2007Scout

Velazquez named New York City's 2007 PSAL Iron Horse Winner

New York Nine RHP Anthony Velazquez capped a stellar high school career by picking up the city's highest individual honor in 2007 - the PSAL Iron Horse award, naming him New York City's top player. The Queens native, and Bayside HS standout gained national attention by throwing back to back perfect games in 2006 (first time in NYS high school history) and was named 1010 WINS and NY Times sportsperson of the year. Velazquez is the second New York Nine player in as many years (Esterlin Perozo, George Washington HS) to win the prestigious award.

Nine OF Luciano is NATION'S highest scorer in SPARQ test

New York Nine outfielder Tom Luciano was the NATION'S highest scorer in the Perfect Game administered SPARQ test with an overall score of 91.32. The SPARQ test measures sport-specific athleticism. The five components are speed, power, agility, reaction and quickness (S.P.A.R.Q). Tom has verbally committed to an outstanding ACC school, and we will reveal his college selection once he signs his National Letter of Intent (NLI) next week.

Frias named to NABF World Series All-Tournament Team

Swinging a hot bat through the world series, Fernando Frias was named to the All-Tournament team for the 2007 NABF World Series held in Jackson, Mississippi. The Scout team finished in the national "final four", techincally third having beaten the other semi-finalists, the Mississippi Prospects head to head. In that game, Frias launched a home run estimated at 425+ feet, out of Smith-Wills Stadium. Frias set a New York Nine record with 11 home runs this summer and over 40 Rbi's.

Guerrero Inks with St. John's Red Storm

Scout team RHP Gabriel Guerrero (Cardinal Spellman HS) accepted a scholarship offer from St. John's University today (8/15). 6uerrero was an unsung hero in this summer's scout team run to the NABF national semi-finals, delivering on the mound, at the plate and in left field. Guerrero, a 6'6 converted catcher, will add to his high 80s fastball as his frame fills out.

Jean Carlos Rodriguez selected for Area Code Games

Scout team catcher and George Washington High School senior-to-be Jean Carlos Rodriguez was selected to play in this year's Area Code Games in California. Rodriguez had a stellar summer, batting well over .400 and tying the New York Nine record for doubles. Rodriguez has a major league arm from behind the plate, and we wish him well as he showcases his skills for the pro scouts in attendance.

Scout Team finishes in NABF "Final Four", for second consecutive season

The New York Nine Scout team finished in the national semi-final for the second consecutive season, at the NABF World Series in Jackson, Mississippi.

For individual Scout Team game recaps, go to '07 Scout Team News on the link menu.

For Final Scout Team statistics, click on the Team/Roster link.

Nine finish 3rd Nationally at NABF World Series in Jackson, Miss.

Jackson, Miss - To cap off an amazing first year for the New York Nine baseball program, the Scout team finished third nationally at the NABF World Series in Jackson. The Nine won their first two games at the series, running their impressive winning streak to 14 straight games, including a 6-0 regional finish, before falling in the third game of the series. The Scout team then reeled off another two victories before a heartbreaking 1-0 loss, on a one-hitter. The lone single given up proved to be the difference, as an unearned run was allowed, which ended the season for the Nine. The Nine finish the season at 30-16 overall, 10-2 in the NABF post-season. With their 4-9 start, the Scout team finished 26-7 down the stretch. Individual game summaries can be found by clicking on scout team news and scrolling down the page (games are posted in order, beginning with the first game of the summer).

Feel free to post comments in our guestbook for any of our New York Nine players (Coaches, Scouts looking to communicate, etc). We will post a season-recap story within days, summarizing the fantastic first season of the New York Nine.

Scout team crowned NABF NORTHEAST REGIONAL CHAMPIONS

Albany, NY - In a most impressive fashion, the NY Nine Scout team clamied the National Amateur Baseball Federation Northeast crown by carrying a perfect 6-0 record through the regional tournament. The Nine were the only team not to draw a "bye" through the championship round, but were unfazed as they outscored their opposition by a score of 57-10 through the weekend. You can read individual game highlights by clicking on the scout team information link located on the left side of the page.

