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Old 11-07-2019, 12:33 AM   #121
The_Myth
Minors (Double A)
 
Join Date: Jun 2019
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Posts: 172
July 15, 1985

A few trades: The Cubs send SP Chuck Rainey to Baltimore for prospects Joe Kucharski and Ken Dixon, while Texas sends reliever Rick Camp to Minnesota for prospects Gary Menssen and Chris Calvert.

Speaking of the Cubs, I’m going back and forth with their GM Dan Kacala, who seems to be cagey about Lee Smith. If he can’t get one of my young, established pros, he wants Kelly Downs and at least one of Mike Diaz, Chris James, Mike LaValliere, Mike Maddux, or Jeff Stone. I’ve become fine with dealing Downs (of course), as I don’t see him contributing highly to my rotation until at least 1987, but I do need a starter in return, as that kind of depth is necessary right now. So Kacala says he can send me Scott McGregor (age 31, 118.2 IP, 5.16 ERA, 54 K, 33 BB). Not the best option, but he can be a long man, and he is a free agent next year (a type-B at that).

I’m going to sit on it, while still talking with Kacala about options. If there’s a way to, say, trade James and Mike Maddux, or Diaz and one of James or Maddux, I’d rather do that and not take McGregor. It really isn’t a bad deal, but I’d rather come out winning, obviously.

Wait, another phone call, and he’d take Don Carman and Mike Maddux (or Mike Diaz) for Smith alone. Hmmm. I like Carman a lot, even if he’s having a bad year up here (15.1 IP, 7.04 ERA, 12 K, 6 BB). I really think Carman can blossom into a lights-out end-game reliever. For two months of Lee Smith? Ack.

I’m going to sleep on this all.

July 16, 1985

The All-Star Game is today in Minneapolis, and the early morning news is Milwaukee’s Ben Oglivie has decided to retire. He’s hitting .115 this season, so he thinks it’s time.

But the bigger news … WHY DID I SLEEP ON THIS? The Cubs have just negotiated a contract extension with Lee Smith. That’s why Kacala was cagey in the first place, and damn, his Carman plus Maddux offer was his final swing before locking up the deal. It’s a two-year extension starting in 1986, paying him $580K per season.

Maybe my balking with him made Kacala realize there wasn’t much on the market for Smith this season, so he decided to extend and hope his value is worth more in two years. I don’t even know if I agree with my logic here, but whatever. This means Smith isn’t so valuable to me (I already have Donnie Moore and Larry Andersen locked up through ‘86). Alright then.

I check in with Houston over Mike Scott, another free-agent-to-be, and they’re willing to do Scott Sanderson, Jeff Stone, and Mike Maddux. Feels like too much. Scott would replace Sanderson in the rotation, but it doesn’t really address my bullpen issue. I could also just hope Downs works in the rotation … no, I can’t. Not now.

I could also have Kent Tekulve for just one guy like Chris James or Rick Schu. But Tekulve has only one pitch at this point, using his submarine style to deceive. On the fence.

Now I check in with the Red Sox about Tony Armas, a free-agent-to-be who has 17 HR and 56 RBI and could make a great bench bat down the stretch. That said, he’s a righty, and I could really use a lefty bat. But, well, Armas would take literally a nobody prospect. That’s great news.

On the lefty side, there are few decent power bats available. Clint Hurdle (a backup catcher in Chicago) is available. Terry Kennedy can come to me from San Diego for Mike Diaz and Jeff Stone. I suppose I can do the two-month catcher ringer, but I’m getting cold feet on that one, too.

Finally, I could do Thad Bosley from Pittsburgh for, say, Jeff Stone. That’s acceptable, and Bosley is having a solid year and would immediately become my fourth outfielder. This is my fallback.


All-Star Game: Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome - American League 2, National League 1

A classic that goes 12 innings. Kevin Gross pitches a 1-2-3 third inning, striking out Lance Parrish of Detroit. The AL scores in the fourth against Joe Hesketh of Montreal (ha), then Charles Hudson throws a perfect fifth inning. The NL ties it up in the sixth with a Tom Foley homer, then we go on the see-saw. Finally, in the 12th, Bryn Smith of Montreal (haha) surrenders a walk-off home run from Don Mattingly. A great game.

July 17, 1985

An update from Reading: Blaise Ilsley against the Nashua Pirates: 9 IP, 0 ER, 4 H, 9 K, 1 BB. There’s my guy.

Full season Blaise: 143.2 IP, 11-4, 2.76 ERA, 154 K, 36 BB, 4.6 WAR

Meantime, we’re halfway through the season. Time for grades:

Catcher
  • Darren Daulton - 259 PA, .190/.332/.362, 6 2B, 3 3B, 8 HR, 25 RBI, 35 R, 51 K, 44 BB, 11 SB, 6 CS, +0.1 ZR, 1.118 EFF, 29.5 CS%, 1.2 WAR / C
  • Tommy Thompson - 95 PA, .272/.333/.383, 4 2B, 1 3B, 1 HR, 10 RBI, 4 R, 15 K, 8 BB / +1.7 ZR, 1.052 EFF, 44.4 CS%, 0.3 WAR / C

Daulton’s offense has been an issue, but he is getting on base (rather impressive how his OBP is in solid range despite the poor average), and much of the poor play was in April (.070 average). Thompson has been a good backup.

Infielder
  • Mike Schmidt - 354 PA, .350/.424/.605, 16 2B, 3 3B, 19 HR, 76 RBI, 56 R, 41 K, 42 BB, +3.2 ZR, 1.052 EFF, 4.4 WAR / A+
  • Juan Samuel - 369 PA, .225/.263/.375, 11 2B, 7 3B, 9 HR, 53 RBI, 59 R, 60 K, 14 BB, 37 SB, 6 CS, -4.3 ZR, .953 EFF, 0.8 WAR / D
  • Paul Molitor - 365 PA, .283/.355/.388, 22 2B, 3 3B, 2 HR, 35 RBI, 48 R, 58 K, 36 BB, 20 SB, 9 CS, -0.3 ZR, .998 EFF, 2.1 WAR / B
  • UL Washington - 313 PA, .279/.329/.383, 12 2B, 3 3B, 4 HR, 32 RBI, 45 R, 55 K, 22 BB, 17 SB, 7 CS, +3.2 ZR, 1.028 EFF, 1.9 WAR / B
  • Dave Concepcion - 37 PA, .344/.432/.406, 2 2B, 2 RBI, 3 R, 5 K, 5 BB, +0.1 ZR, .981 EFF, 0.3 WAR / B+

Schmidt is still on an MVP pace, while Molitor picked it up in June and July. Washington has been good. Samuel obviously is struggling this year, but I’m sticking with him. Concepcion has been a nice change of pace and veteran presence.

Outfielder
  • Von Hayes - 397 PA, .333/.383/.428, 26 2B, 1 3B, 14 HR, 51 RBI, 59 R, 32 K, 32 BB, 21 SB, 13 CS, -4.5 ZR, .999 EFF, 3.1 WAR / A-
  • Billy Sample - 42 PA, .316/.381/.395, 1 2B, 1 3B, 2 RBI, 4 R, 1 K, 4 BB, -1.4 ZR, .931 EFF, 0.0 WAR / B+
  • Jeff Stone - 62 PA, .231/.355/.385, 2 2B, 3 3B, 6 RBI, 7 R, 8 K, 9 BB, 4 SB, 1 CS, -0.7 ZR, .996 EFF, 0.3 WAR
  • Bruce Fields - 39 PA, .324/.361/.382, 2 2B, 3 RBI, 6 R, 7 K, 2 BB, 5 SB, 2 CS, 0.0 ZR, .996 EFF, 0.1 WAR
  • Dave Stegman - 248 PA, .239/.341/.383, 8 2B, 5 3B, 4 HR, 33 RBI, 28 R, 53 K, 33 BB, +2.2 ZR, 1.005 EFF, 1.4 WAR / B-
  • Bill Lyons - 70 PA, .180/.275/.262, 2 2B, 1 HR, 7 RBI, 10 R, 14 K, 8 BB, 6 SB, 0 CS, -0.4 ZR, 1.005 EFF, 0.1 WAR / D+
  • Glenn Wilson - 301 PA, .292/.336/.498, 16 2B, 1 3B, 13 HR, 50 RBI, 40 R, 34 K, 18 BB, 5 SB, 0 CS, -1.2 ZR, .994 EFF, 1.9 WAR / B+
  • Mike Diaz - 86 PA, .225/.259/.287, 2 2B, 1 HR, 10 RBI, 7 R, 11 K, 3 BB, +1.1 ZR, .994 EFF, -0.1 WAR / D

Still happy with my starters, and my bench has been OK. Diaz is a letdown, while Lyons is just a filler player. Stone has been great in AAA Portland (306 PA, .365/.408/.539, 31 XBH), but there’s still no place to put him in Philly.

Starting Pitcher
  • Steve Carlton - 97 IP, 7-3, 2.60 ERA, 3.24 FIP, 70 K, 35 BB, 2.3 WAR / A-
  • John Denny - 117 IP, 9-6, 2.85 ERA, 3.01 FIP, 63 K, 28 BB, 3.2 WAR / A-
  • Kevin Gross - 128 IP, 11-2, 1.62 ERA, 2.93 FIP, 81 K, 23 BB, 3.7 WAR / A+
  • Charles Hudson - 117.2 IP, 10-1, 1.61 ERA, 2.49 FIP, 70 K, 21 BB, 4.1 WAR / A+
  • Scott Sanderson - 116.1 IP, 9-5, 2.79 ERA, 3.04 FIP, 75 K, 31 BB, 3.1 WAR / A-
  • Kelly Downs - 10.2 IP, 0-2, 9.28 ERA, 7.04 FIP, 6 K, 6 BB, -0.2 WAR / D-

The rotation has outperformed expectation. Really great. But depth remains an issue, as we see with Downs.

Relief Pitcher
  • Bill Campbell - 41.1 IP, 2-3, 20 SV, 3.27 ERA, 2.99 FIP, 25 K, 8 BB, 1.1 WAR / B+
  • Larry Andersen - 33.2 IP, 2-1, 2 SV, 9 HLD, 4.01 ERA, 2.19 FIP, 23 K, 5 BB, 1.1 WAR / B-
  • Donnie Moore - 33.1 IP, 4-2, 1 SV, 8 HLD, 4.32 ERA, 1.86 FIP, 33 K, 9 BB, 1.1 WAR / C+
  • Tug McGraw - 21.1 IP, 1-0, 1 HLD, 7.59 ERA, 4.88 FIP, 10 K, 20 BB, -0.1 WAR / D
  • Kenneth Walker - 20.1 IP, 2 SV, 6.64 ERA, 5.91 FIP, 16 K, 10 BB, -0.4 WAR / D
  • Don Carman - 15.1 IP, 0-2, 1 SV, 2 HLD, 7.04 ERA, 5.56 FIP, 12 K, 6 BB, -0.2 WAR / D+
  • Paul Assenmacher - 11 IP, 0-1, 2.45 ERA, 4.45 FIP, 8 K, 7 BB, 0.0 WAR / C
  • Todd Worrell - 10 IP, 1-2, 9.00 ERA, 5.72 FIP, 6 K, 5 BB, -0.2 WAR / D+
  • Chuck Cary - 2.2 IP, 0.00 ERA, 0.19 FIP, 5 K, 1 BB, 0.1 WAR / B+
  • John Machin - 0.1 IP, 135.00 ERA, 51.20 FIP, 0 K, 1 BB, -0.2 WAR / F

Need an upgrade here. Andersen and Moore have looked better than the numbers show, as the defense behind them has been an issue (not much I can do at this point). But finding good relief after them has been an issue. Maybe Cary sticks. Maybe Carman rebounds. Answers have to come soon.

More meetings with the team about trade targets. To us, the two most prominent are Terry Kennedy and Kent Tekulve (the latter is 38, so there’s no assurance he’s coming back for 1986). Both are Type-A free agents (which means a possible first-round pick in the 1987 draft), so that’s a plus.

July 18, 1985

The issue with Tekulve is he’s all grounders now (61.7 percent rate) with nearly as many walks (11) as strikeouts (13). Am I risking too much on my defense? Anyway, Terry Kennedy remains a target offensively.

Starting a four-game set with Cincinnati, and finally, Davey Concepcion may get his chance to play in front of his old home crowd. I keep going back and forth with the trade talk, so let’s get a game in.


Game 1985-87: Riverfront Stadium - Phillies 1, Reds 0 / 57-30

John Denny is outstanding (8 IP, 0 ER, 3 H, 4 K, 2 BB), and our one run comes off a UL Washington single. Juan Samuel collects three hits.

July 19, 1985

Debating whether or not to send Mike Diaz and Mike Maddux to San Diego for Terry Kennedy. I’d have Kennedy for two months and change, while Diaz probably doesn’t have a future here. And Maddux? Still no way of knowing. I’m leaning toward it, but I need a few days. Maybe San Diego comes down a bit.

Meanwhile, Paul Assenmacher is off the IL and will spend the next few days in Portland. We’ll bring him back when we come home to face Houston.

Game 1985-88: Riverfront Stadium - Phillies 9, Reds 8 / 58-30

Maybe the best win of the season. Scott Sanderson doesn’t pitch very well (2 IP, 6 ER, 7 H, 0 K, 1 BB), and we get down 7-1. But Billy Sample (substituted into the game early for some reason) smacks a two-run home run, and a few more runs make it 7-5. Then, down 8-5 in the sixth, Paul Molitor slams a three-run homer to tie it. We stay on the 8-8 seesaw for a while, then in the top of the ninth, Mike Schmidt hits a sac fly to score Molitor and take the lead. Bullpen is outstanding. Big stuff. The kind of game a playoff team wins.

July 20, 1985

Steve Carlton is off the IL and will start tonight against Cincinnati.

Game 1985-89: Riverfront Stadium - POSTPONED

Rainout. Shoot! Hopefully we get at least one tomorrow.

July 21, 1985

Bad news in Houston: The Astros’ clubhouse is in shambles. Might be time to take advantage - gonna keep tabs on Mike Scott, for sure.

