An Englishman in New York (or, British Invasion:The Second Echelon)

NEW YORK CHRONICLE
January 5, 1967

DEVINE QUITS AS METS PRESIDENT
Owner's Pal Takes Over

NEW YORK, N.Y. - Following the shock take-over of the struggling Mets by eccentric British aristocrat Lord Fawcliff comes another surprise with the announcement by Bing Devine that his brief tenure as President is over. At the resignation conference he expressed his disappointment that he would not now have the opportunity to help continue the good progress the club has been making. Devine, who succeeded George Weiss as President only in the fall, cited irreconcilable disagreements with the new owner as the main reason for his departure.
One of those disagreements almost certainly concerns the appointment of Roy Crabtree as Vice-President. Crabtree, a compatriot and long time friend of Lord Fawcliff, has no experience whatsoever in baseball, nor in any professional sport. It remains unclear whether Devine felt he was being undermined by having the owner's chum watching over his shoulder. However, it is certain that one of the most respected men in baseball will not be unemployed for long.
No official announcement has been made, but reports indicate Crabtree has assumed the position of President.

Attachment 13464

Bing Devine

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Hey guys. Became a baseball fan after being introduced to BM. I’ve particularly enjoyed researching all the players, characters and teams I’ve come across in the game (thankyou internet!). This side of the pond baseball ranks on a par with figure-skating and water polo in terms of popularity. I’ve found it has all the rich history and drama that I used to love about football (soccer).
It’s a big plus that the BM board is so active and helpful. I especially love reading the terrific dynasties here. It’s fun to read and seems fun to write. So, inspired by the likes of CatKnight, Petrel, Overbay17, HoustonGM to name a few, here’s my little effort.
Apologies in advance if it comes across as a little weird-looking at first. I’m still learning the lingo so to speak (both baseball and Americanese). Apologies also to the aforementioned for stealing some parts of their formats. They are too good not to use so I hope they won't mind.

June 14, 1944 - StalagLuft III POW Camp, GERMANY

"Hey Limey, gimme the ball".
The two British airmen looked up, and saw a once white ball rolling towards them. Squadron Leader Fawcliff stooped and picked it up. Examining it he saw it was similar in size and weight to the cricket balls he was used to, although it felt softer and was stitched differently. Grinning, he hurled the ball to the American fifty feet away. Straight into the big glove he was wearing.
"Nice throw. Thanks."
"You're welcome, old chap."
The American turned and headed back to the game. Fawcliff sat back down beside his fellow prisoner Flying Officer Roy Crabtree. The two had been pilot and navigator in a Lancaster that he been brought down over Germany in 1942 and had spent the past two years here in StalagLuft III close to the Polish border. It was a huge camp, one of the largest in the POW system, with several thousand Allied airmen detained there.
At first the prisoners had been mostly from Britain and her Empire, but the last few months had seen a massive influx of Americans shifted from other camps. Morale was low among the British contingent following the heroic but disastrous ‘great escape’ of the spring but the Americans, ever resourceful, had soon acquired equipment for various sports. They organised a highly competitive baseball league comprising dozens of teams, which even included a few former professionals.
“This is no good Roy,” said Fawcliff, “we’ll go round the twist if we sit around moping like this.”
“I know Freddy, but what can we do?” replied the junior officer, “Since the escape everybody is very down. Nobody even wants to play cricket. Not even the Aussies for goodness sake.”
Just then a loud cheer came from the direction of the Americans. The two RAF men looked up. Crabtree turned toward Fawcliff.
“Are you thinking what I’m thinking?”
“I do believe I am, old boy.”

Hm, might want to ask a mod to move this over to Dynasties for you :)

Looks like a good intro! Don't get too caught up in the Americanese. Personally I rather like the "British English" and it'll add a nice touch to this dynasty. If we get too confused we'll ask you what an x is. :) Good luck!

Hello baseball fans. Roy Crabtree here. Yes, the press have got it right. I am now the President/GM of the Mets, albeit a slightly reluctant one. Bing resigning so suddenly was such a blow. Can't blame him I suppose. He thought my job was just to spy on him. I guess it was in a way. Lord Fawcliff...Freddy - he isn't so formal... won't be around as much as he would like. As well as his many business interests here and in Europe he has the estate in England to take care of. He just wanted me around to keep an eye on things. I wouldn't have interfered with Bing's work at all. In fact, I was rather looking forward to working with him. He did sterling work in St Louis and Freddy would have been delighted to have him do the same here. Now we are in a bit of a pickle. For the time being it looks like I'm running the show. Let's go and meet the chaps.....


1967 NEW YORK METS

CATCHERS
Jerry Grote (72) Age 24 (.237 3 HR 31 RBI 4 SB)
CON: $20,300 until Arb 68 ACQ: Off season 1966 from Houston
MLB: 1963 Houston (4th season)

John Sullivan (74/79) Age 26 (Did not play in majors in 1966)
CON: $11,800 until Arb 69 ACQ: Off season 1967 from Detroit (Rule 5 draft)
MLB: 1963 Detroit (Rookie)

Greg Goossen (72/88) Age 21 (.188 1-5-0 in 32 AB)
CON: $11,800 until Arb 70 ACQ: April 1965 from LA Dodgers
MLB: 1965 New York Mets (Rookie)


Grote is not a great hitter, but he is already one of the better backstops in the league. Just what we need with some rookie fireballers set to take the hill this year. Sullivan has spent most of his career lost in the Tigers farm system. At least he gets to warm the bench for us. Goossen played a few games in the majors last year but isn‘t quite ready yet. He will be #3 catcher as well as providing emergency cover at first.


FIRST BASEMEN

Ed Kranepool (75/92) Age 22 (.254 16-57-1)
CON: $275,000 thru 1967 ACQ: June 1962 (Amateur Free Agent)
MLB: 1962 New York Mets (6th season)

With a lot of experience for a youngster (nearly 400 starts) Kranepool is our highest paid batter. Wes says he is so slow he couldn’t catch a cold, but he’ll do fine at clean-up.


INFIELDERS
Jerry Buchek (71/72) Age 24 (.236 4-25-0 with St Louis)
CON: $124,000 thru 1967 ACQ: Off season 1967 from St Louis
MLB: 1961 St Louis (6th season)

Bart Shirley (66/74) Age 27 (.200 0-0-0 in 5 AB with Dodgers)
CON: $11,800 until Arb 69 ACQ: Off season 1967 from Dodgers (Rule 5 draft)
MLB: 1964 LA Dodgers (Rookie)

Kevin Collins (66/84) Age 20 (Did not play in majors in 1966)
CON: $11,800 until Arb 70 ACQ: Off season 1964 (Amateur Free Agent)
MLB: 1965 New York Mets (Rookie)

Bob Johnson (78) Age 31 (.217 1-10-0 with Baltimore)
CON: $124,000 thru 1969 ACQ: Off season 1967 from Baltimore)
MLB: 1960 Kansas City (8th season)

Chuck Hiller (64) Age: 32 (.280 2-14-0)
CON: $29,900 thru 1967 ACQ: May 1965 from San Francisco
MLB: 1961 San Francisco (7th season)


I’m concerned. Three new faces, all three mediocre and two on huge salaries. Collins will almost certainly see some playing time while this mess is being straightened out.


OUTFIELDERS
Tommy Davis (78) Age 28 (.313 3-27-3 with Dodgers)
CON: $166,000 thru 1969 ACQ: Off season 1967 from Dodgers
MLB: 1959 LA Dodgers (9th season)

Cleon Jones (81) Age 24 (.275 8-57-16)
CON: $31,100 until Arb 69 ACQ: July 1962 (Amateur Free Agent)
MLB: 1963 New York Mets (4th season)

Al Luplow (71) Age 28 (.251 7-31-2)
CON: $80,000 thru 1967 ACQ: Off season 1966 from Cleveland
MLB: 1961 Cleveland (7th season)

Larry Stahl (77/78) Age 25 (.250 5-34-5 with Kansas City)
CON: $11,800 until Arb 69 ACQ: Off season 1967 from Kansas City
MLB: 1964 Kansas City (4th season)

Johnny Lewis (72) Age 27 (.193 5-20-2)
CON: $12,800 until Arb 68 ACQ: Off season 1965 from St Louis
MLB: 1964 St Louis (4th season)


Cleon Jones is the only outfielder who is guaranteed to start. The others will have to fight for the other two spots. Davis had some fabulous years with the Dodgersthings went downhill culminating in a broken ankle in ‘65. He came back strongly last year and, with any luck, will continue the comeback with us.

