


Super Series Qualifier Tournament (OABF) – Waco, TX
May 30-June 1, 2008
Dallas Royals vs LS Express – Pool Game 1
ROYALS LEAVE EXPRESS STANDING AT THE STATION
The Dallas Royals steamrolled through the LS Express in the opening game
of pool play, 11-1. The Royals got on track early as they opened the first
inning with a 4-0 lead. Jackson began the early rally with a single to left that
slipped by the left fielder and allowed Jackson to reach third. Trevor drove
Jackson in with an infield out. Darius and Bennett reached via a hit-by-pitch
and another Express error. Both scored during the inning and the Royals
added their forth run when Tommy singled and was later driven in by
Olajide's base hit.
The Express got one run back in the 2nd inning after an infield error was
followed by a solid single to left field. The Royals got the run back in the
bottom of the second when Jason scored after being walked. The Royals
put the game out of reach in the 4th inning as they unloaded with six runs on
five hits. Tommy led off the inning with an inside the park homerun!!!. Olajide
nearly duplicated Tommy’s efforts but was held to a triple after a hit deep
into the left/center field gap. After a series of walks and wild pitches, the
Royals added a couple of more runs when Trevor singled to score Austin
and Cody. Darius followed with a single to score Trevor and the game was
called due to the run rule.
Jackson and Darius faced only 8 batters each and limited the Express to 4
hits and no earned runs. Both Jackson and Trevor threw out would-be base
stealers during the game.
Dallas Royals vs Texas Smash – Pool Game 2
EASY SAILING AS ROYALS CRUISE…
The Royals earned the number 1 seed entering into Sunday’s bracket play
by defeating the (Waco) Texas Smash 15-0 in a shortened run rule game.
The Royals pounded out 11 hits in two innings. The hit parade included a
first inning 3-run homer (inside the park) by Olajide. Not to be outdone,
Jackson followed with a two-run inside the park homerun in the second and
final inning.
Cody, Jackson, Bennett and Olajide each recorded two hits. Tommy, Alex
and Jason had one-hit a piece and every Royal scored at least one run.
Bennett pitched both innings and allowed just two infield hits. Jackson
eliminated one of the runners by gunning him down attempting to steal third
base during the first inning.
Dallas Royals vs Waxahachie Warriors – Bracket Game 1
BATS RESCUE ROYALS
After taking a 6-0 lead the Royals stumbled by committing 5 errors leading
to 6 Warriors runs during a sloppy 3rd inning. With the game seemingly in
hand, the Royals began a series of mistakes by allowing the Warriors’ first
two batters on base via errors. Both runners would later score as the Royals
continued to struggle in the field by committing three more errors in the span
of six batters. All in all the Warriors sent 10 players to the plate, collected
three hits, were issued two walks and scored six runs to tie the game.
The Royals redeemed themselves in the bottom of the 3rd by scoring 4 runs
on three hits. Darius, Tommy and Olajide each singled and Bennett walked.
All four players scored during the inning. Jason and Austin also walked
during the inning but were victims of stolen base attempts.
Darius drove Trevor in during the 4th inning to end the Royals scoring. The
Warriors added one run in the fifth but it was not enough as the Royals won
the game 11-7.
Bennett pitched well over 2 2/3 innings allowing 6 hits but only 2 earned
runs. Jason shut the door on the Warriors over the final 2 1/3 innings by not
giving up any hits or earned runs while striking out two. The catching tandem
of Jackson and Bennett threw-out one base stealer each during the game.
Dallas Royals vs Saints (Austin) – Semi-Final Game
ROYALS MARCH PAST SAINTS
The Royals showed why they were the number 1 seed entering into the
bracket round on Sunday as they defeated the Saints 10-5. The (Austin)
Saints brought their bats to take an early 2-0 lead after one half an inning.
As they have done so many times before, the Royals responded with three
runs of their own in the first inning to take a 3-2 lead after one. Jackson,
Trevor and Darius each had hits during the inning.
After relieving Darius in the first inning, Jackson sat down the Saints in the
second inning, 1,2,3. The Royals continued to put runners on base in the
bottom half of the 2nd, as Austin and Jackson singled and Trevor tripled. In
all the Royals scored 4 runs to take a 7-2 lead. The scrappy team from
Austin came right back by scoring two runs of their own in the 3rd to close
the gap. After the Saints scored another run in the top of the 5th, the Royals
were forced to respond.
Austin led off the 5th with a walk and Jackson hit a one out single. With
runners on 2nd and 3rd, the Saints committed the biggest error of the day
when Trevor’s hard hit ground ball slipped through the legs of the first
baseman allowing two runs to score. With two outs the time slowing ticking
by and the threat of another inning being played, Bennett delivered the final
blow by hitting a single up the middle thus extending the inning and forcing
the umpires to call the game due to time expiration.
Dallas Royals vs Midway Mustangs – Championship Game
ROYALS BURN THEMSELVES AGAINST MUSTANGS
As the championship game began between the Dallas Royals and (Waco)
Midway Mustangs, the temperatures were still in the mid- 90’s. Whether it
was the Texas heat or the fact that the Royals were playing the third straight
game, the team burned itself throughout the game by committing 7 errors
leading to 7 unearned runs in the 8-1 lose to the Mustangs.
After a scoreless first inning, the Mustangs got on the board first with four
runs. Although the Mustangs did have two hits during the inning, the Royals
were sloppy in the infield and outfield and committed four errors. The
Royals, held to just 4 hits throughout the game, (Jackson, Darius and two
from Tommy) did manage a run in the 3rd inning when Jackson tripled down
the right field line and later scored when the Mustangs misplayed a ball at
first base.
