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liberty-ca · 02-03-2026, 09:14 AM

PRAYERS WEEKLY: JULY 29 – AUGUST 4, 1990
THE LAST STAND AT SACRAMENTO STADIUM AND THE ROAD TO BEANTOWN
Gemmy Nay, Sacramento Sports Chronicle, and C.O.Pilot, BNN

As the summer heat intensifies, the Sacramento Prayers continue to provide the coolest performance in the American League. Following a week that saw the Prayers navigate a grueling homestand and initiate a high-stakes series in Boston, the club finds itself sitting comfortably atop the West Division with a 71-40 record. Despite a brief mid-week hiccup against the Fort Worth Spirits, the Prayers have regained their stride, proving that their path to the postseason remains paved with both veteran grit and young, explosive talent.

★ ★ ★

SUNDAY, JULY 29 — vs. TUCSON CHERUBS

SACRAMENTO 4, TUCSON 2
Torres and Hamilton Deliver as Prayers Take the Finale

The week began with a clinical performance against the Tucson Cherubs. Sacramento continued the homestand with a composed 4–2 win over Tucson, powered by a three‑run second inning and a breakout night from Alex Torres. The newly acquired infielder went 3-for-4 with a double and two RBI, continuing his sudden surge into the lineup’s fabric.

Andy Hamilton provided the early blow — a two‑run single with two outs in the second — and Torres followed with a run‑scoring double in the third to extend the lead. Bernardo Andretti took the mound and further cemented his status as the rotation’s anchor, earning his 13th win of the season. Andretti navigated 5.1 innings of two-run ball before handing the reigns to Mario Espenoza and Luis Prieto, who locked down save No. 26.

Sacramento improved to 67–38, maintaining firm control atop the AL West.

★ ★ ★

MONDAY, JULY 30 — vs. FORT WORTH SPIRITS

SACRAMENTO 10, FORT WORTH 3
Musco’s Four‑RBI Showcase Powers Blowout Victory

The series opener against Fort Worth was a masterclass in total dominance. Fernando Salazar turned back the clock, hurling a complete-game gem that left the Spirits bewildered. Fernando Salazar went the distance, scattering 11 hits in a complete‑game effort.

However, the story of the night was the offensive onslaught led by Edwin Musco and Rafael Alonzo. Edwin Musco authored one of his finest games of the season, driving in four and homering for the 20th time as Sacramento rolled to a 10–3 win over Fort Worth. His two‑run blast in the third set the tone, and later on Musco doubled home two more as part of a relentless offensive display. Not to be outdone, Alonzo, playing with the confidence of a man about to secure his future, added two solo homers of his own, and Alejandro Lopez collected three hits and a stolen base.

Sacramento moved to 68–38, their offense humming at full throttle.

★ ★ ★

TUESDAY, JULY 31 — vs. FORT WORTH SPIRITS

FORT WORTH 7, SACRAMENTO 3
Gomez’s Big Swings Halt Prayers’ Momentum

Even the mightiest stumble. On the day the club announced a massive five-year contract extension for catcher Rafael Alonzo, the celebratory mood was dampened by a tough loss. The Prayers’ winning streak snapped as Fort Worth struck early and often in a 7–3 decision at Sacramento Stadium. John Gomez delivered the decisive blow — a two‑run homer in the fourth — and the Spirits never trailed again.

Sacramento mustered seven hits but couldn’t string together enough sustained pressure. Alex Torres doubled home a run, and Edwin Musco added another extra‑base hit, but Robby Larson struggled to keep the ball in the yard and was tagged for four runs in 5.1 innings, tooking the loss.

The Prayers slipped to 68–39.

★ ★ ★

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 1 — vs. FORT WORTH SPIRITS

FORT WORTH 7, SACRAMENTO 5
Spirits’ Mid‑Game Surge Overcomes Prayers’ Late Push

In a rare back-to-back loss, the Prayers' defense and bullpen faltered. Fort Worth completed the two‑game punch with a 7–5 win, capitalizing on a four‑run fifth inning highlighted by Giacomo Benoldi’s two‑run triple off Jordan Rubalcava.

Sacramento collected 14 hits — including three from Edwin Musco and two each from George MacDonald, Rafael Alonzo, and Alex Torres — but left ten runners stranded. A late two‑run rally in the eighth cut the deficit, but fell short when Michael Kaplan entered for the Spirits to extinguish the fire.