STARTERS
Don Cardwell (89) Age 31 (6-6 4.60 ERA 1 CG with Pittsburgh)
CON: $121,000 thru 1969 ACQ: Off season 1967 from Pittsburgh
MLB: 1957 Philadelphia (11th season)

Jack Fisher (82/92) Age 28 (11-14 3.68 10)
CON: $316,000 thru 1967 ACQ: Off season 1964 from San Francisco (special draft)
MLB: 1959 Baltimore (9th season)

Ralph Terry (83) Age 31 (0-1 4.74 0 in 24.2 IP)
CON: $101,000 thru 1968 ACQ: August 1966 from Kansas City
MLB: 1956 New York Yankees (12th season)

Tom Seaver (86/92) Age 22 (Rookie)
CON: $11,800 until Arb 70 ACQ: April 1966 (Amateur Free Agent)
MLB: 1967 New York Mets (Rookie)

Jerry Koosman (81/92) Age 24 (Rookie)
CON: $11,800 until Arb 70 ACQ: August 1964 (Amateur Free Agent)
MLB: 1967 New York Mets (Rookie)


The pitching staff is the least of my worries. We have good experience along with two exciting prospects in Seaver and Koosman. Cardwell takes over from Fisher as our ace. Jack took it quite well when I broke the news. He even laughed at my little joke about his extra poundage.

RELIEVERS
Dick Selma (79/92) Age 23 (4-6 4.24 1 SV)
CON: $11,800 until Arb 69 ACQ: May 1963 (Amateur Free Agent)
MLB: 1965 New York Mets (3rd season)

Ron Taylor (87) Age 29 (2-3 5.71 0 with Houston)
CON: $53,000 thru 1967 ACQ: Off season 1967 from Houston
MLB: 1962 Cleveland (6th season)

Joe Grzenda (79/81) Age 29 (0-2 3.27 0 in 22 IP with Kansas City)
CON: $13,400 until Arb 68 ACQ: Off season 1967 from Kansas City
MLB: 1961 Detroit (4th season)

Bob Shaw (72) Age 33 (11-10 3.92 0 )
CON: $111,000 thru 1967 ACQ: June 1966 from San Francisco
MLB: 1957 Detroit (11th season)

Bill Graham (59/65) Age 30 (0-0 0.00 0 in 2 IP with Detroit)
CON: $11,800 until Arb 68 ACQ: Off Season 1967 from Detroit
MLB: 1966 Detroit (Rookie)

Chuck Estrada (65) Age 29 (1-1 7.30 0 in 12.1 IP with Cubs)
CON: $59,500 thru 1967 ACQ: Off Season 1967 from Chicago Cubs
MLB: 1960 Baltimore (7th season)


Selma takes over as closer after the departure of Jack Hamilton to California. He seems a little unsettled so I’m hoping he will relish the responsibility. Taylor will set-up. I’m concerned about Estrada. He seems to be having some trouble with his arm. For the time being he will only be getting spot starts.

DOWN ON THE FARM

AAA-Jacksonville Suns (International League)

Ken Singleton LF/RF
Don Shaw RP


AA-Williamsport Mets (Eastern League)

Bud Harrelson SS
Ron Swoboda LF/RF

Swoboda has already played in the bigs but I think he needs a little more work in the minors. Harrelson is not far off.

A-Mankato Mets (Northern League)
Joe Moock 3B
Danny Frisella RP
Bill Dennehy SP

Frisella and Dennehy move up from rookie ball. Moock seems to have hit a wall in his development. After four seasons with the rookies he needs to buck up.

R-Marion Mets (Appalachian League)

Amos Otis CF
Ken Boswell IF
Bob Heise IF
Mike Jorgensen 1B
Frank Estrada C
Lute Barnes 2B
Gary Gentry SP
Bill Parsons SP
Buzz Capra SP
Brent Strom SP
Tommy Moore RP
Al Schmelz RP
Jerry Hinsley RP
Don Rose SP


I'd say the future looks very bright indeed!!!

Quote:

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Originally Posted by CatKnight

Hm, might want to ask a mod to move this over to Dynasties for you :)

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Doh! That's a good start. I was just too excited to be finally posting a dynasty. :rolleyes:

NEW YORK CHRONICLE
March 31, 1967


1967 SEASON PREVIEW AND PREDICTIONS

AMERICAN LEAGUE

1. Detroit Tigers (1966-3rd)
The Tigers are hot favourites to win the AL this year after a tragic 1966 season. With the arrival of veteran slugger Eddie Matthews from the Braves the line-up is looking as formidable as any in baseball. With Denny McLain (20-14) at #1 in the rotation again and Earl Wilson putting up an impressive 2.59 ERA, the Tigers will hope Mickey Lolich can improve on his 14-14 record. If he does then the Tigers could well win 100+ games.

2. Baltimore Orioles (1966- World Champ)
Last year's surprise World Series winner look to be the only other serious contender. The Orioles have some major fire power in Triple Crown winner Frank Robinson, Brooks Robinson and Boog Powell and good gloves throughout the line-up. Jim Palmer and Dave McNally have good backup in the bullpen from veterans Stu Miller and Eddie Fisher.

3. Minnesota Twins (1966- 2nd)
After a disappointing 1966 which saw the Twins relying on Harmon Killebrew and Tony Oliva for scores, the line-up has been bolstered by the addition of rookie Rod Carew. 1964 Cy Young winner Dean Chance is another new arrival.

4. New York Yankees (1966-10th)
Finishing last for the first time since 1912 was humiliating for the Bronx Bombers and, despite no major signings expect a dramatic improvement from The Mick et al.

5. Chicago White Sox (1966-4th)
A breakout year for Tommie Agee was the only bright spot offensively in 1966. New arrival Ken Boyer ought to add a little more spark to the line-up but it's the solid rotation and bullpen that will keep the South Siders from oblivion

6. Cleveland Indians (1966-5th)
Despite new ownership and their future in Cleveland secured, the Indians remain in financial difficulty. Expect them to struggle as they are forced to offload some assets.

7. California Angels (1966-6th)
Although the Angels have some of the best gloves in baseball the line-up looks pretty lacklustre with ex-Twins Don Mincher and Jimmie Hall adding nothing to get excited about. With Jack Sanford the pitching lynchpin, the Angels will be hoping for something special from phenom Andy Messersmith.

8. Boston Red Sox (1966-9th)
The Sox line-up has some firepower but the rotation is looking very weak, with only Jim Lonborg having any real quality

9. Washington Senators (1966-8th)
With the baseball fans of Washington DC staying at home in record numbers last year, 1967 sees even less reason to get excited about the Senator.

10. Kansas City Athletics (1966-7th)
The worst team in baseball, despite a rotation that shows a lot of promise and a new MLB single season saves record for Jack Aker, will be moving after this season if Charlie O. Finlay gets his wish.




NATIONAL LEAGUE

1. San Francisco Giants (1966-2nd)
The Giants went close last year and they can go one better if Juan Marichal and Gaylord Perry get some support from the rest of the pitching staff. Marichal and Perry combined for 46 wins in 1966.

2. Philadelphia Phillies (1966-4th)
Dick Allen (40 HR, 110 RBI) was the leading light of this aging line-up and, with Jim Bunning and Larry Jackson showing they are still top drawer pitchers, the Phillies could well be serious contenders.

3. Atlanta Braves (1966-5th)
Despite losing Eddie Matthews to Detroit, the Braves have a formidable line-up and some good young pitchers coming through. After a winning first year in their new home the Braves will also be in the reckoning.

4. Los Angeles Dodgers (1966- NL Champ)
With Sandy Koufax announcing his retirement the Dodgers will be relying on old hands Don Drysdale and Don Sutton, who was impressive in his rookie year.

5. St Louis Cardinals (1966-6th)
Expect a breakout season from starter Steve Carlton, but a lack of depth on offense means another middling year for the Cards.

6. Cincinnati Reds (1966- 7th)
Milt Pappas posted his career worst ERA (4.29) in his first year at Crosley Field. If he continues to struggle things look grim for the Reds.

7. Chicago Cubs (1966- 10th)
Nowhere near the worst team in this league despite finishing rock bottom last year. With the exception of first baseman Ernie Banks this team is still very young and will only improve. Look out for a rookie pitcher called Joe Niekro who did enough in summer camp to be included in the rotation .

8. Pittsburgh Pirates (1966-3rd)
The Pirates will slump this year as their weak rotation is finally exposed

9. Houston Astros (1966- 8th)
In desperate need of some experienced hands, this young team is still a few years off being contenders.

10. NEW YORK METS (1966- 9th)
Last year's 66-95 finish was their best ever but the Mets won't be anywhere close to that. With the loss of their only established slugger Ken Boyer to the White Sox the line-up is just terrible. Things look as bad for the pitchers with TWO rookies finding their way onto the rotation.
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Last !!?? Hmm, well I can see why people would think that and I’m not about to go setting unrealistic targets. Last year we went 66-95. This year I want us to get 67 wins. Not too much to ask I feel.

APRIL PREVIEW

Opening Day at Shea this year will be on April 4th against the Astros. Hopefully we can pick up one if not two wins. After that we fly to LA where Tom Seaver and Jerry Koosman are scheduled to debut. Should be interesting.

