Not the Dimaggio, not the other Dimaggio, but the other other Dimaggio. :D
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Not the Dimaggio, not the other Dimaggio, but the other other Dimaggio. :D
They say Vince was the best singer, so you should incorporate that into the dynasty
3Run: Good to hear from you again! I really wanted to shore up my outfield after the Blatnik injury. Plus, by trading a few bench players, this allows me to 'unclog' my farm system a little bit to free up some potential starters from being trapped in the dark recesses of my system.
RedSoxRockies: I'm sorry to have failed you. Glad to see that you lost some signature weight, btw. :D
filihok: Trust me, I tried, but the Giants wouldn't take him back. Who knew?
gosensgo101: I am finding out every day why Vince is considered 'the 3rd DiMaggio'.
RedSoxRockies: Well, he'll have plenty of time to sing in his newest role, but you'll have to read on to find out!
APRIL-MAY 1945
PART III
May 6: Day Off
May 7-9: St. Louis Cardinals (12-19, 6th, 8.5 GB) at Philadelphia Phillies (20-11, 2nd, 0.5 GB)
7 – The Phillies put up 4 runs in the first inning and never look back. Robin Roberts tosses a complete game, improving his record to 7-0. Vince DiMaggio goes 1-4 with a walk and 2 runs scored.
Phillies 10, Cardinals 3
W: Robin Roberts (7-0) L: Max Lanier (1-7)
2B: Andy Seminick (8), Gil Hodges (4), Nick Goulish (4), Vince DiMaggio (1)
HR: Gil Hodges (7), Vern Stephens (6)
8 – Red Ruffing tosses a shutout, his first on the season, as the offense tallies 8 runs en route to a victory that puts the Phillies back in first place.
Phillies 8, Cardinals 0
W: Red Ruffing (3-4) L: Lon Warneke (2-3)
2B: Larry Doby (9), Vern Stephens (4)
HR: Vern Stephens (7), Ron Northey (2)
*
But that wasn’t the best news of the day. Direct from Berlin, the news we’ve been wanting to hear for 4 long years has finally come to fruition.
THE WAR IN EUROPE IS OVER!!!
A full surrender made late last night by the remaining German forces means Victory in Europe!
However, the Japanese still fight onward, but now we can concentrate our entire military on one enemy. The war is nearing its conclusion. I can feel it.
*
9 – The Phillies score early, and survive a wild ninth inning rally to complete the sweep. Charlie Ripple joins his teammate Robin Roberts as 2 of 4 unbeaten National League starters.
Phillies 3, Cardinals 2
W: Charlie Ripple (5-0) L: Harry Gumbert (4-3) SV: Ike Pearson (5)
2B: Phil Rizzuto (13), Danny Murtaugh (4), Vince DiMaggio (2)
SB: Phil Rizzuto (6), Danny Murtaugh (3)
May 10-12: Pittsburgh Pirates (10-24, 8th, 13 GB) at Philadelphia Phillies (23-11, 1st, 1 GA)
10 – Dick Mauney goes the distance, but the offense does not, leaving the tying run on base in the bottom of the 9th inning. The loss snaps the Phillies’ 7-game winning streak.
Pirates 3, Phillies 2
W: Ken Heintzelman (2-2) L: Dick Mauney (0-1) SV: Ace Adams (3)
2B: Vince DiMaggio (3)
HR: Andy Seminick (5)
*
Reds 1B John Corriden went 0-4 today, stopping his hitting streak at 20 games.
*
11 – Robin Roberts continues his incredible start to the season, tossing a complete game, as the offense overcomes 2 errors to beat the Pirates.
Phillies 6, Pirates 3
W: Robin Roberts (8-0) L: Bob Chesnes (1-7)
2B: Andy Seminick (9), Ray Hamrick (2)
3B: Gil Hodges (3)
HR: Ron Northey (3)
*
Baseball history was made in the Yankees 6-0 victory over the Athletics today. Yankees SP Tiny Bonham threw a complete game shutout, only throwing 76 pitches, striking out 2, walking none, and allowing 0 hits. The Yankees fielders, meanwhile, did not commit an error. In other words…
Tiny Bonham tossed a Perfect Game!
It is only the 6th perfect game in Major League history, and the first since Charlie Robertson turned the trick on April 30, 1922.
The perfect game lowered Bonham’s ERA to a miniscule 1.77.
*
12 – After getting out to a 4-0 lead, the Phillies survive several late charges by the Pirates, and manage to slam the door on the series.
Phillies 5, Pirates 4
W: Red Ruffing (4-4) L: Rip Sewell: (0-2) SV: Ike Pearson (6)
2B: Phil Rizzuto (14), Larry Doby (10), Vern Stephens (5)
HR: Larry Doby (4)
May 13: Day Off
May 14-16: Philadelphia Phillies (25-12, 1st, 1.5 GA) at Chicago Cubs (17-19, 5th, 7.5 GB)
14 – It certainly doesn’t feel as though we’re average in terms of fielding percentage. 3 errors allow the game-winning 3-run home run to happen, as the Phillies lose the series opener.
Cubs 8, Phillies 5
W: Jesse Flores (1-1) L: Hugh Casey (3-3) SV: Whitey Miller (7)
2B: Vince DiMaggio (4)
HR: Gil Hodges (8)
15 – Claude Passeau tosses a five-hit shutout. The lone bright spot? Joe Page goes 2 scoreless innings in relief.
Cubs 5, Phillies 0
W: Claude Passeau (5-3) L: Dick Mauney (0-2)
16 – It had to happen. Robin Roberts finally lost a game, but there’s no shame in losing to Shaun Hale, who has been one of the best pitchers in the NL this season.
Cubs 3, Phillies 2
W: Shaun Hale (7-2) L: Robin Roberts (8-1) SV: Whitey Miller (8)
HR: Vince DiMaggio (1)
May 17-19: Boston Braves (15-25, 7th, 10 GB) at Philadelphia Phillies (25-15, 1st, 1 GA)
17 – Red Ruffing tosses a four-hit shutout, as Gil Hodges and Larry Doby both hit 2-run home runs, and the Phillies snap their losing streak.
Phillies 5, Braves 0
W: Red Ruffing (5-4) L: Al Javery (5-3)
2B: Red Ruffing (2)
HR: Gil Hodges (9), Larry Doby (5)
18 – A sacrifice fly by the suddenly-surging Ron Northey gives the Phillies the victory in the bottom of the 10th, and extends their league lead to 2 games.
Phillies 5, Braves 4 (10)
W: Ike Pearson (2-1) L: Jim Hickey (0-1)
2B: Ron Northey (8), Charlie Ripple (1)
HR: Gil Hodges (10), Nick Goulish (2)
19 – Dick Mauney can’t buy a win.
Braves 4, Phillies 3
W: Ethan Gornitsky (2-6) L: Dick Mauney (0-3) SV: Elmer Singleton (2)
HR: Nick Goulish (3)
STANDINGS (after games on May 19, 1945)
Code:NATIONAL LEAGUE
Philadelphia 27-16 ---
New York 26-17 1.0
Cincinnati 25-18 2.0
Brooklyn 23-19 3.5
Chicago 21-21 5.5
St. Louis 17-26 10.0
Boston 16-27 11.0
Pittsburgh 16-27 11.0
AMERICAN LEAGUE
Boston 27-15 ---
Cleveland 25-17 2.0
New York 25-18 2.5
Washington 21-22 6.5
Philadelphia 21-23 7.0
Chicago 20-22 7.0
Detroit 17-25 10.0
St. Louis 14-28 13.0
This is it, The War is almost over for U.S.A. if we do we want Japan to have an MLB Team in the 50's if not, keep what we already did. (including LA and Dallas)
Yea, my signature appears to have shrunked. It went on that special K signature Beach diet, and stopped eating so many vowels, which were giving it a large waist line
Still going strong, potato! Think you can repeat? :)
AthleticsFan2k8: We'll see about Japan. I've already promised Coach a team in Seattle, so I have to honor that. I also have a plan for expansion. Let's just say that Chandler has a change of heart ;)
RedsoxRockies: Good for you! Hopefully, the voters can see the weight-loss and see that you're dedicated to making yourself (and these forums) better for us all! Go A.L.!
CatKnight: Just trying to fill the void left by your broken computer! :D As I said at the beginning of the season, it's going to be fun. With 5 teams within 6 games of each other, I'm going to have one heck of a battle just winning back-to-back pennants. And of course, the Yankees wait for the winner of this fight. I'd like to say yes, but it's incredibly difficult to pick a winner now.
APRIL – MAY 1945
PART IV
With Dick Mauney seemingly unable to win, it is time to make a change. Gene Lambert will become the new #3 starter, as Mauney gets relegated to long relief.
