Title Slips Pass The Rabbi
Wellesley Townsman, By Josue Pavon/ Townsman Correspondent
Thursday, August 4, 2005

The Wellesley Weston Chabad had the Kiddush Cup on their minds going against Newton's Congregation Beth El Sunday afternoon in the MSSL (Men's Shul (Synagogue) Softball League) championship game. But after hard fought game between the two rivals, the Wellesley Weston Chabad Shluggers would fall just four runs short, losing 17-13.

This was the first time Wellesley Weston made their way to the finals, but according to Rabbi Moshe Bleich, coach and player, it won't be their last.

Despite the loss, the Shluggers played well. Outfielders Adam Levine and Chris Sandler played great defense to help the Shluggers stay close. Matt Oliver offered some pitching to help the team stay close with Newton. But unfortunately the Shluggers couldn't stay close enough towards the end of the game when Newton would score in three runs off a bases loaded triple that cleared the bases.

"The game was played out very well, and our team played a great game...," said Bleich

The Rabbi went on to say how fortunate his team was to even be in the championship round this year.

"Surprised we even made the playoffs, we squeezed into the playoffs and we had a great two games in the playoffs two series that worked out very well, this game you know we tried we had a tremendous amount of support there. There were over 100 spectators at the game, most of them were on our side," said Rabbi Bleich

Bleich tipped his hat to the Newson champions.

"There were a couple mistakes here and there," he said. "They were able to work off of our mistakes and win the game, fair and square."

Bleich did his part by going 2 for 3 in the game, with two singles, and one triple.

Bleich, who has been a rabbi for the Wellesley Weston Chabad congregation for five years, plays shortstop for the team, in addition to coaching.

Asked why he chose the position he did he said, "Tried it, perfected the position as a shortstop, I'm a pretty good shortstop, what can I say?"

Although he had never played the sport in the past, he was instantly attracted to it once the league started. He loves being on the team, and considers himself lucky to be able to do something he enjoys so much.

Rabbi Bleich also added, if anyone from his congregation is interested in joining the team, or wants to learn more information about the Shluggers feel free to go www.wellesleywestonchabad.org or to e-mail at chabadwellesley@aol.com.