Beverly - 6, Rowley - 5

The Beverly Giants finished the season at 9-13-1 by defeating the Rowley Rams (10-14) by the score of 6 to 5 Thursday night at Cooney Field.

Luke Deschamps earned the win throwing 5 innings while allowing 4 runs (2 earned) on 4 hits and 4 walks while striking out 3. Nick Adams pitched a scoreless 6th for the "hold" and Mike Freni allowed 1 run in the 7th for the first save of his ITL career.

Matt Wile was charged with the loss allowing 6 runs (5 earned) over 6 innings while striking out 1.

Beverly's offense was led by Derek Scialdone (1 for 3, HR, 2RBI) and Kyle Sewyck (2 for 3, RBI). Rowley's White (2 for 2, 3RBI) and Moore (2 for 4) led the Rams offense.

Chiefs 3 - Rams 2

The Ipswich Chiefs continued the winning ways, with a three game sweep of the Rowley Rams in their final meeting of the season.

In a well played game all around by both teams. Ricky "DJ" Sotoropolous scored on a passed ball in the top of the 7th for the go ahead run. Dylan Durning continued to hit well going 2-4 at the plate with a RBI. Matt Lane, Patch Barton, and Tyler Hammond also contributed 1 hit a piece in the win.

Chris Lane earned the win going 7 strong innings, scattering 4 hits, and one earned run, while striking out 1.

The Chiefs continue their week of games with a match-up against Topsfield Thursday Night at Proctor Field.

Topsfield - 5, Beverly - 4

The Topsfield Tories defeated the Beverly Giants by the score of 5 to 4 at Proctor Field Wednesday night. Mike Dreesen threw a complete game for the victory, striking out 5 while allowing 6 hits. Joe Gill allowed 5 runs (4 earned) over 5 innings and was charged with the loss.

Topsfield's runs came via a Zack Lamkin sacrifice fly in the 1st, then Lamkin scored on a wild pitch in the 3rd. Max Travers knocked home a run on a sac fly in the 4th. Driscoll knocked home the last two on a ground rule doube in the 5th.

Beverly scored 2 in the first inning thanks to a Giannino RBI fielder's choice, and an error that later scored Giannino. In the fourth, Mike Freni delivered a solo homerun. In the sixth, Derek Scialdone doubled, and scored on a Pat Doyle sac fly.

HR Derby This Sat. 8/2

The 3rd Annual ITL Home Run Derby will take place this Saturday, August 2nd at Patton Park in Hamilton. The event will kick off promptly at 1pm following the Topsfield/Hamilton game scheduled for 10am. All current and former ITL players, Fans, and officials are encouraged to attend even if you don't plan to participate. The day is a lot of fun and designed to get everyone together in preparation for this year's playoffs (which begin Sunday!).

Participating players please be there no later than 12:45pm, and please don't forget to wear your game shirts. The entry fee this year will be $20 and the order of hitters will be determined by a drawing. So you will have to be there at the start so you won't miss your spot. The Derby itself will consist of 3 rounds, exact numbers of players advancing in rounds will be determined by how many participants compete. Each player will get 10 outs to hit as many HR's as they can. Any swing not resulting in a HR is considered an out. The field is open to all current ITL players and alumni of the league.

While not hitting, please be prepared to shag balls to help the day move quickly and smoothly. If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact Tom Jones @ itlbaseball@gmail.com.

See you Saturday!

Generals 7, Mariners 2

Rory Gentile's bookend HR's provided all the offense for the Mariners but the Hamilton Generals were able to pull out another win last night on the road. Gentile led off the game with a HR and added another in the seventh inning for the home team. Generals' pitchers were able to scatter only 3 other hits during the rest of the game while the offense came up with 7 runs on the way to the victory.

Judd Funchion started the game for the Generals giving up only one hit while striking out 4 in just 2 innings of work. With one down in the second Funchion collided with teammate Bryan Vitale on a foul ball bid. Vitale held on for the second out, but Funchion was injured on the play. He stayed in the game to complete the inning but was unable to come out for the third as he swelled up pretty good in between innings.

Mike Drinkwater came in for the Generals and went the rest of the game to earn the victory. Drinkwater allowed only 4 hits and 1 run in 5 IP and got out of a tough bases-loaded no-out situation unscathed. Mahi got the start for the Mariners, pitched well, but got the loss.

Offensively, Maidment got it going for the Generals for the second straight night with an RBI single in the second to tie the score at 1-1. The Generals took the lead in the third inning with a 3-run 2-out rally. O'Leary and Tilley each delivered RBI singles during the rally to take the lead. Mark Provost added 2-RBI later in the game. When all was said and done the Generals were able to win by a 7-2 margin. The two teams face off again on Thursday night at Patton Park, 5:45pm start.

Rockport beat Topsfield Monday Night

Heard thru the ITL grapevine...

Rockport - 13, Beverly - 5

Beverly cut a 6 run Rockport lead to 7 to 5 in the bottom of the 5th inning, but Rockport added insurance runs over the next 2 frames to hold on for the win. Derek Osmond earned the victory. Kyle Sewyck was charged with the loss.

Adam Orlando, Marc Bouchie, and Chris Bouchie homered for Rockport. Pat Doyle and Nick Adams homered for Beverly.