Scout Team Opens 2007 Season in Grand Fashion

Central Islip, LI - The Scout team opened the 2007 campaign in solid fashion defeating the Long Island Mariners by the scores of 10-5 and 9-2. George Isabel (1-0) picked up the victory in game one with a strong six strikeout, six inning effort. Fernando Frias blasted a grand slam to break the game open in the sixth inning, Tommy Rivera was 3 for 4 with two runs scored, Gabby Molina was 2 for 4 with a run scored, And Marcos Castro was two for four with two stolen bases and an rbi.

In game two, Frank Cebek (1-0) fanned 10 in the complete game effort, allowing only two earned runs and walking only two. Jean Carlos Rodriguez was 3 for 3 with 3 runs scored and two stolen bases. Kenneth Castro was 2 for 3, Willy Hernandez was 2 for 4, Tommy Rivera was 2 for 3 with 3 Rbi's, Fernando Frias doubled and drove in two and Raymond Quinones stole three bases and scored twice for the Nine (2-0).

Rinaldi, Guerrero lead Nine to sweep of NY Crush

Queens, NY - Gabriel Guerrero (1-0) fanned 5 while allowing no runs on two hits in a complete game effort in game one. Thomas Rivera provided the punch with a well struck two run homer to right center, as Kenny Ferrer added a pair of hits. Russ Carone drove home three, Gabby Molina and Fernando Frias both scored twice for the Nine as they defeated the Crush in game one by a score of 10-0.

In game two, Andrew Rinaldi (1-0) made his stellar NY Nine debut by fanning 8 in 5 2/3 innings, allowing no runs on five hits. Kenny Ferrer fanned three of the four batters he faced to pick up his first save, and paced the offense with a two run single in the second inning. Russ Carone added two hits and Gabby Molina swiped two bases for the Nine in the 3-0 victory in game two. The Nine Scout team is 4-0 on the season.

Scout team bests Pro Swing 7-3

Valhalla, NY - Thomas Rivera's two Rbi triple opened up a one-run game, Fernando Frias plated two runners, and Raymond Quinones chipped in two hits and two runs scored for the Nine Scout squad (5-0). Mike Mezansky (1-0) picked up the win in relief.

Velazquez outlasts Bonnie Jays

Port Chester, NY - Anthony Velazquez (1-0) battled without his "A" game scattering nine hits and four runs (three earned) against the Bonnie Jays today at Port Chester Rec Park. Russ Carone chipped in a cluth Rbi single, Gabby Molina drove home two runs, Raymond Quinones and Fernando Frias both scored twice for the Nine Scout team (6-0).

Ferrer blanks Bayside, Scout team improves to 7-0

Bedford, NY - The Scout team rode the right arm of Kenny Ferrer (1-0) to a 4-0 victory over the Bayside Yankees Senior Amerricans at Fox Lane. Ferrer scattered three hits, walking a batter and struck out nine in six strong innings of work. JJ Flores was 2 for 3 with three runs scored and three stolen bases. Marcos Castro drove home two runners and Tommy Guzman was 2 for 2 with an Rbi and stolen base for the Nine (7-0).

Isabel leads Scout team to split with South Troy Dodgers

Troy, NY - It was a tale of two nine's today in South Troy as the Scout team pounded out 12 hits en route to a 9-4 victory over the Dodgers in game 1. George Isabel (2-0) led the way with six strikeouts in six strong innings, Carlos George and Raymond Quinones each scored three times, and JJ Flores was 3 for 4 with 3 Rbi's.

Game two showed a complete reversal of fortune as the Nine squandered a strong pitching performance by Dawin Rivas (0-1). Rivas fanned 12 in the complete game effort, but the Dodgers' quality pitching limited the scout team to five scattered hits in the 5-0 Dodgers' victory. The Scout team currently sits at 8-2 on the season.

Lifeless Nine drop pair to Dodgers

Albany, NY - The New York Nine Scout team dropped a pair of games to the South Troy Dodgers 17u squad on Sunday by the scores of 4-2 and 5-4. Game one saw Anthony Velazquez (1-1) scattered seven hits and allowed six walks as he battled without his best stuff. Tommy Guzman was 2 for 3 as the nine were only able to muster up four hits.

