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Dragons Sweep Division, Claim #1 Seed

By Keith Dlott, 11/01/21, 5:00PM CDT

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On a perfect Sunday morning, with division namesake David Lynn on hand, the Dragons were one win away from claiming the division title.  Having not lost since division play started, a twin bill against the mighty Aguilas was on tap to try and secure the division and the overall #1 seed.

The Dragons fought their way to a 10-7 win in game one, behind Daryl Drake’s 3-3, 2 HR, 6 RBI performance.  Game two also went the Dragons way, 15-8.  Homers by Ari Loiben, Drake, and sub Jason “Chappy” Chapman led the way along with the last three hitters going a combined 7-9.

Impact Players of the Season:

Daryl Drake:  The Dragons infield captain completed a statistically insane season with 3 more HRs and 11 RBI on Sunday.  His season line:  .800 BA, 1.980 SLG, 2.776 OPS, 16 HR, 9 2B, and 56 RBI.  While those stats are a significant part of the Dragons success, Daryl is the consummate team player.  Daryl backed up the offensive onslaught with killer play at SS.

Gary Frank:  While Gary didn’t maintain the .900 BA he had after three weeks, he did finish close to .600.  All singles, but one of the most meaningful hits of the year was a 2-run triple into the wind that capped a big comeback.  Gary’s steady dugout presence and ability to help keep Daryl Drake’s ego in check are key.

Sheldon Fulton:  Sheldon is the silent killer.  Great guy, doesn’t say much, but comes to play.  Spectacular in RCF, but can play anywhere.  Strong stick and now holding down the leadoff spot.  Patience at the plate and will get on base any way possible.  Batted >.550 with a 1.4 OPS.

Zak Edgerton:  Is he a bowler or a softball player?  He’s both!  Zak is an outstanding defensive player and has played a mix of 2nd and 3rd.  A streaky hitter at the beginning of the season has progressed into a wonderfully consistent threat.  Batted nearly .550 and led the team in fashion, always sporting a Dragons bucket hat.

Ari Loiben:  Stellar play all season long in LCF.  Not sure anyone enjoys being at the fields more than Ari.  Of his 22 hits, he had 9 2B, 4 3B, and 3 HRs.  As the Dragons outfield captain, he communicates with Fulton and Adwild Perez to ensure everyone is in the right place.  Infectious leadership.

Kevin Knox:  Mr. November gave the Dragons a great fall season!  Batted over .500 and put 3 balls out.  Knoxie has alternated between 2nd and 3rd and plays great defense no matter where he’s at.  Great dugout presence and knows this league’s hitters.  

Tim Kaminski:  Great protection for Drake.  Tim had 7 HR and 26 RBI in the regular season and is due to breakout in the playoffs.  If there’s a Gold Glove to be had at first base, it’s Tim.  With a large frame and long reach, just get the ball near him and he’ll take care of the rest.  Tim epitomizes brotherhood and what it’s like to be a great teammate.

Ray Darragh:  Dragons captain Keith Dlott dubbed Darragh the “Swiss Army Knife” early in the season.  Willing and capable to play any position and always gives 100%.  Ray truly only cares about winning.  Ray tied for the team lead in walks, which demonstrates his patience at the plate.  With his get on base any way possible mindset, Ray rose several spots in the batting order.

Adwild Perez:  Here’s a challenge.  Try to find Adwild not smiling...it’s hard to do.  Perez held down left field all year with one exception.  With Fulton out early in the season, Adwild was asked to give RCF a go.  He absolutely locked it down.  Timely hitting and good base running along with steady defense is what you get here.  

John Unell:  Not sure there is a more consistent pitcher in the league.  When John needs to throw a strike, he throws one.  With John’s knowledge of nearly every player in the league, he’s quick to move the defense around.  All season John has provided excellent mentoring of the first-time Dragons captain.  It’s an honor for all Dragons to play with John.  As for his offense

Kendal Anthony:  If your book on Kendal is that he’s shaky in right field, your book is wrong.  Kendal played nearly every inning of every game in right field and made catch after catch after catch.  One mistake all year, but the rest has been solid as a rock.  Anthony’s hitting has been erratic, but he’s going to build off his 3 for 3 performance in the last game of the season.  Kendal is another “just tell me what I can do to help the team” player.

Jerry Rogers:  What a treat Jerry is to have on the team.  His calming demeanor and timely hitting make him a great pick.  Jerry has shown tremendous patience, walking 5 times this season.  It also seems as though every hit is a very timely hit, starting off a rally.  Defensively, Jerry is always where he needs to be around home plate and never throws the ball around.  

Subs:  Thanks to all the subs who came out and contributed to a strong regular season!