Pregame, Game, Postgame

We have SLAM tonight at 6:45pm and I will be out there about 5:45pm to warmup.

Last week's postgame partiers were able to scout our opponent and what they saw were high arcs from their pitcher (especially after two strikes), good defense and strong swings from just over half the team. We played well against SLAM previously and we will have the confidence to hit them hard again. We have been playing energized ball out there and need to keep it up to move up in the standings.

Tonight's postgame beer is already on ice and after my purchase yesterday, I think Schaefer's may sponsor our team next year. "Beers Around the World" is the theme tonight. Jeff "Postgame Allstar" Danielsen will be hosting the festivities.

In other news, the Radtke family buzzed by the No Glove Nationals on Saturday. Here are a few notes from the visit.

• Strong, quick and smart was the theme that I saw out there. Notice I did not say young. Most of these guys have turned 21 twice, have real jobs that require physical strength (unlike me) and can drink beer by the gallon (like my brother). They must spend the rest of their time at the gym, bar or softball fields.
• There was an arc limit and they started with a 0-0 count, which are two things that the Cougars could have used earlier in the season. That said, these guys pounded the ball hard into the ground with tomahawk chops that skipped right between the fielders and strong line drives in the gaps.
• Aggressive baserunning was key. Many hit and runs were executed. Not sure if we are there yet but I am sure Martin will lead the way with his daring wheels.
• The Forest Park softball fields and adjacent swimming pool rival anything we have in Wilmette. This is also where the 16-inch Softball Hall of fame will be housed. http://www.16inchsoftballhof.com/
• Cool uniforms (or at least jerseys) are important for next year. We may as well look the part of a softball team. I am not sure what we will end up with yet, but our female fans would look good in any of these. http://shop.cafepress.com/cougar?cmp=KNC-G-PC-ZOO
• The food and drink were excellent. I downed a hot dog with onions and mustard, a double hulled steak taco with hot sauce, three beers and an ice cream. A great afternoon.