Griffle Talk With T-Walk - Episode 20 - Taka Wiffleball League Part 2

On the last episode of Griffle Talk, T-Walk is joined by Ryan Voges and Chris Bartley of the Taka Drivers. We recap their second GBL championship and discuss the GBL in 2018 as a whole. Thank you for listening and I will see you next year!

Griffle Talk With T-Walk - Episode 19 - Taka Wiffleball League

On episode 19, T-Walk recaps the first two games of the World Series and then previews the upcoming games on Sunday.

Griffle Talk With T-Walk - Episode 18 - World Series Preview

On episode 18, we are joined by Kyle Lidster and Mike Kubacki to recap the first round of the GBL Playoffs and preview the upcoming World Series. We also break down each of the Taka Drivers and Nighttime Ninjas biggest strengths/weaknesses and give you our predictions.

Griffle Talk With T-Walk - Episode 17 - Week One Playoff Recap

On episode 17, Walk and Gags recap all the action in week one of the playoffs, and discuss what each team has to do to move on to the Griffleball World Series. 

Griffle Talk with T-Walk - Episode 16 - Griffleball Playoff Preview

On episode 16, Tyler and Kyle break down the GBL playoffs, recap the All Star festivities, and give you the biggest story lines for the first round of the playoffs.

Griffle Talk With T-Walk - Episode 15 - All Star Week and Playoff Scenarios

On episode 15 of Griffle talk, I recap the action in week 10 and previews the All Star week festivities. I also give my award finalists, preview the possible playoff scenarios, and reveal the outcome of the GBL All-Star Game Draft.

Griffle Talk With T-Walk - Episode 14 - NWLA Recap & Catching Up on Griffleball

Griffle Talk is back! There is a ton of wiffleball to cover as Tyler Walk and new co-host, Kyle Gagliardi, catch you up on all the action. On episode 14, we discuss GBL Week 8, Week 9, playoff scenarios, and recap the Legends run in the NWLA Tournament. 

Griffle Talk With T-Walk - Episode 13 - All Star Picks and Mt. Rushmore of Griffleball

On episode 13 of Griffle Talk, T-Walk is joined by his family once again, Kyle Gagliardi, to talk some wiffleball. We recap week 7, preview week 8, go through the standings and playoff scenarios, pick our GBL All-Star team if it ended today, and pick the Mt. Rushmore of Griffleball.

10 Reasons Why Griffleball Will Win the NWLA Tournament

With the NWLA tournament less than a week away, Griffleball wants to let the world know why this is our year. In year’s past, high expectations have doomed our league and we came away disappointed. Not this time. This year the GBL is bringing out all the stops. Here are 10 Reasons Why the Griffleball Legends are going to be your 2018 NWLA Champions. 

