What a Party, Part Deux!

Mason considered himself to be the luckiest man alive when, after winning team MVP for the second year in a row...he got to hang out post game with Taryne Mowatt of the Washington Glory.

When reached for comment, Ms. Mowatt said:

"Marvin is a very nice guy, oh wait..it's Mason? Okay, well, Mason is a very nice guy, but until he gets three Espy awards...he doesn't have a chance."

Sorry Maseman.

What a Party!

Mason got plenty of autographs...and I got a bear hug. If Jared and Mason have pics from the team get together...you'll see them here. And trust me, you'll want to see them!

Trophies for MVP went to Mason and Lindsey. Coach of the Year went to Bruce DePuyt. And you, yes you....should have gotten a DVD of the playoff game and a key chain to commemorate the season. If you missed out, check with Bruce. He has any and all extras.

Insider Sources

Seems a very popular and talented female player is leaving the Philibusters in the dust. It looks as though Brie Jackson is headed to bigger and better softball fields. She has taken a reporter position in Salisbury, MD.

Here is an email I received from her this morning:

Thank You! I will definitely miss the team (both at work and on the field). I'm leaving to become a general assignment reporter at WBOC in Salisbury, MD. I start Sept. 2. I am very excited about this new experience and greatly appreciate the well wishes and support. Go Phillies!!!

Congrats to Brie, now we must search the waiver wire and try to find a replacement for the irreplaceable.

Time to Party!

Please respond to this blog about the Saturday August 9th 4PM-10PM team picnic. This year we will be tailgating outside the Washington Glory (http://washingtonglory.com/) Pro Women's Softball game...then we'll go inside the stadium and watch the ladies kick some butt.

All are welcome, bring your friends, family...just please respond with a 'Yes or No' - your name - and how many are coming.

At the gathering, there will be prize drawings, food, and loads of fun. Also, we will announce the Male and Female Team MVPs (as voted by 'most' of you).

The nominations are:

Guys: Mason Herndon, Sean McFaul, Shawn Hoder

Ladies: Lindsey Walton, Brie Jackson, Kelly Lamp

See you there.

HODER

Playoff Recap

It was time, the Phillies were in the playoffs, and that’s where they belonged. Before the first big game against NPC, I talked to some of the players before the first game. I asked Keith Abernethy what his feelings were about this season. “I’ve been playing here for 11 years, and this year is the best feeling season I have ever been a part of. It feels like we really have come together as a team.” I also asked Chris Cicatelli if playing early had any effect on him, and he responded by saying “Not at all. I could play at 3 A.M.”

It was a hot day on Saturday, but I don’t know if anyone started the day off hotter than the Allbritton Philibusters. They were up against the National Press Club, another team coming off two big wins to get into the playoffs. The mentality for the game was to get base hits. Through the first five innings the Phillies were taking advantage of NPC’s mistakes and mental errors. The score was 4-3, until the Phillies wore out NPC. Final score 9-5. From what I saw, the Phillies were not only outplaying them on the field, but on the bench. The energy level of Allbritton was great, they were cheering on their teammates through the whole game. When I looked to the other bench I saw drained, quiet players. I think that was one of the difference makers in the big win.

The next game was a tough one against CBS, a team that was ranked as the #3 seed in the playoffs. The Phillies started out strong with a 2 run homer by Keith Abernethy, but CBS was hitting so well. They seemed to always find that gap to hit in where we weren’t. The 5th inning was where Allbritton just ran out of gas. CBS scored 5 runs in the fifth to put them out, 15-8. The main reason the Phillies didn’t start out 2-0 was because in the CBS game, they left the bases loaded on multiple occasions without capitalizing. If they had brought some of those runs in they could have beaten CBS

Unfortunately, the next game was the Phillies last. They were playing AOL, a team that had many athletic hitters. They played AOL previously in the regular season, in a losing effort which the score was a ridiculous 25-16. Its too bad the Phillies couldn’t put up 16 in this one. Overall it was just a defensive game, in which we just could not get anyone on base consistently. Our defense held up but we just couldn’t score. Final : 6-3

But, the Philibusters 2008 season was anything but a losing one. They made the playoffs and won a playoff game! Things are looking up and it seems as that the team can only get better.

Hopefully the Phillies will have a season like this one next year and take it to the next level!

Eric Jensen

2008 MMSL Farewell Corner

Cic’s Corner
The Final 2008 Issue
2008 MMSL campaign

The season has come to end. But man, what a fantastic 2008 season it was for the Allbritton Philibusters. One of the most spirited and celebrated teams in my recent memory, we took to the field every game day Saturday and faced the opposition as a unified Big Red Machine and kicked ass. Even when we lost a game or two, we still put forth a grinding effort. And that is what we will be celebrating in this final trip to the corner- the Spirit of the Big Red Machine.

This season presented a new unified Allbritton squad. The joining of two different teams into one brought some new faces and a lot of familiar faces returned. The laughter and camaraderie started during pre-season practice and lasted all season. This was a unique group of players with a lot of talent and even more hunger for wins. Coached by the Hoagie man and Bruce, there was always a feel good vibe. There was always playing time for everyone. There was always reason to listen. There was always a player to pat you on the back after a good play or a player to pick you up after a bad play. And we picked each other up enough, supported each other enough, and played hard enough to make it to the playoffs, and God damn that felt great, didn’t it? Everyone played a role- EVERYONE. And that is what got us to the promised land. Sure, it was a disappointing trip to the post season, but hey, we made it there and we made it there as a team. We made it there as a part of the Big Red Machine and we will be back next season, there is no doubt in my mind.

