Max Mercy's SC Knights Weekly Blog

Mitchell Report Sends Shock Waves Through Knights Organization.

2008-01-16T09:30:00.001-08:00

WASHINGTON — Congress continued its examination of baseball's steroids era Tuesday, and unlike a similar hearing three years ago, there was praise amid the criticism of Knights Manager Ryan Saul and team owner The Judge.
Each took responsibility for the steroids problem in adult baseball before the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee. Saul and Judge also said they are working to implement recommendations from former senator George Mitchell's report on drugs. Just when you think the Knights organization had hit the bottom...they dig a foxhole and manage to get even deeper. The hearings took a sharp turn towards the Knights when committee chairman Henry Waxman, who asked Saul whether the Knights should have reported their concerns about Kevin Murkeys' trainer, Mike 'Los Animals' Cabrera, and the slugger's alleged steroid use to the commissioner's office. Saul kept his head down for a majority of the questioning, even mumbling incoherently sometimes.

The book that started it all "Jewced: Dark Days & Darker Knights", former Knight Ryan Lang told all the locker room secrets and named names. This is when Sen. Mitchell gained traction for his now infamous Mitchell Report where 11 former and current Knights were mentioned in connection with "TXF".

Lang who many accused at the time of violating the Locker Room Code Of Silence feels vindicated by the findings of the Mitchell Report. He mentioned in a phone interview that "I've spent the last 3 years defending myself. But now it's their turn, I spoke the truth and the truth set me free." He went on to hint at a new book "It's time for The Langer to unleash the rest of his fury in a new book, I don't want to give away too much other than to say, if you thought Jewced was shocking, wait till you read the new book." I asked if he could hint at what he'd be covering, he said only that it would be titled "Pitcher or Catcher. Stingers, Needles, and Balls, Oh My! The Life and HARD Times of an Adult Baseball Supermodel"

Knights Shortstop Pete Halvorsen (left with Cole Van Buren) made an incredible resurgence in his career after spending the off season working out with oft-injured left-fielder Austin Hurwitz in the Winter of 2004. Hurwitz has been named in the probe concerning a large shipment of "The X Factor" a designer substance known in the medical circles as "TXF" or "Blue Steel".

Halvorsen put on 25 pounds (photo w/ football was taken in Spring of '05) of muscle in one off season. He has since systematically denied any and all allegations through his lawyer's at Dewey, Cheatum and Howe LLP. I called and received this statement from Bert Dewey "My client, Mr. Halvorsen has used B12 and Flax Seed Oil provided to him by a licensed physician, and for the record he doesn't even like needles."

So as names begin to leak out and be linked together it is my duty to put the puzzle together and hold all of those responsible for cheating the Knights fans out of the pure and organic game of baseball they thought they had been witnessing.

With the 2008 Knights season in jeopardy, we will find out early next week if the Knights will be able to field a team or if the Steroid Allegations and Suspensions be the death blow of Knights Baseball.

I'm Max Mercy and this has been a Special Edition Article.

168 Hour Game End's With Knights Loss

2007-09-10T09:11:00.000-07:00

Fans Littered The Field Last Sunday After The Decision By Jack Provst To Suspend Play

LOS ANGELES, CA - In a move that made Knights fans long for the calm demeanor of the PCBL's James Duprey or the open door policy of the VABL's Carlos Yniguez. LAMSBL Commissioner Jack 'Selig' Provst put a circus tent over the LAMSBL's playoff. The Knights were down by one run, 12-11, going into the top of the ninth inning. The Knights were ready to attempt a last inning comeback versus the Astros as they had done twice this season. Then the comedy ensued, in a game that had already taken 3 hours and 30 minutes, all of the sudden the game was to be suspended for a week. So 168 or so hours later, the Knights got to take their hacks in the top of the 9th. Why you ask, because the field the Knights and Astros were playing on was booked to another league for a game that was to start in an hour, allegedly. (Ed. Note: Neither team showed up for this phantom game.) Originally blame was being cast on the umpires for not enforcing the 3 hour time limit, but later it was found out that the commissioner look no further than himself for the SNAFU.

I'm sure when Steve Siegler created the MSBL 15 years ago, this scenario was exactly what he had in mind.

Back to the game that was attempting to be played on the field, last week the Astros and Knights played a great game, changing leads and battling back and forth. The Astros were able to take the lead for the final time in the bottom of the 8th inning after a lead off bunt, a great baseball move to sacrifice the runner to 2nd base. A ground ball to shortstop that made for a controversial call at 3rd base, going the way of the Astros. This set up the opportunity for Ari Z. to come up with the game winning hit off El Toro Tony Sulser. Sulser threw a slider and Ari jumped on it connecting on a clean basehit to center field plating the go ahead run.

CUT TO: 168 hours later...The Knights take the field against a different 'looking' Astros team than the week before, After a leadoff single by Kevin Murkey the Knights failed to move the tying run into scoring position, Pete Nelson and Josh Steiner struck out. Giving the Knights one last opportunity in the form of Colyn Van Buren. Mysteriously, after having great control all inning the Astros pitcher let one get away and plunked Van Buren in the back with the first pitch. Bringing up Brendan McDonald who anti-climatically popped out to first ending the 168 hour misery and the worst season in Knights history. The Knights fell to a final record of 8-13 after droping their final 9 games.

Empty Chairs And Empty Tables

With many of the Knights contracts up at the end of this season, it's very possible Knights fans will see a very different team next season. You'll have to check back to find out. One thing is for sure according to the Knights Front Office, The grass definitely wasn't greener on the other side of the valley and serious talks will be taking place to see where the Knights take the formerly "Greatest Show In Adult Baseball".

In other news we keep Knights All-Star Jonathan Williams in our thoughts and prayers as he recovers from a severe back injury. Williams who's license plate if you remember is "AQUAMAN" was deep sea diving with his pod of dolphins in Baja and had to fight off a Polar Bear who was attacked, Williams prevailed but sustained a back injury when he wrestled the Bear to ocean floor. All the Dolphins were ok, thanks to JWill.

I'm Max Mercy and this has been a long season.

Knights Laugh Their Way Into Playoffs

2007-08-27T15:00:00.001-07:00

MALIBU, CA - The Knights dropped their final game of the regular season falling to 8-12 and really putting an exclamation point on the season. But, a new season starts on the 9th of September. One thing is for sure, the Knights can't do much worse.

So with that the Knights will face the Astros who put a 19-5 thumping on the Knights the last time the two teams faced each other.

A season that has seen more downs than ups will now hang on 9 innings...but what a story it would make.

I'm Max Mercy and I'll see you Sept. 9th Knights v. Astros a fight to the death, one ring to rule them all.

Knights Game Ends In Shame

2007-08-20T07:49:00.000-07:00

CARSON, CA - Just when you think you've seen it all Knights fans...just when you think it can't get any stranger. It does. In a game which saw the Knights a man down, playing with 2 outfielders versus the first place Yankees...only down by one run going into the 9th inning. The game then was abruptly brought to a halt when Manager/Player Ryan Saul and 2nd Baseman Vincent Texiera were ejected from the game for "Unsportsman Like Conduct" what usually results in a 10 yard penalty and a loss of downs, resulted in the end of game.

So the Knights 7 were left standing on the field wondering what just happened...The Yankees were conflicted, on one hand they win and clinch first place, on the other hand they lose their 2nd baseman to ejection and an automatic one game suspension.

The Knights game started with the Lightning Bolt Boys playing hard despite being a man down, hanging with the Yankees and ready to play spoiler. Pitchers Rod Boaz and Jonathan Williams were dealing. Striking out 11 Yankees over the abbreviated 8 inning game. What the Knights couldn't get done on offense they took care of on defense. The speedy combo of Erik Barber and Pete Nelson patrolled the Carson outfield covering more ground than 3 outfielders. The underdog Knights were on track to upset the first place Yankees.

Despite being injured Knights starter Rod Boaz went 5 strong innings striking out 7 Yankees before being relieved by Jonathan Williams. Williams struck out 4 over his 3 innings of work, most of his strikeouts came on his split-finger fastball which was extra nasty this Sunday morning.

The only thing nastier was the ensuing fight in between the 8th and 9th innings. As 2nd baseman Ryan Saul began to jog out to his position, a unknown Yankee player shouted at him to "get in the box" referring to his last at bat where Saul took his time preparing for his at bat. This one remark changed the course of the game...and the Knights season. Mt. Saul erupted, making a B-Line for the owner of said comment. The Yankees headed Saul off at the pass and a good old fashioned baseball fight was in effect.

