or 17 years old.

All-Tournament Team

First Base: Danny Canela, Florida Legends

Second Base: Eric Aceveo, Florida Legends

Third Base: Preston Beck, Dallas DBAT Mustangs

Shortstop: Deven Marerro, Midland Redskins

Catcher: Abel Baker, Dallas DBAT Mustangs

Designated Hitter: Dane Phillips, Midland Redskins

Utility: Jonathan Walsh, Dallas Tigers

Outfielders: David Vasquez, Florida Legends; Brian Goodwin, Midland Redskins; Mason Williams, Midland Redskins; Danny Machado, Florida Legends.

Pitchers: Alex Panteloidis, Midland Redskins; Corey Brooks, Dallas DBAT Mustangs; Eddy Pidermann, Florida Legends; Taylor Rogers, Midland Redskins.

Special Awards

Lincoln Hackim Most Valuable Player: Devon Marerro

C.O. Brown Team Sportsmanship: Danville (Calif.) Hoots

Gold Glove: Graham Saiko, Midland Redskins

Big Stick: Jonathan Walsh, Dallas Tigers

Joe Cooper Individual Batting Champion: Eric Acevedo

August 16, 2009 -

Vaughan: CMWS behind the numbers
By Darren Vaughan The Daily Times

And so it ended Friday night � the 45th edition of Farmington's favorite midsummer event, the Connie Mack World Series.

As always, the action thrilled the crowd each night at Ricketts Park, whether it was a towering home run, masterful pitching, slick fielding, or even the way the runners performed their delicate balancing act of Frito pies, hot dogs and Cokes on the same tray without spilling so much as a drop.

But one thing that sticks out year after year are some of the incredible numbers that come out of the Connie Mack World Series. Some of the stats that come out of this week of baseball can resemble a video game, while others are an indicator of what the future holds for some of these ballplayers.

Here's just a few that come to mind:

.533 - The batting average posted by Florida's Eric Acevedo, tops in this year's CMWS. It's even more impressive when you consider that he batted seventh in the Legends' lineup, yet racked up a slugging percentage of .800 and an OPS of 1.388.

2 - Triples hit by Florida's Julian Santos, tying the World Series record. Santos was the No. 8 hitter for the Legends, providing this year's third-place team with a legitimate threat at the bottom of the lineup. He and Acevedo were major reasons why the Legends scored 10 runs per game in their four victories.

0.50 - he earned-run average of Midland (Ohio) Redskins pitcher Alex Panteliodis, who also pitched a tournament-high 14 innings. Panteliodis, tied with Dallas DBAT Mustangs pitcher Dylan Bundy with two wins, will head back to the University of Florida this fall.

2.33 - Team ERA for Midland in six games. The Redskins won their crown with precision pitching, recording 46 strikeouts against just 14 walks.

25 - Dallas DBAT Mustang John Michael Twichell's jersey number. With his team's fate resting on his at-bat Thursday night against Midland, Twichell's two-run home run with two outs in the top of the seventh inning gave the Mustangs a chance at the national title. Twichell also led the CMWS in the number of times he was hit by a pitch - very Don Baylor-like.

8 � Balks called by umpires during this year's CMWS, reportedly a record. Thankfully, no game was decided by a balk with a runner on third - a balk-off, if you will.

15 - Total home runs hit during the 2009 CMWS, the first since the American Amateur Baseball Congress mandated the switch from metal to wooden bats. The total number of home runs hit by all the teams would have only tied the record for home runs hit by one team in a single World Series, held by the 1997 Orange County (Calif.) Dodgers and 2002 Long Beach (Calif.) Cardinals.

0 - Hits allowed by Florida's Eddy Pidermann against the Bayamon (Puerto Rico) Giants, making Pidermann just the eighth pitcher in Connie Mack World Series history to throw a no-hitter - and just the second in the past 29 years. Pidermann joined 1967 Long Beach, Calif., pitcher Jim George; Jay Phillion, of the 1980 team from Saginaw, Mich.; and Cole Green of the 2007 Dallas Tigers as the only players to pitch a five-inning no-hitter in the CMWS. Joe Hamende (1962, Springfield, Ill.); Greg Lebeck (1965, Portland, Ore.); Dave McCormick (1966, Tordena, Calif.) and Wayne Garland (1968, Nashville, Tenn.) all pulled off the feat in complete seven-inning games.

7 - Home runs hit during last weekend's Halliburton Home Run Derby by Jake McCasland, who won the event. McCasland, playing for the host Four Corners Thunder, will be a senior this year at Piedra Vista High School and already has made a verbal commitment to play at the University of New Mexico after he graduates from PVHS.

3 - Championships won since 2000 by the Midland (Ohio) Redskins. As this year's CMWS was the final one of the decade, only East Cobb (Ga.) can claim more titles since the turn of the millennium with five.

11 - Championships won in the history of the Midland program, led since its inception by coach Joe Hayden. The Redskins won their first championship in 1984, and now have three titles in the past six World Series.

Congratulations to the Redskins, the Mustangs and all the teams that made it to Farmington in 2009. Hope to see you all again in 2010.

August 16, 2009 - Miami Herald: Legends stand out at Connie Mack World Series

BY JUSTIN AZPIAZU
jazpiazu@MiamiHerald.com

The Florida Legends baseball team quietly has become one of the top clubs in the amateur baseball world after making the semifinals of the Connie Mack World Series.

The Legends lost to the Dallas DBAT Mustangs 5-3 Friday night, falling one game short of the championship match of the 51-year-old tournament, in Farmington, N.M.

The Legends, who changed their names from the Bombers before the start of the season, have made three consecutive trips to the CMWS, a feat never accomplished by a team from Florida.

The Legends (38-5-2) cruised through the early rounds of the tournament, outscoring opponents 41-20.

In Game 10, Miami Monsignor Pace right-hander Eddy Pidermann pitched the eighth no-hitter in CMWS history -- beating Puerto Rico's Bayamon Giants 8-0.

"Pitching had carried the team, but we had been putting up a lot of runs this season,'' Legends coach Carlos Marti said.

In an effort to challenge hitters more, the league switched from aluminum bats to wood this year.

"We used wood [bats] all summer, and some teams didn't," Marti said. "As a kid, if you want to be a big prospect, scouts want to know if you can hit with wood [bats]."

Although, the CMWS might fly under the radar of even the biggest baseball fans, scouts consider it a proving ground for rising high school talent. Some of the best young prospects from around the country fight their way on to a handful of travel teams that make up the Connie Mack League.

More than 35 Major League Baseball and college scouts were at the tournament, Marti said. "The talent is definitely here. This isn't a showcase. Kids have to treat this like they treat the high school season."

The Legends, which are based in Coconut Grove, have some of the top players from South Florida on their roster. More than 90 percent of the team is from Miami-Dade and Broward counties, including 14 Miami Herald All-Dade first-team selections.

August 15, 2009 -

Florida Legends evolve into perennial powerhouse
By G. Jeff Golden The Daily Times

FARMINGTON - The Florida Legends lost 5-3 in Friday night's semifinal of the Connie Mack World Series, but the upstart powerhouse proved once again it's a perennial threat to win a championship.

The Legends outscored their opponents 41-20 in five total games during this year's tournament. Their only losses came to the two teams that played in the championship game, the Dallas DBAT Mustangs and the Midland (Ohio) Redskins.

The Legends formed in 2007 and have made three consecutive appearances at the CMWS. The organization this year equaled its 2007 tournament run, where it also lost in the semifinal round.

Florida's loss Friday carried with it an extra sting, as the team compiled five errors in a two-run loss.

"It's tough to go down not playing your best ball," coach Carlos Marti said.

The Legends have become, along with a couple other teams, an annual CMWS staple. And with the familiarity comes a rabid and growing local fanbase.

"Our host parents are unbelievable. The kids had an unbelievable time. The fans here are unbelievable. The whole experience is something you can't explain until you're here and you experience it," Marti said.

Florida opened its 2009 campaign with a 10-1 whipping of the Mustangs, who would exact their revenge five days later. The Legends then suffered a 7-0 loss to the 10-time champion Redskins.

The Legends responded with a flawless outing against the Bayamon (Puerto Rico) Giants. Pitcher Eddy Pidermann hurled the seventh no-hitter in the 51-year history of the CMWS as Florida topped the Giants 8-0 in five innings.

The historic performance will forever remain a fond memory for Pidermann, but for the competitive right-hander from Miami, the memory will be somewhat tainted by the heartbreak of defeat.

"It was the experience of a lifetime and I'll never forget it. Too bad we lost and couldn't go all the way, but it was something I'll never forget," Pidermann said. "It's nice to leave a mark in history and stuff like that, but like I said again, we didn't go all the way."

The Legends followed Pidermann's no-hitter by ousting the defending champion East Cobb (Ga. ) Yankees in a comeback 9-6 thriller.

The Florida pitching staff, which came into the tournament with a cumulative 1.39 ERA, boasted six players with an ERA under 1.00.

That dominance on the mound showed up again Thursday night as the Legends held the powerful Dallas Tigers lineup to one run in an 11-1 victory.

Florida had all the confidence in the world heading into Friday's semifinal, but they fell just short of a chance to play the Redskins in a winner-take-all final.

The failure to win a championship doesn't reflect a lack of effort, talent or success.

"These guys have had an unbelievable summer. I love these guys, they're a great team. There's no recipe here, you just have to come out and play as hard as you can, and that's what we did," Marti said.

Though the upstart squad is departing the CMWS for the third straight year without a title, the Legends winning a championship is becoming less of an if, and more of a when.

"I hope the future has us coming back here again. This never gets old, coming out here. And, you know, try to capture that elusive championship," Marti said.

August 12, 2009 - Connie Mack World Series - Florida Legends vs Bayamon Giants

Knocked out: Legends oust defending champ East Cobb (Ga.)
By Darren Vaughan The Daily Times

FARMINGTON - Florida Legends pitcher Andy Suarez wasn't going to let anything bother him Wednesday afternoon.

Not the blister on his pitching hand that wouldn't stop bleeding. Not the fact that he was facing the East Cobb (Ga.) Yankees, the defending national champions.

And certainly not that his team was facing elimination.

Suarez, a sophomore, pitched three gutsy innings for Florida, and Manny Machado delivered three key RBIs to lead the Legends to a 9-6 win over the Yankees at Ricketts Park. The win lifted Florida (3-1) into today's semifinals, where the Legends will face the Dallas Tigers at 5:15 p.m.

"I let my adrenaline take over the pain," said Suarez, whose left pant leg had streaks of blood on it from him wiping his hand between pitches. "I just wanted to give my team the most I can."

Suarez lasted just 11 batters, allowing one run on two hits. But his ability to fight through the pain left a lasting impression on his teammates and his coach.

"After the second inning, we were going to pull him," Legends coach Carlos Marti said. "He goes, no, I'm going back out there.' It was one of the most gutsy performances I've seen. The skin was completely torn off his finger, and he went back out there. To do that on this stage is one of the most gutsy performances I've ever seen."