Rockport clinches a playoff spot with the win, and Beverly is eliminated. The four playoff teams are set with Hamilton, Manchester, Ipswich, and Rockport and only seeding is left to be determined.

Chiefs 8 - Rams 7

Another great game was played between the Ipswich Chiefs and the Rowley Rams at Linebrook Reservation.

Tonight saw the oldest pitcher catcher combination in Chiefs history. Kevin Smolla and Mike Blaise combined for 86 years! Smolla had some issues but was able get back to the young buck he once was. Smolla was able to complete 4 innings, scattering 11 hits, 7 runs, 2 walks, and struck out 4. Dave Doucette threw the final 3 frames and kept the Rams hitless, while walking 1.

The Chiefs offense was led by Anthony Hernandez who was 2 for 4 at the plate and driving in 3 Chiefs. Andy Knox also added a 3 for 4 night and drove in a run. Ryan Montecalvo, Dylan During, and David Shoreman all added RBI's. Shoreman was also hit twice this evening. There was also a Chiefs first tonight, during the 3rd inning Montecalvo was stung by a bee during his at bat. Only in Ipswich folks.

Tomasz, Thibault, and McDonald all chipped in with two hits a piece for the visiting Rams. Thibault also provided 3 RBI's.

R H E
Rowley: 7 11 3
Ipswich: 8 8 2

The Chiefs travel to Rowley tomorrow as they look to take the three game series.

Chiefs 5 - Rams 3

The Chiefs added another W into the win column last night with a fine pitching performance from David Shoreman who went the distance letting up just 2 earned runs, and scattering just a couple hits.

The Chiefs offense was set by Ryan Montecalvo and Tomasz Radzim who were both 2-3 at the plate, and 2 RBI's a piece. Matt Lane also knocked in a run on a basehit down the right field line. Kevin Michael was also 2-3 in the Chiefs win. Dylan Durning walked three times tonight. The Chiefs are playing good ball offensivly and defensivly with the middle combanation of Montecalvo and Anthony Hernendez were solid. Centerfielder Tom Radzim stated after the game "We all looked great out there today."

The Rams will be back at the Reservation Tuesday night for a make-up game. And Wednesday the Chiefs will be traveling to Rowley.

Generals Over Mariners 10-7 in Extra Innings

An early pitcher's duel led to late inning fireworks in Essex tonight. Jackson faced off against Stout on the mound and despite great pitching from both, neither figured in the decision when all was said and done. Jackson was able to go 5 2/3 for the Generals while Stout pitched 7 full. Both starters left the game with the score tied at 4.

Reggie Maidment got things rolling for the Generals with a two-out line drive HR in the second. Nate Bertolino (4-4, RBI, 3R, HR) answered in the bottom of the third with a towering HR to tie the score at one apiece. Judd Funchion got the lead back for the Generals with a 2-run HR in the top of the fourth. Neil Simmons scored in the top of the fifth on an error pushing the score to 4-1 Generals. At this point the Generals failed to break open the game as Stout was able to work out of some tough bases-loaded situations.

The Mariners bounced right back with 2 more in the fifth cutting the lead to one. Bettencourt delivered a key hit, while another run scored on a wild pitch. Luke Painchaud relieved Jackson at this point and got out of the inning with no further damage. The Mariners tied the game in the sixth on a Gentile RBI single off Painchaud. Neither team was able to score in the 7th, sending the game into extra innings.

In the eighth, the first two Generals batters were taken care of easily by the new pitcher. With nobody on and 2-outs then Generals started their rally. A HBP and two walks later the bases were loaded for Jim Maloney. Maloney delivered the Grand Slam to deep center which was follwed by a Provost HR, and an Andre Painchaud HR. The back-to-back-to-back HR's put the Generals ahead 10-4 with the sun going down.

The Mariners did not go quietly in the bottom of the 8th inning as they made a comeback bid. With one out the Mariners got the next six men to reach on four straight singles, BB, and HBP. With 3-runs in and the tying run on first, Luke Painchaud was able to keep throwing strikes and get the next 2 batters on fly balls to end the game and earn the victory just before dark. The final score was 10-7. The two teams will meet again Tuesday night in Essex and then again at Patton on Thursday.

Rockport 16 - Topsfield 5

The Townies took game one of a scheduled doubleheader at Evans by a score of 16-5. Brent Currier went 3-3 with 3 home runs with 8 rbis and Nathan Desantis went the distance for the win as the Townies improved to 11-9-1.

Game 2 was called before it even began because of rain. Make up is Monday night at 7pm under the lights at Evans.

Ipswich @ Beverly Rained Out

Beverly led Ipswich 3-1 after one inning....but just as the 2nd inning started, so did the rain, and it didn't let up. The makeup game will be played Saturday at 10AM at Cooney Field.

