Wifflepalooza XVIII Media Day Quotes

 Today was the annual Wifflepalooza Media Day. Press from all 50 states and 18 countries world wide were in attendance to meet the teams and gather quotes and comments prior to this year's tournament. Below, are the general opening statements from each of the 6 teams in this year's tournament, as well as a state-of-the-league address from the Commissioner.

TIM DURANTE, OWNER, PRESIDENT & CAPTAIN OF PA PORK MISSILES

Pork missiles are coming back this year with one thing in mind. Championship. Last year’s rule changes moving the mound back played a difference in our approach and it appears that rule may have been made to benefit one team and one team only.

Nevertheless, we have made proper adjustments and look forward to competing Returning to the lineup is Brandon McCullough aka Run BMC, whose bat will be gladly placed back where it belongs. Much needed this season as both Kevin Glynn and Jody Durante will not be in attendance. We look forward to hitting home runs only. Couple squad mates had a wiffle ball game in July and the ball was flying out of the yard. Used the yellow bats so we can focus more on finding that sweet spot.

In other news Bryce Harper was extended an invite and has respectfully declined until that guy stops using knives to scuff the ball. Expect an appeal. As a team Ballbag has made a request. He wants to make sure that the goondingos are prepared to cupp his ballbag around the bases (both hands) for each and every homerun he hits, which we expect to be often. Year 4, here we go

 

JEFF RONCHETTI, OWNER, CHAIRMAN AND CAPTAIN OF GOONDINGOS

First, we'd like to thank Commissioner Fredo Etter for the opportunity to address the league. We feel that most of the league doesn't see our tweets, so we need this platform to put everyone on notice.

First up, injury updates: as many of you know, 1pac O'Hennessy has been battling debilitating knee injuries for two years now. Last season, he played with little more than his foreskin holding his knee together. This offseason, he underwent multiple surgeries to correct the issue. Thanks to the experimental and not recommended for human consumption healing compound BPC-157, he's found a path to return to the field this year. He has updated ownership on his availability and WILL be able to play. Another injury, previously kept under wraps, is to RHP Jeff Ronchetti's throwing shoulder. This issue has plagued him for months leading up to the tournament. Again, with the help of experimental healing compounds, he is ready to take the mound and aim for the Cy Young award.

Next, we’d like to highlight the improvement of 1pac O'Hennessy, from top prospect to budding All-Star. We believe he has not only been snubbed but has also heavily improved his game this offseason. After reviewing footage of the final out of the championship game posted on MLW's Twitter account, 1pac had an epiphany: his years of training came together, and he realized he drops his elbow for no apparent reason when he swings. This led to a final surgery this offseason to overhaul his swing. Our hitting coach, Hall of Famer Marky Smalls, has had 1pac studying slow-motion swings of left-handed batters like Kyle Schwarber, Bryce Harper, Ken Griffey Jr., and Shohei Ohtani for 3 hours per day since March. We feel 1pac is poised for a career year, and he has stated that this will be his "most aggressive" year despite his knee recovery.

We've been dealt a difficult schedule: Goodfellas, Bert Brigade, Pork Missiles, Ironballs. We see no reason we won't be heading back to the postseason this year. Last year, we broke Bert before they unraveled and left the field during their final game. We know we're in their heads. We've had close games with the Goodfellas and Ironballs, and we expect nothing less this year. We know we have a target on our back, whether due to our achievements last year or because other teams consider us an easier game on their schedule.

We're coming off one of the tournament's all-time great Cinderella stories, falling just short of winning the title. With another year of training under Hutch's belt, we guarantee a return to his early years’ form on the mound, setting us up with one of the best rotations in the league. The loss of Gumbo Martini sent shockwaves through our organization. This guy comes back after 4-5 years off, posts a 1.397 OPS, then promptly leaves again. Gumbo, if you see this, go fuck yourself. He has once again left his wiffleball career to participate in the prestigious golf championship, the Hackers of Mercer Oak Invitational, better known as the HOMO Invitational.

Given our recent batting history, this loss leaves huge shoes to fill. We've brought in 32-year-old rookie Connor Viglianti to solidify the lineup and provide relief on the mound. Connor, a lifetime baseball enthusiast and player, will shine bright, but perhaps not as bright as his greatest talent—drinking lukewarm piss beer. He's a player who embodies everything the Dangos stand for and is all but a lock to receive Rookie of the Year.

My quotes in prior years have been disregarded by Commissioner Etter as 'usual nothingburgers,' but last year, most of them came true with a rekindled passion for the game by the alcoholics known as the Goondingos, and a new organization-wide batting philosophy that elevated the team offensively by getting guys on base for the best hitters on the team.

In summation, nobody hangs dong like a Dango, and go fuck yourselves.

 ROCCO LOMBARDO: LIEUTENANT, BARONE SANITATION: CHAIRMAN & PRESIDENT OF GOODFELLAS

For us, to live any other way was nuts. To us, those goody-good people who built shitty teams for bum run counts and took an Uber to the tournament every year, worried about their bills, were dead. I mean, they were suckers. They had no balls.

If we wanted something, we just took it. If anyone talked shit twice, they got beat so bad, believe me, they never opened their mouth again. It's either blue cheese or go fuck your mother.

ALLEN CRUZ, PRESIDENT & GENERAL MANAGER OF IRONBALLS

Having to watch from our seats at home as another team filled in for us only left us hungrier and anxious to get back in this year. With 4 rookies and two major pieces returning in The Wiff and The Wiff JR we hope to reestablish the standard we’ve set since our inception.

As captain of the Ironballs and having played in this tournament and won before, past experiences tells me we have what it takes to compete and make it through this gauntlet of a schedule. We don’t expect to shy away from any challenge and expect to jump out the gate guns blazing. We’re back and fully reloaded, there will be dingers and beers at every turn.

We’re glad to be back it’s going to be one hell of tourney and as for the reigning champ Flapacs? We’re fucking coming for you game 1. Stay ready, you ain’t got to get ready!”

TAYLOR CHELI, OWNER & GENERAL MANAGER OF BERT BRIGADE

The team is under new management and with incoming rookies we're looking to make a statement. We want to play in honor of Jake Hatki, who is on the injured list this year. We're looking to get back into the playoffs for the 6th time in 7 years with the best two pitchers in the game. 