East Cobb (1-2) took the lead in the bottom of the first inning after Chase Butler doubled and scored on a groundout by Kyle Farmer. But Machado's two-run home run to left in the top of the third inning gave Florida the lead, and the Legends never trailed again.

The Yankees appeared to have a rally going in the bottom of the third, but it was derailed by a controversial call. With Brandon Thomas at bat, Florida catcher Shane Rowland fired to the ball second base to throw out Jake Skole as he tried to steal. The home plate umpire ruled that Thomas interfered with Rowland's throw, and called both Thomas and Rowland out, much to Yankees manager James Beavers' dismay.

The Legends took command of the game in the top of the fourth inning, taking advantage of a key miscue in the field to post four runs for a 6-1 lead. With two outs, East Cobb first baseman Stafford Booth fielded a grounder from Rowland and went to throw it to first base for the force out, but with nobody covering the bag, Booth's throw sailed into foul territory.

"We made a couple lackadaisical boots out there and didn't cover some bags and things," Beavers said. "I think as baseball players, they'll be a little better from things they've learned this time. You always gain something when you come out here."

Though the odds were steep, the Yankees kept battling. They scored two runs in the bottom of the fourth and two more in the bottom of the fifth to close the gap to 6-5, and seemingly had all the momentum going into the seventh inning after relief pitcher Carter Harrison retired the Legends in order in the sixth.

"If you've been here before, you know how these guys play the game, and we knew they weren't going anywhere," Marti said.

Florida slammed the door on the Yanks' comeback hopes, as Machado delivered a clutch run-scoring base hit to right field and David Vazquez plated another run with a double off the wall in right. In addition, after several close calls throughout the game went against the Yankees, Beavers' frustration boiled over and he was ejected.

"It was tough today," he said. "It was one of those days where things didn't go our way and we didn't get the calls we thought we deserved to get.

"We had a good time," he added. "We just fell a little short. It's just one of those things - it just didn't go our way this year."

East Cobb's Mott Hyde led off the bottom of the seventh with a solo home run to left, but the Yankees didn't get another baserunner, bringing the game to a close.

Cody Stiles earned the victory on the mound with 2 2-3 innings of solid relief for Florida, while Harrison took the loss.

Marti and his team left the field feeling confident in their chances. The Legends enter today's semifinals having scored 27 runs in their three wins.

"We're feeling great, man," Marti said. "It was a huge game, and East Cobb's a great ballclub. That's the kind of team that keeps fighting back, and our team did the same thing today. We were fortunate to come out on top."

August 11, 2009 - Connie Mack World Series - Florida Legends vs Bayamon Giants

No-hitter: Legends' Piderman makes CMWS history
By G. Jeff Golden The Daily Times

FARMINGTON - Florida Legends right-hander Eddy Pidermann on Tuesday tossed the seventh no-hitter in the 51-year history of the Connie Mack World Series.

The game ended after five innings because of the mercy rule as the Legends crushed the Bayamon (Puerto Rico) Giants 8-0. Pidermann, who's committed to Barry University in Miami Shores, Fla., struck out seven and issued four walks en route to his historic performance.

"I felt good, I felt good. It was short, but my stuff was good. I was a little rusty in the beginning ... but my stuff was good and I'm glad we got the win," Pidermann said.

It was the World Series' second no-hitter in 29 years. Cole Green of the Dallas Tigers threw the most recent in 2007, also in a shortened five-inning game.

The American Amateur Baseball Congess' mercy rule is an eight-run lead after five complete innings.

Pidermann retired six consecutive Puerto Rico (0-2) batters in the fourth and fifth innings, but his team only was up 4-0 when he last exited the mound. Florida produced its most powerful offensive surge of the game in the bottom of the fifth, scoring four runs to secure Pidermann's no-hitter.

"Eddy did a great job for us, he set the tone on the mound. And everything else just followed after that," Florida coach Carlos Marti said.

Pidermann couldn't have picked a better time to throw the game of his life. The Legends suffered a devastating 7-0 loss Monday night at the hands of the Midland (Ohio) Redskins, a perennial juggernaut.

Suddenly in the loser's bracket, the Legends (2-1) found themselves playing an elimination game just 16 hours later. Their response was emphatic.

"I'm very proud of them. This is what we expect from them: for them to play the way they played today," Marti said.

Pidermann cruised through the first inning. He struck out two of the first three batters he faced, even tying up Giants catcher Richard Paulino so badly his bat flew out of his hands and into the Ricketts Park backstop.

Puerto Rico starting pitcher Luis Dejesus was on the opposite end of the spectrum as Pidermann. He allowed three earned runs on four hits and plunked two batters before being pulled in the first inning. He retired only two batters.

Dejesus hit Florida shortstop Steven Perez to open the game, and then allowed a single to catcher Shane Rowland. It appeared he might work out of the jam when he got Manny Machado to ground into a double play, but his escape wasn't to be.

The next three batters each would record a hit during a Legends' early two-out rally. Danny Canela drove Perez in from third base with an RBI single, and then advanced to second when Rudy Flores hit a single of his own.

David Vazquez brought Canela and Flores home with a long double to deep-center.

Dejesus hit one more batter, Legends right fielder Chad Cabrera, before being replaced by Emmanuel Dipini. Dipini got Julian Santos to ground out to stop the bleeding, and he would pitch valiantly until the fifth inning.

But the three-run lead was all Pidermann would need.

"You get nervous early if it's still 0-0, but a three-run cushion, it really helped me out. It made me mellow out in the beginning of the game," Pidermann said.

The Legends tacked on another run in the fourth inning on an RBI single by second baseman Jack Lopez. Lopez, who finished 2-for-2 with an RBI and a stolen base, was in a unique situation.

He was playing against his home country. His father, Juan Enrique Lopez, became the first Puerto Rican in Connie Mack World Series history to hit a home run back in 1978.

"It was tough, playing against my home (country). But you have to play, try to have fun, and just do work," the younger Lopez said.

The high school sophomore added that he "hopefully" will hit a home run in an upcoming World Series, following in his father's footsteps.

After Pidermann sat the Giants down in order in the top of the fifth, the Legends needed four runs to end the game.

With one out, Machado blasted a home run to left-center field, the Legends' first of the tournament. Canela almost went back-to-back, but his home run bid bounced high off the left field wall for a double.

Dipini struck out Flores to nearly end the inning, but the Legends struck with another two-out rally. Vazquez hit a single that scored Canela, and then Cabrera drew a walk.

With the winning runs on first and second, center fielder Julian Santos smacked a two-RBI triple that ended the game.

The loss eliminated the Giants from the tournament. Puerto Rico has not won a game since 2005, going 0-8 since.

"It's not a surprise for us, because we know in the last 10 to 15 years, the baseball in Puerto Rico is going down, down, down," assistant coach Hector Rivera Jr. said.

Rivera Jr. added that he doesn't have much hope for the future, as young Puerto Ricans tend to lean more toward soccer than baseball.

"Let's see what happens in the future, but it's not the same anymore as always, in the years before," he said.

August 10, 2009 - Connie Mack World Series - Florida Legends vs Midland Redskins

Legends fall apart late against Redskins
By Christopher Smith The Daily Times

FARMINGTON - A dream matchup turned anticlimactic late as the Midland (Ohio) Redskins trounced the Florida Legends 7-0 on Monday at Ricketts Park.

The Redskins ripped 15 hits off the vaunted Legends pitching and Alex Panteliodis pitched a four-hit shutout.

The game, 1-0 through five innings, unraveled late through a series of blunders, infield hits and mishandled pitches.

"It just got away from us," coach Carlos Marti said. "Some of the things that happened out there today are tough to explain. It hasn't been what we've done all summer. It was difficult to watch."

Six of the Redskins' 15 hits didn't reach the outfield grass. They scored once off their first 10 before creating a causeway to the plate.

Midland scored first during the third inning without hitting a ball out of the infield. They manufactured a run with an infield hit and three effective bunts.

Brian Goodwin led off with a chopper behind first base, beating the flip from first baseman Rudy Flores. Midland's next three batters squared up and cushioned the pitch off their wooden barrels, moving Goodwin one base at a time. He scooted home on Deven Marrero's squeeze bunt to the pitcher.

"I was asking them, Did they just bunt three times in a row?'" Panteliodis said. "They said, Yes they did.' I was like, Alright, I like this small ball we've got going on."

The Legends almost pulled off a similar move. Julian Santos led off with a bunt single in their half of the third and Stephen Perez squared around but aborted when a pitch nearly grazed his left shoulder.

Florida advanced a runner to second base three times through the fifth but never further as Redskins starter and University of Florida pitcher Panteliodis kept them at bay.

The Legends squandered their best opportunity of the game when Panteliodis threw the third out into right field on a routine ground ball by David Vasquez. With runners on second and third, Panteliodis redeemed himself by handling a comebacker on the next pitch and escaping unscathed.

"We put a lot of pressure on our pitching by not scoring runs and not answering back," Marti said.

Redskins manager Joe Hayden gave Panteliodis all the credit, refusing to answer other questions.

"The way A.P. was pitching I had all the confidence in the world even if it stayed close it was one we were going to have. He's a great pitcher, a great kid and he's got a great defense behind him," Hayden said. "Don't sell them short. They're well-coached and they're a good baseball team. A.P.'s just a better pitcher."

The game stayed 1-0 until the top of the sixth. Midland, which accumulated eight hits but one run, strung together two infield hits and a double by Goodwin to stretch their lead to 3-0 and knocked starter Aaron Arboleya from the game.

A tight game became a blowout in the seventh as the Legends got sloppy. Brandon Sedell's RBI single and subsequent run on a passed ball proceeded runs scored on a wild pitch and an error, accounting for the final margin.

Many felt like the Redskins and Legends were the best teams in the field after the Legends cruised past the Dallas DBAT 10-1 on Friday. The game lived up to its reputation for a while but couldn't hold form with Florida unable to score.

"They were good. Our team just came out today stronger than they did and I'm very happy for that," Panteliodis said.

The change to wooden bats, designed in part to protect the players from line drives off aluminum, is not without perils, as the home plate umpire learned. He got hit in the forearm with shards of broken bat in the top of the third inning. Medical personnel attended to him on the field before he departed, causing an 11-minute delay.

The incident was the second in as many days at Ricketts Park. A foul ball struck a man sitting in Section 13 in the face during Sunday night's game. Bleeding, he was given treatment and escorted out of the stadium in the fourth inning.

The second base umpire got drilled in the chest by a Deven Marrero single in the fifth inning, forcing a dead ball, but didn't seem to suffer any ill effects.

The Redskins will play the Illinois Sparks today at 5:15 p.m. The Legends play the Bayamon (Puerto Rico) Giants today at noon in an elimination game.

