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ZapMast · 08-10-2023, 07:20 AM

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Philadelphia Fury (9-10) @ Boston Patriots (9-10)
Patriots Split Series 2-2
Boston and Philly stumble to a draw.

Here's my take: In a gritty four-game showdown between the Philadelphia Fury and the Boston Patriots, both teams scrapped their way to a series split, each snagging two wins. It was a tale of two halves, with the Fury taking early control behind solid performances from pitchers Matt Adams and Roberto Hernandez. Third baseman Rich Pena and first baseman Roberto Marrero had key hits, proving once again that the Fury's offense can't be underestimated. But the Patriots didn't roll over, staging a comeback in the series. Danny Salas, Boston's third baseman, came alive with a 3-run home run, and shortstop Noah White went 3 for 4 in the final game, leading the Patriots to even the score. Both teams sit at 9-10, and this series was a microcosm of their season so far - flashes of brilliance, but still seeking consistency. The ABC East, watch out; these two are still finding their groove.

GAME 1 - Fury Win at Boston, 6-4
The Philadelphia Fury beat the Boston Patriots, 6-4. Philadelphia pitcher and Jacksonville, Florida, native Matt Adams led the way. Adams picked up the win for Philadelphia, going 8 innings. He gave up 4 runs on 11 hits. He now sports a record of 1-0. Philadelphia goes to 8-8.

Rich Pena, the 29-year old third baseman , had a direct impact on the outcome. Pena contributed a run-scoring single in the top of the sixth inning to put Philadelphia up, 1-0.

"When this team comes together and plays the way we can, we can compete with anyone," said Adams. "I think we're going to keep proving that."

GAME 2 - Fury Beat Boston, 4-3
The Philadelphia Fury picked up a win at Patriots Fields, knocking off the Boston Patriots, 4-3. On the mound for Philadelphia was right-hander Roberto Hernandez, who played a pivotal role in the win. Philadelphia goes to 9-8.

Roberto Marrero, the 29-year old first baseman , had a direct impact on the outcome. Marrero contributed a run-scoring single in the top of the ninth inning to put Philadelphia up, 4-3.

"Winning is all that really matters and we got it done today," Hernandez told the Philadelphia Times.

GAME 3 - Patriots Drop Fury, 7-4
Philadelphia got a terrific game from catcher Jose Cespedes. It wasn't enough, though, to prevent the team from falling to Boston, 7-4. Cespedes was 2 for 2 with a home run and was hit 2 times, while scoring 2 runs and driving in 2. Philadelphia falls to 9-9.

Danny Salas, who finished 4th in the ABC in wins above replacement with 6.1 in 1977, chipped in for Boston with a 3-run home run in the bottom of the third. For the game, the third baseman had 2 hits in 4 at-bats with 1 home run, 1 single, 1 run scored, and 3 runs batted in.

"Nice to tuck this win away," said Salas.

GAME 4 - Patriots Earn 9-5 Win Versus Philadelphia
Boston shortstop Noah White helped his team beat the Philadelphia Fury, 9-5. White went 3 for 4 for the Patriots. The Fury drop to 9-10 and continue their mediocre start to the 1981 season.

Boston grabbed control in the bottom of the sixth. With two out and runners on 1st and 2nd, Andrew Gilbert delivered a run-scoring single, to make it 5-4 in favor of the Patriots.

Gilbert told a Boston Herald reporter that he was "satisfied" with the win.

New York Aces (11-8) @ Pittsburgh Express (8-11)
Express Splits Series 2-2
Pittsburgh manages to save face at home by securing series split in dramatic fashion.

Here's my take: The New York Aces and Pittsburgh Express clashed in a roller-coaster series, each side taking two games apiece. The Aces came out swinging, with catcher Tim Wheeldon smashing a grand slam home run and pitcher Noor Durrani hurling a complete game, scattering just nine hits. Robby Chacon's clutch double exemplified the Aces' ability to strike when it counts. But the Express weren't about to be derailed. Erick Velazquez, the 27th overall pick in the 1976 draft, proved his worth, going 2 for 4 with a home run and a triple in a decisive 5-1 victory. Luis Sanchez then played the hero in the final game, hitting a dramatic run-scoring single in the bottom of the eighth to edge the Aces 5-4. For Pittsburgh, sitting at 8-11, this series was a declaration: they have the mettle to compete with the best in the ABC.

GAME 1 - Aces Deal Express 8-3 Loss
The New York Aces defeated the Pittsburgh Express, 8-3, at Express Stadium. New York catcher Tim Wheeldon had a superb performance. He was 1 for 4 with a home run and a walk, while adding 4 RBI and scoring once. Pittsburgh falls to 6-10.

New York took a 7-2 lead on Wheeldon's 1st home run of the season. The grand slam home run, which he hit off Danny Davalos in the top of the seventh, propelled New York to the win.

"Our guys are never satisfied," said New York manager Dennis Salvino.

GAME 2 - Aces Upend Express, 4-1
The New York Aces beat the Pittsburgh Express, 4-1. New York pitcher and Westminster, Colorado, native Noor Durrani led the way. Durrani went 9 innings to notch the win. He scattered 9 hits, walked 1, and struck out 8. His record improves to 1-1. The win puts New York at 11-6.

