The Jewish Community Night Softball League (JCNSL), proudly presented by Tripping Kosher, has returned for its fifth season, and this year promises to be bigger, brighter, and more competitive than ever. Since its inception, the JCNSL has grown into a staple of summer nights in our community, offering spirited competition, camaraderie, and the perfect blend of athleticism and fun.
This season’s action unfolds on the beautifully manicured Tidy Up Fields, where every blade of grass and every inch of infield dirt gleams thanks to the tireless work of the Donny Ankri Architects Grounds Crew. Under the lights, the fields look more spectacular than ever, setting the stage for high-level competition and unforgettable moments.
The league’s logistics remain unmatched. Thanks to Fired Up Promotions, all the necessary equipment is in place, ensuring players have everything they need to bring their A-game. The I Heart Remodeling Umpiring Crew keeps the games running smoothly and fairly, bringing both authority and professionalism to every call.
Of course, no season would be complete without the sharp look of the players themselves. Outfitted in their handsome jerseys—sponsored by Calm Mind Therapy—the athletes of the JCNSL look every bit the part of seasoned pros.
This year’s lineup features eight determined teams—Aisle 9, YL Waitering, MDSC, Miracle Massage, Clothier, Tov Pizza, Ambush Law, and The Fireside Bakery—all vying for glory across seven regular season games. Their eyes are set firmly on a spot in the NIV Advisors Postseason and, ultimately, the chance to hoist the coveted Premier Financial Trophy.
With the stage perfectly set, Week Two delivered action, drama, and some breakout performances. Here’s a look at the highlights.
Aisle Nine 11 MDSC 4
Aisle 9 picked up a solid win, defeating MDSC 11–4 and improving to 2–1 on the season. Kobe Leder was just a home run shy of the cycle, delivering a monster performance at the plate. Rookie Chaim Lefkowitz impressed as well, going 3-for-4 with three runs scored as part of a 20-hit night for Aisle 9.
The defense was just as sharp, with Aisle 9 shutting down any hopes of a comeback. With both bats and gloves working in harmony, Aisle 9 controlled the game early and never looked back. The momentum they’re building hints at a promising season ahead.
The Fireside Bakery 10 Ambush Law 1
After a tough opening week that saw two close losses, The Fireside Bakery roared back in Week Two with grit and precision, posting back-to-back wins.
In Game One against Ambush Law, Ezra Bregin’s two-run homer in the first inning set the tone for a commanding 10–1 victory. Walt Johnson was steady at the leadoff spot, while clutch two-out hitting from Tzvi Schechtman and Simcha Luchansky padded the lead. On defense, Mo Krohn was a wall at shortstop, making sure Ambush never threatened a rally.
YL Waitering 19 Ambush Law 1
YL Waitering left no doubt in their 19–1 defeat of Ambush Law, showcasing powerful bats, airtight defense, and top-to-bottom team chemistry.
The rally began when Yoni Levin opened the game with a triple, setting the tone for a three-hit, one-walk night. Shmuly and Avi Abramson each drove in two runs, while Mayer Goldsmith controlled the mound with ease and even chipped in offensively.
Defensively, Yoni Frager patrolled the outfield like a pro, and Meir Parry flashed leather at shortstop while adding two hits. Zevi Charner anchored third base with confidence, while contributions from Meir Shamberg, Shlomo Fantl, Zack Lerner, and Brian Ponczak behind the plate rounded out the team’s complete performance.
With contributions across the roster, YL Waitering looks every bit like a postseason contender.
Aisle Nine 6 Clothier 3
In a tightly contested matchup, Aisle 9 earned a 6–3 victory over Clothier, improving to 3–1 on the season. Pitchers Akiva Katz (Aisle 9) and Avi Safren (Clothier) were dominant, keeping batters guessing all night.
Defensively, Aisle 9 leaned on strong plays from Yoni Lencz and Zecharya Shear, while Mendy Rauh stood tall at first base with several key picks. The combination of pitching, defense, and timely hitting was enough to tilt the duel in Aisle 9’s favor.
Miracle Massage 10 Clothier 6
The night also featured a strong performance from Miracle Massage, who topped Clothier 10–6. Rookie shortstop Akiva Furman impressed with dazzling glove work, while the turning point came when Clothier intentionally walked Nadav to load the bases—only for Samby to crush a bases-clearing double that sealed the win.
The Miracle squad celebrated both the victory and Jeremy Kramer’s birthday, proving there was plenty to smile about on and off the field.
The Fireside Bakery 9 Tov Pizza 5
A thriller between Fireside and Tov Pizza kept fans on edge with several late ties. Fireside showed resilience, grabbing the lead in the fifth and adding insurance runs in the sixth before flawless defense in the ninth sealed the deal. Avi Donaty dazzled with three opposite-field doubles, while Meir Glazer made a highlight-reel fading throw from third. Baruch Glazer and Sasha Zakharin chipped in with timely hits and steady leadership behind the plate.
With muffins promised for all players next week, Fireside Bakery has officially baked its way back into contention.
MDSC 7 Miracle Massage 4
After a tough opening loss to Aisle 9, MDSC regrouped and rebounded with a hard-earned win against the previously undefeated Miracle Massage.
Focusing on “baseball basics,” MDSC played efficient, gap-hitting offense to scratch out seven runs, while their defense stood tall in key moments. Despite a late push from Miracle Massage, the Strum Team held on for the victory.
One memorable moment came when a Miracle player, impressed by Rafi’s highlight-reel catch, shouted: “Rafi! You are a cheat code!” The comment summed up MDSC’s turnaround, as they proved they’re capable of beating anyone in the league when they stay locked in.
Looking Ahead
With Week Two in the books, the JCNSL by Tripping Kosher is shaping up to be one of the most competitive and entertaining seasons yet. Every team has shown flashes of brilliance, and with the NIV Advisors Postseason on the horizon and the Premier Financial Trophy waiting to be claimed, the battles will only get fiercer.
A special thank you to league photographer Josh Finkelstein and the league media sponsor, Baltimore Jewish Home!