Like most Baseball Fight's there was a lot of screaming, name calling, individuals mentioning numerous times "I'll rip your head off" "No, I'll rip YOUR head off". But what really makes a Baseball Fight, a baseball fight...is that there are never any punches thrown. The only difference in this baseball fight is that is was 1 versus 9 and there was no one to hold back Saul. The Umps had seen enough, ejected Saul and Teixeira, knowing that this gave the Knights 7 players they headed for the hills, the 'Knights Game Ended In Shame™' and the Yankees clinched first place without having to finish the 9th inning.
The Knights historic skid continues losing their 6th straight game. The Knights having streaked into playoffs with a winning record the last 3 years and losing in the first round are trying something different, a losing streak. As it looks right now, with a loss next week versus the Cubs and a Storm win, the Knights will fall to last place and face the Yankees in the first round of the playoffs.

I'm Max Mercy and this article took entirely too long to write.
View All The Exciting Photos From The Game Here

KNIGHTS QUEST FOR THE CUP

Knights will try to go for the championship starting in September, the return of El Toro...The return of the Murkules...The return of The Brooks...The Fike...basically everyone who has been missing for the last um, 6 months or so.

Knights Fall To 8-10 After Late Inning Melt Down.

2007-08-13T08:57:00.000-07:00

CARSON, CA - Knights waste great outing by Rod Boaz. Boaz struck out 12 hitters for the second straight game over. But the Knights were unable to hold onto a 7-2 lead as a number of dinks and hand grenades kept landing just out of reach of Knights fielders. Boaz frustration showed on the field but when I asked him about these unfortunate events after the game he was frank. "That's baseball." Boaz replied "I could stand on the mound and cry about it, or just make a better pitch next time so they can't make any contact with it." Boaz did plenty of that in his gutsy 120 pitch performance striking out the side in the 5th and 6th innings.

The Knights were in an early hole after a 2 run double by Kirk Mayer in the first inning, a fly ball that Boaz felt should have been caught, but right fielder Ryan Saul lost it in the sun. The Knights "stormed" back scoring 7 unanswered runs, 3 on a bases clearing double by Jonathan Williams and another 2 on a Pete Halvorsen single. Brendan McDonald hit a 430 foot triple to the 510 foot center field fence.

But the Knights were unable to hold onto the 5 run lead. In the bottom of the 7th the Storm dropped some Global Warming on the Knights in the form a 5 run 2 out rally. The Knights playing with only 9 players had no one to warm up the defacto closer Jonathan Williams due to the absence of Steve Fike, Kevin Murkey and/or Tony Sulser. Williams entered the game in the 8th inning and got out of a bases loaded jam. But couldn't get the last out of the 9th inning when the Storm's Matt Kennedy hit the walk off hit scoring the runner from 2nd and ending the game. Tossing a bit more fuel on the burning ship that is the Knights season.

The Knights take on the First Place Evil Empire this weekend. While they have won 2 of the 3 meetings between the two teams, those were different Knights teams that the Yankees saw.

We Don't Need No Water!!!

2007-07-30T08:17:00.001-07:00

SHERMAN OAKS ADJ., CA - In this weeks installment of ESPN's hit series "The Knights Are Burning" Ryan Brooks returns to the Knights lineup but is it too little to late to rescue this smoldering season? With their latest loss the Knights fall to .500 (8-8) but still have a firm grip on mediocrity and 4th place. The Knights held a closed door meeting after the latest blowout loss, this time at the hands of the last place Asstros.

I, Max Mercy was sneaky enough to slip a microphone in the locker room to record what this meeting could be about and what they could possibly say after losing 8 of their last 12 games.

The mind is a strange thing, men.

We must begin by asking it..."What is losing?"

Losing is a disease...as contagious as polio.
           
Losing is a disease...as contagious as syphilis.

Losing is a disease...as contagious as bubonic plague...

...attacking one... but infecting all. 

But curable.

Now, I want you to imagine...you are on a ship at sea...

...on a vast sea...gently rocking...
           
Gently rocking...
           
Gently rocking...

While the Knights attempt to play mind games to stop this skid, it may be too late. The ship that they are on could in fact be the Titanic and management may just be rearranging the deck chairs. But no matter what the name, this ship is sinking...gently sinking...gently sinking...gently sinking...

The Knights prepare for the final month of the regular season. The rough waters continue next week versus the Brewers at Cleveland High School 10 am first pitch.

I'm Max Mercy for The Daily Mirror and I'll see you at the Ballpark.

When the cheering stopped, there were... Eight Men Out.

2007-07-23T12:28:00.001-07:00

CULVER CITY, CA - When you talk Knights baseball around the water cooler on Monday mornings. The conversation normally revolves around names such as Nellie, Hurwitz, Sulser or Barber. But these days most conversations start with "Can you believe that..." In the lastest installment of "can you believe that..." The Knights shocked even their most loyal fans by finding a way to have only 8 players at a game.

In case you're not up to date on your baseball rule book. Baseball is a sport played between two teams usually of nine players each. It is a bat-and-ball pitcher throws (pitches) a hard, fist-sized, leather-covered ball toward a batter bat, made of wood (as required in professional baseball) or a variety of other materials (as allowed in many nonprofessional games). A team scores runs only when batting, by advancing its players—primarily via hits—counterclockwise past a series of four markers called bases game in which a on the opposing team. The batter attempts to hit the baseball with a tapered cylindrical arranged at the corners of a ninety-foot square, or "diamond."

Well, the Knights played this game with 8 players. Steve Fike started his first game of the season and would have fared well had it not been for the small inconveniences of NOT HAVING THREE OUTFIELDERS. Even still those Knights who did show up played hard and kept fighting to make sure they could give their few fans something to cheer about. Sadly in the end there was not much to cheer about, the Knights dropped their 2nd game straight and fell into 4th place with an 8-7 record.

I'm sure you're asking yourself - well who was missing? Here is that hallowed list of AWOL Knights:

Erik Barber
Rod Boaz
Ryan Brooks
Austin Hurwitz
Ian McDonald
Peter Nelson
Tony Sulser
Mike Vogel

So once again, the Knights attempt to pick up the pieces of a shattered season this Sunday against a team they have 2 dramatic come from behind victories against the SF Astros. Which team will show up on Sunday? The 15 Knights who fight to the death together or the 8 sheep being led to their slaughter...Tune In Same Time...Same Site next week to find out.

This is Max Mercy and I'll see you at the ballpark.

Knights Fall Prey To Evil Empire

2007-07-16T09:49:00.000-07:00

LOS ANGELES, CA - Pete Halvorsen speaks. Hide the children, and valuables, too.

"Yeah, it's an embarrassment for me to be wearing this f -- uniform because of the way I'm playing," Halvorsen said Sunday. "Now go away."

With that, he shooed away the quote-getters and flipped a laundry cart downside up, turning the dirty-clothes-on-wheels into a visual metaphor of the current state of affairs for Halvorsen and the Knights.

Of course, if Halvorsen had handled a few ground balls as surely as he did the clubhouse belongings, maybe the Knights wouldn't have lost for the first time against the Yankees this season. The latest, a loss, dropped the Knights into 2nd place for the 3rd time this season, a hole they will now have to dig themselves out of.

"We couldn't have had a worse start than what we had and we know it," manager Ryan Saul said. "To lose like this here at home ... we're better than this. There's no way that should happen. At this point, we keep fighting and, hopefully, you get ticked off and do something about it." Saul who later mentioned he did all he could connecting on a basehit to right and throwing a runner out at 2nd base, for the second time this season as he was quick to remind the press.

"It's been a tough few games for him, there's no getting around it," Saul said of Halvorsen. "I know his arm has been hurting him, but he won't let that be an excuse."

Don't think Halvorsen is sinking this ship alone. It merely looked that way as he booted one ball and threw another one away in the first inning.

Truth is, most everyone is finding ways to botch it when at-bats matter most. The Knights left 11 men on base and never truly looked like they were ready to attack the Yankees like the two previous victories. The Knights beat Singleton back in May but were unable to put together a solid rally.

Even starter Rod Boaz got dragged into the mess, giving up 8 earned runs in 3 innings to undo a personal three-game win streak.

"No one's happy about the way we're playing, including ourselves," first baseman Kevin Murkey said. "I think we've been ticked off for a while. It's not like the schedule's going to get any easier for us."

