West Win SCCBA All-Star Game
West Beat East 5-4

(Saturday, July 26, 2008) Palm Springs, California. Saturday July 26th marks the night of the Realty Executives Desert Cities Home Run Derby and All-Star Game. The SCCBA Western Division, which included the East LA Dodgers, So Cal Bombers, So Cal Fire, and South Bay Saints won a close game against the SCCBA Eastern Division teams of Palm Springs POWER, Rancho Belago Rockets, and the So Cal Bears.

The Eastern Division had a 3-0 lead until the seventh inning when the West scored four runs on four hits and a fielder’s choice. The West continued to hold the lead as they scored another run in the eighth inning. In the bottom of the ninth the East attempted to make a come-back as they scored one run on an error and a double.

“It was good to see such a closely matched game,” said Power President Andrew Starke. “It shows just how completive our league is with the Rancho Belago Rockets from the Eastern Division Winning the League Championship this year and the Western Division All-stars winning the game tonight.”

Tonight’s win for the Western Division brings them to 2-0 in SCC All-Star play.

POWER GROUND AIRFORCE
POWER Out With A Bang 23-1
(30-12, 13,8)

(Friday, July 25, 2008) Palm Springs, California. The POWER finish the season with a 30-12 record.

POWER bats came alive tonight as they were led by University of San Diego’s Michael Lugo who went three for three with 5 RBIs, Cal Baptist’s Zack Hedges who went five for six with two RBIs, and University of California-Riverside’s Brett Hambright who went two for four with two RBIs- including a solo homerun.

Tonight’s blowout featured six POWER pitchers including: Long Beach State’s Tyler Topp who took the win, going three innings only allowing for two hits while striking out five before Cal State Northridge’s Billy Ott stepped up to the mound for two innings in which one unearned run scored- making way to Sacramento State’s Brandon Sandoval, College of the Desert’s Angel Mata, University of Portland’s Ed Wakefield, and Loyola Marymount’s Ernie Cho who all went one inning. Collectively the POWER pitching staff allowed only four hits while striking out twelve batsmen and walking two.

Saturday will be the Realty Executive Desert City’s All-Star Game and Homerun Derby. This event will feature players from seven of the eight teams in the SCCBA including the Palm Springs POWER. The homerun derby will start at 6:15 p.m. with the game to follow afterwards at approximately 7:30 p.m. Saturday is also Fan Appreciation Night. The POWER are planning on giving out over 100 giveaways from local sponsors as it is the last event of the season at Palm Springs Stadium.

POWER Burned By Fire
Palm Springs POWER Eliminated in First Round of Playoffs

(July 23, 2008) Redlands, California – The Palm Springs POWER were defeated 6-4 by the So Cal Fire, ending their hopes for a second SCC league title.

The game got off to a rocky start for the POWER as starting pitcher Ben Guidos, from the University of Washington, gave up a solo home run to the second batter of the game. Before leaving the game after only three innings, Guidos would give up two more runs while walking two Fire batters on the night.

The POWER were able to climb back into the game as they scored one run in the 4th inning after UNLV’s Rance Roundy led off the inning with a double before Josh Manzano would drive him in on a sacrifice fly to left field. The POWER added another run in the 6th and took the lead in the 7th when Dominic Zuniga doubled in Michael Lugo and would end up scoring on a double steal between second base and home plate with Bobby Burk.

Sacramento State’s Chris Baek came in to pitch the fourth inning and pitched well until the eighth when two runs scored on three hits and an error. The Fire would score one more insurance run in the ninth on a solo home run, handing Baek his third loss of the season.

POWER in heaven after 11
POWER Scrap Together a Win in Bottom of 11th
(29-11, 13-7)

(Saturday, July 19, 2008) Palm Springs, California. The Palm Springs POWER come out victorious after two extra innings against the East LA Dodgers.

The POWER seemed to have found their bats as runners Bobby Burk from Cal Baptist and Rance Roundy from UNLV scored on a single by Garrett Buechele from University of Oklahoma, giving POWER one-run lead in the bottom of the first. After two runs were scored by the East LA Dodgers in the top of the second, Ryan Scott from University of Washington scored the tying run for the POWER on a passed ball. Both teams went silently through the next eight innings until Michael Lugo from University of San Diego pinch hit in the 11th with one out on the board and singled to right to start the POWER rally. Lugo then stole second, and advanced to third on a ball four pass ball to Zack Hedges. Sharif Othman from Cal Baptist came to the plate and grounded a ball to the second baseman on a hit-and-run which Hedges beat the throw to second base on the attempted double play turn by the Dodgers which allowed Lugo to score the winning run.

Cal Baptist’s Sean Urena started on the mound for the POWER and pitched the first four innings, allowing for three runs to score before handing the ball over to Cal State Northridge’s Billy Ott who pitched two innings, only allowing for one hit while striking out three batsmen. College of the Desert’s Angel Mata and Sacramento State’s Brandon Sandoval pitched one inning a piece before Loyola Marymount’s Ernie Cho came in to pitch shutout baseball, striking out five in the last three innings, earning his third win of the season.

Ben Guidos from University of Washington will be starting on the mound for the POWER on Wednesday at 7:05 PM. Wednesday night is a playoff game and will be against the second place team from the SCC Western Division.

POWER UNABLE TO DODGE LOSS
POWER Hitting Was Non-existent
(28-11, 12-7)

(Friday, July 18, 2008) Palm Springs, California. POWER take a loss against the East LA Dodgers 6-4.

POWER started the game well, scoring a run in the first on a single by Cal Baptist’s Bobby Burk which was followed by a run in the third when Cal Baptist’s Dominic Zuniga scored on an error by the East LA Dodgers first baseman. The team went silently through the next five innings until the bottom of the ninth as POWER attempted their famous come from behind victory scoring two runs on. The rally was short lived, with bases loaded and two outs on the board a fly to center ended the game.

Tyler Topp from Long Beach State started on the mound for the POWER and pitched seven innings only allowing for two unearned runs to score. Sacramento State’s Chris Baek, who took the loss, and University of Portland’s Ed Wakefield pitched the eighth and ninth innings respectively allowing two runs to score in each of the last two innings, although one of Wakefield’s was unearned.

