The Action Baseball League

[ZapMast]

I'm starting a new thread. The old thread The Action Baseball League (Prime) is still up. I tried to do several real time things and now the links are frankly a mess. One can scroll through and see some neat stuff but be forewarned a link may lead to something from the current season or nowhere.

This new thread will be simple and clean and tell the unique story of the Action Baseball League picking up in the 1981 (10th) season as well as basking in it's rich history since 1972.

I'm going to begin with some history and background and then get into the 1981 season.

The 1980 Championship Season and Grand Championship Series are on video. I decided not to continue to produce videos like this simply because I don't have time.

You'll be able to follow the 1981 and subsequent seasons using this thread.

Enjoy!


Real. Fictional. ⚾.

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ABL on StatsPlus | ABL on OOTP | ABL History | ABL (prime) the old thread | ABL Stat of the day | ABL Vision | ABL Real Time Sim

[ZapMast]

Action Baseball League (ABL 'able') is a fictional professional baseball organization established in 1972. It consists of 24 teams divided into the National Baseball Conference (NBC) and the American Baseball Conference (ABC). Each conference is further divided into three divisions: Eastern, Central, and Western, with four teams in each division. ABL is committed to ensuring a fair representation of teams from all regions of the nation, including both Northern and Southern cities on both coasts.

ABL's main objective is determining the Grand Champions of Baseball ("The Best of the best"). To achieve this, each conference conducts a 162-game championship season. Each team competes against its conference rivals 12 times, six home games each; 48 games vs. each in-conference division; 96 games total outside the division. Division rivals play each other 22 times each, 11 ball games in each home park for a total of 66 games in the division.

After the regular season, each conference crowns four champions: three Division Champs and one Wild-Card Champ (the non-division champion with the best record).

The Grand Tournament of Champions (GToC) establishes the two conference representatives who compete in the Grand Series. The seeding for the GToC is as follows: Division Champion with the best record is #1, DC with the second-best record is #2, the remaining DC is #3, and Wild Card Champion is #4. The #1 seed will host the #4 seed, and the #2 seed will host the #3 seed.

The tournament consists of three seven-game series: Division Championship Series (DCS), Conference Championship Series (CCS), and Grand Series (GS). The higher seed has a home-field advantage in the DCS and CCS. The team with the best record has the advantage in the GS. Ties are settled by alternating between conferences.

Beginning with the 1981 season, the Wild-Card Champion will no longer play a division rival in the Division Championship Series. If the #1 seed is a team in the same division, the #4 seed will play the #2 seed instead.

Several other notable items about the ABL include no interleague play, league-wide designated hitter, and an annual interconference All-Star game in July with each team represented. Additionally, no team movement or league expansion will occur during the 50 years of planned seasons from 1972-2022.

Each team has an owner, general manager, field manager, coaching staff, ballpark, and scouting system that influences how it is managed and led. The creator of the league does not intervene in any way with any of the teams but enjoys watching the story of this unique league unfold.

Overall, ABL is a fascinating league with a well-thought-out and structured system for determining the Grand Champion of Baseball. Its unique rules and regulations set it apart from other fictional professional baseball leagues and make it an exciting sport to watch!

ABL is dedicated to providing high-quality baseball entertainment to fans across America. With its talented players, passionate fans, and commitment to fair play and sportsmanship, ABL is poised to become one of the premier fictional baseball leagues in the world.


This is the Game!


Real. Fictional. ⚾.

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[ZapMast]

National Baseball Conference
Eastern Division
Atlanta Kings
Charlotte Colonels
Miami Hurricanes
Tampa Bay Storm

Central Division
Chicago Fire
Dallas Rustlers
Detroit Dukes
Minneapolis Blizzard

Western Division
Los Angeles Cobras
Phoenix Firebirds
San Diego Seraphs
San Francisco Warriors

American Baseball Conference
Eastern Division
Boston Patriots
New York Aces
Philadelphia Fury
Pittsburgh Express

Central Division
Cincinnati Cougars
Houston Mavericks
Nashville Blues
St. Louis Stallions

Western Divison
Denver Rocketeers
Las Vegas Gamblers
Portland Lumberjacks
Seattle Comets


Real. Fictional. ⚾.

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ABL on StatsPlus | ABL on OOTP | ABL History | ABL (prime) the old thread | ABL Stat of the day | ABL Vision | ABL Real Time Sim

[ZapMast]

It's Monday, April 6, 1981, it's opening day.

Opening day always seems to be a long time coming. And especially this season as this will be the first season in a long time when we get to see the teams and players, up close and personal, this is the game!

I'm the baseball voice of the Action Baseball League and while I like to think I sound like Mel Allen, or Ernie Harwell, I think it's a little more like James Earl Jones. I will be guiding you through this 10th championship season. I will be your eyes and ears connecting you to the pulse of this league. I've made this league available to you on StatsPlus as well.

I love the start of a new campaign…

Nine grand champions have been crowned; the latest is the wild card Detroit Dukes who got it done in game seven of the 1980 Grand Championship Series defeating the four-time consecutive American Conference champion Houston Mavericks. So today hope is in the air as the Dukes are set to defend, and the other 23 participants in this great season of baseball are preparing to seize, their crown!

Witness these grand games as America's pastime is being played to the ultimate; no bias, no cheating just an alternative of the game decided by the weights and measures of players and the random toss from the mound… this is pure baseball.

I’m living my dream…

What if 24 owners of professional baseball organizations collectively said, “What if we just threw in together, find the best baseball players in the world, pay them a fair wage according to their skill, talent, and contribution to the team and the league. Played hard, fair, and honest professional baseball in every corner of our nation. Create a championship season and crown victor those who have outplayed their fellows. Let these teams compete in a Grand Tournament of Champions for the title of Grand Champions of Baseball (The best of the best).”

This is the Action Baseball League

This is the Game!


Real. Fictional. ⚾.

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ABL on StatsPlus | ABL on OOTP | ABL History | ABL (prime) the old thread | ABL Stat of the day | ABL Vision | ABL Real Time Sim

[ZapMast]

It's Monday, April 6, 1981, it's opening day.

All hail the 1980 Grand Champions of Baseball Detroit Dukes!

Congratulations again to the 1980 Division Champs Charlotte, Chicago, and Phoenix.


It’s time to start a brand-new National Baseball Conference championship season!


The teams to watch this season are:

In the East, the Charlotte Colonels are predicted to have the best record in the conference. The Atlanta Kings will be challenging for the division and wildcard championships.

In the Central, the Chicago Fire are predicted to win the division after staving off a close challenge from the defending Grand Champion Detroit Dukes.

And finally, in the West, the San Francisco Warriors are picked to win that division.


Players to watch include:

SP Bill Ybanez #19
Atlanta Kings NBC East
Age: 23 | Bats: R | Throws: R

SP Ivan Juarez #8
Atlanta Kings NBC East
Age: 25 | Bats: R | Throws: R

1B Manny Flores #18
Charlotte Colonels NBC East
Age: 24 | Bats: L | Throws: L

SP Tony 'Kiwi' Barnes #16
Charlotte Colonels NBC East
Age: 26 | Bats: R | Throws: R

2B Pat Watters #91
Miami Hurricanes NBC East
Age: 33 | Bats: R | Throws: R

SP Gil Aguilar #29
Miami Hurricanes NBC East
Age: 29 | Bats: S | Throws: R

SP Sergio Martinez #9
Tampa Bay Storm NBC East
Age: 27 | Bats: R | Throws: R



LF Miguel Morales #16
Chicago Fire NBC Central
Age: 26 | Bats: S | Throws: R

SP Heriberto Jimenez #37
Chicago Fire NBC Central
Age: 25 | Bats: L | Throws: L

RF Bill Rambow #84
Dallas Rustlers NBC Central
Age: 37 | Bats: L | Throws: L

LF Francisco Fernandez #80
Detroit Dukes NBC Central
Age: 37 | Bats: R | Throws: R

RF Roberto Rodriguez #7
Detroit Dukes NBC Central
Age: 25 | Bats: S | Throws: R

SP Mike Dominguez #34
Detroit Dukes NBC Central
Age: 29 | Bats: R | Throws: R



1B Nick 'Big Dipper' Perez #28
Phoenix Firebirds NBC West
Age: 32 | Bats: R | Throws: R

SP Stephen Grimes #9
Phoenix Firebirds NBC West
Age: 29 | Bats: S | Throws: R

SS Miguel 'Pollo' Collado #13
San Francisco Warriors NBC West
Age: 23 | Bats: L | Throws: R

1B Victor 'Frosty Bill' Quintero #37
San Francisco Warriors NBC West
Age: 30 | Bats: R | Throws: R

SP Arturo Gonzalez #1
San Francisco Warriors NBC West
Age: 24 | Bats: R | Throws: R

SP Antonio Pineda #20
San Francisco Warriors NBC West
Age: 24 | Bats: R | Throws: R


Real. Fictional. ⚾.

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[ZapMast]

It's Monday, April 6, 1981, it's opening day.

Congratulations to the 1980 Conference Champion Houston Mavericks winning their fourth consecutive American Conference title after being the wildcard!

Congratulations again to the 1980 Division Champs Pittsburgh, Cincinnati, and Las Vegas.


It’s time to start a brand-new American Baseball Conference championship season!


The teams to watch this season are:

In the East, the Philadelphia Fury are predicted to win the division. It would be their first-ever playoff appearance. They will be challenged by the Boston Patriots for the division lead.

