ARCHIVE
APRIL 2007

To make things easier for our loyal suscribers we will adopt a new format of
providing news involving AUSTRALIAN Players in yellow text, while 
news about former AMLB IMPORT Players will be in white text.

Peter Moylan

Chris Snelling

Australia's versatile PETER MOYLAN continues his stunning resurgence in the American major leagues with another strong, clutch performance for the Atlanta Braves during their tense 7-9 loss to the Colorado Rockies. Far from being a "one-batter" type reliever, our Pete has shown the Braves that he can handle more than one inning out of the bullpen on a regular basis and he has become a popular setup and middle-relief guy for manager Bobby Cox. Today Pete was summoned after Braves starter Kyle Davies lasted just 4.0 innings and Oscar Villarreal pitched 1.0 inning. In the bottom of the sixth he had Jamie Carroll grounding out to the third baseman on a bunt before allowing a six pitch walk to wily veteran Steve Finley. He then induced Willie Taveras to ground out to the second baseman for an inning ending double-play. Returning for the bottom of the seventh, Moylan immediately hit Troy Tulowitzski with a pitch before Garret Atkins flied out to right field. After a manager's visit to the mound Moylan obviously pitched around the 'Rox' All-star first baseman Todd Helton with a walk before inducing another inning ending double-play when he had Matt Holliday ground out to third baseman Chipper Jones. Once again Moylan made the ground ball his friend and the double-plays were his fitting reward with 2.0ip 0h 0er 2bb 0k (2.89ERA). Pete's bullpen buddy STEVE COLYER (IBLA MLB All-Stars 2001) was the unfortunate pitcher to take the loss with 0.1ip 1h 2er 1bb 1k for his sliding 0-1, 6.75ERA record.

Aussie CHRIS SNELLING was finally given another opportunity to start at left field today for the Washington Nationals in their tough 0-1 defeat at the hands of the New York Mets. Unfortunately, our Chris struggled to get the better of Mets' starter John Maine in this game while batting at #8 in the lineup. His day started with a useful four pitch walk when leading off in the bottom of the third inning, but Chris was then struck out swinging by Maine in both the fifth and seventh frames. He was finally replaced by ph hitter Josh Wilson in the bottom of the ninth but he fared no better when he also fanned! Snelling would have to settle for 0-2 (.208) with a walk and two left on base for his efforts today. Team mate MICAH BOWIE (Melbourne Monarchs 1998) pitched an uneventful 1.0ip 0h 0er 1bb 0k (3.00ERA) in relief for Washington.

JASON PHILLIPS (Hunter Eagles 1998) was a star for the Toronto Blue Jays, batting 3-4 (.312) with a RBI to help them to trump the Texas Rangers 7-3. In the same game VERNON WELLS (Sydney Storm 1999) batted 1-4 (.298) for Toronto.

Helping the Los Angeles Angels to stay on top of the Chicago White Sox were GARY MATTHEWS JNR. (Brisbane Bandits 1997) who batted 2-4 (.306) and his fellow ABL import SHEA HILLENBRAND (Gold Coast Cougars 1998) who batted 1-4 (.254).

Steve Colyer

Jason Phillips

Chris Snelling

Aussie CHRIS SNELLING was used in his customary manner today when summoned from the bench in the top of the eighth inning as a defensive substitution at left field for the Washington Nationals during their 2-6 loss to the New York Mets in 12 innings. Chris drew a six pitch walk in the bottom of the ninth inning off Pedro Feliciano, then he grounded out to the first baseman of experienced Aaron Sele in the bottom of the eleventh inning. Snelling batted 0-1 (.217) form his two plate appearances today. Team mate MICAH BOWIE (Melbourne Monarchs 1998) pitched 0.2ip 0h 0er 0bb 1k (3.27ERA) for the 'Nats', while catcher PAUL LoDUCA (Adelaide Giants 1995) batted 0-4 (.255) for the Mets.

GARY MATTHEWS JNR. (Brisbane Bandits 1997) launcehd his second 'jack' of the season today while batting 1-4 (.298) for the Los Angeles Angels in their 3-0 shutout win over the Chicago White Sox. His team mate SHEA HILLENBRAND (Gold Coast Cougars 1998) batted a barren 0-4 (.258).

In the Cincinnati Reds 8-1 win over the Pittburgh Pirates, catcher DAVID ROSS (MLB All-Stars 2001) contributed a very handy 2-4 (.173).

KEVIN MILLWOOD (Melbourne Monarchs 1997) struck out eight Blue Jays today, but he was consigned to a no decision with 5.2ip 8h 5er 2bb 8k (5.88ERA) for the Texas Rangers in their 9-8 "squeaker" over Toronto. Team mates VERNON WELLS (Sydney Storm 1999) batted 1-5 (.300) and JASON PHILLIPS (Hunter Eagles 1998) batted 0-1 (.250).

Gary Matthews

Peter Moylan

While Moylan seems to be securing his place in the Braves' big league bullpen, Aussie outfielder CHRIS SNELLING is getting shuffled further down the bench lately with very little chance to improve his batting numbers. For the fifth successive game Chris was called to action for the Washington Nationals with their 5-4 win over the New York Mets virtually over. He entered the game as a defensive substitution in the top of the eighth inning on this occasion and he did not get to bat. PAUL LoDUCA (Adelaide Giants 1995) batted 1-4 (.239) with a RBI for the Mets.