Cal Baptist’s Sean Urena will be starting on the mound for the POWER Saturday at 7:05 p.m. in a second game against the East LA Dodgers. Saturday is Christmas in July in which attendees may bring the spirit of Christmas to the summer months by bringing new, unwrapped toys to be donated to less fortunate children in the valley in order to receive a voucher for a free hot dog.

POWER SURF the Waves
POWER Pitching Send Waves Crashing Down
(28-10, 12-6)

(Wednesday, July 16, 2008) Palm Springs, California. The Palm Springs POWER wins 4-2 against the San Diego Waves.

The POWER jumped out to a three nothing lead in the third off a sacrifice fly by University of California Riverside’s Brett Hambright, and a single by University of Oklahoma’s Zach Hedges. In the sixth inning, the POWER scored an insurance run when an error by the Wave’s second baseman brought Chaffey College’s Josh Manzano home.

Ben Guidos, from University of Washington, started on the mound for the POWER. Guidos pitched six nearly flawless innings with the exception of allowing one run to score in the fifth before handing the ball over to Sacramento State’s Chris Baek in the seventh. Baek finished the game, striking out three while only allowing two hits.

Long Beach State’s Tyler Topp will be starting for the POWER on Friday at 7:05 p.m. against the conference leader’s the East L.A. Dodgers. Friday is Host Family Appreciation Night in which POWER will express their sincerest gratitude to the families who have opened up their homes to POWER players this season.

POWER Split Double Header with Rockets
POWER Take Game One 17-9 Lose Game Two 8-5
(27-10, 12-6)

(July 13, 2008) San Jacinto, California — In game one of the Sunday afternoon double header between the Palm Springs POWER and the Rancho Belago Rockets, the POWER pulled off an exciting 9th inning come back.

The POWER jumped out to 4-0 lead through the first four innings as POWER starting pitcher Ed Wakefield from the Univ. of Portland was perfect through his first 6 innings. Then in the bottom of the 7th a leadoff error followed by three consecutive singles touched up Wakefield for 3 runs to make the game 4-3.  In the top of the 8th the POWER offense answered with 3 runs of their own on one hit, two walks and two sacrifices to bring the score to 7-3 POWER.  In the bottom of the inning Angel Mata out of COD came on to pitch but could only manage 2 outs before handing the ball over to USC’s Ryan Cabral. The inning was filled with 5 Rocket hits, 1 POWER error and 5 runs scored to make it 8-7 Rockets. In the top of the 9th the POWER broke loose for their best inning of the season scoring 10 runs on 6 hits 3 walks and 1 hit batsman making it 17-8 POWER.

Leading the way for the offense was Univ. of Hawaii’s Matt Roquemore going 4-5 with 2 runs scored and a stolen base. Also adding two hits apiece was Oklahoma’s Garret Buechele, Washington State’s John Desmarais, and Univ. of Portland’s Garret Queen. Picking up his first win of the season was Ryan Cabral.

In game 2 of the double header the Rockets jumped out to an early 2-0 lead in the first before the POWER tied it up at two in the 3rd.  Starting pitcher for the POWER out of Palm Desert High School and Loyola Marymount Univ. Ernie Cho managed only 4 2/3s innings leaving the game down 7-3.  Cal State Northridge’s Billy Ott pitched the final 3 1/3 innings giving up only one run in the 7th.  The POWER tried mounting comebacks in the 6th & 8th innings but could only score 2 runs leaving 5 runners on base in the final 3 innings.

The POWER offense was lead by Cal Baptist University’s Bobby Burk and WSU’s John Desmarais who each had 2 hits in the final game.

POWER SHUTOUT BY ROCKETS
POWER Hitters Never Showed Up
(26-9, 11-5)

(Saturday, July 12, 2008) Palm Springs, California. POWER take a second consecutive loss against the Rancho Belago Rockets 6-0.

The POWER were unable to produce tonight due to a virtually nonexistent offense and poor defense. The team was shutout by the Rocket’s pitching staff, managing only four hits on the night.

POWER defense gave up six runs on nine hits and three errors. POWER starter from Cal Baptist University Sean Urena only had one blemish giving up a two-run homerun in the third inning. Reliever Brandon Sandoval pitched a 1-2-3 seventh and was unable to make an out in the eighth as three runners scored before giving way to Cal Baptist University’s Zach Hedges to finish the game.

The POWER will re-group to play a double header Sunday at Mnt. San Jacinto College at 1:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. against the same division rivals the Rancho Belago Rockets with University of Portland’s Ed Wakefield and Loyola Marymount’s Ernie Cho starting on the mound (directions to the College are linked to the bottom of the schedule page)
After an off day on Monday and Tuesday the POWER will return home on Wednesday night at 7:05 with University of Washington’s Ben Guidos starting. Wednesday is Democratic Party Night. Local Politicians and Democratic Candidates such as Greg Pettis and Julie Bournstine as well as representatives from their staff will be on hand.

POWER LOSE NAILBITER
POWER Unable to Pull Off Bottom of 9th Victory
(26-8, 11-4)

(Friday, July 11, 2008) Palm Springs, California. POWER take loss against the Rancho Belago Rockets 2-1.

POWER scoring was slow tonight as the Rockets scored one unearned run in the first and held the lead the next five innings until the tying run was scored by Chaffey College’s Josh Manzano. The tie was held until the top of the eighth when the Rockets scored yet another unearned run on a cross up on signals between pitcher Chris Baek and catcher Brett Hambright from University of California, Riverside allowing a passed ball and the runner from third to score. The POWER attempted a come back in the bottom of the ninth but could not deliver. With one out and runners on first and second the POWER were unable to execute a bunt and run advancing the runners to manufacture a classic ninth inning comeback. Instead, the final two outs were routine fly outs.

The POWER pitching staff consisting of: Long Beach State’s Tyler Topp, Sacramento State’s Chris Baek, and College of the Desert’s Angel Mata held a close game allowing no earned runs to score while combining for eleven strikeouts.

Riverside Community College’s Sean Urena will make his 2008 POWER debut as the starting pitcher Saturday Night at 7:05 for their second game against Eastern division rivals the Rancho Belago Rockets Saturday is Rancho Mirage Community Night in which residents receive $5 admission with valid identification.