While the one run did generate a little momentum for the Royals, it was
quickly extinguished when the team committed another infield error in the
4th inning allowing the Mustangs to regain a four run lead.
In the sixth and final inning, the Mustangs benefited from two more Royal
errors and scored three times to take a commanding and final 8-1 lead. The
Royals managed to get one base runner on in the bottom of the sixth but
quietly ended the game with an infield out. Darius pitched very well
throughout the first 5 innings as he allowed just 3 hits, walked two and did
not allow any earned runs.
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Super Series at Craig Ranch
April12-13, 2008
Dallas Royals vs. Plano Mudcats – Pool Game 1
EARLY BATS SINK MUDCATS
The Royals came out hitting with a 7 run first inning leading the way in a 10-5
victory over the Plano Mudcats. The Royals batted around in the first and
everyone got on base throughout the inning.
Although the Royal’s bats cooled off the rest of the way the 11 hit attack was
lead by Darius’ 2 doubles and Bennett’s double and triple. Obi and Trevor
also had two singles each. The team also reached a new milestone as this
was the first game of the season in which none of the Royals struck out.
The Royals displayed solid pitching and defense including a ground ball put-
out from right field by Austin, a well executed first to pitcher covering
between Alex and Trevor, and two would-be base stealers were either
picked-off or thrown out. Trevor pitched well in 12/3 innings giving up just 2
earned runs while striking out 1 and walking one. Jason closed the game
with one inning of hitless ball. While the last inning was a little sloppy for the
Royals as they committed two costly errors, the team ultimately settled down
and picked up the victory.
Dallas Royals vs. Irving Canes – Pool Game 2
Darius Dominates the Hill – Jason K’s the ‘Canes in First Shutout of
the Season
The Royals received a strong starting pitching performance by Darius Hill as
the team recorded its first shutout of the 2008 season while beating the
Irving ‘Canes 8-0. Darius faced only 11 batters during his scoreless 3 1/3
inning performance including 3 up and 3 down for each of the first three
innings. The 2nd inning proved to show-off the Royals defensive play as all
three ‘Cane batters were victims of smart plays. Darius picked off the first
‘Cane as he was caught in a short rundown and thrown out during a physical
slide at the plate. Bennett held his ground to apply a good tag. The second
batter appeared to hit safely but was thrown out by Austin from right field. It
was Austin’s second put-out from right field on Saturday. After receiving a
base-on-balls, the third batter was picked-off by Darius at second base as
Trevor blocked the base as he applied the tag.
Jason closed the game with a sparkling 1 2/3 innings of work. Facing just
five batters, Jason showed off his stuff as he struck out the sides in the final
inning. Overall, the Royals gave up just two hits, struck out six and walked
two during the five inning affair.
The offense seemed over anxious while facing good ‘Cane pitching,
although the team did manage 6 hits and took advantage of a couple of
errors. Jason swung the bat well going 2 for 2. Cody, Tommy, Olijade and
Alex each had a hit contributing to the 8 run effort. While the hits were
limited, the Royals did continue to make contact as they recorded only one
strikeout during the game.
Dallas Royals vs. Texas Ten – Quarter Final Game
Royals Roll as Bracket Play Begins
The newly formed Texas Ten team was overmatched by the Royals in the
opening round of bracket play. The Royals beat Texas Ten 13-0 in a shorten
“Run Rule” game. The game marked the second straight shutout for the
Royals.
Jackson demonstrated excellent control allowing only one hit in 2 innings
and assisting on all three outs during the first inning. He continued to stymie
the opposition as he struck out the sides in the 2nd inning. Alex completed
the Royals pitching performance by getting out of the 3rd and final inning
with a quick 3 up 3 down performance.
The offense was lead by Jackson’s single and double, Darius’ double and
Cody, Trevor, Bennett and Obi each had one hit. Nine of ten Royal batters
each scored at least one run and Austin laid down a perfect sacrifice bunt.
Dallas Royals vs. Flower Mound Hunters – Semi-Final Game
Royals Gun Down the FM Hunters – Advance to Championship Game
Despite given up an early run to the feisty Flower Mound Hunters, The
Royals jumped out to a 7-1 first inning lead on their way to a 13-2 victory.
The team displayed good batting discipline and took advantage of four
base-on-balls during the first inning. The walks coupled with timely hits by
Darius, Bennett, Tommy and Austin allowed the Royals to get ahead and
stay ahead.
The Royals tacked on another five runs in the second as the Hunters
committed a costly 2 run error. Good base running allowed the Royals to
score two on Jason’s solid groundout to second base. Olijade also singled
during the inning. The final run was scored when Obi crossed the plate on
Trevor’s two-out double in the 3rd inning.
The game was marred with a bit of controversy during the 2nd inning as the
Royals got two Hunters’ out during an infield fly rule hit. The umpires called
the batter out while the ball was in the air, although the ball was dropped by
the Royals, the team had good presence of mind to tag one of the Hunter
players who wondered off second base thus causing the unusual “double
play”.
Despite a high walk count, Jason allowed only one hit in 2 1/3 innings and
Austin closed the game facing three batters. The game was called due to
the “Run Rule”.
Dallas Royals vs Irving Canes – Championship Game
Royals Capture Crown !!!
The Dallas Royals were crowned Super Series 10U Champions as the
defeated the Irving Canes 11-1. Darius continued his mastery of the ‘Canes
by scattering three hits and giving up only one run in 3 1/3 innings. It marked
the third straight win over the ‘Canes and second during the tournament.
Bennett closed the game by getting the last two outs. The Royals defense
was stout as they committed only one error.
