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August 30, 2007
Comments from District Judge John G. Koeltl ruling
The following quotes are from the
UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT
SOUTHERN DISTRICT OF NEW YORK
District Judge John G. Koeltl's "Opinion and Order"
"It is indeed ironic that the plantiffs would promote the use of non-wood bats to increase the batting performance of hitters and yet seek to avoid the consequences of more balls hit at the players in the field."
I will post more quotes this week.
Also
USA Today
Will more follow New York City aluminum ban?
The New York City councilman who sponsored a bill banning metal baseball bats for high school games in the city hopes Tuesday's court decision to uphold the law triggers a groundswell of support among legislative bodies nationwide to enact similar legislation.
"Hopefully, this decision is a green light for other jurisdictions to bring safety back to the game," Republican Councilman James Oddo said. "Some jurisdictions may not rush right out and do it, but the first time there's a (safety) incident, there will be a parent or coach who will say, 'Wait a minute. Didn't New York pass that law?' "
Similar bills have been discussed in recent months in the state legislatures of New York, Pennsylvania and New Jersey.
North Dakota high schools opted for wood last season. Click below to read more!
"Will more follow New York City aluminum ban? - USA Today"
August 28, 2007
District Judge John G. Koeltl rules in New York City's Favor!
It's Official! New York City High School baseball teams will be using wooden baseball bats!
The Staten Island Live and New York Times state:
A judge ruled today that it was constitutional for the city to ban metal bats from high school baseball games.
Councilman James Oddo, the original sponsor of the bill, said he hopes city and state governments throughout the country see the ruling as a ''green light to return the game to its roots, to give kids back a better, purer and safer brand of baseball.''
''Today the big winners, the really big winners, are the kids of the city of New York,'' he said.
"Obviously I'm thrilled," said Oddo. "This issue has been about the safety of kids and eliminating the unreasonable and unnecessary risk from their baseball games. It's been about removing a risk that's not inherent in the sport. It's about creating a better, purer, safer brand of baseball."
The conclusion of Judge Koeltl's statement reads as follows:
"The Court has considered the plaintiffs' remaining arguements and found them to be either moot or without merit. The defendant's (New York City Council) cross-motion for summary judgement is granted. The plaintiffs' motion for a preliminary injunction is denied as moot. The Clerk is directed to enter judgement and to close the case."
More news on the horizon!
"Judge upholds ban on metal bats - SI LIVE . COM"
"Metal - Bat Ban Found Constitutional - New York Times"
August 24, 2007
Wood vs. metal debate is making some batty
From in the Beltway to over the top, former Bush aide takes up the bat makers' cause
The last few days, rain made it slow going for the Little League World Series in Williamsport, Pa.
So much so that on Monday the corporate folks who run the $18 million business freed up some time for a press conference to talk about -- you guessed it -- bats.
The old-fashioned lumber, he (Ari Fleischer) insisted, drains the joy from the game.
And on that Little League director Steve Keener chimed in.
"It's a different game with wooden bats," he said in support of his spokesman.
"Wood vs. metal debate is making some batty - SI LIVE . COM"
July 25, 2007
July 25, 2007 marks the 4th anniversary of Brandon Patch's life ending as a result of a line drive to the temple off of a metal bat.
Only 4 years ago Brandon Patch was pitching his last American Legion baseball game of his career. Little did we know that it would also be the last game of his life.
In memory of Brandon Patch.
June 13, 2007
"The Battle Over Bats"PEOPLE
Magazine
June 11th, 2007
People Magazine published a story called "The Battle Over Bats" in their June 11th, 2007 issue with Lindsay Lohan on the cover with the title, "What happened to Lindsay Lohan?
The article is on page 150.
The article starts with Joe Domalewski talking about his Son Steven, whom was struck in the chest by a line drive off a metal bat last year.
"To Joe Domalewski, the ordinary metal baseball bat isn't an innoccent piece of sports equipment."
As Joe Domalewski stated in the article,
"How many kids have to get hurt before they do something?" Many "Thanks" to the writers at People Magazine for their time with the article. Here is a link to Steven's webpage, "Benefit For Steven". Please click the link below.
"Benefit For Steven"
As soon as I find a link to the article, I will put it on line. If you know of one, please email us at
forever11@imt.net
We appreciate your support!
June 1, 2007
Thank You Sports Illustrated!
Sports Illustrated (SI.com) has a great article called, "Steven's Story".
"A year after he was struck above the heart by a batted ball, Steven Domalewski is unable to move or speak. His father is trying to insure another kid doesn't suffer the same fate."
It is amazing how many people are emailing us telling about their stories. We appreciate your time and emails. Many emails are telling us that their teams/leagues are using wooden bats only! Keep those email coming for we are in the process of updating the website to include those teams that use wood baseball bats. Please keep emailing us at
forever11@imt.net
We appreciate your support!
"Steven's Story"
May 07, 2007
Crack of wooden bats heard in North Dakota's great experiment
ESPN Baseball
"The change from aluminum to wooden bats in
North Dakota high school baseball this season was done primarily
for safety."
"Now high school officials across the country are watching to see
how this plays out. No other state league has switched entirely to
wooden bats."
"The North Dakota High School Activities Association board of
directors voted two years ago to make the change, primarily to
prevent injuries. Coaches grew weary of bruises, bumps and blood
caused by hot line drives off aluminum bats that allowed little
reaction time for fielders."
"Crack of wooden bats heard in North Dakota's great experiment"
May 04, 2007
Chopping down metal the right thing to do
By Eric Adelson of ESPN
Wonderful article by Eric Adelson of ESPN on the website of ESPN Page 2.
"How often are we given the chance to save a life? Some of us live for decades without getting that chance. And some of us don't even see the chance when it's right in front of us."
"The New York City Council might have saved a life -- or several -- on Tuesday when it overrode a veto by Mayor Michael Bloomberg on a bill that would ban metal bats in the nation's largest school system. The ban is scheduled to go into effect in September."
"Are coaches under the influence of money? Maybe. Would their opinions more likely be taken seriously if we all knew money wasn't involved? Definitely."
"Chopping down metal the right thing to do"
April 29, 2007
Give metal bats the heave-ho
The Boston Globe Editorial
"Massachusetts should follow New York City's lead and ban the metal bats."
"If the legislators had gone beyond simply an informational hearing and actually passed a law banning metal bats, serious injuries may have been avoided. It should not take another case like Matt Cook's to motivate the Legislature to take action."
"Give metal bats the heave-ho"
April 24, 2007
Metal-bat ban set for September in NYC high schools
SI Live.com
Doink! Yer' out!
SI Live.com
To impose its ban on metal bats, the Council voted 41 to 4 in favor of overriding the mayor’s veto.
New York Times
NYC bat ban passes final hurdle
New York Daily News
Like we promised, here are the articles about the historical vote by the New York City Council yesterday! Please email us if you have any more articles!
"Metal-bat ban set for September in NYC high schools"
"Doink! Yer' out!"
"To impose its ban on metal bats, the Council voted 41 to 4 in favor of overriding the mayor’s veto."