POWER WALK PAST TERROR
Patient POWER Hitters Create Terror
(26-7, 11-3)

(Wednesday, July 9, 2008) Palm Springs, California. The POWER shutout the Terror 21-0.

The POWER got off to a great start with a four run lead in the first including an RBI by newcomer Bobby Burk from Cal Baptist. The POWER offense continued its reign scoring two more runs over the next three innings. In the fifth the team batted around twice and scored thirteen runs on just five hits, two errors, and eight walks and would continue to score as they racked up twenty-one runs in only six offensive innings.

Starting on the mound for the POWER was Brent Bray from Cypress College who pitched six scoreless innings earning his third win of the season before handing the ball over to University of Oklahoma’s Zach Hedge’s who completed the shutout with a 1-2-3 seventh inning.

Long Beach State’s Tyler Topp takes the mound for the POWER Friday at 7:05 p.m. against the Rancho Belago Rocket in a pivotal conference game. Friday is ladies night. All women attendees will receive $5 admission.

Power Man Handle Bears
Palm Springs Power Sweep Double Header
(25-7, 11-3)

(July 8, 2008) Fontana, California – The Palm Springs Power take the second game of a Double header 12-5 from the So Cal Bears.

Cal State Northridge’s Billy Ott got the start in the second game struggling slightly in just four innings of work. The Power bullpen took it the rest of the way as local boy, Angle Mata from College of the Desert pitched the fifth and sixth innings giving up only one hit while striking out two and walking zero, to earn his fourth victory of the season. USC’s Ryan Cabral pitch a strong seventh and eighth striking out three men while allowing one run on three hits. A scoreless ninth was pitched by Loyola Marymount’s Ernie Cho who closed out the game.

The Power offense got off to a strong start as three runs scored in each the first two innings. Standing out at the plate was Washington State University’s John Desmarais who went two for five with a triple and four RBI’s. University of Oklahoma’s Garrett Bouchele also went two for five with a homerun and single and three RBI’s of his own.

The Power return home Wednesday at 7:05 PM to face the Inland Empire Terror. Cypress College’s Brent Bray will take the mound for the Power in search of his third win. Wednesday is the Power’s second pride night of the summer.

POWER Send Bears Bats into Hibernation
POWER Take the First Win in Double-Header
(24-7, 10-3)

(Tuesday, July 8, 2008) Fontana, California. The POWER pull out close win against the So Cal Bears 5-3.

The POWER was off to a great start as they began scoring early in the top of the second on a two run single by University of Hawaii’s Matt Roquemore. Cal Baptist’s Dominic Zuniga led the team going three for three with one RBI.

University of Washington’s Ben Guidos started on the mound for the POWER. Guidos had no trouble finding the strike zone as he struck out ten batters in seven innings, only allowing for three runs to score. Sacramento State’s Chris Baek then came in to close the game with four strikeouts in the final two innings.

POWER COME OUT FLAT
POWER Take A 6-3 Loss
(23-7, 9-3)

(July 6, 2008) Palm Springs, California. The POWER were unable to come up with a second win against Division rivals the So Cal Bears.
POWER hitting was slow as they scored two runs in eight innings. The team attempted to come back from a four run deficit in the bottom of the ninth, scoring one run on a single by University of California, Riverside’s Brett Hambright. However, the rally was stopped short when the Bear’s pitcher induced a weak fly to left field and a strikeout to end the game with two runners on base.
The starting pitcher for the POWER was Sacramento State’s Trevor York who picked up his first loss in three years to bring his career record to 13–1. Brandon Sandoval also out of Sacramento State and Loyola Marymount’s Ernie Cho finished the final three innings giving up one unearned run.  All three POWER pitchers combined to give up six runs on eight hits and three errors with only two of the runs being earned.
After an off day on Monday the POWER will travel to either Chaffey College or AB Miller H.S. to play a double-header against the So Cal Bears at 1:00 p.m. & 4:00 p.m. with Univ. of Washington’s Ben Guidos throwing the first game and Cal State Northridge’s Billy Ott pitching the second game.  The POWER return home Wednesday night at 7:05 p.m. to face the Inland Empire Terror. Wednesday night is the second Pride Night of the season.

POWER MAUL THE BEARS
Defense and Offense Unite to Earn POWER the Win
(23-6, 9-2)

(Saturday, July 5, 2008) Palm Springs, California. The Power beat division rivals Southern California Bears 6-1 to re-take first place in the SCC Eastern Division.

The team was led by Washington State’s Michael Weber who went two for three with three RBI’s and Liberty University’s P. J. Jimenez who went two for five with two RBI’s extending his hitting streak to 20 game.

Long Beach State’s Tyler Topp started on the mound only allowing for one unearned run to score in seven innings pitched before handing the ball over to Sacramento State’s Chris Baek who closed the game.

“It was good to see the bats come alive tonight,” said POWER hitting Coach Earl Smith, “combined with steady pitching the team had a solid victory.”

Sacramento State’s Trevor York will be starting on the mound for the POWER Sunday at 7:05 p.m. Sunday is Motorcycle Night featuring a special pre-game motorcycle parade; in witch all motorcyclists are invited to drive their motorcycles on the field for the National Anthem.

POWER DOMINATE West Coast Military All stars
POWER Second Shut-out Win of Season
(22-6, 8-2)

(Friday, July 4, 2008) Palm Springs, California. Palm Springs POWER take an easy win from the West Cost Military All Stars 12-0

The POWER excelled tonight, with beautifully executed plays and stellar defense. Offensively, the team was led by University of Hawaii’s Matt Roquemore who went three for four with an RBI scoring Oklahoma State University’s Garrett Buechele in the fifth inning.

POWER pitching staff consisting of University of Portland’s Ed Wakefield, Oklahoma State’s Zach Hedges, College of the Desert’s Angel Mata, Cypress College’s Brent Bray, and University of Southern California’s Ryan Cabral combined efforts for their second shut out of the season. The bullpen collectively, only allowed five hits while striking out sixteen and walking two.

Long Beach State’s Tyler Topp will take the mound for the Power Saturday at 7:05 as they take on Division rivals, the California Bears. Saturday is La Quinta Community Night where all residents will get in for $5 with Valid ID.

