Friday 31 October after four innings.

My bad regarding today's starting times. I failed to read Luis' posting about the change in start times. In case you missed it:SIGN IN IS NOW 09:00 WITH GAMES BEGINNING AT 0930.

So now to the game. The hitting team was  managed by Steve Hill, The sitting team was managed by Sammy Lopez. The fielding team was managed by Mark Tutrani. Men in BLue were Loren and Donnie.

Team Hill' started the game in neutral and couldn't find first gear until the third inning when they finally scored their first run . That was the grand total until Juan Toro doubled their score with a seventh inning home run. The bats were so cold...how cold were they? that they never had more than five batters go to the plate in any inning.At the end of the game, they had only managed two runs and ended up with the Bronze medal.

Team Lopez scored in each of the first four innings and built a six run lead after four innings. At that point it looked like they had the Gold  medal well in sight. Unfortunately for them they put up goose eggs in the fifth and sixth inning. With their early lead that was enough to hold on to a slim lead going into the seventh. Nursing a two run lead they managed to increase their lead to four in the seventh. This brought their total 15.

Team Tutrani jumped out to the early lead with five in the first, but then let Team Lopez pull away over the next five innings. In the fifth and sixth innings they managed to close within two runs of Team Lopez to make it a game. So it came down to the last inning and with a three run lead and the bottom of the line up comin up, Team Lopez felt pretty comfortable that the Gold was theirs., I guess that is why we play until the third out,....five of the last six batters reached base with four of them crossing home to win the Gold. Final score Team Tutrani 16, Team Lopez 15, and Team Hill 2.

Outstanding performances

Juan Toro 3-3 w/homer

Bob Vandenberg 2-2

Bob Zelazny 4-4

Steve Johnston 3-3 W/triple

Bill Testa 4-4

Pablo 3-3

Friday games

Games are on. We will be on fields B and C

League News

 In preparation for daylight saving time this weekend, our start time will be adjusted to 9:30 a.m. Consequently, the check-in time will be moved to 9:00 a.m. Please ensure your arrival at the field by the check-in time to facilitate team organization.

Tuesday games 28 Oct

No games today. Standing water on all fields. See you Friday.

Winter Haven Senior Softball Registration 2026

 Dear Members,

As we eagerly anticipate the 2026 season, I am pleased to share several exciting updates. This year, we have selected red as our primary color. To ensure we have an accurate count for our new merchandise, including hats, shirts, and shorts, please submit your applications ASAP.

I am also working on a limited edition history and advertisement booklet, available for $5 each. If you are interested in reserving a copy, please contact me at lguz@verizon.net.

We are grateful for the support of our sponsors, including 1st Dinet, American Legion Post #8, Art’s Carts, Big Tom’s Diner, CPW Services, Cypress Plumbing, Dukes’ Brewhouse, EZRoofing, Family Fence, Glory Days, Ingram Financial, Jarrett Ford, Kian’s Dental, Kincaid Electrical, Rhonda Dorman “The Tax Lady,” Somewhere Sports Bar, Stewart Auto, The Estates at Carpenter, Tindley Family Group, Tucker Carpets, and Lake Alfred Diner.

Additionally, please note that our fields will undergo upgrades during the first three weeks of December. We are arranging alternative fields for play and expect to return to Diamond Plex by the opening day in January 2026.

Thank you for your attention, and I will keep you updated as we make progress.

Best regards,

Lou Guzman, Acting Commissioner

Friday 24 October

MAN O MAN, what a game. Truly one for the ages. Mark Trutrani and Steve Hill excelled at getting the most out of their players today.

As usual, Team Hill scored five runs in the first to take a huge lead into the second. Unfortunately they were shut out the next two innings and allowed Team Trutrani to tie up the game. The next couple innings proved interesting in that the  teams flip flopped, each scoring five runs in the next two innings.  The seventh saw Team Trutrani open a four run lead, increasing their margin to nine, as they shut out Team Hill and put up  five runs for themselves. What looked like a blow out changed rapidly, as Team Hill scored nine in the eighth to tie up the score. They then managed to shut out Team Trutrani in the bottom of the inning.

SCore after eight was 20 -20.

