SML Fall League to get underway in two weeks

The unnatural aluminum pings and clanks will be traded out for the smacks and cracks this year, as the fall edition of the Saipan Major League will be implementing wooden and composite bats when the boys take the field in two weeks—just like the gods of baseball would have wanted it.

Last Wednesday night, team representatives met with league officials to discuss the current state of the schedule, the new types of bats allowed this year, and possible solutions to the lighting situation.

According to SML coordinator Tony Rogolifoi, the wooden and composite bats are the only type that will be allowed under the rules of the Baseball Confederation of Oceania in next year’s South Pacific Mini Games in Palau.

Since most of the lights were repositioned courtesy of a storm named Chaba, organizers had no other choice than to alter the primetime schedule until such time that the necessary repairs are made.

In the meantime, the games will be played the way they were in the 1980’s—during daylight hours and on the weekends. Beginning Saturday, Sept. 25, at 10am, fall-ballers will play the first game of a double header, followed by the second game at 2pm. On Sunday, Sept. 26, there will be only one game at 10am. Most of the season will have that format, but all of the action will take place at the Francisco M. Palacios baseball field in Oleai.

The teams that have tossed their hats into the ring so far are the defending champions Hustlers, Pirates, Northern Yankees, and a new unnamed team comprised mainly of all-stars from the Senior and Big leagues. The word on the street is that there is a team being assembled in Tanapag, and that the D-9ers entry in the fall league is a little questionable.

The teams that are playing this season will be taking the field for practice beginning today, and continuing through to next Thursday. As a reminder, all teams are required to wear the same color hats and jerseys for the games; however, the baseball pants worn are not required to match the color scheme.

Only individuals between the ages of 16-25 may play in the league, and teams will have to submit their complete roster to league officials by Friday, Sept. 17. In addition to the roster, teams must submit the $1,200 registration fee made payable to the Saipan Major League, along with the insurance fee of $15 per player or a copy of the player’s health insurance card

For further information, contact Rogolifoi by calling 664-2508.