Another Championship Softball Season
While many area recreation departments have eliminated their adult softball programs over the past several years, Rye Recreation League Softball continues to thrive. This season, which began in April and ended in early August, they fielded 22 teams.

By Melanie Cane

 

While many area recreation departments have eliminated their adult softball programs over the past several years, Rye Recreation League Softball continues to thrive. This season, which began in April and ended in early August, they fielded 22 teams.

The season ended on a high note for Poppy’s Ballbusters August 12, who revenged last year’s Women’s final championship loss to Neri’s Bakery, topping them 2-0. The Ballbusters had a remarkable 16-0 season. Coach Bobby Piovesan said the women were outstanding all season long. “They worked hard, made adjustments, and filled in positions when players were missing, and they had a lot of fun in the process.”

League A’s Rye Roadhouse (formerly Sam’s High Intensity) swept Cousin Frankies with two impressive performances in the championships. The team, managed by Joe Casino, also won the regular season, 10-2.

Both the B and C Leagues crowned champions on August 6. Eastland Alarms swept the Wranglers to win the B League. Eastland, which finished third in the regular season with a 7-6 record, turned it on in the playoffs.  Darren Mazzuca managed the team. The Hammerheads, who are managed by Jim Herbster, beat the Coyotes in two games to win the C League title. Star shortstop Jeff Dempsey was a key part of their success. The Hammerheads finished in first place during the regular season with a 10-2 record.

 

Top right: One of the high points of Rye Recreation’s Adult Softball season was the performance of Poppy’s Ballbusters, which had a 16-0 record and went on to win the Women’s League Championship.  

— Photos by Melanie Cane