So the game was to be determined by thet team scoring the most runs in the ninth inning. Team Hill's first batter scored after a couple singles. So with two runners on base, no outs, and the top of the line up coming to the plate it looked like they were going to build up a good lead. Alas, it was not to be. They managed just one more single and  no runs before the third out, stranding three runners, So, trailing by one, Team Trutani sent up the top of their line up. The first batter flyed out,  the second batter scored after three of the next four batters hit singles.. With the score tied and the  bases loaded, it came down to one at bat. Fortunately for Team Hill, the batter hit a fly ball that was caught to end the game. Final score Team Hill 21 and Team Trutani 21.

Outstanding Performances

John Truchette 5-5

Herbie 4-4

Brian Gilbert 4-4

Bob Z 5-5

Steve Hill 4-4

Bobby Castellega 4-4

Friday Games

Games are on. Please call or sign in by 08:30.

**American League Recap - 10/21/25**

 n today’s showdown, Tommy’s Tomahawks clashed with Mike’s Machine in a scrimmage that took place on the illustrious field “C.” The excitement kicked off when Tommy’s lead-off batter, Pat Sullivan, launched a double into the outfield. The next two batters? Well, let’s just say they were more “out” than “in.” But fear not! Tommy’s squad still managed to rack up five runs in the inning, proving that sometimes it’s not about how you start, but how you finish.

Mike’s Machine didn’t find their groove until the third inning, but when they did, it was like watching a well-oiled machine—albeit one that needed a little more oil. By the time the dust settled, Tommy’s Tomahawks emerged victorious with a score of 21 to 12. A fun game indeed, and we can’t wait to see more action this Friday!

**Tomahawks Roster:** Pat Sullivan, Manny Rios, Lou Guzman, Don Keller, Danny Woodsby, Les Jacobson, Tommy Hamilton, Lenord DeBroeck, Ray Howard, and BJ Kallister.

**Machine Roster:** Rad Pcholinski, Mike Vaccaro, Dana Ferrande, Ernesto Cruz, Chris Lynch, Al Guzzo, Pete Gutenberg, Billy Testa, Jeff Rebideau, and Juan Toro.

Tuesday 21 October

Despite some confusion in getting certain players ro the proper field, we managed to have one game made up of American Leaguers and National Leaguers and then played a three team game made up of National Leguers.on Field B.

Today's managers were Bob Vandenberg, Rob Spitalari, and Steve Hill.. The men in blue were Loren and Donnie. Thanks guys because it would be impossible without your efforts.

Team Vandenberg never got out of the starting blocks. Unfortunately, they found themselves behind by three after one. They managed a good number of hits but couldn't put them together to score the necessary runs. runs. Going into the last inning they had only put up four runs.

Team Spitalari started strong and then cooled off for a couple innings.They did manage to score four in the fifth and two in the sixth and enjoyed a six run advantage over Team Vandenberg going into the last inning.

Team Hill's bats were definitely working today as they scored multiple runs in every inning but the fourth. Going into the last inning they sat on a substantial lead over both other teams.

In the open inning, Team Vandenberg scored four runs, stranding three runners when the last out was called. This was insufficient to catch Team Spitalari. Team Spitalari entered the inning needing eight to tie and nine to win. Unfortunately they only scored one run. THis brought the game to an end since Team Hill was ahead. Final score Team Hill 18, Team Spitalari 11, and Team Vandenberg 8.

Outstanding Performances

John Turchetta 3-4

John Boito 4-4

Rob Spitalari 4-4

Herbie 4-4

Rebel 4-4

Gil 4-4 w/double

Jose Cruz 3-4 w/homer

JimWilliamson 4-5 w?homer and double

Bob Hudson 4-4 w? 2homers and a triple

Bobby Castilega 3-4

Denny Shaffer 4-4

Donna 3-4 winning pitcher

.

Tuesday Games

Games are on. We will be playing on fields B and C.

Hall of Fame

Applications will be available starting tomorrow for nominations for the Class of 2025. Nominations must be submitted by 07 November. The Annual Banquet to to honor those selected will be Mar 11, 2026. Be sure to mark your calendar.

Attention All Players

 

Friday17 Oct

Great surprise to arrive at the park and see Jim Vining. He has relocated to Alabama but came to renew friendships and play a little softball. It was like old times sharing the outfield with him.

We managed to field three teams today. They were led by Steve Hill, Sam Lopez, and Wally. Thanks guys.

The first inning sawTeam Hill and Team Wally both scoring four runs. Team Lopez managed two so they were not too far behind, at least up to that point. Starting with the second inning Team Wally won every inning but one, so you already can guess who might win the game. However, Team Hill found themselves only three runs behind after six innings and was not out of it.

