Minneapolis Angels Home Page

2011 Minneapolis Angels

Back Row: Mark Morris, Josh Mason, Alex Beers, Jay Asmus, Mark Hronski, Brian Hronski, Nick Rathmann, Tyler Johnson

Front Row: Pete Suchowski, Darren Ginther, Kevin Bergman, Josh Groth, Mike Carrell, Chag Naegli, Mike Nellesen

Missing: Tyler Oakuly, Brien Geerdes, Nick Sutherland, Andy Nelson, Donnie

Speical Thanks during the year for Michael Mingo of Twin Cities Photography. Michael took our team photo and takes wonderful game action shots of the Park National League. He does a really nice job. You can take a look at his photos here:

http://www.twincitiesphotography.com/Sports/Baseball

GAME RECAPS:

August 14, 2011

Angels - 1 Minnetonka - 11

A very fun and very enjoyable season of Angels baseball came to an end in the second round of the Class A State Tournament with a loss to the Minnetonka Millers. The Millers, who were coming off a loss to the Lakers, basically dominated the game from the very first inning. The very few Angels' highlights included three hits from Tyler "Avatar" Johnson and a very strong performance from Alejandro Cervezas out of the bullpen. While every season's ending is far too abrupt, the Angels can look back with fondness on having another great year together in 2011. We hope that all of Angel Nation will be back in full force in 2012. Good luck to the remaining Park National teams in the tourney.

August 11, 2011

Angels - 5 Shark - 10

The Angels were defeated by the Tri City Shark 10-5 in the first round of the double elimination state tournament. Angels will now play at 10:00 AM vs TBD. The game will be played at Red Haddox Field in Bloomington.

August 6, 2011

Angels - 7 Patriots - 6

Angel Nation Rejoice! The Angels defeated the Patriots, 7-6, in Game 2 of the best of 3 series to advance to the 2011 Class A State Tournament. In a back-and-forth game, Angels starter Chad Naegeli gutted his way through 7 very tough innings. The Patriots were able to scratch out 2 runs in the seventh to tie the game at 6-6. Second-year Angel Tyler Ockuly took over for Naegeli in the eighth inning and was able to work around a one-out hit to retire the Patriots. Mark Hronski then led off the bottom of the eighth with a single to center, and Nick Rathmann followed with bunt base hit. After Mike Carrell flew out deep to left field, the Angels baserunners were able to advance a base on a wild pitch. Game 1 hero Darren Ginther then hit a sacrifice fly to right field to score the go-ahead run. Ockuly took the mound in the ninth to finish the game. The Patriots mounted a serious threat in the ninth, loading the bases with 2 outs. Fortunately, Ockuly was able to induce a grounder to shortstop, where Darren Ginther fielded it and stepped on second base to send the Angels to the State Tournament after a 3-year absence. Hats off to a very good and classy Patriots team on a good series and a good year. The Angels return to the State Tourney on Thursday, August 11 and will open against the #2 seed from the Skyline League.

Next game: Thursday, August 11 vs. Skyline #2 at Red Haddox Field @ 7:00 p.m.

August 3, 2011

Angels - 5 Patriots - 2

The Angels took Game 1 of the best of 3 series against the Patriots with a 5-2 victory. Darren Ginther was the story of the game on the mound, as he outdueled Patriots ace, Matt McDonald. Ginny was in control basically all night and was able to work his way of out of the few jams he encountered by making very good pitches and relying on solid defense behind him. Offensively Angels firstbaseman Nick Rathmann was the catalyst with a couple of hits and a couple of runs scored to go with a couple of sparkling defensive plays. On a night where everyone contributed to the victory, the Angels were happy to get to the parking lot with a 1-0 series lead. Game 2 is on Saturday at 12:00, and the Angels expect another tense battle with the Patriots.

Next game: Saturday, August 6th vs. Patriots at Parade @ 12:00 p.m.

July 30, 2011

Angels - 13 Blue Sox - 3

The Angels opened the 2011 Park National League playoffs with a 13-3 victory over the Blue Sox. The game was more closely contested than the final score indicates, as the Blue Sox played the aging, overpaid and white-jersey-wearing Angels tough for 6 innings until the Angels blew it open in the 7th, ending the game via the mercy rule. Darren Ginther led the Angels with three hits, including two doubles, and Mark Hronski hit a long homerun in the second inning. Chad Naegeli threw a complete game on the hill, battling the heat, humidity and some scrappy Blue Sox hitters. With the win, the Angels advance to the best of 3 series against the Patriots with a trip to the state tournament on the line.

Next game: Wednesday, August 3 vs. Patriots at Parade at 7:00 p.m.