Leading All-Star vote getter Jonathan Williams sounded more optimistic about life "One thing you learn when you are 1,000 leagues under the sea Max...there's no where to go but up." I asked Williams to elaborate he got a crazed look in his eye and stepped up on his chair "Do you have a dorsal fin? To train ze dolphin you must zink like ze dolphin! You must be getting inside ze dolphin's head. I am saying to Snowflake, "Akay!... Akay Akay Akay?" und he is saying "AKay Akay!" und he is up on ze tail "Eeeeeeeeee!" und you can quote him! "

To quote Homer Simpson "Before, Before...Quit living in the past Marge." The Knights will now look forward and hope to get back on track and stop their win-lose-win-lose-win-lose pattern.

Looking forward the Knights will play the Cubs this Sunday @ 10 AM.

I leave you with this...

I'm Max Mercy and I'll see YOU at the ball park.

Jonathan Williams Leads All-Star Voting, Barber Cuts It Close Behind...

2007-07-13T08:35:00.000-07:00

LOS ANGELES, CA - Jonathan Williams the soft-spoken giant has a loud voice when it comes to the all-star voting. The 6'5 switch-hitter has taken a commanding lead receiving over 50% of the votes cast in the first week. Williams (pictured talking to a cute blond in the stands during a game) has been a fan favorite since he started with the Knights back in 2004. Always the first one at the ball park and the last to leave, making sure he signs ever last autograph for Knight fans. I tried to get a hold of Jonathan to get a comment about this great show of his popularity, but was told by his people that he was attempting to "Find Nemo" off the coast of Baja. It turns out Williams is a Knight by Day and a Marine Biologist by Night. As if Williams needed more fans he now will no doubt receive the "Live Earth" vote after word gets out. While the Knights have a few players who like to think they "swim with Sharks" in Hollywood. Jonathan Williams actually DOES, which may be a reason that when it comes to fan appreciation, he's top of the list. While his stats may not reflect his contribution to the team, real Knights fans understand what Williams brings to the team, consistency, a great smile and a love of marine life.

Coming in a distant 2nd with 29% of the votes so far is Erik Barber.

(Photo Courtesy Of The UnOfficial 'Erik Barber Is My Cowboy' Website)

Barber feels as the new guy on the team, the fans just haven't had a chance to get to know him yet. "Give me some time Max, I'll win them over and then you'll be looking at the #1 Vote getter." Erik is known best for his freestyle rapping ability and his amazing fashion sense. His album "drops" later this year and we'll be sure to link to it or at least get a bootleg copy to post on the site.

WHAT ARE THE KNIGHTS UP TO OFF THE FIELD?

Catcher Colyn Van Buren has no comment on the latest rumor that he was seen working out with Kevin Murkey this last week at Crunch on Sunset.

If you'll remember Murkey and Van Buren had their best season last year when they were on a strict eating and workout plan together. They were BFF 4 EVER...maybe they are trying to recapture lightning in a bottle.

When I tried to reach Murkey for a comment he quickly hung up the phone.

Knights Outfielder Mike Vogel is off filming his latest scary movie...the trailer for Cloverfield can be seen here. http://www.apple.com/trailers/paramount/11808/ Vogel was last seen gasping for air in the Poiseiden Adventure remake..."Poiseidon". Vogel should make his triumphant return to the Knights sometime in late August.

In Rod We Trust

2007-07-09T08:00:00.000-07:00

CARSON, CA - With a flare for the dramatic starting pitcher Rod Boaz waited until Saturday evening to call trainer Stan Turner and tell him his Heel felt good enough to give it a shot. Turner thought it was a joke at first, but Boaz told him he was 100% serious. So still with a noticeable limp, Boaz made his way out to the mound to the joy of the hometown Knights fans.

Boaz put his team first and despite his severe injury the 2 weeks before he was able too look like a new version of Boaz of old from the first pitch. Boaz 2.0 as he now wants to be known was focused to get the Knights back on track. Boaz struck out 4 of the first 5 batters he faced, untimately going 6 innings allowing 3 hits and 0 earned runs. Boaz did walk 6 batters, but got himself out of bases loaded jams with big pitches both times. The first bases loaded jam was created by Shortstop Pete Halvorsen on consecutive errors, but Boaz had his shortstops back shutting down the threat getting back to back outs and not allowing a run to score. Halvorsen returned the favor two innings later with 1 out and the bases loaded snagging a ground ball up the middle and turning a 6-3 double play ending another Storm threat.

Click On Murkules Face For His Intro Music

The great performance by Rod Boaz was not to be outdone by Kevin Murkey who no doubt wanted to see his name in print as well. Murkey has been battling injuries of his own from his two-sport days of playing in the now defunct NFL - Europe and spending his off season with the Knights. Those days are behind him, but the injuries remain. Murkey tossed a season high 3 Innings allowing only 2 hits and striking out 5. Game Over indeed.

Murkules did get some help from his good pal and Centerfielder Steve Fike who is making Web Gems look routine these days. With a runner on 2nd and 0 outs, Fike dashed 20 yards onto the right centerfield warning track and snagged a sure run scoring double over his shoulder. This excited rightfielder Austin Hurwitz so much that he made a Howard Dean like scream.

Listen To The Baseball Tonight Guys Discuss Fike's Web Gem and the Greatest Web Gems Of All Time

The Knights offense was focused and determined to score more than the 3 runs they barely managed against the Storm the last time they faced them. Both Austin Hurwitz and Erik Barber continued their hot hitting knocking in 2 runs a piece.
While leadoff hitter Pete Halvorsen took advantage of 3 walks scoring 3 times. Steve Fike felt comfortable at the plate also, going 3-4 on the day solidifying his spot in the number two hole. The McDonald brothers Ian and Brendan manned the right side of the infield and also picked up 1 hit a piece continuing to forge new ground becoming the first Knight siblings to reach base in the same inning.

After losing 18-3 to the Storm back in June the Knights put together a well played game winning 6-1 and staying tied for first with the LA Yankees, who they meet this week at 0830 in Glendale at Stengel Field.

The Knights All-Star Balloting is now open, you can view your Knights and their Stats below and make your vote on the upper left hand portion of this page.

Where do the Knights go from here? Rumor Mill...

2007-07-05T16:00:00.000-07:00

Los Angeles, CA - The Knights season took a sharp turn for the worse recently when it was revealed after Sunday's loss that the Knights would be without Tony Sulser till August 25th and Rod Boaz through the rest of the season. In a press conference late Thursday afternoon it was learned that the Knights have been in contact with former Knights and also are looking abroad at the possibility of bringing in a Japanese pitcher from the Yokomura league which the Knights have strong ties too.

But the most recent development has been that of Josh Eveland. Nicknamed the "Unit" for his height and likeness to Randy Johnson, Eveland has come close to playing for the Knights in the past but when the front office and his agent couldn't come to an agreement he went elsewhere. The 6'7 hurler has been contacted and it would seem the Knights would have to meet his price as it's no secret they are in dire straights.

More on this as it develops...

UPDATE: The SC Knights news organization has learned that within the last hour Eveland's agent Scott Borass has been contacted and an offer has been made.

Borass' office has no comment.

Knights Bad 5th Inning Turns Into 5th Loss.

2007-07-02T08:59:00.000-07:00

CARSON CITY, CA - The shocking loss of the Knights two starting pitchers Tony Sulser and Rod Boaz rocked the Knights clubhouse minutes before game time on Sunday. Sulser, the career leader in wins and strikeouts for the Knights has shocked his fans by deciding to become a Crab Fisherman and will be featured on next seasons Deadliest Catch, if in fact he survives the 2 months in the Behring Sea. Rod Boaz the Knights leading hitter and other starting pitcher aggravated his Achilles Heel and it on the 60 Day DL. We wish him all the best in his recovery.

Sulser pitching in his final game as a Knight for awhile threw a gutsy performance allowing 1 run and 3 hits in the first 4 innings. The Knights took advantage of 2 walks and 5 straight singles in the 3rd knocking the Brewers lefty out of the game. Rightfielder Kevin Murkey drove in 3 runs going 2-3 on the day. But on this dark Sunday in July, the Knights would not be able to hold a 7 run lead. The Brew Crew fought their way back in the 5th inning scoring 7 runs of in their own right taking the lead and never looking back. The Brewers took advantage of a bases loaded routine fly ball to right field by Joe Howard that outfielder Ryan Saul lost in the sun, 2 runs scored and the Brewers offense attack began.

