Centurion comes...to OOTP5 - Page 5

darkcloud4579 · 07-08-2003, 02:49 AM

GREAT PLAINS EXPRESS
SIOUX FALLS, S.D. - Major League Baseball announced today that it would move the New England Whitecaps to Sioux Falls, SD. Instead of naming the team after a particular state, the team will be named the Great Plains Express.

"We wanted to recognize the trek made by many settlers through the region, while also giving the club a distinct moniker", said Express owner former Reds outfielder Jeff Jones.

Sioux Falls was selected because of its proximity to Iowa, Nebraska and North Dakota, providing the region's fans a different baseball atmosphere, while staying true to the heartland.

"We haven't had our own teams to cheer for. So this will be very special," said Donny Batrelli, a bartender from Aberdeen. Major League Baseball said it was excited and that the now public Community Baseball Project had been a success.

"We're glad to take a team and put baseball where it belongs, in the heartland," said Minnesota Twins owner Kent Hrbek.

The Express will play at Gateway Park, a 32,000 seat stadium in Sioux Falls.

darkcloud4579 · 07-08-2003, 03:05 AM

TOURISTS SIGN FIRST MAJOR FREE AGENT
ORLANDO - The Orlando Tourists hope Manny Ramirez can give their franchise instant credibility, despite being 38. "I come here to do best I can for the team. I'm not done yet", said Ramirez after signing a 2 year deal with the Orlando club. Ramirez cited the large Hispanic influence as a huge attraction and said he hoped to bring the club success early to keep fans interested.

"We want to do well for the city", said Ramirez.

The Tourists also acquired SP Jeremy Bonderman from Detroit for a minor leaguer. Bonderman, 26, had been moved out of the rotation over the past few years, but is still young and is expected to be able to help to expansion club be successful. And after playing for the Tigers, this expansion club might be a step up.

darkcloud4579 · 07-08-2003, 03:23 AM

While Oregon already outspends the rest of the league and thus remained quiet this off-season, other teams had tons of money to shell out.

Let's see who got what.

NOTABLE FREE AGENT SIGNINGS & TRADES
Anchorage traded Jose Cruz, Jr. to the NY Mets for Ben Grieve

SP Dontrelle Willis, 4 yrs/$12 million - San Diego
RF Manny Ramirez, 3 yrs/$12 million - Orlando
RF Jermaine Dye, 4 yrs/$24 million - Indiana
LF Pat Burrell, 4 yrs/$58 million - Philadelphia
RF Ryan Church, 4 yrs/$21 million - Chicago
CF Larry McGillicuddy, 4 yrs/$17 million - Boston
RP Armando Benitez, 3 yrs/$10 million - New Orleans
1B Nick Johnson, 4 yrs/$20 million - Detroit
SP Dustin Moseley, 5 yrs/$22 million - Tokyo
SS Rafael Furcal, 4 yrs/$13 million - Boston
2B Jose Vidro, 5 yrs/$35 million - Houston
1B John-Erik Larsen, 3 yrs/$10 million - Philadelphia

Colorado traded 1B Todd Helton to Arizona for LF Dave Dellucci (apparently, Dellucci had 34 homers and 112 RBI last year, a career year...still, trade baffles me)

darkcloud4579 · 07-08-2003, 07:40 AM

Transition marked the start of the new league, with teams in new stadiums, new cities and new teams the season offered much to fans who are probably more excited this year than in past years.

MILESTONE MADNESS
Alex Rodriguez, 33, of the Texas Rangers hit his 600th homer recently. The young star is just 85 homers behind Barry Bonds for the all-time record in Modern Era history. Sammy Sosa, 38, who is presently a free agent is just three homers away from taking the record for himself. No doubt A-Rod will own the record for himself, its just a matter of time.

Here's hoping Sammy gets a chance for some time in the spotlight, after a long, prosperous career.

Ken Griffey, Jr., is just 21 homers away from 600 and 73 hits from 3000 hits for his career.

Manny Ramirez is 18 homers from 500.
Vlad Guerrero is 20 homers from 500.

EMS MAKE TRADES
The Oregon Emeralds have traded perennial great Pedro Martinez to Sacramento for a prospect. The great will undoubtely be a hall of famer, having had his best years in Oregon. He had three-20 win seasons in Portland and won his only Modern Era Cy Young with the Ems. He also captured his only World Series ring as a member of the club.

The Ems also traded Brandon Claussen and Kevin Millar to the Orlando Travelers for a prospect.

Both trades were salary dumping deals. Martinez is a free agent at the end of the season.

