Derek Hahn crushes the first pitch in the 2nd inning for the first of two home runs.

The Apple Valley Millers jumped all over the Athletics on Monday night at Legion Field, taking their first meeting of the season by a 9-4 score. A big six-run 4th inning was the difference as the Millers racked up 14 hits on the night.

Athletics pitcher Jeremiah Leiviska gets set to pitch in the 1st inning.

Jeremiah Leiviska had a rough evening on the hill as the Millers reached the big right hander for eleven hits and nine runs in the start. Leiviska managed just two strikeouts against six walks and one hit batter as he picked up the loss.

Jon Gaylord sprints out of the box after hitting a single to left in the 3rd.

The Athletics got off to an early lead in the top of the 2nd inning as catcher Derek Hahn led off and blasted the first pitch he saw over the right field fence for the first of his two home runs on the night, giving Lakeville a 1-0 lead. The Millers came right back and put up three runs in the bottom of the inning to take a 3-1 lead. They would not relinquish the lead from that point on. They added six runs in a breakout 4th inning to run the score to 9-1 in their favor.

Lakeville designated hitter Alex Messick hits a lead-off single to right in the 5th.

The Athletics fought back in the 5th inning for two runs. DH Alex Messick stroked a shot near the right field line for a lead-off base hit. Jim Gaylord hit a single up the middle to move Messick to 3rd. Shortstop  Derek Jacobson hit a fielder's choice to the shortstop, scoring Messick, but forcing Gaylord at 2nd. Bryan Jamieson advanced Jacobson to 2nd on an unassisted groundout to 1st. Jon Gaylord then came up and pounded a single to left to score Jacobson, making the score 9-3 Apple Valley.

Bryan Jamieson stands at 1st after an infield single in the 3rd inning.

The only other Athletics score of the game would come in the top of the 8th as Derek Hahn fought his way to a full count before launching his second home run of the night over the right field fence, making the score 9-4. Hahn was 2 for 4 on the night.

Lakeville 1st baseman Will Walsh at the plate in the 4th inning.

Jake Kruegel pitched the 5th through 8th innings with no runs allowed, scatterings three hits with one strike out, no walks and one hit batter.

Lakeville right fielder John Degerness at the plate in the 9th.

The Millers out-hit the Athletics 14-9 in the ballgame.

Collecting hits for the Athletics were...

• Derek Hahn  2 for 4, 2 HR, 2R, 2 RBI
• Jon Gaylord  2 for 4, SB, 1 RBI
• Bryan Jamieson  2 for 5
• Jim Gaylord  1 for 2
• Alex Messick  1 for 4, 1R

The Athletics next game is on the road Saturday against the Inver Grove Diamond Kings at Simley High School at 5:00.

Lakeville all-star shortstop Derek Jacobson has a day at the plate.

The Athletics got back in the win column on Sunday with a 6-4 victory over Inver Grove. Shortstop Derek Jacobson led the Athletics with a big day at the plate, going 4 for 5 with two doubles and two singles in his first four at bats.

Athletics pitcher Jake Hauck tossed a two-hitter at the Diamond Kings.

Jake Hauck got the start for Lakeville and pitched extremely well, tossing a two-hitter through seven complete innings, allowing just one run. Hauck struck out nine Inver Grove batters while walking just three in picking up the win for Lakeville.

First baseman Josh Storm holds former teammate Jon Wulff in the 1st inning.

The Diamond Kings took a 1-0 lead in the 1st, but the Athletics got on the board and tied it up in the 2nd inning. First baseman Josh Storm walked on four straight pitches. Left fielder Eric Watts then drove a hard hit ball to right field for a single to move Storm to 3rd base. With runners at the corners, designated hitter Brent Johnson hit a ball to the 2nd baseman who bobbled the chance, allowing Storm to score on the miscue and Johnson to reach 1st safely. The score was tied at 1-1 after two innings.

Catcher Derek Hahn drives a shot to the right fielder in the 2nd inning.

In the bottom of the 3rd, all-star shortstop Derek Jacobson led off with a another double into left field. Jacobson then took 3rd base on a passed ball with 2nd baseman Bryan Jamieson at the plate.  Jamieson walked to put runners at the corners once again for Lakeville. Center fielder Jon Gaylord came to bat, taking a wild pitch which scored Jacobson and moved Jamieson to 2nd base. Gaylord then deposited a single into shallow right field, moving Jamieson to 3rd, giving Lakeville runners at the corners again. Storm popped out to shortstop and catcher Derek Hahn flew out to right before 3rd baseman Trent Larson also received a wild pitch, which then scored Jacobson. Larson walked on a full count, as did Eric Watts, to load the bases for Lakeville. A dropped third strike to DH Johnson allowed the catcher to pick the ball up and step on home, forcing Gaylord for the 3rd and final out of the inning, but by that time Lakeville had a 3-1 lead.

Right fielder Jim Gaylord smokes a line shot right at the left fielder in the 4th.

In the 4th, right fielder Jim Gaylord lined out to lead off the inning with a hard hit shot at the left fielder. Jacobson then picked up his third hit of the game with a single up the middle and then promptly stole 2nd base. Jamieson hit a broken bat single to shallow right to once again give the Athletics runners at the corners. Jon Gaylord pounded a ball off the sliding left fielder's knee for a double, scoring Jacobson and Jamieson on the play to give Lakeville a 5-1 lead.