Rubalcava absorbed the loss, dropping to 12–7, while the Prayers fell to 68–40.

★ ★ ★

THURSDAY, AUGUST 2 — vs. FORT WORTH SPIRITS

SACRAMENTO 6, FORT WORTH 1
Gilbert Shines, Iniguez Delivers as Prayers Rebound

Order was restored in the series finale thanks to a breakout performance by Aaron Gilbert. The right-hander stifled the Spirits over 7.2 innings, allowing only a single run, as Sacramento secured a crisp 6–1 victory. Manager Jimmy Aces praised Gilbert’s composure afterward, noting, "Aaron's not intimidated by who's stepping into the batter's box."

The "big bat" of the night belonged to Hector Iniguez, who provided the early spark with a two‑run double in the second, and Edwin Musco added a two‑run double of his own in the fifth. George MacDonald chipped in two hits, and the defense turned three double plays behind Gilbert’s efficient work.

The win lifted Sacramento to 69–40, restoring order after two tough losses.

★ ★ ★

FRIDAY, AUGUST 3 — AT BOSTON MESSIAHS

SACRAMENTO 6, BOSTON 0
Andretti Dominates Again as Prayers Blank Messiahs

Traveling to Boston for a clash of division titans, the Prayers made a resounding statement. Bernardo Andretti continued his torrid midsummer run, firing six shutout innings in a 6–0 victory at Boston. The right‑hander improved to 14–3 with another poised, strike‑pounding performance.

Gil Cruz opened the scoring with a run‑scoring double in the first, and Sacramento added four more in a decisive seventh inning, highlighted by RBI knocks from Andy Hamilton and Alex Velasquez.

The bullpen — Manny Espenoza and Chris Ryan — completed the combined shutout. Sacramento reached 70–40, their pitching staff in peak form.

★ ★ ★

SATURDAY, AUGUST 4 — AT BOSTON MESSIAHS

SACRAMENTO 5, BOSTON 2
Torres Strikes Early as Prayers Secure Series Win

Sacramento clinched the series win on Saturday behind the steady hand of Fernando Salazar. Alex Torres continued his remarkable week, delivering a two‑run single in a five‑run first inning that propelled Sacramento to a 5–2 win and a sweep‑clinching victory in Boston.

Fernando Salazar worked eight sturdy innings, allowing two runs on nine hits while inducing 13 ground‑ball outs. Luis Prieto closed the door for save No. 27.

Edwin Musco added his 20th homer of the season, and Francisco Hernandez swiped his 40th base as Sacramento improved to 71–40, their AL West lead stretching to 13 games. However, the win came with a price: 3B Gil Cruz was forced from the game with knee soreness. He is currently listed as day-to-day.

★ ★ ★

LEAGUE-WIDE ROUNDUP

While Sacramento dominates the AL West with a massive 13-game lead over the Fort Worth Spirits, the American League East remains a dogfight. The Columbus Heaven (65-45) hold a slim three-game lead over the Boston Messiahs.

In the National League, the Detroit Preachers (66-44) are fending off a dual-threat challenge from the Nashville Angels and Charlotte Monks, both of whom sit just two games back in the East. Out West, the Long Beach Diablos (65-46) hold a five-game cushion over the Las Vegas Blessed.

★ ★ ★

TRANSACTION WATCH: THE CATCHER OF THE FUTURE

The Prayers front office made a major move on July 31st, securing the services of Rafael Alonzo through the mid-90s. The 5-year contract extension, worth a total of $2,904,000, ensures that Sacramento keeps one of the most promising backstops in the league. Alonzo’s power surge against Fort Worth this week proved exactly why the organization was willing to open the checkbook.

★ ★ ★

GEMMY’S TAKE

Folks, if you aren't watching Cruz and Hernandez right now, you’re missing a masterclass. Seeing Gil Cruz swipe 13 bases while anchoring the hot corner has been a revelation, and we all hope that "knee soreness" is just a minor speed bump.

And can we talk about some unsung heroes? The buzz in the clubhouse is that the depth of this roster is what truly frightens the rest of the league. When a guy like Rubbi can come off the bench and provide veteran stability, you know you’re watching a championship-caliber squad. The Prayers aren't just winning; they are proselytizing the league with their brand of baseball.