Game 1985-89: Riverfront Stadium - Reds 2, Phillies 0 / 58-31

Agh. Nothing happening here. The Reds team up to allow just four hits. Steve Carlton pitches well (7 IP, 1 ER, 6 H, 4 K, 0 BB) in his first game back.

Game 1985-90: Riverfront Stadium: - Phillies 4, Reds 2 / 59-31

A good three of four in Cincinnati. Charles Hudson (7.2 IP, 0 ER, 3 H, 4 K, 1 BB) is his usual outstanding self, while Donnie Moore closes the eighth. Chuck Cary gives up a two-run homer in the ninth, further frustrating me. Offensively, Mike Schmidt drives in two, while he, Von Hayes and Paul Molitor each have two hits.

Sadly, Dave Concepcion doesn’t get into any games, but he did get a wonderful ovation before the game, as the Reds gifted him a Broyhill living room set.

Gary Carter of those Expos wins NL Player of the Week honors; that damn team remains just two behind us.

1. Detroit Tigers - 60-30
2. Montreal Expos - 58-34
3. PHILADELPHIA PHILLIES - 59-31
4. Toronto Blue Jays - 56-37
5. Los Angeles Dodgers - 52-39

All the top teams took three of four in the abbreviated week.

Last edited by The_Myth; 11-08-2019 at 12:04 AM.
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Old 11-08-2019, 12:02 AM   #122
The_Myth
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July 22, 1985

Blaise Ilsley update from Sunday in New Britain: 8 IP, 3 ER, 6 H, 5 K, 5 BB. How the runs scored: walk, single, double play groundout; single, walk, walk, single; triple, groundout. He ended the game with two 1-2-3 frames. Sounds about right for where he is right now, as his ERA moves to 2.82.

Meanwhile, and also in Reading, Luis Polonia is having a good ol’ time (138 PA, .381/.428/.492, 11 XBH, 14 K, 11 B, 17 SB, 9 CS, 1.6 WAR). I’m likely keeping him here through the season, starting him in 1986 at AAA Portland if all continues this well. He’s certainly on track to be in the majors by late ‘86, good timing considering Dave Stegman is a free agent after next year (a likely option pickup year).

Looking into relievers once again, and I’m hung up on Kent Tekulve. I realized that my top groundball pitchers (higher than 55 percent GO%) (Larry Andersen, Steve Carlton, Kevin Gross) haven’t actually had bad seasons, and for some of them, the FIPs are higher than the actual ERAs. Donnie Moore, who has a big disparity between ERA (4.04) and FIP (1.80) has had the smallest grounder rate on the team (44.1%). It seems his issue is more luck than anything.

But also, Tekulve has struggled since June 1 (25 IP, 5 K, 9 BB). I know strikeouts aren’t his game, but not walking hitters is his game, and he really can’t let up that many. Essentially, Tekulve was great in April, good in May, average in June and not very good in July. Can I bank on him having a great two months?

As for Mike Scott, we can’t get him unless we surrender Scott Sanderson, which feels like a defeat considering we don’t need to upgrade the rotation. Or I can get Houston closer Dave Smith, who would cost Mike Maddux and Steve Jeltz (as one option). Smith has a 3.12 FIP with 23 K and 12 BB in 41.1 IP. He has struck out more hitters in July but had his worst outing in July.

Then there’s Bert Blyleven, who’s given up 20 home runs this season. He feels like a problem in the bullpen, meaning I’d have to move someone else back there for two months. The most likely guy to move is Kevin Gross, who has good stuff and doesn’t allow many homers, but do I want to move maybe my best starter to the bullpen? Feels like I’m forcing it there.

Sigh. Houston’s in town next three days. I have no idea what I’m going to do. Meantime:
  • RP Paul Assenmacher activated to MLB Philadelphia
  • RP Kenneth Walker demoted to AAA Portland


Game 1985-91: Veterans Stadium - Astros 13, Phillies 12 / 59-32

This game sucks. We go up 7-1, then the Astros tie it 8-8. Then we go up 12-9. Then we lose it 13-12. Awful pitching from Kevin Gross (4.1 IP, 5 ER, 6 H), Don Carman (2.2 IP, 3 ER, 5 H), and Larry Andersen (0.2 IP, 1 ER, 5 H). Rupper Jones smacks two homers against us, and on a night when Mike Schmidt hits one out, and Juan Samuel collects five hits. This can’t happen again.

And, of course, we’re now just one up on Montreal.

July 23, 1985

Game 1985-92: Veterans Stadium - Phillies 3, Astros 2 / 60-32

Phew. A two-out single by John Denny, and ensuing error, gives us 2-1 lead. It’s tied in the ninth when Billy Sample walks with the bases loaded to win it. Lots of talk about Mike Scott, who pitches in maybe his last game as a ‘Stro. Who knows.

The Mariners trade prospects John Duncan and Michael Wishnevski to Kansas City for RP Gary Lavelle. Weird trade, as both Seattle and Kansas City are just a game back in the AL West (it’s a bad, bad division).

Meanwhile, the price tag for Kent Tekulve has come down, as I could get him one-for-one for 1B Francisco Melendez. But he’s 21 and playing well in AAA. So I start chatting with Pittsburgh GM Dennis Rodriguez; turns out I can do Tekulve for two smaller-level prospects via a short list he faxes me. My highlights: LF Jim Olander and 2B Dave Kennard. Neither player is in my plans going forward, so I’m feeling good about it. This has suddenly become a low-risk move (and I could still upgrade pitching more if I felt so inclined).

The team meets. We decide to go one more day with this as our deal, because first, we want to go back to Houston. And there, GM Ron Moeller isn’t budging from a bigger deal, so we decide to sleep on what we have and pull the trigger tomorrow.

July 24, 1985

Game 1985-93: Veterans Stadium - Astros 2, Phillies 1 / 60-33

Not great. We get just six hits in this one, as Bob Knepper shuts us down for eight frames. The bullpen pitches just fine this time around. At least Montreal loses.

Before turning back to Kent Tekulve, we check back in with San Diego. Turns out the price for Terry Kennedy is a bit higher now (no longer will it take just Mike Diaz and Mike Maddux). We decide to wait it out.

Meantime, Boston will still do a throw-in (20-year-old on the bench in Bend) for Tony Armas, who has just a .298 OBP but a .234 ISO. We decide to do this deal now.

TRADE

To Philadelphia Phillies:

CF Tony Armas (85 percent of his contract)

To Boston Red Sox:

3B Jose Hurtado

Corresponding moves:
  • C Tommy Thompson demoted to AAA Portland
  • SP Steve Witt placed on waivers

Demoting Thompson is a temporary move, as I hope to deal Mike Diaz. And my 40-man was full. Alright. We’ll see how this goes.

Finally, we go back to the Pirates’ Dennis Rodriguez. Olander and Kennard work, and I get the Buccos to eat 85 percent of Tekulve’s salary ($425K). That means we lose just $32K in the deal and gain a back-end reliever. Bill Giles signs off on it.

TRADE

To Philadelphia Phillies:

RP Kent Tekulve (15 percent of his contract)

To Pittsburgh Pirates:

LF Jim Olander
2B Dave Kennard

Tekulve needs a day to travel and get his physical. With that, we wait for John Machin to come off the IL so we can waive him off the 40-man.

In the meantime, Milwaukee trades prospects LaVel Freeman and Larry Jackson to Kansas City for Joe Beckwith. Looks like the Royals have decided being one game out isn’t enough to buy. Yikes.

July 25, 1985

Big four-game set ahead with Atlanta. Still working the phones, hoping Terry Kennedy’s price comes down. Tony Armas makes his Phillies debut straight away, while Mike Diaz starts for Darren Daulton.


Game 1985-94: Veterans Stadium - Phillies 5, Braves 4 (10) / 61-33

This could’ve been crushing. We go up 4-2 thanks to some dandy pitching by Steve Carlton (6.1 IP, 2 ER, 4 H, 6 K, 1 BB) and Don Carman (1.2 IP, 1 H, 3 K). Then Bill Campbell gives up a two-run, game-tying, ninth-inning homer from Claudell Washington. Luckily, in the 10th, we load the bases with nobody out, and Davey Concepcion makes his mark on the season with a game-winning single. Kent Tekulve can’t get here fast enough.

Amazingly, Campbell’s blown save ends a streak of 23-straight saves. I honestly didn’t realize he was pitching that well.

And over in Chicago, Bert Blyleven of the Orioles recorded his 200th career win. He has a 3.05 ERA with 30 strikeouts and five walks in five July starts. I’m keeping tabs on him.

July 26, 1985

Transaction time:
  • RP John Machin placed on waivers
  • RP Chuck Cary demoted to AAA Portland
  • RP Kent Tekulve added to MLB Philadelphia

Howser wants Tekulve closing games, pushing Bill Campbell to a setup role with Larry Andersen. Fine with me.

More Royals trades! They send Hal McRae and prospect Patrick Britt to the White Sox for prospects Ken Williams, Rusty Tillman and Scott Meier. And they push Alan Knicely to the Expos for Jeffrey LaMarr and Fred Blair. Kniceley gives the ‘Spos some bench depth.

This all makes me look at the Royals, to see if they want to sell me anything. I call up GM Javy Ortiz, and he’s willing to give me Mike Easler for Mike Diaz and a lesser prospect. Easler, 34, is a left-handed left fielder and first baseman having a heck of an offensive year (316 PA, .301/.358/.538, 15 HR, 49 RBI, 54 K, 27 BB). He’d be the lefty bat I crave, but two issues: He expects a starting role that I can’t give him (unless I move Von Hayes to center field, which would hurt my defense) and he’s under contract through 1986. I don’t want multi-year players here.

Nothing on their pitching staff really piques my interest (at this point I can use a long-man type). I can’t see it with the Royals.

Game 1985-95: Veterans Stadium - POSTPONED

Dang. Another doubleheader.

July 27, 1985

The Royals continue the tank, shipping Tom Hume to Cincinnati for prospect Joel Smith. I looked at Hume, who’s a free agent after this year, but his walk rate (3.9 per nine) wasn’t exactly inspiring.

Game 1985-95: Veterans Stadium - Braves 6, Phillies 2 / 61-34

Luis Aguayo. Come on. The guy hits a two-run, game-breaking home run against the otherwise invincible Charles Hudson. On top of that, Kent Tekulve allows a run in his first appearance with us. A lousy game. It feels as if when we win, we’re getting lucky, and when we lose, it’s plainly obvious we deserve it. Trying to do what I can to keep us above water, but I can’t help but think a shoe’s about to drop.

Meanwhile, look who doesn’t stop losing and is now up a half-game over us.

We need this second game.

Game 1985-96: Veterans Stadium - Braves 2, Phillies 1 / 61-35

Damnit. Five hits, and three against a guy with an ERA over 7.50. Wastes a Kevin Gross start (7.1 IP, 1 ER, 7 H, 8 K, 2 BB). We are a full game behind Montreal.

July 28, 1985

The Cubs trade Jorge Orta to Milwaukee for prospects Bruce Kison and Robert Simonson.

Nothing new on Terry Kennedy. We might use the off day tomorrow to make decisions on any possible deals left on the table.

Dick Howser messes with the lineup today, putting Juan Samuel in the six spot, pushing Glenn Wilson to the seven and moving UL Washington to second in the order.

Game 1985-97: Veterans Stadium - Phillies 5, Braves 0 / 62-35

John Denny steps up, hurling 8.1 shutout innings and scattering seven hits. Dave Stegman homers, and the top of the order (Hayes, Washington, Molitor) go 6-for-11. Montreal, of course, wins again.

In other news, Dusty Baker of Minnesota collects hit No. 2,000.

And over in Reading, Blaise Ilsley: 8.2 IP, 3 ER, 5 H, 10 K, 2 BB. He wins but is removed in the ninth after hurting his elbow. Oh boy.

I get a call before the night ends: Ilsley seems to be OK - just sore.

New power rankings:

1. Montreal Expos - 64-35
2. Detroit Tigers - 65-32
3. Toronto Blue Jays - 62-38
4. PHILADELPHIA PHILLIES - 62-35
5. Los Angeles Dodgers - 56-42

Would be nice if the Expos had a bad stretch, right?
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Old 11-08-2019, 02:36 PM   #123
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Looking good!! Great read as always
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Old 11-13-2019, 12:15 AM   #124
The_Myth
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July 29, 1985

Alright. Time to go over the trade targets one more time, with what it would take, most likely:

Long Man / Fifth Starter
  • SP - Bert Blyleven (BAL) - Kelly Downs + Jeff Stone/Chris James
  • SP - Scott McGregor (CHC) - Woodrow Broussard
  • SP - Joe Niekro (HOU) - Mike LaValliere
  • SP - Frank Tanana (CLE) - Kelly Downs + Jeff Stone/Chris James

Left-Handed Bench Bat
  • C - Terry Kennedy (SD) - Mike Diaz + Jeff Stone/Mike LaValliere
  • OF - Thad Bosley (PIT) - Mike LaValliere
  • OF - Dave Parker (NYY) - Woodrow Broussard
  • OF - Terry Puhl (HOU) - Mike Diaz
  • OF - Pete Rose (CIN) - Woodrow Broussard

Of the long man options (though, let’s be honest, I might be OK without one by this point), Niekro makes the most sense, though losing LaValliere for him straight away would be tough. And of the bench bat options, Parker (who is barely getting playing time in New York) is interesting, as is Puhl (.280/.338/.410, 25 XBH, 12 SB). The former is more power than anything, while the latter would provide contact and speed and could spell a slumping Glenn Wilson.

As for Kennedy, I’m not sure if two months of him is worth Diaz and one of Stone or LaValliere. I understand why San Diego wants that kind of haul, but if I’m going to deal multiple prospects, it has to be for a game-changing two-month rental or a long-term piece.