August 8, 2009 - Connie Mack World Series - Florida Legends vs Dallas D-BAT

Legends cruise past DBAT Mustangs
By Darren Vaughan The Daily Times

FARMINGTON - Florida Legends coach Carlos Marti said his team's strength was its pitching staff, which certainly held true Saturday night at Ricketts Park.

It's just that the efforts of starter Cody Stiles got a bit overshadowed by his team's potent offense. Eric Acevedo went 2-for-4 at the plate with a double and four RBIs, and Florida took advantage of six Dallas errors to defeat the DBAT Mustangs 10-1 in their first-round contest.

"Our pitching's carried us, but we've had games where we've put up 10- or 12-spots in innings," Legends coach Carlos Marti said. "We can hit - the wood bats make it harder, but we can flat-out hit."

The Mustangs (0-1) found themselves in trouble almost right from the beginning. Dallas pitcher Josh Turley walked Steven Perez and Shane Rowland on just nine pitches to open the contest, and though Perez was caught trying to steal third base with a great throw by catcher Abel Baker, Manny Machado's base hit to right gave Florida (1-0) a 1-0 lead.

Another Florida baserunning miscue looked like it might stop the Legends' early rally, as Machado was picked off trying to steal second by Turley. But Turley walked Danny Canela, and second baseman Alex Yarbrough bobbled a grounder by David Vazquez, allowing two runs to score.

"I knew we were in trouble," Mustangs coach Sam Carpenter said. "After we gave up the first two runs, I knew we were. Our pitcher wasn't throwing strikes, and he's a strike-thrower. We did not have an edge."

After Chad Cabrerra walked, Acevedo followed with a double that bounced off the Webb Automotive sign on the right-center field wall, giving the Legends a 5-0 lead.

"Our general manager (David Elder) told us before we started playing, let's make a statement here,'" Acevedo said. "Usually, everybody comes in here with butterflies the first game, and those games are the toughest. That first inning, we exploded."

Once the Mustangs finally stopped the Legends' onslaught, Stiles went to work on the mound. Stiles, who threw a no-hitter in the championship game of the American Qualifier to help Florida earn its spot in the CMWS, made it difficult if not impossible for Dallas to make a comeback, giving up only one unearned run on four hits and four walks in 4 2-3 innings before a leg cramp ended his day.

Stiles' replacement, Kevin Bryant, was equally dominant, allowing only a Tyler Collins double and one walk in 2 1-3 innings of relief.

"Cody Stiles threw a hell of a game, even with the calf cramp," Acevedo said. "Kevin Bryant came in to relieve, and he threw a hell of a game. We had no stress, no pressure, and we could play regular baseball and have fun. Baseball's a game and you're supposed to have fun, and that's exactly what we did."

Acevedo and the Legends' offense kept adding to the lead in the sixth inning, with Vazquez and Cabrerra scoring on Acevedo's base hit to right center. Florida added three more unearned runs in the seventh, with Rudy Flores and Greg Bennis scoring as a result of three Mustang errors and Acevedo scoring on a single by Julian Santos.

"You're not going to score a lot of runs with a wood bat unless there are a lot of mistakes," Carpenter said. "They didn't make a lot of mistakes, so we weren't going to score a lot of runs. We didn't know they weren't going to make any mistakes."

The win lifts the Legends into Monday night's late game against the Midland (Ohio) Redskins, while the Mustangs play the Danville (Calif.) Hoots tonight at 7:30 p.m. in a win-or-go-home situation.

"I keep telling these kids, it's about right now,'" Carpenter said. "It's not about the past, it's not about the future, it's about right now."

July 28, 2009 - Florida Legends vs. LineDrive Baseball

Cody Stiles on the hill for the Florida Legends. Against Line Drive Stiles allowed two hits while striking out four in earning the 8-0 victory at Cougar Field.
Photo: Robert de la Fe'

Make no mistake, this is not yet the finished product. There's much more work needed before the Legends depart for the Connie Mack World Series in Farmington, New Mexico. In their latest tune up game against Line Drive however, the edges are beginning to look a bit more polished. Behind a three hit pitching labor, two hits given up by starter Cody Stiles and one, an infield hit, by reliever Aaron Arboleya, the Florida Legends got their bats working for seven hits in a six inning 8-0 Legends victory at Cougar Field.

Workman like in their approach, the Legends as home team jumped out to a 2-0 first inning lead and built from there. Lead off hitter Stephen Perez was awarded a base on balls, stole second and reached third on a failed pickoff attempt. Left fielder David Vazquez, the Legends two spot hitter, drove Perez in for the first run. Now with one out third baseman Rangel Ravelo reached base by the second Line Drive free pass of the inning. Ravelo reached third on a hit to right field by catcher Danny Canela. From there a fly to center by shortstop Manny Machado sacrificed Ravelo home. Two more runs were added in the second. First baseman Edward Piderman scored on a double to left center by David Vazquez. The Legends left fielder then scored himself on an RBI single by Ravelo. Machado started the third inning off with a first pitch double to left. Moving to third on a deep fly to right by right fielder Chad Cabrera, Machado then scored on a wild pitch.

Florida Legends left fielder David Vazquez at bat against Line Drive at Cougar Field. Vazquez doubled to left center driving in a run during the second inning in the Legends 8-0 victory.
Photo: Robert de la Fe'

With the game securely in hand 5-0, the Legends added three more runs in the sixth ending the contest by mercy rule. Designated hitter Gregg Bennis led the sixth off with a hit up the middle. With one out, center fielder Julian Santos who had reached via a base on balls and Bennis would both score on a two RBI line shot to left by Ravelo who finished the game 2-2 with the RBIs. A bit of razzle dazzle ended the game. Danny Canela who had reached on a fielder's choice and David Vazquez executed a second and home double steal.

Florida Legends right fielder Chad Cabrera doubles to left during the first inning against Line Drive at Cougar Field.
Photo: Robert de la Fe'

Cody Stiles (5-0) was credited with the win. He struck out four. Likewise, Aaron Arboleya also struck out four in earning his third save of the year. Defensively, the Legends turned a 5-4-3, Rangel Ravelo to Eric Acevedo to Edward Piderman double play ending the first inning. Catcher Danny Canela also caught a would be base thief.

July 24, 2009 - Florida Legends vs. LineDrive Baseball

Florida Legends shortstop Manny Machado smashes an RBI triple to right highlighting a three run first against Line Drive at Patriot Field.
Photo: Robert de la Fe'

This is why such things as tune up games exist. Practice after all is supposed to make perfect. Playing Line drive at Patriot Field in a Connie Mack World Series preparatory game, the Florida Legends playing as visitors came out strong. The boys in blue had the game in hand with a 9-0 fourth inning lead. Or so it seemed. And then...faster than anyone could say Connie Mack World Series, Line Drive had the equalizing run at the plate. Getting out of the nightmare fourth inning the Legends won the contest 9-5.

Lead off hitter Stephen Perez started the game being awarded a four pitch base on balls. Another free pass put center fielder David Vazquez on the base path also. With two outs shortstop Manny Machado tripled to right field scoring both runners. Machado was driven in himself thanks to an RBI single to right by right fielder Chad Cabrera. Line Drive failed to score in the bottom of the frame so after one, Legends winning by three. So far, so good.

Left fielder Gregg Bennis singles to right driving in a run in the third inning for the Florida Legends against Line Drive at Patriot Field.
Photo: Robert de la Fe'

Florida added two more in the second. As in the first, all the scoring came with two outs. Left fielder Gregg Bennis who had walked then stolen second was driven in by a single to right off the bat of first baseman Rangel Ravelo. He in turn scored from first on a double to left by catcher Danny Canela. Chad Cabrera opened the third with a hit through the right side. Reaching third on two wild pitches he scored on a hit to right by Bennis. It was a smooth sailing 6-0 Florida lead after three. Not done just yet the Legends added three more in the fourth. Chad Cabrera hit a deep fly to right sacrificing a run in. Then with Manny Machado who had reached on a hit up the middle on base, third baseman Eric Acevedo sent an 0-1 pitch over the left field fence for a two run homer. Legends up 9-0 after four.

Starting pitcher James Kessler went three innings allowing two hits, both singles in the third while striking out four. Leading 9-0 a pitching change was made in the fourth. Line Drive managed five successive hits to start the inning. All five base runners scored. Florida was able to retire the side with the bases loaded and hold on to a now not so comfortable as before 9-5 lead. That is how things stayed as the Legends won by that score.

Casey Delgado entered the game in the fifth and pitched the rest of the way in relief. Delgado allowed two hits while striking out a like number two. Rangel Ravelo finished the game 2-4 with two singles a run scored and an RBI. Manny Machado was also 2-4. He had two runs scored and an RBI. Chad Cabrera was 2-3 with a sacrifice, run scored and two RBIs. Danny Canela showed some pop going 2-4 with a double and a triple. He had two RBIs. The Legends had 10 hits collectively. James Kessler was credited with the victory. His record is now 2-0.

July 21, 2009 - Florida Legends vs. EAS All-Stars

Florida Legends pitcher Casey Delgado with the heater. Delgado pitched a scoreless fourth and fifth innings striking out one in a 6-3 Legends victory against the EAS All-Stars.
Photo: Robert de la Fe'

For what was supposed to be a tune up "run through" for the Connie Mack World Series, this turned into quite a contested game. Playing the EAS All-Stars, a team which features a roster made up entirely of collegiate caliber talent, the Florida Legends had a sloppy defensive start and found themselves losing 3-0 after two innings. A four run third gave the home standing Legends a advantage they would not relinquish leading to a 6-3 victory at Cougar Field.

Florida's starting pitcher Kevin Bryant gave up hits to the first three All-Star batsmen. The second pitch of the game resulted in a perfectly placed bunt down the right side fielded by first baseman Rangel Ravelo who flipped to Bryant but too late to catch the speedy All-Star lead off hitter. Although the lead off runner would be gunned down on a rocket throw home by left fielder Gregg Bennis to catcher Danny Canela to third baseman Eric Acevedo, the three successive singles by the scrappy All-Star side did lead to an early 1-0 lead. Two errors in the second inning gave the All-Stars two gift runs making it 3-0. All the Legends had to show for themselves so far was a first inning infield hit by Ravelo.

Then came the third inning. Center fielder Edward Piderman led the inning off being awarded a base on balls. With one out, shortstop Manny Machado singled to left putting two aboard. Ravelo followed with a double to right center scoring Piderman with the Legends fist run of the game. Ravelo finished the game going 2-3. With runners on second and third Canela after fouling off two pitched with two strikes on him then took advantage of a 1-2 pitch that was left a bit high and sent it even higher over the right field fence for a three run homer.

Now ahead 4-3, the Legends scored two more in the fifth making it a three run advantage. Canela just missing another home run, double to left center with one out in the frame. He came home on a single hit the other way, through the right side, by Eric Acevedo with two outs. Acevedo scored when a single to left by Gregg Bennis was misplayed by the All-Star left fielder.