JAKE LAMBERT, LIMITED PARTNER & CHARIMAN OF FLAPACAMINGOS

Honestly, I can’t believe I still have to get up here and talk to you people year after year. I should be grandfathered in the way old people can still use old timey perjoratives and people just shrug their shoulders. I hear all the comments from these other teams and mostly I just want to ignore them. They’re nothing but undeveloped, unevolved, barely conscious pond scum, totally convinced of their own superiority as they scurry about their short, pointless lives.

They don’t seem to understand, that we don’t give a fuck about them. Beyond that, I’m giving you folks nothing. I won’t be giving away any of our team’s strategy to our opponents. The fact is we still return the esteemed Ryan “La Flama Blanca” Ricci, and between that, myself who by the way is the only other member of our team who’s won an MVP for the Flapacs, and the rest of the team that Al has assembled for us, that should be enough.

The only thing I know for sure that I’ve ever learned in this tournament, is to embrace the chaos and hit the shit out of the ball. No other advice is needed. And if you haven’t figured that out yet you’re playing this tournament wrong.

 AL ETTER, COMMISSIONER OF MAJOR LEAUGE WIFFLEBALL

Opening Statement

Once again, I thank you all for being here. This is our premier event for the season and a lot of time and effort go into this from a lot of people and I want to thank them as well. This event, as you may know, has grown from 1 field in a backyard, to less than 2 decades later, almost 300 participants have come through this event and our results are broadcast worldwide to every civilized country on earth. Our champions are legendary, our feats historic, and our work in the community unparalleled. I am proud to lead this event and organization into the future. I'll now open it up to questions.

Q: Has there been any thought to re-expanding to more than 6 teams?

A: At this time no. Unfortunately, the only discernable disadvantage we've faced recently is the shrinking of our available footprint. Simply, we don't feel that we comfortably have the room or available labor resources to construct and maintain a 3rd field again at this time. Plus, we like our current format.

Q: You mentioned footprint, and the current traditional site is great, but has there ever been any thought to moving the tournament to another location?

A: In reality, no. We love the Willie J Huff Complex and have no tangible plans to discard it. If anything, the most realistic scenario is investing further into the complex to make it more accessible and modern for our teams and fans. I think in a best-case-win-the-lottery-hypothetical situation, sure. We'd tour this thing all over the country. We'd invest in digital platforms, spread this thing out and make it like the Super Bowl or Final Four. I don't see how that would necessarily be lucrative long term, but you never know. But again, that's a totally hypothetical and off-the table idea.

Q: Investing in this has been another topic of discussion nationally. What, if any, steps or ideas can you share about what may be coming?

A: Again in reality, for this year, there's nothing new on the table. You'll see we did invest some resources to improve the mound/dirt areas at the complex and we expect that to make a difference for the players. We discuss every year things that may be needed and new ideas. It's a rolling evaluation constantly. Resources have been limited this year, that should be no secret. We know some of our structures and facilities will likely need an upgrade next year, we're aware of that obviously and expect to address that.

Q: It's pretty widely known that some teams have, subtly or otherwise, expressed concern with some of the decisions this office has made regarding rule changes and policies that have been allowed. Can you speak to those concerns and offer anything in the way of reassurance.

A: I'm not sure what "re-assurance" would be needed, other than to say that every decision that gets made by this office is in the interest of advancing the quality of the product. Specifically, because I know the complaints you're referring to, the mounds moved back because the pitching was too hard and there's been little in the way of compliance regarding the speed rule. And the scuffing has been allowed because some people asked for it and it balances out the mound moving back. If it was totally up to me the mounds would be back further. I want more offense. I'd love for people to abide by the speed rules. That's a battle I'm tired of fighting, so we're going with this approach. 

Q: Are there any set plans you can share yet for the 20th tournament, in 2026? Typically we've seen some sort of extra acknowledgement of milestone tournaments

A: That I can share yet, no. But we have had discussions for sure. We'd love collaboration from teams and older players. We'd love to bring back some guys who haven't been around in a while and do something there. But specific details I cannot share yet no.

Q: Lastly, any specific goals or agendas you hope to accomplish in this year's tournament?

A: Just to go off successfully as always. No one get hurt, no one leave feeling legitimately cheated. If we can accomplish those things, and keep people coming back, that's a perfect day to me. I've said for a long time, we cannot and will not have this tournament if people do not participate. The people are the life blood of this thing, always have been, always will be. As long as they show up, we'll have it.

MLW Network's Top 20 Players Right Now : #2 - Billy Jackson

It's hard to be able to rank this high when you don't both pitch and hit, but Billy is the rare exception. Jackson is quickly becoming the most feared hitter around. Also missing last year because of a scheduling conflict, Billy looks to regain his status among the games greats. This is a guy, who flat out just hits everything hard. He's the tournament's all-time OPS leader (1.785) as well as ranking 7th in B+% at 56%.

2x Champion

2x MVP

2x All-Star

#3 Justin Geri

#4 Jeff Ronchetti

#5 Kevin Engasser

#6 Tony Donato

#7 Brandon McCullough

#8 Ken McCormick

#9 Allen Cruz

#10 Taylor Cheli

#11 Mike Tedesco

#12 Dylan Clark

#13 Jake Lambert

#14 Sawyer Brown

#15 Kenny Weber

#16 Rick Fifer

#17 T.J Suppi

#18 Johnny Vandercrone

#19 Ryan Hutchings

#20 Al Etter

On A Mission: Goodfellas, More Motivated Than Ever, Return To Wifflepalooza Loaded Up

Whether they admit it or not, you know there's some extra motivation for the Goodfellas this year. Bowing out early last year without 2 of their stars, the G'fellas return what looks like arguably the best roster on paper of any team in this year's competition.

This team is no stranger to success. This core group has won 3 titles together, and reached another final. But it's been 4 years since that happened. Some may think it's fair to wonder if they can recapture that same magic. The talent is there no doubt, but it takes something extra to reach the mountain top in this tournament. 

Returning Justin Geri and Billy Jackson to the mix should help. The dynamic duo have been widely considered two of the top five players in the tournament for the better part of a decade. Jackson, boasting 2 MVP's, is the heart and soul of the Goodfellas order. Geri, the backbone of their pitching staff while also providing an elite bat. Stick those two back into the mix, with future hall-of-famer Mike Tedesco, rising newcomer Carmen Daddario and solid veterans Jeff Lunsford and captain Rocco Lombardo, this group isn't off base if their mentality is Trident-Or-Bust.