May 20-22: Philadelphia Phillies (27-16, 1st, 1 GA) at St. Louis Cardinals (17-26, 6th, 10 GB)
20 – The Phillies take a 2-1 lead into the bottom of the eighth, when a Hugh Casey blowup costs the team the game.
Cardinals 3, Phillies 2
W: Art Lopatka (2-3) L: Hugh Casey (3-4)
2B: Gil Hodges 2 (6)
SB: Ray Hamrick (1)
21 – Al Gerheauser does fabulously in his spot start, but Casey just hasn’t been on his game all season. He allows the winning run to score in the bottom of the 10th.
Cardinals 5, Phillies 4 (10)
W: Ted Wilks (1-1) L: Hugh Casey (3-5)
3B: Ron Northey (2)
HR: Vern Stephens (8)
SB: Phil Rizzuto (7)
22 – Charlie Ripple strikes out 8 over 8 innings of work, allowing just a solo home run, as the offense finally wakes up with some run support.
Phillies 6, Cardinals 1
W: Charlie Ripple (6-0) L: Harry Gumbert (4-4)
2B: Phil Rizzuto (15), Larry Doby (11), Gil Hodges (7)
HR: Vern Stephens (9), Vince DiMaggio (2)
*
With Hugh Casey off his game, I don’t know where else to turn. I’ll try demoting him to short relief, and let Ed Hanyzewski try his hand in the setup role. Meanwhile, John Fick has been impressive, allowing only 4 hits in 8 innings of relief this season.
*
May 23-26: Philadelphia Phillies (28-18, 1st, 1 GA) at Cincinnati Reds (27-19, 2nd, 1 GB)
23 – Gene Lambert was phenomenal, tossing a complete game 2-hit shutout, as Ron Northey powered the offense with a 3-run home run, giving the Phillies the win.
Phillies 5, Reds 0
W: Gene Lambert (1-0) L: Bucky Walters (6-2)
2B: Phil Rizzuto (16), Larry Doby (12)
HR: Ron Northey (4)
24 – Robin Roberts continues his incredible run with a 5-hit performance today, outdueling Ewell Blackwell for his 9th win of the season. Andy Seminick’s home run proves the difference.
Phillies 2, Reds 1
W: Robin Roberts (9-1) L: Ewell Blackwell (4-3)
2B: Ron Northey (9)
HR: Andy Seminick (6)
SB: Vern Stephens (1)
25 – Red Ruffing tosses a 4-hit shutout, and even knocks in 2 runs to support his own cause, as the Phillies are firing on all cylinders.
Phillies 5, Reds 0
W: Red Ruffing (6-4) L: Frank Dasso (4-3)
2B: Phil Rizzuto (17)
SB: Vince DiMaggio (1)
26 – Despite overcoming a four-run deficit, the Phillies bullpen costs them the game, as Hanyzewski gets victimized by the walk-off win.
Reds 6, Phillies 5
W: Clayton Lambert (4-3) L: Ed Hanyzewski (1-2)
HR: Vern Stephens 2 (11)
May 27-29: Pittsburgh Pirates (19-30, T-7th, 11.5 GB) at Philadelphia Phillies (31-19, 1st, 3 GA)
27 – This wasn’t pretty by any stretch of the imagination. Despite smacking 10 hits, the Phillies only score once, leaving the Pirates on an easy path to victory.
Pirates 4, Phillies 1
W: Paul Troughton (4-5) L: Gene Lambert (1-1)
*
Just as Tommy Hughes was about to come off the DL, Gene Lambert hops on. Lambert has a sprained back, and will be out until mid-June.
*
28 – Robin Roberts allows 7 doubles and 6 runs, as the Phillies comeback attempt falls just a little short.
Pirates 6, Phillies 5
W: Bob Chesnes (4-8) L: Robin Roberts (9-2) SV: Ace Adams (5)
2B: Andy Seminick (10)
3B: Danny Murtaugh (1), Ed Murphy (1)
HR: Larry Doby (6)
SB: Vince DiMaggio (2)
29 – Red Ruffing goes 8 innings, and the offense rallies in the bottom of the 8th to secure the win and avoid a sweep.
Phillies 4, Pirates 2
W: Red Ruffing (7-4) L: Harry Shuman (3-3) SV: Ike Pearson (7)
2B: Vern Stephens (6), Danny Murtaugh (5)
SB: Gil Hodges (1)
May 30: Day Off
FIRST TRIMESTER RECAP
STANDINGS (after games on May 30, 1945)
SEASON STATISTICSCode:NATIONAL LEAGUE
Philadelphia 32-21 ---
New York 29-23 2.5
Cincinnati 29-24 3.0
Brooklyn 27-24 4.0
Chicago 26-25 5.0
St. Louis 23-29 8.5
Boston 21-31 10.5
Pittsburgh 21-31 10.5
AMERICAN LEAGUE
New York 32-20 ---
Cleveland 31-20 0.5
Boston 30-22 2.0
Washington 26-26 6.0
Philadelphia 25-28 7.5
Chicago 24-28 8.0
Detroit 20-31 11.5
St. Louis 19-32 12.5
Red denotes League Leader
BATTING
PITCHINGCode:1945 Batting Team G AVG AB H 2B 3B HR BB K SB CS R RBI SLG OBP
LaForest, Ty PHI 2 .500 6 3 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 2 0 .500 .571
Culberson, Leon PHI 15 .333 15 5 1 0 0 3 3 0 0 1 5 .400 .444
Rizzuto, Phil PHI 51 .322 211 68 17 2 0 20 11 7 2 32 22 .422 .381
Peterman, Bill PHI 5 .308 13 4 0 0 0 1 5 0 0 3 1 .308 .357
Goulish, Nick PHI 43 .304 92 28 4 1 3 11 11 0 0 11 18 .467 .375
Doby, Larry PHI 53 .302 215 65 12 5 6 19 19 1 1 33 32 .488 .357
Murphy, Ed PHI 29 .300 30 9 0 1 0 6 1 0 0 3 7 .367 .405
Stephens, Vern PHI 53 .283 205 58 6 0 11 17 23 1 0 30 28 .473 .338
Seminick, Andy PHI 52 .277 191 53 10 0 6 30 20 0 0 31 19 .424 .377
Hodges, Gil PHI 50 .270 196 53 7 3 10 19 25 1 2 26 39 .490 .327
Lambert, Gene PHI 2 .250 4 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 .250 .250
DiMaggio, Vince PHI 38 .245 94 23 4 0 2 10 18 2 0 10 9 .351 .314
Blatnik, Johnny PHI 18 .243 70 17 3 1 0 8 6 0 0 8 6 .314 .321
Ripple, Charlie PHI 13 .242 33 8 1 0 0 1 12 0 0 3 4 .273 .257
Northey, Ron PHI 50 .241 174 42 9 2 4 17 18 0 0 20 19 .385 .311
Murtaugh, Danny PHI 47 .237 118 28 5 1 0 14 13 3 2 12 6 .297 .321
Hamrick, Ray PHI 39 .231 65 15 2 0 0 3 9 1 0 4 6 .262 .265
Ruffing, Red PHI 13 .229 35 8 2 0 0 1 8 0 0 1 4 .286 .250
Roberts, Robin PHI 13 .200 35 7 1 2 0 4 11 0 0 8 5 .343 .275
Hughes, Tommy PHI 7 .176 17 3 0 0 0 1 6 0 0 1 1 .176 .222
Sanicki, Ed PHI 4 .100 10 1 0 0 0 2 2 0 0 1 1 .100 .250
Mauney, Dick PHI 4 .100 10 1 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 1 .100 .100
Gerheauser, Al PHI 1 .000 3 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 .000 .000
Hanyzewski, Ed PHI 12 .000 1 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 .000 .000
Casey, Hugh PHI 16 .000 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 .000 .000
Page, Joe PHI 3 .000 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 .000 .000
LEAGUE LEADERSCode:1945 Pitching Team IP ERA G GS W L SV K BB R/9
Fick, John PHI 8.0 0.00 6 0 1 0 0 4 3 7.88
Pearson, Ike PHI 13.2 1.98 12 0 2 1 7 6 3 7.90
Lambert, Gene PHI 15.0 2.40 2 2 1 1 0 9 4 9.60
Roberts, Robin PHI 105.0 2.49 13 13 9 2 0 31 36 11.23
Hughes, Tommy PHI 52.0 2.60 7 7 2 3 0 24 15 9.87
Ruffing, Red PHI 105.2 2.64 13 13 7 4 0 44 36 11.50
Ripple, Charlie PHI 93.0 3.48 13 13 6 0 0 70 29 12.19
Casey, Hugh PHI 24.1 3.70 16 0 3 5 1 10 7 11.47
Hanyzewski, Ed PHI 19.2 4.12 12 0 1 2 2 12 3 11.90
