TONIGHT is Orioles Night! Big Train Beat Nationals 4-1; Teddy Races Campers

TONIGHT is Orioles Night; Meet The Oriole Bird! Meet The Oriole Bird and Shakey The Lemonade Guy at Povich Field Tonight!     What better way to make the Orioles feel at home than to have Orioles Night when they're at Povich Field! Only we'll be celebrating the Baltimore Orioles instead. We don't want Youse's to feel that at home. Both the Oriole Bird and "Shakey" the "Lemonade Guy" will be at Povich tonight! Also, the first 100 kids will get Oriole eye black courtesy of EyeBlack.com. Enjoy "Crabcake Night" at the ballpark!   Tickets cans be purchased here or at the gate.    Sponsors: NIH-NOAA Recreation and Welfare Association, Johns Hopkins Community Physicans  Big Train Beat Southern Maryland Nationals, 4-1! Ryan Doran (San Diego State University) got the start in last night's win. The Big Train picked up their third straight win last night, beating the Southern Maryland Nationals 4-1. After trailing 1-0 for most of the game, the Big Train used a late rally, including an 2 RBI double by Adam Barry (Cal State Northridge) to take the lead. With the win, the Big Train improved their record to 23-13 on the season and currently stand in third place heading into the final week of the regular season. Teddy Races Campers at Big Train Summer Camp! Presidents Race at Big Train Summer Camp Washington Nationals racing president Teddy Roosevelt livened up a hot Friday for a bunch of campers by making a surprise appearance at the Bethesda Big Train Summer Baseball Camp. The highlight of the visit was a race between the most notorious of the racing Rushmores and a couple of dozen campers barely taller than Teddy's chest. The great Bull Moose jumped out to a quick lead, but sadly could not keep up with the little ones, who seemed determined to keep his winless streak intact.

Big Train Win in Herndon; TONIGHT is Homer Bobblehead Night; Cody Allen Gets the Call!

Big Train Win Shortened Game in Herndon; Renfroe Sets CRCBL Record for RBI  Ben Griset got the Big Train off to a great start on Thursday Night.   Mother Nature cooperated long enough last night, giving the Big Train the seven innings they needed to grab a 9-4 win over the Herndon Braves.    After coming from behind on Wednesday, it was the Big Train who got on the board first last night. After Michael Bass (UNC Wilmington) scored on a passed ball, Cole Norton (St. Mary's (CA)) and Brendan Hendriks (San Francisco) would cross the plate on RBIs from Hunter Renfroe (Mississippi State) and Colin Kish (Florida Atlantic) to give the Big Train an early 3-0 lead. Renfroe's ground-rule double to right-centerfield in the first inning broke Adam Barry's (Cal State Northridge) season RBI record of 42 for both the CRCBL and the Big Train.    Ben Griset (St. Mary's (CA)) took the mound in the bottom of the first, already with a large cushion to work with. Griset would preserve the lead through the three innings he pitched, giving up just one earned run on two hits while striking out four. Hendriks and Renfroe would then lead off the top of the third inning with back-to-back home runs, pushing the score to 5-1, giving Eric Martin (Tennessee) plenty of room to work with as he came in to pitch the fourth inning.    After seeing the Braves score two in the bottom of the fourth, Adam Barry would swing the momentum back towards the Big Train, hitting his first home run of the season to make the score 7-3. The Big Train would tack on two more insurance runs on a 2-RBI single by Kish, and two scoreless innings from Hugh Adams (Florida Atlantic) would cap the 9-4 win over the Braves. For last night's box score and play-by-play, click here.    Come see if the Big Train can keep their hot streak going on Friday night, as the team takes on the Southern Maryland Nationals at Povich Field! It's Homer Bobblehead Night, which means the first 400 fans will receive a FREE Homer bobblehead! i9 Sports will also be holding a pregame flag football clinic at 6:30, so be sure to get to the ballpark early so you don't miss out on the fun!  TONIGHT is Homer Bobblehead Night at Povich Field! Make sure to get out to Povich Field early on Friday night so that you can be the proud owner of this Homer Bobblehead! The concourse will open at 6:00 before the game begins at 7:30. Get to the stadium early and get your bobblehead, and then head over to the Home Run Cafe to eat dinner with your family! i9 Sports will also be holding a pre-game flag football clinic from 6:30 to 7:15. Don't miss out on these great events. Tickets can be purchased here or at the gate. Cody Allen Called Up by Cleveland Indians! The Big Train would like to congratulate Cody Allen (BT '08, '10) on being called up by the Cleveland Indians. Allen is the ninth former Big Train player to make the MLB. In a season and a half in the Indians minor league system, Allen was promoted quickly through every level. He won the Indians award for best player in their system last season. In that season and a half, Allen, a relief pitcher, pitched 98 innings with a 1.74 ERA and a .847 WHIP while striking out 128 and walking only 23. We look forward to his big league debut any day now.