July 28, 2011

St. Louis Park - 2 Angels - 1

The Angels lost a well-played game to St. Louis Park, 2-1. Angels rookie hurler, Alex Beers (or Alejandro Cervezas to his Latin admirers), took the mound for the Angels and pitched his best game in an Angel uniform. Big Tek handcuffed the powerful Park lineup for 5 innings, surrendering just two unearned runs. Unfortunately, the Angels offense could muster only one run of their own. The Angels threatened in the last inning, putting runners on 2nd and 3rd with two outs, but Park pitcher Rian Heaslip calmly induced a fly ball to end the game. Despite the loss, the game was a good tune-up for the upcoming Park National playoffs, which begin for the Angels on Saturday at 11:00 a.m. against the Blue Sox.

Next game: Saturday, July 30 vs. Blue Sox at Parade @ 11:00 a.m.

July 22, 2011

Angels - 8 Patriots - 7

The Angels came into their last league game of the season against the Patriots needing a victory to clinch at least the 4 seed in the upcoming Park National playoffs. After the first three innings, the Angels' prospects looked dim, as the Patriots jumped out to a 5-0 lead. The Angels kept battling, however, and put up a 4-spot in the fourth inning to pull within one. The Angels continued their rally in the fifth inning scoring three more to take a 7-5 lead. Unfortunately, the Patriots came right back and scored two in the bottom of the fifth to tie the game at 7-7. The parties traded zeros in the sixth and seventh, so it was on to extra innings. In the top of the eighth inning, the Angels took advantage of some walks and a nice bunt to load the bases. The flyin' Hawaiian Andy Nelson singled through the right side to score the go-ahead run. Some nice Patriots pitching and defense limited the damage to that single run, so Darren Ginther (who had relieved starter Chad Naegeli in the seventh) took the mound in the eighth to close it out. Ginny was able to work around a one-out double to preserve the win and send a happy group of Angels to the parking lot for the first-ever Angels Thanksgiving. Let me tell you folks, it was a rousing success. The Angels had deep-fried turkey, potatoes, corn, stuffing, cranberries and pumpkin desert in a sit-down meal. Thanks to God, Donnie, Hawaii, beer, Hope, Avatar, deep fryers, bug spray and Mike Castle. Up next for the Angels is a non-league game against Commanding Edge in preparaing for the upcoming playoffs.

Next game: Wednesday, July 27 vs. Commanding Edge at Univ. of St. Thomas @ 6:00 p.m.

July 21, 2011

Rocks - 11 Angels - 2

As the old saying goes, turn about is fair play. The Rocks did exactly that to the Angels on Thursday night, beating the Angels 11-2 in a game that was nearly exactly the opposite of the two teams' first meeting in late May. The Rocks pitched well, hit well, ran well and defended well. The Angels did none of those things. The Rocks appear to be peaking at the right time, and the Angels are looking for a spark. Perhaps that spark was provided by cagey veteran Brian Hronski following the game. Senior had the reverse fine from the previous game, but was nowhere to be seen in the parking lot after the game. Just as the Angels had resigned themselves to a dry, no car party night, Senior magically appeared with a case of ice cold beer. And let me tell you - everything changed. The beer flowed like wine, beautiful women instinctively flocked like the salmon of Capistrano and Angel Nation rejoiced. Things were looking up at 12:45 a.m. in the Parade Stadium parking lot. With the Angels carrying a 6-1 record on game days with promo nights, the Angels' spirits were buoyed for the following day's showdown with the Patriots. Stay tuned.

Next game: Friday, July 22 vs. Patriots at Parade @ 6:15 p.m.

July 19, 2011

Chaska - 3 Angels - 0

On a night where both teams had to battle the sometimes-overpowering heat and humidity, the Angels and Chaska played a very crisp and entertaining baseball game. Mike Carell started on the mound for the Angels and was very good all night. The teams traded zeros for the first three innings before the Cubs scratched out a run in the bottom of the fourth. The Angels threatened with baserunners in the fifth and sixth, but could not push any runs across. Chaska scored single runs in the fifth and sixth to take a 3-0 lead to the seventh inning. In the seventh, the Angels loaded the bases with one out on a Mike Nellessen walk and consecutive singles by Josh Groth and Brian Hronski. Jay Asmus then hit a rod to the second baseman who made the catch and calmly flipped the ball to first for a game-ending double play. Up next for the Angels is their second-to-last league game of the year against the Rocks (which is a make-up of one of several phantom "rain-outs" that have occurred in the Park National this year courtesy of the Minneapolis Park Board).

Next game: Thursday, July 21 vs. Rocks at Parade @ 8:30 p.m.