POWER Breeze Past Mariners
Strong Pitching, Timely Hitting Get It Done Again
(21-6,8-2)

(Wednesday, July 2, 2008) Palm Springs, California. The Palm Springs POWER win 7-2 against the O.C. Mariners.

The POWER got out to an early one nothing lead in the first with a single by P.J. Jimenez from Liberty University that scored Washington State’s Michael Weber. The POWER offense went virtually silent with only one hit in through the next four innings. Down two to one, scoring resumed in the sixth, when three runs were scored on a triple by Weber, a single by Jimenez and a sacrifice fly by University of Oklahoma’s Zach Hedges. The POWER added three insurance runs in the eighth on a two run single by University of Portland’s Garrett Queen and a single by Hedges.

Long Beach State’s Tyler Topp started on the mound for the POWER pitching only one inning before handing the ball over to Cal State Northridge’s Billy Ott. Ott pitched well his first three innings before running into trouble in the fifth when two men scored on a walk and a single. Cypress College’s Brent Bray came in the top of the sixth to pitch 2 1/3 innings earning him his second win of the season making way for Sacramento State’s Brandon Sandoval to close the game.

Starting for the POWER on the Fourth of July will be University of Portland’s Ed Wakefield as the POWER take on the Davis Monthan Mustangs out of Davis Monthan Air Force Base in Tucson, Arizona. The July 4th game has a special 6:05 p.m. start time due to the City of Palm Spring’s annual firework show which will take place in the skies above the right-field wall. Other holiday festivities include: special pre and post game performances by the Impulse Drum and Bugle Core, along with raffles and giveaways by Hotel Zoso and The Businesses Improvement District of Palm Springs.

Power Fall To Saints
POWER Strands 13 Runners on Base
(20-6, 8-2)

(July 1, 2008) Carson, California – The Palm Springs POWER fall to the South Bay Saints 4-3.

On a beautiful Tuesday afternoon on the campus of Cal State Dominguez Hills, the POWER hitters were unable to come up with a clutch hit.  The 3,4,5,6, hitters in the line up combined for dismal 1-17 while the rest of the lineup went 7-14.  The 13 runners left on base provided ample opportunities for the POWER to take control of the game but the big hit never came.

On the mound for the POWER was Univ. of Washington’s Ben Guidos who went 4 innings striking out 5 and surrendering 3 runs with 2 earned. Chris Baek from Sac State came in relief throwing 3 shutout innings before turning the ball over to C.O.D.’s Angel Mata.  Mata threw a 1,2,3, 8th inning but in a 3-3 ballgame in the 9th he walked the leadoff hitter, who was bunted over to second base before the game winning double was delivered by the Saints Ryan Burleson.

Offensively the POWER were led by Washington State’s Michael Weber who went 2-3 with a double, triple, and scored the tying run in the top of the 9th.  The POWER will return to action Wednesday night at Palm Springs Stadium as they take on the O.C. Mariners at 7:05pm.  Cal State Northridge’s Billy Ott will start on the mound for the POWER as it will be Must Win Wednesday where if the POWER don’t win, every fan in attendance at the end of the game will receive a free meal voucher to a future POWER game.  The POWER will also be celebrating Republican Party night with Assembly Candidate Brian Nestande participating in the First Pitch.

POWER Knock Wind Out Of EAGLES
Pitching Staff Combines For 16 Strikeouts
(18-5, 6-1)

(June 28, 2008) Palm Springs, California – The Palm Springs POWER defeat the California Eagles 7 -1.

Loyola Marymount’s Ernie Cho pitched five strong innings giving up just one run on five hits while striking out six with no walks. The sixth, seventh and eighth innings were covered by Sacramento State’s Chris Beck who struck out an additional six batters while only giving up two hits. The game came to a close with University of Portland’s Ed Wakefield striking out the only three batters he faced.

The POWER offense started off slow with only two hits through the first five innings before erupting in the sixth, when they sent 13 men to the plate to score seven runs on seven hits. They were led by University of Hawaii’s Matt Roquemore who went two for four including a single to lead off the seventh inning and Washington State University’s Michael Webber who also went two for four with an RBI double.

“It was a big night for our pitching staff,” said POWER Manager Estevan Valencia. “They did a great job holding off the other team all night.”

POWER Soar over Eagles
POWER Offence Combines For 15 Runs Off 17 Hits
(17-5, 5-1)

(June 27, 2008) Palm Springs, California — The Power, capitalizing on timely hitting, scored early and often to get a lopsided victory.

After starting the game with three in the first, the power went on to score three more in the second, four in the fifth, two in the sixth, and three in the seventh. Offensively they were led by Liberty University’s PJ Jimenez who went three for three, and was hit by a pitch. Jimenez also had two RBI’s, and scored two runs, while extending his hitting streak to 13 games. Washington State University’s John Desmarais also went three for five, with a stolen base, an RBI, and three runs scored.

The POWER pitching staff worked well tonight combining to only give up one run. Sacramento State University’s Trevor York started the game and went five strong innings giving up three hits, striking out three with no walks. Cypress College’s Brent Bray pitched the sixth and seventh, and gave up the only Eagle run of the night. Oklahoma University’s Zach Hedges then came in to pitch a one-two-three eighth, before he handed the ball over to Sacramento State University’s Brandon Sandoval, who closed out the game.

“It was nice to see all three facets of the game played the way they were tonight” said Manager Estevan Valencia. “The hitting got off to a great start, pitchers were able to locate their pitches, and the defense was much improved.”

Loyola Marymount’s Ernie Cho, a graduate of Palm Desert High School, will take the mound Saturday night as the POWER face the Eagles again at 7:05. Saturday is Indian Wells, Bermuda Dunes, and 29 Palms Community Night where residents of those three communities’ will get in for just $5 with valid ID.

Power Return to Winning Ways
Power Beat the Saints 4-2
(16-5, 4-1)

(June 25, 2008) Palm Springs, California – The Palm Springs Power improve their SCC conference record to 4-1 with a win over the South Bay Saints 4-2.

