The 2024 Royals’ Championship run was a masterclass in elite pitching, stellar defense, a relentless offense, and an unrivaled ability to perform under pressure.
Despite having only one player with a batting average above .500, the Royals’ journey to the title was marked by key contributions from every player. Clutch hits, critical defensive plays, and masterful pitching performances came from all corners of the dugout. This Royals team epitomized what it means to play as a cohesive unit, with each player embracing their role and executing when it mattered most.
In 2024, we won as a team, we lost as a team, and when we experienced adversity, we picked each other up and did our best to focus on the next opportunity to contribute.
Our Championship wasn't just won on game days. It was forged through meticulous preparation, unwavering commitment, and a collective buy-in to the process from 1 – 12. At the heart of our success was a core group of leaders who approached each game with strategic precision. Week after week, we dissected our opponents, crafting tailored game plans that leveraged our strengths and exploited their weaknesses. This was a collaborative effort that tapped into the softball IQ of our entire squad. The team's dedication was evident in our BP sessions before each postseason matchup. In a departure from seasons past, we consistently saw nine or ten players showing up to these practices. This unprecedented level of participation spoke volumes about the team's hunger for success and their belief in our process. Our Championship was forged in the camaraderie built during those extra BP sessions, in the detailed discussions during our game planning meetings, and in the shared commitment to excellence that defined our team culture. Preparation met opportunity and good things happened.
When I drafted this team, I prioritized players committed to the league and embodying its values: sportsmanship, relentless effort, and a burning desire to win. Six months later, we couldn’t be prouder of what we accomplished.
The 2024 Spring Championship stands as a testament to six months of hard work, dedication, and an unbreakable bond among these 12 Royals players:
Round 1 – Drew Waggoner
Once a perennial top-five draft pick and elite shortstop in the TSSL, Drew made a triumphant return to full-time play in 2024 after a five-year hiatus. Now, six years older but no less impactful, the Royals’ versatile left centerfielder with a game-changing bat and a Howitzer for an arm, seamlessly stepped in and played lockdown shortstop the last three weeks of the regular season in Kyzer Hoover’s absence, showcasing the tremendous range and agility he was once known for. His adaptability exemplified the Royals’ team-first mentality.
In Madden NFL terms, Drew would max out the ratings in both physical traits and intangibles. A quintessential five-tool player, he was unequivocally one of the team's primary leaders. His impact extended far beyond his on-field performance. He was instrumental in our weekly game planning, consistently attended team practices, and a paragon of selflessness, willing to take walks for the team's benefit. His humility and unwavering positivity energized our dugout, setting the tone for our Championship culture.
Perhaps Drew’s most valuable contribution was his ability to unify the team. He offered encouragement and coaching to all players regardless of draft position, while remaining open to feedback himself. His superpower was his calming influence and constructive communication style which helped navigate the team through the inevitable ups and downs of a long season.
I had the eighth pick in the TSSL draft. Beforehand I had debated the merits of picking Drew – who I knew had a game-changing bat or another player who offered a game-changing glove. It turns out I got both when I drafted Drew. There were a plethora of games where Drew put the Royals on his back and willed us to victory. The Royals had 13 outfield assists in 2024, with Drew being the primary catalyst for this defensive dominance. Always willing to lay out, Drew’s full-extension, diving catches became a trademark, none more important than his game-saving grab in the Championship clincher. From his versatility on the field to his leadership in the dugout, from his clutch performances to his unifying presence, Drew's impact on our journey to the title cannot be overstated.
In retrospect, his return to TSSL prominence was more than just a comeback story. It was the Renaissance of a league elite, whose multi-faceted contributions were instrumental in the Royals’ Championship run.
Round 2 – Kyzer Hoover
With the 13th pick in the second round, I had my sights set on one of two shortstops, and Kyzer was at the top of that shortlist. Fortunately, Kyzer was still on the board when the draft came back to me. I recalled being impressed by his smooth fielding and powerful, accurate throws during the 2023 evaluations. In the MLB you hear commentators refer to an infielder’s soft hands when characterizing how smoothly and securely they can field a ball. Kyzer’s soft hands were immediately evident. Though he tried out for third base that year, I envisioned him as an elite shortstop in our league. That vision proved prescient.