As the team did all tournament long, the first inning proved to set the tone as
the Royals jumped out to a quick 6-0 lead after one. Adding four more runs
in the second inning combined with the solid pitching and defense proved
too much for the ‘Canes. Each team swapped runs in the fourth and the
game was called due to the “Run Rule”.
Cody, Darius and Trevor each had multiple hits. Obi, Jason, Jackson and
Austin had singles and seven of the ten batters scored at least one run.
Overall, the Royals pounded out 11 hits and reached base 14 of the 23 at-
bat appearances.
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3/22 - Texas Elite March Madness One Day Tournament
Midway Mustangs 8 Dallas Royals 7
First inning errors tainted a Royals comeback that got the game tied by the
fourth inning. Only 4 of the Mustangs 8 MM's runs were earned. Jackson,
Alex, and Trevor threw much better than the box score would indicate.
Our outfield defense played pretty well on routine fly balls, however we need
to back up bases every time. Our lack of backing up bases would show up
again in e final game.
Jackson led the Royals hitting by going 2-3, with a double, and Trevor had a
triple.
Dallas Royals 6 Dallas Mustangs 1
Darius threw a 1 hitter with 1 strikeout and 1 base on balls to beat a stout
Dallas Mustangs team. The defense played extremely well with only two
errors on a single runner that gave the Mustangs their only unearned run.
Darius also executed a terrific pickoff to first with Alex applying a solid tag
to thwart a potential rally.
Cody was the leading hitter going 2-2, with Jackson adding a
game-breaking double. Bennett and Austin also had hits.
Midway Mustangs 17 Dallas Royals 6
This was actually a close one through 4 innings with the score tied 5-5. First
inning errors plagued the Royals again and spotted the MM 3 runs. Bennett
threw a great 4 1/3 giving up 3 earned runs, striking out 4, and walking only
2.
Obi was the offensive and defensive star, put the Royals within one in the
third, with a game tying triple. Obi made a great catch on a deep ball to left
field and also hit a shot right a the second baseman that would have put the
Royals on top in the fourth. Darius also swung the bat well with 2 hits.
Trevor, Tommy, and Olajide each had hits.
The Royals also turned their first "natural" double play of the season from
Cody at short to Tommy at second to Darius at first.
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3/15 - GPBBI Southwest Classic NIT Pool Play
Midlothian Knights 11 Dallas Royals 7
The Royals dropped the first game of pool play, but learned some valuable
lessons as their play would soon show. Cody pitched well in relief, walking
zero and striking out 1. Our bats showed life and would continue to
throughout the tournament.
Tommy and Trevor each had two hits. Cody, Darius, Jackson, Bennett,
Austin and Obi had one hit. Darius had a big triple to start a 5th inning
comeback that fell just short, with the tying run on deck.
Dallas Royals 7 LS Express 2
This game featured a rematch of the Royals and the Express' final eight
game in Nationals last Spring. The Royals faced the best pitching they had
seen this year and proved the bats were up to the challenge. Jason pitched
a 2 hitter, supported by great defense. Bennett gunned down a
base-stealer at second and Austin made a great diving catch in right field.
Cody, Darius, and Olajide led the offense with 2 hits each, with Jackson,
Tommy, Trevor, Austin, and Jason collecting 1 hit each.
3/16 - GPBBI Southwest Classic NIT Bracket Play
Dallas Royals 16 Waxahachie Warriors 6
The Royals continued their torrid hitting pace, collecting 11 hits against a
good defensive Warrior team that had soundly beaten the Midlothian team,
that the Royals had lost to the day before. They put the game away early
with 13 of their season high game scoring total coming in the first 3 innings.
Darius and Austin had two hits, with Cody, Jackson, Trevor, Bennett,
Olajide, Alex, and Obi collecting 1 each.
Jackson threw 3 solid innings giving up only 1 run and 1 base on balls.
Cody also threw well again in relief with two Ks in one inning pitched.
Austin only walked 1 in his inning pitched.
The Royals earned their first final four of this young season and would now
face the #1 seed.
Cedar Hill Rangers - Blue 11 Dallas Royals 3
The Royals dropped this one to the eventual tournament champion, plagued
by a couple of key errors and a Rangers team that came out ready to
avenge their 3 fall losses to the Royals.
This game was closer than the score would indicate with the Royals hitting
well, but right at the Rangers. Trevor threw well in relief and Jackson
gunned a base-stealer at second. Obi also made a great play to nail a
runner at home on a single to left.
Bennett and Obi led the Royals bats going 2-2. Cody, Darius, Tommy, and
Trevor each had hits, with Tommy driving a double in the gap. Cody and
Alex were also victims of sterling defensive play by the Rangers.
This tournament showed the potential the Royals have for the rest of this
season. The future is bright.
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3/8 - Triple Creek Classic Pool Play
Dallas Royals 5 Coppell Copperheads 4
Jason, Austin, Alex, and Tommy combined to pitch the Royals to victory,
giving up only one earned run for the game. Austin threw a great 2nd inning
with 0 walks and a smoothly executed pickoff. Tommy gave the Royals a
chance to come from behind in the last inning with 2 strikeouts and only 1
walk.
The Royals were down 4-0 with time expiring in the bottom of the 4th, when
they gave an indication of the future for the team, and at the same time,
brought back memories of past Royals "classic comebacks".
Cody led off the 4th with a sharp line drive to center, Trevor and Darius
showed patience by drawing walks to load the bases. It was time for a new
Royal to grab the spotlight... Jackson ripped one to put the Royals on the
scoreboard.
Alex and Jason drew walks to load the bases back up. With 2 outs and the
game on the line, Tommy came through "in the clutch" and dropped one
down the right field foul line for the game winning hit.