Tyler Topp out of Long Beach State pitched seven strong innings only giving up one run on four hits; having five strikeouts and no walks. Angel Mata, out of the College of the Desert, came in and faced the minimum in the eighth. The ninth inning brought slight excitement as Ryan Cabral out of USC struck out one and walked three before turning the ball over to Ed Wakefield, out of the University of Portland. Wakefield picked up his first save of the season striking out both hitters he faced.

The Power were lead at the plate by Bret Hambright, out of the University of Riverside, who was a home run shy of the cycle. Hambright had one RBI, and scored two runs. Rance Roundy, out of the UNLV, also went three for four having two RBI’s. The always reliable PJ Jimenez came up clutch extending his hit streak to twelve games, and scored a run in the sixth and had an RBI in the seventh.

Sacramento State University’s Trevor York will take the mound for the Palm Springs Power on Friday at 7:05 pm. against SCC division rivals, the California Eagles. Friday is Indio and Coachella Community night where all residents from there get in for five dollars with a valid ID.

POWER Drop tough conference game to Fire
(15-5, 3-1)

The Palm Springs POWER fell to conference rivals the So Cal Fire 3-2 Tuesday night in Anaheim. Starting Pitcher Ben Guides from the University of Washington took the loss despite pitching well going 5 innings giving up only 2 runs with 1 strikeout and no base on balls. Palm Deserts High School graduate Cody Wise and Sacramento State pitcher Chris Baek pitched the final 3 innings giving up 1 run.

Offensively the POWER were lead by UNLV outfielder Rance Roundy who went 3-4 with a double while University of Oklahoma’s Garrett Buechele collected 2 hits and on RBI.

This is the first time in 4 years the POWER have lost 3 games in a row and look to get back to their winning ways Wednesday night as they take on another conference rival the South Bay Saints at Palm Springs Stadium. Game time is scheduled for 7:05pm with Long Beach States Tyler Topp as the starting pitcher for the POWER. Wednesday night will also be Rocky the Ram’s Birthday as he will be joined by mascots from around Southern California.

Bullpen lets one slip away
8 Walks and 7 Hit Batsmen Cost POWER the Game
(15-4, 3-0)

(Sunday, June 22, 2008) Palm Springs, California. The POWER were handed their second loss in a row at the hands of the Nor Cal Longhorns 7-5.

Power offence started off slow but held its own in the middle innings as three men scored in the fourth on a triple by University of Oklahoma’s Zach Hedges, a double by Washington State’s John Desmarais, and a single by Liberty University’s P.J. Jimenez. Scoring continued for the POWER in the fifth as two runs were scored on two singles by Cal Baptist’s Dominic Zuniga and University of San Diego’s Michael Lugo. However at the end of the night, inability to capitalize with runners in scoring position prevented the team from having one of their famous bottom of the ninth comebacks.

Starting on the mound for the POWER was Cal State Northridge’s Billy Ott who allowed for two runs to score in the four innings pitched. College of the Desert’s Angel Mata then came in and pitched a scoreless six before handing the ball over to Loyola Marymount’s Ernie Cho who gave up two runs on an error and two hit batsmen. University of Southern California’s, normally reliable, Ryan Cabral gave up three runs on three hits, two walks, and three hit batsmen in the 2/3 inning he pitched, blowing his first save. Sacramento State’s Brandon Sandoval then came in to mop up the ninth inning striking out the only batter he faced.

University of Washington’s Ben Guidos will be starting for the POWER on Tuesday at 4:00 PM as they travel to Lora High School in Anaheim to face SCC Rivals the So Cal Fire in the first of seven straight conference games. The Power will return home Wednesday at 7:05 PM to play the South Bay Saints and celebrate birthday of their beloved mascot, Rocky the Ram. Tundra and other mascots from around Southern California such as Bailey from the LA Kings and Thunder from the Lake Elsinore Storm will also be in attendance.

POWER DOMINATED BY LONGHORN PITCHING
POWER Handed Third Loss of Season 6-2
By Priscilla Yacoub

(15-3, 3-0)
(Saturday, June 21, 2008) Palm Springs, California. Palm Springs POWER unable to fight their way back to a win.

Starting on the mound for the POWER was Cypress College’s Brent Bray who got into trouble in the first when four men scored on two errors, a single, and four walks. Bray did not last much longer as Sacramento State University’s Chris Baek had to come in to get the final out in the second. Baek proceeded to pitch four more innings before handing the ball over to Tennessee Wesleyan’s Cody Wise, who pitched a scoreless seventh. University of Portland’s Ed Wakefield continued with strong pitching in the eighth and ninth.

The POWER attempted to recover from the Longhorns’ early 4-0 lead in the first. They continually put men on base but were unable to get timely hit and were unable to capitalize on Longhorn mistakes. Offensively, Chaffey College’s Josh Manzano went 3 for four and UNLV’s Rance Roundy went 2 for 4 with 2 RBIs.

Billy Ott from Cal State Northridge will be starting on the mound for the POWER Sunday night at 7:05 p.m as the POWER take on the Longhorns a second time. Sunday night is Cancer Awareness Night. Fantastic Sam’s will be out giving free buzz cuts and accepting donations to raise money for The American Cancer Society.

POWER SCRATCH OUT A WIN
Power Beat The Cougars 7-5
(15-2, 3-0)

(Friday, June 20, 2008) Palm Springs, California. The POWER defeat the Denver Cougars in a back-and-forth game.
While the Cougars jumped out to a one nothing lead in the second, the POWER quickly came back in the third scoring five runs on four hits and three Cougar errors. Offensively, the POWER were led by University of Oklahoma’s Zach Hedges’ two run single and Chaffey College’s Josh Manzano who hit a triple in the seventh inning and scored on a throwing error by the second baseman in the same play.
The POWER bullpen held the game with College of the Desert’s Angel Mata who pitched the seventh and took the win, despite giving up one run. University of Washington’s Ben Guidos then came in, and while he allowed two hits, he struck out the side, before handing the ball over to University of Southern California’s Ryan Cabral in the ninth to earn his fifth save of the season.
Brent Bray, from Cypress College will be starting for the POWER Saturday at 7:05 p.m. against the Nor Cal Longhorns. Community Nights continue as the POWER honor Palm Desert and Thousand Palms. Residents of both communities and will receive $5 admission with valid identification.

