CLICK HERE for an article featuring our league's most experienced member, Doug Jones, that was recently featured on the front page of MSBL National.

CLICK HERE for our league's feature article that was also recently found on the front page of MSBL National.

Also, CLICK HERE for a recently produced video showing "why we do what we do".

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The Des Moines Bruins captured the MSBL Fall Classic 35+ Central Division championship on Saturday, November 8, 2014 with a 5-2 victory over the Delaware Destroyers in Clearwater, FL.

After finishing in 2nd place in 2003, 2007 & 2010 along with numerous semifinal appearances in Phoenix, the Bruins joined the 2007 Father/Son Iowa Cubs as the only National Tournament Champions from the Mid-Iowa Baseball League.

Read the write-up from MSBL National HERE.

Team members included:
Back row, L-R:  Phil DeVan, Jeff Sanders, Ron Watson, Guy Koenig, David Case, Cris Anderson, Jason McPherson, Kent Klemme, Tim Kirgan.
Front row, L-R:  John Linden, Darren Lewis, Rocky Reeves, Brian Schueller, Joe Smith, Jeff Lantz, Ron Greenwood, Jerry Wise
Not pictured:  Gary Frank

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Adam Sigler, 41-year old son of Men's Senior Baseball League Founder & President, Steve Sigler, passed away in November due to complications of a brain aneurysm.

For those of us fortunate enough to work with Steve & his youngest son, Brian, we know how close the family is to each other and we offer our sympathy & condolences.  The Siglers are the number one reason why we are still able to play the game we love.  Without their leadership at a national level, we wonder where our league would be today, if it would even exist.  Please take a moment to read the attached tribute to Adam by clicking HERE.

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Click Here for a recent release from MSBL National.

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On May 10, 2015, the Mid-Iowa Baseball League lost one of its finest umpires.  Matt Badeaux was 33.  Our sincerest condolences go out to Matt's family, friends and those that worked closely with him during our games over the years.  Click here for complete obituary details.

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For teams playing night games at Cownie, please do not get locked inside the complex.  The north gate is on a timer & closes on its own.  You should exit out the south gate.
Closing Procedure:
1.  Turn off the field lights (switch located on back side of concession stand).
2.  Close the two bathroom doors.
3.  Exit the parking lot out the south gate.
4.  Last person out should then pull the south gate shut and lock it with the chain and padlock.

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Logo Design by Tim Rice, Royal Rooster Design Co (Hawks 35+)

Congratulations to the Thunder for winning the inaugural Fall League Title with a 4-2 victory over the Undertakers on Sunday, October 11.

Core Four:
Prohibitionists:  Ron Watson (Mgr), Doug Larsen (Asst), Ken Roberts (PP)
Thunder:  Bob Thornton (Mgr), Jeremy Turgasen (Asst), David Thornton (PP)
Green Wave:  Pat Scholer (Mgr), Lee Wagner (Asst), Joe Fields (PP)
Undertakers:  Joe Smith (Mgr), Jake Epsteen (Asst), Jason McPherson (PP)

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Congratulations to 18+ Team Bandits/Aces/Astros winning the MABL All Star game 11-7 over Team .45s/Renegades/Diamond Kings. Steven Baldus from the Bandits was named MVP with a 2 RBI double, a walk and 2 runs scored in the contest. Int he 25+ All Star game Team Hitmen/Monarch/Reds/Cubs managed one unearned run in the first to take the title with a 1-0 win over Team Cardinals/Oaks/Red Sox. Vinny VanEngelenberg was named MVP with a 2 run double, a walk, the games only run and turning the game ending double play. In the Home Run Derby, 6 Contestants made the finals with a championship playoff between Zach Young and Blake Marchant. Zach came away with the title becoming a two-time Mid-Iowa Baseball League Home Run Derby Champion! Congratulations to all the participants in the derby. The league raised $237 for the Wounded Warrior project. Congratulations Steven, Vinny and Zach winners of brand new maple bats.

   Steven Baldus, Bandits                            Vinny VanEngelenberg, Hitmen                        Zach Young, Hitmen

35+ Tournament  (FINAL, congratulations to the Bulldogs for winning the double-elimination tournament, their 3rd consecutive!)

45+ Tournament  (FINAL, congratulations to the Wildcats for winning the double-elimination tournament!)

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This past fall, two teams from the Mid-Iowa Baseball League participated in the annual MSBL World Series in the Phoenix, Arizona area.  You can click on the links below to see the full results.

45+ Wood Central - Des Moines Bruins

Standings

Schedule

Bats were alive in a 24-9 game one win over a Giant team from Houston on Monday.  Game two Monday resulted in a hard-fought 5-4 victory over a team from Kansas City.  Tuesday's game featured an opponent from the Mountain Division as that division did not have enough teams for an inner-division round-robin.  Raleigh, with at least three ex-pros, defeated the Bruins 22-2.  On Wednesday, the 45+ team got to experience some rainy weather with their morning game being pushed back to late evening.  The Bruins defeated some Seawolves from Redwood Empire 10-6, then fell to a Chicago team 17-5.  Their 3-2 record at that point qualified them for the playoffs on Friday.  Thursday's game was at the new Chicago Cubs spring training stadium in Mesa where the Bruins were buzzed by the Brew City Bat Rangers, 21-2.
Friday's opening round playoff game was against the California Hogs.  The Hogs made bacon out of the Bruins by a 15-6 score, ending the Bruins run in the desert.

 

50+ Wood Cactus - Des Moines Bruins

Standings

Schedule

The 50+ Bruins started the week with a 5-0 loss to the Auburn Braves.  Their next game was suspended in the 8th inning due to rain with a 3-3 score.  That game was resumed & completed on Wednesday, with the Bruins taking a 4-3 win in 11 innings  (this was against Diamond Dream, the team that knocked them out in the semis last year).  Between those games, rain wreaked havoc on schedules, even forcing the Bruins to play until midnight on Tuesday.  But, the four games in between were all victories.  An 11-3 win over a team from Australia, a 2-1 win over Long Island, a 12-3 win over "RC" and a 7-4 win over Sacramento.  Their 5-1 record earned them a first round bye in the playoffs.  Their quarterfinal matchup found them facing the Quad City Blasters.  A late rally by the Blasters brought the Bruins week to an end in a 10-9 loss.

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MSBL National has recently added nearly all of the Daily Newsletters from the World Series Tournaments in Phoenix, going back as far as 1998.  This is quite a trip down memory lane for those in the league that have made the trip over the years.  These also highlight how much fun this trip is and how successful our teams from Central Iowa have been.

Our league will be represented once again this fall in some of the "older" divisions.  If you are interested in going, especially at the 18+ or 25+ levels, please reach out for more information from the League Commissioner.  He can also direct you to who is leading the charge for the 35+ and above divisions as well.

Here are two early newsletters that stand out (13 & 14 years ago!):

2002 (click here):  Two 28+ teams from Iowa (Iowa Oaks & Des Moines Bruins) were asked to form an All-Star team to take on various players from other leagues.  The game was played in front of a rather large crowd at Tempe Diablo Stadium where the Iowa team's "fireman" came on to shut down a late rally.  Contains a great photo of the team as well as a photo of "Baby Joe" Smith.

2003 (click here):  The Oaks and Bruins from 2002 merged together to form one of the more successful teams (think Buffalo Bills) that has traveled to Phoenix from anywhere in the country.  Our league's first appearance in a National Championship game is highlighted in this newsletter as an 11-run 7th inning wasn't quite enough to overcome a "brawling" team from St. Thomas, Virgin Islands.

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Saturday, July 16th, North High School (venue could change if North advances in high school postseason)

• 12:00pm:  18+ All Star Game
• 2:15pm:  HR Derby ($10 entry*)
• 3:30pm:  18+ winner versus 25+ All Star Game

Both All-Star Games are 7 innings.
The HR Derby is open to anyone in the MIBL, regardless of the age division you play in.  *There is a $10 entry fee with all proceeds going to charity.  ($10 re-entry will also be available if time allows.)

25+ Info:
Team 1 (Joe Smith, mgr; Drew Triplett, coach)  Oaks, Hitmen, Red Sox representatives
Team 2 (Bobby Williams, mgr; Sean Griffin, coach)  Cardinals, Reds representatives

18+ Info:
Team 1 (Sean Roberts, mgr; Bob Thornton, coach)  Koras, Thunder Tropics representatives
Team 2 (Brent Henderson, mgr; Curt Gomes, coach)  Astros, Bandits, Blue Jays representatives

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The 18+ & 25+ divisions held their All-Star Games, along with a HR Derby, on Saturday July 16 at North High School.  CLICK HERE for a recap of the day's events...and to find that Zach Young (Hitmen/Heat) is a 3-time HR Derby champion!