Big Train Make Aces Walk Off; Baseball History Night Recap; BT now #22!

Big Train Beat Aces on Walk Off Single by Bass Big Train Walk-Off!   The Big Train earned their first walk off win of the season on Wednesday night as a single by Michael Bass (UNC-Wilmington) beat the Alexandria Aces 4-3 at Povich Field. Jordan Gross (Tulane) took the mound for the Big Train last night, and gave the team a solid effort, giving up just three hits whilst recording six strikeouts. Grosswould not get a decision but kept the team in the game through five innings. After falling behind 3-0 after three innings, the Big Train would finally get on the board in the fifth, as singles by Avondre Bollar (San Diego State) and Michael Bass set up a two-run single by Mike Miedzianowski (High Point) to bring the Big Train back within one. Having just flown across the country to become the newest member of the Big Train, Brock Larson (San Francisco) came into the game to make his Big Train debut in the sixth inning. He gave the team team two scoreless innings to keep the deficit at one run. Brendan Hendriks (San Francisco) would make his teammate's work worth it in the bottom of the seventh, as he narrowly beat the ball to first on a near double play by the Aces that would have ended the inning. Instead, his RBI groundout broughtTucker Tobin (George Mason) in to score and tied the game at three. Will Resnik (High Point) came in to pitch the eighth and ninth innings, and stopped Aces offense by giving up no hits and striking out two. The offense rewardedResnik for his efforts by giving him his first victory of the season. A lead off single by Brennan Middleton (Tulane) got the winning run on base in the ninth inning. Middleton then broke for second and a bobble by the catcher led to an easy stolen base with no throw. Michael Bass was then able to get a ground ball through the infield and Middleton scored by sliding under the tag at home. The fact that this is the Big Train's first walk off win of the season is not shocking as walk off wins can only be obtained at home. Before last night's win, the Big Train's average home victory came by a margin of 7.9 runs a game. Come see if the Big Train can keep their hot streak going on Friday night, as the team takes on the Southern Maryland Nationals at Povich Field! It's Homer Bobblehead Night, which means the first 400 fans will receive a FREE Homer bobblehead! i9 Sports will also be holding a pregame flag football clinic at 6:30, so be sure to get to the ballpark early so you don't miss out on the fun!  Baseball History Night a Success! ESPN's Tim Kurkjian Interview at Bethesda Big Train Baseball History Night was a great success at Povich Field last night as ESPN's Tim Kurkjian, famed baseball author Paul Dickson, and former Nationals closer Chad Cordero all came out to the ballpark to take part in a great atmosphere for fans. As he speaks about in the clip above, Kurkjian spoke with both the Big Train and the visiting Alexandria Aces before the game about the difficulty that is professional baseball. Dickson, the author of the scorecard used by Big Train scorekeepers, signed copies of his recently published book about baseball pioneer Bill Veeck. Cordero came with his family and signed some autographs for Big Train fans in the park. Big Train Now Ranked #22 in the Nation   Coming off of last year's national championship, the Big Train started a little slow at 3-9. However, before this week's rankings, the Big Train had gone on a run. After winning 17 of 20 games, the Big Train have catapulted onto the national radar and are now ranked #22 in the country according to Perfect Game USA.  To see this week's rankings, click here.

Meet ESPN's Tim Kurkjian Tonight; Big Train Ranked #22; Chad Cordero Interview!

TONIGHT Features ESPN's Tim Kurkjian and Special Baseball Picnic Meal! ESPN's Tim Kurkjian will be at Povich TONIGHT for Baseball History Night.   Come out to Povich Field TONIGHT for Baseball History Night when thenow #22 ranked Bethesda Big Train face the Alexandria Aces! On this special night, you can get to the ballpark at 6:00, before the game at 7:30, and buy a special ticket that includes...   Admission to TONIGHT'S game. A chance to meet ESPN's Tim Kurkjian and famed baseballauthor Paul Dickson. Participation in a baseball trivia contest (with prizes) with ESPN's Tim Kurkjian. Participation in a quick tutorial on how to keep score with author Paul Dickson. A voucher for a hot dog, a bag of chips, and a drink at the Home Run Cafe. Tickets for this special event can be purchased here or at the gate. This night is sure be one of the best nights of the season so make sure you don't miss out!  Big Train Now Ranked #22 in the Nation   Coming off of last year's national championship, the Big Train started a little slow at 3-9. However, before this week's rankings, the Big Train had gone on a run. After winning 17 of 20 games, the Big Train have catapulted onto the national radar and are now ranked #22 in the country according to Perfect Game USA.  To see this week's rankings, click here.  Chad Cordero Interview from Big Train Camp! Chad Cordero Talks About Big Train Summer Camp Check out this video of former Nationals closer Chad Cordero talking about what it's like to be running Big Train Celebrity Camp this week. Cordero will also be appearing at TONIGHT'S Big Train game for Baseball History Night. Make sure to come out to get a picture or autograph!

