The other two newcomers are coming from Europe. The Venezuelan Richard Bermudez is playing in Austria for a couple of years. The German utility player Tobias Rein played for the Rosenheim 89ers and has moved to Kufstein. Key players Werner Harrasser, Koichi Hida and Mark Malerich are coming back. Malerich has taken over as head coach of the club, going into his third year with the Vikings.

The ABF also announced the league lineup for 2012. The Diving Ducks and the Dornbirn Indians return to the ABL, replacing the RiCo Highlanders and the Schwechat Blue Bats. The schedule hasn’t been released yet.

2012 Austrian Baseball League

• Athletics Attnang-Puchheim
• Vienna Metrostars
• Vienna Wanderers
• Stock City Cubs
• Dornbirn Indians
• Schwaz Tigers
• Union Kufstein Vikings
• Diving Ducks

Additionally the ABF created a Facebook fan page. Check by and “Like” if you want.

Check out the Austrian Hardball blog by Clemens Cichocki of the Vienna Wanderers. You can expect something from this:

The blog is about baseball, particularly baseball in Austria/Europe (for those who didn’t know: the baseball culture is a little different in Europe than it is in the US). It is for people who want to follow the progress that baseball in Austria is going through, the issues that come up along the way and the solutions that are found. Additionally it is for people who want to share their opinions as well, and hopefully spark some constructive discussions. In the future, it could turn into a platform for more independent coverage of baseball in Austria. Not everything will be, or should be taken, completely serious. Feelings could get hurt and controversies will come up. There will be posts on games, leagues, players, officials, fields, issues that we face, and hopefully many other exciting events that will take place. Basically, anything related to baseball, especially baseball in Austria, has a chance to find its way onto this blog.

Best Batter: Christian Tomsich (Vienna Wanderers)
Best Pitcher: Wayne Ough (RiCo Highlanders)
MVP Regular Season: Josh Castanza (Athletics Attnang-Puchheim)
MVP Playoffs: Jeff Tezak (Vienna Metrostars)

Gold Gloves ABL 2011
Pitcher: Chris Magarian (Vienna Wanderers, FA 1.000 )
Catcher: Andre Gruber (Athletics Attnang-Puchheim, CPCT .833)
First Base: Raphael Ludwig (RiCo Highlanders, FA .979)
Second Base: Patrick Pradka (Stock City Cubs, FA .955)
Third Base: Harald Pointner (Athletics Attnang-Puchheim, FA .950)
Shortstop: Johnny Kashuba (Athletics Attnang-Puchheim, FA .933)
Leftfield: David Dorffner (Vienna Metrostars, FA 1.000)
Centerfield: Francois DuToit (Vienna Wanderers, FA 1.000)
Rightfield: Martin Rabengruber (Athletics Attnang-Puchheim, FA .923)

ABL All Star Team 2011*
Pitcher: Walter Strasser (Athletics Attnang-Puchheim)
Catcher: Jeff Tezak (Vienna Metrostars)
First Base: David Burns (Athletics Attnang-Puchheim)
Second Base: Benjamin Husty (Vienna Wanderers)
Third Base: Felix Zimmerle (Vienna Wanderers)
Shortstop: Johnny Kashuba (Athletics Attnang-Puchheim)
Leftfield: Christoph Loschy (Vienna Wanderers)
Centerfield: Lukas Scheicher (Athletics Attnang-Puchheim)
Rightfield: Martin Rabengruber (Athletics Attnang-Puchheim)
(*voted by ABL teams)

Game 3:

As expected, Walter Strasser took the mound to start for the home team, who was down to their last hopes of defending their championship. For the Vienna Metrostars, head coach Tim Patrick sent Jakob Simonsen to try and clinch the championship. The Metrostars offense, which had trouble in the first few innings against Strasser, used a home run by Lutz Rauch to build a 3-0 lead in the third.

The A’s, fired up by their fans, came back with their own long ball, a shot by Jonny Kashuba that cut the lead to 3-2. Strasser looked to keep it close, but a double by Jeff Tezak put him on the ropes again. Tezak was brought in later in the inning, pushing the lead to 4-2. Richard Alzinger replaced Simonsen for the Metrostars.

The ice cold temperatures couldn’t hold back either team, as A’s fought back and the Metrostars tried to close it out. Attnang adjusted to the new pitcher, but had to settle with leaving runners in scoring position. In the eighth, Hubert Weiser replaced Alzinger, hoping to reduce the drama and close out the win and the series, but the A’s had other ideas. Dave Burns, with one swing of the bat, gave the A’s a 5-4 lead with his home run, bringing in Martin Rabengruber as well. The Metrostars tried to rally in the top of the ninth inning, but left runners on first and second as the A’s closed the series to 2-1.

Game 4:

Josh Castanza started game four despite a shoulder injury that most fans had expected to keep him sidelined for the remainder of the series. The Metrostars weren’t impressed, and in the second inning got on the board. Dominik Loeffler drove in a couple of his teammates, putting his team on top 2-0 early. The A’s capitalized on an error in the bottom half of the inning to make it 2-1, as JT Hilliard wasn’t as dominant as in his last start. In the third, the pitcher allowed bombs to Burns and Kashuba, as the A’s took the lead.

With their plan of clinching the title on Saturday starting to run amok, Castanza was looking more the role of the hero. Despite the pain, the pitcher kept his team in the lead into the sixth inning. The Metrostars began a rally with a sacrifice fly to cut into the A’s lead, but they would continue the rally deep into the inning. A few batters later, with bases loaded, Rauch drove in two more runs to force Castanza from the hill. Burns took over on the mound, and Castanza went into the field, where the next horror scene would play out for the A’s. In diving for a ball, Castanza landed on his bum shoulder, and needed assistance in being helped off the field. Playing without one of their leaders, the A’s gave up a hit and a walk, and Alex Hilliard came up big for the guests, putting the ball to the fence and giving the Metrostars a big lead.

Up 8-4 late in the game, the Metrostars brought in Weiser to try and protect the lead, as Hilliard had given up a couple long shots. But Weiser couldn’t find his control, and after a walk and a hit, Burns hit his third homer of the day, chopping the lead down to one with a single stroke. Despite his offensive success, he was pulled from the mound in favor of Kashuba. The new arm didn’t deter the Vienna offense, as the Metrostars tallied hit after hit to extend the lead back to four. Now up 11-7 late in the game, Tezak was brought in to close for the Metrostars. Like in a scene from a bad movie, Tezak had little help behind him, as the defense fumbled through the motions and let the A’s load the bases. Tezak was able to limit the damage to two runs, but the now two-run lead was far from safe given all that had happened.
Lutz Rauch did his part to keep the Metrostars out in front, hitting his second home run and extending the lead by one, but the A’s still had a shot to come back.

The A’s loaded the bases in the ninth, bringing the winning run to the plate. Tezak was able to get two outs, bringing Kashuba to the plate with a chance to tie or even win the game. Tezak would have none of that, striking out the slugger, and triggering a celebration erupting from the Metrostars dugout: Champions 2012.

ABL Finals:

Vienna Metrostars @ Attnang-Puchheim Athletics – 2-0

“There will be no losing!” is the motto in game three for the Athletics, down two games to none. After losing games one and two, and their possible game four starter Josh Castanza, the men from Attnang will have to sweep the remaining games this weekend to defend their title. In front of their home crowd, they’ve been a juggernaut this year, losing just two home games. The Metrostars, as chance would have it, were responsible for one of those.

In addition to the advantage the large crowds bring, the A’s have a power potency at home that makes them even more dangerous. With Dave Burns (last years playoff MVP) and Walter Strasser (Austrian National Team pitcher), the team hopes to make the next game a quick one with plenty of offense and some shutdown pitching. Going three for three will be a tough task, especially without their foreign pitcher for game four, but getting to that game is the primary goal.

After the Metrostars cruised into the final by upsetting the favored Vienna Wanderers three games to one, they repeated their strong series opening statement by defeating the A’s in extra frames, and crushing them in the follow-up. The M’s now travel up into the mountains in hopes of raising the twelfth title in the clubs history.

Game three starter Strasser will make that goal hard to accomplish in the first game on Saturday. The pitcher has been dominant this season, but as game one of the Championship showed, anything is possible. If the A’s force a game four, then the Metrostars will turn to JT Hilliard, who has been reliable all season, and will give them a shot to win that gold medal.

A fifth game would also be in the Metrostars favor, as coach Tim Patrick has a deeper staff he can send out to the mound to hold the A’s bats in check. Yet few would have imagined the Metrostars would be on the brink of a championship, and still anything can happen. As Yogi Berra said: It ain’t over ‘til it’s over.

GAMES:
Attnang-Puchheim Athletics @ Vienna Metrostars
Saturday, 15. October, Attnang Puchheim – Athletics Ballpark

Game 3: 12:00 Uhr
Game 4*: 15:00 Uhr

Sunday, 16. October, Attnang Puchheim – Athletics Ballpark
Game 5*: 13:00 Uhr

* if necessary

Results:
Saturday, October 8:
Vienna Metrostars – Athletics Attnang-Puchheim 5-4 (10)
Vienna Metrostars – Athletics Attnang-Puchheim 15-4 (7)
(Metrostars lead Series 2-0)

Attnang-Puchheim Athletics @ Vienna Metrostars

The season goal for the Metrostars in 2011 was to represent the club in the playoffs. That goal was achieved, although head coach Tim Patrick had to suffer through some nail biters during the regular season, which put those post-season dreams in doubt. IN the first round of the playoffs, the young team overwhelmed their local rivals in the first two games to take a commanding series lead, and closed it in game four. They may not have a star pitcher, but Patrick has a large staff to work with, which gives them a good chance to win.

JT Hilliard, who started in 13 of a possible 14 games, served his team like a workhorse. In the semi-finals against the Wanderers he allowed just one run in the two games he pitched. For most it was just a question of time before the youngster found some success to match his potential. Import Jeff Tezak carried a large load in the defense, but also was the center of a developing lineup that caught fire this year, and can surely be a title contender for years to come.

It was borderline disappointment that the A’s couldn’t sweep the Tigers in their semi-final, which they had done the year before in the Austrian Championship. Once at home they closed it out, showing why the team has been so dangerous at home and are ready to reclaim the trophy. The season began well, but Head Coach Trevor Rooper had to keep his men motivated after a disappointing European Cup Qualifier hosted in their own park. The goal had been the final, but they finished third in the group. Injuries to Christpoh Schwecherl and Andre Gruber hit the team hard, as well.

Yet the A’s bounced back even stronger than before, and were able to win the regular season championship despite tough competition from the Wanderers. The roster is nearly identical to last years championship team, but Jonny Kashuba, one of the most dangerous home run threats in the ABL, teamed up with star pitcher Josh Castanza to create a dominating duo on both sides of the ball.