Mariners 5 Rams 3

Friday night at Eiras Field the Rams carried a 3-2 lead into the 7th inning, but a couple of costly errors and a big RBI double just inside the right field line lifted the Mariners to their league leading 13th victory. In another tightly contested well pitched battle the Rams and Mariners went back in forth all night. Manchester jumped out in the first with one run, Gentile led off with a single to center and advanced to second on a misplay in the outfield, Gentile wasted no time stealing 3rd on the next pitch , Cain picked him up with a sac fly.Rowley came back in the bottom of the first to tie the score on a Shane Johnson single with Johnson advancing to 2nd on an outfield misplay. Johnson would score on an error and Rowley had a chance to add on after Ralph Renzulli doubled to deep left center putting runners on 2nd and 3rd with 2 out. Manchester pitcher Gibbon(7IP, 7H, 1BB,1ER, 5K) got out of the jam and was excellent all night. Manchester went right back on top in the 2nd when Buckley doubled avanced to 3rd on a fielders choice and scored on a passed ball. From there Matt Wile (7IP, 5H, 2BB, 2ER, 5K) of the Rams settled in and continued to pitch well. Rowley tied the game in the 4th when Rowley's Ralph Renzulli(2 for 2, 2R, 1 RBI, HR) went deep to left. The game remained tied until the 6th when the Rams went up by one on a Tim Moore single scoring Renzulli who had reached on a walk. Manchester started the 7th with consectutive batters reaching on infield errors, with 2 on and none out Wile struck out the next batter but the runners advanced on a passed ball. With first base open the Rams intentionally walked pinch hitter Bryan Lafata to load the bases, a fielders choice to 2nd tied the game. With 2 outs and runners on 2nd and 3rd Cain delivered the big blow with a double down the right field line. The Rams got a runner on in the 7th but it was not to be as Gibbon struck out the final batter of the night. The Rams are back in action Monday night in Ipswich for the 1st game of a 3 game in 3 night series. Manchester is also back at it Monday as they start a 3 game on 4 night series against Hamilton.

Topsfield Tories circa 1946

This picture is of the ITL Topsfield Tories team around 1946. I don't have much information about the picture except for the approximate year and that the player in the top row, second from the left is ITL Hall of Famer ELDRIDGE "GILLY" GILFORD (the original owner of Gil's Grocery in Topsfield). "Gil's Grocery" is one of the few remaining "Mom & Pop" grocery stores left in the country. James Gilford ("Gilly") has taken over the store from his Dad (pictured) and now runs not only the store but also one of the most unique Athletic Clubs in the country. I believe the original picture still hangs in the store somewhere. You can read an article about the GAC here: http://www.gaconline.net/kevin.html.

If anyone has anymore information about this picture please send it along to itlbaseball@gmail.com

Topsfield @ Hamilton Makeup Game

Topfield will visit Hamilton next Saturday, August 2nd to complete the regular season. The game will be played starting at 10am in order to be done in time the the league wide HR derby that will kick off at 1pm at Patton Park.

Generals Top Tories 12-5

Jeff Jensen surrendered only 3 runs (1 ER) in six innings of work against the Tories Friday night to earn the victory. The slumping Hamilton offense broke out of its funk contributing 19 hits on the day. Rogers went the distance for the Tories but was charged with the loss.

Jered Stewart led the way for the Generals offensively going 4-5 on the day with 5 RBI's and a HR. Chris Shuka delivered a 3-RBI bases clearing double in the seventh to put the game away for the Generals. Andre Painchaud (2-RBI), Vitale, and Judd Funchion also contributed run scoring hits earlier on the day.

Ben Hathaway had an RBI single, and Doug Hittinger had a two run monster HR as the offensive standouts for the home team.

Topsfield @ Hamilton

Tonight's game is canceled due to an unplayable field. The teams are in talks for a possible makeup date.

Manchester @ Rowley Postponed

Tonight's Manchester @ Rowley game was postponed due to weather. Makeup is scheduled for this Friday 7/25 @ Eiras Field 5:45PM

Rockport at Beverly Postponed

This game will be made up on Tuesday, July 29th at 5:45PM at Cooney Field.

Chiefs Knock Off Townies

The Ipswich Chiefs continued their play-off push by spliting the series with Rockport last night in Ipswich 7-2.

Dave Shoreman pitched for the Tribe notching another win under his belt. Dylan Durning continued to swing a hot piece of metal with his second homerun in two games. This gives Durning a team leading 5 homeruns.

The Chiefs travel to Essex on Thursday for a make-up game with Manchester/Essex.

Rowley 1, Mariners 3

On Tuesday night the Mariners recorded their 12^th win to hold on to their slim lead of 1^st place. The Rams came out swinging by scoring one run in the first inning, but were held at bay for the remainder of the game by Mariners starter Ryan Marques who went the first 6 innings, followed up by Steve Stout who recorded the save with a scoreless 7^th inning. Matt Warden was the hard luck losing pitcher for the Rams while only surrendering 5 hits to the Mariners.

The Mariners we led by a 2 run Joe Orlando home run, and added an insurance run late in the game on doubles by Bryan Lafata and Mike MacFarland. Kobe Thibault (3-3) and Tomasz (2 hits) had strong nights at the plate, as they recorded 5 of the 7 Rams hits.

The teams meet again tonight (Wed 7/23) at Eiras Park in Rowley for a 5:45 tilt.

100 Inning Game

The 5th annual 100 Innings of Baseball game is accepting registrations. This is the longest baseball game ever played and has raised $373,000 for Curt's Pitch for ALS to help strike out Lou Gehrig's disease since its inception. In 2008, the game will fund the newly established Walter Bentson ALS Scholarship Fund, in honor of umpire chief, Walter Bentson. Learn more at www.100innings.com.

