Sporting Schools will engage more than 850,000 children across Australia in what will be the country’s largest school-based participation programme.
The Australian Sports Commission (ASC) has partnered with 32 national sporting organisations (NSOs) to offer sporting programmes to children before, during or after school. Registration is free for all Australian primary schools, sporting organisations, and coaches.
By bringing sports, schools, and community organisations together, Sporting Schools aims to increase children’s participation in sport and to connect with local sporting clubs in their community.
Baseball Australia has registered with Sporting Schools and can support school sporting programmes by providing registered coaches to deliver a range of sports.
By focusing on having fun, having a go and getting active, Sporting Schools will provide children with positive sporting experiences to help foster a lifelong interest in sport. Baseball Australia supports this through the Playing for Life philosophy, which focuses on providing safe, fun and engaging activities that get all children involved, regardless of their level of ability.
For further information about Sporting Schools and Playing for Life visit www.sportingschools.gov.au
Sporting Schools will engage more than 850,000 children across Australia in what will be the country’s largest school-based participation programme.
The Australian Sports Commission (ASC) has partnered with 32 national sporting organisations (NSOs) to offer sporting programmes to children before, during or after school. Registration is free for all Australian primary schools, sporting organisations, and coaches.
By bringing sports, schools, and community organisations together, Sporting Schools aims to increase children’s participation in sport and to connect with local sporting clubs in their community.
Baseball Australia has registered with Sporting Schools and can support school sporting programmes by providing registered coaches to deliver a range of sports.
By focusing on having fun, having a go and getting active, Sporting Schools will provide children with positive sporting experiences to help foster a lifelong interest in sport. Baseball Australia supports this through the Playing for Life philosophy, which focuses on providing safe, fun and engaging activities that get all children involved, regardless of their level of ability.
For further information about Sporting Schools and Playing for Life visit www.sportingschools.gov.au
The 2015 Australian Little League Championships (ALLC) will take over the New South Wales northern rivers town of Lismore from 3 to 9 June 2015.
In its eighth year, the twenty (20) team event has found a new home in Lismore where the local community is welcoming Little League with open arms. The ALLC is also proudly supported by the NSW Government through its tourism and major events agency Destination NSW.
Under the guidance if it’s motto character, courage and loyalty, the Little League program is designed to develop superior citizens rather than superior athletes.
A proud partner of Little League International, Baseball Australia has worked with the Australian grassroots community to become the fastest growing Little League country in the world. This event is an opportunity for us to come together and celebrate the finest Little League Charters in Australia.
20 Local Charters Participating:
| Adelaide North | Adelaide South |
| Brisbane North | Canberra |
| Central Coast | Cronulla |
| Gold Coast | Hills |
| Manly | Northern Diamondbacks |
| Northern Territory | Perth Metro Central |
| Perth Metro East | Perth Metro North |
| Ryde North | Ryde South |
| Southern Mariners | Swan Hills |
| West Coast | Yarra Rangers |
The charter crowned Champions also earn the once in a lifetime opportunity to go on and represent Australia at the Little League World Series in Williamsport, US in August.
Key Dates:
20 May – Rosters and Schedule released
27 May – Entertainment Schedule released
3 June – Opening Ceremony
4-8 June – Event Play
9 June – Finals and Closing Ceremony
Follow at littleleague.org.au or on Facebook @BaseballAustralia
AUSTRALIANS IN THE MAJORS
Week in Review
Grant Balfour (Glenwood, NSW): Balfour re-signed with the Tampa Bay Rays on 1 May, and aims to return to the Majors via his current assignment with the Triple A Durham Bulls. He’s made four appearances for the Bulls so far, and has a 4.50 ERA and with eight strikeouts in four innings pitch. Balfour’s complete stats with Durham can be found here.
Liam Hendriks (Carine, WA): After some doubt at the beginning of the season, the pieces are coming together for the Toronto Blue Jays’ bullpen, and Hendriks continues to settle in to his middle relief role. He as a 3.14 ERA in 14.1 innings across 11 games and has held opposing batters to a .184 batting average. The Blue Jays (17-18, .486) now have sole possession of third place in the AL East, half a game ahead of the Boston Red Sox and two games behind the Rays.
9 May – The Blue Jays busted out for seven runs against the Red Sox, winning 7-1 as Lima pitched three innings of scoreless middle relief, striking out three batters.
13 May – Though Toronto fell to the Baltimore Orioles 6-1, Liam contributed 1.1 shutout innings, including working out of a bases-loaded jam in the bottom of the sixth frame after walking the first batter.
*Statistics for players are being compiled. Pitchers can be found here and batters here.
AUSTRALIAN BASEBALL LEAGUE ALUMNI IN MLB
Didi Gregorius (Canberra Cavalry 2010/11): Gregorius’s speed and defence have taken centre stage as he also shows some improvement at the plate. The 25-year-old had two hits and drove in a pair of runs as the New York Yankees beat the Baltimore Orioles 6-2 on 10 May. The Yankees (21-14, .609) are still in first place in the AL East, two games ahead of the second-place Rays. Watch: Gregorius shows his Yankee pride in four languages.
Kevin Kiermaier (Canberra Cavalry 2011/12): Kiermaier’s bat cooled down in the last week, with his batting average dropping to .240. He has just two hits in his last 14 at bats, as the Rays (19-16, .543) hold steady in second place in the AL East. Despite his struggles at the plate, Kiermaier remains a force on defence, showing off his cannon-like arm in the Rays’ recent series against the Yankees.