New York used a timely hit from Robby Chacon to get the win. The designated hitter stroked a run-scoring double in the top of the seventh inning to put the Aces ahead, 1-0. It was his only hit in 4 at-bats, but it made an impact.

Chacon attributed the win to "a well-rounded effort by the whole team."

GAME 3 - Express Sink Aces, 5-1
Led by Erick Velazquez, the Pittsburgh Express defeated the New York Aces, 5-1. Velazquez went 2 for 4 with a home run and a triple, while scoring 2 times and driving in 3 for the Express. Alex Dunlap earned save number 2. The loss drops the Aces to 11-7.

The game turned with one out in the bottom of the fourth when Velazquez, the 27th overall pick in the 1976 draft, hit a run-scoring triple. It propelled the Express into the lead, 1-0.

Velazquez said his team "played with determination."

GAME 4 - Express Top New York, 5-4
The Pittsburgh Express saddled the New York Aces with a loss at Express Stadium. The final score was 5-4. Luis Sanchez was 4 for 5, including 3 singles and 1 home run. The Pittsburgh first baseman scored 1 run and drove in 2. Alex Dunlap collected save number 3. The victory makes Pittsburgh 8-11.

The game was all tied up in the bottom of the eighth, until Sanchez delivered big-time for Pittsburgh, stroking a dramatic run-scoring single off Matt Martinson. The game-changing hit put the Express on top, 5-4.

"We believe in ourselves and we're willing to work hard. It's a good combination," Sanchez told the Pittsburgh Today.

Nashville Blues (9-10) @ Cincinnati Cougars (9-10)
Cougars Win Series 3-1
Cincinnati handles hot hitting Nashville for series win.

Here's my take: The Cincinnati Cougars clawed their way to a series win over the Nashville Blues, taking three out of four games in an engaging battle. First baseman Esteban Martinez was the star of the show for Cincinnati, consistently delivering at the plate, including a 3 for 4 performance with a home run and a double in Game 1, and clutch hits throughout the series. Nashville's Gabe Escobedo's focus and intensity led to a 2-run triple in Game 2, but it wasn't enough to sustain the Blues' momentum. The inconsistency of the Blues, now sitting at 9-10, was exposed by a determined Cougars team that capitalized on opportunities. The highlight was Martinez's solo home run in Game 4, his 4th of the season, sealing a 6-1 victory. Cincinnati's triumph sends a message to the ABC: underestimate the Cougars at your peril.

GAME 1 - Cougars Sneak Past Blues, 5-4
Both teams had their chances, but the Cincinnati Cougars eventually prevailed.

The Cincinnati Cougars beat the Nashville Blues, 5-4, at Cougars Park. The Cougars got a fine performance from first baseman Esteban Martinez, who went 3 for 4 with a home run and a double. He scored 2 runs. The loss has the Blues at 8-8.

Cincinnati took a 5-4 lead on Pablo Loureiro's 3rd double of the season. The run-scoring double, which Loureiro hit in the bottom of the eighth, left Nashville pitcher Arthur Blin visibly frustrated.

"You get some opportunities, you better take advantage of them," said Nashville manager Francisco Hernandez.

GAME 2 - Blues Drop Cougars, 5-3
Cincinnati third baseman Joe Rogers had a good game, even if his team did not. The Cougars dropped a 5-3 decision to Nashville at Cougars Park. Rogers was 3-5 with a home run and a double, while scoring 2 and driving in 2. The winning pitcher was Antonio Hernandez. He's now 3-1. He went 6.1 innings, allowing 3 runs on 8 hits for the Blues. The win puts Nashville at 9-8.

Gabe Escobedo aided the Nashville cause with a 2-run triple in the top of the fifth. For the game, the shortstop was 2 for 4 with a triple, while adding 3 RBI and scoring once.

Escobedo attributed the win to his team's "focus and intensity."

GAME 3 - Cougars Best Blues, 7-2
The Cincinnati Cougars trumped the Nashville Blues, 7-2, at Cougars Park. Cincinnati first baseman Esteban Martinez was terrific. He was 2-4 with a home run and a triple, while scoring 2 times and driving in 4. The loss puts Nashville at 9-9.

Martinez had a key at-bat for Cincinnati early in the game. With a runner on 1st, he hit a run-scoring triple. It was his 2nd triple of the season and gave Cincinnati an early 1-0 lead.

"We'll put this win in our pocket and go after the next one," said Martinez.

GAME 4 - Cougars Zip Past Blues, 6-1
Cincinnati Cougars starter Alex Perez pitched his team past the Nashville Blues, 6-1. The Blues drop to 9-10 and continue their inconsistent start to the 1981 season.

The Cougars got a big at-bat from first baseman Esteban Martinez. For the game, Martinez went 1 for 5 with a home run. In the bottom of the fourth, with the bases empty, he stroked a solo home run. His 4th home run of the season gave Cincinnati a 1-0 lead.

"We had a nice day," said Cincinnati skipper Chris Allison.

Houston Mavericks (8-11) @ St. Louis Stallions (11-8)
Stallions Split Series 2-2
Pitching and timely hitting by both squads fails to produce a victor as St. Louis splits the series.