As we settle in for another long off season, filled with thoughts of plays we could have made but didn’t. Plays we made that we couldn’t believe we did. Hits that helped the team win. Cheerin on your teammates as they rounded those bases, just keep next March in mind and our first practice of the 09 season will be here before you know it.

So as the cheers fade ever so slowly, and the team chants still ring in your head, here are a few things, out of many, from the Philibusters 08 season to keep you warm through the long cold winter that lies ahead.

· Beating WRC twice in the regular season- who by the way won the MMSL title (and raised their trophy as reminded to us by Phased out Philly)
· The entire Phillies squad at the fields by 9am
· Beating WTTG to give them their first loss on the year
· Beating WTTG a second time in our final game of the year, by one run, to sweep them for the season.
· The Philibusters being UNDEFEATED in the Veirs Mill division
· Mason in his uniform before game 1 with the exception of one important element- his cleats.
· Marty Kady’s dominant performance on the mound as one of our new pitchers
· The Hammer’s sick strike three pitch. How many did he freeze at the plate this season??
· Mason and the infamous round 3-1 pitches
· George going on an insane tear at the end of the season hitting like .850….
· Lindsey, the vacuum, at second base. Girl, you look good in leather.
· Jared’s line drive key hits.
· Bruce and his notorious snags at first base.
· Kitty Litter
· Breakfast at Cabin John tournament Saturday morning.
· More kitty litter
· Connor’s arm. I mean seriously…can you say rocket ball?
· Hoder’s RBI total for 08. In all due respect, his RBI totals were just stoopid good.
· Amoeba!!! One of the best softball nicknames ever created.
· The kick ass Philibusters website
· POTW
· The Big Red Machine
· Every member of the team doin everything possible to help the team win.
· And last but not least- the Phillies playing at Cabin John for the first time in six years.

I love you guys. I love this team. I can’t wait for next season.

peace,

cic

GO PHILIBUSTERS!!

Philibuster Playoff Stats

Okay Phillies, here are the stats from this weekend's playoffs games. Batting
Player	Games	R	H	2B	3B	HR	BB	SO	SAC	RBI	OBP	SLG	BA
S Hoder	3	3	6	3	0	0	2	0	0	3	.800	1.125	.750
J Bourgeois	3	0	3	0	0	0	0	0	0	4	.600	.600	.600
K Abernethy	3	4	5	1	0	1	0	0	0	4	.600	.900	.500
S Lazarus	3	0	1	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	.500	.500	.500
S McFaul	3	3	5	0	1	0	0	0	0	5	.545	.636	.455
B Jackson	3	1	4	0	0	0	1	0	0	0	.600	.444	.444
K Lamp	3	1	2	0	0	0	1	1	0	0	.500	.400	.400
M Herndon	3	4	3	1	0	0	1	0	0	0	.455	.400	.300
L Walton	3	2	3	0	0	0	0	1	0	0	.400	.300	.300
J Vagnetti	3	1	2	0	0	0	2	1	0	0	.556	.286	.286
G Williams	3	0	2	0	0	0	0	0	1	3	.500	.286	.286
C Cicatelli	3	1	2	0	0	0	1	1	0	0	.500	.222	.222
B DePuyt	3	0	1	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	.333	.167	.167
B Walker	1	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	1.000	.000	.000
M Watson	2	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	1.000	.000	.000
Y Massey	1	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	na	na	na
TOTALS	3	20	39	5	1	1	8	4	1	19	.545	.485	.386

Pitching
Player	G	IP	R	ER	H	2B	3B	HR	BB	SO	W	L	Sho	ERA
S Hoder	1	7.0	6	5	8	3	0	0	0	1	0	1	0	5.00
M Herndon	2	14.0	20	14	34	10	4	3	2	1	1	1	0	7.00
TOTALS	3	21	26	19	42	13	4	3	2	2	1	2	0	6.33

2008 MMSL Playoffs

Great Start…

It was our well awaited return to the playoffs. Something this team has been fighting for the past 6 years. A few members were so excited, that breakfast was made at the fields…yes, 7 AM. Mason Herdon also had the theme to The Natural playing as well as the National Anthem by LeAnn Rimes, all while the Cabin John crew lined the fields. To say the least, we were very excited to be there.

NPC VS. Allbritton


To be expected, NPC did their due diligence in exploiting http://www.philibusters.com/. They came in ready and prepared knowing all the stats of the Phillies over the entire season. That was most evident when they intentionally walked Hoder twice. NPC wasn’t just prepared with stats however, they brought the bats. Top of the first, Bam, bam, bam…they were up 3-0 and we hadn’t even settled in yet. But in classic Philibusters style, the team responded. Mason Herndon singles, Sean McFaul triples (and gets an RBI), Keith Abernethy doubles (1 RBI), and Hoder triples (1 RBI)…George Williams SAC Fly…Big Red Machine up 4-3 after 1.

Solid defense by both teams…SS Chris Cicatelli and 2B Lindsey "4-3" Walton were vacuums. Without their defensive snags we wouldn't have even been in the game. One play however by Bruce DePuyt stands above the rest. His diving snag at first base. That shot gets by most people, but not him…

Finally in the 5th, Allbritton bats come back to life. Kelly Lamp, Mason, Sean (1 RBI), and Keith (1 RBI) all score as George adds 2 more RBI. NPC tries to fight back with 2 more in the 6th…but Allbritton prevails 9-5.