Gerheauser, Al PHI 8.0 4.50 1 1 0 0 0 3 2 14.63
Mauney, Dick PHI 29.0 4.66 4 4 0 3 0 12 13 14.59
Page, Joe PHI 5.1 5.06 3 0 0 0 0 4 1 13.50
I’m proud to announce a brand new segment in my dynasty. It’ll be a rundown of the movers and shakers in the Phillies’ minor league system. Ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls, I’m proud to present to you…Code:NATIONAL LEAGUE LEADERS
AVG - Wally Judnich (NYG) .347
HR - Stan Musial (CIN) 15
RBI - Stan Musial (CIN) 48
SB - Jackie Robinson (BRO) 8
Jeff Cross (STL)
W - Robin Roberts (PHI) 9
ERA - Al Javery (BOB) 2.33
Shaun Hale (CHC)
K - Charlie Ripple (PHI) 70
SV - Whitey Miller (CHC) 10
AMERICAN LEAGUE LEADERS
AVG - Barney McCosky (DET) .365
HR - Ted Williams (BOS) 14
RBI - Bobby Doerr (BOS) 45
SB - George Case (CHW) 10
W - Tiny Bonham (NYY) 9
Dizzy Trout (BOS)
ERA - Mickey Haefner (WSH) 2.23
K - Hal Newhouser (DET) 60
SV - Moe Burtschy (PHA) 9
THE JOLLY FARM REVUE
TOP PROSPECT WATCH (peak of 90+)
SP Harvey Haddix (73/94) [19] – 4-1, 3.19 ERA, 23 K for AAA Utica
SP Jake Thies (58/92) [19] – 1-0, 3.00 ERA, 4 K for R Clearwater
RP Don Grate (80/93) [21] – 3-2, 2.21 ERA, 1 SV for AA Wilmington
1B Dale Long (56/95) [19] - .326, 3 HR, 13 RBI for R Clearwater
PROMOTIONS
FROM AA (Wilmington) TO AAA (Utica)
SP Bill McCahan – 6-0, 2.03 ERA in 62 IP
SP Eric Whelan – 6-0, 2.74 ERA in 69 IP
RP Don Grate – 3-2, 2.21 ERA, 1 SV in 53 IP
RP Hilly Flitcraft – 1-1, 2.85 ERA, 4 SV in 47 IP
C Bob Finley - .323, 32 RBI
3B Nick Picciuto - .401, 30 RBI
FROM A (Greensboro) TO AA (Wilmington)
SP Kent Bickett – 4-0, 2.65 ERA in 37 IP
SP Jeff Walker – 5-1, 3.00 ERA in 66 IP
3B Bert Hodge - .414, 41 RBI
SS John O’Neil - .416, 42 RBI
FROM R (Clearwater) TO A (Greensboro)
SP Jake Thies – 1-0, 3.00 ERA in 24 IP
1B Dale Long - .326, 3 HR, 13 RBI
JUNE – JULY 1945
PART I
The blockbuster trade I had hoped for has backfired to some degree. Vince DiMaggio is hitting only .207 (17/82) since putting on a Phillies uniform. He’ll be replaced in left field by Nick Goulish.
May 31 – June 2: Philadelphia Phillies (32-21, 1st, 2.5 GA) at New York Giants (29-23, 2nd, 2.5 GB)
31 – Charlie Ripple stays perfect on the season, striking out 5 over 8 innings, as Ike Pearson survives a scare to nail down the save.
Phillies 3, Giants 2
W: Charlie Ripple (7-0) L: Van Mungo (3-6) SV: Ike Pearson (8)
2B: Larry Doby (13), Gil Hodges (8)
SB: Nick Goulish (1)
1 – Larry Jansen goes 8 strong, and Tommy Hughes is again on the wrong end of the decision.
Giants 4, Phillies 3
W: Larry Jansen (5-4) L: Tommy Hughes (2-4) SV: Hoyt Wilhelm (7)
2B: Gil Hodges (9)
2 – Robin Roberts continues his torrid season, becoming the first National League pitcher to 10 wins, as the Phillies roll to take the series from the Giants.
Phillies 6, Giants 1
W: Robin Roberts (10-2) L: Bill Voiselle (6-4)
2B: Andy Seminick (11), Gil Hodges (10), Danny Murtaugh (6)
*
The all-time leader in Saves officially retired today.
Johnny Murphy pitched 12 seasons in the Major Leagues, all with the New York Yankees. He was a 4-time All-Star, and won 7 championships. His 103 saves is the all-time record, and is at least 1 great season away from being equaled.
*
June 3-5: Cincinnati Reds (32-24, 2nd, 2 GB) at Philadelphia Phillies (34-22, 1st, 2 GA)
3 – A 14-inning thriller before a sellout crowd of 33,000, the Phillies manage to walk-off with a victory after Vern Stephen’s 12th home run of the season.
Phillies 5, Reds 4 (14)
W: Hugh Casey (4-5) L: Walker Cress (1-4)
2B: Gil Hodges (11), Vern Stephens (7), Red Ruffing 2 (4)
3B: Phil Rizzuto (3)
HR: Vern Stephens (12)
SB: Larry Doby (2)
4 – Everything was going great until a 5-run 7th inning by the Reds, giving Charlie Ripple his first loss of the season.
Reds 10, Phillies 1
W: Frank Dasso (6-3) L: Charlie Ripple (7-1)
2B: Charlie Ripple (2)
5 – The Phillies pound out 12 hits in support of Tommy Hughes, who only allows 2 runs over 8 innings of work, giving the Phillies the series.
Phillies 6, Reds 2
W: Tommy Hughes (3-4) L: Bucky Walters (7-4)
2B: Vern Stephens (8), Nick Goulish (5), Vince DiMaggio (5)
HR: Vern Stephens (13), Larry Doby (7)
*Code:NATIONAL LEAGUE
Philadelphia 36-23 ---
Cincinnati 33-25 3.0
Brooklyn 31-25 4.0
Chicago 30-26 4.5
New York 31-26 4.5
Pittsburgh 24-34 11.5
St. Louis 23-34 12.0
Boston 23-35 12.5
AMERICAN LEAGUE
New York 36-21 ---
Boston 35-23 1.5
Cleveland 33-24 3.0
Washington 29-29 7.5
Chicago 28-30 8.5
Philadelphia 27-32 10.0
Detroit 22-35 14.0
St. Louis 20-36 15.5
JUNE 5, 1945
MLB DRAFT
We were gathered in Chicago, almost 1 year exactly after the D-Day invasions. It would be decision time for many franchises as the 4th Annual Amateur Draft was set to take place. It was such a nice feeling having the last pick: I was like a hawk, carefully studying all that unfolded before me. I had run through about 20 different scenarios in my head, and had a plan for every one. Here was my mini-board as I sat at the table:
1. SP Billy Pierce
2. SP Bill Miller
3. CF Richie Ashburn
4. 1B Joe Adcock
5. RF Jackie Jensen
*
However, the top 4 on my board were gone by the time I had a chance to think about it. Pierce went to Cincinnati at #3, Ashburn went to the Cubs at #7, Miller was taken at #10 by the Giants, and Adcock was selected right after by the Dodgers. So when I stepped up to the podium, my mind was pretty much made up.
“With the 16th pick, the Philadelphia Phillies select RF Jackie Jensen from San Francisco, CA.”
*
In the 2nd round, I decided to address my 2nd base issue. Danny Murtaugh is the starter, but is putting up regrettable numbers. Ray Hamrick is the backup, but not only is he putting up worse numbers, I feel that he’s better as a utility player. With a few options available, I decided to take the kid from St. Thomas, PA: 2B Nellie Fox.
*
Hudson and Arroyo are practically the same pitcher: lefty relievers with a power tendency. I only had 5 lefty pitchers in my minor league system, so those are the obvious choices.
I decided to take a flier on the 16-year-old Pullen. My report says that he can hit 95 consistently, so he could be a star in the making.
Usher was the best player, in my opinion, left after 95 others had gone before him.
*
Jensen will begin his professional career in A Greensboro, while the other 5 draftees will report to R Clearwater.
