Swag Week: Brenna Moss Jersey

Swag Week features the cool stuff I have gotten over the years while covering people, teams and events.

After California native Brenna Moss starred at Fresno State, she was selected by the Chicago Bandits in the 3rd round of the 2015 National Pro Fastpitch draft. She went on to become a star over her five years with the Bandits. 

In 2018, she won the NPF’s Player of the Year Award after she tied the league’s single-season hits record (65) and broke the franchise record for single-season stolen bases (27). Also she won the NPF’s Offensive Player of the Year Award and Stolen Base Award in 2018. For her career, Brenna hit .301 with 4 HRs, 61 RBIs, 117 runs scored and 63 SBs in 228 games. 

Brenna was one of the most fun players in the league. She was always smiling and always willing to talk in interviews or simply for fun. One of my highlights was watching a playoff game with her dad down the left field line, while Brenna played left field.

The Bandits had special jerseys for various causes like Cancer Awareness. Over the years, the team had raffles for jerseys and I tried for a couple times to win Brenna's. Finally in 2019, I was lucky enough to get Brenna's jersey.

 Brenna Moss and me in Rosemont, IL-Summer 2019

Friend Encounters: Brenna Moss and Tony Feddeler

Friend Encounters is a weekly series featuring friends who have met celebrities.

I'd like to say I facilitated my buddy Tony Feddeler meeting former Chicago Bandits outfielder Brenna Moss, but the truth is, he could have met her on his own. The players regularly greeted all fans after the games. Technically, I introduced them, although that's not really a big deal. I'm just trying to glom credit in some way for this one.

Tony and I miss the Bandits, who haven't played since the 2019 season. The pandemic killed the 2020 season and surprisingly 2021, too.

When the Bandits return in 2022, I wonder what the team will look like. How many Bandits from 2019 will still be part of the team?

I'll be back "On the Beat" with the team when they start again. I am sure I can get Tony to join me at some games, too.

For more info on the Bandits, go to ChicagoBandits.com. Also, follow here, because when news is announced, I will be covering it. Without the Bandits this year, Athletes Unlimited is filling the void. Go to AUProSports.com for more info on that softball league.

Brenna Moss and Tony Feddeler in Rosemont, IL-July 2019.

Brenna Moss and Missing Softball

It's mid-summer and I am missing softball more than ever. Even if softball was being played, I would still miss Brenna Moss, who retired after last season.

California native Brenna starred at Fresno State. She was selected by the Chicago Bandits in the 3rd round of the 2015 National Pro Fastpitch draft. She went on to become a star over her five years with the Bandits. 

In 228 games, Brenna hit .301 with 4 HRs, 61 RBIs, 117 runs scored and 63 SBs. Brenna had an awesome 2018 season,. She won the NPF’s Player of the Year Award after she tied the league’s single-season hits record (65) and broke the franchise record for single-season stolen bases (27).

Also she won the NPF’s Offensive Player of the Year Award and Stolen Base Award in 2018.

Brenna was a great defender, too. Often times, her teammate Sammy Marshall's speed overshadowed Brenna's, but Brenna was extremely fast, too. She had great instincts and awareness.

I always had fun with Brenna. I loved our interviews, the first of which can be found at On the Beat With Brenna Moss. I kept asking her about playing with a tiger cub, a bucket list item of hers. As of last season, she had not fulfilled that wish. I'll ask again if I have the chance.

One of the highlights of my seasons with the Bandits was watching a playoff game with Brenna's father in left field. I loved the banter they had. Their love clearly showed and was heart-warming. It was interesting watching it through his eyes.

Because she retired in the offseason, I never had the chance to thank Brenna in person. I want to express my gratitude for everything she did on and of the field for the team, fans and me. Brenna was a team leader in every aspect. She is a great young woman and I wish her a lifetime of sucess and happiness.

Go to ChicagoBandits.com for more info. Also, follow the Chicago Bandits on Facebook for more frequent updates.

Brenna Moss and me in Rosemont, IL-July 2019.

Good Bye, Good Luck and Thank you Brenna Moss of the Chicago Bandits

When the National Pro Fastpitch season starts in a few months, Brenna Moss will not be in the lineup for the Chicago Bandits. Earlier this week, Brenna announced her retirement.