1. Three Headed Pitching Monster - If you haven’t heard yet, Griffleball is bringing arguably three of the best pitchers in the entire tournament. Adding Caleb Jonkman and Brett Detmar are two of the biggest additions to any tournament team. They both came on to the scene with Leroy (which we will touch on later) and they finished 7th in two straight seasons. Then, we are also bringing back Kyle Lidster. Usually, he’d be the only ace on the staff and we’d be trying to find a number two. This year we have three legitimate aces and that should put the Wiffle world on notice. 
2. Morenci Pub - In between games and before and after the tournament, Griffleball will most likely be found at the Pub (this is 100% confirmed according to multiple sources). With the prices, food, and great atmosphere, there’s no better place in town. I expect the celebration to be there as well.
3. NWLA Experience - Every single player on the roster has two years of NWLA experience. This team knows what to expect. We have finished 6th and 16th, this team understands the highs and lows. Even though some of our players haven’t won a single double elimination game, the experience we’ve earned will be invaluable.
4. Most Voluntarily Unemployed Players - I’m not going to name anyone but, a few of our players left their job just to play wiffleball. They left their jobs just to win a championship. That’s fucking dedication.
5. Chip on Our Shoulder - Griffleball has been in the Dangerfield tournament two years in a row and nobody believes this league can make any sort of run in this tournament. We have consistently underachieved, and many think the league will continue that trend. After all the disappointments and heartbreak, this year the Legends are walking into the tournament trying to prove that we can compete with anyone in the nation.
6. Most Attractive Team - Even though we don’t have the “football team” we used to have in teams of the past with Kuna and Bryan, we do still have Rat and Lidster. And now we’ve added the Taka Drivers of Griffleball, which means the athletic Ryan Voges, the moxy-laden Jackson Buzea, and the best calves at the tournament in Christopher Bartley. Then there’s the slender pretty boy Caleb Jonkman and the sneaky handsome Brett Detmar from Leroy. And then of course, every team needs a little fire, and GBL is no exception. We have our moral compass of the team in Jim Tucker, who will charm you with his unassuming smile and his quippy banter.
7. Leroy - You may think this is obvious as we added the best two pitchers from last year’s Legends of Leroy but, that isn’t the only reason. Most of the roster and some who are not, have taken a liking to playing in the LWA. Buzea, Tucker, Voges, Bartley, and Ratajczyk have all played games at Leroy. Getting familiar to that type of play should prove to help the GBL since we don’t play with “real wiffleballs. Speaking of that...
8. We Play With Real Wiffleballs - We play with Champs Sports Poly Molded Wiffleballs and it makes the GBL a more realistic clone of baseball. To make the ball move, you have to put effort into your approach on the mound. While with the so called “real” wiffleballs, you have to put little effort into making the ball move. Enough said.
9. Versatility - Every player on this year’s roster can play any position on the field, hit, and pitch. Obviously some do each aspect better than others but, the options are limitless. Plus our combined team forearm strength is unmatched. Everyone can hit dingers.
10. Alcohol - I don’t think any team will consume more alcohol next weekend than Griffleball. This year we are coming early just to drink, and we play our league games at a damn bar. This league is ready to explode the bubbly Sunday and I am sure gratuitous amounts of alcohol will be involved. BONUS-Because.T-Walk.Said.So.Wiffle Out!

Griffle Talk With T-Walk - Episode 12 - Griffleball's NWLA Tournament Preview

On a special episode of Griffle Talk, T-Walk is joined by Ryan Voges and Jeremy Ratajczyk to preview the NWLA Tournament. We give each team a confidence ranking and briefly break down their strengths. Full Disclosure, alcohol was involved.

Griffle Talk With T-Walk - Episode 11 - It's Been a While

T-Walk is back! Today, I break down the league leaders, standings, recap week 6, and preview week 7! IT FEELS SO GOOD TO BE BACK!

Griffle Talk With T-Walk - Episode 10 - GBL Regional Recap and Mid-season Award Predictions

On episode 10, T.Walk is joined by most of the GBL Fat Cats to discuss our regional performance (4-0 1st Place) and what we expect at nationals. The group also predicts GBL mid season awards and preview week six.

Griffle Talk With T-Walk - Episode 9 - Back to Griffle Talk

After a long week without any league news, I am back to discuss everything that has happened in the past two weeks. On Episode 9, I give you the Power Rankings, Stars of Griffleball, recap week four, discuss GBL transactions, and preview week five.

2018 NWLA Tournament Regional Roster Preview

Meet the GBL Legends

#47 - Jeremy Ratajczyk
Age: 28
Bats: L
Throws: R
GBL Experience: 9th Season

NWLA Experience: 7th Season
An NWLA Tournament participant since the tournament's inaugural season of 2010, Jeremy's name is often talked about as one of the most feared hitters in the tournament. The commissioner of the GBL will need to live up to his expectations if he wants to bring his league a national title.

#77 - Kyle Lidster
Age: 27
Bats: L
Throws: R
GBL Experience: 7th Season
NWLA Experience: 5th Tournament
One of the tournament's better strike throwers who also features plus velocity, Kyle has pitched himself into the category of ace pitchers at the tournament. Kyle missed the 2017 tournament, and his absence left a gaping hole on the GBL's roster as they finished in 16th place at Nationals.

#34 - Jim Tucker
Age: 28
Bats: R
Throws: R
GBL Experience: 8th Season
NWLA Experience: 3rd Tournament
Jim is arguably the best pitcher of all time in the GBL, but in NWLA Tournament play, his bat will be more vital to the team than his arm, as he had one of the team's best OBPs last year. He will be asked to use his acute batting eye and vicious swing to reach base for the Legends.

