Skinner, McMinn pull down awards
As in the Championship game, the two top players in the League were from the two Championship game combatants.
In a short past couple of years, Bo McMinn and James Skinner have had a big impact on the quality of play in the League by
battling each other not just for the pitching title, but the batting title as well. Not since the arrival of Bill Brigance
and Jerry Weaver have two players dominated the League in the stats department. Although alot of players don't realize
this and are too focused on the individual stats, the League participates in a team sport which takes alot guys contributing
to the success of the team and the individual stat leaders. These two individuals just happen to be quality ballplayers
that know the game and have learned what works against their opponents whether they be batter or pitcher. The statistical
accolades were earned by these two guys.
By virtue of his worth to his team, his ability in the League and the respect of his fellow HDLers, Skinner
earned the League MVP which was well deserved this year. Longtime veteran Ray "Snakeman" Reinhart won another Charlie
Hustle as he begins to rival Chuck Frost to have the award named after him. Newcomer Rod McGee becomes the oldest first
year guy since Dennis Quaid was in "The Rookie" to win Rookie of the Year honors as he came into the League made a huge impact
from the field as well as at the plate, leading all HDLers in home runs this year.
Some of the guys that their peers remembered most for holding down their position were longtime great Larry
Hunsucker at first base as he continues to prove he is the best at that position in this League; of which he has no competition
from anyone the League in terms of ability and skill at the spot he has dominated 90 feet from home plate for many years.
Rookie Jimmy Pogue picked up the hardware at 2nd base; no doubt beating out Josh Huggins, who did an awesome job in the hole
this year. Brady Benjamin picked up honors at SS, while continuing to be one of the more able and consistent ballplayers
on the field. Two new guys come in and battle it out to decide who was most memorable at 3rd base. Ray Ralyea
who was solid at the spot all year and made many a pitcher look good was tied with an equally capable player in the form of
Chris Mealer, who made some impressive plays at the hot corner and sacrificed his body plenty to make those stops.
Catcher James Moroschak picked up another "glove" by remaining solid behind the plate again. Schak had plenty of competition
from the likes of veteran Larry Robinson and Louie Sanders not to mention newcomer Ryan Hogan who was solid and very capable.
The outfield saw a shake up with three guys that make the League a blast to play in when you have a solid, all around player
like Tim Harris, top rookie McGee and Chris "my face is on a milk carton" Helman taking away some metal with their consistent
play in the back yard.
Team MVPs were predictable with obvious choices to include the aforementioned Louie "Anderson" Sanders for
the DENT crew.
To end the night on a good note, along with Phil Schwager and Craig Smith were recognized. Most importantly,
longtime fan, friend, scorekeeper and manager Winn Smith was recognized. Although, this recognition should have come
several years back for many reasons to include his unparalleled mastery and accuracy of the scorebook. Longtime HDL
veteran, "Whatchoo talkin' 'bout" Willis Dorothy made a return to the annual dinner to honor his friend Winn
Smith and to show why both of these men are sorely missed by the League.
And finally, congratulations to Josh Huggins for lining up a venue that the event deserves and delivering
on a nice evening for everyone involved.