Jeff Brisbois pitches in the 8th inning as Eric Watts and Derek Jacobson look on.

In the 6th inning, Jon Gaylord led off with a walk. Storm moved the runner to second on a 4-3 groundout. With Hahn at the plate, a passed ball moved Gaylord to 3rd base. Hahn then walked and quickly stole 2nd. Larson flew out to right for the sacrifice fly to drive in Gaylord. Watts flew out to right to end the inning, but the Athletics held a 6-1 lead at that point.

The Diamond Kings, new to the league this season, put up two runs in the 8th and one in the 9th, but it wasn't enough as Lakeville held on for the 6-4 win.

Collecting hits for the Athletics were...

• Derek Jacobson 4 for 5, (2) 2B, 2R
• Jon Gaylord  2 for 4, 2B, 1R, SB, BB, 2 RBI, OBE
• Trent Larson  1 for 2, Sac Fly, 1 RBI, BB, HBP, SB
• Eric Watts  1 for 3, BB
• Bryan Jamieson  1 for 4, 2R, BB

The Athletics next game is on the road Monday at Apple valley versus the Millers at 7:45.

Lakeville pitcher Trent Larson ready to deliver pitch in the 1st inning.

Lakeville was missing five pitchers on Sunday in a non-league game against the Westside Bombers and it clearly cost the Athletics. On a cold rainy Sunday where many may have errantly thought the game was cancelled, Trent Larson was on hand and pitched five complete innings, cruising through four until his arm started to tighten in the 5th. Larson battled through his last inning, allowing two of his three walks on the day and the only runs given up during his outing. Larson pitched well, striking out eight while scattering five hits on the afternoon.

Alex Messick pitches in relief for the Athletics.

With no other available starters, coach Doug Johnson turned to hard throwing catcher Alex Messick, who was shaky his first inning, but quickly settled down for his last two and one third innings of work. Messick gave up four hits and four runs while striking out two. Mark Berger came on to pitch in relief in the 9th, throwing two thirds of an inning to finish the game. With one out, Berger got the first batter to fly out, walked the second batter and then had the final batter line out to 2nd baseman Matt Velasquez to end the game.

The Athletics put runs up early as they staked pitcher Larson to a 4-0 lead. With one out in the 1st, centerfielder Jon Gaylord walked on a full count. First baseman Josh Storm moved Gaylord to 2nd, hitting behind the runner on a 4-3 groundout. Catcher Derek Hahn was hit by a pitch to put runners at 1st and 2nd. Left Fielder Eric Watts then came to the plate and smoked an 0-1 pitch into the right field corner for a double, scoring both Gaylord and Messick to give Lakeville a 2-0 lead.

Left fielder Eric Watts just before his two RBI double in the 1st inning.

In the 4th inning, with one out, Watts reached first base on a full count walk to give the Athletics their first base runner. Third baseman Mark Berger, after guaranteeing his teammates a hit, then promptly scorched a line single up the middle to move Watts to 2nd. DH Brent Johnson stroked a hard hit 2-1 pitch down the left field line for a double, scoring Watts, to put Lakeville up 3-0. With Mark Berger at 3rd, right fielder Will Walsh grounded out to the pitcher, scoring Berger on the play to make the score 4-0.

DH Brent Johnson drives a double while coach and dad Doug Johnson looks on.

The Bombers put up three runs in the top of the 5th and three in the top of the 6th to take a 6-4 lead, but Lakeville came back in the bottom of the 6th to close the gap with another run. Derek Hahn led off the inning with a nice hit to right, but was caught stealing at 2nd. Watts flew out to right field before John Degerness walked on a full count. Relief pitcher Alex Messick smacked a hot single down the right field line to move Degerness up to 2nd. Will Walsh then hit a single over 2nd base to score Degerness, cutting the score to 6-5 in favor of the Bombers.

Soon to be married Mark Berger smiles at dugout after guaranteeing a hit.

Westside put up one more run in the top of the 9th to give them a 7-5 lead, but Lakeville came marching back. Will Walsh reached 1st base on an error by the shortstop. Matt Velasquez flew out to left center field before Bryan Jamieson reached base after being hit with a 2-2 pitch. A wild pitch to Jon Gaylord moved both Walsh and Jamieson to 2nd and 3rd, giving the Athletics a chance to tie the game. Gaylord flew out to the 2nd baseman before Josh Storm put a scare into the bombers with a hard to reach fly ball into left, but a great catch by the Westside shortstop sealed the 7-5 win for the Bombers, stranding both Lakeville runners.

Two-time CVL all-star Jon Gaylord hits a single to right in the 3rd inning.

Lakeville and Westside were even in hits with nine each.

Collecting hits for the Athletics were...

• Brent Johnson  1 for 2, 1R, 1 RBI
• Mark Berger  1 for 2, 1R, 2B
• Alex Messick  1 for 2
• Matt Velasquez  1 for 2
• Eric Watts  1 for 3, 2B, 1R, BB, 2 RBI
• Derek Hahn  1 for 3, 1R, HBP
• Jon Gaylord  1 for 4, BB, 1R
• Will Walsh  1 for 4, 2 RBI, 2 OBE
• John Degerness  1 for 1, 1R, BB

The Athletics next game is Sunday at home at Lakeville South versus Inver Grove Heights at 5:00. Lower reserved seating still available.