POWER ROB BARONS
POWER Hold On in the Ninth For the Win
(Wednesday, June 18, 2008) Palm Springs, California. The Power took the second game of the two game series against the Urban Baseball Academy Barons 9-7.
For the second night in a row the POWER jumped out to an early two nothing lead off a hit, two walks and two errors. POWER scoring continued steadily all night. The offense was lead by University of Washington catcher, Ryan Scott who went three for four including a walk, a triple and a two run home run.
Loyola Marymount’s Ernie Cho made his first Power start of the season going four strong innings allowing only one hit while striking out four. In the fifth inning, University of Portland’s Ed Wakefield came in and had a quick fifth but ran into trouble in the sixth when three runs scored on a hit, an error, and a passed ball. University of Oklahoma’s Zach Hedges filled out the next two innings making way for Sacramento State’s Brandon Sandoval who pitched a scary ninth allowing two runs to score before a double play finished the game.
Sacramento State’s Trevor York will be the starting pitcher for the POWER on Friday at 7:05 p.m. Friday is Knott’s Soak City Night in which the first two hundred children 11 and under will receive a voucher good for free admission to Knott’s Soak City Palm Springs.

POWER COME OUT ON TOPP
POWER Profit Off Baron Errors
By Priscilla Yacoub
(13-2, 3-0)
(Tuesday, June 17, 2008) Palm Springs, California. The POWER take a 7-4 win against the Compton Urban Youth Baseball Academy Barons.
The POWER jumped out to an early two-nothing lead in the first when Cal Baptist’s Dominic Zuniga scored on a triple by Liberty University’s P.J. Jimenez. Jimenez then scored on a sacrifice fly by Oklahoma University’s Zach Hedges. The POWER continued to capitalize on Baron errors, scoring two in the fifth and four more in the seventh.
The POWER starting pitcher Tyler Topp, from Long Beach State, did a fantastic job allowing only one run in six innings pitched. Christopher Baek from Sacramento State faired well in the seventh but met trouble in the eighth when three men scored on three hits and a walk. College of the Desert’s Angel Mata stepped up to the mound in the ninth, to earn his first save of the season.
“It’s good to see the team continuously improving,” said POWER owner Andrew Starke.
Ernie Cho from Loyola Marymount University will be starting for the POWER Wednesday night at 7:05 p.m. in the second of two games against the Barons. This is another POWER Must Win Wednesday, if the POWER do not win, everyone in the stands at the end of the game will receive a voucher for a free hot dog and soda on a return trip. The POWER will also be honoring the various youth associations of the valley Wednesday night as all children wearing a scouting uniform or showing valid membership in a youth organization (such as YMCA or the Boys and Girls Club) will get in free with a paying adult.

POWER PITCHING DOMINATE SOX
Team Defense Excels Behind Strong Pitching

(Sunday, June 15, 2008) Palm Springs, California. POWER close this two game series against the Colorado Sox with a 4-2 win.
The Sox opened scoring in the top of the fourth. The POWER responded in the bottom of the inning with a run by University of Oklahoma’s Garrett Buechele and again in the fifth with Josh Manzano’s single which scored Liberty University’s P.J. Jimenez. The POWER put the game out of reach, with a run in the seventh on Chase Powell’s sacrifice fly and in the eighth with a run scored by Buechele on a passed ball.
The POWER starting pitcher Billy Ott from Cal State Northridge had an excellent game with nine strikeouts and one walk in six innings. University of Washington’s Ben Guidos made his POWER debut on the mound tonight pitching two scoreless innings before running into trouble in the ninth. University of Southern California’s Ryan Cabral came in and struck out the final batter earning his fourth save.
“The pitching staff rose to the occasion tonight working hard on a night when the offense didn’t score a lot of runs,” said the POWER pitching coach Javier Mejia.

POWER SLIT THE SOXS
POWER Break 5-5 Tie In Bottom Of Ninth

(Saturday, June 14, 2008) Palm Springs, California. The Palm Springs POWER improve their record to 11-2 by beating the Colorado Sox 6-5.

The Sox jumped out to an early two-nothing lead on an error and a wild pitch in the second inning. Starting pitcher Brent Bray from Cypress College began to settle down, pitching the next four innings with five strikeouts and allowing only two hits. In the seventh inning, Brandon Sandoval from Sacramento State University came in and uncharacteristically gave up three runs on four hits while managing to strikeout four batsmen. The winning pitcher, Ernie Cho from Loyola Marymount, came in to finish the inning by striking out five and allowing only two hits.

Offensively the POWER were led by, P.J. Jimenez who went three for four including a sacrifice fly which scored the first POWER run of the game. Dominic Zuniga from Cal Baptist University who went four for five, scoring three runs. Zuniga got on in the ninth inning with a single and eventually came around to score the winning run when a wild pitch was thrown to Zach Hedges.

“The team keeps improving every day and we love their ‘Never Say Die’ attitude,” says POWER owner Andrew Starke.

Billy Ott from Cal State Northridge will be starting pitcher Sunday at 7:05 p.m. for the POWER. Sunday is Father’s Day and the POWER invite you to bring your dad out for a pre-game catch on the field before the game from 6:30-6:45 p.m.

POWER DROP THE BOMBERS
POWER Improve Conference Record to 3-0
By Priscilla Yacoub

(10-2, 3-0)
(Friday, June 13, 2008) Palm Springs, California. The POWER played an exciting game against the So Cal Bombers taking a 13-7 win.

The POWER offense got off to a great start with a double by Oklahoma State University’s Zach Hedges which scored both Matt Roquemore and P.J. Jimenez. University of California Riverside’s Brett Hambright hit a triple that scored Manzano and Powell in the fifth inning. The team’s bats continued to stay hot, as they scored two runs in the seventh and five in the eighth inning to put this one out of reach.

POWER’s starter, Trevor York from Sacramento State University pitched four scoreless innings. His only bit of trouble was when two unearned runs scored on an error and hit batsman in the top of the fifth. Wakefield then came in and faced the minimum in the sixth and seventh, in which a 5-4-3 triple play was beautifully executed, giving way to College of the Desert’s Angel Mata. Mata, unable to find the strike-zone handed the ball over to Ryan Cabral who pitched 1 1/3 innings with three strikeouts and a 6-3 putout.