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The Mid-Iowa Bandits were crowned 2016 18+ Tournament Champions with a 9-5 victory over the Tropics on Sunday, August 21.  The Bandits rallied from a 5-2 deficit in the 6th inning.  This is the Bandits first championship since becoming a league member in 2009!  Congratulations to manager Brent Henderson and the rest of the Bandits!

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The Iowa Oaks have swept the 25+ regular season and tournament titles for the second year in a row.  Congratulations to manager, Joe Smith, and the rest of the Iowa Oaks!  Derek Huxford pitched a 9-inning shutout in the championship game!

Back row (L-R):  John Linden, Eric Watson, Erik Marten, Jason McPherson, Derek Huxford, Dillan Crawley, Jason Bright
Front row (L-R):  Jo Fred, Jeremy Green, Joe Smith, Charles Magedanz, Dee Ransom

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45+ Tournament

 

35+ Tournament

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The Mid-Iowa Baseball League sent two teams to the MSBL World Series in Phoenix in October/November of 2016.

Daily Newsletter  (Results/Standings/Photos)

The 25+ Des Moines Bruins participated in the 25+ Central Division from November 2-6.  This team was led by John Linden & Joe Smith.  The Bruins finished pool play with a 3-2 record & only 13 runs allowed.  In the quarterfinals, the Bruins fell 14-7 to the Colorado Rippers, who would go on to win the championship.  Team consisted of:  David Case, Mike Eckhart, Jake Epsteen, Gary Frank, Jo Fred, Derek Huxford, Guy Koenig, John Linden, Tanner Linden, Jason McPherson, Matt Pennings, Dee Ransom, Jeff Sanders, Brian Schueller, Bud Smith, Joe Smith, Eric Watson, Zach Young

25+ Central Standings

Des Moines Bruins 25+ Schedule

 

The 50+ Des Moines Bruins participated in the 50+ Cactus Division from October 16-21.  The team was led by Brian Olson.  The Bruins finished with a 2-3-1 record and missed out on the playoffs.

50+ Cactus Standings

Des Moines Bruins 50+ Schedule

 

The following league members played with the Rochester Redwings in the 50+ Central Division, October 16-21:  Phil DeVan, Tim Kirgan, Raun Taylor, Ron Watson  The Redwings fell in the championship game to the Waikiki Beach Boys, 13-8.

League Commissioner, John Linden, participated with the All Star Baseball Academy (San Diego based) in the 55+ Central Division from October 22-26.  John's team came up short in the first round of the playoffs.

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The Reds won the 45+ championship with a 5-4 late-inning rally against the Yankees on Monday, October 31.

Back Row (L-R):  Dan Polson, Jon Resler, Dan Zahn, Ron Watson, Phil DeVan, Tim Kirgan
Front Row (L-R):  Chad Reinke, Gary Frank, Don Caves, Keith DeWitt, Warren Anderson

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With a 12-2 victory, the 35+ Des Moines Cubs capped the first, complete perfect season in the MIBL since the 38+ Bulldogs accomplished the feat in 2007.  The Cubs completed the regular season with a perfect 14-0 record, then went on to sweep through three games in the double-elimination tournament bracket to finish a perfect 17-0.  Led by Josh Stewart and Ken "C-Bo" Rodine, the Cubs captured their first league and tournament titles.

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The Astros/Mets (10-4) won the 18+ Total Win Point championship with 20 total points.  Congratulations to managers Curt Gomes & Matt Langford and the Astros/Mets for a great season.

 

NOTE: The Board clarified the rules for League Championships at the October 2016 meeting for future seasons.

 

The tie breakers for the future will put an importance on teams completing the regular season schedule, even if it means playing games after the tournament. The tie breaker criteria for League Championships will be:

 

1. Total Points (Win = 2pts, Tie = 1pt)

2. Record

3. Head to Head

4. Points against (head to head)

5. Points against (season)

6. Points for (season)

7. Coin flip

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The Thunder (9-3-1) won the 18+% Championship with a .738 win percentage.  Congratulations to manager Bob Thornton and the Thunder for a great first season in MIBL!

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Players & Managers:

Online registration remains available, however all team-specific forms have been deactivated.  Managers will be responsible for collecting any team fees due to them directly from the player.

Players Registered - Updated 8/28/17  (Please note:  This form is updated manually, not real-time, & will be updated as time allows.)

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Saturday, July 22
Des Moines North High School

With heavy air and a breeze in from left, Sean Murphy (Reds-25) wins the 2017 HR Derby with one HR to right.

The 25+ All Stars defeated the 18+ All Stars by a score of 8-3.

2017 All-Stars:

25+ Managers:  Joe Smith (Oaks), Bert Dalmer (Red Sox)
Astros:  Ryan Antolik, David Delgado, Alex Prado
Braves:  Chad Becker, Oscar Cardenas, Chris Yokie
Oaks:  Derek Huxford, Dee Ransom, Zach Young
Red Sox:  Aaron Haubrich, Jose Venales, Evan Wilson
Reds:  Nate Cunningham, Brad Hingtgen, Sean Murphy
25+ Pitchers:  Jason McPherson (Oaks), Eric Watson (Oaks)

18+ Managers:  Brent Henderson (Bandits), Bob Thornton (Thunder)
Bandits:  Steven Baldus, Jake Epsteen, Jake Leonard, Matt Pennings
Cardinals:  Connor Hein, Jared Herzog, Nicholas Johnson, Alex Latcham
Marlins:  Eric Chambers, Casey Elder, Chris Hazelbaker, Cole Koerner
Thunder:  Joseph Monosmith, Sean Roberts, David Thornton
Timberwolves:  Dave Chapman, Brandon Heilskov, Grant Weldon, Austin Zylstra
18+ Pitchers:  Corey Maines (Thunder)

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Zach Young captured the 18+ HR Derby.  Zach hit four in the opening round with Chris Yokie hitting two.  In the final, Zach defeated Chris 4-0.

Sean Murphy won the 35+ HR Derby with 1.  Sean also won the 45+ HR Derby by hitting 1.

 

35+ Team Representatives:

Bulldogs:  Matt Langford, Aaron Quinn, Dee Ransom  (Joe Smith-MGR)
Demons:  Doug Larsen, Kurtis Smith, Jeremy Turgasen
Heat:  Mike Glatt, Steve Tendrock, Mike Turner*, Derek Welt, Zach Young
Woodpeckers:  Gerad Rosenback, Lee Wagner

Cubs:  Justin Mayer, Chad Osler, Josh Stewart, Eric Terry (Wes Volk-MGR)
Indians:  Eric Bauer, Cory Brown, Luis Venales, Eric Watson*
Reds:  Sean Murphy, Tyler Williams

*Exemption Player

 

Teams split as follows: 
1) Bulldogs/Demons/Heat/Woodpeckers reps
vs
2) Cubs/Indians/Reds reps

Team 2 broke out late with a 4-run inning and held on to win the game 6-3.  Justin Mayer (Cubs) was named MVP as managed to reach base all four times out of the lead-off spot and scored two runs.

45+ Team Representatives:

Blues:  Joe Critchlow, Ted Gould, Randy Kirkpatrick, Phil Smith (Joel Werley-coach)
Grays:  Danny Eason, Jason Henry, Curt Lyons, Clint Thompson (John Linden-coach)
Reds:  Don Caves, Phil DeVan, Tim Kirgan, Chad Reinke, Ron Watson (Warren Anderson-MGR)
Twins:  Bryon Browder, Kevin Mann, Dennis Parker, Brian Raab*, Jim Sinclair (Troy McIntosh-coach)
Wildcats:  Doug Larsen, Tim Rice, Pat Scholer (Brad Eveland-coach)
Yankees:  Rick DeMatto, Bryan Flanigan, Rick Fleener, Randy Johnson, Bobby Williams (Brian Olson-MGR)

*Exemption Player

45+ Managers will select teams from the pool of available players.

The 45+ game went into an extra inning with Randy Kirkpatrick (Blues) capturing the MVP award by knocking in the winning run.

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The Des Moines Thunder finished the regular season with a 9-4 record to take the MABL 18+ Division Title.