Walter Strasser and Castanza pitched their team to a sweep in the last matchup between the A’s and M’s, combining for 25 K’s, over two complete games, allowing a single run. The series starts out in Vienna, where the large outfield of the Wiener Prater will reduce the power threat of the Athletics. It should be a close matchup between a recent powerhouse and an upcoming, young club, and although the weather may not be ideal, fans can expect two exciting games in Vienna this weekend.

Games:
Attnang-Puchheim Athletics @ Vienna Metrostars
Saturday, Vienna – Spenadlwiese

Game 1: 14:00
Game 2: 17:00

Games 3,4 and 5 in the Best-of-5 Series follow next weekend in Attnang-Puchheim.

Results:
Saturday, October 1:
GEI Athletics Attnang-Puchheim – Schwaz Tigers 15-4
GEI Athletics Attnang-Puchheim – Schwaz Tigers 10-0 (A’s winning Series 3-1)
Vienna Wanderers – Vienna Metrostars 10-1
Vienna Wanderers – Vienna Metrostars 0-5 (Metrostars winning Series 3-1)

Schedule:
Saturday, October 1:
12:00 Athletics Attnang-Puchheim – Schwaz Tigers
15:00 Athletics Attnang-Puchheim – Schwaz Tigers
14:00 Vienna Wanderers – Vienna Metrostars
17:00 Vienna Wanderers – Vienna Metrostars*
Sunday, October 2:
13:00 Athletics Attnang-Puchheim – Schwaz Tigers*
15:00 Vienna Wanderers – Vienna Metrostars*
*if necessary

Semifinal I:

Attnang-Puchheim Athletics @ Schwaz Tigers

In the first game of the semifinal between the Tigers and the A’s, the defending champs from Attnang broke out the heavy lumber on offense. Johnny Kashuba, Michael Nedelcu, and Martin Rabengruber put the ball over the fence for the guests, helping them get out in front 8-2 by the third inning. Walter Strasser kept the Tigers batsmen in check despite allowing a single run in the first and third innings. Although they had built a large lead quickly, the A’s didn’t back off the throttle, and got on the board in the fifth and seventh as well. Thomas Schrittwieser replaced Strasser in the sixth, and was even more successful at shutting down the Tiger bats, securing the game by the score of 11-2.

Game two pitted the foreigners Josh Castanza (Atheltics) against Jason Fronczak (Tigers). Both were able to rely on their defense early on, with the solid effort by both teams keeping the score close in the early innings. The Tigers struck first, taking a 1-0 lead in the third, but the A’s fought back in the fifth with an RBI double by pitcher Castanza to tie it up. For the hosts, Fronczak was able to keep everyone but his countryman on the A’s roster in check, and even gave himself some help with a home run to take a 2-1 lead in the seventh. He gave up just two hits, but was replaced in the eighth by Franz Haisjackl, who sat down the next four hitters without any trouble to even the series at one, as the action moves to Attnang next weekend.

Semifinal II:

Vienna Wanderers @ Vienna Metrostars

With a big crowd out to catch the Vienna derby renewed in the playoffs, the Metrostars sent Stefan Ludescher to the mound to square off against Christian Tomsich of the Wanderers.

A base hit brought around player/coach Hiroyuki Sakanashi to open the scoring, on an RBI by Clemens Cichocki. The Metrostars were able to get runners on base and threaten to even it up or take the lead, but Tomsich was able to put down the threat again and again. In the fifth, the Metrostars struck hard, and took a 3-2 lead over the Wanderers, while it was the Wanderers who were leaving runners on base. The Metrostars brought in Jakob Simonsen in relief, who was strong into the seventh, when a defensive mistake behind him allowed the Wanderers to tie the game at four. They were able to chalk up two more runs in the eighth, though, to reclaim the lead, and closer Lutz Rauch shut down the Wanderers bats in the ninth to get the save and a 6-4 series-opening win.

The Wanderers started the second game obviously affected by the loss, and the crowd watched them bumble through the first inning, handing the Metrostars eight runs through their own miscues of errors and walks, combined with a few base hits to the outfield. Although the Wanderers got on the board in the fourth, the lead was too much to overcome, and the Metrostars extended it to take the game 13-3, and jumping out to a surprising 2-0 lead. The Metrostars are now on a brink of becoming the first team to clinch a spot in the Austrian Championship.

________________________________________

ABL/BBL-Relegation:

Kufstein Vikings @ Wr. Neustadt Diving Ducks

In addition to the playoffs taking place on Saturday, the first game of the Austrian relegation series took place, with the final spot in the 2012 ABL going to the winner.

The Wiener Neustadt Diving Ducks hosted the Kufstein Vikings in game one, with Harrasser on the mound for game one for the visitors, apparently recovered from his marathon pitching effort last week. The Ducks had no problem against him, however, taking a 5 run lead rather quickly.

The Vikings cut into the lead with runs in the fourth and fifth innings, but the Ducks then extended the lead to 9-3 to gain even more breathing room and put the Vikes on their heels. Kufstein again rallied late, with the score 12-5, the Vikings were able to pull within two runs, and looked as though they would be able to at least tie the game. It wasn’t to be, however, as the Ducks escaped by the final score of 12-10, and will need one win in Kufstein next week to clinch a place in the ABL next year.

________________________________________

Results:

Saturday:

Semifinal I:
Attnang-Puchheim Athletics @ Schwaz Tigers

Game 1: 11:2 – WP: W. Strasser; LP: P. Astl

HR: J. Kashuba; M. Nedelcu; M. Rabengruber;

Game 2: 1:2 – WP: J. Fronczak; LP: J. Castanza (CG); S: F. Haisjackl;

HR: J. Fronczak
Best-of-5 Series: 1:1

Semifinal II:
Vienna Wanderers @ Vienna Metrostars

Game 1: 4:6 – WP: L. Rauch; LP: C. Cichocki;

Game 2: 3:13 – WP: JT. Hillard; LP: C. Cichocki;
Best-of-5 Series: 0:2

ABL/BBL-Relegation:
Kufstein Vikings @ Wr. Neustadt Diving Ducks

Game 1: 10:12 – WP: M. Scheicher; LP: W. Harrasser (CG);
Best-of-3 Series: 0:1

Schedule:
Saturday, September 24:
12:00 Schwaz Tigers – Athletics Attnang-Puchheim
15:00 Schwaz Tigers – Athletics Attnang-Puchheim
15:00 Vienna Metrostars – Vienna Wanderers
17:30 Vienna Metrostars – Vienna Wanderers

Saturday:

Kufstein Vikings @ Vienna Metrostars

Playing a rescheduled doubleheader in Vienna, the Kufstein Vikings had everything on the line. Werner Harrasser started on the mound for the guests, and nobody expected he’d stay on the mound until the final pitch of the day was thrown. Hubert Weiser got the start for the Metrostars, and kept his team in the game against Harrasser. The Metrostar offense put up some runs, with Jakob Simonsen coming in in relief to hold the lead, using the memory of his no-hitter to keep the Vikings off balance. The Viking offense was unable to get anything going, and dropped the first game 8-5, meaning the second game was a must-win.

In game two, the crowd and the Metrostars couldn’t believe what they were seeing, as Werner Harrasser came back out to start the second game, thirty minutes after the last pitch of a complete game in the first showdown. JT Hilliard got the call for the home team as usual, and the two provided an exciting game.

The Vikings struck first, but the Metrostars tied it at one shortly afterwards. Both offenses had trouble, as Harrasser found a grove and Hilliard was strong. Finally, in the ninth inning, Kufstein was able to load the bases. A towering shot by Matthias Lechner fell between the Metrostar fielders, allowing two runs to score, and Harrasser brought home the victory in the bottom of the ninth by shutting down the Metrostar bats in their last at bat. Final score of 3-1.

Vienna Wanderers @ Attnang-Puchheim Athletics

The Wanderers travelled to Attnang on the weekend, and were promptly greeted with a two run homerun by Johnny Kashuba by the A’s in the first inning. The Wanderers, usually strong offensively, had trouble on this day, tallying just a few hits with their depleted lineup, missing a few important starters. Castanza was solid on the mound for the A’s, while Felix Zimmerle was brought in for the Wanderers to do damage control early. The A’s marched out to a 10-0 lead, and wouldn’t let the Wanderers on the board, giving the hosts a 7 inning mercy rule win.

Sunday:

Attnang-Puchheim Athletics @ RiCo Highlanders

In the final matchup of the regular season, the Athletics put on an offensive show on the road. Despite the Highlanders needing a win to have a chance to stay in the top league, the A’s took no mercy on them. With Wayne Ough unable to pitch for the hosts, the A’s used a balanced offense of walks and hits to lead 12-0 by the third inning. A solo homerun by David Wolfmayr cut the lead by one, but that was about the extent of the Highlander offense on this day. Thomas Schrittwieser took the win, and the A’s enter the playoffs as a strong favorite to repeat. The Highlanders, meanwhile, will be packing for the second league. Final score: 16-2.

Standings

	Time	Home	Visitor	Result
Saturday, September 17 2011
	11:00	Vienna Metrostars	SU Kufstein Vikings	08:05
	12:00	Athletics Attnang-Puchheim	Vienna Wanderers	10:00
	13:30	Vienna Metrostars	SU Kufstein Vikings	01:03
Sunday, September 18 2011
	12:00	Rico Highlanders	Athletics Attnang-Puchheim	02:16

Standings

	Time	Home	Visitor	Result
Sunday, September 11 2011
	10:00	Rico Highlanders	Vienna Metrostars	03:18
	13:00	Rico Highlanders	Vienna Metrostars	03:09
Tuesday, September 13 2011
	17:00	Vienna Metrostars	Vienna Wanderers	02:04

Standings

Time	Home	Visitor	Field
Dates and Times are subject to change! In case of doubt check with the responsible national federation!
Saturday, September 17 2011
11:00	Vienna Metrostars	SU Kufstein Vikings	Spenadlwiese Pr...
12:00	Athletics Attnang-Puchheim	Vienna Wanderers	Athletics Ballp...
Sunday, September 18 2011
12:00	Rico Highlanders	Athletics Attnang-Puchheim	Martin-Schütz-...

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Sunday:

Vienna Metrostars @ Rico Highlanders

One week after the Highlanders dealt a blow to the Wanderers regular season championship dreams with an upset, they now have a chance to distance themselves from last place and automatic relegation to the second league. Game one will be tough, but they’ll look to Wayne Ough to get them the victory in game two much as he did in dominant fashion last week. He’ll still need to get some run support from his teammates, however.