The Knights offense sputtered from the 3rd inning on never getting a runner past 2nd base and going out with a whimper. But as the game came to a close the Knights had to look to the 2nd half of the season and the fact that they were without their 2 starting pitchers, the duo that has
pitched 73 of their 94 innings this year.

The front office of the Knights will be working feverishly into the "Knight" this week attempting to wheel and deal for some pitching. They will be working the waiver wire as well as seeing what players are On The Block looking to find a new team. If you or someone you know has what it takes to be a "Knight" they are looking for a Few Good Men. Contact me, Max Mercy and I'll be sure to pass along your info to the Front Office.

Farewell, El Toro - The Knights fans wish you all the best in your new career as a Crab Fisherman.

Adios Amigo.

The Knights are back at it next week versus the Storm who handed the Knights an embarrassing 18-3 loss last month which started this most recent tailspin. The Knights have played .500 baseball since May 6th.

Knights Do It Again!

2007-06-26T07:44:00.000-07:00

GLENDALE, CA - Knights come from behind in final at bat for second time over the Astros. With the 8-7 victory the Knights bettered their record to 7-4 and fell into another tie with the Culver City Cubs (who they lost to last week).

The Knights were without the managing expertise of Ryan Saul for the third time this season, but surprisingly they are 3-0 without the Red Hot Saulsa at the helm. They were also without the services of Colyn Van Buren, Austin Hurwitz, Ryan Brooks, Kevin Murkey, Erik Barber and Mike Vogel. So if your math is above a 3rd grade level 16 minus 7 still equals nine. Which were exactly how many players the Knights had to battle the Astros.

In baseball, nine are all you need especially when one of them is the Cuban Bull. Sulser got off to a rocky start giving up 5 runs in the first 3 innings on three home runs, but then he buckled down and knew he had to go deep into this game to give the Knights a chance to comeback. So that's what he did. Sulser tossed 6 more innings only giving up 1 more run and 2 more hits.

A Dog Showed Up From Out Of No Where...And Then The Rally Began. Then just like that *poof* he was gone. A true mystery.

Offensively, Sulser also got the ball rolling with his first hit of the season being a laser over the left field fence giving the Knights a run and shifting the momentum. Following suit the McDonald Brothers, Ian and Brendan, we 3-4 and 2-3 respectively, setting the table and even clearing it sometimes to spur on the Knights comeback. With the Knights tied 5-5 going into the top of the 6th inning the Knights shortstop Pete Halvorsen lead off with a double to left center, followed by an infield single from Rod Boaz moving Halvorsen, the tying run to third. Steve Fike then came up versus the lefty specialist and put together a great at bat fouling off 4 straight pitches, finally getting the one he could do something with and sending a fly ball deep enough to center to score Halvorsen and take the lead.

Seeing double? The McDonald Brothers go a combined 5-7 on the day.

This woke the Astros from their slumber and they came right back and tied the game in the 7th and took the lead in the 8th. Putting the Knights on their final at bat, down by one run, versus the Astros...Deja Vu anyone? If not, feel free to read about it here. But back to the present day, Josh Steiner reached on a throwing error to lead off the inning, followed by a Rod Boaz single which turned into a critical two base error when it went under the centerfielder's glove and allowed Steiner to reach third and Boaz second base. Boaz was then lifted as a non-runner for the last out which was the speedy Pete Halvorsen who represented the winning run. Steve Fike had an opportunity to be a hero for the second time this game after an amazing catch in centerfield robbing the Astros of more runs in the top of the inning. Fike worked the count full then took a ball in the dirt, loading the bases. Up stepped the struggling Pete Nelson, Nelson has been showing signs of coming out of his slump. All they needed was a fly ball from him to tie the game, with the infield in, Nelson wasted no time winning the game, hitting a flare over the SS into left field easily scoring Steiner with Halvorsen right on his heels sliding in with hands raised scoring the winnings run.

View All The Photos From The Game Here.

The Knights are back at it next week July 1, 2007 in Carson versus the Westside Brew Crew.

Fike Takes Care Of Pitching, Barber Takes Of Hitting, Knights Take Care Of Yankees

2007-06-11T08:29:00.000-07:00

SYLMAR, CA - If there was a must win this early in the season it was Sunday versus the Yankees. Coming off an embarrassing 18-3 loss to the last place Storm the Knights were tied for first place with the Cubs (5-3) and in need of a win versus the 2006 league Champion Yankees. But the Knights were also back to their lean and mean selves with a who's who list of missing players (Brooks, Vogel, Van Buren, Steiner and Sulser). The Lightning Bolt kids not only had their inner demons to battle but they also had to face former Major League pitcher Matt Whisenant. It was the 6'3 lefties first time facing the Knights.

The Knights got off to a good start taking advantage of a Pete Halvorsen lead off single and Steve Fike being hit by a pitch. But Whisenant buckled down and struck out the next two hitters Rod Boaz and Kevin Murkey. The Knights looked like they would squander another great opportunity much like last game, but Erik Barber had other plans. Barber smoked the second pitch he saw into right centerfield scoring Halvorsen easily and allowing Fike to go to third. Fike then scored on a Pete Nelson chip shot over first base giving the Knights a 2-0 lead.

Rod Boaz fresh off being snubbed the MLB Draft, he had something to prove. Boaz tossed 5 shutout innings striking out 7 and getting out of 2 bases loaded jams. Boaz on a strict pitch count was removed after his 100th pitch in the 5th inning. Manager Ryan Saul then handed the ball to seldom used pitcher Steve Fike. Fike acted like it was just another day for him out of the bullpen. The left handed Fike tossed 3 strong innings allowing 0 earned runs and keeping the Yankees powerful lefties off-balance. Fike said after the game "I felt great out there, my mechanics were sound and I could have gone a few more innings. I am just happy to help out wherever Coach needs me."

The Knights offense continued to thrive behind the bat of Erik Barber who went 4-5 on the day and continued to come through with runners in scoring position. Also with a strong day at the plate third baseman Brendan McDonald. McDonald has ramped up his game since his brother Ian joined the squad. In over 25 years of playing baseball, this is the first time the McDonald brothers have played on the same team. Another milestone was reached Sunday when Ryan Saul connected on an RBI fielders choice, his first of the season, with runners at 1st and 3rd giving the Knights their 9th run of the afternoon. Halvorsen followed up with a single scoring Ian McDonald and capping the Knights scoring at 10 runs.

Knights closer Kevin Murkey came in to shut the door on the Yankees and had a 5 run cushion. The Yankees first two batters reached on a single and a HBP and later scored, but this gave Murkey the extra stress he needs to dig deep and concentrate. Murkey then retired the Yankees 3 and 4 hitters ending the game and giving the Knights a 10-7 victory. Keeping them tied with the Cubs at the top of the division with a 6-3 record.

The Knights will face off against the Cubs next week for the battle for sole possession of first place. However they will be without Ryan Brooks, Pete Halvorsen and Mike Vogel. But as we've seen this Knights team loves to play the underdog and they love to play with uneven numbers, much like a certain movie.

Mama said there'll be days like this...

2007-06-04T08:43:00.000-07:00

CULVER CITY, CA - Mama said there'll be days like this, There'll be days like this Mama said...and boy was she right. The Knights had no idea what they were getting into this past Sunday versus the Storm. Coming into the game with a first place record of 5-2 playing the 1-6 Storm on paper it seemed like a foregone conclusion, but this is why they play the game on the field and not on paper.

The Knights had carried a full squad for the 2nd time this season. But these extra bodies just added to the amount of "lay witnesses" at the scene of this crime. The visiting Knights should have known the forces of nature were against them after they failed to score in the first inning wasting a lead off double. But like sheep being looked after by two cowboys on Brokeback Mountain...they didn't have a chance at life or love on this day.

El Toro's triumphant return to the mound wasn't suppose to go like this. After two HBP's a grandslam home run and two errors in the field, it was 7-0 and all these little sheep could do is wander around aimless while they're keepers were off pitching a tent. I could go into the lack of offense (3 runs) or the lack of defense (6 errors), but it's much easier to take if you just realize that Mama was right, there'll be days like this.

So the Knights fall to 5-3 and into a first place tie with a lot of teams...one of those teams is the Evil Empire known as the LA Yankees. The Knights will look to circle the wagons and fight out of this funk. But no matter what happens this season, they'll always have this lesson...this lesson they learned up there...way up there on Brokeback Mountain.

