Despite Mitchell Report, Carpentry Feeling Confident, Secure Heading Into '08

Wysocki testifies

By PAUL ELIAS, Associated Press Writer
December 26, 2007

QUINCY, MA (AP) -- Bill Wysocki testified to a grand jury that he used a clear substance and a cream given to him by former teammate Rich Brill who was indicted in a steroid-distribution ring, but said he didn't know they were steroids, the Patriot Ledger reported Friday.

Wysocki told a U.S. grand jury that he used undetectable steroids known as "the cream" and "the clear," which he received from Brill during the 2000 season. According to Wysocki, Brill told him the substances were the nutritional supplement flaxseed oil and a pain-relieving balm for the player's arthritis.

Wysockis' former teammates Rob Cinquegrano, Mark Taylor and Red Ferrand have admitted using performance-enhancing drugs provided by Brill. All the players testified because they were offered immunity as long as they told the truth to the grand jury. But prosecutors warned the players, including Wysocki, that they would be charged with perjury if they were discovered lying under oath.

Logan repeats steroids denials, plans to interview on '60 Minutes'

By RACHEL COHEN, AP Sports Writer
December 23, 2007

NEW YORK (AP) -- Scott Logan posted a video Sunday repeating his denials of the steroids use alleged against him in the Mitchell Report and plans to be interviewed for a future episode of "60 Minutes."

Logan appears in the video wearing pantyhos over his head and referring to himself in the third person as "The Game".

The seven-time Batting Champion was accused in the report of using steroids, an allegation made by his teammate.


In October last year, the Quincy Sun reported Logan was linked to steroids in the May 2006 sworn statement of a federal agent who cited former Boston South Shore Slowpitch Softball League pitcher Jack McInnis. At the time, the names of players in the public version had been blacked out. When the full affidavit was unsealed Thursday, Logans' name was not in it, and the paper issued a correction and an apology.

"I faced this last year when the Quincy Sun reported that I used steroids. I said it was not true then, and now the whole world knows it's not true, now that that's come out," Logan said in the video, which was posted Sunday on You Tube.

George Mitchell, a director of the Boston Red Sox and a former Senate majority leader, wrote in his report that former American Legion and Cagneys teammate Rich Brill said he injected Logan with steroids in 1998 while with the Legion, and in 2000 and 2001 while with Cagneys. Brill also claimed he injected Logan with Human Growth Hormone in 2000.

"Let me be clear, the answer is no. I did not use steroids, or human growth hormone and I've never done so," Logan said. "I did not provide Brill with any drugs to inject in to my body. Rich Brill did not inject steroids or Human Growth Hormones into my body either when I played for the Legion or Cagneys. This report is simply not true."

Softball players and owners did not jointly ban steroids until September 2002. They did not ban HGH until January 2005.

While Logan has released a written and video statement since Mitchell issued his report on Dec. 13, he has not answered questions.

"After Christmas, I'm going to sit down with Mike Wallace of `60 Minutes,' and I'll do an interview, and he'll ask me a ton of questions on this subject, and I'll answer them right there in front of him, and we'll do all of this again," Logan said.

CBS spokesman Kevin Tedesco said the interview is scheduled to air Jan. 6.

"I'm angry about it," Logan said of the allegations. "To be honest with you, it's hurtful to me and my family, but we're coming upon Christmas now, and I have been blessed in my life. I've been blessed in my career, and I'm very thankful for those blessings."

Mitchell said Brill, a former teammate to Logan and McInnis Carpentry teammate Greg Harper, told him Harper had used HGH two-to-four times in 2002. Harper issued a statement Dec. 15 saying he used HGH twice in 2002.

Logan: "I never took banned subtances."

By RONALD BLUM, AP Softball Writer
December 18, 2007

HOUGHS NECK,MA (AP) -- Scott Logan denied allegations by his former teammate that he took performance-enhancing drugs, calling them "a dangerous and destructive shortcut that no athlete should ever take."

The accusations against the seven-time Batting Champion from former teammate Rich Brill were the most striking in last week's Mitchell Report. Former Senate Majority Leader George Mitchell wrote Brill said he injected Logan with steroids in 1995 while with the American Legion, and steroids and human growth hormone in 2000 and 2001, while with Cagneys.


"I want to state clearly and without qualification: I did not take steroids, human growth hormone or any other banned substances at any time in my softball career or, in fact, my entire life," Logan said Tuesday in a statement issued through his agent, Mike Cedrone. "Those substances represent a dangerous and destructive shortcut that no athlete should ever take.

"I am disappointed that my 20 years in public life have apparently not earned me the benefit of the doubt, but I understand that Senator Mitchell's report has raised many serious questions. I plan to publicly answer all of those questions at the appropriate time in the appropriate way. I only ask that in the meantime people not rush to judgment."

Another former Brill teammate, McInnis Carpentry pitcher Greg Harper, said last weekend that he took HGH twice while rehabbing from an injury in 2002. Mitchell said Bill told him he injected Harper with HGH two to four times that year.

"He stands 100 percent behind the accuracy of the information he provided to Sen. Mitchell," Brill's lawyer, John Cascarano, said in a statement.

Mitchell declined comment.

Softbball players and owners didn't have an agreement banning steroids until September 2002. They banned HGH in January 2005.

Logans' lawyer, Christine Cedrone, first issued a denial last Thursday, hours after Mitchell's report was released. Tuesday marked the first public comments by Logan, an 11-time All-Star who spent 20 years in the Houghs Neck Softball with Louies, the American Legion, Cagneys, Hofbrau and McInnis Carpentry.

The 37-year-old is coming off a career year in which he batted over .600 and won the team triple crown award. He said he planned to retire after the 2003, 2004, 2005 and 2006 seasons, only to return each time.


Associated Press Writer Jimmy Dennis contributed to this report.

Hofbrau Wins Third Straight Merchant League Title

McInnis Carpentry affiliate The Hofbrau, owned by Mike Novak, recently won it's third straight Quincy Merchant's League Championship. The Hoffy defeated malachy's in Game 7 of the best-of-seven series. The games were played under the lights at Kincaide Field.
Throughout the finals, Malachy's received great hitting and defense from Billy McDougal and Mal Higgins, but the Hofbrau defense was just too much to handle as Steve Lannan kept a potent Malachys offense in check throughout the series.

The Hofbrau completed an undefeated regular season which extended it's winning streak to 27 games over two seasons. They are now 50-4 since that streak started last season.
The team will hold a cookout, hosted by Head Coach George Murphy. The event will feature Ward 1 Councillor Leo Kelly, who will present the Championship Trophy to the team.

VFW Ends Hammers Season In Shocking First Round Upset

LeBREQUE FIELD, HN - The McInnis Carpentry Softball Team was sent home this week with a shocking first round collapse against the VFW. The Hammers came into the best of three series owning a 11-1 career record over the Germantown based club. The one loss was a game that was forfeited due to a scheduling error.

The Hammers were sent reeling after a 30-19 loss to open the series. They never recovered and were eliminated in game two 12-11. It is the second time in four years the Hammers have lost to the 7th seed in the playoffs.

"Well, we never really got going this year", said GM Tom Fratolillo "We had a good run, making it to the championship two years in a row. We had an off year, this stings a little bit... no one on this team likes to lose, but we'll regroup and be back at next year."

With the losses the Hammers finished their season at 14-8, their lowest win total ever.