July 17, 2011

Angels - 10 Brainerd - 1

On a day when the weather was poop, the Angels were not. The Angels rebounded from a rather inauspicious offensive showing on Saturday by hitting the ball all over the park on Sunday. Leading the charge for the Angels was Darren Ginther, who doubled twice (and was congratulated by his lovely wife for his "nice almost homerun"), and Brien Geerdes, who had two hits in the third inning. The Angels got good pitching performances from both ends of the spectrum. Angels rookie Alex Beers recorded his first Angels win on the mound and 28-year veteran Kevin Bergman actually recorded a save by pitching the final three innings in relief (although some may have questioned his motives in allowing one run in the sixth inning to eliminate the mercy rule). Following the game, the Angels happily devoured ice cream treats that were gleefully delivered by Nelly in his fanny pack. Up next for the Angels is a non-league game against Chaska.

Next game: Tuesday, July 19 at Chaska @ 7:30 p.m.

July 16, 2011

Sauk Rapids - 6 Angels - 0

The Angels matched up against one of the top teams in Class B, the Sauk Rapids Cyclones, in their opening game of the rain-shortened Nick Bell Classic in Cold Spring. The Angels had just one bad inning in the field, but it was costly as the Cyclones capitalized on some defensive miscues to take a 6-0 lead in the second inning. Angels starter Darren Ginther battled for 6 innings and held the Cyclones in check and Pete Suchoski made his second pitching appearance of the season (and ever) and posted a scoreless frame. Coming into the game the Cyclones had some pretty ridiculuous pitching statistics (surrendering just 3 runs total in the team's first 17 games), and the Cyclones starter did not disappoint on Saturday. He was able to stymie the Angels bats for the entire game, surrendering just three hits and no runs. Up next for the Angels in the tourney is a Sunday game against the Brainerd Bees.

Next game: Sunday, July 17 vs. Brainerd at Cold Spring @ 2:00 p.m.

July 15, 2011

Mother nature strikes Cold Spring again. Angels game versus the Cold Spring Springers has been rained out.

Next game: Saturday, July 16 vs. Sauk Rapids at Cold Spring @ 5:00 p.m.

July 13, 2011

Minnetonka - 8 Angels - 3

The Angels traveled to Minnetonka to renew their rivalry with the mighty Millers. The Millers took advantage of several walks with clutch hitting to jump out to a 6-0 lead after two innings. The Angels buckled down on the mound and in the field and kept the game tight into the late innings. The Angels scored three runs in the seventh and eighth innings to close the gap. Unfortunately, the Millers are very, very good and the Angels could get no closer, losing 8-3. On the bright side, the post-game food, drink and company (namely - savvy Miller vet, Steve Schmitz) at the Old Chicago were quite enjoyable. Up next, the Angels travel to Cold Spring for the Nick Bell Classic.

Next game: Friday, July 15 vs. Cold Spring at 6:30 p.m.

July 12, 2011

Lakers - 13 Angels - 0

While I cannot attribute the quote to anyone in particular, I'm sure that somewhere sometime someone said "Anything worth doing is worth doing epically." Well, the Angels were certainly epic in getting destroyed by the Lakers, 13-0. The game was a close, well-played and entertaining pitcher's duel through four innings......and then the wheels, doors, fenders, lights, hoses, belts, clamps and everything else on the Angels train just fell off. It seemed as if the Angels could do no right (booting balls, throwing balls away, not hitting balls and getting hit by balls in the face) and the Lakers could do no wrong (good at-bats, havoc on the basepaths and turning way too many double plays behind an ace pitcher). The Angels salute the Lakers for the thorough butt-kicking. Up next for the Angels is a return to Veteran's Field after a one-year hiatus for a non-league match up against the powerhouse Minnetonka Millers.

Next game: Wednesday, July 13 vs. Minnetonka at Veteran's Field @ 7:30 p.m.

Sunday, July 10

Angels - 5 Cobras - 4

Many of the details can be spared because it was too hot to really remember much beyond the only highlight that really mattered. The Angels took a 3-1 lead into the seventh. The Cobra rally that everyone expected to happen happened in the top of the seventh. When the dust settled, the Cobras were up 4-3 and the Angels were down to their three final outs. With one out, Mark Hronski hit duck snort up the middle for a base hit. Mike Carrell then promptly deposited a pitch onto Dunwoody Boulevard and the Angels had themselves a 5-4 walk-off win. Up next for the Angels is yet another important league game against the Lakers on Tuesday night.

Next game: Tuesday, July 12 vs. Lakers at Parade @ 8:30 p.m.

July 6, 2011

Rats - 6 Angels - 3

The Angels dropped a tough league game to a very solid River Rats team, 6-3. The Angels jumped out to a 3-1 lead, but through an interesting variety of dinks, dunks, gorks and duck snorts, the Rats took the lead in the 5th inning, 6-3. The Angels had numerous scoring chances throughout the game, but could not get the big hit. Kudos as well to the Rats pitchers, who were able to work out of bases loaded jams three times, including in both the sixth and seventh innings. All in all, a tip of the cap to the Rats for a well-played game. Up next for Angel Nation is an important league tilt on Sunday against the Cobras, to be followed by Jim Beam Catcher's Day III.