A win in the playoffs, a first in many, many years.

Tough Finish…

Allbritton VS. CBS News

This was the grudge match we had hoped for…but again, be careful what you wish for. CBS News wasn’t a 3 seed by accident. With one of the toughest schedules all year and yet they still prevailed as a 3 seed…Allbritton found out why.

The first inning set the tempo…Mason doubles, Keith smacks a 2 Run HOMER! Hoder singles and Jared bats him in. 3 runs to open the game. We only scored 3 runs against them just a few weeks back…this was a good start, but theirs was better. Matt, Miriam, Josh, Arden, Liam all get on and score. They simply just hit it where we were not. They take the lead, 5-3…but again, there is fight in this team…we score 2 in the third it was 6-5 CBS News after 3.

A 5 run 5th inning by CBS, 3 runs coming after 2 outs was the nail in the coffin for the Phillies. We would muster 3 more in the 6th, but in the end, we were no match for CBS News and their bats. They smacked us silly winning 15-8.

Depression Sets IN…

AOL VS. Allbritton

There is a very positive aspect to this game. In week 1, AOL whipped us 23-16. After that game, we remembered how to play defense…but um, so did they.

They started the game with 3 runs; we started the game with 6 straight outs. Thanks to Brie Jackson, we got off the ground with the first hit of the day in the 3rd….which led to a 2 run inning. Brie And John Vagnetti both score on a 2 RBI single by Sean McFaul. Hoder leads of the 4th with a double and Jared brings him home. Game tied 3-3, after 4. But AOL, who would go on to make the finals after starting the tourney 0-1…would score 1 in the 5th and 2 in the 6th…and the stars of the Big Red Machine were spent. We would only get one more hit for the rest of the game.

The promising season that started 10-4, ends with a 1-2 showing in the playoffs.

But this team has no reason to hang our heads. We have made constant and consistent strides to getting better. Next year will be no different. And as we all know…the off-season starts now. And that couldn’t be more evident than at the MMSL Championship Finals today when Shawn Hoder and Mason Herndon inked Superstar Brad Parker and his wife Julie Parker to play next season. Julie who has a great bat and an even better attitude will be another welcome addition to the already strong female contingent. Brad Parker who is eligible to play under the spouse rule the league imposes, is a fantastic SS and all around great ball player. He worked and played for the Champion AOL team for many years. Already, the excitement for next season has begun.

News and updates will be on http://www.philibusters.com/ all year, so check back often. Info about the team tailgate party at an upcoming Washington Glory game is also in the works. Check back often over the next couple of weeks as more pictures and videos roll in.

So, team again I thank you. It has been a pleasure being your coach, your friend, and your third baseman.

Coach Hoagie

Last Post before the Playoffs

No more. This is it...my last blog before the big game. We are the 6Th seed with nothing but possibilities in front of us. Let's finish strong.

If you haven't had the chance and you are just itching for the games on Sat...take a look around this site. There is PLENTY of articles and tidbits to keep you going.

As for me, I am going to bed early tonight and will be at the fields by 7AM. Enjoy your Friday evening, be smart...and get some rest. Plan on it being a very long day tomorrow.

GO BIG RED MACHINE!

HODER

Playoff Preview #3

How do we stack up in the playoffs? It's so hard to know, but a great way to tell is comparing all the playoff teams and their records against each other. While all that seems like a heck of a lot of work that I wasn't going to do...Jared Bourgeois did! Thanks to Jared, here's the breakdown:

1. AOL (5-2 .724)
2a. CBS News (6-3 .667)
2b. CNN (6-3 .667)
4a. Allbritton (5-3 .625)
4b. WTTG (5-3 .625)
6. Atlantic Video (4-3 .571)
7. Comcast SportsNet (4-4 .500)
8. Gazette (2-2 .500)
9. WRC (4-5 .440)
10. Washington Times (2-5 .285)
11. Team Video (1-4 .200)
12. National Press Club (1-5 .167)

Playoff Preview #2

The Phillies have a tough road ahead of them, and need to rely on a few things if they want to win softball games. One main thing the Phillies need is for Hoder and Abernethy to keep bringing home base runners. Those two guys are the clear leaders in RBI’s and if Allbritton wants to win they need them to keep producing. Shawn Hoder was recently voted Outstanding Player of the Week by his teammates for his performance in the last two games. He brought nearly every runner home and if he keeps it up he can really help pull this team through the playoffs.

The weather conditions will certainly be a factor on gameday. The team better get extra rest Friday night for the day they have on Saturday. The temperature for the day is forecasted to peak 90 degrees. They will take the field 45 minutes earlier than they normally do and are facing top competition throughout the day. And, obviously, if the Phillies keep winning softball games they will have to play more and more. They could wind up playing 4-5 games if they play at their best.

I see a good day for the Phillies if they perform as they have recently. The Phillies are 6-3 against playoff teams in the regular season. On mediasoftball.net, CNN and Allbritton are voted as the two most likely teams to win it all, only separated by one vote. CNN defeated Allbritton 19-1 in the second game during week one.

-Eric Jensen

Playoff Fever Times 2

More housekeeping items for this weekend. I hope you are all reading these. From the Commish:

1. Cabin John spots its own fields in case of inclement weather, makes its own determination and updates its own weather line. So, should it rain Friday/Saturday, the number you'll need to call is 301.299.1975.To my knowledge, Cabin John DOES NOT post an announcement on a Website. So be sure to distribute this number to your players.

