Your beloved TCAT mens softball team came away victorious in a game played in the loving memory of Don Rush. There was some discussion as to whether even play the game considering the circumstances. However, it was assumed after much debate that Don would have wanted us to play on and play well! The defense did just that! In a slow offensive start, Paul Varner who was pitching in relief of the ill James Patterson, had a shutout going after 4 complete innings. It would not be the only excitement Varner brought to the game. Ryan Austin King solidified himself as a very solid utility player playing in gold glove form in relief of normal starting SS, Lance Cormier. He was also very solid at the plate. Going into the top of the 6th, the big sticks of Chris Smelley and Eric Smallwood were sorely missed as they were understandably absent grieving with their families. TCAT was only up by 4. But the bats came to life as hit after hit seemed to find hole after hole. Their was a bit if excitement as Varner used some ninja moves to get past the first baseman on a bases loaded fielders choice that was hit right to him. The first baseman then stepped on first and threw home in a close call at the plate. However, the catcher missed the tag even though he had his foot on the plate. The home plate umpire was absolutely clueless and tried to reverse the initial call of safe when it was realized that it was a bases loaded situation and the catcher had his foot on the plate. He had no clue that the force had been removed once the first baseman stepped on first requiring a tag at the plate. I was not going to let it go and had every intention of arguing even to the point of being tossed if necessary. I was calmly (at least as calm as possible) relating my correct point when a very classy shortstop from the other team stepped up and validated my position. On the next play, Varner would provide a very close play at the plate legging it from second on no hit to centerfield. He completed what was probably the ugliest belly flop head first slide (and that term is used very loosely) in the history of the game. I offered to provide X-rays tomorrow if necessary. There was a resulting abrasion of the forehead and forearm they may or may not have required some superglue once he got home! Anyway... The guys walked away victorious 13-9 as the dust settled. Special mention if Don and the Rush fam was mentioned in the post game prayer.
Posted on: Fri, 16 May 2014 01:44:18 +0000
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