Chris Snelling

Chris Snelling

GARY MATTHEWS JNR. (Brisbane Bandits 1997) and SHEA HILLENBRAND (Gold Coast Cougars 1998) are trying their best to out-slug each other over the last couple of days with another hot game for the LA Angels in their 11-3 massacre of the Tampa Bay Devil Rays. This time Shea batted 3-4 (.267) with a RBI, while Gary Junior batted 3-5 (.299) with a RBI of his own. They are a productive duo of former ABL imports with the 'Halos'. 

Cincinnati Reds catcher DAVID ROSS (MLB All-Stars 2001) nailed his first "round tripper" of the season today while batting 1-2 (.146), but his solo homer was not enough to save the Reds from a narrow 5-7 loss to the St.Louis Cardinals. PRESTON WILSON (Hunter Eagles 1997) pinch hit for the 'Cards' with 0-1 (.222).

RON MAHAY (Gold Coast Cougars 1996) had another poor day on the mound for the Texas Rangers, struggling in relief during his Texas Rangers 4-9 loss to the Cleveland Indians. Mahay pitched a modest 1.1ip 1h 1er 2bb 1k (3.24ERA). 

Still doing a lot of damage for the Toronto Blue Jays is All-Star slugger VERNON WELLS (Sydney Storm 1999) who batted 3-3 (.317) with a RBI during their 6-0 shutout victory over the New York Yankees. Toronto catcher JASON PHILLIPS (Hunter Eagles 1998) didn't do quite so well today with 0-4 (.292).

David Ross

Chris Snelling

GARY MATTHEWS JNR. (Brisbane Bandits 1997) and SHEA HILLENBRAND (Gold Coast Cougars 1998) were big offensive contributors for the Los Angeles Angels today in their 9-1 crushing of the Tampa Bay Devil Rays. Matthews batted 2-4 (.280) with two RBI's to mirror Hillenbrand who also batted 2-4 (.232) with two RBI's.

Having a rough day on the mound for the Texas Rangers during their tight 7-8 loss to the Cleveland Indians was reliever RON MAHAY (Gold Coast Cougars 1996) who couldn't find the strike zone with 0.0ip 0h 1er 2bb 0k (2.57ERA). 

Shea Hillenbrand

Peter Moylan

Vernon Wells

Australian outfielder CHRIS SNELLING was back on the pine today, coming off the bench as a defensive substitution at left field in the bottom of the seventh inning during his Washington Nationals 3-6 defeat by the Philadelphia Phillies. Chris had one plate appearance in the top of the eighth when he grounded out to the second baseman off hard-throwing reliever Antonio Alfonseca. Team mate MICAH BOWIE (Melbourne Monarchs 1998) was saddled with his first loss of the year pitching 1.0ip 0h 1er 0bb 2k to take his record to 0-1, 3.60ERA.

Toronto Blue Jays All-Star slugger VERNON WELLS (Sydney Storm 1999) was like a one man wrecking crew when he took full advantage of the Boston Red Sox fifth starter in the Jays' 10-3 flogging of the 'Bosox' today. Wells batted a gaudy 4-5 (.291) with three RBI's, four runs scored and his fourth home run of the season. Also damaging was catcher JASON PHILLIPS (Hunter Eagles 1998) who batted 2-4 (.350) for Toronto.

GARY MATTHEWS JNR. (Brisbane Bandits 1997) was back swinging a good stick today with 2-4 (.269) for the Los Angeles Angels in their 9-8 win over the Detroit Tigers. 

Helping the Cincinnati Reds to thump the St.Louis Cardinals 10-3 was catcher DAVID ROSS (MLB All-Stars 2001) who batted 2-5 (.140) with a RBI. PRESTON WILSON (Hunter Eagles 1997) pinch hit for the 'Red Birds' with 0-1 (.245).

Chris Snelling

David Ross

Peter Moylan

Gary Glover

Aussie star PETER MOYLAN continues to pitch superbly since his damaging first game in the major leagues this year with another terrific effort for the Atlanta Braves during their nerve wracking 7-8 loss to the Florida Marlins today. With his Braves mounting a spirited comeback late in the game, 'Big Pete' was asked to keep a lid on the seventh inning against the toughest part of the Marlins lineup. Pete was not to be daunted by the challenge when he was the epitome of economy having Hanley Ramirez ground out to the short stop on two pitches, Dan Uggla ground out to the second baseman on four pitches and superstar Miguel Cabrera pop out to the second baseman on three pitches. In all Moylan threw six of only nine pitches for strikes with his 1.0ip 0h 0er 0bb 0k (6.75ERA).

Toronto Blue Jays All-Star slugger VERNON WELLS (Sydney Storm 1999) was typically tough on the Boston Red Sox today with 2-4 (.257) and three runs scored during his team's 7-3 win over the 'Bosox'. Wells' team mate JASON PHILLIPS (Hunter Eagles 1998) batted 1-3 (.312) with a RBI as another handy contribution.