Brandon Maurer (Adelaide Bite 2010/11): In his new relief role in a new organisation, Maurer has been lights-out entering the middle of the season’s second month. He hasn’t allowed a run in the month of May, and has a 1-0 record and 2.70 ERA in 15 bullpen appearances. The Padres (18-17, .514) remain in sole possession of second place in the NL West, five games behind the first-place Los Angeles Dodgers and half a game ahead of the third-place San Francisco Giants.
UPCOMING TV SCHEDULE – MLB ON 
All times AEST
|
Sat 16 May |
9:00 am |
ESPN’s Friday Night Baseball |
ESPN |
|
Sat 16 May |
9:00 am |
Baltimore Orioles vs Los Angeles Angels |
|
|
Sat 16 May |
3:30 pm |
Baseball Tonight |
ESPN 2 |
|
Sun 17 May |
2:00 pm |
Baseball Tonight |
ESPN 2 |
|
Mon 18 May |
9:00 am |
Baseball Tonight: Sunday Night Countdown |
ESPN 2 |
|
Mon 18 May |
10:00 am |
ESPN’s Sunday Night Baseball |
ESPN 2 |
|
Mon 18 May |
10:00 am |
St Louis Cardinals vs Detroit Tigers |
|
|
Tue 19 May |
9:00 am |
ESPN’s Monday Night Baseball |
ESPN |
|
Tue 19 May |
12:00 pm |
Baseball Tonight |
ESPN |
|
Wed 20 May |
9:00 am |
ESPN’s Tuesday Night Baseball |
ESPN 2 |
|
Wed 20 May |
12:00 pm |
Baseball Tonight |
ESPN 2 |
|
Wed 20 May |
2:00 pm |
Baseball Tonight |
ESPN 2 |
|
Thu 21 May |
9:00 am |
ESPN’s Wednesday Night Baseball |
ESPN 2 |
|
Thu 21 May |
12:00 pm |
Baseball Tonight |
ESPN 2 |
|
Thu 21 May |
2:00 pm |
Baseball Tonight |
ESPN 2 |
|
Fri 22 May |
2:00 pm |
Baseball Tonight |
ESPN 2 |
MINOR LEAGUE ROUNDUP
• TRIPLE A: Victorian and former Melbourne Ace James Beresford recently concluded a 13-game hitting streak for the Rochester Red Wings. He’s hitting .319 in 25 games this season… After starting May with a multi-hit game, Matt Kennelly (Perth Heat) is hitless in his last nine at bats for the Gwinnett Braves.
• DOUBLE A: Warwick Saupold (Perth Heat) picked up his first win of the season for the Erie Seawolves, beating the Akron RubberDucks on 12 May. He has a 1-1 record and 6.00 ERA in six starts… Tim Atherton (Canberra Cavalry) gave up one earned run and struck out six batters in five innings in his second Double-A start.
• HIGH A: Daniel McGrath (Melbourne Aces) maintains a sub-two ERA for the Salem Red Sox, posting a 1-1 record and 1.80 ERA in six starts while holding opponents to a .119 batting average… Todd Van Steensel (Sydney Blue Sox) has a 1.80 ERA and 31 strikeouts in 20 innings pitched for the Fort Myers Miracle… Samuel Holland (Brisbane Bandits) hasn’t allowed an earned run in his last seven appearances for the Lake Elsinore Storm.
• LOW A: Victorian Sam Street struggled in his last two outings but maintains a 2.49 ERA and three saves in eight games for the West Virginia Power… Zac Shepherd (Sydney Blue Sox) is hitting .243 with one home run and 20 RBIs in 32 games for the West Michigan Whitecaps… Robbie Perkins (Canberra Cavalry) is hitting .212 in 33 at bats for the Asheville Tourists.
• EXTENDED SPRING TRAINING: After signing a minor league deal with the Miami Marlins, Travis Blackley (Melbourne Aces) remains in Extended Spring Training, awaiting a minor league assignment… Opening Day for both the Short-Season A and Rookie levels is approaching, in June.
COLLEGIATE NEWS: CHAMPIONSHIPS CONTINUE
• New Zealander and outfielder Daniel Bradley had two hits as North Iowa Community College blanked Southwestern Community College to take the National Junior College Athletic Association Region XI title. Bradley shined throughout the tournament, including a two-homer performance in the semifinal. The Trojans advance to the North Plains district title game on 16 May against Southeast Community College.
• Sydneysider Max Brennen and West Texas A&M University continue their trek through the playoffs, heading to Grand Junction, Colorado for the NCAA Division II South Central Regional as the No. 5 seed in the tournament. Read more about the Buffs and the tournament schedule here.
GRASSROOTS NEWS
• Baseball Australia is getting ready to release team and roster information about the Little League National Championships, scheduled to be held in Lismore NSW from 4-9 June.
AT A GLANCE
• Queenslander and former softballer Aaron Whitefield, a 2014 participant in the MLB Australian Academy Program, signed with the Minnesota Twins as an outfielder and will start his career with the team’s Rookie-level affiliate in the Gulf Coast League.
• The Australian Baseball League announced the round-by-round draw for its 2015/16 season, which commences in October. Read more about the expanded schedule here.
• The Pittsburgh Pirates temporarily shut down John Holdzkom as the righty deals with shoulder fatigue at Triple A Indianapolis.
• In Memoriam: MLBI sends our deepest condolences to the family of Murdoch Campbell, who passed away after a brief battle with cancer. Murdoch served as the marketing manager for the Brisbane Bandits in the ABL’s mid-nineties heyday, and was also known for his passion for footy as he served as the club president for the QAFL Queensland’s Mayne Tigers.
