When It Was A Game

[GrimmyDee]

Originally Posted by PhillieFever

Dude,this just keeps getting better and better. I especially like "enough color to make your eyes bleed" That's a classic

Thanks man, I appreciate it. I've been considering wittling my news down a little so that I could keep up with your awesome work - but I think I have a pretty good system worked up (knock on wood) where I can now churn out the days a little more frequently.

Of course that is until I change my mind again and decide to use a different format. Sigh.

It is dynasties like yours, CaptainCarl and EMSoccerCoach (among many others) that keeps the creativity going. Thanks again!

[PhillieFever]

Originally Posted by GrimmyDee

Thanks man, I appreciate it. I've been considering wittling my news down a little so that I could keep up with your awesome work - but I think I have a pretty good system worked up (knock on wood) where I can now churn out the days a little more frequently.

Of course that is until I change my mind again and decide to use a different format. Sigh.

It is dynasties like yours, CaptainCarl and EMSoccerCoach (among many others) that keeps the creativity going. Thanks again!

No my friend thank you. It was looking at your dynasty that finally swayed me to go daily.

[GrimmyDee]

Originally Posted by PhillieFever

No my friend thank you. It was looking at your dynasty that finally swayed me to go daily.

Why do I think you will be hating me for that when it is all said and done?

[EMSoccerCoach]

I commend both of you for the jobs you do with your dynasties...I'd love to go daily with my dynasty, but fear it would wear me out if I took that approach and I wouldn't see the whole thing through.

[GrimmyDee]

Tippy Can't Close Out Angels
Thursday, May 12, 1977
Rudy May (3.83 ERA) of the Orioles throws eight innings of shutout baseball but fails to gain a decision as California scores twice in the bottom of the ninth off of closer Tippy Martinez (0-2, 14.21 ERA) and gets a 2-1 victory over Baltimore.

"I did everything I could today." said May while icing his arm after the game. "We needed that win. I know Tippy is struggling, but he needs to get things fixed in a hurry - we can't keep losing games like this."

After giving up consecutive singles to Rusty Torres (.250) and Ron Jackson (.241) to open the inning, Martinez walks Thad Bosley to loaded the bases - then uncorks a wild pitch to tie the game and give Tippy his third blown save. One sacrifice fly by Jerry Remy (10 RBI) later, Baltimore's six-game winning streak comes to an end. Gary Ross (6-1, 3.10 ERA) throws his fifth complete game in seven starts to get the win.


American League News
Seattle's Byron McLaughlin (2-3, 3.19 ERA) helps break the Mariners six-game losing streak by holding New York to just one run on two hits through eight innings and gaining a 2-1 victory. Dock Ellis (4-2, 2.38 ERA) goes the distance in the loss, giving up five hits while striking out five.

After Detroit scrambles to tie the game in the eighth inning on a two-run single by Ben Oglivie (.286, 31 RBI), Sal Bando (.239, 3 HR, 9 RBI) hits a game-winning, solo home run off of Vern Ruhle (2-4, 3.96 ERA) in the bottom of the inning to give the Brewers a 4-3 victory. The homer is the third hit for Bando, who also drives in three of Milwaukee's four runs.

American League Scores


National League News
New York 2B Felix Millan (.255, 1 HR, 12 RBI) has three hits and drives in three more while Bud Harrelson (.212, 11 RBI) and Jerry Grote (.222) adds three hits apiece to lead the Mets past San Diego, 8-2. Tom Seaver (3-2, 2.78 ERA) goes eight innings, giving up five hits and one earned run while striking out nine Padres for the win. The loss snaps San Diego's six-game winning streak.

Jerry Reuss (3-0, 2.89 ERA) runs his unbeaten streak to seven games and Kent Tekulve (0.53 ERA) saves his 10th game in 10 chances as Pittsburgh gains a 2-1 win over the Braves at Three Rivers Stadium. Reuss strikes out seven in eight innings, scattering eight hits and one earned run while Atlanta starter Dick Ruthven (1-3, 3.52 ERA) pitches his second complete game of the year, allowing six hits and two runs in the loss. 1B Tom Paciorek (.273) goes 3-for-3 and scores the Braves' lone run.

National League Scores


Injuries

CF Cesar Geronimo (.148, 2 HR, 8 RBI) is day-to-day for about 3 days with a damaged meniscus (knee). Considering Geronimo is in a rotation with George Foster in CF, don't expect him to miss any time.

MR Eddie Solomon (0-0, 3.00 ERA) is expected to miss about 8 months with a ruptured tendon in his bicep. Placed on the 60-day disabled list. SP Doug Capilla (4-0, 3.56 ERA - AAA) recalled from Triple A New Orleans. Capilla should fill in nicely considering Solomon only pitched 3 innings so far this year.

Major Transactions

C Fran Healey (.600 - AA) contract purchased from Double A Reading. C Tim Blackwell (.000, 5 AB) optioned to Triple A Oklahoma City. The trading of Bob Boone to Los Angeles may be a little more far reaching than originally thought.

Short Season Single A Update
Orlando Beach Bums (15-17) at Jamestown Expos (19-13)

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 R H E Orlando 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 2 0 3 4 2 Jamestown 1 0 0 0 1 3 0 0 x 5 10 2 WP: Bill Newton (4-1, 3.13 ERA) LP: Mark Brooks (2-4, 4.22 ERA) SV: Sandro Duarte (1) POG: Milo Dyer 2-4, R, 2 RBI, 2B Attendance: 2,462 Single-A scouts were in town checking some of the guys.

This is the kinda stuff I like to see. Outstanding starting pitching from Bill Newton, who gave up four hits and two earned runs while striking out five in 7.2 innings, as well as timely hitting as we seemed to deliver key hits whenever someone was in scoring position. Vernon Lambright (.243, 5 RBI) has two singles and two RBI, Juan Madrigal (.283) has two base hits, and Jesus Rivera (.356, 17 RBI) has a single and a key RBI double. Home Runs: ORL: None JAM: None

[GrimmyDee]

Rhoden Pulls Dodgers Close
Friday, May 13, 1977
Los Angeles pulls within 1/2 game on the NL West lead held by the Cincinnati Reds after a brilliant pitching performance by Rick Rhoden (4-2, 2.45 ERA), who holds the Mets to just two Leo Foster (.170, 1 RBI) singles en route to a 4-1 Dodgers victory. Rhoden strikes out eight while walking three and throws his fourth consecutive game where he gives up two or fewer earned runs and pitches eight or more innings.

"You can't win if you can't hit." manager Joe Frazier said in a postgame meeting with the press, "And it's pretty obvious you can't win too many games with just two hits. At least (Leo) Foster came to play today, I have no clue where in the hell everyone else was."

Vic Davalillo (.262) has two singles and double in the game, but it is the erratic play of New York that costs them in the eighth. A hit batter, a walk, and an error on outfielder John Milner (his 1st) and two singles by Steve Garvey (.264) and Don Baylor (.261, 15 RBI) contribute to three LA runs and put the game out of reach.

"As if that made any difference." Frazier said. "Sure, it was bad - almost like those boys were giving them the game...Hey wait a minute."


American League News
Yankees rookie Ron Guidry (5-1, 2.68 ERA) wins an anticipated pitching matchup with Nolan Ryan (5-3) as he strikes out eight California hitters in gaining a 5-1 win. It is the fourth straight win for Guidry, as he scatters seven hits while walking nine in his third complete game.

Texas comes from behind to defeat the Royals 4-3 on a bases loaded two-run single by Claudell Washington (.266, 22 RBI) in the top of the eighth. The win is the Rangers fifth in a row and cuts the California's AL West lead down to 3 1/2.