PAUL LoDUCA (Adelaide Giants 1995) batted 1-5 (.241) to help the New York Mets to roll over the Colorado Rockies 6-1.

In the Texas Rangers fluctuating 4-5 loss to the Seattle Mariners, starter KEVIN MILLWOOD (Melbourne Monarchs 1997) was a bit of a mixture with a no-decision today after pitching 6.0ip 10h 5er 2bb 5k (5.46ERA). He was replaced on the mound by RON MAHAY (Gold Coast Cougars 1996) who made a brief 0.1ip 0h 0er 0bb 0k (1.29ERA) contribution.

GARY GLOVER (Sydney Storm 1999) didn't need to do much to earn his first hold of the season when he pitched 0.1ip 0h 0er 1bb 0k (4.82ERA) for the Tampa Bay Devil Rays in their 10-8 victory over the New York Yankees.

Vernon Wells

Kevin Millwood

Chris Snelling

Gary Matthews

Aussie CHRIS SNELLING would be entitled to wonder why he was not starting again today, especially when he was called into action as a defensive replacement for fellow outfielder Ryan Church in the bottom of the second inning for the Washington Nationals during their 6-12 hammering by the Florida Marlins. Chris didn't let his team down with another safe hit today in a 1-3 (.238) performance. Snelling led off the fourth inning and he was struck out swinging on five pitches by Florida starter Wes Obermueller. He then led off the seventh inning against the same pitcher, but this time he produced a single on a pop up that eluded the short stop. In the top of the eighth Snelling flied out to right field with two out off reliever Kevin Gregg.

Once again contributing to the Los Angeles Angels 6-1 defeat of the Seattle Mariners were GARY MATTHEWS JNR. (Brisbane Bandits 1997) with 2-5 (.246) with two doubles and SHEA HILLENBRAND (Gold Coast Cougars 1998) who batted 1-3 (.191). 

Also doing his job for the St.Louis Cardinals was PRESTON WILSON (Hunter Eagles 1997) who batted 2-2 (.250) as a pinch hitter in their 12-9 win over the Chicago Cubs. 

PAUL LoDUCA (Adelaide Giants 1995) continues to lead from the front for the New York Mets, but even his 2-5 (.370) with a RBI could not prevent his team going down 6-9 to their Division rival Atlanta Braves. RYAN LANGERHANS (IBLA Internationals 2001) batted 0-1 (.062) while STEVE COLYER (IBLA MLB All-Stars 2001) pitched 0.1ip 0h 0er 0bb 0k (0.00ERA) for the Braves. It was a game that pitted former long-time Atlanta team mates and all-time pitching greats John Smoltz and Tommy Glavine against each other as starting pitchers. Smoltz continues to star for the Braves, while ageless lefty Glavine has added another chapter to his career with the Mets.

Paul LoDuca

Preston Wilson

Peter Moylan

Gary Matthews

Australia's pitching star PETER MOYLAN made a pretty good claim to holding his place on the active roster for the Atlanta Braves when he again did everything asked of him at the end of the 'Bravos' 2-7 loss to the New York Mets. Once again our Pete had more to lose than to gain when he entered the losing cause to replace Tyler Yates for the bottom of the seventh. However, on this occasion, Moylan could hardly have been more impressive when he got the better of some of the toughest hitters in the major leagues. In the seventh he had Shawn Green struck out swinging on a 3-2 count and Damion Easley fly out to centrefield, before walking pinch hitter David Newhan on six pitches. He put the lid on his zero for the frame when he had Jose Reyes fly out to left field. Moylan was impressive enough to stay on the mound or the eighth when he pitched an inning that he will be able to tell his Grandchildren about! Facing three of baseball's biggest stars in the heart of the Mets batting lineup in the bottom of the eighth, Pete had David Wright ground out to short stop, Carlos Beltran ground out to the first baseman and Carlos Delgado also ground out to the first sacker. Pete lived by the edict that you give yourself the best chance if you keep the ball on the ground... way to go "Big Guy"! Moylan pitched a very good 2.0ip 0h 0er 1bb 1k (9.00ERA).   

Australian outfielder CHRIS SNELLING couldn't repeat his heroics today when he batted 0-3 for the Washington Nationals who were swamped 3-9 by the Florida Marlins. Chris started at left field today but he couldn't get the bat working on this occasion. He was called out on strikes in the second inning facing Anibal Sanchez, who also issued him a seven pitch walk in the fourth. Snelling led off the sixth with a pop out to the third baseman in foul territory off Matt Lindstrom before lining out to left field while facing Randy Messenger in the eighth frame. 

Both contributing to the Los Angeles Angels nerve wracking 7-6 win over the Seattle Mariners 8-4 were GARY MATTHEWS JNR. (Brisbane Bandits 1997) with 2-4 (.234) and SHEA HILLENBRAND (Gold Coast Cougars 1998) who batted 1-5 (.182). 

After his long ball yesterday, PRESTON WILSON (Hunter Eagles 1997) was one of the few contributors for the St.Louis Cardinals on their 0-6 shutout loss to the Chicago Cubs when he batted 1-3 (.217).