Of course, I run the risk of messing with value heading into 1986. Right now these players are close to major league ready, or are major league ready:
  • C - Mike LaValliere
  • 2B - Steve Kiefer
  • 3B - Rick Schu
  • SS - Steve Jeltz
  • LF/RF - Jeff Stone
  • LF/3B - Chris James
  • CF - Randy Salava

And next year, I’m losing just three MLB bench spots. Daulton remains my guy at catcher, while I don’t see a clear future for Schu and at least one of Stone or James in Veterans Stadium. Trading Kennedy for Diaz and, say, Stone, might be a good idea. Or maybe I can get a slightly younger prospect along with Kennedy to make up for losing two prospects?

I call Jesus Gallardo in San Diego and ask him to send me a list of untouchable prospects, but it’s a long list. Sheesh. I don’t think Kennedy is going to happen.

I talk to Houston GM Ron Moeller, and he’s willing to move me Puhl and Niekro for Kelly Downs. That isn’t bad. I keep pitching depth while also getting a lefty hitter. Yes I move on from Downs, but I’d rather have the veteran back there down the stretch, and next season there really isn’t yet room for Downs.

But I don’t know. I think I’d rather just grab a bat, so Diaz for Puhl feels right. Of course, that means Tommy Thompson returns, and someone has to head out. That someone might be Don Carman, just for the month, putting my bullpen back at six. But then I’d let Dick Howser ride the starting rotation. All risk, but I think this is what I’ll do.

Of course, I still have the prospect bottleneck problem heading into 1986, but you know what, I’ll worry about it after October. I have a division to win.

I call Bill Giles. It’s a go.

TRADE

To Houston Astros:

C/1B/LF/RF Mike Diaz

To Philadelphia Phillies:

RF Terry Puhl

Giles loves the move, and the fans are responding well. They know we’re going for it.
  • RF Terry Puhl added to MLB Philadelphia
  • RP Don Carman demoted to AAA Portland
  • C Tommy Thompson promoted to MLB Philadelphia
  • RP Rodger Cole demoted to AA Reading

July 30, 1985

Trade news:

Baltimore sends SP Doyle Alexander to the White Sox for 2B Vance Law and prospect John Cangelosi. Chicago is two games back in the AL West.

Cleveland makes two trades. The Indians send prospect Kevin Romine to Boston for CF Karl Pagel, then they ship 2B Tony Bernazard and prospect Milton Harper to Atlanta for LF Brad Komminsk and prospect Mike Nipper. Just to note, Cleveland is 21 games back and has yet to deal Frank Tanana, Rick Sutcliffe, or Mike Caldwell.

Toronto GM Terry Hetzel calls me up and wants Don Carman. He offers a decent prospect in closer Tom Winter. If I was to trade Carman, that wouldn’t be good enough (not that I’m looking to trade him anyway).

Before the next series - three at Pittsburgh - some promotions.
  • 1B Pat Adams promoted to AAA Portland
  • LF/1B Willie Darkis demoted to AA Reading
  • RP Joe Boever promoted to AA Reading
  • RP Walter Nesbitt demoted to A Clearwater
  • 2B/SS Keith Miller promoted to AA Reading
  • 2B Billy Bates promoted to A Clearwater
  • 1B Anthony Buglione promoted to A Peninsula
  • RF Tom Eccleston promoted to A Spartanburg
  • SP Steve Gasser promoted to A Spartanburg

That’ll do it until September callups, of which we’ll have a few.


Game 1985-98: Three Rivers Stadium: Pirates 2, Phillies 1 / 62-36

We’ve stopped hitting. Three hits from Von Hayes, but nobody could get the big one. Mike Schmidt has been cold lately, and is down to .331. And now we’re 2.5 in back of Montreal.

July 31, 1985

Trade deadline day. Houston sends Joe Niekro and prospect Louie Meadows to Oakland for RF Mike Davis. Not sure about this deal between near-last-place teams, but whatever.

More phone calls today: Kansas City would send me RP prospect Mark Walberg for Don Carman, and San Diego would send me LF prospect Joe Lansford for him. No to both. I just don’t feel like giving up Carman now; time to ride with what I have.

As for the game, Steve Carlton is on the hill, while Terry Puhl gets his first start as a Phillie.

Game 1985-99: Three Rivers Stadium: Pirates 3, Phillies 1 / 62-37

Seriously. Five freaking hits in this game. Mike Schmidt continues to struggle. And the Expos win again to make it a 3.5-game gap. We’re losing it now.

Meanwhile in Portland, Curt Young suffers a ruptured tendon and will miss the rest of the season. He can’t seem to get over the hump.

Aug. 1, 1985

Here’s where my guys stand on the National League leaderboards:

Hitters

Batting Average
4. Mike Schmidt - .329

Home Runs
T3. Mike Schmidt - 20

Runs Batted In
1. Mike Schmidt - 86

On-Base Percentage
2. Mike Schmidt - .406
7. Von Hayes - .379

Slugging Percentage
1. Mike Schmidt - .562
5. Von Hayes - .505

WAR
3. Mike Schmidt - 4.4

Hits
1. Von Hayes - 132

Runs
T3. Von Hayes - 68
6. Juan Samuel - 64
7. Mike Schmidt - 63

Doubles
3. Von Hayes - 26

Total Bases
2. Von Hayes - 206
3. Mike Schmidt - 200

Stolen Bases
T2. Juan Samuel - 50

Walks
T5. Darren Daulton - 51

Isolated Power
4. Mike Schmidt - .233

Pitching

Earned Run Average
4. Charles Hudson - 1.79
5. Kevin Gross - 1.87

Wins
T6. John Denny - 11
T6. Kevin Gross - 11

Saves
3. Bill Campbell - 22
T6. Kent Tekulve - 19

Walks / 9 IP
2. Charles Hudson - 1.6
6. Kevin Gross - 1.7

WHIP
3. Kevin Gross - 0.93
5. Charles Hudson - 0.96

Fielding Independent Pitching
6. Charles Hudson - 2.66

Holds
1. Larry Andersen - 9
2. Donnie Moore - 8

As you can see, Mike Schmidt is no longer tops in most offensive categories, as Tim Raines has leaped ahead in more than a few and may just be the MVP favorite now. His teammate Bryn Smith is probably the Cy Young leader at this point. Those Expos, man. Maybe it’s just their year.

Game 1985-100: Three Rivers Stadium - Pirates 6, Phillies 3 / 62-38

Swept in Pittsburgh. Charles Hudson allows three in the seventh (a home run by Russ McGinnis, who had one in his career before this, is the big blow) to give the Pirates the win. Mike Schmidt hits a homer, but oh well. Expos are now up four.

Meanwhile, while traveling to St. Louis, Dave Concepcion’s agent tells me they’d love to talk extension. Read the room, Davey.

Last edited by The_Myth; 01-28-2020 at 12:01 AM.
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Old 11-16-2019, 12:45 AM   #125
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Aug. 2, 1985

We arrive in St. Louis for four. I’m not exactly sure what else we can do but hope the offense turns this around soon. And hope that Montreal hits a skid soon, too.


Game 1985-101: Busch Stadium - Phillies 2, Cardinals 0 / 63-38

Shoot. Kevin Gross starts this one but leaves in the third with an injury. We’re not quite sure what’s wrong at this point, and that’s a problem.

At least the bullpen picks it up, with Tug McGraw turning in a heroic 3.1 scoreless innings (at this point, if Dick feels it, I’m just agreeing), followed by Bill Campbell and Kent Tekulve. Offensively, Mike Schmidt strikes a big two-run homer in the sixth. We need his bat right now. The Expos lose, so the deficit is now three.

Aug. 3, 1985

Early morning phone call from Chris Thomas. He has Blaise Ilsley’s latest line in Reading: 9 IP, 2 ER, 10 H, 9 K, 3 BB. Impressive, though he still needs seasoning. He’s 6-0 with a 2.73 ERA in AA.

Game 1985-102: Busch Stadium - Phillies 8, Cardinals 6 / 64-38

A wild one. St. Louis goes up 3-1. We score one in the seventh, then four in the eighth - a Mike Schmidt RBI double and Juan Samuel three-run home run - to grab a 6-3 lead. Then John Denny gives back that three-run lead. But we get two more in the ninth (Terry Puhl and Paul Molitor with big hits) to seize the win. We’re still three behind Montreal.

Aug. 4, 1985

We’re still a few days from Kevin Gross’ spot in the rotation, but we’ll need a pitcher. If it’s not Gross, the aligned pitcher in Portland is Joe Johnson (161 IP, 4.14 ERA, 84, 33 BB). We could do worse. I could possibly start Mike Maddux, as well (142 IP, 4.31 ERA, 82 K, 63 BB), but I’d rather go with Johnson.

Oh, in Reading, the aligned starter is Blaise Ilsley. Heh. I could ...

Speaking of draftees:
  • SS Gregg Jefferies promoted to A Peninsula
  • SS Ken Kraft demoted to R Bend

Let’s get Jefferies (121 PA, .291/.388/.495, 10 XBH, 7 K, 17 BB, 13 SB, 2 CS) moving.

Game 1985-103: Busch Stadium - Cardinals 1, Phillies 0 / 64-39

We need to hit. We just need to. It seems when Mike Schmidt isn’t hitting, we’re not winning. Joaquin Andujar throws 120 pitches and just keeps us off balance and hitting into poor outs. Scott Sanderson (8 IP, 1 ER, 4 H, 5 K, 3 BB) was good, the only blemish being an RBI double from - get this - Andujar. It kills. And naturally, Montreal wins to go back up four.

The power rankings:

1. Montreal Expos - 69-36
2. Toronto Blue Jays - 67-40
2. Detroit Tigers - 68-36
4. PHILADELPHIA PHILLIES - 64-39
5. Los Angeles Dodgers - 60-44

Another great battle happening in the AL East between those two heavyweights. Otherwise the Dodgers (up six) are starting to run away with the NL West once again, while Seattle has overtaken first in a terrible AL West. They’re 52-53 (or 17 games back in our division), with five teams within four games. It peeves me that Texas, like us, is four back of first place, but they’re 47-56.

Aug. 5, 1985

We could really use a win here and an Expos loss. Let’s just hope.

Game 1985-104: Busch Stadium - Phillies 3, Cardinals 2 / 65-39

We go up 2-0 (another Mike Schmidt home run, his 23rd), but Steve Carlton lets St. Louis tie it in the seventh. A Glenn Wilson single breaks it back in our favor in the ninth, and Kent Tekulve notches a two-out save. Big win.

And Montreal loses. Big. Back to three. Let’s get it to two.

Aug. 6, 1985

We get the worst news. Kevin Gross has a partially torn labrum and will miss the rest of the season.

Damnit.

Here are his final numbers for 1985: 142.1 IP, 11-3, 1.83 ERA, 92 K, 29 BB, 3.7 WAR. He was our best starter throughout the season and now he’s done. We can second-guess not going out there and getting another starting pitcher like Mike Scott or Bert Blyleven, but let’s be honest, what’s done is done. All hindsight.

Here are our options right now:
  • SP Joe Johnson (AAA) - 161 IP, 8-10, 4.14 ERA, 4.12 FIP, 4.7 K/9, 1.8 BB/9, RATINGS 40/40/50, zero 50+ pitches
  • SP Mike Maddux (AAA) - 142 IP, 12-7, 4.31 ERA, 4.49 FIP, 5.2 K/9, 4.0 BB/9, RATINGS 50/35/45, one 50+ pitch
  • SP Blaise Ilsley (AA) - 56 IP, 6-0, 2.73 ERA, 3.58 FIP, 9.2 K/9, 3.4 BB/9, RATINGS 70/35/40, three 55+ pitches

Alternatively, we can juggle some things around and go with:
  • SP Kelly Downs (AAA) - 150.2 IP, 14-4, 3.76 ERA, 4.65 FIP, 6.0 K/9, 2.5 BB/9, RATINGS 50/40/45, two 50+ pitches

Of all those options, let’s be honest, Ilsley is the best bet, though his movement would be an issue, and I don’t want to stunt his development. I really do think he needs to be in Reading for the rest of the season. Otherwise, we could go with a four-man rotation. The issue is we won’t have a day off until Aug. 19, and in the middle of that is a doubleheader against St. Louis. We really shouldn’t tax the starters that much yet.

Damnit. I do know that we won’t turn to Maddux, so we’re going to sleep on it for a day. Back home to face the Pirates.


Game 1985-105: Veterans Stadium - Pirates 12, Phillies 3 / 65-40

Everything is starting to fall apart, it seems. Charles Hudson, invincible for the first half of the season, gives up four earned in four innings. Donnie Moore has a terrible 1.2 innings (5 ER, 6 H). Eddie Vargas hits two homers. Maybe we’ve just run out of steam.

Over in Baltimore, Toronto’s Don Sutton and the Orioles’ Bob Tumpane got into a fight after a beaning. Tumpane will miss four games, while Sutton is out for eight.

Aug. 7, 1985

After sleeping on it, I’ve decided risking Ilsley’s development isn’t quite worth it yet. As much I want to go guns blazing, my whole mantra this year has been to stay the course with development - no big changes in either direction. Pushing Ilsley this quickly seems to defeat that purpose. Plus, if I can’t turn to Joe Johnson now, what good was the trade for? He has to be my guy right now.
  • SP Joe Johnson promoted to MLB Philadelphia

As for a scouting report, he’s a 23-year-old sidearmer who relies on deception, plus control, to get guys out. It’s worked this year, as he’s walked just 33 batters in 161 innings. He gives up a few too many hits, but if he limits them to singles, he’s usually in good shape. He’ll top out at 91-92 with the fastball, but he also throws a working sinker and curveball.

So, here we go. We can really use the offense tonight.

Game 1985-106: Veterans Stadium - Pirates 4, Phillies 3 / 65-41

Johnson pitches well enough, hanging in for seven innings of three-run ball. But the offense can’t do enough. No big hits in big moments. Tony Armas (0-for-3) has hit .167 since coming here. Glenn Wilson has been a sieve as of late. Von Hayes comes up lame in big spots. We just can’t do it. And it sucks, since Montreal has lost three straight, and we haven’t been able to make up ground.