Back Row, L-R:  Bob Thornton (MGR), Mike Eckhart, Sean Roberts, Ryan Kramer, Dalton Heick, Corey Maines, Chad Osler
Front Row, L-R:  Trey Cook, David Thornton, Drew Otto, Troy Dubay, Joseph Monosmith
Not Pictured:  Jay Mathes, Todd Smith, Brandon Storm, Gaige Thompson

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The Mid-Iowa Bandits won the MABL 18+ Tournament by a 5-2 score over the Thunder.  Matt Pennings threw a complete game, allowing one earned run, one walk and had 15 strikeouts.

Back Row, L-R:  Brent Henderson (MGR), Steven Baldus, Steven Sattz, Jimmy Six, Erik Gibson, Aaron Haubrich, Matt Pennings, Bud Smith, Cole Hulett
Front Row, L-R:  Jake Leonard, Josh VanMaanen, Brennan Roland, Eric White, Jake Epsteen
Not pictured:  Stephen Murphy, Isaac Novak, Alex Schwing, VJay Stevens, Justin Wolber

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After winning the pre-season tournament, the Newton Reds went on to finish the 25+ regular season with a perfect 8-0 record within the division while going 12-1 overall.  Their only loss came to the 18+ Bandits in inter-league play.

 Back Row (L-R):  Brad Hingtgen, Cody Neef, Darin Tisdale, Trent Williams, Warren Anderson, Tyler Williams, Brett Jacobs, Randy Johnson
Front Row (L-R):  Jon Williams, Bobby Williams (MGR), Shawn Palmer, Nate Cunningham, Chris Schakel
Other key members not pictured:  Sean Murphy, Will Scholer, Jarek Sefrit

The Iowa Oaks won the 25+ post-season tournament by defeating the Red Sox in the semi-final, then defeating the Reds 9-0 in the title game behind a gem of a pitching performance by Eric Watson.

Back Row (L-R):  John Linden, Brian Schueller, Zach Young, Derek Huxford, Eric Watson, Jason McPherson, Jason Bright, Dee Ransom, Jo Fred
Front Row (L-R):  Aaron Jarosh, Jeremy Green, Charles Magedanz, Joe Smith (MGR), Tanner Linden, Erik Marten

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The Des Moines Bulldogs won the 35+ Division regular season title with a 13-1 record.  The Bulldogs then swept through the tournament, winning three games and defeating the Indians 13-3 for the title.  Over the course of the season, the Bulldogs had eight shutouts.  The 1-2 punch of Aaron Quinn & Matt Langford led the charge all year.

Back Row (L-R):  John Linden, Aaron Quinn, Al Cole, Dan Zahn, David Case, Matt Langford, Joey Keller
Front Row (L-R):  Brian Schueller, Dee Ransom, Joe Smith (MGR), Curt Lyons, Mel Stocker, Charles Magedanz
Not pictured:  Jason Bright, Phil DeVan, Gary Frank, Brad Hingtgen, Brian Olson, Todd Smith, Raun Taylor

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Please click on the following links to see the final brackets for the 35+ & 45+ double-elimination tournaments. 

35+ Tournament             45+ Tournament

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The Des Moines Reds won the 45+ Regular Season division title with a 12-2 record.

Back Row (L-R):  Dan Polson, Warren Anderson (MGR), Dan Zahn, Ron Watson, Phil DeVan, Tim Kirgan
Front Row (L-R):  Chad Reinke, Jon Resler, Gary Frank, John Evans, Don Caves
Not pictured:  Keith DeWitt, Brian Schueller, Raun Taylor, Tony Toigo

 

The Des Moines Grays swept through the 45+ double-elimination tournament, winning all four of their games.  They defeated the Reds in the final by a 7-4 score.

Back Row (L-R):  John Linden (MGR), Aaron Quinn, Terry Followell, Bert Dalmer, Tom Geraty, Al Cole, Cris Anderson, Chris Donohoe
Front Row (L-R):  Mike Glatt, Danny Eason, Marv Seiler, Clint Thompson, Jason Henry, Joe Smith, Curt Lyons
Not Pictured:  David Case, Miles Nelson, Keith Springer

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Two teams represented the Mid-Iowa Baseball League in October & early November of 2017 in the Phoenix area.

The 25+ Des Moines Bruins joined the 2007 Father/Son Iowa Cubs as the only teams returning from the desert with a NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP!  The 25+ Cactus Division Bruins went a perfect 7-0, scoring the most runs in the tournament and allowing the fewest.  A 2-1 semifinal battle was the closest an opponent would come (the go-ahead run scoring on a balk!), but that nerve-wracking challenge led to a determined team in the 11-2 championship victory over the Albuquerque Desert Trout.

Back Row (L-R):  John Linden (MGR), Gary Frank, Aaron Quinn, David Case, Jason McPherson, Bud Smith, Matt Pennings, Steve Baldus, Zach Young
Front Row (L-R):  Jo Fred, Tanner Linden, Charles Magedanz, Joe Smith, Jake Epsteen, Derek Huxford, Jeremy Green, Dee Ransom, Brian Schueller
Credit to our photographer, Michelle McPherson.  Also not pictured is Bud's Dad, Gary Smith, who helped keep coolers stocked & foul balls chased down.
20 people under one roof & EVERYONE contributed to the success!

 

 

The 50+ Des Moines Bruins got off to a great start, going 5-0 while allowing 27 runs.  Clearly in control of their destiny, a scheduling snafu arose & they were forced to take a forfeit in their final pool play game.  The Bruins then fell 4-2 to the Austin Amigos in their quarterfinal playoff game.

Back Row (L-R):  John Linden, Warren Anderson, Bryon Browder, Brian Olson (MGR), Jim Engle, Mike Pudans, Randy Johnson, Raun Taylor, Phil DeVan
Front Row (L-R):  Jim Pizinger, Jim Sinclair, Bobby Williams, Steve Krider, Tim Kirgan, Rick Fleener, Bryan Flanigan, Rick DeMatto, Jerry Floyd 

 

Tim Kirgan & Phil DeVan stuck around for week 2 and participated in the 55+ Cactus Division with the Quad City Blasters.  The Blasters swept through pool play with a 6-0 record and advanced through two playoff games to match up with the also undefeated South Bay Zephyrs in the final.  South Bay jumped to a 4-0 lead in the first and held on for a 8-4 victory.

 

Click below for links to results and standings for each:

 

25+ Cactus Division Standings             25+ Schedule

 

50+ Cactus Division 1 Standings          50+ Schedule

 

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Prior to the 25+ Bruins game at Sloan Park, Spring home of the Chicago Cubs, Brian Schueller was inducted into the MSBL National Hall of Fame for his Support, Commitment and Development for MSBL and MIBL. He was inducted by Founder and President, Steve Sigler. Steve mentioned Brian was the youngest inductee into the Hall. Schu joins MIBL past President, Tim Kirgan (2001) and current MIBL President, John Linden (2012, 2016) and World Series HOF member Phil DeVan (2012) as Mid-Iowa Baseball representatives to the MSBL National Hall of Fames. Congratulations Brian on your accomplishment and National recognition!

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The survey has closed.  53 responses were received. Thank you to those that took the time to respond!

CLICK HERE for a summary of results.

If you have any questions, please contact Brian Schueller, survey administrator.

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ROSTERS as of 8/1/18.

All teams are paid in full.  The link above with all rosters may or may not be updated going forward.  Team pages should list current, active rosters.  ALL players must be registered & waivered before taking the field.

All payment options have been turned off.  Any new players simply need to register & complete the online waiver in order to participate in 2018.  Find your specific team registration by clicking on "Pages" on the menu above for the Online Registration Page, or CLICK HERE to be redirected.

 

 

Rally on the River Adult Baseball Tournament
Saturday & Sunday, July 7 & 8, 2018
TBK Sports Complex, Bettendorf, Iowa
www.tbkbanksportscomplex.com

CLICK HERE for the flyer with more information.

RESULTS:

Saturday, July 7
Field 3:
10:00am:  Des Moines Bruins 18+ @ Power Train Bandits 18+ (DM 5-0)
1:00pm:  Power Train Bandits 18+ @ Des Moines Bruins 18+  (DM 10-6)
4:00pm:  Bruins vs Bandits (DM 8-1)

Saturday, July 7
Field 1:
10:00am:  Quad City Blasters 50+ @ Des Moines Bruins 50+  (DM 2-1, 10 inn)
1:00pm:  Des Moines Bruins 50+ @ St. Louis Gray Beards 50+  (STL 3-2, 10 inn)
4:00pm:  St. Louis Gray Beards 50+ @ Quad City Blasters 50+  (STL 5-1)

Sunday, July 8
Field 1:
10:00am:  Quad City Blasters 50+ @ St. Louis Gray Beards 50+ (QC 9-6, 10 inn)

Umpires are needed.  Please contact our umpire director, Rick Fleener, at (515) 371-9633.
Players...you can umpire!  You could be scheduled to umpire games outside of your division.  If you are looking for additional income & to see the game from a different perspective, get on board!