The rotation of Bernardo Andretti*, Fernando Salazar and Steve Dodge has been remarkably durable. While Dodge had a rough outing Sunday, the "Mad Hare" Salazar’s performance on Saturday proved that veteran guile still wins championships. As we return home to face the Houston Crusaders, expect this lineup to wake up. Houston’s pitching staff has been porous of late, and Sacramento Stadium is hungry for some home-cooked home runs.

★ ★ ★

FAN MAIL - QUESTIONS FROM THE FRONT PEW

Dear Gemmy,
Is it true that Rafael Alonzo’s new contract includes a clause that he gets a free steak dinner every time he throws out a runner? I’ve seen him gun down so many Spirits and Cherubs lately that the local rancher's union might go on strike!
— Hungry in Highlands

Gemmy: While I can't confirm the steak clause, Hungry, I can tell you that Raffy is eating the league alive right now. That contract is a bargain if he keeps hitting two homers a game!

To the Chronicle,
I saw Salazar pitching in Boston and I swear the man doesn't age. Does he have a secret fountain of youth in his backyard, or is he just fueled by the pure spirit of Sacramento?
— Believer Since '77

Gemmy: Salazar is a marvel. In an age of pitch counts and early exits, seeing him go nine innings on the 30th was like watching a ghost from a better era. He isn't fueled by water, Believer — he's fueled by the desire to see a parade in Sacramento this October.

Gemmy Nay,
Is it time to worry about the bullpen? Mario Espenoza looked a little shaky in the Fort Worth series, and seeing Chris Ryan come in for just two-thirds of an inning in Boston makes me wonder if the roles are shifting.
— Relief Seeker

Gemmy: I wouldn't panic just yet. Manager Jimmy Aces likes to play the matchups, especially on the road. Mario Espenoza has been a workhorse for us, and every pitcher hits a wall in August. With Luis Prieto sitting at 27 saves, the back end of the game is as secure as a Sunday vault.

★ ★ ★

NEXT SERIES: The Prayers finish their business in Boston before returning home to face the Houston Crusaders for a three-game set starting Tuesday, August 7th. Robby Larson is expected to take the mound for the opener.