DID YOU KNOW?
Sacramento's Pedro Martinez, with 263 career wins is fourth on the all-time Modern Era list and is the active career leader. Who's second? Indiana's Kevin Milwood, with a mere 159 wins, good for 16th all-time. Needless to say, it will be a long time, before someone reaches the standard that Pedro set.

darkcloud4579 · 07-08-2003, 12:17 PM

ORLANDO SIGNS SOSA, TRADES HIM AND PITCHER TO TOKYO
ORLANDO - Sammy Sosa, 40, is looking to become the all-time homers leader in Modern Era baseball is just three behind Barry Bonds. Tokyo, sagging in standings offered Sosa with a chance to break the record.

"We're glad Sammy decided to come over", said manager Bobby Valentine. He said the club would use Sosa as the starter in Right Field starting tomorrow.

Site is updated

darkcloud4579 · 07-08-2003, 12:30 PM

STAR CLOSER COMES TO OREGON
PORTLAND - The Oregon Emeralds today traded C Josh Eagan, SS Miguel Cabera and a minor leaguer to Boston for a minor leaguer, CL Thomas O'Rear and SP Odalis Perez.

"This was a great way for us to bolster our lineup for the playoffs," said Dark Cloud. The Emeralds are dominating the AL Pacific, but there are rumors that Centurion might be leaving the club soon, to pursue another project.

"We are very happy here in Oregon and will continue to be for the foreseeable future," said Dark Cloud, who mentioned that there were two years left on the company's deal in Oregon. Historically, Centurion leaves clubs after winning more than 1 World Series, as it seeks out clubs needed its services.

"We are historically not in the business of "running up the score", ideally if we do our job right, teams will be good well after we're gone. But our concern is helping franchises while we're there and we certainly will not be here forever, just because of the nature of this operation. But we're here now", he added.

darkcloud4579 · 07-08-2003, 02:29 PM

SAMMY SOSA, HOME RUN KING
TOKYO - Sammy Sosa jacked his 683 homer, to become Modern Era's all-time home-run king.

ALL-STAR BREAK
The Midsummer class is upon us and while this game counts for nothing - home field advantage in Modern Era is alternating..(grr)

In the AL East, New Jersey is holding off Boston by 5 games and New York by 7 games.

In the AL Central, Indiana and Minnesota are tied for the division lead. Toronto and Detroit are both 5 games back.

In the AL South, Louisville leads Raleigh by 3 games, with Texas 7 games behind the leader.

In the AL Pacific, Oregon leads the pack again, looking for their sixth straight division title, the defending World Series champs are leading Sacramento by 15 games.

In the NL East, Pittsburgh leads Philadelphia by 4 games. Despite a new ballpark, the New York Mets are still in the doldrums, 14 games out and in last place.

In the NL Central, St. Louis leads Great Plains by 2 games, with Chicago 4 games back.

In the NL West, San Francisco leads Los Angeles and San Diego by 6 games and Colorado is back 8 games in last place.

In the NL South, Arizona leads Atlanta by a game, with New Orleans lurking 8 games behind and Houston in last 9 games back.

CHEERIO, DETROIT
LONDON, ENGLAND - Media mogul Paul Contac has reportedly shown interest in buying the Detroit Tigers. Magnate of the UK satellite network RealTV, he has made billions on wireless television and broadband media throughout the world. He moved to America as a boy and said he always fell in love with baseball.

"I love the game and would love the opportunity to invest in a club", said Contac.

darkcloud4579 · 07-08-2003, 02:37 PM

OREGON Emeralds star Vladimir Guerrero is out five weeks with a torn calf muscle. To compensate, several minor leaguers in Oregon's touted system were brought up.

We'll see if the Ems can hold onto their big lead or if it will dwindle away with Vlad's absence.

darkcloud4579 · 07-08-2003, 03:29 PM

WRECKING CO. COMES BACK TO OREGON
PORTLAND - In 2004, the Ems acquired a young centerfielder from LA named Jason "Wrecking Company" Repko. Despite amazing talent, the Ems sent him to New York for three players, including 1B Jason Pressley - who still plays for the Ems now.

The team got him back recently, in a four player deal that sent three top prospects including SP Scott Maine and SP Sai Tetsunori to New York for the 28 year old Centerfield. Repko has hit over 200 homers since leaving Oregon and looks poised to fill the gap in Centerfield for the next few years.

"I'm delighted to be back in the Centurion fold", said Repko after the Mets never finished higher than 3rd in his time there. "I'm happy to be playing for a contender. It was hard watching last year's World Series, because I felt like I ought to be here. I'm glad it was able to be worked out, because while those player they sent for me were great, I'll make it worth the while of the club for saving me", he said.

"Its no doubt hard to trade two, strong lefthanders away. Trust me, I didn't want to do it. But Jason's abilities are beyond reproach and he can strengthen our ballclub even more", said Dark Cloud about the trade.

darkcloud4579 · 07-08-2003, 06:37 PM

Another regular season is in the books.

The league site has been updated up to and including Game 2 of the World Series.

As a special bonus, I've uploaded the box scores from the last 24 days, so it includes all the playoff box scores. I don't normally do that, but maybe I will start for the playoffs every year?

