BANDITS TAKE SPRING WORLDS

The Tucson Bandits posted a 5-1 record enroute to winning the Spring Worlds in Palm Springs, and became the first 50 AAA team to qualify for the 2009 Tournament of Champions.

Defense was the name of the game for the Bandits this weekend. The addition of Dave "Q" Quenzler, at second base solidified an already tough infield. The infield turned 8 double plays and 2 triple play! Oops, make that 1 triple play. (sorry Big D). Outstanding glove work by Mark "Psycho" Reagin, Paul "Baby" Paul Rosthenhausler, shortstop Mike Swank, Q, and Dave Niles kept the Bandits in every game. The team also welcomed another big hitter, Mike Gerber.

Their only loss was on day one to Top Gun III by one run. Going into Sunday the Bandits faced Arizona rival C,J & S Express with the winner advancing to the championship game. The game was a classic with the lead changing hands several times. The Bandits prevailed 21-20 in a game that will be remembered. It was then on to face Top Gun again in a winner take all format.

The Bandits bats quickly came alive, jumping on Top Gun for a 17-8 lead going into the open inning. But Top Gun would not quit, rallying for seven runs, before finally losing 17-15. The Bandits had won the tourney and were excited about qualifying again for the TOC in Winterhaven.

The following players were selected to the All-Tournament team. Keith wanted to point out that the entire team played great and we were only allowed 5 selections.

Denny Bailey .750
Dave Clark .684
Dave Niles ,684
Mark Reagin .667
Steve Gobrecht .667

Kudos to Mike and Rip who both hit .600. Kudos also to Wade and Rip who came up with huge pinch hits in the Express game. As a team we hit .600. Way to go guys!

Be sure to check the new link on the left, Terry's pics!

See ya in Casa Grande. And Nogales is a no go.

SCORES:

Bandits 9 Full Count (Ca.) 8
Top Gun III (Ca.) 15 Bandits 14

Bandits 17 Barcelona (Ca.) 12
Bandits 16 Wilson Trophy (Ca.) 8

Bandits 21 C,J & S Express 20

Bandits 17 Top Gun III 15