Chris Snelling

Shea Hillenbrand

Chris Snelling

Aussie CHRIS SNELLING was again the hero today for the Washington Nationals with his HUGE game winning RBI in the 14th inning helping the 'Nats' to finally overcome the Florida Marlins in a 6-5 epic. Chris didn't look like he would be having a great day for a while after he entered the game as an eighth inning replacement for pitcher Ryan Wagner. His first at bat brought a disappointing result when he hit into an unassisted double-play with one on and none out facing Randy Messenger. In the tenth inning he flied out to right field off Henry Owens. In the twelfth frame the drew a four pitch walk from Reynel Pinto, but he was just as quickly erased from the bases when caught stealing. 
His day improved BIG TIME in the 14th inning when he punched the game winning RBI single through the right side off Lee Gardner. Snelling has done plenty for his team lately with 1-3 (.250) again today. Baseball, as we all know, can be a great leveller!

PRESTON WILSON (Hunter Eagles 1997) whacked his first home run of the season with 1-3 (.209) and the two big RBI's for the St.Louis Cardinals to produce all of the World Champions' scoring in their 2-1 win over the Chicago Cubs.

One guy who was not to blame for the Texas Rangers' 4-16 blowout loss to the Oakland Athletics was reliever RON MAHAY (Gold Coast Cougars 1996) who did his job with a respectable 1.0ip 0h 0er 0bb 0k (1.35ERA). 

MATT HERGES (Adelaide Giants 1999) didn't have it all his own way again today with a variable 2.0ip 2h 0er 1bb 2k (9.00ERA) for the Colorado Rockies in their 1-11 thumping by the San Diego Padres. GEOFF BLUM (Hunter Eagles 1995) batted 0-2 (.100) for 'SDP'. 

Helping the Los Angeles Angels to double the Seattle Mariners 8-4 were SHEA HILLENBRAND (Gold Coast Cougars 1998) who batted 2-4 (.179) and, to a lesser extent, GARY MATTHEWS JNR. (Brisbane Bandits 1997) who batted 0-4 (.217) with a walk. 

Preston Wilson

Chris Snelling

Australia's CHRIS SNELLING found it tough going against two of the Philadelphia Phillies most experienced pitchers today after entering the game late during his Washington Nationals 2-4 loss to the Phils. Chris was called in to replace pitcher Levale Speigner before the start of the eighth inning. Batting in the bottom of the eighth Snelling grounded out to the first baseman after crafty starter Jamie Moyer had worked him into a 0-2 count. He then made the last out of the game in the bottom of the ninth when he was called out on strikes on four pitches facing wily veteran reliever Tom Gordon. Chris would have to settle for 0-2 (.242) today.  

MATT HERGES (Adelaide Giants 1999) made his return to the big leagues for a ninth season with yet another new club when he finished a losing cause pitching in relief at the end of his Colorado Rockies 1-8 defeat by the Los Angeles Dodgers. Matt may not have enjoyed pitching in the rarefied high-altitude air at Coors Field in Colorado when he was roughed up pitching 1.0ip 3h 3er 2bb 2k (27.00ERA).

It was not VERNON WELLS (Sydney Storm 1999) fault that his Toronto Blue Jays fell 3-5 to the visiting Boston Red Sox when he contributed 2-4 (.246) with a RBI. 

PRESTON WILSON (Hunter Eagles 1997) batted 1-4 (.200) for the St.Louis Cardinals in their 2-6 loss to the San Francisco Giants.

Not able to do enough to save his Cincinnati Reds fro falling 6-8 to the Houston Astros was catcher DAVID ROSS (MLB All-Stars 2001) who batted 1-2 (.121).

Matt Herges

Peter Moylan

Kevin Millwood

We were thrilled to see popular Aussie hurler PETER MOYLAN bounce back strongly today after his rugged 2007 big league opener when he was a genuine hero today for the Atlanta Braves in their tight 8-6 win over the Chicago Cubs. 'Big Pete' excelled in the pressure cooker of the eighth inning when he inherited runners at second and third with one out from former AMLB pitcher Steve Colyer. Moylan was immediately asked to issue an intentional walk to Daryle Ward to load the bases and put the potential winning run on board. However, after a visit to the mound from manager Bobby Cox, Pete delivered the best possible result from his first legitimate pitch when he induced Ryan Theriot to ground into a double play initiated by short stop Edgar Renteria. Aside from the intentional walk, Pete threw just one pitch for two scalps to preserve the lead for his team. He would be quite thrilled after his first hold of the season with 0.2ip 0h 0er 1bb 0k (27.00ERA). Team mate RYAN LANGERHANS (IBLA Internationals 2001) batted 0-2 (.074), while bullpen partner STEVE COLYER (IBLA MLB All-Stars 2001) pitched immediately before Moylan with 0.1ip 1h 0er 1bb 0k (0.00ERA) for his first hold.