Special Event with ESPN's Tim Kurkjian; Big Train Players in Pro Ball; DC Sports Night a Success

Wednesday Night Features ESPN's Tim Kurkjian and Special Baseball Picnic Meal!

ESPN's Tim Kurkjian will be at Povich on Wednesday for Baseball History Night.     Come out to Povich Field on Wednesday night for Baseball History Night when the now #22 ranked Bethesda Big Train face the Alexandria Aces! On this special night, you can get to the ballpark at 6:00, before the game at 7:30, and buy a special ticket that includes...   Admission to Wednesday night's game. A chance to meet ESPN's Tim Kurkjian and famed baseball author Paul Dickson. Participation in a baseball trivia contest (with prizes) with ESPN's Tim Kurkjian. Participation in a quick tutorial on how to keep score with author Paul Dickson. A voucher for a hot dog, a bag of chips, and a drink at the Home Run Cafe. Tickets for this special event can be purchased here or at the gate. This night is sure be one of the best nights of the season so make sure you don't miss out!

Big Train Players in Pro Ball

Matt Bowman played for Big Train, now plays for the Brooklyn Cyclones. Here is a mid-season update on how Big Train alumni are currently doing in pro ball. Thanks to Volunteer Coordinator Emeritus Bill Hickman for putting this together. To get you started, here are some updates on Big Train players of the very recent past. To see the entire report, click here.    Martin Agosta, RHP (BT 2011) Signed with the San Francisco Giants on 7/11/2012 for a $612,000 bonus (He was their #2 draft pick).  He will be in their Scottsdale training camp for the rest of the summer. Michael Aldrete, RHP (BT 2011) Johnson City Cardinals (Appalachian Lg. - Rookie) 1-0, 4.91 ERA in 6 games. Cody Allen, RHP (BT 2008 & 2010) Columbus Clippers (International Lg. - AAA) 2-2, 2 saves, 2.43 ERA in 23 games, after starting season with the Carolina Mudcats (Carolina Lg. - Hi A) 0-0, 0.00 ERA in 2 games and Akron Aeros (Eastern Lg. - AA) 0-0, 1 save, 1.17 ERA in 5 games. Matt Bowman, RHP (BT 2010-11-12) Brooklyn Cyclones (NY-Penn Lg. - ss-A) 1-1, 2 saves, 3.24 ERA in 4 games. To see the entire report, click here.

DC Sports Night a Success Despite Big Train Loss

Gary Clark & Darnerien McCants at Big Train Gary Clark and Darnerien McCants were in the house last night to help the Big Train celebrate DC Sports Night, as fans with hometown jerseys received free admission. Clark in particular was impressed with Povich Field, describing it as "unbelievable." Both former Redskins receivers, Clark and McCants spent time giving fans a chance to get some autographs and pictures with their favorite hometown athletes. The Big Train were unable to come up with the win last night, falling 6-3 to the Alexandria Aces. Jon Carlson (High Point) took the mound for the Big Train last night, giving the team four solid innings. Carlson allowed no earned runs while giving up just three hits and recording four strikeouts. The Big Train scored two early runs in the second and third innings. The first run coming in on an Avondre Bollar (San Diego State) double and the second on a solo home run by Brennan Middleton (Tulane). Alexandria scored four runs and took a 4-2 lead into the bottom of the fourth. Cameron Cuneo (UC Santa Barbara) would come in to pitch the fifth inning. Cuneo would go three strong, giving up just two hits and no runs while striking out two. Cuneo's solid three innings of work would give the Big Train a late chance to rally. However, the Big Train rally would come up short. Though they were able to score one run to cut the lead to one, the Aces scored a couple in the ninth to seal the game. Be sure to come see if the now #22 ranked Big Train can get their revenge against the Aces on Wednesday night as they host the Aces again at Povich Field.