Next game: Sunday, July 10 vs. Cobras at Parade @ 12:00 p.m.

Monday, July 4, 2011

Angels - 14 Rochester - 13.

Well, that was interesting. The Angels took just 11 players down to Mayo Field in Rochester to renew their annual Independence Day rivalry with the Rochester Royals. The Angels jumped out to a quick 1-0 lead in the first inning when Nick Rathmann drew a lead-off walk and scored on a Darren Ginther single. The high was short-lived, as the host Royals scored 4 runs in the bottom of the frame and tacked on another one in the third to take a 5-1 lead. The Angels scratched out 2 runs in the fifth inning to pull within 5-3. In the bottom of the inning, the wheels appeared to fall off for the Angels, as Rochester batted around and then some, dinking and dunking their way to 8 runs and a seemingly-commanding 13-3 lead. Just as the crowd and even the PA announcer started to murmur about what would happen with the post-game fireworks show if the game ended early via the mercy rule, Pete Suchoski made his debut - and not just his "Angels" debut, but rather his debut, period - on the mound in the fifth inning and stifled the Royals' bats while the Angels started to mount a furious comeback. The Angels scored two runs in the sixth and seventh innings to close the gap to 13-7. The eighth inning started with consecutive singles from Pete and the Brothers Hronski and the hit train did not stop. The batting order rolled over to Angels' stalwart Mike Nellessen with two outs, the bases loaded and the Angels down 13-9. You all know what happened next - Nelly went yard to tie the game at 13-13. In the bottom of the 8th, Pete began to tire (which was a bit weird since his arm must have been fresh given that he had never pitched before) and the first two batters reached base. Jay Asmus relieved Pete and retired the next three batters to keep the game tied. In the ninth inning, Tyler Johnson finally pulled his head out of his nether region and doubled in the gap with one out. After another out, Angels rookie shortstop, Josh Groth, pissed all over a ball to score the go-ahead run. Asmus retired the side in the ninth in somewhat unconventional fashion - with a bunt double play and a pop-out - and the Angels completed their improbable rally to win, 14-13. Yep, that just happened. Up next for the Angels is a big league game against the River Rats on Wednesday.

Next Game: Wednesday, July 6 vs. River Rats at Parade Stadium @ 8:30 p.m.

Friday, July 1 2011

Angels - 5 Merchants - 2

In a twist that was perhaps befitting given the much-anticipated nationwide opening of Transformers 3, the Angels were able to get past the Merchants, 5-2, in game that was shortened to 5 innings because the transformer servicing the lights at Parade blew up. The Angels ran out to a quick 3-0 lead and Chad Naegeli made it stick, battling the elements and a seeming-shrinking strike zone until the field was deemed too dark to continue. Even setting aside the explosion and resulting lack of lights, the game would have been called precisely 93 seconds later when the heavens opened and the rain fell in sheets. The Angels were not about to let Nelly Rib Night V be dampened by Mother Nature, however, as they quickly packed up the car party and moved it to the safe haven that is #2's garage. Much jubilation ensued as the smoker smoked, the deep fryer deep fried, the MP3 player played and Mo and his lady friend disappeared for an inordinate amount of time. The Angels have the rest of the holiday weekend off before traveling to Rochester on the 4th of July for their annual tilt against the Rochester Royals.

Next Game: Monday, July 4 at Rochester @ 6:00 p.m.

June 30, 2011

Lyon's Pub - 9 Angels - 7

The Angels came out on the short end in the battle of first-place teams, losing to Lyon's Pub, 9-7. In a back-and-forth affair against the league's top team, while the Angels offense was consistent and good, the Angels could not overcome an interesting array of defensive miscues, defensive lapses, broken bats, crushed balls and dugout punching. Good teams like the Pub take advantage when opportunities are presented, and they did so again tonight. On another note, Angels rookie shortstop Josh Groth recorded what has now been dubbed the "Angels Cycle." Josh's stat line for the night read: 4 at-bats, 3 hits, 2 broken bats and 1 nut shot. Way to go, Josh. The Angels are right back in action tomorrow night with a big league game against the Metro Merchants, to be followed by Nelly Rib Night V.

Next game: Friday, July 1 vs. Metro at Parade Stadium @ 6:15.