Scenario A:  Teams are late/slow to take field                                 

• Game starts at 7:35, End time is 9:30
• Game starts at 1:05, End time is 3:30

With Scenario A, umpires should be ready and take charge.  Manager meeting 10 minutes prior to game time, home team to take field 5 minutes prior to game time.                                                       

Scenario B:  Umpires are late or delay due to field issue                             

• Game starts at 7:35, End time is 9:35
• Game starts at 1:05, End time is 3:35

With Scenario B, get started as soon as possible.                              

Scenario C:  Umpires/Teams are ready to go                                   

• Game starts at 7:28, End time is 9:30
• Game starts at 12:58, End time is 3:30

With Scenario C, do not sit around waiting for the start time to reach the top or bottom of the hour.  A few minutes of "extra" baseball won't hurt anyone.        

• Ideally, the league would like to complete 9 innings in a 2.5 hour game and a minimum of 7 innings in a 2-hour game.  This should be the ultimate goal of all players, managers & umpires.              
• It is up to the umpires to keep the pace of play moving to deter stall tactics that sometimes will arise due to our time constraints.                                   
• Pitchers get a maximum of 8 warm-up tosses from the mound prior to the start of an inning.  If more is needed, this should be done in the bullpen or in another area prior to taking the field.
• A new inning starts at the very second the last out is recorded in the previous inning.  (If the home team is batting & the last out is recorded at 9:29, a new inning starts at 9:29.)                       

Please read Local Rules 2.a-L through 2.i-L
Here is a summary of contents:                              

• 2.a-L provides detail on suspended games (weather, field issue, etc)                                      
• 2.b-L provides detail on run-rules                                           
• 2.c-L-1 provides detail on rescheduling (to avoid forfeits)                               
• 2.e-L provides detail on teams short players at game start                                          
• 2-f-L provides detail on game start time (detailed above)                                            
• 2-g-L provides detail on home & away designation.  It is currently a gentlemen's agreement that the home team takes the 3rd base dugout and the away team takes the 1st base dugout.              
• 2-h-L provides detail on timely score submission (this has been an issue recently; timely submission allows an accurate look for any necessary future schedule changes)                                
• 2-i-L provides detail on standings & tiebreakers  

If teams are having issues with umpires or umpires are having issues with teams, please contact your League President, Umpire Director or Commissioner.

A big congratulations needs to be extended to a couple league members affiliated with the Grandview Little League as they advanced to represent the Midwest in the 2018 Little League World Series in Williamsport, Pennsylvania.

Head Coach, Matt Kunert, is currently with the 45+ Yankees (previously with 35+ Cubs, 18+ Dodgers & others)

Assistant Coach, Josh Stewart, is currently with the 30+ Cubs & has been a long-time, valuable member/manager in our league.

Both had boys on the team, Kobe Kunert & Alex Stewart.

The boys were highly competitive in Williamsport, losing a couple tough games.  Finishing with a 1-2 record, they were eliminated from advancing on Monday, August 20th.  However, they all return to Des Moines with a lifetime of memories.  Congratulations again!

 

On Sunday, August 19, the Des Moines Thunder captured their first postseason 18+ Division tournament title with an 11-6 victory over the Des Moines Cubs.  Sean Roberts was named tournament MVP, going 3x5 with two doubles, 4 RBI, 3 walks & one run scored.  Trey Cook picked up the win in the title game, improving to 8-0 with 56K & finishing with a 0.69 ERA on the season.

 

Back row, L-R:  Bob Thornton (MGR), Joseph Monosmith, Trey Cook, Gaige Thompson, Dalton Heick, Sean Roberts, Chad Osler
Front row, L-R:  Drew Otto, Todd Smith, Ryan Kramer, David Thornton, Troy Dubay

The Des Moines Thunder, led by manager Bob Thornton, recently secured their 3rd straight 18+ Division title, finishing the regular season 11-1.  Notable performers included Trey Cook (7-0 record, 46.1 IP, 0.39 ERA, 49K) & Mike Eckhart (.500 avg, 2 HR, 15 RBI, .634 OBP).

Back row, L-R:  Bob Thornton (MGR), Dalton Heick, Mike Eckhart, Gaige Thompson, Trey Cook, Sean Roberts, Chad Osler
Front row, L-R:  Nolan Monthei, Drew Otto, David Thornton, Corey Rasmussen, Ryan Kramer
Not pictured:  Troy Dubay, Cole Jackson, Joseph Monosmith, Cole Scieszinski, Todd Smith, Skylar Thornton, Wes Volk

The Newton Reds captured their 2nd consecutive 25+ Regular Season title with an 11-1 record.  Having dropped a 3-1 decision to the Oaks earlier in the year, the Reds took the title by sweeping a doubleheader from the Oaks (10-2) on the last weekend of league play.

Back Row, L-R:  Will Scholer, Sean Murphy, Justin DeVoe, Tony Bakeris, Trent Williams, Tyler Williams
Front Row, L-R:  Jon Wiliams, Michael McGonegle, Bobby Williams, Shawn Palmer, Bret Jacobs, Randy Johnson, Turner Williams

 

On Sunday, August 26th, the Oaks avenged the losses from a week earlier by winning a 6-5 affair in the tournament championship game.

Back Row, L-R:  John Linden, Zach Young, Dan Behmer, Derek Huxford, Eric Watson, Jason McPherson, Jason Bright, Erik Marten
Front Row, L-R:  Aaron Jarosh, Charles Magedanz, Dee Ransom, Jeremy Green, Joe Smith, Tanner Linden

The Grays, led by manager John Linden, secured their first regular season league title since 2013, and third overall, by defeating the Reds 14-2 in the final game of the 45+ regular season.

The 2018 45+ Tournament was unable to be completed due primarily to weather.  The winner's bracket match-up between the Grays & Yankees was unable to be made up.  The Wildcats were awaiting the loser of that game in the loser's bracket.  The only other years that had tournaments remain incomplete were in 2002 (40+) and 1995 (both 18+ & 30+).

Please adhere to the posted signs upon entering the Urbandale Little League facility.  There is a No Smoking policy on the grounds.  If you have a need to burn one, head to the street.  There is no posted policy for chewing tobacco, but because it is a Little League facility, evidence of use should be destroyed or disappear.  Same goes for alcohol.  If you decide to have an adult beverage after the game in the parking lot, empties go with you.

This should be considered policy across all facilities that the league uses.  Especially prohibited at high school fields.  We do not have the luxury of creating our own rules.  Please use common sense, if it still exists.

In addition to two teams representing the Mid-Iowa Baseball League at the 31st Annual World Series in Phoenix, AZ, we have some individuals that have joined other teams across the nation to participate as well.  See below for links to Standings & Schedules to follow along.

 

The 25+ Des Moines Bruins won the Cactus Division championship on Wednesday, October 24 with a 10-7, late come-from-behind win over the San Jose Marlins.  Game MVP & former MIBL member, Jo Fred, led the charge with Will Scholer picking up the win.  This was the second consecutive championship for the Bruins, adding a 4th national title to the Mid-Iowa Baseball League's trophy case.

 

Back Row (L-R): John Linden, Scott Sturm, Gary Frank, Jason McPherson, Zach Young, Eric White, Will Scholer, Jo Fred, Dave Wollam
Front Row (L-R):  Joe Smith, Dee Ransom, Jeremy Green, Jake Epsteen, Tanner Linden, Trent Williams

STANDINGS          SCHEDULE

 

Father/Son Des Moines Bruins (Cactus Division 3)
Team members include:  Chris & Cullen Donohoe, Rick & Erick Fleener, Gary & Joe Frank, John & Tanner Linden, Curt & Evan Lyons, Jason McPherson & Devon Ellerman, Pat & Will Scholer & Sean Palmer, Marv & Cole Seiler, Bobby & Trent & Tyler Williams

The Father/Son Des Moines Bruins had a fantastic weekend in the Phoenix area, going a perfect 4-0 in pool play while allowing the fewest runs during the four games (23).  Securing the #1 seed, the Bruins went on to defeat a team from San Diego in the quarterfinals, then a team from Texas in the semi-finals.  Unfortunately, the bid for a ring came up just short as the Bruins fell to a team from Terre Haute, Indiana, 7-4 in the final on Sunday, October 28.