Tuesday:

Vienna Wanderers @ Vienna Metrostars

Two days after the doubleheader in Gramastetten, the Metrostars will be at home to host their rivals, the Wanderers. In this Derby there isn’t much on the line besides bragging rights, the teams are locked in at third and second place, respectively.  The inter-Vienna games were played throughout the season on weekday evenings, and the Metrostars will look to even the series at two games apiece in the final matchup. Both teams are at full strength, and will use the game as a major test of their playoff-preparation. Look for a hard-fought battle this time, as both teams will be playing aggressive to win some pride and momentum.

Time	Home	Visitor	Field
Dates and Times are subject to change! In case of doubt check with the responsible national federation!
Sunday, September 11 2011
10:00	Rico Highlanders	Vienna Metrostars	Martin-Schütz-...
Tuesday, September 13 2011
17:00	Vienna Metrostars	Vienna Wanderers	Spenadlwiese Pr...

Standings

Saturday:

Vienna Wanderers @ Rico Highlanders

The RiCo Highlanders hosted the Wanderers from Vienna on Saturday, and in the first game the visitors made themselves right at home, putting up a few runs in the first inning. The hosts tied it up in the bottom half of the fourth, 2-2, and put in the young pitcher David Wolfmayr in hopes of keeping the score close. He had trouble with his control, however, and some mistakes behind him in the defense allowed the Wanderers to take advantage to the fullest, scoring in every inning for the remainder of the game. Clemens Cichocki, starting for the Wanderers, shook off the early unearned runs, and shut out the Highlanders for the rest of the game, earning his sixth win of the season.
Game two had Wayne Ough facing off against Chris Magarian for the Wanderers, with a pitchers duel expected. But while the Wanderers had trouble against Ough as expected, the Highlanders were able to strike against Magarian. Coupled with some defensive errors, the Highlanders used steady offense to build the lead to 6-0, while Ough was still shutting down the Wanderers on his way to a 21 strikeout performance and another win.

Sunday:

Attnang-Puchheim Athletics @ Schwaz Tigers

The defending champs from Attnang switched things up on the weekend, giving wildcard pitcher Wolfgang Strini the start on this day. The Tigers, deciding to give usual game one starter Paul Astl a break, sent Mathias Mayr to the mound, but this was proven to be the wrong decision. Martin Rabengruber knocked a 3-run homer to take a 4-0 lead, and the floodgates were permanently open from then on. Astl was brough in to do damage control, but the A’s were already well on their way to a dominant 22-6 crushing of the Tigers.

Game two had both import pitchers on the mound, Fronczak for the Tigers and Castanza for the A’s. The latter was stellar for the guests, throwing a strong performance once again. The Athletics took advantage of a scattering of hits, while the Tigers tried to stem the tide by bringing in Franz Haisjackl, but to no avail. Castanza helped his team take home the second win of the weekend, which was also a preview for the first round of the playoffs, as the A’s have pulled away from the Wanderers atop the standings, and it appears they’ll take on the Tigers in the semifinals.

Results:
Saturday:
Vienna Wanderers @ RiCo Highlanders

Game 1: 15:2 – WP: C. Cichocki (CG); LP: D. Wolfmayr;

HR: W. Ough;

Game 2: 1:7 – WP: W. Ough (CG); LP: C. Magarian;

HR: D. Gerner;

Sunday:

Attnang-Puchheim Athletics @ Schwaz Tigers

Game 1: 22:6 – WP: W. Strini (CG); LP: M. Mayr;

HR: J. Kashuba, M. Rabengruber; P. Moser;

Game 2: 6:1 – WP: J. Castanza; LP: J. Fronczak;

Standings

Results Final Four:
Friday, September 2:
Vienna Wanderers – Vienna Mosquitoes 13-12 (Mosquitoes 4th)
Pee Wees St. Poelten – Dornbirn Sharx 3-4
Saturday, September 3:
Pee Wees St. Poelten – Vienna Wanderers 6-5 (Vienna 3rd)
Dornbirn Sharx – Pee Wees St. Poelten 8-1 (Dornbirn champion, St. Poelten 2nd)

Final Standings Regular Season:

1. Pee Wees St. Poelten 13-3
2. Dornbirn Sharx 9-7
3. Vienna Mosquitoes 9-7
4. Vienna Wanderers 9-7
5. Witches Linz 0-16

	Time	Home	Visitor	Result
Saturday, September 03 2011
	10:00	Rico Highlanders	Vienna Wanderers	02:15
	13:00	Rico Highlanders	Vienna Wanderers	07:01
Sunday, September 04 2011
	10:00	Schwaz Tigers	Athletics Attnang-Puchheim	06:22
	13:00	Schwaz Tigers	Athletics Attnang-Puchheim	01:06

Standings

Time	Home	Visitor	Field
Dates and Times are subject to change! In case of doubt check with the responsible national federation!
Saturday, September 03 2011
10:00	Rico Highlanders	Vienna Wanderers	Martin-Schütz-...
Sunday, September 04 2011
10:00	Schwaz Tigers	Athletics Attnang-Puchheim	Tigersfield Schwaz

Standings

Saturday:

Vienna Wanderers @ Attnang-Puchheim Athletics

Despite a streak of sunny weekends, the weather turned for the worse and threatened the series. Each team had to deal with the less than perfect conditions and make the most of it. The Wanderers were able to take an early lead in the constant rain with three runs in the first, but the hosts came right back and put up one run of their own. Walter Strasser and the defense were able to get into a rhythm and shake off the drizzle, keeping the guests from building on their lead too much. After the third, the Wanderers lead 4-1.

In the fourth, Wanderers pitcher Clemens Cichocki had to overcome some defensive miscues behind him, which lead to the A’s getting on the board and even taking a 5-4 lead. The rains became even heavier, but the hosts protected their lead in the fifth. The Athletics sent a few hitters to the plate in the bottom half of the inning, but the umpires decided to send the teams into the dugouts for shelter from the wet conditions. Since the trailing team had already played through their 5^th inning at bat, the game was called and the A’s moved into a tie with the Wanderers atop the standings, with a tiebreaker in the head-to-head.

Union Kufstein Vikings @ Soroptimist Stockerau Cubs

In a sunny 33°C afternoon, the Cubs took the field for their final doubleheader of the season. Michael Schneider again was starting for the Stockerau team, while Thomas Krimbacher returned from a longer absence to start for the guests. The Vikings, who find themselves in the middle of a tense relegation fight, took the lead despite the heavy pressure on them. Errors and walks by their opponent helped the cause, moving baserunners from station to station. The Cubs, despite the large lead they handed the opponent, started the comeback, narrowing the score to 10-9, but the Vikes got the third out before the tying run could cross home, allowing the guests to break their seven game losing streak.

Game two was a bit colder at first pitch, but the Vikings were looking to stay hot. Scott Holstein started for the hosts, hoping to get them back in the win column. For the guests, Werner Harrasser was tabbed to take the mound and start a win streak for the Vikings. Seeing Harrasser didn’t scare the Cubs much, as they put up two in the first, and added another in the second to stake a 3-0 lead early. As the temperature dropped, the Vikings were able to get to Holstein, and despite the pitcher powering his team with a homerun, he let the hosts close the visitors close the gap. In the final inning, the Vikings were looking to tie the score at 5-5, but they came up just short, and had to settle for a split in the 15° evening.

Sunday:

RiCo Highlanders @ Schwaz Tigers

In a replay of a washed out game in Schwaz between the host Tigers and visiting Highlanders, it ended up being a close and exciting game. Jason Fronczak was on top of his game, keeping the Highlanders off the bases inning after inning. Wayne Ough, after multiple strong outings, again flexed his command over the opposition and giving the fans a pitchers duel through six. Yet the Highlanders pulled their starter first, allowing the Tigers a chance to take advantage. A couple walks and a couple hits later, and the Tigers had a rally going, ultimately jumping out in front 5-0. The Highlanders, still unable to do much against Fronczak, had to travel home empty handed as the home defense was steady enough to seal the win.

Results:
Saturday:
Vienna Wanderers @ Attnang-Puchheim Athletics

Game 1: 4:5 – WP: W. Strasser; LP: C. Cichocki;

Game 2: – Rainout

Union Kufstein Vikings @ Soroptimist Stockerau Cubs

Game 1: 5:4 – WP: T. Krimbacher; LP: M. Schneider;

Game 2: 9:10 – WP: S. Holstein; LP: W. Harrasser;
HR: S. Holstein;

Sunday:

RiCo Highlanders @ Schwaz Tigers

Game 2: 0:5 – WP: J. Fronzak; LP: B Weixelbaumer;

	Time	Home	Visitor	Result
Saturday, August 27 2011
	11:00	Athletics Attnang-Puchheim	Vienna Wanderers	05:04
	11:00	Stock City Cubs	SU Kufstein Vikings	09:10
	14:00	Stock City Cubs	SU Kufstein Vikings	05:04
Sunday, August 28 2011
	11:00	Schwaz Tigers	Rico Highlanders	05:00

Standings

Time	Home	Visitor	Field
Dates and Times are subject to change! In case of doubt check with the responsible national federation!
Saturday, August 27 2011
11:00	Athletics Attnang-Puchheim	Vienna Wanderers	Athletics Ballp...
11:00	Stock City Cubs	SU Kufstein Vikings	Stockerau
Sunday, August 28 2011
11:00	Schwaz Tigers	Rico Highlanders	Tigersfield Schwaz

Standings

	Time	Home	Visitor	Result
Saturday, August 20 2011
	11:00	Athletics Attnang-Puchheim	Schwaz Tigers	09:00
	12:00	Vienna Wanderers	SU Kufstein Vikings	06:01
	14:30	Vienna Wanderers	SU Kufstein Vikings	13:01
	14:00	Athletics Attnang-Puchheim	Schwaz Tigers	09:00
Sunday, August 21 2011
	10:00	Rico Highlanders	Schwechat Blue Bats	23:13
	11:00	Stock City Cubs	Vienna Metrostars	04:12
	13:00	Rico Highlanders	Schwechat Blue Bats	10:00
	14:00	Stock City Cubs	Vienna Metrostars	04:06

Standings

Saturday:

RiCo Highlanders @ Schwechat Blue Bats

On Friday, the Blue Bats informed the Highlanders that they would be unable to play on the following day, and the Highlanders were awarded two important 9:0 wins to move closer to Kufstein in the standings.