In the Central, the Houston Mavericks are predicted to have the best record in the conference achieving a seventh straight trip to the playoffs. The St. Louis Stallions will vie for the wildcard championship.

In the West, the Seattle Comets look to win the division for their third playoff berth in team history.


Players to watch include:

SP Victor Martinez #54
Boston Patriots ABC East
Age: 26 | Bats: R | Throws: R

1B Raul Juarez #2
New York Aces ABC East
Age: 25 | Bats: L | Throws: L

SP Tony Oubre #30
New York Aces ABC East
Age: 30 | Bats: S | Throws: R

P Mike 'Bubber' Stanley #3
Philadelphia Fury ABC East
Age: 32 | Bats: R | Throws: R

LF Antonio 'Yogi' Serrano #20
Pittsburgh Express ABC East
Age: 31 | Bats: R | Throws: L



CF Scott Reis #19
Cincinnati Cougars ABC Central
Age: 35 | Bats: R | Throws: R

LF Victor Torres #22
Cincinnati Cougars ABC Central
Age: 33 | Bats: L | Throws: R

1B Esteban 'Eppie' Martinez #26
Cincinnati Cougars ABC Central
Age: 25 | Bats: S | Throws: R

SP Alex 'Grasshopper' Perez #49
Cincinnati Cougars ABC Central
Age: 26 | Bats: L | Throws: L

LF Warren Ufena #22
Houston Mavericks ABC Central
Age: 30 | Bats: L | Throws: L

SP Scott Szell #26
Houston Mavericks ABC Central
Age: 29 | Bats: R | Throws: R

SP Dylan Wilson #73
Houston Mavericks ABC Central
Age: 25 | Bats: R | Throws: R

SP Nate Higgins #12
Houston Mavericks ABC Central
Age: 30 | Bats: L | Throws: L

LF Brett Petrillo #22
Nashville Blues ABC Central
Age: 36 | Bats: L | Throws: L

1B Victor Campos #30
St. Louis Stallions ABC Central
Age: 33 | Bats: R | Throws: R

1B Alex Lander #1
St. Louis Stallions ABC Central
Age: 31 | Bats: S | Throws: L

SP Bert 'Tex' Lopez #66
St. Louis Stallions ABC Central
Age: 28 | Bats: L | Throws: L

SP Jose Coronado #9
St. Louis Stallions ABC Central
Age: 25 | Bats: L | Throws: L



SP Bobby Rodriguez #5
Las Vegas Gamblers ABC West
Age: 26 | Bats: L | Throws: R

CF Jeremy Campbell #16
Portland Lumberjacks ABC West
Age: 30 | Bats: L | Throws: L


Real. Fictional. ⚾.

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[ZapMast]

National Baseball Conference – Week 1 WKDY Series – April 6 – 9, 1981

Charlotte Colonels (0-0) @ Dallas Mavericks (0-0)
Charlotte game 1 starter Jose Hernandez won 21 games in 1980. He’s struck out over 400 batters in just two seasons.


Atlanta Kings (0-0) @ Chicago Fire (0-0)
Game 1 of the series features two players to watch in the NBC. For Atlanta 23-year-old Bill Ybanez vs. 25-year-old left-hander Heriberto Jimenez for Chicago.
Atlanta features seven-time all-star free agent 2B Eric Gray formerly from Pittsburgh and played for Cincinnati last season. The Kings are also counting on 3B Marcos Valverde after an injury-plagued 1980 season.

Chicago is poised to win a grand championship after falling short in the last two Conference Championship Series. Venerable all-star 3B Shane Cobb still leads the team along with LF Miguel Morales and closer Oscar Roa who saved 35 games last year.


Detroit Dukes (0-0) @ San Diego Seraphs (0-0)
The defending champion Dukes features 37-year-old veteran outfielder Francisco Fernandez. The six-time all-star is a leader on the team and was key to last season’s title run.

San Diego’s best player is 30-year-old five-time all-star Leonardo Gonzalez.


Minneapolis Blizzard (0-0) @ San Francisco Warriors (0-0)
The Warriors boast two up-and-coming players in 23-year-old SS Miguel Collado and 27-year-old closer Rogelio Hildalgo.


Tampa Bay Storm (0-0) @ Phoenix Firebirds (0-0)
Tampa game 1 starter all-star Sergio Martinez is a player to watch in the National Conference. He will oppose two-time Roger Clemens Award winner Stephen Grimes for Phoenix.

The Phoenix Firebirds are the best team in the Action Baseball League. They have only missed the playoffs twice in the nine seasons of the league. Winning 107 games last year only to be eliminated by Detroit in the DCS in five. While the Firebirds have won the championship their efforts for a second have been met with difficulty and defeat.


Miami Hurricanes (0-0) @ Los Angeles Cobras (0-0)
Game 1 features 29-year-old Gil Aguilar who is a converted closer who saved 43 games in 1977 for the Canes. Now a prolific starter, Gil finished 3rd in the NBC Roger Clemens Award voting after completing an 18-11 with a 3.03 ERA campaign. He struck out 313 batters in a league-leading 270 IP. That’s a K/9 of 10.4 (1980 ABL best).

The LA Cobras franchise is hanging its hat on 29-year-old 3B Orlando Greeley. The four-time all-star just inked a seven-year extension with the Cobras organization locking him up through 1987.


Real. Fictional. ⚾.

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[ZapMast]

American Baseball Conference – Week 1 WKDY Series – April 6 – 9, 1981

Boston Patriots (0-0) @ Cincinnati Cougars (0-0)
Game 1 starters Alex Perez for the Cougars and Victor Martinez of Boston are players to watch in the ABC. Perez won 19 games last season.


New York Aces (0-0) @ Houston Mavericks (0-0)
The Aces boast a solid pitching staff featuring game 1 starter Veteran All-Star Tony Oubre and speedster Jonathan Mestas who stole 45 bases last year.

Houston game 1 hurler Scott Szell is the ace of the Mavs staff.


Philadelphia Fury (0-0) @ Denver Rocketeers (0-0)
Denver game 3 starter Jesus Lago is also the lead-off hitting starting right fielder.


St. Louis Stallions (0-0) @ Seattle Comets (0-0)
This is a featured series this week. These two squads should be in the race until the end.


Pittsburgh Express (0-0) @ Las Vegas Gamblers (0-0)
Las Vegas game 1 starter Bobby Rodriguez is one of the best of the ABC. He won 20 games in 1979 and struck out 15 in a game vs. the Philly Fury in 1980.


Nashville Blues (0-0) @ Portland Lumberjacks (0-0)
This series features Portland’s HR slugger Jeremy Campbell who hit 50 dingers last season vs. Nashville’s perennial all-star Brett Petrillo.


Real. Fictional. ⚾.

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[ZapMast]

The Action Baseball League ‘-rain delay-’ is a break from the normal ABL reporting to bring you extra side stories, stats, tidbits, and past events from Action Baseball League lore;
things you would usually see during a rain delay of a baseball game you were watching.


Today we show the overall statistics of the two conferences to date, through nine seasons 1972 through 1980, by division.

|

Denver (AW) won the first two conference championships including a grand championship in 1973.

Miami (NE) is the only team to have two grand championships 1974, 1978.

Atlanta (NE) and Phoenix (NW) lost in their attempts at a second championship:
Atlanta defeated Denver 1972, lost to New York (AE) 1976
Phoenix defeated Pittsburgh (AE) 1975, lost to Houston (AC) 1979


Next up -- on to Cincinnati...


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[ZapMast]

Housekeeping

The Action Baseball League is as deep as it is wide.

You can peruse news, stats, standings, history etc. by following these links:
(Note: Stat of the day is pretty cool.)

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

ABL on StatsPlus

ABL on OOTP

History of ABL

ABL (prime) the old thread -- see the 1972 thru 1980 seasons

Action Baseball League --- Stat of the day


Ok. Now really… On to Cincinnati…


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[ZapMast]

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April 6, 1981 | Cougars Park | Cincinnati, OH
Boston Patriots vs. Cincinnati Cougars


Let’s meet our teams:
First the visiting Boston Patriots. The Patriots had a record of 83-79 last season finishing seven games behind the Pittsburgh Express in the ABC Eastern Division. Boston had their only playoff appearance in team history in 1978. They won 102 games that year, winning their division by 9 games over the New York Aces who finished as the American Conference wild card. The Pats lost in seven games to New York in the 1978 ABC Division Championship Series.

The Cincinnati Cougars won the ABC Central Division last year by five games over the Houston Mavericks with a record of 97-65, the American conference’s best mark. They’ve appeared in the playoffs four times in 1976, 77, 79, and 80. Last season the Cougars lost in six games to the Houston Mavericks in the division series. As a matter of fact, the Cougars have been eliminated each time by the Houston Mavericks! In 1976 they lost in seven in the DCS, in 1977 after sweeping Portland in the DCS, they lost to Houston in six in the Conference Championship Series. In 1979 they lost in seven to Houston in the DCS. The Cincinnati – Houston rivalry has been very one-sided in the postseason. Something the hometown faithful hope the team corrects!

Boston Patriots lead the series 55 – 53



Key players:
Boston – LF Juan Perez #26 needs 29 to reach 250 HR and 1B Joe 'Uncle Phil' Turner #98 needs 22 to reach 200.

Cincinnati – Four-year reigning MVP CF Scott Reis #19 needs 44 hits to reach 1500, 14 home runs to reach 250, and 29 runs to reach 1000 for his stellar career. Teammate LF Victor Torres #22 needs 72 hits to reach 1500, 15 homers to reach 200, and 88 runs to reach 1000.