After a stellar career at Fresno State, Brenna was selected by the Bandits as the 13th overall selection in the third round of the 2015 NPF Draft. In her first couple seasons in the NPF, Brenna played excellent defense in the outfield and flashed a lot of speed, while learning to adjust at the plate. In her third season, Brenna found her stride and hit .341. She followed that in 2018 with a .442 average.

Brenna's 2018 season was historic. Named the NPF’s Player of the Year Award, she tied the league’s single-season hits record (65) and broke the franchise record for single-season stolen bases (27). She was also the Offensive Player of the Year and the Stolen Base Leader.

Last season, Brenna hit .303, a bit of a drop off from her 2018 season, but nobody expected a repeat. Brenna remained one of the stars of the NPF.

In addition to her play, Brenna was one of the most popular players on the Bandits and in the league. Brenna was extremely great with the fans. Many "Moss 55" jerseys could be spotted at every game (and I was lucky enough to get one to add to my collection).

Brenna hasn't announced her plans yet, but I am sure she will succeed at whatever she does. Brenna is smart and an incredibly hard worker. She will be an asset to any organization she joins.

I join Bandit Nation in hoping we will see her around the park. I also join Bandit Nation in thanking Brenna for everything over the last five seasons. I appreciate all of the interviews Brenna has given me and her friendship over the years.

Brenna Moss and me in Rosemont, IL-June 2019.

Brenna Moss and the 2019 Chicago Bandits

The Chicago Bandits open their National Pro Fastpitch season this Thursday, June 6 against the Cleveland Comets. Technically, it is a home game for the Comets, although it is being played in Rosemont. Leading the Bandits and coming off of a great 2018 season is 5th year outfielder Brenna Moss.

Last season, Brenna set the team and league single season hits record of 65 hits. She also topped the NPF leaderboards in runs scored (38) on base percentage (.466), batting average (.442) and stolen bases (27). She also placed high in several other categories. In short, she had a great season resulting in being named the 2018 NPF Player of the Year.

After an outstanding career at Fresno State, Brenna was selected by the Bandits in the 3rd round (13th overall) in the 2015 NPF College Draft. Brenna has played in a whopping 167 games in her four seasons, while improving in batting average, on base percentage and stolen bases each season. When she isn't lighting it up on offense, she is a defensive whiz in the outfield.

I knew Brenna was extremely talented, but her last season was just incredible. It will be tough to repeat that type of success, but Brenna is a focused, dedicated player. I actually think she can be even better.

Brenna has grown into a real team leader and is definitely on of the most popular players in the league. She is arguably the face of the team heading into this season. She's a real class act on and off the field.

I had a great experience when I had the pleasure of watching a playoff game last season with Brenna's father. We were hanging out by the left field foul line, as close as he could get to Brenna. I loved the interaction between the two throughout the game. It was fun watching the game through his eyes and hearing a few stories.

It is common to see relatives of the Bandits at the park. The local folks are there often, but even the out of towners make a few trips every season. It is heartwarming to see the support system.

I will be "On the Beat" with the Bandits all season. Check back here for recurring coverage. Also, be sure to check out ChicagoBandits.com for more info.

Brenna Moss and me in Rosemont, IL-June 2018.

Brenna Moss: National Pro Fastpitch Player of the Year 2018

The National Pro Fastpitch season ended last Saturday with the USSSA Pride winning the championship after a tough 3 game series with the Chicago Bandits. The Bandits should be proud of their season and their players.

Leading the Bandits (and actually the whole league) was 4th year outfielder Brenna Moss. Brenna tied the NPF single season hits record of 65 hits. She also topped the NPF leaderboards in runs scored (38) on base percentage (.466), batting average (.442) and stolen bases (27). She also placed high in several other categories. In short, she had a great season!

Brenna's achievements were rewarded with a major post-season award. She was named the 2018 NPF Player of the Year, a well-deserved honor.

As good as Brenna is on the field, she is a real sweetheart off the field. She's always available for a good interview or quote. She is always taking pictures and signing autographs for fans. She is one of the leaders on the team and one of the faces of the organization.

During the NPF championship series, I had the pleasure of watching some of the games with her father. His love and appreciation for Brenna was obvious and heartwarming. Their playful banter between innings was a lot of fun to witness.