#0 - Jackson Buzea
Age: 27
Bats: R
Throws: R
GBL Experience: 5th Season
NWLA Experience: 3rd Tournament
Jackson is one of the toughest players to keep off of the base paths in NWLA Tournament play. He will be at or near the top of the Legends lineup for most of the tournament. He can also be a reliable relief pitcher if needed.

#25 - Ryan Voges
Age: 26
Bats: R
Throws: R
GBL Experience: 4th Season
NWLA Experience: 3rd Tournament
Ryan made a name for himself last year at Regionals with an assortment of highlight reel defensive plays. The Legends believe that he is as good of a fielder as anyone in the tournament, and he will log plenty of innings behind the team's pitching staff.

#7 - Chris Bartley
Age: 27
Bats: R
Throws: R
GBL Experience: 4th Season
NWLA Experience: 2nd Tourament
Chris is quietly one of the best all-around players in the GBL. Chris has had some memorable runs in big moments over the years in the GBL. The Legends hope that Chris can bring some of his late inning magic from Griffith to Morenci.

#22 - Caleb Jonkman
Age: 22
Bats: L
Throws: R
GBL Experience: 2nd Season
NWLA Experience: 3rd Tournament
Over the years, the GBL has always been known as a team that just hasn't had enough pitching. But in 2018, the team has ordered reinforcements. Caleb had some masterful pitching performances over his first two years in NWLA play (spent with LWA), and his presence on the mound for the GBL will be exactly what the doctor ordered.

#14 - Brett Detmar
Age: 22
Bats: R
Throws: R
GBL Experience: 1st Season
NWLA Experience: 3rd Tournament
Much like the GBL's aforementioned addition of Caleb Jonkman, Brett's addition will be just as important to the success of this team. Detmar, along with Lidster and Jonkman is figured to round out what will be a 3-headed monster pitching rotation. Detmar has posted elite numbers on the mound in NWLA play with LWA, and will be asked to do the same for the GBL.

Griffle Talk With T-Walk - Episode 8 - NWLA Regional Special

Today, Tyler Walk is here to break down the NWLA Regional and recap his Griffleball tenure. I also predict the four bids and give you a little of what I know from each team.

Griffle Talk With T-Walk - Episode 7 - Time For a Change

In another episode of Griffle Talk With T-Walk, Tyler is once again joined by family to discuss the upcoming week in Griffleball. This week Kyle Gagliardi and myself break down the new dimension changes to the field and preview/predict Week Four.

Griffleball Week Three Power Rankings and Stars of the Week

GRIFFLEBALL POWER RANKINGS

1. GasHouse Gorillas - 5-1 (LW - #1)

The GasHouse Gorillas keep finding ways to win after dropping their first game of the season. Now winners of five straight, GasHouse seems poised to reclaim their title. With a healthy Ratajczyk, GasHouse should be a tough opponent every week.

2. Taka Drivers - 4-2 (LW - #2)

The Taka Drivers have only allowed two runs all season and they have two losses to show for it. Nonetheless, the Taka pitching staff is quite arguably the best staff we have ever seen in the GBL. If they continue at this rate, a repeat wouldn't surprise anyone.

3. Nighttime Ninjas - 4-2 (LW - #3)

After a couple of 1-0 wins, the Ninjas see themselves as contenders for the World Series. They are neck and neck in every category with GasHouse and Taka (AVG, RUNS, ERA, etc.). At this rate, it is hard to argue they aren't on the same par as the top two.

4. Leroy Legends - 2-4 (LW - #4)

Without ace, Caleb Jonkman, the Legends were swept for the first time this season. Even though Jonkman was not there, their pitching held up. It was their offense, which did not plate a run in both games. It will interesting to see their approach in the coming weeks.

5. Digger Dudes - 1-4 (LW - #6)

The Dudes have had their fair share of close games due to the strength of their arms but, they have also faced some of the best arms in the league. If they can put a few runs on the board, they may contend until the end of the year.

