THE 2008 SEASON

The Burnsville Bobcats came back in game 3 of the first round and were able to put up some runs in a 12-5 win over Lakeville, ending the Athletics playoff ambitions as well as their 2008 season. After handling the Bobcats in game one of the playoffs, the Athletics had a tough time stopping the Burnsville offense in game three.

Jake Hauck gets set to deliver against Burnsville in the CVL playoffs.

Burnsville scored one in the 1st, four in the 2nd, one in the 4th, three in the 5th, and three more runs again in the 6th inning to knock the Athletics out of the playoffs.

Rogness and Storm hold down the right side of the infield for the Athletics.

The Athletics weren't able to get on the board until the 5th. With one out already, left fielder Eric Watts got Lakeville going with a single over the shortstop. Right fielder Jon Wulff walked on a full count. Shortstop and team batting leader Derek Jacobson then scorched a two-RBI double to the right-center fence, scoring both Watts and Wulff. The next batter, 2nd baseman Bryant Rogness, was hit by pitch. Center fielder Jon Gaylord then hit the ball on the barrelhead, driving a hard sac fly to deep center field to score Jacobson while adding to his team leading RBI total.

Jon Gaylord stands safely at 2nd after pounding his team leading 9th double.

Lakeville scored again in the 7th when Jacobson and Gaylord both walked in the inning and 1st baseman Josh Storm hit an RBI single up the middle to score Jacobson.

Jeremiah Leiviska at 1st after a 6th inning single to left.

The Athletics scored one more run in the top of the 9th when Bryant Rogness led off with a triple to the right field corner. B-Rog eventually scored on an RBI groundout from Josh Storm, allowing him the distinction of scoring the first (5/9) and last run of 2008.

B-Rog gets sets to add to his triples lead for the Athletics, picking up number two.

Jake Hauck started on the mound for Lakeville and pitched five complete innings. Trent Larsen pitched the 6th, while Jon Wulff pitched the 7th and 8th inning.

Collecting hits for the Athletics were...

• Jon Gaylord 1 for 2, 2B, Sac Fly, SB, 2BB
• Jon Wulff 1 for 2, BB, R
• Eric Watts 1 for 3, R
• Derek Jacobson 1 for 4, 2B, 2R, SB, BB
• Bryant Rogness 1 for 4, 3B, R, HBP
• Trent Larsen 1 for 4, 2B
• Josh Strom 1 for 4, HBP
• Jeremiah Leiviska 1 for 5

The Athletics will disembark for the off-season with some possible new changes on the horizon. The team is actively shopping for a supportive sponsor to help with team needs. A name change and new uniforms are also possible in the process. Stay tuned to this site for more info.

ATHLETICS SURPRISE BURNSVILLE IN CVL PLAYOFFS
Athletics Win Game One Behind Leiviska Pitching, Beat Burnsville 5-2

Lakeville put its best foot forward in the CVL playoffs with a first game win over Burnsville at Bob Bunnell Field at Alimagnate Park. The Athletics beat the Bobcats 5-2 to ensure a third game in the Cannon Valley League playoffs.

Burnsville took the lead early on with a run scoring double in the first to go up 1-0. The Bobcats started with thee straight hits, but Athletics starter Jeremiah Leiviska then settled into a groove and allowed only four hits through the next seven innings, making the Burnsville bats go cold.

Starting pitcher Jeremiah Leiviska rocks and fires against the Brunsville Bobcats.

The Athletics finally broke through in the 5th with a 3-run inning. Brent Johnson led off with a hit up the middle but, due to a low bench, was left to run for himself with a bad hamstring. Eric Watts walked to move Johnson over to 2nd. Team batting leader Derek Jacobson then delivered a blast to the fence over the right fielder's head, forcing Johnson to pick 'em up and put 'em down a little faster than he probably would have liked with the bad hamstring. Johnson scored on the play, leaving Watts at 3rd. Three pitches later, Watts scored on a wild pitch to Bryant Rogness. B-Rog then ripped a single to left to score Jacobson, putting Lakeville on top 3-1. With Leiviska in solid command on the mound, the Athletics would never relinquish the lead from that point on.

Left fielder Eric Watts looks for the first of his three hits on the night.

Lakeville got on the board again in a two-run 7th when Eric Watts stroked the second of three hits on the night through the hole between 3rd and shortstop to lead off the inning. Speedy Derek Jacobson then reached on error when the 2nd baseman just couldn't find the handle on the ball between his feet. Bryant Rogness sacrificed both runners into scoring position with a nice bunt on the left side. Jon Gaylord hit an RBI single to center to drive in Watts, leaving Jacobson at 3rd. Josh Storm then drove a well hit ball deep to center to score Jacobson on the sac fly and put the Athletics up 5-1.

First baseman Josh Storm drives a sac fly to deep center field in the 7th.

...continued from bottom left column, Athletics Surprise Burnsville

Leiviska started to tire in the 8th, giving up a lead-off triple to the right-center gap. The next two batters walked to load the bases, but Leiviska then struck out Burnsville's designated hitter after going to a full count. He got the seven hitter to pop out to Storm at 1st for the 2nd out. Burnsville then scored on an infield error, but Leiviska got the next batter to pop out behind the plate to catcher Brent Johnson to get out of the bases loaded jam. Leiviska had just two Ks, but got 13 groundouts in the game as he stymied the Burnsville bats through eight full innings.

Second baseman Bryant Rogness drives a single to left field.

Jeff Brisbois entered in relief in the 9th to hold down the Bobcats. He rolled a 6-3 groundout, and then picked up a fly-out to center before allowing a base hit to left. Brisbois came back and induced a fly-out from the clean-up hitter to seal the Athletics win. The victory means the Athletics will now be guaranteed a Wednesday game in the Cannon Valley League playoffs.

Collecting hits for the Athletics were...

• Eric Watts 3 for 3, BB, 2R
• Bryant Rogness 2 for 4, 1RBI, Sac bunt
• Josh Storm 1 for 3, Sac fly, 1RBI
• Jeremiah Leiviska 1 for 3, FC
• Brent Johnson 1 for 4, 1R
• Derek Jacobson 1 for 5, 2B, 2R, 1RBI
• Jon Gaylord 1 for 5, 1RBI

Catcher Brent Johnson behind the plate for the Athletics.

The next game for the Athletics is Tuesday night against the winner of the Apple Valley-Rosemount game. The Millers won that contest and will face Lakeville on Rich Vanderlann Field at 7:30 at  Alimagnate Park.

Athletics veteran Josh Storm pulls up at 1st after a single in the 4th inning.