The Saturday (6/6) game with the Minneapolis Rocks has been postponed until further notice due to rain.

Starting pitcher Jake Hauck looks in for his sign in the 4th inning.

The Lakeville Athletics literally threw everything they had, except the kitchen sink, at the Bloomington Bandits on Wednesday night. In a non-conference game where coach Johnson wanted to get a look at some of his players, he probably didn't realize he would be one of them. Lakeville was out of players after a freak accident involving all-star shortstop Derek Jacobson, on a throw down to 2nd base in-between innings. The ball hit the front of the 2nd base bag and bounced up, hitting Jacobson squarely under the nose. The incident forced Jacobson to the bench and for coach Johnson to grab a glove and man 3rd base, as infielder Trent Larson shifted to shortstop. In the end it all worked out as the Athletics hung on for a 4-2 nail biter at the end.

Veteran catcher since 2000, Brent Johnson gives signs to the pitcher.

Jake Hauck started on the hill for Lakeville, pitching four complete innings in the shortened 7-inning contest. (Class-A league only plays 7-inning games due to field demand, so they can get two games in under the lights.) Hauck scattered four hits and allowed just one run, while stranding five Bloomington base runners. The righty struck out five and walked just one as he picked up the win.

Athletics veteran Mark Berger holds the runner at 1st base in the 5th inning.

After the Bandits scored one run in the bottom of the first, the Athletics got on the board in the 3rd inning when shortstop Derek Jacobson mashed a triple to center with just one out. Another batter and one out later, all-star center fielder Jon Gaylord walked and took 2nd on a stolen base with no-throw from the Bandits catcher. Left fielder Derek Hahn, 3 for 3 on the night, drove his second hit over short into left field, scoring both Jacobson and Gaylord, giving Lakeville a 2-1 lead.

2nd baseman Matt Velasquez at the plate in the 2nd inning.

In the 4th inning, catcher Brent Johnson led off with a walk on a full count, after being robbed earlier on a screaming liner into the hole between 1st and 2nd. Jim Gaylord came in to pinch run for Johnson, stealing 2nd base to put himself into scoring position. Third baseman Will Walsh then dropped a single into shallow right to move Gaylord to 3rd. Gaylord then scored on a double steal as the catcher actually threw down to 2nd with no cutoff, getting Walsh, but bringing in the run and giving Lakeville a 3-1 lead.

3rd baseman Will Walsh in the 2nd inning.

Lakeville added another insurance run in the 5th inning. Derek Jacobson pounded another deep fly to center, but this time the Bandits played him much deeper, getting the fly-out. Designated hitter Bryan Jamieson struck out swinging, but a passed ball dropped third strike allowed the alert Jamieson to take 1st base on the play. Jamieson then stole 2nd base to get in scoring position. One batter and one out later, Derek Hahn came back to the plate. A passed ball to Hahn scored Jamieson from third, giving Lakeville a 4-1 lead. Hahn then delivered his third hit of the night, another line shot into left.

Right fielder John Degerness bats in the 4th inning.

Jeff Brisbois came on to relieve Jake Hauck in the 5th and 6th, scattering just two hits while stranding four Bloomington runners. Brisbois had one strike out and one walk, but left after two innings due to arm soreness.

Coach and substitute 3rd baseman Doug Johnson steps to the plate in the 7th.

Bryan Jamieson finished the last inning in relief, but not before the Bandits put a scare into the Lakeville team by loading the bases. The Bandits were able to manage just one run in the effort, giving the Athletics the 4-2 win. Jamieson gave up only one hit while striking out one and walking two, stranding a pair of Bloomington  runners as he picked up the save.

The Bandits out-hit the Athletics 7 to 2, but Lakeville prevailed in the end for their third win of the season.

Collecting hits for the Athletics were...

• Derek Hahn  3 for 3, 2 RBI
• Derek Jacobson  1 for 3, 3B, 1R
• Will Walsh  1 for 2

The Athletics next outing is another non-league game this Saturday at home at Lakeville South versus the Minneapolis Rocks at 5:00. Plenty of prime seating is still available.

Josh Storm looks on as Derek Jacobson slides safely into home.

What a week of baseball for the Lakeville town team, three one-run games in less than seven days, not to mention extra innings twice. Sunday was just another added to the list after a tough 11-9 loss to Eagan. This year's team appears to be greatly improved from last season, although they don't have all the wins just yet to show for it. On Sunday the team broke out for nine runs, yet came out on the short end of the scoreboard.

In a game delayed one hour due to an umpire mix-up, Jeff Brisbois was the starting pitcher for Lakeville, going six complete innings, allowing 12 hits and eight runs, four of them being unearned. He had three strikeouts on the afternoon against just two walks while stranding five Eagan base runners.

Jeremiah Leiviska came on to pitch two and 2/3rds innings, giving up no runs and two hits, while striking out two and walking three.

Newcomer Jake Kruegel pitched 1 1/3rd innings, with three runs on three hits, striking out two while walking two.

Newcomer Jake Kruegel pitches in the 9th for the Athletics.