*
*Code:# TEAM PLAYER (PEAK)
1. St. Louis Browns RP Dick Weik (92)
2. Detroit Tigers RP Dick Welteroth (93)
3. Cincinnati Reds SP Billy Pierce (86)
4. Boston Braves SP Herm Wehmeier (92)
5. Philadelphia Athletics SP Dick Donovan (88)
6. Pittsburgh Pirates SP Chris Whalen (86)
7. Chicago Cubs CF Richie Ashburn (91)
8. Chicago White Sox SP Cloyd Boyer (91)
9. Washington Senators SP Brett Wade (85)
10. New York Giants SP Bill Miller (92)
11. Brooklyn Dodgers 1B Joe Adcock (95)
12. St. Louis Cardinals SP Cal Hogue (91)
13. Cleveland Indians RP Doug Shoemake (82)
14. Boston Red Sox RP Bob Chakales (86)
15. New York Yankees SP Jack Harshman (82)
16. Philadelphia Phillies RF Jackie Jensen (91)
32. Philadelphia Phillies 2B Nellie Fox (80)
48. Philadelphia Phillies RP Hal Hudson (81)
64. Philadelphia Phillies RP Luis Arroyo (78)
80. Philadelphia Phillies SP Jason Pullen (76)
96. Philadelphia Phillies 1B James Usher (72)
17. St. Louis Browns C Smoky Burgess (88)
33. St. Louis Browns RP Johnny Klippstein (83)
39. Chicago Cubs 1B Vic Power (84)
67. Cincinnati Reds 2B Davey Williams (81)
71. Chicago Cubs RP Tommy Lasorda (83)
92. St. Louis Cardinals LF Dusty Rhodes (71)
Does anyone else find it weird that the top 5 players on my board all went to the top 5 teams in the National League?
*
Unable to catch on with another team, free agent 1B Dolph Camilli retired today.
Dolph played 12 seasons with the Cubs, Phillies, and Dodgers, winning the MVP award in 1941 (.285, 34 HR, 120 RBI) and helping the Dodgers to the World Series. The 38-year-old Camilli was a 4-time All-Star, and finishes his career with 285 HR, which is good for 8th all-time.
*
Lasorda drafted by the Cubbies? This could change history. I hope he'll still make his way to LA.
Tough break on your draft. Some good players didn't fall to you.
filihok: Who knows? If Los Angeles even gets a team, it will be interesting to see if Lasorda joins the team. He might end up managing the Cubbies! :D
It would've been a real coup if I had landed Miller or Pierce. Heck, I would've been pleased with Ashburn or Adcock also. But Jensen was the best player available IMO, and I addressed a need with Fox in the 2nd round. And I'm really hoping that Pullen will develop into a great player.
JUNE – JULY 1945
PART II
June 6: Day Off
June 7-9: Philadelphia Phillies (36-23, 1st, 3 GA) at Boston Braves (23-35, T-7th, 12.5 GB)
7 – Thanks to 4 home runs by the Phillies offense, Robin Roberts survives a rough outing to pick up the win, his 11th.
Phillies 11, Braves 6
W: Robin Roberts (11-2) L: Tom Earley (1-1)
2B: Ed Murphy (1)
HR: Vern Stephens (14), Larry Doby (8), Andy Seminick (7), Ron Northey (5)
SB: Nick Goulish (2)
8 – Despite another 3 home runs, the Phillies find hard luck in the bottom of the 10th, when the Braves push home the walk-off winner.
Braves 5, Phillies 4, (10)
W: Jim Hickey (1-2) L: Ike Pearson (2-2)
2B: Phil Rizzuto (18), Danny Murtaugh (7)
HR: Vern Stephens (15), Ron Northey (6), Vince DiMaggio (3)
9 – Al Javery allows only 3 hits in a complete-game effort, giving the Braves the series victory over the NL leaders.
Braves 4, Phillies 1
W: Al Javery (7-4) L: Charlie Ripple (7-2)
3B: Phil Rizzuto (4)
June 10-12: New York Giants (32-29, 5th, 4.5 GB) at Philadelphia Phillies (37-25, 1st, 3 GA)
10 – Tommy Hughes goes 8 innings, allowing 7 hits while striking out 6, as Ron Northey’s go-ahead home run in the bottom of the 8th makes winners out of the home team.
Phillies 2, Giants 1
W: Tommy Hughes (4-4) L: Ken Trinkle (7-2) SV: Ike Pearson (9)
2B: Andy Seminick (12)
HR: Ron Northey (7)
11 – Despite giving up only 5 hits over 8 innings, Robin Roberts has to rely on an 8th-inning tie-breaking run to earn his 12th win of the season.
Phillies 5, Giants 4
W: Robin Roberts (12-2) L: Ken Trinkle (7-3) SV: Ike Pearson (10)
2B: Larry Doby (14), Nick Goulish (6), Ty LaForest (1)
HR: Larry Doby (9)
*
With Gene Lambert set to come off the DL, it figures that someone else gets injured: Ray Hamrick will be out for the next 2 months with a torn elbow ligament. I am starting to regret this DiMaggio trade, because Harry Marnie could’ve stepped in effortlessly. Instead, I have to reach deep into my minor league system to pull out someone who can capably man the middle infield positions for 2 months. 29-year-old Ed Walczak, who has never played a game above A level, will get the call, and make his Major League debut tomorrow.
*
12 – Ed Walczak is impressive, going 3-4 with a run and an RBI, but Enos Slaughter and the Giants use a 6-run 2nd inning to propel themselves to victory.
Giants 10, Phillies 7
W: Hal Schumacher (4-7) L: Red Ruffing (7-5) SV: Ken Trinkle (5)
2B: Larry Doby (15)
HR: Gil Hodges (11), Ron Northey (8)
June 13: Day Off
June 14-16: Chicago Cubs (35-29, T-3rd, 3.5 GB) at Philadelphia Phillies (39-26, 1st, 2 GA)
14 – Despite recording 14 hits, the Phillies still fall a run shy, though don’t blame Walczak: he goes 3-4 with a triple and 2 RBI.
Cubs 5, Phillies 4
W: Vern Olson (6-1) L: Charlie Ripple (7-3) SV: Dale Alderson (4)
2B: Phil Rizzuto (19), Larry Doby (16), Nick Goulish (7)
3B: Ed Walczak (1)
15 – Tommy Hughes gets rocked for 6 runs in the first four innings, as the Phillies can’t seem to find enough runs to come back.
Cubs 6, Phillies 4
W: Phil Marchildon (1-3) L: Tommy Hughes (4-5) SV: Jesse Flores (1)
2B: Gil Hodges (12)
HR: Nick Goulish (4)
16 – Robin Roberts is quickly developing into one of baseball’s best pitchers. He tosses his first career shutout today, striking out a career-high 8 batters, while the offense runs wild on the basepaths (3 SB)
Phillies 3, Cubs 0
W: Robin Roberts (13-2) L: Claude Passeau (6-9)
2B: Ron Northey (10)
3B: Larry Doby (6), Nick Goulish (2)
SB: Phil Rizzuto (8), Larry Doby (3), Vern Stephens (2)
June 17: Day Off
*
As we near the All-Star break, Boston and Pittsburgh make a trade.
Boston Red Sox receive:
RP Emil Kush (82/83) [28] – 1-3, 3.47 ERA, .189 BAA
Pittsburgh Pirates receive:
2B Mel Hoderlein (68/79) [21] - .355, 37 RBI, 7 SB (A)
3B Bill Sommers (63/77) [22] - .346, 34 RBI, 34 R (A)
The Pirates get marginal prospects for their off-season bullpen acquisition.
WINNER: Red Sox
*
June 18-20: Philadelphia Phillies (40-28, 1st, 1.5 GA) at Brooklyn Dodgers (36-31, 4th, 3.5 GB)
18 – Pete Reiser goes 3-4, hitting 2 home runs, and driving in the winning run in the bottom of the 9th with a walk-off double, giving the Dodgers the win.
Dodgers 4, Phillies 3
W: Cy Buker (5-7) L: Ed Hanyzewsi (1-3)
*
Red Ruffing was being tended to by the trainer after the game, and the news isn’t good: Red will be out over a month with a stress fracture in his right (throwing) wrist. Gene Lambert will slide into Red’s rotation spot, and Al Gerheauser will make his way down from AAA Utica to meet us in Brooklyn.
*
19 – After falling behind 3-0 early, the Phillies just can’t quite get the tying run across the plate, as Mort Cooper and the Dodgers drop the Phillies out of 1st place.
Dodgers 3, Phillies 2
W: Mort Cooper (7-4) L: Charlie Ripple (7-4) SV: Jim Hughes (9)
2B: Gil Hodges (13), Nick Goulish 2 (9)
20 – Tommy Hughes surrenders 7 runs in 3 innings of work, and it’s all downhill from there, as the Dodgers sweep the Phillies.