June 29, 2011

Miesville - 12 Angels - 8

The Angels traveled to Jack Ruhr Field on Wednesday for a non-league match up with the Miesville Mudhens. The Angels jumped out to a 2-0 lead in the top of the first inning with hits by Nick Rathmann and Mike Carrell. Brien Geerdes got the nod on the mound for the Angels and confounded the Mudhens for the first two innings. In the third, however, the Miesville hitters started to solve the riddle that is Gerty by posting six runs. Two more runs were tacked on in the fourth, after which the Angels turned the ball over to ageless wonder Kevin Bergman, who was making just his third pitching appearance in 28 seasons for the Angels. After receiving very helpful instructions from the umpire about what to do in order to avoid balking, Bergy settled in nicely and pitched four very effective innings to keep the Angels in the game. The Angels scored five runs late, but their would-be repeat of the Owatonna comeback fell short in the ninth inning and the Angels lost, 12-8. The Angels would like to thank the Mudhens for hosting the game and King's Inn for hosting the post-game festivities. Up next for the Angels is an important league tilt against the first-place Lyon's Pub Warriors.

Next game: Thursday, June 30 vs. Lyon's Pub at Parade Stadium @ 6:15

June 28, 2011

Patriots - 10 Angels - 6

The Angels suffered their second league loss at the hands of the Patriots, 10-6. The teams traded two runs in the first inning before the Patriots were able to rally for three more runs in the third and fourth. The Angels got a run back in the fourth to close the gap to 5-3. Unfortunately, the Angels could not hold serve, as the Patriots scored five runs to take a 10-3 lead in the fifth. The Angels scratched out three runs in the sixth inning to make it at least a little interesting, but they could get no closer. The Angels travel to Miesville on Wednesday for a game at one of the nicest parks in Minnesota. Given the Angels' injury issues - particularly with members of the pitching staff - the mound men on Wednesday will be entertaining.

Next game: Wednesday, June 29 at Miesville

June 25, 2011

Dassel-Cokato - 5 Angels - 4

In the battle of good versus good, the Angels lost a tough game to a good Dassel-Cokato team, 5-4. The Angels and Saints traded runs in the third inning. The Saints took the lead in the top of the fifth inning, 2-1, before the Angels scored three runs in the bottom of the inning on some clutch hitting and nifty baserunning by Tyler "Avatar" Johnson. Unfortunately for the Angels a defensive miscue on a sacrifice bunt allowed the Saints to score three in the top of the sixth inning to re-take the lead, 5-4. The Angels had scoring chances in the sixth and seventh innings, but could not push any runs across the plate. The Angels would like to thank Green Isle and Hamburg for hosting a great tournament. We hope to be back again next year. The Angels have a big week of league action coming up, starting with a game against the Patriots on Tuesday.

June 24, 2011

Angels - 2 Montgomery - 0

The Angels opened the Miller Lite Invitational in Green Isle with a 2-0 victory over the Montgomery Mallards. Chad Naegeli was again the man of the hour, taking a no-hitter into the seventh inning, and finishing with a one-hit shutout. The Angels did not do much offensively, but were able to score their only two runs in the fourth inning when Nick Rathmann doubled, Mike Carrell doubled and Darren Ginther singled. Up next for the Angels in the winner's bracket is the Dassel-Cokato Saints.

Next game: Saturday, June 25 vs. Dassel-Cokato at Hamburg.

June 19, 2011

Angels - 7 Blue Sox - 1

The Angels ran their winning streak to 6 games with a 7-1 victory over the Blue Sox. The Angels scored first with a run in the bottom of the first inning on an RBI single by Tyler Johnson. The teams trade quick innings until the fourth when the Blue Sox scored a run in the top of the inning, but the Angels got it back in the bottom of the inning. The Angels finally broke out a little but in the sixth inning, scoring five runs for the final 7-1 margin. Chad Naegeli pitched 5 effective innings to earn the win, and Mike Carrell finished the final two frames for the save. The Angels celebrated the victory with the Bergman Clan and others at Bloody Mary Brunch VI. Grill-cooked triple berry muffins, unbelievable breakfast tacos and party-cut grilled cheese sandwiches made their respective car party debuts during the festivities. Up next for the Angels is a Tuesday game against the Rocks.

Next game: Tuesday, 6/21 vs. Rocks at Parade Stadium @ 8:30 p.m.