Kyzer’s range was deceptive, and his willingness to dive for balls set him apart. More often than not, he reached balls that 90 percent of the league’s shortstops would never get to. As a first baseman, I learned early on not to count Kyzer out on any play.
I specifically remember running off the field with HOF Kyle Casper during the ALCS, and he looked at me after several innings of web gems by Kyzer, and exclaimed, “Your shortstop is really good!” After a full year in the league, Kyzer had developed an intuitive understanding of hitters' tendencies. Whatever he lacked in league experience, he more than made up for with his extraordinarily high softball IQ.
However, Kyzer’s superpower wasn't his undeniable talent – it was his unwavering commitment to the team. When he informed me in late April that he'd miss the final three weeks of the regular season due to relocating his family to Wyoming, he assured me, "I'll be back for the postseason." True to his word, Kyzer flew back to Dallas for each playoff series, returning to Wyoming late Sunday afternoon.
This commitment was tested when his grandmother's health deteriorated. She had become ill at the beginning of the season, and then the Monday before the ALCS against the Orioles, Kyzer informed me that her condition had worsened and she could pass away any day, and if she passed away before Saturday, he would be unable to come back for the ALCS. Joe Calvano was gracious enough to serve as a just-in-case sub for us. Fortunately, Kyzer’s grandmother made it through the week and he was instrumental in our ALCS victory.
The next day, Kyzer informed me that his grandmother’s doctor didn’t think she would make it past Friday. So, once again, Joe was on-call and ready to sub in the Championship Series if needed. By now, you know that Kyzer made it here for the Championship Series. Despite the possibility of her passing any day, Kyzer managed to balance family needs with his dedication to the team. He flew in late Saturday night for the Championship Series, having attended his daughter's fourth birthday party earlier that day.
In my 15 years as a Captain, I've never witnessed such a level of commitment. Kyzer’s passion for the game and his teammates drove him to return for four consecutive postseason series, juggling family responsibilities and cross-country travel.
Reflecting on Kyzer’s sacrifices brings a wave of emotion over me. It's easy to talk about team chemistry and commitment, but having selfless, dedicated players like Kyzer truly embodies these ideals. His intense desire to win, balanced with an easygoing, humble personality, made him a beloved teammate and instrumental in our Championship journey.
What he did is just as memorable and remarkable as the end result.
Thank you, Brother. Your contributions to this team will never be forgotten.
Round 3 – Tommy Apligian
As the sole returning Royal from 2023, Tommy’s selection in the third round was no coincidence. Our partnership, entering its second consecutive year, was built on multiple pillars:
Tommy needs no introduction to the Shalom League family. A long-time Captain and current Commissioner’s Delegate, Tommy was a blend of a mother hen to the team, generously willing to offer coaching advice to anyone receptive, and an intense, fierce competitor. His encyclopedic knowledge of the league's 239 other players rivaled my own, making him an invaluable asset in game planning.
Our dynamic evolved in year two, but Tommy's influence remained constant. When we won the Championship, I knew how much it meant to him, and couldn’t have been happier for him when he was named MVP. Tommy and Scott Greenberg had the most consistent influence on our journey to the title and the crowning achievement of the 15-year history of the Royals.
Tommy’s contribution to this team went far beyond statistics. He embodied the spirit of leadership, friendship, and that competitive fire that defined our success. Thank you for being not just a teammate, but a friend and a Champion.
After winning the ALCS, I hugged Tommy and whispered, “This is the way it was supposed to be last year.” Winning the Championship reminded me of Rocky Balboa's iconic moment at the end of Rocky II when he grabbed the microphone, looked into the camera, and exclaimed, “Yo, Adrian! I did it!” Cue the music from the end of Rocky…
Yo, Tommy! We did it!
Round 4 – Scott Greenberg
When the dust settled on the 2024 draft, I fired off my customary welcome email to my 11 new draftees. One of the first things I wrote was, “I send out a scouting report before our games on Sundays, and I’m thrilled to share the report on our pitcher, who I’m relieved we won’t have to face this year.”