To subscribe to receive The Pitch direct to your inbox, click here.
AUSTRALIANS IN THE MAJORS
Week in Review
Grant Balfour (Glenwood, NSW): Balfour re-signed with the Tampa Bay Rays on 1 May, and aims to return to the Majors via his current assignment with the Triple A Durham Bulls. He’s made four appearances for the Bulls so far, and has a 4.50 ERA and with eight strikeouts in four innings pitch. Balfour’s complete stats with Durham can be found here.
Liam Hendriks (Carine, WA): After some doubt at the beginning of the season, the pieces are coming together for the Toronto Blue Jays’ bullpen, and Hendriks continues to settle in to his middle relief role. He as a 3.14 ERA in 14.1 innings across 11 games and has held opposing batters to a .184 batting average. The Blue Jays (17-18, .486) now have sole possession of third place in the AL East, half a game ahead of the Boston Red Sox and two games behind the Rays.
9 May – The Blue Jays busted out for seven runs against the Red Sox, winning 7-1 as Lima pitched three innings of scoreless middle relief, striking out three batters.
13 May – Though Toronto fell to the Baltimore Orioles 6-1, Liam contributed 1.1 shutout innings, including working out of a bases-loaded jam in the bottom of the sixth frame after walking the first batter.
*Statistics for players are being compiled. Pitchers can be found here and batters here.
AUSTRALIAN BASEBALL LEAGUE ALUMNI IN MLB
Didi Gregorius (Canberra Cavalry 2010/11): Gregorius’s speed and defence have taken centre stage as he also shows some improvement at the plate. The 25-year-old had two hits and drove in a pair of runs as the New York Yankees beat the Baltimore Orioles 6-2 on 10 May. The Yankees (21-14, .609) are still in first place in the AL East, two games ahead of the second-place Rays. Watch: Gregorius shows his Yankee pride in four languages.
Kevin Kiermaier (Canberra Cavalry 2011/12): Kiermaier’s bat cooled down in the last week, with his batting average dropping to .240. He has just two hits in his last 14 at bats, as the Rays (19-16, .543) hold steady in second place in the AL East. Despite his struggles at the plate, Kiermaier remains a force on defence, showing off his cannon-like arm in the Rays’ recent series against the Yankees.
Brandon Maurer (Adelaide Bite 2010/11): In his new relief role in a new organisation, Maurer has been lights-out entering the middle of the season’s second month. He hasn’t allowed a run in the month of May, and has a 1-0 record and 2.70 ERA in 15 bullpen appearances. The Padres (18-17, .514) remain in sole possession of second place in the NL West, five games behind the first-place Los Angeles Dodgers and half a game ahead of the third-place San Francisco Giants.
UPCOMING TV SCHEDULE – MLB ON
All times AEST
Sat 16 May
9:00 am
ESPN’s Friday Night Baseball
ESPN
Sat 16 May
9:00 am
Baltimore Orioles vs Los Angeles Angels
Sat 16 May
3:30 pm
Baseball Tonight
ESPN 2
Sun 17 May
2:00 pm
Baseball Tonight
ESPN 2
Mon 18 May
9:00 am
Baseball Tonight: Sunday Night Countdown
ESPN 2
Mon 18 May
10:00 am
ESPN’s Sunday Night Baseball
ESPN 2
Mon 18 May
10:00 am
St Louis Cardinals vs Detroit Tigers
Tue 19 May
9:00 am
ESPN’s Monday Night Baseball
ESPN
Tue 19 May
12:00 pm
Baseball Tonight
ESPN
Wed 20 May
9:00 am
ESPN’s Tuesday Night Baseball
ESPN 2
Wed 20 May
12:00 pm
Baseball Tonight
ESPN 2
Wed 20 May
2:00 pm
Baseball Tonight
ESPN 2
Thu 21 May
9:00 am
ESPN’s Wednesday Night Baseball
ESPN 2
Thu 21 May
12:00 pm
Baseball Tonight
ESPN 2
Thu 21 May
2:00 pm
Baseball Tonight
ESPN 2
Fri 22 May
2:00 pm
Baseball Tonight
ESPN 2
MINOR LEAGUE ROUNDUP
• TRIPLE A: Victorian and former Melbourne Ace James Beresford recently concluded a 13-game hitting streak for the Rochester Red Wings. He’s hitting .319 in 25 games this season… After starting May with a multi-hit game, Matt Kennelly (Perth Heat) is hitless in his last nine at bats for the Gwinnett Braves.
• DOUBLE A: Warwick Saupold (Perth Heat) picked up his first win of the season for the Erie Seawolves, beating the Akron RubberDucks on 12 May. He has a 1-1 record and 6.00 ERA in six starts… Tim Atherton (Canberra Cavalry) gave up one earned run and struck out six batters in five innings in his second Double-A start.
• HIGH A: Daniel McGrath (Melbourne Aces) maintains a sub-two ERA for the Salem Red Sox, posting a 1-1 record and 1.80 ERA in six starts while holding opponents to a .119 batting average… Todd Van Steensel (Sydney Blue Sox) has a 1.80 ERA and 31 strikeouts in 20 innings pitched for the Fort Myers Miracle… Samuel Holland (Brisbane Bandits) hasn’t allowed an earned run in his last seven appearances for the Lake Elsinore Storm.