ATHLETICS NIPPED IN 9TH BY OUTLAWS, 15-13
Home Plate Officiating Has Decisive Influence On Game's Outcome

The Athletics cranked up the bats and played a hard nine at Alimagnate Park, but a few egregious calls by the home plate umpire had an indisputable effect on the outcome of the game, literally taking outs and runs away from Lakeville while giving outs and runs to Savage, in what would be a very tight 15-13 ballgame.

Trent Larsen started on the mound for the Athletics.

Second baseman Bryant Rogness had a huge night at the plate for the Athletics, going 4 for 5 with a triple, two doubles, a single, one run and five RBI.

Lakeville got on the board early in the game when 2008 Cannon Valley League all-star shortstop Derek Jacobson led off the 1st with a double to left. Bryant Rogness ripped the first pitch he saw down the right field line for an RBI triple to put the Athletics up 1-0. Two-time consecutive Cannon Valley League all-star centerfielder Jon Gaylord then drove a hard hit ball to left-center for a relatively easy sac fly RBI, but the home plate umpire ruled that Rogness left the bag too early and called him out for a double-play. For the record, Rogness did not leave early. One run lost for Lakeville.

Savage came back in their half of the inning to tie the score at one each.

Coach Doug Johnson looks on as Mark Berger gets a lead at 3rd base in the 2nd.

The Athletics kept on fighting and poured out six runs in a big 4th inning. Jon Gaylord led off with a hard hit off the shortstop's glove. Josh Storm and Mark Berger both had back to back walks to load the bases. Brent Johnson was hit by a pitch to force in Gaylord. Starting pitcher Trent Larsen then helped himself by pounding a two-run double to left to give Lakeville a 4-1 lead. Nick Arvidson laced a single down the 3rd base line to score Jon Wulff, running for Johnson. Eric Watts hit a sacrifice fly to left to score Larsen. Bryant Rogness then jacked a hard hit double to the left field corner for his second hit, scoring Arvidson with the drive. The Athletics led at that point 7-1, heading to the bottom of the 4th.

Brent Johnson lays down a perfect sacrifice bunt in the 2nd inning.

Savage came back in the 4th with five hits and four runs to cut the Lakeville lead to just two.

The Outlaws took the lead with an eight-run 5th inning, but not without some very questionable officiating to make matters even  worse.  On one play, a ball was hit back to 3rd whereupon a tag was made on the runner as well as a throw home to the plate, just to be sure. The umpire ruled the runner safe at home, clearly missing the tag at 3rd and the force out at home, giving Savage a run as well as an extra out. The extra out would also be costly as the Outlaws were able to pick up yet another run before closing out the inning with a come from behind 9-7 lead.

Nick Arvidson strokes a single to left in the 4th inning.

Trent Larsen led off the 6th with a double to right field. Derek Jacobson picked up a walk in the inning before hot hitting Bryant Rogness slammed a double to the wall in the left-center gap, scoring both Larsen and Jacobson, but was thrown out at 3rd trying to stretch for the extra base.

Jon Gaylord led off the 7th with a double to right and was driven in immediately on the next at bat by Josh Storm with a single to right field.

Bryant Rogness gets a big lead off 2nd base in the 6th inning.

In the 8th inning, Jon Wulff led off with a hit through the middle. Jeff Brisbois hit into a fielder's choice to the 2nd baseman who elected to go for the force on Wulff. Derek Jacobson followed with a single to shallow left. Jacobson then broke early for 2nd, drawing a throw from the pitcher while allowing Brisbois to score on the pickle play. Jacobson made it safely back to first and later scored. Bryant Rogness delivered his fourth hit of the night, a single to left. Jon Gaylord walked. Rogness scored on a sacrifice fly to the left-center gap by Josh Storm for the final Athletics run and a 13-13 tie.

The Outlaws broke the tie in the bottom of the 8th with two runs on two hits to top Lakeville in a 15-13 win.

Trent Larsen started on the mound for the Athletics, pitching 4 1/3 innings, followed by Jeff Brisbois for 2 2/3rds and Jake Hauck for one inning to close the 8th.

Collecting hits for the Athletics were...

• Bryant Rogness 4 for 5, 2-2B, 3B, R, 5RBI
• Mark Berger 2 for 4, 2B, FC, BB, R
• Derek Jacobson 2 for 4, 2B, BB, 3R
• Jon Gaylord 2 for 4, BB, 2R, 1RBI
• Josh Storm 1 for 3, SAC FLY, BB, R, RBI
• Nick Arvidson 1 for 3, R, 1RBI
• Trent Larsen 2 for 5, 2-2B, R, 2RBI

The Athletics next play on Monday, July 7th at Burnsville at Alimagnate Park at 7:30.

LAKEVILLE LOSES CLOSE GAME TO NEW MARKET
Muskies Lead-Off Home Run In Bottom of 9th Tops Athletics, 6-5

The Athletics traveled to New Market for a non-league game with the Muskies and came away with a heart wrenching one run loss on a lead-off home run in the bottom of the 9th.

The Athletics got on the board in the 3rd when Nick Arvidson led off with a single to right and then later stole 2nd base. Derek Jacobson was hit by a pitch. Bryant Rogness hit a run scoring single to plate Arvidson for the first Athletics run. Jon Gaylord was hit by a pitch to take 1st. Mark Berger then came to the plate and drove a ball to left that was mishandled by the Muskies left fielder, allowing both Jacobson and Rogness to score on the play.

Lakeville scored again in the 7th. With two outs in the inning, Jon Gaylord pounded a double to left field. Mark Berger followed with a hit of his own to left to score the speedy Gaylord. Brent Johnson then slammed the third hit of the inning to left, the second double, to score Berger for the final Athletics run of the night.

Trent Larsen started on the mound for the Athletics, pitching six complete innings with one unearned run. Mark Berger pitched the 7th and to one batter in the 8th. Derek Jacobson pitched the rest of the 8th and the 9th.

Collecting hits for the Athletics were...

• Bryant Rogness 2 for 5, R, 1RBI
• Mark Berger 2 for 5, R, OBE, 3RBI
• Nick Arvidson 1 for 3, SB, R, SAC, 1RBI
• Derek Jacobson 1 for 3, BB, HBP, R
• Brent Johnson 1 for 4, HBP, 1RBI
• Jon Gaylord 1 for 4, 2B, R
• Trent Larsen 1 for 4

The Cougars next play on Thursday night in New Prague at 7:30.

ATHLETICS TOP EAGAN FOR 6-5 WIN
Leiviska And Hauck Hold Eagan Down

The Athletics went on the road to Eagan and Goat Hill Park and came away with a 6-5 victory over the Bandits.

Jeremiah Leiviska started against the Eagan Bandits and pitched into the 8th.