Sunday:

Vienna Wanderers @ Union Kufstein Vikings

From the first pitch, it was the Wanderers show in Kufstein, as the favorites jumped to an early lead and rolled from there. Werner Harrasser, starting for the Vikings, wasn’t able to keep the Wanderers bats in check. On the other side, the Wanderers starter Clemens Cichocki had a great performance, allowing an infield hit over seven innings. His defense backed him up with a solid performance on the day, and the offense tallied run after run with the help of more than a few extra base hits. Alex Neulinger was brought in to stem the Wanderers offensive flow, but couldn’t find a solution, as the Wanderers rolled to a 21-0 victory.

Game two saw Bernie Eidherr, who has had history of success against the Wanderers, take the mound. Yet he was also unable silence the Wanderers offense, as they marched to an easy 8-0 lead through the first three innings. Chris Magarian got the start for the Wanderers, and was able to breeze through the Vikings lineup without much trouble. The hosts were kept scoreless through five innings, but the Wanderers lead was never in doubt.  In the eighth inning, the Wanderers took a ten run advantage into the bottom half of the inning, and were able to keep Kufstein from extending the game another inning. Final score: 13-3

Soroptimist Stockerauer Cubs @ Vienna Metrostars

In Sunday’s other matchup, the Cubs travelled to Vienna to take on the Metrostars. Michael Schneider was tabbed to start as he often has, taking on Hubert Weiser for the hosts. The pitchers kept the game close, retiring their opponents off the board through four innings. The Stars were the first team to make it once around, taking a lead in the fifth. Jakob Simonsen came in to pitch for the hosts in the sixth, and the Cubs were able to take advantage of walks and a double to go out in front 4-1. The Metrostars clawed back, tying the score a few innings later against the Cubs bullpen, eventually handing a lead over to their own closer Dominik Löffler. Löffler pitched a solid ninth to get the save and the Metrostars a win.

The teams both had problems getting on base again in game two,  with pitchers JT Hilliard and Scott Holstein combining for an exciting pitchers duel into the sisth. The Cubs took a 2-0 lead, before the Metrostars reversed it and brought in Tezak to keep the Cubs from reclaiming the lead. It wouldn’t be enough, however, as the Cubs had no problem hitting him. In the ninth inning, they brought in the go-ahead run, and kept Vienna off the board in the bottom half to clinch the win.

Monday:

Attnang-Puchheim Athletics @ Schwaz Tigers

Due to heavy rains flooding the Schwaz field, the series was cancelled and will have to be made up later in the season.

Results-

Saturday:

RiCo Highlanders @ Schwechat Blue Bats

Game 1: 9:0 (Forfeit)

Game 2: 9:0 (Forfeit)

Sunday:

Vienna Wanderers @ Union Kufstein Vikings

Game 1: 21:0 – WP: C. Cichocki; LP: W. Harasser

Game 2: 13:3 – WP: C. Magarian; LP: B. Eidherr

Soroptimist Stockerauer Cubs @ Vienna Metrostars

Game 1: 6:4 – WP: D. Löffler; LP: M. Brunnthaler;

Game 2: 4:5 – WP: S. Holstein; LP: J. Tezak;

Monday:

Attnang-Puchheim Athletics @ Schwaz Tigers

Rainout

–

Ty Eriksen

	Time	Home	Visitor	Result
Saturday, August 13 2011
	11:00	Schwechat Blue Bats	Rico Highlanders	00:09
	14:00	Schwechat Blue Bats	Rico Highlanders	00:09
Sunday, August 14 2011
	09:00	SU Kufstein Vikings	Vienna Wanderers	00:21
	11:00	Vienna Metrostars	Stock City Cubs	06:04
	12:00	SU Kufstein Vikings	Vienna Wanderers	03:13
	14:00	Vienna Metrostars	Stock City Cubs	05:06

Standings

RiCo Highlanders @ Schwechat Blue Bats

Kicking off the 14^th game day in the ABL, the Highlanders travel to Schwechat to play the Blue Bats. The team from lower Austria took a beating from the Metrostars last weekend, and need to win their last four games in order to have a shot at the playoffs. The Highlanders, who showed a lot of heart in their tough losses to the Cubs, need to grab some wins to get out of the relegation spot. The Vikings have just three more wins than the Highlanders, meaning its still doable, and they aren’t playing the strongest of teams this weekend.

Sunday:

Soroptimist Stockerauer Cubs @ Vienna Metrostars

The Cubs will take a short road trip to the Vienna Spenadlwiese on Sunday, where they will play the host Metrostars. They have been able to play top teams close recently, and they wont make it easy for the Stars. Although they are a long shot for the playoffs, the Cubs are looking to end the season on a high note. The Metrostars can clinch a playoff spot with a sweep, taking their destiny into their own hands for the playoffs. The young Viennese team of coach Tim Patrick has sparkled early only to fade, but this year they hope to make a postseason push.

Vienna Wanderers @ Union Kufstein Vikings

The Vikings host the Wanderers in the other Sunday matchup, the first between the teams this season. In the past, the two have been able to offer some exciting baseball matchups, especially in the playoffs. Kufstein won’t make it to the second season this year, but have a chance to damage the Wanderers positioning. The Vikings have shown themselves as too young and inexperienced to last a full season in the playoff race, but need to turn it on to stay out of the relegation series. The Wanderers have punched their playoff ticket already, but want to leave Kufstein in first place.

Monday:

Attnang-Puchheim Athletics@ Schwaz Tigers

On Monday, a holiday celebrating Assumption Day for Catholics, last years finalists will take to the field in another renewal of the rematch.  The games will also play a crucial role in deciding the playoff pairs in a couple weeks, whether the A’s stay in contention for first, and if the Tigers can close the gap to third place. The A’s will be hoping that the Wanderers will slip up and hand them a lead in the race for first. The Tigers will be looking for at least one win to clinch the playoffs, which will be a hard task against the defending champs, but since the A’s will be playing with a depleted roster, their chances are better than usual.

Time	Home	Visitor	Field
Dates and Times are subject to change! In case of doubt check with the responsible national federation!
Saturday, August 13 2011
11:00	Schwechat Blue Bats	Rico Highlanders	Batsfield Ranne...
Sunday, August 14 2011
09:00	SU Kufstein Vikings	Vienna Wanderers	Baseballplatz H...
11:00	Vienna Metrostars	Stock City Cubs	Spenadlwiese Pr...

Standings

	Time	Home	Visitor	Result
Saturday, August 06 2011
	11:00	Athletics Attnang-Puchheim	SU Kufstein Vikings	05:04
	12:00	Vienna Wanderers	Schwaz Tigers	13:03
	14:30	Vienna Wanderers	Schwaz Tigers	15:00
	14:00	Athletics Attnang-Puchheim	SU Kufstein Vikings	03:01
Sunday, August 07 2011
	11:00	Schwechat Blue Bats	Vienna Metrostars	02:18
	11:00	Stock City Cubs	Rico Highlanders	10:04
	14:00	Schwechat Blue Bats	Vienna Metrostars	02:10
	14:00	Stock City Cubs	Rico Highlanders	04:03

Standings

On Friday night, the teams took to the field in what shaped up to be a great matchup. Pitchers Thomas Schrittwieser, Walter Strasser, Clemens Cichocki and Christian Tomsich each made an appearance on the mound to get their final work in, while head coach Tim Patrick rotated through position players to get a last look at his options. The Athletics had trouble getting on the scoreboard, and were limited to just two runs over nine innings. For the Austrians, Clemens Cichocki had a couple strong swings of the bat to match his innings on the mound. He went yard twice for the guests, a two run shot and a solo homer, accounting for all of Austria’s runs and securing the 3-2 victory.

The second matchup, scheduled for 8pm Saturday night, was threatened by rain from the onset, and the teams were only able to get through three innings before a downpour halted play in the fourth.

On Monday evening, Team Austria will start their pursuit of an European Championship birth against hosts Belgium in Antwerp.

Roster Austria on Wednesday
Roster Czech Republic on Wednesday
Stream of the Game

Friday/Saturday:

Vienna Metrostars @ Attnang-Puchheim Athletics

In the first game between the defending champs and the all-time champs the guests from Vienna had a foot up on their hosts, who were celebrating their 20th year of baseball. The Metrostars took the lead, but as soon as starter Ludescher left the game, they weren’t able to protect their lead. The A’s tallied a few hits in a row and were able to push some across the plate. Walter Strasser was able to recover from his early struggles and keep the Stars in check, while his offense picked up the pace and worked their way to a five run lead. In the ninth, the guests started a comeback that would see them come up a bit short, final score 8-5 for the home team.

A new day, a new game. Saturday afternoon brought new fortunes for the guests, as they had no problem handling the pitching of Josh Castanza, punishing him and taking a 5-0 lead in the second inning. On their own behalf, JT Hillard tossed a solid game despite letting the A’s cut the lead from 7-4 in the middle innings. Castanza was replaced by Thomas Schrittwieser on the mound, but he was unable to stem the tide either. Hubert Weiser and Jakob Simonson put the game on ice for the guests, as they left Attnang with an 11-4 win on day two of the trip, and rained on the host’s party.

RiCo Highlanders @ Vienna Wanderers

Clemens Cichocki made another start for the Wanderers, and for the larger part of the game didn’t let the opponents get far on the bases. For the Highlanders, Bernd Weixlbaumer let runner after runner make their way on base. Despite being pulled, the guests were already in a 7-1 hole. Cichocki had only let three runners on base until the last inning, when we started having troubles locating and put a couple on base through hits and walks. Errors in the field contributed to the Wanderers coughing up their lead and letting the Highlanders tie it at 7-7. But the Wanderers had the last say, and in the bottom of the ninth, Cichocki helped himself out and knocked in the winning run with a base hit.

Game 2 was the much-anticipated matchup, with Wayne Ough (RiCo) matching up against Chris Magarian (Wanderers). Both offenses had trouble against the respective pitcher, so that the Wanderers had to be happy with just a 1-0 lead until the late innings. Again it was the defense that let down the Wanderers, as they handed the Highlanders a 2-1 lead with unnecessary errors. The Highlanders were in the drivers seat, but couldn’t seal the deal, as they let a passed ball and a hit by DuToit create the tying run for the Wanderers. Coach Sakanashi at the plate with a chance to win, and picked it up as he drove in the deciding run. The Wanderers took the sweep with a 3-2 comeback win, and moved into a tie for first in the standings.

Sunday:

Schwaz Tigers @ Soroptimist Stockerauer Cubs

For three innings, it was three up, three down, three K’s for Paul Astl. The Tigers starter sat down the first nine outs by strikeout, and it didn’t look like the Cubs would be able to get much going against him. Michael Schneider got the start for Stockerau, and was nearly as impressive for the hosts. Despite the Cubs’ trouble early against Astl, they took the first lead. In the seventh they extended it to 3-0, and looked set to take the pitchers duel with that score until the Tigers fought back late. Narrowing the gap to 3-2, the Tigers were back in the game until Mark Brunnthaler came in to get the save for the Cubs.