Southlake Carroll Dragons - Black 9 Dallas Royals 3
The Royals dropped their first game of the 2008 Spring season to a tough
team from Southlake. It was close through the first 3 innings with the Royals
trailing 3-1. However, the Dragons put it away with 6 runs in the fourth and
held on through 6 full innings 9-3.
Darius played a role in all 3 Royals runs, driving in 1 and scoring two. He
had 3 singles. Darius also pitched 2 solid innings giving up only 1 walk.
Olajide smashed a double and Bennett connected on a solid single to right
field.
3/9 - Triple Creek Classic Bracket Play
Southlake Carroll Dragons - Black 10 Dallas Royals 0
Not much to write home about here, but the coaches have many notes for
practice this week.
On the positive side, Alex was 1-1 with a line drive single. And Darius threw
well again spreading 3 runs over 2 2/3 innings against a red hot hitting
Dragon team, while giving up only 2 walks. Jason made a fine running
catch in left field. Bennett also had a great tournament behind the plate,
blocking and throwing. If we get the pitchers to give him a little more help,
he will throw several out this year.
USSSA NIT 10U AAA – Triple Creek
March 29-30, 2008
Dallas Royals vs. Texas Sting – Pool Game 1
Royals Reverse the Sting
The Dallas Royals put a hurtin’ on the Texas Sting in the opening game of
the “U trip” tournament. While the field was wet and muddy, the Royal bats
were on fire early. A seven run first inning lead the way to an 11-1 victory.
The offense was led by Cody, Trevor and Obi who each had multiple hits.
Jackson, Bennett, Tommy and Alex also had one hit each. In total, the
Royals pounded out 10 hits throughout the game.
Solid starting pitching from Jason cooled the Sting bats as they could only
muster 1 hit over the first two innings. Bennett stepped in where Jason left
off and closed the door over the last two innings striking out 5 of the 6
batters he faced.
Jason and Bennett also executed a perfect “pitchout” in the second inning
and gunned down a Sting player trying to steal second base. Another Sting
player was picked-off in the 3rd inning getting caught between second and
third base.
Dallas Royals vs Lynx Black – Pool Game 2
OFFENSIVE EXPLOSION CARRIES ROYALS
The Royals unloaded on the Lynx (Black) 19-3 in the second game of the
tournament. A season high in runs scored, hits and at-bats were on display
as the Royals rolled. The fireworks were highlighted when Olajide drilled a
solo homerun over the left field fence. It was the first out-of-the-park homerun
of the year for the Royals.
Cody, Darius and Tommy each reached base safely during their three at-
bats. Austin contributed two-hits and Alex, Obi, Trevor and Jason had one
hit each. Bennett drew two-walks.
Trevor went 2 2/3 innings as the starter and allowed just 2 runs on 4 hits.
Darius and Alex completed the remaining 1 1/3 innings.
Dallas Royals vs Texas Giants – Quarter Final game
Royals Cut Down Giants
The Dallas Royals flattened the Texas Giants 14-3 in the opening round of
bracket play. A combination of strong pitching and timely hitting during the
first two innings of the game put the Royals in front and they never looked
back during the 4 inning affair.
Jason faced only seven batters in the first two innings and stuck out five of
them. Jackson continued the pitching performance in the 3rd inning by
facing the minimum three batters. Bennett threw out his second would be
base stealer of the tournament and the Royals offense continued their
assault.
Cody, Darius, Jackson, Trevor, Alex and Jason each had one hit. The entire
team took advantage of the Giant’s control problems and recorded a
season-tying high 7 walks in the game.
Dallas Royals vs Irving ‘Canes – Semi Final game
ROYALS WIN A THRILLER- advance to finals
The Dallas Royals displayed heart and determination in a comeback victory
over the Irving ‘Canes. Trailing 4-3 going into the bottom of the 5th inning,
the Royals rallied for four runs to take a 7-4 lead heading into the final
frame. The ‘Canes fought back in the top of the 6th by getting three men on
base but were shutdown and were only able to push one runner across the
plate. The 7-5 victory advanced the Royals to the tournament championship
game.
Darius threw the longest outing of the season by going 5 2/3 innings.
Bennett thwarted the last inning rally by getting the final out with two men on
base. Darius not only used his arm in the victory but also his bat as he
collecting two singles. Obi an Alex also had two hits. Jackson, Trevor,
Bennett and Austin had one hit apiece.
Dallas Royals vs Keller Tribe – Championship Game
Tribe Scalp the Royals in Championship Game
The Royals gave a valiant effort but were unable to match the Tribe’s focus
and determination throughout the game. After a scoreless first inning, the
Tribe took a commanding lead by scoring five runs in the second. The
Royals rallied to tie the game in the top of the third. Tommy led things off by
“taking one for the team” and later scored on Olajide’s one out double. After
stealing third, Olajide would score on a wild pitch. A series of walks helped
the Royals load the bases and Jackson’s two out single to left cleared the
bases allowing the team to tie the score.
Unfortunately, the Tribe answered with four runs of their own in the bottom of
the third and the Royals would get no closer. Two errors, three walks and a
hit batter was the Royals undoing in the inning.
The Royals were held without a hit in the last three innings and the team
could only sit and watch as the Tribe celebrated their victory 12-5.
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Dr. Pepper Youth Ballpark Tournament
May 2-4, 2008
Dallas Royals vs Dallas Titans – Game 1
First Inning STUMBLE COST ROYALS
The Dallas Titans took advantage of two walks, two hits and a costly error in
the first inning to score four runs against the Royals in their 6-4 victory. The
lose ultimately cost the Royals an opportunity to advance into the semi-finals
of the tournament. After the first inning the Royals did settle down and
threatened to make a comeback but the game was called after four innings.