June 17, 2011

Angels - 10 Waseca - 3

The Angels traveled down to Waseca on Friday for their annual game against the Braves. The rather omnious weather reports for much of the day cast doubt on whether the teams would be able get the game. Nothing unusual for these two teams, however, given that their games for each of the 3 previous years had been rained out prior to completion. Nonetheless, the teams started with fingers crossed. The Angels jumped out to a 1-0 lead in the top of the first inning, and extended the lead to 3-0 in the third. The Braves scored three runs in the bottom of the third to tie the game. The Angels scored again in the fifth inning to re-take the lead. Josh Mason pitched the first five innings and was relieved by Brien Geerdes, who was making his 2011 pitching debut. Gerty pitched 3 scoreless innings for the Angels, using a variety of cutters, sinkers, curves, changeups, fastballs, not-so-fastballs and any other junk he could think of. The Angels scored six runs in the eighth and ninth for the final 10-3 tally, and Mike Carrell closed out the game on the mound. Hometown hero Nick Rathmann paced the Angels offensively with 3 hits. The weather gods must have been smiling on the Angels and Braves, as the rain held off until about two minutes after the last out at which time the heavens opened for the better part of 18 hours. A big thanks to the Rathmanns for hosting the post-game festivities. Up next for the Angels is a Sunday afternoon showdown with the Blue Sox.

Next game: Sunday, 6/19 vs. Blue Sox at Parade Stadium @ 12:00 p.m.

June 16, 2011

Angels - 5 Cobras - 4

The Angels stayed hot with a 5-4 victory over a very tough Cobras team. The Angels started out hot in the first inning, jumping out to a 4-0 lead on an RBI hit by Darren Ginther, an RBI sacrifice fly by Mike Nellessen, an RBI single by Jay Asmus and then a nicely-executed double steal by Josh Groth and Asmus. The Angels picked up another run in the second to take a 5-0 lead. Darren Ginther was on the mound for the Angels and held the dangerous Cobra hitters in check through 5 innings by inducing a number of ground ball outs and a few very timely double plays. In the bottom of the sixth, with the Angels up 5-1, the Cobras began their anticipated rally and scored three runs. Less than three weeks removed from knee surgery, Mark Hronski relieved Ginther and got out of a jam with a 5-4 lead intact. Hronski then locked down the seventh inning for the save. In post-game parking lot action, the Angels' inaugural Sensuous Seafood Boil appeared to be an overwhelming success. The Angels travel down to beautiful Tink Larson Field tomorrow to take on the Waseca Braves in non-league action.

Next Game: Friday, June 17 at Waseca.

June 13, 2011

Angels - 2 Lakers - 0

The Angels continued their winning ways on Monday night, beating a talented Lakers team, 2-0. Chad Naegeli was the story of the night, pitching a complete game shutout, with 15 strikeouts. The Lakers' starting pitcher nearly matched Naegeli pitch for pitch, but the Angels were able to plate two runs in the top of the 2nd inning when Jay Asmus squirted a 2-run single up the middle to score Mike Nellessen and Josh Groth. Unfortunately for the Angels, they were not able to muster any more offense. Fortunately for the Angels, Naegeli made the 2 runs stand up. All in all, and despite the constant vocal protestations from the opposing dugout about the strike zone (and a manager ejection), it was a very good baseball game.

Next game: Thursday, June 16 vs. Cobras at Parade

June 10, 2011

Angels - 10 Owatonna - 8

The Angels trotted out another interesting line-up when the "Iron 10" made the trek down to Owatonna for a non-league game on Friday night. The Angels jumped out to a quick 2-0 lead in the top of the first, but Owatonna struck for 6 in the bottom of the frame. After Owatonna scored another run in the second, Josh Mason settled in nicely and held Owatonna in check through 6 innings. While the Angels had a number of scoring chances through the middle innings, they were stuck at an 8-4 deficit. The Aces were in cruise control most of the night, which was evident to nearly everyone at Chuck Fuller Field from the ever-increasing amount of chirping coming out of their dugout as the game progressed. No doubt distracted by not only the euphoria that can only come from a late 4-run lead and discussions regarding post-game plans, the Aces neglected to remember that 27 outs (and not 26) are required for a victory. Down 8-4 with nobody on and 2 outs in the top of the 9th inning, the Angels rallied to score 6 runs and vulture a very-satisfying 10-8 win. Not much chirping was heard in the bottom of the 9th inning. Weird. Brian Hronski, who had entered the game in the 7th and was making his first appearance since off-season shoulder surgery, got the victory for the Angels and Chad Naegeli got the save.

Next game: Monday, June 13 vs. Lakers at Parade

June 8, 2011

Angels - 7 River Rats - 3

The Angels got back on the winning track with a 7-3 league win over the River Rats. DG was a bulldog on the mound yet again for the Angels, with his second straight complete-game victory. He also started a very nifty 1-6-3 put-out by deftly using his left butt cheek to slow down a hard grounder up the middle. Very heads-up play. The Angels' middle infield defense was particularly good, turning several key double plays. The Angels got offensive contributions from everyone in the lineup, and Michelle was fantastic chasing foul balls. During the post-game parking lot festivities (Cheeseburger in Paradise Night), the Angels were able to chase away two homeless people begging for beer (presumably the same ones bothering the Cobras a couple of weeks ago, although the Angels did not seek abdominal confirmation). Up next for the Angels is a trip down to Owatonna on Friday night.

