2024 60+
Arizona Stallions 11, So Cal Angels 2
Submitted by Mike Briguglio, manager
The Arizona Stallions continued their success in Palm Springs after going 4-0 in a rain-shortened 2023 Desert Classic, by going 5-0 and winning the championship in the 2024 Desert Classic. The Stallions outscored their opponents 56-12 while compiling a team batting average of .484 and a team ERA of 1.97. In addition, the Stallions played outstanding defense, turning seven double plays over the long weekend.
Major contributions were made by all team members as the Stallions fielded a tough lineup from top to bottom. Jon Beady led the charge, hitting .647 with nine RBI in addition to pitching a complete game in an 11-2 victory over SoCal in the championship game. Mike Dimino hit .556 scoring 10 runs and stealing 10 bases from the leadoff position to set the table all-tournament long.
Jim Machado contributed at a .579 clip knocking in five runs. Dan Duffey had six clutch RBI in addition to pitching six scoreless innings and playing an outstanding centerfield. Chris Means pitched 12 innings allowing two runs, including a complete game in a 7-1 semi-final victory over the Sacramento Royals. Rob Rusch and Alan Gibson had outstanding outings in their starts on the mound only relinquishing one and three earned runs respectively.
Mark Yoder displayed his versatility by playing exceptionally well on defense in a variety of positions. Jim Barker was a vacuum at first base and hit at a plus .400 clip. Jeff Petras, with his exemplary hustle, provided versatility in the outfield adding depth to an already stout lineup. Tony Scimeca was lights out at shortstop and the leader of the infield while also hitting over .450.
Jeff Knutson provided a spark with steady play at third base as well as contributing some timely hits. PJ Martone shared the catching duties with Mike Briguglio where both backstops hit over .400 and had great chemistry with the pitching staff allowing the Stallions to keep their opponents at bay for the duration of the tournament. Overall, it was a dominant performance by the Arizona contingent, one in which “team baseball” ruled the day.
Kudos also go out to all our fans, specifically to Angie Barker for her detailed scorekeeping and Jeanine Briguglio for her enthusiastic cheering from the stands!
The Arizona Stallions would like to thank the MSBL staff for a first-class tournament, one in which the team hopes to compete in for years to come. GO STALLIONS!