Kevin Bryant (4-0) was credited with the victory. After giving up the three successive hits in the first, Bryant surrendered only one more through three innings of work striking out one. Casey Delgado pitched a scoreless two innings striking out one in relief. He was followed on the hill by Gregg Bennis who retired the side in order striking out one in the sixth. Edward Piderman closed for the Legends getting the last three outs in order striking out one to earn his first save of the year. The Legends collected seven hits during the contest while the All-Stars posted five.

July 17, 2009 - Florida Legends vs. Line Drive Baseball

Florida Legends shortstop Stephen Perez recording an assist to first base against Line Drive. Perez went 2-3 with a double and a home run in a twin bill at Patriot Field.
Photo: Robert de la Fe'

For the Florida Legends a double header against Line Drive was intended to be a tune up for the Connie Mack World Series. The noontime twin bill turned out to perhaps be a preparatory for the New Mexican Four Corner area desert climate. Under sizzling temperatures at Patriot Field on the campus of Florida Christian the Legends swept both games as the mercury approached triple digits. Florida pitching flirted with a no hitter holding Line Drive hitless through five and two thirds innings of the first game. The Legends held off a late rally to win the first one 5-2. The the night cap or better phrased in this case, the midday cap, Florida brought out their hitting sticks. In a game that featured three home runs, the Legends ran away with an 11-3 victory in a game that was shortened to six innings due to the eight run mercy rule.

Playing as visitors in the opener, the Legends got off to an immediate 1-0 lead without benefit of a hit. Lead off hitter Stephen Perez was awarded a full count base on balls to begin the game. Perez stole second and third then came home on a wild pitch. Florida took a 2-0 lead in the third using an unfamiliar batter. Gregg Bennis, a pitcher by trade, got a chance to take a few at bats. Bennis led the inning off with a single to right. Following at the bat, Stephen Perez doubled to center bringing Bennis home. Two more runs in the fourth made it a 4-0 game. With one out in the frame second baseman Eric Acevedo singled down the left field line. He stole second and reached third on an infield hit by Cody Stiles, another pitcher given a few chances with the lumber. Acevedo was driven home by a hit through the right side by Bennis who made the most of his chances at the plate. Bennis was 2-3 with a run scored and an RBI. Another infield hit, the second of the inning, this one by right fielder David Vazquez brought Stiles home. Florida made it 5-0 in the seventh on a solo home run to right by catcher Danny Canela.

Florida Legends catcher Danny Canela erasing a would be base thief against Line Drive at Patriot Field. Offensively, Canela homered in the first game of the double header and doubled in the second. The Legends swept the twin bill.
Photo: Robert de la Fe'

Florida's defense showed some signs of rust as they committed three errors. The Legends had not played in over a week since clinching their Connie Mack World Series berth at the Troy, NY qualifier tournament. Starting pitcher Cody Stiles went the first three innings without allowing a hit, striking out two. An early threat in the first inning was snuffed out when Canela fired to third baseman Manny Machado gunning down a would be base thief at third. Casey Delgado relieved Stiles in the fourth and pitched three innings. Delgado allowed only one hit which came after a Line Drive batter reached base via a wild pitch on a strike out. Delgado struck out three in total. Edward Piderman closed the game out for the Legends. Piderman was greeted in the seventh by two back to back doubles. Both runners would come around to score before Piderman struck out the last two batters of Line Drive's order to end the game.

Starting the second game as home team under the noonday sun, the Legends wasted no time in taking the lead and adding on to it. After pitcher Gregg Bennis retired Line Drive in order to start the game, Florida took a 3-0 lead in the bottom of the frame. Lead off hitter Stephen Perez was awarded a base on balls. Following at the bat, David Vazquez drove him home with a double to left. First baseman Rangel Ravelo then sent a full count pitch over the flag pole in center field for a two run homer. With two outs in the second another home run to center, this one by Stephen Perez made it 4-0. The Legends kept the runs coming with three more in the third. Ravelo led the inning off with a single up the middle. Catcher Danny Canela followed with a base on balls putting two runners on board. With two outs a hit through the left side by Eric Acevedo brought Ravelo home. Both Acevedo and Canela would then score on Cody Stiles' single to center.

Florida Legends pitcher Shawn Zabrinksie in action against Line Drive in the second game of a twin bill at Patriot Field. The Legends swept the double header.
Photo: Robert de la Fe'

After Line Drive broke through with three runs in the fourth, the Legends answered in the bottom of the frame with two more of their own. Stephen Perez led the inning off with a base on balls. David Vazquez followed with a ground rule double to center putting runners on second and third. Ravelo drove Perez home with a very deep sacrifice fly to right. Ravelo finished the game going 2-3 with three runs and three RBIs. With Vazquez now on third, a ground ball to the second baseman off the bat of Danny Canela brought him home.

With the score 9-3 in the bottom of the sixth the Legends made sure they didn't spend anymore time under the sun than they had to. With Ravelo on base and two outs in the inning, shortstop Manny Machado sent a no doubter over the left field fence for a walk off two run homer making the final 11-3. Florida collected 10 hits in the six inning contest while the Legends pitching trio of Gregg Bennis, Shawn Zabrinksie and James Kessler held Line Drive to five.

July 6, 2009 - Connie Mack NY Qualifier Championship

Paving the road to Farmington, New Mexico. The Florida Legends celebrate their 1-0 walk off victory in the seventh inning against the New York Nine in the championship game of the Connie Mack World Series Qualifier Tournament at Geer Field in Troy, NY. With the victory the Legends qualify for the Connie Mack World Series in Farmington New Mexico later next month.
Photo: Robert de la Fe'

Florida Legends pitcher Cody Stiles in mid delivery against the New York Nine in the Championship game of the Connie Mack World Series Qualifier Tournament at Geer Field in Troy, NY. Stiles pitched a complete game no hitter striking out seven. Florida won the championship 1-0 on a walk off hit in the bottom of the seventh earning a berth at the Connie Mack World Series in Farmington, New Mexico next month.
Photo: Robert de la Fe'

This was worthy of being a championship game. The final of the Connie Mack World Series Qualifier Tournament at Geer Field in Troy, NY pitted two deserving teams. At stake, only one berth at the Connie Mack World Series to be held later next month at Farmington, New Mexico. The belligerents: first as visitors, the New York Nine. The team from Gotham City had earned a spot in the final by defeating the Bayside Yankees 6-4. In the other dugout as home team, the Florida Legends. Florida had beaten the South Troy Dodgers, the tournament's host team, 9-0 in their semifinal. The result: a classic pitcher's duel. The New York Nine pitcher scattered six hits striking out six through six and one third innings. Florida's Cody Stiles however was just a little bit better. Stiles pitched a complete game no hitter striking out seven. A walk off hit in the bottom of the seventh by Florida's Chad Cabrera scored Steven Baron from second giving Florida the 1-0 victory, the tournament championship and a trip to New Mexico.

The teams had met one day earlier in the quarterfinals. There, New York who had lost earlier in the double elimination tournament, handed Florida its first tournament loss 7-3. From the start of the final however it was evident that this was another tune. Instead of the fast merengue tempo preferred by New York, Stiles took control of the game's rhythm. It was different music. It was a different dance. This was a tango. Stiles got out of the first inning on seven pitches with a ground out to second, a swinging strike out and another ground out to second. Stiles worked around a base on balls and a hit batsman as his defense helped him in the second with a fielder's choice and a double play. Equal to the task, New York stranded two Florida runners in the first. Catcher Shane Rowland was awarded a base on balls with one out in the first. He would reach second on a single through the left side by third baseman Rangel Ravelo. Both would be marooned.

Florida's next scoring opportunity came in the second when designated hitter Steven Baron was hit by pitch on a full count to lead the inning off. Left fielder David Vazquez sacrificed him into scoring position . Baron was caught stealing attempting to take third. The batter at the plate at the time, right fielder Chad Cabrera singled to center on the pitch after the caught stealing. A chance had been squandered. As fate would have it though, the same three individuals would be given a second chance later in the game.

Florida Legends third baseman Rangel Ravelo singles against the New York Nine during the championship game of the Connie mack Qualifier Tournament at Geer Field in Troy, NY. During the tournament Ravelo led all Legends hitters going 7-13 with a double, home run and five RBIs for a .538 tournament average.
Photo: Robert de la Fe'

New York's deepest threat came in the fourth with a runner on third with two outs. A strikeout ended the inning. The fifth inning started as the New York lead off hitter was awarded a base on balls. One of three to go along with two hit batsmen that Stiles gave up. The runner was erased two pitches later. On an 0-2 count Rowland came up firing from his catcher's squat rifling the ball into the mitt of fist baseman Danny Canela for the 2-3 pick off. New York would not have another base runner. Stiles had thrown a regulation no hitter on 89 pitches. Both teams played error less ball.

Now in the bottom of the seventh, the inning would have an eerie feeling of deja vu. The frame played out almost exactly as the second had. The Legends however were more patient this time around. Steven Baron lead the inning off being hit by a 0-1 pitch. David Vazquez then on a 1-0 pitch laid a bunt down the left side sacrificing Baron into scoring position. The New York pitcher being left handed had to turn and throw to the only out possible, first base. A text book bunt. Chad Cabrera then had perhaps the bast at bat of the game. Fouling off three pitches after he had two strikes, he finally got a hold of one he liked on a 2-2 count singling to center . With Cabrera's hit, as Baron rounded third and headed for home, everyone at Geer Field knew this dance was over. Baron slid and touched home ending the game on the walk off run driven in by Cabrera. He stood up just in time to be tackled by 19 of his teammates forming a dog pile to be remembered. It meant the Florida Legends were champions of the Troy, New York Connie Mack Qualifier Tournament for the third year running. It meant the 24 hour bus ride home although tiresome would be a joyous one. It meant the Legends would go to another dance. This one at the Connie Mack World Series in Farmington, New Mexico.

July 5, 2009 - Florida Legends vs. South Troy Dodgers - Connie Mack Troy NY Qualifier

Wheeling and dealing, grunting and yelling, Florida Legends pitcher Aaron Arboleya delivers against the South Troy Dodgers. Arboleya went the distance allowing three hits while striking out eight. The Legends won the Connie Mack World Series Qualifier Tournament semifinal 9-0 at Geer Field in Troy, NY.
Photo: Robert de la Fe'

After suffering their first defeat of the double elimination Connie Mack World Series Qualifier Tournament, the Legends fate was not entirely in their hands. Florida would have to wait for the outcome of another game, still in progress, to determine their next opponent and exact situation. It wouldn't be too long of a wait. As events unfolded, it turned out not to be a worst case scenario for the Legends. There were now four teams left in the tournament. The Bayside Yankees, the New York Nine and the South Troy Dodgers along with Florida. All teams had one loss. A lottery was held to determine opponents in the semifinal. Florida drew the South Troy Dodgers which were the tournament host team. Getting on their bus and traveling the 20-30 minute ride across both the Mohawk and Hudson Rivers from Clifton Park to Geer Field in Troy, NY. the situation was a simple one. Win and advance into the tournament final. Lose and be eliminated. Florida gave the ball to pitcher Aaron Arboleya. He was aware of the consequences. Arboleya grunted, he yelled, he threw vicious strikes. The right hander put in a complete game shutout performance allowing three hits while striking out eight as the Legends advanced to the tournament final with a 9-0 victory.