This year, you can benefit personally too, as there are fundraising incentives -- including a rebate for league fees! Read on.

WHEN?

Saturday August 30th through Sunday August 31st (Labor Day Weekend) - game lasts about 30 straight hours, starting Saturday morning and concluding Sunday at late afternoon. Play all day or all night, just a few hours or the entire game. We need you!

WHERE?

Adams Field in Quincy, MA

WHAT?

We start a ballgame at 9AM on Saturday morning and don't stop until 100 Innings are in the books. We play all day and all night and don't take any breaks!

HOW DO I PLAY?

Players can play as much or as little as they like! Many guys come and go throughout the course of the event. You will be able to let us know what times you want to play when you register. We divvy everyone up into two squads and use a continuous line-up and free defensive substitutions so everyone plays!

WHERE DO I REGISTER?

Registration is open at www.100innings.com. You can sign up as an individual or register your whole team together! Once registered you can manage all of your fundraising directly through the site.

HOW DOES FUNDRAISING WORK?

The aim of the 100 Inning game is to support the mission of the Curt's Pitch for ALS Program. With your help, we can get closer to striking out Lou Gehrig's Disease. All participants are asked to do their best to fundraise from friends, family, co-workers, etc. in support of their participation, just like you might do in a Walk or Race.

All fundraising can be managed online and all players will be able to accept credit card, check, and cash donations once they register.

ARE THERE FUNDRAISING INCENTIVES?

The biggest incentive in 2008 are Player Rebates. For every $1 you raise (up to $1,000) you are eligible to receive 20% back to go toward your baseball related costs for 2008, or whatever you please. So if you raise $1,000 you will earn a $200 rebate. This is to help boost fundraising efforts while simultaneously giving everyone an outlet to help subsidize their costs for playing ball. A win-win!

You can also win autographed memorabilia, invitations to Curt Schilling's end of the year reception, and more! See the full list online at www.100innings.com.

FINAL THOUGHTS

Check out www.100innings.com and get yourself signed up. If your team wishes to participate together make sure your manager or team captain registers first.

Beverly - 3, Hamilton - 2

Luke Deschamps and Judd Funchion locked horns in an ITL pitcher's duel Tuesday night at Patton Park. The Beverly Giants beat the Hamilton Generals 3 to 2 in a well played game. Deschamps pitched 6 innings allowing just 2 runs on 4 hits while striking out 6. Roger Dragani pitched the 7th for the save. Funchion was charged with the loss despite allowing just 3 runs (2 earned) over 7 innings while striking out 4.

Beverly opened the scoring in the top of the first. Kevin Harutunian was hit by a pitch, stole second, and moved to third on an overthrow. He scored on a Derek Scialdone groundout. Hamilton took the lead in the bottom of the third when Andre Painchaud delivered a 2 run single with two out and the bases loaded.

The Giants tied the score in the 4th on a Pat Doyle solo homer and then took the 3 to 2 lead on a Derek Scialdone solo shot in the 6th.

Hamilton threatened in the bottom of the 7th. After an out was recorded two batters were hit by pitches before Dragani got the final two batters to fly out.

Doyle finished the night 3 for 3 while Brian Chirco added two hits for Beverly.

Rockport @ Ipswich Rained Out

Last night's game was rained out. No make up has been scheduled yet.

Rowley @ Beverly from 7/20 Rescheduled

This game has been rescheduled for Thursday, July 31st at Cooney Field at 5:45PM.

Still waiting on official confirmation from Paul Caron, but we don't think that will be a problem, and the field has been scheduled with the city.

Townies Top Chiefs 8-7

The Rockport Townies over came an early defecit of 4-1 to beat the Ipswich Chiefs 8-7 on a very humid night at Evans. The Townies travel to the reservation in Ipswich tomorrow to wrap up the season series. Game starts at 5:45.

Rowley @ Beverly POSTPONED

The Rowley @ Beverly game was postponed due to unplayable field conditions in Beverly. Makeup date to be announced.

Ipswich - 11, Beverly - 8

The Ipswich Chiefs used a 5 run 5th inning to defeat the Beverly Giants in a game stopped in the middle of the 6th inning Friday night. The pivotal moment of the game came in the bottom of the 5th. With the game tied at 6 and thunderstorm clouds threatening, Ipswich had a runner on 2nd base with 2 men out. If the run scored, then Ipswich would have an official win if the rain came. If the run did not score, then Beverly could salvage a tie. It was at this point that Ipswich's offense came alive. Matt Lane singled in the run to take the lead. That was followed up by a single from Rick Sotoropolous, an RBI single by Knox, a 30 minute rain delay, a successful double steal scoring Sotoropolous, a walk by Dave Shoreman, a single by Dylan Durning, and a two run single by Gonzalez, before Beverly finally got the 3rd out of the inning. After five complete, Ipswich led 11 to 6.

Beverly scratched for 2 runs in the top of the 6th to cut the lead to 3, but after the half inning the umpires decided that it would be impossible to play 7 complete innings, and the game was called due to darkness.

Kevin Smolla got the win for Ipswich allowing 6 runs over 5 innings. Michael pitched the 6th inning. For Beverly, Sean Martin was tagged with the loss in relief. Joe Gill started and allowed 6 runs (5 earned) over 3 1/3.

