Barzell returns to the mound

Tucson Old Timers (TOTS)

60-and-over baseball

Lloyd Barzell, 66, just three months to the day since bypass surgery, returned to the mound today at Udall Park and hurled two shutout innings as Team Blue rolled to a 19-8 win over Team White.

Barzell struck out one and walked one. He caught a pop up and easily handled a comebacker. So far so good for Barzell, who returned to action earlier this month and played some outfield and infield positions and wore a chest protector, but decided to fore go the combersome apparatus and start pitching again.

Bob Daliege, Team Blue's starter, pitched five innings and picked up the win, while Joe Dinich, in only his second career start on the mound, was saddled with the loss.

Team Blue started quickly and had 12 runs on the board after just three innings of play. Tim Tolson was the big gun for Team Blue with a 4 for 4 day and six RBI. Brian Reilly went 3 for 4 for Team White.

But the big story was the return of Barzell, who not only pitched two innings, but batted second in Team Blue's lineup and collected three hits in four trips to the plate. Barzell, the TOTS' reigning hits leader for 2015 and 2016, is back where he wants to be -- pitching and hitting for the TOTS.

Barzell is back. He's all heart when he takes the field of play and the scary days of December are behind him.

"My heart felt good," Barzell said, after the game. "I have some soreness in my right arm, but other than that I feel pretty good."

Barzell's next goal: Get some hits. He has a lot of making up to do.

As for his TOTS' teammates, they won't be surprised if he finishes 2017 with the most hits, once again.

Photo: Lloyd Barzell