- 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.
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