We'll see what the fans think.

Modern Era considering salary cap
NEW YORK - The Board of Governors convened today in their pre-World Series session to discuss the increasing in spending by some teams (read: Oregon) over others. The Emeralds outspend the number 2 team in the league, in spending, Texas, by over $60 million dollars.

"It's an issue of fairness", said one source close to ownership that declined to give his name. "Why are teams being allowed to open their wallets and spend won-ton without regard for competition?"

Dark Cloud said they're mad because the team is doing well, "No one said a damn thing when I was spending $100 million a year and losing in the first round. Now that we've finally got it together and we're winning, everyone wants to complain. Yeah, we're beating the hell out of the competition, but that's the goal isn't it? They can do the same thing we're doing and they're not. For a while it worked, it's not anymore, so why should we be penalized", he said.

The Board of Governors is split on the issue. Most players are against a salary cap, for fear it will control and ultimately lower player salaries. Some owners, fear other teams will drive the costs of players even higher.

A decision is expected after the World Series.

FAN POLL
Should the Board of Governors implement a salary cap? [list=1][*]Yes[*]No[/list=1]

Jordan · 07-08-2003, 06:52 PM

no

darkcloud4579 · 07-08-2003, 07:06 PM

DIVISION SERIES
New teams made their first playoff appearances this year.

Indiana Racers (84-70) - The Central Division Champs win their first division title in franchise history. Considering this was the old Tampa Bay Devil Rays, it only took the club 11 years to win its first division title and that's pretty remarkable.

Pittsburgh Pirates (95-59) - The Bucs win their first division title in 17 years, clinching the NL East, ironically the team spent years in the NL Central and never won a title in that division, after leaving the NL East during the realignment of 1994.

MATCHUPS
Oregon v. Indiana
Texas v. New York
Arizona v. Pittsburgh
St. Louis v. San Francisco

Let the games begin!

darkcloud4579 · 07-08-2003, 07:24 PM

After starting the Series in typical Emeralds fashion - down 2-0 - the Ems brought out the bats for Game 3 against the Indiana Racers.

The winning continued as the Ems won the next four games and earned their second straight berth to the ALCS, this time to defend their title. A fun story is, the player who got the win in the ALDS clinching victory in
Game 6 was
Juan Serrano. Serrano, 30, has been a member of the club since our expansion season of 2003. However, he's only pitched in eight major league games since 2004, after being using pretty heavily those first two seasons on the club. Needless to say, he didn't get a World Series ring last year, but managed his first post-season victory in that game.

darkcloud4579 · 07-08-2003, 07:57 PM

2009 AMERICAN LEAGUE CHAMPIONSHIP SERIES
With a new momentum and even more powerful offense, the Oregon Emeralds were looking to advance to their second straight World Series.

In Game One, Mark Prior pitched 6 2/3 innings, passing the game off to K-Rod and Tom "Lights Out" O'Rear who sealed the deal for the Ems, putting them up 1-0 in the Series.

In Games Two and Three, the two teams combined for 56 hits. Despite those numbers, the Ems managed scored 24 runs in those two games, while the Rangers only scored half, to put themselves up 3 games to 0 in the series. Would this be the first sweep in franchise history?

OF COURSE NOT
The Ems gave up the next two games, falling behind in both games and failing to get back into either game, despite trying.

In Game 6 , The Ems got serious and won the game 4-1, propelling themselves to their second straight AL title and a chance to defend their World Series title.

darkcloud4579 · 07-08-2003, 08:28 PM

Box Score

PITCHERS DUEL
For all the critics who said Tim Hudson was finished, they obviously had no idea what they were talking about. Tim Hudson pitched a masterful complete game five-hitter, while Jason Repko drove in the winning run, giving the Ems a 1-0 lead in the Series.

"We're glad to get out in front, but we know the road is only beginning", said manager Ron Bronson, Jr., after the win. "We're going to go back and try to get a few more", he said.

darkcloud4579 · 07-08-2003, 08:59 PM

HEILMAN PITCHES STRONG AS EMS TAKE A 2-0 LEAD

SAN FRANCISCO - The Emeralds turned the tide in the Series taking the first two games on the road in the 2009 World Series against the San Francisco Giants. The Ems were buoyed by 7 2/3 innings by Aaron Heilman, who earned his third win of the post-season, striking out five.

Jason Repko and Miguel Tejada both had two RBI and Vlad Guerrero got his 9th double of the playoffs, to put the Ems up two games to zero in the series.

darkcloud4579 · 07-08-2003, 10:40 PM

FARM REPORT v. 2
October 11, 2009
Another season means another year of waiting for the best and brightest on the farm to spring up to the majors.

TITLE TOWN...
We all know the Oregon Emeralds are seeking their second straight World Series title, but there is actually a team looking for a three-peat - the Class A Galesburg Steamrollers. The Streamrollers have won the past two Class A titles, but this season came up short. The Cape Cod Tourists, the new Class A club of the Orlando Tourists, won the league title, snapping their run, as they finished in second.