2. There is absolutely no warming up on the infields. No batting practice in the boxes. No pitching practice from the rubber. If the field crew sees you on the infield, they'll go apoplectic (I've seen 'em do it, it's not pretty). You can stretch, jog and throw in the outfield grass.

3. After your games, do go to Ledo Pizza around the corner from the park at 10301 Westlake Dr. They treat us great there, the beer is cold, the pizza is awesome and the camaraderie is fantastic. I called the manager today and told him to expect packs of hungry ballplayers both days. He's more than happy to accommodate us.

4. The system for filing your game reports is the same. Shoot me a report ASAP at this address, and I'll post everything Saturday and Sunday night and on into Monday and Tuesday. And send me photos! I'd love to post a lot of them.

5. Remember to be sure you and your players have the necessary identification with you/them at the field. Not in the car. Certainly not at home. Remember, a photo ID and a secondary ID, such as a pay stub or a business card. Roster checks will be taking place. Two seasons ago a player for Townhall.com was sent home because he had no ID on him 10 minutes before their first game of the day. Turned out he was slated to be their starting pitcher in that game. They had to find another pitcher.

6. Instruct your players about the anchored bags at Cabin John. We had a few players get injured last year when they hit a bag pretty hard on a slide, expecting it to give. When it didn't give, they got sprained ankles for their troubles. The anchored bases are infinitely safer than tied-down bags, but it still helps to familiarize everyone with them.I think that's it. See you this weekend.

DALE SOLLY AWARD (also from the Commish):

Hey Everyone . . . a quick reminder that we'll be presenting the 2008 Dale C. Solly Award for Sportsmanship and Camaraderie during the playoffs Saturday morning. The ceremony is likely to take place for a few minutes just after the first-round games, likely at fields 5-6 at cabin John.The Solly is the MMSL's highest honor and goes to the MMSL player or coach who best exemplifies Dale's spirit and enthusiasm for the league.

As most of you know, Dale was an anchor and reporter for WJLA and a long-time force behind their team in the MMSL. Dale was everything right about the league with his sense of gathering among friends and co-workers, his sense of sportsmanship and his sense of humor. He died of a heart attack early in the 2002 season.

Previous Solly winners are: Jim Barnett (CNN), Jonathan Salant (AP), Carolyn Hong (WTTG), Laura Ingle (Discovery Channel), Chris Ciccatelli (WJLA) and Don Collins (USA Today)—a truly great collection of MMSL standard-barriers and honorees.

Playoff Fever

The fever will be at an all time high this weekend, but that doesn't mean our attitude changes. All year we have preached and practiced good sportsmanship. That will not change during the playoffs. We will still hold every player to the highest of standards (just like the conduct contract we all signed).

In any event, the MMSL will be on high alert for any and all offenders. Of course, if it happens on our team, they won't need to take action, Bruce and I will already have done so...

I know this team and I know my players, we won't have an issue...anyway, with all that being said, here is the email that went out to coaches about conduct for this weekend:

Now on to possibly the most important topic we'll cover this week:Player conduct, on and off the field. I want this to be top of mind with you, and by extension your players.Our umpires are instructed -- encouraged, in fact -- to run a tight ship during the tournament. Yes, it's exciting to be in the playoffs.Yes, we're competitive people working in a competitive profession and sometimes that spills over onto the softball diamond. But that doesn't give a player permission to lose his or her head out there.On balance, the last couple of playoff tourneys have been class affairs. But there have also been a couple of incidents that threatened to mar the whole weekend. Last year, one player ran his mouth so much he caused both benches to empty at the conclusion of a game. The year before, a group of players from a team ousted from the tourney were so miffed about a call that didn't go their way that they heckled the umpire from the safety of the bleachers. They only shut up after the ump jeered them right back, while also noting their status as spectators.I bring this up not to call anyone out specifically but to remind everyone to keep things in perspective. Remember that you are representing your employer when you step on the field. Play hard and clean, and park the attitude someplace else.In short, don't act like these nimrods:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cRfMe0cqpMs&feature=related

As I noted above, the umpires will have itchy trigger fingers this weekend, so be sure your players don't get themselves tossed from a game. The penalty is sitting out your team's next two games. The umps have full discretion to have players removed from Cabin John.Above all, have fun out there.

Stayin' Active

Players,

Did you have a good 4th? If you’re like me, you were tempted to want to have a practice on Saturday but also grateful for the day off. (Perhaps a husband, wife or “special friend” suggested that being home might be good.)

With the playoffs just days away, however, I want to encourage everyone to stay active. You know best what you need to do to be in good condition come Saturday morning. My recommendation: run, lift or do something aerobic today, tomorrow or Thursday morning. In short, move the body! But after mid-day Thursday, I’d commit to rest, because Saturday could be a long day. And if (when?) we make it to Sunday, we’ll have to have some reserves in the tank from which to draw.

So take this opportunity to ask yourself: What do I need to do NOW to be ready for the playoffs.

--Coach D

MMSL Voting

Have you seen the poll over at http://www.mediasoftball.net/ ? Seems a lot of people are voting for Allbritton to win it all. Have you voted yet?

Bacon and Eggs

Remember these kids? Well, Jason and Sara left me a voicemail. I transcribed it for the team:

" The Big Red Machine rolls on. Way to finish out the season strong going 6-0 in the Veirs Mill division. Unprecedented. Unreal, dude. Awesome. Sara and I were pumped up when we saw that. Great season. Good Luck in the Playoffs! Tell everyone we say hello and do some damage in there. Play on those fields as long as possible."