“Both Rance Roundy and Brett Hambright had an impressive night, stepping up as leaders in their first POWER appearances”, said Manager Estevan Valencia.

Brent Bray from Cypress College will be starting for the POWER Saturday as they face the Colorado Sox in the first of a two game series. Saturday is Desert Hot Springs and Joshua Tree community night in which residents of both communities get in for $5 with valid identification.

TYLER TOPP’S FIRE
POWER Beat 2007 SCCBA Co-Champs 9-4
By Baylor Nicole Love (9-2, 2-0)

(June 11, 2008-Palm Springs, CA) Palm Springs Power takes the first of two rivalry games against the So Cal Fire, Co-Champions of the SCCBA last year with the Palm Springs POWER.

The game started slowly, with each team having just four hits apiece though the fifth inning. Though the Power scored one run in the third and one in the fifth their bats really heat up in the 7th inning when the Power offence erupted for four runs on five hits, including doubles by catcher Sherif Othman of Cal Baptist and first baseman Josh Manzano of Chaffey College. The Power capped off the evening by scoring three more runs in the bottom of the 8th.

“Timely hitting and capitalizing on walks really helped us tonight,” said Manger Estevan Valencia.

Power pitching was stellar tonight with starter Tyler Topp of Long Beach pitching a gem going seven innings with out allowing a walk or run, and striking out four. In the 8th he gave way to Brandon Sandavol who went one-two-three with a strikeout as well. The only spot of trouble for the Power was when normally stellar closer, Ryan Cabral of USC, allowed four runs in the ninth on four hits before loading the bases and handing the ball over to Ernie Cho for the final out.

CALIFORNIA MARINERS PULL PLUG ON POWER’S WINNING WAYS
POWER Offense Unable To Recover From Early Deficit
(8-2, 1-0)

(Tuesday, June 10, 2008) Palm Springs, California. Palm Springs POWER’s win streak ends at six at the hands of the California Mariners who handed them their second loss of the year 8-3.

The Mariners jumped to an early two-nothing lead in the first inning scoring on a single and a fielder’s choice. POWER pitching struggle all night with starter Angel Mata only working 1.2 innings and walking five men and giving up five runs on only three hits before turning the ball over to Baek in the second. The pitching was continued as Baek gave up two runs on five hits. Wakefield then stepped up to the mound giving up a home run to the first batter he faced while Cabral and Hedges each pitched an inning unscathed.

While the Power offense accumulated twelve hits, none of them were timely as they managed only three runs and left eight men on base.

POWER pitcher Tyler Topp from Long Beach State will be starting Wednesday at 7:05 p.m. against the So Cal Fire, co-champions with the POWER in SCCBA. Wednesday is “Must Win Wednesday” and the Palm Springs library will be taking sign-ups for their Summer reading program, “Catch the Reading Bug.”

POWER TAME WILDCATS
POWER Sweep Three-game Series Against Wildcats

(8-1, 1-0)
(Sunday, June 8, 2008) Palm Springs, California. POWER execute yet another impressive 4-3 victory in the bottom of the ninth.

The POWER continue to perfect the art of last-minute victories. The game had several heroes of the night, including, Michael Weber from Washington State University who hit a triple down the left field line and came around to score the tying run in the bottom of the fourth. The game then stayed knotted until the bottom of the ninth when John Desmarais, also from Washington State, stepped to the plate and took 1st on a dropped strike three. After a walk to Matt Roquemore and a double steal, Zach Hedges’ sacrifice fly to right field brought Desmarais home to win the game.

Starting for the POWER on the mound was Billy Ott from Cal State Northridge who pitched six innings giving up three runs on seven hits. The POWER got a big lift from Brandon Sandoval, striking out the side in back-to-back innings. Ernie Cho from Loyola Marymount then came in and pitched a scoreless top of the ninth to earn the win.

“Once again solid pitching made it possible for our hitters to get the job done late”, said POWER pitching coach, Javier Mejia, “Sandoval gave us a big lift with two quick, strong innings.”

Local boy Angel Mata from College of the Desert will be the starting pitcher for the POWER on Tuesday as they take on the California Mariners. Join the POWER family for another 2 for Tuesday where it will be two for one admission with $2 specials at the concession stand.

COMEBACK KIDS DO IT AGAIN
POWER Win Close Game Against Wildcats 4-3
By Priscilla Yacoub

(7-1, 1-0)
(Saturday, June 7, 2008) Palm Springs, California. For the second time this year, the POWER pull in the bottom of the 9th.

The situation looked grim for POWER down by one going into the bottom of the ninth, when the team pulled another exciting “come from behind” victory.  The hero of the night was University of Portland’s first baseman Chase Powell who had a dramatic 9th inning double that scored both Matt Roquemore and Zach Hedges.

The game was started by Ed Wakefield who pitched five strong innings including six strikeouts.
Wakefield’s only spot of trouble was in the fourth when the Wildcats managed to score three runs on two hits, an error, and a hit batsman. After a flawless fifth, Sacramento State Univ. pitcher Christopher Baek stepped in to finish out the game. Baek pitched the final four innings striking out six while allowing only two hits.

Starting pitcher Ed Wakefield said, “Chris came in and did an outstanding job keeping us in the game, enabling our hitters to rise to the occasion”

Billy Ott will be starting on the mound for the POWER Sunday night at 7:05 p.m as the POWER look to sweep the L.A. Wildcats in the three game series. Sunday is All Faith Night honoring all different congregations of the Valley. Please join us for a night of fellowship amongst the usual family fun.

POWER CLAW THE WILDCATS
POWER Pitchers Throw First Shut-Out of Season

(Friday, June 6, 2008) Palm Springs, California. POWER’s fourth consecutive win Friday Night was well earned against the L.A. Wildcats.

This victory was slow coming with both teams throwing up zeros until bottom of the 6th when the POWER scored two runs. The team was led by Chase Powell’s RBI triple that scored Josh Manzano and Garrett Buechele’s sacrifice fly that scored Powell.