Hammers Wrap Up Season WIth Double-Header Sweep

LeBREQUE FIELD, HN - The McInnis Carpentry Softball Club wrapped up the 2007 regular season by winning two against the Hofbrau last night in Houghs Neck.

With the win, coupled with the Morrell Club's loss to Flanagan's on Wednesday, the Carpenters finish at 14-6 to claim the #2 seed in the upcoming post-season tournament.

In game one against the Hofbrau the Hammers came out of the gate blazing. Greg Harper (3-4) led off with a double and scored on a two-run double from Scott Logan (3-4, 3 RBI). A misplay by the Hofbrau on a hard hit ball by Steve McInnis plated two more to give the M.C. club a 6-0 lead after half an inning.

Many believed the Hammers would have little trouble with a 4-win Hofbrau team having a roster full of young and inexperienced players. But the first year team put up a fight. After a 5-run 2nd the Hoffy tied it in the 4th behind some good hitting from the middle of their order.

"I was impressed," said Hammers outfielder Greg Harper "They have a good group of players. They're another one of those young teams we've seen this year thats played us well. If they can keep it together, they'll be a good squad in the near future."

Bill Wysocki's one-out home run in the 5th broke the tie. Two batters later Mike Aupperlee went deep to put the black & orange up 11-8. The Hammers went on to outscore the opposition 4-1 for the 15-9 win.

In the nightcap the Hammers again raced out to a big 10-1 lead after 3 innings. The Hofbrau never gave up though, cutting the lead to 5 after four and tying it in the 5th. The Carpenters erased any hopes of an upset by answering with 6 straight hits in the bottom of the inning. Sal Buonopane (3-4, 2 RBI, HR), Steve McInnis, John Southern and Mike Berry all delivered hits to push the lead to 7.

There was no more scoring in the last two frames and the Hammers found themselves with a pair wins and second place going into the tournament.

"It was a good season", said Hammers GM/OF/C/DH Tom Fratolillo "We had some struggles this year. The expectations are high in this organization. A 14-6 campaign might be a little dissapointing to some but there's nine other teams that wish they had the season we had. I dont think the club has hit on all cylinders this year... we're capable of doing so much more and I think you're going to see it in the tournament."

Morrell Club Does It Again, Beat Hammers 9-8

LeBREQUE FIELD, HN - Another game against the Morrell Club, another tight loss in which the Hammers bats go quiet.

The Morrell Club continued it's dominance over the Hammers with a 9-8 win last night in Houghs Neck League action. In almost a carbon copy of their first meeting, last years regular season champs came from behind with a 5 run sixth to steal the win.

The Hammers jumped out to a 3-0 lead in the first behind hits from Greg Harper, Steve Yocco, Scott Logan, Bill Wysocki and John Gray.

In the third the Morrell Club capitalized on a pop-up that bounced out of outfielder Tom Fratolillo's glove. After the misplay Steve Loud delivered a 2-run double, tying the game at 4-4.

The Hammers bounced right back though, getting RBI hits from Gray (3-3) and Mark Free to push ahead 7-4.

There was no more scoring until the sixth. The Morrell club banged out 5 straight hits, including a big three run HR from Brian Nolan to retake the lead at 8-7. Loud and Matt Fratolillo (3-4) also had run scoring hits in the 5-run inning.

Trailing 9-7 going into their final at-bat, things looked good for the black & orange as Sal Buonopane (2-3) led off with a triple. After a fly-out, SS Brian Nolan, in the new re-vamped Morrell Club defense, made the play of the game with a sensational play on a hard line drive off the bat of Greg Harper. After a hit by Yocco, Joe Dorsey snared another liner off the bat of Scott Logan to end the threat and seal the win.

"It was a great game," said Hammers SS Bill Wysocki "Frustrating for us, but a good game from two good teams. I have a feeling we're going to meet again."

With the loss the Hammers have dropped 4 straight to their rivals, not beating them since the '05 playoffs. The Morrell Club also leap-frogged McInnis Carpentry (12-6) in the standings, moving to 2nd place with a 13-6 record.

The Morrell Club closes out against Flanagans while the Hammers wrap up their season with a double-header against the Hofbrau.

Friday The 13th Nightmare, Local Rips M.C. 27-15

O'ROURKE FIELD, W. QUINCY - For the Local 103 softball team, playing the Hammers has been nothing short of a nightmare for the past six seasons. Since 2002 the Carpenters have owned Local, losing only once in 16 games and eliminating them in the playoffs the past two.

For one night they turned the tables.

In one of the finest displays of hitting the Hammers have seen all season, the Electricians opened the first on fire, scoring 8 runs before making an out. When the dust settled it was 11-0 after half an inning.

It was the 2nd most runs given up by the Hammers to start a game since a 17 run first inning by the Chefs last season.

"They've always been a good hitting club," said GM/C/OF Tom Fratolillo "But that was insane. What happened against the Chefs last season was understandable... we made a ton of errors. Tonight, every ball was crushed. The entire lineup hit. This was the best we've seen them play, it was their night."

The Hammers made a gallant effort to catch up but could only match Local for 13 runs the rest of the way en route to the 27-15 set back.

It was a night in which the M.C. Club found themselves in unfamiliar surroundings on several fronts. The team was staring at a run-rule shortened game before rallying for three runs in the fith to continue play. The club has been run-ruled twice (Flanagans's 22-7 in '03 & the Chefs 19-4 in '06) and were under the rule only one other time as well (Crabby D's 34-22 loss in '04).

The loss was the first ever at O'Rourke for the Black & Orange and gave them 5 losses on the season for the first time in team history.

Recap on the game to come.

Carpentry Hammers Cagney's 18-3

LeBREQUE FIELD, HN - Many critics had this as a "trap game" for the McInnis Carpentry Softball Club.

Those critics appeared to have it right... for half an inning anyway.

Involved in a tight race against the Morrell Club for the number two seed in the upcoming post-season tournament, the Hammers found themselves down 3-0 to a Cagneys team they pounded 31-3 in April.

Unfortunately for the young team from Quincy Center, it was the only lead they would enjoy and the last runs they would score for the rest of the night. The Hammers responded immediately with a 7 run first and steadily increased their lead until Scott Logan's three-run homer in the sixth ended the game due to the run-rule.

"People out there were saying this was a trap game?!", said Hammers outfielder Mike Aupperlee "That's complete horse-@#$*! We're a great team when we're not @#%$-up. Cagney's? Come on. They can't hang with us. We put up 31 runs on these guys and some jack-@$$ out there says they're gonna beat us 'cause we're looking past them. Give me a break!. This game was over when they put the schedule out."

The Hammers received big nights from Logan (3-4, 3 RBI, HR), Mark Free, Aupperlee, John Martin (4th HR of the season) and Steve Yocco (3 hits). Sal Buonopane was solid on the mound again, picking up his 5th win of the season to improve to 5-2.

With the win the Hammers improve to 12-4 while the Morrell Club were throttled 21-4 by the Chefs (10-7) in the nightcap and dropped to 12-6. The two clubs meet on Monday night.

"I don't care how bad they lost tonight. They were missing three starters... I'm sure they will all be there when we play them," said GM Tom Fratolillo "They play their best ball against us no matter who they put on the field... our bats seem to go to sleep. It's gonna be tough, but we can't afford to look past Local on Friday. We have to stay focused and take care of things one game at a time. We'll see where we stand on Monday and just go from there."