Code:

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Line-up                        Bench                        Rotation        Bullpen

CF Jones                C Sullivan                Cardwell        Selma
3B Buchek                IF Johnson                Fisher                Taylor
LF Stahl                LF Davis                Terry                Grzenda
1B Kranepool                2B Hiller                Seaver                Shaw (Bob)
RF Lewis                OF Luplow                Koosman                Graham
C  Grote                1B Goossen                                Estrada
2B Collins
SS Shirley

---

APRIL 1967

With a few days until the season gets underway I take the opportunity to see what free agents are available. Nobody with any experience, but a few more farm players won't do any harm. The best of them aren't interested in signing for us. I do manage to pick up three outfielders:

Al Yates (56/71), Danny Walton (58/86), Jim Williams (64/87),

and a bunch of pitchers:

Norm Angelini (53/80), Jerry Bell (73/84) , Lance Clemons (52/79), Mike Corkins (52/87), Jerry Cram (60/78), Ralph Garcia (54/83), Larry Hardy (59/85), Jerry Terrell (55/80), Gary Lance (56/81)


They are dispersed throughout the farm system.
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Apr 2 - The Astros concluded a multi-player deal with the Reds.

To Astros:
CF Vada Pinson (85) Age 28 (.301 Avg, 167 HR, 724 RBI, 181 SB Career)
$224,000 10th season Former Gold Glove and All Star

SS Leo Cardenas (77) Age 28 (.267, 65-362-21)
$171,000 8th season 1966 All Star Former Gold Glove

LF Deron Johnson (82) Age 28 (.264, 94-359-5)
$120,000 7th season

C Johnny Edwards (87) Age 28 (.253, 54-297-5)
$73,000 7th season Former All Star and Gold Glove


To Reds:
RP Turk Farrell (81) Age 33 (90-95, 3.47 ERA, 58 SV)
$107,000 12th season Former All Star

3B Bob Aspromonte (72) Age 28 (.254 Avg, 45 HR, 289 RBI, 16 SB)
$87,500 9th season

2B Bob Lillis (63/64) Age 36 (.236, 3-132-23)
$25,300 10th season

RF Rusty Staub (74/85) Age 23 (.224, 42-226-6)
$129,000 5th season

Looks to me like the Reds wanted to off-load some salary...and give up on the season before it's started!


April 4-6
Houston Astros (0-0) @ New York Mets (0-0)

April 4: Opening Day. Don Cardwell completes the game and a two-run homer from Johnny Lewis secures the win. Mets 5-2
W: Don Cardwell (1-0) L: Dave Giusti (0-1)

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Yay!

Looking good so far, can't wait to see what happens! Here's hoping Seaver developes into his historically dominating self for you.:)

Ew. Well, predictions can be wrong...especially if you can get in a decent trade or two over the year.

Overbay17: Thanks. Me too. I have a house rule that Seaver is going nowhere. Why they ever traded him IRL is beyond me.

CatKnight: I'm pretty confident we won't finish last. It would have to take something ridiculous to happen such as....

NEW YORK CHRONICLE
April 5, 1967

METS ACE IN FREAK ACCIDENT
Hit And Run Taken Too Literally

NEW YORK, N.Y. - Mets pitching ace Don Cardwell is recovering in hospital this morning after a bizarre accident after last night's opener at Shea Stadium. After picking up a win against the Astros he was hit by a car in the parking lot reportedly driven by team-mate Cleon Jones. In another twist, the vehicle is owned by new GM Roy Crabtree.
Witnesses reported seeing several players admiring the white Jaguar, recently imported from Europe. Crabtree was present and it appeared he allowed Jones to get into the driver's seat. As Cardwell was leaving the clubhouse the car suddenly reversed, pinning him against another vehicle. Paramedics were quickly on the scene and Cardwell was rushed to hospital. Several people were interviewed at the scene by police but no charges will be filed. Nobody from the Mets was available for comment but a hospital spokesperson said Cardwell is in a serious but non-critical condition.

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:eek: Uh-oh! That takes a bit of the shine off the win. Out for 4 months with a broken hip! Don't blame Cleon though. His foot slipped. Here's the wheels by the way. Nice huh? :D

Attachment 13469

Jaguar 420

I love it so far. I really look forward to seeing how differently the players in your universe grow from mine, as I also started in 1967. In my dynasty, Tom Seaver has become a solid starter, but nothing close to the real one, and the real stud has been Amos Otis. Good luck friend!

Good luck with the dynasty. It will be interesting to see how the 67 Mets turn out and if they can win a World Championship in 1969 like the real ones.

--Pet

petrel: Thanks. I've started with the '67 Mets several times. The earliest I've won the World Series is 1970. It really will be the 'Miracle Mets' if I make it any sooner. :)

bigpapi: I'm playing in historical mode (it's a good for my baseball education) so players ought to develop as they did IRL. Saying that, there has been enough variation in my 'dry runs' to keep things from being predictable. You are doing a good job with the Red Sox by the way. They have been strictly second division in my games.

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April 5: Looks like the pitchers still have last night's 'incident' on their minds. Astros 12-5
W: Larry Dierker (1-0) L: Ralph Terry (0-1)

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Bart Shirley, playing shortstop, is carried off the field after tearing his ankle ligaments going in for a slide. He will probably not play again this year. This is his first season with us but he had got off to an encouraging start ( .333 Avg in 6 AB)
Bud Harrelson is called up from Williamsport (.300 Avg 4 SB in AA) to cover at shortstop. He has good speed and will take over at lead-off .
With Cardwell out Chuck Estrada is added to the rotation at #5. That means Tom Seaver will debut a day earlier than expected.

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April 6: Tom Seaver makes his major league debut and it’s a less than happy one. He is pulled after 5 innings with the Astros ahead 8-0. Astros 12-5
W: Don Wilson (1-0) L: Tom Seaver (0-1)

April 7-9
New York Mets (1-2) @ Los Angeles Dodgers (1-5)

April 7: Jerry Koosman debuts. He starts off well, with the Mets leading 5-0 going into the 5th. Things fall apart from there and by the time Koosman is pulled 6 outs later the Dodgers had come back to tie the game. Dodgers 8-6
W: Phil Regan (1-0) L: Joe Grzenda (0-1) S: Ron Perranoski (2)

April 8: All runs scored in the first 3 innings. The bullpens shut things down with us ahead by one. Mets 4-3
W: Chuck Estrada (1-0) L: Bill Singer (0-1) S: Dick Selma (1)

April 9: Jack Fisher gives up 4 early runs but we come back with all runs batted in by Cleon Jones and Ed Kranepool. Mets 5-4
W: Bob Shaw (1-0) L: Don Drysdale (1-2) S: Ron Taylor (1)


April 10-12
New York Mets (3-3) @ Chicago Cubs (4-5)

April 10: A 5-run rally in the 9th gives us the win but a sloppy defensive performance with 3 errors from the infielders almost costing us. Mets 6-4
W: Ron Taylor (1-0) L: Fergie Jenkins (1-2) S: Dick Selma (2)

April 11: Seaver gets his first win but it's not especially convincing. He gives up 5 runs, 11 hits and has only 2 K's in 7.2 innings. Ed Kranepool goes 4-5 and knocks in 3 runs. Mets 7-5
W: Tom Seaver (1-1) L: Ray Culp (2-1) S: Joe Grzenda (1)

April 12 : We blow two opportunites to win this having a 3-2 lead at the bottom of the 9th and, in extra innings, a 4-3 advantage bottom of the 14th when Bob Shaw gives up a two run walkoff homer to Ron Santo. The only plus from this game was much more assured performance from Koosman. Cubs 5-4 (14)
W: Rob Gardner (1-0) L: Bob Shaw (1-1)
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Attachment 13491

Brooks Robinson

Baltimore stalwart Brooks Robinson is traded to Houston along with 5 prospects in exchange for outfielder Jimmy Wynn. Bizarre!

To Orioles:
CF Jimmy Wynn (86) Age 25 (.260 Avg, 51 HR, 186 RBI, 67 SB Career)
$129,000 5th season


To Astros:
3B Brooks Robinson (77) Age 29 (.282, 135-683-18)
$187,000 13th season 1966 All Star 1966 Gold Glove

OF Woodie Held (75) Age 35 (.235, 171-529-14)
$61,000 12th season

RP Bill Dillman (72/88)
RP Fred Beene (71/86)
plus 2 other rookies

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April 13-15
Houston Astros (5-4) @ New York Mets (5-4)

April 13: Chuck Estrada is unlucky to lose this. He only gives up 3 hits in 7 innings, but the one of those hits brought in what turned out to be the winner. Astros 1-0
W: Mike Cuellar (1-0) L: Chuck Estrada (1-1)

April 14: Jerry Buchek hits his first homer of the season but the game is already out of reach. Astros 6-3
W: Larry Dierker (3-0) L: Jack Fisher (0-1)

April 15: Brooks Robinson and Johnny Edwards do the damage for the Astros and help complete a 3 game sweep. Robinson is hitting .348 and has 6 RBI for his new team. Astros 5-2
W: Bo Belinsky (2-0) L: Ralph Terry (0-2) S: Dave Giusti (1)


April 16-18
New York Mets (5-7) @ Chicago Cubs (7-8)

April 16: Tom Seaver is outstanding and gets a 3 hit complete game. Mets 3-1
W: Tom Seaver (2-1) L: Bill Hands (0-2)

April 17: A total of 30 hits between the two teams yet only 1 home run (Ron Santo). It's a win for us after runs scored by Bud Harrelson and Cleon Jones. Mets 8-6 (13)
W: Dick Selma (1-0) L: Don Larsen (0-1) S: Joe Grzenda (2)

April 18: Chuck Estrada gives up 2 runs in 8 strong innings and Dick Selma closes the game to sweep the Cubs. Mets 5-2
W: Chuck Estrada (2-1) L: Fergie Jenkins (1-2) S: Dick Selma (3)

That sweep of the Cubs was a necessity.