The Game:
It’s opening day at Cougars Park as the Cincinnati home team opens their 10th season facing the visitors from the eastern division, Boston Patriots.

Today’s pitching matchup is LHP Alex 'Grasshopper' Perez #49 [19-11 2.83] for Cincy and for the Pats’ right-hander Victor Martinez #54 [5-8 4.04].

Top of the 1st – LF Jesse Gonzales #22 scores on a single by 1B Joe Turner #98 |Bos 1 – Cin 0|

Top of the 3rd – 2B Maynard Bell #9 hits a ball 364 ft out of the yard with the bases juiced: grand slam. |Bos 5 – Cin 0|

Bottom of the 4th – 3B Joe Rogers #36 on base with a walk goes to third on a base hit by SS Lance Lynd #13. Then, he’ll score on the 2-2 single by 2B Pablo Loureiro #55. Next batter LF Victor Torres #22 doubles home two more cutting the lead to two. |Bos 5 – Cin 3|

Bottom of the 5th - CF Scott Reis #19 on first on a base on balls swipes second on SP Victor Martinez #54. Next batter LF Patrício Cogumbreiro #50 walks and 3B Joe Rogers #36 doubles to left scoring Reis to cut the Boston lead to 5-4. Later that inning bases loaded for 2B Pablo Loureiro #55 knocks in the tying run on a base hit scoring Cogumbreiro. Then LF Victor Torres #22 put the Cougars in the lead with a single through the right-side scoring Rogers. With Cincinnati leading 6-5 in the bottom of the fifth, RF Tony Jones #12 hit a cutter from RP J.P. Lenahan #15 for a bases-clearing double. It was his 1st double of the season and put the Cougars ahead, 9-5 earning him player of the game honors.

The final score: Boston Patriots 8 – Cincinnati Cougars 11.
SP Victor Martinez #54 gets the loss (0-1),
SP Alex Perez #49 gets the win (1-0), and
RP Orlando Acosta #24 collected save number 1.

"It was a nice win for our side today," said Cougars manager Chris Allison. "Not perfect, but we'll take it."



Player of the Game: RF Tony Jones #12 CIN (ABC Cent)
Ballpark: Cougars Park
Weather: Partly Cloudy (53 degrees), the wind blowing in from left at 9 mph
Time: 3:20
Attendance: 18,492


Real. Fictional. ⚾.

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[ZapMast]

|

April 6, 1981 | Chicago Grounds | Chicago, IL
Atlanta Kings vs. Chicago Fire


Let’s meet our teams:
The Atlanta Kings are often called the ‘old guard’ of the Action Baseball League after winning the first Grand Championship in the inaugural 1972 season. The Kings didn’t return to the post-season until losing in 5 games in the GCS to New York in 1976. Last season, the Monarchs had a record of 82-80 finishing nine games behind the Charlotte Colonels in the NBC Eastern Division. Fire fans remember well Atlanta’s last playoff appearance in 1977 as they were defeated in 5 by the Kings in that year’s DCS.

The Chicago Fire won the NBC Central Division last year by one game over the wild-card Detroit Dukes with a record of 87-75. They’ve appeared in the playoffs five times in 1972, 73, 77, 79, and 80. Last season the Flames won in six games versus the Charlotte Colonels only to be swept by their division rival Dukes in the CCS on their way to winning it all.


While Chicago leads the regular season series 55 – 53, Atlanta leads overall 57-56 by virtue of the aforementioned 4-1 drubbing of the Fire in the ’77 DCS.



Key players:
Atlanta – SP Garret Brown #11 needs 10 games to reach 500 games for his career.

Chicago – 3B Shane Cobb #18 needs 54 hits to reach 1500.


The Game:
Welcome baseball fans to the cozy little ballpark called Chicago Grounds. Seating just 18,500 fans, it’s the smallest venue in the league. On a chilly day in Chicago, the hometown Fire will take on their rivals from the eastern division Atlanta Kings. It’s opening day and the fans are buzzing about another title run.

Today’s pitching matchup is RHP P Bill Ybanez #19 [9-14 4.36] for the Kings and Chicago lefty LHP Heriberto Jimenez #37 [6-7 4.19].

Fans of the Chicago Fire who packed the stands for the home opener were rewarded with a Chicago win over the visiting Atlanta Kings, 8-6. 1B Sal Gamez #35 earned accolades for his performance going 3 for 4 with two runs scored and two batted in. SP Heriberto Jimenez #37 got the win, improving to 1-0. He worked 7.2 innings, giving up 6 runs on 9 hits, while striking out 7 and walking 8.

2B David Villarreal #55 dealt the Kings a blow in the bottom of the first. Batting with the bases loaded and Chicago leading 2-0, Villarreal, who finished 3rd in the ABC in doubles with 42 in 1976, hit a 1-2 changeup for a 2-run single. The Fire never trailed after that.


The final score was Atlanta Kings 6 – Chicago Fire 8.

Here are the totals for today's game:
For The visiting Atlanta Kings 6 runs on 10 hits, one error, and twelve men left on base.
For the Chicago Fire 8 runs on 13 hits, no errors. They left 10 men on base.

SP Bill Ybanez #19 gets the loss (0-1),
SP Heriberto Jimenez #37 gets the win (1-0), and
RP Matt Hyman #5 collected save number 1.

"The boys were really swinging the bats today," winning manager Matt Mead said.



Player of the Game: 1B Sal Gamez #35 CHI (NBC Cent)
Ballpark: Chicago Grounds
Weather: Clear skies (43 degrees), wind blowing in from left at 10 mph
Time: 2:57
Attendance: 17221


Real. Fictional. ⚾.

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[ZapMast]

Boston Patriots @ Cincinnati Cougars
Cougars Sweep Series 3-0
Cincinnati opens the 1981 campaign with a well-earned 3-0 series triumph.


GAME 1 - Patriots Handed 11-8 Loss by Cincinnati - ABC Featured Game
The Cincinnati Cougars put one in the win column with a come-from-behind opening day 11-8 triumph over the Boston Patriots. The crowd at Cougars Park watched Tony Jones put on a fine performance. Orlando Acosta collected save number 1.

With Cincinnati leading 6-5 in the bottom of the fifth, Jones hit a cutter from J.P. Lenahan for a bases-clearing double. It was his 1st double of the season and put the Cougars ahead, 9-5.

"It was a nice win for our side today," said Cougars manager Chris Allison. "Not perfect, but we'll take it."

GAME 2 - Cougars Prevail, 6-4, Over Boston
Starting pitcher Gil Medina pitched well enough to help the Cincinnati Cougars beat the Boston Patriots, 6-4. Cincinnati goes to 2-0.

The Cougars got an important contribution from third baseman Joe Rogers, who in the bottom of the first punched a full count changeup into right-center for a 2-run triple. It was his 1st triple of the season and put the Cougars ahead, 4-0.

"Say what you want about this team, they play nine innings hard," said Cincinnati manager Chris Allison.

GAME 3 - Cougars Drop Patriots, 5-2, with Late Score
Cincinnati picked up a win at Cougars Park, bumping off the Boston Patriots, 5-2. Pitcher Rick Satchell was a major reason the Cougars emerged victorious. The win gives Cincinnati a record of 3-0.

Had Lance Lynd not delivered a key base hit in the bottom of the eighth, the outcome might have been different. Instead, with two down and runners on 2nd and 3rd, Lynd hit a 2-run single. That made the score 3-2, in favor of the Cougars.

"It's a mindset," said Satchell. "Just trying to do your job, trying to be consistent."


New York Aces @ Houston Mavericks
Aces Win Series 2-1
After losing a close one-run game the New York Aces pulled off two come-from-behind wins in this 2-1 series triumph.


GAME 1 - Mavericks Clip Aces, 5-4
Crowds lined up early in front of Houston Stadium, eagerly awaiting the start of the 1981 Action Baseball League season. On the mound were Tony Oubre for the visiting New York Aces and Scott Szell for the hometown Houston Mavericks. In a spirited contest, the Mavericks pulled out the win, defeating the Aces by the score of 5-4. Especially impressive was Scott Szell. Tony Chavarria closed the game out for Houston, earning his 1st save.

Alex Ramirez, who is a four-time All-Star, chipped in for Houston with a solo home run in the bottom of the eighth. For the game, the catcher had 2 hits in 4 at-bats with 1 home run, 1 single, 1 run scored, and 1 RBI.

"We've got a great group of guys," Szell said, "and we're having fun right now."

GAME 2 - Late Rally by Aces Secures 5-2 Win
New York overcame a superior effort from Nate Higgins to beat Houston, 5-2. The Houston pitcher threw 8.0 innings of 3-hit ball. Devon John collected his 1st save. The loss drops the Mavericks to 1-1.

Peter Moltke, the former first-round draft pick, directly impacted the outcome. Moltke contributed a run-scoring walk in the top of the ninth inning to put New York up, 4-2.

"I'm just happy to help the team win," Moltke told the New York Daily.

GAME 3 - Aces Stun Mavericks, 5-3
The New York Aces faced a tough opponent in Houston pitcher Dylan Wilson but did just enough to pull out the victory at Houston Stadium by a final score of 5-3. Wilson went 7 innings and allowed 2 runs. The Aces, now 2-1, have played some good baseball in the early going.

New York used a clutch hit from Raul Juarez to get the win. The first baseman drilled a 2-run home run in the top of the ninth inning to put the Aces ahead, 5-3. It was his only hit in 5 at-bats, but it was a game-changer.

"I like our moxie," said Aces manager Dennis Salvino.