Watch The Slide show Below...or View All The 78 Photos Here

Knights Ready To Continue Winning Ways

2007-05-31T14:30:00.000-07:00

A Public Service Announcement From TIPS and Roger Clemens In Association With "SC Knights PSA's"

LOS ANGELES, CA - The Knights will look to come back from a week off and defeat the South Bay Storm. The First Place Knights are 5-2 on the season and have a 1 game lead over the Yankees and Cubs in the National Division. The Knights will be without leagues leading hitter Rod Boaz who is being courted by most of the top MLB teams.

First Pitch 2 pm - SP (Knights) Tony Sulser
Culver City Stadium

Lean Knights Get Mean In 7-6 Victory

2007-05-21T07:52:00.000-07:00

CULVER CITY, CA - After dropping two games in a row for the first time this season the Knights needed to get back on track. But early on this looked like it would be a difficult task versus the hot hitting Brewers. But Rod Boaz was up to the challenge. The Knights originally had Tony "El Toro" Sulser penciled in as the starter but he was a late scratch and could not be found for comment after the game. Rumors swirled throughout the clubhouse of a Trade. Our crack reporting staff is working on this and other possible moves before the trading deadline.

Sunday the lean Knights were without Ryan Brooks, Mike Vogel, Josh Steiner, Pete Nelson and the aforementioned Tony Sulser. So Boaz got the spot-start after struggling in his last outing versus the Cubs, Boaz knew he had to be on his game versus the heavy hitting Brewers.

The Game began as an old fashioned pitchers dual. The Brewers pitcher Justin Halpern matched Boaz inning for inning both allowing 1 hit over the first 3 and striking out 5. But the Brewers took advantage of a rare Boaz walk and their first hit of the game by center fielder
Joe Howard taking a 1-0 lead. With the way Halpern was pitching it looked as though that was all the Brewers would need to win this game. Then in a surprise move the Brewers removed Halpern for a reliever who immediately gave up a solo shot to Steve Fike who connected on his first of the year a laser over the 365 mark in right field. Just lik that the Knights were back in the game and giving Boaz some much needed run support.

As Boaz creeped up on the 100 pitch count in the top of the 5th, he hit a rough patch. Making what looked like pretty good pitched according to K-Zone, the walks equaled another run for the patient Brewer hitters, but not before Boaz could record his 10th strikeout of the game (the 8th time he has done this in a Knights uniform). Boaz left the game on the hook for a hard luck loss.

But Kevin Murkey had other ideas how this game would end. After an Erik Barber walk and steal of second. Murkules unloaded with every bit of his Spartan Like strength hitting a no doubt home run well over 400 feet landing 30 rows up in left field. Murkey did his patented Sosa like hop out of the box even adding in a new dance step that may get him a call from the "Dancing With The Stars" producers for next season. Murkey's blast gave the Knights a 3-2 lead going into the top of the 9th inning. Knights skipper Ryan Saul let Steve Fike who tossed 2 solid innings attempt to finish the game out, but had Mr. Game Over Kevin Murkey in the wings waiting in case Fike got into trouble.

The Brewers wasted no time connecting on 2 straight singles putting players on first and third with no one out. Saul went to the bullpen and brought the home run hitting closer in. Murkey got the groundball he wanted, with the middle infield playing DP depth, Barber was able to get the ball but had a problem on the transfer which allowed the tying run to score and putting the leading run at second base. The Brewers then channeled their inner Tony Gwynn, poking two hits to the opposite field between first and second. The third hit was ruled an error by the official scorer but looked to me to have taken a bad hop and hit Boaz directly in the throat, saving a run but allowing the runners to move up. So with the bases loaded the Brewers kept the pressure on hitting a deep sac fly to Ryan Saul in Rightfield who decoyed everyone by pretending he didn't know where is was then at the last second leaping far to his left to catch the ball. All in all the Brewers scored 4 runs but left the bases loaded, so the damage could have been worse.

The Knights had one last at bat to snatch this game from the dark depth of defeat. Colyn Van Buren had his coming out party hitting his second basehit of the day and in a rare display of blazing speed Van Buren stretched a sure single into a double. He was removed for a pinch runner as he needed oxygen and a bottle of water, stat. Halvorsen who had struck out 2 times on the day (his first two of the season) hit a hanging slider into center field for a base hit plating Saul and bringing the Knight to within 2 runs. Fike, anxious to continue this hit parade and get him off the hook for the loss hit the first pitch he saw into left field putting the tying run at first base. After another Boaz strikeout (this time his own), Erik Barber stepped up and hit a routine ground ball to the right of the shortstop. What looked to have been the second out turned into a bases loaded situation because Barber flew down the line beating the throw by a step. Bringing up the Murkules for another shot at infamy. Murkey wasted no time smashing a single into left center scoring both Halvorsen and Fike, tying the game and giving the Knights the winning run at 3rd with 1 out. The Brewers opted to walk the bases loaded and bring in their rightfielder to give them 6 infielders.

Up stepped A-Train Austin Hurwitz... he took a moment and looked up into the sky, he his destiny, but with great power comes great responsibility. After looking horrible on 2 straight swings he worked the count back to 2-2 then hit what can only be called a dead duck into shallow leftfield. Barber did not hesitate to tag and use his speed to easily beat the throw home giving the Knights the win!

The Knights will take a week off and be back out at Culver City Stadium against the South Bay Storm. More on the developing Sulser story this week...

I'm Max Mercy and I'll see YOU at the ballpark.

Knights Struggle To Score Runs & Make Routine Plays, Other Than That They Look Great!

2007-05-07T13:09:00.000-07:00

GLENDALE, CA - The Knights Baseball club has been known to go through it's up's and downs during a season. These are usually brought on by a lack of focus and losing the "power of intention" that they have relied on to reach the height of Adult Baseball stardom they have reached.

This lack of focus can manifest itself in a number of destructive ways, the most terrifying of all is the dreaded mental error.

Traditionally, the number of errors was a statistic used to quantify the skill of a fielder. However, fans and analysts have questioned the usefulness and significance of such a practice. The error has some flaws as a metric for fielding skill. Notably, mental misjudgments, such as failure to cover a base, are not considered errors, but can still be just as costly.

Despite a gutsy performance by Tony Sulser (2-1) on the dirt hump for the Knights, El Toro hit the 120 pitch mark in the 6th inning and was forced to give way to Lefty Steve Fike. Sulser was given his first loss of the season even though he only surrendered 3 earned runs in his 6 innings of work. Fike continued the solid pitching but was let down by a smattering of bad bounces and Knight SNAFU's. To the Astros credit they continued making contact and forcing the Knights to make the plays. Constantly staying out of the double play with hit & runs and straight steals.

The Knights offense starting out healthy scoring 3 runs and taking a 3-1 lead. But soon after found themselves hitting and running themselves out of possible big innings. The Knights hit into a season high 4 double plays. After only losing by 6 runs when all was said and done, any of those innings could have been the big one that turned it around. But alas, they are left to wonder what could have been. And they will have to wonder for 2 weeks as there next game isn't until May 20th.

To check out all the Photos From Sunday's Game Click Here.

Knights Lose To Lovable Losers

2007-05-01T10:16:00.000-07:00

CULVER CITY, CA - Knights hit a speed bump on their way to the championship Sunday. This speed bump had a name, The Culver City Cubs. The Cubs, sans Steve Bartman, took it to the Knights right out of the shoot on Sunday, putting together a nine hit eight run performance against the shorthanded Knights.

After proving that they had the capability to comeback score runs on every pitcher they had faced the Knights went cold against the Cubs starting pitcher Jimmy Crackkorn, only scoring 3 runs over 8 innings. The Cubs however got to starting pitcher Rod Boaz right out of the gate and poured on 8 runs over 4 innings on 8 hits taking advantage of Boaz's 4 walks. Boaz also stuck out 7 in his 4 innings, but had trouble keeping the ball down which meant that the Cubs only hit 3 ground balls during the game.

Closer Kevin Murkey came in and worked 3 strong innings allowing 0 runs and 1 hit. Murkey kept the Cubs at bay but the Knights were never able to capitalize. The Knights threatened a few times to break through, Boaz knocked Halvorsen in twice on his way to a 3-4 game raising his batting average to an amazng .722 (13-17) on the season with 11 RBI's. The combo has been money for the Knights, Boaz has knocked Halvorsen in 8 times in the first 5 games of the season.