Trent Larsen led off for Lakeville in the the 5th with a walk. Mark Berger followed with a single to left. A wild pitch moved both runners up before Jon Wulff then hit an RBI single past the 1st baseman, scoring Larsen in the process. Alex Kruse hit an RBI groundout to the 2nd baseman, scoring Berger for the Athletics final run of the inning.

Bryant Rogness led off the 7th with a walk. Jon Gaylord was hit by a pitch. Rogness stole 3rd and then Brent Johnson drew a walk. Rogness scored on a passed ball. Trent Larsen drove in Gaylord and Johnson with a two RBI groundout.

Brent Johnson hit a single to left to open the 8th inning and later scored on a single up the middle from Jon Wulff.

Mark Berger holds the runner at 1st base.

Eagan scored three runs in the 1st inning, one in the 6th and one in the 8th.

Jake Hauck pitches in relief in the 9th inning, trying to hold a Lakeville lead.

Both teams were even in hits with six a piece.

Collecting hits for the Athletics were:

• Bryant Rogness 2 for 3, SB, BB, HBP, R
• Jon Wulff 2 for 4, 2 RBI
• Brent Johnson 1 for 3, BB, 2R
• Mark Berger 1 for 3, BB, R

The Athletics next game is Sunday, June 22nd at home versus Rosemount at 5pm.

EAGAN ACE STIFLES LAKEVILLE BATS IN 4-0 WIN
Johnson Collects The Lone Hit For The Athletics

The old adage that good pitching beats good hitting certainly came into play on Sunday as Eagan's ace tossed a one-hit gem at the Athletics. Last year's Cannon Valley League all-star game starter struck out 15 batters through 9 innings as he went the distance in a 4-0 win over Lakeville.

Starting pitcher Jake Houck looked good against Eagan.

Jake Houck started on the mound for Lakeville and pitched well himself, scattering six hits over 6 innings pitched, while striking out six and walking just one. Eagan only managed two earned runs, but picked up two runs unearned on Athletics defensive errors.

Derek Jacobson hits the mound for the Athletics.

Derek Jacobson came on in relief in the 7th and showed that he can still throw off the hill, pitching 3 innings, giving up only three hits, never more than one per inning. Jacobson struck out two, one of them looking, while walking none.

Leave it to Beaver - Brent Johnson stands at 1st with the only hit of the day.

The only Athletics hit of the day came from catcher Brent Johnson in the 4th. Johnson also had one walk.

Shortstop Derek Jacobson had two walks to represent the only other Athletics base runner for the day.

Johnson and Jacobson accounted for the only four Athletics base runners for the game, both reaching base twice each.

2nd baseman Bryant Rogness gets his rips in.

Eagan scored one unearned run in the 2nd, two in the 5th (one unearned) and one more in the 6th on a lead-off home run.

Josh Storm holds the runner at 1st base as Matt Velasquez gets set at 2nd.

Josh Storm slams the tag down in an attempt to get the runner.

Collecting the only hit for the Athletics:

• Brent Johnson 1 for 3, BB

The Athletics next game is Monday at Apple Valley at 7:45.

Left fielder Eric Watts takes his cuts against Eagan.

Jessie Schmidt steps into the batters box in the bottom of the 8th.
 

Burnsville Comes Out Swinging, Tops Lakeville
Bobcat Pitching Limits Athletics To Four Hits In 12-2 Burnsville Win

The Bobcats of Burnsville welcomed some new muscle to its team with a 12-2 surprise over the Athletics at Alimagnate Park on Wednesday night.

Centerfielder Jon Gaylord gets ready to pound a double to right in the 3rd.

The Athletics were only able to muster five hits on the night while stranding five base runners, but they did get on the board though. Designated hitter Matt Clarke led off the 3rd inning with a single up the middle. Shortstop Derek Jacobson stroked a double down the right field line, moving Clarke to 3rd base. With runners at the corners, Jon Gaylord came to the plate and ripped a double of his own into the right-center gap, scoring Clarke and Jacobson. That would be all for the Athletics scoring on the night.

Starting pitcher Trent Larsen winds and fires against the Bobcats.

Lakeville Started with veteran Trent Larsen on the mound who pitched five complete innings, allowing seven runs on five hits. Most notable though would be six walks in the first three innings as Larsen had to literally battle to accommodate a home plate umpire's very stingy strike zone. Jon Wulff came on in relief, pitching the final two innings, giving up three hits and four runs, including a three-run homer to left in the 6th and a walk-off solo shot to right in the 7th.

Memo to St Thomas: This kid can play. Derek Jacobson after a double in the 3rd.

The Bobcats scored four in the 2nd, one in the 3rd, two in the 4th, four in the 6th and one in the 7th inning.

Veteran Josh Storm at 1st after taking the second of two hit-by-pitch at bats.

Collecting hits for the Athletics were:

• Trent Larsen 1 for 1
• Matt Clarke 1 for 2
• Derek Jacobson 1 for 3, (2B),1BB,  1R
• Jon Gaylord 1 for 3, (2B)

DH Matt Clarke leads off the 3rd looking for a single up the middle.

Following the first game, the Athletics then finished the remainder a sprinkler shortened game from May 18th. The team had a three run rally in the 8th, but dropped the game to the Bobcats 12-9.

The Athletics next game is Sunday at home against Apple Valley at 5:00 at Lakeville South.

The Athletics are 0-6 in Cannon Valley league play and 1-7 overall on the season.

Right fielder Alex Kruse looks at a 3-1 pitch in the 6th before receiving a walk.

The Apple Valley Millers showed why they're one of the top hitting teams in the league with some tenacious hitting on Sunday afternoon at Cougar Field as they downed the Lakeville Athletics by a score of 14-2.

Shortstop Derek Jacobson zeroes in on the baseball in the 4th.

The Athletics were only able to get runners in scoring position in the 4th and 6th innings, stranding just three left on base for the game. The Millers limited the Athletics attack to just six hits on the afternoon while pounding out 14 of their own.

Josh Storm gets his lead at 3rd as coach Johnson looks on in the 6th inning.

Lakeville wasn't able to get on the board until the 6th inning, when it picked up its only runs of the game. Second baseman Matt Velasquez led off the inning with a single to left field. Hot hitting shortstop Derek Jacobson then stroked a single back through the middle to move the runner up. Centerfielder Jon Gaylord hit into a fielder's choice to force Jacobson at 2nd. Gaylord then stole 2nd to give the Athletics a man in scoring position, but was erased on a fielder's choice from Josh Storm, which was taken unassisted at 3rd. Jeremiah Leiviska hit an RBI single to left to score Jacobson. Catcher Brent Johnson then ripped a single up the middle, scoring Storm, but Leiviska was out at 3rd looking for the extra base.

Jake Hauck rocks and fires for the Athletics against the Millers.

