All I can say is...wow! Canfield Cardinals, a StrikeOut Strippz team currently vying for the Little League Ohio State Championship in the under 12 section, exploded for 9 runs in beating Mount Vernon 9-5 in the final round of the tournament. Because Canfield and Mount Vernon both have a 1-1 record against each other, they play for the final Championship on Saturday, July 26th.

Colton Crissman had two hits for Canfield, including a solo home run. Drew Beck, Edmond Pilolli and Zach Kuchmaner 2 hits each.  Michael Kindinis added a 3-run home run, and Joe Kleeh had a double.

Mount Vernon rallied a comeback in the top of the 6th, scoring 5 runs on 3 hits. 

Colton Crissman pitched 5 2/3 innings giving up 5 hits with 5 strikeouts.  Michael Kindinis closed the game retiring the last batter.

Watch this space for the exciting conclusion to Canfield’s winning season!

This years Hall of Fame will have special meaning for me.  One of the all time greatest pitchers is inducted in the Hall of Fame and rightfully so. Goose was not only a great reliever but, in 1974 when I was called up to the Big Leagues, he was also my roommate.

I had the privilege to room with Gossage that year and truth is not only was he a great pitcher but he was a great friend. I got to know Goose and his lovely wife Corna that year in Winter Ball in Puerto Rico even more and to this day we still talk about those times. This year when I called to congratulate him on his induction he asked how my parents were and said he still has and uses the Nativity Set my Mother made for him in 1974. That was special and, more importantly, tells you what a great guy he is and will always be. He is still the kindest and most genuine person you’ll ever know. A Hall of Famer in Life

I, like everyone else who has ever met Goose Gossage, am thrilled and excited to see him get into the Hall of Fame. He is truly an individual who should be remembered for not only his performance on the field but for his truly human qualities off the field.