"NYC bat ban passes final hurdle"
April 23, 2007
New York City Bans Metal Bats From Prep Games
City Council Overrides Mayor Bloomberg's Veto of Bill
Historical vote by the New York City Council members today!
Metal bats will be banned in high school baseball starting this September in the nation's largest school system after the City Council on Monday overrode a mayoral veto of the bill by a 41-4 margin.
"What we're trying to do is reduce risk,"
said Councilmember James Oddo, the sponsor of the bill.
Stay tuned for we will be posting more and more article about historical vote!
"New York City Bans Metal Bats From Prep Games"
April 18, 2007
"Bat ban clears City Council committee"
New York City
The bill to ban metal bats in high school sports games cleared a City Council committee this morning and is on its way to the full Council, where it is expected to pass an override of Mayor Michael Bloomberg's veto.
"Bat ban clears City Council committee"
April 12, 2007
No knocks on wood
Area conferences bag aluminum bats for IHSA experiment
“I’m excited about it,” Byron coach Dale Hartman said. “And I’m a little surprised. The kids are excited about it, too. I thought their reaction might be negative, but their attitude is great.”
“Several kids,” Stillman Valley coach Scott Wilhite said, “tell me they like wood better than aluminum.”
That’s exactly what the IHSA wants to hear.
"No knocks on wood"
April 4, 2007
Mayor says he'll veto bill barring aluminum bats from high school games
But councilman who spearheaded measure is confident Council will override Bloomberg
silive.com
Oddo (R-Mid-Island/Brooklyn), who has been pushing for a ban on metal bats for six years, said the news was "disappointing but not surprising."
"By deferring to the leagues and the organizations, we ensure the status quo, and I think we've demonstrated over the course of three hearings and nearly 20 hours of testimony that the status quo creates an unreasonable and unacceptable risk to our student athletes," Oddo said.
"This bill will prevent injuries among high school athletes and make the game of baseball safer," she said. "We expect the full Council to consider a veto override vote later this month."
"Mayor says he'll veto bill barring aluminum bats from high school games"
April 2, 2007
"Councilman pressing other cities to ban aluminum bats"
James Oddo wants to extend the ban's reach to big cities and small towns across the country.
"A City Councilman from Staten Island is hoping to bat 1.000 with his frenzy to ban aluminum baseball bats among high school athletes. "
"James Oddo (R-Mid-Island/Brooklyn) sent a letter last week to 10 major cities, including Boston, Chicago and Denver, asking their governing bodies to consider similar bans."
"Councilman pressing other cities to ban aluminum bats"
March 29, 2007
Read all about it!
North Dakota's First High School baseball game with wooden bats!
North Dakota's first high school game with wooden bats is this weekend. Please read "Return of wood bats will give new look to baseball season" by The Bismark Tribune.
"Return of wood bats will give new look to baseball season"
March 26, 2007
WFAN 660AM Radio Broadcast with Joe Domalewski
On March 25, 2007, Steven Domalewski’s father Joe was the guest on The Sports Edge on 660AM WFAN. The below link is the audio from this show.
WFAN 660AM
March 18, 2007
Bat Maker Carried Big Wallet to the City Council
"A Southern California-based baseball bat manufacturer, Easton Sports, spent more than $134,000 lobbying the New York City Council to oppose a bill that would ban nonwood bats from high school baseball games, according to the most recent lobbyist reports filed with the city."
The New York Sun - March 15, 2007
Click on the below link to read more about where all the money went to.
"Bat Maker Carried Big Wallet to the City Council"
The New York Sun
March 16, 2007
City Council bans metal bats in high school baseball
Video Clip from WABC 7 Eyewitness News in New York
Here is a great video clip from Wednesday's historic vote by the New York City Council to ban metal bats for use in high school baseball games.
In the clip is a friend, Yankee Boy Josh, who also sent me this link. He is an amazing 10 year-old pitcher who loves the game of baseball. He recently won the Science Gold Metal for his school from 150 entries for his science project "Scientific Slugger, Political Pitcher". Now it is moving on to the District Science Fair for all of Staten Island and part of Brooklyn. Hopefully soon we will have this on the website.
Please click on the link below to see the video.
"City Council bans metal bats in high school baseball" - WABC 7 Eyewitness News New York
March 15, 2007
New York City Council Approves Ban on Metal Bats!
40 - 6
The New York City Council voted to approve a ban on metal bats for use in high school baseball games. Some of the news articles have the vote 40 -6 and others at 39 - 6.
Either way, it PASSED!
Now the bill will go to Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg's desk for his review.
Here are the latest headlines about the historical vote by the New York City Council yesterday! Just click on the headline for the link to the articles.
"NYC Council to metal bats: 'You're outta here!' - Staten Island Advance
"New York City Council Approves Ban on Metal Bats" - New York Times
"New York City Votes to Ban Metal Bats" - AOL Sports
"Council votes to ban metal bats in NYC high schools" - ESPN
"City Council Bans Metal Bats" - NY1 Top Stories
This link has a video attached.
March 14, 2007
New York City Council Vote Scheduled for Today!
The New York City Council will be voting on a bill to prohibit the use of metal bats in high school baseball games. We will update the site as soon as we confirm the vote.
Below is another article from the Staten Island Advance about Monday's New York City Council's Youth Services committee vote.
"Metal-bat ban gets an OK following a heated debate"
"Full Council expected to give approval tomorrow; mayor's stance uncertain" Staten Island Advance
March 13, 2007
"Aluminum bat ban passes committee"
Staten Island Advance
"Council Moves Toward Ban on Metal High School Bats"
New York Times
"Council Out to Ban Metal Bats"
New York Post
These are the headlines from the news created from yesterday's approval of the New York City Council's Youth Services committee unanimously passing a ban on using aluminum baseball bats in high school baseball by a 4-0 vote. The bill has 32 sponsors and the support of the Council speaker, Christine C. Quinn.
"New York City would become one of the first cities in the country to prohibit the use of metal bats in high school baseball games, under a bill that a City Council committee approved yesterday and that the full Council is considered all but certain to pass tomorrow. " - New York Times
I have also included a very good article by Jack Minogue of the Staten Island Advance.
"Oddo takes one more swing"
"Bill banning metal bats in city HS baseball games to be voted on Monday" Staten Island Advance
Here are the articles from yesterday's news.
We will keep the site posted on the progress in the New York City Council.
"Aluminum bat ban passes committee" - Staten Island Advance
"Council Moves Toward Ban on Metal High School Bats" - New York Times
"Council Out to Ban Metal Bats" - New York Post
Welcome 2007 Montana State Legislators
February 5, 2007
HB360
"The Brandon Patch Baseball Player Protection Act"
This HB360 will be read in the Business and Labor Committee on Tuesday, Frebruary 6th at 8am room number 172.
If possible, please come to support this bill.