Here's my take: A series of stark contrasts unfolded between the Houston Mavericks and the St. Louis Stallions, as they split the four-game series. Game 1 saw Nate Higgins deliver a masterful performance for Houston, blanking the Stallions with a 4-hit shutout, only to be met by St. Louis' Isaiah Wilson's own shutout brilliance in a 13-0 thrashing of the Mavericks in Game 2. Houston's first baseman Elijah Glenn shone in Game 3, going 4 for 4, leading the Mavericks to a nail-biting 7-6 victory. However, the Stallions regrouped in Game 4, with left fielder Javier Gomez, known for his triples, hitting a crucial solo home run in a 6-2 win. The series left fans marveling at the unpredictable nature of baseball, with both teams showing flashes of excellence. It's a split that will leave both sides pondering what might have been.

GAME 1 - Mavericks, Higgins Blank St. Louis, 1-0
In a sharp 4-hit performance, Nate Higgins led the Houston Mavericks to a 1-0 shutout victory over the St. Louis Stallions, fanning 4 and walking 2.

"That's as good of stuff as I've seen in a long time," St. Louis manager Ryan Messmer said in a postgame interview.
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GAME 2 - Stallions Show No Mercy in 13-0 Thrashing of Mavericks
Isaiah Wilson was sneaky fast, on the mark and hard to hit today. He led the St. Louis Stallions to victory 13-0, blanking the Houston Mavericks on 5 hits. He had 1 walk and 7 strikeouts.

"You know what he's going to throw. You know what to expect. And you still can't hit it," Houston skipper Carlos Sanchez told reporters after the shutout loss. "He just had a real deceptive fastball today and he was throwing it for strikes."
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GAME 3 - Mavericks Prevail, 7-6, Over St. Louis
The Houston Mavericks beat the St. Louis Stallions by a score of 7-6. Houston first baseman Elijah Glenn deserved the lion's share of the credit. Glenn went 4 for 4 with 4 singles, a walk, and was hit by a pitch for the Mavericks. Earning his 2nd save of the year was Valentin Geffroy. The win puts Houston at 8-10.

In the top of the first, with the game still scoreless, Glenn hit a run-scoring single to put his team in the lead.

"We cashed in when we had the chance," said Houston manager Carlos Sanchez.

GAME 4 - Mavericks Go Down to Defeat, 6-2
St. Louis Stallions starter Willie Gomez pitched a strong game against the Houston Mavericks at Stallions Grounds, leading the Stallions to victory, 6-2. The Mavericks fall to 8-11 and continue their uninspiring start to the 1981 season.

Javier Gomez, who finished 3rd in the ABC in triples with 9 last year, contributed to the St. Louis win with a solo home run in the bottom of the fifth. For the game, the left fielder had 3 hits in 4 at-bats with 1 home run, 2 singles, 2 runs scored, and 1 run batted in.

Gomez attributed the win to "everyone pulling their weight."

Portland Lumberjacks (6-13) @ Denver Rocketeers (11-8)
Rocketeers Win Series 3-1
Denver dominates struggling Jacks in four-game series win.

Here's my take: A clash between the struggling Portland Lumberjacks and the surging Denver Rocketeers produced a series filled with drama and a fair share of fireworks. Denver's Jesus Lago showcased his craft with an 8.1 inning, 2-run outing in an 8-2 Rocketeers victory in Game 1. Jonathan Stevens became the hero of the day with a walk-off grand slam in Game 4, following his decisive 2-run single in the opening match. But Portland wouldn't be silenced, taking Game 3 with a resounding 10-2 win, led by shortstop Lance Gregg's 4 for 5 performance. Yet, the series belonged to Denver, who grabbed a 3-1 win, leaving Portland to ponder their 6-13 start, while the Rocketeers celebrate their ascent. The thrilling walk-off wins leave fans in Denver exclaiming, "This wasn't good baseball; it was great baseball!"

GAME 1 - Rocketeers Roll to 8-2 Win Over Lumberjacks
Jesus Lago made an impact in the 8-2 Denver win over Portland. Lago, who is tied for 8th in the ABC with a .972 OPS, threw 8.1 innings allowing 2 runs. The Lumberjacks, now 5-11, continue their poor start.

Jonathan Stevens dealt the Lumberjacks a blow in the bottom of the third. Batting with runners on 2nd and 3rd and Denver leading 1-0, Stevens, who is tied for 6th in the ABC in triples with 1, hit a full count fastball for a 2-run single.

"I'm just looking for a good pitch that I can hit well," said Stevens. "And not try to do too much."

GAME 2 - Lumberjacks Lose to Rocketeers in Walk Off
Denver starter John Wolfe had a strong outing against the Portland Lumberjacks at Rocketeers Field. The right-hander was a big part of his team's 2-1 win. The win gives Denver a record of 10-7.

Tony Bautista was the walk-off hero for Denver. With the game tied in the bottom of the ninth inning, the Rocketeers catcher hit a dramatic run-scoring double to send the teams home.

"There are no moral victories," said losing manager Tim Staheli.

