Flemington Finally Plays Two

Liberty Club's Grounds 

Flemington played its first doubleheader of the year against the New Brunswick Liberty on the Liberty’s home field located in East Jersey Olde Town Village which is part of Johnson Park in Piscataway, NJ. While Ernie Banks’ would say "Let’s Play Two" with much enthusiasm, the Neshanock had a tough time as they dropped two to the excellent play of the Liberty.  The game also saw an appearance of Somerset Patriots’ mascot, “Sparkee”, who provided support to both the Liberty and Neshanock.

"Sparkee" gives batting tips to Scott “Snuffy” Hengst

The first game was played using 1858 rules which is the norm for the New Brunswick club. One difference with this year is that the base runner is never in danger of being put out with a fly out as play is suspended and the runner is given a free pass back to his base of origin. The Neshanock held a 4-2 lead after three but the Liberty’s steady attack resulted in a 10-5 win for the home team. Ken “Tumbles” Mandel led the Neshanock with 2 hits while eight other Neshanock had just 1 hit each.

Liberty Pitcher

The second game was played under the Neshanock’s rules of 1864. The game was close through 8 innings with New Brunswick holding a 13-12 advantage. However, in the top of the ninth, the Liberty’s bats exploded as they plated 11 while the Neshanock only answered with 1 of their own resulting in a 24-13 loss. The following Neshanock each had a 3 hit game, Ken “Tumbles” Mandel, Mark “Gaslight” Granieri, and Joe “Mick” Murray. 

"Jersey" Jim Nunn

Perhaps the brightest spot of the day for the Neshanock was the return of Chris “Sideshow” Nunn to the lineup after having been lost last year to injury during the Philadelphia Navy Yard Classic. Since Saturday’s game was the day before Father’s Day, it would be timely to mention that there are many Father and Sons playing 19^th Century Base Ball. The Neshanock have had many such pairings over the years including the Nunns with Jim and sons Chris and Matt.  Next weekend the Neshanock will be hosted by the Historical Society of Princeton and Morven Museum & Garden in Princeton, NJ.

Chris "Sideshow" Nunn

All photos and verbiage courtesy of Mark "Gaslight" Granieri