02-03-2026, 09:14 AM	#197
liberty-ca Major Leagues Join Date: Oct 2017 Location: New Westminster, BC Posts: 336	PRAYERS WEEKLY: JULY 29 – AUGUST 4, 1990 THE LAST STAND AT SACRAMENTO STADIUM AND THE ROAD TO BEANTOWN Gemmy Nay, Sacramento Sports Chronicle, and C.O.Pilot, BNN As the summer heat intensifies, the Sacramento Prayers continue to provide the coolest performance in the American League. Following a week that saw the Prayers navigate a grueling homestand and initiate a high-stakes series in Boston, the club finds itself sitting comfortably atop the West Division with a 71-40 record. Despite a brief mid-week hiccup against the Fort Worth Spirits, the Prayers have regained their stride, proving that their path to the postseason remains paved with both veteran grit and young, explosive talent. ★ ★ ★ SUNDAY, JULY 29 — vs. TUCSON CHERUBS SACRAMENTO 4, TUCSON 2 Torres and Hamilton Deliver as Prayers Take the Finale The week began with a clinical performance against the Tucson Cherubs. Sacramento continued the homestand with a composed 4–2 win over Tucson, powered by a three‑run second inning and a breakout night from Alex Torres. The newly acquired infielder went 3-for-4 with a double and two RBI, continuing his sudden surge into the lineup’s fabric. Andy Hamilton provided the early blow — a two‑run single with two outs in the second — and Torres followed with a run‑scoring double in the third to extend the lead. Bernardo Andretti took the mound and further cemented his status as the rotation’s anchor, earning his 13th win of the season. Andretti navigated 5.1 innings of two-run ball before handing the reigns to Mario Espenoza and Luis Prieto, who locked down save No. 26. Sacramento improved to 67–38, maintaining firm control atop the AL West. ★ ★ ★ MONDAY, JULY 30 — vs. FORT WORTH SPIRITS SACRAMENTO 10, FORT WORTH 3 Musco’s Four‑RBI Showcase Powers Blowout Victory The series opener against Fort Worth was a masterclass in total dominance. Fernando Salazar turned back the clock, hurling a complete-game gem that left the Spirits bewildered. Fernando Salazar went the distance, scattering 11 hits in a complete‑game effort. However, the story of the night was the offensive onslaught led by Edwin Musco and Rafael Alonzo. Edwin Musco authored one of his finest games of the season, driving in four and homering for the 20th time as Sacramento rolled to a 10–3 win over Fort Worth. His two‑run blast in the third set the tone, and later on Musco doubled home two more as part of a relentless offensive display. Not to be outdone, Alonzo, playing with the confidence of a man about to secure his future, added two solo homers of his own, and Alejandro Lopez collected three hits and a stolen base. Sacramento moved to 68–38, their offense humming at full throttle. ★ ★ ★ TUESDAY, JULY 31 — vs. FORT WORTH SPIRITS FORT WORTH 7, SACRAMENTO 3 Gomez’s Big Swings Halt Prayers’ Momentum Even the mightiest stumble. On the day the club announced a massive five-year contract extension for catcher Rafael Alonzo, the celebratory mood was dampened by a tough loss. The Prayers’ winning streak snapped as Fort Worth struck early and often in a 7–3 decision at Sacramento Stadium. John Gomez delivered the decisive blow — a two‑run homer in the fourth — and the Spirits never trailed again. Sacramento mustered seven hits but couldn’t string together enough sustained pressure. Alex Torres doubled home a run, and Edwin Musco added another extra‑base hit, but Robby Larson struggled to keep the ball in the yard and was tagged for four runs in 5.1 innings, tooking the loss. The Prayers slipped to 68–39. ★ ★ ★ WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 1 — vs. FORT WORTH SPIRITS FORT WORTH 7, SACRAMENTO 5 Spirits’ Mid‑Game Surge Overcomes Prayers’ Late Push In a rare back-to-back loss, the Prayers' defense and bullpen faltered. Fort Worth completed the two‑game punch with a 7–5 win, capitalizing on a four‑run fifth inning highlighted by Giacomo Benoldi’s two‑run triple off Jordan Rubalcava. Sacramento collected 14 hits — including three from Edwin Musco and two each from George MacDonald, Rafael Alonzo, and Alex Torres — but left ten runners stranded. A late two‑run rally in the eighth cut the deficit, but fell short when Michael Kaplan entered for the Spirits to extinguish the fire. Rubalcava absorbed the loss, dropping to 12–7, while the Prayers fell to 68–40. ★ ★ ★ THURSDAY, AUGUST 2 — vs. FORT WORTH SPIRITS SACRAMENTO 6, FORT WORTH 1 Gilbert Shines, Iniguez Delivers as Prayers Rebound Order was restored in the series finale thanks to a breakout performance by Aaron Gilbert. The right-hander stifled the Spirits over 7.2 innings, allowing only a single run, as Sacramento secured a crisp 6–1 victory. Manager Jimmy Aces praised Gilbert’s composure afterward, noting, "Aaron's not intimidated by who's stepping into the batter's box." The "big bat" of the night belonged to Hector Iniguez, who provided the early spark with a two‑run double in the second, and Edwin Musco added a two‑run double of his own in the fifth. George MacDonald chipped in two hits, and the defense turned three double plays behind Gilbert’s efficient work. The win lifted Sacramento to 69–40, restoring order after two tough losses. ★ ★ ★ FRIDAY, AUGUST 3 — AT BOSTON MESSIAHS