Dodgers 10, Phillies 6
W: Louis Benz (3-2) L: Tommy Hughes (4-6)
3B: Vern Stephens (1)
HR: Andy Seminick (8)
STANDINGS (after games on June 20, 1945)
Code:NATIONAL LEAGUE
Cincinnati 42-30 ---
Philadelphia 40-31 1.5
Brooklyn 39-31 2.0
Chicago 39-31 2.0
New York 36-35 5.5
St. Louis 31-40 10.5
Boston 29-41 12.0
Pittsburgh 27-44 14.5
AMERICAN LEAGUE
New York 47-25 ---
Boston 42-28 4.0
Cleveland 40-30 6.0
Washington 36-34 10.0
Chicago 33-38 13.5
Detroit 30-40 16.0
Philadelphia 30-41 16.5
St. Louis 24-46 22.0
BATTLE FOR THE #1 PICK (1946)
St. L. Browns 24-46 ---
Pitts. Pirates 27-44 2.5
Boston Braves 29-41 5.0
Phila. A's 30-41 5.5
Detroit Tigers 30-40 6.0
BATTLE FOR THE LIBERTY BELL TROPHY
Phillies 40-31 ---
Athletics 30-41 10.0
L.A.'s got to get a team. That's a rather large untapped market-once cross-contenental travel becomes a bit more viable...
A small smile for the Dodger sweep...i will confess.
Robin Roberts for mayor!!!
Wow Cincy is turning around quick since the Musial aquisition. How is old Stan the Man doing, btw?
filihok: There would've been a team destined for Los Angeles (under the guidance of Cubs owner Phil Wrigley) if Commissioner Chandler hadn't stepped in. We'll just have to wait and see what the future holds. ;)
And forget mayor, let's get this man the presidency! Amend the Constitution to let 18-year-olds run! :D
RedsoxRockies: Yeah, the Reds have been a HUGE surprise this season. While there offense is much improved with the acquisition of Musial, their pitching has been outstanding. Bucky Walters, Ewell Blackwell, Frank Dasso, and Pat Scantlebury have all performed above expectations.
Stan is cruising towards another banner season. He's once again a leading contender to pull off the Triple Crown, with his outstanding offensive numbers. He's also playing great defense, leading the NL with 5 outfield assists. But what to you expect from someone nicknamed "The Man"? :D
JUNE – JULY 1945
PART III
Big news: General Dwight Eisenhower will be making an appearance at today’s game in New York City. Fortunately for him, he gets to see Robin Roberts in action!
Bad news: RF Ron Northey will be out over a week with a twisted knee. Nick Goulish slides over to right field, Vince DiMaggio starts in left, and Ed Sanicki rejoins the bench from AAA Utica.
June 21-23: Philadelphia Phillies (40-31, 2nd, 1.5 GB) at New York Giants (36-35, 5th, 5.5 GB)
21 – Perhaps General Eisenhower summed it up best: “If I wanted to see a football game, I would’ve waited until September.”
Phillies 13, Giants 11
W: John Fick (2-0) L: Ken Trinkle (7-4) SV: Ed Hanyzewski (3)
2B: Phil Rizzuto (20), Gil Hodges (14)
HR: Gil Hodges (12) Andy Seminick 2 (10)
SB: Phil Rizzuto (9)
22 – Gene Lambert surrenders 3 runs in the bottom of the 8th, earning the loss despite a 9-strikeout performance.
Giants 4, Phillies 1
W: Van Mungo (4-8) L: Gene Lambert (1-2) SV: Hoyt Wilhelm (10)
2B: Phil Rizzuto (21), Larry Doby (17)
SB: Phil Rizzuto (10)
23 – Ike Pearson crumbles in the bottom of the ninth, allowing 2 runs, and turning a Phillies win into a Phillies loss.
Giants 3, Phillies 2
W: Sal Maglie (2-1) L: Ike Pearson (2-3)
2B: Phil Rizzuto (22)
HR: Andy Seminick (11)
June 24-26: Philadelphia Phillies (41-33, 3rd, 2.5 GB) at Cincinnati Reds (44-31, 1st, 2 GA)
24 – A 12-inning slugfest sees 3 doubles and a home run by Augie Bergamo, but a 12th-inning error allows the Phillies to steal the opener.
Phillies 12, Reds 10 (12)
W: Ike Pearson (3-3) L: Howie Fox (4-1) SV: John Fick (1)
2B: Nick Goulish (10)
3B: Phil Rizzuto (5)
HR: Nick Goulish (5)
25 – Despite striking out 9 Reds, Robin Roberts gives up 2 home runs in a losing effort, as the offense can’t touch Ewell Blackwell (6-4)
Reds 3, Phillies 1
W: Ewell Blackwell (6-4) L: Robin Roberts (13-3) SV: Walker Cress (5)
2B: Larry Doby (18), Robin Roberts (2), Ed Walczak (1)
26 – Our offense has been so sporadic lately, one can never tell if the good Phillies (the ones that put up 12 on Sunday) or the bad Phillies (yesterday and today) will show up.
Reds 3, Phillies 2
W: Pat Scantlebury (6-5) L: Gene Lambert (1-3) SV: Walker Cress (6)
HR: Vern Stephens (16)
SB: Nick Goulish (3)
June 27: Day Off
*
Mickey Vernon’s 20-game hitting streak was snapped today, going 0-5 against Cleveland ace Jim Bagby.
*
June 28-30: Brooklyn Dodgers (43-33, 2nd, 1.5 GB) at Philadelphia Phillies (42-35, 3rd, 3 GB)
28 – Frustrations continue to mount, as the loss of Ron Northey to injury continues to plague our offense.
Dodgers 4, Phillies 2
W: Kirby Higbe (9-2) L: Charlie Ripple (7-5) SV: Jim Hughes (11)
2B: Phil Rizzuto (23), Vern Stephens (9), Charlie Ripple (3)
3B: Larry Doby (7)
HR: Andy Seminick (12)
29 – Finally! Tommy Hughes strikes out 5 en route to a complete-game victory, as the offense wakes up to the tune of 9 runs on 14 hits.
Phillies 9, Dodgers 3
W: Tommy Hughes (5-6) L: Mort Cooper (7-6)
2B: Phil Rizzuto (24), Gil Hodges (15), Nick Goulish (11), Vince DiMaggio (6)
HR: Larry Doby (10), Nick Goulish (6), Vince DiMaggio (4)
30 – Here today, gone tomorrow, I suppose. The offensive outburst was short lived, as Robin gets only 1 run of support in a tough luck loss.
Dodgers 2, Phillies 1
W: Louis Benz (5-2) L: Robin Roberts (13-4) SV: Jim Hughes (12)
July 1-3: Chicago Cubs (40-39, 5th, 5.5 GB) at Philadelphia Phillies (43-37, 3rd, 3 GB)
1 – How can we be so consistently inconsistent? After a dismal 10-16 June, the Phillies turn to July with their bats facing the right direction.
Phillies 13, Cubs 2
W: Gene Lambert (2-3) L: Shaun Hale (10-6)
2B: Gil Hodges (16), Vince DiMaggio (7), Gene Lambert (1)
HR: Larry Doby (11)
*
That Vince DiMaggio trade really hurt us. Not only is Vince playing poorly, but it really undermined our depth along the bench. Ray Hamrick’s injury made us even thinner, and now we’re practically paper thin. Phil Rizzuto will be out for 2 weeks with a sprained knee. Mike Goliat will make his Major League debut tomorrow, as he gets the call from AAA Utica.
*
2 – Ron Northey hits 2 home runs, including a walk-off 2-run shot in the bottom of the 10th inning, to rescue the Phillies and bring them to victory.
Phillies 3, Cubs 2
W: Ed Hanyzewski (2-3) L: Dale Alderson (2-2)
3B: Andy Seminick (1)
HR: Ron Northey 2 (10)
3 – Tommy Hughes hurls a 4-hit shutout, as the Phillies, powered by Vern Stephens’ 17th home run, sweep the Cubs.
Phillies 3, Cubs 0
W: Tommy Hughes (6-6) L: Claude Passeau (6-12)
2B: Andy Seminick (13)
HR: Vern Stephens (17)
*
I was putting the finishing touches on a day at the office, and ready to come home, when I got a phone call at around 11:30pm.
“Andy! The baby! Coming! Now!”
I grabbed my briefcase and ran to my car.
*
With Lasorda being drafted by the Cubbies and Wrigley looking for a team in Los Angeles...lots of things could happen.
Isn't it interesting how the stars always align.
gosensgo101: this game is especially good at imitating reality. Big props to Clay and co. who do a great job with every facet of the game!
JULY 4, 1945
What better way to celebrate our nation’s birthday with the birth of your first child: Samuel Jackson Walsh!
Why Samuel? He was born on July 4th, so we felt that Uncle Sam wouldn’t mind too much.
Why Jackson? It’s my middle name, it seemed fitting.
(Go ahead, make all the jokes you want: Snakes on a Plane, Pulp Fiction, Star Wars, etc.)
*
July 4-7: New York Giants (44-40, 4th, 5.5 GB) at Philadelphia Phillies (46-37, 3rd, 3 GB)
4 – I hope that Sam appreciates the gift that Robin Roberts gave him: a complete game victory.
Phillies 3, Giants 1
W: Robin Roberts (14-4) L: Van Mungo (5-10)
2B: Larry Doby (20), Nick Goulish (12)
5 – Larry Jansen goes 8 innings, allowing only 4 hits, as the Giants take a game back.
