2017 Dodgers Post Another Successful Season in 30+ Austin Metro

Back row L-R: Paul Kaulfez, Frankie Reyes, Glen Timmons, Kieth Otero, Eric Smart, Joel Messina, Darrin Glenn. Front Row L-R: Chris Hux, Jeff Stusess, Mike Fusario, Louis Gonzalez, Garrison Simcik, Ryan Messina. Not Pictured: Rob Lazare, Jayson Harris, Scott Hadden

Submitted by Rob Lazare, Dodgers manager

The 30+ Dodgers of the Austin Metro Baseball League extended its streak of playoff appearances to four during the 2017 season.  The 2017 season marked the seventh time in nine years to make the playoffs for the Dodgers, with a Championship back in 2010.  Unfortunately, the Dodgers fell to the Rangers in the 2017 Championship Series of 30+ for the second consecutive year.  Taking two of four games during the season from the Rangers, the Dodgers were unable to finish the season with a Championship.  But it didn’t hinder an unforgettable season.

The team really rallied during the middle part of the season winning five of seven when I was out with the passing of my dad.  It was a nice touch for them to add a patch to their jerseys in honor of my dad.  Pops’ love for baseball was second to none.  He knew a lot of the guys.  It was really special…I can’t thank them enough.  RIP Charles Lazare!

Chris Hux “stepped up to the plate” in my absence both from the managerial seat and on the field.  His work in the dugout and on the field was the glue that got us through to the playoffs.

Keith Otero and Joel Messina brought some veteran leadership to the team all season long. Keith was our rubber arm, who stepped on the mound whenever we needed him. Start…no problem. Come in with bases loaded, no outs…no problem.  Need a four out save…done.  Joel’s contribution from the 2-hole set the stage for a lot of our crooked number innings.

No team is ever complete without “That Guy!”.  Well, we had two.  And they ran the Kangaroo Court to perfection.  Jeff Stusess #4 and Frankie Reyes #51.  Off the charts hyper, Jeff led-off for us and many times had us asking, “What are you doing?” Never has one man been in more pickles and ended up being safe.

Cool Man Frankie controlled our defense from center field and was the polar opposite of Jeff. Every situation or conversation was followed by “Cool Man!” from Frankie.

Even with the disappointment of not winning the Championship, the Dodgers had a great season and are looking for the next season.