Next game: Friday, June 10 vs. Owatonna

June 3, 2011

Hopkins - 16 Angels - 2

The Angels lost to Hopkins, 16-2. It was piss.

Next game: Wednesday, June 8 vs. River Rats at Parade

June 2, 2011

Pub - 9 Angels - 3

The Angels suffered their first league loss to a very good Pub team, 9-3. The game was tight through 4 innings, with the teams trading leads a couple of times. Tyler Johnson hit a bomb in the first and Pete Suchoski continued to swing a hot bat for the Angels. Unfortunately, it wasn't enough. The Pub seized control with rallies in the 4th and 5th and cruised to victory from there. Despite the loss, a couple of veteran Angels were able to secure the split with a parking lot victory - good work Nelly and Nags. Next up is a non-league game with Hopkins on Friday.

Next game: Friday, June 3 vs. Hopkins at Big Willow

May 31, 2011

On the last night of May, the Angel took on the Minneapolis Rock in league play under unseasonably cold weather and windy conditions. The last couple of years the Rock and Angel have played some instant classics. On this night, it was two of the best pitchers in the P Nash on the bump -- Darren Ginther of the Angel vs Nate Cousins of the Rock. The Angel jumped out to a big 3-0 start after a Mark Morris RBI double and two run bases clearing triple by Tyler Johnson. The Rock would answer in the bottom of the second with a Luke Sather homerun over the left field fence to close the score to 3-2. Angel pitcher Darren Ginther would lock in from there and pitched a complete game, never allowing another run after the first inning. Ginther did it all....fielded his position, several strikeouts, offensively multi hit game, pure speed on the base paths, and also turned a triple into a double which is hard to do. The Angel bats were equally locked in as 6 of the 9 starters had a multi hit game. The Nation showed its reach with fans showing up on this blustery night all the way from Illinois. The Angel improved to 3-0 in league play and have the always tough Pub on Thursday, which is also Porkapalooza Night off the promo schedule.

Next game: Thursday 6/2 vs Lyon's Pub, 6:15 pm at Parade

May 26, 2011

The Angels traveled down to one of their favorite ballparks, Cannon Falls, for a non league game versus the Bears. The story of the game was the Bears played a little better defense and had a little better timely hitting winning 4-3. Quality pitching for the Angels once again, as starter Josh Mason continued to pitch nicely and deep into the game. Tyler Johnson had two hits and a big two run RBI single. Mike Carrell and Nick Rathmann also had two hits to pace the squad. Angel Nation had a long week, and now has the holday weekend to rest up before an important league game on Tuesday morning.

Next game: Tuesday, vs the Rocks @ Parade

May 25, 2011

The Angels improved to 2-0 in league play after a victory on Thursday night over the Blue Sox. A critical decision before the game by starting pitcher Nick Sutherland to wear the Angel orange crush jerseys was the start of good decisions for the player of the game. Sutherland pitched 6 innings, allowed no hits, and walked 1. Two Angel errors would allow the only other Blue Sox runners. Sutherland would also add a powerful RBI single in the top of the 6th. The Angels jumped on the Blue Sox starting pitcher in the top of the 1st when leadoff hitter Nick Rathmann would single, steal second, and score on Mike Carrell's single. A Tyler Johnson single followed by a Mark Morris double would eventually give the Angels and Sutherland a 4-0 lead. Rathmann would finish 4 for 4 on the night and Pete Suchkowski (as Mike the PA guy likes to pronounce it) would get a hit, get hit twice, and royal rumble style tag out the last out of the game on a steal at third. The parking lot was also dominated on Tex Mex XI night. Chicken and steak tacos were served in style out of the former soccer wagon and the improvisation of the quesadilla was very clutch. The Angels are now 4-4 on the year and head down to one of their favorite ball parks on Friday night, Cannon Falls.

Next game: Friday 5/27 at Cannon Falls

May 24th vs Stockman's Irish

Whatever it was Tuesday night, it wasn't very good. The bats got going in the top of the 3rd as Mike Carrell hit a solo homerun and Tyler Johnson hit a 3 run bomb, but that was about all that went well on Tuesday night. Irish hit the ball all over the ball park and played a good game. The Angels did not losing 13-5. Big thanks to Al's Corral for their hospitality before and after the game. The Nation looks to rebound on Thursday night with league play against the Minneapolis Blue Sox.

Next game: Thursday 5/26 vs Blue Sox at Parade

May 23rd vs Metro Merchants

The Angels opened league play with a solid 9-1 win over the Metro Merchants. Shenanigans and ridiculous statements aside, the story of the game was the most overrated player in the league shutting down the Merchants lineup. Yoga addict Darren Ginther was dominant and effecient for a complete game win. Ginther was backed by some nice defensive plays in the outfield and a pretty double play from our middle infielders. Avatar was extra hot on the turn. Pinch runner Nick Sutherland enduced a bases loaded four pitch walk to score his first run of his Angel Career. Ex-Angel joins car party afterwards after daughter's confirmation at the Basilica. Donnie must have been proud.