--Pet

Petrel: The sweep of the Cubs was nice. Sweeping the Giants was nicer! :)
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April 21-23
San Francisco Giants (9-6) @ New York Mets (8-7)

April 21: Six runs in the 7th inning are enough for the win. Mets 6-3
W: Jack Fisher (1-1) L: Mike McCormick (2-1) S: Ron Taylor (2)

April 22: Cleon Jones goes 3 for 4 including 2 doubles but we still go down with our defense giving up 2 errors. Giants 6-5
W: Juan Marichal (3-1) L: Ralph Terry (0-3) S: Joe Gibbon (2)

April 23: Ed Kranepool leads the way with a 3 run double down the right field line. Mets 5-4
W: Joe Grzenda (1-1) L: Bill Henry (0-1) S: Dick Selma (4)


April 25-27
Pittsburgh Pirates (10-8) @ New York Mets (10-8)
April 25: Jerry Grote brings home Larry Stahl for the winning run. Mets 8-7 (12)
W: Dick Selma (2-0) L: Roy Face (1-2)

April 26: Chuck Estrada has been performing well so far but he gives up 5 runs in the first inning, walking 3 and throwing 2 wild pitches and is pulled after two innings. Pirates 7-2
W: Juan Pizarro (1-3) L: Chuck Estrada (2-2)

April 27: We have a 5-run lead when Bob Shaw comes in at top of the 9th. He comes close to blowing it, giving up 3 runs as the Pirates rally. Mets 7-5
W: Jack Fisher (2-1) L: Tommie Sisk (2-1)


April 28-30
San Francisco Giants (12-9) @ New York Mets (12-9)

April 28: First win as a Met for Terry on his 6th start. Mets 6-2
W: Ralph Terry (1-3) L: Gaylord Perry (2-2)

April 29: Jerry Grote hits a walk-off single. Mets 5-4
W: Ron Taylor (2-0) L: Lindy McDaniel (3-1)

April 30 We complete our 2nd sweep of the year, now a half game back from Houston. Mets 7-6
W: Joe Grzenda (2-1) L: Bill Henry (0-2) S: Dick Selma (5)

Dunno if there's any such thing as a necessity in early April, but 15-9 after one month is EXCELLENT! Half a game from HOUSTON? Wow, the expansion teams are really taking off this year!

CatKnight: Houston have made a lot of trades (5 changes to the opening day line-up) and all their new guys are off to an incredible start.
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NEW YORK CHRONICLE
April 26, 1967

THE MICK JOINS 500 CLUB
Full House Sees Mantle Feat

NEW YORK, N.Y. - Yankees Stadium was full to capacity last night as another one of their own strove to join the select group of players to hit 500 career home runs. Mickey Mantle, who reached 499 last Friday, did not hit a homer in the 3-game set against Chicago but he finally did it against the Twins. The milestone came in the 2nd inning off leftie Roy Kaat, a blast into the short porch that gave the Yanks the lead. Mantle rounded the bases to a standing ovation and became only the sixth player in history to hit 500.
Following the furore of the achievement Mantle went hitless for the rest of the game and the Twins came back to win 3-2.

Attachment 13493

Mickey Mantle

APRIL SUMMARY

Disastrous start to the month but we came back strongly. There's a long season ahead but let's hope we can keep it up.

National League Standings

Code:

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                W        L        GB
Houston        17        10        --
NEW YORK        15        9        0.5
Atlanta                16        11        1
Pittsburgh        12        12        3.5
San Francisco        12        12        3.5
Cincinnati        13        14        4
St Louis        13        14        4
Chicago                13        17        5.5
Philadelphia        11        16        6
Los Angeles        10        17        7

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Over in the American League, the Twins 14-game win streak has them at 21-6 with a 5 1/2 game lead over the Orioles.


MLB Injury News
None

MLB Milestones
Apr 10: Ken Boyer (CHW) 2,000 Hits
Apr 25: Mickey Mantle (NYY) 500 Home Runs
Apr 29: Frank Howard (WSA) 20 Game Hitting Streak

MLB Retirements
None

I had planned on getting through several months today but I've been a bit a distracted. :rolleyes: First of all, it seems every other dynasty writer has been busy today too. Second, I subscribed to mlb.tv and found I can not only watch hundreds of games from last year. It also has lots of classic games. I watched a game from the 1969 World Series. It was just great to see so many of the players I'll be writing about 'in the flesh'.
Anyway, I'm going to post today's work and get some shut-eye. My eyes hurt staring at the screen all day.
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MAY PREVIEW


We have a hectic month ahead with three separate trips to California, two to Pittsburgh and our first matchups of the year with the Cardinals, Braves and Reds.
The loss of Bart Shirley for the season resulted in a major shake-up of the line-up, with Bud Harrelson coming in at shortstop and taking over from Jones as lead-off. He’s doing great so far (11 games, .326 Avg, 11 Runs).
Johnny Lewis has looked shakey at right field. He is benched in favour of Al Luplow. Johnson is in at third for Buchek.
Tug McGraw will be getting some work in relief rather sooner than I anticipated. I had hoped to keep him at Jacksonville for a while longer.

Code:

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Lineup                        Bench                        Rotation        Bullpen

SS Harrelson                C Sullivan                Fisher                Selma
1B Kranepool                IF Buchek                Terry                Taylor
CF Jones                RF Lewis                Seaver                Grzenda
LF Stahl                LF Davis                Koosman                Shaw (Bob)
RF Luplow                2B Hiller                Estrada                McGraw
3B Johnson                1B Goossen                                Graham
C Grote
2B Collins

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MAY 1967

May 1-3
Pittsburgh Pirates (12-12) @ New York Mets (15-9)

May 1: Juan Pizarro only gives us 5 hits but we make the most of them. Chuck Estrada pitches eight strong innings. Mets 4-1
W: Chuck Estrada (3-2) L: Juan Pizarro (1-4) S: Dick Selma (6)

May 2: Jack Fisher gives up only five hits and two walks, and the Pirates cannot take advantage of the five errors our infielders make.
Mets 5-1W: Jack Fisher (3-1) L: Dennis Ribant (1-1)

May 3: A surprising winning streak goes to number seven and the Pirates are swept by a two-run homer from Al Luplow. In the ninth the Pirates had one out and bases loaded when Manny Mota came to the plate. He grounds into a 6-4-3 double play to give us the win. Mets 4-2
W: Ralph Terry (2-3) L: Vern Law (1-3)

May 4-6
New York Mets (18-9) @ San Francisco Giants (13-14)

May 4: Our streak comes to an abrupt halt as Gaylord Perry outwits Tom Seaver allowing just three hits in a difficult night for both offenses. Giants 4-2
W: Gaylord Perry (3-2) L: Tom Seaver (2-2)

May 5: Willie McCovey and Willie Mays spoiled an otherwise excellent night for Jerry Koosman. The rookie was on a two hitter going into the eighth inning. Giants 4-1
W: Bobby Bolin (2-3) L: Jerry Koosman (0-1) S: Frank Linzy (1)

May 6: Juan Marichal came close to the shutout, giving up a walk with bases loaded in the nintth before getting the final two outs. Sweep for the Giants! Giants 5-1
W: Juan Marichal (5-2) L: Chuck Estrada (3-3)

May 7-9
Pittsburgh Pirates (14-16) @ New York Mets (18-12)

May 7: Four hits, four runs for the Pirates. Pirates 4-0
W: Bob Veale (1-0) L: JAck Fisher (3-2) S: Roy Face (3)

May 8: No coming back when a Cleon Jones error costs us two runs in the thirteenth and Donn Clennendon and Jim Pagliaroni both knock in one-run doubles. Pirates 5-1 (13)
W: Pete Mikkelson (4-1) L: Bill Graham (0-1)

May 9: We are 5-4 down at the bottom of the ninth. Ed Kranepool ties the game with a solo shot. Cleon Jones makes amends for last night, blasting one over the fence in leftfield Mets 6-5
W: Ron Taylor (3-0) L: Roy Face (2-4)

May 10-12
New York Mets (19-14) @ Los Angeles Dodgers (15-21)

May 10: We can only manage a three-run homer Al Luplow. Dodgers 4-3
W: Don Drysdale (3-5) L: Joe Grzenda (2-2) S: Ron Perranoski (5)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ed Kranepool has an injured left shoulder and will be out for a month. I figure it will be Bob Johnson or Greg Goossen taking over at first, but Wes Westrum tells me he would like Tommy Davis in there. I'm quite surprised but bow to his wisdom.