The Millers scored two runs in the 1st, four in the 2nd, one in the 3rd, three in the 4th and four more in the 6th inning.

2nd baseman Matt Velasquez gets his lead at 2nd after a single in the 6th.

Jake Hauck started on the mound for the Athletics, pitching 3 1/3rd innings. Jon Wulff came on in relied to pitch 2 2/3rds innings with Jeff Brisbois closing out the 7th in the shortened contest.

Right fielder Jon Wulff looks for a pitch in the 7th inning.

Collecting hits for the Athletics were:

• Derek Jacobson 2 for 3
• Matt Velasquez 1 for 2, 1R
• Brent Johnson 1 for 3, 1RBI
• Jeremiah Leiviska 1 for 3, 1RBI
• Josh Strom 1 for 3, 1R

The Athletics next game is on the road Wednesday (6/4) against the Burnsville Bobcats at Alimagnate Park. Game time has been moved up to 6:45 so that the previous rain shortened game can be finished afterwards.

The Athletics are 0-4 in Cannon Valley league play and 1-5 overall on the season.

Pitcher Jeff Brisbois takes warm-up tosses while SS Derek Jacobson awaits play.

Eagan Downs Lakeville 5-2
Four Double-Plays Keep Big Rally From Athletics

The Athletics were the victims of some "at 'em ball" at Eagan on Wednesday night as they served up four double-plays while stranding eight runners, as the Bandits won by a score of 5-2 at Goat Hill Park.

Starting pitcher Jeff Brisbois throws in the 1st inning against Eagan.

Jeff Brisbois started on the mound for Lakeville and pitched five complete innings, scattering eight hits, three strikeouts and two walks, while allowing four runs. Jake Houck came on in relief in the 6th and pitched the final three innings, striking out one while walking none, and allowing one unearned run in the bottom half of the 8th.

Catcher Brent Johnson gets ready to swing the lumber.

The Athletics scored both of their runs in the 6th. Mark Berger lead the inning off hit-by-pitch to reach 1st base. Second baseman Nick Arvidson then walked. Catcher Brent Johnson then drove a deep sacrifice fly to the center field warning track, deep enough to advance the tagging runners, however a bad relay throw allowed both runners to score on the play. Trent Larsen then followed with a single past the 2nd baseman, but was left stranded at 1st for the inning.

Nick Arvidson gets a big lead off of 2nd base.

Eagan scored one run in the 1st, two in the 3rd, one in the 5th and one more in the 8th inning. The Bandits out-hit the Athletics ten hits to five.

Collecting hits for the Athletics were:

• Josh Storm 1 for 2, HBP, 1BB
• Trent Larsen 1 for 2, 2BB
• Eric Watts 1 for 3
• Jon Gaylord 1 for 4, 1BB
• Derek Jacobson 1 for 5

The Athletics next game is Tuesday, May 27th against Savage at Burnsville's Alimagnate Park at 7:30.

Sprinklers Halt Burnsville Game At Alimagnate
Game Finish Is Postponed Until A Later Meeting Between The Two Teams

The Cannon Valley league opener for Lakeville and Burnsville started late and ended early on Sunday night at Alimagnate Park. The late afternoon game between Rosemount and Savage ended up going much longer, forcing the Athletics to start their season league opener over an hour late. As fate would have it, the game was then forced to end early due to a poorly scheduled sprinkler system that decided it was time to water left and center field in the 7th inning.

Lakeville opened the game on a walk from lead-off batter Jon Gaylord. New arrival Derek Jacobson hit a ball past the 2nd baseman for a single. First baseman Josh Storm loaded the bases after a fielder's choice to the shortstop left everyone safe. A wild pitch to clean-up hitter Mark Berger allowed Gaylord to score from 3rd for the first Lakeville run.

Mark Berger gets set to hit against Burnsville.

The Athletics scored again in the 3rd as center fielder Jon Gaylord lead off with his second consecutive walk. Derek Jacobson followed with a walk of his own before Josh Storm loaded the bases after beating out a roller between 3rd and short. Athletics designated hitter Jeremiah Leiviska then came to the plate and slammed a two-run double into right-center, scoring Gaylord and Jacobson to give Lakeville two more runs.

Josh Storm steps up to the plate for the fist time in 2008.

In the 4th inning, right fielder Jon Wulff hit a lead-off single past the 1st baseman. He then advanced to 2nd on a 5-3 groundout from shortstop Trent Larsen and then immediately moved to 3rd on a  4-3 groundout from left fielder Eric Watts. Jon Gaylord then followed with a single of his own past the 1st baseman, scoring Wulff in the process.

The Athletics picked up two more runs in the 4th inning. Catcher Brent Johnson led off with a single to left center field. Jon Wulff walked, followed by Trent Larsen who loaded the bases. Eric Watts hit a fielder's choice to the 2nd baseman, forcing Larsen out at the bag, but scoring two runs on the play for Lakeville.

Trent Larsen steps into the batters box against Burnsville.

Burnsville scored one run in the 1st on a solo home run from their 3rd baseman. The Bobcats then scored four more runs in the 2nd inning before getting a three run homer in the 4th. Burnsville added another run in the 5th inning.

Athletics pitcher Jake Houck delivers against Burnsville.

Athletics ace Jake Houck started the game and racked up eight strike-outs in just 7 innings, but also had six walks and one hit batter

The game was postponed in the 7th when the left and center field sprinklers suddenly decided to go off around 10:30.

The two teams made up the completion of the contest after their Wednesday, June 4th game.

Jon Wulff led off the 8th with a walk and then moved up on a passed ball. He was driven home by Trent Larsen's single to right. Jon Gaylord then hit a double to left scoring Larsen. Shortstop Derek Jacobson finished the Athletics' scoring with an RBI double to left, scoring Gaylord.

Burnsville added an insurance run in the 7th and one more in the 8th to top Lakeville 12-9.

Collecting hits for the Cougars were:

• Derek Jacobson 2 for 3, 1BB, 1R
• Jon Gaylord 2 for 3, 2BB, 3R
• Trent Larsen 1 for 2, 1OBE, 1BB, 1R
• Jon Wulff 1 for 2, 2BB, 3R
• Jeremiah Leiviska 2 for 5
• Brent Johnson 1 for 4, 1R
• Josh Storm 1 for 5

Burnsville narrowly out-hit Lakeville12-11.