The second game was in the same style, as Jason Fronczak pitched a solid game. Scott Holstein wasn’t able to repeat the dominance he’s shown in the past weeks, and repeatedly was beaten by the batters. The Cubs were leading 1-0 in the second, but the Tigers went ahead 3-1. The Tigers added another run to extend their lead, and Fronczak was sharp in limiting the damage the Cubs could inflict. Final score, 4-2.

Kufstein Vikings @ Schwechat Blue Bats

The Vikings travelled across the country to face the Bats, and didn’t want to leave empty handed. The Bats, playing without Daniel Jahn, were able to regroup and present a tough opponent for the Vikings. Both teams got on the board and created long innings for the defense, creating a back and forth of errors and lead changes. After more than three hours, the Bats came out on top 14-13.

With Zsolt Zalabai back on the mound for the hosts in game two, he was hoping to bounce back from a tough outing against the Wanderers the week before. This week, he was in top form, and dominated the Vikings early. On the other side, the offense was able to score nearly at-will against the Vikings starter Thomas Graf, and the Vikings wouldn’t be leaving the East with a win on this trip. With the sweep, the Blue Bats keep themselves in the playoff race just a few back from the Metrostars.

Results:
Friday/Saturday
Vienna Metrostars @ Attnang-Puchheim Athletics

Game 1: 5:8 – WP: W. Strasser (CG); LP: S. Ludescher;
HR: L. Rauch; J. Kashuba;

Game 2: 11:4 – WP: JT Hillard; LP: J.Castanza;
HR: J. Tezak; M. Rabengruber;

RiCo Highlanders @ Vienna Wanderers

Game 1: 7:8 – WP: C. Cichocki (CG); LP: R. Ludwig;

Game 2: 2:3 – WP: C. Magarian (CG); LP: W. Ough;

Sunday:

Schwaz Tigers @ Soroptimist Stockerauer Cubs

Game 1: 2:3 – WP: M.Schneider; LP: P.Astl (CG); S: M. Brunnthaler;

Game 2: 4:2 – WP: J. Fronczak (CG); LP: S. Holstein;

Kufstein Vikings @ Schwechat Blue Bats

Game 1: 13:14 – WP: P. Brenner; LP: W. Harasser;
HR: A. Quirantes;

Game 2: 4:12 – WP: Z. Zalabai; LP: Th. Graf;
HR: W. Zapata; S. Sappl;

Standings

	Time	Home	Visitor	Result
Friday, July 15 2011
	16:00	Athletics Attnang-Puchheim	Vienna Metrostars	08:05
Saturday, July 16 2011
	11:00	Athletics Attnang-Puchheim	Vienna Metrostars	04:11
	12:00	Vienna Wanderers	Rico Highlanders	08:07
	14:30	Vienna Wanderers	Rico Highlanders	03:02
Sunday, July 17 2011
	11:00	Schwechat Blue Bats	SU Kufstein Vikings	14:13
	11:00	Stock City Cubs	Schwaz Tigers	03:02
	14:00	Schwechat Blue Bats	SU Kufstein Vikings	12:04
	14:00	Stock City Cubs	Schwaz Tigers	02:04

Standings

Friday:

Vienna Metrostars @ Attnang-Puchheim Athletics

After the hot and tough day of ball last weekend leading to a split against Schwaz, the Metrostars are already in for their next challenge. Because the A’s are celebrating their 20^th year of baseball in Attnang, the festivities will start Friday night and the second game will take place on Saturday. On Friday night, Coach Tim Patrick will have to reach into deep bag of starters and send him out to the mound. Which young talent it will be is yet unknown, but they have their work cut out for them against the strong A’s offense. Walter Strasser and Josh Castanza gave the Stars few chances to get on base in the first round, ultimately giving up just one run in the two games.

Saturday:

RiCo Highlanders @ Vienna Wanderers

Motivated by their first win in a while, the Highlanders know they can still get it done. Now they’ll try to repeat that in Austrian capital against the Wanderers. The hosts are clear favorites in game one, but the nightcap will be a different story with important Wayne Ough on the mound for the guests. The Wanderers will have to have some success against the Olympic athlete in order to keep up with Attnang atop the standings.  For the guests, they’ll need to do their own work at the plate in order to help their pitching out, if they want to make it a split against the Wanderers.

Sunday:

Schwaz Tigers @ Soroptimist Stockerauer Cubs

On Sunday the Tigers travel from Schwaz to Stockerau to play the Cubs.  Last time around, the teams both left the field with a win, meaning the games on this day should be exciting. Michael Schneider will start for the Cubs, hopefully finding the strike zone more often than in his last start. Also needed is some run and defensive support from the guys behind him. The battery selection from the Tigers isn’t as great, but just as potent. Franz Haisjackl went 200 pitches last weekend to show just how serious they take it. Hopefully that is the exception to the rule, however, and the team from Tirol won’t need his arm to bear that load again.  Fronczak will be called upon to take up some of that load and repeat his early season success.

Kufstein Vikings @ Schwechat Blue Bats

The teams in this matchup haven’t reached their goals this season, as both were tabbed for potential playoff teams.  The Bats still have the chance to work their way back into the picture, and Arian Quirantes will try to provide a bit of spark for a team that hasn’t clicked well. On the other side, the Vikings are doing well internally, but injuries have put a damper on the season. Inexperienced replacements have been tabbed to plug holes haven’t been up to par, risking the teams 12^th consecutive postseason appearance.  It’s do or die for both teams from here on out, if they want to make the semi’s at year’s end.

Time	Home	Visitor	Field
Dates and Times are subject to change! In case of doubt check with the responsible national federation!
Friday, July 15 2011
16:00	Athletics Attnang-Puchheim	Vienna Metrostars	Athletics Ballp...
Saturday, July 16 2011
11:00	Athletics Attnang-Puchheim	Vienna Metrostars	Athletics Ballp...
12:00	Vienna Wanderers	Rico Highlanders	Spenadlwiese Pr...
Sunday, July 17 2011
11:00	Schwechat Blue Bats	SU Kufstein Vikings	Batsfield Ranne...
11:00	Stock City Cubs	Schwaz Tigers	Stockerau

Standings

The defending champion Attnang-Puchheim Athletics are represented with three players, while the Vienna Metrostars (WBV Homerunners) lead the way with five players on the squad Former Metrostar Gregor Klinc will bring his years of experience from the German Bundesliga, as will Patrick Kanthak of the European Cup Qualifier winners Solingen Alligators. The Vienna Wanderers will be represented by four players, most notably the pitching trio of Christian Tomsich, Clemens Cichocki, and Johannes Godler.

Roster – European Championship Qualifier 2011 (Antwerp, Belgium)

Player (Last, First) Club Team

Astl Paul      		Schwaz Tigers
Brenner Philipp    	Schwechat Blue Bats
Cichocki Clemens      	Vienna Wanderers
Ferak Peter      	WBV Homerunners
Godler Johannes      	Vienna Wanderers
Hackl Moritz      	Stockerau Cubs
Husty Benjamin      	Vienna Wanderers
Kanthak Patrick      	Solingen Alligators (GER)
Klinc Gregor       	Haar Disciples (GER)
Löffler Dominik      	WBV Homerunners
Rabengruber Martin      Attnang-Puchheim Athletics
Rauch Lutz      	WBV Homerunners
Salzmann Benjamin      	WBV Homerunners
Schermer Tobias      	WBV Homerunners
Schrittwieser Thomas    Attnang-Puchheim Athletics
Seiser Claus      	Wr. Neustadt Diving Ducks
Strasser Walter      	Attnang-Puchheim Athletics
Tomsich Christian      	Vienna Wanderers

Reserves:
Efferdinger Horst      	Wels Jumpin' Chickens
Kelly Tate      	Vienna Wanderers
Ludescher Stefan      	WBV Homerunners
Niel Elias      	WBV Homerunners
Scheicher Lukas      	Attnang-Puchheim Athletics
Schneider Michael      	Stockerau Cubs
Simonsen Jakob      	WBV Homerunners
Zimmerle Felix      	Vienna Wanderers

Accompanying the team will be National Program Manager Martin Langlois, Head Coach Tim Patrick, Assistant Coaches Jeff Tezak and Ty Eriksen, and physiotherapist Jürgen Oberthanner.

In preparation for the European Championship Qualifier, the team will play a few warm up games. On Wednesday the 20th of July, they will face off against Czech Republic in Brno. On the road to Belgium, they will play two games against German club Mainz Athletics on the 22nd and 23rd of July.

In Belgium, the Austrians will take on the national teams from Poland, Slovakia, Latvia, and group hosts Belgium. The top two teams after the round robin play will square off on Saturday the 30th for a birth in the European Championship.

Austrian Schedule – European Championship Qualifier 2011

25. July, 18:30 – Austria @ Belgium

26. July, 14:00 – Austria @ Latvia

27. July, 18:30 – Slovakia @ Austria

28. July, 14:00 – Poland @ Austria

29. July – bye

30. July, 12:00– Final

Attnang-Puchheim Athletics @ Soroptimist Stockerauer Cubs

The A’s travelled to Stockerau to play the Cubs in a matchup that wasn’t expected to be too much of a challenge for the standings leader, although an injury to Andre Gruber put a hole in the A’s defense. After the A’s leadoff in the second inning reached on an error, Martin Rabengruber knocked a triple to right to bring in the first run of the game. In the fourth and fifth innings, the A’s extended their lead to 5-0 by way of homeruns off the bats of David Burns and Johnny Kashuba. For the hosts, their bats had trouble with Attnang SP Schrittwieser from the get go, until Wolfgang Strini took over on the bump for the guests. The Cubs found a way to mount some offense against the reliever, but the A’s countered with a couple more runs to protect their lead in the late innings. Final score: 7-4.

A pitchers duel was on tap for Game 2, with Josh Castanza on the hill taking on Scott Holstein of the hosts. Each has had some impressive starts this season and proven their value to their respective teams, putting this game in the limelight for Austrian Baseball. Just as in the first game the A’s struck first, but the Cubs came right back with some runs of their own, using some tactical execution, defensive errors, and infield hits to mark up three runs. While Castanza recovered to end up striking out 14 on the day, Hosltein trumped him by allowing just two hits over nine innings. The two had their opposing offenses well in hand over the final innings, so that the final score of 3-1 saved a split for the hosts, which marked just the third victory a team has picked up against the defending champion A’s.