Aug. 8, 1985

Last one against the Pirates until a three-gamer in mid-September. We have six left against Montreal, and about the same to go against each of St. Louis, New York, and Chicago.

Game 1985-107: Veterans Stadium - Pirates 5, Phillies 2 / 65-42

This one hurts, because we tie it in the sixth with three-straight doubles from Terry Puhl, Paul Molitor and Mike Schmidt. But then we give up three in the eighth, thanks in part to a Von Hayes error. Those errors are killing us. And once again, Montreal loses. We could’ve been tied now, but instead we got swept by the Pirates at home. Geez.
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Old 11-16-2019, 07:32 PM   #126
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Losing Gross is obviously going to hurt, but it's surprising to see Hudson starting to fade. Still have a really good record, just need to hang in there. Nice detail as always.
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Old 11-18-2019, 09:49 PM   #127
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Aug. 9, 1985

On July 1, we had a 5.5-game lead on Montreal. We were 51-22 and they were 47-29. Since, we’ve gone 14-20, and they’ve gone 22-11. Yeesh.

Anyway, four against St. Louis, including a doubleheader tomorrow for which we may need a fresh pitcher. We’ll see.


Game 1985-108: Veterans Stadium - Cardinals 5, Phillies 3 / 65-43

The spiral continues. Mike Schmidt goes 0-for-3, we get just two doubles and no other extra-base hits, and Scott Sanderson allows five runs in five innings. I suppose this was all bound to happen considering how well we started the season, but this really stinks to watch.

Aug. 10, 1985

Blaise Ilsley pitched last night in Reading: 8 IP, 1 ER, 7 H, 11 K, 0 BB. I’m standing by my decision to let him develop, regardless of how well he pitches going forward.

As for tonight, we decide to call up Kelly Downs to start game two. Depending on how it goes is what we’ll do going forward.
  • SP Kelly Downs promoted to MLB Philadelphia
  • SP Joe Johnson demoted to AAA Portland

Game 1985-109: Veterans Stadium - Cardinals 8, Phillies 0 / 65-44

Man. When even the red-hot Carlton struggles (6 IP, 5 ER, 6 H, 0 K, 3 BB), we’re really in trouble. Nothing more to say here.

Game 1985-110: Veterans Stadium - Cardinals 6, Phillies 2 / 65-45

Why did I ever trust Downs? He walks six. I just. Heh. This is sad.

Aug. 11, 1985

Game 1985-111: Veterans Stadium - Phillies 3, Cardinals 2 / 66-45

Mike Schmidt has the day off, because why not, and we finally get one, holding on late. Von Hayes homers (someone finally hits one), while Juan Samuel collects two hits and steals a bag. Charles Hudson pitches well (7 IP, 2 ER, 7 H, 5 K, 2 BB).

New power rankings, and we’re no longer in the top-five:

1. New York Mets - 61-50
2. Montreal Expos -71-41
3. Toronto Blue Jays - 70-43
4. Detroit Tigers - 71-40
5. Boston Red Sox - 61-49

Yes, the Mets, who have won nine of their last 10, are atop the rankings and pushing ahead. Guess who we play next? Convenient, right?
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Old 11-22-2019, 01:52 PM   #128
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Aug. 12, 1985

Take two for Joe Johnson. Let’s get this one and get back on the right foot.


Game 1985-112: Shea Stadium - Phillies 10, Mets 8 / 67-45

This didn’t have to be a nail-biter. We go up 8-2 in the fifth, but alas, Johnson (4.2 IP, 2 ER, 6 H, 3 K, 2 BB), whose line looks better than reality. It’s 8-5, then 9-7, then Paul Assenmacher pitches a huge eighth inning, then 10-7 after a Mike Schmidt homer, his 24th (and RBI No. 100). Then we give up a run in the ninth. Paul Molitor also homers. I’m getting sick.

Aug. 13, 1985

Clearwater pitcher Wayne Stewart has bone chips and is out for the year.
  • SP Michael Jackson promoted to A Clearwater

I’m going to give Jackson (107.2 IP, 4.43 ERA, 104 K, 53 BB) a few challenge starts in the Florida State League.

Game 1985-113: Shea Stadium - Phillies 7, Mets 2 / 68-45

Alright now! Down 2-1 in the fourth, we break out and score six unanswered. Von Hayes with a big blast (a three-run home run), and Paul Molitor adds four hits to bring his average to .300. John Denny (8 IP, 2 ER, 5 H, 4 K, 2 BB) does the job. And Montreal loses, putting us 2.5 back. Still in it, and honestly my frustration a few days ago looks like the rantings of a whining amateur.

Over in Boston, George Brett of the Royals smacks his 2,000th hit. And the Royals win, 12-5.

Aug. 14, 1985

I’ve been thinking a lot about Jeff Stone, who took Philly by storm late last season only to have to spend much of this year back in AAA Portland. We could’ve brought him up at the deadline, instead of getting Terry Puhl, but ultimately we want a part-time, bench bat for the stretch run, and I still don’t want to remove Stone from everyday performance.

That said, he’s having a good season: 429 PA, .352/.403/.515, 20 2B, 13 3B, 6 HR, 61 K, 31 BB, 24 SB, 11 CS, -1.6 ZR, .968 EFF, 3.1 WAR. He’s mostly playing right field, and probably not as well as I’d want, but he’s ready for everyday time in the majors. It’s just there’s still no place for him yet.

As comparison, here’s Glenn Wilson’s season: 365 PA, .269/.315/.445, 18 2B, 1 3B, 13 HR, 38 K, 23 BB, 5 SB, 0 CS, -2.2 ZR, .995 EFF, 1.3 WAR. After a hot first half, he’s cooled down substantially. What he was offering (power) has also died. This is, in some ways, a make-or-break year for Wilson, and he’s not necessarily making it. Unless he surges over the final 50 games, he’s bound to finish with a role-player-esque line.

So, then what? He’ll be arbitration eligible in 1986, meaning his salary is about to increase. He may be worth a one-year increase and a last-ditch opportunity, but I also have Stone hanging around, plus potentially other prospects. I could seek a corner outfield bat in free agency, but I don’t think my goal for 1986 is to make major upgrades - instead, I want to lean more on youth. I could then wait until midseason or so and package Wilson in a trade for, say, a top-line pitcher or even prospects. That might be the way to go. Still unsure.

I’d love to see Glenn-bo just take charge over the final 50, achieve something like a .280/.330/.475 line and get to 20 HR. I’d love to see that WAR hit 2.0. That gives him a real shot for 1986. Otherwise, I’d rather just let Stone take over for good.

Onto tonight’s game in New York. Von Hayes needs a day off; also, Darren Daulton moves up to the three-hole.

Game 1985-114: Shea Stadium - Phillies 9, Mets 5 / 69-45

Nice win. The Mets take a 3-2 lead in the fourth off Scott Sanderson, but we get two right back in the fifth thanks to a Daulton double and Juan Samuel triple. In the eighth we break it wide open with doubles and singles. Daulton (1-for-1, 2 RBI, 4 BB) has a fine day (despite two throwing errors), and Howser is debating keeping him higher in the order for the moment.

Aug. 15, 1985

I get my morning Blaise Ilsley update: 8 IP, 1 ER, 7 H, 5 K, 3 BB. Down to a 2.38 ERA in Reading.

Today, meanwhile, is Steve Carlton against Dwight Gooden. Looking for a huge four-game sweep.

Game 1985-115: Shea Stadium - Phillies 2, Mets 1 / 70-45

Best win of the year, full stop. The boys are charged up.

Dwight Gooden is on point here, giving up just one hit early and striking out half of the batters he’s seeing. We get down 1-0 in the second thanks to a Dave Magadan single, and from there it’s not looking promising. Then in the eighth, Lefty leads off with a line drive hit into left. With two outs, Paul Molitor produces our best moment of the year thus far: a 394-foot slam to left-center that clears the fence and gives us a 2-1 lead. The guys jump in the dugout. The usually stoic Lefty is pumped.

He goes back out for the eighth and gives up a single, walk, and walk with one out. Then Hubie Brooks grounds one to Molitor, who immediately goes home. One. Tommy Thompson turns it to first. Two. Huge double play ends the threat. And in the ninth, Kent Tekulve walks a batter but subdues the Mets otherwise. A sweep at Shea as we head to Chicago. The Mets are now nine behind us, and we’re just 1.5 in back of Montreal.

The boys fly to Chicago, but I decide to spend the weekend back in Philly, so I hop an Amtrak back home. Over the train ride I start going over coaching assignments for 1986.

For one, my assistant Glenn Goetz’s contract is up this year; he’s done OK for me, so I plan on retaining him through the end of my contract in 1987. Otherwise, the only other MLB coach up this offseason is pitching coach Juan Casado. He’s done a solid job with this group, and I’d like to see him work with the young relievers in the system a bit more. I offer him two years and $52K per season, a decent raise.

Chris Thomas was the hitting coach in Reading who was promoted to manager for 1985. The team hasn’t been very good, but I like Thomas as a coach. I’m thinking of promoting him to Portland as hitting coach, letting go Dave Charbonneau, who is currently in that role and more or less shepherding a good group of guys. So, my plan is to let go Charbonneau after the season, promote Thomas, and then negotiate an extension.

That, of course, offers Tim Terzic an opportunity to move up to manage Reading. He’s been a star thus far, leading Peninsula to a 88-52 record in 1984, and currently fronting Clearwater with a 78-34 record this season. He’s getting an extension.

Moving down a bit, Rod Acala has done a nice job in two years at Spartanburg (135-116). He’ll likely move up to Clearwater in 1986 and deserves an extension. That said, I hear he wants way more than I’m willing to give him, so this might not work out.

Otherwise, a few offers out there to pitching and hitting coaches, and we’ll see where we are in a few weeks.

Aug. 16, 1985

Talk about a quick decision: Terzic took my first offer and is on board in 1986. He’s atop my list, no doubt.

My assistant Goetz wants a lot of money. Buddy, don’t get cute ...

For today’s opener against lefty Scott McGregor, I’m going with Tony Armas in center and Dave Concepcion at short. Who knew these guys would play big roles on my team this year?


Game 1985-116: Wrigley Field - Phillies 10, Cubs 6 / 71-45

Big offensive breakout, with Paul Molitor hitting another homer, Mike Schmidt adding his 25th, and Darren Daulton going back-to-back with him, his 11th. Plenty of hits for Armas, Glenn Wilson and Hayes, too. Not as close as it seems, with Donnie Moore giving up a three-run Ryne Sandberg homer with two outs in the ninth.

Aug. 17, 1985

Final offers coming for assistant GM Glenn Goetz and pitching coach Juan Casado. Rod Acala at Spartanburg is really far away from reality, and I’ll have to cut bait there.

An update on Gregg Jefferies, who moved up to A Peninsula two weeks ago, just after turning 18. His line: 56 PA, .400/.446/.500, 5 2B, 4 K, 5 BB, 4 SB, 1 CS, +0.8 ZR, 1.023 EFF, 0.8 WAR. Scouts are seeing tremendous improvement within just the few months he’s been playing everyday - for instance, since June 6 his contact grades have gone from 60 to 70, his eye has gone from 45 to 50, and his current grade has gone from 49 to 51 (his potential is squarely 70). He’ll probably earn a spring training invite in 1986 and an opportunity to start in Reading. The likelihood of being in the majors next year? It’s there (late season, if anything).

Today, Joe Johnson is on the hill. Hoping for some offense.

Game 1985-117: Wrigley Field - Cubs 5, Phillies 3 / 71-46

Errors. Errors. Errors. Armas of course drops a ball out in center, and Samuel of course juggles a grounder at second. Those cost all the runs necessary for Chicago to tie, then win, the game, as they score all five between the seventh and eighth. Brutal. Joe Johnson pitches well (7.1 IP, 1 ER, 7 H, 3 K, 1 BB), and Mike Schmidt hits another homer. We need tomorrow. And of course, Montreal takes advantage and is back up 2.5 games.

Tonight, Houston’s Jose Cruz gets his 2,000th hit. Congrats.

Aug. 18, 1985

Assistant GM Glenn Goetz rejects my final offer and wants the same salary as I’m making. Tough to let go of my closest front office mate after this season, but I can’t justify him making that much. I’ll be fine with a new assistant. Juan Casado is fine with his offer, though.

Game 1985-118: Wrigley Field - Phillies 4, Cubs 3 (11) / 72-46

My, oh my, a real crazy one. Joe Carter puts Chicago up 1-0 with a homer, but we come right back, as Dave Stegman doubles home Juan Samuel to tie it. It stays that way for a while, until Leon Durham doubles home Carter in the sixth to put them up 2-1. But in the seventh, Dave Stegman notches his biggest hit as a Phillie, a two-run homer to give us a 3-2 lead. That stays until the eighth, when the Cubs single home a tying run against John Denny.

Then, one of the biggest plays of the year: In the ninth, Kent Tekulve loads the bases with one out, and Ryne Sandberg lifts one to left. Von Hayes catches it moving in, then fires a missile to get Dave Martinez at the plate. Incredible play to save the game.

A few innings later, UL Washington cashes in with a go-ahead single that stays. Big win to take the series at Wrigley and put us back within 1.5 games, as Montreal loses to St. Louis. Now we get a much-needed day off before a home series with the Dodgers.

New batch of power rankings:

1. Detroit Tigers - 76-42
2. Los Angeles Dodgers - 71-47
3. PHILADELPHIA PHILLIES - 72-46
4. Montreal Expos -74-45
5. Toronto Blue Jays - 73-46

The top-five is restored after a weird one-week invasion from the Red Sox and Mets.
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Old 11-27-2019, 12:54 PM   #129
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Aug. 19, 1985

We get a day off before an eight-game homestand against the Dodgers, Giants and Padres. Then a day off before heading west to once again face the Dodgers, Giants and Padres, with an extra off day in the middle. After the Padres series there’s another off day before a brutal 20-game stretch that includes the whole division. One final off day on Sept. 30 before six to finish: three at Montreal, three at home against Pittsburgh. The season could be decided in Montreal.