• LOW A: Victorian Sam Street struggled in his last two outings but maintains a 2.49 ERA and three saves in eight games for the West Virginia Power… Zac Shepherd (Sydney Blue Sox) is hitting .243 with one home run and 20 RBIs in 32 games for the West Michigan Whitecaps… Robbie Perkins (Canberra Cavalry) is hitting .212 in 33 at bats for the Asheville Tourists.
• EXTENDED SPRING TRAINING: After signing a minor league deal with the Miami Marlins, Travis Blackley (Melbourne Aces) remains in Extended Spring Training, awaiting a minor league assignment… Opening Day for both the Short-Season A and Rookie levels is approaching, in June.
COLLEGIATE NEWS: CHAMPIONSHIPS CONTINUE
• New Zealander and outfielder Daniel Bradley had two hits as North Iowa Community College blanked Southwestern Community College to take the National Junior College Athletic Association Region XI title. Bradley shined throughout the tournament, including a two-homer performance in the semifinal. The Trojans advance to the North Plains district title game on 16 May against Southeast Community College.
• Sydneysider Max Brennen and West Texas A&M University continue their trek through the playoffs, heading to Grand Junction, Colorado for the NCAA Division II South Central Regional as the No. 5 seed in the tournament. Read more about the Buffs and the tournament schedule here.
GRASSROOTS NEWS
• Baseball Australia is getting ready to release team and roster information about the Little League National Championships, scheduled to be held in Lismore NSW from 4-9 June.
AT A GLANCE
• Queenslander and former softballer Aaron Whitefield, a 2014 participant in the MLB Australian Academy Program, signed with the Minnesota Twins as an outfielder and will start his career with the team’s Rookie-level affiliate in the Gulf Coast League.
• The Australian Baseball League announced the round-by-round draw for its 2015/16 season, which commences in October. Read more about the expanded schedule here.
• The Pittsburgh Pirates temporarily shut down John Holdzkom as the righty deals with shoulder fatigue at Triple A Indianapolis.
• In Memoriam: MLBI sends our deepest condolences to the family of Murdoch Campbell, who passed away after a brief battle with cancer. Murdoch served as the marketing manager for the Brisbane Bandits in the ABL’s mid-nineties heyday, and was also known for his passion for footy as he served as the club president for the QAFL Queensland’s Mayne Tigers.
To subscribe to receive The Pitch direct to your inbox, click here.
The successful applicant will be required to fulfill the following duties as Head of Junior Baseball Development:
Plan and implement a high performance training program for the Junior playing group.
Mentor and help develop the Junior playing group and Junior Coaching staff.
Lead the coaching group in selection processes.
Lead by example under the club ‘Code of Conduct’
Attend and promote all social functions with the playing group and coaching staff.
The successful applicant must possess the following qualities and attributes:
Strong management, leadership and interpersonal skills on and off the field.
Ability to coach and show an understanding of in-game strategies.
Ability to work and communicate with Junior Coaches/players.
Lead by example of what is required to be a club member and team player on and off the field.
Have strong communication skills with the Board of Management, members and players.
Written applications are now invited for the position of Head of Junior Development at the Upwey Ferntree Gully Baseball Club. If you feel you have the necessary skills and attributes or you require further information for this position we encourage you apply in writing to secretary@upweyftgbaseballclub.com.
Remuneration and conditions of appointment are negotiable for the suitably qualified person who may be considered.
The Upwey Ferntree Gully Baseball Club is seeking expressions of interest from an experienced, dedicated and suitably qualified person to fill the role as a playing or non-playing Head Coach. The successful applicant will be someone who can share our vision of successfully participating in the upcoming Division 2 championship and returning the club back into Division 1.
The successful applicant will be required to fulfill the following duties as Head Club Coach:
· Coach and manage the senior playing group in training on Tuesday and Thursday nights as well as on game day.
· Lead the coaching group in Thursday night selection process.
· Lead by example under the player ‘Code of Conduct’ and ‘Players Agreement’.
· Assist where required with other Senior & Junior coaching staff.
· Attend and promote all social functions with the playing group and coaching staff.
The successful applicant must possess the following qualities and attributes:
· Strong management, leadership and interpersonal skills on and off the field.
· Ability to coach at a high level and show an understanding of in-game strategies.
· Plan and implement a high performance training program for the Senior Teams.
· Ability to work and communicate with Junior Coaches/players.
· Lead by example of what is required to be a club member and team player on and off the field.
· Have strong communication skills with the Board of Management, members and players.
Written applications are now invited for the position of Head Coach at the Upwey FTG Baseball Club. If you feel you have the necessary skills and attributes or you require further information for this position we encourage you apply in writing to secretary@upweyftgbaseballclub.com.
Remuneration and conditions of appointment are negotiable for the suitably qualified person who may be considered.
AUSTRALIANS IN THE MAJORS
Week in Review
Grant Balfour (Glenwood, NSW): After being designated for assignment by the Tampa Bay Rays on 19 April, Balfour re-signed a minor league deal with Rays on 1 May with the aim of making it back to the Majors. He reported to Triple A Durham and tossed a scoreless seventh inning in his first appearance for the Bulls on 6 May, striking out two batters.
Liam Hendriks (Carine, WA): As the Toronto Blue Jays fight to stay out of the cellar in the notoriously-strong AL East, Liam continues to be a reliable middle relief arm for manager John Gibbons, posting a 4.50 ERA in nine appearances and 11 strikeouts in 10.0 innings pitched.
The Blue Jays (14-15, .483) are tied with the Baltimore Orioles for third place in the AL East, 3.5 games behind the New York Yankees.