Projected Batting Order

1. Carmen Daddario

2. Justin Geri

3. Billy Jackson

4. Jeff Lunsford

5. Mike Tedesco

6. Rocco Lombardo

Projected Pitchers

Justin Geri

Mike Tedesco

Carmen Daddario

One Interesting Fact

The 269 combined walks by their lineup ranks first among all teams in history. Their 99 combined home-runs rank 2nd among active teams' rosters.

Key Factor To Watch

I almost used this space to talk about the 4-6 hitters, which if you had to pick a spot of concern that might be it. But instead, I'll say this. Rarely has this team had to field the ball at any noticeable level. If teams can put the ball in play, instead of striking out at the rate they normally do against Geri & Ted (over 45%), if teams can more often make contact, it might prove harder for this team to get outs.

Draftkings Odds

-105 to win WP18, O/U win total: 2.5

Under New Management: Bert Brigade Look To Climb Back With Different Vibes

 What an offseason. A flame out of last year's tournament, talks of mass retirements, withdrawing from WP18 only to be taken over by a new owner and not only re-enter the tournament, but frankly might've built the best roster of any team in the field. That's life for Bert Brigade these days. Their tournament experience began with a run of four-consecutive title games, something no other team has done at any point. The last two years however, have seen them upset in the semi-finals in 2022, and then blasted off the map in their final game in 2023 in the statistically worst loss in franchise history.

That loss was the root cause of change. Jake Hatki has stepped back, Rick Fifer is out for WP18. Taylor Cheli has stepped forward. And after a clean out of the back half of the roster and some background controversy.. the new additions for Bert have certainly raised eyebrows. Joining a lineup of nothing but all-stars, two rookies are ready to take the stage for Bert, and they might be the most talented of the bunch. Mason Maxwell, former D-2 all-conference player, headlines the tournaments' new additions as a whole. As we've seen before, success on the diamond isn't always a direct translation to success on the wiffle fields (see Jojo Rodriguez, Tyler Norris, Wifflebots, et.al), but Bert has reason to believe that he and fellow newcomer, former D-3 stud Jake Guglielmi are the key to their return to the top. 

The infrastructure, culture and experience are all in place. And the talent gap that appeared briefly last year appears to be closed. Now it's on Bert Brigade to reach their own lofty expectations in trying to earn their 3rd title.

Projected Batting Order

1. Sawyer Brown

2. Mason Maxwell

3. Taylor Cheli

4. Jake Guglielmi

5. Ken McCormick

6. Tony Donato

Bench: Pete Ojeda

Projected Pitchers

Tony Donato

Ken McCormick

Jake Guglielmi

One Interesting Fact

In their first 4 tournaments, where they reached the title game in all, Bert Brigade won 40% (8 of 20) of the major tournament awards. Their 18 all-stars in their first 6 tournaments are tied for 2nd most of any franchise (Flapacs - 20, Goodfellas -18).

Key Factor To Watch

Tournament officials decided after WP16, the mounds needed to be moved back just slightly. Going from 40 to 42 feet. It's unclear if that's what caused Bert's pitching to fall of hard, or if it's something else. But the key here is seeing if they can adjust. If that was the cause, it'll be the same this year. And the staple of Bert over the previous 5 years, more than even their thunderous lineup, was their lights out pitching.

Draftkings Odds

-115 to win WP18, O/U win total: 2.5

Looking To Rebound: PA Pork Missiles Approach Wifflepalooza With A Reloaded Group

The plane ride home last year left a bitter taste in their mouths. But for PA Pork, it became one of the driving forces of this offseason. Every team that reaches Wifflepalooza is "motivated", but the tone of the year for the Meat Rockets has been "finish". They felt like they left a lot of meat on the bone last year, no pun intended. The Pork Missiles went 1-3 in Wifflepalooza XVII, but they held leads in 2 of their 3 losses, including leading the Goodfellas into the 4th inning. They were close, but it wasn't enough, as they bowed out short of the playoffs for just the 2nd time.

The record was poor, but finishing games, especially ones they hold leads in will be key. Getting Brandon McCullough back should help. He left the squad to run his own team last year, and has burst onto the scene as a truly elite hitter. Shutdown pitching is ideal, a bat that can pad leads is almost as good. Pennsylvania will stick him right in the heart of their lineup. They need a bounce back year from WP16 Title game MVP Justin Baeringer as well. 

"Jut" is a key piece of the puzzle. Dan Volpe appears to be the ace of the club, but Baeringer gives them that much needed and highly coveted 2nd arm. Championship DNA is still here, but execution and timing matters more. Pork Missiles will look to re-capture that this week.

Projected Batting Order

1. Tim Durante

2. Brandon McCullough

3. Ken Weber

4. Dan Volpe

5. Justin Baeringer

6. James O'Brien

Bench: Tom Volpe

Projected Pitchers

Justin Baeringer

Dan Volpe

Tim Durante

One Interesting Fact

The Pork Missiles hit fewer HR (3) in their Championship tournament than they did in either of the other tournaments they've played in (8 & 4 respectively) where they missed the playoffs both times.

Key Factor To Watch

It was discussed above, but the numbers to show how needed Baeringer is are incredible. In WP16, when the Pork Missiles won it all, Jut posted a 0.56 ERA and a 2-0 record, striking out 19 in 12.5 innings en route to winning Title Game MVP. In his two other tournaments? 0-1 with a 25.20 ERA in 5 innings, walking 14 and striking out just 5. His ceiling is elite, they'll need it to be reached.

Draftkings Odds

+140 to win WP18, O/U win total: 2

MLW Network's Top 20 Players Right Now : #3 - Justin Geri

Geri missed last season due to a scheduling conflict, but comes back this year and boy are the Goodfellas excited about that. Geri can be definitively considered a top 3 player, posing a threat on both the mound and at the plate. The record holder for title game MVP's with 3, Geri ranks top 10 in just about every major category. He is 4th in RBI (90), 4th in bases+ (131), 4th in B+% (58.2%), 5th in HR (34), 5th in total bases (175), 6th in runs (64), 7th in walks (45), 8th in OPS (1.483), and 9th in hits (70). On the mound, he's the all-time leader in ERA (2.43), as well as 3rd in WHIP (1.17), 4th in Wins (14), 5th in K's (146) and 6th in innings pitched (101).