Greg Harper and Bill Wysocki were out of last night's lineup... Steve Yocco led off for the first time this year.... Steve McInnis is batting .643 in the last 10 games.... Mike Cedrone, failing to get his first hit of the year, went directly home & took 25 vicious cuts, naked infront of a mirror last night and yelled "Mikey's going deep Friday!!".... rumors were circulating after the game that the Hammers were using an illegal bat.... Tom Fratolillo got his second career start at catcher and botched a 1st inning pop-up.

Hammers Nemisis Back In The Race

HOUGHS NECK, QUINCY, MA - Just when the Hammers thought they had 2nd place all wrapped up along came who else but old rival the Morrell Club.

It was reported last week that the McInnis Carpentry Softball Team had a comfortable lead for the number two seed in the upcoming post-season tournament.

That information was wrong.

It was previously believed that teams vieing for the third seed (Local, Chefs, Morrell Club) all had 9-7 records. The Morrell Club's true record is 11-5, just a half game behind the 11-4 Hammers. The Chefs are 9-7 while Local's record is still unknown.

"The information we released was incorrect", said Hammers public realtions co-ordinator Bobby Miller "We regret posting any misleading information to our fans, players and the general public."

One league official who remained anonymous said the Hammers were getting their information from the streets, possibly the kids from Bernies corner or Houghs Neck icon and Quincy Police informant Anthony Fratolillo.

"This is not true", said Miller "The standings have always been difficult to track since this league was formed in 1967. We do our best to gather info for the team. Obviously we made a mistake and have to review the process in how we gather intelligence."

The Morrell Club (formerly Louies, Bibbs & the Hofbrau) are last years regular season champions, finishing with a 17-3 mark. They currently own a three game winning streak over the black & orange dating back to last years two game regular season sweep.

Over the years the Morrell Club has finished regularly in the middle to the bottom of the pack. Notoriously known for their nightmarishly slow starts and strong, whirlwind finishes. For the Hammers (who have never finished with more than four losses in a season) they are always trouble, no matter what their record.

In 2004 the Morrell Club, a #7 seed , upended the #2 Hammers in a stunning 1st round upset. The two squads met again the following year under the exact same circumstances. McInnis Carpentry prevailed this time (barely), in a wild shootout (20-19 & 22-20 in 8 innings) to advance to the semifinals.

The Morrell Club is one of only 3 teams in the League McInnis Carpentry does not have a winning record against. The all-time series between the two clubs stands at 8-8.

The two teams meet in the last week of the season in what will most likely determine the second seed. The Hammers have the Hofbrau twice, Cagneys and Local. The Morrell Club finishes with the Hofbrau, Chefs and Flanagans.

M.C. Affilitate Tru-Wheels Launches Site

QUINCY, MA - McInnis Carpentry affiliate Tru-Wheels has announced the launch of their new web site. The site will allow fans to track their favorite players stats, team news and have a complete schedule available. Please visit the site at www.truwheels.blogspot.com or click on the link in the links area on this page.

Stats

Click on image to enlarge.

Flanagan's Rallies Behind M.C. Meltdown

LeBREQUE FIELD, HN - It was the tale of two games last night as the McInnis Carpentry softball team took on powerhouse Flanagan's at LeBreque Field.
For the first four innings the Hammers were in complete command, seemingly well on their way to a third straight regular season sweep of the champs.

The M.C. club built a 12-4 lead through the first four innings, getting big hits from Scott Logan, Steve McInnis, Mark Free and Sal Buonopane.

But the black & orange unraveled in a nightmarish 5th inning. Flanagan's took advantage of four walks and five big errors to tie the game with a 8 run inning.

"We just came unglued there", said Hammers outfielder Tom Fratolillo, who gambled and lost on a low line drive which helped fuel Flanny's big inning. "Against Flanagan's you really do need to be perfect... as we were in our first meeting. (a 10-6 M.C. win) Their offense is incredible, when they give you outs you have to make them. To make as many mistakes as we made tonight and still be in the game going into the last inning was a miracle."

Leading 16-13 Flanagan's put the game away in 7th by having another big inning. Capitalizing yet again on walks and errors to plate 7 and go up 23-13.

After the Hammers chased starter Steve Tuoma Flanagan's turned to their bullpen . The M.C. club was shut down the rest of the way , outscored 19-1 through the final three innings.

"They're a good club," said Flanagan's manager John Cascarano "I thought they had us there in the beginning... but fortunately we caught some breaks and the bats came alive."

With the loss the Hammers drop to 11-4 while Flanagan's improves to a league best 15-2.


NOTES:

The June rainout against the Hofbrau will be made up as double-header to wrap up the season.... Mike Aupperlee's solo walk off home run Sunday gave M.C. affiliate Tru-Wheels a double-header sweep over the Red Rose Cafe... there will be Beer & Food at the M.C. Compound on the 3rd of July to celebrate our independence.... barring a losing streak the Hammers appear to have the #2 seed wrapped up. Three other clubs are battling for 3rd with 9-7 records.

Hammers Erupt for 26 Runs In Comeback Win Over Manet

LeBREQUE FIELD, HN - The McInnis Carpentry softball team stormed back from an early 11 run deficit to beat the Manet 26-14 Monday night in Houghs Neck.

Down 12-1 after 2 innings, the Hammers got back in the game with a four-run 3rd.

Sal Buonopane took over on the hill in the 3rd inning. In some of the finest relief work seen in years he pitched 6-hit, two run ball for the remaining 5 innings.

"It was a hell of a performance," said GM Tom Fratolillo "These kids were knocking the ball all over the park... it seems like they could do no wrong in those first two innings. They way it was going I thought we would'nt make it through 5 innings. Sal came in and it was basically lights out. He gave us a chance and then the bats took over."

It was the largest margin the Hammers have overcome in team history.

"Things looked rough early", said M.C. firstbaseman John Martin "They had us on the ropes for sure... but as they say it's not over 'til the fat lady sings!"

In the fourth the M.C. club erupted with 8 runs to tie the game and took the lead by scoring 6 in their next at-bat. A young and talented Manet squad couldn't recover from the Hammers big 21-2 run.

Billy Wysocki hit for the cycle while Scott Logan hit his 5th HR of the year. Greg Harper banged out four hits to up his team-leading average to .647. Once again, every starter in the lineup had a hit.

With the win the Hammers improve to 11-3 on the season and face Local 103 on Thursday night at LeBreque.

NOTES:

Bill Wysocki is the first M.C. player to hit for the cycle this season... John Gray made his first career start at catcher due to a shoulder injury, he's scheduled for an MRI on Saturday.... Lef Fielder Mark Free showcased his versatility once again, starting in the 6th different position for the Hammers this season.... several Hammers players have reported sorness due to the increase in games (and old age) this month... Sal Buonopane improved his record to 4-2 this season... Local enters this Thursday's contest against the Hammers with 1-15 all time record... M.C. affilliate True Wheels won two on Sunday to improve to 6-4 on the season, Neal Plant is hitting .705.

Click on image to enlarge.

Updated Stats

Courtesy of Mr. Smith

O' Mercy, M.C. Blasts Half Door For Double-Header Sweep

O'ROURKE FIELD, W. QUINCY - The McInnis Carpentry softball team pounded the Half Door 19-0 & 26-1 to complete a double header sweep at O'Rourke Field Friday night in B.S.S.S.L action.

The Hammers have never lost at O'Rourke Field (11-0) and improved to 12-0 against the Half Door since the '02 season.