BREAKING NEWS!

ID IS SOOOOOOO IMPORTANT.

The league will use ID spot checking throughout the playoffs. You need to have a picture ID (Driver's license) and one other form of ID WITH YOU AT ALL TIMES DURING SATURDAY.

So, put a pay stub, business card, work ID, etc...in your glove right now. If you don't bring it, you won't be able to play.

Now, here's the email I received from the Commish about the playoffs. Read on if you like:

Coaches,

Congratulations.You've made the 2008 MMSL playoff field. Next Saturday (good Lord willin') you'll step on the finest fields you've probably seen in some time. You'll compete in a double-elimination tournament that will highlight your team's spirit of camaraderie as well as its competitive streak. When you're done playing, you'll file into the nearby Ledo's Pizza for food, drink and reminiscing. You'll (hopefully) buy a round for your opponents. When you're eliminated, you won't be able to wait to get back. Should you win it all, you'll talk about it for years, and have a pretty cool memory to share with your colleagues.It's what you weathered a washed-out May for, why you scrambled some weeks to barely field a roster and then thanked your lucky stars when you pulled out a split that week.

OK, I'm waxing a tad rhapsodic here ... well ... because I miss it! The playoffs are fun, and should be celebrated for the great achievement they are.So again, congratulations to all of you.OK, on to business. As coaches, there are a lot of housekeeping details you'll be responsible for overseeing this week.

The protocols for the playoffs are different than what we use in the regular season. I'll be hitting you with e-mails this week dealing with things like player conduct, the inclement weather procedure and the like, so check your inbox. Tonight I'm going to touch only on two things: your playoff roster and your homework assignment.Attached is your official 2008 playoff roster. Fill it out COMPLETELY and fax it to me NO LATER THAN THURSDAY JULY 10 AT NOON. Please be aware this is a drop-dead deadline. I'm planning to be out of the office Friday so if I don't have your roster by the time I leave Thursday, your team won't be permitted to take the field Saturday. Please don't ask me to shoot you an e-mail with a confirmation I received your roster; if you don't hear from me, assume we're good to go. If I don't see anything from you come Wednesday, I'll be hollering.

Please also be aware that your roster sheet will be used in a roster check during the tournament. EVERY TEAM will be checked at some point. The use of an illegal player is a serious offense and will result in a forfeit. Don't even try it. Review in detail with your players the identification they'll need WITH THEM ON THE FIELD next weekend for the roster check. Now to the fun part, your homework.

Please fill out the following questionnaire for a series of playoff previews we'll be posting all week. Shoot to get them back to me by Tuesday close of business. Answer fully and honestly; don't worry about bulletin-board material, it's softball!Thanks, I'll be hitting you again soon. Here's your homework:

Team:
2008 Record (PCS seed):
2007 Record:
Coach(es):
Key Returning Players:
Valuable New Additions:
Key To Success This Season:
Likely Key to Success in the Tournament:
Team Other Than Your Own You Think Will Win the 2008 Tourney:

Weekly Wrap by Eric Jensen

The Allbritton Philibusters

Playoff Preview!

After two wins on the 28th of June, the Phillies catapulted themselves to the #6 seed in the MMSL playoffs, something this team is not accustomed to. The Phillies have missed the playoffs 6 years in a row and now are faced with the opportunity to make a run for the championship. Momentum is on their side after winning against WTTG and WUSA, and now they are up against The National Press Club (9-5). They have to win to keep the dream of a championship alive. I asked player Shawn Hoder about what the team needs to do to make a serious run in the playoffs. “It’s important that we play solid defense and play smart softball. We just need to get runs when necessary, play hard, and be dedicated. We were all really ecstatic about making the playoffs this year.” The National Press Club will be a challenge, but nobody has to be a hero, and if Allbritton plays like a team, they can really prove themselves to be contenders this year.

-Eric Jensen

Cic's Big Deal:

Nobody is more excited for the Playoffs than Chris Cicatelli. BUT after this Saturday, he's back in the band. Check out this flyer for his next gig...as a matter of fact, check out his next gig.

HODER

The Votes Are IN

A recent website poll asked which player had the highest batting average over the past three seasons. Below are your votes...

Chris Cicatelli
7 (58%)
Shawn Hoder
2 (16%)
Keith Abernethy
1 (8%)
Sean McFaul
1 (8%)
Mason Herndon
1 (8%)

Well, thanks to Jared, we have the finally tally. According to Bourgeois Inc, the totals are:

1. Shawn Hoder (38 games) .686
2. Chris Cicatelli (38 games) .651
3. Keith Abernethy (41 games) .554
4. Mason Herndon (38 games) .510
5. Sean McFaul (40 games).446


* Hoder also holds the Sluggin' 1.133, OBP .800, Doubles 16, Triples 10, and RBI 89.
* Cicatelli holds the Runs 61, Singles 49, and Doubles 16.
* Abernethy holds the PA 125, HR 5.
* McFaul holds BB 17.
* Herndon holds the team low for Pitching, ERA 4.23

Strength of Schedule (Hardest to Easiest)

I did the numbers today, and we had the 7th hardest schedule in the league. Poor WUSA, they can't catch a break...they had the hardest schedule by far...