The Chiefs offense was led by Sotoropolous (3 for 4, 3 runs, 2RBI), Michael (2 for 2, 3 runs), and Matt Lane (2 for 3, 2RBI). Beverly got production from Derek Scialdone (3 for 3, 2RBI), Pat Doyle (2 for 3, 2 runs), Kevin Harutunian (2 for 4), and Rob Freni (2 for 3, RBI).

Mariners Shut-out Tories 10-0

The Manchester/Essex Mariners stormed into Topsfield and were able to take the Tories by a 10-0 score. The win moves the Mariners into first place of the ITL standings by 1 point. There are just 2 weeks remaining in the regular season and no playoff spot is secured yet.

M/E 6 Rowley 5

Details coming....

Lane, Chiefs Befuddle Generals - Win 6-1

Chris Lane pitched 6 dazzling innings surrendering only one hit as the Ipswich Chiefs beat the Hamilton Generals 6-1. Lane benefited from some nifty infield defense as the few well hit Hamilton balls were gobbled up by the Chiefs. The Generals threatened a few times but Lane seemed to always find the answer. His only mistake was a solo HR by Jered Stewart in the sixth. At that point the game was well in hand and the Chiefs cruised to a 6-1 victory.

Rick Sitoropolous led off the game with a HR for Ipswich, Hernandez added a RBI on a fielder's choice pushing the lead to 2-0 after one. Dave Shoreman delivered a bases loaded double scoring 2 more in the second. A third run was cut down at the plate on the play.

The Chiefs scored 6 total in the first 3 innings and didn't look back. Lane gave way to Doucette in the 7th to finish the Generals off. Jensen got the loss going 3 innings, Lane got the win. Ipswich hosts Beverly tonight, the Generals host Beverly next tuesday for their next game.

Generals Over Giants, 4-1

In a tight pitchers duel throughout, the Generals were able to fend off the Giants for a 4-1 victory. Jon Jackson scattered 6 hits while picking up the complete game win. Luke Deschamps pitched great for the Giants, going the distance as well, but was charged with the loss.

Both pitchers were on early, keeping their opponents scoreless until the fifth inning. Bryan Vitale delivered a 2-out single that plated Justin Tilley (2-2, SB, R, RBI) to break the ice for the Generals. In the bottom of the fifth the Giants threatened to tie the score on a Hobin single to right. O'Leary was able to throw out the tying run at the plate ending the inning and preserving the lead.

The Generals extended the lead to 2-0 in the sixth with a nicely executed double steal. Tim O'Leary scored on the play. Beverly cut the lead in half in their half of the sixth. Hartunian (2-3, R) scored on a Barricelli fielder's choice. The Generals really lucked out as the hot shot ricocheted off Jackson on the mound bouncing right to first to record the out. Only one scored on the play where surely a second run would have come around had the ball made it through the middle.

The Generals added two insurance runs in the seventh. Tom Jones scored on a close play at the plate after an attempted double play throw got away at first. Tilley then added a bases loaded HBP to bring home Funchion. Jackson retired the side in order in the bottom of the seventh securing the complete game win. Jackson and the Generals defense were solid all night while the Giants were able to match it. Hamilton was able to capitalize on a few breaks that made the difference in this game. The rematch is scheduled for next Tuesday at Patton Park. In the meantime the Generals face Ipswich tonight at Patton, 5:45pm while the Giants head to Ipswich Friday night for a make-up game.

Townies 6 Rams 0

The Rockport Townies took tightly contested game at Eiras Field tonight earning the season split with the Rams. Once again pitching was the name of the game and Desantis of Rockport was dominant tonight going the distance (7IP, 7K, 4H, 0BB and 0R) and in full control all of the way. The Townies jumped out to an early 2-0 lead after one, both runs scoring on an Adam Orlando double. Thats the way it would stay until the Townies tacked on 4 more in the 7th to put the game away. Shane Johnson of the Rams fought hard against a tough Rockport lineup that put together great at bats all night long. Johnson also went the distance (7IP, 2ER, 9H, 3BB and 6K) Offensively the Townies were led by Orlando's 2 hit night with 2 RBI, 1R and 1SB as well as Chris Bouchie with 2 hits, 1R and 2 SB's. For Rowley Kobe Thibault was 2 for 3, Ben Brink had a hit and an SB, Kyle Willett and Joe White added the other hits for Rowley. The Rams are in action tomorrow for their 4th game in 5 days as they take on the Mariners in Essex. Rockport plays again Sunday at home against Ipswich.

Topsfield 6 Manchester/Essex 5

Tuesday evening in Essex the Tories and Mariners played a great ball game which saw a number of web gems from both sides as well as some timely hitting. Topsfield got on the board first with a 2 run homer from Doug Hittinger. The Tories quickly lost the lead to a great hitting Manchester team that seemed to find the gaps all night long. It wasn't until a Zach Lamkin grand slam in the 5th that Topsfield was able to regain the lead. Matt Rogers picked up the win in relief. The two teams will meet again on Friday at Proctor Field for their final meeting of the season.