Rico Carty (.327, 21 RBI) goes 4-for-4 and drives in two runs and Mike Tyson (.343) adds three hits, but its an RBI double by Ron Pruitt (.328, 11 RBI) in the top of the 10th inning that gives Cleveland a 3-2 win over the White Sox. Al Fitzmorris (3-4, 3.14 ERA) gets the win, allowing one earned run and five hits for the Indians while Chicago starter Ken Brett (3.06 ERA) scattered ten hits and two runs but gets no decision. Ralph Garr (.320) has three of the six Chicago hits.

Down 4-3 in the top of the ninth, Jim Rice (.261, 4 HR, 17 RBI) hits a two-out, three-run blast to right-center field off of Mariners reliever Mike Kekich (0-1, 1 BS, 4.05 ERA) to give Boston a 6-4 win. The loss dampens the performances of Dan Meyer (.243, 13 RBI) who drives in three runs with a double and two singles and Bill Stien (.219) who brings home three hits as well.

Milwaukee's Bill Travers (3-1, 2.20 ERA) keeps the Tigers to a Willie Horton (.152, 2 HR, 6 RBI) solo home run on seven hits, but it takes a Robin Yount (.263, 15 RBI) RBI single in the bottom of the sixth inning for the Brewers to get the win, 2-1. Don Money (.261) collects three singles and scores Milwaukee's first run of the game.

American League Scores


National League News
39-year-old Willie McCovey (.316, 4 HR, 24 RBI) doubles and homers twice to lead the Giants to an 11-2 rout of Cincinnati. Bill Madlock (.315, 3 HR, 16 RBI) scores twice and drives in three runs, George Thomasson (.280, 9 HR, 24 RBI) hits his ninth home run of the year and Jack Clark (.308) and Derrel Thomas (.296) each have three hit days in the offensive assault. Even Giants starter Ed Halicki (.222, 1 HR, 6 RBI) gets into the act, hitting a three-run home run in the first inning. Halicki (6-2, 3.77 ERA) also strikes out six and allows six hits and two earned runs through eight innings.

Kent Tekulve (3-2, 1 BS, 1.59 ERA) blows his first save of the season as Leon Roberts (.237, 6 RBI) of the Astros hits a two-RBI single in the bottom of the ninth to give Houston a come from behind 5-4 victory. Cliff Johnson (.257, 10 RBI) scores two runs and drives in one on three hits for the Astros while Phil Garner (.311, 18 RBI) goes 3-for-3 with an RBI in the losing cause.

Jerry Mumphrey (.271, 6 RBI) has four singles and a double, Roger Freed (.358, 11 RBI) scores three runs and drives in two with his first home run of the season on a three hit day, and Buddy Bell (.293, 2 HR, 12 RBI) doubles and homers while driving in three as the Cardinals rout Atlanta, 10-2.

National League Scores


Injuries

2B Rob Andrews (.292, 6 RBI) is day-to-day for about 6 days with a tender elbow. There is a reason God gave him two - don't expect him to miss any time.

SP John Candelaria (3-1, 4.91 ERA) is expected to miss about 2-3 months with a strained elbow ligament. He is placed on the 60-day disabled list. MR Tim Jones (2-0, 1 SV, 3.33 ERA - AAA) recalled from Triple A Columbus. The loss of the Candyman will be a tough one as there is no front runner to take his place in the rotation.

Contract Signings

SP Stan Bahnsen (1-5, 5.54 ERA) signs a 2-year extension worth a total of $59,885. He will earn $258,000 a year through 1979.

LF Al Oliver (.336, 3 HR, 17 RBI) signs a 4-year extension worth a total of $9,664,000. He will earn $2,416,000 a year through 1980. He has a player option for 1981 worth $2,416,000. He has a $120,000 performance clause if he wins the Most Valuable Player Award.

Short Season Single A Update
Jamestown Expos (20-13) at St. Louis Tempest (18-15)

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 R H E Jamestown 0 0 0 0 1 3 0 0 0 4 12 1 St. Louis 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 5 1 WP: Aurelio Roman (3-0, 2.91 ERA) LP: Keith Schmidt (1-5, 3.16 ERA) SV: Darwin Marsh (1) POG: Dicky Hujibregts 3-5, 3 RBI, Attendance: 3,641 Tempest SS Jose Diaz commits error #24.

Dicky Hujibregts (.338, 10 RBI) drives in three of our four runs with a three-hit day while Weldon Williams (.328, 9 RBI), Jesus Rivera (.358, 13 SB) and Richard Adams (.303) hit a pair of hits each as we score our third win in a row. Aurelio Roman and three relievers hold St. Louis to five hits as we manage to maintain out two game deficit behind Rockledge. Martin Dominguez (.224) gets two of the five hits for St. Louis. Home Runs: JAM: None STL: None

[GrimmyDee]

Giants Go "Mad" Against Reds
Saturday, May 14, 1977
A day after driving in three runs in a Giants win over Cincinnati, Bill Madlock (.333, 4 HR, 21 RBI) was at it again as he drives in five more runs, scoring four runs himself while getting four hits in five at-bats in San Francisco's 14-1 thrashing of the Reds.

"Our offense was just awesome." a tired Madlock said afterward, "I gotta give alot of credit to the top of the order - every time I came up there were runners on base. We have the players on this team to be winners, we just need to put everything together at the same time every day. We showed tonight what we are capable of."

Madlock singled twice, doubled and hit his fourth home run of the year off of Cincinnati reliever Tom Hume in the ninth inning. Darrell Evans (.326, 10 RBI) added four hits as well and Darrell Thomas (.311, 12 RBI) hits a pair of doubles as the Giants rack up 17 hits on the Reds' vaunted pitching staff.

San Francisco starter John Montefusco (3-4, 4.22 ERA) hold Cincinnati to four hits through eight innings while striking out six. The loss combined with the Dodgers win, knocked the Reds out of first place in the NL West.

"No excuses tonight, I just sucked eggs." loser Pat Zachry said. "I don't think they could have hit it harder if I set it on a tee for them. That'll be the last time I eat lunch with (Johnny) Bench again. Fried chicken covered in maple syrup doesn't sit well when you have a game that night."


American League News
After starting the year in the bullpen, Detroit's Milt Wilcox (2-0, 1.74 ERA) may have won himself a spot in the rotation as he two-hits the Brewers for a 1-0 victory. In just his second start, Wilcox strikes out nine and walks only one for his first career complete game. Milwaukee starter Moose Haas (1-6, 3.49 ERA) was up to the task as he holds the Tigers to four hits through 7 2/3 innings, but Lou Whitaker (.272) doubles to leadoff the second and later scores on a sacrifice fly for the only scoring in the game.

California RF Bobby Bonds (.231, 6 HR, 19 RBI) took it upon himself to get his team a victory as he goes 4-for-4 with two home runs and drives home all four Angels runs in a 4-1 triumph over New York. Paul Hartzell (5-1, 2.14 ERA) handles the Yankee lineup, holding them to four hits in his eight innings of work.

Toronto uses three solo home runs from Alan Ashby (.333, 6 HR, 18 RBI), Al Woods (.288, 2 HR, 10 RBI) and Otto Velez (.242, 6 HR, 19 RBI) to keep rookie pitcher Jim Clancy (6-0, 2.89 ERA) undefeated and give the Blue Jays a 5-4 win over Minnesota.

An error by Jack Brohamer (his 1st) at short gives the Indians an extra out in the 11th inning and Rico Carty (.321, 22 RBI) comes through with an RBI double and scores on a single by Ron Pruitt (.318, 12 RBI) to give Cleveland a 4-2 win over the White Sox in their second straight extra-inning affair. Wayne Garland (1.88 ERA) goes eight innings, giving up five hits and a run but gets a no decision as does Chicago starter Stan Bahnsen (4.84 ERA), who allows seven hits and two runs over 9 1/3 innings.