STANDINGS          SCHEDULE

 

65+ Taos Solar Sox (Cactus Division 1)
Best of luck to league members Brad Eveland, Lynn Henry & Dennis Parker!

Taos went 2-3 in pool play and lost their opening round playoff game.

STANDINGS          SCHEDULE

 

40+ Oakland Soldiers (American/Mountain Division)
Best of luck to league members Brent Hulbert, Justin Mayer & Maloch Spivey!

Oakland had a rough week, finishing 0-6 in pool play. 

STANDINGS          SCHEDULE

 

55+ Colorado Blues (National Division)
Best of luck to league members Rick Fleener, Steve Krider, Brian Olson, Pat Scholer & Bobby Williams

The Blues went 1-5 in pool play, losing their opening round playoff game.

STANDINGS          SCHEDULE

Bulldogs secure 30+ Regular Season Title

The Bulldogs, led by manager Joe Smith, secured their 11th regular season league title in the 17 year history of the division.  (This division started as 40+ in 2002, moved to 38+ from 2003-2007 and was 35+ from 2008-2017.)

 

Cubs Capture 30+ Tournament

The Des Moines Cubs overcame adversity and the loss of their 9th player to rally for a 9-6 victory over the Bulldogs in the championship game of the 30+ tournament on November 1.  It is the second tournament title for the Cubs in the last three years.
Terry Rivera got the win, allowing only two earned runs.  Wes Volk & Corey Rasmussen led the offensive charge with three hits & two runs scored each.  Brad Hingtgen hit a solo home run for the Bulldogs.

Congratulations to Luis Venales, DM Dragons for Winning the 30+ Home Run Derby. Luis finished with a collective total of 12 Home runs. Runner up was Sean Murphy, DM Dragons, 3rd place Corey Hansen, Newton Reds, and 4th place Erik Marten, DM Bulldogs.

 

 

 

Congratulations to the 18+ American Division Champion Des Moines Pirates managed by Tyler Cardwell.

The Pirates won 8-4 defeating the DM Cardinals, managed by Billy Bacus. The Cardinals won the first game by forfeit forcing a second game in the playback double elim format.

 

Congratulations to the 18+ National Division Champion Iowa Oaks, managed by Joe Smith.

The Oaks won 10-4 defeating the Newton Reds managed by Bobby Williams.  Eric Watson (5.1 inn.) was the winning pitcher. Joe Smith pitched 3.2 Inn. for the save. The Oaks won the first game 14-3, forcing a second game in the playback double elim format. Jason McPherson threw a complete game in that contest.

The Des Moines Thunder, led by manager Chad Osler, stormed into the 30+ Division and promptly won the regular season league title with a 9-2-1 record in their inaugural season, securing it with a 12-5 victory over the Reds on September 5.

Back Row (L-R):  Dusty Belden, Sean Roberts, Bob Thornton, Jay Mathes, AJ Pruitt, Todd Smith, James Peterson.
Front Row (L-R):  Chad Osler, Cory Rasmussen, Troy Dubay, Aaron Campisi, Richie Velez, Drew Otto
Not Pictured:  Harry Kramer, Logan Miller

 

The Des Moines Reds, managed by League Founder Tim Kirgan and assisted by original league member Warren Anderson, captured the 48+ Tournament title on Wednesday, October 16th with a 5-0 victory over the Des Moines Yankees.  The Reds began the season with 10 consecutive losses and lost their opening game of the 48+ Tournament as well.   They navigated the play-back bracket of the double-elimination tournament by defeating each of the other 48+ teams in the division.  Phil Smith was named team MVP.

Back Row (L-R):  Keith Springer, Matt Kamp, Warren Anderson, Raun Taylor, Don Caves, Keith DeWitt
Front Row (L-R):  Tim Kirgan, Scott Etzel, Randy Kirkpatrick, Danny Holmes, Phil Smith, Chad Reinke
Not Pictured:  Gary Frank, John Parsons, Jon Resler, Keith Snyder

The Des Moines Bulldogs, led by manager Joe Smith, captured the 30+ Division Title on October 24th with a 7-2 win over the Des Moines Heat.  Matt Langford led the charge by registering 10 strikeouts in the 7-inning complete game.  Brad Hingtgen homered to lead the balanced offensive attack as temperatures bottomed out at 36 degrees at game end.

Back Row (L-R):  Aaron Quinn, Gary Frank, Joey Keller, Erik Marten, David Case, Matt Langford, Brad Hingtgen, Dee Ransom
Front Row (L-R):  Tanner Linden, Jeremy Green, Curt Lyons, Joe Smith, Mel Stocker, Charles Magadenz, Brian Schueller
Not Pictured:  Jason Bright, John Linden, Jeff Sanders

The 2019 MIBL season wrapped up on Saturday, October 26th as the Grays defeated the Blues 15-0 in the 42+ Division Championship Game.  Joe Smith was the winning pitcher and David Case hit two home runs.

 

Back Row (L-R):  Tom Geraty, Al Cole, Cris Anderson, David Case, Bert Dalmer
Front Row (L-R):  Jason Henry, Dee Ransom, Curt Lyons, Joe Smith, Clint Thompson
Not pictured:  Ritchie Chieves, Todd Cory, Chris Donohoe, Mike Glatt, John Linden, Jason McPherson, Aaron Quinn, Marv Seiler

CLICK HERE for a recent profile our national organization did on Zach Young (Oaks, Heat).

The 18+ MABL season concluded on Sunday, August 9 with the championship game of the season-ending tournament.  The Bandits, led by manager Brent Henderson, defeated the Thunder 13-3 behind a strong team performance & solid pitching by Matt Pennings  This was the Bandits third tournament title.

Back Row (L-R):  Jake Ford, Nick Dufoe, Nate Greim, Matt Pennings, Sam Kornstad, Jake Leonard, Spencer Davidson, Nick Day
Front Row (L-R):  Trevor Kimm, Steven Baldus, Nolan Sinning, Jordan Patton, Tolik Bartz, Eric White, Jake Epsteen
Not Pictured:  Jake Goyke, Aaron Haubrich, Brent Henderson

 

The 18+ Thunder completed a perfect 10-0 league season on Sunday, August 2.  The Thunder, led by manager Bob Thornton, won their fourth division title in five years, outscoring opponents 99-17 on the year.

Back Row (L-R):  Matt Dunn, Corey Rasmussen, Nick Monosmith, Ryan Kramer, David Thornton, Kyle Westhoff, Ben DeTaeye, Chad Osler
Front Row (L-R):  Harold Kelly Jr., Todd Smith, Joseph Monosmith, Trey Cook, Bob Thornton, Gaige Thompson
Not Pictured:  Joe Bisignano, Noah Catron, Isaiah Henrichs, Nolan Monthei

The 30+ Des Moines Thunder wrapped up their second season with their first 30+ tournament championship.  The Thunder defeated the Des Moines Dragons 7-5 to finish the season on an 8-game winning streak.  The Thunder, led by manager Chad Osler, had the lead all night until a 4-run 6th inning by the Dragons tied the score at 5.  The Thunder responded to the rally immediately with a small-ball approach that pushed two runs across.  The Dragons last chance rally was ended by a strike em out throw em out double play to end the night, & the season.  

 

The Thunder were led offensively by Todd Smith with a 2-3 effort with 3 runs scored and 2 stolen bases.  Newcomer to the league, Matt Dunn, capped off a great campaign with two RBI.  Trey Cook went the distance on the mound striking out 12 and allowing only 6 hits.  

 

Congrats to the regular season champion Dragons and manager Cory Brown for an excellent season and a terrific final game.  The match-up was a great end to a great season in the 30+ division.  

 

Thank you also to the host sites for our season.  Not only for having the fields ready to play every night, but for having the courage to allow our league to continue to play the game we love so much throughout the season uninterrupted.  Thanks also to the Mid-Iowa Baseball league leadership for making this season happen.  Without this league, many would have looking desperately for a way to fill the void from May to October.

Back Row (L-R):  Chad Osler, Bob Thornton, Sean Roberts, Trey Cook, AJ Pruitt, Drew Otto
Front Row (L-R):  Dustin Belden, Corey Rasmussen, Todd Smith, Jared Snyder, Matt Dunn, Richie Velez
Not pictured:  Aaron Campisi, Logan Miller

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The Dragons, led by manager Cory Brown, secured the 30+ regular season title with their 14-5 victory over the Woodpeckers on Tuesday, September 15.  The Dragons will be the one seed in the upcoming tournament.  This is the first title for the Dragons (formerly known as the Indians).  Congratulations!