The Athletics got on the board in the 2nd inning as 3rd baseman Trent Larson led off with a single up the middle and advanced to 2nd on a wild pitch. Designated hitter Derek Hahn moved Larson to 3rd on a groundout to 1st. A wild pitch to left fielder Mark Berger then scored Larson for the first Lakeville run of the game.

3rd baseman Trent Larsen with the first of three hits as Will Walsh looks on.

In the 3rd inning, the Athletics had two outs before shortstop Derek Jacobson hit a single past the Eagan shortstop. The speedy Jacobson then scored on a hard hit ball to center from 2nd baseman Bryan Jamieson. First baseman Josh Storm then came to the plate and delivered his own single into center field, scoring Jamieson to put Lakeville up 3-2.

Designated hitter Derek Hahn strokes a single up the middle in the 5th.

The Athletics tacked four more runs on in the 4th. Derek Hahn led off with a 4-0 walk and was then moved to 2nd on a 4-3 groundout from Mark Berger. Center fielder Eric Watts pounded a double to the left center field fence, scoring Hahn. Catcher Alex Messick hit a single to the left of the outstretched 2nd baseman, scoring Watts. Jacobson then reached on an error with a high shallow fly ball over shortstop that the left fielder misplayed. Bryan Jamieson then slammed a double to the left field fence, scoring both Messick and Jacobson, making the score 7-4 Lakeville.

Catcher Alex Messick smacks an RBI single through the right side of the infield.

In the 7th inning, with one out, Jamieson pounded another double to left. Trent Larson beat out a ball hit to short, but the Eagan shortstop sailed the ball over the 1st baseman's outstretched glove, moving Larson to 2nd and scoring Jamieson. At that point the score was tied at 8-8.

2nd baseman Bryan Jamieson digs for home as Jeremiah Leiviska looks on.

For the second time in five days, Lakeville was headed to extra innings.

Eagan led off the top of the 10th by putting three runs on the board, making the score 11-8.

Mark Berger led off the bottom of the 10th by reaching safely on a fielding error by the 3rd baseman. Eric Watts then smoked a ball deep to left, scoring Berger all the way from 1st on the hit, giving Lakeville their final run of the day.

Center fielder Eric Watts gets set to pound another hit and drive in another run.

Eagan scored one in the 1st, one in the 3rd, two in the 4th, four in the 6th and three more in the top of the 10th, taking the high scoring game 11-9.

Collecting hits for the Athletics were...

• Bryan Jamieson  3 for 5, (2) 2B, 2R, 3 RBI
• Trent Larson  3 for 5, 1R, 1 RBI
• Eric Watts  2 for 5, 2B, 1R, 2 RBI
• Derek Jacobson  2 for 5, 2R
• Derek Hahn  1 for 3, 2BB, 1R
• Josh Storm  1 for 4, HBP, 1 RBI
• Alex Messick  1 for 5, 1R, 1 RBI

The Athletics next game is a non-league game in Bloomington on Wednesday at Red Haddox Field at 8:00 versus the Bloomington Bandits.

The week started for Lakeville with a 3-2 loss to Savage, but it also ended with a 3-2 win over Savage. The Athletics have played three close games in the last week, all decided by just one run. Thursday night at Fredrickson Field in Elko the team finally came out on the winning end by simply continuing what they've done all week, pitching very well against good teams.

1st baseman Josh Storm gets ready to drive the ball.

Jake Hauck started on the mound for the Athletics, pitching six solid innings of baseball, allowing just two hits on the night while striking out seven and walking four. The first hit came in the 2nd inning and the second hit in the 3rd, with a lead-off solo home run shot to left-center field. Hauck then took command, facing just three batters in the 4th and 5th and only four in the 6th, but he left the game with a two-hitter and Lakeville down 2-0. The quiet right hander rolled up four groundouts and stranded five Outlaw hitters on base, yet his teammates were also held to just two hits during his six-inning stint in the game.

Starting pitcher Jake Hauck threw a two-hitter through six innings of work.

Shortstop Derek Jacobson led off the bottom of the 6th with a full count and then a hit up the middle. He promptly stole 2nd to put himself in scoring position. Two batters late, center fielder Jon Gaylord doubled to the left-center gap to drive home Jacobson and cut the Savage lead to one, making the score 2-1.

Bryan Jamieson came on in the top of the 7th to relieve Hauck and pitched very well the rest of the game, going four innings while giving up just one hit. Jamieson had three strikeouts and just one walk, while also rolling up four groundouts and stranding two Outlaw runners on base.

(Savage game... continued top right column)

(Savage game... continued from bottom left column)

Veteran Mark Berger at the plate in the 6th inning.

Jon Gaylord was also instrumental in the Athletics second scoring drive as he led off the bottom of the 9th with a 4-2 walk. The 2007 team MVP then stole 2nd before 1st baseman Josh Storm hit a single into left field, moving Gaylord to 3rd base in the process. Matt Velasquez then pinch ran for Storm at 1st base. A balk with Mark Berger at the plate scored Gaylord, tying the score at two all.

Jim Gaylord pounds a ball to left field in the 2nd inning.