Burger Night is Tonight; Big Train Split Doubleheader

Burger Night is TONIGHT at Povich Field! The 9lb Burger from BGR: The Burger Joint. Come to Shirley Povich Field tonight (gates open at 6:00, game starts at 7:30) and see one lucky Big Train fan try to eat the 9lb. Burger from BGR: The Burger Joint! If the fan can finish the burger before the end of the game, everybody in attendance will receive a free burger from BGR: The Burger Joint! Also, help us celebrate Shirley Povich's 107th birthday. Shirley Povich's former colleague at the Washington Post, George Solomon, will be on hand to say a few words about the man our stadium is named after. Also appearing will be the Chief of Police, and acandidate for the U.S. Senate and a candidate for the House of Representatives. Tickets can be purchased at the gate or by clicking here.  Big Train Split Doubleheader in Vienna  Derrick Sylve (left, win) and Mike Miedzianowski (right, 5 RBI) were game 1's heroes.    The Big Train traveled to Vienna yesterday afternoon for a doubleheader with the Riverdogs, looking to continue their hot streak. The team would pick up a victory in the first game behind clutch performances by a pair of High Point University teammates. With the Big train down 4-0 in the top of the first, relief pitcher Will Resnik (High Point) was able to hold down the fort, giving up no runs over 3.1 innings. Resnik gave up just one hit and struck out five, giving the offense every opportunity to overcome the deficit. The offense thanked Resnik for his efforts, scoring eight runs over a two inning span between the fifth and sixth. The fifth inning saw an RBI single from Brennan Middleton (Tulane) as well as a two-run homer from Mike Miedzianowski (High Point), pulling the team back within one. After seeing their deficit increase to three runs in the top of the sixth, the offense was able to collect itself and put together a five-run performance in the bottom half of the inning. Brendan Hendriks (San Francisco) and Middleton would pull the game back within one, setting up Miedzianowski with the bases loaded, two outs, and the Big Train trailing by just a single run. Miedzianowski came up in the clutch, hitting a bases-clearing double to give the Big Train a new two-run edge, their first lead of the night, heading into the seventh. Hugh Adams (Florida Atlantic) was able to hold on for the save in the bottom of the seventh, securing the 8-6 lead for the Big Train as they prepared for the second game. The team would lose the second game, as 13 Riverdog runs were just too much for the offense to overcome. However, highlights included two shutout innings byRobbie Kidd (Tennessee), Michael Bass (UNC Wilmington) drawing two walks, and a home run from Hendriks. It also allowed some position players to do some pitching as Hunter Renfroe (Mississippi State) and Justin McCullough (El Camino) combined for five strikeouts over 2.1 innings or work. The Big Train will look to bounce back tonight at home as they host the Youse's Orioles at Povich Field. Tickets can be purchased here or at the gate! For yesterday's box scores, click here (Game 1) and here (Game 2).