The good thing is we’ll have roster expansion in September, and I imagine the bulk of talent will come in before that 20-game marathon. Reading’s season ends just before that, so we’ll simply make those additions then.

Aug. 20, 1985

The Dodgers come in for three. We avoid Fernando Valenzuela, but we get Orel Hershiser and his 1.72 ERA tonight night. He faces Scott Sanderson (10-9, 3.23 ERA).


Game 1985-119: Veterans Stadium - Dodgers 6, Phillies 5 (11) / 72-47

A heavyweight duel goes the wrong way. It seems every time we score, the Dodgers come right back with their own runs. And when the time comes to get big hits, we go silent. We tie it in the sixth with a couple big doubles (Juan Samuel with the biggest), but that’s the end for our bats. Despite great pitching by our bullpen, Los Angeles has 16 hits, none bigger than the RBI single from Steve Sax to put them ahead in extras.

Aug. 21, 1985

Charles Hudson on the hill tonight, and we can use a big outing.

Game 1985-120: Veterans Stadium - Dodgers 9, Phillies 4 / 72-48

One of those that’ll come back to bite us. Kent Tekulve holds onto the 4-4 tie in the ninth, when he just implodes, giving up five runs. I keep telling myself not getting a fireballer isn’t a big deal, but I really hope this isn’t a sign that I’m dead wrong. Shame, too, because in this game, Darren Daulton carried us on his back with two giant, game-tying home runs. The Dodgers once again rack up 16 hits. Ugh. And Montreal wins (as they should), going back up 2.5 games. We needed to win two of three here. Needed to.

Aug. 22, 1985

Kelly Downs got hurt last night, which is the universe just cackling at me. I get it. I get it.

As for tonight, Dick Howser turns to Lefty, pushing him up a start so Joe Johnson doesn’t have to face this hot Los Angeles lineup. I agree.

Game 1985-121: Veterans Stadium - Dodgers 7, Phillies 6 / 72-49

The most frustrating loss of the season. This we should’ve won. We’re up 3-0, then 4-2, then 5-3, 6-4, and then the Dodgers score three in the eighth off Bill Campbell. And it’s not as if Campbell has been bad lately. I know the Dodgers can hit, but this really brings me down. This team would wax us in the NLCS. Luckily, Montreal lost again, so we’re just 2.5 back. But we could’ve at least stayed at 1.5 after this series; instead, we can’t get one win. Frustrating.

Meanwhile, for levity, Reggie Jackson - who has had just 116 at-bats over the last two seasons - injured himself when trying to install something in his bathroom. Poor Angels.

Aug. 23, 1985

Three against San Francisco begins tonight; we can use a win.


Game 1985-122: Veterans Stadium - Giants 3, Phillies 2 / 72-50

Oh boy. Kent Tekulve blows another one, allowing two runs in the ninth. Shame, because John Denny strikes out 10 in 6.1 innings. Really bad loss.

Aug. 24, 1985

More bad news: Kelly Downs is out seven to eight months with a torn labrum. Damn torn labrums. That has him gone through spring training, at best. Sheesh.

And in Reading, Blaise Ilsley - after a nine-day ordered rest - went 7.2 IP, striking out nine and walking four, giving up four earned runs, in a loss.

Dick Howser is giving Paul Molitor a night off, as he’s scuffling. Darren Daulton moves to the three-hole tonight. Man, do we need to turn this around.

Game 1985-123: Veterans Stadium - Phillies 4, Giants 3 / 73-50

Thank goodness. The Giants grab a 3-0 lead in the fourth after a two-run Jeffrey Leonard home run, but Juan Samuel knocks a two-run double in the bottom half, and UL Washington strikes an RBI single to tie it in the sixth. It stays tied until the eighth, when a tailor-made groundout from Terry Puhl is thrown away by catcher Phil Oullette. And despite allowing up two baserunners, Kent Tekulve gets out of it. Exhale. We need more offense.

Aug. 25, 1985

Game 1985-124: Veterans Stadium - Phillies 6, Giants 2 / 74-50

Tommy Thompson has a big day, hitting a three-run home run and driving in four. Tony Armas triples and drives in two, and Paul Molitor is back on board with a 3-for-4 day. And Scott Sanderson goes eight innings, striking out six and walking zippo in a big outing. The Expos lose, as well, putting us 1.5 back once more.

The new rankings:

1. Detroit Tigers - 81-43
2. Toronto Blue Jays - 79-46
3. Los Angeles Dodgers - 76-48
4. PHILADELPHIA PHILLIES - 74-50
5. Montreal Expos -76-49

The Blue Jays have a 6-0 week to climb within two of Detroit. Here we go again.
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Old 12-02-2019, 03:59 PM   #130
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Dodgers peaking at the right time. Phils need to beat the teams they should beat. Good year though.
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Old 12-03-2019, 12:30 AM   #131
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Aug. 26, 1985

Charles Hudson is on the hill to start a two-gamer against the Padres, which finishes off the homestand.


Game 1985-125: Veterans Stadium - Phillies 2, Padres 1 / 75-50

Not a lot of offense lately, but in this one we don’t need it, as Hudson goes eight and gives up just one run on three hits. Juan Samuel’s fourth-inning homer provides the difference.

Aug. 27, 1985

Closer we come to September. Day off tomorrow, but first, we need a win against the Padres. Let’s head out West feeling good. Lefty on the bump.

Game 1985-126: Veterans Stadium - Phillies 5, Padres 4 (14) / 76-50

Torturous, but a win nonetheless, and hey, we surpass our win total of 1984. A 4-2 lead evaporates by the sixth inning, as Steve Carlton labors quite a bit (7 IP, 4 ER, 9 H, 2 K, 5 BB). The bullpen, however, is masterful, blanking San Diego for seven innings, with Paul Assenmacher striking out four in his two frames. We also get lucky, as Terry Puhl throws out Carmelo Martinez trying to score in the top of the 14th. We win, meanwhile, with a Puhl walk-off walk. Von Hayes has the best game offensively, going 2-for-4 with three walks and two runs scored. So glad this is over - let’s hop on a plane and head to Los Angeles.

We remain 1.5 back of Montreal, and awaiting us are four games with the Dodgers. Pretty important.

Aug. 28, 1985

Tough break for the Orioles: Cal Ripken Jr. is done for the season with a torn back muscle. After starting in every game in 1983, he missed four games last season and is now done at 122 games in 1985. He finishes with a .299/.360/.502 mark; at that pace he would’ve likely had his best season to date.

The Ripken news made me look over the AL MVP race, and it seems Wade Boggs could get his second-straight honor (.347/.444/.479, 6.7 WAR), but it’s more likely the award goes to Jesse Barfield in Toronto (.317/.393/.589, 34 HR, 115 RBI, 8.3 WAR). His teammates George Bell, Rance Mulliniks and Tony Fernandez are also having great seasons.

Aug. 29, 1985

Another Blaise Ilsley report: Bad luck in this one, as he gets a no-decision against the Nashua Pirates: 8 IP, 1 ER, 2 H, 11 K, 0 BB. The one run was a home run by Brian Harper. That team also has Jim Olander, whom I dealt for Kent Tekulve. His line in Nashua: 110 PA, .202/.255/.263, 2 HR, 13 RBI, -0.6 WAR. Also in that trade was Dave Kennard, who’s in class-A Prince William: 6 PA, .400/.500/.400, 0.1 WAR.

Four coming against the Dodgers in L.A. Fernando goes first for them, while we counter with John Denny. I’ll take a split, if it’s even possible.


Game 1985-127: Dodger Stadium - Dodgers 8, Phillies 3 / 76-51

Feels like one of the games last week in Philly. We get to Fernando just enough, but the Dodgers offense is relentless. Sid Bream hits two homers - he’s now at .265/.341/.426, and I’d kill for a little of that rubbing off on our second-year player, Juan Samuel (.241/.275/.378). And what do you know: Montreal wins and is up 2.5. This series could really kill us.

Aug. 30, 1985

Today we get Orel Hershiser (1.78 ERA). We counter with Joe Johnson. Cool!

Game 1985-128: Dodger Stadium - Dodgers 7, Phillies 2 / 76-52

Dick Howser probably leaves Joe Johnson in a slight too long here (6.2 IP, 5 ER, 8 H, 1 K, 4 BB). We have a 2-0 lead that becomes 2-1, then 2-2, then 2-3, and then a two-run triple from Franklin Stubbs ruins us. And our offense can’t do much more. This Dodgers team is thoroughly better in every way, and they’re playing their best baseball at the right time. Apparently we needed to win more games earlier this year against Atlanta, Cincinnati, and Pittsburgh. We’re three in back of Montreal.

Aug. 31, 1985

We can really use a huge Charles Hudson start, and no bullpen issues, enough offense, and a win. We can really use it.

Game 1985-129: Dodger Stadium - Dodgers 4, Phillies 3 / 76-53

Depressed. We get up 2-0 once again, but then the Dodgers get three off Hudson in the fourth. We tie it in the sixth with a Darren Daulton double, but the Dodgers grab the lead in the seventh with a Pedro Guerrero single. That’s the end. Another loss to Los Angeles. We’re still three back somehow.

Sept. 1, 1985

Roster expansion day, and maybe some reinforcements will help. We’re going to wait until after this final game to call up some folks, but I imagine at least a bench bat, long-man and reliever are coming up right away.

I can’t wait to leave Los Angeles.

Game 1985-130: Dodger Stadium - Dodgers 5, Phillies 3 / 76-54

No more words for this one. Up 1-0, then 2-1, then 3-2, and then that’s it. Every game the freaking same. The Dodgers basically let you hang around until the fifth or sixth, wait you out and beat you down. Tom Niedenfuer may have a 1.67 ERA, but I don’t believe he’s given up a run at all. Rick Honeycutt allows 12 hits and yet none really do much damage. On that end, we can’t get the big hit early.

Thankfully we remain just three behind Montreal. There’s still a chance, but if we even make it, we’re getting pounded by the Dodgers in the NLCS. No two ways around it.

Alright, callup time. Here’s our list of immediate promotions:
  • SP Mike Maddux promoted to MLB Philadelphia
  • RP Don Carman promoted to MLB Philadelphia
  • LF/RF Jeff Stone promoted to MLB Philadelphia

Maddux was added to the 40-man, and I removed reliever Rich Gaynor, who heads to waivers. I don’t imagine he’ll be claimed, but we’ll see. These seem obvious to me - it would’ve been Kelly Downs if not Maddux, Carman is the best and most polished reliever in the bin (apologies to Todd Worrell), and Stone could really provide a change of pace. I might even move Von Hayes back to center field for a few games to get Stone in these contests a bit. Portland is 6.5 out in their division race, so it’s likely they’re just on the wrong side of things now. Fine to call up the best.

I imagine once the Reading season ends (Sept. 6), we’ll promote some of those folks to Portland for the final few weeks, bringing up another few players from the 40-man. I don’t want a roster any larger than 34-35.

Meanwhile, Peninsula’s season has ended with a poor 59-81 mark. That means a few players head up to Clearwater to get those boys through the postseason (they’re up 18 on the whole league with an 89-38 record).
  • RP Todd Frohwirth promoted to A Clearwater
  • RP Woodrow Broussard promoted to A Clearwater
  • 1B Ronnie Gideon promoted to A Clearwater
  • SS Gregg Jefferies promoted to A Clearwater

The big one is Jefferies, obviously. Fun lines in both R Bend and A Peninsula:
  • Bend - 26 G, 26 GS, 121 PA, .291/.388/.495, 3 2B, 3 3B, 4 HR, 20 RBI, 22 R, 7 K, 17 BB, 13 SB, 2 CS, 0.9 WAR
  • Peninsula - 26 G, 26 GS, 121 PA, .391/.421/.564, 8 2B, 1 3B, 3 HR, 21 RBI, 20 R, 6 K, 8 BB, 8 SB, 1 CS, 1.7 WAR

Same amount of appearances and games in Peninsula, but a better hitter who attacked a lot more. His fielding was rated better, too. He’s very likely starting 1986 in Reading, and to end ‘85 he’ll get to help Clearwater win the Florida State League.

New power rankings. Woo-hoo:

1. Toronto Blue Jays - 84-47
2. Detroit Tigers - 84-46
3. Los Angeles Dodgers - 80-50
4. New York Mets - 71-59
5. Montreal Expos -79-51

We’re 10th. Tenth! Look, I know the Dodgers swept us, but we started the week going 2-0 against San Diego! Whatever. We’re just five ahead of the Mets now. Gotta win some games this week.

Also, Atlanta (46-84) is eliminated from postseason contention. The Dodgers have a 13.5-game lead. Dag. Also, the Mariners are now up 2.5 in the AL West, playing at a respectable 70-61. Detroit is up 0.5 over Toronto (another fun race here!).
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Old 12-07-2019, 02:16 PM   #132
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Sept. 2, 1985

It’s Labor Day, and we're behind by three games. Time for Jesus to come by. In August, Donnie Moore (10.1 IP, 7.84 ERA, 7 K, 4 BB) and Paul Assenmacher (9.1 IP, 5.79 ERA, 10 K, 5 BB) struggled most on the mound, and Charles Hudson (47 IP, 4.21 ERA, 26 K, 15 BB) had his roughest month yet.

Among hitters, Dave Stegman (90 PA, .171/.278/.276, 5 XBH, 23 K, 12 BB) was pretty bad, as was Juan Samuel (117 PA, .250/.282/.375, 9 XBH, 16 K, 4 BB), who just hasn’t had it all year. Mike Schmidt got going again with seven homers and a .309/.392/.573 line. The offense was somehow, generally good. Apparently.

Anyway, in San Francisco for three. We need this, and interestingly, Dick Howser is batting Juan Samuel second and Terry Puhl sixth. Alright, sir.


Game 1985-131: Candlestick Park - Phillies 8, Giants 6 / 77-54

The kind of offense we need, but boy did we nearly lose it a bunch of times. We go down 2-1 in the first (thanks in part to a triple by 18-year-old rookie Larry Walker), then we grab the lead in the third with a bunch of singles and a sacrifice fly. The Giants tie it immediately, then they grab a 5-3 lead in the fifth off Tug McGraw, who came in for Steve Carlton because he endured a finger blister.