WUSA: 119-77 (.607)
CBS News: 114-82 (.581)
CNN: 114-82 (.581)
USA Today: 113-83 (.576)
Comcast SportsNet: 110-86 (.561)
WRC: 105-91 (.535)

ALLBRITTON: 104-92 (.530)

ABC News: 103-93 (.525)
Discovery Channel: 103-93 (.525)
Post.com: 102-94 (.520)
AOL: 101-95 (.515)
WTTG: 100-96 (.510)
Washington Times: 97-99 (.494)
City Paper: 95-101 (.484)
Washington Post: 89-107 (.454)
AP: 88-108 (.448)
Team Video: 87-109 (.443)
Atlantic Video: 83-113 (.423)
National Press Club: 80-116 (.408)
Examiner: 77-119 (.392)
Gazette: 77-119 (.392)
Express: 74-122 (.377)

Breaking News Update!

Looks like we were mis-seeded. We are now Seed 6 and play 9-5 National Press Club at 9:15 AM on Saturday July 12th. Below is the email I just recieved from the Commish:

...many apologies for the confusion: We goofed on your seedings. Atlantic Video is the No. 5 seed, and will play Team Video in its first game next Saturday. Allbritton is the No. 6 seed, and will play the National Press Club. The mix-up occurred after we misinterpreted the tiebreaker rule for teams in a cluster. Simply put, we applied a division record tiebreaker when we shouldn't have; because you didn't play each other this season, the tiebreaker needed to be your season's run differential.We've run the numbers and AV's run differential is +86, while Allbritton's is +10. Feel free to check our math. As a result, Atlantic Video needs to get the higher seed. I'll correct the post on the Web site momentarily and update the bracket as well.We've had a tough time with the clusters, but at least this doesn't cost anyone an actual playoff birth. No matter the seed, you'll all need to knock the snot out of each other at some point next weekend. I hope you didn't spend too much time this week game-planning for the wrong opponent. Again, my apologies for the confusion.

Okay, so what does that mean for us? Not much different. We still play a team we haven't faced, we still have to play at 9:15 AM, and we still have to win to keep the dream alive. The only thing that hurts is the couple of hours I put in studying the games against Team Video last year. Time to move on, here we come NPC...we are ready!

Hoagie

Breaking NEWS

An email just came across the wires from the Commish. Here it is:

...we may have a seedings mix-up involving your slots in the10-4 cluster. We may have used the wrong tiebreaker in determining your seed, so you may be flip-flopped. Sit tight, I'm working on it as we speak. Thanks for your patience...

What does this mean for us? Still unclear, but here is the 10-4 cluster as of right now:

4. CNN (10-4)
5. Allbritton (10-4)
6. Atlantic Video (10-4)

As soon as I know more, you will know more.

Hoagie

To Practice or Not to Practice?

That is the question. And the answer is NO. We do not have enough people to practice on Saturday. That's understandable since it is a holiday weekend.

But there is some good news...the playoff bracket is out. Check out the link to the right. We are Seed 5 and start our run against Team Video at 9:15 AM.

And no matter how we start or finish the day, the last game will start at 2:15 PM. That should give Lindsey and Mason plenty of time to get to the wedding (and be back on Sunday, RIGHT?).

One last thought...we're going to need to be at the fields and ready for warm-ups at 8:15 AM. I know it's early, but it will be worth it.

Comment on this blog about what kind of breakfast you want me to bring, and I'll see what I can do.

HOAGIE

Voted by YOU!

The PLAYER OF THE WEEK for the final 2 games of the season is...COACH HOAGIE! Some of the ever so nice things said were:

* I'm voting for Hoagie. Coached us up, kept us pumped and had almost all the RBI's in both games.

* He's been overlooked all season long just because we expect him to perform. Way to go Coach.

* Look at the man's RBI. He has more than anybody else and has only played 10 games. Hoder's been doing it all year.

When I reached me for comment, I said: "It's an honor to be considered an integral part of this team, and for my teammates to vote me as the Player of the Week? Wow...how cool. Of course, only a few people voted this time (the lowest turnout, yet)...but I still feel honored, I think."

HOAGIE

ARE YOU IN?

We are going to have a great line-up for the playoffs. Here are all the YES people for July 12th and 13th:

Mason Herndon
Sean McFaul
Chris Cicatelli
Shawn Hoder
Keith Abernethy
George Williams II
Brie Jackson
Bruce DePuyt
Kelly Lamp
Jared Bourgeois
Lindsey Walton
John Vagnetti
Matthew Watson
Bill Walker
Samantha Lazarus
Karen Brundidge

The NO people...but still a HUGE part of this Playoff Run:

Dave Willingham
Yolanda Massey
Conor Powell
Marty Kady
Megan McFee
Alex Otwell
John Gonzalez (Injury)

WUSA Injury Update:

Everyone who was there Saturday saw heard the screams of IBarLady, J'ette C. Well, today she got some bad news, but like the champ she is...took it in stride. This is a copy of the email she sent to me:

Hey Hodie!

Just got back from surgeon's office -- I'm a mess but fixable. Torn cartilage, torn part of the ligament in the back of knee, bruised bone tissue. I have plenty of re coup time! I go for orthoscop next Thursday looks like. Pre op next Monday.

Again, thank again for your support -- you're the best and we always look forward to playing.

Stay in touch,
J'ette

Who's Our Opponent?

We are all familiar with this banner...but what we are not used to is: WHO WE PLAYING AND WHEN?

I've been asked that question a lot over the past few days, and all I can point to is the last post by Commish Rob Terry. It says that we are Seed 5 and so if you look at the way the playoffs have been run...we tentatively face (7-7) Team Video. Until / unless I hear otherwise, that's our opponent.