Rowley 5 Beverly 0

The Rowley Rams beat the Beverly Giants 5-0 behind some great pitching by Matt Warden. Warden was outstanding going the distance giving up just 3 hits and 3 BB's with 4 K's. Rallies were few and far between but Warden worked his way out of a 1 out bases loaded jam by inducing the inning ending 6-4-3 double play in the top of the 5th. Rowley couldn't get much goiing early but posted 5 unearned runs in the 5th with 4 hits a HBP and a BB. Sewyck pitched well for Beverly going 4 2/3. Scialdone, Barricelli and Boyle contributed the hits for the Giants. Offensively for Rowley, Tomasz, Johnson, Thibault, Mariani, Liguori and Willett all had 1 hit nights. The Rams are back in action tomorrow night at Eiras against Rockport while Beverly takes on Hamilton at Cooney in a makeup.

Chiefs 5 - Generals 0

The Chiefs came to play on Monday night at home! Dave Shoreman paced the hometown squad throwing a complete game 2 hit shutout for the boys in green.

Rick Sotoropolus led the offense going 3 for 4 at the plate tonight from the lead off spot. Dylan Durning, and Shoreman both went 1 for 3, Shoreman helping the cause with 2 RBI's and During contributing an RBI of his own. All of the Chiefs offense came in the 5th inning, when The Generals commited 2 errors.

The highlight of the Chiefs was Shoreman's pitching performance. He chaulked up 7K's through the complete game yielding just 2 hits, walking 3, and only needing 99 pitches. Mark Potter and Justin Tilley had the only hits for the visiting Generals.

Judd Function although pitched well got the tough luck loss. Function threw a 6 innings, giving up 3 earned run, 5 hits, and walking just 2 Chief batters.

R H E
HW: 0 2 4
IPS: 5 5 4

Shoreman (W): CG 7IP 2H 0R 7K 3BB
Function (L): 6IP 5H 5R (3 Earned) 3K 2BB

These two teams meet again on Thursday for the final game of the series. 5:45 at Patton Park.

Rams 8 Townies 4

On a breezy night at Evans Field the Rowley Rams defeated the Rockport Townies 8-4. The Townies playing their third game in as many days managed three hits off Rowley pitching.

The Rams were led by Johnson (2for4 2runs scored), Thibault (3for4 3 rbis) and Mariani (3for5 hr and 2rbis). The Townies were led by Robertson (2for3 rbi and 2 runs scored). Wile got the win, giving up 2 hits over six innings and Leavitt closed it out. Osmond went six innings in defeat.

Townies travel to Ram Country on Wednesday for a 5:45 tilt.

Townies 10 Tories 7

The Rockport Townies defeated the Topsfield Tories by a count of 10-7 on Saturday evening at Proctor Field. The Townies banged out 13 hits led by Chris Bouchie and Brent Currier going a combined 8 for 9.

Manchester - 14, Beverly - 10

Manchester led 9 to 6 heading into the bottom of the 5th inning. Beverly got two solo homers from John Boyle and Pat Doyle to cut the lead to one. In the 6th, trailing by one, Beverly loaded the bases with nobody out but Mike Gibbon got a strikeout and a doubleplay ball to end the threat. In the top of the 7th, Manchester added 5 insurance runs to seal the victory.

Manchester's offense was led by Graham (4 for 4, 2 runs), Nate Bertolino (2 for 4, HR, 4 runs, 2RBI), Mike Cain (2 for 4, HR, 2RBI), and Goodhue (3 for 5, 3RBI).

Beverly got offensive production from Kevin Harutunian (3 for 4, 4RBI), John Boyle (2 for 4, HR), Pat Doyle (1 for 4, HR), and Jeff Barricelli (2 for 4, 2RBI).

Marques got the win. Joe Gill was charged with the loss.


TEAM 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 R
MAN 2 5 1 0 1 0 5 14
BEV 3 3 0 0 2 0 2 10

Chiefs 11 - Torries 0

The Chiefs bats were active Friday night. Kevin Michael pitched a complete game (Shortened due to darkeness).

The Chiefs square off against HW in their next series. Game starts Monday Night at 5:45!

Rockport 11 Beverly 0

Townies triumph 11-0 over Beverly tonight at Evans behind six strong innings from Adam Orlando and an 8-run second inning.

Townies travel to Proctor Field tomorrow to face Topsfield for the first time this season.

Generals Over Rams 2-1 in 8 Innings

The Generals pulled out an extra innings win over the Rowley Rams Thursday night at Patton Park. Jeff Jensen went 7 1/3 innings for the Generals but did not figure in the decision. Ligouri pitched fantastic for the Rams going 7+ but was charged with the loss. Hits were hard to come by all night as both starters were on their games. Both teams had trouble capitalizing on the few chances they had.

Both pitchers held their opponents scoreless through three, before Rowley’s Dave Mariani clubbed a homerun to straightaway center to give Rowley a 1-0 lead in the fourth. Meanwhile, Ligouri was able to make the pitches when it counted most as Hamilton stranded two runners in scoring position in the third and runners at the corners in the fifth.

Hamilton's Tom Jones led off the sixth with a single to right and later came across to score on a clutch two-out RBI single off the bat from Tim O’Leary, tying the score at one. Jensen held the Rams scoreless in the top of the seventh. In the bottom half, Jim Maloney hit a two-out double to put the winning run to scoring position, but again Ligouri showed he pitches best under pressure, recording a strikeout for the final out of the inning to send the game to extra innings.