2 May – Liam’s latest outing came in Toronto’s 11-4 blowout win over the Cleveland Indians on tribe turf. After striking out the first batter he faced in the bottom of the sixth frame, he tossed a 1-2-3 seventh inning before allowing two runs (one earned) on one hit in the bottom of the eighth.
*Statistics for players are being compiled. Pitchers can be found here and batters here.
AUSTRALIAN BASEBALL LEAGUE ALUMNI IN MLB
Didi Gregorius (Canberra Cavalry 2010/11): The 25-year-old Gregorius has shown improvement in the first month of the 2015 season, despite sky-high expectations. He drove in a run and made an impressive play in his most recent game against the Blue Jays, and is hitting .215 on the season with two doubles and five RBIs. The Yankees (17-11, .607) are 7-3 in their last 10 games and continue to reassert their dominance of the AL East, sitting atop the pedestal in first place.
Kevin Kiermaier (Canberra Cavalry 2011/12): Though Kiermaier’s performance at the plate has cooled off, his defence continues to amaze everyone from casual fans to seasoned baseball veterans. The 24-year-old’s latest gem came at Fenway Park, when he robbed slugger David Ortiz of extra bases with a jumping catch at the wall. He’s hitting .268 in 26 games, and is tied for third in the American League with two triples. The Rays (15-13, .536) remain in second place in their division, two games behind the first-place Yankees.
Brandon Maurer (Adelaide Bite 2010/11): Maurer started the second month of the season with two strong outings, tossing two scoreless frames against the Colorado Rockies in San Diego and a scoreless inning in San Francisco against the Giants. The appearances lowered his season ERA from 4.50 to 3.46, and he’s walked just four batters in 13.0 innings pitched. The Padres (15-14, .517) have sole possession of second place in the NL West, three games behind the first-place Los Angeles Dodgers and half a game ahead of the third-place San Francisco Giants.
UPCOMING TV SCHEDULE – MLB ON
All times AEST
|
Fri 8 May |
12:00 pm |
Baseball Tonight |
ESPN |
|
Fri 8 May |
3:30 pm |
Baseball Tonight |
ESPN 2 |
|
Sat 9 May |
9:00 am |
Pittsburgh Pirates vs St. Louis Cardinals |
|
|
Mon 11 May |
9:00 am |
Baseball Tonight: Sunday Night Countdown |
ESPN |
|
Mon 11 May |
10:00 am |
ESPN’s Sunday Night Baseball |
ESPN |
|
Tue 12 May |
9:00 am |
ESPN’s Monday Night Baseball |
ESPN |
|
Tue 12 May |
12:00 pm |
Baseball Tonight |
ESPN |
|
Tue 12 May |
2:00 pm |
Baseball Tonight |
ESPN 2 |
|
Wed 13 May |
10:00 am |
ESPN’s Tuesday Night Baseball |
ESPN 2 |
|
Thu 14 May |
9:00 am |
Baseball Tonight |
ESPN |
|
Thu 14 May |
10:00 am |
ESPN’s Wednesday Night Baseball |
ESPN |
|
Fri 15 May |
12:00 pm |
Baseball Tonight |
ESPN 2 |
|
Fri 15 May |
2:00 pm |
Baseball Tonight |
ESPN 2 |
MINOR LEAGUE ROUNDUP
• TRIPLE A: Victorian James Beresford is on a ten-game hitting streak for the Rochester Red Wings, and boosted his batting average up to .353 in the process… Matt Kennelly is hitting .238 for the Gwinnett Braves and recently had a multi-hit game against Toledo… John Holdzkom is 1-0 with a 4.35 ERA in 11 relief appearances for Indianapolis.
• DOUBLE A: Tim Atherton took the loss in his first start in Double A, going six innings and surrendering three runs on six hits… Warwick Saupold had his best start of the season for the Erie Seawolves on 2 May, tossing five innings of four-hit, two-run baseball.
• HIGH A: NSW native Todd Van Steensel continues to succeed out of the bullpen for the Fort Myers Miracle, posting a 2.08 ERA and striking out 28 batters in 17.1 innings... Melbourne native Daniel McGrath has another strong start for the Salem Red Sox, earning a no-decision despite tossing six shutout innings and striking out six batters… Queenslander Samuel Holland hasn’t allowed a run in his last four appearances for the Lake Elsinore Storm.
• LOW A: Victorian Sam Street is proving to be a bullpen force for the West Virginia Power, posting a 1.93 ERA in six games… Sydneysider Zac Shepherd has 16 RBIs in 26 games for the West Michigan Whitecaps… Canberran Robbie Perkins is hitting .160 in 25 at bats for the Asheville Tourists.
• EXTENDED SPRING TRAINING: After signing a minor league deal with the Miami Marlins, Travis Blackley remains in Extended Spring Training, awaiting a minor league assignment… The Houston Astros released catcher Hayden Timberlake… Opening Day for both the Short-Season A and Rookie levels is approaching, in June.
COLLEGIATE NEWS
• Sydneysider Max Brennen is one of 13 seniors leading West Texas A&M University in the Lone Star Conference Baseball Championship. Brennen hit .290 with 16 RBIs in the regular season.
• Adelaide native Daniel Lee and the University of Indianapolis enter the Great Lakes Valley Conference Baseball Championship Tournament as the No. 2 seeds. Follow Lee and the Greyhounds’ quest for the title at Championship Central.
GRASSROOTS NEWS
• Baseball Australia announced that the U25 National Championships will be held in Cairns, QLD at the Trinity Beach Baseball Facility. Click here for more details.