The Knights were without the dedicated services of Erik 'It's Green Up Here' Barber, Austin 'A-Train' Hurwitz, Tony "Fisherman Bob" Sulser, Colyn 'Mystery Man In the Mystery Van Buren, Steve 'Rage Against The Machine' Fike and Josh 'Wedding Bells' Steiner.

The Knights hope to get back in check with their winning ways on Sunday afternoon versus the Astros who they beat earlier with a JWill Game Winning hit in the bottom of the ninth.

First Pitch: 2:00 PM
Location: Stengel Field
Capacity: 1,800 (so get the early, because the best seats go fast)

Professor Sulser Teaches Pitching 101

2007-04-23T22:13:00.000-07:00

GLENDALE, CA - At the beginning of the game the Knights shared first place with the LA Yankees. When this day was done, the Knights would stand alone atop the National League. They did it with pitching and defense, holding the Bronx Bombers to an amazing 4 hits over 9 innings. The Yankees were averaging 18 hits and 15 runs over their first 3 games were caught of guard by El Toro's "Bola Caliente Estupenda". Sulser who's become more of a pitcher than just a hard thrower in his 2 years with the Knights was on his game this Sunday afternoon.

Sulser tossed 5 Innings of 1 hit baseball only allowing 1 run and striking out 6. But El Toro also had a little help from his friends. In the 3rd inning the Yankees threatened to rally with a runner on 3rd and no one out. Sulser then relied on his gold glove shortstop Pete Halvorsen who dove to snag a flare into short leftfield keeping the runner at third, of course it was Halvorsen's fault the runner was on third after reaching on an errant throw. The next Yankee struck a ball deep into right field, but found the strongest arm in the league, Murkules. Murks reputation preceded this play because the Yankees
decided to not test the big guy and this was a good thing for them, as Murkey threw a 300 foot fastball, which ended up being a perfect strike. Sulser then took care of the last threat on his own with a nasty slider.

I know, you're thinking...that's great, pitching, defense...but what about the Knights Bats. Well, it's funny you'd bring that up, it just so happens the Knights offense showed up early and often. After Halvorsen started off the game with a single to right field, he was sacrificed to second by Steiner...moved to third by Brooks fly ball to right and knocked in by Boaz (the first of four hits on the day for the leagues leading hitter). From there the Knights kept the pressure on starter Scott Singleton, putting up 3 more runs with 2 outs, 2 of those coming on an Erik Barber 2 strike single to right. Barber who's fan club was easy to find even in the packed 1800 person stadium. Brendan McDonald continued his hot hitting going 2-3 on the day and scorching a double off the wall in left-center.

But the name of the game was the Knights pitching and defense. The Knights took a 6-3 lead into the 9th inning for Kevin "Game Over" Murkules who hadn't had a chance to close a game this season. Murkey was in hot water in his second inning of the 2 inning save opportunity. After a few close calls not going the Knights way, the Yankees offense had woken up, but so had the Giant known as Murkules.

With the tying run at 2nd base Kevin Murkey reared back and battled a 10 pitch at bat, digging down just deep enough to throw one last pitch past a Yankee hitter ending the game Murkey style on a swing through strikeout.

Knights won their 4th straight game this season and continue their season next Sunday versus the Culver City Cubs at Culver City High School. 10 am First pitch.

You Know Who Is Awesome? The SC Knights

2007-04-17T09:11:00.000-07:00

Ridin the storm out, waitin for the thaw out
On a full moon night in the rocky mountain winter.
My wine bottles low, watching for the snow
Ive been thinking lately of what Im missing in the city.

And Im not missing a thing
Watchin the full moon crossing the range
Ridin the storm out
Ridin the storm out. - R.E.O. Speedwagon

The Knights went into Sunday's game with an opportunity to do what no Knights team had done before. Start the season 3-0.

Starting off hot, the Knights wanted to jump right on the Storm, but the best laid schemes o’ mice an’ men, Gang aft a-gley. So instead they went up 4-0 in the first inning and were cruisin' along behind the strength of The Cuban Bull and hot hitting Ryan Brooks (3-4, 3 RBI).

Tony Sulser (1-0) was lifted in the 5th inning for Jonathan "Aqua Man" Williams. While Sulser who makes a living out of ground balls was let down by his shortstop Pete Halvorsen after getting what should have been an inning ending ground ball, Halvorsen promptly threw the ball away allowing 3 unearned runs that inning and giving the Knights a 9-4 deficit. The ball wasn't the only thing "thrown out" that inning. Coach Ryan Saul who had been upset at the balls/strikes being called during the first 4 innings had a conversation with the home plate umpire during the pitching change and must have said something, because he was quickly tossed.

VIDEO FLASHBACK: 2004 Mt. Saul Blows Up At Bad Call

So the Knights had to regroup, down 5 runs with their fearless leader sent to the showers. Mike Vogel lead off the bottom of the fifth inning with a double down the left field line. The rally was kept alive when with 1 out and runners at first and third, Josh Steiner hit into what looked to be an inning ending double play, but Pete Halvorsen slid in hard to second base flipping middle infielder Kirk Mayer who threw the ball away.

Jonathan Williams kept the Knights in contention throwing one inning allowing 1 run, but keeping the Knights . The Knights then turned to their 1-2 bullpen combo, Murkey entered allowing 0 hits over the next inning and a third.

With the game tied the Knights went back to their trump card, Rod Boaz who delivered a 2 run double off the wall in left field and gave the Knights the lead. Murkey then scored Boaz on a single giving closer Steve Fike a three run cushion.

In the ninth inning the Knights outfield showed their centerfielder turned closer Fike that they have his back making two great catches robbing Storm players of sure hits. With Runners on 1st and 3rd leftfielder Erik Barber ranged far to his left before catching the sinking line drive at his shoe tops. The best was saved for last, rightfielder Austin Hurwitz who if you remember had season ending surgery 4 years ago after tearing his labrum diving for a ball. Hero Hurwitz blocked this out and had one thing on his mind, "Catch The Ball, Save The World". The flare looked like a sure hit and had the Storm players out of the dugout thinking they had their comeback sealed. But Hurwitz had different ideas, doing a superman leap and catching the ball inches before it would have fell in. Knights fans went wild. Giving the Knights their 3rd win of the season.

Winning Pitcher: Kevin Murkey (1-0)
Save: Steve Fike (2)

Next week the battle of the 3-0's "Yankees v. Knights" the battle that started in New York over 80 years ago, now finds itself on the West Coast.

Fittingly this game will take place at Stengel Field, 2 PM Sunday 4/22/07.

Photo Courtesy Of http://www.caseystengel.com/

Knights Roll To 2-0

2007-04-02T09:05:00.000-07:00

GLENDALE, CA - The Knights knew they had to bring their A Game versus a very talented Westside Brewers baseball team. The Brew Crew was well known for it's high powered offense and putting teams away with the long ball. The Cuban Bull was ready to deal with both. And deal he did. Sulser struck out 6 Brewers and allowed 1 earned run while only walking 1 hitter in his 5 innings of work. He looked like the 'El Toro' of old, the spurred on "Sulsermania" that stole the Cuban-American communities hearts back in 2004.

But as the old saying goes a pitcher is only as good as his defense. On this day the Knights defense was solid as oak. This as always keeps El Toro happy which produces good results for the Knights Organization. Knowing that the defense/pitching was taken care of Coach Ryan Saul had to get the Knights offensive juggernaut working. Kevin Murkey fresh off a 0-3 day was 'chompin' at the bit' to prove himself as an anchor in the middle of the lineup. The self-proclaimed 'Irish God' MURKULES struck the baseball with all the might and power of a deity (small d for all you theologians). Murkey was 3-3 on the day and was pitched around his last at-bat. Also getting into the act was the 'FNG' Erik Barber who picked up his first hit and RBI as a Knight spurring on the rally in the 3rd inning that put the Knights 5 runs up and out of reach.
Knights fans who have been following the rise to fame of Rod Boaz know the hardships he's endured to get to where he is. Boaz is enjoying every moment of his new found stardom, while continuing to produce. Boaz hit a 2 run homer and a 2 run triple going 3-4, with 4 RBI's on the day. Boaz the multifaceted player also tossed 2 strong innings for the Knights, allowing 0 earned runs and striking out 2.

