The
3rd Annual LMBL All Star Game was another resounding success. Our league was able to showcase some of the
amazing talent we have, along with the comradery that exemplifies what our
league is all about.
Gathering players from all 14 league teams
and blending them together for a fun game showcasing their talent made for a
great day for all involved.
We couldn't ask for better weather - with sunny but cool temperatures on a
mid-August Saturday. Combine that with having the privilege of playing on
the worlds oldest baseball grounds - historic Labatt Memorial Park - and we had
the layout for an amazing event.
We kicked off the day with our league skills competition.
The first event was the Outfield-to-home accuracy throwing contest. When
the dust settled, Jason Smith from the Cubs took home the honours. He was
awarded an LMBL Hoody and TShirt for his efforts, but perhaps a gallon bucket
of Tiger Balm should have been the prize! Take care of the arm before the
playoffs Jason!
The second event was the bunting contest - mirrored after the Japanese All Star
festivities. Joel Harmer from the Pirates managed to squeak out the win
in the final round - although an honorable mention must got to league veteran,
Lawrence Dyck of the Rays - who could have went for an easy tie in the
final round, but decided to try for the W and bunted it just past the target
and foul! Next year, Dycker! ;-) Congrats on taking home the LMBL TShirt
and Cooler package Joel!
And in the marquee event, the HRD Home Run contest, we had many participants
attempting to showcase their power. After the playdown rounds, we ended
up with the 2022 Home Run Contest Champion (Andrew Mercier from the Jays) facing
off against the 2023 Home Run Contest Champion (Steve Froese from the
Expos). In the end, the veteran Mercier pulled out the victory and added
another HRD Bat to his collection! Congratulations!
The game kicked off at 5PM, and it was a well played affair. The umpiring was marginal, as it typically is in most LMBL contests. Past President Dale Crannie monitored the base paths - only getting cursed a
couple of times, while 'Nepotism' (aka Lukas Richardson) guarded the plate and
made sure the strike zone was as erratic as usual (jk!).
Team Red (Coached by Brad Nuttall of the Mets) jumped out to a big early lead, and held on to defeat a scrappy Team Blue (Coached by Gus DesBiens of the Expos) by a score of 8-6.
Walking away with the Centerfield Sports Player of the Game for Team Blue was
Tyler Koot. He pitched an inning and was 1-3 at the plate with an
RBI. He received a swag package and gift certificate from Centerfield
Sports for his efforts. Nice work!
And for the winning Team Red - Arizona Phoenix was rewarded for his hard work
on the mound and 2 for 3 day at the plate (with 4 RBI's!), taking home a new
HRD Custom MVP Bat!
This event could not have taken place without the hard work and planning by our
league President, Jamie Grenier. Thanks Jamie! Each year we learn new tips and
tricks to make it better - and this year was no exception. The BBQ was
well supported, helping us cover some of the costs associated with running this
event. Thanks to all who came out and supported the league - and we are already
looking forward to 2025!