The numbers tell a tale of dominance. Scott capped an otherworldly postseason with a Championship Series performance that will echo through TSSL lore: a microscopic 4.7 ERA and zero walks across the three-game set. This mirrored his overall postseason brilliance – a 4.7 ERA over nine pressure-cooker contests. During the regular season, the Royals allowed the fewest runs in the league – a miserly 185 – and Scott was the lynchpin that suffocated opponents.
Typically a fixture in Abbey Garber's draft, my pulse quickened when Abbey passed on Scott this year. Fourteen agonizing picks later, I pounced in the fourth round, triumphantly declaring, "The Royals select Scott Greenberg."
In my 15 years at the helm, I've had the privilege of drafting stellar pitchers – control artists with leather to match and softball IQs off the charts. Three, in particular, donned Royal blue for three-year stints. But Scott? He's in a class of his own. Elite doesn't do him justice. When I drafted him, we didn’t know each other well. Nevertheless, I liked and admired him from afar.
A seasoned fall league Captain, Scott’s veteran perspective and savvy meshed seamlessly with the leadership of Drew and Tommy. He embraced our scouting approach, becoming an integral part of our game-planning process. His encyclopedic knowledge of the league's 239 other hitters far surpassed my own. As the season progressed, our rapport blossomed. There were moments I leaned on his counsel exclusively, valuing his insights immensely. While he knew exactly what to do on the mound 95 percent of the time, Scott’s trust in my occasional input spoke volumes about his character.
With Scott on the mound, a quiet confidence permeated our dugout. Week after week, victory felt inevitable. Our Championship run was built on his right arm, as we eked out nail-biters against the Brewers, Orioles, and Mets. Scott and Tommy Apligian had the most consistent influence on our journey to the title and the crowning achievement of the 15-year history of the Royals.
The Royals couldn’t have asked for a more fitting All-Star representative. As the votes for the 2024 TSSL Cy Young are tallied, one thing is clear: Scott isn't just deserving – he's the embodiment of pitching excellence in our league.
Round 5 – David Fiorello
In the tapestry of a Championship Team, every thread is crucial. But some shine a bit brighter, even if they're not immediately apparent. Enter David, the Royals’ fifth-round pick and arguably my first steal of the 2024 draft.
Fresh off a 2023 campaign as the Mariners' shortstop, David had asked that he not be drafted as a shortstop this year because of a foot injury. Our pre-draft conversation confirmed his recovery, but his desire to move off short remained firm. Fine by me – I initially penciled him in at second, salivating at the prospect of two shortstop-caliber gloves up the middle.
But David’s versatility quickly became apparent. Wherever I slotted him, I got a defensive wizard – tremendous range, a vacuum for a glove, a laser for an arm, and reflexes that would make a cat jealous. While he bounced around the infield, the Royals found their groove when I anchored him at third. Pairing David with Kyzer on the left side? That's the stuff of defensive coordinators' dreams.
If you go back and read my articles from the postseason, you'll find David’s name etched into every series. Game-saving plays? Try Series-saving. But don't pigeonhole him as a glove-first guy. There's a reason he occupied the cleanup spot. Clutch doesn't begin to describe it. A near perfect 5 – 6 (with two walks) in the Championship Series. His booming double off the center field fence in the ALCS was what propelled us into the Series.
Rewind to draft day. After snagging Scott in the fourth, I never dreamed David would still be there at pick eight of round five. No-brainer doesn't do it justice. "The Royals select David Fiorello" never sounded sweeter.
Though relatively new to the league, David’s impact transcended the box score. His leadership style – direct, respectful, and unique – complemented our veteran core perfectly. But his true superpower? Keeping us loose. That gruff New York exterior housed a razor-sharp wit and an occasionally – perfectly – inappropriate sense of humor. We faced our share of adversity on the field during the regular season. David was one of the first guys there to pick others up; the ultimate team player.
Between the lines, David was intensity personified. Off the field? A teddy bear lurking beneath that tough façade. His passion for the game was infectious, radiating through our dugout. If I were a politician in need of a bodyguard – someone willing to take a bullet – David would top my list.
David’s contributions were the bedrock upon which our Championship was built.