GAME 3 - Lumberjacks Flatten Rocketeers, 10-2
The Portland Lumberjacks topped the Denver Rocketeers by a score of 10-2. Leading the way was shortstop Lance Gregg. Gregg went 4 for 5 with 2 doubles and 2 singles, while adding 4 RBI for the Lumberjacks. Fernando Borrego, the winning pitcher, improved to 1-3. He pitched 7 innings, giving up 7 hits and 1 run, while striking out 4 and walking 3. The Lumberjacks have stumbled out of the gate, getting only their 6th win in 18 games.

Portland relied on the bat of Jeremy Campbell to get the win. The center fielder ripped a 2-run home run in the top of the first inning to put the Lumberjacks ahead, 2-0. For the game, Campbell had 1 double and 1 home run in 4 at-bats.

"The fans pay the tickets and help us do what we do, so we like to put on a show for them," Campbell told the Portland Today.

GAME 4 - Rocketeers Sneak By Lumberjacks, 9-8
The Denver Rocketeers defeated the Portland Lumberjacks, 9-8. Doing his part was first baseman Jonathan Stevens, who went 2-5 with a home run and a double, while scoring 2 times and driving in 4. The winner was Al McHaney in relief. His record improves to 1-1. Frank Jahr took the loss. The Lumberjacks, at 6-13, have stumbled out of the gate.

The game came to a dramatic end. In the bottom of the ninth, with Denver trailing 8-5, Stevens hit a curveball from Frank Jahr for a grand slam home run, giving the Rocketeers the walk-off win.

"This wasn't a good win," said Stevens. "It was a great win."

Las Vegas Gamblers (14-5) @ Seattle Comets (9-10)
Gamblers Win Series 3-1
Las Vegas flexes as they demonstrate their early mastery of the ABC.

Here's my take: The dazzling Las Vegas Gamblers rolled the dice in Seattle and came up big, taking three out of four against the Comets. Game 1 saw Kyle Marks stifle the Seattle bats in a 7-1 victory, with Danny Herrera's bat shining bright. Seattle's right fielder David Olguin was the star of Game 2, leading the Comets to an 8-5 win, but that was the only bright spot in a series dominated by the Gamblers. Mario Smithson's 3-4 performance, including a home run and two doubles, propelled Las Vegas to a 10-2 drubbing in Game 3, and Bobby Rodriguez's 12-strikeout performance sealed a 5-1 win in Game 4. The Gamblers are playing like a team with their eyes on the prize, and as Rodriguez said, "There's more we hope to accomplish." The Comets, meanwhile, are left to regroup after falling to 9-10.

GAME 1 - Gamblers Deal Comets 7-1 Defeat
Las Vegas pitcher Kyle Marks did his part in helping his team beat the Seattle Comets, 7-1. The right-hander kept opposing batters in check throughout the game. Las Vegas goes to 12-4.

Las Vegas relied on the hitting of Danny Herrera to pick up the win. The shortstop clubbed a solo home run in the top of the third inning to put the Gamblers on top, 2-1. For the game, Herrera had 1 home run and 2 singles in 4 at-bats.

"If we play like this, we can win a lot of games," Marks told the Las Vegas Observer.

GAME 2 - Olguin Powers Comets Offense
With right fielder David Olguin leading the charge, the Seattle Comets defeated the Las Vegas Gamblers, 8-5, at Seatlle Stadium. Olguin, who is tied for 10th in the ABC in hits with 21, was 4 for 5 with a home run, a triple, and 2 singles, while scoring 3 runs and driving in 3. Sergio Lopez closed the game out for Seattle, earning his 7th save. Las Vegas drops to 12-5.

Seattle took a 5-3 lead on Luis Otero's 4th double of the season. The 2-run double, which Otero hit in the bottom of the seventh, left Las Vegas pitcher Jaylen Taylor visibly frustrated.

"Nice win for us," said Olguin. "Now we'll go after the next one."

GAME 3 - Smithson, Gamblers Clobber Comets, 10-2
No one was more impactful than Mario Smithson in the 10-2 Las Vegas win over Seattle. Smithson, who is tied for 5th in the ABC in stolen bases with 4, went 3-4 with a home run, 2 doubles, and was hit by a pitch, while scoring 3 and driving in 4. The loss makes Seattle 9-9.

With Las Vegas leading 4-1 in the top of the fourth, Smithson hit a fastball from Ricardo Sanchez for a 3-run home run. It was his 2nd home run of the season and put the Gamblers ahead, 7-1.

"I felt we were ready to go," said Las Vegas manager Matt Petrie. "Our pregame was pretty good."

GAME 4 - Rodriguez Lays Hammer Down in 5-1 Win
Las Vegas used a superb performance from starting pitcher Bobby Rodriguez to down the Seattle Comets, 5-1. The win brings the Gamblers to 14-5, a promising start as the team looks to return to the playoffs.

Rodriguez, the winner, is now 4-0 after putting the clamps on the Seattle offense. In 8 innings of work, he gave up 1 run on 4 hits, while collecting 12 Ks.

"We'll enjoy this win," said Rodriguez. "But there's more we hope to accomplish."

Real. Fictional. ⚾.