Team Lopez, on the other hand, never really got out of the starting blocks as they failed to score in the next five innings and dug quite a hole for themselves.

The seventh inning was rather short as Team Hill went four and out due to some good defense. Team Lopez did manage to outscore themselves as they put up three runs against the two they had previously, giving them 5 for the day. Final Score since Team Wally did not have to bat was Team Wally 15, Team Hill 12, and Team Lopez 5.

Outstanding performances

Brian Daniels 3-3 w/double and triple

Jorge 3-3

Ron Thompson 3-3

Jeff Rabideau 3-3

Chris Constantine 3-3

Pablo 3-3

Dave Rounds 3-3

Jose D 3-3

.

Friday Games

Games are on. We will be playing on fields b and c.

The American League has made a triumphant return!

 On Tuesday, October 14, 2025, American League players resumed play, bolstered by the support of several National League athletes, allowing the league to successfully field teams once again. This eagerly anticipated event marked the return of competitive action in the American League.

Today's matchup featured Mike Vaccaro and Tommy Hamilton leading their respective teams, each comprising nine players. The game was a thrilling contest, characterized by a series of lead changes. By the bottom of the sixth inning, Team Hamilton held a narrow one-run advantage, leading 21-20. However, the momentum shifted dramatically in the seventh inning when Manny Rios initiated a rally with a triple. Lou Guzman followed with a crucial hit, sparking a remarkable offensive surge. Team Vaccaro scored an impressive fourteen runs, bringing the score to 34-21. Despite a valiant effort, including an in-the-park home run by Pete Gutenberger, Team Hamilton was unable to close the gap. The final score stood at 34-24, with both teams enjoying a memorable game.

Team Hamilton: Dan Woodsby, Al Guzzo, Don Fee, Pat Sullivan, Pete Gutenberger, Micky Bouse, Tobias Guevada, Ernesto Cruz, and Tom Hamilton.

Team Vaccaro: Rad Pcholinski, Mike Vaccaro, Dana Ferrande, Manny Rios, Lou Guzman, Pablo Garcia, Juan Toro, Les Jacobson, and Jeff Rebideau.

Tuesday 14 October Game

Despite having to send some folks over to fill out the American League, we managed to field two teams of eleven and one with ten. Today's managers were Steve Hill, Wally,and Robert Spitalari.

Team Hill only scored one run in the first and second innings, but it was enough to take the lead. They scored five runs in third, fifth, and sixth innings to sit at 19 runs going into the last inning.

Things did not look too promising for Team wally in the beginning as they failed to score in the first two innings. They scored five in the third  to add to their total, but it was the fifth inning that made up the difference. They put up 9 runs. So with that, they managed to tie Team Hil. The next inning they scored five more matching the five runs Team Hill put up

Team Spitalari  scored in each of the first six innings but were out paced by the number of runs put up by the other two. They did manage four runs in the sixth to pull them within eight of Teams Hill and Wally.

The final inning was exciting in that Team Hill scored one run and then were shut down leaving two runners on base. Team Wally, not to be outdone, had three runners reach base. Lucky for Team Hill, they were unable to score so fell short by one run. Team Spitalari was unable to score as they made three outs to the infield. Final score was Team Hill 20, Team Wally 19, and Team Spitalari.

Outstanding Performances

Zelazny 5-5 w/2triples

Mike R 4-5

Steve Hill 4-5

Donna 4-4

John T. 4-5

Frank Jacobs 4-4

 

Tuesday games

Games are on. Fields B  and C. Please sign or call in by 08:30.

1st Street Diner

 **Message From Acting Commissioner.**

We are excited to welcome back the 1st Diner as a sponsor for the 2026 season. 

The 1st Street Diner is a great little spot that offers big portions at a good price. The attentive waitresses provided exceptional service and helpful recommendations to first-time visitors. Regulars and newcomers praise the Diner's classic American fare, from eggs and toast to omelets, and its welcoming atmosphere.

They offer daily breakfast and lunch specials. Open from 7 am-2:30 pm seven days a week. 

1st Diner

106 Avenue I SE, 

Winter Haven, FL 33880-3648

Phone: 863-875-7057

https://instagram.com/1ststreetdiner?igshid=vg50o0n0xw2j 

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Friday 10 October

There are no games today Fields have standing water.

Kian's Dental

 **Kian’s Dental Studio**

 

We would like to welcome back Kian's Dental Studio sponsorship for the 2026 season.