3x Champion

8x All-star

WP2 Top Rookie

2019 Cy Young

3x Title Game MVP

#4 Jeff Ronchetti

#5 Kevin Engasser

#6 Tony Donato

#7 Brandon McCullough

#8 Ken McCormick

#9 Allen Cruz

#10 Taylor Cheli

#11 Mike Tedesco

#12 Dylan Clark

#13 Jake Lambert

#14 Sawyer Brown

#15 Kenny Weber

#16 Rick Fifer

#17 T.J Suppi

#18 Johnny Vandercrone

#19 Ryan Hutchings

#20 Al Etter

After A Year Hiatus, Ironballs Return Looking To Find The Formula

 It doesn't seem like there's been a team more thoroughly preparing for this year than the IB's. After a much needed year off, the Dinger squad is back and re-vamped, looking to finally reach the top. Do they have questions? Sure, what team doesnt? But there is a dearth of talent on this squad capable of winning it all.

It starts with team captain, all-time wiffle legend Allen Cruz, who's leadership will be needed along with his arm and bat. A 5-tool player, Cruz projects to be the absolute rock of this club. Beyond Cruz, former all-star and top rookie T.J Suppi returns to the mix, playing in his first tournament since 2021. Izayah Quinones returns his bat to the Ironballs order as well.

The questions, as they are, remain on the mound. Outside of Cruz, Ironballs pitchers have a combined 7.87 ERA in 52.5 IP in their history. They will need to figure out an answer for the non-Cruz innings. While this problem is not unique to the Ironballs, it is one that could undermine them quicker than others given their lack of historically top hitters. The talent is there, now it's time to put it all together.

Projected Batting Order

1. Allen Cruz

2. T.J Suppi

3. Tim Suppi Sr.

4. Izayah Quinones

5. Kev Caraballo

6. Jose Garcia

Bench: Dylan Tollefson, Joshua Rodriguez, Sam Celebre

Projected Pitchers

Allen Cruz

Jose Garcia

T.J Suppi

One Interesting Fact

Ironballs have produced Top Rookie in 2 of their 3 previous tournaments. They enter this year with 4 rookies.

Key Factor To Watch

Who is going to emerge as the 2nd pitcher? Right now it looks like Jose Garcia is going to get that opportunity, as Ironballs have already named him the starter for Game 1 on Saturday. But that spot to this point is mostly unknown. It's the formula we all know. If you have 2 elite starting arms, you give yourself a lot more room for error. Cruz's resume shows that he's one, but the 2nd arm is the key.

Draftkings Odds

+155 to win WP18, O/U win total: 1.5

Things To Watch for: Wifflepalooza XVIII Schedule, Facts, and Important Information

 We are less than one week away from the summer's annual most anticipated event, and things are shaping up in a fairly normal fashion. This tournament, means many things to many people. For some, it's their way of seeing old friends. Some use it as an excuse to party. Some are just here because, well, it's what we do this time of year. I think it can be a combination of all of the above. I think this tournament, at it's core, is a manifestation of all of our friendships. It's got it's flaws, and it's a little nuts, but it's something that all of us hold deep within us in some way. 

Anyway, here it is. Your full schedule for the week, and some interesting tidbits along the way.

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS

Sunday, July 28

PALOOZA WEEK BEGINS

Tuesday, July 30

Wifflepalooza Media Day

Live scrimmages

Wednesday, July 31

Live scrimmages

Thursday, August 1

"Festival of Sacrifice"

Team Photo Day Opportunities

Live scrimmages (final availability)

Friday, August 2

3rd WP Home Run Derby (530pm)

Wifflepalooza Pre-Jam (to follow)

Saturday, August 3

9:00am - Optional batting practice availability

10:45am - Opening ceremonies begin

Team introductions, ceremonial first pitch, national anthem

11:00am - games begin

F1 - Flapacs v. Ironballs

F2 - Goodfellas v. Goondingos

11:40

F1 - PA Pork Missiles v. Goodfellas

F2 - Ironballs v. Bert Brigade

12:20

F1 - Bert Brigade v. Goondingos

F2 - Flapacamingos v. PA Pork Missiles

1:00

F1 - Ironballs v. PA Pork Missiles

F2 - Flapacamingos v. Goodfellas

1:40

F1 - Flapacamingos v. Bert Brigade

F2 - PA Pork Missiles v. Goondingos

2:20

F1 - Ironballs v. Goondingos

F2 - Bert Brigade v. Goodfellas

3:10 - PLAYOFFS

#1 v. #4

#2 v. #3

4:20 - Championship Game

WWWWWH?

Who: The 6 best wiffleball teams in the country

What: A 6-team group play, single elimination playoff format tournament to decide the wiffleball champion of the world.

When: Saturday, August 3, 2024.

Where: The Willie J Huff Sports Complex in Vineland, NJ

Why: Because the tradition is now as important as the need to compete. Because a champion's reign can't go unchallenged forever. Because it's the trident.

How: On a wing and a prayer, as usual.

Facts & Figures

- Since 2013, only 3 different teams have had players win the tournaments Cy Young Award. Only a member of the Goodfellas, Bert Brigade or Flapacamingos have won the award since Matt Creamer, star rookie of the Monstars won it for WP7.

- Since 2017, only 3 different players have won the Cy Young Award: Tony Donato (3x), Kevin Engasser (2x) and Justin Geri.

- In 17 tournament playoffs, the top overall seed has won 6 times. The 2nd seed has won 4 times. The 3rd seed has also won 6 times. Only once the #4 seed has ultimately won the whole thing (PA Pork Missiles in 2022).

- In 17 Championship games, 6 times it has seen the top 2 seeds face off, including last year. 13 of those 17 games have seen at least one of the top 2 seeds included. 4 times, the title game has included both wild card teams (WP5, WP8, WP9, WP16)

- There have been 227 different players to participate in Wifflepalooza, across 17 tournaments and 15 years. There could be as many as 12 new players to make their debuts this year.

- There have been 23 different teams to earn spots in Wifflepalooza over the same time frame.

- Flapacamingos WC have the most championships, with 5. They also have the most playoff appearances, with 14.

- Goodfellas have appeared in the most title games, with 7, winning 4 of them.

- In 17 tournaments, there have been 890 home runs and 2,545 runs scored. The 10th homer of the day this weekend will be the 900th all-time homer.