Here is a copy of the HB360l
HB360
January 25, 2007
Berg-in-the-Morning with David Berg
from the
Northern Broadcasting SystemHB 360
"The Brandon Patch Baseball Player Protection Act"
The two links are from yesterday's radio program with David Berg and his guests Todd Devlin, Bill Leach and Jim Regan.
The first half an hour - Part 1
"Berg-in-the-Morning with David Berg"
The second half an hour - Part 2
"Berg-in-the-Morning with David Berg"
January 24, 2007
Berg-in-the-Morning with David Berg
Wednesday, January 24, 2007
9am to 10am
KCAP 1340 AM in Helena
Todd Devlin, Bill Leach and
Todd Devlin - Prairie County Commissioner , Bill Leach - Prairie County's Chair and Jim Regan, a member of the American Legion committee of the Miles City Youth Baseball Association will be guests of David Berg this morning on "Berg-in-the-Morning with David Berg". This broadcast will be carried on most Northern Broadcasting Systems.
The topic will be HB 360 - "The Brandon Patch Baseball Player Protection Act". This bill would prohibit the use of nonwood bats by any mature player in a game held under the auspices of a baseball league within Montana.
Call in to talk to David Berg, Todd Devlin, Bill Leach or Jim Regan at
1-866-627-5483
or in Billings
238-0111.
The below is a list of radio affiliates which may be airing the program.
"Northern Broadcasting Systems Radio Affiliates."
If you missed the program, you can access it from this link. Just find the
"9:06AM Berg in the Morning Part I (Talk)"
and click on the Wednesday "Listen" button.
"Northern Broadcasting Systems Radio Affiliates."
The next link is the HB 360 - "The Brandon Patch Baseball Player Protection Act" bill. This bill will be hear at the Business and Labor 8am meeting on =February 6, 2007.
HB 360 - "The Brandon Patch Baseball Player Protection Act" bill.
Please contact the following members of the Business and Labor committee asking them to vote FOR HB 360.
Committee Members
December 22, 2006
"Rec league bars metal bats"
By MATTHEW VAN DUSEN
NorthJersey.Com
Township recreation officials have banned aluminum and non-wood baseball bats from the youth baseball league to protect players from high-speed line drives like the one that almost killed a Wayne boy last summer.
"We thought there was a need [for us] to be pioneers in this area," board President Rich Weiner said.
The baseball league comprises 700 boys in Grades 2 to 8.
Please check out the following article, "Rec league bars metal bats"
"Rec league bars metal bats"
By Matthew Van Dusen, NorthJersey.Com - December 22, 2006
November 27, 2006
"Yank clubs bat ban bid"
"Hurler brushed back by pol for metal pitch"
By Lisa L. Colangelo
Daily News City Hall Bureau
"Yankees pitcher Mike Mussina came out swinging against the City Council's proposed ban on aluminum bats in high school baseball games - and immediately caught flak from a lawmaker and a grieving mom"
"Someone should ask Mike Mussina if he would pitch against Barry Bonds using a high-performance bat," Debbie Patch said.
Please check out the following article, "Yank clubs bat ban bid"
"Hurler brushed back by pol for metal pitch"
""Yank clubs bat ban bid"
"Hurler brushed back by pol for metal pitch"
By Lisa L. Colangelo, Daily News City Hall Bureau - New York Daily News - November 27, 2006
November 6, 2006
"Letter Wrong baseball team was booted from league"
Letter to the Billings Gazette Editor
by
Jacque W. Best of Sidney, MT
"I think the wrong team was penalized. Bozeman should have been suspended and its coach barred from future participation"
Jacque has some good points and the blog below the letter again shows support towards the Miles City Mavericks.
"This is an excellent example of the "win at any price" philosophy so prevalent in today's athletics."
Please check out the following letter to the Billings Gazette Editor
"Letter Wrong baseball team was booted from league"
from Jacque W. Best of Sidey Montana. - The Billings Gazette November 6, 2006
October 31, 2006
Legion team suspended over forfeiting games with metal bats
The Miles City Mavericks baseball team has been suspended from conference play, at least for the summer of 2007, for forfeiting four games rather than play against a team using aluminum bats.
Please check out the following newspaper article
"Legion team suspended over forfeiting games with metal bats"
from the Billings Gazette.
Legion team suspended over forfeiting games with metal bats
By AMY BETH HANSON - The Billings Gazette October 31, 2006
October 30, 2006
Ball Field Injury Spurs Push to Limit Metal Bats in New Jersey
The bill would ban metal, titanium and composite bats from league baseball and softball games played by children 17 and younger, including those on high school teams.
“I’ve never felt so strongly about anything,” said Assemblyman Patrick J. Diegnan, a Democrat from Middlesex County who sponsored the legislation in New Jersey.
Please check out the following newspaper article
"Ball Field Injury Spurs Push to Limit Metal Bats in New Jersey "
from The New York Times.
"Click" here to review The New York Times's Story
"Ball Field Injury Spurs Push to Limit Metal Bats in New Jersey "
October 23, 2006
Hello New York!
Debbie Patch, Brandon's Mother, went to New York to help support James Oddo's Bill and spoke in front of the New York City Council.
Below are some of the articles from the Greater New York area.
Click on the below links to see the article.
"NYC Lawmakers Consider Ban On Metal Baseball Bats"
"Brandon didn't have a chance," said Debbie Patch, whose son died after being hit in the temple by a ball hit with an aluminum bat during an American Legion game for Miles City, Mont. "There was no way he could react."
This one has a video on the right side of the article.
NYC Lawmakers Consider Ban On Metal Baseball Bats
By WCBS-TV New York on October 23, 2006
"City Council Bats Around a Plan To Ban Metal Bats"
"We have not had a young man die in New York City yet, but why is it that there always has to be a victim first before we act?" the sponsor of the bill, minority leader James Oddo of Staten Island, said.
City Council Bats Around a Plan To Ban Metal Bats
By MATTHEW CHAYES - Special to the Sun October 24, 2006
Now New Jersy and Massachusetts are trying to ban wood bats too!
"Ball Field Injury Spurs Push to Limit Metal Bats in New Jersey"
New Jersy has there own bill that passed the Assembly Law and Public Safety Committee by a 4-to-2 vote on Thursday, but still needs Senate and Assembly approval.
Ball Field Injury Spurs Push to Limit Metal Bats in New Jersey
By NATE SCHWEBER Published: October 22, 2006
August 25, 2006
"National Return to Traditional Major League Rule"
"Wood Bat Baseball Resolution"
The American Legion Meeting in convention in Salt Lake City, Utah will be
considering Major League Rule Wood Bats only for all games played in the
American Legion Baseball System.
The Resolution originated in South Florida and has been supported at all
levels through the prestigous 2006 Department of Florida Convention.
The Commitees considering Resolutions will begin meeting Friday, August
25th. We look forward to all Legionnaires contacting their delegates for
support of this great tradition, Wood Bat Baseball.
Here's to the return to the "Crack of the Bat" so many veterans have
longed to hear again.
Paul Renneisen,
Legionnaire.
Jim Quinlan, the national program coordinator for American Legion baseball admits that aluminum bats out perform wooden bats.