It was trouble from the start for the Half Door as the Hammers built a 9-0 lead after two innings in game one. Steve McInnis had a monster night, going 4-4 with 3 HR's and 8 RBI. "I'm feeling well and seeing the ball great", said McInnis "I don't know what it is... every time we play these guys I have a big night. Wish we could play them 20 times a year!" McInnis has a career .720 avg. with 10 HR & 32 RBI's against the H.D. Club.

The Carpentry offense was on fire as every starter had at least two hits. McInnis, Scott Logan, Sal Buonopane, Mike Aupperlee, John Gray and John Martin all homered as they outscored the overmatched Half Door 45-1 in both games.

Mike Aupperlee made his debut on the mound and made the most of it, pitching a one-hit shut out in game one. In game two, he picked up his second win with a one-run 5 hit performance.

In game two it was more of the same. Chris Smith went 3-4 with 3 RBI & while John Southern torched his former team with a 3-hit night as well. Sal Buonopane connected for his 2nd homer of the season to make it 12-1 after three innings.

In the fourth, Scott Logan crushed a 1-1 pitch to deep left that nearly cleared the trees for his team-leading 6th HR of the year. "I got all of that one," said Logan "Thank god it hit a branch... it would've put a hole in something or someone."

With the wins the club improves to 10-3 on the season and trail only Flanagans (7-2) in the standings.

NOTES:

John Southern combined to go 6-8 on the night... Scott Logan's game two HR was estimated at 499 ft.... John Gray homered, but failed to clear the left field wall... John Martin went 4-4 with a pair of HR's.... Greg Harper continued his torrid hitting and leads the team in hitting.... Bill Wysocki struck out swinging for the first time since 1988 (NQHS).... Mike Aupperlee improves to 9-0 against his former team.

Carpentry Holds On For 13-10 Win Over VFW

LeBREQUE FIELD, HN - It wasnt pretty, but under the circumstances the Hammers will take it.

Missing several startes a depleted McInnis Carpentry club was able to play well enough for the victory over the VFW, barely.

The bats picked up just where they left off from their 22 run outing against the Manet earlier in the week, racing out a 9-0 lead after two innings.

The last time the two clubs met the Hammers trounced VFW 22-8 in 5 innings. Once again the black & orange had ideas of another quick win. But those thoughts were quickly dispelled as a gritty VFW fought back, capitilizing on some sloppy Hammer defense for the second half of the game.

Robbie Glenn's RBI double brought the Germantown based club within 5 runs in the fourth inning. Paul Fidlers two-run single in the next inning had the Hammers on their heels as the lead shrunk to 3.

Lead by Bill Wysocki (3-4), John Martin (2-4, 3 RBI's), Mark Free (2-3, 2 RBI) & Tom Fratolillo (3-4, RBI, Triple) the Hammers were able to answer with four runs to extend the lead.

The runs turned out to be big as the VFW came back again to match McInnis Carpentry with four of their own in the bottom of the inning. The comeback fell short in the seventh though as the VFW went quietly with three fly ball outs.

"You can't take any team in this league lightly", said M.C. infielder Mark Free "We got a little too comfortable with the early lead. But we are a veteran team and nobody panicked. It's not a pretty win but it's a win, and that the bottom line."


NOTES:

Chris Smith is the proud father of baby Alex, congratulations to both him & his wife... Sal Buonopane picked up the win to improve to 3-2 on the season... Steve McInnis went 3-4 with a double.... the Hammers will play the Half Door in a rare double header at O'Rourke next Friday night.... the Hammers improve to 8-3 with the win.

Manet No Match For M.C.

LeBREQUE FIELD - A young but talented Manet team was no match for a veteran Hammers club hungry for another win. McInnis Carpentry (formerly known as the Manet) jumped all over the new team for a 5 inning 22-8 victory.

"They got some good players on that team" said M.C. thirdbaseman Scott Logan "They're gonna be a hell of a squad if they can keep it together for a few more years... I would'nt be surprised if they made a little noise this season as well."

The entire M.C. line-up hit, and hit well against the first year team. John Gray, Greg Harper, Steve Yocco, Logan and Mark Free all had big nights.

The Hammers led 5-0 after their first at bat but the Manet came back with 4 in the bottom of the inning to cut the lead to one. Unfortunately for them it was as close as they would come.

The M.C. club poured it on after that with home runs by Logan, Sal Buonopane, Tom Fratolillo and never looked back.

Steve McInnis pitched well and recieved solid defense behind him to pick up the victory and improve to 5-1.

With the win the Hammers complete the first half of the season at 7-3 to remain in second place behind Flanagans (9-1).

M.C. Topples Flanagans 10-6

LeBREQUE FIELD, HN - The winning streak continues against Flanagans... during the regular season anyways.

The McInnis Carpentry softball team edged Flanagans 10-6 Monday night to snap a two game losing streak and improve to 6-3 on the season.

Flanagans, the 6 time defending League Champions, have dropped 5 straight regular season contests to the Hammers but have beat them when it counts... the Championship.

The John Cascarano led squad swept the M.C. club in the finals the past two seasons. "They're a good team," said Cascarano "Our big bats misfired tonight. We just can't seem to hit them with the same energy during the regular season."

"The win is nice", said Hammers owner Steve McInnis "We have been struggling a bit lately and needed this. Would I trade it in to beat them in the finals? Hell yes!!"

The Black and Orange jumped out to a 6-1 lead through the first three innings behind big hits from John Gray, Bill Wysocki, Scott Logan and Greg Harper.

Flanagans scored four in the fourth to make it a one run game. Steve Yocco's two run triple in the sixth pushed the lead to 10-4 and the Hammers held on for the win.

O'Rourke Game In Two Weeks, You Know What That Means....

...Johnny is going DEEP!