The Vo Sox had a couple of games against them last year. Coach Bruce and I plan to sit down and go over those games and see if there is any edge we can gain. Don't be fooled by the 7-7 record. This team has beat USA Today 10-6 and NPC 17-4. They were in a tight one with AOL as well. So, they will have our undivided attention come July 12th at 9:15 AM.

I think there is quite a bit of rumbling around the league about the delays in the MMSL postings...but I still have to give them the benefit of the doubt. We have a massive league and we are filled with a bunch of nosey, impatient journalists.

I guess if we had been here before, my opinion might be different, but I just can't get past the happiness of being in the tournament at Cabin John. We are a very strong team and therefore, I don't care who we play. To be the best, one must beat the best.

Hoagie

Cabin John Regional Park

You know, I can't really describe what it's like to play at Cabin John...at least not from first hand experience. I have watched the MMSL play the tourney there for the last 5 years...I have never set foot in the fields. That all changes July 12.

Chris Cicatelli and his daughter Zoe have graciously snuck onto the fields there to give you a glimpse of the glory that awaits.

I hope seeing these pictures inspires you as much as it does me. The infields are manicured, the outfields have warning tracks...if you ever wanted to play pro ball but came up short, these fields are going to allow you to dream. Just close your eyes and you see:

Jared up at the plate. Cicatelli is on 2nd with two outs, we are down by 1...

Boom...Jared smacks a deep fly to left...going going..gone! Over the fence... Philibusters win!

That's just one of the many scenarios we may face tournament weekend. My mind is racing and I wish we played tomorrow (although my hammy doesn't). Hopefully you can smell the grass and taste the dirt because it is soooo close.

If you want to see more pics...there is a slideshow on the right side by the polls. You can click the pics to get an enlarged view.

But it's also not all about softball. Many of our teammates have families and may be wondering if they can come and hang out for the day. YES! The park boast a 1.8 trail along a creek, playgrounds, tennis courts, basketball courts, open fields, heck even an ice skating rink. Dogs must be on a leash at all times...but what about shelter...here is a blurb from the Cabin John website:

Located within larger parks offering many types of recreational activities, regional/recreational picnic shelters vary in size to accommodate 40 to 100 people and include picnic tables, grills, restrooms, and limited parking. Renters may take advantage of the other amenities offered in the park; some require permits and fees to use. These shelters are available from April 1 – October 31.

Hoagie

WELCOME TO PHILIBUSTERS.COM

It's been a long time coming, and finally it's here. You play hard, you check the site weekly..and thanks to the tireless efforts of Lee Umali and Matthew Watson...here is your reward. I know it's late in the season, but this site will encompass all that makes this team great. I encourage you to bring your cameras to the games...to practices...even to work. Pics of the players will make this site even more fun. Also, you can comment on the articles...all you have to do is create a login. Invite your friends to check it out...Jason and Sara Bacon (Bacon and Eggs) check the site often, and they now live in Boston (we miss you guys). What else? Make suggestions like Jared...he has compiled all the stats for the last 3 years...expect to see that soon, a breakdown of who's a consistent performer. Been in the league awhile...send some old pics. We could do a weekly look back at how we got here. It's that kind of thinking that will help us all out. Got an idea...post it or email it. Want to write a weekly column? Feel free. Just let Matt or me know.

The potential is now limitless. Lee and Matt spent a lot of free time to get this right. Now, let's have some fun. Be sure to track them down and thank them again for all their hard work. They both work back in the web team area by my office. I'm sure they'd like to know that their efforts are well worth it.

HOAGIE

Weekly Wrap by Eric Jensen

A week to week in-depth look at the games past, present, and future. New articles weekly. Check back often.

* Editor's note: Eric was ill Saturday and missed 2 of the best games ever played by the Philibusters. Our newly touted BIG RED MACHINE was in full swing. Eric has been committed to at least two separate playoff previews in the days to come.

INSIDE EDGE: Super Saturday

The Allbritton Philibusters go into the playoffs as one very hot team. An all around solid effort from our club for both games.

Against WUSA...we jumped up early and never let off. Hoder was 2-2 with 5 RBI. George Williams II went 3-3. Cicatelli, back after a four game injury, was stellar (even while batting lefty). All around a total team win 10-3 (5 innings).

* Side note: A horrible injury to WUSA Coach J'ette..knee related that required 911 to be called and for J'ette to be taken off on a stretcher. All of us here at Allbritton wish her a speedy recovery...Get well soon.

** An email from J'ette Conaghan has been added to the comments section. Check it out.

Against WTTG. Yet another classic battle with the division champs. They truly are a great team and always come back when they are down...but today this Big Red Machine would not be denied. Hoder was 3-3 with 3 RBI, George Williams II again came up big going 2-2....and how about Lindsey Walton? A couple great grabs at second and she turned a double play...What a great 2008 season addition she has been.

We led 3-0 after 1. Then 3-2 after 2. It was all tied 3-3 after 3, because like I said, the Foxtrotters always come back...but in the 5Th we got 3 more to go ahead 6-3. Herndon, McFaul, Hoder, Powell, Williams II all get on...but of course, they got 2 more in the 6Th...make it 6-5. After shutting us out in the bottom of the 6Th, WTTG had the 7Th to try another colossal comeback...but stellar D by Mason Herndon, Lindsey Walton, and Bill Walker ended the game.

We win a tight one 6-5.

Go Philibusters!

