As we move throughout the summer of 2011, we'll pass along some different perspectives from our interns and also the great fans of Wisconsin Rapids. A member of one of our host families, Gabe Stoltz, will also be passing along his perspective on the Rafters second season and baseball in general. This is Part One of a series of blogs that Gabe will share with us throughout the summer. Enjoy! -John
Well, it’s hard to believe it, but the Wisconsin Rapids Rafters are already twenty-one games into their 2011 season. It seems that just yesterday, the team logo was unveiled at the Hotel Mead. Currently, the Rafters are holding intact a five and sixteen record at the bottom of the South Division. The team has gotten wins against the Waterloo Bucks, Eau Claire Express, Wisconsin Woodchucks, and Battle Creek Bombers.
The Rafters don’t have the best offense in the Northwoods League, but they do boast a team total of sixteen home runs. Leading the team in batting average is Bobby Martin, a junior from Valparaiso. He also leads the team in games played, stolen bases and is tied for the team lead in hits. Curtis Frisbie and Brandon Hohl are tied up for two-baggers, each with five a piece. Cody Koback has three triples, which leads the team, even despite his late start due to being drafted by the Boston Red Sox. Leading the team in home runs is Kyle Peterson, a catcher from Eastern Michigan. Peterson has six home runs.
Hopefully, the Rafters season will turn around, as I, as many of you will also say, do not want a season like last year’s. Let’s hope that we can turn around and be a contender for the South Division for the first half of the year. I’m sure everybody will be coming out to Witter Field to support Wisconsin Rapids, and go Rafters!!!
-Gabe Stoltz, Wisconsin Rapids