Aussie outfielder CHRIS SNELLING was also a late game hero for his Washington Nationals who snatched a 5-4 win over the Philadelphia Phillies in the 13th inning. Up until that point Chris had batted 0-4, but he led off the 13th with a pop-up single to short stop off reliever Francisco Rosario and he eventually scored the winning run on a sacrifice fly by Felipe Lopez. In his other plate appearances Snelling had grounded out to the second baseman in the second inning and popped out to the third baseman in foul territory in the fourth both off Philly starter Adam Eaton. In the seventh Snelling was the first to face reliever Matt Smith who threw a wild pickoff attempt and a wild pitch before issuing him a four pitch walk. In the ninth Chris grounded out to the second baseman off Antonio Alfonseca, then in the 11th he grounded out to the first baseman off Ryan Madson. His day finished with an exciting 1-5 (.258) return for his efforts. His team mate MICAH BOWIE (Melbourne Monarchs 1998) was also solid today, pitching 0.2ip 0h 0er 0bb 0k (3.38ERA) for his first hold of the 2007 season.

In the game where Chicago White Sox star Mark Buehrle threw a NO HITTER, on the losing end of the equation was KEVIN MILLWOOD (Melbourne Monarchs 1997) who took his second loss with 5.0ip 5h 5er 4bb 3k to even his record at 2-2, 4.91ERA. Kevin's Texas Rangers were blanked 6-0 by Buehrle and the White Sox.

GARY GLOVER (Sydney Storm 1999) also felt the sting of defeat today, pitching 2.2ip 4h 3er 0bb 1k for the Tampa Bay Devil Rays in their 4-6 loss to the Baltimore Orioles. Glover's record slipped to  0-1, 5.00ERA.

Chris Snelling

Gary Glover

Chris Snelling

Micah Bowie

GEOFF BLUM (Hunter Eagles 1995) was the hero for the San Diego Padres today when his 14th inning double finally secured them a marathon 4-3 win over the Chicago Cubs. Geoff pinch hit with 1-2 (.125) and he delivered the big RBI of the epic game.

Helping the Toronto Blue Jays to edge the Boston Red Sox today was VERNON WELLS (Sydney Storm 1999) who batted 1-4 (.245) even though his bat has cooled off lately. 

RON MAHAY (Gold Coast Cougars 1996) made short work of his single relief inning today, pitching 1.0ip 0h 0er 0bb 2k (1.69ERA) to ensure that there were no comebacks for the Chicago White Sox who were roughed up by Mahay's Texas Rangers.

PRESTON WILSON (Hunter Eagles 1997) slapped his third double while batting 1-4 (.200) for the St.Louis Cardinals who were beaten 1-6 by the Pittsburgh Pirates.

Geoff Blum

Ron Mahay

Chris Snelling

Pete LaForest

Colyer's former AMLB team mate DAVID ROSS (MLB All-Stars 2001) batted 1-4 (.107) for the Cincinnati Reds in their 6-10 loss to the Milwaukee Brewers.

Not able to do enough to help the San Diego Padres in their heavy 4-12 defeat by the Chicago Cubs were PETE LaFOREST (IBLA MLB All-Stars 2001) who batted 2-3 (.500) or team mate GEOFF BLUM (Hunter Eagles 1995) who batted 0-5 (.071) after getting a rare start at short stop today.

Steve Colyer

Peter Moylan

PRESTON WILSON (Hunter Eagles 1997) batted 1-3 (.200) with a walk and he scored three times to help his St.Louis Cardinals to swamp the Milwaukee Brewers 10-2.

Preston Wilson

Chris Snelling

Pete La Forest

VERNON WELLS (Sydney Storm 1999) batted 1-5 (.297) crunched his third 'dinger' of the season while batting 1-4 (.267) with three RBI's for the Toronto Blue Jays in their 7-10 loss to the Detroit Tigers.

Making his first appearance for 2007 was PETE LaFOREST (IBLA MLB All-Stars 2001) who batted 1-3 (.333) with a RBI as today's starting catcher for the San Diego Padres in their 7-2 demolition of the Los Angeles Dodgers. His team mate GEOFF BLUM (Hunter Eagles 1995) batted 1-1 (.111) as a pinch hitter.

GARY GLOVER (Sydney Storm 1999) didn't have it all his own way today pitching 2.2ip 4h 2er 0bb 2k (2.84ERA) for the Tampa Bay Devil Rays in their 5-12 loss to the Minnesota Twins.

Unable to do enough to help the Cincinnati Reds in their 0-7 shutout loss to the Chicago Cubs was catcher DAVID ROSS (MLB All-Stars 2001) who batted 1-3 (.095).

One of the few players to lay any solid wood on Boston Red Sox future Hall Of Fame pitching great Curt Schilling was SHEA HILLENBRAND (Gold Coast Cougars 1998) who batted 1-4 (.160) for the Los Angeles Angels who were shut out 0-8 by the Bosox. Team mate GARY MATTHEWS JNR. (Brisbane Bandits 1997) could manage only 0-4 (.227).

Vernon Wells

Shea Hillenbrand

Chris Snelling

Texas ace KEVIN MILLWOOD (Melbourne Monarchs 1997) helped the Rangers to beat the Seattle Mariners 5-2 today. 'Big Kev' pitched 6.0ip 7h 1er 2bb 2k to improve his season record to a very solid 2-1, 3.71ERA.