Another infield error led to the Titans fifth run in the second inning and an
unlucky Darius was relieved by Jackson after facing nine batters. Jackson
pitched well over the final three innings giving up only one run on three hits.
The Royals scored two runs in the 3rd inning when Olajide singled and
advanced to second on a wild pitch. After Darius reached on a fielders
choice, Bennett’s hard hit went through the shortstop’s legs for a two-run
error. The Royals scored two more in the fourth inning after Trevor lead off
with a double and Jackson reached on an error. Jason’s infield groundout
scored Trevor and Alex followed up with a similar infield out to score
Jackson. Cody recorded the only other Royal hit with an opening inning
double but was a victim of a first inning double play.
Dallas Royals vs Stampede – Game 2
ROYALS HERD THE STAMPEDE
Despite a season-high eight errors, the Royals used strong pitching and
early hitting to defeat the Stampede 6-3. Bennett was in control the entire
game allowing only one hit over his 5+ inning outing. The Royal defense did
come through in the second inning as they turned a classic “6-4-3 double
play”. After replacing Bennett in the 6th inning with two men on base and the
score 6-3, Jason was able to get the final batter to hit into an unassisted
double play to Jackson who caught a line drive at second base and beat the
runner back to first for the double play.
The offense got off on the right foot as Cody tripled to lead-off followed by
Jackson’s RBI single and Trevor’s double. Trevor would later score on
Darius’ infield out. The Royals tacked on four more runs in the second inning
while never hitting the ball out of the infield but took complete advantage of
the error prone Stampede. The Royals bats went silent after the second
inning as only one batter reached base over the last three innings and
fittingly that was due to an error.
Dallas Royals vs Tyler Tigers – Game 3
ROYALS TAME TIGERS
The Royals were awarded five walks in the first inning and Austin’s three-run
single set the tone for the 7-4 victory. The run-rule was in effect during the
first inning as the Royals raced out to quick lead. The Royals scored two
more runs in the second inning as Obi draw a walk and was brought home
by Trevor’s single to left. Alex’s infield out allowed Trevor to cross the plate
to push the Royals lead. Jackson also singled in the inning.
The defense was sounder in the game committing only one error. Alex was
given the starting nod and he pitched well for 1 2/3 innings allowing three
runs on two hits. Darius replaced a short outing by Trevor in the 2nd inning
and worked out of a bases-loaded situation by getting a harmless ground
out to first base. Austin threw a strong last inning retiring all three batters.
Austin’s hitless performance was preserved by Bennett as he made a
sparkling leaping catch at short to rob a would-be Tiger base hit.
The game was called as time expired in the bottom of the 3rd inning…
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Triple Crown North Texas Shoot-Out Tournament
May 23-25, 2008
Dallas Royals vs Southlake Dragons – Pool Game 1
ROYALS SLAY DRAGONS
The long-awaited rematch between the Dallas Royals and the Southlake
Dragons proved to be a prophetic game. In early March the Dragons
manhandled the Royals during the first tournament of the 2008 season. After
the thrashing, coach Stieg predicted the Royals would beat the Dragons
before the end of the season. As the two teams met during the opening pool
game of the North Texas Shoot-Out the coach’s words did not translate onto
the field.
Entering the top of the third inning the Dragons led 2-1, unfortunately by the
time the side was retired the Dragons tacked on 7 runs to take a
commanding 9-1 lead. However, the Royals showed their resiliency and
responded with a six hit, six run inning of their own to close the gap to 9-7.
The big inning included hits from Olajide, Alex, Cody, Jackson, Trevor and
Tommy.
Picking up where he left-off in the 3rd inning, Alex faced only four batters in
the 4th. Bennett “flashed the leather” during the inning by throwing out a
would-be runner from deep in the hole at shortstop. The dramatics continued
in the final at-bat for the Royals as Olajide and Alex drew walks to set the
stage for Cody. Cody delivered a two-run, game tying double into center
field. After Jackson move the runner to third on an infield out, Trevor stepped
to the plate with two-outs and the winning run on third base. To culminate the
prophecy, Trevor delivered a first pitch game-winning hit into center field to
cap-off the season’s most dramatic comeback as the Royals defeated the
Dragon’s 10-9.
Dallas Royals vs FM Warriors – Pool Game 2
TAKIN’ CARE OF BUSINESS…
The Royals played a work-man like game against the FM Warriors and
defeated the team 9-4. Backed by a four-man pitching rotation, the Royals
kept the Warriors at bay all game long as the jumped out to a 7-2 lead after
two-innings. The Royals batted-around in the 2nd inning as Olajide,
Jackson, Darius, Trevor and Bennett all collected hits.
After a sluggish 2nd inning, Jason found his pitching rhythm in the 3rd inning
by mowed down the first two batters and getting the third batter to pop-out to
right field. The Warriors did manage a run in the 4th and 5th innings but the
Royals responded with the final runs of the game in their 5th inning as
Darius and Bennett had back-to-back hits to drive in the two-runs.
The game was significant as the Royals did not commit any errors and
showed good defense on several plays. Tommy made a beautiful scoop at
first base during the first inning to avoid a rally and Austin started a 9-2-5 out
that kept the Hunters at-bay during the second inning.
Dallas Royals vs Coppell Outlaws – Bracket Play-Game 1
FIRST INNING KNOCKOUT…
The Royals delivered a first-inning knockout against the Coppell Outlaws to
advance in bracket play. The Royals sent 12 batters to the plate and took
advantage of three-errors, two walks a wild pitch and collected four hits of
their own to take a 7-0 lead after one inning of play.