Philadelphia Fury @ Denver Rocketeers
Fury Win Series 2-1
Philadelphia guts out a tough 2-1 series win with some late-inning heroics in game 3.


GAME 1 - Fury Upend Rocketeers, 5-2
Rocketeers Field was the site of the home opener for the Denver Rocketeers. The contest featured a prime matchup between Gilberto Flores of the visiting Philadelphia Fury and Damian Serano of the Rocketeers. The final score was 5-2, the Fury getting the win. Gilberto Flores turned in the best performance. In 8 innings, Flores surrendered 7 hits, while striking out 2 and walking 3. He allowed 2 runs.

Who knows how it might've ended, had it not been for Ron Stout? The Philadelphia designated hitter had a run-scoring double in the top of the fifth inning to put the Fury on top, 4-1. For the game, Stout had 1 double and 1 single in 4 at-bats.

"It takes a lot of things to win a ballgame," said Philadelphia manager Danny Sanchez. "It's usually not just one thing."

GAME 2 - Rocketeers Edge Past Fury, 2-1
Behind an impressive start by Dave DiAngelo, Denver beat Philadelphia, 2-1. The loss makes Philadelphia 1-1.

Jesus Lago was the walk-off hero for Denver. With the game tied in the bottom of the ninth inning, the Rocketeers' right fielder hit a dramatic run-scoring single to send the teams home.

"If I do my job, we've usually got a good chance to win the game," said Lago.

GAME 3 - Rocketeers Lose Late, 6-3
Philadelphia beat Denver on the strength of starter Roberto Hernandez's fine effort. The right-hander led his team to a win, 6-3. Hernandez got the win, improving to 1-0. He allowed 7 hits and walked 2 over 9 innings. Hernandez allowed 3 runs. The Fury, now 2-1, have been playing some good baseball.

Philadelphia used a clutch hit from Ron Stout to get the win. The designated hitter drilled a solo home run in the top of the ninth inning to put the Fury ahead, 4-3. It was his only hit in 3 at-bats, but it was a doozy.

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



Pittsburgh Express @ Las Vegas Gamblers
Gamblers Sweep Series 3-0
Las Vegas handles the Express in three tight contests to achieve a 3-0 series victory.


GAME 1 - Gamblers Nip Express, 2-1
Fans of the Las Vegas Gamblers who packed the stands for the home opener were rewarded with a Las Vegas win over the visiting Pittsburgh Express, 2-1. Bobby Rodriguez started for the home team against David Acuna. Bobby Rodriguez earned accolades for his performance. Las Vegas reliever Derrek Sanders picked up the win, upping his record to 1-0. Alex Dunlap was saddled with the loss.

The Gamblers procured the win, in large part because of designated hitter Mike Rabel. In the bottom of the tenth, he produced the game-winning run-scoring single.

"Bottom line," said Pittsburgh skipper Mark Averill, "we didn't play well enough to win."


GAME 2 - Gamblers Bridle Express, 4-3
The Las Vegas Gamblers topped the Pittsburgh Express, 4-3, in American Baseball Conference action at Gamblers Park. The game was highlighted by the performance of Las Vegas pitcher Oscar Herrera. Herrera picked up the win for Las Vegas, going 8 innings. He gave up 3 runs on 8 hits. He now sports a record of 1-0. Derrek Sanders got the save, the 1st for him this season.

In the bottom of the sixth, Las Vegas second baseman David Avila put his team on top. With one out and the bases loaded, he hit his 1st double of the year. Pittsburgh pitcher Ricky Bautista served it up. Just like that, the Gamblers were ahead, 4-3.

"We'll pop the top on a cold beverage and get back to work tomorrow," Herrera said.

Las Vegas, now 2-0, is setting the league on fire so far.

GAME 3 - Gamblers Prevail, 3-1, Over Pittsburgh
The Las Vegas Gamblers topped the Pittsburgh Express, 3-1, in American Baseball Conference action at Gamblers Park. The standout performance belonged to Las Vegas pitcher and Perryton, Texas, native Jaylen Taylor. Derrek Sanders was called on to finish, recording his 2nd save. The win has Las Vegas at 3-0.

The Gamblers got an important contribution from shortstop Matt Hurd, who in the bottom of the third punched a 1-2 changeup into right-center for a 2-run double. It was his 1st double of the season and put the Gamblers ahead, 3-0.

"At the end of the day, it's always about your starting pitcher," said Las Vegas skipper Matt Petrie.



Nashville Blues @ Portland Lumberjacks
Blues Win Series 2-1
Nashville bounces back to manhandle Portland winning games two and three 23-5 winning the series 2-1.


GAME 1 - Big Day for Frondarina in 14-8 Lumberjacks Win
The Portland Lumberjacks put one in the win column on Opening Day at Portland Grounds. The Lumberjacks defeated the Nashville Blues, 14-8. Portland left fielder Nukie Frondarina was instrumental in his team's success. He went 3-5 with a home run and 2 singles while scoring 3 times and driving in 5.

Portland took a 14-8 lead on Frondarina's 1st home run of the season. The grand slam home run, which he hit off Jacob Sutherland in the bottom of the eighth, propelled Portland to the win.

"This game had a little bit of everything," said Frondarina.


GAME 2 - Blues Top Lumberjacks, 10-1, Behind Hernandez
The Nashville Blues beat the Portland Lumberjacks, 10-1, at Portland Grounds. Starting pitcher Antonio Hernandez was a big reason why. He held his opponent in check all game. The loss has the Lumberjacks at 1-1.

Hernandez was in the zone all game. He frustrated Portland hitters while giving the Blues 8 innings of quality work. Hernandez threw 107 pitches, allowing 3 hits and getting 4 punchouts.

"You can't sugarcoat this one," said Portland manager Tim Staheli. "We got flat-out beat."

GAME 3 - Orozco Hits 2 home runs in Blues Win
Nashville third baseman Jose Orozco was a significant contributor to his team's 13-4 triumph over the Portland Lumberjacks. He went 4-5 with 2 home runs, a double, and a walk. He scored 4 runs and drove in 4 for Nashville. The win gives Nashville a record of 2-1.

In the top of the third of a scoreless game, Orozco hit a 2-run home run to put his team ahead.

"We'll hit the hot tub in good spirits tonight," said Orozco.



St. Louis Stallions @ Seattle Comets
Stallions Win Series 2-1
St. Louis fails in bid to sweep Seattle.


GAME 1 - Campos, Stallions Wallop Comets, 11-2
The 1981 season did not get off to quite the start the Seattle Comets had hoped, with an opening day loss to the St. Louis Stallions at Seattle Stadium. The final score was 11-2. First Baseman Victor Campos was the top performer for St. Louis. Bert Lopez, the winning pitcher, improved to 1-0. He pitched 9 innings, giving up 9 hits and 2 runs, while striking out 6 and walking 3.

Campos had a game-changing home run in the top of the sixth. On a full-count fastball from Antonio Romo, he banged a solo home run to left, giving the Stallions a 2-1 lead. It was the 1st home run of the year for Campos.

"Good baseball players make you a smarter manager," said St. Louis manager Ryan Messmer.


GAME 2 - Stallions Deal Comets 7-5 Defeat
The St. Louis Stallions picked up a win at Seattle Stadium, knocking off the Seattle Comets, 7-5. Starting pitcher Jose Coronado played a key role in the triumph. Andrew Williamson earned the save for St. Louis, his 1st. St. Louis goes to 2-0.

It could have been a different outcome for St. Louis, had it not been for Jose Padilla, the 26-year-old shortstop. Padilla contributed a 2-run single in the top of the sixth inning to put St. Louis up, 5-0.

"The hot tub feels extra good after a solid win," said Coronado.

GAME 3 - Stallions Lose By a Run at Seattle, 2-1
The Seattle Comets took St. Louis pitcher Mario Flores's best shot and still were able to claim a win at Seattle Stadium. The final score had Seattle getting past the Stallions, 2-1. Flores went 8 innings and allowed 2 runs, striking out 6. Earning his 1st save of the year was Sergio Lopez. The defeat makes St. Louis 2-1.

The Comets got a big at-bat from first baseman Alex Bautista. For the game, Bautista was 2-4 with a double. In the bottom of the fourth, with a runner on 3rd, he stroked a run-scoring double. His 2nd double of the season gave Seattle a 2-1 lead.

"Every loss stings," said St. Louis manager Ryan Messmer. "This one is no exception."


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Atlanta Kings @ Chicago Fire
Fire Sweep Series 3-0
Chicago opens the 1981 season by soundly defeating Atlanta 3-0.


GAME 1 - Fire Hope Opening Day Win Bodes Well for Season - NBC Featured Game
Fans of the Chicago Fire who packed the stands for the home opener were rewarded with a Chicago win over the visiting Atlanta Kings, 8-6. Heriberto Jimenez started for the home team against Bill Ybanez. Sal Gamez earned accolades for his performance. Heriberto Jimenez got the win, improving to 1-0. He worked 7.2 innings, giving up 6 runs on 9 hits, while striking out 7 and walking 8.

David Villarreal dealt the Kings a blow in the bottom of the first. Batting with the bases loaded and Chicago leading 2-0, Villarreal, who finished 3rd in the ABC in doubles with 42 in 1976, hit a 1-2 changeup for a 2-run single.

"The boys were swinging the bats today," winning manager Matt Mead said.