Gaylord Perry (6-2, 2.19 ERA) gets his sixth win of the year and the Rangers get their sixth win in a row as Jimmy Sexton (.233, 1 HR, 3 RBI) hits a key three-run home run in the sixth to give Texas the lead and the 5-4 win over the Royals.

American League Scores


National League News
A day after driving three runs in a Giants win over Cincinnati, Bill Madlock (.333, 4 HR, 21 RBI) was at it again as he drives in five more runs while scoring four times himself and getting four hits in five at-bats in San Francisco's 14-1 thrashing of the Reds. Madlock singled twice, doubled and hit his fourth home run of the year. Darrell Evans (.326, 10 RBI) added four hits as well and starter John Montefusco (3-4, 4.22 ERA) holds Cincy to four hits through eight innings while striking out six.

Rookie SS Rafael Landestoy (.257, 7 RBI) and newly acquired Don Baylor (.281) each have three hits as the Dodgers take over the NL West lead with a 7-5 victory over New York. Burt Hooten (3-1, 2.92 ERA) gives up four hits and one earned run through seven innings to get the win.

Thanks to a pair of three-run home runs by Mike Schmidt (.321, 7 HR, 21 RBI) and a nine strikeout performance by Tom Underwood (2-0, 2.63 ERA), the Phillies beat San Diego 9-5 for their sixth consecutive win. Lee Lacy (.327, 3 HR, 20 RBI) has three hits, scoring three times and driving in another pair in the process.

Two-out RBI singles by Leon Roberts (.286, 9 RBI) and pinch-hitter Willie Crawford (.444, 2 RBI) are the deciding runs in a 5-3 Houston victory over the Pirates. Roberts ends the day with three hits and three runs batted in while Omar Moreno (.255, 11 RBI) reaches base in all four plate appearances scoring two runs on his three hits for Pittsburgh.

National League Scores


Injuries

3B Wayne Garrett (.377, 2 HR, 8 RBI) is day-to-day for about 3 days with a strained groin muscle. Garrett has a pair and will sack up and not miss any time.

Contract Signing

MR Ken Holtzman (2-0, 2.35 ERA) signs a 1-year extension worth a total of $190,000.

Short Season Single A Update
Jamestown Expos (21-13) at St. Louis Tempest (18-16)

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 R H E Jamestown 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 10 0 St. Louis 0 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 x 2 4 0 WP: Young-lau Tien (6-0, 2.44 ERA) LP: Juan Carlos Garcia (4-3, 3.23 ERA) SV: Matt Dalton (10) POG: Young-lau Tien 8 IP, 8 H, 0 ER, 8 K Attendance: 4,167 Darwin Marsh got the trifecta in 6th - WP, HB, Balk.

In a matchup of two of the best pitchers in the league, our offense was completely shut down by the 24-year old Canadian (yes, Canadian) Young-lau Tien. Of course it didn't help that I chose this game to give starters Juan Madrigal, Weldon Williams and Dicky Hujibregts a rest today. Williams (.350, 10 RBI) would come on in the seventh to collect a pair of singles and drive in our only run while Daron Hurley (.283) had two singles and a double in the loss. Home Runs: JAM: None STL: None

[Celtic Forever]

Wow! This is one fancy day-by-day dynasty. And I thought MINE was a lot of work! Keep it up, great stuff!

[GrimmyDee]

With Mel Allen
Vol. I, Issue VI
Sunday, May 8 - Saturday, May 14, 1977

Slowing your download speeds since 2009!

Major League Standings



Hitting Leaders



Pitching Leaders



Who's Hot / Who's Cold



Minor League Standings



Jamestown Team Stats

[PhillieFever]

Look at the Blue Jays, 21-13 and in first place in their inaugural season! Talk about a surprise. It should be fun to see how well they actually do, but truthfully I expect them to come back to earth sooner of later. In real life they won 54 games in 1977, so I can't see them winning any more than 65 games or so here.

[GrimmyDee]

Originally Posted by PhillieFever

Look at the Blue Jays, 21-13 and in first place in their inaugural season! Talk about a surprise. It should be fun to see how well they actually do, but truthfully I expect them to come back to earth sooner of later. In real life they won 54 games in 1977, so I can't see them winning any more than 65 games or so here.

They have Jim Clancy at 6-0, Jeff Byrd having a ridiculous year and not to mention an awesome record in one-run/extra inning games. Could it be the year of the Blue Jay?

Well I will say this, towards the end of May they will be getting some serious competiton for the top spot from a few surprise teams.

[GrimmyDee]

Pinella And Yanks Crush Angels
Sunday, May 15, 1977
"I'm not sure if I can explain it." Yankees designated hitter Lou Piniella said after today's game. "I mean, I've had days where I had hit the ball well, but I've never been so zoned in like I was today."

What Piniella (.270, 2 HR, 21 RBI) is referring to is his performance today where he tripled his RBI output in one game as he drives in seven runners in New York's 13-2 crushing of the Angels. Piniella has three hits, including a three-run home run and a bases clearing three-RBI double while Roy White (.243) scores five times while delivering three hits himself.

Catfish Hunter (1-2, 4.38 ERA) throws a complete game for his first win of the season, allowing both California runs on seven hits.

Battling flu symptoms earlier in the day, Piniella spoke with star right fielder Reggie Jackson if he had anything to hold off the bug and wake him up.

"Reggie said it was a mixture of baby oil and goat semen. I really think he was kidding. Whatever it was it sure picked me up. I don't think I'll be sleeping for the next three weeks."


American League News
The Royals break a five-game losing streak as Marty Pattin (4-3, 3.26 ERA) throws a four-hitter through eight innings and George Brett (.283, 17 RBI) hits his second home run of the year to lead Kansas City to a 4-0 win over the Rangers.

The Indians come from behind to defeat Chicago 4-3, sending the White Sox to their sixth loss in a row, but lose starter Dennis Eckersley (4.18 ERA) for possibly two months to what looks like some kind of rotator cuff injury. Larvell Blanks (.307, 12 RBI) and Duane Kuiper (.259, 10 RBI) deliver key RBI extra-base hits to secure the win.

Toronto wins another squeaker as the Twins strand the tying run on second in the ninth and lose by a 2-1 score. Rookie pitcher Jeff Byrd (4-0, 1.58 ERA) stays perfect in the loss column, allowing just four hits in eight innings and striking out five while Minnesota starter Pete Redfern (4.57 ERA) falls to 0-6 despite giving up just four hits through seven innings.

Von Joshua (.180, 10 RBI) hits a one-out, RBI single in the bottom of the ninth to give the Brewers a 5-4 victory over Detroit to sweep a doubleheader and move just one game behind the Blue Jays in the AL East. Sixto Lezcano (.238) has three hits and scores twice for Milwaukee while Jason Thompson (.239, 3 HR, 19 RBI) has three runs batted in with a double and home run in the loss. In the first game, Dave Roberts (3-4, 4 .89 ERA) holds the Brewers to three hits, but an error by Phil Mankowski (6th) leads to an unearned run and a 2-1 loss. Milwaukee starter Lary Sorenson (3-1, 2.67 ERA) allows five hits and one run through eight innings of work for the win.