We come right back in the sixth with a big two-run double from Samuel and seize a 6-5 lead with a sac fly in the seventh. In the eighth, however, Bill Campbell allows a Chris Brown game-tying homer. BUT we get going in the ninth: walk, walk, throwing error on a steal attempt to score a run, single by UL Washington to score another run. We win 8-6. Exhale.

And Lefty is day-to-day. Fine. And Montreal loses. Great.

Meanwhile in St. Louis, Willie McGee got to 25 straight games with a hit. We’ll keep an eye.

Sept. 3, 1985

Cleveland (56-79) is out of the postseason race after an 11-1 schelaking by Toronto yesterday.

Jeff Stone starts in right field today against Mike Krukow, who’s hitting eighth (!) in the Giants lineup.

Game 1985-132: Candlestick Park - Phillies 2, Giants 1 (10) / 78-54

A heart-stopper. We lose the 1-0 lead early, but John Denny pitches well (8 IP, 0 ER, 3 H, 8 K, 4 BB), the only run scoring after a UL Washington error (he now has 27). Kent Tekulve walks a high-wire and gets through two scoreless despite giving up three hits and three walks. Seriously. The winning run is via a Washington base hit, so I can’t fault him too much for the bogey.

Sept. 4, 1985

Game 1985-133: Candlestick Park - Giants 5, Phillies 3 / 78-55

Limping late. Joe Johnson pitches OK in five innings, but not well enough. Donnie Moore gives up a home run right away. Feels like we’ve gone weeks without a big Mike Schmidt hit. Luckily we’re still back two (the Expos are playing the Dodgers).

And in other news, Oakland is out of contention with a loss to Baltimore. They’re 41-93.

Sept. 5, 1985

It’s an off day. We won’t go over statistical leaders since there’s a month to play, but Mike Schmidt’s MVP candidacy still looks good. I’d love a few big September hits, though, Michael Jack. Giving myself a day off.

Sept. 6, 1985

The last Blaise Ilsley start of 1985 was good (9 IP, 3 ER, 3 H, 6 K, 2 BB). He finishes in Reading with a 2.51 ERA, a 9.6 K/9 and 2.9 BB/9. He’ll get an invitation to 1986 spring training and have an outside chance at making the big club.

Meanwhile, we should mention that the Clearwater Phillies - despite a loss yesterday - are 92-39. Are they the best team in Florida State League history? Well, the Miami Marlins last year went 103-41, so uh, I don’t know. But this team is first in just about every category. At the least, they should surpass the 1983 Reading squad that went 96-44 and had Juan Samuel, Jeff Stone, Mike LaValliere, and Darren Daulton.

Time for three against San Diego to close out this West Coast trip. And oh, Mike Schmidt is hitting third with Tony Armas at the cleanup spot. Okay ...


Game 1985-134: Jack Murphy Stadium - Phillies 3, Padres 2 (14) / 79-55

Good lord. Charles Hudson is great (8 IP, 1 ER, 5 H, 4 K, 3 BB) and hands over a 2-1 lead thanks to a Terry Puhl single, but then Kent Tekulve gives it right back thanks to a Terry Kennedy home run (he hit .207 in August so I’m not sad at the moment that we didn’t get him). Then it’s a seesaw. Big pitching from Larry Andersen (3 IP, 1 H, 2 K, 3 BB), and finally in the 14th, a Dave Stegman single gets us our winning run. Thank goodness. Still two back.

Sept. 7, 1985

Lefty’s turn against Andy Hawkins (3.20 ERA). Would love a vintage Lefty start. Jeff Stone is out in right field today.

Game 1985-135: Jack Murphy Stadium - Padres 4, Phillies 1 / 79-56

Bland loss. Andy Hawkins throws a complete game, while Steve Carlton does not have a great start (6 IP, 4 ER, 9 H). And we’re back to three behind Montreal. We haven’t really made up any ground in a month. And because Montreal beat San Francisco, the Giants are out of the playoff race.

Sept. 8, 1985

Last one out west.

Game 1985-136: Jack Murphy Stadium - Phillies 5, Padres 4 / 80-56

Our 80th win of the season is a good one. Von Hayes is stepping it up (3-for-3, 2 2B, 3 R, 1 BB), while Terry Puhl adds two hits. A decent start from John Denny (6 IP, 3 ER, 3 H, 3 K, 1 BB) and good relief from Bill Campbell and Kent Tekulve (3 IP, 1 ER, 4 H, 3 K, 1 BB).

Expos lose. Back down two to Montreal, and they’re next up.

Oh, the power rankings:

1. Toronto Blue Jays - 88-49
2. Detroit Tigers - 87-49
3. Los Angeles Dodgers - 83-53
4. Milwaukee Brewers - 73-63
5. Montreal Expos -82-54

Toronto is now in front of Detroit. We’re seventh, which we’ll take. Who cares - big three-game series coming up.
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Old 12-10-2019, 02:54 AM   #133
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Sept. 9, 1985

Reading’s season is over, so it’s time to bring up a few more folks:
  • RP Chuck Cary promoted to MLB Philadelphia
  • RP Todd Worrell promoted to MLB Philadelphia
  • C Mike LaValliere promoted to MLB Philadelphia
  • 1B/3B/2B/SS Rick Schu promoted to MLB Philadelphia
  • LF Bruce Fields promoted to MLB Philadelphia

That should be it. Primarily a bunch of depth, though I’d imagine LaValliere will get some time out there.

Sept. 10, 1985

The Athletics fire manager Steve Boros after a 43-94 season, then beat Texas 15-2 in the first game without him. Ha. Former Phillie alert: Ozzie Virgil is hitting .242/.322/.364, 11 HR, 59 RBI, 2.2 WAR. Just a regular. That’s fine with me.

Three games with Montreal coming up. Huge series. We’re skipping Joe Johnson right now, going with Scott Sanderson against Bill Gullickson (11-10, 3.43 ERA). Here we go.


Game 1985-137: Veterans Stadium - Phillies 9, Expos 3 / 81-56

A rout. We’re up 4-1 by the second and don’t look back. Von Hayes homers among three hits, while Juan Samuel adds a double and a triple. Thirteen hits in all for us, while Sanderson goes all nine and allows three runs on seven hits. Great start to a huge series, and we’re one back.

Meantime in New York, Willie McGee of St. Louis got to 31 straight with a hit. We’re definitely watching this development.

Sept. 11, 1985

Charles Hudson gets the ball tonight against Bryn Smith (15-7, 1.92 ERA). We can tie for the division lead with a win.

Game 1985-138: Veterans Stadium - Expos 8, Phillies 7 / 81-57

Worst loss of the year.

We’re up 7-0, just cruising. Juan Samuel goes 2-for-3 with a homer and 4 RBI, it’s all good, we’re about to be tied in the division. Then we give up two in the eighth and six in the ninth. Unfathomable. Kent Tekulve gives up six, but two are earned, because of errors (of course, UL Washington and Paul Molitor). Just terrible. We won’t win the division if we can’t win when up 7-0 in the eighth.

And meanwhile Willie McGee’s streak ends. Alright then.

Sept. 12, 1985

We need this one. Full stop.

Game 1985-139: Veterans Stadium - Phillies 3, Expos 1 / 82-57

We get it. Steve Carlton is on point (8 IP, 1 ER, 4 H, 6 K, 2 BB), and our offense does just enough, with Von Hayes and Paul Molitor collecting big hits. Dick Hoswer goes with Larry Andersen to close out this game, spurring some questions about Kent Tekulve’s place in the bullpen.

“Right now, we’re trying to win games,” says Howser.

And Tekulve? “I gotta do my job. LA has been terrific, so I have no ill will toward Dick.”

We’re a game back again.

Sept. 13, 1985

A series on the road against Pittsburgh awaits. Joe Johnson gets the start in game one, and Mike LaValliere gets his first start. A quick scouting report:

Mike LaValliere, age 25, is a pretty good defensive catcher with an ability to throw nearly one-third of runners out on stolen base attempts. At the plate, he has superior plate discipline and puts the ball in play when possible, recording a .290 or so average most seasons in the minors while getting on base at nearly a .380 clip over his career. He lacks raw power, but his ability to drive base hits is improving. Essentially, he’s a patient hitter who might luck into some good at-bats in the majors, but still has some work to do to be an everyday asset.

Alright. We need to at least keep pace.


Game 1985-140: Three Rivers Stadium - Pirates 7, Phillies 3 / 82-58

Johnson is really making me worry. Mike Schmidt finally hits his 28th home run, while - forget lacking raw power - Mike LaValliere’s first major league plate appearance is a homer. Pretty awesome.

Of course, we’re back down two games. Ugh.

Sept. 14, 1985

Big news today as Joe Niekro of Oakland will retire at the end of the season. He’s 14-11 this season between Houston and Oakland. For his career he has a 198-187 record and a 3.53 ERA. Not a hall of famer, but a fun knuckleballer nonetheless.

Game 1985-141: Three Rivers Stadium - Phillies 5, Pirates 1 / 83-58

A good win, as we grab a 3-1 lead in the fifth and don’t let go. Two hits each for Von Hayes and Terry Puhl (hitting .318/.338/.417 for us), and John Denny is quite good (8.2 IP, 1 ER, 6 H, 6 K, 4 BB).

The Expos lose, so we’re back within one of Montreal.

Sept. 15, 1985

Outfielder Al Bumbry is retiring after 1985, per the Padres. Primarily with the Orioles, he has a career .281/.343/.378 mark with 52 homers and 1,379 hits.

Darren Daulton in a day game after a night game. We’re doing everything we can today.

Game 1985-142: Three Rivers Stadium - Pirates 4, Phillies 3 / 83-59

We never get the win the Pirates get here. We’re up 3-1 in the ninth, and of course, the Pirates win. Larry Andersen blows it. Maybe we should’ve traded for Lee Smith when we had a chance? I don’t know. Just stinks. End of the day, we can’t take games from Pittsburgh, and that’s a problem.

Expos lose. Still one back; could’ve been a tie.

Power rankings:

1. Los Angeles Dodgers - 89-53
2. Detroit Tigers - 91-51
3. Toronto Blue Jays - 90-54
4. New York Mets - 79-63
5. PHILADELPHIA PHILLIES - 83-59

Toronto drops two of three to Detroit, then loses three of four to the Yankees. Tough. We’re four up on New York, and they have us for two.
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Old 12-13-2019, 03:12 AM   #134
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Sept. 16, 1985

Clearwater is at 100-40 on the season. Starting pitcher Michael Jackson: 46 IP, 1.96 ERA, 43 K, 11 BB, 1.4 WAR. Currently, though, he’s the second most popular Michael Jackson in America.

Charles Hudson going tonight against the Mets.


Game 1985-143: Shea Stadium - Phillies 7, Mets 1 / 84-59

Our offense has been cooking a bit more lately. Here, we get two doubles (among three hits) from UL Washington, plus two hits from Terry Puhl and Von Hayes, who has been red hot lately. A full team effort today, as we score five in the ninth to put it away. And Charles Hudson’s line: 7 IP, 1 ER, 5 H, 8 K, 0 BB. Awesome.

Expos win. Still down by one.

Sept. 17, 1985

The Cubs are out. A 64-79 record has them missing the postseason for the 40th consecutive season. Boy. The Orioles (72-71) are out, too. And they’re just two years removed from a championship.

Steve Carlton on the bump tonight. Need him to come through.

Game 1985-144: Shea Stadium - Phillies 5, Mets 2 / 85-59

Big to get both games at Shea. Mike LaValliere hits his second career home run in a big spot, while Mike Schmidt goes 4-for-4 with a homer and 3 RBI. He’s now at 29 HR, 120 RBI. Steve Carlton (8 IP, 2 ER, 9 H, 4 K, 1 BB) does his job.

And still one back of Montreal.

With 18 games to go, I imagine we have to go at least 11-7 to have a shot at this. I’d love 13-5, though that would require a sweep, maybe two or three. Essentially, winning two of every three from here out is the goal.

Sept. 18, 1985

Terry Puhl wants to talk contract extension for 1986. I’m not sure I’m in the business of keeping on veterans, especially when I have a number of young players itching for an opportunity.

The schedule that remains is all NL East:
  • 2 vs St. Louis
  • 3 vs Chicago
  • 2 vs New York
  • 2 at St. Louis
  • 3 at Chicago
  • 3 at Montreal
  • 3 vs Pittsburgh

We start with the Cardinals. Talking with Dick Howser, and we’ll stay with Joe Johnson and a five-man rotation for the moment. But we’ll be limiting Johnson’s pitch count to about 65. Two times through the order seems about right for him, if we can get there relatively unscathed. Johnson goes tonight.


Game 1985-145: Veterans Stadium - Cardinals 10, Phillies 6 (10) / 85-60

Errors lead to costly runs, and Larry Andersen gives up too many hits late. But the big problem is the fifth starter spot. Joe Johnson gives up two in 3.2 IP, and gives way to Mike Maddux, who in his first outing allows a two-run home run and four runs total. Very close to going to a four-man rotation; we may try Johnson once more, but without Maddux being the next man in.

And of course, Montreal wins. Back down two.

Sept. 19, 1985

The Dodgers win the NL West, as they’re now at 92-53. Sheesh. Detroit is now up 3.5 on Toronto. We can’t get down any more. John Denny pitches tonight.

Game 1985-146: Veterans Stadium - Cardinals 5, Phillies 4 / 85-61

Man, oh man. John Denny stays in too long, giving up three runs in the seventh to put St. Louis ahead for good. If it’s not the bullpen it’s the starter, and if it’s not the starter it’s the offense. I’m not sure at this point if we can get a hot streak going anymore. We really need Schmidty or someone to just carry us for a week. We need it.

And Montreal wins again. Down three with 16 to go. Sigh.

Sept. 20, 1985

Time to take on the Cubs, a team we should absolutely take down, maybe even sweep. Meanwhile, the Expos have the Cardinals. Need wins and help, wins and help.