6.. Ducks on the Pond - 1-4 (LW - #5)

The Ducks on the Pond need to find a way to string together some hits before thinking about making a return to the playoffs. They are currently seven for sixty seven (.104) on the season and that is good for worst in the GBL.

GRIFFLEBALL STARS OF THE WEEK

1. Ryan Galiher - (P) 1-0 7 IP 11 SO 5 BB 0 HA (No Hitter) (H) .416 AVG 1 HR 1 RBI

2. Kyle Gagliardi - (P) 2-0 9 IP 8 SO 4 BB 1 HA (No Hitter Game Two)

3. Ryan Voges - (P) 0-0 5 IP 7 SO 1 BB 2 HA 1 SAVE (H) .444 AVG 1 RBI

Griffle Talk With T Walk - Episode 6 - The Edge Gags Special

On episode six of Griffle Talk, T.Walk is joined by Edge (Kevin Edgington) and Gags (Kyle Gagliardi) to answer some questions for the fans and give their takes on Griffleball.

Griffle Talk With T-Walk - Episode 5 - Week Two Recap

In Griffle Talk this week, I touch on a few things about the NWLA criteria, recap week two, give you a standings and stats (yes finally stats) update, and preview and predict week three. #GriffleTalk

Griffleball Week Two Power Rankings and Stars of the Week

GRIFFLEBALL POWER RANKINGS

1. GasHouse Gorillas - 3-1 (LW - #5)

It has been a while since GasHouse held the top spot in the rankings. Last week they brought back Ratajczyk from injury and Mark Nelleman made his debut. They both did not disappoint as they helped GasHouse secure the sweep along with the tremendous pitching from Tucker and Galiher.

2. Taka Drivers - 2-2 (LW - #1)

After another split, the Taka Drivers only move down one spot. Jackson Buzea threw a perfect game (2nd Griffleball Perfect Game already) and looks poised to try and capture another MVP. Taka has one of the best all around teams in the league and every player should be considered a threat.

3. Nighttime Ninjas - 2-2 (LW - #3)

The additions of Kyle Gagliardi and Kevin Edgington have proved to be a significant gain for the Ninjas. Edge is showing he can be a tough out after going 7 for 11 in week two. On the other hand, Gagliardi has only allowed one run pitching all year.

4. Leroy Legends - 2-2 (LW - #3)

Leroy has shown Griffleball that they can stay in any game due to their pitching depth. And, we have not even seen their full roster come to play yet. If Caleb Jonkman pitches every week, it will be hard to beat the Legends twice in one week.

5. Ducks on the Pond - 1-2 (LW - #6)

Even with minimal offense, the Ducks on the Pond have found a way into the win column thanks to Chris Diehl. He has been crucial to the Ducks success and won a game on a walk off home run last week. And, in 13 innings pitched he has only allowed two runs. The Ducks go as Diehl goes.

6. Digger Dudes - 1-2 (LW - #4)

The Digger Dudes were the only team swept last week but, they had to deal with stiff competition. They have played tough and have been in every game due to their arms. Cole and Andrew Felde have only allowed 4 earned runs this season and should give fits to the opposition.

GRIFFLEBALL STARS OF THE WEEK

1. Jackson Buzea - (P) 1-0 5 IP 6 SO 0 HA 0 BB (Perfect Game) (H) .571 AVG 4/7

2. Kevin Edgington - (H) - .636 7/11 2 RBI 2 BB

3. Chris Diehl - (P) 0-0 6 IP 5 HA 1 ER 8 SO 1 BB (H) .200 2/10 1 HR 1 RBI (Walk Off Home Run)

Sunday Night Griffleball - Week Two - Digger Dudes at GasHouse Gorillas

Griffle Talk With T-Walk - Episode 4 - Opening Day Recap

Opening Day has come and gone! T.Walk is here to break down the action in week one, preview week two, detail more about the power rankings and players of the week, and a special guest calls in!