Next game: Tuesday 5/24 @ Stockman's Irish

May 20th at Metro Knights

The Angels got back into the winning column on one of the best nights of spring so far against the Metro Knights in White Bear. Angel Nation fans drove in flocks to the game, and the team had nearly a full and complete roster with 17 guys in uniform. Sights previously unseen before. In the top of the first inning, a double by lead off hitter Nick Rathmann followed by an RBI double off the fence by the oh so overrated Darren Ginther. Ginther would later score in the inning to make it 2-0. Starting on the mound for the Angels was Josh Mason. Mason, fresh off arm surgery, has done nothing but pitch shutout baseball this spring. In fact, tonight he threw 5 innings of 2 hit shut out ball. That extends his streak now on the year to 9 innings of zero runs. Mason works quick, throws strikes, and received some great defense behind him in the field. The left side of the infield was extra hot, making several webgems. Brien Geerdes made a play on a short roller, a backhander down the line, and a diving play to the hole. He even defeated a police officer on his way home. Newly acquired Josh Groth made an outstanding play in the 3rd inning showing some great range. SHA also stole a call at first in typical fashion. The Angels continued to chip away on offense and unloaded 7 runs in the top of the 9th. Ahead for the Angels is a big week of 4 games including the start of league play. Now we go...

Next game: Monday 5/23 vs Merchant (Parade Stadium)

May 13th at Cold Spring

The wheels fell off the Angels Iron 9 Wagon on Friday night. After playing 3 great baseball games to start the season off, the Angels were diseased on Friday night at Col Spring. No defense was played. Starting pitcher went down with injury forcing Angels to finish game with 8 players. Angel veteran tried a base on ball with only 3 balls. Right centerfielder dove in outfield like it was a slip n slide. Col Spring pitcher Ryan Morse shut down the Angels bats with a nice mix of pitches. Time to regroup and rally the troops, or atleast get more than 9 guys to a game.

Next game: Thursday 5/19 @ Metro Knights (White Bear Township Field)

May 11th at Dundas Dukes

The Angel Iron 9 rolled down to Dundas for a mid week game with the Dukes. Big tip of the hat to the good people of Dundas as they have worked tirelessly on their field to get it ready for play after the river flooded and took out their entire infield. They always put on a great show. Josh Mason took the hill for the Angels and pitched 4 scoresless innings of 2 hit ball. The Angels would get on the board in the top of the fourth inning when Mark Morris would walk, and eventually score on a fielders choice RBI by Brien Geerdes. Mike Carrell would take the hill in the 5th and throw no hit ball until the 9th inning when the Duke rallied to score a run with two outs. Extra innings is free baseball. To the 10th when a Kevin Bergman walk and Josh Mason sacrifice bunt would allow Nick Rathmann to single in Bergman and put the Angels up 2-1 in the Top of the 10th. The Dukes would not go away, and another two out rally allowed them to plate two runs to win the game. 3-2 Dukes with a comeback win. Great baseball from both teams this early in the year.

Box Score link found here via DundasDukes.com.

Game Summary link found here via DundasDukes.com

Next game: Friday @ Col Spring 7:30 PM

May 7th at Red Wing Aces

The Angels rolled out the most unique lineup quite possibly in Angels history on Friday night in Red Wing, but that didn't stop them from playing a good game. In the top of the 1st, the Angels jumped up 2-0 after a Nick Rathmann single and a bomb from Mike Carrell over the left field fence. The Aces would tally two in the bottom of the 2nd. Starter Mark Hronski pitched very well, going 5 innings and allowing no earned runs. Mark Morris came on in relief and looked sharp as well. SHA behind the plate threw out two runners, taking the lead in thrown out runners over the other three catchers on the team combined. The Aces scored the winning run in the bottom of the 8th as a two out single found a hole through the infield. The Angels would threaten in the 9th with two runners on, but couldn't get them across. Nice game by the Aces.

Next game: Sunday @ Princeton, 2pm.

May 4th at St Paul Capitals

The Angels were excited to play a game in 51 degree weather and finally start the season. It was a bit of a rough start, as the Angels gave up 6 runs in the first inning. Slowly, they would chip away after scoring 2 runs in the top of the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th. In the 5th inning, Mike Carrell walked, stole second, advanced to third on a throwing error, and got a free trip home when the next throw sailed over the dugout. With the Angels up 7-6, Darren Ginther looked in yoga season form on the mound closing the door for a great comeback opening day victory.