So who picked up the slack? The Wenatchee (WA) Wranglers, the Emeralds Class AA club won the AL Double-A title this season, their second straight crown.

If that wasn't enough, the AAA Vancouver Canadians tied for the AAA title this year, giving the Ems their sixth minor league championship overall.

"We're delighted to see our teams doing well, it just shows how good a job our scouting department has done finding talent players for our organization year in and year out," said Dark Cloud.

AND MOSES LEAD THEM...
The Arizona Diamondbacks are hoping Matt Moses can lead them back to a World Series title. Signed as a free agent in 2004, this guy has taken his time through the system. He spent four years in A-ball, 2 years in Double A and after a few games in AAA this year and a whole year there last season, the D-Backs brought him up to the majors. In 48 games in the big show, he hit .411 with 3 homers and 13 RBI.

"We're excited about the potential for Matt on our club", said DBacks manager Jeff Bagwell.

HE-MAN, MASTER OF THE GREAT PLAINS
Lawrence Henslee has spent the past two years destroying AAA pitching. He has 136 RBI in over the past two seasons in AAA and should be ready to pounce on Major League pitching next season.

"He's awesome to watch", said Tony Perez, manager of the Great Plains Express. In batting practice, Henslee, called "He-Man" by his peers is known for towering shots. "This guy hits 'em where they ain't", said Carlos Delgado, who has been throughout his career for doing the same thing.

Look for He-Man coming to a ballpark near you next season.

darkcloud4579 · 07-08-2003, 11:12 PM

REPORT SAYS MATTINGLY CONTACTED CENTURION OFFICES
INDIANAPOLIS (AP) - The Associated Press has received insider information regarding contact by Indiana Racers manager and GM Don Mattingly, regarding Centurion and having the company take over operations of the team.

Mattingly nor the Centurion offices could be reached for the story.

The Racers, won their first division title this season - at the hands of Centurion's Oregon Emeralds, who are competing for their second straight World Series title.

In addition to Indiana, the New York Mets and New Orleans Pelicans are also rumored to be intereted in retaining Centurion's services.

"We know their reputation and what they've been able to build over the years. We would love to have that expertise here," said Mets owner Fred Wilpon, who would transfer a stake in ownership, as well as day-to-day operations to Centurion if the club decides to sign a deal with the club.

There is still one year left on the Centurion contract with Oregon, but the intensity over wooing Centurion is crucial, because many teams feel like they might have an edge if they knew Centurion was coming.

Despite these resports, Centurion officials have not confirmed the club is looking to go anyplace right now. While the club's officials have mentioned they will "not in stay in Oregon forever", they have made little indication about where the club will go. In the past, the club has traditionally gone to smaller markets, rather than larger ones.

The organization is expected to decide based on how well its club does in the playoffs this year and in the future.

darkcloud4579 · 07-08-2003, 11:24 PM

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darkcloud4579 · 07-09-2003, 12:03 PM

SAN FRANCISCO - Down 2-1 in the bottom of the 8th , the Giants tied the game after a homer from the Dane Sensation Orval Hajek, against his old club.

The game went to extra innings and in the extra frame, the Ems scored three runs in the 10th, to give the Ems a 3-0 lead in the 2009 WORLD SERIES.

C Palmer Mientkiewicz was 4 for 5 and increased his playoff batting average to .486. 2B Oneximo Espino had 2 RBI in the win, helping to catapult the Emeralds closer to their second straight World Series title. "We're happy about this, but we know there is still more to do," said closer Tom O'Rear, who got the win in tonight's game, after pitching 2 2/3 innings and blowing the save, with the homer from Hajek coming off him.

07-08-2003, 02:49 AM	#81
darkcloud4579 Hall Of Famer Join Date: Jun 2003 Posts: 8,685	INTRODUCING.... GREAT PLAINS EXPRESS SIOUX FALLS, S.D. - Major League Baseball announced today that it would move the New England Whitecaps to Sioux Falls, SD. Instead of naming the team after a particular state, the team will be named the Great Plains Express. "We wanted to recognize the trek made by many settlers through the region, while also giving the club a distinct moniker", said Express owner former Reds outfielder Jeff Jones. Sioux Falls was selected because of its proximity to Iowa, Nebraska and North Dakota, providing the region's fans a different baseball atmosphere, while staying true to the heartland. "We haven't had our own teams to cheer for. So this will be very special," said Donny Batrelli, a bartender from Aberdeen. Major League Baseball said it was excited and that the now public Community Baseball Project had been a success. "We're glad to take a team and put baseball where it belongs, in the heartland," said Minnesota Twins owner Kent Hrbek. The Express will play at Gateway Park, a 32,000 seat stadium in Sioux Falls.