A Day in the Life of Hammers outfielder John Gray on gameday at O'Rourke Field

5:00 Shakes off the cobwebs and gets out of bed
5:02 lets out blistering fart and takes 90 second piss on his hands - farts 5 more times
5:05 drinks 3 raw eggs Rocky Balboa style and opens the fridge
5:07 take out leftovers from the Quincy Jade platter for 3 he picked up last night
5:16 takes a dump
5:22 sings Van Halen in the shower
5:24 shaves and leaves his goatee
5:28 takes 35 vicious cuts with his bat naked in front of the mirror - screams out loud "Johnny is going deep tonight!!"
5:30 pulls onto Washington St. with Led Zeppelin blaring- cuts three people off- gives the finger to all three people
5:45 pulls into Clean Harbors Headquarters - blocks in supervisor
5:46 walks into wharehouse and calls supervisor a homo for the the first time time today and 350th time this month
5:48 takes a shit - leaves door open and yells at anyone who walks by
5:58 stuffs wharehouse worker in a locker and pisses on him
6:05 is given assignment to take oldest rack truck in the fleet to pick up barrells for an oil spill in R.I. - tells supervisor to F-off
6:12 cuts off 10 people driving down Rt. 1 - gives finger to all of them.
7:05 pulls into Dunkin Donuts orders two french crullers & a great one.. reads Herald from front to back
8:05 Leaves truck at job site, tells field techs (laborers) to hurry up and load his truck, has a big game tonight.
8:08 takes dump at job site bathroom
8:30 goes back to truck, reads golf digest.
9:15 Truck is loaded, tells laborers to F off and that "Johnny's going deep tonight!"
10:03 goes to nearby driving range. Hits two jumbo buckets of balls.
11:00 pulls into Sports Authority... checks out latests clubs and golf apparel
12:15 devours large steak & cheese from Jimmy's House of Pizza.
12:30 parks work truck outside house, takes nap
1:45 wakes up, takes a shit - uses wifes US Weekley to wipe his ass
1:50 pulls onto Washington St. with Ozzy blaring- cuts three people off- gives the finger to all three people
2:03 pulls into Clean Harbors Headquarters - leaves truck running in middle of lot
2:04 walks into wharehouse and calls supervisor a homo and signs out... leaves yelling "Johnny is going deep tonight
!!"
2:45 takes dip at parents house above ground pool
3:45 eats two Bubba Burgers, takes off
3:48 calls T. Fratt, leaves message calling him a pussy
4:05 arrives home parks truck on front lawn
4:15 gets naked and takes 25 swings in front of mirror- announcing "Johnny is going deep tonight"
4:48 mows lawn
5:30 arrives at field
5:32 T.Fratt walks by and Johnny cuts him off and says "Is Johnny hitting leadoff?"
5:36 tells Logan that if Johnny played all 20 games at O'Rourke, his numbers would look like this: .875 44 HR's 87 RBI's
5:40 tells John Southern "Hey Pussy, I don't wear batting gloves because they are for pussies, like your boyfriend T.Fratt"
5:42 batting practice: Johnny hits 22 pitches over the trees in left: 11 fair - 11 foul - all pulled
5:56 Johnny sees name in lineup - calls T.Fratt a pussy for batting him 6th
5:58 Johnny demands to bat leadoff
6:00 announces that "Johnny is going deep tonight"
6:10 scoreless first - Johnny tells T. Fratt it must be his defense
6:25 while waiting in on-deck circle, tells Mike Cedrone "Johnny is going deep tonight"
6:27 Johnny tells umpire & catcher he's going deep tonight
6:30 Johnny hits bomb off trees in left - coasts into second - almost gets thrown out
6:31 tells shortstop and second baseman that he "didn't get all of it"
7:00 Johnny ropes a rocket to third - third baseman takes all day and still turns a double play
7:02 Johnny is tired and is happy he it into a doubleplay - he did not want to run the bases anymore
7:19 Johnny hits 300 ft pop-up to pitcher after crushing 4 foul home runs- calls pitcher, catcher and ump pussies
7:43 7th inning - Johnny is exhausted - yells from left field, calls McInnis a pussy and tells him to just throw strikes- Johnny wants to get home
8:00 Knocks John Southern off the bench - calls him a homo singles hitter and leaves
8:05 cuts off 4 drivers on the way home - gives the finger to everyone near
8:20 arrives at Quincy Jade
8:30 sits down and digs into his poo-poo platter for 3
9:00 parks truck on the front lawn - jumps in jacuzzi
9:15 walks around house naked and screams "who saw the bomb I hit tonite???"
9:30 wakes up whole neighborhood
9:45 takes 35 swings naked and orders porn
9:55 pulls out bucket of KFC and gets ready for movie
10:15 Johnny passes out on couch

Chefs Upend Punchless Hammers 11-6

LeBREQUE FIELD, HN- Like Whitey Bulger the McInnis Carpentry softball offense has gone into hiding... and no one has the answer to where it went or if it's ever coming back.

For the second straight game the Hammers failed to reach double digits in runs scored. Friday night against their arch rival the Chefs, they couldn't string together hits to mount any kind of a threat.

Things looked good early as the Bill Wysocky doubled in Greg Harper for a 1-0 lead. After an RBI hit by John Gray, Tom Fratolillo followed with a two run shot to center field for the 4-0 lead.

The lead held until the bottom of the third. The Chefs, who capitalized on six Hammers errors, scored six to take a 9-4 lead. The black and orange plated two in the fith inning to cut the lead to 11-6 with hits by Gray (3-4, 2 RBI) and Fratolillo (2-4, 2 RBI).

In the sixth, with two on and no outs the Hammers appeared ready for a big inning. The rally was cut down when Chefs thirdbaseman Fred Regan turned a double play. The double play was the second of the game and fifth the Hammers have hit into during their recent 1-3 stretch.

"We just arent getting any breaks," said GM/OF Fratolillo "As a team we are struggling a bit... guys are putting good swings on the ball at times. We've seen a lot of hot shots directly at infielders or liners to the outfield that just dont get down. I'm not worried though, this is a great lineup that has produced for years... we will get through it."

With the loss the Hammers have dropped two straight regular season games for the first time in team history. Things don't get any easier as they face undefeated powerhouse and six time defending champion Flanagans on Monday night.

Notes:

The Hammers fielded a depleted lineup against the Chefs, missing regulars Scott Logan, Mike Aupperlee, Mark Free and Chris Smith.... Mike Berry has hit safely in his last three games.... John Gray is hitting .545 (6-11) over the last three games.... Mike Cedrone went on a packy run during the 2nd inning... Steve McInnis made his second start at 3B... The Half Door players remaining from the early game brawled each other during the 4th inning of the M.C./Chefs game.... Neal Plant is hitting .602 for M.C. affilliate True Wheels.

Updated Stats

Power Outage Strikes Again, Rags Drop Carpentry 14-8

LeBREQUE FIELD, HN - The bats were quiet again as the Rags stunned the Hammers with an 8 run 6th inning for the 14-8 win.

The Hammers, as they did last week in the 7-5 loss to the Morrell Club, controlled much of the action throughout the game. Leading 4-0 and 6-2 they couldnt put a resiliant Rags team away.

Scott Logan's 4-4 performance was one of the few bright spots for the black & orange. Steve Yocco and Greg Harper each had two hits a piece as well.

"We had a lot of great swings on the ball tonight", said GM Tom Fratolillo "Softball can be a funny game sometimes. The difference between a blowout win or a loss can be a matter of inches. Most of the ball we hit tonight were right at defenders. They made the plays. They're a good team."

The Rags (5-2) tied it at 6 in the 5th and then put it away in the 6th with their big inning.
"We might not be the flashiest team or the best hitting team but we come ready to play each night", said Rags capt. Jose Diaz "You fall asleep against us, we'll get you."

With the loss the Hammers drop to 5-2.

Notes:

Tom Fratolillo's consecutive at bat hitting streak ended at 8.... the loss drops M.C.'s all-time record to 102-38.... the team failed to reach double digits in runs scored for the second time in three games... the Hammers committed three errors in the Rags eight run sixth inning... M.C. takes on the Chefs on Friday night at LeBreque

Hammers vs. Hofbrau Rained Out

Tonights game against the Hofbrau has been canceled due to heavy rains. A make up date has not yet been announced.

Hammers Bounce Back With Late Inning Thunder, Down Local 17-7

LeBREQUE FIELD, HN- It took a few innings but the McInnis Carpentry finally found their missing offense just in time to avoid losing back to back games for the first time in their regular season history.

Having scored a total of five runs in last weeks loss to the Morrell club the Hammers offense sputtered once again against Local 103.

Trailing 5-4 in the 5th inning, Tom Fratolillo's (3-3, 2 RBI) two out, bases empty single to center field started a string of six straight hits which plated 6 runs to give the Hammers a 10-5 lead.

In the top of the seventh, the Black and Orange put it away by scoring 5 runs behind Scott Logan's (2-4, 5 RBI) two-run homer, a triple by Mike Berry and RBI hits by John Martin (2-5, 3 RBI) and Mark Free (2-3, 2 RBI).

"It was a good win for us", said Hammers outfielder Steve Yocco "The bats went silent there for a stretch, a stretch that we're not accustomed to, but we have veteran players on this team. There's no panic."

Steve McInnis picked up his third win of the season, pitching 7 solid innings.