Having to put the disappointing performance of the morning game behind them, the Legends, visitors for this game, struck first and often. First baseman Danny Canela doubled to right center for the Legends first hit of the game. Chasing the ball in flight which hit the fence, the Dodger right fielder lost sight of the fence and crashed head first into it. Although shaken, he was able to continue. Third baseman Manny Machado followed and was awarded a base on balls. A wild pitch sent both runners 90 feet closer to home. With one out, right fielder Rudy Flores sent was seemed to be a routine fly ball into right. The ball however was lost in the sun landing next to the Dodger right fielder for a hit driving Canela home for the game's first run. Left fielder David Vazquez then sent another seemingly routine fly ball into right which was again lost in the sun. Although this time the right fielder was able to force Flores at second. Machado came in with the second Legends run of the inning giving the Legends an early 2-0 in an unkind frame to the right fielder.

A short kiss goodbye. Florida Legends first baseman Danny Canela connects for a two run homer against the South Troy Dodgers in the third inning of the Connie Mack World Series Qualifier Tournament semifinal. The game was played at Geer Field in Troy, NY. The Legends won the contest 9-0 advancing to the tournament final.
Photo: Robert de la Fe'

Knowing that the Dodgers had overcome a two run deficit to defeat the Bayside Yankees 4-2 earlier in the day, Florida did not want to sit on the narrow lead. Back to work in the third came the Legends. With an out in he inning, center fielder Rangel Ravelo singled to center. Up came Canela and sent a 1-0 pitch to right field only this time over the fence for a two run homer giving the Legends a 4-0 lead and some breathing room. Canela finished the game going 2-3. With the same score in the close game but getting late, the Legends scored another two in the sixth to open a 6-0 lead. With one out in the frame Machado singled deep in the hole to the shortstop. Catcher Steven Baron then singled to center putting two aboard. Flores then struck out but both runners managed to steal during his at bat moving both into scoring position with two outs. Vazquez who had been robbed of a hit in the second when a force was able to have been executed on his fly to right which was lost in the sun made sure of this at bat. Singling to right he drove both runners home.

Now with a comfortable lead, Florida took advantage of a Dodger pitching change in the seventh scoring three more. Shortstop Stephen Perez led the inning off welcoming the new Dodger pitcher with a 3-1 shot over the fence in right center for a solo home run. Designated hitter Shane Rowland followed with a hit up the middle. Ravelo was awarded a base on balls putting two aboard. A sacrifice fly to left and a hit up the middle by Flores scored both base runners.

With a 9-0 lead, Arboleya finished the seventh with a 12 pitch inning getting a strikeout, fly to right and a strikeout propelling the Legends into the tournament final. Arboleya improved his record to 4-0. The Legends are now 25-3-2.

July 5, 2009 - Florida Legends vs. New York Nine - Connie Mack Troy NY Qualifier

Even before the start of the contest against the New York Nine in what amounted to the quarterfinals of the Connie Mack World Series Qualifier Tournament, something was not quite right. Taking the 30 minute bus ride from their hotel through green Empire State scenery to the Township of Clifton Park, the Legends arrived to find their dugout submerged ankle deep in water. Florida was forced to use an open air bench. That was the least of the Legends problems though. Florida dug themselves into a hole, water filled or not, that they were unable to get themselves out of. New York was able to take advantage of what the Legends were giving them. The Nine from Gotham City converted 13 bases on balls, two hit batsmen and three Legends errors directly into six runs in a 7-3 New York Nine victory. The loss was the first for the Legends in 26 games and their first setback at the double elimination qualifier tournament.

As home team, Florida pitching started the game with three straight bases on balls. A sacrifice fly and a towering home run to right center made it a 4-0 New York advantage. The Nine would score one more run in the inning to make it 5-0 before the Legends had an at bat. Not that the Legends would not have their chances. Florida was unable to capitalize on their early opportunities however. The Legends had their first two runners on base in the first without an out and two runners in scoring position in the second but could not convert them into runs. Behind 7-0 and in danger of being mercy ruled, the Legends finally lit an offensive spark in the fourth. First baseman Danny Canela led the inning off with a stand up double to right. The following batsman, left fielder Rangel Ravelo rocketed the first pitch he saw amply over the left field fence for a two run homer. The next batter, third baseman David Vazquez, made it back to back jacks. Vazquez took a full count offering and deposited it over the fence in right center. That was as close as the Legends would come however.

A silver lining in the otherwise suspect Florida pitching was the performance of James Kessler. Although by no means the best example of Legends pithing this year, Kessler did enough to save the Legends bullpen from having to use another arm late in the tournament. Kessler pitched five innings in relief. Struggling at times he allowed five bases on balls and three hits. Yet for all the wobbling, he did not fall down. Kessler did not allow a run and struck out three.

Shawn Zabrinksie was charged with the loss. His record is 1-2 on the year. The Legends are now 24-3-2. Florida must now wait for the outcome of the other game in progress at the tournament to determine who their next opponent will be.

July 4, 2009 - Florida Legends vs. Richmond County - Connie Mack Troy NY Qualifier

Along the way to their first game in the second round of the Connie Mack World Series Qualifier Tournament at Geer Field in Troy, New York, the Legends traveling on their chartered bus crossed the Mohawk River. Once the game against Richmond County had started, Independence Day had the feeling of Drums Along the Mohawk. Florida went on the warpath on the fourth of July with 11 hits worth of fireworks. The pyrotechnics led to a 14-0 Legends victory in a five inning mercy rule shortened game.

Florida Legends pitcher Andy Suarez throws a pitch during the 4th of July game vs Richmond County in the second round of the Connie Mack World Series NY Qualifier Tournament.
Photo: Robert de la Fe'

The Legends playing as home team had their sparklers lit from the opening pitch. After retiring Richmond County, a team with no mascot, in the top of the first, Florida took a quick lead in the bottom of the frame. Lead off hitter Stephen Perez singled to left then reached second on a wild pitch. Designated hitter Shane Rowland singled to center scoring Perez. With the bases loaded, third baseman Rangel Ravelo lifted a sacrifice fly to right scoring Rowland and giving the Legends the 2-0 first inning advantage. Rockets red glare came in the second. Center fielder Julian Santos got the bombs bursting in air as he sent a full count pitch over the right field fence for a two run homer highlighting a nine run, five hit inning. Santos finished the afternoon going a patriotic 2-3 with the home run, a double and four RBIs to his credit. Ravelo was 1-1 with a run scored and three RBIs.

Florida Legends center fielder Julian Santos sends one into the Hudson River. The two run homer highlighted a nine run second inning against Richmond County during first game of the second round action in the Connie Mack World Series Qualifier Tournament at Geer Field in Troy, NY. Florida won the contest 14-0.
Photo: Robert de la Fe'

The offensive explosion was more than enough help for starting pitcher Andy Suarez. The left hander went four innings allowing three hits while striking out five. Stephen Perez who had started the game at second base came into pitch in the fifth after having a 2-3 day on offense. Perez had a double and three runs scored at the plate. On the hill he struck out two to close the game. Suarez who was as dominant as he has been all year, raised his record to 2-0. Florida improved to 24-2-2.

July 3, 2009 - Florida Legends vs. South Colonie Raiders - Connie Mack Troy NY Qualifier

Florida Legends Danny Canela earning his first save of the year. Canela allowed one hit while striking out two as the Legends defeated the South Colonie Raiders 7-0 at South Colonie High School in Colonie, NY. With the victory the Legends won their pool and advanced to the second round of the Troy, NY Connie Mack World Series Qualifier Tournament.
Photo: Robert de la Fe'

Sol, the star this planet orbits, peeked through the heavily overcast skies above the Albany, New York area this morning. Whether it would still be out in the afternoon for the Legends last pool game of the Connie Mack World Series Qualifier Tournament was a matter on conjecture. Playing under a menacing sky and dodging raindrops, the Legends took advantage of what was offered them defeating the South Colonie Raiders 7-0.With the victory Florida won its pool and advanced to the second round of the tournament.

Originally scheduled for three games, pool play was reduced to two because of several teams dropping out due transportation problems caused by the rain delays. The scenario for the Legends, 1-0 in pool play, was a simple one. Defeat South Colonie and advance. A loss would mean an early bus ride back to South Florida.

Playing as visitors on their home field at South Colonie High School, the Raiders mounted the first threat of the game in the top of the second inning. A lead off hit up the middle on an 0-2 count put a runner on first. He was sacrificed to second. A base on balls and a fielding error later, the Raiders had the bases loaded with only one out. Legends pitcher Casey Delgado then struck out the ninth batter in the Raider order and induced a ground ball handled by second baseman Eric Acevedo who relayed to first baseman Rudy Flores leaving the bases full with no damage suffered. Florida was not about to be as generous with their chances in the bottom of the frame. Center fielder Rangel Ravelo and designated hitter Steven Baron were both awarded bases on balls to start the Legends second. A single to left by Flores scored Ravelo. Bases on balls to right fielder Chad Cabrera and shortstop Steven Perez walked in Baron and Flores. Still with the bases juiced full of Legends, a sacrifice fly to center by catcher Shane Rowland scored Acevedo. The result: a very efficient four runs on only one hit. Leading 4-0, the game was put out of reach in the third on a merry go round sort of play. Ravelo on second and Flores on first initiated a double steal. Ravelo stole third and scored on a throwing error by the Raider catcher. Flores took third on the error after having stolen second and then found his way home on a throwing error by the left fielder.

Florida Legends right fielder Chad Cabrera at bat against the South Colonie Raiders during the Connie Mack World Series Qualifier Tournament in Colonie, NY. The game, won by the Legends 7-0, was the last pool contest for each team. With the victory Florida advances to the second round of the tournament.
Photo: Robert de la Fe'

The 6-0 lead meant that would be all for Legends starting pitcher Casey Delgado. During his tenure on the hill Delgado allowed one hit while striking out four. Coming in to pitch in relief, Danny Canela had a very effective outing. Canela allowed only one hit striking out two. His defense played alertly behind him. In the fifth inning with two on and one out, a routine fly ball turned into an unorthodox out. The fly seemed to be securely grasped by left fielder David Vazquez who then had the ball slip out of his hand on the transfer. The umpire however ruled no catch. Vazquez quickly threw to shortstop Perez, his cut off, who found the waiting glove of third baseman Manny Machado for the rare 7-6-5 fielder's choice.