A LOOK BACK AT 2007

New Faces For 2008
The Athletics Wish These New Additions The Best of Luck For '08

The Athletics have had a few members move on and some new members trying out for 2008. New to the team are as follows:

• Jessie Schmidt, pitcher - Graduate Farmington HS 2006
• Jon Wulff, outfielder - Simley HS senior, 2008
• Derek Jacobson, 2nd base - St. Thomas College
• Jeff Brisbois, pitcher - Graduate Apple Valley, 2000
• Matt Clarke, 1st baseman - LSHS senior, 2008
• Nick Arvidson, shortstop, 2nd -Graduate St. Thomas HS 2007
• Matt Velasquez, 2nd base  - Graduate St. Thomas HS 2007
• Alex Kruse, outfielder - Graduate Apple Valley HS
• Andrew Lazeratti, catcher

Cannon Valley League Website

2008 ATHLETICS OFFENSIVE STAT LEADERS
Jacobson Takes Batting And HR Title, Gaylord Gets RBI Crown

Here are the final stats for the 2008 Lakeville Athletics Cannon Valley League season:

As a team the Athletics hit .238 with 78 runs scored and 154 runs against, although the team played without many key players often.

Winning the individual batting title for the Athletics with a .373 average was newcomer and shortstop Derek Jacobson, a CVL all-star his first season with the team. Jacobson also won the HR title with two. He led in nine offensive categories overall.

Taking the RBI crown for the second year in a row was veteran centerfielder Jon Gaylord who drove in 13 runs for the second time in as many years. Gaylord also led the team in doubles with nine. Gaylord won the triple crown for the Athletics last year, leading the team in every single offensive category with a total of 29 hits and a hefty .408 batting average.

The batting leaders for 2008 are as follows:  (20 AB or more)

ATHLETICS DROP CLOSE GAME TO APPLE VALLEY
Brisbois Goes The Distance, Pitches Well In 5-3 CVL Playoff Loss

Coach Doug Johnson goes over the pre-game rules.

For the second night in a row the Lakeville Athletics' pitching in the CVL playoffs was very good, however this time around the end result did not live up to the pitching effort. Starting pitcher Jeff Brisbois once again threw well for the Athletics, scattering eight hits through eight innings while allowing five runs, one of them was unearned. Apple Valley can be a run scoring machine at times, however Brisbois has fared well in his starts against his former teammates, generally holding them down to earth with five runs or less; shutting them out once already this year. Apple Valley got on the board with two runs in the 1st and two more in the 3rd, but Brisbois slowed their attack for the next five innings, allowing only one final run in the 8th.

Starting pitcher Jeff Brisbois looks in for the sign in the 3rd inning.

The Athletics scored in the 4th inning after Trent Larsen reached on a fielder's choice. Brent Johnson moved Larsen to 3rd on a solid hit up the middle. Larsen then scored on a wild pitch to Eric Watts for Lakeville's first run.

Trent Larsen gets set to drive a ball down the right field line in the 7th.

In the 7th inning Lakeville put up two more runs to draw within one. Trent Larsen led off by picking up his second hit of the night down the right field line. Eric Watts stayed hot by pounding a double to the left-center gap. Jon Wulff followed with an RBI single to right, driving in Larsen. Derek Jacobson then stroked an RBI single to left to plate Watts and pull within one with a 4-3 score.

Eric Watts stays hot by driving a double deep to the left center gap in the 7th.

Lakeville stranded eight men left on base. Brisbois stranded four for the Millers as he went the distance, throwing 99 pitches in the effort. He struck out four through 8, while rolling up 11 groundouts.

Right fielder Jon Wulff at 1st after a single to right in the 7th.

The loss forces the Athletics to a Wednesday night game in the Cannon Valley League playoffs.

Veteran Bryant Rogness, takes his second HBP, this time painfully on the wrist.

Collecting hits for the Athletics were...

• Trent Larsen 2 for 4, FC, 2R,
• Brent Johnson 2 for 4
• Derek Jacobson 1 for 3, 2BB, 1RBI
• Bryant Rogness 1 for 3, 2 HBP
• Eric Watts 1 for 4, 2B, 1R
• Jon Wulff 1 for 4, 1RBI
• Josh Storm 1 for 4

The next game for the Athletics is Wednesday night against the winner of the Burnsville-Rosemount game. The Bobcats won that contest and will face Lakeville on Rich Vanderlann Field at 7:30 at  Alimagnate Park.

ROSEMOUNT DOWNS LAKEVILLE IN FINAL GAME
Black Sox Finish Off Regular Season With Athletics With 8-4 Win

Despite a last minute field change to Lakeville South, the athletics dropped their last game of the regular season to the Rosemount Black Sox by an 8-4 score.

Rosemount got on the board quick with four runs in the first to put the Athletics down early, 4-0.

Lakeville came back in the top of the 3rd to score three runs of their own. Derek Jacobson led off with a single and was then moved to 2nd on a walk to Bryant Rogness. One batter later, Mark Berger hit an RBI single to drive in Jacobson for the Athletics first run of the game. Brent Johnson reached on a fielder's choice to the shortstop. Jon Wulff walked to load the bases. Alex Kruse then came to the plate and crushed a two-run double to drive in Rogness and Johnson, bringing the Athletics within one of Rosemount, 4-3.

The Black Sox picked up two more runs in the bottom of the 3rd to double the score against Lakeville, leading 6-3 into the 4th.

Lakeville came back in the top of the 6th to score one on a solo home run blast to left field from Derek Jacobson, to make the score 6-4.

Rosemount picked up two more runs, one each in the 7th and 8th for the final 8-4 score.

Jeff Brisbois started on the mound for the Athletics and pitched six full innings. Jessie Schmidt came on in relief to pitch the final two innings for Lakeville.

Collecting hits for the Athletics were...

• Derek Jacobson 2 for 4, 1B, HR, 2R, 1RBI
• Alex Kruse 1 for 3, 2B, BB, 2RBI
• Jon Wulff 1 for 1, 3BB
• Jon Gaylord 1 for 4, 2B, SB, Sac bunt
• Mark Berger 1 for 5, 1B, 1RBI

This was the last regular season game for Lakeville which finished 5-10 in the Canon Valley League..

The next game for the Athletics will be in the CVL playoffs, starting Monday July 28th in Burnsville at Alimagnate Park.

Mon-Wed, Jul 28-29 First round, CVL playoffs 7:30pm
 

CVL ALL-STARS TOP CLASSIC CVL ALL-STARS 6-4
Gaylord, Jacobson Represent Athletics In 2nd Ever CVL/CCVL All-Star Game

The second ever CVL/CCVL All-Star game was held on July 9th in Cannon Falls. The Cannon Valley League defeated the Classic Cannon Valley League by a score of 6-4.

Centerfielder Jon Gaylord made his 2nd consecutive appearance in the the newly formed summer classic, while first year shortstop Derek Jacobson enjoyed his first selection as a CVL all-star.

Jon Gaylord steps to the plate for his 2nd consecutive all-star game.

Derek Jacobson looks for a pitch to hit in the CVL/CCVL all-star game.