Griffleball Week One Power Rankings and Players of the Week

GRIFFLEBALL POWER RANKINGS

WEEK ONE

1. Taka Drivers - 1-1 (LW - #1)

Even though the defending champions did not register a hit in their opening game, they were able to withstand the adversity and hold off a sweep. Kyle Lidster made his 2018 debut with six strikeouts and shows that he could be a great asset to the Taka rotation moving forward. With very little offense for every team in week one, I believe Taka is still the team to beat moving foward.

2. Nighttime Ninjas - 1-1 (LW - #3)

With some uncertainty on their roster, the new additions to the Ninjas did not disappoint. Kyle Gagliardi, Kevin Edgington, and Jeremy Camp all played significant roles in their series against the GasHouse Gorillas. And, Mr. Opening Day (Mike Kubacki) came ready to play in as he was the key reason they took game one from GasHouse.

3. Leroy Legends - 1-1 (LW - #6)

As it stands, the Legends will arguably have one of the best pitchers in Griffleball moving forward. Caleb Jonkman pitched a perfect game and struck out every batter he faced as the Legends shocked the champs by taking the first game. I still worry about how they will adjust offensively in the GBL but, they certainly have the pitching to make their expansion year a playoff year.

4. Digger Dudes - 1-0 (LW - #5)

For the first time in the Dudes history they sit in first place but, it is VERY early in the season. The Felde brothers have shown they can be a great one-two punch on the mound and could be difficult to score on. If they could just find ways to string some hits and score just a run or two, they may surprise many.

5. GasHouse Gorillas - 1-1 (LW - #2)

Without their key offensive player, Jeremy Ratajczyk, the Gorillas were only able to plate one run in 15 innings. And, that run came in the last inning of the series to give them a must needed win. Galiher and Tucker are still their go to starters and should keep them afloat even without Rat for the next few weeks.

6. Ducks on the Pond - 0-1 (LW - #5)

Even though only one game was completed, the Ducks were unable to scratch across a run in 13 innings (second game PPD). On the positive side, Chris Diehl threw eight innings in game one and only allowed one hit. For now the Ducks are at the bottom but, if they begin to produce at the plate they won't be here for long.

GRIFFLEBALL POTW

(I used to do a hitter, pitcher, and rookie of the week but, in 2018 we are going to shake things up. I believe using those categories is too limited and I will now move to a top 3 players of the week regardless of hitting or pitching.)

1. Caleb Jonkman - (P) 1-0 6 IP 12 SO 0 HA 0 BB; (H) 8 AB 4 HITS

2. Jim Tucker - (P) 1-0 10 IP 14 SO 3 HA 2 BB

3. Andrew Felde - (P) 0-0 8 IP 10 SO 0 HA 3 BB

Griffle Talk With T-Walk - Episode 3 - Season Preview Part Two

On the second part of the season preview with T.Walk, I discuss the last three teams in our preview (Nighttime Ninjas, GasHouse Gorillas, Taka Drivers). After breaking their teams down, I reveal my power rankings, award predictions, and record predictions for each team. And, I give a way too early World Series prediction!

Pre-Season Griffleball Power Rankings & Award Predictions

GRIFFLEBALL POWER RANKINGS

1. Taka Drivers (16-4, 7-5)

After being eliminated by the GasHouse Gorillas in 2015 and 2016, Taka got their revenge in 2017. The Take Drivers are now defending champions and ended the reign of GasHouse. Coming into this season there is nobody better suited for the top of the list. From top to bottom, this is the best roster in the GBL. They can put anyone on the mound at any given time and cause fits for their opposition at the plate. And, Taka will have Kyle Lidster suit for up a few games this season. They have a influx of riches and use them wisely. With the target on their backs, how will they face the adversity? If it is anything like last year's playoffs, I would say pretty well.

2. GasHouse Gorillas (16-3, 6-4)

Usually the top spot is reserved for the GasHouse Gorillas but, their rivals got the best of them last season. Needless to say, the Gorillas are going to be as hungry as ever to get back on top. They dominated nearly all of last season and they looked poised to make it six championships in a row. GasHouse still has all the talent from last year but, recent developments have caused Jeremy Ratajczyk to be out for a month (fractured finger). He is the one that makes their offense go and it will be interesting to see how they fare without him. That's if they even need any runs due to the Cy Young caliber pitching staff they boast.