Bethesda Big Train Hispanic Heritage Night is TONIGHT; CRCBL All-Star Wrap-Up

Hispanic Heritage Night is TONIGHT at Povich Field! Fans enjoying Halloween Night last season. As the Big Train comes out of the All Star break this week, here are some upcoming promotions that you should enjoy at Povich Field: TONIGHT, THURSDAY, July 12th - Hispanic Heritage Night: Help the Big Train celebrate Hispanic Heritage Night by coming out to the ballpark for this night of fiesta! The pregame and 7th inning stretch will feature performances by the Tinkus Tiataco Bolivian Dancers and free salsa dancing lessons in the ballpark! Pyramid Atlantic will also be sponsoring pregame arts and crafts for kids and singing Take Me Out to the Ballgame in Spanish. Sponsor: Doyle & Associates. Friday, July 13th - Halloween Night: Darkness falls across the park. The midnight hour is four-and-a-half hours from hark. Creatures crawl in search of... baseball! Povich Field will be costume filled for Halloween Night on this Friday the 13th. Kids admission is free and they can trick-or-treat around the park (parents: make sure to bring candy!).Sponsor: Bethesda Magazine. Sunday, July 15th - Burger Night: On this day, 107 years ago, Shirley Lewis Povich was born. We will honor Shirley Povich's Birthday with tributes throughout the night including a few words said by his former colleague at the Washington Post, George Solomon. We will also throw some birthday candles on the only thing big enough to hold 107 of them - BGR: The Burger Joint's 9-Pound Burger. If one lucky (or unlucky) fan can eat the burger during the game, everyone in attendance will win a free burger from BGR: The Burger Joint! Sponsor: BGR: The Burger Joint. Tickets for these games can be purchased at the gate or by clicking here.  CRCBL All-Star Festivities TONIGHT AT POVICH FIELD    BETHESDA, MD - by Lukas Favale/Syracuse (Alexandria Aces) - This year's All-Star game had just about everything you expect from an All-Star game: highlight reel plays, a ton of substitutions, and, for the most part, a competitive game. In the end, it was the National All-Stars that beat the American All-Stars 9-3 on a beautiful Wednesday night at Shirley Povich Field. The National All-Stars were made up of players from the Baltimore Redbirds, Bethesda Big Train, Herndon Braves, Silver Spring-Takoma Thunderbolts, and Southern Maryland Nationals. The American All-Stars were made up of players from the Alexandria Aces, Rockville Express, Youse's Orioles, Vienna River Dogs, and DC Grays. The game was close through most of the game, until the National All-Stars broke it open in the bottom of the 6th. Locked in a 3-3 tie, American All-Stars manager Corey Haines went to Chris McKenna of the Alexandria Aces. Kyle Toomey of the Herndon Braves singled to start the inning before Wes Walker, also of the Braves, walked and Cole Norton of the Bethesda Big Train was hit by a pitch to load the bases with no outs. Jake Huxtable of the Silver Spring-Takoma Thunderbolts followed that with a sacrifice fly to make it a 4-3 game. McKenna then got Wes Hoskins of the Southern Maryland Nationals to hit a potential double play ball to the short stop Bobby Rice bobbled it to re-load the bases. Hunter Renfroe of the Big Train hit an RBI single, Colin Kish of the Big Train grounded into a fielders choice for an RBI and Jake Taylor of the Thunderbolts hit an RBI single to open up the 7-3 lead for the National All-Stars. They would add to their lead in the 7th, as Renfroe and Kish both hit RBI singles to make it 9-3. Renfroe and Kish each finished with 2 RBIs in the game as they were the only two players to play the full game. The American All-Stars jumped out to the early lead in the 1st inning. After starter Cameron Cuneo of the Big Train got two quick outs, KJ Hockaday of the Youse's Orioles laced a single right back up the middle. The next batter Trent Higginbothem of the Vienna River Dogs pulled a double down the left field line to score Hockaday and up the American All-Stars up 1-0. They doubled that lead in the 2nd, when Ryan Ripken of the Orioles started the inning with a single and John Beaubien of the DC Grays walked and Anthony Papio of the Aces singled to load the bases. Norm Donkin of the Rockville Express then walked to force in a run as the American All-Stars took a 2-0 lead. The National All-Stars cut into that lead in the bottom half of that inning as Kyle Toomey of the Braves, and eventual All-Star Game MVP, blasted a home run off of Colin Milon of the Aces. Then in the 3rd, Pat Blair of the Baltimore Redbirds scored on a wild pitch from Ronnie Glenn of the Aces to make it a 2-2 game. The American All-Stars reclaimed the lead in the 4rd, on an RBI single from Norm Donkin, but the National All-Stars responded with another run off of Glenn. This run was scored on a hit by pitch by the Braves' James Vasquez. The box score from the game can be viewed here.

CRCBL All-Star Festivities at Povich TONIGHT

CRCBL All-Star Festivities TONIGHT AT POVICH FIELD

Come out to Povich Field TONIGHT to cheer for Big Train's best in the CRCBL All Star events. This year's CRCBL All-Star festivities are loaded with Big Train. From the location (Shirley Povich Field) to the manger (Sal Colangelo), and from the roster (a league-high seven players) to the Home Run Derby (Hunter Renfroe is the favorite), the Big Train are sure to have a great time during their short break.    Here is the list of Big Train players selected to the All-Star team:    Cameron Cuneo (Pitcher - UC Santa Barbara)  Ben Griset (Pitcher - St. Mary's (CA)) Brendan Hendriks (Third Base - San Francisco)    Colin Kish (Rightfield - Florida Southern) Bo Logan (Pitcher - Florida Atlantic) Cole Norton (Leftfield - St. Mary's (CA)) Hunter Renfroe (Centerfield - Mississippi State) Big Train Manager Sal Colangelo will manage the "National" team in the game. To see the full rosters, click here.    Everything at the park will be up and running so come out to Povich Field early tonight to grab a good seat to support your Big Train representatives. The Home Run Derby, featuring CRCBL home run record-holder Hunter Renfroe, will take place at 5:00, followed by the All-Star Game itself at 7:30.