SACRAMENTO 6, BOSTON 0 Andretti Dominates Again as Prayers Blank Messiahs Traveling to Boston for a clash of division titans, the Prayers made a resounding statement. Bernardo Andretti continued his torrid midsummer run, firing six shutout innings in a 6–0 victory at Boston. The right‑hander improved to 14–3 with another poised, strike‑pounding performance. Gil Cruz opened the scoring with a run‑scoring double in the first, and Sacramento added four more in a decisive seventh inning, highlighted by RBI knocks from Andy Hamilton and Alex Velasquez. The bullpen — Manny Espenoza and Chris Ryan — completed the combined shutout. Sacramento reached 70–40, their pitching staff in peak form. ★ ★ ★ SATURDAY, AUGUST 4 — AT BOSTON MESSIAHS SACRAMENTO 5, BOSTON 2 Torres Strikes Early as Prayers Secure Series Win Sacramento clinched the series win on Saturday behind the steady hand of Fernando Salazar. Alex Torres continued his remarkable week, delivering a two‑run single in a five‑run first inning that propelled Sacramento to a 5–2 win and a sweep‑clinching victory in Boston. Fernando Salazar worked eight sturdy innings, allowing two runs on nine hits while inducing 13 ground‑ball outs. Luis Prieto closed the door for save No. 27. Edwin Musco added his 20th homer of the season, and Francisco Hernandez swiped his 40th base as Sacramento improved to 71–40, their AL West lead stretching to 13 games. However, the win came with a price: 3B Gil Cruz was forced from the game with knee soreness. He is currently listed as day-to-day. ★ ★ ★ LEAGUE-WIDE ROUNDUP While Sacramento dominates the AL West with a massive 13-game lead over the Fort Worth Spirits, the American League East remains a dogfight. The Columbus Heaven (65-45) hold a slim three-game lead over the Boston Messiahs. In the National League, the Detroit Preachers (66-44) are fending off a dual-threat challenge from the Nashville Angels and Charlotte Monks, both of whom sit just two games back in the East. Out West, the Long Beach Diablos (65-46) hold a five-game cushion over the Las Vegas Blessed. ★ ★ ★ TRANSACTION WATCH: THE CATCHER OF THE FUTURE The Prayers front office made a major move on July 31st, securing the services of Rafael Alonzo through the mid-90s. The 5-year contract extension, worth a total of $2,904,000, ensures that Sacramento keeps one of the most promising backstops in the league. Alonzo’s power surge against Fort Worth this week proved exactly why the organization was willing to open the checkbook. ★ ★ ★ GEMMY’S TAKE Folks, if you aren't watching Cruz and Hernandez right now, you’re missing a masterclass. Seeing Gil Cruz swipe 13 bases while anchoring the hot corner has been a revelation, and we all hope that "knee soreness" is just a minor speed bump. And can we talk about some unsung heroes? The buzz in the clubhouse is that the depth of this roster is what truly frightens the rest of the league. When a guy like Rubbi can come off the bench and provide veteran stability, you know you’re watching a championship-caliber squad. The Prayers aren't just winning; they are proselytizing the league with their brand of baseball. The rotation of Bernardo Andretti, Fernando Salazar and Steve Dodge has been remarkably durable. While Dodge had a rough outing Sunday, the "Mad Hare" Salazar’s performance on Saturday proved that veteran guile still wins championships. As we return home to face the Houston Crusaders, expect this lineup to wake up. Houston’s pitching staff has been porous of late, and Sacramento Stadium is hungry for some home-cooked home runs. ★ ★ ★ FAN MAIL - QUESTIONS FROM THE FRONT PEW* Dear Gemmy, Is it true that Rafael Alonzo’s new contract includes a clause that he gets a free steak dinner every time he throws out a runner? I’ve seen him gun down so many Spirits and Cherubs lately that the local rancher's union might go on strike! — Hungry in Highlands Gemmy: While I can't confirm the steak clause, Hungry, I can tell you that Raffy is eating the league alive right now. That contract is a bargain if he keeps hitting two homers a game! To the Chronicle, I saw Salazar pitching in Boston and I swear the man doesn't age. Does he have a secret fountain of youth in his backyard, or is he just fueled by the pure spirit of Sacramento? — Believer Since '77 Gemmy: Salazar is a marvel. In an age of pitch counts and early exits, seeing him go nine innings on the 30th was like watching a ghost from a better era. He isn't fueled by water, Believer — he's fueled by the desire to see a parade in Sacramento this October. Gemmy Nay, Is it time to worry about the bullpen? Mario Espenoza looked a little shaky in the Fort Worth series, and seeing Chris Ryan come in for just two-thirds of an inning in Boston makes me wonder if the roles are shifting. — Relief Seeker Gemmy: I wouldn't panic just yet. Manager Jimmy Aces likes to play the matchups, especially on the road. Mario Espenoza has been a workhorse for us, and every pitcher hits a wall in August. With Luis Prieto sitting at 27 saves, the back end of the game is as secure as a Sunday vault. ★ ★ ★ NEXT SERIES: The Prayers finish their business in Boston before returning home to face the Houston Crusaders for a three-game set starting Tuesday, August 7th. Robby Larson is expected to take the mound for the opener.