Rumors out of Seattle is the Joe Lis (.221, 6 RBI) is wanting out of the Mariners organization and that Seattle may be happy to oblige - if the deal is right. Lis is primarily being used as a backup catcher, but feels he could be more useful elsewhere. Lis walked in his pinch-hitting appearance as Larry Cox (.274), Tom Grieve (.345, 1 HR, 8 RBI) and Carlos Lopez (.237, 7 RBI) each have three hits as the Mariners beat Boston, 7-3.

American League Scores


National League News
San Diego torches the Phillies for 16 hits in a 13-5 rout in Veterans Stadium. Mike Ivie (.318m 3 HR, 16 RBI) scores three runs on four hits and drives in two, Jerry Turner (.250, 2 HR, 11 RBI) has three hits with two RBI and two runs scored, and Bill Almon (.215, 17 RBI) drives in five with his three hits, scoring twice as well as he comes within a home run of hitting for the cycle.

The Pirates score four unearned runs on the ninth inning thanks to an error by Houston SS Roger Metzger (his 2nd) to blow open a tie game and give Pittsburgh a 6-2 win. Frank Tavares (.279, 15 RBI, 16 SB) has three hits and steals two bases while starter Larry Demery (2-2, 3.53 ERA) throws a quiet eight innings, allowing seven hits and both earned runs.

Jack Clark (.327, 4 HR, 25 RBI) hits two home runs and drives in three runs as San Francisco overcomes three errors to defeat the Reds 5-4 and sweep the three-game series. Bill Madlock (.338, 5 HR, 22 RBI) goes 2-for-4 and hits .571 (8-14) with three home runs and nine RBI in the series. Lynn McGlothen (2-2, 3.62 ERA) walks seven, but gets the win for the Giants.

National League Scores


Injuries

MR Mike Cuellar (1-0, 6.72 ERA) is expected to miss about 7 months with a herniated disk in his back. He is placed on the 60-day disabled list. SP Balor Moore (2-3, 3.84 ERA - AAA) recalled from Triple A Salt Lake City. At the age of 40, Cuellar may not pitch again - tough break. Moore will be placed in the bullpen for now.

SP Dennis Eckersley (1-4, 4.18 ERA) is expected to miss about 7-8 weeks with a strained rotator cuff. He is placed on the 15-day disabled list. LF John Lowenstein (.354, 1 HR, 7 RBI - AAA) recalled from Triple A Toledo. Eckersley has pitched better than his record. Rick Waits will take his spot in the rotation.

Contract Signings

SP Dave Goltz (4-2, 3.36 ERA) signs a 2-year extension worth a total of $944,000. He will earn $472,000 a year through 1979.

SP Jack Billingham (4-3, 3.19 ERA) signs a 1-year extension worth a total of $64,000.

Short Season Single A Update
Jamestown Expos (21-14) at St. Louis Tempest (19-16)

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 R H E Jamestown 1 0 1 0 0 1 0 2 2 7 16 0 St. Louis 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 8 0 WP: Jeff Bradley (4-3, 3.21 ERA) LP: Pepe Estrada (1-4, 3.44 ERA) SV: None POG: Jeff Bradley 5.2 IP, 4 H, 0 ER, 1 K Attendance: 3,883 Bob Foster has PH 2-run single in 8th.

Due to the fact that I am dealing with a four-man rotation, I have cut back on the innings on some of my young arms - which explains Bradley's exit in the sixth inning. The bullpen came through with 3.1 scoreless innings to keep the shutout alive. Jesus Rivera (.363, 18 RBI) has a three hit day, Mark Hutchinson (.279) collects two singles and a double, and Juan Madrigal (.281, 5 HR, 22 RBI) hits his fifth home run of the season to lead the offense. Home Runs: JAM: Juan Madrigal (5) STL: None

[ShaneCarson]

First time I've seen this dynasty and let me say, this is excellent.

Having just started my first ever historical game a month ago and starting in 1975, I am loving the comparison between my league and this! I am in 1979 in my league now.

[GrimmyDee]

M & M's Melt Twins
Monday, May 16, 1977
Rick Manning (.210, 3 HR, 15 RBI) had a career day against the Minnesota Twins today, going 4-for-4 while hitting two home runs and driving in six RBI as the Indians manhandle the Twins, 17-4 at Metropolitan Stadium.

But he wasn't alone.

Bill Melton (.258, 7 RBI) also has four hits in four at-bats, smacking a pair of doubles and a solo home run while driving in two runs and scoring four times. Rico Carty (.322, 26 RBI) added to the carnage with four RBI on three singles and Johnny Grubb (.325) scores three times with a three hit day as the Tribe pound out 20 hits on the Minnesota pitching staff.

"This is a team united." Manning said afterward. "At any given time another player steps up to the plate. One day it might be Johnny (Grubb), another day in might be Rico, hell every once in a blue moon it could be me. Today, we all did and it's a scary thing how good we can play when we are all on the same page."

Twins starter Paul Thormodsgard (3-5, 4.89 ERA) had a different view.

"That team doesn't impress me. They are a bunch of no-names playing for a team that nobody cares about. They don't matter. Today, that was all luck."

Butch Wynegar (.299) has three hits and Glenn Adams (.317, 5 HR, 20 RBI) hits a three-run home run in the loss.


American League News
Yankees starter Ed Figueroa (4-2, 1.34 ERA) shuts down Oakland on six hits and one run en route to a 6-1 complete game victory and New York's eighth win in their last 10 games.

Tippy Martinez (1-2) lowers his ERA to 10.00 as he pitches 1 2/3 innings of relief and Pat Kelly scores on a Mark Belanger (10 RBI) fielders chioce in the top of the 11th inning to give Baltimore a 5-4 win over the Mariners. Down 4-3 in the ninth, Al Bumbry (.256, 2 HR, 8 RBI) sends the game into extras with a pinch-hit solo home run off of Seattle closer Enrique Romo (3 BS, 5.40 ERA). Jim Palmer (2.77 ERA) goes 9 1/3 innings, giving up 10 hits, but striking out seven for the Orioles while Rick Jones (4.67 ERA) gives up two earned runs on seven hits in eight innings for Seattle. Neither man gained a decision.

Fred Lynn (.235, 4 HR, 10 RBI) hits a solo home run in the eighth to give the Red Sox a 3-2 lead, but the Angels storm back as Jerry Remy (.304, 13 RBI) hits a bases loaded single to score two runs and gains a 4-3 California victory. Gary Ross goes 8 2/3 for the Angels, scattering eight hits but fails to get a decision as Dick Drago (1-1) comes in to get the final out in the top of the ninth. Ike Hampton (.372) leads the California offense with three hits.

American League Scores


National League News
Philadelphia scores two runs in the bottom of the 11th inning when Davey Johnson (.244, 1 HR, 7 RBI) crushes a Stan Wall (2-2) fastball 375-feet down the left field line to give the Phillies a 5-3 win over Los Angeles. Steve Carlton (2.21 ERA) throws nine innings, allowing eight hits and three runs (one earned), but gets a no decision. The loss puts the Dodgers into a tie with Cincinnati for the NL West lead.

National League Scores


Injuries

SP Luis Tiant (4-4, 4.68 ERA) is expected to miss about 5 weeks with a strained back muscle. He is placed on the 15-day disabled list. MR Rick Kreuger (3-0, 2 SV, 0.75 ERA - AAA) recalled from Triple A Pawtucket. Kreuger looked like a dominating closer in AAA. It looks like Don Aase will join the rotation to replace Tiant.

Major Transactions

RF Rusty Torres (.154, 13 AB) optioned to Triple A Salt Lake City. LF Gil Flores (.302, 2 HR, 21 RBI - AAA) recalled from Triple A Salt Lake City. Flores will be getting time in both LF & CF for the injured Bruce Bochte.