With the win the black and orange improve to 5-1 on the season.


Notes:

The Hammers are 2-0 with their orange alternate uniforms.... Tom Fratolillo has eight straight hits spanning 3 games... starting pitcher Steve McInnis improved to 3-0 with the win, but was also fined for uniform violations.... Scott Logan proclaimed "I am the King of all Kings." at the post game press conference.... Mike Cedrone was due to make his 3rd plate appearance of the year in the seventh inning.... the M.C. Club improved to 15-1 against Local 103 since the '02 season... there was a 15 minute delay at the start of the game due to Thunderstorms

Morrell Club Hands M.C. First Loss

LeBREQUE FIELD, HN - The bats went silent once again against old rival the Morrell Club (formerly Louies, Hofbrau II) last night.

The vaunted McInnis Carpentry offense, having outscored its opponents 82-32 going into last nights contest, could only muster 5 runs in a 7-5 loss, their first of the year.

McInnis Carpentry controlled much of the action, holding a 5-2 lead going into the 6th inning, getting hits from John Southern, Bill Wysocki and Tom Fratolillo.

Led by Jim Fidler, Brian Clifford and Matt Fratolillo the other "M.C." club rallied for 5 runs to take a 7-5 lead. "We've been scuffling a bit out of the gate", said Morrell Club Left-Fielder Rob Kane. "But this is a big win for us and will hopefully get us going in a positive direction."

The Black & Orange were unable to answer in the 7th and dropped to 4-1 on the season.

The Morrell Club, last years regular season champion, have won three in a row against the Hammers and now own a 7-5 record since the '04 season.

"They're a tough club" said M.C. outfielder John Gray "They seem to have our number. But, you score 5 runs in a game you cant expect to beat anyone. If we dont get our (expletive deleted) together quick it's gonna be a long summer."

The Hammers have little time to rest as they take on a strong Local 103 team Friday night.

Notes:

Sal Buonopane lowered his ERA despite the loss.... Mike Berry has reached base safley in the last 3 games.... Tom Fratolillo is 5-5 in the last two games.... McInnis Carpentry is 14-1 against Local 103 since the '02 season and has eliminated them from the playoffs the past two seasons... Chris Smith reported minor soreness in his knee but should return to the lineup tonight.

Updated Stats

M.C. Rips Cagneys 31-3

BISHOP FIELD, NQ- The McInnis Carpentry Softball Club won big against a depleted Cagney's team 31-3 to move to 4-0 in Houghs Neck League action tonight.

Cagney's began the game with eight players. By the time the ninth showed up an insurmountable lead had been built. The Hammers, debuting their new Orange alternate uniforms, plated 7 in the second and had a 25-0 lead after four innings. The Hammers have outscored their opponents 82-32 this season.

"We're swinging the bats real well," said outfielder John Southern. "This team can flat out hit. You don't really get a break in this lineup. Our 5,6 and 7 hitters could easily bat 1,2 and 3 on most teams."

Greg Harper went 5 for 5 to raise his batting average to a blistering .718. John Martin went 3 for 3 while Bill Wysocki banged out four hits and Tom Fratolillo went 2 for 2 with a grand slam and five RBI.

Steve McInnis pitched 5 innings of shut-out ball to improve to 2-0 and lead his team to its second run-ruled shortened game of the year.

NOTES:

Steve Yocco served a one game suspension for being ejected in last weeks game against the Half Door... Tom Fratolillo matched a career game high with 5 RBI... Greg Harper's hitting streak continues at 21... the team record for runs in a game is 44. Scored against Mauri Electric in 2002... the teams win is their 85th in regular season play... Chris Smith reported no ill effects with his knee after going 1 for 2 from the plate.

Team Statistics

(Click on image to enlarge)

Hammers Washed Out Again

The rain continues to wreak havoc with the M.C. Club as tonights game against Local 103 has been postponed. This is the fourth rainout in seven games for the club. A make up date has not been announced.

Hammers & Half Door Washed Out

Last nights game against the Half Door was called after 2 innings of play. M.C. had a 12-4 lead when heavy rains & lightening forced the game to be canceled. All stats will not count as the game will be made up in it's entirety at a later date. This is the third rain-out for the M.C. Club in six games.

Buonopane Leads M.C. past Rags, 16-10

LeBREQUE FIELD, HN - Sal Buonapane got the start again and delivered by pitching five strong innings to lead McInnis Carpentry over the upstart Rags last night 16-10 at LeBreque Field.

Buonopane (2-0) picked up right where he left off from his last start against VFW last week, throwing strikes and getting ahead of batters early.

"Just give me the ball", said the 15 year veteran "I just go out there and throw strikes, put the pressure on the batters. I've got a good, solid defense behind me so I know if I can just get them to put it in play we'll be alright". In 12 innings of work he has not walked a batter. Buonopane left the mound with a 12-10 lead as Greg Harper came in for the final six outs.

The Rags club got off to a rousing start by scoring 4 runs in their first at bat. The lead didn't last as the veteran laden Hammers calmly answered by opening up with 8 runs to reclaim the lead. The Rags proved to be a team that may make some noise this year as they added several new players to their roster. They got as close as 10-7 and 12-10 before the M.C. Club scored 4 in the sixth to secure the win.

Scott Logan continued his torrid pace as he went 4-4 from the plate with a triple and HR. Logan has eight hits in the last two games with 10 RBI's. "It feels good", said the Hammers thirdbaseman "I can put the ball wherever I want right now. I'm that damn good!"

Leadoff hitter Greg Harper had another solid night from the plate going 3-5 and scoring 3 runs while shortstop Bill Wysocki went 3-3 with a sac fly and 3 RBI. Mike Aupperlee & Steve Yocco each had 3 hits as well.

With the win McInnis Carpentry improves to 3-0 on the young season.


Notes:

Mike Aupperlee is 5-6 since being inserted to the 2 spot in the batting order.... Tom Fratolillo was fined by league officials for violating league dress code (camouflage shorts & "jerk store" t-shirt).... Greg Harper extended his hitting streak to 20 games... Chris Smith reported minor soreness in his knee after a light workout on Sunday... RF John Southern started for the second straight game and chipped in with a hit and RBI.... Bubba Corkery is expected back in 1-2 weeks after a 6 year hiatus... Bobby Miller was back in the stands after missing last weeks game.... Mark Free's 1st inning single knocked in 2 runs to give M.C. an 8-4 lead... Steve McInnis has yet to cut his hair.... Sal Buonopane picked off a runner at first from behind the plate in the 7th inning

Nutley Golf Team

MYRTLE BEACH, SC - The Mark Nutley Golf Team recently wrapped up a successfull weekend of tournament play in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. The team won the 7th annual Ron John's Cup. Several members of the Houghs Neck Softball League make up the team. The Morrell Club features players Mark Nutley, Brian Clifford, Matt Fratolillo and Rob Kane while John Gray and Tom Fratolillo represent McInnis Carpentry.

Logan, Hammers Rout VFW 22-8

LeBREQUE FIELD, HN- Scott Logan had 4 hits and 4 RBI including a two-run HR to help McInnis Carpentry roll past the VFW in Thursday night softball action from Houghs Neck.

Greg Harper had 3 hits while Mike Aupperlee went 3-5 from the plate as every starter in the Hammers lineup had a hit.

Sal Buonopane (1-0) pitched 5 innings of six hit ball to pick up the win in the run-rule shortened game.