In game two, Nine pitchers fanned 12 and allowed only a hit, yet lost 5-4 to the Dodgers. Mike Anderson (0-1) took the hard luck loss fanning 6 in 2 2/3 innings. Carlos George and J.J. Flores both had three hits apiece with Flores swiping three bags. With the pair of losses, the nine drop to 8-4 on the season.

Nine no-hit Pride in run-rule shortened contest

Valhalla, NY - Kenneth Ferrer (2-0) and Raymond Quinones combined to no-hit the Pro Swing Pride in a shortened contest. Ferrer fanned seven in three innings, and Quinones the side in the fourth as the Nine defeated Pro Swing by a count of 16-0. Fernando Frias launched a grand slam (his second of the season), Kenneth Castro was 3 for 4 with two runs scored and two Rbi, Anthony Velazquez was 2 for 4, Jean Carlos Rodriguez scored three times and plated two runners and Gabriel Guerrero and George Isabel chipped in hits for the Nine Scout squad (9-4).

Scout team shut down by Bayside

Pleasantville, NY - The Scout team was unable to muster any real offense, along with poor overall pitching, as the Yankees cruised to victory at Pace university by the count of 11 - 1. Frank Cebek (1-2) was the losing pitcher. JJ Flores and Jean Carlos Rodriguez accounted for the only hits as the squad falls to 9-5 on the young season.

Scout team bests Syracuse Sports Zone A's
Yaphank, LI - Frank Cebek (2-2) battled gamely without his best stuff, fanning 5 in four innings. Gabriel Guerrero picked up his first save of the season with three shutout innings in relief. Fernando Frias continued his torrid hitting by launching two long home runs and finishing the day with 5 Rbi's. Raymond Quinones chipped in three hits, JJ Flores drove home two runners, Gabby Molina went 2 for 4 and Willie Hernandez went 1 for 3 for the Nine (10-6).

Castro's Huge Night Stings Cobras

Yaphank, LI - Marcos Castro led the way by going 2 for 4 with a bases clearing double, an RBI single, three runs scored and a stolen base. Jean Carlos Rodriguez homered to left center, and six other players picked up hits in support of George Isabel (3-0). With the win the Scout team improves to 11-6 on the season.

Frias 2HR's power Nine past Team Connecticut

Yaphank, LI - Fernando Frias hit two long home runs to help power the Nine past Team Connecticut by a score of 6-2. Frias finished the day with 3 Rbi's, Carlos George chipped in with a cluth two-out, three run home run. Andrew Rinaldi (2-0) picked up the win with four solid innings in relief of starter Kenny Ferrer. The Nine improve to 12-6 on the season.

Frias, Molina power Scout squad with longballs

Port Chester, NY - The scout team opened the Battle of the Border tournament with a 12 to 9 decision over a very game Harrison 18u Ruth Squad (who went to the world series last season). Frias finished the day with 3 RBi, Molina added another 3Rbi, Alibay Barkley and Raymond Quinones added two hits apiece, and Kenny Ferrer and Emmanuel Rodriguez chipped in two Rbi. Gabriel Guerrero (2-0)picked up the win as JJ Flores added a save. The scout team improves to 13-6.

Flores Saves the day as Nine go 2-0 in Battle of the Border

Port Chester, NY - JJ Flores (1-0) pitched his way out of trouble to pick up the win over Norwalk this evening. Flores allowed a leadoff double and walk, putting the go-ahead runners on in the final frame, before fanning the next three hitters. Russ Carone's walk-off Rbi single in the bottom of the inning won it for the Nine (14-6). Raymond Quinones was 3 for 4 including scoring the game winner, Gabby Molina scored three times and Emmanuel Rodriguez hit a two run homer for the Scout team.

Rinaldi leads Scout team to Battle of Border Finals

Port Chester, NY - Andrew Rinaldi (3-0) allowed five hits over seven innings to pick up the win for the Scout team, helping the team into the finals of the Battle of the Border tournament in Port Chester. Jean Carlos Rodriguez drove home two runners and stole two bases, Alibay Barkley had two hits and two Rbi, and Russ Carone added two hits for the Nine (15-6).