2B Bob Sheldon (.250, 1 HR, 3 RBI, 4 AB) optioned to Triple A Spokane. 1B Ken McMullen (.750, 1 RBI, 4 AB - AAA) recalled from Triple A Spokane. One little used player for another. Look for McMullen to back up Cecil Cooper at first base.

Players Of The Week
American League Player of the Week: May 8 - May 14
1B Rico Carty - Cleveland Indians

Last Week 1977 Stats

AVG .480 .310

AB 25 113

H 12 35

R 4 12

2B 2 6

3B 0 1

HR 1 4

RBI 7 22

BB 3 7

K 2 9

OBP .600 .341

SLG .680 .487

National League Player of the Week: May 8 - May 14
C Ed Ott - Pittsburgh Pirates

Last Week 1977 Stats

AVG .565 .289

AB 23 121

H 13 35

R 5 22

2B 1 5

3B 0 0

HR 1 4

RBI 4 11

BB 2 12

K 1 14

OBP .652 .351

SLG .739 .430

Short Season Single A Update
Rockledge Ponies (25-11) at Jamestown Expos (22-14)

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 R H E Rockledge 3 0 0 0 0 0 3 0 0 6 11 0 Jamestown 0 0 1 0 8 0 0 1 x 10 14 1 WP: Bill Newton (5-1, 3.69 ERA) LP: Jorge Montanio (5-4, 3.78 ERA) SV: Brian Little (3) POG: Dicky Hujibregts 3-5, 2 R, 3 RBI, 2B, HR Attendance: 2,256 The win pulls us to within 2 games of Rockledge.

Dicky Hujibregts (.356, 2 HR, 13 RBI) doubles and hits a solo home run en route to a three hit, three RBI day as we manage to outslug Rockledge in round one of our three game series. Mark Hutchinson (.280, 11 RBI) adds a two-run double and Weldon Williams (.343, 13 RBI) drives in a pair as well as every starter in the our lineup has at least one hit. Bill Newton gets the win, but looks shaky - allowing all six earned runs on eight hits in 6.1 innings. Home Runs: ROC: None JAM: Dicky Hujibregts (5)

[GrimmyDee]

Brewers Tie Toronto for First
Tuesday, May 17, 1977
Toronto met up with a buzzsaw in the Milwaukee Brewers today and not only lost the game, but also the outright division lead as the Brew Crew defeated the Blue Jays, 5-1 behind the pitching of Jim Slaton (5-3, 3.80 ERA). Slaton strikes out seven and allows six hits and one earned run for his fourth complete game of the season.

In the middle of a stretch where they play 36 games in 33 days, Milwaukee has chosen the right time to get hot, winning 10 of their last 13 and are 13-6 so far in the month of May.

"While I would like to meet the man who made our schedule and give him a smack across the head with a shovel," Milwaukee manager Alex Grammas said afterward. "the boys are really responding to the challenge and playing great baseball."

Ron Hodges (.291, 3 RBI) hits a solo home run for his first home run of the season and Sixto Lezcano (.241, 21 RBI) drives in a pair of runners to lead the Brewers offense.

Even though they maintain a tie for the division lead, Toronto has struggled this month, playing .500 baseball in 14 games. But for 19-year veteran Ron Fairly, he knew the team will have some growing pains.

"Listen, it's bad enough this kids have to learn to speak French and the metric system, you can't think they can play great all year long. We are going to take our lumps at times, but the important thing is how we respond to it. We're not going anywhere, they aren't taking this lead without a fight."


American League News
Detroit's Mark Fidrych (6-2, 3.11 ERA) continues to impress, throwing his fifth complete game of the season in beating Bert Blyleven (5-2) and the Rangers 9-1. Fidrych strikes out five and allows six hits in his 113-pitch effort. Ron LeFlore (.315, 15 RBI) has three hits and scores three runs while Milt May (.252, 13 RBI) delivers another three hits to pace the Tigers' 15-hit attack.

Cleveland racks up their sixth straight win as their offense rolls over the Twins, 11-5. Johnny Grubb (.336, 10 RBI) leads the 17-hit attack with three, scoring twice and driving in one, as every starter in the lineup has at least one base hit.

California's red-hot reliever Don Kirkwood (2-1, 1.01 ERA) continues to roll as a starter as he hold the Red Sox to five hits and strikes out eight through seven innings and guiding them past Boston 2-1. res Sox starter Mike Paxton (0-2, 5.85 ERA) went the full eight innings in the loss, scattering seven hits and both earned runs. Andy Etchebarren (.364) leads the Angels offense with three hits.

American League Scores



National League News
Mike Ivie (.333, 4 HR, 20 RBI) of San Diego is a double short of hitting for the cycle as he drives in three runs and scores twice, but Steve Ontinveros (.272, 16 RBI) hits a two-out RBI single off of Rollie Fingers (1-2) in the bottom of the ninth to give the Cubs a 6-5 win.

In a battle of division leaders, Joe Morgan (.184, 3 HR, 14 RBI) and George Foster (.290, 6 HR, 20 RBI) drive in three runs each and Dave Concepcion (.290) scores three times as Cincinnati defeats the Pirates 8-3. Fred Norman (6-1) strikes out eight in winning his sixth game of the year. The win combined with the Dodgers' loss gives the Reds the NL West division lead.

St. Louis takes advantage of the control problems of Joaquin Andujar (3-5, 4.18) and Bake McBride (.331, 21 SB) hits a pair of doubles as part of a four-hit day to lead the Cardinals past Houston, 3-1. Andujar walks six and fails to earn a strikeout while St. Louis starter John Denny (3-3, 3.19 ERA) holds the Astros to four hits and one earned run over eight innings.

National League Scores


Injuries

CF Andre Dawson (.206, 2 HR, 16 RBI) is expected to miss about 4 weeks with a fractured jaw. He is placed on the 15-day disabled list. LF Jerry White (.325, 1 HR, 12 RBI - AAA) recalled from Triple A Denver. Super-utility man Del Unser will be replacing Dawson in CF while White will keep the bench warm and will double as the bat boy.

2B Billy Smith (.266, 1 HR, 4 RBI) is day-to-day for about 3 days with back spasms. Billy will be lucky to get in a game in the next 3 days even if he wasn't injured.

Short Season Single A Update
Rockledge Ponies (25-12) at Jamestown Expos (23-14)

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 R H E Rockledge 2 0 0 0 1 0 2 1 0 6 9 0 Jamestown 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 x 0 5 0 WP: Domingo Gonzales (5-1, 3.56 ERA) LP: Aurelio Roman (3-1, 3.38 ERA) SV: None POG: Domingo Gonzales 9 IP, 5 H, 0 ER, 5 K Attendance: 2,284 The loss puts us three games back with 16 to go.

Today we were out-hit, out-pitched and out-matched in every way as Rockledge starter Domingo Gonzales shut us down completely. Mark Hutchinson (.287) and Alfredo Aranda (.254) have two hits apiece, combining for four of our five hits as a team. Julian Ramirez (.282, 12 RBI) scores three runs on two hits for the evil empire, including his second home run of the season. Home Runs: ROC: Julian Ramirez (2) JAM: None

[GrimmyDee]

Burroughs Blasts The Expos
May 18, 1977
When you talk to Atlanta's Jeff Burroughs (.254, 9 HR, 23 RBI), he will be the first to tell you he knows his role on the team. He is a guy who is hitting in the cleanup spot and is expected to drive in runs every way possible. Burroughs will also tell you however, that his performance has waned over the last few years.

"Atlanta gave me a fresh start to get my game in order." Burroughs said before todays game with the Expos. "I will not forget that. It's time I came through for them."

