2024 Houston Hombres Outlast Buffs for 55+ Spring Title in Houston Hardball League
Houston Hardball League, Spring 55+ Division
Houston Hombres 10, Buffs 5
Submitted by Steve Folk, Houston Hombres
On August 11th, the Hombres faced the Buffs in the spring season final of the Houston Hardball League. The two teams had split the season series, so this was truly the rubber match.
The Hombres jumped out to an early 3-0 lead, but the Robert Luna-led Buffs kept chipping away. The battle was back and forth until the Hombres pulled ahead for good in the fifth, on their way to a 10-5 championship game victory.
The Hombres’ offensive leaders were John Knoblauh, Mike Janacek, Jose Garcia, and Shaun Coleman, each with two hits. Outstanding defense was turned in by Danny Garza, Shaun Shaub, and Roland Azcuy.
This was the Hombres first championship since 2006. Not in attendance was our cornerstone, 72-year-old Chuck Arnold. Chuck led the team to victory in the semifinal, first breaking up a no hitter and then driving in the final run in the 4-1 victory over the rival Tiggers.