May 11: Doug Rau gives up only three hits and two walks and complete the games. Chuck Estrada is torn apart in the first three. Tommy Davis is actually not too bad at first. Dodgers 13-0 !!
W: Doug Rau (1-0) L: Chuck Estrada (3-4)

May 12: Jack Fisher gives up just 6 hits and gets the complete game win. Mets 6-1
W: Jack Fisher (4-2) L: Don Sutton (4-4)


May 13-15
Cincinnati Reds (16-23) @ New York Mets (20-16)

May 13: The Reds come out with guns blazing, putting on the hit and run several times in the first and scoring four early runs. Reds 7-4
W: Jim Maloney (3-4) L: Ralph Terry (2-4) S: Ted Davidson (1)

May 14: Same story. We give three errors too. I thought our offense was our weakness but the defense is looking decidedly poor at the moment. Reds 8-1
W: Sammy Ellis (1-2) L: Tom Seaver (2-3)

May 15: Reds get the sweep coming back from two down in the ninth and taking the game to extra innings. Dick Selma allows two runs in the eleventh and there is no reply from the Mets offense. Reds 4-2 (11)
W: Jack Baldschun L: Dick Selma (2-1) S: Billy McCool (3)


May 16-18
New York Mets (20-19) @ Pittsburgh Pirates (19-20)

May 16: In the bottom of the ninth Jerry May hits a double off Taylor and he is brought home by Roberto Clemente. Pirates 3-2
W: Pete Mikkelsen (6-1) L: Ron Taylor (3-1)

May 17: Jim Pagliaroni goes 3 for 5 for the Pirates and knocks in the winning run in extra innings. Pirates 4-3 (11)
W: Roy Face (3-4) L: Dick Selma (2-2)

May 18: It's Pagliaroni, again in extra innings, who complete the sweep with a two run walk off homer in the tenth. Pirates 5-3 (10)
W: Roy Face (4-4) L: Dick Selma (2-3)


May 19-21
New York Mets (20-22) @ San Francisco Giants (22-17)

May 19: Tom Seaver struggles to contain the Giants offense with Jesus Alou and Willie Mays both going 3 for 4 Giants 5-3
W: Mike McCormick (3-3) L: Tom Seaver (2-4) S: Frank Linzy (2)

May 20: Jerry Koosman is unlucky to get the loss after giving up just seven hits, but with no run support he is now 0-2 this year. Giants 3-1
W: Gaylord Perry (6-2) L: Jerry Koosman (0-2) S: Lindy McDaniel (2)

May 21: Chuck Estrada is superb, allowing just four hits and two walks to avoid the sweep. Mets 2-1
W: Chuck Estrada (4-4) L: Bobby Bolin (3-4)

May 22-24
New York Mets (21-24) @ Pittsburgh Pirates (23-22)

May 22: Roy Face gets the save despite a scare, conceding two runs in the ninth. Pirates 4-3
W: Steve Blass (3-2) L: Jack Fisher (4-3) S: Roy Face (5)

May 23: Matty Alou brings home pinch runner Maury Wills in the ninth with a walk off single up the middle. Pirates 4-3
W: Al McBean (2-0) L: Ron Taylor (3-2)

May 24: Pirates complete the sweep and Tom Seaver is now 2-5 this year. Pirates 6-3
W: Juan Pizarro (2-4) L: Tom Seaver (2-5) S: Kent Tekulve (1)


May 25-27
Atlanta Braves (26-19) @ New York Mets (21-27)

May 25: Joe Torre and Hank Aaron knock in all the Braves runs and Koosman is a little unlucky. His pitching was solid apart from a hiccup in the third inning. Braves 4-1
W: Tony Cloninger (4-5) L: Jerry Koosman (0-3)

May 26: Our impotent offense only manages two hits and the Braves are now tied for first with the Giants. Braves 2-0
W: Denny Lemaster (5-3) L: Chuck Estrada (4-5) S: Bob Bruce (1)

May 27: Bud Harrelson comes to bat in the bottom of the ninth with two out and men on first and second and hits a walk off single. Mets 4-3
W: Ron Taylor (4-2) L: Ramon Hernandez (2-1)

May 28-30
New York Mets (22-29) @ St Louis Cardinals (24-27)

May 28: Our first visit with Mr Gibson and friends has us a little apprehensive, especially when scheduled starter Ralph Terry complains of a sore arm. Bill Graham gets a spot start and it's him of all people who opens the scoring with a three run triple. Gibson gives up another four before being pulled in the seventh. Mets 9-2
W: Bill Graham (1-1) L: Bob Gibson (5-4)
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
I've just noticed that was Graham's first career hit in 7 at bats. I'm guessing career stats of .143 Average, .429 Slugging is unusual ??

May 29: Battle of the Phenoms. They get seven strikeouts apiece but Steve Carlton gets his first shutout of the year for the Cardinals and Tom Seaver is now 2-6. Cardinals 3-0
W: Steve Carlton (5-4) L: Tom Seaver (2-6)

May 30: The Cardinals pitching shines once again with Nelson Briles giving up just four hits and completes the game. Cardinals 4-2
W: Nelson Briles (3-5) L: Jerry Koosman (0-4)

May 31- June 2
Chicago Cubs (23-28) @ New York Mets (23-31)

May 31: Tommy Davis gives up another error at first but knocks in a three-run shot that gives us the edge. Mets 5-4
W: Chuck Estrada (5-5) L: Ray Culp (7-3) S: Bob Shaw (1)

NEW YORK CHRONICLE
May 7, 1967

MATHEWS MAKES IT 500
Tigers Slugger Reaches Milestone

DETROIT, Mich. - The year saw it's second historic milestone when Detroit infielder Eddie Mathews became the seventh player in history to hit 500 home runs. This follows in the wake of Mickey Mantle reaching the magic number a little under two weeks ago.
The solo shot against the White Sox came off Jack Lamabe in the fourth and gave the home team a one run lead. Mathews went on to hit another two singles in later innings with the Tigers finishing up with 9-7 win.
After the game Mathews was delighted at his achievement but announced he has not finished yet. "I want to beat Ted Williams' 521." At 35, but slugging as well as he ever has, there is no reason to think he won't.
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MAY SUMMARY

Looks like April was a false dawn. We are really in poor shape. Our pitchers are not doing too badly, although Seaver and Koosman seem to be struggling. Offensively we are awful (Team Ave .235) and the fielding is shambolic. We seem to be making 2 or 3 errors per game.

National League Standings

Code:

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                W        L        GB
San Francisco        32        20        --
Houston                32        22        1
Atlanta                30        22        2
Pittsburgh        29        25        4
St Louis        26        29        7.5
Cincinnati        24        28        8
Chicago                23      29        9
Los Angeles        23        30        9.5
Philadelphia        23        30        9.5
NEW YORK        24        31        9.5

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In the American League the Twins only went 12-13 and the Baltimore Orioles gained ground, going 20-11 in May. They lie a half game back.

MLB Injury News
May 5: Ken Harrelson (WSA) -Torn ankle ligaments- 5 months (.400 Avg, 9 HR, 26 RBI, 2 SB)
May 9: Rod Carew (MIN) - Broken ankle- 2 months (.336 Avg, 0-14-7)

MLB Milestones
May 2: Gary Geiger (ATL) Hits for the Cycle
May 6: Eddie Mathews (DET) 500 Home Runs
May 29: Frank Robinson (BAL) Hits for the Cycle

MLB Retirements
May 8: Bill Henry (RP) announced his retirement after being released by San Francisco. Making his major league debut in 1952 with the Red Sox, he played two seasons with the Cubs before moving to the Reds in 1960 . That year he made his first and only All Star appearance and pitched in the 1961 World Series. (Career Stats 44-50, 3.23 ERA, 88 SV)

good job, could you give some stats on how your players are doing? Good Luck

Your Mets look eerily like my Royals, performance wise.

I'd take a good long look at your fielding. If someone has...fair...offense (isn't one of your stars) and bad defense, then maybe try something else. Or see what happens if you set up a trading block.

9.5 games is serious, but not terminal...yet. A strong June could put you back in the chase - though if you struggle again it'll be time to get ready for next year.

And yes, a .143/.429 career line is rather rare :)

RedsoxRockies: Here you go. I would have liked to put up combined batting and fielding stats but it's taken me an hour to figure how to do it this way :rolleyes:

CatKnight: I'm not sure I have any stars on offense :p I can feel a trade coming on. Something I'm still not too sure about is when fielding stats are 'bad'. I generally only use them if I have two players with similar batting stats.