Kufstein Vikings @ RiCo Highlanders

Thomas Krimbacher, who was outstanding last week, was tabbed to start again this week against the Highlanders. The key over the weekend would be to again keep the hitters honest with lots of strikes. Dominik Gerner got to start for the Highlanders, which was a good omen for the Vikings, as they put runners on base at will and got on the board early. The highlight of the high scoring game was a homer from Mark Marelich, who went 4-4 in the game. While the hosts were able to get on the board late, they never put the Vikings lead in question and the Vikes took it 15-5.

Game two was the pitching debut for Australian Wayne Ough for the host Highlanders, but it started unceremoniously as his defense bumbled about and allowed three runs in the first. Ough recovered quickly, though, and with the help of his patchwork defense didn’t give the guests many more chances to get on base. Run support also found its way into the Highlander dugout, as they battled against Werner Harrasser, who has been hit around a bit recently. They went on to post 13 runs, and give up just one more to their guests, earning an important split.

Sunday:

Schwaz Tigers @ Vienna Metrostars

As expected, the teams fighting over third place were armed to the teeth for the battle. The Metrostars gave Richard Alzinger his ABL debut on the Spenadlwiese mound. His team didn’t give much support early on, however, as they fell behind 0-5 early. Working their way back in to the game slowly, they put up run after run until they had overcome not just the brutal heat but Tigers top pitcher Paul Astl to tie the game at five. In the eighth, Haisjackl took over the bump for the guests. The Mets capitalized on the pitching change, using a walk-off hit in the ninth to win 6-5.

Game two saw Haisjackl return to the mound, and the Metrostars broke out the tough wood against him to grab the lead. The heat played an important factor in the game, wreaking havoc with the concentration of both teams. The back and forth of mistakes allowed the Tigers to keep the high scoring affair close, and in the last inning they found a way to score three and knotted it at 10 to force extra innings. Haisjackl, still on the mound even after pitch number 200 on the day, was given a lead in the extra frame, and made it work. With the bases loaded and the score at 13-11, he got the Mets hitter to ground out, picking up a well deserved win.

Vienna Wanderers @ Schwechat Blue Bats

The Wanderers, on the road in Schwechat, showed from the first inning that they were ready to sweep. They were also ooking to break the grasp which opposing pitcher Fabian Hirnschal has held over their lineup over the last few times they’ve faced him. With the first couple extra base hits, they felt the liberation of their bats, and kept it going from their, running up a 7-1 lead over their hosts. Clemens Cichocki was making his first start of the season since returning to Vienna a month ago, and played the roll of hero on the mound, striking out 13 Blue Bats. While Cichocki was sitting down the opponents hitters, his own team kept the basepaths busy, ultimately taking a 11-2 win in the first game of the day.

Hungarian National Team pitcher Zsolt Zalabai hoped to turn around his teams fortunes in the second game, matching up against Tate Kelly, who would be making his final appearance in the Wanderers uniform this season. It wouldn’t be a nice farewell for Kelly, as he was yanked after the first hitter reached base in favor of import Chris Magarian. While Magarian allowed the runner to score, he was given plenty of support by his offense: they had no problem reaching base against Zalabai and won the game 20-3 in seven innings.

RESULTS
Saturday:
Attnang-Puchheim Athletics @ Soroptimist Stockerauer Cubs

Game 1: 7:4 – WP: T. Schrittwieser; LP: M. Schneider; S: W. Strasser;
HR: J. Kashuba; D. Burns;

Game 2: 1:3 – WP: S. Holstein (CG); LP: J. Castanza (CG);

Kufstein Vikings @ RiCo Highlanders

Game 1: 15:5 – WP: T. Krimbacher; LP: D. Gerner;
HR: M. Marelich;

Game 2: 4:13 – WP: Wayne Ough; LP: W. Harrasser;

Sunday:
Vienna Wanderers @ Schwechat Blue Bats

Game 1: 11:2 – WP: C. Cichocki (CG); LP: F. Hirnschal;

Game 2: 3:20 – WP: C. Magarian; LP: Z. Zalabai;
HR: R. Bermudez;

Schwaz Tigers @ Vienna Metrostars

Game 1: 5:6 – WP: H. Weiser Jr.; LP: F. Haisjackl;
HR: A. Hilliard;

Game 2: 13:11 (10) – WP: F. Haisjackl (CG); LP: L. Rauch;

Standings

	Time	Home	Visitor	Result
Tuesday, July 05 2011
	17:00	Vienna Wanderers	Vienna Metrostars	07:04
Saturday, July 09 2011
	10:00	Rico Highlanders	SU Kufstein Vikings	05:15
	11:00	Stock City Cubs	Athletics Attnang-Puchheim	04:07
	13:00	Rico Highlanders	SU Kufstein Vikings	13:04
	14:00	Stock City Cubs	Athletics Attnang-Puchheim	03:01
Sunday, July 10 2011
	11:00	Schwechat Blue Bats	Vienna Wanderers	02:11
	11:00	Vienna Metrostars	Schwaz Tigers	06:05
	14:00	Schwechat Blue Bats	Vienna Wanderers	03:20
	14:00	Vienna Metrostars	Schwaz Tigers	11:13

Standings

Schwechat Blue Bats @ Schwaz Tigers

The Bats headed to Tirol with the playoffs on their mind, but the Tigers had other things for them on tap. From the beginning, starting pitcher Hirnschal had to watch as runner after runner crossed the plate for the host Tigers. Given an early lead, Paul Astl was able to pitch aggressive and make the Bats earn their way. Homeruns from Zalabai and Gonzales were of help, but Franz Haisjackl had two of his own for the Tigers. The ten run mercy rule after seven innings gave the Tigers a 14-4 win.

Game two started much the same way, with the Tigers pulling out in front quickly. Jason Fronczak kept the Bats bats quiet a couple times through the lineup, but they were gradually able to get to the import pitcher and tied the game at 6-6. But the hosts weren’t about to roll over, and went back out in front 8-6 with a two run rally. Haisjackl came in to close for Schwaz, and didn’t allow a run in his time on the mound, getting the save and his team the sweep with a 8-6 win.

Vienna Metrostars @ Vienna Wanderers

Celebrating their 25th year of baseball in Vienna, the Wanderers faced off against the rivals, which they share the city with. After a narrow 2-1 victory in the last matchup, a large crowd was on hand to witness another exciting game (and celebrate, of course.)

In the bottom of the first, the Wanderers struck first by moving a runner around on some quality at bats, and Christian Tomsich looked poised to dominate the Mets bats for the second time in two weeks. The Mets were able to even it at one, however, before taking the lead in the fourth: 2-1. The Wanderers, feeding off the energy of the crowd and the circumstance, rallied for a 4-2 lead after Lutz Rauch was brought in to replace Stefan Ludescher on the mound, courtesy of a two run hit by Francois duToit. Coach Sakanashi turned to Clemens Cichocki to close the game for the Wanderers, but in the 8th inning his team caught a bad break: a Ben Salzmann hit with runners on first a second brought in a run, but the left fielder appeared to have thrown out the runner from first on his way to third. The ball shot out of the third basemans glove on the tag, however, and into the dugout, bringing in another run. Down 6-4 in the bottom of the 9th, the Wanderers mounted their best effort to tie the game. With Tomsich at bat and runners on, he had a chance to bring in the tying run, but flew out to deep left field to end the game.

The Wanderers will have a shot at revenge tonight, however, as they play the final game between the two in a night game with second place on the line. First pitch at 19.00 at the Spenadlwiese.

Attnang-Puchheim Athletics @ RiCo Highlanders

The second upper Austrian derby was to be held under rainy and dark skies in Gramastettn, which ultimately washed out a portion of the matchup.

Thanks to strong winds, fielders had a hard time chasing down balls, but the A’s wouldn’t let the weather be an equalizer in the matchup. Walter Strasser again took the mound in the first game, and gave his team a good outing, and although they fell behind early, they took a 2-1 lead shortly thereafter. Wayne Ough, brought in the week before to save the Highlanders season, wasn’t able to make any big impact outside of a diving catch. The A’s were leading 5-1 and had the game well under control when the heavens opened and the game was called. With no chance of the weather letting up, both teams headed home. A makeup game will be scheduled later.

Soroptimist Stockerauer Cubs @ Kufstein Vikings

Thomas Krimbacher started on the mound for the Vikings, and he and his defense looked solid and focused through the first few innings. The Vikings struck the first blow in the back and forth affair, with both teams doing damage on offense and taking the lead. It was the Vikings who also struck last, and turned the game over to Bernie Eidherr to pick up the save and give Kufstein the win..

Game two was the Scott Holstein Show in Kufstein, as the Cubs pitcher threw a true gem and helped himself out at the plate as well. He had a clean slate until the fourth inning, which allowed the Vikings to take a short lead 1-0. Werner Harrasser made a bit of history during the game, reaching a big milestone: he recorded his 1000th strikeout of his ABL career. That was the end of the highlight, however, as the Cubs caught up to his pitching and the defense behind him looked like swiss cheese. Holstein, on the other hand, was consistent through the remaining innings, sitting down the Viking hitters just as they came, and the Cubs broke their seven game losing streak with a big win, 8-1

RESULTS

Vienna Metrostars @ Vienna Wanderers

Game 1: 6:4 – WP: L. Rauch; LP: C. Cichocki; S: H. Weiser Jr.;

Schwechat Blue Bats @ Schwaz Tigers

Game 1: 4:14 – WP: P. Astl; LP: F. Hirnschal;
HR: Z. Zalabai, Gonzales, 2 F. Haisjackl;

Game 2: 6:8 – WP: J. Fronczak; LP: Z. Zalabai;
HR: J. Fronczak;

Attnang-Puchheim Athletics @ RiCo Highlanders

Game 1: 5:1 (nach 6 Innings) – WP: W. Strasser; LP: D. Gerner;

Game 2: Rainout

Soroptimist Stockerauer Cubs @ Kufstein Vikings

Game 1: 5:8 – WP: T. Krimbacher; LP: M. Schneider;

Game 2: 8:1 – WP: S. Holstein; LP: W. Harrasser;

Standings

Time	Home	Visitor	Field
Dates and Times are subject to change! In case of doubt check with the responsible national federation!
Tuesday, July 05 2011
17:00	Vienna Wanderers	Vienna Metrostars	Spenadlwiese Pr...
Saturday, July 09 2011
10:00	Rico Highlanders	SU Kufstein Vikings	Martin-Schütz-...
11:00	Stock City Cubs	Athletics Attnang-Puchheim	Stockerau
Sunday, July 10 2011
11:00	Schwechat Blue Bats	Vienna Wanderers	Batsfield Ranne...
11:00	Vienna Metrostars	Schwaz Tigers	Spenadlwiese Pr...