Tournament MVP Rivas leads Scout team to Battle at the Border Crown

Port Chester, NY - Dawin Rivas (1-1) fired a complete game shutout, allowing two hits, in the Scout team's 10-0 victory over Harrison in the championship game of the first ever Battle at the Border. Rivas was named tourney MVP with his performance. Raymond Quinones, Carlos George and Fernando Frias were named to the All-Tournament team as well. Fernando Frias was 2 for 3 with a home run, Jean Carlos Rodriguez hit two booming triples and drove in four, Gabby Molina was 2 for 2 with an Rbi and Marcos Castro added a bases clearing triple for the Nine (16-6).

Scout squad blasts 5 hr's in 11-7 victory over South Troy at AABC qualifier

Troy, NY - The scout team opened the AABC regional qualifier in grand fashion blasting five home runs en route to an 11-7 victory. Russ Carone, Fernando Frias, Gabby Molina, Raymond Quinones and Alibay Barkley all launched no-doubt home runs, with Frias', Quinones' and Molina's traveling over 400 feet. As a team the nine pounded out 17 hits. Frank Cebek (3-2) picked up the win in relief as he fanned eight Dodgers in 4 1/3 innings of work. The Scout team stands at 17-6 on the season.

Scout team mauled by Tigers, KO'd from AABC regional

Troy, NY - The Scout team must have left their offense and defense back at the hotel, as three errors and some solid Tigers hitting led to an 11-2 defeat. Eric Strauss (0-1) threw better than his stat line would indicate, but took the loss. JJ Flores was the only real offensive bright spot for the Nine going 2 for 2 with a run scored, and Kenny Ferrer chipped in an Rbi for the Nine (17-7) who were eliminated from the AABC regional today.

Scout team splits with Crush

Bedford, NY - In game one of a Monday afternoon twin-bill, the Scout squad posted a 4-1 victory over the New York Crush. Raymond Quinones, Mike Mezansky, Gabriel Guerrero and Willy Hernandez all plated runners. Guerrero (3-0) picked up the win by having his sharpest outing of the season on the bump, going three innings and fanning five. Dawin Rivas pitched the final three innings for his first save of the year, also fanning five in three innings. The Scout squad improved to 18-7 on the season with the win.

In game two, there was a reversal of fortune, as the Crush used some clutch hitting and offensive patience to defeat the Scout squad by a count of 5-1. Chris Rivera (0-1) suffered the loss, allowing 4 runs (2 earned) and fanning 10 through five innings. Raymond Quinones was 3 for 4 with an Rbi and Willy Hernandez added two hits for the Nine (18-8).

Scout team drops pair to Team Connecticut Americans

Bedford, NY - In game one of this mid-day doubleheader, the Scout team fell behind by a count of 5-1 after five innings, but mounted a furious two-out seventh inning rally, only to fall short by one run. Gabby Molina paced the offense by going 3 for 4 with two runs scored and an Rbi, Kenny Ferrer added a two-run double, and Emmanuel Rodriguez doubled and scored a run. Dawin Rivas (1-2) suffered the loss, allowing four runs in six innings, while fanning five.

Game two saw a metal vs. wood contest as Team Connecticut swung the aluminum in preparation for their world series tournament vs. the Scout team's wood as they prepared for their regionals. Metal won, 9 to 1. Willy Hernandez was 2 for 2 with a stolen base, Gabby Molina drove home two runs and Tommy Guzman scored once, while driving in a run. Kenny Ferrer (2-1) suffered the loss, allowing his first earned runs of the summer. With the losses, the scout team dropped to 18-10.

Bedford, NY - For the second consecutive game, the Scout squad swung their wooden sticks in preparation for their NABF regionals, while the Team Connecticut Nationals swung metal in preparation for their post season. The final tally was 14 runs for each side. Raymond Quinones was two for five with 3 rbi's, Kenny Ferrer plated three runners, Alibay Barkley chipped in two Rbi, Anthony Velazquez scored twice and added two hits, and Willie Hernandez was 3 for 4 with 2 stolen bases and two Rbi for the Scout team (18-10-1). There was no pitching decision in this game.

Gloucester, NJ - Game one of today's twin bill saw the scout team claw its way back from a seven-run first inning defecit, only to drop the contest 11-10 to the Philadelphia Reds. Fernando Frias drove home three runners, Gabby Molina added two Rbi, Andrew Rinaldi went two for four with 3 Rbi, and Raymond Quinones scored twice for the Nine. Jared Greenberg (0-1) was saddled with the loss for the Nine.