Back row (L-R):  Brett Whittle, James Peterson, Eric Watson, Luis Venales, Yunior Gonzalez, Curt Gomes, Jon Williams
Front row (L-R):  Jarek Sefrit, Chris Bates, Cory Brown, Josh Van WInkle, Ben Wiedmann, Sean Murphy

For the first time since the mid-1990s, the Mid-Iowa Baseball League will not send a team from our league to the MSBL World Series or Fall Classic.  However, many players from our league are playing with teams in various divisions.  You can follow their progress at the below links.

October 18-23
50+ Cactus Division 2; Bad News All Stars
Schedule     Standings
Participants:  Phil DeVan & Raun Taylor
Results:  Hopefully Phil & Raun enjoyed the warm weather.  Unfortunately, the team went 0-6 on the week.

 

October 24-29
55+ Cactus Division 2; Quad City Blasters
Schedule     Standings
Participants:  Warren Anderson, Joe Bauman, Scott Etzel, Tim Kirgan, Steve Krider, Brian Olson, Mike Pudans, Bobby Williams
Results:  The Blasters qualified for the playoffs with a 4-2 pool play record.  They defeated the Tri Valley A's 7-6 in the quarterfinal, but fell to the Auburn Braves in the semifinal.

November 2-7
60+ Cactus Division 1; Bandits
Schedule     Standings
Participants:  Rick Fleener, Tim Kirgan, Jim Pizinger
Results:  The Bandits qualified for the playoffs with a 4-2 pool play record.  They defeated the Arizona Sox 7-4 in the quarterfinals, but fell to the Motor City Firebirds in the semifinal.

November 2-7
45+ Cactus Division; Silverton Red Sox
Schedule     Standings
Participant:  Scott Littell
Results:  The Red Sox finished pool play with a 2-4 record, missing out on the playoffs. 

November 9-14
45+ Fall Classic National/American; Tainos
Schedule     Standings
Participant:  Maloch Spivey
Results:  The Tainos finished pool play with a 2-3 record and were slotted into the Central Division playoffs of 45+.  The Tainos won both games on Saturday, November 14 to win the Central Division title.

Home Cookin'?  Mike Bell, umpiring behind the plate.  Rick Fleener at bat.

 

Rick DeMatto, in action umpiring behind the plate.

Photo credit:  Tim Kirgan

League Member, Maloch Spivey, participated in the 45+ Division at the Fall Classic in Florida.  He played with a team called the Tainos.  After a 2-3 pool play performance, the Tainos were slotted into the Central Division playoffs on Saturday, November 14.  The Tainos defeated the New York Astros 7-1 in the semifinal, then avenged an earlier defeat to the Connecticut Top Hats by winning the final 8-6.

The 50+ Des Moines Bruins completed Cactus Division pool-play on Wednesday, October 22, 2014 in Phoenix with a 4-2 record.  With an abundance of teams finishing with 4-2 records, the runs allowed tie-breaker came into play for determining who would advance to the playoffs.  The Bruins had to rely on the final game of pool play and needed to have the East Haven Jor Els defeat the Arizona Angels in a high scoring affair.  East Haven won 12-11, which allowed the Bruins to advance by one run.

The Bruins advanced to semifinals with 7-6 win over Corona.  Two of the final four teams were from Iowa as the Quad City Blasters also advanced.  In the semifinal, the Bruins fell to the Diamond Dream Mustangs 9-2, while the Blasters defeated the South Bay Zephyrs.  (Diamond Dream then defeated Quad City for the title.)

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Congratulations to the Wildcats for completing their season with a league title by going 14-2 and also winning the postseason tournament with two additional wins!

Click HERE to read our write-up on MSBL National.

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Congratulations to the Yankees for winning the 35+ Regular Season league title with an outstanding 13-1 record!

Contgratulations to the Bulldogs for winning the 35+ Double-Elimination tournament by winning three consecutive games, each by one run.  In the final, Lane Sires helped build the Bulldogs lead with a 3-run HR.  Corey Cech held the Yankees in check while the Bulldogs got out in front 7-0.  Sean Murphy started the Yankees rally with an opposite field, solo HR.  Joe Smith got the final out stranding the tying run at 3rd and winning run at 2nd.  Another classic Yankee-Bulldog battle.

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Congratulations to the Newton Reds for winning the 2014 25+ Double Elimination Tournament with a perfect 4-0 run and an exciting 5-4, 12-inning win over the Iowa Oaks in the final. Final 25+ Bracket

CLICK HERE for the summary submitted to MSBL National.

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Congratulations to the Iowa Aces for winning their 2nd League Championship Tournament title in 3 seasons. The Aces, managed by John Linden, won their Quarterfinal game against the Black Sox 4-1. Jeremy Green recorded the win (6IP, 1ER, 4K) and Joe Smith (1IP, 0ER, 2K) got the save. The Semi-final against the Bandits was a 10 inning pitchers duel 1-0. Joe Smith (10IP, 0ER, 11K) pitched a complete game Shutout for the win. Jakob Epsteen pitched a fantastic game for the Bandits and took the heartbreaking loss. In the Championship game, the Aces handed defeat to the Des Moines .45s 5-4. The .45s threw MCC 2014 All Conference pitcher Pat Winnike.  Joe Smith was the winning pitcher (6IP, 4ER, 5K) Derek Huxford (3IP, 0ER, 4K) recorded the Save . 

Aces Highlights for the tourney included Charles Magedanz (.400 OP% , R) Jeremy Green (.400 OB%, 2R, SB) and Derek Huxford (.300 Avg, 2RBI), Jo Fred recorded a stolen base in each game. Tournament MVP, Joe Smith recorded a save in the quarterfinals, the complete game win in the semifinals and the win in the Championship game. Joe also logged a 4-4 performance in the finals and finished the tourney with a  .455 Avg. 

Quarterfinal results: Bandits 7 Renegades 6; Mets 10 Astros 5; Aces 4 Black Sox 1; Des Moines .45s 12 Koras 2

Semi-Finals: .45s 2 Mets 1; Aces 1 Bandits 0

Championship: Aces 5 Des Moines.45s 4; WP: Joe Smith; LP: Pat Winnike

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MANAGERS...please have any new players register so there are no issues as the season continues.  If a person plays in a game & has not completed a waiver, a forfeit could be enforced.

Each individual player, including managers, should complete their registration for the 2014 season.  Please complete the form in its entirety and be sure to enter your information carefully and accurately.  Paper copies of the waiver remain available under the Waivers/Forms menu on the left.  Even if you complete a paper copy, you are encouraged to also complete an online waiver.

This form should only be completed by players already rostered with a team.  If you are a free agent, please do not complete until you are signed by a team.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

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MANAGERS, please follow the directions below & update your team site with your current rosters.  Anyone appearing in a game must be on your roster & have a waiver completed.

Managers:  Please update your rosters with players that have agreed to play in 2014 & have completed a waiver (either online or on paper).

Any players that are deemed as "reserve/protected", feel free to include them on your roster in the following manner:  Log on to your team site, click on "Edit", add the player names in the "Comments" section at the bottom.  Please use the 35+ Bulldogs as a reference.

Please remember that our national rules state that any player that has not played with a team in the previous year has become a free agent and can sign with any team without completing a player release form.

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Please review the new "run-rule" across all of our leagues.  This was voted on at the pre-season manager meeting:

A game shall be called complete if there is a 12-run discrepancy after 6 innings and 1.5 hours of game time has passed.

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Players, Managers & Umpires:

Prior to the 2013 season, Major League Baseball (MLB) implemented a rule that a balk be issued if a pitcher fakes a throw to third, then throws to first in an attempt to pick off the runner.  The Mid-Iowa Baseball League (MIBL) does follow MLB rules in this case.  Umpires should call a balk if the pitcher makes this motion.

Please remember, in all cases, Men's Senior Baseball League (MSBL) follows MLB rules unless the rule is specifically altered in the MSBL National Rules.  MIBL first follows MLB rules, then next adheres to MSBL rules.  Our league also has approved specific alterations of MLB/MSBL rules & these are posted as our MIBL "Local" rules.

This rule is better described in section 8.05 of the MLB Official Rules of Baseball:  http://mlb.mlb.com/mlb/downloads/y2014/official_baseball_rules.pdf

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1.  Teams may start a game with seven (7) players or less.  But, to continue beyond the first inning, they must have at least eight (8).

Rule 3.J  A team must have eight (8) players for an official game & may borrow a player from an opposing team with the opposing team manager's consent or may borrow a player from another team, also with the opposing manager's consent.  If the team's ninth player arrives after the start of the game, the borrowed player reverts back to his team.