Although the Outlaws punched a couple of runs across the plate in the 2nd
and 4th innings, the outcome was never in doubt as the Royals got strong
pitching from Alex and Cody to limit the Outlaws to 5 hits (three were bunt
singles) while registering only 1 walk over the four inning affair.
The offense was lead by Darius’ and Alex’ two hits and one-hit performance
by Cody, Trevor and Bennett. Austin and Olajide also had hits…
unfortunately their hits were in the head and foot as they were victims of
erratic Outlaw pitching.
Tommy tried to play “hand ball” in the first inning as he attempted to bare
hand a hot smash between first and second base. The ball ricocheted off of
Tommy’s hand and Jackson had the presence of mind to stay with the ball
and threw back to Tommy covering first for the out. Not a play coach Stieg
practices but it worked…. The Royals went on to win the game 13-4.
Dallas Royals vs Dallas Titans – Quarter Final Game
TITANS NIP ROYALS 3-2 IN “BEST GAME OF THE YEAR”
In arguably the all around best played game of the year, the Dallas Titans
held on to defeat the Royals 3-2 in a classic defensive duel.
Backed by a stout pitching performance by Jackson and Darius, the Royals
limited the Titans to only four hits while walking just two. Jackson pitched
four innings against a tough Titan line-up and kept the Royals in the game
throughout. Darius pitched the last inning by going three-up and three-down.
The Royals drew first blood in the second inning after Tommy roped a line
drive double into left center. After stealing third, Tommy was knocked home
by Olajide’s right field double. Olajide was brought home as Alex continued
to swing his hot bat by delivering a single into left field. Although Alex was
thrown-out trying to stretch the single into a double, it marked the seventh
straight plate appearance in which he reached base safely.
The Titans responded in their half of the 2nd inning by getting one run
across. After a scoreless third inning, the Royals looked like they were
going to extend their lead in the fourth but couldn’t as they left runners on first
and third. The Titans managed to take the lead in the bottom of the fourth.
After Bennett threw-out a would-be base stealer at second base, the Titans
next batter unloaded a line drive down the right field line. Austin gave a great
effort as he laid-out to catch the ball but it skipped past him for a triple. The
following batter singled to tie the game and he would eventually score on
wild-pitch.
The error-free game reached a theatrical ending after Darius hit a two out
sixth inning double to put the tying run in scoring position. Bennett came to
the plate representing the go-ahead run and fought off a 1-2 pitch into right
center field. What appeared to be a game tying hit was thwarted as the right
fielder sprinted in to make shoe-string catch to end the game.
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Super Series – Texas State Tournament – Flower Mound, TX
June 13-15, 2008
Royals vs. Keller Tribe – Pool Game 1
Royals and Tribe Play To Draw
The Dallas Royals and Keller Tribe opened pool play with an exciting 5-5
tie. The Tribe jumped out to an early 3-1 lead after the first inning and both
teams battled to the end. The Royals opened the scoring after Jackson
doubled to left field and was brought in by Darius’ two out single to center.
The Tribe answered with three of their own and capped the first inning with
an out-of-the-park homerun.
The Royals tied the game in the top of the second inning when Tommy
singled and was driven in by Olajide’s double in the right/center field gap.
Jason’s single moved Olajide to third and he scored when Austin did his job
by making contact although he grounded out to second. The Tribe regained
the lead 4-3 after the Royals committed two infield errors that led to a run.
The Royals took their first lead of the game in the 4th inning when Bennett
reached on an error and scored when Tommy doubled to center. After
taking third on another Tribe error, Jason drove Tommy in by hitting a solid
ground out to short.
The Tribe tied the game at 5 after hitting a two out double followed by a
single and then a Royal wild pitch. The final inning saw the Royals threaten,
but were tagged out attempting to steal home on a wild pitch. In the Tribe’s
final at bat they opened with a single, stole second and moved to third on a
“1-3” put out. With the infield drawn in, the next batter drove a ground ball
right back to the pitcher (Cody) who threw home in time for Jackson to apply
the tag. With two outs and a man on first, the Tribe attempted to steal
second on a 0-1 pitch, Jackson fired a bullet to second and Bennett applied
the tag to end the game.
Austin and Cody pitched well for the Royals allowing eight hits, walking three
and allowing just 2 earned runs during the 5 inning affair.
Dallas Royals vs. Keller Colts – Pool Game 2
Royals Hold On to Beat Colts
The Dallas Royals may have put the game on “cruise control” too early as
the hung on to beat the Keller Colts 8-6. The “boys in blue” scored two runs
in the first inning when Jackson singled and was replaced by Obi as a pinch
runner. Obi quickly stole second and third and scored on a Colt error.
Darius was hit by a pitch and later scored on Bennett’s single to center. The
Colts came right back and scored two of their own when the first two batters
reached on infield errors and later scored.
The Royals batted around in the second inning and punched in six runs. The
highlight of the inning was Tommy’s two-run homer that bounced off the
center field scoreboard. Other hits included singles by Olajide, Alex,
Jackson, Trevor, Darius and Bennett.
Going into the final at-bat the team from Keller trailed 8-2. But the Colts had
plenty of kick in them as they rounded the turn into the backstretch. The
Colts started the inning with a single followed by a hit-batter, followed by
another single to drive in two runs. The next batter drove a double into
center field and suddenly, the Colts trailed by only three runs. With a runner
on third and only one out, the Royals threw a wild pitch leading to another
run. Darius was called in for relief duty and fortunately he muzzled the Colts
by getting the final two outs.
Dallas Royals vs Keller Colts – Bracket Game 1
Early Dismissal !!!
Perhaps it was a case of overconfidence but the Royals were sent packing
10-3 by the Keller Colts as bracket play began. A nine run 4th inning by the
Colts left the Royals feeling as if they were kicked in the head.