AT A GLANCE
• Alice Springs native Adrian Burnside took it upon himself to repair the ballfield at the Boys & Girls Club of Vista, CA. Check out the amazing story here.
• Though back at Triple A, Grant Balfour re-signed with the Rays with the aim of making it back to the Majors in a Tampa uniform.
• The 2015/16 Australian Baseball League schedule will be announced soon. Check their website for further details.
• After a slow start and high expectations, the cards are starting to come together for Amsterdam-born Didi Gregorius. Read the story at nj.com.
WATCH: The Tampa Bay Rays routinely send prospects Down Under to play in the ABL. 2014/15 alumni Johnny Field and Tommy Coyle talk about their experiences with the Brisbane Bandits in this short segment.
To subscribe to receive The Pitch direct to your inbox, click here.
AUSTRALIANS IN THE MAJORS
Week in Review
Grant Balfour (Glenwood, NSW): After being designated for assignment by the Tampa Bay Rays on 19 April, Balfour re-signed a minor league deal with Rays on 1 May with the aim of making it back to the Majors. He reported to Triple A Durham and tossed a scoreless seventh inning in his first appearance for the Bulls on 6 May, striking out two batters.
Liam Hendriks (Carine, WA): As the Toronto Blue Jays fight to stay out of the cellar in the notoriously-strong AL East, Liam continues to be a reliable middle relief arm for manager John Gibbons, posting a 4.50 ERA in nine appearances and 11 strikeouts in 10.0 innings pitched.
The Blue Jays (14-15, .483) are tied with the Baltimore Orioles for third place in the AL East, 3.5 games behind the New York Yankees.
2 May – Liam’s latest outing came in Toronto’s 11-4 blowout win over the Cleveland Indians on tribe turf. After striking out the first batter he faced in the bottom of the sixth frame, he tossed a 1-2-3 seventh inning before allowing two runs (one earned) on one hit in the bottom of the eighth.
*Statistics for players are being compiled. Pitchers can be found here and batters here.
AUSTRALIAN BASEBALL LEAGUE ALUMNI IN MLB
Didi Gregorius (Canberra Cavalry 2010/11): The 25-year-old Gregorius has shown improvement in the first month of the 2015 season, despite sky-high expectations. He drove in a run and made an impressive play in his most recent game against the Blue Jays, and is hitting .215 on the season with two doubles and five RBIs. The Yankees (17-11, .607) are 7-3 in their last 10 games and continue to reassert their dominance of the AL East, sitting atop the pedestal in first place.
Kevin Kiermaier (Canberra Cavalry 2011/12): Though Kiermaier’s performance at the plate has cooled off, his defence continues to amaze everyone from casual fans to seasoned baseball veterans. The 24-year-old’s latest gem came at Fenway Park, when he robbed slugger David Ortiz of extra bases with a jumping catch at the wall. He’s hitting .268 in 26 games, and is tied for third in the American League with two triples. The Rays (15-13, .536) remain in second place in their division, two games behind the first-place Yankees.
Brandon Maurer (Adelaide Bite 2010/11): Maurer started the second month of the season with two strong outings, tossing two scoreless frames against the Colorado Rockies in San Diego and a scoreless inning in San Francisco against the Giants. The appearances lowered his season ERA from 4.50 to 3.46, and he’s walked just four batters in 13.0 innings pitched. The Padres (15-14, .517) have sole possession of second place in the NL West, three games behind the first-place Los Angeles Dodgers and half a game ahead of the third-place San Francisco Giants.
UPCOMING TV SCHEDULE – MLB ON
All times AEST
Fri 8 May
12:00 pm
Baseball Tonight
ESPN
Fri 8 May
3:30 pm
Baseball Tonight
ESPN 2
Sat 9 May
9:00 am
Pittsburgh Pirates vs St. Louis Cardinals
Mon 11 May
9:00 am
Baseball Tonight: Sunday Night Countdown
ESPN
Mon 11 May
10:00 am
ESPN’s Sunday Night Baseball
ESPN
Tue 12 May
9:00 am
ESPN’s Monday Night Baseball
ESPN
Tue 12 May
12:00 pm
Baseball Tonight
ESPN
Tue 12 May
2:00 pm
Baseball Tonight
ESPN 2
Wed 13 May
10:00 am
ESPN’s Tuesday Night Baseball
ESPN 2
Thu 14 May
9:00 am
Baseball Tonight
ESPN
Thu 14 May
10:00 am
ESPN’s Wednesday Night Baseball
ESPN
Fri 15 May
12:00 pm
Baseball Tonight
ESPN 2
Fri 15 May
2:00 pm
Baseball Tonight
ESPN 2
MINOR LEAGUE ROUNDUP
• TRIPLE A: Victorian James Beresford is on a ten-game hitting streak for the Rochester Red Wings, and boosted his batting average up to .353 in the process… Matt Kennelly is hitting .238 for the Gwinnett Braves and recently had a multi-hit game against Toledo… John Holdzkom is 1-0 with a 4.35 ERA in 11 relief appearances for Indianapolis.
• DOUBLE A: Tim Atherton took the loss in his first start in Double A, going six innings and surrendering three runs on six hits… Warwick Saupold had his best start of the season for the Erie Seawolves on 2 May, tossing five innings of four-hit, two-run baseball.