- Only twice has this tournament ever included an odd-number of teams. Both WP12 & WP13 had 7 teams. Otherwise, it has always had 4, 6, or 8 teams, with the 6 & 8 team formats featuring divisional play.

Milestone Watch

- With 2 homers, Ryan Ricci will become the 3rd member of the 40 HR Club (Stanzione, Etter). He can also join the 100 Hit Club with 2 more on Saturday.

- With 6 homers, Justin Geri will also join the 40 HR Club. He can also join the 100 RBI Club with 10 RBI on Saturday.

- At first pitch on field 2, Goodfellas captain Rocco Lombardo will be the first player to play in 90 games all-time.

- With 31 total bases at the plate, Jeff Ronchetti would be the 5th player to reach 200 career total bases

- There are 3 players who are all within range to be the first to 20 victories on the mound. Ryan Ricci (19) and Mike Tedesco (18) are closest, while Jeff Ronchetti (16) is possible also.

- With 15 innings, Jeff Ronchetti can be the first to reach 200 innings pitched. He could also become the first to reach 300 strikeouts, with 32.

- With 7 base hits, Taylor Cheli can become the 2nd fastest to 40-career hits.

- Jeff Lunsford needs 2 hits to be the 13th member of the 50 Hit Club

- Jake Lambert needs 8 hits to be the 4th member of the 90 Hit Club

MLW Network's Top 20 Players Right Now : #4 - Jeff Ronchetti

Jeff, another all-time legend, has only gotten better with age. The all-time record holder in a number of categories, frankly continues to be the main reason the Goondingos ever have a chance. Jeff's unique resume places him firmly in this top 5 conversation just as he was 10 years ago when we issued this list. Jeff. Offensively? Jeff ranks 6th in hits (81), 6th in total bases (169), 7th in bases + (81), 7th in HR (25), 8th in batting average (.420), 8th in RBI (63), 10th in runs (53), & 10th in walks (39). His pitching ranks? Even better. Jeff is the all-time leader in both K's (268) and innings pitched (185), while also being 3rd in both Wins (16) and ERA (2.72). He's 4th all-time in WHIP at 1.19.

2x Champion

11x All-star

WP4 Cy Young

WP4 Title Game MVP

Perfect Game in WP4 Title Game

#5 Kevin Engasser

#6 Tony Donato

#7 Brandon McCullough

#8 Ken McCormick

#9 Allen Cruz

#10 Taylor Cheli

#11 Mike Tedesco

#12 Dylan Clark

#13 Jake Lambert

#14 Sawyer Brown

#15 Kenny Weber

#16 Rick Fifer

#17 T.J Suppi

#18 Johnny Vandercrone

#19 Ryan Hutchings

#20 Al Etter

MLW Network's Top 20 Players Right Now : #5 - Kevin Engasser

 No one has ever burst onto the scene the way Engasser did. Running almost a clean sweep of the awards in 2022, some compared his rookie performance to Matt Creamer's in 2013. But Creamer swept the awards, the only player to ever do that. Engasser followed up with an overwhelming performance, winning his 2nd Cy-Young in as many years, and posting just the 3rd 0.00 ERA in tournament history (among pitchers to throw at least 8 innings). He did that over 18 innings. He struck out 34 of the 36 outs he recorded. He's thrown 3 no-hitters in 6 career starts. He's given up 5 total hits in 33 innings, and has yet to give up an extra base hit in his career.

2023 Champion

2x Cy Young winner

2x All-star

2022 Top Rookie

#6 Tony Donato

#7 Brandon McCullough

#8 Ken McCormick

#9 Allen Cruz

#10 Taylor Cheli

#11 Mike Tedesco

#12 Dylan Clark

#13 Jake Lambert

#14 Sawyer Brown

#15 Kenny Weber

#16 Rick Fifer

#17 T.J Suppi

#18 Johnny Vandercrone

#19 Ryan Hutchings

#20 Al Etter

MLW Network's Top 20 Players Right Now : #6 - Tony Donato

 Another elite player who's status for WP18 remains unknown, Donato boasts one of the best resume's in tournament history. He's won just about everything there is to win, holding the record for Cy-Young awards with 3, taking it home in 2018, 2020 & 2021. Last season was not his best performance, but he still is clearly one of the best players in the tournament. While he's also a threat at the plate, Tony's at his best on the mound, where he boasts top 10's in a number of categories. He's 1st all-time in WHIP (1.04), 3rd in K's (171), 4th in ERA (2.79), 6th in wins (10) & 7th in innings pitched (98).

2x Champion

4x All-star

3x Cy-young

WP15 Title Game MVP

#7 Brandon McCullough

#8 Ken McCormick

#9 Allen Cruz

#10 Taylor Cheli

#11 Mike Tedesco

#12 Dylan Clark

#13 Jake Lambert

#14 Sawyer Brown

#15 Kenny Weber

#16 Rick Fifer

#17 T.J Suppi

#18 Johnny Vandercrone

#19 Ryan Hutchings

#20 Al Etter

MLW Network's Top 20 Players Right Now : #7 - Brandon McCullough

In just two seasons, Brandon McCullough has shown he can be considered a legit top 10 and difference making hitter. Making the leap in year 2, BMC has earned all-star appearances in both of his tournaments. Unfortunately, he missed out on winning a title with PA Pork in 2022. However, he returns to that squad this year after captaining Temp Agency in 2023. Brandon was highly coveted this offseason before ultimately returning to his original squad.

2x All-star

2023 Most Improved Player

#8 Ken McCormick

#9 Allen Cruz

#10 Taylor Cheli

#11 Mike Tedesco

#12 Dylan Clark

#13 Jake Lambert

#14 Sawyer Brown

#15 Kenny Weber

#16 Rick Fifer

#17 T.J Suppi

#18 Johnny Vandercrone

#19 Ryan Hutchings

#20 Al Etter

MLW Network's Top 20 Players Right Now : #8 Ken McCormick

McCormick's time in Wifflepalooza may be wrapping up, but he's built one of the best all-time resume's. A dual threat both on the mound and at the plate, Ken was dominant over a stretch that saw Bert win two titles and reach the final in 4 consecutive tournaments. Ken sits 4th in OPS (1.557), 5th in B+% (57.1%) and 7th in batting average (.435). On the mound, he's tied for 8th in K's (102), 8th in ERA (3.77), 8th in WHIP (1.62) and 10th in both Wins (7) and innings pitched (65).

