Pickin' things apart

We've had some good practices and determined some areas we need to work on the past few days. Thursday Tommy T took home the Hammer. Tommy saw some things in our pitchers mechanics that were giving away some things. We'll make the adjustment as a team and be better for it. Tommy has his head in the game as much as anybody and does a great job of picking up other team's tendencies, etc. He'll be back next year as a member of our coaching staff after he uses up his eligibility this year.

Ronnie Mannella and Brian Sheehan got thier first Hammers this week. Sheehan has been taking control of things behind the plate -- running the show. Ronnie has been "Executing the Routine" consistently. Nothing special, just getting the job done.

We also worked in some PFP (pitcher's fielding practice). On Wednesday, coach Sully got fed up with the pitchers and ran them. Thursday it was my turn to chew out the staff. I spoke to coach Benim over at Penn State Behrend on Thursday night. He was all over his pitchers the same day. "Must have been the full moon," he said. If anyone sees a pitcher today -- remind them fielding is a big part of the game.

To cure this, Saturday's practice will be two hours worth of boring pickoffs, boring fielding and other boring things.Can't wait!!

Thursday also saw our pitchers throw live in the cage vs. our hitters. Lars and Zach Jordon threw first. Next was a couple of freshmen lefties -- Ramsdell and Tommy Mo. Making progress. First up Friday will be Murr-dog and Joey Tingue, followed by a couple more lefties -- Grey and Ace. Time permitting, we'll get a few more arms rolling.

I'd also like to take a moment to acknowledge the passing of "The Kid", Gary Carter. The Hall of Fame catcher was one of the most popular players in all of the MLB in the 80's. He was known for his enthusiasm and being a big part of the powerhouse Expos team and the catcher on the '86 Mets. RIP, Gary.