The 1999 PAL Majors spring season came to a heated conclusion with the beginning of playoff's week. The playoff schedule for the Majors, which is composed of 5,6, and 7 grade, allows every one to compete but is seeded according to how each team did during the regular season. After finishing a 12 game schedule the first game Oyster Bay Fire Co. #1 out scored New England Financial. Oyster Bay had outstanding pitching and fielding from Jonathan Shoemaker and Mike Ferrandino, James Solomito was perfect at shortstop while PJ Pinello did a great job at catching. Alex Siple's hit sparked the rally that led to the win. New England Financial had strong offense from Joe Fabre, Brendon Williams, Ari Allen and Mike Georgapopoulos. Strong gloves were demonstrated by Adam Robbins, Bret Fleury, Nick Peterson and Nick Capozza.

The second first round game pitted Prudential Realty against Woodstock Farms. Strong play from Ted Chevins, Pat Woodstock, Rob Douglas, Mat Lamar and Greg McWhit led the Red team from Woodstock as they outscored Prudential. The Prudential team had a slow start but they got better as the game progressed. Strong pitching was provided by Adam Hyman, Anthony Imburgia and Fritz Kahler. John Mavretich skillfully defended first base. Competitive hustle and drive was demonstrated behind the plate and at bat by Alex Mihlstin and Sean Igoe. Alex Galante, Scott Kellog and Vinny Giambanco excelled in the outfield, while Austin Huminski used his speed to steal bases and plug up holes in center field. Although Prudential and New England Financial were eliminated in the early round both teams showed poise and improved skills.

The second round saw Woodstock Farms playing first seed Suffolk PBA. The game began as a pitching and fielding duel. During the first three innings Woodstock's Ted Chevins and Suffolk's Tim Barnett did not allow anybody on base. Suffolk was aided by great defensive plays by Mike Cazzola, Jon Kneller and Ritchie Allen. Suffolk did break the ice with strong bats from Scott Applequist and Tom Solar and went on to secure the win. Woodstock put up a great fight with superb defensive plays from Nick Chajiryan, John Hallman and Mike Clay. Pat Woodstock provided the heat on the mound. Suffolk will meet Oyster Bay Fire Co. #1 in the final round.

Registration for summer baseball will be held from June 21 to June 25 at the PAL office on 249 South St, Boys who are currently in 5, 6 and 7 grades are invited to register. Novice and expert coaches are welcome. Every effort will be made to accommodate vacations and other sports schedules. For other questions call the PAL office directly at 922-6647.

If you haven't experienced the fun that Oyster Bay PAL offers, this would be a great time to join. Everybody plays and enjoys the games and sometimes even the parents have a good time. Try it. You'll be hooked!