In the bottom of the 10th, Gaylord's twin brother Jim smoked a single to the right-center gap, but was thrown out trying to stretch the hit into a double. Catcher Derek Hahn then hit a single to right to reach base safely. Hahn then stole 2nd to put himself in scoring position. The Outlaws then elected to wisely give an intentional walk to hot hitting Derek Jacobson, who is hitting .556 in his first two games. Pitcher Bryan Jamieson then pounded a fly ball to the right field corner which was caught in foul territory, but deep enough to advance Hahn to 3rd after tagging up. Jon Gaylord came to the plate with runners at 1st and 3rd, walking on a 4-1 count to load the bases for Lakeville. Veteran Josh Storm quipped that since he was up past his bedtime the team may as well win. He delivered on his comment by stroking a 1-1 pitch into left field for the walk-off game winning hit, scoring Hahn for the 3-2 victory.

Matt Velasquez stands at 1st in the bottom of the 9th.

Relief pitcher Bryan Jamieson picked up the win for the Athletics.

Lakeville out-hit Savage eight hits to three for the evening.

Collecting hits for the Athletics were...

• Derek Jacobson  2 for 4, BB, 3 SB, 1R
• Josh Storm  2 for 5, game winning RBI
• Jon Gaylord  1 for 2, 3 BB, SB, 1R, 1 RBI
• Derek Hahn  1 for 4, SB, 1R
• Eric Watts  1 for 4
• Jim Gaylord 1 for 4

The Athletics next game is Sunday at Lakeville South high school at 5:00 versus the Eagan Bandits.
 

Starting pitcher Jeremiah Leiviska was nails for the Athletics on the mound.

The Athletics played without a doubt their best game of the year on the road against the Class C state champion Elko Express on Wednesday night, but found themselves once again on the short side of the stick with a 4-3 loss in the bottom of the 9th. In a night that saw the return of CVL all-star and Division III college national champion winner Derek Jacobson, as well as veteran all-star 2nd baseman and team leader Bryant Rogness, the Athletics played lights out baseball from the 1st inning on to the 9th.

Jeremiah Leiviska got the start on the hill for Lakeville and he didn't disappoint as he once again showed great command of his fastball and off-speed pitches, tossing a five-hitter at the defending Class-C state champs. The big right hander pitched a full eight complete innings, facing 35 batters and throwing 121 pitches on the night. Leiviska was in control from the start, not allowing a hit until the bottom of the 3rd. Elko didn't get on the scoreboard until the bottom of the 8th, as Leiviska kept the Express off balance the entire game. Needless to say, a quality start from Leiviska.

Veteran Bryant Rogess makes a cameo curtain call on a stellar Athletics career.

Some slick fielding from the middle infield tandem of Jacobson and Rogness, as well as fine outfield play, including a typical Jon Gaylord outstanding catch at the wall in the bottom of the 9th, set the tone for the evening. The entire infield and outfield played their A-game from start to finish, but a hotly disputed call by the umpire crew cost the team the tying run and perhaps the ballgame in the end.

It was a solid night of pitching for both teams as Lakeville didn't get on the board until the 5th inning. Centerfielder Jon Gaylord got the Athletics attack going with a base hit between 3rd and shortstop and then quickly stole 2nd to put himself in scoring position. First baseman Josh Storm then smoked a liner at the 1st baseman before right fielder Bryan Jamieson pounded a hit past 1st to score Gaylord, giving the Athletics a 1-0 lead.

Team RBI leader Bryan Jamieson stands at 1st after another run scoring hit.

Lakeville scored again in the 7th as 3rd baseman Trent Larson singled through the hole between 1st and 2nd. Catcher Derek Hahn then laid down a perfect sacrifice bunt along the first base side, almost beating the throw, while moving Larson into scoring position at 2nd. Designated hitter Jim Gaylord flew out to left before shortstop Derek Jacobson lined his third hit of the night into left field, scoring Larson to put the Athletics up 2-0.

All-star shortstop Derek Jacobson is back after winning Division III championship.

In the 8th inning, Jon Gaylord led off with a four-pitch walk. Josh Storm then slashed a hot single to right, moving Gaylord to 2nd. Team RBI leader Bryan Jamieson, a man of many positions so far this year, grounded out 1-3 to move Gaylord to 3rd. Eric Watts then stroked the first pitch he saw into right field to score Larson and give Lakeville a 3-0 lead.

Third year player Eric Watts stands at first after driving in the 3rd Athletics run.

Leiviska, returned to the mound for his final inning in the bottom of the 8th before allowing the Express their first multi-hit inning. Elko put two runs on the board and Leiviska retired with a 3-2 lead going into the 9th. Leiviska induced 11 groundouts on the night, striking out two and walking just two, while stranding eight Elko  runners. He also fielded his position extremely well during the game, getting four assists and a putout to help his cause.

Relief pitcher Trent Larson looks in for a sign in the bottom of the 9th.

Trent Larson came on in relief in the bottom of the 9th to close the game out. The Express led the inning off with a single up the middle, but Larson seemed to get squeezed on some quality pitches as the next batter walked on a 3-2 count to put runners at 1st and 2nd. The number two hitter then hit a deep shot to the centerfield wall, but all-star outfielder Jon Gaylord ran the ball down with a great catch at the fence, but the runners were able to tag and move up on the play. With the infield drawn in, shortstop Derek Jacobson fielded a sharply hit ball and immediately threw home to catcher Derek Hahn, who was clearly in front of the plate for the easy out, but the home plate umpire somehow missed the play and called the tying run safe. A "pickle-play" with runners at 1st and 3rd, seen all the way by Lakeville, scored the deciding comeback run for Elko on a tough throw at the plate.

