Major week is upon us! This Saturday marks the annual Delaware Valley Invitational at Ravens Claw – you know, that course that you can never envision in your head because are you think about Ravens Claw? Bella Vista? Turtle Creek? Which ones which, again? In any event, the weather looks on point for a mid-morning round, but a thin field of Tour players has this major really up for grabs. This major will feel like the Preakness after the full slate at the Derby. Let’s take a look at the field:

1. Billy Kelly: a proven veteran on the Tour that knows how to show up in Majors. He placed 4th at the YPGA Open after a thin 2021 golf slate. He has the ability to go low and likely will despite a shaky start to his season.

2. Greg Tag: Greg has steadily improved his overall game over the last two seasons and a new addition to his bag this week may attract the crowds at Ravens Claw. It will be interesting to see how Tag fares this week with the new addition.

3. David King: David will look to launch his drive 7,000 feet in the air this weekend and pray that it lands somewhere in play. I would expect Dave to mix in a few pars and one brilliant birdie en route to a 103.

4. Jason Torrance: It will depend which Jason shows up Saturday: he could go mid-80s or mid-90s. Maybe being in a group with his buddies will add a different set of circumstances that could factor into Jason’s day. If he can stay sober, an 87 is a logical landing spot for Jason.

5. Wayne Zimmer: Coming off a tournament where he shot a 75 at the Bumble Cup but lost a match play to Vince, Wayne needs a statement performance. He may get it here with only one other (maybe two) player that has the ability to shoot in the 70s. Wayne came into the Tour with much promise, but he’s fallen short of expectations so far. He will earn everyone’s respect once he shoots a 72 but loses by 4 strokes.

6. Matt Launi: Matt Launi, aka The Grinder, has developed the reputation for always being in the thick of things down the stretch when a major title is on the line.

7. Vince Sobocinski: Vince’s game on Saturday will range between 88-92 but he’ll have to dig deeper if he wants to nab another title to masturbate to every time he thinks about the YPGA. Early morning rounds at Pickering Valley has him primed to put his best foot forward and his wedge wizardry may be the difference come Saturday. Actually no, if he hits his hybrid well from 150 yards out, he’ll win.

8. David Carney: Not much activity from Carney as of late has him entering Saturday rusty, out of practice, and with no clue where his game will end up at the end of the round. Could be a good thing though as he will maybe think less and swing away. However, his average of 40 putts per round is no bueno and will be his downfall unless the putter gets hot.

9. Mike Musselman: Mike will have the distinct privilege of watching the next installment of Sobo v. Carney, and in turn, may free him up to focus on his game in a thin field where he can easily shoot a 75 despite making a few mistakes throughout the round. Vince and Dave will probably need to entice Mike into a few too many beverages just to even out of the field.

Top 3 Prediction:

1. Wayne Zimmer

2. Mike Musselman

3. Matt Launi

Delaware Valley Invitational Scratches:

1. Paul Koch – the wedding circuit has forced Paul to tend to his familial duties instead of partaking in this major.

2. Gerry Margiotti – the reigning champion won’t be in attendance to defend his title.

3. Ed Grambo – love has bit Ed which has him prioritizing his lady friend in lieu of a major championship. Enjoy the birthday dinner!

4. Mike Sabara - there’s likely a block party in Kensington that has Mike more excited to mingle with neighbors instead of golfing.

5. Matt Kelly – Someone put out a Wanted Ad for Matt – where has he been?

6. Nate Kraynak – Is Nate still basking in his YPGA Open title?

7. Chris Meyer – Probably doing some house renovations

8. Andy Kotulka – Andy decided to forgo the tournament when he realized his buddies weren’t attending.

9. Mike Patitucci – Boss is probably really riding him, or he has another wedding that he forgot about.