Jacobson (18) and Gaylord (19) shake hands with other all-stars at the end.

TWO ATHLETICS NAMED AS CVL ALL-STARS
Gaylord Gets 2nd Consecutive Honor; Newcomer Jacobson Earns First

Jon Gaylord and Derek Jacobson will represent the Athletics in the all-star game.

The Lakeville Athletics were happy to learn that two of its players, centerfielder Jon Gaylord and shortstop Derek Jacobson, have been named as 2008 Cannon Valley League all-stars and will play against the Classic Cannon Valley League in the Wednesday, July 9th All-Star game at Cannon Falls.

Athletics veteran centerfielder Jon Gaylord is making his second consecutive appearance as a CVL all-star. First year Athletics teammate, shortstop Derek Jacobson will be making his first appearance in the summer classic.

The game will be preceded with a home run derby starting at 7:00, with the all-star contest beginning at 8:00. Tickets for the game are $5.00 apiece and can be purchased in advance from coach Doug Johnson.

LAKEVILLE AND BURNSVILLE TIE 3-3 AT ALIMAGNATE
Clarke Goes 3 For 3; Jacobson Has Two-Run Homer For Athletics

The Lakeville Athletics took to the road against Burnsville looking for a much needed win, but had to settle for a 3-3 tie due to the poor weather.

Athletics pitcher Jeremiah Leiviska was nails for Lakeville as he held the Burnsville hitting attack in place for much of the night. Leiviska was in total command as he held Burnsville to just five hits through eight innings, striking out six while walking none. He gave up only one earned run, while being tagged for two unearned.

Lakeville got on the board in the 3rd inning when 1st baseman Matt Clarke hit a 1-1 pitch for a single, collecting the second Athletics hit of the day. Shortstop Derek Jacobson then came to the plate and pounded a two-run home run to left for the Athletics, while giving them an early 2-0 lead.

Burnsville scored one run in the 5th to pull within one of Lakeville.

The Athletics got on the board again in the 7th when Mark Berger led off the inning with a walk and was then driven home three batters later by catcher Brent Johnson on an RBI groundout, making the score 3-1 Lakeville.

Burnsville fought back in the bottom half of the 7th to tie the game with two runs on two hits, leaving the game knotted at three all.

Both teams failed to score in the 8th. The rain came in the 9th and the game was called a tie due to rescheduling difficulties.

Collecting hits for the Athletics were...

• Matt Clarke 3 for 3, 1R
• Derek Jacobson 2 for 4, HR, bunt single, 2RBI, 1R
• Mark Berger 1 for 2, BB, R
• Jeremiah Leiviska 1 for 3
• Jon Gaylord 1 for 4

Lakeville's next game is Sunday at Rosemount at 2pm.

ATHLETICS DROP GAME TO SAVAGE, 11-2
Lakeville Is Held To Just Six Hits For The Afternoon

Jake Hauck brings the ball home against Savage as Eric Watts looks on.

The Savage Outlaws came to town on Sunday afternoon and banged out 17 hits on the way to an 11 - 2 win over the Athletics. The game was close until a five-run 5th inning put the game away for the Outlaws.

Derek Jacobson digs hard to beat the throw at home as coach Johnson watches.

Lakeville was held to just six hits on the day. The Athletics stranded eight runners on the afternoon, including runners left in scoring position at second and third base in the 5th and 7th innings.

Jon Gaylord drives a ball to left in the 7th inning.

Derek Jacobson led off the 3rd inning with a triple to the fence in right-center. Three pitches later, Bryant Rogness drove a 1-1 pitch to deep right for the sacrifice fly and the Athletics first run.

Bryant Rogness slides head first under the tag into 3rd base in the 7th inning.

Alex Kruse led off the 5th inning with a full-count walk. Hot hitting Derek Jacobson then ripped a 1-2 pitch to right field for the second of his three hits in the game, moving Kruse to 2nd base on the play. Jon Gaylord walked to load the bases before Brent Johnson was hit-by-pitch to force in Kruse for the final Lakeville run.



Brent Johnson zeroes in on the ball.

Jake Hauck started on the mound for the Athletics, pitching 5 1/3rd innings. Jeremiah Leiviska came on in relief in the 6th and pitched 1 2/3rds innings. Jessie Schmidt pitched the 8th and 9th, allowing just one hit and no runs.

Jeff Brisbois stands at 1st after a hit to left in the 9th inning.

The Outlaws scored  two in the 1st, three in the 5th, five in the 6th and one more run in the 8th.

Collecting hits for the Athletics were...

• Derek Jacobson 3 for 5, (3B), R
• Bryant Rogness 1 for 4, SAC, 1RBI
• Jon Gaylord 1 for 1, 3BB
• Jeff Brisbois 1 for 2

The Cougars play Savage again on Wednesday night (7/2) at Burnsville's Alimagnate Park at 7:30.

Alex Kruse stands at 3rd base in the 5th inning.


Jessie Schmidt winds and fires in the 9th.

ROSEMOUNT HAS ATHLETICS NUMBER
Black Sox Roll Up 18-8 Win

Athletics coach/manager Doug Johnson goes over pre-game ground rules.

If one team has had the Athletics number so far this season it has been the Rosemount Black Sox. Roughed up in their previous game, the Athletics were once again ambushed by the Black Sox with an 18-8 loss at home.

Jeff Brisbois started on the mound for the Athletics.

Jeff Brisbois started on the mound for Lakeville, scattering 11 hits, however numerous key fielding errors behind him did not help his cause. Brisbois pitched 5 1/3rd innings before being relieved by Jeremiah Leiviska in the 5th. Leiviska pitched 2 2/3rds before giving way to Derek Jacobson in the 8th. Jacobson pitched the 9th inning as well.

Bryant Rogness is flying as he starts his head first slide for the plate in the 1st.

The Athletics got on the scoreboard early. Derek Jacobson started out the first with a single up the middle. Bryant Rogness followed with a walk. Jon Gaylord pounded a double to the right-center gap to score Jacobson and Rogness for the first two Lakeville runs of the day.

Derek Jacobson and Josh Storm greet a sand covered Bryant Rogness at home.

Mark Berger slammed a double of his own off the top of the left field fence, just missing a homerun, but easily driving in Gaylord. Trent Larsen stroked an RBI hit to left to score Berger and the final run of the inning.

Mark Berger pounds a double off the top of the left field fence in the 1st.

Bergie pulls into 2nd base after hitting his double to left.

Josh Storm led off the 6th with a walk. Mark Berger picked up his second hit of the day with a drive up the middle. Trent Larsen then walked to load the bases for the Athletics. Jeremiah Leiviska was hit by pitch to force Storm home. Derek Jacobson reached on error on a ball under the shortstop, scoring both Berger and Larsen.