Lakeville out-hit the Express 11 hits to 5.

Collecting hits for the Athletics were...

• Derek Jacobson  3 for 5, 1 RBI
• Trent Larson  2 for 4, 1R
• Bryan Jamieson  2 for 4, 1 RBI
• Jon Gaylord, 1 for 2, 2BB, 2R
• Jim Gaylord 1 for 4
• Josh Storm  1 for 4
• Eric Watts  1 for 1, 1 RBI

As heartbreaking as it was to drop a well played game, it was even tougher to say good bye to longtime nine year veteran 2nd baseman Bryant Rogness, who will be moving to Colorado as his wife accepts a two-year internship in Aurora. The Athletics infield mainstay came back for his only game of the season, but looked as though he had never stepped off the field. Always the reliable man at 2nd, Rogness fielded his position with the typical hallmark flare and style that Athletics' fans have enjoyed for years, turning the ball over quickly as always, just missing two double plays in the 3rd inning. Rogness' tough, gritty style of play will be missed by all, as well as his light hearted dugout demeanor, not to mention his always snappy banter with good friend and fielding compadre Josh Storm. Best of luck to Bryant as he moves west. Number one will always have a special place with the Lakeville Athletics. We wish you well Roggy.

Departing 2nd baseman Bryant Rogness with team manager Doug Johnson.

The Athletics next game is Thursday night, once again in Elko at Fredrickson Field, against Savage in a 7:30 night game.

It was a night of pitching as the Athletics battled against Savage at Alimagnate Park in Bursnsville. Jeff Brisbois got the start for Lakeville, pitching five complete innings, scattering seven hits and three walks in the outing. Brisbois was never really hit hard as he didn't allow any extra base hits, but the Outlaws made the most of the singles they had as they were able to scratch out three runs on the night. Brisbois struck out four, three of them looking as he stranded six base runners in the game, but it wasn't enough as Savage held the Athletics offense to just three hits. The Outlaws allowed four walks along with two fielding errors, but the Lakeville offense seemed to miss that timely hit when they needed it most.

Jeff Brisbois picking up a strike out in the 1st inning.

Lakeville got on the board in the 3rd as Trent Larson walked on a full count. Eric Watts reached safely on a fielder's choice to the 1st baseman, but Larson was safe at 2nd on a bobbled catch. Jon Gaylord reached base on an error by the 3rd baseman, loading the bags for Lakeville. Bryan Jamieson reached 1st on another Outlaw fielder's choice, but Larson was out at home on the 3-2 play. With the bases still loaded, Josh Storm had the third ball of the inning hit to 1st, reaching base on the third fielder's choice of the inning, while Eric watts was forced out 3-2 sliding into home. With the bases loaded once again, Mark Berger walked to bring in the first Athletics' run of the night, picking up the RBI in the process.

Josh Storm gets set to hit in the 1st inning for Lakeville.

Lakeville's only other run came in the 5th inning. Jon Gaylord hit a scorcher to the right of the shortstop that was too hot to handle. He then stole second base before RBI leader Bryan Jamieson pounded a ball into center field for a single, scoring Gaylord in the process to tie the game at 2-2. Jamieson alertly took 2nd on the throw home trying to get Gaylord, but was then stranded in scoring position with the go ahead run at the time.

Mark Berger at the plate in the 3rd inning.

The Outlaws scored two runs in the 4th and the eventual winning run in the 5th inning.

Jon Gaylord stands safely at 1st after a single in the 5th.

Collecting hits for the Athletics were...

• Jon Gaylord  1 for 3, 2R, BB, SB
• Bryan Jamieson  1 for 4, 1 RBI
• Josh Storm  1 for 4

The Athletics next game is Wednesday night in Elko at 7:30.

The Lakeville Athletics opened their official Cannon Valley League schedule on Sunday afternoon at Alimagnate Park against the Rosemount Black Sox with a very close ballgame right down to the end. The game was pretty much even through seven and a half innings, but a wild two-error 8th inning saw the wheels come off in a hurry as the Athletics dropped their opener with a somewhat misguided score of 9-2.

Athletics pitcher Jeremiah Leiviska brings the heat against the Black Sox.

Jeremiah Leiviska started on the hill for Lakeville, pitching well for seven full innings, scattering six hits and just two runs as he threw 114 pitches without a decision. Leiviska has pitched very well in just a few outings so far, which bodes well for Lakeville pitching this year. An imposing figure on the mound with a solid fastball, Leiviska has had good command of his change-up in the first few games, able to keep Rosemount hitters off balance most of the afternoon. Rosemount scored one run in the bottom of the first to take a 1-0 lead early, but that didn't seem to phase Leiviska, who seemed to grow stronger as the game continued, facing only four to five batters max per inning.

1st baseman Josh Storm stands on 2nd after pounding a double in the 3rd.

Offensively for the Athletics, veteran 1st baseman Josh Storm had a great day at the plate, leading Lakeville hitters by going 2 for 4 with a double, a single and two RBI on the afternoon.

