First Place, Sports Picture Story - David Richard / FreelanceThe city of Avon built a new baseball stadium and signed a deal with the Frontier League to bring a team to the area. Little did anyone know that less than a year later, the players of the Lake Erie Crushers would bring the League Championship trophy to the city with a dramatic, come-from-behind win. The Lake Erie Crushers got the season started on the right foot with a win in front of their new fans at their new stadium.
First Place, Sports Picture Story - David Richard / FreelanceThe Lake Erie Crushers won their first ever home game with a 5-2 win over Windy City at All Pro Freight Stadium and then entertained the crowd with a fireworks show.
First Place, Sports Picture Story - David Richard / FreelanceMinor League baseball is known for its promotions and entertainment. Here a youngster races around the bases between innings wearing a full-sized Crushers uniform.
First Place, Sports Picture Story - David Richard / FreelanceThe Crushers hit a low point at the midway point of the season and manager John Masserelli (right) finally erupted after two balk calls against his pitching staff. He was ejected.
First Place, Sports Picture Story - David Richard / FreelanceCrushers fans packed All Pro Freight Stadium every game night and were often treated to spectacular sunsets with Lake Erie just a few miles to the West.
First Place, Sports Picture Story - David Richard / FreelanceOhio native Drew Saylor quickly became a fan favorite with his acrobatic play at second base.
First Place, Sports Picture Story - David Richard / FreelanceFans were surprised and ecstatic when the inaugural team got on a hot streak and found themselves in the first round of the playoffs.
First Place, Sports Picture Story - David Richard / FreelanceCrushers super fans chartered a bus for a 10-hour ride to Missouri to watch their team in the deciding Game 5 of the Frontier League Championship Series.
First Place, Sports Picture Story - David Richard / FreelanceThe Crushers fought their way to the championship round and after losing the first two games, came back to tie the series. The Crushers then stunned host River City, MO., with a come-from-behind win in the championship game to win the Frontier League title.
First Place, Sports Picture Story - David Richard / FreelanceA Crushers player goes to the stands to celebrates the league championship with his host family.
First Place, Sports Picture Story - David Richard / FreelanceThe players celebrate the Frontier League championship.