2x Champion

5x All-star

WP14 Title Game MVP

#9 Allen Cruz

#10 Taylor Cheli

#11 Mike Tedesco

#12 Dylan Clark

#13 Jake Lambert

#14 Sawyer Brown

#15 Kenny Weber

#16 Rick Fifer

#17 T.J Suppi

#18 Johnny Vandercrone

#19 Ryan Hutchings

#20 Al Etter

MLW Network's Top 20 Players Right Now : #9 - Allen Cruz

Cruz returns to the tournament after a 1-year hiatus. One of the all-time greats, Cruz boasts one of the most decorated resume's of anyone in the tournament. He cracks the top 10 all time in OPS at 1.448 at the plate, but his prowess is best seen on the mound. Allen is top 10 in a number of pitching categories, including 5th in innings pitched (105), 6th in K's (135), 8th in wins (8) and 10th in ERA (3.87). Allen will be back on the mound as the Ironballs look to reach the top.

3x Champion

6x All-star

2014 Cy Young Winner

2020 Most Improved Player

#10 Taylor Cheli

#11 Mike Tedesco

#12 Dylan Clark

#13 Jake Lambert

#14 Sawyer Brown

#15 Kenny Weber

#16 Rick Fifer

#17 T.J Suppi

#18 Johnny Vandercrone

#19 Ryan Hutchings

#20 Al Etter

MLW Network's Top 20 Players Right Now : #10 - Taylor Cheli

Taylor has consistently been one of the top performing hitters over the last 5 years, and appears on our list for the first time. A 2x winner, Cheli will take control of his own team this year for the first time. Taylor ranks 3rd among active players in OPS (1.710), while boasting the 2nd highest batting average among active players as well (.508). Cheli is consistently a threat within a batting order and gets the new squad off to a good start.

2x Champion

4x All-star

2019 Top Rookie

#11 Mike Tedesco

#12 Dylan Clark

#13 Jake Lambert

#14 Sawyer Brown

#15 Kenny Weber

#16 Rick Fifer

#17 T.J Suppi

#18 Johnny Vandercrone

#19 Ryan Hutchings

#20 Al Etter

MLW Network's Top 20 Players Right Now : #11 - Mike Tedesco

 Big Ted is one of the all-time tournament legends. A monstrous presence on the mound, Tedesco cracks this list mostly for his pitching alone. Ted is a top 10 performer in every pitching category around, as well as a decorated all-star, cy-young winner and champion. Mike ranks 2nd all-time in Wins (18), 2nd in WHIP (1.11), 3rd in Innings pitched (120.5), 4th in K's (170) & 6th in ERA (3.31). Mike has been the anchor of the Goodfellas pitching staff through their 3-peat dynasty from 2017-2019.

3x Champion

7x All-star

2x Cy Young Winner

#12 Dylan Clark

#13 Jake Lambert

#14 Sawyer Brown

#15 Kenny Weber

#16 Rick Fifer

#17 T.J Suppi

#18 Johnny Vandercrone

#19 Ryan Hutchings

#20 Al Etter

MLW Network's Top 20 Players Right Now : #12 - Dylan Clark

 Dylan burst onto the scene last year as a rookie, and like his counterpart on Temp Agency Johnny Vandercrone, the league took notice. Dylan showed great plate discipline and run producing ability, and just recently signed on on a temporary deal with the Flapacs. Clark is a good fit in the middle of any order, coming off a top rookie performance in WP17.

2023 Top Rookie

2023 All-star

#13 Jake Lambert

#14 Sawyer Brown

#15 Kenny Weber

#16 Rick Fifer

#17 T.J Suppi

#18 Johnny Vandercrone

#19 Ryan Hutchings 

#20 Al Etter

MLW Network's Top 20 Players Right Now : #13 - Jake Lambert

Lambert moves up on this list since the last time we issued one. He does that coming off one of his best all-time performances, slugging 4 homers including a grand slam in the title game. Jake is one of the all-time legends, boasting an MVP and 6 all-star appearances. Lambert ranks 3rd all-time in walks (62), 5th all time in hits (82), 5th all-time in runs (85), 6th in RBI (68), 8th in total bases (151), & 9th in HR (21). He has captained the Flapacs for the last 9 years, and finally broke through again as a Champion after a 9 year drought.

4x Champion

6x All-star

2014 MVP

#14 Sawyer Brown

#15 Kenny Weber

#16 Rick Fifer

#17 T.J Suppi

#18 Johnny Vandercrone

#19 Ryan Hutchings

#20 Al Etter

MLW Network's Top 20 Players Right Now : #14 - Sawyer Brown

 Sawyer burst onto the scene in 2018 in a way few others have. MVP? Check. Top Rookie? Check. One fatal mistake cost the team their title that year, but with Brown in the fold, Bert Brigade went on a run of 4 consecutive title game appearances. In his 6 seasons, Brown has made 2 all star teams and won two rings as well.

His 45 RBI are good for 13th all-time and his 16 HR are good for 15th, in spite of just playing in 1/3 of the all-time tournaments. Brown at the top of his game is in a category with very few others. It is unsure at this time if he'll play in WP18.

2x Champion

2x All-star

2018 MVP

2018 Top Rookie

#15 Kenny Weber

#16 Rick Fifer

#17 T.J Suppi

#18 Johnny Vandercrone

#19 Ryan Hutchings

#20 Al Etter 

MLW Network's Top 20 Players Right Now : #15 - Kenny Weber

 Weber has been a consistent source of run production since joining the Pork Missiles in 2021, and he breaks on to this list at 15 because of it. With a 1.356 OPS, Weber ranks 12th among current players. PPM are excited to have him back in the fold coming off his first All-star appearance.

2022 Champion

2023 All-star

#16 Rick Fifer

#17 T.J Suppi

#18 Johnny Vandercrone

#19 Ryan Hutchings

#20 Al Etter

MLW Network's Top 20 Players Right Now : #16 - Rick Fifer

 Rick has been a staple in the middle of the Bert Brigade order for half a decade. The entrenched 1B of the 2x champs cracks this list for the first time after being an all-star twice in the last 4 tournaments. Rick currently holds the 6th highest OBP among qualified hitters (min. 65 at bats) as well as the 3rd highest BB% in the same grouping. It is unsure if Fifer will be participating in WP18 as of now.