Round 6 – Ronel Martinez
As the sixth round approached, I was laser-focused on completing my outfield. Two names topped my list for right field, and Ronel was one of them. Despite never having seen him play, the numbers spoke volumes: a .571 average and .598 OBP across 29 games as a sub in 2023. A quick consult with JC Burks, seated beside me at the draft, confirmed my instincts – Ronel had the chops to lock down right field.
My gamble paid off in spades. The lone rookie on my draft board, Ronel quickly proved his mettle. Scan through my postseason articles, and you'll find his beaming face a recurring theme. Clutch two-out hits became his calling card, and his patience at the plate drew crucial walks when we needed baserunners most.
But Ronel’s impact extended beyond the box score. He embodied the very ethos of our league: exemplary sportsmanship, relentless hustle, and an insatiable hunger for victory. His commitment to the team and the game itself was unwavering.
On the field, Ronel’s glove work was equally impressive. Time and again, he came through with spectacular catches that kept us in tight ballgames. It was his running catch that ended Game 1 of the ALCS. His defensive prowess in right field solidified our outfield into a formidable unit.
As the season progressed, it became clear that Ronel wasn't just a rookie – he was a cornerstone in the making. His Championship-winning debut season is likely just the opening chapter of what promises to be a stellar TSSL career. With his blend of skill, poise, and passion, Ronel is poised to be a shining star in our league for years to come.
In a draft filled with veteran talent, Ronel stood out as the diamond in the rough – a sixth-round selection that played a pivotal role in our Championship run. His rookie campaign wasn't just successful; it was a harbinger of greatness to come.
Round 7 – Ryan Greenberg
When the seventh round arrived, my selection had already been made; Ryan was a package deal with his dad when I drafted Scott in the fourth round. Initially, I viewed them as a unit, my familiarity with Scott overshadowing Ryan's individual potential. How wrong I was.
As the season unfolded, Ryan carved out his own identity, commanding respect through his play and emerging as a force in his own right. He transformed our left field into a no-fly zone, showcasing surprising range and agility that belied initial expectations. His glove work became a crucial component of our defensive strategy, turning potential extra-base hits into routine outs.
But it wasn't just his fielding that impressed. Ryan's bat became a reliable weapon in our offensive arsenal. Throughout the season, he delivered clutch hits in key moments, often serving as the spark plug for our rallies. His ability to come through in high-pressure situations made him an invaluable asset to our lineup.
Ryan's true breakout came in the opening round of the playoffs against the Rangers. In a performance that can only be described as a tour de force, he went 5 – 7 at the plate, driving in four runs – all with two outs. He was a one-man wrecking crew.
Tragically, Ryan's postseason heroics were cut short. A knee injury following our second-round triumph over the Brewers sidelined him for the ALCS and Championship Series. While his presence was sorely missed in these crucial games, no doubt had he been healthy, Ryan would have continued to be a difference-maker.
Despite this unfortunate end to his season, Ryan's contributions to our Championship journey cannot be overstated. He proved himself to be far more than just "Scott's son" – he became a key player in his own right, essential to our success both in the regular season and the early stages of the playoffs.
As we celebrate our title, Ryan's performance serves as a reminder of the depth and resilience of our team. His emergence from his father's shadow to become a standout player in his own right is a storyline that shouldn't be overlooked in the narrative of our Championship season.
Round 8 – Andy Wetterlin
The most famous bandana in Shalom belongs to a player whose impact on our Championship run can't be overstated: Andy. When discussing Drew earlier, I touched on the intangibles that elevate a good team to greatness. Andy embodies those qualities in spades.
Before the draft, I had a conversation with Joe Calvano about his 2023 Irv Munn division-winning Renegades. One name kept coming up: Andy. Joe's high praise proved prophetic. Andy's versatility became a cornerstone of our infield strategy. Equally adept at third and first base, he elevated the play of those around him. His ability to scoop errant throws at first base turned potential errors into routine outs, solidifying our infield defense.
But Andy's contributions extended far beyond his glove work. His infectious positivity energized our dugout, creating an atmosphere where everyone believed in our potential. His commitment to self-improvement was evident in his perfect practice attendance and his relentless work ethic at the plate.
This dedication paid dividends in our postseason run. Scan through my postseason articles, and you'll find Andy's beaming face a recurring theme. Clutch two-out hits became his calling card, and his plate discipline drew crucial walks when we needed baserunners most. Andy's approach at the plate exemplified the patient, opportunistic offense that defined our Championship team.