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08-10-2023, 07:20 AM	#40
ZapMast Major Leagues Join Date: Apr 2022 Location: Los Angeles, CA Posts: 448	ABC – Week 3 WKND Series Results – April 23 – 26, 1981 Philadelphia Fury (9-10) @ Boston Patriots (9-10) Patriots Split Series 2-2 Boston and Philly stumble to a draw. Here's my take: In a gritty four-game showdown between the Philadelphia Fury and the Boston Patriots, both teams scrapped their way to a series split, each snagging two wins. It was a tale of two halves, with the Fury taking early control behind solid performances from pitchers Matt Adams and Roberto Hernandez. Third baseman Rich Pena and first baseman Roberto Marrero had key hits, proving once again that the Fury's offense can't be underestimated. But the Patriots didn't roll over, staging a comeback in the series. Danny Salas, Boston's third baseman, came alive with a 3-run home run, and shortstop Noah White went 3 for 4 in the final game, leading the Patriots to even the score. Both teams sit at 9-10, and this series was a microcosm of their season so far - flashes of brilliance, but still seeking consistency. The ABC East, watch out; these two are still finding their groove. GAME 1 - Fury Win at Boston, 6-4 The Philadelphia Fury beat the Boston Patriots, 6-4. Philadelphia pitcher and Jacksonville, Florida, native Matt Adams led the way. Adams picked up the win for Philadelphia, going 8 innings. He gave up 4 runs on 11 hits. He now sports a record of 1-0. Philadelphia goes to 8-8. Rich Pena, the 29-year old third baseman , had a direct impact on the outcome. Pena contributed a run-scoring single in the top of the sixth inning to put Philadelphia up, 1-0. "When this team comes together and plays the way we can, we can compete with anyone," said Adams. "I think we're going to keep proving that." GAME 2 - Fury Beat Boston, 4-3 The Philadelphia Fury picked up a win at Patriots Fields, knocking off the Boston Patriots, 4-3. On the mound for Philadelphia was right-hander Roberto Hernandez, who played a pivotal role in the win. Philadelphia goes to 9-8. Roberto Marrero, the 29-year old first baseman , had a direct impact on the outcome. Marrero contributed a run-scoring single in the top of the ninth inning to put Philadelphia up, 4-3. "Winning is all that really matters and we got it done today," Hernandez told the Philadelphia Times. GAME 3 - Patriots Drop Fury, 7-4 Philadelphia got a terrific game from catcher Jose Cespedes. It wasn't enough, though, to prevent the team from falling to Boston, 7-4. Cespedes was 2 for 2 with a home run and was hit 2 times, while scoring 2 runs and driving in 2. Philadelphia falls to 9-9. Danny Salas, who finished 4th in the ABC in wins above replacement with 6.1 in 1977, chipped in for Boston with a 3-run home run in the bottom of the third. For the game, the third baseman had 2 hits in 4 at-bats with 1 home run, 1 single, 1 run scored, and 3 runs batted in. "Nice to tuck this win away," said Salas. GAME 4 - Patriots Earn 9-5 Win Versus Philadelphia Boston shortstop Noah White helped his team beat the Philadelphia Fury, 9-5. White went 3 for 4 for the Patriots. The Fury drop to 9-10 and continue their mediocre start to the 1981 season. Boston grabbed control in the bottom of the sixth. With two out and runners on 1st and 2nd, Andrew Gilbert delivered a run-scoring single, to make it 5-4 in favor of the Patriots. Gilbert told a Boston Herald reporter that he was "satisfied" with the win. New York Aces (11-8) @ Pittsburgh Express (8-11) Express Splits Series 2-2 Pittsburgh manages to save face at home by securing series split in dramatic fashion. Here's my take: The New York Aces and Pittsburgh Express clashed in a roller-coaster series, each side taking two games apiece. The Aces came out swinging, with catcher Tim Wheeldon smashing a grand slam home run and pitcher Noor Durrani hurling a complete game, scattering just nine hits. Robby Chacon's clutch double exemplified the Aces' ability to strike when it counts. But the Express weren't about to be derailed. Erick Velazquez, the 27th overall pick in the 1976 draft, proved his worth, going 2 for 4 with a home run and a triple in a decisive 5-1 victory. Luis Sanchez then played the hero in the final game, hitting a dramatic run-scoring single in the bottom of the eighth to edge the Aces 5-4. For Pittsburgh, sitting at 8-11, this series was a declaration: they have the mettle to compete with the best in the ABC. GAME 1 - Aces Deal Express 8-3 Loss The New York Aces defeated the Pittsburgh Express, 8-3, at Express Stadium. New York catcher Tim Wheeldon had a superb performance. He was 1 for 4 with a home run and a walk, while adding 4 RBI and scoring once. Pittsburgh falls to 6-10. New York took a 7-2 lead on Wheeldon's 1st home run of the season. The grand slam home run, which he hit off Danny Davalos in the top of the seventh, propelled New York to the win. "Our guys are never satisfied," said New York manager Dennis Salvino. GAME 2 - Aces Upend Express, 4-1 The New York