The Athletics got on the scoreboard in the 2nd inning as left fielder Eric Watts ripped a single past the 2nd baseman to get things going offensively for Lakeville. Right fielder Jim Gaylord moved the runner to 2nd before twin brother and perennial CVL all-star centerfielder Jon Gaylord reached on an error to the shortstop, moving Watts to 3rd. Gaylord then stole 2nd base before Storm came to the plate and pounded a 2-2 pitch to the right center gap, driving in both runners to make the score 2-1 Athletics.

Newcomer Bryan Jamieson gets a lead at 1st after hitting a 4th inning single.

Leviska only faced six batters once, in the 6th inning, but a lead-off walk, a single and a hit batter loaded the bases before a sac fly to right tied the game at two-all. Leiviska left the 6th with 102 pitches on the afternoon, but said he wanted one more inning. Manager Doug Johnson allowed the big right hander to return and Leiviska didn't disappoint. He quickly rolled up a groundout and induced a fly-out for the first two outs before walking the third batter, Rosemount's speediest base threat. Leiviska then immediately got the runner caught in a rundown with a great move to 1st to pick up the 3rd out. After 114 pitches, that was a day for the Athletics' pitcher.

Jeff Brisbois looks for a sign from the catcher in the 8th inning.

Jeff Brisbois came on in the bottom of the 8th in relief, but a fielding error and a throwing error in the same inning seemed to be enough to upset the inning and act as a catalyst for a six-run Rosemount outburst, two of the runs unearned after the two Athletics errors. The Black Sox were able to hang onto the lead in the top of the 9th for the Rosemount win.

Collecting hits for the Athletics were...

• Josh Storm  2 for 4, 2B, 1B, 2 RBI
• Eric Watts  1 for 3, 1R
• Jon Gaylord  1 for 4, 2 SB, 1R
• Alex Messick  1 for 4
• Bryan Jamieson  1 for 4

The Athletics next game is Thursday, May 21st against Burnsville at Alimagnate Park at 7:30pm.
 

Newcomer Derek Hahn strokes a ball past 3rd in the 5th inning.

In their last game the wheels fell off late to cost the Athletics, but on Thursday night against Burnsville, it was the 1st inning that was the Achilles heel for Lakeville. Two walks, a hit batter, and a throwing error, combined with five Burnsville hits produced seven Bobcat runs that would eventually be a huge difference that the team was unable to overcome in a 12-5 loss at Alimagnate Park. Burnsville just barely out-hit Lakeville 11 hits to 10, but four Athletics' errors didn't help much towards the final score.

Jeremiah Leiviska had a rough outing on the mound, allowing five hits, two walks, two hit batters and seven runs with one strike out through 51 pitches in 3 innings. Leiviska has been tough to beat on the hill for Lakeville so far this season, but Burnsville was able to get to him early, showing how tough consistency can be in the game of baseball. Jake Hauck started the 4th inning, and pitched 3 innings in his first outing of the year, scattering five hits, three strikeouts, two walks, and hitting one batter as he gave up five runs (one of them unearned) on 61 pitches. Trent Larson came on in relief to pitch the 7th and 8th innings, allowing just one hit with three strikeouts and one walk through 31 pitches.

Pitcher Jake Hauck makes his first appearance of the season for the Athletics.

Lakeville got on the board in the top of the 1st as Jon Gaylord doubled down the left field line and was driven home two batters later on an RBI single from Bryan Jamieson. The Athletics scored four runs in the 5th to cut the score to 9-5. Shortstop Trent Larson singled to left center field with catcher and newcomer Derek Hahn following with a single past 3rd. Three batters later, center fielder Jon Gaylord walked to load the bases before first baseman Mark Berger rolled a single to the Burnsville 3rd baseman who was hoping the ball would go foul, scoring Larson in the process. With the bases loaded once again, third baseman Bryan Jamieson pounded a bases clearing double over the center fielder, who temporarily made an outstanding catch near the wall, but couldn't hang onto the ball as he fell hard to the ground.

Nick Arvidson, the man who coined the term "swunt" (swinging bunt) is back in '09.

The Bobcats picked up their other runs with two in the 4th inning and three more in the 6th to complete their scoring.

Collecting hits for the Athletics were...

• Bryan Jamieson  2 for 4, 2B, 4 RBI
• Jon Gaylord  2 for 4, 2B, BB, 2R
• Derek Hahn  2 for 4, 1R
• Jim Gaylord  1 for 3, SB
• Mark Berger  2 for 5, 1R
• Trent Larson  1 for 4, 1R

The Athletics next game is Memorial day Monday, May 25th, against the Savage Outlaws, once again at Alimagnate Park at 7:30 under the lights.

Athletics players shake hands with Pioneers after 4-2 season opening win.

The Lakeville Athletics started the 2009 season off with a 4-2 win on the road at Pine Island against the Pioneers. The non-league game was part of two weekend tune-up games for the Athletics as they prepare for the upcoming Cannon Valley League season.