Jim Quinlin of the American Legion Baseball program stated the below showing the difference between wooden bats and aluminum bats.
From his quote, the aluminum bats look like the out perform the wooden ones.
"They don't want to take a risk of not getting seen," Quinlan said. "‘If I'm hitting .250 with a wood bat, I can hit .400 with a metal bat.' They're going to use a metal bat because they want to be seen. They want to go on to colleges. Colleges aren't going to recruit a mediocre player."
Injuries heat wood vs. aluminum debate
Batters debate by S. Scott Rosenberg of the Suburban Journals Warrenton Journal 06/21/2006
July 29, 2006
Do Metal Bats Pose A Greater Risk?
CBS - The Early Show
July 27th, 2006
CBS The Early Show ran a program during their Healthwatch segment called, "Do Metal Bats Pose a Greater Risk?".
The Early Show's Dr. Emily Senay reports, today's metal bats, often made with high-tech alloys, go a step beyond their aluminum ancestors.
"You're looking at a 10 to 15 percent difference in speed being able to be generated from a metal bat to a wood bat," says Dr. Nicholas.
Asked if he would do away with metal bats if he could, Dr. Nicholas said, "If it was my choice, I would, absolutely."
New York City Councilman James Oddo is also in the segment.
Click on the below link to see the article.
Do Metal Bats Pose A Greater Risk?
By The Early Show's Dr. Emily Senay - 07/27/06
Here is a link to the video of the program. Scroll down the page and find the article, "Do Metal Bats Pose A Greater Risk?" and you will see
"Watch: Metal Baseball Bat Debate" link. Just click on it to watch.
Do Metal Bats Pose A Greater Risk?
Video Feed Link
July 25, 2006
3rd Year Anniversary of Brandon's Last Game.
July 16, 2006
Metal Bats Are an Issue of Life and Death
Welcome The New York Times Readers!
Today's story "Metal Bats Are an Issue of Life and Death" by
Writer Ira Berkow was printed in The
New York Times.
Thanks for all of the emails! Many readers have told us stories of related injuries caused by
aluminum bats. We appreciate each and every email we receive concerning the safety of today's youth.
Please keep the emails coming!
Keep viewing our website for more information on the metal bat vs. wooden bat issues!
Injuries heat wood vs. aluminum debate
By IRA BERKOW - The New York Times Writer - 07/16/06
June 18, 2006
Injuries heat wood vs. aluminum debate
The story "Injuries heat wood vs. aluminum debate" by Don Babwin, an Associated Press Writer, was printed in the
Helena Indepentant Record on June 18, 2006.
Injuries heat wood vs. aluminum debate
By DON BABWIN - Associated Press Writer - 06/18/06
We did find the the article from the Bozeman Chronicle.
"Put the wood to the Bucks"
June 15, 2006
Miles City Mavericks Coach Phillips thoughts.
Miles City Mavericks Coach Phillips speaks about the Bozeman games.
Click on this site then click on the "NEWS"
Also, we heard about a great article in the Bozeman Chronicle but I have yet to see it.
June 14, 2006
A new, lonely, baseball tradition
Here is an article in the Helena Independent Record showing support for the Miles City Mavericks.
A new, lonely, baseball tradition
Thanks to the Helena Independent Record for their support!
June 13, 2006
Miles City team forfeits over bat dispute
Legion baseball team forfeits games rather than face metal bats
Here is an article by the AP in the Billings Gazette discussing that the Bozeman
Bucks/Miles City Mavericks story.
Miles City team forfeits over bat dispute
Legion baseball team forfeits games rather than face metal bats
From the above article, I would like to review some statements made by Jim Quinlan, the National Program Coordinator for American Legion Baseball.
Mr. Quinlan stated, "Miles City apparently stands alone among about 5,500 American Legion teams nationwide in insisting on wooden bat-only play." He is wrong. There is more then one team wanting and using wooden bats in American Legion baseball. Visit the following website for an American League baseball league in Florida using wooden bats.
Amercian Legion 9 Inning Wood Bat Baseball
Also, The Department of Florida has had a Wooden Bat Baseball resolution brought to the National Convention two years ago supporting using wooden bats. This resolution was rejected by the American Legion's National Baseball Subcommittee.
We also know that Minnesota American Legion Baseball has submitted proposals over the past few years to eliminate metal bats and return to only wood or wood composite bats.
But their request was also rejected in the past by the same Baseball Subcommittee.
The baseball player that died in Utah was in fact in the batting cages throwing for batting practice with a friend, BUT, the school prohibits players from practicing with aluminum bats in the batting cages for insurance purposes. I was told this by the investigating police officer on the scene.
We did have another Montana American Legion baseball player from Laurel injured last year. Plus there are more injuries every year.
There is no accurate account studies or statistics documenting the injuries to baseball players because most baseball programs have a voluntary reporting system. If the accident does not go against the teams insurance policy (most parents insurance policy pays first), then the information is lost or forgotten.
Mr. Quinlin also stated,"I understand the fans and administrators in Miles City are convinced that if they switch to wooden bats, this won't happen again," Quinlan said.
"But they haven't convinced the rest of the country." More and more baseball programs are looking at the dangers of the aluminum bats and making the change to wooden bats.
North Dakota High School will be using wooden bats for next years regular season play. A league in the City of Chicago is looking to make the switch to wood. Massachusetts High School attempted to make the change too. There is a movement but a lot of resistance.
June 11, 2006
Bozeman Bucks will not travel to Miles City on Monday
but Miles City Mavericks will have to forfeit the games???
Here is an article by Josh Samuelson from the Miles City Star Newspaper discussing that the Bozeman
Bucks will be playing with aluminum bats when they come to Miles City to play the Mavericks this Monday and Tuesday.
Metal bats coming back to Miles City
By Josh Samuelson
The article states, "(Bozeman Bucks Head Coach Mitch) Messer said that they were going to use metal bats. (Miles City Mavericks Head Coach Matt)
Phillips insists that Messer was very polite and very respectful. Messer told Phillips that
he "wasn't going to make a statement. He didn't want to be disrespectful of the situation.
But this was what they were going to do."
Josh stated in a blog, "(Bozeman Bucks) they aren't coming to Miles City on Monday and Tuesday.
Phillips followed through with his stance, and instead of playing the games with wood bats,
the Bucks (actually the head coach)decided to just accept the forfeits."
So a 24-3 Bozeman Bucks team with a 5-0 conference record does not want to play a 6-15 Miles City Mavericks team with a 0-5
conference record?
Bozeman Bucks have already placed a "Canceled" on the Miles City Mavericks games for this Monday and Tuesday but also for the
scheduled July 10th and 11th games in Bozeman.
June 10, 2006
Welcome back to another season of Baseball
South Carolina tied a collegiate record for hitting 5 consecutive home runs in the top of the 2nd inning.
NCAA Men's baseball Super Regional playoff game between the Georgia Bulldogs and South Carolina showed South Carolina hitting 5 consecutive home runs in the top of the 2nd inning. ESPN made this the top play of the "Top Ten Plays of the Day".