And come through he did as he hits two home runs and drives in five runners to lead the Braves to a 9-3 victory over Montreal. Jerry Royster (.190) scores three times and Gary Matthews (.257, 11 RBI) brings home three runs while scoring two himself to help add to the Atlanta offense.

The game could have possibly been much closer, had mental mistakes not cost the Expos, particularly a muffed ground ball by Kurt Bevacqua (his 2nd) that not only led to a two-run double by Matthews, but also the first home run by Burroughs, a two-run blast that gave the Braves a 4-2 lead.

"I'm not going to get all upset and aggrivated about this - my doctor said I need to take it easy." Expos manager Dick Williams said afterward."But @#%$&!, if !@$#&* Bevacqua makes that !@$#!&% play, we are up 2-0 and the @*&#$ momentum is on our side. One stupid little @$#%@ ground ball! You learn that in @#$%^# little league! Now I'm going to have a @%$!# heart attack because of that little @#&^%."


American League News
Sixto Lezcano (.252, 4 HR, 25 RBI) goes 2-for-2, but walks four times, scores four times and drives in four runs in a Milwaukee 19-2 thrashing of the Blue Jays. Jim Gantner (.280, 1 HR, 8 RBI) and Charlie Moore (.311, 10 RBI) each drive in four runs and score twice, Von Joshua (.203, 13 RBI) has three hits, two runs and two RBI, and Jim Wohlford (.170, 7 RBI) scores twice and drives in a run on his three hits. Starter Bill Travers (4-1, 2.17 ERA) is the beneficiary as he cruises to a four-hit complete game.

Ken Brett (4-4, 2.93 ERA) stops the White Sox skid at six games as he allows seven hits in a 6-2 complete game win over Kansas City. Brett throws only 107 pitches in the win, 72 of them for strikes.

Toby Harrah (.277, 6 HR, 22 RBI) takes Detroit closer John Hiller (1-1, 2 BS) deep with two out in the bottom of the ninth inning for a two-run, walk-off home run to give the Rangers a 4-3 victory. The loss ruins the performance of Tigers starter Dennis Leonard (4.17 ERA), who gives up two runs on just four hits while striking out five.

American League Scores


National League News
Atlanta defeats the Expos 9-3 behind two home runs and five RBI from Jeff Burroughs (.254, 9 HR, 23 RBI). Jerry Royster (.190) scores three times and Gary Matthews (.257, 11 RBI, 13 SB) drives in three runs of his own, scores twice and steals two bases.

Pittsburgh wins game two of the division leaders as they use a seven run eighth inning to crush Jack Billingham (4-4) and the Reds 9-1. Jerry Reuss (4-0, 2.61 ERA) strikes out six and allows just five hits in his first complete game of the season. Player of the Week winner Ed Ott (.308, 14 RBI) leads the Pirates offense with three hits and two runs batted in.

Philadelphia wins thier ninth game in their last ten with a 4-3 squeaker over the Dodgers. In eight innings, starter Wayne Twitchell (5-0, 1.70 ERA) gives up back-to-back solo home runs to Ron Cey (.234, 5 HR, 16 RBI) and Don Baylor (.295, 3 HR, 17 RBI), then later another solo shot to Rick Monday (.270, 5 HR, 14 RBI), but those are the only hits he allows as he strikes out five for the win.

National League Scores


Injuries

SP Rick Rhoden (4-2, 2.48 ERA) is day-to-day for about 2 weeks with a strained back muscle. The Dodgers have an off day at Rhoden's next scheduled start - they may skip a start to give him some additional rest.

SS Julio Gonzalez (.197, 4 RBI) is day-to-day for about 3 days with a tender shoulder. This is a non-issue due to Julio being a role player. He should not miss any time.

Major Transactions

RF Jim Norris is activated from the disabled list. RF Charlie Spikes (.333, 2 RBI, 9 AB) demoted to Triple A Toledo. Norris will assume his starting duties patrolling right field.

Short Season Single A Update
Rockledge Ponies (26-12) at Jamestown Expos (23-15)

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 R H E Rockledge 1 0 2 0 2 0 5 0 0 10 18 0 Jamestown 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 1 7 1 WP: Patrick Walker (7-1, 0.83 ERA) LP: Juan Carlos Garcia (4-4, 3.81 ERA) SV: None POG: Patrick Walker 9 IP, 7 H, 1 ER, 5 K Attendance: 2,203 Walker has allowed more than 1 run once this season.

Today I believe we met up with the best pitcher in the league, and his name is Patrick Walker. Walker shut down our offense and even though we had seven hits, they were rarely in the same inning and almost never in scoring position. Our pitching was sub-par, with Bruce Oliver (8.22 ERA) throwing the final match on the powder keg by giving up a pinch-hit, three-run home run to Nick Basset in the seventh that put the game out of reach. Home Runs: ROC: Nick Basset (1) JAM: None

[GrimmyDee]

Niekro Knuckles Up Against Cubs
Thursday, May 19, 1977
"I am being completely honest here." Cubs right fielder Bobby Murcer said after tonight's game against the Atlanta Braves. "I have never asked to be taken out of a game. Ever. But whenever I have to face Niekro and that damn knuckleball of his, I don't want to go out there - he takes the fun out of it."

Today, Phil Niekro (5-4, 3.28 ERA) was at it again, holding the Cubs to just four hits and one earned run while striking out seven to help the Braves to a 4-1 victory. While it was not his best game with his control, it was his inconsistency that made him so effective.

"The man threw wild pitches, he hit people, hell he even balked for crying out loud!" Murcer added. "How in the hell are we supposed to hit the ball when even he doesn't know where in the heck it is going?"


American League News
Minnesota starter Dave Goltz (5-2, 3.11 ERA) keeps the Angels to three hits and a Ike Hampton (.376, 5 HR, 14 RBI) solo home run while striking out six through eight innings in a 3-2 Twins victory. Nolan Ryan (5-4) strikes out eight in the loss.

In a game that lasts just over five hours, Dave McKay (.375) doubles to open the top of the 18th inning, then scores on two wild pitches by reliever Eduardo Rodriguez (0-1) - who was in his fifth inning of relief - to give the Blue Jays a 5-4 victory and running their record to 13-1 in one-run games. McKay scores three runs after coming in to pinch-run in the seventh and Gary Woods (.239) leads the Toronto hitters with three. Cecil Cooper (.273, 14 RBI) has four hits in seven at-bats and Don Money (.287, 19 RBI) adds three more in the loss. Every starter in the game has at least one hit, except for Toronto's Otto Velez, who goes 0-for-7 with five strikeouts.

In Seattle's 5-1 loss to the Athletics, both Mariners starter Dick Pole (1-6, 5.33 ERA) and Oakland's Wayne Gross are tossed after a bench clearing brawl that starts when Pole hits Gross in the back with a pitch. Pole had just given up a home run to Mitchell Page (.348, 7 HR, 24 RBI) and Gross felt being hit was intentional. Others say that Pole just can't pitch. Either way, both men receive two-game suspensions for their roles in the fracas.

American League Scores



National League News
Gaylord Perry gets win number 237 to move into the top 40 of the career wins list and tied with Clark Griffith and Waite Hoyt. Perry (5-4, 3.28 ERA) allows just four hits and strikes out seven in leading Atlanta to a 4-1 win over the Cubs.

All of the scoring happens in the first inning as San Diego jumps on the Expos early with six runs and cruises to a 6-1 win. Dan Freisleben (2-6, 5.01 ERA) strikes out six and gives up just five hits through eight innings and Bob Stinson (.291, 2 HR, 26 RBI) hits a three-run home run to provide all of the offense Freisleben would need.