Florida scored an insurance run in the sixth using both small and long balls. David Vazquez bunted his way on and reached second on a failed pick off attempt. Catcher Shane Rowland drove him in with a double to the left center gap bring the score to its final 7-0. Delgado, the winning pitcher, raised his record to 4-1. Canela earned his first save of the year. The Legends improve to 23-2-2.

July 1, 2009 - Florida Legends vs. New England Ruffnecks - Connie Mack Troy NY Qualifier

Putting the breaks on. Florida Legends second baseman Stephen Perez stops at second after taking the base on a failed pick off attempt against the New England Ruffnecks. It was the opening game of the Connie Mack Qualifier Tournament for both teams. The game which was played at South Colonie High School in Colonie, NY was won by the Legends 6-0. Perez was 2-2 with two RBIs, a run scored and three stolen bases.
Photo: Robert de la Fe'

Finally being able to play their first game of the Troy Connie Mack World Series Qualifier Tournament, the Florida Legends won their first pool play contest defeating the New England Ruffnecks 6-0. The game was played at South Colonie High School in Colonie , New York.

Very wet weather conditions had forced changes in the original pool play itinerary. From playing in a 9 am and 5 pm double header on their first day, field conditions forced plans to be changed. Opening day was now one game at noon. The first play of the game was as unpredictable as the weather. The Legends playing as home team got what seemed to be a routine ground ball to shortstop from the Ruffneck lead off hitter. It was anything but routine. The ball died in the rather tall infield grass skidding to a stop before reaching shortstop Manny Machado for an infield hit. A strikeout and a Rangel Ravelo to Stephen Perez to Danny Canela 5-4-3 double play ended the first inning with no further damage than the odd lead off single. It would be the only hit Legends starting pitcher Cody Stiles would give up. Although not his best performance of the year, he walked four and hit a batsman, he did not allow another hit or run to score in his four innings on the hill striking out five.

Florida Legends catcher Steven Baron doubles to left center during the second inning against the New England Ruffnecks at the Connie Mack Qualifier Tournament. The game won 6-0 by the Legends was played at South Colonie High School in Colonie, NY.
Photo: Robert de la Fe'

Florida wearing their traditional pinstripe uniforms, took a 1-0 first inning lead and never looked back. Lead off hitter Stephen Perez found himself in a quick 0-2 hole before being hit by the third pitch he saw. A failed pick off attempt and a wild pitch later Perez was on third where a ground ball a ground ball to second slowed by the grass off the bat of Machado drove him in. The Legends broke the game open in the second inning scoring three runs on two hits. Right fielder Rudy Flores opened the inning with a base on balls. A double to left center by catcher Steven Baron put runners on second and third with no outs. Center fielder Julian Santos drove Flores home for the second run of the game on a fielder's choice. Stephen Perez then singled down the right field line scoring both Baron and Santos. Perez would finish the day going 2-2 with two RBIs, a run scored and three stolen bases.

Considering the pitching, Florida took a commanding 5-0 lead in the third. With one out Rangel Ravelo doubled to left center. He would score on two wild pitches. Ravelo who went 1-3 broke two bats in his other two at bats of the afternoon. Stephen Baron scored the Legends sixth run in the sixth as he was awarded a base on balls then reached third on a wild pitch and a stolen base. From there he was driven home by David Vazquez who came in to pinch hit then took over third base duties. After the game the Legends took a bus ride through the scenic New York state countryside and visited the National Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown, NY.

Florida Legends pitcher Cody Stiles went four innings allowing only one hit while striking out five in a 6-0 victory over the New England Ruffnecks. It was the opening contest of the Connie Mack World Series Qualifier Tournament for both teams. The game was played at South Colonie High School in Colonie, NY.
Photo: Robert de la Fe'

Casey Delgado pitched the final three innings in relief. Matching Stiles, he also gave up only one hit. Delgado struck three in his tenure on the hill. Stiles was credited with the victory. His record is now 3-0. Delgado earned his first save of the year. The Legends improve to 22-2-2 in 2009. Florida's next opponent in pool play will be the South Colonie Raiders when weather permits.

June 25, 2009 - Florida Legends vs. Homestead Storm - Connie Mack State Tournament Final

Starting Florida Legends pitcher Edward Piderman in his delivery in the final of the Connie Mack Florida State Tournament against the Homestead Storm. Piderman struck out four and had a no hitter through five but did not figure in the decision. The Legends won the tournament championship 4-3.
Photo: Robert de la Fe'

Going into the final of the Connie Mack Florida State Tournament against the Homestead Storm, the Legends being undefeated in tournament play needed to win one of two games to secure the championship. The pre game instructions were simple enough. A good clean game was asked of each team. Good reason for such a request. In the previous meeting one day prior an illegal slide had resulted in the ejection of a Storm player. This game was no less hard fought. Scoreless until the sixth when the visiting Storm took a 1-0 lead. The Legends fought back in the bottom of the inning scoring three to take a 3-1 lead into the seventh. With two outs the Storm managed to tie the score in the top of the seventh. Then with the Legends batting in the bottom of the last regulation frame the pre game instructions seemed to have been forgotten as two Storm personnel were ejected. With the bases loaded and two outs David Vazquez hit a grounder up the middle that found its way through for the winning RBI scoring pinch runner Jack Lopez from third for the second walk off Legends victory against the Storm in the tournament. Florida claimed the title of Connie Mack Florida State Champions with the 4-3 win.

Legends starting pitcher Edward Piderman turned in a quality performance. Piderman went six innings allowing one run on two hits while striking out four. Piderman took a no hitter into the sixth inning and was one out away from being the winning pitcher. As the twists and turns of this game went, Piderman did not figure in the decision. Florida had some opportunities early in the game but could not cash in. The Legends first hit came in the second as third baseman Rangel Ravelo hit a grounder deep in the whole. The Storm shortstop was able to get to the ball but had nothing on the throw. The hit long with the throwing error placed Ravelo at second to lead off the inning. A ground out by designated hitter Steven Baron got Ravelo to third with one out where he was stranded. The Legends had runners on first and second with one out in both the third and fifth but were again unable to bring a run across the plate.

Homestead finally broke the ice in the top of the sixth. Further damage was prevented thanks to bases loaded force out at home second baseman Eric Acevedo to catcher Danny Canela and a double play where shortstop Stephen Perez snagged a line drive and then relayed to Ravelo at third for the inning ending force. Now late in the bottom of the sixth catcher Danny Canela led the inning off with a base on balls. A wild pitch later, Canela was on second. With one out, Ravelo lined a single down the left field line just past the third baseman scoring Canela. Designated hitter Steven Baron followed with a hit of his own to left field. With two outs, A bases loaded base on balls was awarded to Eric Acevedo scoring Ravelo. With the bases still loaded Stephen Perez was also awarded a bases on balls scoring Baron. Going into the seventh, the Legends had turned a 1-0 deficit into a 3-1 lead. Casey Delgado came into the game to close for the Legends. Two quick strikeouts meant Florida was one out away. It would not be that easy. The game was about to take an odd turn. Two hits, two wild pitches and a two base error later, the Storm had tied the score. Now going into the bottom of the seventh the game was about to get stranger still. Canela again led the inning off with a base on balls. After a caught foul for the first out, he was pinch run for by Jack Lopez.

Florida Legends center fielder Julian Santos at bat in the championship of the Connie Mack Florida State Tournament against the Homestead Storm. The Legends won the final 4-3.
Photo: Robert de la Fe'

During Rangel Ravelo's at bat attention was suddenly taken from the game and into the Storm bench. The Storm head coach was ejected from the game. With two outs in the inning, two consecutive bases on balls loaded the bases. At that point, the Storm pitcher who coincidently or not, was the player ejected from the previous meeting, was ejected from this one. Left fielder David Vazquez then sent a 2-1 pitch up the middle scoring Lopez and giving the Legends the championship. Delgado who had entered the game in the top of the inning was the winning pitcher. His record is now 4-1 while the Legends are 21-2-2 on the year.

What exactly does the Florida State Championship mean for the Legends? Besides the lofty title, precious little. All the championship means is that the Legends are eligible for the regional tournament later next month. The victory does not guarantee a spot in the Connie Mack World Series. Towards that goal Florida will play in the New York Connie Mack Qualifier Tournament in Troy New York next week.

June 25, 2009 - Florida Legends vs. South Florida Powerhouse - Connie Mack State Tournament

Florida Legends pitcher Gregg Bennis delivers home against the South Florida Powerhouse in the semifinal of the Connie Mack Florida State Tournament. Bennis went six innings allowing two hits while striking out seven in the Legends 4-1 win.
Photo: Robert de la Fe'

Going into their semifinal match up at Connie Mack Florida State Tournament, the Florida Legends were in the driver's seat. Playing at Pace High School, the Legends would be facing the South Florida Powerhouse, a familiar opponent. Florida had already faced the Powerhouse several times this season including a 4-1 Legends victory in the opening game of the tournament for both teams at Flamingo Park, Miami Beach. Different game, different location but same result. Behind a strong starting pitching performance by Gregg Bennis, Florida defeated the Powerhouse by the same 4-1 margin sending the pinstriped boys in blue into the tournament championship game.

Playing as visitors, the Legends opened the scoring in the third inning with power from the bottom of their order. Leading the inning off ninth hitter and center fielder Julian Santos sent a 1-1 pitch over the fence in left center field for a solo home run giving the Legends a 1-0 lead. After waiting through a 27 minute rain delay in the forth, the Legends struck for three more runs in the fifth. With one out in the frame right fielder Rangel Ravelo singled to left. Two wild pitches moved him to third from where catcher Steven Baron drove him home with a hit up the middle. Then with Baron on, third baseman David Vazquez sent the first pitch he saw over the left field fence for a two run shot making the score 4-0 at that point.

Florida Legends catcher Steven Baron steals second against the South Florida Powerhouse. Baron was 2-2 with a base on balls, run scored and an RBI to go along with the stolen base in the Legends 4-1 semifinal game victory at the Connie Mack Florida State Tournament.
Photo: Robert de la Fe'

Four runs was more than Bennis would need. Although starting off a bit shaky Bennis grew stronger as the game progressed. After issuing two bases on balls in the first Bennis surrendered one of his two hits on the day. The Powerhouse runner from second was waived home but a bullet through from center fielder Santos to catcher Baron got the runner at the plate in what was not a close play. In the fourth inning with the Legends leading at the time 1-0 either a stroke of genius or a lack of concentration on the part of Bennis led to an outstanding defensive play. With the lead off hitter of the inning on first via a base on balls, Powerhouse attempted to sacrifice the would be equalizing run over to second. The resulting bunt was popped up towards the first base side of the diamond. Alertly or not, Bennis allowed the ball to drop. Picking it up he lobbed it to first baseman Rudy Flores who after tagging first threw to shortstop Stephen Perez completing an unorthodox 1-3-6 double play. Bennis struck out seven in his six innings of work including striking out the side in the sixth to finish strong. His record in 2009 is 1-0. Florida now moves on to the final of the double elimination tournament as an undefeated team.