The first batter for South Carolina was Neil Giesler who with two outs in the top of the 2nd hits the first pitch over the fence. Next up was Justin Smoak who homered on a 0-2 pitch. Phil Disher smoked his homer on a 1-0 pitch. Georgia then did a pitcher change which didn't really help for Andrew Crisp hit his first of two homers of the day on a 1-1 count. Then the last of the five was Robbie Grinestaff, who also had two homers for the day, hitting the 1-1 pitch over the right field wall. One of the home runs was over 411 feet according to ESPN. Then the next batter, Ian Paxton almost hit the sixth home run but came up short on the 1-0 swing. Five home runs in 12 pitches thrown. This tied a the collegiate record set by Eastern Illinois against Morehead State in the fifth inning of their game on April 10th, 1998, which was before the NCAA introduced the BESR specification.
In all, South Carolina had 19 hits with 8 home runs totally 15 runs. And we thought the BESR was curbing the hitting and home runs at the NCAA level.
Even though Georgia was down by over 13 runs in the 7th inning, the ESPN announcer stated, "When you're playing with aluminum bats, you're never out of the game."
Since South Carolina is on the 2006 Easton College Baseball Teams list, they must have been swinging brand new technology. I did see some players swing a Stealth bat. As Easton's web site states, “Here's How It Works:”
“Start with superior performing composites. Unlike aluminum that has the same strength and stiffness in all directions, composite fibers have very high strength and stiffness in the direction of the fibers but much lower strength and stiffness across the fibers. This allows Easton's R&D team to customize bat barrel flex using exclusive, patented design technologies.”
“CNT COMPOSITE = WIDEST SWEET SPOT” “Add Exclusive CNT Carbon Nanotube Technology. The addition of CNT, made possible by Zyvex NanoSolve materials, strengthens composite structures to allow for bigger sweet spots and maximum performance along the entire length of the barrel.”
and last but not least...
“Maximize Bat Head Speed with the CXN Patented 2-Piece ConneXion. Acting like a hinge, the ConneXion provides the most efficient energy transfer from handle to barrel, resulting in maximum bat head “whip” for a quicker bat and more power through the hitting zone.”
Here is one of the reviews from a player who purchased this $380 +/- bat.
“This bat is an absolute BEAST! I got to test this bat before they came out indoors.....it put a hole in the net no lie! It wasn't a crappy cage either. First time outside with this horse i hit a ball around 380 off the end of the bat.....this bat is a force to be reckoned with. Although the price is enough to drive any one away from buying this bat, it is well worth the $380 your gonna drop on it.”
Bigger sweet spot and acting like a hinge for more whipping action makes one want to compare this bat to golf clubs. We all know that with a graphite shaft golf club, if one snaps their wrists at the right moment, the shaft will increase the club head speed thus increasing the distance the ball will travel. Some of Easton's bats even come in regular flex and stiff flex.
November 25, 2005
Email us and "Thank You"
Keep the emails coming!"Thank You" for sharing your personal stories and accounts of injuries occuring
due to the impact of the aluminum bat. Unfortunately, the compliation of information is largely growing...
September 10, 2005
Today would have been Brandon's 21st birthday.
Look for more to come next week.
August 14, 2005
Testing the bat thesisJim FennellThe Union Leader
Great article which has a study the writer did with a 9-year old Cal Ripken League player using aluminum bat and
then a wooden bat. "A pitcher hit by a batted ball is in danger of being killed. We can control that, so why don’t we? "
"Click" here to review the following link to The Union Leader's story
"Jim Fennell - Testing the bat thesis"
July 29, 2005
Welcome especially to the American Legion parents, fans and players. Good luck at the state tournament this week.
Last Monday, July 25, marks the second anniversary of the death of American Legion pitcher Brandon James Patch, 18 of Miles City, Montana. Brandon was struck by a line drive off of an aluminum bat - a bat which gives the pitcher less reaction time and a trampoline effect over its counterpart - the wood bats. These are not “Freak” accidents. Fourteen year old Taylor Roberts from the Montana American Legion baseball team of the Laurel Dodgers was seriously injured when he was struck by a ball hit from an aluminum bat.
The Montana American Legion opposed a house bill that would have banned aluminum bats. In doing so, they teamed with Easton Manufacturing at the state Capitol to try to defeat another house resolution urging the Montana American Legion Baseball to go to wood. While they failed to defeat the house resolution, they have decided to continue using the aluminum bats.
The North Dakota High School Association just passed a ban of aluminum bats to begin with the 2007 season. The reason? They believe that wooden baseball bats “are safer”. That is why you see the Major League Baseball Players walk away from being hit from a ball off of a wooden bat.
Our website was created to honor Brandon but also to educate people about the existing implications to the aluminum bats with hopes to saving someone from going through the pain Brandon and his friends and family have endured.
"Click" here to review the following link to The Bismark Tribune
"NDHSAA votes to switch to wood bats"
July 28, 2005
ESPN
Outside The Lines
July 28th, 2005Sudden Impact
Great program on tonight's OTL!
When Red Sox pitcher Matt Clement was hit in the head by a line drive off the bat of the Devil Rays' Carl Crawford on Tuesday, it was a shocking reminder of how dangerously close the mound is to the plate. While Clement appears to have escaped the incident physically unscathed, the possible psychological effects remain to be seen. Outside the Lines examines what happens to a pitcher when a comebacker results in a head injury, followed by a discussion about the adjustments pitchers make following such incidents. Jeremy Schaap hosts.
Here are our thoughts on this subject...
It is unbelievable that these professional baseball players do not suffer serious head injuries.
Youth players will get struck by a ball hit with an aluminum bat and suffer a subdural hematoma. Then the injured player will be in coma for days if not weeks only to find themselves with countless hours of rehabilitation just to get back to a normal way of life.
But all the pro players on this program did not have the serious injuries that young players with aluminum bats do. The program stated that the balls hit by the pros with wooden bats travel within the mid 90mph range. Not so with aluminum bats.
Are the baseballs used in MLB that much different then the youth baseball programs?
Email us your thoughts...
July 25, 2005
Monday, July 25, 2005 marks the 2nd anniversary of Brandon Patch's life ending as a result of a line drive to the temple
off of an aluminum bat.
Brandon PatchForever #11
July 18, 2005
"NDHSAA votes to switch to wood bats "
June 23, 2005 The Bismark Tribune
GREAT NEWS!!!
The North Dakota High School Activities Association board of directors voted 10-1 Tuesday to make the switch in Class A and B baseball, starting in the fall 2007.
High school baseball teams in North Dakota will switch from aluminum bats to wood in two years, under plans approved by the state activities association.
"Our baseball coaches believe it is best for their game," NDHSAA Executive Secretary Sherm Sylling said.
Fargo activities director Ed Lockwood said the switch would prevent injuries.
"It's a safety issue," he said.