Giants 4, Phillies 0
W: Larry Jansen (8-5) L: Gene Lambert (2-4)
SB: Nick Goulish (4)
6 – What happened to Charlie Ripple’s magic touch? Perhaps opponents figured out that he only throws a fastball and a sidearm curve…
Giants 6, Phillies 2
W: Bill Voiselle (9-5) L: Charlie Ripple (7-6) SV: Ken Trinkle (7)
2B: Nick Goulish (13), Ed Walczak (2)
7 – Vince DiMaggio hits a walk-off home run in the bottom of the 9th inning to end the first half of the season on a high note.
Phillies 2, Giants 1
W: Ed Hanyzewski (3-3) L: Ken Trinkle (7-5)
HR: Vince DiMaggio (5)
*
Yankees SS Pee Wee Reese had his 21-game hitting streak snapped today.
*
STANDINGS (at midseason break)
Code:NATIONAL LEAGUE
Cincinnati 51-37 ---
Brooklyn 48-37 1.5
Philadelphia 48-39 2.5
New York 46-42 5.0
Chicago 42-43 7.5
Boston 39-47 11.0
St. Louis 38-50 13.0
Pittsburgh 35-52 15.5
AMERICAN LEAGUE
New York 59-29 ---
Boston 51-35 7.0
Chicago 47-40 11.5
Cleveland 44-42 14.0
Washington 41-46 17.5
Detroit 40-47 18.5
Philadelphia 37-50 21.5
St. Louis 28-58 30.0
BATTLE FOR THE #1 PICK (1946)
St. L. Browns 28-58 ---
Pitts. Pirates 35-52 6.5
Phila. A's 37-50 8.5
St.L. Cardinals 38-50 9.0
Boston Braves 39-47 11.0
BATTLE FOR THE LIBERTY BELL TROPHY
Phillies 48-39 ---
Athletics 37-50 11.0
JULY 10, 1945
With the country still at war, and flight restrictions still enforced, the owners agreed to cancel this years All-Star Game. Instead, they decided on inter-league games between all 16 teams. I personally wanted the All-Star game, but there’s something to be said for numbers.
Thankfully, we beat the Athletics in our game. We called up Harvey Haddix to start, and he performed above expectations. Harvey is really developing nicely. He’s complemented his excellent fastball with a plus slider, an average curve, and is currently developing a changeup. If Red Ruffing were to hang up his spikes at the end of this season, Haddix would be the early favorite to take his spot in the rotation.
Elizabeth and Sam are doing very well. They arrived home from the hospital yesterday, and Sam is in great condition. Despite the mid-July heat, he never seems to be uncomfortable in it. In fact, he never seems to cry. He’s got great makeup for a pitcher…
As for the team, I think we’re in good shape. After a dismal 10-16 month of June, we’ve started 5-2 in July. We’ve hit 73 home runs, best in the Majors, and are the only team with 5 players with 10+ homers: Ron Northey, Larry Doby, Andy Seminick, Gil Hodges, and Vern Stephens. Our pitching has been fantastic, allowing the fewest runs in the National League (320).
The 2 major problems we’ve had are consistency and health. Although we’ve got such power and great pitching, it seems very rare that we can put both together on the same day. As for the injuries, 6 members of our Opening Day roster have spent time on the disabled list, including Phil Rizzuto and Ray Hamrick, forcing our minor league infielders like Ed Walczak and Mike Goliat to step up to the big club.
Sitting just 2.5 games behind the surprising Cincinnati Reds, there is still plenty of time left in the season to make a run. As a matter of fact, with the top 5 NL teams separated by only 7.5 games, it’s still anybody’s race.
The American League is a different story, however. The Yankees are dominant, having staked an 8 game lead over the Red Sox. It looks as though the Bronx Bombers have all but punched their ticket to another Fall Classic...
Sam was born like 3-4 months premature!
RedsoxRockies: Not really. We just found out about it in December. If you flash back 9 months...
:eek: :DQuote:
Originally Posted by PotatoOfCouch13
JUNE – JULY 1945
PART IV
July 11: Day Off
July 12-14: Philadelphia Phillies (48-39, 3rd, 2.5 GB) at Chicago Cubs (42-43, 5th, 7.5 GB)
12 – Robin Roberts tosses his 2nd shutout of the season, as Vern Stephens ties himself for the league lead with his 18th home run.
Phillies 5, Cubs 0
W: Robin Roberts (15-4) L: Claude Passeau (6-13)
2B: Nick Goulish (14)
HR: Vern Stephens (18)
*
On a bunt single, Indians 3B Stan Hack recorded his 2000th career hit.
*
13 – Vern Stephens’ 19th home run sparks a 4-run 8th inning, giving the Phillies (and Gene Lambert) the victory.
Phillies 7, Cubs 4
W: Gene Lambert (3-4) L: Dale Alderson (2-3)
2B: Gil Hodges (17)
HR: Vern Stephens (19)
14 – Charlie Ripple strikes out 7 over 8 innings, as Gil Hodges’ 3-run home run in the 9th inning rescues the Phillies from defeat and brings them to a half-game back of the league-leading Reds.
Phillies 5, Cubs 3
W: Charlie Ripple (8-6) L: Whitey Miller (1-3) SV: Ike Pearson (11)
HR: Gil Hodges (13), Larry Doby (12)
SB: Vern Stephens (3)
*
After being exiled in AAA for the season, Dodgers SS Luke Appling retired.
Appling spent 14 seasons with the Chicago White Sox, where he became one of the best leadoff hitters in the game. A noted hypochondriac, he was nicknamed “Old Aches and Pains” due to his constant complaining. He was also famous for his great bat control. He once fouled off 10 straight pitches to convince management to purchase new baseballs.
CAREER STATS:
.316 AVG, 28 HR, 864 RBI, 1074 R, 2109 H
*
July 15-17: Boston Braves (41-49, 6th, 10.5 GB) at Philadelphia Phillies (51-39, 2nd, 0.5 GB)
15 – A 4-run 1st inning for the Phillies provides Tommy Hughes enough support to cruise to victory, keeping pace with the Reds.
Phillies 5, Reds 3
W: Tommy Hughes (7-6) L: Ethan Gornitsky (5-11) SV: Ike Pearson (12)
2B: Nick Goulish (15)
16 – After loading the bases in the 1st inning, an Ed Walczak double and a Ron Northey home run bring home 5 runs against Warren Spahn, and the Phillies hang on for their 6th straight win.
Phillies 6, Braves 4
W: Robin Roberts (16-4) L: Warren Spahn (8-10) SV: Ike Pearson (13)
2B: Danny Murtaugh (8), Ed Walczak (3)
HR: Ron Northey (11)
SB: Ed Walczak (
17 – Another big inning for the Phillies, this time a 6-run 3rd, gives the Phillies a laugher, and, thanks to a Reds loss, THE PHILLIES ARE IN FIRST PLACE!
Phillies 13, Braves 5
W: Gene Lambert (4-4) L: Al Javery (8-8)
2B: Andy Seminick (14)
3B: Ron Northey (3), Nick Goulish (3)
HR: Vern Stephens (20)
*
With the red-hot Phillies riding a 7-game winning streak, we gleefully welcome back our catalyst at the top of the lineup, Phil Rizzuto. Scooter will reassume the leadoff spot, and Mike Goliat returns to AAA.
SS Phil Rizzuto
LF Nick Goulish
1B Gil Hodges
CF Larry Doby
3B Vern Stephens
C Andy Seminick
RF Ron Northey
2B Ed Walczak
*
July 18-21: Philadelphia Phillies (54-39, 1st, 0.5 GA) at Brooklyn Dodgers (52-40, 3rd, 1.5 GB)
18 – With 2 outs in the top of the 9th, the Phillies stage a furious rally, scoring twice to rally for the victory, their 8th straight.
Phillies 5, Dodgers 4
W: Ed Hanyzewski (4-3) L: Max Macon (5-5)
2B: Vern Stephens (10)
3B: Ron Northey (4)
*
National League Triple Crown candidate Andy Pafko will miss 3 weeks with a chipped knee cap. With the Cubs 10.5 games out, the season looks to be a lost cause.
.334 AVG (1st)
19 HR (2nd)
72 RBI (2nd)
*
19 – Tommy Hughes allows only 3 hits over 8 innings, and a Larry Doby home run gives the Phillies a desperately needed insurance run, as Ike Pearson (eventually) slams the door for the Phillies’ 9th straight win.
Phillies 3, Dodgers 2
W: Tommy Hughes (8-6) L: Mort Cooper (8-7) SV: Ike Pearson (14)
HR: Larry Doby (13)
SB: Nick Goulish (5)
20 – The Phillies erupt for 4 runs in the 8th inning, turning Robin Roberts from a loser to winner for the 17th time this season.