Nick Arvidson congratulates Mark Berger as he scores at the plate.

Nick Arvidson started off the 8th with a walk. Jeremiah Leiviska moved him up with a hit through shortstop. Derek Jacobson picked up his second hit of the day by beating out a ball back to the pitcher. Bryant Rogness then rocked a 1-1 pitch to deep right for a sacrifice fly to score Arvidson with the final Athletics run of the day.

Rosemount scored three in the 1st inning, one in the 3rd, one in the 4th, four in the 5th, three in the 7th, four in the 8th, and two more runs in the 9th. Four of their runs were unearned.

Trent Larsen pulls into 2nd base in the 1st inning.

Collecting hits for the Athletics were:

• Mark Berger 2 for 4, 2R, 1RBI
• Jeremiah Leiviska 1 for 2, HBP, 1RBI
• Jon Gaylord 2 for 5, 2RBI
• Derek Jacobson 2 for 5, R, 2RBI
• Trent Larsen 1 for 3, BB, R, 1RBI

The Athletics next scheduled game is Tuesday night, June 24 as they travel to New Market for a 6:15 non league game.

More Game Pictures: Lakeville vs Rosemount


Josh Storm gets set to drive a ball to left field in the 7th inning.

Jeremiah Leiviska gets a bead on the ball in the 8th.

MILLERS OVER ATHLETICS, .5-0
Athletics Shut Out For Second Game In A Row

After splitting for their first two games, the Apple Valley Millers took a one game edge so far in their series for the year with the Athletics by topping Lakeville 4-0.

Centerfielder Jon Gaylord steps to the plate in the 9th.

The mark of a good pitcher is one who can recompose himself and pitch again after getting hit. Athletics pitcher Jeff Brisbois proved that he can take a few shots and still come back fighting with another very good outing against the Millers. Brisbois started for Lakeville, but was tagged for four hits and four runs, one of them unearned, in the first inning at Apple Valley. He came back though for the next five innings and did a great job of once again handling the Millers. Brisbois scattered just four hits though his last five innings, allowing only two Millers to reach scoring position, advancing no farther than 2nd base.

Jeremiah Leiviska hits third for the Athletics against the Millers..

Jeremiah Leiviska came on to pitch the 7th and 8th, giving up one run on one hit with three strikeouts and three walks.

Apple Valley pitchers held the Athletics to just five hits on the night. Collecting hits for the Athletics were:

• Mark Berger 1 for 3
• Trent Larsen 1 for 3
• Jon Gaylord 1 for 4
• Derek Jacobson 1 for 4
• Jeremiah Leiviska 1 for 4

The Athletics next game is Wednesday on the road at Eagan's Goat Hill Park at 7:00.

LAKEVILLE OUT-PITCHES APPLE VALLEY IN 2-0 WIN
Brisbois And Hauck Combine To Shutout Hard Hitting Millers

Knocked around in their first meeting with Apple Valley, the Lakeville Athletics scored just two runs in a lopsided loss to the  Millers. At home on Sunday they once again scored only two runs, but this time that's all they would need as the Athletics' pitching shut out the Millers for a 2-0 victory at home.

Starting pitcher Jeff Brisbois shuts out the hard hitting Apple Valley Millers.

Jeff Brisbois started on the mound for Lakeville and was just what the doctor ordered to quiet an aggressive hitting Miller offense. Brisbois, an Apple Valley native himself and former teammate for some on the Millers, kept the opponent bats off balance for six full innings. Brisbois kept the ball low, with Miller hitters swinging out front most of the day, getting them to fan over the top while holding them to just five hits during his time on the mound. Brisbois faced just four Miller hitters every inning, until the 5th when he saw five for the first time. Apple Valley reached scoring position five times against Brisbois, but couldn't solve him as they ended up stranding nine runners during their six innings against him.

He's baaaaaaack. Bryant Rogness returns to the line-up after Costa Rica trip.

The Athletics once again scored just two runs against the Millers, but this time they made the most of it. Jon Wulff led off the 2nd with a single to right field. One batter later, Derek Jacobson delivered a single of his own to right, moving Wulff to 3rd. Wulff then scored on a passed ball to Bryant Rogness. Jon Gaylord, a 2007 CVL All-Star, came to the plate and crushed a double to the left field fence to score Jacobson and the final Athletic run.

Jon Wulff hits a single to right field. Wulff scored the first run, two batters later.

Overall, Apple Valley stranded 14 runners left on base as the duo of Brisbois and Hauck shut down their hitting attack. Apple Valley actually out-hit Lakeville 9-8, but to no avail as the Athletics made the most of what they had.

Derek Jacobson crosses home plate for the 2nd run for the Athletics.

Collecting hits for the Athletics were:

• Jon Gaylord 3 for 4, (2 2B), 1RBI
• Derek Jacobson 2 for 4, 1R
• Jon Wulff 1 for 1, 1HBP, 1R
• Trent Larsen 1 for 3
• Josh Storm 1 for 3

The Athletics welcomed veteran 2nd baseman Bryant Rogness back to the line-up after a recent trip to Costa Rica.

Jake Hauck shuts the door on Apple Valley for the final three innings.

The Athletics next game is Sunday at home against Eagan at 5:00 at Lakeville South.

The Athletics are 1-6 in Cannon Valley league play and 2-7 overall on the season.

The Lakeville Athletics have made a time change for their Sunday home games this year at Lakeville South. Rather than the previous 2:00 start time, the Athletics will opt for a later 5:00 start, hoping that players gone for the weekend will be back for the game.

Black Sox Beat Athletics 15-3
Rosemount Has Big Game In Lakeville League Home Opener

The Rosemount Black Sox came to town ready to hit on Saturday afternoon, outscoring the Athletics by twelve runs, winning the Cannon Valley Conference game 15-3.

1st baseman Josh Storm gets set to collect one of his two hits on the day.

The Athletics had runners in scoring position in the 2nd, 3rd and 5th innings before finally getting on the board in the 6th.

Veteran Mark Berger hoping a fly ball will drop-in during the 3rd inning.

Catcher Brent Johnson led off the 6th with hit to center field. 2nd baseman Nick Arvidson moved the runner up with a single to shallow left-center. Left fielder Alex Kruse was hit by a pitch to load the bases. Third baseman Derek Jacobson hit an RBI single past 2nd to move the runners up and score Johnson. Second baseman Nick Arvidson scored on a past ball to centerfielder Jon Gaylord to give the Athletics their second run. Gaylord then hit an RBI groundout to short, scoring Alex Kruse for the final Athletics' run.

Left fielder Eric Watts gets his lead at 1st after drawing the first of two walks.