Batting Stats to end of May '67

HTML Code:

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1967 Batting            Team    G  AVG    AB    H  2B  3B  HR  BB    K  SB  CS    R  RBI  SLG  OBP
Stahl, Larry              NYM  54  .265  200  53  9  2  3  18  41    1  1  30  22  .375  .338
Johnson, Bob              NYM  53  .289  187  54  10  1  3  14  40    3  1  22  23  .401  .338
Jones, Cleon              NYM  52  .279  183  51  17  1  3  27  36    3  0  30  24  .432  .371
Collins, Kevin            NYM  51  .171  170  29  9  1  0  10  31    1  0    8    8  .235  .213
Grote, Jerry              NYM  50  .247  178  44  4  0  1  16  32    0  1    6  17  .287  .311
Luplow, Al                NYM  48  .192  151  29  4  0  6  20  24    0  3  17  20  .338  .286
Davis, Tommy              NYM  45  .269  108  29  2  0  3    6  20    0  0  11  16  .370  .307
Buchek, Jerry            NYM  42  .248  117  29  4  0  2    6  24    2  1  13    5  .333  .280
Harrelson, Bud            NYM  42  .246  167  41  8  0  0  18  24    4  1  21  11  .293  .319
Lewis, Johnny            NYM  39  .224  107  24  4  0  3  18  27    1  0  16    5  .346  .336
Kranepool, Ed            NYM  34  .275  142  39  10  0  3    9  13    0  1  18  24  .408  .322
Shaw, Bob                NYM  18  .250    4    1  0  0  0    1    1    0  0    0    2  .250  .400
Hiller, Chuck            NYM  11  .154    13    2  0  0  0    0    0    0  0    1    2  .154  .154
Estrada, Chuck            NYM  11  .143    21    3  0  0  0    1    8    0  0    1    0  .143  .182
Seaver, Tom              NYM  11  .120    25    3  0  0  0    1    9    0  0    1    1  .120  .154
Koosman, Jerry            NYM  11  .045    22    1  0  0  0    1  10    0  0    1    0  .045  .087
Fisher, Jack              NYM  10  .063    16    1  0  0  0    1    5    0  0    0    0  .063  .118
Terry, Ralph              NYM  10  .000    16    0  0  0  0    0    5    0  0    0    1  .000  .000
Goossen, Greg            NYM    9  .333    3    1  0  0  0    2    1    0  0    1    0  .333  .667
Sullivan, John            NYM    8  .087    23    2  0  0  0    2    7    0  0    1    0  .087  .160
Graham, Bill              NYM    6  .143    7    1  0  1  0    0    5    0  0    1    3  .429  .143
Shirley, Bart            NYM    2  .333    6    2  1  0  0    1    0    0  0    2    0  .500  .429
Cardwell, Don            NYM    1  .000    3    0  0  0  0    0    2    0  0    0    0  .000  .000

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Pitching Stats to end of May '67

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1967 Pitching            Team    IP  ERA    G  GS  W  L  SV    K  BB  R/9
Seaver, Tom              NYM  76.0  5.21  11  11  2  6  0  62  27 12.91
Koosman, Jerry            NYM  75.0  3.72  11  11  0  4  0  50  24 11.88
Estrada, Chuck            NYM  72.1  3.61  11  11  5  5  0  42  33 12.57
Fisher, Jack              NYM  68.0  3.04  10  10  4  3  0  42  21 11.12
Terry, Ralph              NYM  63.0  3.57  10  10  2  4  0  41  18 12.29
Shaw, Bob                NYM  38.2  3.49  18  0  1  1  1  22  15 10.71
Grzenda, Joe              NYM  28.0  4.82  20  0  2  2  2  19  15 14.14
Taylor, Ron              NYM  25.0  1.44  23  0  4  2  2  19    2  8.64
Graham, Bill              NYM  21.0  3.86    6  1  1  1  0  10    8 12.86
Selma, Dick              NYM  18.0  3.00  13  0  2  3  6  11    8  9.50
Cardwell, Don            NYM    9.0  2.00    1  1  1  0  0    5    1  6.00
McGraw, Tug              NYM    8.1  5.40    6  0  0  0  0    7    5 19.44

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JUNE PREVIEW

After we finish the set against the Cubs we have a couple of days off. We need to prepare for the amateur draft. I have to admit, with so many other things going on since I took over, I haven't given it much thought. I might have to just let the scouts decide this time around.
Kranepool will not be back for another couple of weeks. Tommy Davis did a good job a first but his batting seems to have been affected. He's only hitting .269. Bob Johnson moves to first with Jerry Buchek recalled at third. Ron Swoboda (.333) and Amos Otis (.398) are called up from the minors, while Johnny Lewis is sent down to Jacksonville
Jerry Koosman has lost his last three starts. I send him down to Florida too, just for a few weeks. Bill Graham has earned himself a place in the rotation. I've been getting good reports about Jerry Bell (2.15 ERA) from Jacksonville. Might be worth a look.

Code:

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Lineup                        Bench                        Rotation        Bullpen

SS Harrelson                C Sullivan                Fisher                Selma
RF Luplow                1B Goossen                Terry                Taylor
CF Jones                OF Swoboda                Estrada                Grzenda
LF Stahl                CF Otis                        Seaver                Bell
1B Johnson                LF Davis                Graham                McGraw
2B Collins                2B Hiller                                Shaw (Bob)
C  Grote
3B Buchek

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JUNE 1967

June 1-2
Chicago Cubs (23-29) @ New York Mets (24-31)

June 1: Home runs from Buchek, Stahl and Luplow. Mets 6-3
W: Bill Graham (2-1) L: Fergie Jenkins (3-7) S: Joe Grzenda (3)

June 2: Both offenses struggled with Jack Fisher allowing only four hits and three walks and the Cubs pitchers only giving us five hits. A double from Al Luplow which brought home Cleon Jones, turned out to be the winning score. We are back to winning ways with a sweep of the Cubs. Mets 2-1
W: Jack Fisher (5-3) L: Bill Hands (2-6)
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Wonder if we'll see the Beatles at Shea again. Everybody seems to be talking about their new album. I hear it's about drugs or something. Some of their early stuff was catchy but now they need a shave, haircut and probably a good bath. I always preferred Presley to be honest.

Attachment 13524

Sgt Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band

June 5-7
San Francisco Giants (33-21) @ New York Mets (26-31)

Jun 5: Lindy McDaniel comes in to pitch for the Giants at the bottom of the ninth with the score tied at 2. Tommy Davis reaches first with a single. He is forced out when Ron Swoboda grounds to third. Swoboda gets on second with a sac bunt by Jerry Grote. Jerry Buchek is up and the count goes to 2-2. He hits a soft grounder back to McDaniel and it looks like extra innings. But no.... McDaniel throws to first but it's way too high for Willie McCovey. He recovers the ball but Buchek is safe and Swoboda is already sliding home!!! Mets 3-2
W: Ron Taylor (5-2) L: Lindy McDaniel (6-2)

Jun 6: Gaylord Perry gives up just six hits and gets a complete game shutout. Giants 3-0
W: Gaylord Perry (7-3) L: Chuck Estrada (5-6)

Jun 7: Another thriller with Swoboda again playing his part. We are down 6-5 at the bottom of the ninth. Joe Gibbon walks Bud Harrelson. Harrelson advances on the hit and run play when Ed Kranepool grounds out. Gibbon tries to go low and inside to Cleon Jones. Not even close. Two balls and the third pitch hits Jones on the shin. Ron Swoboda comes in to pinch hit for Al Luplow who is 0 for 3 tonight. Giants skipper Herman Franks comes out to the mound. It looks like Gibbon is coming out but Franks lets him continue. Gibbon serves one up high and inside. Was that a beanball? Swoboda ducks and the ball is out of reach of catcher Tom Haller allowing Harrelson and Jones to advance. Swoboda makes toward the mound then thinks better of it. Four pitches later with the count at 2-2 he connects with a fastball and blasts it into right field. Bobby Bonds is there for the catch but can't get the ball to home quick enough to stop Harrelson crossing the plate. Tie game with two outs and the winning run on second! Bob Johnson is up next. He takes the count to 3-1 then hits one down the left field line. The ball stays fair and Jones crosses the plate. Mets 7-6
W: Ron Taylor (6-2) L: Joe Gibbon (0-2)

1967 AMATEUR DRAFT

First Round Picks

Code:

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Cubs:                Ted Simmons                C        67/93
Mets:                Danny Fife                P        49/95
Yankees:        Richie Zisk                RF        65/93
Washington:        Dusty Baker                LF        63/95
Boston:                Ben Ogilvie                LF        63/92
Houston:        John Mayberry                1B        56/93
Athletics:        Jerry Reuss                P        67/90
Cincinnati:        Leon Brown                CF        60/93
Angels:                Don Kirkwood                P        55/95
Cleveland        Jim Kern                P        67/80
White Sox:        Cecil Cooper                1B        59/92
St Louis        Mike Schmidt                3B        64/91
Atlanta:        Bob Didier                C        55/82
Phillies:        Jerry Martin                RF        54/92
Detroit:        John Wockenfuss                C        63/80
Minnesota:        Dave Goltz                P        55/84
Pittsburgh:        Rick Dempsey                C        59/94
Giants:                Gary Lavelle                P        64/83
Dodgers:        Don Baylor                LF        58/93
Baltimore:        Bobby Grich                2B        59/88

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Mets Draft Picks

1. Danny Fife P 49/95 struck out 60 in 78 innings in his senior year

2. Craig Caskey P 50/95 has some serious heat, clocked at 90+ mph but needs to work on his changeup and slider

3. Tom Brown P 49/93 arm needs strengthening but there is talent there

4. Mike Reinbach RF 51/91 hit .434 and has some speed

5. Bob Babcock P 48/88

6. Bob Rauch P 48/78

June 8, 1967 - LaGuardia Airport, N.Y.