Dave Parker (.297, 8 HR, 28 RBI) sends the home town crowd that stay past midnight as he puts an Al Downing (1-1, 4.15 ERA) pitch into the left field seats for a walk-off home run and a 5-3 victory over the Dodgers. Phil Garner (.308) has three hits for the Pirates and steals his 22nd base of the year while Manny Mota (.394) collects three hits for Los Angeles. Terry Forster (3-0, 2.40 ERA) goes three scoreless innings in relief for the win.

Houston's Willie Crawford (.429, 1 HR, 6 RBI) hits his first home run of the season in spectacular fashion as he hits a two-out grand slam in the bottom of the ninth off of closer Gene Garber (1-3, 5.93 ERA) to down the Phillies, 9-5. Cesar Cedeno (.250) has three hits and scores twice while Joe Ferguson (.191, 15 RBI) drives in three runs with his two hits to lead the Houston offense.

National League Scores


Injuries

MR Stan Wall (2-2, 4.05 ERA) is day-to-day for about 2 weeks with back spasms. Depending on how well LA plays, they may not even need Wall for the next two weeks.

Contract Signings

SP Reggie Cleveland (5-2, 3.35 ERA) signs a 7-year extension worth a total of $10,682,000. He will earn $1,373,000 in 1978. He will earn $1,424,000 in 1979. He will earn $1,475,000 in 1980. He will earn $1,526,000 in 1981. He will earn $1,577,000 in 1982. He will earn $1,628,000 in 1983. He will earn $1,679,000 in 1984.

SP Bruce Kison (4-2, 3.13 ERA) signs a 7-year extension worth a total of $11,137,000. He will earn $1,432,000 in 1978. He will earn $1,485,000 in 1979. He will earn $1,538,000 in 1980. He will earn $1,591,000 in 1981. He will earn $1,644,000 in 1982. He will earn $1,697,000 in 1983. He will earn $1,750,000 in 1984.

SP John Montefusco (3-5, 3.88 ERA) signs a 2-year extension worth a total of $1,034,240. He will earn $517,120 a year through 1978.

Short Season Single A Update
No Games Scheduled

[GrimmyDee]

Sorry to have been away for a bit - just found out I am going to be a dad again.

Still trying to pick myself off the floor.

[GrimmyDee]

Dodgers Lose Sixth In A Row
Friday, May 20, 1977
With the loss today to the Pittsburgh Pirates sedning them to their sixth consecutive defeat, the Los Angeles Dodgers drop to third place in the NL West, less than a week after taking the division lead from Cincinnati.

"We just picked a bad time to have a cold spell." Dodgers manger Tom Lasorda said. "It happens. We got up there once and we'll do it again. I am not worried about this team at all."

Odell Jones (2-0, 2.95 ERA) shuts down the Dodgers offense, holding them to five hits while also striking out five. Jones even helped his own cause by hitting a double in the thrid inning and scoring the Pirates first run on a two-run single from Dave Parker (.296, 30 RBI).

"Would you believe I was going for the line?" said Jones after the game. "People may not beleive this, but I am much better than my average (.200) indicates. If I had enough at-bats, I could bat seventh or eighth on most teams."

When told of these comments, Pirates manager Chuck Tanner had this to say.

"He's dreaming."

Don Sutton (3.06 ERA) takes the loss and drops to 4-4 for Los Angeles, as he gives up seven hits and all three runs while getting five strikeouts.


American League News
The six game winning streak of the Indians comes to an end, 2-0, at the hands of Kansas City and pitcher Andy Hassler (4-2, 1.44 ERA) who shuts out the Tribe on five hits. Wayne Garland (5-3) takes the complete game loss for Cleveland.

The woes of the Tigers continue as Jorge Orta (.246, 4 HR, 21 RBI) drives in four runs on three hits and scores twice while Wayne Nordhagen (.220) scores two runs of his own on his trio of hits to give Chicago a 11-3 triumph. The loss is Detroit's sixth in their last eight games and had dropped them to fifth in the AL East.

Rick Dempsey (.233, 1 HR, 5 RBI) hits a grand slam and Eddie Murray (.341, 5 HR, 26 RBI)adds a three-run shot as the Orioles crush New York 12-2 in Yankee Stadium. Mark Belanger (.243) has three hits and scores twice while Ken Singleton (.368, 16 RBI) drives in two runs and scores two times on his three hits for Baltimore. Ross Grimsley (3-5, 6.88 ERA) gets the complete game win, scattering nine hits. Reggie Jackson (.338, 28 RBI) hits his league-leading 10th home run for the Yankees.

Texas get three consecutive singles from Jimmy Sexton (.250), Mike Hargrove (.200) and Roy Howell (.284, 15 RBI) off of reliever Jerry Garvin (1-1, 5.40 ERA) and closer Pete Vukovich to beat the Blue Jays 5-4 and hand Toronto their first loss in extra innings (6-1) and second one-run loss (13-2). Al Woods (.286, 12 RBI) hits four singles and starter Jeff Byrd (2.05 ERA) strikes out 11 hitters in seven innings, getting no decision in the loss.

California scores six runs in the first five innings thanks to two solo home runs from Bobby Bonds (.237, 8 HR, 22 RBI) then withstand a late Twins rally to win, 6-5. Bonds has three hits on the day while Butch Wynegar (.303) performs the deed in the loss. Larry Hisle (.255, 24 RBI) drives in two runs on three hits before being forced to leave the game with a knee injury in the seventh.

Steve Braun (.262) goes 4-for-4 and Dave Collins (.343, 16 RBI, 26 SB) adds three more, but Seattle falls to the Athletics 13-4 as Manny Sanguillen (.280, 15 RBI) drives in four runs on three hits, Billy North (.208, 8 RBI, 16 SB) drives in three and Pete LaCock (.191, 8 RBI) hits a pair of RBI doubles. Seattle leaves 12 men on base as a team, as they only score four runs on 14 hits.

American League Scores


National League News
Pittsburgh's Odell Jones (2-0, 2.95 ERA) sends the Dodgers to their sixth consecutive defeat as he shuts them out on five hits while striking out five. Don Sutton (4-4, 3.06 ERA) takes the loss, giving up three earned runs on seven hits with five strikeouts of his own. The loss drops Los Angeles to third in the NL West, less than a week after taking the division lead from Cincinnati.

With their 9-6 win over the Cardinals, San Francisco moves into second place in the NL East and just a 1/2 game behind the Reds for the division lead. George Thomasson (.282) drives in his NL-leading 31st RBI and scores two runs with three hits for the Giants and Bob Knepper (3-1, 4.23 ERA) gives up four runs (two earned) on five hits in eight innings, striking out five to get the win.

Philadelphia goes 14 innings before getting away with a 2-1 win over the Astros as Davey Johnson (.271, 10 RBI) singles home Mike Schmidt in the top of the inning for the winning run. Jim Lonborg (2.80 ERA) gives up five hits in nine innings for the Phillies while Ken Forsch (1.76 ERA) goes 7 2/3 innings giving up five hits, but neither pitcher gets a decision. Tug McGraw (1-0, 3.00 ERA) throws three scoreless innings to get the win.

National League Scores


Injuries

LF Larry Hisle (.255, 7 HR, 24 RBI) is expected to miss about 2 weeks with a damaged meniscus (knee). He is placed on the 15-day disabled list. CF Willie Norwood (.236, 2 HR, 22 RBI - AAA) recalled from Triple A Tacoma. Lyman Bostock will be moving over to LF with Norwood covering the CF spot.

Contract Signings

CF Derrel Thomas (.295, 13 RBI) signs a 1-year contract extension worth a total of $140,000.