Phillies 7, Dodgers 4
W: Robin Roberts (17-4) L: Paul Erickson (3-2) SV: Ike Pearson (15)
2B: Phil Rizzuto (25), Leon Culberson (2)
*
Giants RF Enos Slaughter will miss 2 weeks with a sprained back.
*
The Reds, looking for pitching help, made a trade.
Cincinnati Reds receive:
SP Travis Robbins (84) [24] – 0-10, 6.56 ERA, 37/64 K/BB
St. Louis Browns receive:
RP Rocky Stone (72/82) [26] – 1-2, 2.52 ERA, 2 SV, 27/22 K/BB (AAA)
RP Jack Niemes (67/77) [25] – 0-4, 2.98 ERA, 3 SV, 36/25 K/BB (AA)
Robbins, a former 1st-round draft pick (#5 overall, 1942), never quite lived up to expectations in St. Louis, going 6-9, 4-20, and 0-10 in his past 2.5 seasons. He’ll get a second chance in Cincinnati.
WINNER: Reds
*
21 – Gene Lambert strikes out 6 over 8 innings, as Gil Hodges and the Phillies keep on rolling with their 11th straight win.
Phillies 5, Giants 2
W: Gene Lambert (5-4) L: Louis Benz (5-4) SV: Ike Pearson (16)
HR: Gil Hodges (14)
*
Ike Pearson will miss 2 weeks with a hairline fracture in his left wrist. Ed Hanyzewski will become the interim closer, and Red Ruffing will return to the active roster.
*
STANDINGS (after games on July 21, 1945)
*Code:NATIONAL LEAGUE
Philadelphia 58-39 ---
Cincinnati 55-42 3.0
Brooklyn 52-44 5.5
New York 52-45 6.0
Chicago 45-49 11.5
St. Louis 42-55 16.0
Boston 41-55 16.5
Pittsburgh 40-56 17.5
AMERICAN LEAGUE
New York 67-31 ---
Boston 55-42 11.5
Chicago 53-45 14.0
Cleveland 51-46 15.5
Detroit 44-52 22.0
Washington 44-54 23.0
Philadelphia 41-56 25.5
St. Louis 33-62 32.5
BATTLE FOR THE #1 PICK (1946)
St. L. Browns 33-62 ---
Pitts. Pirates 40-56 6.5
Phila. A's 41-56 7.0
Boston Braves 41-55 7.5
St.L. Cardinals 42-55 8.0
BATTLE FOR THE LIBERTY BELL TROPHY
Phillies 58-39 ---
Athletics 41-56 17.0
Boo...Quote:
July 18-21: Philadelphia Phillies (54-39, 1st, 0.5 GA) at Brooklyn Dodgers (52-40, 3rd, 1.5 GB)
no offense
filihok: None taken. The Dodgers are a d*** good team, they've just had a string of bad luck for the past 4 seasons.
1941: Mickey Owen's dropped 3rd strike
1942: Stan Musial's Cardinals
1943: Stan Musial's Cardinals
1944: "The Wiz Kids", the Philadelphia Phillies
They've been in the top 3 in the National League for the past 4 years. They just haven't had that last push to get them over the hump. They could've made it last season, but Jackie Robinson missed all but 8 games with a torn Achilles. Without him, the offense was just station to station. He's back this season, but they lost a lot with the departure of Roy Campanella in free agency.
JUNE – JULY 1945
PART V
July 22-24: St. Louis Cardinals (42-55, 6th, 16 GB) at Philadelphia Phillies (58-39, 1st, 3 GA)
22 – Not a good day to be a pitcher. The 2 teams combine for 22 hits, but the Phillies score more runs, giving them their 12th straight victory.
Phillies 9, Cardinals 7
W: Charlie Ripple (9-6) L: Harry Gumbert (6-7)
2B: Nick Goulish (16)
3B: Vern Stephens (2)
HR: Gil Hodges (15)
*
Charlie Ripple will be out until the beginning of August with a separated shoulder. Gene Lambert hops back into the rotation, this time at the #2 spot.
*
23 – The ride is over. After a 4-run 1st inning, the Phillies offense just can’t provide the pop to catch up, ending the winning streak at 12 games.
Cardinals 5, Phillies 2
W: Charlie Condorcet (1-0) L: Tommy Hughes (8-7) SV: Ted Wilks (13)
2B: Ron Northey (11)
HR: Larry Doby (14), Ron Northey (12)
*
Athletics LF Bill Burgo’s 21-game hitting streak ended today.
*
24 – Andy Seminick’s 2nd career grand slam gets the Phillies and Robin Roberts (8 IP, 2 R, 8 H, 4 K) back on the winning track.
Phillies 8, Cardinals 2
W: Robin Roberts (18-4) L: Max Lanier (6-13)
2B: Nick Goulish (17)
3B: Ed Walczak (2), Leon Culberson (1)
HR: Andy Seminick (13)
July 25-28: Philadelphia Phillies (60-40, 1st, 2 GA) at Brooklyn Dodgers (53-46, 4th, 6.5 GB)
25 – Trailing 7-3 entering the 8th inning, the Phillies mount an epic comeback, scoring twice in the 8th and 3 times in the 9th, then icing the game with 2 more in the 10th inning.
Phillies 10, Dodgers 8 (10)
W: Hugh Casey (5-5) L: Cy Buker (7-8) SV: Ed Hanyzewski (4)
2B: Ed Walczak (4)
HR: Gil Hodges (16), Andy Seminick (14), Vince DiMaggio (6)
*
With the prospect of arbitration facing many of our core players, I decided to lock up backup 1B Ed Murphy. Murphy agreed to an extension through 1948 worth $10,000 a year.
*
26 – Johnny Vander Meer returns to form, allowing only 3 hits over 7 innings of work, as the Dodgers take the second game of the series.
Dodgers 4, Phillies 1
W: Johnny Vander Meer (6-9) L: Gene Lambert (5-5) SV: Cy Buker (9)
2B: Leon Culberson (3)
27 – Gil Hodges’ solo home run is the only offense we can muster against Mort Cooper, who goes the distance to cut another game off our league lead.
Dodgers 3, Phillies 1
W: Mort Cooper (9-8) L: Tommy Hughes (8-8)
HR: Gil Hodges (17)
*
Cincinnati, still looking for help despite being only 1 game down, made a trade:
Cincinnati Reds receive:
CF Milt Byrnes (88/92) [28] - .430, 0 HR, 46 RBI (AAA)
Philadelphia Athletics receive:
RP Jake Eisenhart (71/82) [22] – 1-0, 6.10 ERA, 4/9 K/BB (A)
RP Art Fowler (70/80) [23] – 3-1, 2.84 ERA, 19/12 K/BB (A)
RP George Burpo (69/80) [23] – 0-1, 3.54 ERA, 7 SV, 33/30 K/BB (A)
The A’s traded a really good outfielder for 60 cents on the dollar.
WINNER: Reds
*
The Giants, looking to make a late surge, made a deal for some pitching help:
New York Giants receive:
SP Max Lanier (90) [29] – 6-13, 4.29 ERA, 89/36 K/BB
St. Louis Cardinals receive:
C Ray Noble (77/91) [26] - .371, 9 HR, 42 RBI (AAA)
This is a really even trade. Lanier’s numbers are deceiving, as he’s a good pitcher on a bad team. Noble has a chance to be great, and he’ll get that chance in St. Louis.
WINNER: Giants, but not by much. Come see me in 5 years.
*
28 – Ed Murphy makes the most of a rare start to show exactly why I extended his contract: he hits 3 doubles, but the Phillies lose in extra innings, bringing them into a tie for first with the Reds.
Dodgers 2, Phillies 1 (11)
W: Jim Hughes (3-2) L: Ed Hanyzewski (4-4)
2B: Ed Murphy 3 (4)
July 29-31: Philadelphia Phillies (61-43, T-1st, 4.5 GA) at Cincinnati Reds (61-43, T-1st, 4.5 GA)
29 – Red Ruffing is handily outdueled by Arnold Carter, who allows only 7 hits in complete game victory, vaulting the Reds into sole possession of 1st place, and extending the Phillies’ losing streak to 4 games.
Reds 5, Phillies 1
W: Arnold Carter (3-1) L: Red Ruffing (7-6)
2B: Nick Goulish (18)
*
Cardinals 1B Ray Sanders hit for the cycle today, in a 13-7 Cardinals win over the Giants.
*
30 – The Phillies score 5 runs in the first 2 innings, and Ed Hanyzewski slams the door for his 5th save, retying Philly and Cincy atop the National League.
Phillies 5, Reds 2
W: Gene Lambert (6-5) L: Frank Dasso (10-5) SV: Ed Hanyzewski (5)
2B: Ty LaForest (2)
*
The Red Sox, in a desperate (read: futile) effort to catch the Yankees, made a trade.
