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Health & Fitness

Paper Marlin: The Playoffs Are Here!

The regular season is over and the Lincolnwood Marlins entered the playoffs as the #5 seed.  Like age, seeding is only a number.  All that really matters is how well you do.
With that in mind, I have to admit that I have not done well enough to deserve a spot in the playoffs lineup.  I am not ready to give up on the dream, but I am doubtful that this Paper Marlin will see any in-game action as the Marlins make their run to the title.
The truth is that these kids have all earned everything they are getting.  Coach Louie Atsaves has stressed fundamentals and attitude and the Marlins have responded.  They have improved individually and as a team.
In our first playoff game, I saw several examples of how the team has improved.  On a grounder to the pitcher, two Marlins raced to backup our first baseman.  On a hit to the outfield, the throw immediately went to the next base to prevent the runner from advancing.
These are plays that happen in an instant.  There was no looking to the coach.  The Marlins involved just did what naturally came to them (because of Coach Louie's teaching).  You could really see the development of baseball instincts as the season has progressed.
There was also no hesitation prior to the game when I asked the Marlins for predictions.  Each Marlin responded quickly and positively!  Extra credit goes to Dylan Moreno for correctly predicting a 10 run victory.  The Marlins lived up to Dylan's prediction with a 14-4 victory.
Again, this was a total team win.  Peter Atsaves and Glynn Elliott combined for 6 innings of great pitching.  Dylan Moreno had a big hit scoring 2 runs.  Phil White and Niko Konstantopoulos had clutch hits.  Second baseman Frank Ocana made several nice plays in the infield.  First baseman Chris Portokalis made a couple excellent plays, including a stretch that he called "ninja-like."  Andrew Pabst doubled and scored.  Peter Kougias had an RBI.  Sure-handed Josh Solorio was behind the plate for the crucial final 3 outs.  Christopher Atsaves made a nice play at 1st base and had an RBI (or a BBI, as he would say).
What is a BBI?  Well, I actually learned of two new stats.  Christopher A. got a BBI (Brother Batted In) by driving in his brother.  Not to be outdone, Peter A. got a CBI (Cousin Batted In) when he drove in his cousin Andrew.
It is apparent that besides playing well, these Marlins have fun.  I swear, I saw a few of them showing dance moves as the music drifted over from the entertainment tent.  Don't worry, I resisted the urge to show a few of my moves from back in the day (my "Twist" moves are legendary).
As I write this, it is uncertain when the next playoff game will be.  The rain is causing headaches all over with scheduling, but it is not dampening the spirits of the Marlins.
As for this Paper Marlin, my spirits are not dampened either, despite not playing.  I am doing what I can to help my team.  My humble nature prohibits me from bragging that most of our runs scored while I was coaching first.
While I am not giving up on playing, I am happy to contribute in any way as a Player-Coach-Paparazzi.  Hey, if the players can invent a stat, I can invent a new position designation for myself.


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