I have watched Brenna from her rookie season and she has grown as a player and person. She came to the Bandits as a talented, mature young lady and has become one of the NPF stars. I am proud to cover her and to call her a friend.

Thank you to Brenna and the Chicago Bandits for their hospitality all season. Check out ChicagoBandits.com for info and updates during the offseason.

Brenna Moss and me in Rosemont, IL-August 2018.

Friendly Encounters: Brenna Moss and Jonathan Cimaglio

Friendly Encounters is a weekly series featuring friends who have met celebrities.

Since Jonathan Cimaglio moved away from the Bandits, they had to go to him! That's right. The Bandits traveled to Minnesota just for Cimags! Very impressive.
Bandits fan and big-time grapher Cimags moved to Minnesota last year. I hated to see him leave. He's a good guy and fun at the games.
Earlier this season, the Bandits played a few games in Mankato, MN. Cimags made the short trek to catch most of the games. Of course he did! The Bandits couldn't be that close without Cimags going there. I did mention that he is a super fan!
I follow his graphing on social media and the Cimags YouTube channel.  He's having a good year getting autographs from athletes and other notables. I couldn't even guess how many autographs he has.
His picture mate below is also having a good year.
It was a successful series in Mankato for the Bandits. Mankato native pitcher Coley Ries got to pitch in front of her home crowd.
Cimags will return to Chicago later this season and he will be attending a Bandits game. It'll be good to see him and to see him in action getting more graphs and pictures. Of course, I'll be there, too, getting some of my own.

Brenna Moss and Jonathan Cimaglio in Mankato, IL-June 2018.

On the Beat With the Chicago Bandits 2018

The Chicago Bandits are a perfect 13-0, ending last weekend with a 3 pitcher combined perfect game against the Aussie Spirit. My early season recap is on the Patch at Chicago Bandits Remain Perfect!

During the course fo the weekend, I had the pleasure of interviewing outfielder Brenna Moss, pitcher Lacey Waldrop, newcomer catcher Kristyn Sandberg, pitcher Haylie Wagner and newcomer pitcher Coley Ries. We talked to the women about the great start and various other fun topics.

Most of the interviews featured questions submitted by superfan and future Bandit Kenzie Parker. I love having Kenzie involved. I constantly hear about growing the game and giving back to the future players and fans. Kenzie is both a big fan and (I have no doubt) a future NPF player). Including Kenzie is my small contribution to growing the game and giving to young fans. My real hope is that Kenzie will actually come back to a game and conduct the interviews herself. Kenzie has an pen invitation.

I really appreciate the hospitality of the Chicago Bandits for allowing me access to do what I love. I appreciate the efforts of Director of Media Relations Jason Lowenthal and the time and consideration of all of the players. It is a pleasure and an honor to cover this team.

Check back here all season for coverage of the Bandits. Also, check ChicagoBandits.com for more info and updates on the team.

Friendly Encounters: Brenna Moss and Jonathan Cimaglio

Friendly Encounters is a weekly series featuring friends who have met celebrities.

Jonathan Cimaglio is a major autograph collector.  I couldn't even guess how many he has, but it isn't uncommon for him to get fifty or more in a single night.  I've seen him in action at Chicago Bandits games, where he often got both teams.

Obviously, Cimags is a good guy and big sports fan, especially the Bandits.  He's a familiar face around the Ballpark in Rosemont.  The fans and the players know him well.  One such player is three year veteran outfielder Brenna Moss.

Brenna is one of Jonathan's favorites and he is not alone in that thought.  Brenna has been a solid player during her time in the NPF (National Pro Softball).  Last season, she even was in consideration for the Rawlings Gold Glove Award.  You can see many #55 jerseys in the crowd at every game.

Fortunately for Cimags and Bandit Nation, Brenna has already signed to play for the Bandits in 2018.  Unfortunately, Cimags might not be here as he is potentially moving.  I'd hate to see him go.  He's a fun part of the Bandits experience.  We have helped each other with picture-taking at the games.

Brenna was one of the first to resign for 2018.  She is joined by Emily Carosone, Megan Blank and Sammy Marshall.  that's a nice start to the core.  I can't wait for 2018.

For more info on the Bandits, head to ChicagoBandits.com.  Of course, I will also be reporting here on all things Bandits!

Jonathan Cimaglio and Brenna Moss in Rosemont, IL-July 2017.