Starting pitcher Brent Bray pitched 6 1/3 strong innings before getting into trouble in the seventh. After loading the bases, Brandon Sandoval stepped up to the mound and struck out the next two batters. With a 1-2-3 inning in the eighth, Sandoval then handed the ball over to Palm Desert Graduate Ernie Cho, who faced four batters in the ninth with two strikeouts and a groundout to earn his first save of the year.

“The pitchers pitched well today”, said POWER manager Estevan Valencia, “Bray battled in the first six innings before giving way to Brandon Sandoval who showed that he was capable of getting crucial outs in high pressure situations.”

The POWER will start University of Portland pitcher Ed Wakefield Saturday night as they continue the three-game set against the L.A. Wildcats. Saturday night is Cathedral City Community night where all Cathedral City residents get in for $5 with valid identification.

ANGEL MATA HAS HEAVENLY OUTTING
The Palm Springs POWER Beat The So Cal Bombers 3-1
(5-1, 1-0)

(June 5, 2008) Walnut, California; The Palm Springs Power win their first conference game against the So Cal Bombers, a 2008 addition to the Southern California Colligate Baseball Association.

College of the Desert standout, Angel Mata started for the POWER going 8 1/3 innings while striking out 8. The only blemish on Mata’s outing was one unearned run in the 4th inning. Ryan Cabral closed out the game facing 3 batters in 2/3 of an inning to earn his second save in as many days and struck out the final batter of the game.

Offensively, the POWER were lead by Josh Manzano (2 for 3 with a walk) John Desmarais of Washington State (2 for 4 with 2 singles). The POWER opened up scoring in the fourth with a Sharif Othman RBI single. In the 7th PJ Jimenez’s RBI single scored Matt Roquemore giving the POWER an insurance run.

Brent Bray looks for his first win as the POWER return home Friday at 7:05 for a three game set against LA Wildcats.

POWER WIN CLOSE GAME
Palm Springs Power Beat California Mariners 5-4

(Wednesday, June 4, 2008) Palm Springs, California. POWER delights in their second consecutive win against the California Mariners from Orange County.

The POWER pitching staff held the Mariners scoreless well into the sixth inning after jumping out to a four run lead.  It wasn’t until the 8th inning when the Mariners’ came to life as they strung together three runs on three hits and one walk to close the gap to 5-4.  In the top of the 9th USC standout Ryan Cabral come on and shut down the Mariners 1, 2, 3, to earn his first save of the season.

Palm Springs “Top pitchers, Tyler Topp and Ernie Cho did a great job to get us to the 9th so we could turn the ball over to (Ryan) Cabral”, said POWER pitching coach Javier Mejia.

Starting pitcher Tyler Topp made his POWER debut, out of Long Beach State pitching six innings and allowing only one run to score.

Offensively, the POWER were lead by Josh Manzano and John Demarais who each had 2 hits on the night.

Thursday the POWER will travel to Mount San Antonio College for their first SCCBA game of the year against the So Cal Bombers at 4pm with Angel Mata starting on the mound.  The POWER will return home Friday, Saturday, & Sunday to take on the L.A. Wildcats at Palm Springs Stadium with each game beginning at 7:05pm.

POWER DOMINATES U.S. MARINES 22-4
Power Start Strong and Carry Momentum All Game
3-1

(Tuesday, June 3, 2008) Palm Springs, California. POWER put this one away early against the U.S. Marines from Camp Pendleton by ending in the 8 1/2th inning.

The POWER got off to a great start with eight runs on eight hits in the first inning led by Zach Hedges bases clearing triple.  The POWER bats totaled 23 hits on the night with Josh Manzano going 4 for 5 including the first POWER home run of the season.

The POWER pitching staff of: Ed Wakefield, Michael Leal, and Ryan Cabral, combined for six strikeouts in eight innings of work as the game was called after 7 1/2th innings due to an exhausted bullpen on the part of the Marines.

The POWER will return to action Wednesday night as they take on the OC Mariners at 7:05 p.m. Long Beach State’s Tyler Topp will be making his Palm Springs POWER Debut on the mound as the POWER have their last tune-up game before starting conference play.

POWER Unable to Work Ninth Inning Magic
(2-1)
For the second night in a row, the POWER tried to make a late comeback against the San Francisco Seals, but tonight they came up one hit short leaving the tying run on third base.
The night started off well as the POWER jumped to a one nothing lead but quickly fell behind in the second by giving up five runs to the Seals. The POWER would never regain the lead even though they scored runs in five different innings.
POWER’s starting pitcher, Brent Bray pitched a solid four innings, striking out five Seal hitters.
P.J. Jimenez led the POWER offense with a three for four night at the plate, including four RBI’s and one run scored.
The POWER will return to action Tuesday night at 7:05 p.m. against the U.S. Marines where it will be Two-for-Tuesday including 2 for 1 admissions and $2 concession stand specials

Power Broke Bats
By Priscilla Yacoub – May 31, 2008 (2-0)
The Power began the game with a double play in the second inning by first baseman Josh Manzano and shortstop P.J. Jimenez. Pitching was shakey until Angel Mata stepped up to the plate in 4 2/3 innings, leading into nine strike-outs only allowing for one run to squeeze by. The Seals took an early 4-1 lead after three innings. They proceeded to add to their lead in the fourth with two more runs off of three walks and two wild pitches. In the bottom of the fifth POWER put up three runs to make it a two run game, in which both teams threw up zeros up until the ninth. In the ninth POWER loaded the bases with two outs, P.J. Jimenez was hit by a pitch, forcing in a run, which led to Mike Stephens’ game winning, two run single.

POWER FREEZE CHILL
1-0

The college players from the Palm Springs POWER defeated the pros from the Palm Springs Chill tonight 13-1. Both teams scored one run in the 3rd inning before the POWER jumped out to a 2-1 lead in the 5th. On an RBI sacrifice by Garrett Queen. The POWER would add two more runs in the 6th before opening the flood gates with nine runs in the 8th to cap the 13-1 victory. The Power were led by Matt Roquemore going two for two and a solid starting performance by LHP Jared Miller from BYU. Chill starting pitcher James Kuzniak started well pitching the first four innings giving up one run, but the Chill bull pen wilted in the desert summer heat.