• HIGH A: NSW native Todd Van Steensel continues to succeed out of the bullpen for the Fort Myers Miracle, posting a 2.08 ERA and striking out 28 batters in 17.1 innings... Melbourne native Daniel McGrath has another strong start for the Salem Red Sox, earning a no-decision despite tossing six shutout innings and striking out six batters… Queenslander Samuel Holland hasn’t allowed a run in his last four appearances for the Lake Elsinore Storm.
• LOW A: Victorian Sam Street is proving to be a bullpen force for the West Virginia Power, posting a 1.93 ERA in six games… Sydneysider Zac Shepherd has 16 RBIs in 26 games for the West Michigan Whitecaps… Canberran Robbie Perkins is hitting .160 in 25 at bats for the Asheville Tourists.
• EXTENDED SPRING TRAINING: After signing a minor league deal with the Miami Marlins, Travis Blackley remains in Extended Spring Training, awaiting a minor league assignment… The Houston Astros released catcher Hayden Timberlake… Opening Day for both the Short-Season A and Rookie levels is approaching, in June.
COLLEGIATE NEWS
• Sydneysider Max Brennen is one of 13 seniors leading West Texas A&M University in the Lone Star Conference Baseball Championship. Brennen hit .290 with 16 RBIs in the regular season.
• Adelaide native Daniel Lee and the University of Indianapolis enter the Great Lakes Valley Conference Baseball Championship Tournament as the No. 2 seeds. Follow Lee and the Greyhounds’ quest for the title at Championship Central.
GRASSROOTS NEWS
• Baseball Australia announced that the U25 National Championships will be held in Cairns, QLD at the Trinity Beach Baseball Facility. Click here for more details.
AT A GLANCE
• Alice Springs native Adrian Burnside took it upon himself to repair the ballfield at the Boys & Girls Club of Vista, CA. Check out the amazing story here.
• Though back at Triple A, Grant Balfour re-signed with the Rays with the aim of making it back to the Majors in a Tampa uniform.
• The 2015/16 Australian Baseball League schedule will be announced soon. Check their website for further details.
• After a slow start and high expectations, the cards are starting to come together for Amsterdam-born Didi Gregorius. Read the story at nj.com.
WATCH: The Tampa Bay Rays routinely send prospects Down Under to play in the ABL. 2014/15 alumni Johnny Field and Tommy Coyle talk about their experiences with the Brisbane Bandits in this short segment.
To subscribe to receive The Pitch direct to your inbox, click here.
Baseball Victoria is now seeking applications for all coaching positions for the under 16 and under 18 State Program that will participate in National Championships.
Overview
The primary aim is to develop and maximise the opportunities of our athletes to progress to the next level. In many cases this is to represent Australia and/or provide the necessary platform to allow them to progress into the National league, the US College system or professional ranks.
Program
Baseball Victoria will be appointing 4 Head Coach's, 8 Assistant Coaches and 4 EO's.
Requirement
Appointed coaches and Executive Officers (EOs) will be required to coordinate, implement and attend trials, squad training, team preparation and training sessions as directed by Baseball Victoria. Coordination and servicing of the teams during the National Championships will also be required.
Venues
All training and tournament venues will be confirmed by Baseball Victoria at a later date.
The Under 16 and 18 state Championships will be held in early January 2016.
Coach and EOs Eligibility
All coaches and EOs MUST meet the following requirements:
Hold a current membership with a Baseball Victoria club prior to applying
Accreditation
Coaches - hold at least a current Level 3 (Level 4 for Head Coaches)
EOs - be prepared to complete a specified induction course
Hold a current Working with Children Card prior to applying
Hold a current Driver's Licence prior to applying
Uphold all parts of the ABF and Baseball Victoria Code of Conduct
Complete the forms required by both the ABF and Baseball Victoria
Wear the required uniform and clothing as stipulated within Baseball Victoria policies and as directed by team staff
Qualifications
Extensive experience and demonstrated success as a coach or EO at a state or national level
Demonstrated high level technical knowledge of baseball coaching principles including techniques, coaching trends and national developments
Well-developed liaison, interpersonal, oral and written communication, and people management skills
Experience in maintaining records to meet organisational requirements
Competent computer skills for communication and reporting
First Aid qualifications will be considered highly
Personal Attributes
Self-motivated and able to work as part of a team and under direction
Demonstrated success in managing individual differences and group dynamics
Demonstrated ability to exercise sound judgement, observe confidentiality and use discretion and initiative
Ability to meet competing demands through effective prioritisation in a results oriented environment
Ability to work irregular and out-of-business hours and the capacity to travel away from home in September for approximately two weeks
Costs and Remuneration
Please note that a small out of pocket reimbursement for travel and other expenses will be available to coaches and EO's that successful fulfil all requirements of them, as directed by Baseball Victoria.
Application
Please find below the Application Form to be completed and returned to Ashley Blair – ashley.blair@baseballvictoria.com.au
This form MUST be completed and submitted for the application to be considered.
Then this network session is for you!
Hear from women in grassroots sport who have been involved in growing the participation of women and girls across all aspects of their organisation and take away some ideas to implement at your own club, association or league.
Date: Tuesday, 26 May
Time: 6:30pm for a 6:45pm start, concluding at approximately 8.45pm
Venue: Training Room, Sports House
375 Albert Rd, Albert Park (See FAQ for parking information)
Cost: $5 per person
Catering: Food and beverages will be provided (Glass of champagne or wine on arrival)
Guest Panel Members: Deb Richards (Hawthorn Cycling Club). Others to be confirmed shortly.
