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Whither Courtesy Runners? I have heard much discussion this Fall regarding the league rule banning courtesy runners from stealing. Since I lobbied to have the rule implemented, I feel it necessary to explain the logic. Teams using the courtesy runner often put a fast runner at bat before the batter requiring the courtesy runner, gaining the advantage of a potential base stealer if the first batter was the last out. As a catcher trying to throw these runners out, it always galled me at the inherent unfairness of the situation. Why should team A be doubly penalized for allowing team B to use a courtesy runner? Because of this, I successfully lobbied to implement the current rule. Since the rule’s implementation, there has been much dissatisfaction regarding the lack of opportunity to hit-and-run or steal. I realize it changes the game, but what are the options? I would suggest that if a batter can hit a ball and limp, run or crawl to first base, that he can limp, run or crawl his way around the base path. If we do away with the courtesy runner altogether, then all teams would be free to steal, hit-and-run or do all those other baseball quirks to their heart’s content. Bill Abernethy
Since we all pay the same amount to play in this league, it would seem logical that all should reap the same amount of enjoyment. I have long wondered why each team has the same two or three individuals who do all the groundskeeping when we have so many bodies available. I therefore respectfully suggest that in upcoming seasons the aforementioned workers should not have to pay any dues. The economic shortfall should be spread evenly amongst those who do not wish to help. Any and all replies would be greatly appreciated. Bill Abernethy
Pitching in On Saturday, I witnessed what this league is all about. All four teams that played (and several players from the bye -week Yarmouth team) met on their rain-soaked fields and prepped them for play for about two hours. They didn't sit at home and complain about the fields and make-up games! I was on the phone with all the coaches Saturday morning, and they all said the same thing: "We just want to play baseball." Maybe that should be this league’s slogan. These players did what was best for the league and their teams -- and put on notice guys who just want to show up and play. To all these players, give yourself a big ATTA BOY!! because you deserve it. Jeff McClellan
Playing with passion Playing these past two years has been one of the most awesome experiences in my life. The one thing that we all need to understand is that we all gather for the true nature of competition in baseball. Some of us play with a passion so great that others take it as show boating or being too competitive. I say to you this: Where else would you have the chance to play this great game on such beautiful fields? Where can you find men of our age that respect the game to make it as great as we do? I know every time a man like Joe Magee plays, he plays with a passion that makes me see the true nature of this great game. So out of respect for the game and a man like him, I play with my heart on my sleeve in hopes of living up to those that made this game so great! Yes I understand that this is only amateur baseball, and the scouts won't be knocking down my door any time soon. Yet I am given this rare chance to be a part of the game that so many love, and so few get to ever experience. So when the winter quiet creeps upon us, stop and remember the smell of the grass and the dirt in your cleats, because it can all be taken away. If that day comes, I say thank you to you all. I lived a dream and played the greatest game ever invented! Long live the Baseball Veterans League. Mark Fellows |
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