Unable to save the Atlanta Braves from a 4-11 thrashing at the hands of the Florida Marlins were RYAN LANGERHANS (IBLA Internationals 2001) who batted 0-1 (.105) or reliever CHAD PARONTO (Perth Heat 1998) who pitched 1.2ip 3h 2er 1bb 1k (3.60ERA).  

Kevin Millwood

Chris Snelling

VERNON WELLS (Sydney Storm 1999) batted 1-5 (.297) and JASON PHILLIPS (Hunter Eagles 1998) batted 1-3 (.500) as contributors for the Toronto Blue Jays in their 4-5 loss to the Detroit Tigers.

Once again helping the New York Mets to handle the Philadelphia Phillies 5-3 today was PAUL LoDUCA (Adelaide Giants 1995) who batted 1-4 (.324)

Jason Phillips

Gary Matthews

GARY MATTHEWS JNR. (Brisbane Bandits 1997) continues to enjoy his leadoff role with the Los Angeles Angels with another strong hitting performance today helping the 'Halos' to beat the Cleveland Indians 4-1. Gary Junior batted 2-5 (.312) while team mate SHEA HILLENBRAND (Gold Coast Cougars 1998) batted 0-4 (.176).

Helping the Atlanta Braves to top the Washington Nationals 8-3 was outfielder RYAN LANGERHANS (IBLA Internationals 2001) who batted 1-4 (.133). Washington reliever MICAH BOWIE (Melbourne Monarchs 1998) pitched 1.0ip 1h 0er 0bb 0k (3.18ERA). 

Once again helping the Toronto Blue Jays to topple the Kansas City Royals 7-4 was superstar VERNON WELLS (Sydney Storm 1999) who batted 1-4 (.312)

Ryan Langerhans

Chris Snelling

Australia's only current major leaguer CHRIS SNELLING made another start for the Washington Nationals today playing at left field and batting in the #2 hole in his team's 0-8 shutout loss to the Atlanta Braves. Facing Atlanta's ace starter Tim Hudson, Chris flied out to centrefield in the first inning, grounded out to the short stop while leading off the fourth then laced a two-out double on a line drive to right field in the sixth. He then lead off again in the ninth dig with a fly out to right field off former ABL import Chad Paronto. Snelling batted 1-4 (.167). CHAD PARONTO (Perth Heat 1998) pitched 1.0ip 1h 0er 0bb 1k (0.00ERA) for the Braves today. Meanwhile RYAN LANGERHANS (IBLA Internationals 2001) pinch hit with 0-1 (.091) for Atlanta and MICAH BOWIE (Melbourne Monarchs 1998) pitched a brief 0.1ip 0h 0er 0bb 0k (3.86ERA) for Washington. 

Unable to do enough for the Toronto Blue Jays in their 3-6 defeat by the Kansas City Royals were VERNON WELLS (Sydney Storm 1999) who batted 1-4 (.321) or JASON PHILLIPS (Hunter Eagles 1998) who contributed 1-2 (.600).

In a similar vein, neither GARY MATTHEWS JNR. (Brisbane Bandits 1997) with 1-4 (.296) or SHEA HILLENBRAND (Gold Coast Cougars 1998) with 1-5 (.231) were able to prevent the Cleveland Indians from shading their Los Angeles Angels 7-6 today.

Reliever RON MAHAY (Gold Coast Cougars 1996) pitched a handy 2.0ip 2h 1er 2bb 3k (2.08ERA) to help the Texas Rangers to out-slug the Tampa Bay Devil Rays 12-9.

Ron Mahay

Vernon Wells

VERNON WELLS (Sydney Storm 1999) didn't take long to double his home run tally with his second long ball of the season helping his Toronto Blue Jays to smash the Kansas City Royals 9-1 today. Vernon batted 2-4 (.333) to continue his strong start to season 2007.

Not to be blamed for The Tampa Bay Devil Rays 4-8 loss to the Texas Rangers was veteran relief pitcher GARY GLOVER (Sydney Storm 1999) with 1.1ip 2h 0er 1bb 0k.

PRESTON WILSON (Hunter Eagles 1997) batted 1-1 (.235) with 2RBI's in a perfect pinch hit performance for the St.Louis Cardinals in their 3-1 win over the Pittsburgh Pirates.

Still doing a sterling job for the New York Mets is catcher PAUL LoDUCA (Adelaide Giants 1995) who batted 1-4 (.385) with a walk and two runs scored in today's 11-5 win over the Philadelphia Phillies.

GEOFF BLUM (Hunter Eagles 1995) made another appearance off the bench today for the San Diego Padres in their 1-0 win over the San Francisco Giants. Blum may not have recorded his first hit of the season but he did deliver the only RBI of the game.

Gary Glover


Geoff Blum

Vernon Wells

Toronto Blue Jays All-Star slugger VERNON WELLS (Sydney Storm 1999) got his home run tally moving today with his first long ball of the season coming during Toronto's 6-3 win over the Tampa Bay Devil Rays. Wells batted 2-4 (.300) with the one big RBI.