RSVP: Attendance and any requirements (dietary or other) by 20th May 2015
Kristen Stone (Lacrosse Victoria)
development.officer@lacrossevictoria.com.au or 9926 1390
Background: Lacrosse Victoria, Baseball Victoria and Softball Victoria have partnered with Vicsport to develop a Women in Sport Network providing professional development and networking opportunities for women within our sports. An initial session was held in early March, with this session being the 2nd of four planned forums for 2015.
The discussion will be focused on hearing from successful women from other sports on what they have done to increase participation of women in their sport, and how you can do the same at your club. Please see more details about the forum below and attached:
FAQ: Please find our Frequently Asked Questions attached.
Further Information: Kristen Stone (Lacrosse Victoria) development.officer@lacrossevictoria.com.au or 9926 1390.
We look forward to a great session with you!
Kind regards,
Baseball Victoria is now seeking applications for all coaching positions for Under 25 state Victorian team that will participate in the National Championships this September.
Overview
The primary aim is to develop and maximise the opportunities of our athletes to progress to the next level. In many cases this is to represent Australia and/or provide the necessary platform to allow them to progress into the National league, the US College system or professional ranks.
Program
Baseball Victoria will be appointing 1 Head Coach, 2 Assistant Coaches and 1 EO.
Requirement
Appointed coaches and Executive Officers (EOs) will be required to coordinate, implement and attend trials, squad training, team preparation and training sessions as directed by Baseball Victoria. Coordination and servicing of the teams during the National Championships will also be required.
Venues
All training and tournament venues will be confirmed by Baseball Victoria at a later date.
The Under 25 National Championships will be held in Cairns from the 5th to the 10th of September.
Coach and EOs Eligibility
All coaches and EOs MUST meet the following requirements:
Hold a current membership with a Baseball Victoria club prior to applying
Overview
The primary aim is to develop and maximise the opportunities of our athletes to progress to the next level. In many cases this is to represent Australia and/or provide the necessary platform to allow them to progress into the National league, the US College system or professional ranks.
Program
Baseball Victoria will be appointing 1 Head Coach, 2 Assistant Coaches and 1 EO.
Requirement
Appointed coaches and Executive Officers (EOs) will be required to coordinate, implement and attend trials, squad training, team preparation and training sessions as directed by Baseball Victoria. Coordination and servicing of the teams during the National Championships will also be required.
Venues
All training and tournament venues will be confirmed by Baseball Victoria at a later date.
The Under 25 National Championships will be held in Cairns from the 5th to the 10th of September.
Coach and EOs Eligibility
All coaches and EOs MUST meet the following requirements:
Accreditation
Coaches - hold at least a current Level 3 (Level 4 for Head Coaches)
EOs - be prepared to complete a specified induction course
Hold a current Working with Children Card prior to applying
Hold a current Driver's Licence prior to applying
Uphold all parts of the ABF and Baseball Victoria Code of Conduct
Complete the forms required by both the ABF and Baseball Victoria
Wear the required uniform and clothing as stipulated within Baseball Victoria policies and as directed by team staff
Qualifications
Extensive experience and demonstrated success as a coach or EO at a state or national level
Demonstrated high level technical knowledge of baseball coaching principles including techniques, coaching trends and national developments
Well-developed liaison, interpersonal, oral and written communication, and people management skills
Experience in maintaining records to meet organisational requirements
Competent computer skills for communication and reporting
First Aid qualifications will be considered highly
Personal Attributes
Self-motivated and able to work as part of a team and under direction
Demonstrated success in managing individual differences and group dynamics
Demonstrated ability to exercise sound judgement, observe confidentiality and use discretion and initiative
Ability to meet competing demands through effective prioritisation in a results oriented environment
Ability to work irregular and out-of-business hours and the capacity to travel away from home in September for approximately two weeks
Costs and Remuneration
Please note that a small out of pocket reimbursement for travel and other expenses will be available to coaches and EOs that successful fulfil all requirements of them, as directed by Baseball Victoria.
Application
Please find below the Application Form to be completed and returned to Ashley Blair – ashley.blair@baseballvictoria.com.au
This form MUST be completed and submitted for the application to be considered.
Accreditation
Coaches - hold at least a current Level 3 (Level 4 for Head Coaches)
EOs - be prepared to complete a specified induction course
Hold a current Working with Children Card prior to applying
Hold a current Driver's Licence prior to applying
Uphold all parts of the ABF and Baseball Victoria Code of Conduct
Complete the forms required by both the ABF and Baseball Victoria
Wear the required uniform and clothing as stipulated within Baseball Victoria policies and as directed by team staff
Qualifications
Extensive experience and demonstrated success as a coach or EO at a state or national level
Demonstrated high level technical knowledge of baseball coaching principles including techniques, coaching trends and national developments
Well-developed liaison, interpersonal, oral and written communication, and people management skills
Experience in maintaining records to meet organisational requirements
Competent computer skills for communication and reporting
First Aid qualifications will be considered highly
Personal Attributes
Self-motivated and able to work as part of a team and under direction
Demonstrated success in managing individual differences and group dynamics
Demonstrated ability to exercise sound judgement, observe confidentiality and use discretion and initiative
Ability to meet competing demands through effective prioritisation in a results oriented environment
Ability to work irregular and out-of-business hours and the capacity to travel away from home in September for approximately two weeks
Costs and Remuneration
Please note that a small out of pocket reimbursement for travel and other expenses will be available to coaches and EOs that successful fulfil all requirements of them, as directed by Baseball Victoria.
Application
Please find below the Application Form to be completed and returned to Ashley Blair – ashley.blair@baseballvictoria.com.au
This form MUST be completed and submitted for the application to be considered.