In good news, Clearwater finished 103-40, one of the greatest minor league teams of all-time. They play Fort Myers in the Florida State League playoffs starting today.

Meanwhile, Bend is down 3-2 to Bellingham in the Northwest League championship series. You may recall those teams faced off in last year’s series, with Bellingham winning then.


Game 1985-147: Veterans Stadium - Phillies 4, Cubs 3 / 86-61

Oh thank heaven. We get down 3-0 early but hang in, and then it’s Paul Molitor’s show. He nails a two-run homer in the sixth, then gets the game-winning hit in the eighth. Just before that, Terry Puhl strikes a huge RBI triple. Scott Sanderson gets the eight-inning, eight-strikeout win. And Montreal loses, so we’re back within two. Big win.

Over in the American League, a wild game in Los Angeles. With the score tied 4-4 in the ninth, California’s Pat Clements gave up two home runs, then hit Brady Anderson with a pitch. That sparked a brawl leading to suspensions. Then, in the bottom of the ninth, after Bobby Grich homered off Bobby Thigpen, the Angel jawed back at the Indians’ closer. A batter later, Thigpen hit Dick Schofield with a pitch, leading to another brawl. Suspensions all around as the Indians hung on, 7-5.

As for Anderson, who we bypassed in the draft for Gregg Jefferies, he’s hitting .243/.344/.365 with 33 XBH in 460 PA.

Sept. 21, 1985

In the Northwest League, Bend beat Bellingham in game six, tying the series 3-3. Game seven is tonight.

Game 1985-148: Veterans Stadium - Phillies 8, Cubs 3 / 87-61

Down 3-0 early (again), we storm ahead in the fourth and fifth. Mike Schmidt hits his 31st homer (126 RBI), while Darren Daulton adds a shot of his own. More of this, please. Charles Hudson goes the distance, striking out six and improving to 16-5. Expos win, so we’re still back two.

Sept. 22, 1985

Good news from Washington: Bend has won the Northwest League title! After being down 3-0, they win four straight to take the championship series over Bellingham. Congratulations to the Bend Phillies!

Tony Armas in the lineup for Dave Stegman today. Darren Daulton is starting after a night game. No excuses now.

Game 1985-149: Veterans Stadium - Phillies 5, Cubs 2 / 88-61

We get a sweep of Chicago. Terry Puhl blasts two home runs, while Mike Schmidt adds his 32nd home run and three RBI. Steve Carlton does his job (8.1 IP, 2 ER, 8 H, 4 K, 1 BB). Montreal wins, so we’re still two back with 13 to play.

Mike Schmidt took home NL Player of the Week with 4 HR, 13 RBI and a .500 AVG.

And the power rankings:

1. Los Angeles Dodgers - 94-55
2. Toronto Blue Jays - 93-56
3. Montreal Expos - 90-59
4. Detroit Tigers - 94-55
5. PHILADELPHIA PHILLIES - 88-61

Remember when Detroit had that 3.5-game lead on Toronto? It’s now a game. If only we can get that kind of traction in a week!

The AL West, meanwhile, shows Seattle up by two over Kansas City. We’ll see if the Royals can reverse the final weeks of last season and overcome the deficit this time.
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Old 12-14-2019, 01:34 PM   #135
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Hey, folks: Big update here. I've been meaning to fill out that first post so people can easily navigate - getting to that today!

Sept. 23, 1985

Two games coming against the Mets. Dick Howser believes in Joe Johnson and thinks we should do two more turns with a five-man rotation, and then we can play with that final off day. Johnson will need to give us 60 or so great pitches, and then we’ll go with a number of relievers (this time no Mike Maddux). Offensively, Dave Concepcion starts, as does Bill Lyons at second base and Tony Armas in center field. Alright then.


Game 1985-150: Veterans Stadium - Phillies 8, Mets 4 / 89-61

A gritty, big-time win. Joe Johnson allows just one run despite seven hits allowed in four innings. Then it’s Todd Worrell, who lets up two runs to give the Mets a 3-2 lead in the fifth. In the sixth, however, we come alive thanks to a Mike Schmdt RBI single, then a few batters later, a UL Washington pinch-hit grand slam. Biggest hit he’s had since joining the club. Paul Assenmacher and Bill Campbell close it out. Our strategy pays off.

Montreal wins and stays two up.

Sept. 24, 1985

Guys are tired right now. Paul Molitor gets a day off, with Bill Lyons moving to third. Need pitching tonight.

Game 1985-151: Veterans Stadium - Phillies 7, Mets 2 / 90-61

We get pitching. John Denny goes the distance, striking out eight, walking two, and allowing two hits and two runs to improve to 15-9 with a 2.59 ERA. UL Washington again strikes big with a triple and two RBI. Bill Lyons walks three times, proving a catalyst. And three of our first four runs were bases-loaded walks via Rick Aguilera. We’ll take it.

And finally, Montreal loses a game. We’re one back once more. We haven’t been tied in a while, so let’s hope.

Sept. 25, 1985

In the Florida State League, the Clearwater club is awaiting the winner of the Daytona Beach vs. Fort Lauderdale series. They swept Fort Myers thanks in part to Gregg Jefferies (.688/.722/1.063), who took home series MVP honors. Yup, in four games he went 11-for-16.

Detroit is still up one on Toronto in the AL East, while Seattle increases its AL West lead over Kansas City to 3.5 games. Two against St. Louis. Here we go.


Game 1985-152: Busch Stadium - Phillies 4, Cardinals 3 / 91-61

Did our boys ever play this one!

We get down 2-1 in the fifth after a Ken Oberkfell home run, but in the seventh, Juan Samuel bangs a huge RBI triple to tie it up. An inning later, we put two on with two out, and Paul Molitor pops one foul that Andy Van Slyke drops. A huge error, as Molitor comes right back to single in both runs. Huge hit for Paul in a second half littered with them. Scott Sanderson (8 IP, 3 ER, 8 H, 3 K, 2 BB) gives up a third St. Louis run, but Larry Andersen slams the door. Goodness.

Montreal wins to stay up one. Exhale.

Sept. 26, 1985

A lot of talk in Houston that Dickie Thon is playing his last games as an Astro. He has only hit .256 this season in 236 plate appearances (performance related; no injuries) and is a free agent after 1987. I’d imagine a non-contending team might want to take a look.

Game 1985-153: Busch Stadium - Phillies 7, Cardinals 2 / 92-61

Yes! A two-game sweep in St. Louis. Charles Hudson pitches a complete game, surrendering two runs on seven hits and three walks, striking out eight. Tony Armas has a big game, hitting his first home run as a Phillie, as well as a double, and Mike Schmidt knocks No. 33. Juan Samuel hits a big homer, too, driving in two as he ups his average to .245.

It’s our seventh-straight win, and there’s that big run I just begged for the day before it started.

And ladies and gentlemen, the Montreal Expos lost, meaning we’re tied for the National League East division lead with nine games left to play. The season has reset.

Here. We. Go.

Sept. 27, 1985

On to Wrigley. Nine games left.


Game 1985-154: Wrigley Field - Cubs 4, Phillies 3 / 92-62

Shoot. Steve Carlton stays in a bit too long, allowing a seventh-inning home run to Jody Davis to tie it up. Erases home runs by Juan Samuel and Darren Daulton. In the ninth, a Dave Martinez single scores Steve Kemp, who had doubled.

Montreal loses, as well, so we’re still tied.

Sept. 28, 1985

Joe Johnson day, one last time. Godspeed.

Game 1985-155: Wrigley Field - Phillies 6, Cubs 2 / 93-62

Joe Johnson! He goes 4.1 IP, giving up two runs on five hits, doing exactly what he has to do to keep us in the game. He leaves with the game tied, thanks to two Terry Puhl RBI singles. After him, Don Carman (1.2 IP, 1 H, 3 K, 2 BB), Bill Campbell (1 IP), and Kent Tekulve (2 IP, 3 H, 1 K). UL Washington (a red-light player for us) hits a big two-run home run to help put it away.

And guess what? Montreal loses to St. Louis, putting us in first place for the first time in more than two months. Seven games to go and a one-game lead in the division. Wow!

Sept. 29, 1985

Clearwater begins the Florida State League Championship Series tomorrow. That’s a five-day layoff between games, though it felt like 15.

Mike Schmidt is tired. Very tired. John Denny on the bump.

Game 1985-156: Wrigley Field - Phillies 7, Cubs 6 / 94-62

Hoo baby! A tight-rope walk in this one. We get down 3-1 early thanks in part to a Mel Hall home run. Then comes the fifth - tired but wired Schmidty hits a two-run triple, and a Cub error on a Juan Samuel grounder scores him. Then, Tony Armas slams a two-run homer. The Cubs strike a few more times to tie it up in the seventh, but in the ninth, Juan Samuel doubles off Lee Smith to score Schmidt. Larry Andersen notches his ninth save.

By the way, hell of an effort by Schmidty, who badly wants this team to cross the finish line in first.

We hold the one-game lead over Montreal, and our magic number is six. Next up is the biggest three games of the 1985 season.

If we sweep the Expos, we win the division with that final victory. Anything less means a dogfight in those final three. Here are the scenarios:
  • Phillies win 3-0: Phillies up 4, win division
  • Phillies win 2-1: Phillies up 2
  • Expos win 2-1: Division tied
  • Expos win 3-0: Expos up 2

Obviously, our goal is to win all three, but two of three would be great.

The season’s final power rankings:

1. Los Angeles Dodgers - 99-56
2. PHILADELPHIA PHILLIES - 94-62
3. Toronto Blue Jays - 97-59
4. San Diego Padres - 83-72
5. Montreal Expos - 93-63

The Padres? Well, they’re in the midst of a 10-game winning streak. They started that streak barely above .500, and now they have the fourth-best record in the National League. A team to watch for 1986, it seems.

Meanwhile, check out that AL East. The Tigers self-destruct down the stretch, losing 10 of their last 13 to the Yankees and Red Sox. But all could change in a New York minute, as Detroit hosts Toronto for three starting Tuesday. The eyes of the baseball world will be on Montreal and the Motor City this week.
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Old 12-15-2019, 06:34 PM   #136
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The pressure is on! Great season, but need to close it out strong. Manager needs to make the right decisions.
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Old 12-17-2019, 11:44 PM   #137
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Sept. 30, 1985

Day off before the Expos series. In the AL West, Seattle’s magic number is one. If Kansas City loses tonight, it’s over.

Oct. 1, 1985

Mike Easler’s two-run double kept Kansas City alive in the AL West. It was hit with one out in the ninth when down one, beating California at Royals Stadium. Seattle maintains the magic number of one with six games left.

Also around the league, California’s Vida Blue has retired. He finishes 195-154 with a 3.30 career ERA and 2,045 strikeouts, retiring at merely age 36.

Meanwhile, we’re all at Stade Olympique. We’ve taken over one of the suites and have Molson Canadians and are biting our nails. Three games that could determine the division. Or they could create more confusion and tension. Or they could sink us. It’s like the end of the 1980 regular season all over again. Breathe in, breathe out.

Montreal lines up its rotation: Bryn Smith (16-8, 1.99 ERA), Bill Gullickson (12-11, 3.47 ERA), and David Palmer (16-8, 2.27 ERA). Dick doesn’t feel the need to counter with pitchers with similar ERAs, instead deciding to let our boys ride their wave of confidence. We’ll go Scott Sanderson (14-10, 3.28 ERA), Charles Hudson (17-5, 2.35 ERA), and Steve Carlton (11-7, 2.94 ERA).

All our hitters are rested and ready to go.


Game 1985-157: Olympic Stadium - Phillies 3, Expos 2 / 95-62

Tense as hell, but we get the first!

Awesome, awesome job by Sanderson, going eight innings while allowing just two runs on three hits and a walk, striking out two. Montreal scores on a single, steal, steal, infield single; and a single, sacrifice, steal, sacrifice. We get our runs on a triple and an error; and a big sixth with RBI singles by Paul Molitor and Darren Daulton. A nail-biting game, for sure, but our magic number is four with five to play.

Oct. 2, 1985

Seattle throttled Cleveland last night, giving them the American League West championship and a spot in the ALCS for the second-consecutive season. An incredible job by Mariners manager Del Crandall, whose team was 33-43 on July 2. On Oct. 2, Seattle is 87-70. This with regression from a number of their young players. Again, hell of a job by Crandall.

The first-year player draft pool is announced today, and we’ll get to that shortly. For now our attention is focused on Montreal. Get this one and we’re in tremendous position. Juan Samuel moves to the two-hole as Terry Puhl sits for Jeff Stone.

Game 1985-158: Olympic Stadium - Phillies 5, Expos 1 / 96-62

Charles Freaking Hudson!

Our man goes eight strong, striking out eight and masterfully getting out of any and all jams. His only blemish is an eighth-inning home run by Glenn Hubbard. Meanwhile, we score early and enough, with Mike Schmidt striking an RBI double and getting on base four times, Jeff Stone putting up three hits, and Juan Samuel slamming a huge insurance homer, his 15th. Our magic number is two. We can win the division with a win tomorrow.

Oct. 3, 1985

Before tonight’s game, Mike Schmidt gives a stirring speech. “I’ve never been more proud of a group of guys in my entire career, than you all right here.” He pumps the boys up, and then yields the floor to Juan Samuel, who punctuates the meeting: “Kick their ass!”

Steve Carlton is on the hill. The division can be ours tonight.

Game 1985-159: Olympic Stadium - Expos 6, Phillies 2 / 96-63

Could’ve telegraphed that one, I guess. A first-inning Samuel error (he was probably too jacked up) starts us on the wrong foot, and we get down 3-0 early. That’s the end, basically. Steve Carlton hurts himself in the fifth, and while Mike Maddux does a great job keeping us in the game (2.2 IP, 1 H, 3 K, 2 BB), Kent Tekulve’s eighth erases any chance for us (1 IP, 2 ER, 4 H). Montreal is two back with three to play.