PRESTON WILSON (Hunter Eagles 1997) also batted 2-4 (.188) to play his part in ending the World Champion St.Louis Cardinals' slump with a dam breaking 10-1 flogging of the Houston Astros today.

Once again playing small parts for the Atlanta Braves in their 3-2 win over the New York Mets were RYAN LANGERHANS (IBLA Internationals 2001) who batted 0-1 (.100) with a walk and spot reliever CHAD PARONTO (Perth Heat 1998) with his still unblemished 0.1ip 0h 0er 0bb 0k (0.00ERA).

Preston Wilson

Chris Snelling

Paul LoDuca

Aussie outfielder CHRIS SNELLING was back on the pine today with only one opportunity to pinch hit for the pitcher in the fifth inning of the Washington Nationals 1-7 defeat by the Arizona Diamondbacks. Chris was not mucking around today when he struck out swinging on only three pitches with one out, either impatient or unable to handle the offerings of seasoned pitcher Brandon Webb. 

PAUL LoDUCA (Adelaide Giants 1995) continued to run hot for the New York Mets today when he added his first home run of the season to his impressive numbers while batting 1-4 (.409) in the Mets 3-5 loss to the Atlanta Braves. Outfielder RYAN LANGERHANS (IBLA Internationals 2001) pinch hit with 0-1 (.111) for 'Hot Lanta'.

Pitching star KEVIN MILLWOOD (Melbourne Monarchs 1997) notched a win from his second start in 2007 when he shackled the power laden Boston Red Sox offence in an 8-4 win for his Texas Rangers in Arlington today. 'Big Kev' pitched a quality 6.0ip 8h 3er 3bb 3k to start his season with a 1-0, 4.91ERA record. His bullpen team mate RON MAHAY (Gold Coast Cougars 1996) also collected a hold in his first outing of the season when he pitched 1.2ip 0h 0er 1bb 1k (0.00ERA) in relief for the Texans. 

To continue a good day for former AMLB players JASON PHILLIPS (Hunter Eagles 1998) was back in his former catching role for the Toronto Blue Jays, batting 2-3 (.667) in their 8-5 win over the Tampa Bay Devil Rays. His more illustrious team mate VERNON WELLS (Sydney Storm 1999) batted 0-3 (.250) with a RBI.

Kevin Millwood

Jason Phillips

Chris Snelling

David Ross

Australia's CHRIS SNELLING got another start today at left field for the Washington Nationals in their 7-1 loss to the Arizona Diamondbacks. While he didn't manage a hit, our Chris found himself on base twice while batting an adventurous 0-2 (.143) today. Batting in the two slot, Snelling was hit by a pitch from 'Snakes' starter Micah Owings in the opening frame. In his second plate appearance he flied out to right field in the third inning after working a full count. Then in the fifth inning he drew a two out walk to load the bases. His last opportunity came when he led off the eighth but on this occasion he struck out swinging against reliever Juan Cruz. 

Still firing in the early days of the new season is catcher PAUL LoDUCA (Adelaide Giants 1995) who batted another super 3-5 (.444) with a RBI to pace the New York Mets big 11-1 slaughter of the previously undefeated Atlanta Braves. 

Also enjoying the new season is "Son of Sarge' GARY MATTHEWS JNR. (Brisbane Bandits 1997) who batted 2-3 (.438) to stamp his claims as a permanent leadoff man for the Los Angeles Angels. Matthews helped the Angels to beat the Oakland A's 5-2 today.

Catcher DAVID ROSS (MLB All-Stars 2001) batted 1-3 (.100) to help the Cincinnati Reds to overpower the Pittsburgh Pirates 6-1.

VERNON WELLS (Sydney Storm 1999) continues to earn his fat new contract with another 1-4 (.308) contribution for the Toronto Blue Jays in their 5-6 loss to the Tampa Bay Devil Rays.

Paul LoDuca

Chris Snelling

Chad Paronto

Australia's CHRIS SNELLING was summoned from the bench again today to pinch hit for former ABL import pitcher MICAH BOWIE (Melbourne Monarchs 1998) in the sixth inning of the Washington Nationals 3-4 loss to the Arizona Diamondbacks. Unfortunately Chris was a little impatient when he lined a 2-0 pitch from Brandon Medders to centrefield in his one and only plate appearance for 0-1 (.200). Reliever Michah Bowie did pretty well again today with his 2.1ip 0h 0er 1bb 2k (4.50ERA) in relief for the Nationals. 

I wonder if there were any other old "ABL dinosaurs" out there who recognised the name DINO EBEL during today's FOXTEL broadcast of the Los Angeles Angels 3-4 defeat by the Oakland Athletics? A slightly more "mature" looking Ebel was the third base coach for the 'Halos' today, but those aforementioned old-timers may also remember him as an import catcher with the Adelaide Giants way back in the second year of our league in 1991. In those days Dino was a Los Angeles Dodgers' minor leaguer who started his coaching career with the "Dodger Blue' after being released in 1992. The Angels suffered their first defeat for 2007 today. New signing GARY MATTHEWS JNR. (Brisbane Bandits 1997) was unable to hit safely with his 0-3 (.385), although he did deliver a most important RBI. 

