In the semi finals he pulled out his best preference as a Sox yet. 10 innings 2 earned runs, and one of the hardest earned wins in the team’s history. Although we didn’t win the championship, the Ace did his best work once again and held the best offense to 3 runs.
The Sox work horse had most likely his most frustrating season this year. That didn’t stop him from showing up when it mattered most. After closing out the last regular season game that gave the Sox home field advantage in the wildcard game. Falkenberg sat out the wildcard game.
With a runner on second and one out with the meat of the Choas order coming up. Helmandollar elected to walk the 4 and 5 hitters, and the plan worked to perfection. Recording the last two outs that inning and going on to win the game. Definitely a memorable moment.
Matt Helmandollar was given a coaching role last fall and has done a great job helping with in game decisions. Although he had plenty of moments on the field. He made the coaching move of the year in the 10th inning of game 1 in the semifinal series.
In the semifinal series, a tied game 1 in the 11th With the bases loaded a high hopping ground ball with little room for error was hit to Sklivas. He executed it perfectly and most likely saved the Sox season.
Spencer Sklivas was our MVP this summer. Tied the single season record in hits. Was a captain on the field, and was never cheated an inch. He had a couple week stretch of defensive miscues going into the playoffs. Then something funny happened.
We’re lucky to have him on our side. We can’t wait for “The Fish Show” to continue in 2023 hopefully this time adding a championship trophy to the program.
Zach Fisher really held the team together this season. When he showed up there was a presence around the field that we were gonna win that day. Even the days he doesn’t have it with the bat. He always hustles, plays as hard as anyone in the league.
(2 run game tying double in game 1, 3 run triple in game 2) He was also making tough plays look easy at second base throughout the playoffs.
The future is bright with this kid, could be one of the teams top players in years to come.
Although he got off to a slow start, the laid back middle infielder had one of the best post seasons in the teams history. After leading off the wildcard game with a double and closing the game out on the mound, he had 2 key hits in the semifinal series.
Jake Mcdonell put up one of the best seasons on the mound in Sox history. Winning 4 huge games down the stretch, including a complete game victory to send the Sox into the championship. Making hitters look real silly all year long.
Will Ibarra moved into the coaching staff in 2022 and did everything possible to make sure the team was successful. His home run to start the season off is what really set the tone for the year. He continues to be a unit in the bullpen as well.
AJ Appelbaum is no stranger to deep playoff runs with the Sox. Although it wasn’t his best season on paper, he continues to be one top players in the franchises history. His save against the bombers mid season tied him up in the top spot all time in team saves.
Victor Frica was a late addition to the team, but an addition that was needed. “Vito” took ownership of the Sox outfield when he showed out and did a great job. He scored what went on to be the game winning run in the semi final after leading off the 12th inning with a walk.
Although missing a lot of the season with a knee injury Bill Appelbaum helped the team any way he could as a coach. Awesome baseball guy to have around, everyone loves him and we hope he’s back on the field next spring.
During the fall season he took a leadership roll, playing where ever the coaches needed. As well as getting his dad Lou to play for the team and be an instant catalyst.
Austin Spasstempo has an awesome rookie showing. Playing all 3 outfield positions, stealing base’s, and most liked by the coaching staff taking the ball the other way. 75% of his hits were to left field being a great table setter for the big boys in the middle of the lineup.
The team, Zak pitching in late innings, and Aiden playing multiple positions, as well as being the teams 2 hitter. Both had great years and we hope to see them in the future.
Aiden and Zak Clark. The rookie brothers impressed with the Sox this season. Both making a little team history, Aiden being the youngest player to play for the BlackSox. The pitcher Zak Clark hit a home run in his first career at bat, they both had big moments that helped
He made his debut on the mound this season and recorded his first strike out. He also recorded his first career triple in the same game. Matt is a great leader on the field and has always been a big reason for the teams success.
Matt Distefano took a huge step up defensively this season to the point he was trusted with catching the teams ace Jake Mcdonell. He is the prime example of what it is to be a Sox, always looking to get better, never backs down to a challenge, great club house guy, and coach.