June 24, 2009 - Florida Legends vs. Homestead Storm - Connie Mack State Tournament

This game had a lot going for it. The meeting between the Homestead Storm and the Florida Legends could be remembered as the contest between the last two undefeated teams at the 2009 Connie Mack Florida State Tournament. The classic pitcher's duel could be remembered for going scoreless into extra innings. It could be remembered for the defensive struggle which saw the visiting Storm collect only two hits in regulation play while the Legends gathered only one. It should be remembered for the dramatic walk off home run by Legends catcher Steven Baron in the eighth inning giving Florida the 1-0 victory. Instead though, this game will be thought of in respects to an unsettling play occurring in the third inning which saw the ejection of a Storm player.

Legends pitcher went the first three innings against the Storm who were visitors for this game. Suarez struck out two in his tenure on the hill while allowing one hit. That one hit came with two outs in the third and two runners on who had both reached via bases on balls. With the hit to left, the Storm runner on second was waived home. Legends left fielder Jack Lopez gathered the ball and gunned a one hop strike home to catcher Steven Baron. The Storm runner was dead to rights out by a wide margin. As Baron applied the tag, the runner dove at him spikes up hitting Baron in the upper right thigh area. The overly aggressive and quite illegal contact caused both benches to empty. When order was restored, the inning was over as the play at home was the third out of the inning and the Storm player was ejected.

Spark flew, intensity arose, but the Legends could get no offensive out put. Jack Lopez reached base thanks to an errant throw in the first. He stole second and got as far as third before being stranded there. The Legends next base runner and first hit came in the fifth. Leading the inning off third baseman Rangel Ravelo nearly drove one out of the park. Offering at the first pitch he saw, Ravelo hit a deep fly to left which hit the fence just missing going out for a double. Right fielder Chad Cabrera followed with a sacrifice bunt moving Ravelo to third where he would be marooned. The Legends had only one other base runner in regulation. First baseman Rudy Flores was hit by pitch in the seventh but was erased on an inning ending double play.

Equally as impressive however was the stubborn Legends defensive effort. James Kessler came in to pitch in the fourth. He went two innings striking out two and did not allow a hit. Aaron Arboleya finished the game for the Legends pitching three innings which included the eighth. Arboleya, grunting at times as he pitched, allowed one hit while striking out five.

In a bit of poetic justice, Florida the game was won in the eighth when the player who had been involved in the rough play back in the third inning settled thing. With one out in the eighth catcher Steven Baron sent a 1-0 pitch over the left field fence for a walk off home run. His battery mate Aaron Arboleya was credited with the victory, a hard fought one for the Legends. His record is now 3-0.

The Legends now move on to the semifinals as the only undefeated team left in the double elimination tournament.

June 24, 2009 - Florida Legends vs. Broward Nationals - Connie Mack State Tournament

Florida Legends shortstop Jack Lopez taking his lead off second in the fist inning against the Broward Nationals at the Connie Mack Florida State Tournament. Lopez was 2-4 with two runs scored in the 4-0 Legends victory.
Photo: Robert de la Fe'

After a rain out the day before and a change of venue, the Florida Legends were ready to get back to work at the Connie Mack Florida State Tournament. Changing playing sites from Flamingo Park in Miami Beach to Pace High School near Opa Locka, the Legends played as visitors against the Broward Nationals. Wearing their traditional pinstripe uniforms for the first time this season, the Legends took a quick 2-0 lead in the first inning and never looked back in route to a 4-0 victory.

Florida Legends designated hitter Steven Baron with an RBI single against the Broward Nationals at the Connie Mack Florida State Tournament. The Legends won the contest 4-0.
Photo: Robert de la Fe'

Florida shortstop Jack Lopez singled to center with one out in the first for the first hit of the game. A wild pitch got him to second from where catcher Danny Canela drove him home with the first run of the game with a hit through the right side. Canela was in turn driven home by a single off the bat of designated hitter Steven Baron. The pinstriped boys in blue made it 3-0 in the third with one swing of the lumber. With two outs in the inning, left fielder Rangel Ravelo sent the first offering he saw over the left field fence for a solo home run. Florida added one more run in the fifth to put the game away. Lopez led the inning off with a base hit and then stole second with one out. First baseman Rudy Flores got him to third with a single that made it through the left side of the infield. Ravelo then drove Lopez home with a hit to left field. Lopez finished the game 2-4 with a stolen base and two runs scored. Ravelo was 3-4 with the homer, two RBIs and a stolen base.

Shawn Zabrinksie pitched five innings allowing two hits while striking out seven to earn the win. His record is now1-1. Zabrinskie was helped by his defense behind him. While issuing four bases on balls, the combination of catcher Danny Canela and shortstop Jack Lopez erased three runners attempting to steal and picked off another at second. Right fielder Chad Cabrera also teamed up with first baseman Rudy Flores for an F-9-3 double play. Casey Delgado pitched the final two innings in relief striking out three. The Legends now move on in the winners bracket of the state tournament.

June 22, 2009 - Florida Legends vs. South Florida Powerhouse - Connie Mack State Tournament

Florida Legends pitcher Cody Stiles sending an offering home. Stiles allowed two hits through six innings striking out seven in a 5-1 victory against the South Florida Powerhouse. It was the opening game of the Connie Mack Florida State Tournament at Flamingo Park, Miami Beach for both teams.
Photo: Robert de la Fe'

It was unmercifully hot at Flamingo Park in Miami Beach for the Legends opening game of the Connie Mack Florida State Tournament against the South Florida Powerhouse. The mercury registered in the mid 90s. Adding to the sweltering heat was a sizzling fastball in the neighborhood of 90 miles an hour that Legends starter Cody Stiles was offering. Stiles went six innings allowing two hits while striking out seven in the 5-1 Legends victory.

The state tournament which in years past was always held around the third week in July is for reasons still unclear being held a month early in 2009. Not concerned however with the time frame, the Legends got right to work. Playing as the home team, Florida scored three runs in the second and never looked back from that point. Leading the inning off, third baseman Rangel Ravelo sent a 2-0 pitch over the left field fence for a solo home run to open the scoring. Right fielder Chad Cabrera followed with a full count base on balls. Catcher Steven Baron then doubled down the right field line putting runners on second and third. With one out, center fielder Julian Santos hit a grounder to second bring home Cabrera. An errant throw allowed Baron to score as well. Florida added one more run in the fifth making the score at the time 5-0. With one out designated hitter Danny Canela bounced the first pitch he saw off the scoreboard in right field for the Legends second solo home run of the game.

Florida Legends Rudy Flores connects for a hit up the middle. The first baseman was 2-3 with a double in a 5-1 victory against the South Florida Powerhouse. It was the opening game of the Connie Mack Florida State Tournament at Flamingo Park, Miami Beach for both teams
Photo: Robert de la Fe'

Defensively, Florida turned two double plays. In the third a Stephen Perez to Jack Lopez to Rudy Flores 6-4-3 twin killing ended the inning. After Powerhouse had scored in the sixth and with no outs, a Perez unassisted at second to Flores at first double play stopped the would be rally in its tracks. Aaron Arboleya came in relief to pitch the seventh. Arboleya struck out two earning his second save of the year. The Legends almost ended the game on a would be spectacular play. With two outs in the seventh Perez dove for a ball deep in the hole. Getting up from short left field Perez fired to first. Ravelo who had moved from third an inning earlier made a diving attempt at the throw while managing to keep his foot on the bag. The throw was just late to record the out. No matter as Arboleya induced the last out of the game on a looking strikeout.

Winning pitcher Cody Stiles raised his record to 2-0. The Legends improved to 17-2-2 and moved into the winners bracket of the state tournament.

June 10, 2009 - Florida Legends vs. South Florida Surge - Prospect Select Summer Classic Showcase

Behind 4-2 with only two hits to their credit and late in the game. That was the situation the Florida Legends found themselves in at FIU Stadium against the South Florida Surge during their fifth game of the Prospect Select Summer Classic Showcase. Legends bats finally came alive in the sixth inning as the boys in blue broke out with a four hit, eight run frame. The offensive blast propelled Florida to a 10-4 victory over the Surge.

Florida Legends shortstop Stephen Perez recording one of his four assists against the South Florida Surge to go along with his three put outs. Offensively Perez smacked a three RBI double to center in the sixth in the come from behind 10-4 Legend win at FIU Stadium.
Photo: Robert de la Fe'

Playing as visitors, the Legends jumped out to a quick 2-0 lead in the first without benefit of a hit. Two bases on balls, a wild pitch and a double steal of third and home coupled with a throwing error brought in Eric Serra and Chad Cabrera. The lead was to be short lived as the Surge put together four hits, two singles and two doubles, to score four in the bottom of the second. The 4-2 Surge lead would last until the sixth inning. Defensive teamwork by the Legends kept the score there. Catcher Shane Rowland and shortstop Stephen Perez picked a runner off second in the second and caught a would be base thief in the third. The Surge kept their running game very conservative after that point.

Florida Legends David Vazquez sending a sacrifice fly to right for the go ahead run in a 10-4 Legends victory over the South Florida Surge at FIU Stadium.
Photo: Robert de la Fe'

Florida's offense looked sluggish through five innings with only two hits. A single by right fielder Chad Cabrera in the fourth and another by designated hitter David Vazquez in the fifth, neither of which amounted to anything, was all the Legends had to show. That was all about to change. With one out in the sixth and a runner on third, third baseman Manny Machado singled through the left side driving in a run. A following single by Cabrera and an intentional base on balls to first baseman Rangel Ravelo loaded the bases. Second baseman Eric Acevedo took the count full before being awarded a base on balls forcing home the equalizing run. With the bases still packed with Legends, David Vazquez took a 1-2 outside pitch and sent it the same way it had come flighting a sacrifice to right and driving home the go ahead run. With the bases still loaded and two outs, lead off hitter Stephen Perez doubled to center clearing the bases.

Vinny Contaldi pitched four innings in relief allowing two hits, both singles, no bases on balls and one strikeout to earn his first victory as a Legend. Contaldi did not have a runner past first base in his tenure on the hill.

June 9, 2009 - Florida Legends vs. Central Florida Renegades 17U - Prospect Select Summer Classic Showcase

Florida Legends pitcher James Kessler in his delivery against the Central Florida Renegades 17's. Kessler earned his first victory as a Legend in the 5-1 Florida win at FIU Stadium during the Prospect Select Summer Classic Showcase.
Photo: Robert de la Fe'

Having soundly defeated the Broward Nationals in the morning, the Legends went back to back and played a noontime against the Central Florida Renegades 17 and under team. Having won all of their previous three games at the Prospect Select Summer Classic Showcase, two of them by wide margins, one might be led to believe that the Legends would have an easy time facing a younger team. But the name should not fool anyone. The Renegades 17's were a very sound squad. The boys in blue were actually behind 1-0, losing on an unearned run, before a four run fourth inning put the game away in a 5-1 Legends victory. Despite committing two errors, one of them leading to the Renegades lone run, the Florida defense was otherwise solid. Two double plays were turned in the first two innings. James Kessler pitched four innings striking out two to earn his first victory as a Legend. Kessler bent at times such as in the fourth inning when he gave up three successive singles. However, he did not break as he was able with the aid of his defense to keep the Renegades from crossing home plate.