The game started out in great fashion as the Royals held a 3-0 lead after
two innings. Bennett displayed his accuracy behind the plate by throwing
out three would-be base stealers in the first two innings.
Tommy continued his hot hitting by singling in the first and scoring on Trevor’
s one-out single to left. Trevor would also score after the Royals played
“small ball” by having Darius sacrifice bunt Trevor to third and latter scoring
on a wild pitch. Small ball continued in the second inning as Olajide walked,
stole second, moved to third on a wild pitch and scored when Alex bounced
out to second base.
The Colts managed a run in the third inning but the flood gates really opened
in the forth inning as the Colts scored 9 runs and sent 14 batters to the
plate. The Royals did not help themselves by committing a costly error,
walking five and hitting a batter in the inning. The nine run inning was the
highest single inning total since March (Midway Mustangs) and the total of
nine walks was a 2008 season tournament high.
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Fletcher Baseball – South Regional Tournament – Mansfield, TX
June 21-22, 2008
Dallas Royals vs Coppell Copperheads – Pool Game 1
Royals Keep Copperheads at Bay
The Royals opened pool play with a 9-6 victory of the Coppell
Copperheads. The boys built a 6-0 lead in the first inning and held on in the
end for the win. Trevor, Jackson and Tommy all singled, Darius reached on
an error and Olajide delivered the big blow with a 3-run homer. The Royals
rounded out the inning when Jason reached on an error and after stealing
second base, a pair of Copperhead overthrows allowed him to scamper
home.
The Royals displayed good defense in the 4th inning when Darius made a
diving catch between home and first base and Jason made a nice running
catch in left field. The Royals lead 9-2 going into the fifth and final inning
when the Copperheads took advantage of three walks a hit batter and a
solid triple to score four runs. The Royals eventually settled down to get the
final out with two men stranded on base.
The Royals offense was solid all game as they collected 9 hits. Olajide led
the efforts with three hits followed by Trevor and Jackson at two apiece and
one for Tommy and Austin.
Dallas Royals vs Texas Stampede – Pool Game 2
Royals Beat Stampede with Solid Pitching and Defense
The Royals drew a tough Game 2 matchup by taking on arguable the best
team in the South Regional tournament. The team from Lufkin looked solid
and displayed the hardest throwing pitchers the Royals have seen in a long
time.
The Royals jumped out to a 3-0 lead in the first inning as Trevor reached on
an infield error and later scored. After Darius walked and Olajide reached
on an error, Bennett delivered a two run single just over the second
basemen’s out stretched glove. The Stampede threatened in the second
inning as they loaded the bases with the first three batters. However, Austin
showed good command and struck out the next batter and got two fly-outs to
center field to end the inning.
The Royals pushed their lead to 5-1 in the bottom of the fourth when Darius
reached on error and scored on Olajide’s triple. After Cody reached on an
infield error he scored on Jason’s single to round-out the Royals scoring.
The Stampede answered back in the top of the 5th when they scored two
runs on two hits.
The score was still 5-3 going into the 6th inning when the Stampede led off
with a base hit. With the tying run at the plate, Austin was able to get the
next three batters to fly-out to preserve the hard fought victory.
Dallas Royals vs Scorpions – Bracket Play Game 1
Late Breaks Give Royals Victory
The Royals rode a two out last inning rally to beat the Scorpions 11-6 as
bracket play began. After building a 4-1 lead in the first inning the Royals
were in a dog fight with the Scorpions the rest of the way.
Jackson started the offense when he singled to left field and scored when
Tommy hit a two-run homer down the left field line. Darius followed with a
single and scored on Olajide’s single. Olajide scored when Cody tripled in
the left/center field gap. However, the Scorpions came right back with two
of their own in the top of the second and took a 6-4 lead in the top of the
3rd.
The Royals answered in their half of the 3rd when Jackson singled and
scored when Darius reached on an error. Darius scored when Olajide
smacked a double to center. With the game tied at 6, the Royals shut down
the Scorpions in the top of the 4th to set-up the dramatic two-out rally.
Alex started the heroics innocently with a walk and reached third when Obi’s
fly ball to center was dropped. Trevor took advantage of the situation by
singling up the middle and scoring two runs. Jackson followed with a single
to left and Trevor scored when the left fielder misplayed the ball allowing
Jackson to reach third. Jackson scored on a wild pitch and Tommy walked
to keep the inning going. Darius delivered a final blow by singling to right
field scoring Tommy. After a hard steal into third base by Darius the game
was called as time expired.
Dallas Royals vs Texas Stampede – Semi-Final
Repeat Performance…
Somehow the Royals knew they would see the Texas Stampede again
before the tournament was over. Just like the first game between the two
teams this one was a nail biter that took extra time to determine the winner.
In the end the Royals won the hard fought game 6-5.
The Royals jumped out to an early lead in the first inning when Tommy
reached on an error followed by Darius’ walk. Olajide’s single scored
Tommy and Cody delivered a two run single to right field. The Stampede
had a threat going in the bottom of the 2nd but a good diving catch by
Darius in centerfield (one of many during the tournament) stopped the rally.
The Royals built their lead to 4-0 after Bennett walked and later scored on a
Stampede throwing error. The Stampede did begin to mount a comeback
in the 3rd inning when they scored 3 runs on 2 hits and took advantage of
four walks in the inning. The team from Lufkin tied the score 4-4 in the 4th
inning when Royal pitching issued three more walks to go along with two
hits.
The Stampede comeback was complete when they took a 5-4 advantage in
the top of the 5th inning when they mounted a two-out rally. A single followed
by another walk and another single scored a run to push the Stampede
ahead. With runners on second and third, the Royals intentionally walked
the next batter to load the bases. The managerial decision paid off as
Darius was able to get the next batter to pop out to second base to end the
inning.