2x Champion

2x All-star

#17 T.J Suppi

#18 Johnny Vandercrone

#19 Ryan Hutchings

#20 Al Etter

Bert Brigade, Thought To Be Out of Wifflepalooza, Revived At The Last Moment

 Late Thursday night, the Commissioner's Office was notified that Bert Brigade, the two-time champions thought to be bowing out of Wifflepalooza XVIII, are in fact staying in under new management. Former captain and owner Jake Hatki, unavailable to participate in WP18 for personal reasons, is handing over partial ownership and the captain's band to teammate Taylor Cheli. In corresponding moves, the league had de-activated Bert and issued license to Cheli for a new team to be formed. Instead, Bert will be re-activated and the new license revoked.

The news came as a surprise to most, as it seemed the previously expected move was just about finalized. Alas, Bert stays, and has made some changes to the roster to go with it. Along with Hatki, former all-star Rick Fifer will not be on the active roster for Bert. It is unclear at the time of this article whether or not he's available for other franchises to inquire. New additions to the roster include rookie IF Mason Maxwell and rookie OF Jake Guglielmi.

2024 Bert Brigade Roster

On Friday morning, the Bert Brigade submitted their initial roster for Wifflepalooza XVIII. 

Active Roster

1 Sawyer Brown

4 Jake Guglielmi

5 Tony Donato

7 Taylor Cheli (C)

17 Mason Maxwell

18 Ken McCormick

23 Pete Ojeda

Inactive/Rights held

2 Marco Rios

10 C.J Wallowitch

11 Jake Hatki

33 Rick Fifer

@BertBrigade

2024 PA Pork Missiles Roster

 Last Saturday morning, the PA Pork Missiles submitted their initial roster for Wifflepalooza XVIII. 

Active Roster

1 Tim Durante (C)

3 Justin Baeringer

4 Kenny Weber

10 Tom Volpe

20 Brandon McCullough

21 Dan Volpe

23 James O'Brien

Inactive/Rights held

2 Jody Durante

7 Kevin Glynn

@pa_pork

MLW Network's Top 20 Players Right Now : #17 - T.J Suppi

 T.J rejoins the tournament this year after a couple year hiatus, but his resume in earlier years gets him a spot on this list. Back with the Ironballs, T.J has shown an ability to both drive the ball and get on base. He is a solid fixture in the middle of their lineup as they look to get back to their 2021 form. 

2020 Top Rookie

2020 All-star

#18 Johnny Vandercrone

#19 Ryan Hutchings

#20 Al Etter

MLW Network's Top 20 Players Right Now : #18 - Johnny Vandercrone

 Vandercrone enters this version of the top 20 as a newcomer from last year. While his resume is limited, and it's unclear at this point if he'll somehow participate in WP18, Johnny burst onto the scene with an .808 on base %, which as best we can figure is good for 4th highest single tournament total ever. The Temp Agency slugger drove in 9, and finished with a 1.919 OPS. 

2023 All-star

#19 Ryan Hutchings

#20 Al Etter

2024 Goodfellas Roster

 On Thursday morning, the Goodfellas submitted their initial roster for Wifflepalooza XVIII. 

Active Roster

2 Carmen Daddario

8 Rocco Lombardo (C)

16 Justin Geri

25 Billy Jackson

41 Mike Tedesco

42 Jeff Lunsford

Inactive/Rights held

1 Brian Stanzione

10 Brian Calatozzo

12 Tyler Lunsford

15 Kyle L. Lunsford

20 Nigel Lunsford

24 Manny Colon

@thegoodfellas10

MLW's Top 20 Players Right Now: #19 - Ryan Hutchings

 Man, what's even left to say. A tornado of ability. A tazmanian devil. The only man to be (I think) traded twice. Hutch is an all-time legend of the sport, who was #12 on our list 10 years ago. In his prime? Just about no one better. Unfortunately for ol' Huck, his prime was a long time ago. That didn't stop him from a gutsy performance last year, helping will the G'dangs to the title game and throwing a few quality innings in that championship game before the wheels fell off. Hutch boasts top 10 positions in a number of all-time categories. He's5th in RBI (69), 

9th in batting average (.414)

6th in HR (32)

8th in walks (42)

7th in runs scored (62)

8th most hits (70), 

4th fastest to 50 hits (109 AB), 

2019 MVP

WP3 Title Game MVP

4x Champion, 7x All-star

#20 Al Etter

2024 Goondingos Roster

 On Thursday morning, the Goondingos submitted their initial roster for Wifflepalooza XVIII.

Active Roster

1 Danny Martini

3 Jeff Ronchetti (C)

4 Tony DiChiara

10 Patrick Hennessy

12 Dustin Graiff (C)

15 Connor Viglianti

24 Ryan Hutchings (C)

69 Pete Gervasio

Inactive/Rights held

0 Rocco Lupi

13 Nick Calabrese

20 Scott Schneider

23 Johnny Malatesta

Reserve/Retired List

5 Mark Ronchetti

11 Tyler Martini

@THEGOONSQUADWP  /  @themandingos

MLW Network's Top 20 Players Right Now: #20 - Al Etter

Etter re-emerges onto this list after another brief retirement to re-structure the Flapacs organization. Even with diminished skill and speed, he still remains a massive threat at the plate. For a number of years, Etter held every major offensive record in tournament history. While some of the competition has caught up to him in recent years, he still holds a number of them.

Batting average - 1st - .507

Hits - 1st - 105

Runs - 1st - 89

RBI - 1st - 111

Bases+ - 1st - 171

B+% - 1st - 66.8%

Home Runs - 2nd - 40

OPS - 2nd - 1.722

Total Bases - 2nd - 232

Walks - 5th - 49

While he hasn't pitched in years, he still holds top 10 positions in all 5 major pitching categories as well. More recently, as we said, he retired and did not play in 2022. Over the last 3 tournaments however, he still has hit .440 with a 1.243 OPS. His power has diminished over the years, but can still provide a spark. 

2024 Flapacamingos Roster

On Wednesday morning, the Flapacamingos submitted their initial roster for Wifflepalooza XVIII.