GAME 2 - Fire Sink Kings, 6-3
The Chicago Fire topped the Atlanta Kings, 6-3, in National Baseball Conference action at Chicago Grounds. The game was highlighted by the performance of Chicago pitcher Alex Diaz. In 8.2 innings, Diaz surrendered 8 hits, while striking out 7 and walking 2. He allowed 3 runs. Atlanta drops to 0-2.

Miguel Morales, who finished 4th in the NBC in extra-base hits with 55 in 1978, aided the Chicago cause with a run-scoring double in the bottom of the first. For the game, the left fielder was 1-4 with a double.

"We'll kick back tonight, then get set for the next one," Morales said.

GAME 3 - Fire Stop Kings, 7-4
Salvador Stewart had a good game, but he could not keep the Atlanta Kings from falling, 7-4, to the Chicago Fire at Chicago Grounds. The Atlanta designated hitter was 4 for 5 with 4 singles. He drove in 2 runs and scored once in the loss. Edgar Gonzalez, the winning pitcher, improved to 1-0. He pitched 8.2 innings, giving up 8 hits and 4 runs, while striking out 10 and walking 6. Matt Hyman collected his 3rd save.

Chicago took a 6-4 lead on Miguel Morales's 1st home run of the season. The 2-run home run came off Atlanta pitcher Mike Hawkins in the bottom of the seventh.

Morales called winning a team effort. "It's not the same guy every time," he said. "It's the sum of the parts."

Chicago is off to a hot start at 3-0.


Charlotte Colonels @ Dallas Rustlers
Rustlers Sweep Series 3-0
Dallas plays clutch baseball in two extra innings games managing to sweep the heavily favored Colonels 3-0.


GAME 1 - Rustlers Clip Colonels, 6-5
The Dallas Rustlers put one in the win column on Opening Day at Rustlers Grounds. The Rustlers defeated the Charlotte Colonels, 6-5. Dallas catcher Devon Barlow was instrumental in his team's success. He went 3 for 4 with a home run, 2 doubles, and a walk, while adding 4 RBI and scoring once.

The Rustlers procured the win, in large part because of first baseman Ray Swerdlove. In the bottom of the tenth, he produced the game-winning run-scoring single.

"We'll relax tonight and enjoy this win," said Barlow.

GAME 2 - Rustlers Foil Colonels, 6-4
Rich Vela drove in 3 runs to help Dallas defeat Charlotte, 6-4. The left fielder had 1 double and 1 home run for the Rustlers. The winner was Gabriel Zayas, who threw 123 pitches over 7 innings. The right-hander was charged with 4 runs on 7 hits. Charlotte drops to 0-2.

Dallas grabbed control in the bottom of the sixth. With one out and runners on 2nd and 3rd, John Thurston delivered a 2-run single, to make it 6-4 in favor of the Rustlers.

"We'll kick back tonight and enjoy this win," said Thurston.

GAME 3 - Rustlers Need Extra Innings to Top Colonels, 5-4
Dallas starter Jonathan Funches pitched well against the Charlotte Colonels at Rustlers Grounds. The left-hander led his team to a win, 5-4. Dallas reliever Joe Guy picked up the win, upping his record to 1-0. Agustin Tapia shouldered the loss. The win gives Dallas a record of 3-0.

The Rustlers procured the win, in large part because of catcher Devon Barlow. In the bottom of the 15th, he produced the game-winning run-scoring single.

"Winning the game is always the first objective," Barlow said.


Tampa Bay Storm @ Phoenix Firebirds
Storm Win Series 2-1
Phoenix avoids the sweep as Tampa Bay plays well in the opening series winning 2-1.


GAME 1 - Storm Hope Opening Day Win Bodes Well for Season
The 1981 season began for the Phoenix Firebirds with a loss to the Tampa Bay Storm at Phoenix Grounds. The final score was 3-1. Tampa Bay pitcher Sergio Martinez had a fine performance. Luis Carrera recorded the save, his 1st.

Tyler Lett, the 34-year-old catcher, had a direct impact on the outcome. Lett contributed a run-scoring single in the top of the sixth inning to put Tampa Bay up, 2-1.

"We'll take some time to unwind," said Lett, "and then get after it again."

GAME 2 - Tampa Bay Beats Phoenix, 8-4
The Tampa Bay Storm picked up a win at Phoenix Grounds, taking down the Phoenix Firebirds, 8-4. Starting pitcher Julio Gonzalez was a big reason why. Tampa Bay goes to 2-0.

Tampa Bay used a well-timed hit by Jorge Bailon to capture the win. The first baseman socked a bases-clearing double in the top of the sixth inning to put the Storm ahead, 8-4. Though it was his only hit in 5 at-bats, it was important.

"We're feeling good in this clubhouse right now after that one," Gonzalez told the Tampa Bay Gazette.

GAME 3 - Firebirds Knock Off Storm, 5-1
Phoenix pitcher Nate Lucas did his part in helping his team beat the Tampa Bay Storm, 5-1. The right-hander kept opposing batters in check throughout the game. The victory makes Phoenix 1-2.

Kevin Bell, who led the NBC in doubles with 40 in 1979, aided the Phoenix cause with a run-scoring single in the bottom of the third. For the game, the first baseman was 1 for 4.

"The key at this level is throwing strike one," said Lucas. "Successful pitchers do it."



Miami Hurricanes @ Los Angeles Cobras
Cobras Win Series 2-1
Los Angeles handles Miami 2-1 sealing the series win with a blowout victory in game 3.


GAME 1 - Hurricanes Win at Los Angeles, 4-1
Opening day festivities have begun throughout the league. Fans of the Los Angeles Cobras were eager to watch Jerry Romero square off against Gil Aguilar of the visiting Miami Hurricanes. In the end, the Hurricanes won the game, 4-1, with Gil Aguilar leading the way. Aguilar went 9 innings to notch the win. He scattered 5 hits, walked 3, and struck out 4. His record improves to 1-0.

Jorge Suarez, the former first-round draft pick, directly impacted the outcome. Suarez contributed a 2-run triple in the top of the third inning to put Miami up, 3-0.

"It makes it a little nicer in the clubhouse when we win," said Suarez. "It eases the tension."


GAME 2 - Hurricanes Go Down to Defeat, 7-3
Behind a fine performance from Bill Haywood, the Los Angeles Cobras knocked off the Miami Hurricanes, 7-3. Haywood went 3-5 with a home run and a double while scoring 2 runs and driving in 3 for the Cobras. The loss drops the Hurricanes to 1-1.

Los Angeles grabbed control in the bottom of the sixth. With one out and runners on 1st and 2nd, D.J. Rivera delivered a run-scoring single, to make it 4-3 in favor of the Cobras.

"Winning is the only thing that really matters," Rivera told the Los Angeles Daily News. "If you can win without even breaking a sweat, more power to you."

GAME 3 - Cobras Lick Hurricanes, 12-1
The Los Angeles Cobras trumped the Miami Hurricanes, 12-1, at Cobras Ballpark. Los Angeles second baseman Emmanuel Robertson was terrific. He went 3-4 with a home run, a double, and a walk while scoring 2 and driving in 5. The loss drops the Hurricanes to 1-2.

Robertson contributed a big hit, a grand slam home run, for Los Angeles in the bottom of the first. With his team trailing 1-0, Robertson took a changeup from Joe Good and stroked the home run to left. His 1st home run of the season allowed the Cobras to leap in front, 4-1.

"We'll keep our chins up and get ready for the next game," said losing manager Seth Coe.



Detroit Dukes @ San Diego Seraphs
Dukes Win Series 2-1
Detroit responds to a game 2 drubbing with a fine pitching performance to take the series 2-1.


GAME 1 - Dukes Top San Diego, 7-6
Seraphs Field was the site of the home opener for the San Diego Seraphs. The contest featured a prime matchup between Jon Solis of the visiting Detroit Dukes and Kennie Murdock of the Seraphs. The final score was 7-6, with the Dukes getting the win. Tony King turned in the best performance. Detroit reliever Jon Moreno was the winner. His record is now 1-0. The losing pitcher was Jerry Wilson.

King had an important at-bat with runners on 1st and 2nd in the top of the eighth, when he hit a 2-run triple. The Dukes went on to win.

"Chalk one up for the good guys," said King. "I'm sure our fans enjoyed that win."


GAME 2 - Seraphs Roll to 11-2 Win Over Dukes
San Diego beat Detroit on the strength of starter Robbie Kendall's fine effort. The right-hander led his team to a win, 11-2. The loss has the Dukes at 1-1.

Artur Vaulin dealt the Dukes a blow in the bottom of the second. Batting with the bases loaded and San Diego leading 3-2, Vaulin, who is a two-time All-Star, hit a 1-0 fastball for a 2-run single.

"I'll be honest," said Kendall. "I didn't have much left in the tank."


GAME 3 - Miranda Goes Distance in 4-1 Win
Detroit and San Diego duked it out and the Dukes came out victorious.

The Detroit Dukes defeated the San Diego Seraphs, 4-1, in National Baseball Conference action at Seraphs Field. Detroit pitcher Mike Miranda had a standout performance. The loss puts San Diego at 1-2.

Miranda, who led the NBC in wins with 19 in 1978, pitched a complete game for Detroit. Miranda surrendered 6 hits over 9 innings and struck out 6. With the win, he moves to 1-0 on the season.

"Mike is tough when he's hitting his spots," said Detroit manager Jose Perez.


Minneapolis Blizzard @ San Francisco Warriors
Warriors Sweep Series 3-0
San Francisco sweeps easily as Minneapolis doesn't put up much of a fight scoring only 4 runs in the series.


