First Place Hogs remain undefeated
with a tie against the Playa Haters

By Boe Hayward

Fort Scott Ball Field, San Francisco - Fighting harsh conditions and a four run deficit, the B.O.S Hogs (3-0-1) showed why they are in first place, scoring 4 runs in the last two innings to secure their first tie of the season with a six to six game against the Playa Haters (1-1-1).

The Playa Haters featured a backhanding, highball pitcher that seemed to confuse the surprisingly silent Hogs offense. Unable to break the 10 run threshold for the first time this season, the Board of Supes squad simply could not get the big hit to seal their 4th win of the season.

The Hogs dealt with an early 4 run deficit, trailing the Haters two to six, but as usual, the Hogs battled back to avoid their first loss of the season.

Sean Elsbernd and Boris Delepine led the team with home runs. Elsbernd's, his league leading 4th round tripper of the early season, came late in the game and ended up being the game saver for the Hogs. Delepine's bomb was his first of the season, but he explained that more were on the way, "I am finally feeling my swing. That was my first, but it will not be my last."

Rob Black hit lead off for the Hogs and played a solid defense in left center. His better half, Lisa Williams Black also played a solid game. Williams "Paint it" Black caught a solid game for pitcher Boe Hayward who managed to strike out 6 batters, while walking three. "Boe pitched okay, but he needed to throw a few more strikes," explained Williams-Black after the game. "He was wild early, but seemed to settle down as the game went on."

The Hogs, never afraid to show their team unity came out batting to their favorite songs. Defensive whiz and offensive spark, John Avalos, or DJ Avalos as he is now known, put the album together. "This team is unified and I like to see the team dance in the dug out. We are having a blast out there and we are not afraid to show it."
Avalos' CD spanned the gambit. Showing the diversity of San Francisco, the Hogs marched to the plate to What's so funny about peace love and understanding by Elvis Costello and also Godzilla by Blue Oyster Cult.

Amanda "Doozer" Kahn showed her attitude early. Waiting for her first at-bat, the Dooze noticed that the green of her Yale sweatshirt (worn to channel Josh Fried, who is both her boyfriend and a star East coast softballer) and the Red of her Hogs uniform resembled a Christmas decoration, the Dooze yelled, "Screw Christmas… I'm a Jew."

Unfortunately, the Playa Haters had the Hogs' designated hitter played perfectly and limited Kahn to one hit on the night.

The Hogs did load the bases in the final inning with one out, but they could not push the winning run across the plate for the win. "I had my pitch and just didn't put a good swing on it," said the dejected True after the game.

All in all, the Hogs have to be happy with the tie, as their pitching, defense, base running and hitting all left something to be desired and leaves the team with plenty of work to do during their two week break.

"We would've loved to get the W, but we are still undefeated. This is not a bad way to go into our bye week," explained Sarah Ballard. "Our team will have a practice and a team building event over our break. However, it sure is great to be in first place."

The B.O.S Hogs certainly can be happy with their early start. With a 3-0-1 record, the Hogs will come out of their two-week absence in first place and ready for a strong second half. "I know that we will be ready for our next game," said Cassandra "C-squared" Costello.

Notes:
John Gavin and Angela Calvillo missed the game due to community meetings and non-profit fundraising. They are both expected to make the next game.

On Monday, November 14th, the B.O.S Hogs will take on Salmon Nation (1-3) at 8:30 on Field #1. Salmon Nation lost a close one to the Mayor's Office (2-1-0) in the late game. Both Sarah Ballard and Frances Hsieh chipped in to help the Mayor's squad contributing with solid offense and defensive play.

Stats:
Home Runs: Elsbernd (4), Delepine (1)
Pitching: Hayward (3-0-1)

Please email boehayward@gmail.com with any comments, questions or suggestions.

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