Cic's Corner: Issue 6

2008 MMSL campaign

Welcome back to the corner!! This week, there is only one word that needs to be said: PLAYOFFS!!! That’s right folks, the Allbritton Philibuster squad, aka The Big Red Machine, is in the 2008 MMSL tournament. It has been a loooong time folks- a very long time since we made it past the regular season. Six years to be exact. How did we do it? Well, by following the Philly-Brick Road, of course. Each brick on the path we are on represents wins, smart ball playing, solid d-fence, unselfish play, hustle, passion, and eatin plenty of dirt. We ain’t at the end of this path yet, folks, as we all know. To get to the end, we just need to keep plowin ahead like we have all season. Let’s hit the corner, shall we?

Cabin John is the pinnacle of softball facilities, and we have earned a visit. When you first walk up to the field the morning of July 12, I guarantee you will have butterflies the size of Texas. And oh what a beautiful sight these Cabin John fields are. Manicured grass so green, so soft, it would be a sin not to dive for every fly ball to the outfield. Powder chalk lines that glisten slightly in the morning sunlight. Dirt so fresh and so granular, you’ll be asking for seconds after eatin your first bowl. Homerun fences inviting a Hoagie fly ball to soar above. And plenty of years worth of softball spirits from MMSL lore and playoff pageantry. In other words, it can't get much better than this, boys and girls. Well, it can, but I am not going to start chirping.

The most important thing that is in front of us and what we must continue doing is this: We must keep enabling wins, folks. We have played smart ball and we have played team ball all season. When these elements are in unison, we enable wins. If there was ever a mission statement for the post season, this is it: Enable the win. Just follow the steps below, and we could be pouring Gatorade all over each other Sunday afternoon in glory.

Communication: This is a very important element. One of my biggest, to be honest with ya. We do a great job of talking to one another. Shoutin how many outs there are. Calling a fly ball in the outfield. Where the ball needs to go if hit in the infield when we’re on defense or where the ball needs to be thrown if hit to the outfield. If on offense, talking to the base runners-how many outs, where the other team has had problems, etc. Communication is the name of the game. We have done a stellar job with this all season and we shall continue to do so in the playoffs.

Smart ball playin: Anyone knows that you need to anticipate the play before the pitch is even tossed. When we are in the field, I must go through every scenario in my head before a pitch is even thrown. We stay ahead of the batter, and they will be toast every time. If there is a runner on first, you need to go over every situation in your head, and then BOOM! As soon as that ball is hit, you pounce on it like a pissed off kitty, and follow through for the sure out. We follow this formula like we have all season and continue playin smart ball, we will be a success in the playoffs.

Listen To Your Coaches: Coach Hoagie and Coach Bruce have been great lifelines this season, like seasons past. They know the game, and they know it well. They also know their game plan, so listen to ‘em. They study the opposition, and they study us. If Hoagie tells you to move in a bit in the outfield cause the opposing batter hit that direction last at bat, come on in a bit. Also, listen to your base coaches. DON’T LOOK AT THE BALL, LOOK AT YOUR BASE COACHES. If there is a chance we can score, you bet yer ass I am gonna be doin the windmill at third waving you in to cross the plate. We continue to listen to our coaches, and we will be a success in the playoffs.

Support Your Teammates: Whether you are in the line-up or on the bench, you are still a part of this Big Red Machine, and you know, this is something that has been so fantastic this season. Everyone is supporting everyone. The peeps on the bench are shoutin out to the squad on the dirt diamond. The peeps comin in from the diamond are rootin for the people getting subbed into the game. And everyone is high fivin everyone between innings. I mean seriously, it is a beautiful thing to behold, and is a magical element of this great game and this great team. We continue supporting each other through good plays, mis-plays, screamin, run producing, line drive singles and doubles, or ground ball outs we will be a success in the playoffs. Have Fun Out There...

And Just Believe: This year has sparked many memories for me. I have been playin ball with WJLA for about 13 years and have been a part of some really great teams, some bad teams, some fun teams, and some pretty frustrating teams. But I do have to say, this year has been the absolute most fun I have had on the diamond playin for JLA in a long, long time. A good friend, all around great guy and once a WJLA teammate of mine, Dale Solly, passed away back in 2002. He is still dearly missed by many in the league and by those who played for him on the WJLA squad. He loved softball Saturdays…loved havin fun out there…making people laugh…and most of all, loved playin the game and believing we could win against any team. This season is the first time I have felt all of these things collectively since we lost Dale. He believed in good sportsmanship first and foremost, but believed in keeping your inner child alive and kicking, as well. He was such a great ambassador of good sportsmanship and the true goodwill of the game, his name adorns the prestigious Dale Solly Award, which is presented at the end of every season to one player in the league who best exemplified the true spirit of how the game is to be played- through good sportsmanship and camaraderie. My point through all of this rambling is that this entire Phillies team has held this spirit burning bright every Saturday and man, I have to tell you, Dale is most definitely enjoying what he is seeing. We always came out ready to have fun. We always came out as good sportsmen/women and help an opposing player get up after a slide, or tip our hats after a great play. We always came out believing we could win. And you know what? We continue to believe and continue to have fun, we will be the success story of the MMSL 2008 playoffs. And let me tell ya, as someone who knew Dale Solly, coached with him, and played the hardest I could with him at the helm, this is a team I wish he could watch play the weekend of July 12. He would most definitely believe in the Big Red Machine and what we stand for, just like we all do.

Go Phillies. I love this team…

>cic