GAME 1 - Warriors Hope Opening Day Win Bodes Well for Season
The San Francisco Warriors ushered in the 1981 season with a win versus the Minneapolis Blizzard at San Francisco Grounds. The final score was 6-3. Starting Pitcher Arturo Gonzalez had a standout performance.

The Warriors got an important contribution from left fielder Bernardo Valenzuela, who in the bottom of the third punched a 0-2 fastball into right-center for a solo home run. It was his 2nd home run of the season and put the Warriors ahead, 2-0.

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


GAME 2 - Warriors Sink Blizzard, 4-1
The San Francisco Warriors picked up a win at San Francisco Grounds, knocking off the Minneapolis Blizzard, 4-1. Starting pitcher Kyle Chambers played a key role in the triumph. The Warriors, now 2-0, have hit the ground running this season.

The Warriors got a big at-bat from first baseman Victor Quintero. For the game, Quintero was 1-4 with a home run. In the bottom of the sixth, with the bases empty, he stroked a solo home run. His 2nd home run of the season gave San Francisco a 2-1 lead.

"Kyle -- his tempo and rhythm were good," said Warriors manager Tyler Trowbridge. "He was the key to us winning."

GAME 3 - San Francisco Blanks Blizzard, Pineda Wins
The Minneapolis Blizzard were almost helpless today in their 2-0 loss to the San Francisco Warriors and hurler Antonio Pineda. Pineda kept the Blizzard confused all game, spinning an 8-hit shutout.

"Tip your hat to Pineda," Minneapolis manager Shawn Thompson said in a postgame interview. "He kept us off balance all night."

The 24-year-old right-hander had no walks and 8 strikeouts in a strong performance.

"It just happened to be one of those games where even when I made mistakes, they either fouled them off or someone would make a fine defensive play," Pineda said. "It was just one of those games that things went my way."



Real. Fictional. ⚾.

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It's Friday, April 10, 1981, it's the beginning of the second series of the season.

The season is underway…

While the cities, just vacated by the home teams from the weekday series, begin the cleanup from opening day festivities, the other half of the league welcomes their fans for opening day frivolity as all the home teams from the weekday series now hit the road.

Five teams: San Francisco, Chicago, Dallas, Cincinnati, and Las Vegas still have the hope of finishing the season unblemished while Charlotte and Atlanta find themselves winless with the promise of playoffs ahead still fresh in the air.









I’m living my dream…

In this Action Baseball League, 24 professional baseball organizations:
• Find the best baseball players in the world.
• Pay them a fair wage according to their skill, talent, and contribution to the team and the league.
• Establish an annual championship season.
• Play hard, fair, and honest professional baseball across the US.
• Host a Grand Tournament of Champions for those who have outplayed their fellows.
• Celebrate the Grand Series.
• Crown the Grand Champions of Baseball (The best of the best).

This is the Game!


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American Baseball Conference – Week 1 WKND Series – April 10 – 12, 1981

Houston Mavericks (1-2) @ Boston Patriots (0-3)
Game 2 features ace starters Scott Szell for the Mavericks and Victor Martinez of Boston.

Cincinnati Cougars (3-0) @ New York Aces (2-1)
Game 2 features Cougars Ace Alex Perez going against New York Ace Tony Oubre.


Las Vegas Gamblers (3-0) @ Philadelphia Fury (2-1)
Game 2 Gamblers starter phenom Bobby Rodriguez vs. Fury hurler Gilberto Flores.


Seattle Comets(1-2) @ Nashville Blues (2-1)



Denver Rocketeers (1-2) @ Pittsburgh Express (0-3)



Portland Lumberjacks (1-2) @ St. Louis Stallions (2-1)
Game 2 starters Adam Strate for the Jacks vs. Bert Lopez of St. Louis.


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National Baseball Conference – Week 1 WKND Series – April 10 – 12, 1981

Dallas Mavericks (3-0) @ Atlanta Kings (0-3)
Atlanta game 2 starter Bill Ybanez gets a chance at redemption with a 20.25 ERA.


Chicago Fire (3-0) @ Charlotte Colonels (0-3)
Game 1 Charlotte starter Roberto Umana making his first start of the season. Game 2 matchup features Heriberto Jimenez for Chicago vs. Jose Hernandez for the Colonels.


San Francisco Warriors (3-0) @ Detroit Dukes (2-1)
Game 2 features San Francisco pitching ace Auturo Gonzalez going up against Dukes' ace Jon Solis.


San Diego Seraphs (1-2) @ Minneapolis Blizzard (0-3)



Los Angeles Cobras (2-1) @ Tampa Bay Storm (2-1)
In game 1 Brian Manchester starts for Tampa Bay. Brian won the 1976 Roger Clemens Award. The game 2 matchup features Jerry Ramirez for LA vs. Sergio Martinez for Tampa.


Phoenix Firebirds (1-2) @ Miami Hurricanes (1-2)
Game 1 features Phoenix starter Jose Contreras in his season debut. Game 2 features a marquee matchup of Firebird's Stephen Grimes vs. Gil Aguilar of Miami.


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Dallas Rustlers (5-1) @ Atlanta Kings (1-5)
Rustlers Win Series 2-1
Despite their opening season win streak being snapped in game 2, Dallas manages to come from behind in game 3 to take the series.


GAME 1 - Portsider Helps Dallas to 4-1 Win
Dallas used a superb performance from starting pitcher Anton Garay to down the Atlanta Kings, 4-1. The victory makes Dallas 4-0.

Garay pitched a complete game for Dallas. The 28-year-old left-hander was charged with 1 run on 3 hits. He struck out 7 during his 112-pitch performance.

"We did a lot of things right," said Garay.


GAME 2 - Atlanta Gets 12-3 Win Against Rustlers
The home crowd had a good time watching the Dallas Rustlers and Atlanta Kings get after it.

Atlanta starter Bill Ybanez had a strong outing against the Dallas Rustlers at Kings Field. The right-hander was a big part of his team's 12-3 win. The loss drops Dallas to 4-1.

Jordan Santistevan, the Atlanta first baseman, contributed a run-scoring single in the bottom of the fifth inning to make the score 4-3, Kings. For the game, Santistevan was 2-4 with 2 singles.

"It's nice to come out on top today," said Santistevan.


GAME 3 - Rustlers Topple Kings with Late Rally
The Atlanta Kings got a sterling performance from pitcher Ivan Juarez, but the Dallas Rustlers still prevailed, 7-5. Juarez threw 8.0 innings allowing 3 runs. Jonathan Guzman, now 1-0, was credited with the win. He allowed no runs on 1 hit while striking out 2 and walking 1. Vinny Gonzalez summoned from the bullpen, notched his 1st save.

Dallas used a timely hit from Jalen Smith to get the win. The second baseman stroked a 2-run double in the top of the ninth inning to put the Rustlers ahead, 7-5. It was his only hit in 1 at-bat, but it made an impact.

"It was sure nice to get the win but there's a lot of baseball left," Smith after the game.

Dallas goes to 5-1.



Chicago Fire (3-3) @ Charlotte Colonels (3-3)
Colonels Sweep Series 3-0
Charlotte 'puts out' red-hot Fire in extras of game 3 to sweep.


GAME 1 - Colonels Beat Fire, 5-2
Charlotte starter Roberto Umana pitched well against the Chicago Fire at Colonels Park. The right-hander led his team to a win, 5-2. With the win, Charlotte improves its record to 1-3.

Miguel Salazar aided the Charlotte cause with a run-scoring sacrifice fly in the bottom of the fourth. For the game, the right fielder went 1 for 3.

"One win at a time, one game at a time. We try not to get too far ahead of ourselves," Salazar told the Charlotte Today.


GAME 2 - Colonels Curb Fire, 2-0
In a low-scoring contest, Charlotte pitcher Dabir Aly was marvelous in his team's 2-0 win. Aly, now 1-0, was the winner. In 6.2 innings, he gave up 2 hits, while striking out 7, walking 5, and allowing no runs. Edwin Martinez was credited with the save for Charlotte, his 1st of the season.

In the bottom of the fourth, Charlotte left-fielder Dustin Meredith had a productive at-bat. With the bases loaded and one out, Meredith stroked a 2-run single to center. It made the score 2-0, Charlotte. For the game, he went 1-3. He drove in 2 runs.

"Dabir -- his tempo and rhythm were good," said Colonels manager Jason Wainwright. "He was the key to us winning."

The defeat makes Chicago 3-2.


GAME 3 - Colonels Down Fire, 5-4
The Charlotte Colonels picked up a win at Colonels Park, taking down the Chicago Fire, 5-4. Starting pitcher Jose Hernandez was a big reason why. The victory makes Charlotte 3-3.

The Colonels procured the win, in large part because of third baseman Sergio Barraza. In the bottom of the 12th, he produced the game-winning run-scoring single.

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


Phoenix Firebirds (3-3) @ Miami Hurricanes (2-4)
Firebirds Win Series 2-1
Miami avoids the sweep with a game 3 blow-out derailing the three-game win streak of the Redbirds.


GAME 1 - Miami Shut Out by Contreras
Jose Contreras of the Phoenix Firebirds really strutted his stuff on the mound today with a 2-0 victory. He was almost untouchable, bewildering the Miami Hurricanes with a 5-hit shutout in which he struck out 4 and gave up no walks.



GAME 2 - Multi-HR Game for Brown in 5-1 Win
Behind the hitting of Myles Brown, the Phoenix Firebirds stopped the Miami Hurricanes, 5-1. Brown hit 2 home runs. He scored 3 times and drove in 2 for the Firebirds. The loss puts Miami at 1-4.