Right fielder John Southern banged out two hits and picked up an RBI while short stop Billy Wysocki drove in 4 runs.

The M.C. club raced out to an early 8-1 lead only to see the VFW battle back to tie the game in the fourth inning. The tie was short lived though as the Hammers erupted for a 12 run bottom of the inning to put the game out of reach. Mike Cedrone, in his first at bat in over 25 years, drove in the final run which gave the M.C. club a 14 run lead thus ending the game.

McInnis Carpentry improves to 2-0 on the season.

Notes

Greg Harper's leadoff single extended his hitting streak to 19 games... Mike Cedrone was fined by league officials for breaking the league dress code (jeans and a polo shirt).... Bobby Miller missed his first game in 3 years.... Madison C. Logan attended her first ever softball game.... T.Fratt did not find his uniform until the final out of the game.... the 12 runs scored in the fourth inning was the third highest total in team history.... Steve McInnis made his first start at 2nd base in over 3 years... Mike Berry's start behind the plate triggered contract incentives.... only 8 beers were drank from the team 30 pack at the post game press conference.

Team Statistics

CLICK ON IMAGE to enlarge.

M.C. vs Manet Rained Out

Tonights game against the Manet has been postponed due to rain.
A makeup date has not been scheduled.

Harper, Martin Power M.C. Past Chefs

LeBREQUE FIELD, HN - John Martin went 3-4 from the plate including a 3 run home run while leadoff hitter Greg Harper had two hits to help McInnis Carpentry rally past the Chefs 13-11 last night in Houghs Neck League softball action.

The M.C. Club built a 9-3 lead through 4 innings only to see it evaporate to an 11-9 deficit going into the bottom of the 6th. The Hammers rallied behind big hits from Sal Buonopane and Mark Free, pushing 4 runs across in the bottom of the inning to retake the lead. Harper's clutch two-out two run single broke an 11 all tie to put the Black and Orange up for good.

It was the season opener for both clubs who last met in the playoff semifinals last year. McInnis Carpentry won three games to one in the best of five series. The two teams split during the regular season. "It was a heavyweight fight for the whole game," Hammers 3B Scott Logan said. "They're one of the top teams in the league, it's always a battle when we face the Chefs."

Steve McInnis (1-0) pitched 7 solid innings and recieved great defensive help from infielders Billy Wysocki and Scott Logan.

Notes

John Gray showed up weighing in at 185 pounds, reaching his opening day goal and activating contract incentives. ... OF Steve Yocco was almost a last minute scratch due to a bad back. ... Greg Harper's first inning single extended his hitting streak to 18 games. ... Hammers OF Mike Aupperlee got a standing ovation from the fans in the left-field corner when he went to the outfield. ... Mike Berry dispelled any rumors of a possible trade to the Half Door.... T.Fratt finally found his uniform by his second at-bat... Injured Hammers DH Chris Smith (torn MCL) threw off flat ground. His next step could be a rehab stint. DH/OF/IN Bubba Corkery (right forearm stiffness) played catch from 60 feet and will do it again before determining what to do next. ... Steve McInnis has not had his hair cut since August of '06.... OF John Southern signed a contract extension which will keep him with the Hammers through the 2012 season... newly acquired Mike Cedrone hit 10 pop-ups during pre-game batting practice.

Fratolillo Defends Title With Marathon Win

HOUGHS NECK - Thomas Fratolillo won the Houghs Neck Marathon for the third time Monday, defending his title in the remnants of a soaking nor'easter.

Fratolillo, who also won in 1984, set the course record last year but fought the wind and rain to finish in a slower, unofficial time of 14 minutes, 13 seconds.

The weather was milder than forecasters had feared, 52 degrees with a moderate rain at the start. The sun even came out halfway through but winds picked up as the runners passed Bernies for the last, long homestretch to the American Legion Post 380.

"From the waist down it was horrible," said Fratolillo. "My legs froze. It was the cold, my hamstrings and everything just started cramping up. Once the moves started, especially at Louies, thats when it got real tough. It was at that point I remembered some great advice from friends while training in Kenya last month. The Kenyans told me... when the lion is chasing the antelope, he doesn't look back. He has to eat. So when I run, I don't stare at my time."

A total of 38 runners registered for the race. Organizers worked through the night to line up shelters for those dropping out along the course.

Pumps have been stationed at low-lying areas in case of flooding. Ponchos were provided for workers assigned outdoors. Runners were warned by e-mail to wear appropriate clothing.

Near the start in the Manet, the usual carnival atmosphere was subdued. The Legion parking lot was nearly empty less than two hours before start time, with few hot dog stands and no lines at the portable restrooms. A vendor who ran out of ponchos Sunday was selling trash bags for $1 apiece.

M.C. Opener Washed Out

Tonights game against Flanagans has been canceled due to poor weather.
A makeup date has not been announced.

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Upcoming Events: HN Marathon

The annual Houghs Neck Marathon will take place Monday April, 16th 2007. Registration begins at 1pm inside the Houghs Neck American Legion Post. The race will start at 2pm.

PRACTICE: Take Two

ATTENTION ALL PLAYERS! The second (and final) spring workout for the McInnis Carpentry softball club will take place SUNDAY, APRIL 15th at LeBREQUE FIELD (Houghs Neck). Start time will be 11 A.M. Should the field be unavailable we will relocate to Brill Field.

The first gathering had a less than respectable turnout. (5 players). Fortunatley the Half Door (aka Murphy's)also had a practice scheduled and had a strong turnout with 15 players. A mixed scrimmage was played.

Evil Empire Returns

Only weeks remain until McInnis Carpentry's opening day matchup with 5-time defending champion Pat Flanagans. Does the M.C. club have what it takes to take down the champs? We shall see. Rumor has it, Flanagans lost several key players to free agency and retirement. Even if this is true, they are the team to beat once again.
The M.C. club has done well against manager John Cascarano's team during their regular season matchups, winning the last four. Flanagans has won when it counts though, owning an 8 game championship series winning streak by sweeping the Hammers in '05 & '06.

Hammers Star Injures Knee, Contract Controversy Looms

AP - Independent sources have confirmed that McInnis Carpentry DH Chris Smith has been diagnosed with a slight tear of the meniscus ligament in his right knee while allegedly playing basketball in Quincy Point.

If this is true then Smith has clearly violated a softball-only clause in his lucrative Hammers contract that dates back to 1997.

Smith contends that he injured himself while washing his Hammer provided, Escalade.

Scott Boras, super-agent and Smith representative denies any violation and said “It doesn’t matter because Chris can do whatever he wants. First off, he’s adored by Hammer Nation and it’s not like GM Tom Fratolillo can replace him. The free-agency period is over and when was the last time the Hammers organization developed a young player? I think Paperama was still in business in Quincy Square. Whatever happened to prospects like Bundy, Freddy Corson, Jupo, Tommy King, Rich Brill and Scott Logan’s ex-wife’s brother, whats-his-name? Are they in Japan? Mexico? Germantown? What Fratolillo does best is sign big contracts; Aupperlee, Free, Yocco, and the Great Cagney’s Purge of ‘2002. And because of that Fratolillo is my favorite GM and this is my favorite team!”

No one from the Hammers organization could be reached for comment.

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Elivis Has Entered The Building

LAS VEGAS, NV – The McInnis Carpentry Softball Club finalized contract negotiations with Elvis Presley, appointing him as an advanced scout. Hammers General Manager Thomas Fratolillo made the announcment from the Bellagio minutes after the deal was completed.