Coach Saul turned to lefty Steve Fike to close the game out. Fike who only had one inning pitched last season, doubled that in this outing. Fike went 2 innings allowing 0 runs and striking out two. Game Over'kules was in the bullpen warming up just in case, but this save went to Fike.

Knights K-Notes and K-Quotes
Pete Halvorsen was hit by a pitch twice bringing his season total to 3 in 2 games. At this pace Halvorsen will be hit 30 times and beat Greg Williams record of 16 in a season. Halvorsen who boasts an amazing .714 OBP through the first 2 games has also scored 4 runs, but at a price...a black/blue price. (Photo from Earlier Season)

The Knights pitching staff boasts a 1.69 ERA tops in the league. At 2-0 the Knights are Tied with the LA Yankees at the top of the National Division.

Coach Ryan Saul "It was just great to get back out there, and watch some gold old fashioned Knights baseball. I haven't seen a Knights squad this strong since Hobbs cost us about 10 million to replace all the light standards at the old stadium."

The Knights will have the next week off for Easter Break, but will be back on the field 4/15 versus the South Bay Storm.

In the meantime if you ever wondered how Roy Hobbs would have fared in today's game. check out Roy Hobbs Scouting Report.

Thanks for reading this has been another great Max Mercy Masterpiece, Have a Great Easter.

Pledged to crush, The Knights Wait For Late Inning Heroics

2007-03-26T21:20:00.000-07:00

BURBANK, CA - Picking up where the Cardiac Kids of last year left off. The SC Knights have already lived up to this year’s slogan of “The Greatest Show On Earth”. In the season opener the Knights took a few innings to get their ‘juices’ flowing and their bats swinging. But once they did it was a thing of beauty. With the biggest hits coming from Brendan McDonald and Jonathan Williams.

Down 5 nil in the 4th inning the Knights began their triumphant comeback. Starting their comeback? Whoelse but team sparkplug Pete Halvorsen, Halvorsen took an 0-2 pitch off the leg to give the Knights their first base runner since the first inning. Ryan Brooks took it personally, making sure to make the Astros pay for this mistake. Brooks laced the second pitch he saw into the right field gap scoring a hobbled Halvorsen all the way from first and ending up him self on second base. Giving the Knights their first run of the season, their first run of the game and cutting the lead to 4. Rod Boaz then delivered a clutch 2 strike hit, scoring Brooks easily from 2nd base cutting the lead to 3 runs.

A comeback isn’t any good if the other team keeps scoring runs and that’s where pitcher Rod Boaz stepped in. Following Sulser’s 2 hit outing through the first 3 innings, Boaz decided to use a different approach, not allow any hits through the rest of the game. The Knights 5th inning picked up where the 4th inning left off, scoring 2 more runs one on a past ball and the other on a Josh Steiner single.
Boaz continued his tight rope walking allowing 6 base runners on walks but removing the threat with 5 strikeouts. Giving the Knights an opportunity to scrap all the way back in the game. Down 5-4 Van Buren ripped a single then stole 2nd and moved to third on a passed ball. Halvorsen walked bringing up Brooks with a chance to tie the game. Halvorsen took off on the first pitch and the Astros catcher threw the ball into center field attempting to throw out the speedster. This allowed Van Buren to score the tying run and Halvorsen to go to third as the leading run with 1 out. Brooks knew his job now was to get that run to give the Knights the lead late in the game. He wasted no time smashing a fly ball deep into center allowing Halvorsen an easy tag, trot home. Knights take the lead 6-5.

The Knights in typical Knights fashion weren't done making this game exciting however. Knowing that the game would be much more entertaining if they allowed another run. So the drama continued when the Astros scored the tying run and loaded the bases for their slugger. Boaz quickly got a two strike count on two sneaky change-ups then blew him away with a two-seam fastball. This put the Knights back in the dugout with a tie score and one at bat to do something about it.

With two quick outs in the last half inning of the game, the Knights were down to their final strike. Mike Vogel swung at a splitter in the dirt for strike three...Game Ov...orrr not. The ball got away from the Astros catcher giving the speedy Vogel a chance to make it to first and extend the inning. Vogel dove in headfirst beating the throw by a step sacrificing his body for the team. Josh Steiner then connected on his second hit of the day moving the winning run to 2nd base. With the outfield in, Brendan McDonald smashed a basehit to rightfield, but alas, he struck it too hard and didn't give Vogel a chance to score. So the stage was set, Bases loaded...Jonathan Williams at the plate. The late inning heroics would come from the soft-spoken southern gentleman. Williams who spends his days saving Dolphins and his KNIGHTS doing battle.Williams missed his first chance...swinging through a fastball.Jonathan Williams then collected his biggest hit as a Knight. With perfect form he laced a line drive down the right field line scoring Vogel and winning the Knights their first game of the season.

The Knights will look to continue this Cinderella story next week versus the Brewers. I'm Max Mercy and I'll see YOU at the ballpark.

Spring Preview 2007

2007-03-20T09:21:00.000-07:00

Max Mercy ready to kick off another season of Knights baseball. Like every new season there are some changes we’ll have to highlight to bring the Knights fans up to date with their latest and greatest Knights players.

Coming, Going and Back Again
First the fresh blood in the Knights organization. Newly signed Outfielder Erik Barber looks to make an immediate impact with his new team after being signed as a Free Agent in the offseason. The highly sought after Barber bounced around Independent leagues has now found a home with the Lightning Bolt. More on Barber once we’re able to catch him for an interview.

Going is the crafty Paul Gamm. Gamm as originally reported in earlier articles took a Middle Relievers job for the Oceanside Border Jumpers. He’ll be closer to his family and able to make it home in time for supper. Gamm finishes his career with the Knights (W-L) BA. With one memorable home run.

Back Again the Deer Hunting duo of Mike Vogel and Ryan Brooks. This dynamic duo are a force to be reckoned with, when they show up. Brooks will be the anchor of the offensive back in his 3 spot ready to clear the bases at a moments notice. Vogel packed on 10 lbs of muscle in the offseason, but hasn't lost a step according to Knights trainer Greg Anderson. Apparently the Offseason workouts with Murkey and Halvorsen paid off.

A New League, A New Team
The Knights will look to put kill their darlings of past losses with a fresh start in the LAMSBL. After coming within one game of the Championship game two years in a row, the Knights have moved into the LAMSBL to try their hand with a new cast of characters.

Coach Ryan Saul has been quite frank when talking about the new league. “It’s a breath of fresh air, nothing against the VABL they were a class organization, but we needed a change of scenery and a change of fields.” And they will get both.

The Knights season will once again rest on the pumped up, well oiled, extremely flexible arm of Tony “El Toro” Sulser. Sulser is quickly closing in on the Knights all time win record (held by Scott Frenchie Boudreaux). Sulser credits “great Knights defense” and yoga for his success.

The Knights have one of the more flexible teams in recent history. With a number of very versatile players you may never see the same lineup/defense twice all season.

To illustrate this look at the Knights depth chart.

Steiner – INF/OF/C
Vogel – INF/OF
Nelson – INF/OF
Brooks – 1b/3b
McDonald – 3B/OF
Williams – C/1B/OF/P
Murkey – RP/1B/OF
Fike – 1B/OF/RP
Sulser – SP/OF
Saul – OF/2B
Van Buren – C/3B/1B/RF
Halvorsen – INF/OF
Hurwitz – LF/1B
Barber – OF/INF
Boaz - SP/OF

Mix and match any way you’d like, this is going to be a lean and mean Knights team.

The SC Knights start their quest for the MSBL Championship on Sunday versus the Santa Fe Astros at LA Valley College. 10 am First pitch.

Brooks Back With Lightning Brings Thunder, Q & A With the Train, Knight Loss Syndrome

2007-03-08T10:59:00.000-08:00

Texas elite slugger Ryan Brooks has returned to the Knights clubhouse bringing his Texan charm and the bevy of female fans back to it's roots. Welcome back Brooksie.

In today's getting to know your Knights, we have a Q & A with longtime controversial Knight Austin "ATrain" Hurwitz.

Max Mercy: Tell us Train, how did you get your nickname, The ATrain?

TRAIN: I don't know what it means. I'll be honest, I don't think anyone knows what it means anymore. Scholars maintain that the translation was lost hundreds of years ago.

MM: There has always been talk about your shoulder, care to elaborate?

TRAIN: My shoulder?! Does a flower stop being pretty to talk about it's petals? No. Such is A-Train.

MM: What do you expect from the Knights this year?