After the game, we find out Carlton has a strained abdominal. He can pitch through it, but it could cost us. He wants to pitch through it. We’ll see if we get to that point.
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Old 12-18-2019, 11:54 PM   #138
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Oct. 4, 1985

Last night, the Toronto Blue Jays did what we couldn’t: sweep their rival on the road to win the division. The Jays, reversing last season’s outcome, knocked out the Detroit Tigers, outscoring them in the three games, 16-6. It’ll be the Blue Jays and Mariners - the 1977 expansion clubs and the last two teams to enter the majors - for the American League championship. The Dodgers await either us or the Expos.

Montreal plays the Mets in New York. We get the Pirates at home.

And we got the two of three we needed in Montreal. Now we have to win two of three here. One could do it, long as Montreal loses a game against the Mets. But it isn’t about that - let’s take care of our own business and win this thing ourselves.

John Denny is pitching tonight.


Game 1985-160: Veterans Stadium - Phillies 2, Pirates 1 / 97-63

No score forever, with John Denny and Larry McWilliams trading zeroes. Then in the sixth, McWilliams triples, and Bobby Bonilla hits a sacrifice fly to score him. 1-0 Pirates, and it stays that way.

As the game crawls to a sad close, we find out the Expos are up 5-4 on the Mets and hoping to close it out.

Then we get to the ninth, still down 1-0. Former Phillie Rick Reuschel in for Pittsburgh. Darren Daulton walks. Juan Samuel strikes out. Daulton gets to second on a wild pitch, but Mike LaValliere flies out. Two down.

Tony Armas at the plate, and we see that the Expos have tacked on an insurance run (a Gary Carter homer) to go up 6-4. Okay, at least one more night.

Two down, man on second, and Armas takes a ball. 1-0. Reuschel snuffs out a sign.

Harry Kalas, take it away:

KALAS: Reuschel looks back at Daulton.

Stretches.

The one-oh pitch- *crack*

SWING AND A LONG DRIVE!

RICHIE ASHBURN: OHHHH!

KALAS: DEEP LEFT FIELD!

ASHBURN: OHHHH!

KALAS: IT’S GONNA BE A GAME-WINNER! IT IS! OUTTA HERE! A GAME-ENDING, TWO-RUN HOME RUN BY TONY ARMAS! THE PHILLIES WIN IT WITH TWO OUTS IN THE NINTH, TWO TO ONE! UNBELIEVABLE!

ASHBURN: OH MY GOODNESS!

KALAS: THE PHILLIES HAVE WON THE GAME, AND THE CROWD IS ON ITS FEET AT VETERANS STADIUM! THEY MOB ARMAS AT THE PLATE!

AND RIGHT NOW, THE MAGIC NUMBER IS ONE OFF AN INCREDIBLE BLAST BY ARMAS!

Our first walkoff home run since I’ve taken over as general manager (by a guy I acquired at the deadline for peanuts) is a 405-foot shot that couldn’t have come in a bigger moment.

The Expos would win, so we’re still waiting to pop the champagne corks, but our magic number is one. An all-time win over the Pirates, and tomorrow could be it.

What a magical season.

Oct. 5, 1985

All we have to do is win. NBC moves both our game and the Expos game to 4:05 to do dual broadcasts for the national audience. Dick Howser and I meet about the staff, and we decide that it’ll be Scott Sanderson today. We believe in him, and we just need a decent start from him and some offense. Hope it happens.

Huge crowd at the Vet.

Here we go.

Game 1985-161: Veterans Stadium - Phillies 2, Pirates 1 / 98-63

WE DID IT!

1985 NATIONAL LEAGUE EASTERN DIVISION CHAMPIONS!


Scott Sanderson is fantastic, going 6.1 innings, giving up just one run on six hits and two walks. New hero Tony Armas homers to start it off (two plate appearances in a row, two homers), then Mike Schmidt hits a sacrifice fly to make it 2-0. Pittsburgh gets a run, but the bullpen (Tug McGraw, Kent Tekulve, Larry Andersen) does an outstanding job to finish it off.

And to cap it off, Just as Andersen is closing out, things go nuts in New York:

The Expos hold a 3-1 lead over the Mets going into the ninth. Then, Keith Hernandez walks, Mookie Wilson singles, and Wally Backman bunts the runners over. Then with two outs, Randy Milligan singles to score two and tie the game. Milligan to second. Then Lenny Dykstra is intentionally walked, Dave Magadan singles to load the bases … then Tim Burke throws a wild pitch that scores Milligan and ends the game. A heartbreaker for Montreal.

Andersen finishes his final hitter just two pitches after the wild pitch at Shea, so nobody in Philly knows what happened up there. We did it our way.

We win our sixth division title in 10 seasons and reach the postseason for the seventh time in that stretch. I run down to the clubhouse and meet the boys for champagne and hugs. Mike Schmidt and Juan Samuel raise me on their shoulders. Tony Armas gives me a big bear hug for getting him to the playoffs. Dave Stegman pours beer on me. It’s a wild scene, and it’s just beautiful. We did it.

I’m shocked. Richie Ashburn corners me for an interview and asks if this seemed possible before the season began.

“You can never say it’s not possible, because baseball is an incredible, surprising game,” I say. “And these boys, this is a hell of a team. They’re just the right mix. We can’t wait to get to Los Angeles and shock those Dodgers!”

In my heart of hearts, I know we’re likely to be stomped by the Dodgers, but my goodness, we won the division. What a season.

I leave the clubhouse not long after the interview, then I head back upstairs to our suite to celebrate with my team. These are my guys. We got Paul Molitor, Scott Sanderson (who has been just unreal and was tonight), Donnie Moore, and UL Washington. We got Tony Armas, Terry Puhl, and Kent Tekulve down the stretch. And we held onto Tugger, who got us a big out in this game. And damn if every single guy we brought up this season made some sort of impact (even you, Kelly Downs).

As we celebrate upstairs, Tug bursts in with a bottle of champagne. He’s weepy and hugs me hard. He cries into my shoulder. “Thanks you beautiful kid you,” he says in tears. It’s the best moment of my tenure. We won the damn division.

Some quotes …

Charles Hudson: “You always think you’ve got a chance to win the division, but until you get it done, you never really know how things are going to play out. I think we’re all grateful to get the chance to vie for the World Series.”

Dick Howser: “It feels incredibly good to be at the top of the pile.”

Howser was fantastic in leading this club, keeping a steady hand, playing the right guys, and staying cool when things got hairy in the dog days of the season. The clubhouse chemistry is ecstatic with Juan Samuel emerging as team captain. Our pitching staff stayed the course and through injuries found ways to get the job done. We’ll need to figure things out for the NLCS, but I’m confident in our boys because of the work they’ve done so far.

Here are the matchups in the 1985 MLB postseason:

American League Championship Series: Toronto Blue Jays vs Seattle Mariners
National League Championship Series: Los Angeles Dodgers vs Philadelphia Phillies

Finally, we went 13-5 in those final 18 games (the mark I said I’d love to hit) to seize the division lead and put it away. In those same 18 games, Montreal fell flat at 9-9.

I leave the ballpark around 10 p.m. and hit a quiet bar. I have one last scotch to soak it in. People nearby celebrate with shots. A young guy offers to buy me a shot (“cuz ya look lonely”) but I decline, telling him I have a lot of people back at home. “You watch that game tonight? How bout that Armas? Jesus Christ!” I buy him a shot instead before heading home.

Oct. 6, 1985

Today is the rest day. The lineup:
  • RF - Jeff Stone
  • SS - Dave Concepcion
  • 3B - Rick Schu
  • C - Mike LaValliere
  • LF - Billy Sample
  • 1B - Tommy Thompson
  • CF - Dave Stegman
  • 2B - Bill Lyons
  • SP - Mike Maddux

It’s Schu’s first ever major league appearance! Also, I decide to give Maddux his first major league start, and the top bullpen arms get the day off. It’s fan appreciation day, so Mike Schmidt, Paul Molitor, Von Hayes, and others spend an inning each signing autographs. Otherwise, it’s ice and beer. Let them relax. Also, we give out a vacation courtesy of Rosenbluth Travel.

Game 1985-162: Veterans Stadium - Pirates 2, Phillies 1 / 98-64

Mike Maddux pitches quite well (6 IP, 3 H, 4 K, 3 BB), but Paul Assenmacher allows two home runs in his two innings. That’s the game, as the offense does just about nothing. Oh well.

The season has ended. Our 98-64 finish and .605 winning percentage is third best in franchise history behind the 1976 and ‘77 teams. We broke 3 million in home attendance for the first time ever, finishing just behind Detroit with the second-highest mark in the league.
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Old 12-23-2019, 05:12 PM   #139
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Oct. 7, 1985

The final team statistics from the 1985 season, with National League rankings (out of 12):
  • AVG - .258 / 1st
  • OBP - .325 / 2nd
  • SLG - .400 / 1st
  • OPS - .725 / 1st
  • R - 743 / 1st
  • H - 1,411 / 3rd
  • 2B - 245 / T-3rd
  • 3B - 59 / 1st
  • HR - 137 / 5th
  • BB - 539 / 6th
  • SO - 938 / 5th
  • SB - 244 / 1st
  • CS - 101 / 3rd

We were an offensive force, leading the National League in extra-base hits and stolen bases. That’s exactly the team I wanted to build, and we got there within two years.
  • ERA - 3.19 / 3rd
  • BAA - .245 / 5th
  • SLGA - .360 / 5th
  • RA - 599 / 4th
  • HRA - 108 / 4th
  • BB - 2nd
  • K - 6th

We had a solid pitching staff, just not the best (that’s the Dodgers, without question). Our bullpen brought us down a tick, for sure.

Defensively, we made some strides this season, but we remain toward the back of the pack. Essentially, our bench isn’t highly rated defensively, and UL Washington (an otherwise good defender) just made too many errors (36). Three of my defenders made 20 or more errors (Washington, Juan Samuel, Paul Molitor). For now, I can live with that, but on the mound, I should start prioritizing high-stuff, high-strikeout arms.

We finished 98-64, just remarkable, and our pythag has us at 97-65. Meanwhile, Montreal finished 95-67, but their pythag has them at 101-61. It really came down to those head-to-head matchups (we went 11-7 against them). Of course, the team we had the most trouble against: the Dodgers (3-9).

And just to look back at the players I acquired at the deadline:
  • Tony Armas - CF - 115 PA, .245/.296/.462, 5 2B, 3 3B, 4 HR, 22 K, 7 BB, -0.1 WAR
  • Terry Puhl - RF - 209 PA, .309/.330/.426, 12 2B, 2 3B, 2 HR, 11 K, 7 BB, 1.0 WAR
  • Kent Tekulve - RP - 33 IP, 3.55 ERA, 11 K, 12 BB, 0.6 WAR

A number of positive contributions. Puhl was a big help as Glenn Wilson failed to take the next step, while Armas came up huge late. Tekulve was an up-and-down experience but seems to be fine in the seventh/eighth innings.

Tonight we fly out to Los Angeles. I’m spending the flight with that new Tears for Fears album in my ears. It’s the working hour, indeed.

Oct. 8, 1985

We’re in L.A., and we’ve locked in the playoff roster (apparently I had no options beyond the 25 men who were rostered on Aug. 30). It is:
  • C - Darren Daulton, Tommy Thompson
  • 1B - Mike Schmidt
  • 2B - Juan Samuel, Bill Lyons
  • 3B - Paul Molitor
  • SS - UL Washington, Dave Concepcion
  • LF - Von Hayes, Billy Sample
  • CF - Tony Armas, Dave Stegman
  • RF - Terry Puhl, Glenn Wilson
  • SP - Charles Hudson, Scott Sanderson, John Denny, Steve Carlton
  • RP - Larry Andersen, Kent Tekulve, Bill Campbell, Donnie Moore, Paul Assenmacher, Tug McGraw, Joe Johnson

Puhl will start against righties, and Wilson will go against lefties. Otherwise, it’s starters all the way. We’ll see about Carlton (on the shelf for another week) when we get to his spot in the rotation. It’s possible we go three-man for the NLCS. And Dick Howser has named Hudson his game one starter against the Dodgers’ Orel Hershiser. Sanderson will go Game 2 in Los Angeles, while Denny will start Game 3 in Philly.

That lines it up so that it’s either Hudson or Denny who starts a possible Game 7, which is what I want.

Meanwhile, a good chunk of my front office team is busy scouting and analyzing the 1985-86 draft class (draft to be held Nov. 1, 1985). We’re slated to have the 25th overall pick in the first round, plus a supplemental pick (thinking the 35th-40th pick), since Pittsburgh signed Rick Reuschel. The pool is out, and here are some of the top players early on:
  • SS - Gary Sheffield - HS - 37/75
  • C - Todd Zeile - 38/61
  • RF - Bernie Williams - HS - 21/58
  • C - Chris Hoiles - 34/56
  • RF - Moises Alou - HS - 20/55
  • 1B - Mark Grace - 39/55
  • 3B - Matt D. Williams - HS - 27/55
  • RF - Sammy Sosa - HS - 20/54
  • LF - Pete Incaviglia - 51/51
  • SP - Greg Swindell - 37/51

Incaviglia is an outstanding college player, just crushing home runs for Oklahoma State. Sheffield is a high school stud who happens to be the nephew of Dwight Gooden. Good genes in that family. I imagine Oakland will get Sheffield and pair him up with Jose Canseco.

Then there’s super-stud Bo Jackson, down the list just a bit, and maybe we can grab him. He was drafted in 1983 by the Yankees but refused to sign. He’s been playing college baseball since - as well as college football - for Auburn. And, well, he’s having a hell of a senior campaign for Auburn football right now; in his most recent game against Ole Miss (a 41-0 win), Jackson rushed for 240 yards on 38 attempts, scoring two touchdowns. He’s pretty remarkable.

Good news from Clearwater: Despite blowing a 3-0 series lead, the Phillies win the Florida State League title four games to three! Congratulations to an all-time minor league squad.
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Old 12-31-2019, 07:51 AM   #140
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Congrats on a great season! The magic has to continue!
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