Rule 2.e.L  There will be a 15-minute grace period before a forfeit is enforced due to lack of players.  If at the end of the 15 minutes, a team has less than eight (8) players, that team will be the visiting team & bat first.  If this team still has less than eight (8) players at the end of that half inning, the game will be considered a forfeit.  This will allow the game to begin while waiting for additional players.

2.  The start time of a game is the scheduled time, NOT the time the first pitch is thrown.

Rule 2.f-L  All regular season games in the 18+/25+ divisions will consist of nine (9) innings & will have a 2 1/2 hour time limit.  Games in the Bill Hyland 35+/45+ Leagues will also be nine (9) innings in length, however no inning may start after two (2) hours from the start of the game.  The time limit begins at the scheduled start time, not when the game actually begins.  (For example, a 1:00 game begins at 1:00 & will end at 3:30.)  The only exeption is if a delay occurs because the umpires are late.  If the umpires are late, the time limit begins when the umpire says "Play Ball".  Doubleheaders can only originally be scheduled for two teams to play each other, not for a team to play two different teams in one day during the regular season.  Certain circumstances may arise where a team may play two different teams in one day.  This will only be allowed as part of a rescheduled event given that all parties are in agreement.  There will be 15 minutes between doubleheader games.

3.  If a team has eight (8) or nine (9) players, the opposing manager has the option of only batting eight (8) or nine (9) in his lineup.  There are no penalties or automatic outs for only hitting eight (8) or nine (9) if that is the number the team has available.

4.  Regardless of the number of players in the hitting lineup, if a player in the lineup is injured & cannot continue, the first time the injured player's position comes up, it is an automatic out.  There is no penalty for the position being skipped in future occurrences.

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Former league member, Nick Otto, was killed in a motorcycle accident on Wednesday, August 28 in Des Moines.  Nick was 57 and most recently played for the Grays.  Please keep Nick's family and friends in your thoughts and prayers.

Nick's wife, Lori, posted the following announcement on his Facebook page:

Nick's memorial service will be Friday, September 6 at Caldwell Raddatz Funeral Home, 8201 Hickman Rd in Urbandale.  This service begins at 6pm and will continue at 107 Jefferson Ave in Des Moines at the NALC union hall where there will be food and beverages.  There will be a processional, with police escort, between the funeral home and the hall, traveling Hickman Rd and passing through the same spot where Nick died.  We invite anyone who wants to share a word about Nick, or a memory, to write that down and bring it with you to his memorial service.  If you can't bear to stand up and share it, please pass it to someone who can.  Thanks and see you there.

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Three teams represented the Mid-Iowa Baseball League in MSBL National Tournaments in the fall of 2013.

For the first time in league history, a team entered the MSBL Fall Classic in Florida.  The 25+ Des Moines Bruins took to the fields near the beaches of the Atlantic.  This wood bat tournament took place from Monday, November 11 through Saturday, November 16.  After opening with a 13-0 shutout and then a 7-4 victory over the eventual champions (Athens, GA), the bats went silent.  Pitching was stellar throughout.  After three consecutive pool-play losses, the Bruins snuck into the playoffs only to lose another pitching duel, 5-3.

Division Standings

Schedule

 

 

 

Team members included:  Richie Bennett (Cubs), Brent Hulbert (Monarchs), Jeff Lantz (Baltimore), Bryan Leitzinger (Cardinals), Bob Mack (Cardinals), Burton Parker (Georgia), Ken Roberts (Cardinals), Brian Schueller (Bulldogs), Joe Smith (Aces/Oaks/Bulldogs), Maloch Spivey - Manager (Monarchs/Demons), Chris Standley (Monarchs), Josh Stewart (Cubs/Demons), Jeremy Turgasen (Demons/Monarchs)

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The 45+ Des Moines Bruins participated in the 45+ Wood Cactus Divison of the MSBL World Series in Phoenix, Arizona from Monday, October 28 through Thursday, October 31.  The Bruins finished 2-3-1 in pool play, missing out on the playoffs.

Division Standings

Schedule

 

 

 

Team members included:  Warren Anderson (35 Yankees), Marvin Cason (Grays), Phil DeVan (Grays), Dick Elder (Colorado), Bryan Flanigan (Yankees), Rick Fleener (Yankees), Gary Frank (Grays), Lynn Henry (Twins), Rob Hochstetler (Grays), Randy Johnson (Yankees), Tim Kirgan (Grays), Kent Klemme (Mudhens), Steve Krider (Yankees), Doug Larsen (Grays), Brian Olson - Manager (Yankees), Dennis Parker (Twins), Joe Reser (Yankees), Pat Scholer (Yankees), Raun Taylor (Grays), Ron Watson (Grays), Bobby Williams (Yankees)

Nick Otto with the boys in spirit!  Thanks for the pic, Teresa Nichols!

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The 25+ Des Moines Astros participated in the 25+ Wood Central Division of the MSBL World Series in Phoenix, Arizona from Wednesday, October 16 through Friday, October 18.  The Astros finished 2-2-1 in pool play and narrowly missed qualifying for the Playoffs of the 25+ Wood Central Division.

Division Standings

Schedule

 

 

Team members included:  Dallas Eddie (Reds), Jakob Epsteen (Bandits), Joe Fields (Tigers), Curt Gomes - Manager (Astros/Yankees), Rick Kavan (Heat), Kevin Mann (Twins), Jason McPherson (Oaks), Clay Rickert (Yankees/Astros), Will Scholer (Reds), Tyler Williams (Reds) and six players from a Chicago team that merged.

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Congratulations to our 2013 Division & Tournament Winners:

18+ Division:
Regular Season:  Iowa Aces  (11-1, 12-2 overall)
Tournament:  Des Moines .45s (8-3, 11-3 overall)

25+ Division:
Regular Season & Tournament Sweep:  Des Moines Monarchs  (13-3, 16-3 overall)

35+ Division:
Regular Season:  Des Moines Yankees (14-1, 16-3 overall)
Tournament:  Des Moines Bulldogs (13-3, 17-3 overall)

45+ Division:
Regular Season & Tournament Sweep:  Des Moines Grays (12-2, 15-2 overall)

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The 45+ Tournament began on Monday, September 23 and is a double-elimination format.

Monday, September 23
Game 1:  #3 Twins @ #2 Yankees  Urbandale 1  Yankees def Twins 5-4
Game 2:  #4 Mudhens @ #1 Grays  Urbandale 2  Grays def Mudhens 25-4

Tuesday, September 24
Game 3:  #4 Mudhens @ #3 Twins  Urbandale 1  Mudhens def Twins 7-5, Twins eliminated
Game 4:  #2 Yankees @ #1 Grays  Urbandale 2  Grays def Yankees 10-1

Monday, September 30
Game 5:  #4 Mudhens @ #2 Yankees  Urbandale 2  Yankees def Mudhens 2-1, Mudhens eliminated

Tuesday, October 1
Game 6:  #2 Yankees @ #1 Grays  Urbandale 2  Grays def Yankees 4-2

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The 35+ Tournament began Wednesday, September 25 and is a double-elimination format.

Wednesday, September 25
Game 1:  #5 Twins @ #4 Woodpeckers  Urbandale 1  Woodpeckers def Twins 5-1
Game 2:  #6 Hawks @ #3 Heat  Cownie  Heat def Hawks 5-4
Game 3:  #7 Demons @ #2 Bulldogs  Urbandale 2  Bulldogs def Demons 6-1

Thursday, September 26
Game 4:  #4 Woodpeckers @ #1 Yankees  Cownie  Yankees def Woodpeckers 12-1
Game 5:  #3 Heat @ #2 Bulldogs  Urbandale 1  Bulldogs def Heat 12-3
Game 6:  #7 Demons @ #6 Hawks  Urbandale 2  Demons def Hawks 7-6, Hawks Eliminated

Wednesday, October 2
Game 7:  #5 Twins @ #3 Heat  Cownie  Twins def Heat 18-4, Heat Eliminated
Game 8:  #7 Demons @ #4 Woodpeckers  Urbandale 1  Woodpeckers def Demons 12-11, Demons Eliminated
Game 9:  #2 Bulldogs @ #1 Yankees  Urbandale 2  Bulldogs def Yankees 8-2

Thursday, October 3
Game 10  #5 Twins @ #4 Woodpeckers  Cownie  Twins def Woodpeckers 10-7, Woodpeckers Eliminated

TUESDAY, October 8
Game 11  #5 Twins @ #1 Yankees  Cownie  Yankees def Twins 8-1, Twins Eliminated

Wednesday, October 9
Game 12  #2 Bulldogs @ #1 Yankees  Urbandale 2  Bulldogs def Yankees, 7-2

Back Row (L-R):  John Linden, Tim Kirgan, Ron Watson, Dan Zahn, Tom Geraty, Al Cole, Phl DeVan, Aaron Quinn, Tim Harvey
Front Row (L-R):  Joe Smith, Curt Lyons, Jason McNertney, Dee Ransom, Gary Frank, Brian Schueller
Not Pictured:  Matt Barron, Randy Brady, Dave Crandall, Justin Knight, John Plaisance, Raun Taylor

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All Star Games for the 18+ & 25+ Divisions were held Saturday, July 27th at the Johnston High School Baseball Field.