Florida Legends first baseman Rangel Ravelo went 2-3 with a stolen base and two runs scored against the Central Florida Renegades 17's. The 5-1 Legends victory at FIU Stadium was the fourth win in four games for Florida at the Prospect Select Summer Classic Showcase.
Photo: Robert de la Fe'

Down 1-0 in the fourth, Legends right fielder Chad Cabrera led the inning off with a single through the right side. First baseman Rangel Ravelo followed with a single to center putting two aboard. A fielding error loaded the bases and a wild pitch brought Cabrera home equaling the score. Following at bat third baseman David Vazquez put the ball in play. His grounder to shortstop plated Ravelo and put the Legends up for good. Not quite finished yet though, with two outs an infield single by left fielder Jack Lopez brought second baseman Eric Acevedo, who had reached on the error, home. A triple to right by lead off hitter, shortstop Stephen Perez scored Lopez with the fourth run of the frame.

Florida added one more insurance run in the fifth on a somewhat disjointed play. With one out Rangel Ravelo singled to center and then stole second. Eric Acevedo then followed with a hit to center of his own. Acevedo took second as the throw came home. Ravelo had stopped at third. The Renegade catcher threw to second attempting to retire Acevedo but the throw sailed somewhat. Although Acevedo was caught in a rundown and an out was recorded shortstop to third baseman, Ravelo was able to score on the throwing miscue. Ravelo finished the game 2-3 with a stolen base and two runs scored.

Sam Abram relieved Kessler and pitched a scoreless fifth and sixth striking out two. Eddy Piederman closed out the seventh getting two ground outs to third and a strikeout. The Legends are now 6-2.

June 9, 2009 - Florida Legends vs. Broward Nationals - Prospect Select Summer Classic Showcase

Florida Legends pitcher Kevin Bryant in action against the Broward Nationals during the Prospect Select Summer Classic Showcase at FIU Stadium. Bryant allowed one hit while striking out four in earning his first victory as a Legend.
Photo: Robert de la Fe'

For the second game in a row hits keep flying off the lumber for the Legends at the Prospect Select Summer Classic Showcase. Playing an early morning game against the Broward Nationals, a conference rival at FIU Stadium, Florida's offense exploded for double digits in both hits and runs. The Legends put the game out of reach early bringing their overall record to 5-2 with the 12-2 victory over the Nationals who were home team for this contest.

Florida Legends center fielder Eric Serra went 1-2 with two stolen bases and two runs scored against the Broward Nationals in a 12 -2 Legends victory.
Photo: Robert de la Fe'

Batting in the second inning, the Legends sent 10 batsmen to the plate in the frame scoring seven runs on five hits. First baseman Rangel Ravelo led the inning off with a double to right. Eric Acevedo, Jack Lopez, Shane Rowland and Manny Machado would all follow suit with hits of their own. Leading 7-0 after two, the situation was never in doubt. Florida would add another run in the fourth as third baseman Stephen Perez led the inning off with a triple to left center. He was driven home by Manny Machado with a single to left. Two more runs in both the sixth and seventh gave the Legends 12 runs on 11 hits. Eight Legend players had at least one hit.

Meanwhile on the defensive side, pitcher Kevin Bryant turned in an impressive performance. Bryant allowed one hit, a double, while striking out four in his tenure on the hill to earn his first victory as a Legend.

June 8, 2009 - Florida Legends vs. South West Florida Baseball - Prospect Select Summer Classic Showcase

Playing through a few rain drops, Legends first baseman Danny Canela singles to right with the bases loaded clearing the bags against SWFL. Canela went 2-4 with a double, four RBIs, a stolen base and a run scored in the 10-4 Legends win.
Photo: Robert de la Fe'

Just enough time for a quick lunch. After defeating the Central Florida Renegades 2-1 at the Kendall campus of Miami Dade College in the first game of the Prospect Select Summer Classic Showcase, the Legends drove a few miles north over to Florida International University for their second game of the day. Playing South West Florida Baseball, better known by their acronym SWFL, the boys in blue stormed out to a 10-4 come from behind victory against the highly regarded team from the west coast of Florida at FIU Stadium. While the Legends up to this point had played games decided by one or two runs, it must be noted that Florida has been using wooden bats exclusively. Their opponents have not been. The lumber was about to get lively in the hot and humid south Floridian afternoon air. The Legends racked up 12 hits. Five of them for extra bases.

It's gone! Legends second baseman Eric Acevedo send one over the left field fence for a solo home run against SWFL. The game, won by the Legends 10-4 was part of the Prospect Select Summer Classic Showcase at FIU Stadium.
Photo: Robert de la Fe'

Quickly down 4-1 in the second inning, the Legends were forced to make a pitching change. Aaron Arboleya came in to get the last out of the inning and then shut SWFL down for the rest of the afternoon. Arboleya surrendered one hit through four and one third innings while striking out five. The one hit being a bunt single to lead off the third inning. Arboleya allowed only three base runners of any kind during his tenure on the hill. A five run third inning put the Legends up for good. The fireworks were highlighted by a bases loaded single to right by first baseman Danny Canela clearing the bases and a solo home run to left by second baseman Eric Acevedo during the six hit third. Right fielder Rangel Ravelo sandwiched in an RBI single between Canela and Acevedo. Ahead 6-4, the Legends added three more runs in the fourth. Lead off hitter, shortstop Stephen Perez and Canela both had RBI doubles in the frame. Designated hitter Manny Machado also contributed an RBI sacrifice fly. Perez finished going 2-3 with a double, RBI, stolen base and three runs scored. Canela went 2-4 with four RBIs a stolen base and a run scored.

Arboleya was credited with the victory bringing his record to 1-0 with a save. The Legends are now 4-2 on the young 2009 season.

June 8, 2009 - Florida Legends vs. Central Florida Renegades - Prospect Select Summer Classic Showcase

Maynor Portablanco pitched four innings striking out five to earning the win against the Central Florida Renegades in his Legends debut.
Photo: Robert de la Fe'

Finally. It was starting to seem that the Legends were not going to get to play another game in 2009. After six consecutive rain outs, a week's worth of games, the sun came out again. The break in the clouds meant the start of the Prospect Select Summer Classic Showcase could start on schedule. Opening the showcase at the Kendall campus of Miami Dade College, the Legends hosted the Central Florida Renegades. A two run first inning was all the help that strong pitching outings by starter Maynor Portablanco and reliever Gregg Bennis would need as the Legends won 2-1. Portablanco was greeted in his Legends debut by by back to back infield hits to start the game. A fly ball and a double play grounder later, the Legends were out of the inning with no damage suffered. Portabalco was impressive through four innings allowing three hits in all surrendering no runs while striking out five.

Designated hitter Shane Rowland went 2-2 with a stolen base and scored the winning run against the Central Florida Renegades. The Legends won the opening game of the Prospect Select Summer Classic Showcase 2-1 at the Kendall Campus of Miami Dade College.
Photo: Robert de la Fe'

Legends lead off hitter, second baseman Stephen Perez started the boys in blue off with a full count hit to right. Designated hitter Shane Rowland followed with a hit through the left side putting two aboard. A double steal moved both runners 90 feet closer. Shortstop Manny Machado flighted a sacrifice to left driving home Perez for the first run of the game. Catcher Danny Canela 's grounder to short brought in Rowland with what would prove to be the winning run. The Legends managed only two other hits in the game all coming from the same two batters. Stephen Perez and Shane Rowland were both 2-3.

Florida's defense rose to the task as the Legends recorded three double plays during the game. Not to be outdone, the Renegades pulled off a triple play in the fourth to snuff out a would be Legends rally. Maynor Portablanco was credited with his fist win as a Legend. Gregg Bennis pitched the final three innings to earn his fist save of the year.

June 6, 2009 - Florida Legends vs. Florida Pokers @ FIU Stadium

Third baseman Manny Machado was 3-3 with a double and a home run scoring two runs in the Legends 3-1 victory over the Florida Pokers.
Photo: Robert de la Fe'

Starting the 2009 season has proven no easy task for the Florida Legends. It seems the very wet south Florida rainy season, which has come with a vengeance, decided to bring monsoon style weather at the same time. Finally being able to beat the rain, the boys in blue hosted the always competitive Florida Pokers at a soggy but playable FIU Stadium. The Legends broke a 1-1 tie in the bottom of the fifth and then scored a late insurance run to earn their first victory of 2009, 3-1. Hits were not plentiful for either side as the Pokers were limited to five singles. The Legends also recorded five hits but were timely with their use of the lumber. That phrase this year is not only a figure of speech. The Legends will be using wooden bats throughout this season. The reasoning is that all Connie Mack sanctioned play this year will be with wooden bats.

Aaron Arboleya pitched two scoreless innings allowing no hits while striking out three against the Florida Pokers. Arboleya earned the save in the Legends 3-1 victory.
Photo: Robert de la Fe'

In a scoreless tie with two outs in the bottom of the fourth, Legends third baseman Manny Machado opened the scoring hitting the first pitch he saw over the left field fence for a solo home run. The lead was not to be long lived as the Pokers quickly equaled in the top of the fifth as their lead off hitter in the inning singled to left and was eventually driven home on a sacrifice fly. Coming right back in the bottom of the inning, the Legends took the lead for good with he bottom of the order responding. With one out seventh hitter, right fielder Rangel Ravelo singled to left. Following at the bat, designated hitter Gregg Bennis was hit by pitch. Left fielder Eric Serra then laid down a textbook bunt down the third base line which the pitcher fielded but could do nothing with. Lead off hitter Stephen Perez drew a bases loaded walk bringing in Ravelo with the go ahead run. The Legends scored their third run of the game in the sixth. Manny Machado led the inning off with a double to left. Machado finished the game 3-3 with the home run and double to his credit. Machado would later score on a wild pitch.

Joey Capparelli (1-0) who had entered the game in the fifth was credited with the win. Aaron Arbolyea pitched the final two innings to earn the save.

April 1, 2009 - Legends Attracting National Attention

The Florida Legends, fresh off a Connie Mack World Series appearance for the second consecutive year, are proud of the attention some of their players from this year�s team are getting. Rawlings announced their Pre-Season All American Team for 2009 and 9 Legends were announced. Congratulations to the following players:

First Team:

Dane Williams
Cody Stiles

Second Team:

Rudy Flores
Steven Perez

Third Team:

Kamm Washington
E.J Encinosa

Honrable Mention:

Steven Baron
Danny Healey
Jacob Johnson