Andy's impact on our squad went beyond his on-field performance. He embodied the core values of our league: exemplary sportsmanship, tireless effort, and an unquenchable thirst for victory. His unwavering commitment to these principles played a crucial role in our journey to the title.
And let's not forget the Royals’ most dedicated fan: Andy's son, Dakota, who attended every game – braving even February's freezing temperatures, Dakota's support never wavered. His kick-ass electric guitar rendition of the National Anthem before the Championship Series was nothing short of spectacular. Do I hear Fan of the Year in Dakota’s future?
In a season filled with memorable moments, Andy's contributions – both tangible and intangible – stand out. His bandana may be famous in Shalom, but it's his heart, skill, and dedication that will be remembered as key components of our Championship season.
Round 9 – Adwild Perez
Prior to 2024, Adwild was just a blip on my radar – I didn’t know him very well – a skinny, little outfielder with a knack for making improbable catches. My most vivid memory? Him robbing me of a hit years ago with an acrobatic over-the-shoulder grab after a circuitous route to the ball.
But as the ninth round of the draft unfolded, there was Adwild, perched atop my board. His versatility – listing 2B and LF as primary and secondary positions – sealed the deal. I've always valued flexibility in my later picks, but little did I know I was about to strike gold.
The early season became a journey of discovery. As I rotated Adwild through second base and right field, a revelation emerged: this wasn't just a utility player; this was a ballplayer, through and through. What Adwild lacked in physical stature, he more than compensated for with talent, heart, and an infectious passion for the game. His intensity rivaled any first-rounder I've ever drafted.
It didn't take long for Adwild to cement his place as our everyday second baseman, a move that eventually allowed me to shift David to third, fortifying our infield. Yet his versatility remained a crucial asset. Whenever we had key absences in the outfield during the regular season, Adwild seamlessly filled the void, excelling in left and right field.
While his consistent contributions with both glove and bat were invaluable throughout our postseason run, Adwild saved his best for the Brewers series. His performance was nothing short of monstrous, playing a pivotal role in propelling us forward.
The poetry of our Championship season reached its crescendo as Adwild recorded the final out in the Championship Series, bringing the title home. It was a fitting end to a remarkable journey for a player who began the season as an unknown quantity and finished it as an indispensable piece of our Championship puzzle.
In retrospect, Adwild wasn't just my second steal of the draft; he was the embodiment of the hidden gems that can transform a good team into Champions. His journey from unheralded ninth-round pick to key contributor is a testament to both his talent and the importance of looking beyond the obvious when building a Championship roster.
Round 10 – Larry Lachman
This narrative isn't about my journey, but rather a tribute to the extraordinary men who etched their names in TSSL history. I’ll save my personal story for another epilogue.
Round 11 – Aaron Bartelson
In the grand narrative of a Championship season, it's easy to overlook the contributions of the bottom third of the lineup. For the Royals, this crucial trio consisted of Aaron, myself, and Chris Peterson. But it's Aaron's story that exemplifies the unpredictable nature of building a Championship team.
Aaron wasn't part of my initial draft strategy. When my 11th pick dropped out after the first week due to personal reasons, I was faced with a familiar dilemma. In 15 years as a Captain, replacing players mid-season had never worked out well for my Royals teams. "Here we go again," I thought, bracing for the worst.
Our sub list at the 11 slot was thin, but Aaron's name stood out. A rookie in spring 2023, he had admittedly tried to do too much in his debut season. Our initial conversation was candid – the role would be primarily as a catcher, with the promise of some field time. Despite his demanding schedule as a pilot, Aaron took a leap of faith and joined the Royals. Little did we know, this decision would become a pivotal moment in our Championship run.
Aaron's commitment was immediate and unwavering. Despite his challenging flight schedule, he missed only one week for the rest of the season. Seeking to maximize his talents, I gave him innings at second base, where he proved reliable and dependable. It didn't take long for Aaron to become an integral part of our team chemistry. His quick wit and playful sense of humor helped keep the dugout loose, even during the most pressure-packed moments of our season. This blend of dependability on the field and levity off it made Aaron an invaluable presence in our Championship run.