TRAIN: I expect big things from the Knights this year. Horrible, but great things. Like He who must not be named.

MM: It's never been a secret that you and Management don't get along, why is it you clash with "The Judge?"

TRAIN: I get along with everyone, Max. The liberal media is always afraid of what they don't understand.

MM: What is your favorite word?

TRAIN: "moist" if you don't know what that means, then i don't want to know you.

The Knights will continue their Spring Training schedule playing the Cubs on Sunday in Culver City. They have been working out non-stop since Pitchers/Catchers reported on Feb. 15th at their SC Facility located in a secret location in Southern California.

While the transition has mostly been smooth from the VABL to the LAMSBL there has been some fallout, apparently there are a few players in the Knights former league who don't know exactly how to react to the news that the Knights won't be there this year. So they lash out, sending nasty emails/comments to the editor of this fine publication. Fear not loyal Knights fans, it's very part of the grieving process and a sickness called "KLS" or Knight Loss Syndrome. When someone loses something dear to them, they must experience the five cycles of grieving: denial, anger, bargaining, depression and acceptance. From the tone of the emails, I believe they are well past the denial stage and now in the anger stage, next we'll start to receive emails of these individuals wanting the Knights back or trying to strike a deal...then to depression, where they will remove us from their bookmark....only to add us a week later to see "how the Knights did last week" and finally acceptance, where they will realize that nothing they can do will bring back the excitement that the Knights brought to the game of baseball for them.

To read more on this or if you think you are or someone you know is experiencing "Knight Loss Syndrome" go hear http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Grief and learn more about what you can do to work your way through this hard time.

By popular demand the fans will get a more in depth look at what makes your favorite Knights tick. What get's them up in the morning...Who are their influences...

Some of the stories we are working on for future articles...

What Makes The "Quite Storm" Steve Fike tick?

Why is Player/Manager Ryan Saul always so Hot under the Collar? The truth behind the world-famous temper.

Is it true what they say about Peter Nelson's late night carousing? Does he really make Babe Ruth look like a saint.

Would Vogel leave the Knights if "Supercross 2: Dirty Bikes" came calling?

What secret did Jonathan Williams find in the oceans off Costa Rica in the offseason and will it help him to hit the curve ball?

How did Colyn Van Buren get so good looking? Genes or hard work?

Will the new LAMSBL drug testing effect and Knights this season (no i'm not naming names).

all this and more, this 2007 Season of Knights Baseball.

I'm Max Mercy and this has been another amazing article, by me.

Knights Bid Adieu To Former League...

2007-01-17T23:29:00.000-08:00

Good night, good night! parting is such sweet sorrow, That I shall say good night till it be morrow. Sleep dwell upon thine eyes, peace in thy breast!-- Would I were sleep and peace, so sweet to rest! Hence will I to my ghostly father's cell, His help to crave and my dear hap to tell.

After much thought and negotiations, the Knights have agreed in principle to move "the greatest show on earth" (® SC Knights 2007 Slogan) to the LAMSBL. After joining the VABL back in 2003, the Knights front office has come to the conclusion that it is time to move on and seek "greener" pastures.

The Knights will be leaving many great rivals in the VABL and frankly we'll miss the great showdowns between the Panthers, Angels and of course who can forget the Flor De Cane Bombers. I'm sure it will be hard for these teams to get up on Sunday mornings with the knowledge that the SC Knights (and their amazing fan base) will not be there. But I'm sure they will make due and who knows maybe down the road, some hot, dry, late night in October these great Titans of the diamond will meet again.

Having made this decision the Knights front office immedietly went to work making a deal to partner up with Victory Athletic to control and sell all of their team merchandise.

Moving forward the Knights are excited about the new stadiums (Cal State Northridge, Cal State LA, LA Valley, Pierce College, to name a few) they will be playing in as well as the new talent they will be competing against. When I had a chance to catch up with newly resigned Manager Ryan Saul he expressed his excitement with moving to a new league saying "It's a chance for a fresh start, we felt like we'd been there and done that with the VABL, it was time to move on. We enjoyed our time spent in that league and wish all the best in the future." And on the new league? "We're excited, I talked to some of the boys today and they are chompin' at the bit to get out there and show the new teams what Knights baseball is all about".

Halvorsen saying Murkey who?
I also was able to speak with Knights franchise player Pete Halvorsen, I caught up with Halvorsen in between his now famous offseason workouts. Halvorsen is known for his exceptional work habits, is doing training at AIM Sports Medicine in Manhattan Beach and he calls it the "most intensive thing I've ever done." He's also getting extensive deep-tissue massage therapy daily, and the program includes regular blood work so that his meals -- which are delivered to him daily -- can be tailored for his caloric and nutritional needs. Sadly all Halvorsen wanted to talk about was working out, nutrition and himself.

Vogel (Left) Discussing The Finer Things in Life

The Knights are in late night negotiations with Mike Vogel's representation to possibly bring the wayward son home. Which will also return his strong female fan base to the bleachers. Vogel led the Knights in hitting for three quarters of the season before an injury took him out.

Another strong possiblity is the signing of former Tiger Hugh Quattlebaum. Quattlebaum's agent Scottie Borass is playing hardball and wants a long term contract for his star client. Manager Ryan Saul has been quick to point out, Saul closes deals for a living and he ALWAYS get's what he wants.I'm Max Mercy and this has been your Weekly Blog as always any questions or requests you can reach me max@scknights.com or go to http://www.scknights.com

Winter Meetings, Rumors, Waiver Wire

2007-01-10T00:31:00.000-08:00

Let's get right down to the meat of the offseason. In the past the Knights have sat back and watched while other teams reshuffle their lineups, coaching staffs and even fans. Well this year the Knights decided to be proactive.

Their first task was to figure out which of the many leagues in the greater Los Angeles area they would be playing in during the 2007 season. Being the "Greatest show on earth" according to T.J. Simmers of the LA Times, they of course are being courted by the big three. VABL, LAMSBL and the PCBL. All of these leagues understand what a team like the Knights can do for their leagues fan base and the overall enjoyment of all teams who get the opportunity to play the Knights.

RUMORS

In November, rumors started to circulate about the possible firing of Coach Ryan Saul. Saul who has been the Knights head coach for 2 1/2 seasons has lead the Knights to 3 playoffs, but they have come up short of the title in each of those years. Everyone remembers B.S. (Before Saul) when the Knights went through Coaches like it was going out of style, first it was Jamie Case then Austin Hurwitz, Sean Walsh, David Stevenson and finally Saul by default after Stevenson handed over the reigns half way through the season. There have been Jamie Case sightings around the main offices in the past 2 months, which just enflamed the already HOT rumors.

TRANSACTIONS
The Knights know that a Rolling Rock doesn't gather moss, so on the player personel front they must keep moving. Ebbing and flowing to the needs of the team.

So far here are the Latest Transactions:

Colyn Van Buren C - Free Agent, Resigned with Knights to a 1 year deal.
Paul Gamm RP, RF - Free Agent, Signed with San Diego Cornholes, 5 years.
Ryan Brooks 1B, 3B - Arbitration Eligable - Resigned With SC Knights 2 years.
Mike Vogel IF, OF - Free Agent - Agreed in principle to SC Knights (contract in progress)

In The Mill:

Contract Extension for Tony Sulser, he becomes a free agent after this season and the Knights would like to lock him down to a long term deal. 2/1 odds

Hugh Quattlebaum, the Amhearst standout and former Minor League player of the year, the Knights are in preliminary talks with his agent about making the move. 5/1 odds

Joe Koller, a local hero in "pick up" baseball, best known for the time he took Vida Blue deep in a pick up game in San Francisco. 10/1 odds

Scott "Frenchie" Boudreaux, very low probability of this happening, but we always like to mention his name somewhere in the article. Last time we heard, Frenchie had moved back to France and was starting his own vineyard. 100/1 odds

David Stevenson returning to the Lightning Bolt boys. 1000/1 odds.

So now you know the word on the street. Be sure to check back here weekly for articles pretaining to the Knights...and baseball.

I'm Max Mercy and you just read literary GOLD. As you can tell, this is a new format for the Knights Media Dept. the original site will stay intact, this format is easier on Max in his old age. Also, you now have the option of commenting on the blog, the Knights, Max, or whatever you want. And yes you can be anonymous, so go ahead and tell me everything you've always wanted to but felt like you couldn't because it would have your email address.

Official Knights Website http://www.scknights.com

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