07-08-2003, 03:05 AM	#82
darkcloud4579 Hall Of Famer Join Date: Jun 2003 Posts: 8,685	MANNY HEADED TO ORLANDO TOURISTS SIGN FIRST MAJOR FREE AGENT ORLANDO - The Orlando Tourists hope Manny Ramirez can give their franchise instant credibility, despite being 38. "I come here to do best I can for the team. I'm not done yet", said Ramirez after signing a 2 year deal with the Orlando club. Ramirez cited the large Hispanic influence as a huge attraction and said he hoped to bring the club success early to keep fans interested. "We want to do well for the city", said Ramirez. The Tourists also acquired SP Jeremy Bonderman from Detroit for a minor leaguer. Bonderman, 26, had been moved out of the rotation over the past few years, but is still young and is expected to be able to help to expansion club be successful. And after playing for the Tigers, this expansion club might be a step up.

07-08-2003, 03:23 AM	#83
darkcloud4579 Hall Of Famer Join Date: Jun 2003 Posts: 8,685	FREE AGENT SIGNINGS While Oregon already outspends the rest of the league and thus remained quiet this off-season, other teams had tons of money to shell out. Let's see who got what. NOTABLE FREE AGENT SIGNINGS & TRADES Anchorage traded Jose Cruz, Jr. to the NY Mets for Ben Grieve SP Dontrelle Willis, 4 yrs/$12 million - San Diego RF Manny Ramirez, 3 yrs/$12 million - Orlando RF Jermaine Dye, 4 yrs/$24 million - Indiana LF Pat Burrell, 4 yrs/$58 million - Philadelphia RF Ryan Church, 4 yrs/$21 million - Chicago CF Larry McGillicuddy, 4 yrs/$17 million - Boston RP Armando Benitez, 3 yrs/$10 million - New Orleans 1B Nick Johnson, 4 yrs/$20 million - Detroit SP Dustin Moseley, 5 yrs/$22 million - Tokyo SS Rafael Furcal, 4 yrs/$13 million - Boston 2B Jose Vidro, 5 yrs/$35 million - Houston 1B John-Erik Larsen, 3 yrs/$10 million - Philadelphia Colorado traded 1B Todd Helton to Arizona for LF Dave Dellucci (apparently, Dellucci had 34 homers and 112 RBI last year, a career year...still, trade baffles me)

07-08-2003, 07:40 AM	#84
darkcloud4579 Hall Of Famer Join Date: Jun 2003 Posts: 8,685	2009 SEASON BEGINS Transition marked the start of the new league, with teams in new stadiums, new cities and new teams the season offered much to fans who are probably more excited this year than in past years. MILESTONE MADNESS Alex Rodriguez, 33, of the Texas Rangers hit his 600th homer recently. The young star is just 85 homers behind Barry Bonds for the all-time record in Modern Era history. Sammy Sosa, 38, who is presently a free agent is just three homers away from taking the record for himself. No doubt A-Rod will own the record for himself, its just a matter of time. Here's hoping Sammy gets a chance for some time in the spotlight, after a long, prosperous career. Ken Griffey, Jr., is just 21 homers away from 600 and 73 hits from 3000 hits for his career. Manny Ramirez is 18 homers from 500. Vlad Guerrero is 20 homers from 500. EMS MAKE TRADES The Oregon Emeralds have traded perennial great Pedro Martinez to Sacramento for a prospect. The great will undoubtely be a hall of famer, having had his best years in Oregon. He had three-20 win seasons in Portland and won his only Modern Era Cy Young with the Ems. He also captured his only World Series ring as a member of the club. The Ems also traded Brandon Claussen and Kevin Millar to the Orlando Travelers for a prospect. Both trades were salary dumping deals. Martinez is a free agent at the end of the season. DID YOU KNOW? Sacramento's Pedro Martinez, with 263 career wins is fourth on the all-time Modern Era list and is the active career leader. Who's second? Indiana's Kevin Milwood, with a mere 159 wins, good for 16th all-time. Needless to say, it will be a long time, before someone reaches the standard that Pedro set.

07-08-2003, 12:17 PM	#85
darkcloud4579 Hall Of Famer Join Date: Jun 2003 Posts: 8,685	SOSA GETS TRADED TO TOKYO ORLANDO SIGNS SOSA, TRADES HIM AND PITCHER TO TOKYO ORLANDO - Sammy Sosa, 40, is looking to become the all-time homers leader in Modern Era baseball is just three behind Barry Bonds. Tokyo, sagging in standings offered Sosa with a chance to break the record. "We're glad Sammy decided to come over", said manager Bobby Valentine. He said the club would use Sosa as the starter in Right Field starting tomorrow. Site is updated