Jensen yielded a one out single in the eighth and then departed in favor of Mike Drinkwater. After retiring the first batter he faced, Drinkwater induced a groundball that was thrown away into rightfield as Hamilton attempted to record a force out at second. Rightfielder O’Leary tracked the ball down and made an accurate throw to catcher Bryan Vitale just in time to record the out on the Rowley baserunner who had come all the way around from first. The play ended the inning in dramatic fashion but more importantly kept the game tied heading into the bottom of the eighth.

In the bottom half of the eighth, Jered Stewart led off with a ground-rule double to left. Next up, Vitale reached on an infield error and then Judd Funchion was intentionally walked to load the bases with no outs. Ligouri was finally pulled from the game at this point after a tremendous effort in favor of Matt Warden. Warden induced O’Leary to ground into a fielder’s choice with Rowley’s catcher making a nice catch and force-out at the plate to cut down the winning run. Now with one out and Justin Tilley at the plate, the first pitch was in the dirt and caromed toward the Rowley dugout allowing Vitale to trot home with the winning run, ending one of the best games of the ITL season thus far.

Ligouri pitched well enough to win but was charged with the tough-luck loss. Drinkwater picked up the win tossing 2/3 innings of relief. Mariani led Rowley's offense, hitting a homerun for the second night in a row. Teammates Maloney and O’Leary contributed multiple hits for the home team. Stewart was phenomenal filling in for the vacationing Andre Painchaud at first base, making several fine plays. Tilley also extended his league lead in fires fought to two.

Manchester - 7, Beverly - 1

The Manchester Mariners (8-5-1) beat the Beverly Giants (7-6-1) behind the pitching of Jack Brancaleone. Brancaleone allowed just 1 run over 5 innings while striking out 4 to earn the victory. Gibbon and Cain each pitched scoreless innings in relief.

Manchester scored 4 runs in the 2nd and it was all they would need. Ricky Bettencourt led the offense going 3 for 3 with a steal and 2 runs scored. Goodhue was 1 for 2 with 3RBI. Cain added a 2 run double.

Rocky Pisa took the loss for Beverly allowing 7 runs (6 earned) over 5 innings. Kyle Sewyck pitched a scoreless 6th in relief. John Boyle was 2 for 3 on the night. Kevin Harutunian was 1 for 2 with 2 steals and scored Beverly's only run.

Beverly travels to Rockport Friday night and then hosts Manchester on Sunday.

Make Up Games

Saturday 7/12 5:45 Rockport @ Topsfield
Wednesday 7/16 5:45 Hamilton @ Beverly
Thursday 7/17 5:45 Rowley at Manchester/Essex
Friday 7/18 5:45 Beverly @ Ipswich
Thursday 7/24 5:45 Ipswich at Manchester/Essex
Monday 7/28 5:45 Hamilton at Manchester/Essex
Tuesday 7/29 5:45 Rowley @ Ipswich
Thursday 7/31 5:45 Ipswich @ Topsfield


Any changes to these games please notify league officials and umpires.

Rams 10 Generals 2

With a threat of rain hanging over their heads most of the night the Rowley Rams and Hamilton Generals were able to complete their contest in full. Things got off to a quick start as Hamilton posted 2 runs in the top of the first with Maloney and Jones crossing the plate. Rowley responded with 6 of their own in the bottom of the inning powered by a Dave Mariani 3 run HR to right center. Judd Funchion(4IP, 4H, 3BB, 4ER, 3K) of Hamilton and Shane Johnson(7IP, 1H, 4BB, 1ER, 7K) for the Rams settled in after the first and no one crossed the plate again until the bottom of the 4th when the Rams plated 1 more. Rowley finished the scoring with 3 more in the 6th, 2 scoring on a Koby Thibault double and the other on a Craig Knight fielder's choice RBI. Mariani, Thibault and Andrew Macdonald all contributed 2 hits for the Rams. Reggie Maidment had the only hit for Hamilton. The two teams will do battle again tomorrow night at Patton Park.

Mariners Beat Townies 6-3

Topsfield 6 - Ipswich 5

Monday night at Linebrook field saw a back and forth battle with Ipswich battling the Torries of Topsfield.

Kevin Smolla put in a valiant effort for the hometown club leaving the game tied at 4a piece. Chris Lane came on to try and preserve the lead but was unable to handle the task. Lane let up a sacrifice fly in the 5th to score the 5th Torries run.

The Chiefs fought back from one run down in the bottom of the 5th, to bring the game back to 5-5. In the top of the 7th the Torries would score another run and lock in the win for them. Lane let up a base hit with the bases loaded to plate Brian Greene for the winning run.

The Chiefs again played well defensively and Smolla had an effective outing. But Lane couldn't hold off the Topsfield bats. Setting the table for the Chiefs offensively were Tom Radzim (2-3 3-Run Homerun 2 Runs Scored) Ricky Sotoropolus (2 Hits), Dylan During (Double).

The Chiefs look to rebound the loss on Friday night at Proctor Field in Topsfield.