"Click" here to review the following link to The Bismark Tribune
"NDHSAA votes to switch to wood bats"
July 14, 2005
"Teen struck by ball is out of ICU "
July 12, 2005 Billings Gazette
A Laurel Dodger baseball player is out of the intensive care unit and continues to recover at St. Vincent Healthcare.
Taylor Roberts received a serious head injury during warmup for a Laurel Dodgers Legion baseball game June 16.
Please read the article from the Billings Gazette and keep Taylor in your prayers!
"Click" here to review the following link to the Billings Gazette
"Teen struck by ball is out of ICU"
June 24, 2005
"Benefit is started for injured Dodger"
Taylor Roberts
Montana American Legion Baseball
Laurel Dodgers
First we would like to Thank HBO Sports for broadcasting the "Aluminum Bats (Revisited)" on June 21st. It was another outstanding broadcast telling the dangers of
aluminum bats.
but now...
Taylor Roberts, 14, a member of the Laurel Dodgers American Legion Baseball team suffered a serious head injury during batting practice on Thursday, June 16th.
Roberts was pitching batting practice when he was struck in the head by a batted ball. He was transported to St. Vincent Hospital in Billings and admitted in serious condition.
He remains hospitalized in the intensive care unit in serious condition.
Please read the article from the Laurel Outlook and keep Taylor in your prayers!
"Click" here to review the following link to the Laurel Outlook
"Benefit is started for injured Dodger"
June 19, 2005
"Aluminum Bats (Revisited)"
by
HBO Real Sports
with
Bryant Gumbel
Tuesday
June 21st
10pm Eastern Time
We did it again! HBO Sports came down to Miles City to film the Debbie and Duane Patch to tell their story. Don't forget to tune in on Tuesday, 10pm Eastern time!
In summer 2002, REAL SPORTS examined the dangers of aluminum baseball bats. The report explored a frightening incident that occurred in May 2001,
when Wellesley (Mass.) High pitcher Bill Hughto was struck in the temple by a line drive off an aluminum bat, with devastating results:
His skull was broken and an artery severed, forcing doctors to perform emergency surgery that required a set of screws to hold the shattered bones together.
A sophomore at the time of the accident, Hughto underwent a long, arduous recovery and returned to the mound the following season.
Coaches and parents, citing the danger from the "pop" of a ball powered by an aluminum barrel, lobbied the league to switch to conventional wooden bats.
The league complied, as did other leagues in Massachusetts, but the large majority of high school leagues around the country, as well as the NCAA,
have resisted the change. REAL SPORTS' Armen Keteyian updates the story with fresh interviews..
Please check out the following link to HBO Real Sports
"Aluminum Bats (Revisited)"
by
HBO Real Sports
with
Bryant Gumbel
"Click" here to review the following link to HBO Real Sports
"Aluminum Bats (Revisited)"
June 5, 2005
"Aluminum vs. Wood"
by
The Argus Leader.com
"...aluminum bats produced 32 runs, 33 hits and 12 pitching changes in the Gophers' 19-13 win."12 pitching changes? What
happened to a pitcher lasting into the final innings of a game for the reliever to replace him?
"Money is part of the issue, but Anderson suggests the bureaucracy may run deeper than people think." "I'm wondering if they haven't tinkered with the baseball and not told anybody. The two industries work together, and rather than have to retool the bats (to meet exit speed standards), I think they've just worked together. That's just my own speculation."
Please check out the following newspaper article
"Aluminum vs. Wood"
By the Argus Leader.com.
"Click" here to review the Argus Leader.com's Story
"Aluminum vs. Wood"
May 19, 2005
Updated article on Billy Kalant's condition and his team.
"I was pretty scared," Keir said. "It's something that can happen to anyone, you know."
Please check out the following newspaper article
"Winning season has been full of losses"
By Daniel Duggan of the Daily Southtown.
"Click" here to review Daniel Duggan's Story
"Winning season has been full of losses"
TONS OF ITEMS TO REVIEW TODAY!
May 15, 2005
"The Price of Power"
by
ABC 7 in Chicago
This is a good article about the debate with aluminum bats. It also talks about the American Legion Baseball vote last week.
"I could have been dead now. It kind of freaks me out just thinking about that," said Badgley.
"I just think that the metal bats have obviously increased the danger for the players," said Coach Ed Mathey, Northern Illinois University baseball.
Mr. Jim Darby of Easton Sports has a memorable quote from the American Legion Baseball Conference.
"Metal bats today, you know the certification process states that they cannot outhit the best northern white ash wood.
So if you're saying make aluminum bats safer, then you're going to have to make wood bats safer, too," said Jim Darby, Easton Sports company.
"wood bats safer, too,"?
This article also talks about junior pitcher Mark Badgley of Northern Illinois University being struck by a ball on March 30th, 2005. Please Mark's story below.
Brandon is also mentioned in this article as well.
Please check out the following newspaper article
"The Price of Power"
from ABC 7 in Chicago on May 8, 2005.
"Click" here to review ABC 7 in Chicago's Story
"The Price of Power"
"One thing keeping the NCAA from changing completely to wooden bats is contracts with manufacturers, Mathey said."
"Easton is one company that has substantial investments in the sport with a total of 91 college baseball programs under contract."
Please check out the following newspaper article
"Badgley: Bats need to change"
from The Northern Star reporter Nathan Lindquist on April 20, 2005.
"Click" here to review The Northern Star reporter Nathan Lindquist's Story
"Badgley: Bats need to change"
We would like to Thank Rick Wolff and WFAN Sports Radio 66AM in New York for their program today talking about the dangers of aluminum bats.
May 13, 2005
"Baseball bat debate comes down to common sense "
by
Zachary J. Young of The Evening Sun.com
“So until a ruling is made on the matter, maybe those concerned parents, coaches and supporters could use some common sense as well and rid the youth leagues of metal bats independently."
“It could have hit me in the same spot as that kid from Montana.”
Brandon is mentioned in this article as well.
Please check out the following newspaper article
"Baseball bat debate comes down to common sense"
from The News Tribune on May 5, 2005.
"Click" here to review The Evening Sun.com's Story
"Baseball bat debate comes down to common sense"
by Zachary J. Young
May 9, 2005
"Wood versus aluminum bat debate continues "
by
Todd Milles of The News Tribune
“That ball was headed for my head,” Emmett said.
“It could have hit me in the same spot as that kid from Montana.”
Please check out the following newspaper article
"Wood versus aluminum bat debate continues"
from The News Tribune on May 5, 2005.
"Click" here to review The News Tribune's Story
"Wood versus aluminum bat debate continues"
by Todd Milles
May 6, 2005
"Going Batty"
by
Doug Whiteley
“If they lasted more than a year that would be fine, but we replace the Louisville’s (Sluggers) every year and sometimes even before the end of the year.”
One wouldn’t think an aluminum bat should not wear out, especially at the price they’re going for, but they do.
“The thing that makes the bats good is the aluminum alloy the bat’s made of, so scientists are always developing new things, but they try to thin down the wall of the bat and as they do that, they get less strength there,” Francis said. “They come up with ideas to make it stronger, but you’re not supposed to use the bats below 60 degrees, or it will tend to dent easier.”
