Tippecanoe Canal Jumpers Win Again!

The Tippecanoe Canal Jumpers have evened their 2010 record to 4 wins to 4 defeats. The Canal Jumpers hosted the Blue Ashlars of Worthington on Sunday, July 18^th at the Willowtree Inn celebrating “Masonic Day.” The Canal Jumpers have won their last 3 matches to even their record. The Tippecanoe Nine continue to be undefeated at home this season with a 4-0 record.

Sunday’s match celebrated free masonry at the ball field. Jeff Okrutny of Tippecanoe Lodge # 174 discussed the role of Alexander Cartwright in the pre-game ceremonies. Cartwright was recognized as the true founder of the game of base ball in 1953 by the U.S. Congress. A free mason, Cartwright role debunked the long-time notion that Abner Doubleday founded the game. Mr. Okrutny continued to explain Cartwright’s involvement with the New York Knickerbocker Base Ball Club and the rules that pertain to the modern game.

The Canal Jumpers struck early with 4 tallies in the 1^st and 2^nd innings. Hurler, Phil “Curly” Cox held the opposition scoreless until the 6^th inning. The Worthington Nine tacked on 2 more tallies in the 8^th. The Canal Jumpers delivered the decisive blow in the bottom of the 6^th with an additional 4 tallies in the bottom of the 6^th and 8^th innings. Timely striking was delivered by Rod “Vacuum” Martino and Craig “Cannon” Seeman along with the fine effort by Andrew “Jack Rabbit” Gross.  The home club played fine defensive led by their behind, Captain Steven “Swifty” Pope.

Sunday’s match was officiated by Mark “Mad Dog” Mabelitini. Mr. Mabelitini shared his passion for base ball with the home town cranks from Tippecanoe. A special huzzah (hurrah) for host Kevin “Inn Keeper” Lett and Adam “Ricochet” Blake for graciously stepping over the Blue Ashlar’s bench allowing them to field nine ballists (players). Mr. Blake and Mr. Lett played a fine match against their beloved Canal Jumpers.

The Canal Jumpers are a project of the Downtown Tipp City Partnership, a non-profit 501c3 organization with a mission to enhance, preserve and promote downtown Tipp City. For more information on vintage base ball or the DTCP, please call 937.667.0883 or visit our website at www.tippecanoecanaljumpers.com .