Active Roster

1 Eric Bomenblit

3 Dylan Clark

5 Ryan Ricci

9 Joey Bomenblit

11 Al Etter

19 Jake Lambert

22 Brent Ewald

50 Tyler Suppa

Inactive/Rights held

10 David Fridolph

12 Paul Nyitray

15 Joe Saverino

24 Ray Reyes

60-day IL

7 Kevin Engasser

17 Rob Humes

@FlapacamingosWC

TOP 20 MLW Players Right Now - The Honorable Mentions

 -    Before we begin this list in earnest, it's only right to both re-visit our original list as well as give a nod to those who just barely missed the cut. This list is the reincarnation of a project from 10-years ago. Originally, as a copy-cat of MLB Network's "Top Players Right Now" show, a by-gone feature content from what's really a totally different era of baseball, our own "Top Players" list was billed out mainly to start controversy, as I remember. But it also developed a life of it's own, spurring online replies and comments as players throughout our league made it a regular topic of discussion. In short, it was way more successful that I ever thought it would be. 

    I never created another version of it, one because it took me a while to do, and two, because the personnel in this league wasn't changing much back then. Year to year, maybe one team would change, and among the other teams, maybe a couple players would be different. Not much wiggle room for a different list. As time went on, other articles and content took hold. However this year, per request, we are going to bring it back. An ode to a different era of wiffleball. A simpler time some may say, but one that solidified the foundation of the great tournament we have today. The original list, saw Matt Creamer, Monstars phenom coming off a sweep of all of the tournament awards, earn the #1 spot. He was followed by Jeff Ronchetti, Al Etter, Ryan Ricci and Mark Ronchetti, rounding out the top 5. Overall, there are 7 players from that list back in 2014 that are still active today. 

    So let's begin. First up, honorable mentions. We didn't give these back in 2014, so technically it's a top 24? Who cares.

MLW Players Right Now- Honorable Mentions

- Jeff Lunsford - Goodfellas

A two time winner of the tournaments' Most Improved Player award, Jeff could be higher on this list if he authored more consistent results. Jeff is 3rd all time in games played in with 72, 4th all time in walks with 53, an all-star in 2022 & is a 3x Champion. He has 16 career HR, 46 RBI and an all-time OPS of 1.046. His OPS has jumped to 1.251 over the last 3 tournaments..His most memorable moment is a walk-off HR to send the G'fellas to the title game during the semifinals in 2018.

- Eric Bomenblit - Flapacamingos

Another player who'd certainly be higher on this list, if injuries and personal matters hadn't kept him out of a number of tournaments in recent years. Eric burst onto the scene in 2015 with the Balco Bombers, and signed with the Flapacs as a free agent in 2018. A two time all-star, Bomenblit has 14 career HR, 38 career RBI, a career 1.519 OPS, as well as 4 pitching wins and 52 K's in 45 1/2 innings.

- Patrick Hennessy - Goondingos

Onepac, as he's known, has been a break-out candidate for the Gdangs for years now. While he's never fully turned into a star, Hennessy has delivered some clutch hits and performances over the years. His 1.367 OPS over the last 3 tournaments is 13th best across the league, hitting .364 in that time. In 42 career games, he has 8 HR and 22 RBI.

- Rocco Lombardo - Goodfellas

An original legend, Lombardo has been the backbone and glue of the Goodfellas franchise for years. He's the tournament's all time leader in games played (89) and walks (80), while being 2nd in plate appearances (272). He's 4th all time in runs scored (76), 8th in HR (21), 8th in Bases+ (78) and 9th in RBI (60). He is a 5-time Champion and 6x All-star. He'd be higher on this list if he'd hit higher than .257 over the last 3 tournaments. His 1.123 OPS over that time is only 28th among qualified hitters.

- Carmen Daddario - Goodfellas

Burst on the scene last year as a nice find for the Goodfellas. Hit 2 HR in 14 plate appearances, boasting a 1.389 OPS., as well as earning a save on the mound with a 2.33 ERA in 6 innings, striking out 5. Was runner up for top-rookie in last year's tournament.

Defending Cy Young Winner Kevin Engasser OUT for Wifflepalooza XVIII

 The magic the Flapacs have ridden to back-to-back title game appearances will have to find a new shape. League sources indicate that when the Flapacs publish their initial roster for WP18 this week, it will have a notable absence. 2x Cy Young winner Kevin Engasser will not be a part of their squad for this year, as he attends to a personal matter that overlaps with tournament day. Sources have indicated that this is only a 1-year absence and that nothing has changed regarding Engasser's relationship with the club. They expect him back in his normal role for 2025. More on this story as it develops. 

2024 Ironballs Roster

 On Friday morning, the Ironballs submitted their initial roster for Wifflepalooza XVIII.

Active Roster

00 Dylan Tollefson

2 Kev Caraballo

11 Izayah Quinones

13 Tim Suppi

14 Jose Garcia

24 Allen Cruz (C)

35 T.J Suppi

Inactive/Rights held

1 Sam Celebre

3 O.J Flores

20 Jose Rodriguez

24 Jojo Rodriguez

28 Holvin Figueroa

@IronBallsLLC

Two-Time Champion Bert Brigade Out of Wifflepalooza XVIII

In a stunning turn of events, the league office was notified Saturday morning that the two-time defending champions and team with the second highest winning percentage in tournament history (min. 10 games) will not be able to field a team for this year's tournament. 

Captain and owner Jake Hatki notified the commissioner directly. Bert Brigade represented a positive shift in the tournament at a time where it could've been perceived that the strength of the contest was wavering. Bert burst onto the scene in dramatic fashion, reaching the title game in each of their first four tournaments. In their first year, a devastating violation of the fence rule likely cost them a title that year, where they would've been just the 2nd ever team to win in their first year as an expansion club. After coming up short again the following year, Bert finally broke through in 2020, defeating their heated rivals the Goodfellas in the title game, 9-0. Ken McCormick won the title game MVP that year, dominating both on the mound and at the plate. They would go on to repeat the next year, defeating Ironballs in the championship game, 5-2. Anthony Donato was the MVP of that game, also turning in a two-way performance. 

Bert will certainly be missed, a set of great ambassadors for the sport and league if their ever was one. They will be replaced in the tournament this year by a new expansion franchise, led by former Bert all-star Taylor Cheli. Their name and roster TBD. It is unclear what the remaining future for Bert Brigade is within Wifflepalooza. Sources told us that the Office of the Commissioner has make it known that should Bert be able to return next year, they'd be welcomed with open arms, although it's unclear which team would be removed to make way for them. It's also unclear what other roster pieces from Bert might be available, and until the new team's roster is finalized that will remain that way.

In the end, it was a great run for Bert Brigade and one that deserves great appreciation.