	Time	Home	Visitor	Result
Saturday, July 02 2011
	11:00	Schwaz Tigers	Schwechat Blue Bats	14:04
	14:00	Schwaz Tigers	Schwechat Blue Bats	08:06
	14:00	Vienna Wanderers	Vienna Metrostars	04:06
Sunday, July 03 2011
	09:00	SU Kufstein Vikings	Stock City Cubs	08:05
	10:00	Rico Highlanders	Athletics Attnang-Puchheim	01:05
	12:00	SU Kufstein Vikings	Stock City Cubs	01:08

Standings

Time	Home	Visitor	Field
Dates and Times are subject to change! In case of doubt check with the responsible national federation!
Tuesday, July 05 2011
17:00	Vienna Wanderers	Vienna Metrostars	Spenadlwiese Pr...
Saturday, July 09 2011
10:00	Rico Highlanders	SU Kufstein Vikings	Martin-Schütz-...
11:00	Stock City Cubs	Athletics Attnang-Puchheim	Stockerau
Sunday, July 10 2011
11:00	Schwechat Blue Bats	Vienna Wanderers	Batsfield Ranne...
11:00	Vienna Metrostars	Schwaz Tigers	Spenadlwiese Pr...

Schwechat Blue Bats @ Schwaz Tigers

To kick off the second half of the season, the team from Tirol hosts the Bats who are one spot out of last in the standings. The Tigers are looking to hold on to fourth in the race for the final playoff spot as the season starts to enter a crucial stage in the schedule. The Bats suffered through two losses against the A’s last time out, but were able to battle to the end and show some playoff worthy spirit. Although both teams are known for their offense, it will come down to pitching to decide this matchup, especially the game two matchup between Zalabai and Fronczak.

Vienna Metrostars @ Vienna Wanderers

For the 25th Anniversary of the Vienna Wanderers, they’ll host their rivals the Vienna Metrostars for a Saturday afternoon battle. This year it runs deeper than bragging rights, however, as the teams have been in a season long battle for second place. The Wanderers won the first matchup in a close one, pulling through with a 2-1 victory during a weekday nightgame.

In addition to what will surely be another exciting derby on the diamond, the Wanderers have prepared a full day of festivities at the Spenadlwiese ballpark for their 25th birthday. Go to www.wanderers.at for more details.

Sunday:

Soroptimist Stockerau Cubs @ Kufstein Vikings

The winner of this matchup between Kufstein and Stockerau keeps themselves on the edge of the playoff picture, while the loser is out of contention if Schwaz takes a sweep in their Saturday games. In Kufstein, where they lost nine in a row until a recent victory ended the streak, found a way to get back in the winning pattern and would like to continue it. Harrasser, who was out of the rotation with an injury for a while, will play an important role on the mound for the Vikings. Whoever gets swept, however, will be staring down the barrel of the relegation series.

Attnang-Puchheim Athletics @ RiCo Highlanders

On Sunday the second derby of the weekend will take place as the A’s will face a reinforced Highlanders team. The 33-year-old Wayne Ough from Australia will bring his Olympic level experience to Upper Austria in hopes of saving the team from relegation. His first task: beat the defending champs and snap their 8 game winning streak in the process. The A’s had a chance to catch their break with a weekend off, and will be in good shape to take on the challenge.

Time	Home	Visitor	Field
Dates and Times are subject to change! In case of doubt check with the responsible national federation!
Saturday, July 02 2011
11:00	Schwaz Tigers	Schwechat Blue Bats	Tigersfield Schwaz
14:00	Vienna Wanderers	Vienna Metrostars	Spenadlwiese Pr...
Sunday, July 03 2011
09:00	SU Kufstein Vikings	Stock City Cubs	Baseballplatz H...
10:00	Rico Highlanders	Athletics Attnang-Puchheim	Martin-Schütz-...

Standings

This past weekend the ABL was on break while the national team took part in the Prague Baseball Week, ultimately falling to the Czech seniors in the quarterfinals.

Here are the results from the week before:

Schwaz was able to win one game against the Highlanders before the weather cut the second game off the schedule. The Wanderers blanked the Cubs twice on the road, boosting their lead over 3^rd place Metrostars who split in Kufstein. The A’s continued their march to the postseason by sweeping the Blue bats.

Saturday:

Vienna Wanderers @ Soroptimist Stockerau Cubs

It was a rough start for the pitchers in game one, with both allowing runners to reach early in the game. To their relief, they were able to get out of the early jams through two innings safely.  In the third, the Wanderers were able to strike first: with a swing of the bat, Sakanashi brought in two with his single to right field. On defense, the Vienna defense provided a strong backstop for pitcher Johannes Godler, who didn’t give up any runs to the Cubs batsmen. After Clemens Cichocki was brought in to relieve Godler, the Wanderers extended their lead to 4-0, and with their closer on the mound the Wanderers sealed the shutout win.

Chris Magarian, not quite 100%, made the start for the Wanderers in game two, opposite Scott Holstein fort he Cubs. Holstein wasn’t able to keep the opposing hitters in check as he had done in the prior weeks, and with the help of a defensive mistake the Wanderers took a 3-0 lead. The Cubs were unable to find any success against Magarian, or his late replacement Tomsich. The Wanderers were able to put up one more before the final out was recorded, and left Stockerau with two wins while the Cubs slid down the standings.

RiCo Highlanders @ Schwaz Tigers

In Schwaz, the Tigers matched up against the RiCo Highlanders in some less than perfect weather. Paul Astl started the first game on the hill for the hosts and dominated his opposition. The men from Tirol didn’t need much support from the mound anyways, as they jumped to a 12-0 lead after just three innings of play.  Among the highlights were Haisjackl’s grand slam for the hosts as they marched to an easy victory. For the guests, Weixlbaumer scored on an RBI Double from Jürgen Haunschmidt, the lone run the visitors were able to put on the board, making the final score 12-1.

The rain kept coming down in droves, forcing the second game to be cancelled, meaning it will have to be replayed at a later date.

Sunday:

Vienna Metrostars @ Kufstein Vikings

Given the rain that was coming down the previous night, there was little hope of getting a game in. But the teams were met the next morning with sun and a dry field, allowing the match to take place. Jakob Simonson took the mound for the visitors, putting forth a great effort. The offense helped him out, giving Vikings P Krimbacher quite the workout. After 7 innings, the Vienna team had a 10 run lead, allowing Simonson to earn his first no hitter.

Game two focused on one thing, the return of a legend: Werner Harrasser returned from a longer break from an injury. The Stars found it harder to get on base against the pitcher, and both defenses did their part in speeding up the game. JT Hillard was strong for the guests and held his own, until a home run by Koichi Hida gave the hosts the lead. After the guests from Vienna were able to cut it to 2-1, they weren’t able to push the tying run across the plate and had to settle with a split.

Attnang-Puchheim Athletics @ Schwechat Blue Bats

The defending champions put Strasser on the mound, opposite Benni Christof for the Blue Bats. Christof had control problems early on, and also had to deal with a leaky defense behind him. Through four played, the A’s were out in front 9-1. Fabian Hirnschal took over to try and stem the visitors offense, and it gave the hosts a spark. After cutting to 12-9, Strini came in and kept the hosts from getting any closer and closed the game for the visitors.

In the second half of the doubleheader, the highly anticipated matchup of Castanza and Zalabai proved worth the wait. Johnny Kashuba hit a three run homer for the visitors off of Zalabai in the third, giving the A’s an early lead. But it would be the last time the guests would touch home,  as Zalabai got into a grove and got through the rest of the game without allowing another run. The Bats fought back to make it 3-2, and in the 9^th put runners in scoring position, but were unable to complete the comeback, as Castanza struck out his 21^st of the game and grabbed the win.

RESULTS:

Vienna Wanderers @ Soroptimist Stockerau Cubs

Game 1: 4:0 – WP: J. Godler; LP: M. Schneider; S: C. Cichocki;

Game2: 4:0 – WP: C. Magarian; LP: S. Holstein;

RiCo Highlanders @ Schwaz Tigers

Game1: 1:12 – WP: P. Astl; LP: D. Gerner;

Game2: Rainout

Vienna Metrostars @ Kufstein Vikings

Game1: 14:2 – WP: J. Simonsen (No-Hitter); LP: T. Krimbacher;

Game2: 1:2 – WP: W. Harrasser; LP: JT Hillard;
HR: Koichi Hida;

Attnang-Puchheim Athletics @ Schwechat Blue Bats

Game1: 14:2 – WP: W. Strasser; LP: B. Christof; S: W. Strini;

Game2: 3:2 – WP: J. Castanza; LP: Z- Zalabai;
HR: J. Kashuba;

	Time	Home	Visitor	Result
Saturday, June 18 2011
	11:00	Schwaz Tigers	Rico Highlanders	12:01
	11:00	Stock City Cubs	Vienna Wanderers	00:04
	14:00	Stock City Cubs	Vienna Wanderers	00:04
Sunday, June 19 2011
	09:00	SU Kufstein Vikings	Vienna Metrostars	02:14
	11:00	Schwechat Blue Bats	Athletics Attnang-Puchheim	08:12
	12:00	SU Kufstein Vikings	Vienna Metrostars	02:01
	14:00	Schwechat Blue Bats	Athletics Attnang-Puchheim	02:03

Standings

	Time	Home	Visitor	Result
Saturday, June 18 2011
	11:00	Schwaz Tigers	Rico Highlanders	12:01
	11:00	Stock City Cubs	Vienna Wanderers	00:04
	14:00	Stock City Cubs	Vienna Wanderers	00:04
Sunday, June 19 2011
	09:00	SU Kufstein Vikings	Vienna Metrostars	02:14
	11:00	Schwechat Blue Bats	Athletics Attnang-Puchheim	08:12
	12:00	SU Kufstein Vikings	Vienna Metrostars	02:01
	14:00	Schwechat Blue Bats	Athletics Attnang-Puchheim	02:03

Standings

Vienna Wanderers @ Soroptimist Stockerau Cubs

On the hunt for their first home win of the season, the Cubs host the Wanderers in a battle of neighbors. The first showdown in April ended unsuccessful for the men from Stockerau, although they put up a fight and were able to hang with the currently second place Wanderers, albeit with some help from the Vienna defense. Scott Hostein put forth a noble effort on the mound, however a lack of defensive and offensive support doomed the cause. The Vienna pitchers Godler and Magarian are jumping at the bit to get back on the field after a week off; can the Wanderers repeat their effort from the Tuesday night derby win against the Metrostars? If so, the Cubs will be sweating from more than just the expected high temperatures.