Aces beat the Pittsburgh Express, 4-1. New York pitcher and Westminster, Colorado, native Noor Durrani led the way. Durrani went 9 innings to notch the win. He scattered 9 hits, walked 1, and struck out 8. His record improves to 1-1. The win puts New York at 11-6. New York used a timely hit from Robby Chacon to get the win. The designated hitter stroked a run-scoring double in the top of the seventh inning to put the Aces ahead, 1-0. It was his only hit in 4 at-bats, but it made an impact. Chacon attributed the win to "a well-rounded effort by the whole team." GAME 3 - Express Sink Aces, 5-1 Led by Erick Velazquez, the Pittsburgh Express defeated the New York Aces, 5-1. Velazquez went 2 for 4 with a home run and a triple, while scoring 2 times and driving in 3 for the Express. Alex Dunlap earned save number 2. The loss drops the Aces to 11-7. The game turned with one out in the bottom of the fourth when Velazquez, the 27th overall pick in the 1976 draft, hit a run-scoring triple. It propelled the Express into the lead, 1-0. Velazquez said his team "played with determination." GAME 4 - Express Top New York, 5-4 The Pittsburgh Express saddled the New York Aces with a loss at Express Stadium. The final score was 5-4. Luis Sanchez was 4 for 5, including 3 singles and 1 home run. The Pittsburgh first baseman scored 1 run and drove in 2. Alex Dunlap collected save number 3. The victory makes Pittsburgh 8-11. The game was all tied up in the bottom of the eighth, until Sanchez delivered big-time for Pittsburgh, stroking a dramatic run-scoring single off Matt Martinson. The game-changing hit put the Express on top, 5-4. "We believe in ourselves and we're willing to work hard. It's a good combination," Sanchez told the Pittsburgh Today. Nashville Blues (9-10) @ Cincinnati Cougars (9-10) Cougars Win Series 3-1 Cincinnati handles hot hitting Nashville for series win. Here's my take: The Cincinnati Cougars clawed their way to a series win over the Nashville Blues, taking three out of four games in an engaging battle. First baseman Esteban Martinez was the star of the show for Cincinnati, consistently delivering at the plate, including a 3 for 4 performance with a home run and a double in Game 1, and clutch hits throughout the series. Nashville's Gabe Escobedo's focus and intensity led to a 2-run triple in Game 2, but it wasn't enough to sustain the Blues' momentum. The inconsistency of the Blues, now sitting at 9-10, was exposed by a determined Cougars team that capitalized on opportunities. The highlight was Martinez's solo home run in Game 4, his 4th of the season, sealing a 6-1 victory. Cincinnati's triumph sends a message to the ABC: underestimate the Cougars at your peril. GAME 1 - Cougars Sneak Past Blues, 5-4 Both teams had their chances, but the Cincinnati Cougars eventually prevailed. The Cincinnati Cougars beat the Nashville Blues, 5-4, at Cougars Park. The Cougars got a fine performance from first baseman Esteban Martinez, who went 3 for 4 with a home run and a double. He scored 2 runs. The loss has the Blues at 8-8. Cincinnati took a 5-4 lead on Pablo Loureiro's 3rd double of the season. The run-scoring double, which Loureiro hit in the bottom of the eighth, left Nashville pitcher Arthur Blin visibly frustrated. "You get some opportunities, you better take advantage of them," said Nashville manager Francisco Hernandez. GAME 2 - Blues Drop Cougars, 5-3 Cincinnati third baseman Joe Rogers had a good game, even if his team did not. The Cougars dropped a 5-3 decision to Nashville at Cougars Park. Rogers was 3-5 with a home run and a double, while scoring 2 and driving in 2. The winning pitcher was Antonio Hernandez. He's now 3-1. He went 6.1 innings, allowing 3 runs on 8 hits for the Blues. The win puts Nashville at 9-8. Gabe Escobedo aided the Nashville cause with a 2-run triple in the top of the fifth. For the game, the shortstop was 2 for 4 with a triple, while adding 3 RBI and scoring once. Escobedo attributed the win to his team's "focus and intensity." GAME 3 - Cougars Best Blues, 7-2 The Cincinnati Cougars trumped the Nashville Blues, 7-2, at Cougars Park. Cincinnati first baseman Esteban Martinez was terrific. He was 2-4 with a home run and a triple, while scoring 2 times and driving in 4. The loss puts Nashville at 9-9. Martinez had a key at-bat for Cincinnati early in the game. With a runner on 1st, he hit a run-scoring triple. It was his 2nd triple of the season and gave Cincinnati an early 1-0 lead. "We'll put this win in our pocket and go after the next one," said Martinez. GAME 4 - Cougars Zip Past Blues, 6-1 Cincinnati Cougars starter Alex Perez pitched his team past the Nashville Blues, 6-1. The Blues drop to 9-10 and continue their inconsistent start to the 1981 season. The Cougars got a big at-bat from first baseman Esteban Martinez. For the game, Martinez went 1 for 5 with a home run. In the bottom of the fourth, with the bases empty, he stroked a solo home run. His 4th home run of the season gave Cincinnati a 1-0 lead. "We had a nice day," said Cincinnati