Most of the players sat around in groups in the lounge. Our flight to San Francisco was delayed.

"Hey Cleon. I hear Fawcliff is looking for a new chauffeur." called Johnny Lewis, loud enough for the whole room to hear despite Jones sitting right beside him.

"Yeah, but he said there's definitely no need for YOU to apply." added Tommy Davis.

That brought a few guffaws. Jones grinned but looked sheepish. He probably still felt terrible about 'the incident', but as far as I was concerned the matter was closed. The main thing was Don Cardwell didn't suffer any career threatening injuries. Maybe he would even be back this year.
Sitting alone was Ron Taylor. I hadn't had much of a chance to talk with him, but he had struck me as being one of the more intelligent players. I heard he had already earned a degree in electrical engineering. Very sensible. Baseball was only a life-time career for a fortunate few. As usual he had his nose stuck in a hefty looking book.

"Hey Ron." I gave him a slap on the shoulder.

"Hello Mr. Crabtree." he looked up from his book.

"Great set you had against the Giants. How are you settling in with the team."

"Thanks. Yes, I'm enjoying it so far and I'm pitching pretty well I think." That was an understatement. With an ERA of 1.44 he was in the top five relievers in the majors.

"Wes and I have been talking. So far Dick Selma has been our closer, but we’d like you to take-over. What do you think?"

"What about Dick? He's doing pretty well too."

True. He wasn’t doing too badly but he was still young the three losses he had racked up in his last three appearances seemed to have shaken him.

"He is, we just feel we need somebody more steady. Dick will be setting up for you, and I know you will keep helping him work on his stuff."

"Well, anything you say Mr Crabtree, but I'd be grateful if it's you who tell him. I don't think he'll take it too well."

"Of course, leave that with me. He has a long career ahead of him. By the way, what's that you're reading."

"It's a book on anatomy. Pretty interesting too."

**********************************************
**In real life, when his baseball career ended Ron Taylor went to medical school and was the long time team doctor of the Blue Jays. Apparently a very nice guy too.

***********************************************

June 9-11
New York Mets (28-32) @ San Francisco Giants (34-23)

June 9: Jerry Koosman somehow starts. I thought he was in Florida. Nonetheless, he has a fine game and is unlucky to get the loss. Buchek lets the Giants back into the game in the eighth with a throwing error. Giants 7-6
W: Lindy McDaniel (7-2) L: Jerry Koosman (0-5)

June 10: Wilie McCovey hits two homers and knocks in four runs. Giants 6-3
W: Juan Marichal (9-3) L: Jack Fisher (5-4)

June 11: Willie McCovey grabs another homer and four RBI as our pitching collapses and we are swept. Giants 9-1
W: Gaylord Perry (8-3) L: Ralph Terry (2-5)


June 12-14
Cincinnati Reds (27-36) @ New York Mets (28-35)

Jun 12: Sammy Ellis gives up only four hits and four walks. Reds 3-1
W: Sammy Ellis (2-4) L: Chuck Estrada (5-7)

Jun 13: We have a 4-1 lead with two outs at the top of the ninth. Pete Rose hits a three run homer off Tom Seaver to tie the game and the Reds squeak it. Reds 5-4 (11)
W: Don Nottebart (4-1) L: Dick Selma (2-4) S: Ted Abernathy (2)

Jun 14: Tommy Davis goes 1 for 5 but hits a two run double to win the game. Mets 6-5
W: Danny Frisella (1-0) L: Billy McCool (1-2) S: Ron Taylor (3)


June 15-17
New York Mets (29-37) @ St Louis Cardinals (33-33)

Jun 15: Two homers from Cleon Jones and Ron Swoboda put the game out of reach of the Cards. Mets 5-1
W: Jack Fisher (6-4) L: Jim Cosman (1-1)

Jun 16: Bob Gibson strikes out twelve. Cardinals 6-2
W: Bob Gibson (9-4) L: Ralph Terry (2-6)

Jun 17: Cardinals take it with a late two run double by Tim McCarver. Cardinals 4-3
W: Steve Carlton (7-5) L: Danny Frisella (1-1) S: Joe Hoerner (7)

Don't you just hate it when pitchers (Koosman) show up out of nowhere to lose for you? :)

I really liked your vignette switching closers.

CatKnight: I think Wes is going behind my back and recalling him :p
I was not sure if it was realistic for the GM rather than the manager to be telling a player that, nor indeed of the premise for doing it (need a more mature hand at closer). But that's how things work in my baseball imagination :)

********************************

June 18, 1967 Shea Stadium, N.Y.

Wes Westrum and Whitey Herzog were seated on the other side of my desk. It would be fair to say Wes and I had not got off to the best of starts. The manager's sullenness spoke volumes. He did not appreciate having an outsider for a boss. The sulking irritated me. Herzog on the other hand was not one for sulking. During spring training he actually told me to my face that I knew nothing about baseball. That was right after I told him he would be taking up a scouting role rather than coaching. He had done a stellar job with the young players but I wanted him on the road looking for new talent and checking out existing talent around the country. This was the first time I had had the both of them in my office.

"Good morning gentlemen. Thanks for coming in."

Whitey nodded. Wes just scowled.

"I'll make this as brief as I can. The trade deadline is next month. If we are going to make any moves I'd rather do them sooner rather than later. Any suggestions?"

Wes shuffled in his seat for a moment, then finally spoke.

"Jerry Grote. He can't hit and he can't run."

I pulled out Grote's file. Prior to this season he had a career hitting average of .210.

"He's hitting .270 this year, Wes."

"Just a fluke. He'll be back around .220 by October."

I wasn't sure it would be a good idea to get rid of a top drawer catcher like Grote, but I saw the skipper's point. We needed somebody who could generate runs. We had the lowest team batting average in the league, as well as only hitting 37 homers. The next lowest, St Louis, had 49.

"Anybody spring to mind, Whitey?"

"Uh-huh, couple a guys."

"Okay, we can work on that later. Now, I hear there are some concerns about Chuck Estrada."

Estrada had found himself at number three in the rotation following Don Cardwell's injury and the unimpressive starts from the two rookies. He had a $60,000 deal for this season but in his last few starts had been knocked out after five or six innings.

Wes piped up, "He won't last the rest of the year. I'd be inclined to put him in the bullpen but we need a starter."

That was true and, with Jerry Koosman not doing too well, we should probably be looking for a leftie.

"Whitey?"

Wes shot a glance at Whitey. There seemed to be some friction between the two.

"There's a guy down in Houston, name of Bo Belinsky. He has some baggage but I think he's worth a shot."

Wes snorted, " ****, that playboy? Bring him to New York and he'll be in the papers more often than Mickey Mantle. 'Cept it won't be on the sports pages."

Belinsky? The name rang a bell. Then I remembered. He had had a promising start to his career with the Angels but then had went off the rails, distracted by the glamour of Hollywood.

Whitey continued, "He's only getting spot starts for the Astros but I was talking with him down there. He's really serious about making a comeback."

We were in the office for another hour. Later that afternoon I had been in touch with the Houston GM, Tal Smith. It had not taken us long to work out a deal.


To Mets:
SP Bo Belinsky (77) Age 30 (3-1, 4.44 ERA in 26 IP)
$20,300 6th season

C Ron Brand (74) Age 27 (.200 Avg in 14 AB)
$12,600 4th season

RP Buddy Harris (58/89) Age 18 (1-2, 2.48 ERA, 1 SV in R-Ball)
Rookie


To Astros:
SP Chuck Estrada (67) Age 29 (5-7, 3.76 ERA, 1 CG)
$59,500 7th season Former All-Star

C Jerry Grote (68) Age 24 (.270 Avg, 1 HR, 21 RBI, 0 SB)
£20,300 4th season

3B Wayne Garrett (62/81) Age 19 (.315, 2-16-0 in R-Ball)
Rookie

Attachment 13592
Bo Belinsky

June 19-21
New York Mets (30-39) @ Pittsburgh Pirates (37-29)

Jun 19: Tom Seaver dominates the Pirates with 11 strikeouts. Mets 5-3
W: Tom Seaver (3-6) L: Dennis Ribant (3-3)

Jun 20: Koosman and Frisella are lit up. Jose Pagan goes 2 for 3 with a walk, homer and 3 RBIs. Pirates 11-3
W: Steve Blass (6-3) L: Jerry Koosman (0-6) S: Woodie Fryman (1)

Jun 21: Bo Belinksky and Ron Brand both debut. Belinsky throws a fantastic game giving up just 4 hits. Ron Brand goes 2 for 5 and knocks in a run. Mets 6-1
W: Bo Belinsky (4-1) L: Tommie Sisk (4-3)


June 24-26
New York Mets (32-40) @ Houston Astros (41-31)