The Black Sox scored a run in the 1st, 2nd and 4th. They scored two more in the 5th and again in the 6th. Rosemount plated one more in the 7th before exploding for seven runs in the 9th.

Centerfielder Jon Gaylord gets ready to hit a single to left in the 5th.

Jeremiah Leiviska started on the mound for Lakeville and pitched five complete innings, as well as two batters in the 6th. Jeff Brisbois  came on in relief to work the 6th, 7th and 8th innings, with Jessie Schmidt pitching in the 9th.

Athletics catcher Brent Johnson gets set to drive a single to center in the 6th.

Rosemount out-hit Lakeville 17 to 9 on the afternoon. The Athletics stranded 12 men left on base in the game.

Collecting hits for the Athletics were:

• Nick Arvidson 2 for 3, 1R
• Josh Storm 2 for 5
• Brent Johnson 1 for 2, 1R
• Trent Larsen 1 for 4
• Jeremiah Leiviska 1 for 4
• Jon Gaylord 1 for 5, 2RBI
• Derek Jacobson 1 for 5, 1RBI

Shortstop Trent Larsen gets set to drive a single to left in the 8th inning.

The Athletics next game is Sunday (6/1) against Apple Valley with game-time at 5:00.

The Athletics are 1-4 overall on the season.

Right fielder Matt Clarke gets set at the plate in the 7th inning.

Relief pitcher Jessie Schmidt winds and fires in the 9th inning for the Athletics.

Athletics Pitch Well But Lose Close Game, 2-0
Two-run 1st Inning Gives Savage The Game's Only Runs

But for a two-run inning in the 1st, the Lakeville Athletics pitched well on Tuesday night at Alimagnate Park, yet ended up losing a close ballgame to Savage 2-0. The Outlaws opened the game with two back-to-back doubles from their one and two hitters. Those would be the only hits of the night for Savage, but the Outlaws turned them both into two runs and that was all they needed for the win.

Coach Doug Johnson and Jon Wulff in the 2nd inning.

Jake Hauck started on the mound for the Athletics and pitched a very good ballgame. Other than the two opening hits, Hauck was nails as he held the Outlaws to just the two-hits through six innings of work, picking up four strikeouts in the process. Hauck had 1-2-3 innings in the 2nd, 3rd, 4th and 5th. The Outlaws loaded the bases in the 6th on a fielding error, a walk and a hit batter. Hauck then struck out the 7 hitter on a 1-2 pitch for a dropped 3rd strike, with catcher Brent Johnson quickly grabbing the ball and wisely stepping on home for the force to end the inning.

Starting pitcher Jake Hauck pitches well against Savage.

The Athletics had runners in scoring position in the 1st, 2nd and 3rd, but couldn't get the key hit when they needed it most. They had the bases loaded in the 2nd, but a horrible call at 3rd from the wrong umpire squelched the Athletics chances for a big inning.

Derek Jacobson gets set to drive a ball to center field in the 5th inning.

Lakeville out-hit Savage 7 to 2 in the ballgame. Catcher Brent Johnson, who has been hitting the ball very well, led the team at the plate, going 2 for 4 for the Athletics.

Jeremiah Leiviska looking for a single to right in the 8th.

Collecting hits for the Athletics were:

• Brent Johnson 2 for 4
• Eric Watts 1 for 2 (1BB)
• Nick Arvidson 1 for 4
• Mark Berger 1 for 4 (2B)
• Derek Jacobson 1 for 4
• Jeremiah Leiviska 1 for 4

The Athletics have two home games coming up this weekend. The team plays at Lakeville South at 2:00 on Saturday as they face Rosemount. They play again on Sunday against Apple Valley with game-time at 5:00.

Lakeville is 0-2 so far on the season.

The Lakeville Athletics downed the Minneapolis Cubs 3-2 in a pre-season tune-up game at Lakeville Cougar Field on Friday night.

Jake Houck started on the mound for the A's and pitched four innings, scattering three hits and two runs. Houck struck out three and walked none, but gave up two home runs to the Cubs clean-up hitter. Jeremiah Leiviska Came on in relief and pitched three innings for the win, scattering two hits with no runs. Leiviska had three strikeouts against just one walk.

Athletics lead off hitter Bryant Rogness led off the 1st with a single up the middle. Jon Gaylord followed with a hit of his own, beating out a slow roller to 3rd base. A balk then moved both runners up on the bases. Brent Johnson then reached on error when the right fielder dropped his fly ball, driving in Rogness in the process. Jeremiah Leiviska ripped an RBI single into left field for the second run of the inning, scoring Gaylord from 3rd.

Lakeville scored again in the 6th when Trent Larsen reached base on an error by the pitcher. Eric Watts moved the runner over with a hit to right field. Jon Wulff then came to the plate and delivered an RBI single to right, scoring Larsen to make the score 3-2 in favor of the Athletics.

Leiviska had to work out of a jam in the top of the 7th before earning the win. The Cubs opened with a base hit, followed by a sacrifice bunt to move the runner to 2nd. Leiviska got the number seven hitter to bounce a chopper to short, getting the out at 1st, but moving the tying run to 3rd. The number eight hitter walked on a full count to put the winning run at 1st, but Leiviska got the nine hitter to fly out to right to end the game and seal the win.

Collecting hits for the Athletics were:

• Jon Gaylord, 1 for 2
• Jeremiah Leiviska 1 for 3
• Bryant Rogness 1 for 4
• Jon Wulff 1 for 1
• Eric Watts 1 for 2

The Athletics next game is at Hastings Veterans Field at 7:30 on Wednesday night (5/14).
 

Hastings One-Hits Athletics
Lakeville Drops Non-League Game 6-1 With Makeshift Line-Up

The Athletics had a tough night at the plate in Hastings as three Raider pitchers combined for a one-hitter, holding Lakeville to just one hit, topping the A's 6-1 at Veterans Field.

Lakeville's lone hit and run came in the 4th inning. Mark Berger led off with a single through short. He stole 2nd and moved up to 3rd on a passed ball. Jeremiah Leiviska drove Berger home with an RBI groundout to 3rd.

Hastings scored one run in the 3rd, two in the 4th and three in the 7th.

Trent Larsen pitched four complete innings, scattering four hits and three runs, one of them unearned, while striking out four. Jeff Brisbois pitched the 7th and 6th innings, allowing no hits while striking out two and hitting one batter. Jessie Schmidt pitched the 7th, giving up three runs on one hit, three walks, one hit batter, a fielder's choice and two strikeouts. Mark Berger pitched a 1-2-3 8th inning to close for Lakeville.

The Athletics next game is against Burnsville in their league opener against Burnsville at Alimagnate at 7:00 on Sunday night (5/18).