The Atlanta Braves continued to man-handle the Philadelphia Phillies today with their 8-4 victory. Each doing their own little bit to help the Braves' cause were CHAD PARONTO (Perth Heat 1998) who has been used a lot in relief already this season with another brief 0.1ip 0h 0er 2bb 1k, along with outfielder RYAN LANGERHANS (IBLA Internationals 2001 who batted 0-2 (.125) , but he did induce two walks.

Micah Bowie

Chris Snelling

Paul LoDuca

Aussie CHRIS SNELLING seems to have slipped into a pinch-hitting role for the Washington Nationals during the first week of the new MLB season. Our Chris was the victim of what amounts to a regular part of major league management when the "wheels are spinning" during games these days. Snelling was announced as a pinch-hitter for the Nationals during the seventh inning of their eventual 7-6 win over the Florida Marlins. But, when the 'Fish' responded by substituting for their left-handed pitcher Renyel Pinto, Snelling was lifted for another pinch-hitter without getting out of the on deck circle! That's all part of life in the 'bigs' but we are hoping that he can cement a starting role this year. 
Snelling's team mate MICAH BOWIE (Melbourne Monarchs 1998) contributed a little more to Washington's first 2007 victory by pitching 0.2ip 0h 0er 0bb 0k (10.80ERA).

As he usually does, productive Mets catcher PAUL LoDUCA (Adelaide Giants 1995) continues to start the new season strongly with another terrific 3-4 (.385) offensive effort for the New Yorkers in their 10-0 wipeout of the World Champion St.Louis Cardinals. In the same game PRESTON WILSON (Hunter Eagles 1997) batted 0-3 for the 'Red Birds'. 

In the Toronto Blue Jays' tight 9-10 loss to the Detroit Tigers VERNON WELLS (Sydney Storm 1999) was again at the forefront for the BJ's, batting 2-5 (.333) with 2 RBI's. 

Another former ABL import from yester-year who was rewarded with a big new contract for 2007 is GARY MATTHEWS JNR. (Brisbane Bandits 1997). Gary batted 2-4 (.500) for his new team the LA Angels to help them to top the Texas Rangers 5-3 today.

Helping the Atlanta Braves to sweep over the Philadelphia Phillies 3-2 were relief pitcher CHAD PARONTO (Perth Heat 1998) 0.2ip 1h 0er 1bb 0k (0.00ERA) and, to a lesser extent today, RYAN LANGERHANS (IBLA Internationals 2001) who batted 0-2 (.167).

Micah Bowie

Vernon Wells

Chris Snelling

Aussie outfielder CHRIS SNELLING banged his first hit for the new 2007 season when he did just what was required from a pinch hitter in his Washington Nationals' 3-9 defeat at the hands of the Florida Marlins. Chris was asked to pinch hit for the pitcher with one on and none out in the seventh inning and he immediately delivered a line drive to right field off reliever Kevin Gregg. Snelling advanced the runner from first and he later scored in the inning while Chris was eventually stranded on third base. He batted 1-1 (.250).

Two former ABL imports made their presences felt for their new club the Los Angeles Angels when they each supplied offence, helping the Halos to thrash the Texas Rangers 8-3 today. Big off-season signing GARY MATTHEWS JNR. (Brisbane Bandits 1997) hurt his previous club when he batted 2-3 (.667) with a RBI while journeyman SHEA HILLENBRAND (Gold Coast Cougars 1998) batted 1-4 (.250) for his latest MLB team. 

Gary Matthews

Chris Snelling

CHRIS SNELLING was Australia's flagship player in the major leagues on the day after opening day with his not too impressive 0-3 (.000) performance for the Washington Nationals in their 2-9 loss to the Florida Marlins with, unfortunately, four left on base. It was not Chris' day today when he replaced former Detroit outfielder Nook Logan in the Nat's outfield in the top of the fourth. Snelling grounded out to the first baseman in the fourth and he then lined out the same pitcher Dontrelle Willis to end the sixth inning, leaving two left on base. To complete a disappointing day for Snelling, he then hit into another innings ending double-play to end the game in the 9th frame when he grounded out to the second baseman from the pitching of Jorge Julio.

In the Toronto Blue Jays' 5-3 win over the Detroit Tigers, BJ's mega-money star VERNON WELLS (Sydney Storm 1999) batted 1-4 (.250) for the winners, while team mate JASON PHILLIPS (Hunter Eagles 1998) batted 0-0 (.000) while playing at 1B for the Canadians. 

In the Atlanta Braves 5-3 win over the Philadelphia Phillies a former AMLB pitcher picked up the save when reliever CHAD PARONTO (Perth Heat 1998) pitched 1.0ip 0h 0bb 1k (0.00ERA) for the Southerners, while outfielder RYAN LANGERHANS (IBLA Internationals 2001) batted 1-4 (.250). 

Chad Paronto

Paul LoDuca

The sounds of summer are returning to the big league baseball diamonds in the USA and so it is also time for 'Flintoff & Dunn' to get back into the heavy duty action of updating this web site more regularly. Just for the record we are both selecting our own favourite MLB teams to win the World Series this season. Peter Flintoff is confident about his re-tooled Boston Red Sox chances to finally overcome our division