CRCBL All-Star Festivities at Povich; Big Train Beat T-Bolts Again

CRCBL All-Star Festivities Full of Big Train Participation

This year's CRCBL All-Star festivities are loaded with Big Train. From the location (Shirley Povich Field) to the manger (Sal Colangelo), and from the roster (a league-high seven players) to the Home Run Derby (Hunter Renfroe is the favorite), the Big Train are sure to have a great time during their short break. Here is the list of Big Train players selected to the All-Star team: Cameron Cuneo (Pitcher - UC Santa Barbara) Ben Griset (Pitcher - St. Mary's (CA)) Brendan Hendriks (Third Base - San Francisco)    Colin Kish (Rightfield - Florida Southern) Bo Logan (Pitcher - Florida Atlantic) Cole Norton (Leftfield - St. Mary's (CA)) Hunter Renfroe (Centerfield - Mississippi State) Big Train Manager Sal Colangelo will manage the "National" team in the game. To see the full rosters, click here. Come out to Povich Field on Wednesday to support your Big Train representatives. The Home Run Derby, featuring CRCBL home run record-holder Hunter Renfroe, will take place at 5:00, followed by the All-Star Game itself at 7:30. Tickets can be purchased at the gate. Big Train season pass holders may use their season passes to attend the game. And remember, you can still buy Big Train season passes now for just $65. Click here to get yours now or buy one at the gate.

Big Train Finish Home-and-Home Sweep of T-Bolts

Mike Miedzianowski three-run double paced the Big Train in Silver Spring. The Big Train were able to stay hot heading into this week's All-Star break as they beat the Silver Spring-Takoma Thunderbolts 9-4 in Silver Spring on Monday night. Bo Logan (Florida Atlantic) took the mound and earned his third win in his last three starts as he went five innings, giving up only four hits and striking out three. Ryan Doran (San Diego State) pitched the last four innings of the game and gave up no runs and struck out three. As for the hitting, the Big Train fell behind early but quickly battled out of those circumstances. In the top of the fourth, Hunter Renfroe(Mississippi State), Colin Kish (Florida Southern), and Avondre Bollar(San Diego State) loaded up the bases with one out. Mike Miedzianowski (High Point) hit a ball that was just short of a grand slam. When the dust settled, it was a three-run double. Justin McCullough (El Camino) followed Miedzianowski's clutch double with a walk and brought first Adam Barry (Cal State Northridge) up with two on and one out. Barry singled to score both Miedzianowski and McCullough. The Big Train offense would strike for two more runs in the top of the fifth. Kish and Tucker Tobin (George Mason) reached base to lead off the inning and both scored on a double by Bollar to pad the lead and make the score 8-3. The Big Train and Thunderbolts each tacked on one more run later but it did not affect the outcome as the Big Train won 9-4. Click here to see the play-by-play and box score of last night's game. ANNOUNCEMENT: THE CONTINUATION OF THE GAME AGAINST THE BALTIMORE REDBIRDS WILL NOT BE PLAYED TODAY AND HAS BEEN POSTPONED TO 7/24 AT 5:00 AT POVICH FIELD.

Star Wars Night is TONIGHT vs T-Bolts! Big Train Fall to Rockville; BT Help Raise over 2 Tons of Food for Manna

TONIGHT is Star Wars Night! Come Out Early for a Meet-And-Greet Picnic

This game isn't a long, long time ago or in a galaxy far, far away. It's TONIGHT right down the street at Povich Field. Come to the first Star Wars Night at tonight's game against the Silver Spring-Takoma Thunderbolts to see characters both good and evil roaming the grounds! Be there at 6:00 when the gates open and buy a ticket to the Davis Family Picnic Pavilion! You don't need to be part of a big group to use the pavilion! You can buy tickets for you and your family that will allow you to meet Darth Vader and more! Tickets include meeting the characters, admission to the game, and a voucher good for one hot dog, one bag of chips, and one drink at the Home Run Cafe. Make sure you show up early as Disney Night and Super Hero Night, our first events of this kind, were a huge success! If you would like to reserve your spot now, click here!