Vinny Herrera, the 24-year-old shortstop, had a direct impact on the outcome. Herrera contributed a 2-run single in the top of the first inning to put Phoenix up, 2-0.

"I don't lose sleep over a loss," said Brown. "But I have better dreams after a win."


GAME 3 - Hurricanes Roll Over Firebirds, 10-3
The Miami Hurricanes knocked off the Phoenix Firebirds, 10-3, at Hurricanes Park. Pat Watters was a big reason Miami won. The first baseman went 2-4 with a home run and a double while adding 5 RBI and scoring once. Bill Borden, the winning pitcher, improved to 1-1. He pitched 9 innings, giving up 8 hits and 3 runs, while striking out 5 and walking 0. The loss makes Phoenix 3-3.

Miami grabbed the momentum in the bottom of the fifth, when Watters, who is a two-time All-Star, hit a 2-run double. His 2nd double of the season put the Hurricanes out in front, 4-2.

"I give credit to my teammates for this win. We got it done," Watters told the Miami Today.



Los Angeles Cobras (5-1) @ Tampa Bay Storm (2-4)
Cobras Sweep Series 3-0
Los Angeles finding ways to win in series sweep.


GAME 1 - Cobras Win at Tampa Bay, 5-3
Myles Byrd was a vital contributor to the 5-3 Los Angeles victory over Tampa Bay. The Cobra's center fielder was 3-4 with a double, 2 singles, and a walk. He drove in 2 runs. The winning pitcher was Adam Jahn. His record is now 1-0. The right-hander went 8 innings, allowing 3 runs on 9 hits for the Cobras. Alex Gonzalez closed it out for his 1st save.

Byrd had a key at-bat for Los Angeles early in the game. With runners on 1st and 2nd, he hit a 2-run double. It was his 1st double of the season and gave Los Angeles an early 2-0 lead.

"We'll relax tonight and enjoy this win," said Byrd.

The win has Los Angeles at 3-1.


GAME 2 - Cobras Trip Storm, 9-6, in Extra Innings
The Los Angeles Cobras defeated the Tampa Bay Storm, 9-6, at Storm Stadium. Ramon Reyes was a standout performer for Los Angeles. His 4 hits included 2 singles and 2 doubles, in addition to the 2 runs he scored and 3 he knocked in. The winner was Los Angeles reliever Tae-mok Kim, now 1-0. The loser was Luis Carrera. The win puts Los Angeles at 4-1.

Los Angeles needed the clutch hitting of Bill Haywood to notch the win. The right fielder hammered a solo home run in the top of the 12th inning to put the Cobras on top, 7-6. For the game, Haywood had 1 home run and 1 single in 5 at-bats.

"Always feels extra good winning this kind of game," said Haywood.


GAME 3 - Los Angeles Beats Tampa Bay, 5-4
The Los Angeles Cobras weathered a fine game by Tampa Bay right fielder Frank Jimenez to upend the Storm, 5-4, at Storm Stadium. Jimenez was 4-4 with a triple, 3 singles, and a walk while scoring 3 times. Joel Valenty was the winner. Over 8 innings, he allowed 2 runs on 11 hits, with 2 walks and 3 strikeouts. Earning his 1st save for Los Angeles was Kevin Cavanaugh.

The outcome might have been different for Los Angeles, had it not been for Myles Byrd, the 24-year-old center fielder. Byrd stroked a run-scoring single in the top of the eighth inning to put Los Angeles up, 5-2. For the game, he was 3 for 4, including 1 double and 2 singles.

"We can always improve and get better, but we're feeling confident after that win," said Byrd.

The Cobras, now 5-1, have played some good baseball in the early going.



San Francisco Warriors (3-3) @ Detroit Dukes (5-1)
Dukes Sweep Series 3-0
Detroit demonstrates their championship mettle by extending their win streak to four.


GAME 1 - Dukes Prevail, 4-2, Over San Francisco
Detroit got a strong outing from Jose Flores as the Dukes defeated the San Francisco Warriors, 4-2, at Dukes Field. The loss has the Warriors at 3-1.

Jake Simper was 1 for 3 with a hit-by-pitch for Detroit. The 33-year-old catcher had a key at-bat in the bottom of the sixth. With two out and the bases loaded, he broke a 2-2 tie with a run-scoring hit-by-pitch off Jon Ramirez. It was his 1st RBI of the season.

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


GAME 2 - Dukes Beat Warriors, 5-2
Detroit Dukes starter Jon Solis hurled his team past the San Francisco Warriors, 5-2. Detroit goes to 4-1.

The Dukes got a big at-bat from first baseman Juan Aranda. For the game, Aranda was 1-3 with a home run and a walk. He drove in 2 runs and scored once. In the bottom of the sixth, with a runner on 1st, he stroked a 2-run home run. His 1st home run of the season gave Detroit a 2-0 lead.

"Jon made his pitches," said Detroit manager Jose Perez.


GAME 3 - Dukes Win, 5-3, Extend Streak to 4 Games
Francisco Fernandez had a 3-RBI game, during Detroit's 5-3 triumph over the San Francisco Warriors. Fernandez contributed 1 single and 1 home run to the cause. Jordan Allison closed the game out for Detroit, earning his 3rd save. The Dukes, now 5-1, have stormed out of the gates.

Detroit took a 5-0 lead on Fernandez's 1st home run of the season. The 3-run home run, which he hit off SF ace Arturo Gonzalez in the bottom of the seventh, propelled Detroit to the win.

"Enjoyed this one, He's one of the best," Fernandez told the Detroit Times. "But it's back to work tomorrow."


San Diego Seraphs (2-4) @ Minneapolis Blizzard (2-4)
Blizzard Win Series 2-1
Minneapolis bounces back with game 3 laugher to win series.


GAME 1 - Minneapolis Skunks San Diego, 5-0
Jake Piscitelli of the Minneapolis Blizzard dominated the day at Minneapolis Grounds today, pitching shutout ball against the Seraphs and holding them to 3 hits. He fanned 6 and walked 2 in spinning the 5-0 win.

"I can't take all the credit for this one," Piscitelli said. "I had some great defense behind me."


GAME 2 - Seraphs Win, 5-2, at Minneapolis
San Diego Seraphs starter Kennie Murdock turned in a top-notch performance against the Minneapolis Blizzard at Minneapolis Grounds. The result was a win for the Seraphs, 5-2. Minneapolis falls to 1-4.

Carlos Fournier provided a timely hit. The San Diego first baseman delivered a 2-run triple in the top of the sixth inning to put the Seraphs on top, 3-1. It was his only hit in the game, but he made it count.

"It was just a matter of executing," said San Diego manager Jesse Wade.


GAME 3 - Blizzard Lambaste Seraphs, 13-1
Fans were not deterred by the threat of rain. They came to see their hometown Minneapolis Blizzard take on the San Diego Seraphs.

Ricky Thompson led Minneapolis to a win over San Diego. The final score was 13-1. Thompson collected 2 RBI while going 3 for 3 at the plate. The first baseman also scored 3 times. David Bain got credit for the win, improving to 1-1. He allowed 1 run on 5 hits in 7.2 innings.

Hirotoshi Nishimoto aided the Minneapolis cause with a run-scoring walk in the bottom of the first. For the game, the designated hitter went 1 for 1 with 3 walks, while adding 2 RBI and scoring once.

San Diego manager Jesse Wade called the blowout loss "a real stinker."

The win puts Minneapolis at 2-4.


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Houston Mavericks (2-4) @ Boston Patriots (2-4)
Patriots Win Series 2-1
Winless Boston gets off the deck in dramatic fashion to take the series.


GAME 1 - Late Magic Gets Houston 8-6 Win
Behind a fine performance from Albert Chavez, the Houston Mavericks knocked off the Boston Patriots, 8-6. Chavez hit 2 home runs while adding 3 RBI and scoring twice for the Mavericks. Tony Chavarria closed the game out for Houston, earning his 2nd save. Boston falls to 0-4.

Houston took an 8-6 lead on Elijah Glenn's 2nd double of the season. The 2-run double, which Glenn hit in the top of the ninth, left Boston pitcher Adam Smith visibly frustrated.

"We played hard and won," said Chavez. "Sometimes, baseball is that easy.'


GAME 2 - Boston Gets Riveting Walk-Off Win
The home crowd was treated to a thrilling, walk-off win.

The Boston Patriots faced a tough opponent in Houston pitcher Scott Szell but did just enough to pull out the victory at Patriots Fields by a final score of 5-4. Szell went 8.2 innings and allowed 4 runs. Boston now has a record of 1-4.

Boston won the game in the bottom of the tenth inning. With no outs and Tony Chavarria on the mound for Houston, third baseman Danny Salas hit a dramatic solo home run, bringing Patriots fans to their feet.

"We battled our tails off to get this win," said Boston manager Bill Hurff.


GAME 3 - Velasquez Gives Houston Goose Eggs
Houston dropped a 1-0 shutout to Miguel Velasquez and the Boston Patriots at Patriots Fields today. The Mavericks offered little resistance to Velasquez, who stopped them on 7 hits, fanned 5, and walked 0.

"It just felt right today," the right-handed Velasquez told reporters after the win. "Even with the rain, it didn't throw me off my rhythm."



Cincinnati Cougars (3-3) @ New York Aces (5-1)
Aces Sweep Series 3-0
New York extendes their win streak to five.