Both the 18+ & 25+ games were a success.  Jakob Epsteen (Bandits) was named MVP of the 18+ game while Joe Smith (Oaks) & Kyle Brudos (Titans) were co-MVPs of the 25+ game.  More photos of the event will be posted soon.

Home Run Derby winner was Zach Young from the 25+ Des Moines Hitmen.  Zach hit the only home run of the day, an opposite field shot, as the wind was blowing in from left field.

"Fastest First-to-Third" winner was Christian Cruz of the Des Moines Redbirds at 7.32 seconds.  Joe Smith of the Iowa Oaks came in second at 7.34 seconds.

"Most Accurate Throwing Arm" belongs to Joe Smith of the Iowa Oaks.  Joe defeated Jeremy Green of the Iowa Aces in a "Toss-Off" to break a tie.

With the entry fees to these three events, we will be able to provide a $200 check to the American Cancer Society.

Photos:  Zach Young about to connect on the HR to win the derby.  Christian Cruz set to round second base on his way to victory in "Fastest 1st to 3rd".  Joe Smith throwing a dart in the "Most Accurate Arm" contest.  Clint Robbins sending one deep, but foul in the 18+ game.  Kyle Brudos dealing in the 25+ game.

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Subject: MSBL/MABL New Raffle Program Men's Senior Baseball League, Inc Newsletter The Nation's Premier Adult Baseball League In This Issue MSBL's Monthly Raffle   Tournament Page   Quick Links   MSBL Raffle  About Us  MSBL Sports Store Tournaments MSBL Travel   Issue: # 1 July /2013     MSBL Founder Steve Sigler Greetings!   We wanted to make you aware of a fun, new MSBL program -- our monthly raffle -- and quickly highlight a few other things we're doing as well. We hope your summer is going well and that you're enjoying the National pastime to the fullest. Thanks. Steve.     Sign Up Now for the MSBL Monthly Raffle   Bats, Balls, Jerseys among the great prizes    Most agree that Albert Pujols is on track for Baseball's Hall of Fame. It stands to reason, then, that the baseballs he signs could be worth something  someday.    So you might be interested to know that a signed Albert Pujols baseball is the first official prize in the MSBL's new monthly raffle program, and you and your MSBL teammates can enter to win by simply signing up for the drawing at www.msblnational.com   By the way, we're not stopping there. We have all kinds of things to give away. We're always looking for ways to make MSBL membership just a little more interesting -- and giving stuff away fits that plan perfectly. Baseball bats from Carolina Clubs, autographed jerseys from Jayson Werth and Adam Jones, and tournament entry fees are among the many prizes we'll unload in the future. Luck will only find you, however, if you sign up for the raffle. We hope that while you're on our new and improved website, you'll take a look around at some of the great feature there. W e are really proud of our new website. Like HardBall magazine before it, our website plays a big role in creating a a sense of community among our members.    Back in the early days of the MSBL there was a powerful sense of community because the original members were reviving their baseball careers and everything was new. Now, a whole new generation of players has come along and simply inherited these leagues without necessarily realizing what a really special and unique family this has become.   And what it has become is the largest adult amateur baseball organization in the country with nearly 45,000 members and some 350 leagues across the country.  The MSBL's marquis national tournaments, the World Series in Arizona, and the Fall Classic in Florida, have an international flavor with participation from Venezuela, Australia, Puerto Rico, Holland, Canada, and for the first time in 2013, Scotland. Looking at it now, it's hard to fathom that this all started with four teams and about 60 guys on Long Island, New York. It's really amazing and it's so much more than just baseball.  Life -long friendships have begun here, and great baseball memories shaped here. Our website celebrates that.   So take a trip to the home page - www.msblnational.com, and while you're there sign up to win stuff. Look for the hot link entitled "Enter the Latest MSBL Raffle." The link leads the visitor to a short entry form that is electronically transmitted to MSBL headquarters.   The first drawing will be July 22, 2013. The winner will be announced on the homepage of the website the following day.       The MSBL began with four teams on Long Island in 1986, went National with the first MSBL World Series in Arizona in 1988, and is now in its 26th year. It is the premier amateur adult baseball league in the nation.   Sincerely,   Brian Sigler Men's Senior Baseball League, Inc         Forward this email This email was sent to bssigler@msblnational.com by bssigler@msblnational.com |   Update Profile/Email Address | Instant removal with SafeUnsubscribe™ | Privacy Policy. Men's Senior Baseball League, Inc | One Huntington Quadrangle | Suite 3NO7 | Melville | NY | 11747

Any time a listed Free Agent is added to a roster, the team manager should send an e-mail to midiowabaseball@yahoo.com to have them removed from the list.  Please review the current list and make sure that any player that has been picked up has been removed.

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Congratulations to the Wildcats for winning the regular season 45+ division title!

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Wed. 10/6, Championship
Twins defeat Yankees 4-2 to claim their first 35+ Division Tournament Championship.  Congratulations!

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Des Moines Bruins 45+ Cactus Wood Bat
The 45+ Bruins lost to eventual champion Dallas O's 5-1 in the quarterfinal round of the playoffs after finishing with a 3-3 record in pool play.  Pitcher Warren Anderson threw a complete game, allowing only three hits, but the Bruins defense committed 8 errors and that was too much to overcome.  Phil DeVan led the team with a .655 batting average, followed by Tim Kirgan, who hit .476.  Bryan Flanagan won two games, throwing 15 innings and only allowing one unearned run.

Des Moines Bruins 35+ Central Wood Bat
The Des Moines Bruins 35+ team finished pool play with a 3-3 record and advanced to the playoffs as the #8 seed.  Two of the losses were decided by one run.  Facing the #1 and eventual champion Arizona East Valley Yankees in playoffs, the Bruins squandered many scoring opportunities as they did all week, falling 4-1.  The Bruins enjoyed a very competitive tournament, but left Phoenix disappointed in many ways.  If you would be interested in playing with the team next year, please contact John Linden or Brian Schueller.

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Recently, a team attempted to practice on one of our rented fields without permission. This incident has strained the relationship between our league and the field owners. Any team or individual that causes the loss of one of our rented facilities is subject to immediate expulsion from the league.

Unfortunately, the Central Iowa area has no public baseball fields available for use/rent. Until that changes, the Mid-Iowa Baseball League is required to rent our local college, high school and little league facilities. Most of our contracts/agreements are for specific game dates only. If you wish to practice on one of our fields, the team manager should contact your division president to see if an arrangement can be made to do so. This may require the team wishing to practice/scrimmage to pay a fee in addition to performing regular field maintenance.

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• No alcohol on school property.  (Players, coaches, spectators)
• No tobacco (smoking) on school property.  (Players, coaches, spectators)
• Chewing tobacco.  As much a part of baseball as this is for some, it falls under the tobacco policy.  If you can't make the switch to bubble gum or sunflower seeds, please dispose of chew appropriately.  Take empty cans with you.  Do not make "puddles".  Grind used "wads" into the grass.  If you must chew, leave NO evidence.
• Field maintenance.  ALL teams should help in the upkeep of our fields, no matter our rental/contract situation.  After the final game at each field, teams should ALWAYS rake baselines, plate area, bullpens and mounds.  Fix holes with water if available.  Teams in the first base dugout should handle the first base side, second base and the mound.  Teams in third base dugout should handle the third base side and plate.  Garbage should be placed in appropriate containers.

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Per the City of DM Park & Rec:  The light switch is on the back of the concession bldg.  Please turn off when you leave.  Last one to leave needs to shut the gate (exit and enter if both open) behind you and lock it.  If this can happen for all games it would help tremendously.  The entrance gate looks like it is automatic but it is not.  All you have to do is pull it shut and paddle lock.

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• Excessive swearing
• Throwing of equipment
• Verbal threats
• Racial slurs

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Click Here for the .pdf file

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