Game two saw a complete turn around as the Nine bats pounded out 13 hits en route to a 11-1 victory. Jean Carlos Rodriguez (1-0) fanned 8 batters in five innings for the victory. Anthony Velazquez stole four bases and scored twice, Russ Carone added three runs scored and two stolen bases, Gabby Molina plated three runners and scored twice, Gabriel Guerrero was two for three, and Andrew Rinaldi was two for three with three Rbi for the Scout team (19-11-1).

Scout team opens NABF Regional with 10-2 victory

Bethlehem, NY - The scout team opened its quest of a second consecutive trip to the NABF World Series with a decisive 10-2 victory over the host Bethlehem Eagles. Gabby Molina led the way with two hits and three Rbi, Emmanuel Rodriguez homered and added 2 Rbi, Jean Carlos Rodriguez was 3 for 4 with 2 Rbi, Thomas Rivera was 3 for 5 with two doubles and two runs scored and Alibay Barkley (1-0) picked up the win for the Nine (20-11-1, 1-0 NABF).

Nine maul Cougars, improve to 2-0 at NABF regional

Bethlehem, NY - In a shortened 5-inning contest, the Scout team bats pounded out 14 hits and scored 16 times en route to a 16-0 victory over the Franklin County Cougars. Thomas Rivera was 3 for 3 with four runs scored and four Rbi, Fernando Frias was 2 for 3 with four Rbi, Jean Carlos Rodriguez was 2 for 3 with three Rbi, Russ Carone was 2 for 3 with two runs scored, Willie Hernandez swiped two bases and Frank Cebek (4-2) picked up the win for the Nine (21-11-1, 2-0 NABF).

Rivera's 3 HR's, Ferrer's right arm, Velazquez's glove power Nine past Tigers

Bethlehem, NY - Thomas Rivera hit 3 home runs, one shot longer than the next, to power the Nine past the Tigers in a crucial matchup of undefeated teams at the NABF regional today. Rivera hit solo shots in the first and third, and a two run HR in the second, giving him three home runs in his first three at bats of the game. Leading by a run with two outs in the sixth, tying runs on base, left fielder Anthony Velazquez made what could turn out to be a season-saving catch, as he dove face first into the bullpen mound, catching and holding on to a deep line drive. Gabby Molina chipped in a two-run HR in the first inning. Kenny Ferrer (3-1) fanned seven, getting stronger as the game went on, to give the Nine the important victory. The Nine are now 22-11-1 on the season, and 3-0 in the NABF Regional.

Nine Pound Warriors, move to 4-0 at NABF regional

Bethlehem, NY - Frank Cebek (5-2) fanned 8 to lead the Nine to a lopsided 15-1 victory over the Niskeyuna Warriors, in a matchup of the last two unbeaten teams at the NABF regional tournament. Thomas Rivera homered again (fourth in two games), Emmanuel Rodriguez was 4 for 4, Fernando Frias was 3 for 5 with 3 Rbi, Jean Carlos Rodgriguez was 3 for 4 , Gabirel Guerrero was 2 for 4, Willie Hernandez was 2 for 3, and Raymond Quinones was 2 for 4 for the Nine (23-11-1, 4-0 NABF).

In strange twist, Scout team loses then claims title

Bethlehem, NY - Despite Thomas Rivera's 2 home runs and 5 rbi, the scout team dropped today's game to the Team NY Cardinals by the score of 11-5. Raymond Quinones was 3 for 4, Jean Carlos Rodriguez was 2 for 3, and Frank Cebek fanned six batters in relief of Gabby Molina (0-1). The scout team fell to 23-12-1, 4-1 in the NABF Regional. Coming in to the game with an undefeated record, and being the only undefeated team, the Scout team was guaranteed a bye as the Cardinals and Tigers had to play an elimination game (There were three teams left in the tournament at this point). The Tigers then defeated the Cardinals, but were unable to play the final game of the tournament.