Please check out the following newspaper article
"Going Batty"
from the Reporter on April 25th, 2005.
"Click" here to review The Reporter's Story
"Going Batty"
by Doug Whiteley
May 5, 2005
Kalant shows improvement
"Things are looking up," Sullivan said. "They're talking about physical therapy, but they're still running tests. Hopefully, things like his memory can be back to normal."
Please check out the following newspaper article
"Kalant shows improvement"
from the Daily Southtown.
"Click" here to review The Daily Southtown's Story
"Kalant shows improvement"
We are gathering the minutes from the House of Representatives and the Senate hearings on both HJ19 and HB588. These minutes will show what the opponents, American Legion Baseball with
Easton Sports and Louisville Slugger had to say on our resolution and bill. We will post them as soon as we can get the information.
May 1, 2005
Welcome American Legion National Executive Committee Members!
Thank You for your interest in our cause to help make American Legion Baseball the best organized youth baseball league in the world!
You have the chance this week to make American Legion Baseball safer with your vote for the "Return to Wood" Bat Resolution which the Department of Florida has presented to the National Convention in 2004.
Please find it in your heart to listen to reason, not the bat manufacturer's stories of falsehoods. Too many kids are being seriously hurt or killed.
We made it again in ESPN The Magazine!
The newest ESPN The Magazine is dated May 09, 2005.
Page 18 has an update on Brandon's Story.
"Thanks in part to the late Brandon Patch's parents (A Hard Line Drive, August 30, 2004), Montana has passed a resolution urging the state's American Legion youth baseball teams
to use only wood bats. The resolution, offered after a proposed ban on non-wood bats failed to win a majority in the state legislature in February, was signed by
governor Brian Schweitzer on April 19. Brandon's mom, Debbie, plans to continure pushing for an outright ban. "If they think we're going away," she says, "we're not." Stay posted on forever11.com."
Thanks to Eric Adelson and ESPN The Magazine for helping spread the news.
April 30, 2005
"The only thing I had time to do is turn my head slightly sideways..."
Senior Pitcher Dave McKae of University California Davis was struck in the face from a ball hit from an aluminum bat on April 22th, 2005.
Please check out the following newspaper article
"College pitcher takes hard hit on the mound"
from the Kansas City Star.
"Click" here to review The Kansas City Star's Story
"College pitcher takes hard hit on the mound"
April 22, 2005
"It was a fraction of a second by the time the ball left the bat and struck Bill's temple"
Pitcher Billy Kalant of Oak Lawn Community High School was struck in the temple from a ball hit from an aluminum bat on April 16th, 2005. As of Thursday, April 21, Billy was
still in coma. Our Thoughts and Prayers are with Billy and his Family.Here are some of the highlighted comments from the local newspapers.
"He didn't have a chance to move," said Jesse Escamilla, a parent who was watching the game. "Then he just fell down on the mound."
"These kids are strong," he said. "A little stronger than I think we give them credit for."
Kalant walked off the mound, Sullivan said, and was even able to talk before collapsing. Doctors determined there was blood in his brain. Physicians are weaning Kalant off drugs that have kept him in coma, and Thursday night he was moving slightly and showing some signs of improvement.
"It was a fraction of a second by the time the ball left the bat and struck Bill's temple," said Principal Michael Riordan. "Bill is a good athlete but was unable to hold his glove up or get out of the way. It was just too fast."
Please check out the following newspaper articles on this subject.
"Click" here to review The Chicago Tribune's Story
"Baseball team reels after dual tragedies"
"Click" here to review The Star's story
"Oak Lawn baseball players rally around pair of fallen teammates"
April 19, 2005
Governor Brian Schweitzer Signs HJ19!
HJ 19 was signed by Governor Brian Schweitzer today with Speaker of the House Gary Matthews and Debbie Patch as witnesses.
Click on the following photo of Governor Brian Schweitzer to review the final version of the resolution.
 HJ 19
Overall HJ 19 went through the legislation smoothly but when it was brought to the Senate - State Administration Committee, the bat manufactures showed up. Attendees were Jim Darby of Easton Sports, George Manning of Louisville Slugger and their lawyers.
They did not agree with the resolution and wanted to change the resolution to fit their needs. More on this in the next few days.
Easton Sports has been sending Mr. Darby to Montana quite a few times in the past year. During last year's coach's meeting in Great Falls in April of 2004, Mr. Darby attended the
meeting to give his information about the safety of aluminum bats. Mr. Darby did come to protest the HJ 19 during the Senate State Administration Committee and he did not make many friends, especially with Madam Chairwoman Carolyn Squires. Very interesting and more on this in the next few days too!
Now Mr. Darby plans on being the featured speaker for the American Legion Hall of Fame banquet in Billings Montana on April 29th. Three trips to Montana within one years time? Hummm...
Oh, let's not forget that Mr. Darby was also a featured speaker at the October 2004 The American Legion 44th Annual Department Baseball Chairman’s Conference
held in Indianapolis.
Why all of a sudden after Brandon's death does Mr. Darby and the other bat manufactures have such an interest in American Legion Baseball, especially in Montana?
During the legislation session, Montana American Legion Baseball strongly opposed both HJ 19 and HB 588
(which was caught up in a party line vote and died in the committee meeting). Once HJ 19 made it to the Senate State Administration Committee, Montana American
Legion Baseball stated that they were not going to oppose the resolution. We believe that is because they had the bat manufactures, excuse the pun, going to bat for them on this one.
The American Legion Baseball and the bat manufactures wanted to do another study on the safety of the aluminum bats. Another study? Here is their idea of a study to insure that the
youth of American are safe on the baseball fields around the country.
From our understanding, The Spring Meeting of the Baseball and Recreation Subcommittee of the National Americanism Commission will meet on May 2nd. During this meeting,
they will determine if the "Return to Wood" Bat Resolution from the Department of Florida should pass or not. At that time, Mr. Dave Cook from Hoosier Bat Company will have 20 minutes for his presentation with an additional 10 minutes of questions and answers.
This is the same study that the opponents stated will be complete in May of 2005. We believe this is the same meeting or study as they call it.
If this Resolution passes, then American Legion Baseball throughout the country would use wood bats only.
Now we understand Mr. Darby's personnel interest with the American Legion Baseball.
"Governor signs resolution urging use of wood bats"
Helena Independent Record
By Tom Stuber
April 20th, 2005
This is the article that the Helena Independent Record told on the signing of HJ19.
"Aluminum bats, wood bats are not for Democrats and Republicans to play partisan politics about," Schweitzer said at Wednesday's signing. "This issue is common sense, common ground for Montana."
"Click" here or on the above picture to see the article.
April 14, 2005
HJ 19 Passes!
HJ 19, amended by the Senate, passed the third reading today in the House of Representatives!
Now it will be sent to Enrolling.
April 13, 2005
Thank You for your support!
We would like to thank all the House of Representatives and Senators who have supported HJ 19.
More updates within the next few days!
Again, Thanks again for your support!