Jun 24: Vada Pinson showed just why the Astros signed him as he drives in all 5 Houston runs with 2 homers. Astros 5-4
W: Larry Dierker (6-6) L: Ralph Terry (2-7) S: Arnold Earley (3)

Jun 25: Tom Seaver allows just 3 hits and 2 walks with Pinson going 0 for 4. Mets 2-1
W: Tom Seaver (4-6) L: Chris Zachary (6-6)

Jun 26: He almost blows it, giving up two in the bottom of the ninth and being pulled with the bases loaded, but Jerry Koosman gets his first career win. Mets 6-5
W: Jerry Koosman (1-6) L: Don Wilson (7-6) S: Ron Taylor (4)


June 27-29
Atlanta Braves (41-34) @ New York Mets (34-41)

Jun 27: Ed Kranepool and Bud Harrelson turn three double-plays (Hank Aaron twice). Our fielding seems to have improved dramatically this month, with few errors. Mets 5-3
W: Jack Fisher (7-4) L: Tony Cloninger (7-8) S: Dick Selma (7)

Jun 28: Bo Belinksy is knocked out after giving up ten hits in five innings. Braves 4-2
W: Phil Niekro (10-6) L: Bo Belinsky (4-2)

Jun 29: Bob Johnson drives in five runs as the Braves are clobbered. Mets 9-1
W: Ralph Terry (3-7) L: Ken Johnson (4-4)


June 30-July 2
New York Mets (36-42) @ Los Angeles Dodgers (35-43)

Jun 30: Tom Seaver gets his first career complete game shut-out, giving up just a hit and three walks. Mets 2-0
W: Tom Seaver (5-6) L: Don Drysdale (5-12)

Realistically I suppose a manager might be the one to (at least officially) appoint a new closer, but certainly some GMs/owners take much more active roles than others. It might even partly explain why Westrum doesn't love you.

There's just one thing that doesn't make sense.

Quote:

---

To Astros:
SP Chuck Estrada (67) Age 29 (5-7, 3.76 ERA, 1 CG)
$59,500 7th season Former All-Star

C Jerry Grote (68) Age 24 (.270 Avg, 1 HR, 21 RBI, 0 SB)
£20,300 4th season

3B Wayne Garrett (62/81) Age 19 (.315, 2-16-0 in R-Ball)
Rookie

---

Grote was letting you pay him in pounds and you STILL got rid of him? That's not fair!

NEW YORK CHRONICLE
June 25, 1967

INDIAN'S WOES CONTINUE
Colavito Traded To Giants

CLEVELAND, Ohio - Indians fans are mourning the loss of fan favourite Rocky Colavito a second time. This time the outfielder is headed to the Giants, who will be hoping he can help sustain their pennant challenge. The Rock's first spell in Cleveland ended in 1960 amid anger from fans when he was traded to Detroit. He returned, via Kansas City, in 1965 and continued from where he left off, hitting 26 and 30 homers. This year he hit 16 in 72 games.
His departure leaves the Tribe's offense severely weakened. They are already struggling in the American League, in tenth and 20 games back from leaders Baltimore.
Despite Vernon Stouffer's takeover last year the club's financial problems will take some time to stabilise. An unofficial source said Colavito's high salary was the main reason for the trade.
Headed the other way is pitching prospect Rich Robertson who is likely to be taking the mound for the Portland Beavers AAA organisation, despite pitching well in the majors in seven games for the Giants.

Attachment 13597
Rocky Colavito

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

JUNE SUMMARY

I'm relieved we stopped the slide into oblivion, going 13-11 in June. The Belinsky trade should shake things up a little and Ron Brand has got off to a terrific start. He is hitting .379 in seven Mets appearances. Tom Seaver is starting to pitch consistently well. On the other hand, Jerry Koosman is a real concern at the moment.

National League Standings

Code:

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                W        L        GB
Houston        43        33        --
Pittsburgh        42        34        1
San Francisco        42        34        1
Atlanta                42        37        2.5
St Louis        39        40        5.5
Chicago                37        39        6
Cincinnati        38        41        6.5
NEW YORK        37        42        7.5
Los Angeles        35        44        9.5
Philadelphia        34        45        10.5

---

In the American League the Orioles went 18-9 in June and now lead the Twins by 5.5 games. The hapless Indians did not get out of the starting blocks this year. They are already 20 games back.


MLB Injury News
June 22: Cesar Tovar (MIN) - Torn ankle ligament - 7 months (.265 Avg, 0 HR, 33 RBI, 22 SB)

MLB Milestones
June 1: Hank Aaron (ATL) 2,500 Hits
June 13: Eddie Mathews (DET) 1,500 Runs
June 23: Hank Aaron (ATL) 1,500 RBI


MLB Retirements
June 30 - Knuckleballer Hoyt Wilhelm hung up his glove today after 15 years in the majors. The 44 year old played for the Giants, Cardinals, Orioles and White Sox and took the mound 832 times, second in all-time pitching appearances. He is also the all-time leader in career saves. (Career Stats ERA 2.57 Saves 180 Strikeouts 1,313)

--------------------------------------------------------
CatKnight: I don't know about in 1967, but today the exchange rate is almost $2 to £1. If I were Grote I would be demanding the Astros keep paying me in pounds. :)

JULY PREVIEW

Kranepool is back in the lineup so we are nearly at full strength. Brand has made a great start, catching well and batting .379.
In their try-outs Ron Swoboda was super, Amos Otis just so-so. Both are sent back down to Jacksonville. Next up is Ken Singleton.
I still have serious doubts, but Wes has persuaded me that Jerry Koosman is worth a spot in the rotation after his lucky win in Houston.

Code:

---

Lineup                        Bench                        Rotation        Bullpen

SS Harrelson                C Goossen                Fisher                Taylor
1B Kranepool                IF Buchek                Belinsky        Selma
CF Jones                OF Singleton                Terry                Grzenda
RF Luplow                RF Lewis                Seaver                Frisella
3B Johnson                LF Davis                Koosman                Shaw (Bob)
C Brand                        2B Hiller                                Graham
LF Stahl
2B Collins

---

JULY 1967

July 1-2
New York Mets (37-42) @ Los Angeles Dodgers (35-44)

July 1: I don't know whether to be angry at Wes or myself for trusting his judgement. A shell-shocked Koosman is knocked out after four. Dodgers 9-1
W: Don Sutton (8-7) L: Jerry Koosman (1-7)

July 2: Cleo James knocks in three runs for the Dodgers. Dodgers 4-3
W: Claude Osteen (6-7) L: Dick Selma (2-5) S: Ron Perranoski (12)


July 3-5
Chicago Cubs (39-39) @ New York Mets (37-44)

July 3: Billy Williams hits his 20th homer to seal a thrilling game. Cubs 8-6
W: Bill Hands (5-6) L: Bo Belinsky (4-3) S: Cal Koonce (3)

July 4: First complete game shutout of the year for Ralph Terry who allows just three hits and two walks whilst the offense runs riot. Tommy Davis makes a rare start, going 3 for 4 and driving in three runs in an Independence Day treat for Mets fans. Mets 10-0
W: Ralph Terry (4-7) L: Bob Hendley (2-4)

July 5: The Cubs bounce right back with Ken Holtzman getting his fifth complete game shutout of the year. Seaver starts for the Mets and is pitching just as well until the 5th when he gives up a grandslam homer to Adolfo Phillips. Cubs 6-0
W: Ken Holtzman (10-5) L: Tom Seaver (5-7)

Here are the current leaders at the All Star break.

Code:

---

                American League                National League                NY Mets

Batting Ave.        .371 Oliva MIN                .380 Clemente PIT        .314 Kranepool

Home Runs        23  3-way tie                25 Aaron ATL                9 Kranepool

RBI                83 Mantle NYY                80 Williams CHC                45 Kranepool

OBA                .455 Mantle NYY                .438 Clemente PIT        .369 Jones

Steals                40 Campaneris KCA        60 Brock STL                11 Harrelson



ERA                2.43 McLain DET                2.64 Perry SFG                3.06 Fisher (#5 in NL)

Wins                14 2-way tie                11 Marichal SFG                7 Fisher

Strikeouts        124 Hunter KCA                127 Gibson STL                94 Seaver

Saves                11  2-way tie                13 Hartenstein CHC        7 Selma

---

And the standings for both leagues

Code:

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American League                                        National League       


                W        L        GB                                W        L        GB
Baltimore        55        32        --                Houston                46        35        --
Minnesota        47        37        6.5                Pittsburgh        46        35        --       
New York        46        38        7.5                San Francisco        43        38        3
Detroit                47        40        8                Chicago                41        40        5
Chicago                45        39        8.5                Atlanta                42        42        5.5
Kansas City        41        43        12.5                Cincinnati        41        43        6.5
Boston                42        48        14.5                St Louis        41        43        6.5
California        38        49        17                Los Angeles        39        45        8.5
Washington        35        49        18.5                NEW YORK        38        46        9.5
Cleveland        30        51        22                Philadelphia        37        47        10.5

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