skipper Chris Allison. Houston Mavericks (8-11) @ St. Louis Stallions (11-8) Stallions Split Series 2-2 Pitching and timely hitting by both squads fails to produce a victor as St. Louis splits the series. Here's my take: A series of stark contrasts unfolded between the Houston Mavericks and the St. Louis Stallions, as they split the four-game series. Game 1 saw Nate Higgins deliver a masterful performance for Houston, blanking the Stallions with a 4-hit shutout, only to be met by St. Louis' Isaiah Wilson's own shutout brilliance in a 13-0 thrashing of the Mavericks in Game 2. Houston's first baseman Elijah Glenn shone in Game 3, going 4 for 4, leading the Mavericks to a nail-biting 7-6 victory. However, the Stallions regrouped in Game 4, with left fielder Javier Gomez, known for his triples, hitting a crucial solo home run in a 6-2 win. The series left fans marveling at the unpredictable nature of baseball, with both teams showing flashes of excellence. It's a split that will leave both sides pondering what might have been. GAME 1 - Mavericks, Higgins Blank St. Louis, 1-0 In a sharp 4-hit performance, Nate Higgins led the Houston Mavericks to a 1-0 shutout victory over the St. Louis Stallions, fanning 4 and walking 2. "That's as good of stuff as I've seen in a long time," St. Louis manager Ryan Messmer said in a postgame interview. GAME 2 - Stallions Show No Mercy in 13-0 Thrashing of Mavericks Isaiah Wilson was sneaky fast, on the mark and hard to hit today. He led the St. Louis Stallions to victory 13-0, blanking the Houston Mavericks on 5 hits. He had 1 walk and 7 strikeouts. "You know what he's going to throw. You know what to expect. And you still can't hit it," Houston skipper Carlos Sanchez told reporters after the shutout loss. "He just had a real deceptive fastball today and he was throwing it for strikes." GAME 3 - Mavericks Prevail, 7-6, Over St. Louis The Houston Mavericks beat the St. Louis Stallions by a score of 7-6. Houston first baseman Elijah Glenn deserved the lion's share of the credit. Glenn went 4 for 4 with 4 singles, a walk, and was hit by a pitch for the Mavericks. Earning his 2nd save of the year was Valentin Geffroy. The win puts Houston at 8-10. In the top of the first, with the game still scoreless, Glenn hit a run-scoring single to put his team in the lead. "We cashed in when we had the chance," said Houston manager Carlos Sanchez. GAME 4 - Mavericks Go Down to Defeat, 6-2 St. Louis Stallions starter Willie Gomez pitched a strong game against the Houston Mavericks at Stallions Grounds, leading the Stallions to victory, 6-2. The Mavericks fall to 8-11 and continue their uninspiring start to the 1981 season. Javier Gomez, who finished 3rd in the ABC in triples with 9 last year, contributed to the St. Louis win with a solo home run in the bottom of the fifth. For the game, the left fielder had 3 hits in 4 at-bats with 1 home run, 2 singles, 2 runs scored, and 1 run batted in. Gomez attributed the win to "everyone pulling their weight." Portland Lumberjacks (6-13) @ Denver Rocketeers (11-8) Rocketeers Win Series 3-1 Denver dominates struggling Jacks in four-game series win. Here's my take: A clash between the struggling Portland Lumberjacks and the surging Denver Rocketeers produced a series filled with drama and a fair share of fireworks. Denver's Jesus Lago showcased his craft with an 8.1 inning, 2-run outing in an 8-2 Rocketeers victory in Game 1. Jonathan Stevens became the hero of the day with a walk-off grand slam in Game 4, following his decisive 2-run single in the opening match. But Portland wouldn't be silenced, taking Game 3 with a resounding 10-2 win, led by shortstop Lance Gregg's 4 for 5 performance. Yet, the series belonged to Denver, who grabbed a 3-1 win, leaving Portland to ponder their 6-13 start, while the Rocketeers celebrate their ascent. The thrilling walk-off wins leave fans in Denver exclaiming, "This wasn't good baseball; it was great baseball!" GAME 1 - Rocketeers Roll to 8-2 Win Over Lumberjacks Jesus Lago made an impact in the 8-2 Denver win over Portland. Lago, who is tied for 8th in the ABC with a .972 OPS, threw 8.1 innings allowing 2 runs. The Lumberjacks, now 5-11, continue their poor start. Jonathan Stevens dealt the Lumberjacks a blow in the bottom of the third. Batting with runners on 2nd and 3rd and Denver leading 1-0, Stevens, who is tied for 6th in the ABC in triples with 1, hit a full count fastball for a 2-run single. "I'm just looking for a good pitch that I can hit well," said Stevens. "And not try to do too much." GAME 2 - Lumberjacks Lose to Rocketeers in Walk Off Denver starter John Wolfe had a strong outing against the Portland Lumberjacks at Rocketeers Field. The right-hander was a big part of his team's 2-1 win. The win gives Denver a record of 10-7. Tony Bautista was the walk-off hero for Denver. With the game tied in the bottom of the ninth inning, the Rocketeers catcher hit a dramatic run-scoring double to send the teams home. "There are no moral victories," said losing manager Tim Staheli. GAME 