Major Transactions

SP Andy Hassler is activated from the disabled list. MR George Throop (0-0, 3.68 ERA, 7.1 IP) demoted to Triple A Omaha. The Hassler Effect is immediate as he shuts out the Indians on five hits.

Short Season Single A Update
Jamestown Expos (23-16) at Batavia Trojans (21-18)

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 R H E Jamestown 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 1 6 0 Batavia 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 1 0 2 5 0 WP: Rafael Lara (2-2, 2.57 ERA) LP: Sandro Duarte (1-3, 2.60 ERA) SV: Miguel Holguin (3) POG: Rafael Lara 8 IP, 5 H, 1 ER, 7 K Attendance: 2,640 The loss gives us our second 3-game losing streak of the year.

First the good news - we outhit Batavia 6-5 with Richard Adams (.302) getting two of them for us good guys. The bad news however, was another managerial faux pas as I pulled starter Jeff Bradley (3.03 ERA) after 6.2 innings as he allowed just four hits and one earned run. While Sandro Duarte didn't pitched poorly, he did give up the game-winning home run to Manuel Luna (.226, 15 RBI) in the eighth inning. Home Runs: JAM: None BAT: Manuel Luna (4)

[GrimmyDee]

Larson Blanks Phillies
Saturday, May 21, 1977
Last year as a starter Dan Larson had a solid rookie season, going 5-8 with a 3.02 ERA for the Astros. So when he was asked to move to the bullpen to begin the 1977 season, some would have thought the youngsters confidence would be shaken.

"Hey, I am just thankful to big in the big leagues." Larson said before the game against Philadelphia today. "The rotation or the bullpen, it doesn't matter - just as long as I can play this game, I am cool with it."

After eight appearances out of the bullpen however, Larson (1-2, 3.06 ERA) made his first start of the season, throwing a three-hit complete game shutout, 5-0. He got his opportunity due to the ineffectiveness of veteran Joe Niekro, who has yet to win a game with a 5.28 ERA.

"I will admit, it felt good to be out there to start a game." said Larson postgame. "But when you are on a roll like we are, it doesn't matter. As long as you hold up your end of the deal, your teammates will come through for you."

Julio Gonzalez (.233, 7 RBI) leads the Houston offense with three hits and two runs batted in.


American League News
Vern Ruhle (3-4, 3.43 ERA) gives up four hits in eight innings as Detroit gets a road win, 3-0, over the White Sox at Comiskey Park. Chicago starter Francisco Barrios (0-6) loses his sixth consecutive game, giving up two earned runs over 8 1/3 innings.

Cleveland bats fall silent again as Royals starter Marty Pattin (5-3, 2.91 ERA) goes the distance in leading Kansas City to a 6-1 win, allowing six hits and striking out three.

Seattle's Bill Stein (.237, 18 RBI) has three runs batted in, his last two coming in the top of the eighth off of Dave Giusti (0-2, 2 BS, 7.88 ERA) for the go-ahead runs and a 4-3 Mariners victory over Oakland. Starter Rick Jones (4.43 ERA) goes seven innings, giving up four hits and two runs before giving way to eventual winner Dave Pagan (1-2). Doc Medich (3.36 ERA) gave up one earned run and six hits in eight innings while not getting a decision for Oakland.

Boston overcomes three George Scott errors (his 4th, 5th, 6th) to come from behind and score a 5-4 victory over the Brewers. Carl Yastrzemski (.351, 8 HR, 20 RBI) hits his 346th career home run for the go-ahead run and Rick Burleson (.225, 16 RBI) hits a pair of doubles as part of a three hit performance to lead the Red Sox offense.

Claudell Washington (.265, 5 HR, 26 RBI) and Roy Howell (.295, 3 HR, 18 RBI) each have three hits, including two-run home runs and both drive in three runs apiece as Texas triples up on Toronto 9-3. Ron Fairly (.270, 6 HR, 21 RBI) drives in all of the runs for the Blue Jays with a three-run homer in the the third inning as they lose there fourth in five games.

American League Scores


National League News
After eight appearances out the bullpen, Houston pitcher Dan Larson (1-2, 3.06 ERA) throws a three-hitter in his first start of the season as the Astros blank Philadelphia, 5-0. Larson whiffs seven hitters while Julio Gonzalez (.233, 7 RBI) leads the offense with three hits and two runs batted in. A starter last season, Larson was moved to the bullpen at the beginning of this year.

With the two outs and the bases loaded in the bottom of the 11th inning, Giants pitcher Gary Lavelle walks Jeff Davanon (4 RBI) on seven pitches to give the Cardinals a 2-1 win. Dave Heaverlo (2-1, 2.25 ERA) starts the inning giving up a single to Bake McBride (.324) and inducing Keith Hernandez to fly out. Lavelle then comes in and is greeted with a Ted Simmons (.252) single followed by a intentional walk to Buddy Bell to load the bases. Jerry Mumphrey then flies out leading to the dramatic walk-off...walk.

With both teams scoreless through eight innings, Atlanta's Jeff Burroughs (.261, 10 HR, 25 RBI) breaks up the shutout with a one-out, two-run walk off home run off Cubs starter Steve Renko (5-3, 2.57 ERA) to give the Braves a 2-0 victory. Jaime Easterly (5.40 ERA) starts for the first time in over a month for Atlanta and throws seven scoreless innings - allowing just four hits. Renko strikes out seven in the loss, giving up seven hits in 8 1/3 innings.

With two out in the bottom of the ninth, the Expos string together three consecutive hits off of San Diego's Rollie Fingers (1-3, 4 BS, 8.47 ERA) - the last being a two-run double by Warren Cromartie (.276, 5 RBI) to tie the game at five runs apiece. Brent Strom then replaces Fingers and promptly gives up a game-winning double to Ellis Valentine (.291, 10 RBI). Bill Almon (.237, 20 RBI) collects three hits in the loss while Padres' starter Randy Jones (3.95 ERA) scatters seven hits and two runs in eight innings before giving way to La Gran Moustache.

Craig Swan (2-2, 2.66 ERA) holds the potent Reds offense to three hits and one earned run through eight innings to give the Mets a 6-2 win. Felix Milan (.260, 17 RBI) hits a bases clearing double while John Sterns (.265, 4 HR, 17 RBI) and Leo Foster (.203, 1 HR, 2 RBI) each hit solo home runs for New York.

Ron Cey (.235, 6 HR, 19 RBI) hits a three-run blast and Steve Garvey (.258, 24 RBI) delivers a bases loaded double to drive in three more runs as the Dodgers beat Pittsburgh, 9-3. Tommy John (2-4, 3.60 ERA) throws his fourth complete game of the year, striking out seven and allowing seven hits.

National League Scores



Short Season Single A Update
Jamestown Expos (23-17) at Batavia Trojans (22-18)

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 R H E Jamestown 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 12 0 Batavia 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 1 WP: Bill Newton (6-1, 3.38 ERA) LP: Brooks Edwards (4-4, 3.62 ERA) SV: Tommy Campbell (3) POG: Bill Newton 5.2 IP, 2 H, 0 ER, 3 K Attendance: 3.246 Bill Newton wins his third straight game.

While our offense amassed 12 hits, led by three from Daron Hurley (.304) and two each from Weldon Williams (.317), Juan Madrigal (.286) and Alfredo Aranda (.259), we could only manage one solitary run. Luckily, we had our pitching staff in the groove. Even though I took out Bill Newton WAY too early, Sandro Duarte (2.48 ERA), Brian Little (1.02 ERA) and Tommy Campbell (1.62 ERA) pitched 3.1 hitless innings to hold down the win. Home Runs: JAM: None BAT: None