07-08-2003, 12:30 PM	#86
darkcloud4579 Hall Of Famer Join Date: Jun 2003 Posts: 8,685	EMERALDS ACQUIRE O'REAR STAR CLOSER COMES TO OREGON PORTLAND - The Oregon Emeralds today traded C Josh Eagan, SS Miguel Cabera and a minor leaguer to Boston for a minor leaguer, CL Thomas O'Rear and SP Odalis Perez. "This was a great way for us to bolster our lineup for the playoffs," said Dark Cloud. The Emeralds are dominating the AL Pacific, but there are rumors that Centurion might be leaving the club soon, to pursue another project. "We are very happy here in Oregon and will continue to be for the foreseeable future," said Dark Cloud, who mentioned that there were two years left on the company's deal in Oregon. Historically, Centurion leaves clubs after winning more than 1 World Series, as it seeks out clubs needed its services. "We are historically not in the business of "running up the score", ideally if we do our job right, teams will be good well after we're gone. But our concern is helping franchises while we're there and we certainly will not be here forever, just because of the nature of this operation. But we're here now", he added.

07-08-2003, 02:29 PM	#87
darkcloud4579 Hall Of Famer Join Date: Jun 2003 Posts: 8,685	MIDSEASON UPDATE SAMMY SOSA, HOME RUN KING TOKYO - Sammy Sosa jacked his 683 homer, to become Modern Era's all-time home-run king. ALL-STAR BREAK The Midsummer class is upon us and while this game counts for nothing - home field advantage in Modern Era is alternating..(grr) In the AL East, New Jersey is holding off Boston by 5 games and New York by 7 games. In the AL Central, Indiana and Minnesota are tied for the division lead. Toronto and Detroit are both 5 games back. In the AL South, Louisville leads Raleigh by 3 games, with Texas 7 games behind the leader. In the AL Pacific, Oregon leads the pack again, looking for their sixth straight division title, the defending World Series champs are leading Sacramento by 15 games. In the NL East, Pittsburgh leads Philadelphia by 4 games. Despite a new ballpark, the New York Mets are still in the doldrums, 14 games out and in last place. In the NL Central, St. Louis leads Great Plains by 2 games, with Chicago 4 games back. In the NL West, San Francisco leads Los Angeles and San Diego by 6 games and Colorado is back 8 games in last place. In the NL South, Arizona leads Atlanta by a game, with New Orleans lurking 8 games behind and Houston in last 9 games back. CHEERIO, DETROIT LONDON, ENGLAND - Media mogul Paul Contac has reportedly shown interest in buying the Detroit Tigers. Magnate of the UK satellite network RealTV, he has made billions on wireless television and broadband media throughout the world. He moved to America as a boy and said he always fell in love with baseball. "I love the game and would love the opportunity to invest in a club", said Contac. Last edited by darkcloud4579; 07-08-2003 at 06:40 PM.

07-08-2003, 02:37 PM	#88
darkcloud4579 Hall Of Famer Join Date: Jun 2003 Posts: 8,685	GUERRERO OUT FIVE WEEKS OREGON Emeralds star Vladimir Guerrero is out five weeks with a torn calf muscle. To compensate, several minor leaguers in Oregon's touted system were brought up. We'll see if the Ems can hold onto their big lead or if it will dwindle away with Vlad's absence.

07-08-2003, 03:29 PM	#89
darkcloud4579 Hall Of Famer Join Date: Jun 2003 Posts: 8,685	EMS ACQUIRE JASON REPKO WRECKING CO. COMES BACK TO OREGON PORTLAND - In 2004, the Ems acquired a young centerfielder from LA named Jason "Wrecking Company" Repko. Despite amazing talent, the Ems sent him to New York for three players, including 1B Jason Pressley - who still plays for the Ems now. The team got him back recently, in a four player deal that sent three top prospects including SP Scott Maine and SP Sai Tetsunori to New York for the 28 year old Centerfield. Repko has hit over 200 homers since leaving Oregon and looks poised to fill the gap in Centerfield for the next few years. "I'm delighted to be back in the Centurion fold", said Repko after the Mets never finished higher than 3rd in his time there. "I'm happy to be playing for a contender. It was hard watching last year's World Series, because I felt like I ought to be here. I'm glad it was able to be worked out, because while those player they sent for me were great, I'll make it worth the while of the club for saving me", he said. "Its no doubt hard to trade two, strong lefthanders away. Trust me, I didn't want to do it. But Jason's abilities are beyond reproach and he can strengthen our ballclub even more", said Dark Cloud about the trade. Last edited by darkcloud4579; 07-08-2003 at 03:38 PM.