3 - Lumberjacks Flatten Rocketeers, 10-2 The Portland Lumberjacks topped the Denver Rocketeers by a score of 10-2. Leading the way was shortstop Lance Gregg. Gregg went 4 for 5 with 2 doubles and 2 singles, while adding 4 RBI for the Lumberjacks. Fernando Borrego, the winning pitcher, improved to 1-3. He pitched 7 innings, giving up 7 hits and 1 run, while striking out 4 and walking 3. The Lumberjacks have stumbled out of the gate, getting only their 6th win in 18 games. Portland relied on the bat of Jeremy Campbell to get the win. The center fielder ripped a 2-run home run in the top of the first inning to put the Lumberjacks ahead, 2-0. For the game, Campbell had 1 double and 1 home run in 4 at-bats. "The fans pay the tickets and help us do what we do, so we like to put on a show for them," Campbell told the Portland Today. GAME 4 - Rocketeers Sneak By Lumberjacks, 9-8 The Denver Rocketeers defeated the Portland Lumberjacks, 9-8. Doing his part was first baseman Jonathan Stevens, who went 2-5 with a home run and a double, while scoring 2 times and driving in 4. The winner was Al McHaney in relief. His record improves to 1-1. Frank Jahr took the loss. The Lumberjacks, at 6-13, have stumbled out of the gate. The game came to a dramatic end. In the bottom of the ninth, with Denver trailing 8-5, Stevens hit a curveball from Frank Jahr for a grand slam home run, giving the Rocketeers the walk-off win. "This wasn't a good win," said Stevens. "It was a great win." Las Vegas Gamblers (14-5) @ Seattle Comets (9-10) Gamblers Win Series 3-1 Las Vegas flexes as they demonstrate their early mastery of the ABC. Here's my take: The dazzling Las Vegas Gamblers rolled the dice in Seattle and came up big, taking three out of four against the Comets. Game 1 saw Kyle Marks stifle the Seattle bats in a 7-1 victory, with Danny Herrera's bat shining bright. Seattle's right fielder David Olguin was the star of Game 2, leading the Comets to an 8-5 win, but that was the only bright spot in a series dominated by the Gamblers. Mario Smithson's 3-4 performance, including a home run and two doubles, propelled Las Vegas to a 10-2 drubbing in Game 3, and Bobby Rodriguez's 12-strikeout performance sealed a 5-1 win in Game 4. The Gamblers are playing like a team with their eyes on the prize, and as Rodriguez said, "There's more we hope to accomplish." The Comets, meanwhile, are left to regroup after falling to 9-10. GAME 1 - Gamblers Deal Comets 7-1 Defeat Las Vegas pitcher Kyle Marks did his part in helping his team beat the Seattle Comets, 7-1. The right-hander kept opposing batters in check throughout the game. Las Vegas goes to 12-4. Las Vegas relied on the hitting of Danny Herrera to pick up the win. The shortstop clubbed a solo home run in the top of the third inning to put the Gamblers on top, 2-1. For the game, Herrera had 1 home run and 2 singles in 4 at-bats. "If we play like this, we can win a lot of games," Marks told the Las Vegas Observer. GAME 2 - Olguin Powers Comets Offense With right fielder David Olguin leading the charge, the Seattle Comets defeated the Las Vegas Gamblers, 8-5, at Seatlle Stadium. Olguin, who is tied for 10th in the ABC in hits with 21, was 4 for 5 with a home run, a triple, and 2 singles, while scoring 3 runs and driving in 3. Sergio Lopez closed the game out for Seattle, earning his 7th save. Las Vegas drops to 12-5. Seattle took a 5-3 lead on Luis Otero's 4th double of the season. The 2-run double, which Otero hit in the bottom of the seventh, left Las Vegas pitcher Jaylen Taylor visibly frustrated. "Nice win for us," said Olguin. "Now we'll go after the next one." GAME 3 - Smithson, Gamblers Clobber Comets, 10-2 No one was more impactful than Mario Smithson in the 10-2 Las Vegas win over Seattle. Smithson, who is tied for 5th in the ABC in stolen bases with 4, went 3-4 with a home run, 2 doubles, and was hit by a pitch, while scoring 3 and driving in 4. The loss makes Seattle 9-9. With Las Vegas leading 4-1 in the top of the fourth, Smithson hit a fastball from Ricardo Sanchez for a 3-run home run. It was his 2nd home run of the season and put the Gamblers ahead, 7-1. "I felt we were ready to go," said Las Vegas manager Matt Petrie. "Our pregame was pretty good." GAME 4 - Rodriguez Lays Hammer Down in 5-1 Win Las Vegas used a superb performance from starting pitcher Bobby Rodriguez to down the Seattle Comets, 5-1. The win brings the Gamblers to 14-5, a promising start as the team looks to return to the playoffs. Rodriguez, the winner, is now 4-0 after putting the clamps on the Seattle offense. In 8 innings of work, he gave up 1 run on 4 hits, while collecting 12 Ks. "We'll enjoy this win," said Rodriguez. "But there's more we hope to accomplish." Real. Fictional. ⚾. ================================================== ================================================== ========== ABL on StatsPlus \| ABL on OOTP \| ABL History \| ABL (prime) the old thread \| ABL Stat of the day \| ABL Vision \| ABL Real Time Sim Last edited by ZapMast; 08-08-2024 at 05:47 PM.