RiCo Highlanders @ Schwaz Tigers

After four decisive wins against their regional counterparts in the first half, the Tigers look to continue that streak. If the Highlanders were able to recuperate over their weekend off, then they’ll need to show it this weekend in hopes of climbing out of last place. Joshua Stewart will lead the charge, and it will take more than a solid pitching effort: he will need improved defense behind him if they want to take a win home with them. On offense the Tigers made it look easy last time, noteably through the three homeruns of Köchl, Haisjackl, and Hueber.

Sunday:

Vienna Metrostars @ Kufstein Vikings

The Kuftstein team has had to suffer through seven straight losses, in addition to a rash of injuries. Against the Metrostars, they’ll take a shot at ending the unfortunate streak in the confines of their own home and with an extra week to prepare. The Metrostars, coming off a nail-biting loss to the Wanderers on Tuesday night, comes loaded with young talent. They have their eye on the top teams in the standings and don’t have any plans to lose ground. Coach Tim Patrick is fortunate to have depth at pitcher, with a choice of five starters he can go to. The Vikings on the other hand will try to sort out who they can call on to stop the Metrostars offense.

Attnang-Puchheim Athletics @ Schwechat Blue Bats

The defending champs Attnang and Schwechat fought to a split last time they took the field, which at the time was an upset for the Blue Bats. Not so surprising in retrospect, however, as the Bats have kept themselves in playoff contention with a strong first half performance. The Athletics, having hosted the European Cup but missing out on the finals, now focus on the remainder of the league schedule where they sit atop the standings with a 1.5 game lead. They shouldn’t be resting on their heels though, the Bats would be happy to cut down that lead and boost their own chances at the playoffs.

Time	Home	Visitor	Field
Dates and Times are subject to change! In case of doubt check with the responsible national federation!
Saturday, June 18 2011
11:00	Schwaz Tigers	Rico Highlanders	Tigersfield Schwaz
11:00	Stock City Cubs	Vienna Wanderers	Stockerau
Sunday, June 19 2011
09:00	SU Kufstein Vikings	Vienna Metrostars	Baseballplatz H...
11:00	Schwechat Blue Bats	Athletics Attnang-Puchheim	Batsfield Ranne...

Standings

Tuesday:

Vienna Wanderers @ Vienna Metrostars

In the first chapter of the 2011 Vienna derby, Wanderers coach Sakanashi sent Christian Tomsich to make the start for the green and black. Tomsich and opposite for the Metrostars, Hubert Weiser, both had kept the opposing bats in check, with their teams riding them deep into the game.

Both defenses did their best to help out their pitcher, making just one error combined. Despite both teams getting the occasional base runner, the pitchers were able to close the door and keep the shutouts going into the 6th. The Metrostars jumped on a Wanderers mistake, taking a crucial lead late in the game, but the Wanderers bats fought right back, as Max Scholdan brought in Sakanashi with a single. Stefan Ludescher came in for the Metrostars to relieve Weiser, but in the top of the ninth it was Scholdan again who drove in the go-ahead run and made it 2-1 going in to the Metrostars last at bat. Clemens Cichocki was sent out to close the game for the Wanderers, and he picked up the save with a solid ninth. The Wanderers keep their grip on second place with the win under the lights.

Results:
Vienna Wanderers @ Vienna Metrostars
Game 1: 2-1 – WP: C. Tomsich; LP: S. Ludescher; S: C. Cichocki;

Standings

Tigers offensive fireworks take out Vikings – Blue Bats take two close ones – Metrostars destroy promoted Highlanders

Saturday:

Kufstein Vikings @ Schwaz Tigers

The Vikings traveled on Saturday with their B-Team and a long DL down the road to Schwaz, Hoping for a miracle, they came up empty handed: Schwaz needed the wins to remain in the hunt for the top of the standings. The Tigers offense had no trouble with the Vikings pitching, putting up hit after hit and run for run. To top it off, Köchl and Mayr (who later earned the win) put a couple shots sailing over the fence. The game ended with a walk-off grand slam, making the score 26-4 in the sixth.

In the second game, the Tigers picked up where they left off, lighting up the scoreboard. On the mound for the Tigers, American Fronczak dominated the opposing hitters at will, and didn’t allow a single run. From the other side, the bases looked like a merry-go-round, as the Kufsteiner watched baserunner after baserunner cross home. After two innings the Tigers were already up 11-0. The highlights were two round tripper swings by Haisjackl and Vogler. After 7 played, the mercyrule score of 17-0 sent the Vikings home winless.

Schwechat Blue Bats @ Soroptimist Stockerau Cubs

After dropping two last weekend, the Cubs sought to get back in the win column and keep pace in the standings behind the Bats. Michael Schneider gave up three early runs, but was able to get some support from the men behind him, as they took a 4-3 lead. Schwechat, lead by Hirnschal on the mound, bounced back and took a 8-4 lead after 5 innings. The Cubs battled back again, but ultimately were unable to overcome the large lead, and fell 9-8 to their guests.

Moving to the second matchup, the import players were Zsolt Zalabai und Scott Holstein were set to matchup once again.  Unexpectedly, the game didn’t turn into a pitchers duel, and by the third time through, the score was knotted 3-3. It was the Cubs who broke the tie, in the 7^th inning they put one on the board, but the Bats rallied for three and took the lead. Three additional runs extended the lead to 9-4 in the 9^th and final inning. The Cubs weren’t done, however, as they battled back to 9-6 and showed some life bringing the tying run to the plate. Unfortunately, just as in the first game the lead was too much to overcome, and game two also went to the guests.

Sunday:

RiCo Highlanders @ Vienna Metrostars

After cutting ties with Player-Captain Josh Steward, the Highlanders set on with the rest of their season down a man.Dominik Gerner started on the mound for the guests, while the Viennese put the ball in the hand of Lutz Rauch. Both teams looked shaky on defense to start; yet the Metrostars were able to take a 2-1 lead going into the 3^rd. They set the tone from then on, as well, as the defense regrouped to play clean in the field, while at bat they found their patience and scored often. The defense of the promoted Highlanders was anything but sound, helping their opponent around the bases at a time when they didn’t even need it. The Mercy-Rule score of 23-3 cut the game short.

The Highlanders turned to Bernd Weixlbaumer in the second half of the double header, but just as before the Metrostars had their bats ablaze. With a 7 run lead in the third and JTHillard pitching a gem, they gave him some relief and turned the ball over to StefanLudescher.  Even against the releif pitching the guests were unable to get the ball to roll their way, while the Metrostars kept steamrolling their way around the bases. After 6 innings, the 21-1 score brought in the mercy rule, and the Metrostars collected their second blowout on the weekend.

RESULTS

Schwechat Blue Bats @ Soroptimist Stockerauer Cubs

Game 1: 9:8 – WP: F. Hirnschal; LP: M. Schneider;

HR: A. Quirantes;

Game 2: 9:6 – WP: Z. Zalabai; LP: S. Holstein

Kufstein Vikings @ Schwaz Tigers

Game 1: 4:26 – WP: M. Mayr;

HR: J. Köchl, M. Mayr;

Game 2: 0:17 – WP: J. Fronczak;

HR: F. Haisjackl, Vogler

RiCo Highlanders @ Vienna Metrostars

Game 1: 3:23 – WP: J. Simonsen; LP: D. Gerner;

Game 2: 1:21 – WP: S. Ludescher; LP: B. Weixlbaumer;

HR: P. Ferak;

Standings

	Time	Home	Visitor	Result
Saturday, June 04 2011
	11:00	Schwaz Tigers	SU Kufstein Vikings	26:04
	11:00	Stock City Cubs	Schwechat Blue Bats	08:09
	14:00	Schwaz Tigers	SU Kufstein Vikings	17:00
	14:00	Stock City Cubs	Schwechat Blue Bats	06:09
Sunday, June 05 2011
	11:00	Vienna Metrostars	Rico Highlanders	23:03
	14:00	Vienna Metrostars	Rico Highlanders	21:01

Standings

Saturday:

Vienna Metrostars @ Rico Highlanders

Due to an unplayable field thanks to the rain, the games had to be postponed.

Sunday:

Soroptimist Stockerauer Cubs @ Schwechat Blue Bats

In the Lower Austrian derby between the Cubs and the Bats, Daniel Jahn started on the mound for the Schwechat team. With good control and capitalizing on his experience, Jahn kept the opponents in check for the whole game. For the guests, Michael Schneider also put forward a good performance on the mound. Arian Quirantes showed off his swing in a good day at the plate: a home run and a double helped build a 9-1 lead as the hosts cruised to a victory.

Game 2, imports Zalabai and Holstein looked to swing the game in their respective teams favor from the mound. Both teams started with focus, but it was the Blue Bats who struck first, taking advantage of the Stockerau mistakes on defense. Zalabai found his way back to the form he’s been demonstrating often this year, and besides a homer from Scott Holstein, didn’t give up another hit. The Bats completed the sweep with a 5-1 win.

Schwaz Tigers @ Kufstein Vikings

The depleted Vikings have been focused in over the past weeks. Thomas Krimbacher was charged with shutting down the Schwaz bats in Game 1, but holes in the defense allowed the guests to jump out to a lead and they never gave it back. Peter Nagiller closed out the game to give Schwaz the 16-10 win on the road.

In Game 2Bernie Eidherr returned from a longer sabbatical to make an appearance on the hill for the Vikings. Needing some offensive support from his teammates, they were unable to get anything going against a strong Jason Fronczak. Even the Tigers offense packed a tougher punch this week, with clutch hitting reducing the number of LOB in comparison to the week before, and they rode it to a 6-1 win.

European Cup:

The Vienna Wanderers and the Attnang-Puchheim Athletics are representing Austria this week in the European Cup Qualifier. The Wanderers head to France, Montpellier to be exact, while the Athletics will host their own group just as they did in 2009. Further information is available at http://competition.baseballeurope.com/2011/2011.php

Results

Vienna Metrostars @ Rico Highlander

Rainout

Soroptimist Stockerauer Cubs @ Schwechat Blue Bats

Game 1: 1:9 – WP: D. Jahn (CG); LP: M. Schneider;

HR: A. Quirantes;

Game 2: 1:5 – WP: Z. Zalabai (CG); LP: S. Holstein

HR: S. Holstein;

Schwaz Tigers @ Kufstein Vikings

Game 1: 16:10 – WP: P. Nagiller; LP: T. Krimbacher;

Game 2: 6:1 – WP: J. Fronczak; LP: B. Eidherr;

Standings

	Time	Home	Visitor	Result
Sunday, May 29 2011
	09:00	SU Kufstein Vikings	Schwaz Tigers	10:16
	11:00	Schwechat Blue Bats	Stock City Cubs	09:01
	12:00	SU Kufstein Vikings	Schwaz Tigers	01:06
	14:00	Schwechat Blue Bats	Stock City Cubs	05:01

Standings