07-08-2003, 06:37 PM	#90
darkcloud4579 Hall Of Famer Join Date: Jun 2003 Posts: 8,685	2009 REGULAR SEASON ENDS Another regular season is in the books. The league site has been updated up to and including Game 2 of the World Series. As a special bonus, I've uploaded the box scores from the last 24 days, so it includes all the playoff box scores. I don't normally do that, but maybe I will start for the playoffs every year? We'll see what the fans think. Modern Era considering salary cap NEW YORK - The Board of Governors convened today in their pre-World Series session to discuss the increasing in spending by some teams (read: Oregon) over others. The Emeralds outspend the number 2 team in the league, in spending, Texas, by over $60 million dollars. "It's an issue of fairness", said one source close to ownership that declined to give his name. "Why are teams being allowed to open their wallets and spend won-ton without regard for competition?" Dark Cloud said they're mad because the team is doing well, "No one said a damn thing when I was spending $100 million a year and losing in the first round. Now that we've finally got it together and we're winning, everyone wants to complain. Yeah, we're beating the hell out of the competition, but that's the goal isn't it? They can do the same thing we're doing and they're not. For a while it worked, it's not anymore, so why should we be penalized", he said. The Board of Governors is split on the issue. Most players are against a salary cap, for fear it will control and ultimately lower player salaries. Some owners, fear other teams will drive the costs of players even higher. A decision is expected after the World Series. FAN POLL Should the Board of Governors implement a salary cap? [list=1][]Yes[]No[/list=1]

07-08-2003, 06:52 PM	#91
Jordan All Star Starter Join Date: Jul 2003 Location: Chi Suburbs now... Posts: 1,987	no

07-08-2003, 07:06 PM	#92
darkcloud4579 Hall Of Famer Join Date: Jun 2003 Posts: 8,685	2009 PLAYOFFS DIVISION SERIES New teams made their first playoff appearances this year. Indiana Racers (84-70) - The Central Division Champs win their first division title in franchise history. Considering this was the old Tampa Bay Devil Rays, it only took the club 11 years to win its first division title and that's pretty remarkable. Pittsburgh Pirates (95-59) - The Bucs win their first division title in 17 years, clinching the NL East, ironically the team spent years in the NL Central and never won a title in that division, after leaving the NL East during the realignment of 1994. MATCHUPS Oregon v. Indiana Texas v. New York Arizona v. Pittsburgh St. Louis v. San Francisco Let the games begin!

07-08-2003, 07:24 PM	#93
darkcloud4579 Hall Of Famer Join Date: Jun 2003 Posts: 8,685	EMS BRING OUT THE LUMBER After starting the Series in typical Emeralds fashion - down 2-0 - the Ems brought out the bats for Game 3 against the Indiana Racers. The winning continued as the Ems won the next four games and earned their second straight berth to the ALCS, this time to defend their title. A fun story is, the player who got the win in the ALDS clinching victory in Game 6 was Juan Serrano. Serrano, 30, has been a member of the club since our expansion season of 2003. However, he's only pitched in eight major league games since 2004, after being using pretty heavily those first two seasons on the club. Needless to say, he didn't get a World Series ring last year, but managed his first post-season victory in that game.

07-08-2003, 07:57 PM	#94
darkcloud4579 Hall Of Famer Join Date: Jun 2003 Posts: 8,685	ALCS 2009: TEXAS V. OREGON 2009 AMERICAN LEAGUE CHAMPIONSHIP SERIES With a new momentum and even more powerful offense, the Oregon Emeralds were looking to advance to their second straight World Series. In Game One, Mark Prior pitched 6 2/3 innings, passing the game off to K-Rod and Tom "Lights Out" O'Rear who sealed the deal for the Ems, putting them up 1-0 in the Series. In Games Two and Three, the two teams combined for 56 hits. Despite those numbers, the Ems managed scored 24 runs in those two games, while the Rangers only scored half, to put themselves up 3 games to 0 in the series. Would this be the first sweep in franchise history? OF COURSE NOT The Ems gave up the next two games, falling behind in both games and failing to get back into either game, despite trying. In Game 6 , The Ems got serious and won the game 4-1, propelling themselves to their second straight AL title and a chance to defend their World Series title.

07-08-2003, 08:28 PM	#95
darkcloud4579 Hall Of Famer Join Date: Jun 2003 Posts: 8,685	GAME 1 - 2009 WORLD SERIES Box Score PITCHERS DUEL For all the critics who said Tim Hudson was finished, they obviously had no idea what they were talking about. Tim Hudson pitched a masterful complete game five-hitter, while Jason Repko drove in the winning run, giving the Ems a 1-0 lead in the Series. "We're glad to get out in front, but we know the road is only beginning", said manager Ron Bronson, Jr., after the win. "We're going to go back and try to get a few more", he said.

07-08-2003, 08:59 PM	#96
darkcloud4579 Hall Of Famer Join Date: Jun 2003 Posts: 8,685	GAME 2 - 2009 WORLD SERIES HEILMAN PITCHES STRONG AS EMS TAKE A 2-0 LEAD SAN FRANCISCO - The Emeralds turned the tide in the Series taking the first two games on the road in the 2009 World Series against the San Francisco Giants. The Ems were buoyed by 7 2/3 innings by Aaron Heilman, who earned his third win of the post-season, striking out five. Jason Repko and Miguel Tejada both had two RBI and Vlad Guerrero got his 9th double of the playoffs, to put the Ems up two games to zero in the series.