Late Rally Not Enough as Big Train Fall 8-7

Michael Bass went 2-for-3 while raising his on base percentage to over .400. A late rally was not enough last night as the Big Train lost to the Rockville Express 8-7. The loss was the team's second in their last 10 contests. Cameron Cuneo (UC Santa Barbara) took the mound for the Big Train and kept the Express bats quiet for the first two innings, allowing the Big Train to take a 2-0 lead on base knocks from Hunter Renfroe (first inning, Mississippi State) and Michael Bass (second inning, UNC Wilmington). The heat and humidity forced Cuneo to exit early, though he gave up only two earned runs while striking out five over 3.2 innings. Cuneoturned the game over to Jordan Gross (Tulane) in the fourth, andGross did his best to keep clean in a sticky situation. Despite giving up no earned runs, Gross found himself down 7-2 by the end of the fourth due to miscues by the Big Train defense. However,Gross would buckle down over the next two innings, giving only an unearned run. Gross's persistence paid off, as the offense was able to propel the team back within striking distance in the sixth, as Avondre Bollar (San Diego State) and Bass picked up RBIs on a home run and a single, respectively.  Cole Norton (St. Mary's (CA)) crossing the plate on Bass'ssingle pulled the team back within three, and the offense wasn't done just yet. Colin Kish (Florida Southern) would drive in two more runs in the eighth inning to bring the Big Train back to within one run, hammering a double deep to left field. Though the rest of the lineup couldn't bring home Kishfrom third base, the team still had one last shot at tying the game headed into the ninth inning. After drawing a leadoff walk, Norton would work his way around the bases in the top of the ninth, eventually scoring with two outs to tie the game at seven. However, the bullpen would not be able to force the game into extra innings, as the Express walked off on a bases-loaded groundball that managed to sneak through the infield winning the game 8-7. Look for the Big Train to bounce back tomorrow night against the Takoma-Silver Spring Thunderbolts as they host the first game of a home-road split. The Big Train will look to improve their season record to 3-0 against the T-Bolts. Be sure to come to the park early for Star Wars Night Game Notes:     - Last night's box score and play-by-play can be viewed here. - After drawing two walks last night, leadoff hitter Michael Bass now has an on-base percentage over .400. Bass's production out of the 1-hole has paid huge dividends for the Big Train this season as he's scored 12 times in the last 10 games. - Hunter Renfroe made his second start this season behind the plate last night, giving Cole Norton a chance to get the start in center field.Norton responded to the role well, scoring two key runs in the Big Train's rally. - Despite the loss the Big Train still sit one game ahead of the Alexandria Aces for fourth place in the standings. The team will look to gain ground on the third-place River Dogs tomorrow night in their home game against the Thunderbolts.

Big Train Help Raise Two Tons of Food for Manna!

Big Train players participating in yesterday's challenge. The Bethesda Big Train, Silver Spring-Takoma Thunderbolts and Rockville Express were at six Giant Food locations yesterday collecting nonperishable food items for Manna Food in the 3rd Annual Feed the Hungry Challenge! The Silver Spring-Takoma Thunderbolts raised 1,863 pounds, Rockville Express 1,621 pounds and Bethesda Big Train 1,356 pounds, totaling 4,840 pounds of food our neighbors in need. Congratulations to the Silver Spring-Takoma Thunderbolts! Ed Drijas will be presenting the Thunderbolts a trophy at tonight's Big Train home game at Povich Field. Thanks to everyone for your support!

Home Game TONIGHT vs Rockville! Big Train Earn 11th Win in 12 Games; Manna Food Drive TODAY

Big Train Earn 11th Win in Past 12 Games; Look to Stay On Top Tonight at Home vs. Rockville

Ben Griset went 5.2 innings giving up only three hits and one earned run. It was another great night of baseball on Friday, as the Big Train captured their sixth consecutive win. The Big Train defeated the Southern Maryland Nationals 9-1 as Ben Griset (St. Mary's (CA)) picked up win number three on the season. Griset went 5.2 innings, giving up only three hits and one earned run. The key to the game was keeping the Nationals' bats quiet early so that the Big Train offense could get hot in the middle of the game. Griset answered the call by striking out seven. Griset was rewarded for his efforts in the third inning, as the offense struck for six runs including five off home runs from Hunter Renfroe(Mississippi State) and Tucker Tobin (George Mason). Michael Bass(UNC Wilmington) also contributed an RBI single to give Griset a 6-0 lead headed into the bottom of the third. After a Nationals run in the bottom of the inning, the offense responded by tacking on two more on four hits. Brendan Hendriks (San Francisco) collected an RBI on a single to score Bass, and Tobin would follow that up with a bases-loaded single to drive in Renfroe to extend the lead to seven. Eric Martin (Tennessee) relieved Griset in the sixth and kept the bats quiet for the next two innings, striking out four while giving up only one hit. Brennan Middleton would score in the eighth inning to add on to the already-substantial lead, giving Will Resnick (High Point) an eight-run cushion as he came on to pitch the ninth inning. Resnick was able to coast through the final three outs, giving up no runs and only one hit, securing the 9-1 victory. The Big Train will look to move into second place tonight as they host the Rockville Express at Povich Field at 7:30 pm! Come see if the Big Train can even the season series and win their seventh straight! Tickets for tonight's game are only $5 for adults and $3 for kids. Tickets can be purchased here or at the gate! Speaking of discounted tickets, SEASON PASSES ARE NOW JUST $65! Make sure to go online or to buy yours at the gate at the new price for the second half of the Big Train season! I Click here to purchase your's now!    Game Notes - Click here for last night's box score and play-by-play.  - With last night's win, the Big Train are now 9-1 in their last 10 games. This after a 4-9 start; the team has really been able to come together and make a terrific - After last night's multi-hit performance, Michael Bass now has hits in 7 of his last 8 games including four games of 2 or more hits. - Ben Griset has now moved back into the league-lead in ERA (amongst qualified players) with a 2.02 and is also tied for third in wins (3).