On The Beat With Brenna Moss Of The Chicago Bandits 2017

It's great to be back "On the Beat" with the back-to-back reigning National Pro Fastpitch champion Chicago Bandits.  Today, our coverage brings us to third year outfielder Brenna Moss.

Brenna had a great career at Fresno State.  She was a 3x All-Mountain West First Team selection, as well as being the 2014 MWC Defensive Player of the Year.  She left Fresno State as their all-time leader in stolen bases with 104.  She was selected by the Bandits in the 3rd round (13th overall) in the 2015 NPF College Draft.

In her rookie season, she hit .177 with 1 home run, 10 rbi's, 10 runs scored and 5 stolen bases.  She followed that by hitting .197 with 5 rbi's, 8 runs scored and 9 stolen bases.

We interviewed Brenna early in the day on the Season Opener.  We talked a bit of fun stuff, including her "bucket list" wish of playing with a tiger cub and what would be on her headphone playlist.  We also talked a bit more serious stuff including her speed, playing on the championship teams, her personal goals this season and more.

Brenna is another of the great young women on this team.  Not only is Brenna an elite athlete, she is a classy young womand and role model.  She's a perfect fit in Chicago on this team.

As always, I appreciate the hospitality of the Chicago Bandits.  I also thank Brenna for her time and consideration.  I encourage everyone to check out the Bandits at the ballpark and at ChicagoBandits.com.  The Bandits are truly something special.

On the Beat With Brenna Moss of Chicago Bandits 2016

Our recurring coverage of the National Pro Fastpitch Chicago Bandits continues today with Brenna Moss.  Brenna is the speedy second year outfielder from Fresno State.

While at Fresno State, she was named the 2014 MWC Defensive Player of the Year.  Among her other achievements was being the all time stolen bases leader at Fresno State.  After a very successful career at Fresno State, Brenna was drafted in the third round of the 2015 draft by the Bandits.  She was the first player from Fresno State drafted to the NPF since 2005.

Last season, she had 113 at bats and 20 hits for a .177 average, with 10 runs,1 home run, 10 rbi's and 5 stolen bases.  This season, she is hitting .135, with 7 runs, 1 rbi and 2 stoeln bases.

Brenna had the fortunae of being a rookie on the 2015 NPF champion Bandits, but that comes with a downside of minimal playing time.  Brenna has a lot of speed and ability and a great attitude to match.  I think she will really blossom as the season progresses.

In the interview, we talked about Laura Berg, her role model.  It was interesting to hear Brenna talk so proudly about Berg, a softball legend.  Obviously, Brenna has respect for the game and her coaches.

That also came through clearly when she talked about adjusting to softball from college to the professional ranks.  In college, she was a standout.  The NPF is loaded with college standouts and playing time is well-earned and hard-fought.  Brenna understands the system and is weorking very hard to imrpove her game and make her name in the NPF.

We also talked about her workouts, seeing Chicago, her number and more fun stuff.  I really appreciate Brenna's time and I thank the Bandits for this opportunity, as always.

To learn more about Brenna and the Bandits, head to ChicagoBandits.com.  Also, check back here for our recurring coverage.

On the Beat with Brenna Moss and the Chicago Bandits 2015

The Johngy's Beat and Justin's World of Softball joint coverage of the Chicago Bandits continues today with Brenna Moss.  The rookie outfielder from Fresno State was a third round draft pick of the Bandits.

Brenna had an outstanding career at Fresno State.  She was the first Bulldog drafted by the NPF since 2005.  An excellent hitter with great speed, Brenna has already earned a lot of playing time in this young season.

Unfortunately, Brenna is off to a bit of a rough start, but she is turning it around and there is no doubt she will get totally on track.  I asked Brenna about this rough patch and she answered honestly and positively.  That is the mark of a true professional.  I meant no disrespect, but was just genuinely curious as to how she was handling the early season slump.  The answer is that she is handling it well and is getting in the groove.

I really enjoyed our introductory interview with Brenna.  I forget sometimes how young these players are, because they are so well-spoken, professional and poised.  Brenna will have a nice career in the NPF and I hope to watch it closely at the Ballpark in Rosemont.

I encourage everyone else to head to Rosemont and watch the Bandits.  You can get more info and updates at ChicagoBandits.com.