To say Aaron had some key hits for us would be a massive understatement. Throughout the regular season and playoffs, he was the epitome of clutch. His two-run single against the Rangers in the first round of the playoffs sealed our victory via run rule. But it was his leadoff triple in the bottom of the seventh in Game 2 of the ALCS that truly showcased his impact. This hit ignited our thrilling come-from-behind victory and perfectly encapsulated Aaron's importance to our team.
The irony of that ALCS moment wasn't lost on me. We weren't even sure if Aaron would make it back to town for the game. He was scheduled to land at DFW at 7:00 am, with HOF Larry Goldstein on standby as a potential sub. But Aaron made it, and his clutch hit set the stage for David Fiorello's heroics later in the inning.
This is the essence of a Championship team – every player, from top to bottom, contributing in crucial moments. Aaron embodied this spirit, buying into our process and becoming a critical cog in our Championship machine. His journey from last-minute addition to playoff hero is a testament to his character and the special chemistry of the Royals.
Aaron's story is more than just a tale of individual success; it's a reminder of the unpredictable nature of team sports. Sometimes, the most impactful players are the ones you least expect. His positive impact on our journey to the title cannot be overstated, serving as a perfect example of how every role, every player, and every at-bat can make the difference between a good season and a Championship one.
Round 12 – Chris Peterson
When the stars align, magic happens. Such was the case when Chris, an 11th-round pick for the Renegades in 2023, fell to me in the 12th round of the 2024 draft. This stroke of fortune completed our formidable trio of catchers – Aaron Bartleson, myself, and Chris – each capable of handling direct throws from both outfielders and infielders with precision.
Chris's impact behind the plate was nothing short of extraordinary. Our team's impressive tally of 13 outfield assists this season was largely due to his sure hands and quick thinking. In the pressure cooker of the postseason alone, Chris recorded four putouts at the plate, each one a potential game-changer. To say he was money would be an understatement – he was the bank.
But Chris's value extended far beyond his in-game performances. His dedication to his craft was evident in every practice. As part of our pre-game warmups, he honed his skills by taking throws from Drew and Tommy, constantly working to perfect his technique. This commitment to improvement was further underscored by his near-perfect attendance at team practices throughout the season.
Ask any Royal about Chris's importance to our Championship run, and you'll hear a chorus of praise. His contributions in clutch moments were pivotal. In our thrilling come-from-behind victory in the ALCS, it was Chris who singled home Aaron after his leadoff triple in the bottom of the seventh, turning over the lineup with only one out and setting the stage for our dramatic win.
In Game 1 of the Championship Series, with the score knotted at 4 – 4, Chris's patience at the plate shone through. His crucial walk to lead off the sixth inning once again turned over the lineup, putting us in prime position to seize control of the game. This ability to get on base and create opportunities was a hallmark of Chris's play throughout the season.
Chris's journey from a late-round draft pick to a key contributor in our Championship run epitomizes the depth and resilience of our team. His steady presence behind the plate, clutch performances in critical moments, and unwavering dedication to improvement played an integral role in our success.
In the grand tapestry of our Championship season, Chris's thread is woven throughout, connecting crucial moments and solidifying our team's foundation. His story serves as a reminder that in softball, as in life, sometimes the most impactful players are the ones who quietly and consistently deliver when it matters most.
Front row l – r: Aaron Bartelson, Ronel Martinez, Scott Greenberg, Kyzer Hoover, David Fiorello, Adwild Perez
Back row: l – r: Kyle Casper, James Keller, Andy Wetterlin, Charles Lachman, Drew Waggoner, Larry Lachman, Ryan Greenberg, Chris Peterson, Dakota Wetterlin, Tommy Apligian
l - r: Aaron Bartelson, Chris Peterson, Kyzer Hoover, Drew Waggoner, Andy Wetterlin, Ryan Greenberg, Adwild Perez, Larry Lachman, James Keller, Scott Greenberg, David Fiorello, Charles Lachman, Tommy Apligian. Not pictured: Ronel Martinez, Kyle Casper
The 2024 TSSL Spring Champions: Lachman's Royals
Celebrating the League's 50th Spring Championship