 

575 Ave K SE 

Winter Haven, FL 

863-875-4395

https://kiansdentalstudio.com/

 

Serving Winter Haven, Auburndale, Haines City, Lake Wales, Bartow, and Lakeland, FL areas. Choosing a dentist is an important decision.  Our philosophy is to provide treatment to the whole person, with a special focus on how your teeth and gums relate to your total body health.  Your smile is your greatest asset, and it reveals a great deal about your overall health.

We value our patient relationships, making it our top priority to deliver gentle and compassionate dental care that you deserve.  From the moment you walk in, you will be welcomed by a caring staff in a personalized and comfortable setting to make you feel at ease.  Our goal is to help you restore and maintain a healthy and beautiful smile throughout your lifetime.

Our office provides comprehensive restorative and aesthetic dentistry, as well as general dentistry.  We believe that patient should have sufficient information to make educated decisions about their oral health and treatment options.  You will find all of this important information on our website, including directions to our office, service descriptions, and patient education resources.

Should you ever need any additional information about our practice, we can answer your questions through telephone inquiry or email.  We are looking forward to meeting you.

Registration for the 2026 season

 **Notice from Acting Commissioner Luis Guzmán**

Please be reminded that it is time to complete your registration for the 2026 season. Currently, 54 players have yet to register. To ensure your registration is finalized, kindly consult with Joe D’Herin at the desk on Friday.

Tuesday 7 October Games

I hope my typo on start time this morning didn't create too many problems for anyone, although from the outcome of today's games, it might have affected some of you more than others.

Team JD faced off against Team Vandenburg on Field B in a nine inning contest. Team JD failed to score in the first three innings and it looked to be a blow out as Team Vandy built an early lead which they held through the fifth inning. Team JD's game alive and outscored Team Vandy in three of the closing innings. With JD's team leading by three going into the last inning and rain coming in, they managed to tally nine runs in the final frame to take a substantial lead. Team Vandy went three and out resulting in a final count of Team JD 20 and Team Vandy 8. An interesting factoid was that the score board showed nine goose eggs.

Outstanding performances

Rad 4-5

Pete G 4-5

Ramon 4-5 w/triple

JD 4-5

Bob Z 4-5

Team Hill challenged Team Keller on Field C. Despite what appeared to be two evenly matched teams, the outcome did not reflect that. Team Keller fell behind in the first, tied it up after two and then seemed to shut down. They failed to score in 6 of the nine innings while Team Hill scored runs in every inning. There really isn't any other way of saying it, but it was a good old fashioned butt kicking. Final score was Team Hill 21, Team Keller 10.

Outstanding performances

Rusty 6-6 w/double triple

Debrock 5-6

Gilbert 5-6

Skidmore 5-6

J Cruz 5-6 w/homer

King 5-5

Donna 4-5

Nestor 5-5

Sully 4-5

Pablo 4-5

Reagan 4-5 w/two doubles

..

**Big Tom’s Diner**

 

We would like to welcome back, for the 2026 season, Big Tom's Diner in Winter Haven, a classic American diner serving delicious comfort food at reasonable prices. The establishment that was redone has a cozy and welcoming ambiance, perfect for families or groups of friends looking for a casual dining experience. The interior design was updated this year and has a nostalgic feel.

 

The price range is affordable, making it an ideal spot for those who don’t want to break the bank. Big Tom's Diner is located at 1151 Havendale Blvd NW, Winter Haven, FL 33881. It is popular for breakfast, dinner, and lunch, in a convenient location with plenty of parking available.

 

Some of the standout dishes on the menu include the Redneck Omelet, featuring pulled pork, the Brunch Burger with Redneck fries, and the Shredded Beef Wrap with coleslaw. They also offer a variety of soft drinks with your meal.

Thank you for your support

Tuesday Games

Games are on. Please call or sign in by 08:00. Games are on fields B and C.

Umpires Wanted

**Message from Acting Commissioner Luis Guzman**

Please mark your calendars for Saturday, November 8, 2025.

The Winter Haven Police Benevolent Association will host its annual Kickball Tournament at Diamond Plex. This exciting event will feature competitive teams and aims to raise funds for the Winter Haven Police Youth Fund.

The Winter Haven Senior Softball League will provide umpires for the tournament to ensure a fair and enjoyable experience. Interested members can sign up at the registration desk or contact Luis Guzman for further details. We would like to sincerely thank all the umpires who contributed their time and effort last year.

Friday 3 October

Games are on. Games on B, batting practice on C