Per club policy, terms of the agreements were not disclosed.

Elvis starred in 33 successful films, made history with his television appearances and specials, and knew great acclaim through his many, often record-breaking, live concert performances on tour and in Las Vegas. Globally, he has sold over one billion records, more than any other artist.

Known the world over by his first name, he is regarded as one of the most important figures of twentieth century popular culture.

Presley will be responsible for heading player scouting in both the South West and West Coast regions of the United States.
"We're very excited to have Mr. Presley part of the organization", said team owner Steven McInnis. "He brings a high level of energy and enthusiasim to the club."

-AP

Ben Radd: Professional Man Of Leisure

Ever wonder what it would be like to quit your job, move to China and do nothing but drink and travel for roughly $8 per day?? Wonder no more.

From the man who marginally helped bring you Shrek 2 and Chicken Little, Germantown/Houghs Necks' own Ben Radd introduces his unique West-Coast-infused-Quincy style to eastern Asia.

Heavy Drinking, beautiful women, pillow-fights and pajama parties.... this one has it all! A must read.

Check out his blogspot, it's in the links section (Man of Leisure) or here it is again:

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M.C. reaches agreement with McGrizzley Brewing Co.

ORONO, ME - Maine beer giant McGrizzly today announced a four-year sponsorship deal with the McInnis Carpentry softball club. Starting from the 2007 season, McGrizzly will be a Platinum Sponsor of the club and become the official beer of McInnis Carpentry softball.

"McGrizzly's partnership with McInnis Carpentry is a great association, bringing together two brands with a commitment to quality and dedication to being the best - unmatched in each of their respective fields," said Randall Blackford, marketing director, McGrizzley Brewing.

As the club's official beer sponsor, McGrizzly will have exclusive beer pouring rights at M.C.'s LeBreque Field; receive on-field, in-field and concourse signage, and have the right to use the official marks and logos of the club in advertising, promotions and packaging.

Black & Orange Acquire Bobby

BILOXI, MS - Management announced today that team has acquired catcher/outfielder Billy Ray Bobby from the Biloxi Bulldogs in an exchange for a clean uniform, full dental coverage, new bicycle and an undisclosed cash fee.
Bobby, 23, batted .221 with 2 runs scored and 1 RBI in 14 plate appearences last season for the Southern Methodist Church League champion Bulldogs.
Bobby adds youth, depth and insurance to an aging McInnis Carpentry club.

-AP

WAIVERS DUE

ATTENTION all players with "special" waiver slips needed. All paperwork must be submitted and processed before Tuesday April 17th, 6pm. Players without signed waivers cannot take the field on opening day. Please get these waivers (and your lost jewels) in as soon as possible.

-MANAGEMENT

Fratolillo Will Defend Marathon Title

HOUGHS NECK, MA - McInnis Carpentry GM/Outfielder Tom Fratolillo has confirmed he will take part in the next Houghs Neck marathon and defend his title.
Race director Pete Connolly said: "This is great news and a bonus for Houghs Neck to have Tommy confirmed early."
Fratolillo finished 2nd in 2005 and edged out a competive field of five experienced runners last year for his 2nd marathon championship in 22 years. (he won his first in 1984)
"Training is going well" said last years champ. "I'm up and out the door every morning at 4 am. I jog up to Dunkies on Sea St., down a Sausage, Egg & Cheese Croissant. Wash it down with a Great One and think about stratgey on the cab ride home."
Fratolillo is looking to become the first back to back winner since Billy Vecchionie turned the trick in 1982.

M.C. to open against Flanagans

The 2007 schedule has been released and the McInnis Carpentry softball team opens against league champion Flanagans on April 17th. The clubs have met in the finals for the past two seasons.

The M.C. Club is coming off of another highly successfull season. The team finished second in the regular season standings for the fourth time in five seasons.

Hammers Ready for Season

THE McINNIS CARPENTRY SOFTBALL TEAM returns many familar faces and is ready for another season in the competitive "Houghs Neck" Softball League. Front row from Left to Right: Yocco, Gray, Buonopane, Harper, Farrand, Fratolillo. Back row: Free, Martin, McInnis, Miller, Aupperlee, Wysocki, Logan & Smith.

M.C. Club GM meets with free agent Palmer

HOUGHS NECK, MA - M.C. Club GM Tom Fratolillo met with free agent SS Michael Palmer
on Saturday. "It was a first discussion. Nothing is going to happen after one meeting,"
said Fratolillo. "But it was a good meeting. Michael knows we're interested in his return to the club,
and he seems interested in us." The two will meet again after Fratolillo returns
from a trip to Raccoon Island.

With an impressive bat, Palmer was an All-Star shortstop with the M.C. Club (then known
as the Manet) in 2001 where he led the team with a club record .712 batting average.

Hammers to Gray: Fat Chance--Team sticks with weight-and-see tactic

By Tony Massarotti
Boston Herald Sports Columnist

QUINCY POINT, MA - When you really stop and think about it, John Gray never had a chance. Not when he is 34 years old and just one in a strong class of potential free agent outfielders. Not when the M.C. Club have money to burn and Gray looks like he just ate John Cascarano.

The latter is a triviality, of course, because by now we all know that beautiful bodies and softball do not necessarily mesh. Former Louies SS/2B/DH Dave McMillian just got voted into the B.S.S.S.L. Hall of Fame, and McMillian played much of his career built like Spanky from the Little Rascals.

But McMillian & Gray can hit, and there was a time in Gray's career when that might have been enough to get a one-year, incentive laden contract extension.

That time is no more.

“It’s disappointing, but that’s the way it works,” Gray said yesterday, one day after the M.C. Club informed him that they would not be granting him a contract extension. “It’s a business and I get that."

Next fall, Matt Fratolillo, Dennis Joyce, Mike Bayliss, Fred Regan, Mark Nutley, Lou Venterelli and even Rich Brill are among the potential free agents.

Know what that all means? It means the M.C. Club can wait. It means that if Gray still wants to play here and the price has gone up to, say, 7 free beers a game, the Hammers can pay it without buyer’s remorse. It also means that the black & orange will have other options available if and when Gray decides to go elsewhere.

"Neck League" hits the big 40.

The Boston South Shore Slowpitch League enters it's 40th year of softball. The League, founded in 1967, is based in Houghs Neck, Quincy, Massachusetts where it plays the majority of it's games at LeBreque Field. Flanagans defeated McInnis Carpentry 4-0 last year for it's 5th consecutive title. Other teams in the league are The Chefs, Local 103, Hofbrau 1 & 2, Alumni Cafe, The Fours, Murphy's, Crabby D's & The Beers.

Countdown

HOUGHS NECK, MA- Spring Training for the M.C. Club is just weeks away. Pitchers and Catchers report to the HN American Legion Post March 1st with all other players arriving March 2nd.

The Hammers avoided an arbitration hearing with thirdbaseman Scott Logan today by agreeing to a one-year deal worth $1.875 million.

The Club had initially offered $1.725 million; Logan was asking for $2.2 million. A hearing had been scheduled for today.

Logan hit .657 with 7 homers and 42 RBI for the M.C. Club last year while playing in 27 games.

"We certainly weren't afraid to go" to the hearing, general manager Thomas Fratolillo said, but "both sides are satisfied."

The M.C. Club have not had an arbitration hearing since Fratolillo took over as general manager in 2002.

Logan, obtained from Cagneys in 2002, is the starting thirdbaseman on M.C. and can fill gaps created by injuries at any infield position.

-AP