Mirage Softball: Deputy Mayor Cirulli Proves a One-Man Band

The wind was blowing out at Brackman Field Saturday, and the boys were swinging. This game was a see-saw affair and proved the most exciting game of the year. 

The lineup: Al Cirulli, Skip Vaccarello, Tino Iannocone, Marty Lisella, Joe Germano, Andy Gish, Ben LoScalzo, Joe Feeney and Dave Sherman versus Rich Zaccagna, Alan Torsiello, John Arena, Pat Pipi, Robin Greenwald, John Stinson, Bob Piciello, Legion Mike and Artie Posillipo. 

Team Cirulli came out strong, scoring five runs in the first and hold a 5-1 lead entering the fourth.

Team Artie, powered by Pat's home run to center, scores five of their own and takes a 6-5 lead.  

A freak accident to Andy has Skip wondering who can play first. Al, being the team player he is, steps up.

"I can play anywhere," says Al, and the switch is made. I have to say Al looked like he was born on first base. It was scoop after scoop and stretch after stretch. 

Team Al scores two in the fifth, two in the sixth, and a clutch two-out double by Al (what did he have for breakfast?) plates two more in the seventh, and after seven it's team Al 12, team Artie 9.  

At this point, with four hits and five RBIS, the Deputy Mayor is having the game of his life. He is not done yet. 

Artie calls for a team meeting. "I am going for win number 20 today. I want this win – get me some runs." His boys respond and score five more in the eighth and now hold a 14-12 lead entering the bottom of the ninth.

With a run in, two out and a man on third, Al is the last player Artie wants to see up there, but there he is. Al then hits the first pitch over third, knocking in the tying run. Al now decides to gamble and go for two. Here comes the throw – he's safe.

Ben is next up and singles to center, again, here comes Al around third heading for home, the throw and BANG, BANG, SAFE, SAFE, SAFE. Speed kills.

The Final score Team Al 15, Team Artie 14. 

Al Joined the Mirage football program last November and proved a star wide receiver. After an early season injury in softball, Al is now coming to his own on the diamond. 

With 29 runs scored there were many stars on the field today, but no question the game ball goes to the Deputy Mayor.      

Consistent hustle combined with sound fundamentals produces successful results. Congratulations, Al.