07-08-2003, 10:40 PM	#97
darkcloud4579 Hall Of Famer Join Date: Jun 2003 Posts: 8,685	DOWN ON THE FARM... FARM REPORT v. 2 October 11, 2009 Another season means another year of waiting for the best and brightest on the farm to spring up to the majors. TITLE TOWN... We all know the Oregon Emeralds are seeking their second straight World Series title, but there is actually a team looking for a three-peat - the Class A Galesburg Steamrollers. The Streamrollers have won the past two Class A titles, but this season came up short. The Cape Cod Tourists, the new Class A club of the Orlando Tourists, won the league title, snapping their run, as they finished in second. So who picked up the slack? The Wenatchee (WA) Wranglers, the Emeralds Class AA club won the AL Double-A title this season, their second straight crown. If that wasn't enough, the AAA Vancouver Canadians tied for the AAA title this year, giving the Ems their sixth minor league championship overall. "We're delighted to see our teams doing well, it just shows how good a job our scouting department has done finding talent players for our organization year in and year out," said Dark Cloud. AND MOSES LEAD THEM... The Arizona Diamondbacks are hoping Matt Moses can lead them back to a World Series title. Signed as a free agent in 2004, this guy has taken his time through the system. He spent four years in A-ball, 2 years in Double A and after a few games in AAA this year and a whole year there last season, the D-Backs brought him up to the majors. In 48 games in the big show, he hit .411 with 3 homers and 13 RBI. "We're excited about the potential for Matt on our club", said DBacks manager Jeff Bagwell. HE-MAN, MASTER OF THE GREAT PLAINS Lawrence Henslee has spent the past two years destroying AAA pitching. He has 136 RBI in over the past two seasons in AAA and should be ready to pounce on Major League pitching next season. "He's awesome to watch", said Tony Perez, manager of the Great Plains Express. In batting practice, Henslee, called "He-Man" by his peers is known for towering shots. "This guy hits 'em where they ain't", said Carlos Delgado, who has been throughout his career for doing the same thing. Look for He-Man coming to a ballpark near you next season.

07-08-2003, 11:12 PM	#98
darkcloud4579 Hall Of Famer Join Date: Jun 2003 Posts: 8,685	INDIANA REPORTED TO BE INTERESTED IN RETAINING CENTURION... REPORT SAYS MATTINGLY CONTACTED CENTURION OFFICES INDIANAPOLIS (AP) - The Associated Press has received insider information regarding contact by Indiana Racers manager and GM Don Mattingly, regarding Centurion and having the company take over operations of the team. Mattingly nor the Centurion offices could be reached for the story. The Racers, won their first division title this season - at the hands of Centurion's Oregon Emeralds, who are competing for their second straight World Series title. In addition to Indiana, the New York Mets and New Orleans Pelicans are also rumored to be intereted in retaining Centurion's services. "We know their reputation and what they've been able to build over the years. We would love to have that expertise here," said Mets owner Fred Wilpon, who would transfer a stake in ownership, as well as day-to-day operations to Centurion if the club decides to sign a deal with the club. There is still one year left on the Centurion contract with Oregon, but the intensity over wooing Centurion is crucial, because many teams feel like they might have an edge if they knew Centurion was coming. Despite these resports, Centurion officials have not confirmed the club is looking to go anyplace right now. While the club's officials have mentioned they will "not in stay in Oregon forever", they have made little indication about where the club will go. In the past, the club has traditionally gone to smaller markets, rather than larger ones. The organization is expected to decide based on how well its club does in the playoffs this year and in the future.

07-08-2003, 11:24 PM	#99
darkcloud4579 Hall Of Famer Join Date: Jun 2003 Posts: 8,685	Some background... . Last edited by darkcloud4579; 08-06-2015 at 02:14 AM.

07-09-2003, 12:03 PM	#100
darkcloud4579 Hall Of Famer Join Date: Jun 2003 Posts: 8,685	GAME 3 - 2009 WORLD SERIES SAN FRANCISCO - Down 2-1 in the bottom of the 8th , the Giants tied the game after a homer from the Dane Sensation Orval Hajek, against his old club. The game went to extra innings and in the extra frame, the Ems scored three runs in the 10th, to give the Ems a 3-0 lead in the 2009 WORLD SERIES. C Palmer Mientkiewicz was 4 for 5 and increased his playoff batting average to .486. 2B Oneximo Espino had 2 RBI in the win, helping to catapult the Emeralds closer to their second straight World Series title. "We're happy about this, but we know there is still more to do," said closer Tom O'Rear, who got the win in tonight's game, after pitching 2 2/3 innings and blowing the save, with the homer from Hajek coming off him.