Scout team crowned NABF NORTHEAST REGIONAL CHAMPIONS for second straight year

Clifton Park, NY - For the second consecutive year, the New York Nine Scout team will be heading to the NABF World Series in Jackson, Mississippi. The Scout Squad will look to improve on their third place national finish of a year ago. The Nine were led by the torrid hitting of Thomas Rivera, who launched 6 home runs in three games, scored 14 times, and batted at a .684 clip (13 for 19). Raymond Quinones was 9 for 20 (.450) with 9 runs scored, Jean Carlos Rodriguez was 10 for 17 (.588) with 7 Rbi, and Frank Cebek led the pitching staff with 18 strikeouts over three appearances. The torrid offense scored 56 runs in 5 games.

Frias Bomb, Scout team open NABF World Series with win

Jackson, Miss - Fernando Frias' 2-run home run, which travelled an estimated 420 feet, opened up the scoring as the New York Nine Scout team beat the Mississippi Prospects by the score of 7-2. Frias finished the game with 4 Rbi, Raymond Quinones and Kenny Ferrer added two hits apiece, Willie Hernandez doubled off the left field wall and Frank Cebek (6-2) was nothing short of spectacular as he fanned 7 batters in the complete game victory. The Scout team moves to 24-13-1 on the year, 6-1 in the NABF Post-Season and 1-0 at the World Series.

Errors doom Nine vs. Barnstormers

Jackson, Miss - The Virginia Barnstormers capitalized on poor NY Nine defense to break open a close game in the six and seventh innings. Gabby Molina led the offense for the Nine with two hits and three Rbi. Andrew Rinaldi (3-2) threw far better than his line would indicate, but suffered the loss. The Nine are now 24-14-1, 6-2 in the NABF post season, and 1-1 at the World Series.

Rivera's 4 for 4 day leads Nine past Warhawks in critical matchup. Nine win WS Pool.

Jackson, Miss - In a must-win game, Tommy Rivera's 4 for 4, 3 Rbi performance led the Scout team to a 7-1 victory over the Ohio Warhawks. Kenny Ferrer (4-1) fanned five in 5 innings to pick up the win. Anthony Velazquez scored twice, Fernando Frias stole two bases and Gabriel Guerrero fanned two in two perfect relief innings. The Scout team won their pool based on a runs-against rule, as three teams were tied at 2-1. With the win, the Nine move to 25-14-1, 7-2 in the NABF Post-Season and 2-1 at the world series. The win was also head coach Ian Millman's 300th Career victory.

Nine top Kansas Stars 3-1, head to NABF national Semi-Final

Jackson, Miss - Raymond Quinones' 3 for 3 performance, including a clutch Rbi led the Scout team to a 3-1 victory over the Kansas Stars. The nine plated one in the first and two in the second, then held on as Chris Rivera (1-1) picked up the win. Rivera fanned 7 in 6 1/3 innings. George Isabel notched the save getting two big outs in the seventh inning. The Scout team moves into the national semi-final game with the win, and is now 26-13-1 on the season, 8-2 in the NABF Post-Season and 3-1 at the World Series.

In heartbreaking fashion, Nine fall to Razorbacks 4-3, Finish in national "Final Four"

Jackson, Miss - In heartbreaking fashion, similar to the 2006 national semi-final game, a throwing error proved to be the difference as the Nine lost to the Evansville (IN) Razorbacks by a 4-3 score. With Evansville up by three in the top of the seventh inning, Alibay Barkley's throw which glanced off of George Isabel went down the left field line allowing the fourth Evansville run to score.

In the bottom of the seventh inning, after a leadoff strikeout by Gabby Molina, Alibay Barkley walked, Carlos George doubled, Kenny Ferrer singled and Willie Hernandez walked forcing home a run. Raymond Quinones struck out looking on a questionable pitch, followed by Anthony Velazquez' two out walk, forcing home the second run. After a pitching change, TJ Rivera was hit with an 0-2 pitch, forcing home run number three. With the bases loaded and two outs, Fernando Frias, the team's hottest hitter, struck out. Frias had previously doubled off the right center wall, and flown out to the 400 foot sign in center field twice. It was nothing to be ashamed of, as the Nine fought hard in defeat. Anthony Velazquez (1-3) suffered the loss. The Nine finished the season at 26-15-1, 7-3 in the NABF post season, and 3-2 at the World Series.