March 21, 2005
HJ 19 will be heard in the Senate State Administration Committee today!
HJ 19 will be read to the Senate State Administration Committee today at 3pm in room 317
at the State Capital Building.This is the next step for this bill which should be read in committee, then voted within committee to be brought to the floor of the Senate.
Anyone in favor of this bill, please write to your Senators asking for their support. We believe that this bill will be voted through but the more support the better!
Any questions about the bill, please email us.
Thanks again for your support!
March 15, 2005
"Horse sense: Skunks, bullets and silent Republicans an unusual mix"
Billings Gazette
March 13th, 2005
Matt Wilcox made the paper again! This time Gov. Brian Schweitzer mentioned Matt and our HB 588 bill that did not pass but was voted down the party line.
"Let us not forget Matt Wilcox," Schweitzer said. "Let's not forget this young man who came here with the expectation of getting a fair hearing.
It came from his heart because it was his friend. He came here expecting to get a fair hearing about aluminum bats."
Please read the following opinion that was in the Billings Gazette on March 15th, 2005 by Charles J. Johnson.
Click here to read the opinion page from the Billings Gazette website.
Thanks again for your support!
March 3, 2005
"Bat law could help save lives of Montana teens"
Bozeman Daily Chronicle
March 3rd, 2005
Please read the following opinion that was in the Bozeman Daily Chronicle on March 3rd, 2005 by Matt Wilcox.
Click here to read the opinion page from the Bozeman Daily Chronicle website.
Thanks again for your support!
February 28, 2005
"Most would ban metal bats"
Helena Independent Record
February 28th, 2005
Please read the following opinion that was in the Helena Independent Record on February 28th, 2005.
Click here to read the opinion page from the Helena Independent Record website.
Thanks again for your support!
February 23, 2005
HJ 19 passed the third reading in the House of Representatives!
House Joint Resolution Number 19 did pass the third reading in the House of Representatives on Monday, February 21st. The vote was 87-13!
Now it will be moved to the State Administration Sub Committee of the Senate for their review.
I believe we will need to testify again when this comes up for review.
Thanks again for your support!
HOUSE JOINT RESOLUTION NUMBER 19
You can read the latest on HJ19 that Speaker of the House of Representatives Gary Matthews of Miles City has introduced.
This is our chance for Montanans to take a stance on the issue of wooden bats. Please read the Bill and email us if you have any questions about it. Check the site
for updates on the Bills and their progress.
This link is the HJ 19 Bill which is a Joint Resolution of the Senate and the
House of Representatives of the State of Montana urging the American Legion to adopt a wood bat only rule for American Legion Baseball.
CLICK HERE to view the actual House Joint Resolution Number 19
This link is the status for the HJ 19 Bill. This chart will be updated as the session progresses.
CLICK HERE to view the status for House Joint Resolution Number 19
February 20, 2005
Helena Independent Record Story
Check out the Helena Independent Record article on February 18th, 2005 about HB 588 and HJ 19.
Thanks again for your support!
HJ19 passed the second reading in the House of Representatives!
Yes it did! HJ19 passed the second reading in the House of Representatives yesterday with a 85-14 vote! Third reading on Monday!
January 31, 2005
Welcome American Legion National Executive Committee Members!
Thank You for your interest in our cause to help make American Legion Baseball the best organized youth baseball league in the world!
Click on the Resolution below but best to "SAVE" the document first before viewing. This documentation is virus free!
CLICK HERE
to view the actual
"Return to Wood" Bat Resolution!
Questions on the progress of this legislation governing the Americanism
program of Baseball in the American Legion can be put to Paul Renneisen,
at 954-288-6602.Thanks to Paul for all his support!
Again, Thanks to everyone who has sent an email to us showing support for our cause!
October 1st, 2004
The Great Cost Debate
The Great Cost Debate can be answered here with this article showing the Wood vs. Aluminum Debate. This website has a very interesting article, on a red background,
on the very bottom of the site. The article is called, "Wood vs. Metal", "No Contest, Wood Wins Everytime". One of the best parts is number 8,
"Wood Bats will cost you less in the long run". It tells the truth about costs myths.
Garden State Baseball League - Website
Don't forget to click on the link "Click here for more details" which talks about,
"Why Wood Bats", "What's the difference between a wood bat and a metal bat?" Great article from a great league! This will also be in the "Articles" section.
Our goal is to educate parents, coaches and all others on the implications of aluminum bats. We hope the web site will act as a communication link between players, coaches and parents fallen victim to the aluminum bats as well as act as a mainstream to the information available pertaining to bats.
In addition, we want the site as a dedication to Brandon Patch.
ESPN The Magazine
"A HARD LINE DRIVE"
story by
Eric Adelson
On Newsstands Friday, August 20th, 2004.
This is the article that ESPN Senior Writer Eric Adelson wrote about Brandon. The issue is dated August 30, 2004 but it will be available this Friday.
Email us at forever11@imt.net
if you need additional information.
Mission Statement
On July 25th, 2003, Brandon James Patch, 18, was struck in the head by a line drive while
pitching during an American Legion Baseball game. Brandon
died four hours later.
The batted ball was hit
with an aluminum bat.
Brandon's Mother never knew the implications of aluminum bats.
She wants to give a
Mother a chance that she never had.
August 20th, 2004
We would like to say "Thank You" to all of the Wonderful People around the country who have taken the time to email us!
We would like to say "Thank You" to Eric Adelson, Andy Lockett, his crew and ESPN for sharing Brandon's Story with the world!
We would also like to "Thank" all of you who have read the ESPN The Magazine "A Hard Line Drive" article and those who watched the ESPN Outside the Lines program, "Bat Debate".
Our goal is to educate parents, coaches and all others on the implications of aluminum bats. We hope the web site will act as a communication link between players, coaches and parents fallen victim to the aluminum bats as well as act as a mainstream to the information available pertaining to bats.
In addition, we want the site as a dedication to Brandon Patch.
ESPN
Outside the Lines
"Bat Debate"
Wednesday, August 18, 2004
11:58 pm ET, 8:58 pm PT on ESPN
It is among the most terrifying moments in sports. The awesome power of a fastball colliding with the sweet spot of a bat, turning power to danger for the pitcher in it's path. In the case of 18-year-old American Legion pitcher Brandon Patch, it was far worse. Patch was killed last summer by a batted ball, off an aluminum bat, the kind of bat used almost exclusively outside of professional baseball. Following Patch's death, his Montana squad began using wood bats in competition, and further encouraged all teams statewide to do the same. Some squads have agreed to use wood when playing Patch's former team, but none have made the transition permanently, much to the dismay of Patch's parents. Tonight on OUTSIDE THE LINES, we examine the dangers of aluminum bats. Bob Ley hosts.
ESPN "Outside the Lines" to air Brandon Patch story on Wednesday, August 18 at 9:58 p.m. MST.
Here is the story by Eric Adelson of ESPN that started it all!
Any comments are appreciated.
Click the mail box below to send us an email!
forever11@imt.net
Visitors since 11-20-03
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