Rockport 5 Manchester/Essex 3

On a humid evening at Evans Field, Rockport outlasted Manchester by a score of 5-3. The Townies were led by a complete game effort by Derek Osmond (improving to 3-0 on the season) and some much needed timely hitting to beat the Mariners in a playoff like affair.

The Townies visit Memorial Field in Essex on Tuesday evening to close out the season series against the Mariners.

Beverly - 8, Topsfield - 5

The Beverly Giants (7-5-1) scored 5 runs in the bottom of the 6th for a come from behind victory over the Topsfield Tories (1-11) Sunday night.

Topsfield led 5 to 3 heading into the bottom of the 6th when Pat Doyle led off with a solo homer to cut the lead in half. After an out was recorded, Topsfield's infield made two errors. Beverly then got RBI hits from Brian Chirco, Kevin Harutunian, Jeff Barricelli, and Derek Scialdone.

Harutunian also added a 2 run homer in the 2nd. Scialdone doubled twice and knocked in 2. Brian Chirco was 3 for 3 on the night.

Joe Gill started and alowed 5 runs (3 earned) over 5 innings while striking out 5. Sean Martin (2-0)earned the win with a scoreless 6th and Roger Dragani earned his 2nd save with a perfect 7th.

Matt Rogers was charged with the loss for Topsfield allowing 8 runs (4 earned) over 6 innings. Doug Hittinger led the offense going 2 for 3 with a HR and 3RBI. Zack Lampkin was 2 for 4 with an RBI and Mike Driscoll added a solo homer.

Happy 4th of July!

Painchaud(s), Generals Take Townies 9-4

Luke Painchaud picked up his second win in as many games as the Hamilton Generals were able to beat the Rockport Townies 9-4 on a wet Vitale Field. Painchaud pitched a complete game gem allowing only 4 hits on the day. Adam Orlando was charged with the loss, though it was great to see him back in the Townies lineup after an extended stint on the DL. Both teams were fortunate to get the game in thanks to some heavy rain, but the grounds crew had the field in tip top shape in time for the first pitch.

The Generals struck first with a Tom Jones RBI single that plated Jim Maloney (3-4, RBI) in the first. The home team was able to extend the lead with a big second inning. Mark Potter delivered on a big 3-Run HR to left. Maloney followed that with an RBI single and Jones finished it off with a 2-run HR. The Generals led 7-0 after two.

Brent Currier, now on in relief for the Townies, was able to help his own cause by hitting a line drive 3-run HR to deep center closing the gap to 7-3. Painchaud was able to shake it off and was strong for the rest of the game. The Generals picked up two more runs on an Andre Painchaud (3-3, 2R, HR, 2 RBI) 2-run HR in the fifth.

The Townies were able to muster one more run off Luke Painchaud in the seventh on an Anderson (2-4, RBI) RBI single. That was all the scoring as the Generals held on to win 9-4. The Generals are off now until next Wednesday when they travel to Rowley, the Townies look to bounce back against the Mariners this Sunday in Rockport.

Rams 4 Tories 3

The ITL continues to crank out quality baseball games, this one makes 14 straight games decided by 3 runs or less. The Rams and Tories locked into another tight game at Eiras field tonight. Rowley struck first scoring 4 times in the second, Koby Thibault knocked in 2 while Dan Knight and Dave Mariani contributed with RBI singles. The Rams Nick Liguori made the 4 runs stand as he worked 6 innings giving up 2 H , 5BB, 8 K's and the 3 earned runs. "Big" Dave Leavitt entered the 1 run game in the 7th and left the tying run on 3rd, ending the game with a strikeout and earning the save. Not to be outdone Riordan of Topsfield pitched effectively all night, going 7Inn with 7H's, 2 BB's, 6 K's and 3 earned. Offensively Topsfield was led by Lamkin 1H, 1 Sac and an RBI and Riordan 1H, 1RBI. The Rams are off until next Wednesday when they take on the 1st place Generals at Eiras Field. The Tories are Back in action Sunday when they travel to Beverly.

Chiefs 2 - Mariners 0

The fans at Linebrook Park Monday night saw a fantastic game which saw solid pitching from both sides, stellar defense, and some late inning heroics.

Chris Lane (W 7IP, 2H, 6K,2BB) took the mound for the Chiefs, and was able to perserve the 2 hit shut-out, with some of the best defense the Chiefs have played in a long time. Ryan Montecalvo, Matt Lane, and Ant Hernandez all contributed with fantastic plays in the field. With Lane going into the third base line fence to make a sprawling catch. Manchester not to be undone made some fantastic plays of thier own, with a great catch in DEEP center off the bat of David Shoreman. Although Shoreman was robbed of at least a triple, he would later make up for it at the plate.

With both pitcher's battling through out the game, it wasn't until the bottom of the 6th. Rick Sotoropolous lead off the inning with a four pitch walk, which brought Shoreman to the plate. After taking a monstrous hack at an off speed pitch, he settled in, and drove the next pitch over the wall in left for a two-run job. Putting the Chiefs up 2-0 going into the 7th.

Lane would run into some trouble in the top have of the 7th. When Nate Bertolino led off the inning with a double. Lane would then walk a batter with two outs to have runners on 1st and 3rd but was able to get the final out without letting up a run.

The win puts the Chiefs at the .500 mark, with a record of 5-5-1. They travel to Essex Tuesday night.