3. Nighttime Ninjas (11-8, 2-3)

It was another first round playoff exit for the Ninjas as last year's may have been the most painful of all. The Ninjas led 2-0 in their series against Taka and it looked like they were on their way to their first World Series appearance. Then fate intervened numerous times against them and just like that it was over. Heading into this season, they have added a few new bodies to hopefully counter what happened to them last season. This should help the Ninjas rest their guys when possible. They still have virtually the same team as last year but, can be more flexible with the rookies added. I still expect a playoff appearance from Nighttime but, can they finally get over the hump?

4. Ducks on the Pond (8-11, 0-3)

The Ducks are coming off a season where they squeaked into the playoffs with a below .500 record. They needed a series sweep in Week 10 to clinch and this season they are looking to add a postseason victory to their franchise history. They have shown the ability to compete with any team in the league but always fall short in clutch situations. If they can find a way to increase their power and be more consistent on the mound, the Ducks could be a dangerous squad throughout the season. I expect them to improve and battle for the last playoff spot this season.

5. Digger Dudes (5-15, N/A)

The Dudes exceeded expectations last season as many thought their roster would struggle to win a game. They ended up staying in the playoff race until the last week of the season and probably surprised many. If I were to pinpoint their biggest weakness from last season it would have to be pitching. And, they addressed their biggest need by selecting a proven arm in Andrew Felde. This should help bolster their pitching and keep them in games throughout the season. The last time Andrew pitched a whole season, his team made the playoffs. That could be a sign of good fortune.

6. Leroy Legends (N/A)

The only reason Leroy is sitting at the bottom of the first Power Rankings is simple. Even though we do know and have seen many of their roster on the field, how will Leroy translate to Griffleball? Since it is a relative unknown on how they will perform, they start the year at number six (could only go up from here). I do not expect them to stay down here for long as they do have quite the roster of many NWLA "Legends." If they have their entire roster show up every week, they could find themselves competing late into the playoffs. 

AWARD PREDICTIONS

MOST VALUABLE PLAYER - Jim Tucker

CY YOUNG - Ryan Voges

SILVER SLUGGER - Sammy Krucek

RELIEVER - Jackson Buzea

MANAGER - Tim Wiltjer

GOLD HANDS - Chris Bartley

COMEBACK - Andrew Felde

ROOKIE - Kyle Gagliardi

WIFFLE OUT!

Griffle Talk With T-Walk - Episode Two - 2018 Season Preview Part 1

On Episode Two of Griffle Talk, T-Walk prepares you for the upcoming season! He previews and predicts the best and worst case scenarios for the Leroy Legends, Digger Dudes, and Ducks on the Pond.

Jonkman and Detmar Commit to GBL's NWLA Tournament Team

With the news that the Leroy Wiffle Association has decided to not register for the 2018 NWLA Tournament, former LWA Legends Caleb Jonkman and Brett Detmar have decided to join the GBL's roster.

"We are beyond thrilled to have these two up and coming stars represent the GBL while providing them with a place to play NWLA Tournament wiffle. We are also excited to add players of their caliber to our roster", GBL team captain Jeremy Ratajczyk stated. "We would also like to thank the NWLA Tournament Host Committee for granting our appeal to let them transfer to our league."

The GBL has always been one of the better hitting league's at the annual national tournament, but has never had the pitching to make a deep run at the tournament. So the Fat Cats will welcome Jonkman and Detmar, two of the best pitchers at the tournament, with open arms. Jonkman has a career 4.38 ERA in 37 innings pitched in NWLA Tournament play. Detmar has pitched 23 innings at the tournament, and boasts a 2.09 ERA. The two of them will be joining  longtime GBL ace Kyle Lidster to form what will be one of the best pitching trios in Morenci.

Griffle Talk with T-Walk - Episode One - The Day is Upon Us

With a new format, new music, and new name, Tyler Walk is back at it again with more Griffleball. On the first episode on Griffle Talk with T-Walk, Tyler breaks down the manager's meeting and prepares you on what to expect in 2018. He also recaps the wild GBL Draft and gives you some info you may want to hear on Walk Talk.