GAME 1 - Cougars Handed 8-3 Loss by New York
The New York Aces topped the Cincinnati Cougars, 8-3, in American Baseball Conference action at Aces Field. The standout performance belonged to New York pitcher and Tyler, Texas, native Pablo Magana. Magana picked up the win for New York, going 7.2 innings. He gave up 1 run on 7 hits. He now sports a record of 1-0. The win gives New York a record of 3-1.

Jonathan Mestas, who finished 4th in the ABC in wins above replacement with 6.1 in 1974, aided the New York cause with a run-scoring walk in the bottom of the seventh. For the game, the center fielder drew 1 walk.

"Feels good to get the job done," Magana said after the game.


GAME 2 - Aces Prevail, 7-5, Over Cincinnati
The Cincinnati Cougars got a superb performance from first baseman Esteban Martinez, but the New York Aces still won the game, 7-5. Martinez was 3 for 4 with 2 doubles while scoring 2 and driving in 2. Tony Oubre earned the win for New York. He lasted 8 innings, allowing 5 runs on 10 hits, while striking out 4. With the win, he raised his record to 1-1. Devon John got credit for the save for New York. It was his 3rd of the year.

Jerry Nunez aided the New York cause with a run-scoring walk in the bottom of the fifth. For the game, the right fielder drew 1 walk, while scoring 2 runs.

"We cashed in when we had the chance," said New York manager Dennis Salvino.

The win has New York at 4-1.


GAME 3 - Mestas Slugs Aces to 6-5 Win
The New York Aces topped the Cincinnati Cougars by the score of 6-5, with the biggest share of the credit going to center fielder Jonathan Mestas. Mestas hit 2 home runs while adding 3 RBI and scoring twice for the Aces on the day. New York pitcher Craig Starr got the win, upping his record to 1-0. Gil Medina got the loss. Getting the save was Devon John, his 4th.

Mestas had a timely hit for New York in the bottom of the eighth. With Cincinnati leading 5-4, he turned a 1-1 curveball into a 2-run home run. It was his 4th home run of the season, making it 6-5, New York.

"I believe in our guys," said New York skipper Dennis Salvino. "I like the energy they're playing with."

The loss has the Cougars at 3-3.



Las Vegas Gamblers (6-0) @ Philadelphia Fury (2-4)
Gamblers Sweep Series 3-0
Las Vegas hitting on all cylinders as the season-opening win streak reaches six.


GAME 1 - Philadelphia Blanked by Cole
Rogelio Cole of the Las Vegas Gamblers was in command from start to finish in his 5-0 shutout win over the Philadelphia Fury. He struck out 6, walked 2, and allowed 2 hits.

"I felt strong the entire game," Cole said. "I felt like I had my good stuff. It was just one of those games when everything was working."


GAME 2 - Las Vegas Grabs 7-4 Road Win
Las Vegas Gamblers starter Bobby Rodriguez was in a groove as he led his team to a win over the Philadelphia Fury, 7-4. The Gamblers, now 5-0, have hit the ground running this season.

Las Vegas needed the clutch hitting of Mario Smithson to notch the win. The left fielder hammered a 3-run home run in the top of the seventh inning to put the Gamblers on top, 5-3. For the game, Smithson had 1 home run and 1 single in 5 at-bats.

"It feels good to get this one," Smithson told the Las Vegas Observer.


GAME 3 - 6 Straight Wins for Gamblers

The Las Vegas Gamblers stopped the Philadelphia Fury, 9-6, at Fury Park. The Gamblers got a big game from David Avila, who went 2 for 3 with a triple and a walk. He scored 3 times. Las Vegas goes to 6-0 with the win.

Jon Martinez, who won the Robin Yount ROY Award in 1979, helped out the Las Vegas cause in the top of the fifth inning with a run-scoring double. For the game, the right fielder went 2 for 4 with a double and a walk. He drove in 2 runs and scored once.

"We'll pop the top on a cold beverage and get back to work tomorrow," Martinez said.



Denver Rocketeers (2-4) @ Pittsburgh Express (2-4)
Express Win Series 2-1
Pittsburgh manages to come up with two close victories to take the series.


GAME 1 - Express Clip Rocketeers, 6-5
The performance of Tony Villalta proved critical in helping Pittsburgh beat Denver, 6-5. The Express right fielder went 3 for 5 with 2 doubles. He scored 3 times. Pittsburgh is now 1-3.

The clutch at-bat came in the bottom of the ninth inning, when Pittsburgh designated hitter Jonathan Greene, facing Al McHaney, had a run-scoring sacrifice fly. It gave the Express the 6-5 win.

"It's a thrill to get that kind of win," Villalta said.


GAME 2 - Rocketeers Upend Express, 7-2
The umbrellas came out during the Denver-Pittsburgh contest at Express Stadium.

With first baseman Jonathan Stevens leading the charge, the Denver Rocketeers defeated the Pittsburgh Express, 7-2, at Express Stadium. Stevens, who finished 4th in the ABC in batting average with .311 in 1979, went 3 for 4 with a triple, 2 singles, and was hit by a pitch. He scored 2 times and drove in 2. Damian Serano, the winner, goes to 1-1. He allowed 2 runs on 8 hits, with 3 walks and 3 strikeouts over 5.1 innings.

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

Stevens said his team "played with determination."

The loss drops the Express to 1-4.


GAME 3 - Express Edge Past Rocketeers, 6-5
The Pittsburgh Express defeated the Denver Rocketeers, 6-5. Doing his part was first baseman Jonathan Stevens, who went 2-5 with a home run and a double. He drove in 4 runs and scored once. Denver drops to 2-4.

Daniel Vega was the walk-off hero for Pittsburgh. With the game tied in the bottom of the ninth inning, the Express third baseman hit a dramatic run-scoring single to send the teams home.

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



Seattle Comets (2-4) @ Nashville Blues (4-2)
Blues Win Series 2-1
Nashville bats are still blistering hot taking the series.


GAME 1 -Blues Deck Comets, 13-4
Nashville designated hitter Ricardo Espinosa helped his team beat the Seattle Comets, 13-4. Espinosa, who finished 2nd in the ABC in slugging percentage with .565 in 1975, went 4 for 5 for the Blues. The Blues, now 3-1, have played some good baseball in the early going.

With Nashville leading 4-3 in the bottom of the fifth, Espinosa hit a fastball from Ricardo Sanchez for a 2-run double. It was his 3rd double of the season and put the Blues ahead, 6-3.

"We're all about heart and hustle on this team. That's what wins ballgames," Espinosa told the Nashville Gazette.


GAME 2 - Comets Win at Nashville, 8-6
The Seattle Comets had to overcome a big game from Nashville first baseman Kevin Walker to leave Blues Stadium with a victory. And they did, winning 8-6. Walker went 3-5 with a double and 2 singles while scoring 2 runs. Seattle reliever Eduardo Gonzales picked up the win, upping his record to 1-0. Jacob Sutherland took the loss. Nashville falls to 3-2.

Seattle used the clutch hitting of Alex Bautista to capture the win. The first baseman drilled a 2-run double in the top of the sixth inning to give the Comets the lead, 8-6. For the game, Bautista had 1 single and 1 double in 5 at-bats.

"We were able to get some things going offensively," said Bautista.


GAME 3 - Blues Get Past Seattle for a 5-4 Win
The Blues grabbed a win, 5-4, at Blues Stadium, overcoming a fine effort from Seatlle pitcher Tony Miller. Miller went 8 innings and allowed 4 runs. Nashville reliever Aiden Watkins picked up the win, upping his record to 1-0. Jesus Sanchez absorbed the loss. Nashville, with the win, is 4-2.

The clutch at-bat came in the bottom of the ninth inning, when Nashville shortstop Jordan Arteaga, facing Jesus Sanchez, had a run-scoring sacrifice fly. It gave the Blues the 5-4 win.

"We found a way to get it done," Arteaga said.



Portland Lumberjacks (3-3) @ St. Louis Stallions (4-2)
Stallions Win Series 2-1
St. Louis's pitching allows no runs and five hits in games 2 and 3 cruising to the series win.


GAME 1 - Lumberjacks Win at St. Louis, 8-3
A 4-RBI performance from David de Leon helped the Portland Lumberjacks beat the St. Louis Stallions, 8-3. St. Louis falls to 2-2.

In the top of the first of a scoreless game, de Leon hit a 2-run home run to put his team ahead.

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


GAME 2 - Stallions Lopez Blanks Lumberjacks
St. Louis hurler Bert Lopez put on quite a show today as he blitzed the Portland Lumberjacks with a 4-0 shutout. He baffled them with fastballs and changeups, allowing 2 hits with 6 strikeouts and 5 walks to pick up the win.

"I think every time we were looking for a fastball, he threw a changeup, and every time we were looking for a changeup, he threw a fastball," Portland manager Tim Staheli told reporters after the game.


GAME 3 - Stallions Top Lumberjacks, 4-0, Behind Coronado
Behind an impressive start by Jose Coronado, St. Louis beat Portland, 4-0. St. Louis is off to a hot start at 4-2.

Coronado, who leaned on his fastball, allowed no runs on just 2 hits over 7.1 innings for the Stallions. For the most part, Portland hitters were simply overmatched.

"I felt we were ready to go," said St. Louis manager Ryan Messmer. "Our pregame was pretty good."


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It's Monday, April 13, 1981… Week 1 is in the books!

As we enter Week 2 here’s what we know going in…










Which pitchers are leading the Action Baseball League in career saves?

Garret Brown, ATL, 256
Andrew Williamson, STL, 200
Marcos Real, DET, 178
Edwin Martinez, CHA, 162
Bob Newman, PIT, 160


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