The Athletics used three pitchers on a somewhat chilly afternoon, with Jeremiah Leiviska getting the start for Lakeville. Leiviska pitched four strong innings, throwing 40 pitches while allowing just one hit and no runs. He struck out one while walking none, getting four fly-outs with six groundouts in the outing. The Athletics defense rolled up their first double-play of the year behind Leiviska in the 3rd, a 6-4-3 from Larson to Velasquez to Berger. Only one run reached scoring position against Leiviska.

Jeff Brisbois pitched three innings, scattering five hits and two runs, while striking out two against one walk. He had four fly-outs with two groundouts and one hit-by-pitch. He stranded five Pioneer runners.

Mark Berger closed the game out for the Athletics, pitching two innings, allowing just one hit with no runs. He struck out one and walked two, while inducing three Pioneer groundouts. Berger stranded four Pioneer runners while picking up the win.

Offensively the Athletics scored two runs in the 6th inning as 2nd baseman Matt Velasquez led off with a single and moved to 2nd on a wild pitch. Newcomer Jim Gaylord stroked a single down the 3rd baseline to score Velasquez. First baseman Mark Berger hit a single over the first baseman into right before Jeremiah Leiviska slapped an RBI single to right, scoring Gaylord.

In the 8th, Jim Gaylord looked at twin brother Jon in the on-deck circle and prophetically said he was going to get on base and Jon would have to drive him in. True to form, Jim reached on a fielder's choice before Jon then stroked a double to the left center gap to score him. Jon moved to 3rd on a ball hit to the shortstop by Mark Berger and then scored on a throwing error trying to get Berger at 1st base.

Collecting hits for the Athletics were...

• Jim Gaylord  2 for 4, 2R, 1 RBI
• Jeff Brisbois  1 for 3
• Matt Velasquez  1 for 3
• Jon Gaylord  1 for 4, 2B, 1 RBI
• Mark Berger  1 for 4, 1 RBI
• Jeremiah Leiviska  1 for 4, 1 RBI
• Eric Watts  1 for 4

The Pioneers scored one run each in the 5th and the 7th innings. Lakeville out-hit Pine Island 8-7. The Athletics are 1-0 on the new season and play at home Sunday at 2:00 against Wesley Homes.

Starting pitcher and veteran Trent Larson deals from the mound in the 1st inning.

The Lakeville Athletics split their non-league tune-up weekend with an 8-2 loss to Wesley Homes on Sunday afternoon at Lakeville South. The visitors from Minneapolis put up two runs in the 4th, two in the 5th, and four more in the 9th to outdistance the Athletics at home.

Trent Larson started on the mound for Lakeville and threw very well, pitching three innings in his first start before tiring. But when he did throw, it was pretty good stuff, giving up just two hits, and no runs, with two strikeouts and one walk. Larson had a runner in scoring position in each inning, but was able to strand all three.

Newcomer Bryan Jamieson pitched three innings, scattering four hits while allowing four runs. The promising sidewinder struck out two while walking two, but gave up a two run home run in the 4th.

Veteran Jeff Brisbois came on to pitch the 7th and 8th, allowing just one hit, with five fly-outs and one groundout. It was the second good outing from Brisbois this weekend.

Jeremiah Leiviska pitched the 9th, giving up two hits and four runs, one of them unearned. He had three walks and one hit batsman.

Alex Messick drives a ball over the 1st baseman onto the right field line in the 7th.

Offensively, Lakeville didn't get on the board until the 6th inning. First baseman Josh Storm led off the inning with a single past 1st base. Jeremiah Leiviska moved him up by reaching safely on a fielding error under the glove by the 3rd baseman. Catcher Alex Messick, back with the team after leaving in 2007, dropped a single near the right field line to load the bases. Left field Eric Watts then delivered an RBI single to the right of 2nd base to score Storm, driving in the first Athletics run.

Lakeville didn't score again until the 8th inning when Messick led off by beating out a single to 3rd. He moved up to 2nd on a wild pitch and two batters later reached 3rd on an infield groundout by Watts. Trent Larson, now playing shortstop, slashed a single past the 3rd baseman to plate Messick for the second and last Athletic run of the afternoon.

Left fielder Eric Watts drives the first Athletics run in with a single past 2nd.

Both teams were even with nine hits apiece, but the final difference was an 8-2 score.

Collecting hits for the Athletics were...

• Trent Larson  2 for 3, HBP, 1 RBI
• Eric Watts  2 for 3, BB, 1 RBI
• Jon Gaylord  2 for 3, 2 BB
• Alex Messick  2 for 4, 1 R
• Josh Storm  1 for 5, 1 R

Jon Gaylord in the 7th, ready to pound a single past the shortstop.

The Athletics, playing without a full roster due to some key players still involved in college playoffs, are 1-1 so far and will begin their league schedule next Sunday afternoon against the Rosemount Black Sox at 4:00 at Burnsville's Alimagnate Park.
 

VETERAN ROGNESS MOVING TO COLORADO
Longtime Athletics 2nd Baseman Will Be Missed By Team

Longtime Athletics veteran 2nd baseman Bryant Rogness will be leaving the team this summer as he moves to Colorado. Rogness has been a popular member of the team since joining the Athletics in 2001. The team will certainly miss "B-Rog" very much, but wishes him and his wife all the best in their move west.

Second baseman Bryant Rogness drives a single to left field.

THE 2008 SEASON

A Look Back At 2008

The 2008 Season Archives