The drama hit another high as the Royals would not be denied. Austin
started the final at-bat by reaching on an error. Trevor drove in the tying run
with a solid single to center and Jackson ended the game with a one out full
count single to center scoring Trevor and placing the Royals in the
championship game.
Dallas Royals vs Hill Country Hurricanes – Championship Game
Small Ball Beats Royals
The Royal tank was running on empty as the Hill Country Hurricanes won the
championship game 13-4. The Hurricanes displayed a disciplined eye for
the strike zone as they were awarded 9 walks throughout the game. In
addition, the ‘Canes used well placed bunts to move runners around and
kept the Royals off balance throughout the game.
The game was close after the 1st inning as the Royals took a 4-3 lead.
Trevor, Darius and Cody all singled in the first inning to help the Royals take
an early lead. Unfortunately the wheels fell off after that as the Hurricanes
scored 10 more runs over the final three innings. Conversely, the Royals
could only manage two hits (Austin and Obi) over the final three innings.
On a positive note, the tournament did mark the return of Obi to the active
line-up and the boys are happy to have our full team back together again.
Congratulations are also in order to Olajide and Darius as they were
awarded the Royals offensive and defensive tournament MVP’s.
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Triple Crown – North State Championship – Cedar Hill, TX
June 27-29, 2008
Dallas Royals vs Texas Stars – Pool Game 1
Star Gazing…Royals Watch One Get Away
The Texas Stars used a seven run 2nd inning to beat the Royals 12-7 in the
opening game of the tournament. The Royals jumped out to a 4-0 lead in
the first inning as Trevor singled and Jackson and Darius walked to load the
bases. Olajide was hit by a pitch thus allowing Trevor to score. Jackson
scored on a wild pitch and Cody’s infield out drove home Darius. Olajide
scored on a balk and the boys looked to be in good shape.
The Stars displayed good hitting as Jason did his job by throwing strikes.
The Stars collected six hits and the Royals committed two errors in the 2nd
inning which led to seven runs. The Stars added three more runs in the 3rd
and two more in the 4th inning to take a commanding 12-4 lead. The Royals
mounted a bit of a comeback in the bottom of the 4th as Darius singled
followed by Olajide’s run scoring double. Cody got hit by a pitch and Obi
drove in two runs with a solid double. The threat ended however when the
next three batters grounded out thus ending the game.
Dallas Royals vs Flower Mound Dawgs – Pool Game 2
FM Dawgs Shut Out Royals
The Flower Mound Dawgs used three pitchers to scatter three hits and
shutout the Royals 3-0 in the second game of the evening. The Royal’s
pitching combination of Austin (3 innings, 4 hits and 1 earned run), Trevor (2
innings, no hits and no earned runs) and Bennett (1 inning, no hits and no
earned runs) were also on their game and kept the team in it until the end.
The Royal hits were delivered by Tommy, Olajide (triple) and Jason.
Although the Royals put runners on base in every inning, they just could not
string any hits together to drive any runners home. The game marked the
first shutout since the season opening tournament versus the Southlake
Dragons.
Both pitching staff’s had good control as the Dawgs walked only 2 batters
and the Royals walked three.
Dallas Royals vs Flower Mound Dawgs – Bracket Game 1
Ouch!!! Dawgs Come From Behind and Bite Royals
The Royals had a chance to get even with the FM Dawgs as bracket play
began on Sunday. However, the Dawgs came from behind in extra innings
to beat the Royals 10-9.
The “boys in grey” got on the scoreboard first as Olajide’s lead-off walk
turned into a run when the Dawgs committed a fielding error. The Dawgs got
right back in the lead in the bottom half of the inning when the first four
batters reach on hits and the team from Flower Mound pushed three runs
across the plate.
The Royals then used six runs on five hits and three errors to take a 7-3 lead
after 1½ innings of play. The Royals got a double from Cody and singles
from Bennett, Jason, Alex and Olajide during the inning. The Dawgs got
one run back in the bottom of the second.
The Royals took advantage of another Dawgs error and a hit batsman to
score two more runs in the 3rd. Darius reached on an error and Tommy was
hit by a pitch. Both scored on a two-run single by Jason that extended the
Royals lead to 9-4. However, the Dawgs kept coming as they collected
three more hits in the bottom of the third and scored two runs to close the
gap to 9-6.
The Royals failed to score in the top of the 4th which set-up the dramatic
ending. As time was starting to expire the Dawgs began a one out rally. A
base-on-balls followed by a hit batter followed by an error allowed the next
Dawg batter to “dink” an infield single thus scoring a run. With the bases
loaded and runners moving, the Royals committed another error on the next
batter that allowed the tying run to score. The Royals did settle down and
got the next two batters out sending the game into extra innings.
Using the California tie breaker rules, the Royals were unable to get their
man on second base home in their top half of the inning. The Royals looked
like they were going to get out of the bottom half of the inning, to play a
second extra inning, after Trevor threw out a baserunner attempting to steal
third. However a single, hits batsman and a two out unearned run ended
what had started out as a promising day. Looking back it was clear that any
play (offense or defense) in any inning could have made the outcome
different.
On the positive side, the effort from the Royals was excellent in this game
and has improved greatly through the Spring Season. Remarkable team
and individual progress has been made to elevate the Royals to a higher
Division of play this season. Even the toughest competitors at this higher
level do not take the Royals for granted anymore, based on their
performance against the top teams in the Division. Our next stop is the
AAYBA World Series. You gotta believe... GO ROYALS!
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World Series Game Highlights at the bottom of the Home page