Another homer by a newcomer

Tucson Old Timers (TOTS)

60-and-over baseball

For the third time in 12 days a newcomer has homered in a Tucson Old Timers (TOTS) game.

Playing in his first game, 60-year-old Reed Palmer hit a two-run homer in the sixth inning today at Udall Park. Palmer hit the second pitch off right-hander Lloyd Barzell over the fence in straight-a-way center.

Team Blue centerfielder Dennis Crowley said, "I knew the ball was out of here as soon as he hit it."

Team Blue won the game today 11-5 and also received a round-tripper from Tim Tolson. Thunder Tim has been the "reigning" TOTS' home run hitter for the past four years, but now he has company.

On July 6, newcomer John Mathews, 60, hit a homer over the left field fence and two days later newcomer Philip Sallee, 60, drilled a shot over the right field fence.

Barzell notched the win today as he went the distance on the mound for Team Blue while Pigpen Price, once again, struggled in the first inning for Team White -- allowing five runs. Boyd relieved Price in the fifth. Team White finally got the bats going in the final inning and scored four runs -- highlighted by the newcomer's blast to the deepest part of the ball park at Udall.

The TOTS will be back in action on Wednesday. Game time 9 a.m.