TODAY: Big Train Participate in Manna Food's 3rd Annual Feed the Hungry Challenge!

Big Train players participating in last year's challenge. Help the Big Train and Manna Food fight hunger today at the 3rd Annual Feed the Hungry Challenge! Stop by Giant Food at either 7142 Arlington Road or 10400 Old Georgetown Road in Bethesda and donate nonperishable food this Saturday, July 7th, between 10AM and 2PM. Big Train players, staff, Homer, and Bunt will be on hand to collect the food. The Big Train will be handing out one-night family passes to anyone who donates two items or more to the cause! The Rockville Express have emerged victorious in the first two years of this incredible event. Homer wants to come out on top, so make sure that you do your part to help the Big Train get in the win column! For more information, please click here.

Discount Tickets for TONIGHT's Game; Big Train Sweep Doubleheader, Now Just 2GB

Health Night Rescheduled for TONIGHT at 7:30: Adults/Kids just $5/$3, and FREE PROGRAMS!

Bo Logan will pitch for the Big Train tonight vs. Baltimore.  Come out to Povich Field for a rare Tuesday night game as the Big Train face the Baltimore Redbirds in a make-up game from Saturday night. The Redbirds are ahead of the Big Train by just two games at the top of the standings and the Big Train look to close the gap. Because the game was rescheduled, tickets will be just $5 for adultsand $3 for kids! Also, come out to the park tonight and get a FREE Big Train Souvenir Program! Bo Logan (Florida Atlantic) will take the mound for the Big Train tonight.Logan leads the league in ERA with a meager 1.04.

Big Train Sweep Rare Day Doubleheader vs. Braves: After Winning 10 of Last 11, Just 2 Games Out of 1st

Avondre Bollar came up big in both games yesterday vs. Herndon. Due to the lack of electricity at Povich Field, yesterday's doubleheader became an afternoon affair. However, the heat didn't bother the Big Train as they rolled to a sweep of the Herndon Braves. Cameron Cuneo (UC Santa Barbra) took the mound for the first game of the doubleheader and pitched six strong innings while striking out eight.  "If we throw strikes our hitters are going to get it done," said Cuneo.  The offense certainly did get it done. The Big Train scored six runs in that game, all coming in a huge third inning that was highlighted by a two-RBI double by Hunter Renfroe (Mississippi State).  The big inning combined with solid pitching from Cuneo and Robbie Kidd (Tennessee) would be enough for the Big Train to take the first match-up by a score of 6-3.  Jon Carlson (High Point) would make his home debut in the second half of the doubleheader, and kept the Big Train in the game until the bats could come alive. Carlson struck out four over four innings of work and gave up no earned runs.  "My change-up was working pretty well today," said Carlson. "Pitching in front of the fans is always nice and it's nice pitching at home to get that home field [advantage]."  A Colin Kish (Florida Southern) home run in the bottom of the second tied the score at one before the offense really started going in the third inning. Adam Barry (Cal State Northridge), Renfroe, and Kish would all reach base to start the inning, followed by a two-run triple from Cole Norton (St Mary's (CA)) to give the Big Train a 4-1 lead. Norton then scored on a single from Avondre Bollar (San Diego State) to make the score 5-1. The Big Train would end up scoring five more runs in the next two innings, giving Jordan Gross (Tulane) plenty of cushion in the top of the seventh. Gross shut down the Braves bats, capping off a 11-1 victory for the two-game sweep. "We're rolling right now," said Avondre Bollar. "We have good pitching ... we're hitting now so we're going to be fine." The Big Train will look to continue their hot streak tonight as they host the Baltimore Redbirds at Povich Field. Come see if Brendan Hendriks can continue his hot streak against Baltimore (two home runs against the Redbirds this year) and the Big Train can move closer to first place. Tickets can be purchased at the gate! Game Notes: - Avondre Bollar had a day for himself at the plate. Normally a designated hitter or late-game pinch hitter, Bollar started in both legs of yesterday's double header and came with clutch hits in both games. "I was just swinging at whatever I thought I could hit, and it worked out," said Bollar. - With the wins, the Big Train are now just two games out of first place and have a chance to make it a single game because they face the first place Redbirds in tonight's game.