Boston Red Sox receive:
RP Vern Curtis (83/84) [25] – 4-1, 2.83 ERA, 4 SV, 48/16 K/BB
Washington Senators receive:
RP Harry Dorish (73/85) [24] – 7-2, 2.22 ERA, 16/19 K/BB (AA)
The Sox manage to pry one of the true “bullpen aces” in the AL away from Washington.
WINNER: Red Sox
*
With the trade deadline looming, I decided to make one last trade to shore up our bullpen.
Philadelphia Phillies receive:
RP Ken Gables (84/85) [26] – 3-4, 4.06 ERA, 5 SV, 24/17 K/BB
Pittsburgh Pirates receive:
RP Mike Budnick (72/82) [25] – 6-4, 4.20 ERA, 29/27 K/BB (AA)
We get a good reliever with the hopes of stabilizing the bridge from the starter to the closer.
WINNER: Phillies
*
31 – Gil Hodges smashes 2 home runs, as the Phillies add to Travis Robbins’ misery (now 0-12 on the season) and take sole possession of 1st place.
Phillies 6, Reds 1
W: Tommy Hughes (9-8) L: Travis Robbins (0-12)
2B: Ron Northey 2 (13)
HR: Gil Hodges 2 (19)
*
The Yankees made 2 trades today, gearing up for the World Series.
New York Yankees receive:
RP Ted Wilks (85/86) [29] – 2-3, 1.50 ERA, 13 SV, 14/4 K/BB
St. Louis Cardinals receive:
C Gus Niarhos (71/84) [24] - .304, 0 HR, 23 RBI (AA)
1B Dick Teed (54/84) [19] - .351, 1 HR, 11 RBI ®
I hope that Wilks doesn’t get comfortable in New York. After being traded to the Yankees and back during the offseason, Wilks returns to the Big Apple for at least 2 months.
WINNER: Yankees
*
New York Yankees receive:
RP Bert Shepard (81/82) [25] – 2-6, 3.83 ERA, 1 SV, 37/19 K/BB
Washington Senators receive:
SP Mike Partee (63/76) [21] – 13-3, 2.99 ERA, 11/62 K/BB (A)
RP Royce Mills (66/79) [21] – 5-3, 3.55 ERA, 11/48 K/BB (A)
Shepard will provide a nice bridge from starter to closer.
WINNER: Yankees
*
Minor League News:
I resigned SP Bob Trice through 1946 at $4,200 per.
RP Al Verdel was released.
*
Hey Potato, I just got around to reading your house rules, would you mind if I borrowed and adapted some of them into my dynasty?
Go right ahead. They aren't as strict as I would've liked, but feel free to adapt them to your liking!
Congratulations on your impeding 1000th post, by the way! :D
Cool. Thanks on both fronts :).Quote:
Originally Posted by PotatoOfCouch13
I have more posts! =)
Why are you worried about post counts? You should be prepping for tonight's debate! :D
VOTE AL!
In honor of us being the AL canidates, you should move Philly to the AL next season!
Having 2 American League teams be from the same city?
That's the greatest idea I've ever heard....
Imagine if the A's were any good. Think of the revenue pouring in!!! :D
Hey Coach, how about I get you 2 Seattle teams? :D
Looks like the Reds are going to be on your heels all season long!
As for the Yankees...Bah! Start killing off their players. Maybe F had a twin who specialized in assassinations?
Or you could turn on the Phillies and take over the Athletics... just imagine the drama.
and then you could have eddie gaedel hijac a cargo barge and crash into a ship with george steinnbrenner on it, causing him to fall over board on to a remote pacific island and preventing the rise of the steinbrenners. And you could have two AL teams in Philly. Heck, you could move the Phills and the A's to Seattle!
Man, all these crazy schemes...whats wrong with today's generation? Personally, I think you should move the best team to Piitsburgh, and move the pirates to that city. Then, trade history, nicknames, and uniforms, and whala, I can finally root for a team with an above .500 record!
CatKnight: Yeah, who would've thought that one player could take a team from 8th to the top of the league in a single-season? Although the Reds pitching has been fantastic all season. Bucky Walters and Ewell Blackwell have 2 of the top ERAs in the National League, and the rest of their rotation is very strong.
Heck, I might even kill some myself if this keeps up! Just don't be surprised to find that Tommy Henrich has a "hangover" that lasts for a month, if you catch my meaning... ;)
eick: That is some serious WWE s*** right there...
Let's leave that to the pros. :D
RedsoxRockies: I love the enthusiasm, but I think that's a little much. As for moving the Phillies, well, that's probably not going to happen. This baseball universe will imitate life in that regard. The Athletics, on the other hand, and since Coach has such an affinity for them... :D
CDuffy26: Again, love the enthusiasm, but probably not going to happen that way. I am going to re-input the city data, just to try and get Pittsburgh (and other cities that are small today) back on level playing field. Of course, the reassignment draft can be brought up again at the Winter Meetings this offseason, so you never know...
*
As an aside before I begin, I'd like to congratulate my running mate, RedsoxRockies on a great victory in Thursday night's debate. From tackling difficult questions about switch-hitters, fruit, and Keebler elves, he was the epitome of what a president should be! Congrats Redsox!
*
SECOND TRIMESTER RECAP
STANDINGS (after games on July 31, 1945)
SEASON STATISTICSCode:NATIONAL LEAGUE
Philadelphia 63-44 ---
Cincinnati 64-45 1.0
Brooklyn 56-50 6.5
New York 56-50 6.5
Boston 50-56 12.5
Chicago 49-55 12.5
St. Louis 45-61 17.5
Pittsburgh 43-63 19.5
AMERICAN LEAGUE
New York 74-33 ---
Boston 60-46 13.5
Cleveland 56-50 17.5
Chicago 56-51 18.0
Detroit 49-57 24.5
Washington 49-58 25.0
Philadelphia 44-62 29.5
St. Louis 37-68 36.0
BATTLE FOR THE #1 PICK (1946)
St. L. Browns 37-68 ---
Pitts. Pirates 43-63 5.5
Phila. A's 44-62 6.5
St.L. Cardinals 45-61 7.5
Wash. Senators 49-58 11.0
BATTLE FOR THE LIBERTY BELL TROPHY
Phillies 63-44 ---
Athletics 44-62 18.5
Red denotes League Leaders
BATTING
PITCHINGCode:1945 Batting Team G AVG AB H 2B 3B HR BB K SB CS R RBI SLG OBP
Casey, Hugh PHI 25 .667 3 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 .667 .667
Culberson, Leon PHI 33 .341 41 14 3 1 0 6 6 0 0 5 7 .463 .426
Goulish, Nick PHI 97 .307 290 89 18 3 6 52 29 5 0 42 44 .452 .410
Murphy, Ed PHI 58 .305 82 25 4 1 0 10 5 0 0 11 9 .378 .383
Rizzuto, Phil PHI 93 .303 376 114 25 5 0 42 30 10 4 52 38 .396 .374
Doby, Larry PHI 106 .284 402 114 20 7 14 43 35 3 2 54 68 .473 .349
LaForest, Ty PHI 14 .282 39 11 2 0 0 9 7 0 1 6 3 .333 .429
Lambert, Gene PHI 11 .280 25 7 1 0 0 4 2 0 0 7 3 .320 .379
Ruffing, Red PHI 19 .277 47 13 4 0 0 1 9 0 0 3 6 .362 .286
Seminick, Andy PHI 105 .272 368 100 14 1 14 53 44 0 0 54 52 .429 .365
Walczak, Ed PHI 43 .266 139 37 4 2 0 9 16 1 0 15 12 .324 .307
Hodges, Gil PHI 104 .262 385 101 17 3 19 47 53 1 2 56 71 .470 .339
Stephens, Vern PHI 107 .255 396 101 10 2 20 40 53 3 0 56 58 .442 .323
DiMaggio, Vince PHI 79 .253 174 44 7 0 6 25 29 2 0 24 22 .397 .342
Blatnik, Johnny PHI 18 .243 70 17 3 1 0 8 6 0 0 8 6 .314 .321
Northey, Ron PHI 92 .236 313 74 13 4 12 39 41 0 1 42 39 .419 .322
Peterman, Bill PHI 19 .235 51 12 0 0 0 6 11 0 0 8 3 .235 .310
Hughes, Tommy PHI 21 .224 49 11 0 0 0 3 13 0 0 4 2 .224 .269
Murtaugh, Danny PHI 82 .222 194 43 8 1 0 20 27 3 4 16 9 .273 .296
Hamrick, Ray PHI 46 .218 78 17 2 0 0 3 10 1 0 5 7 .244 .247
Ripple, Charlie PHI 25 .217 60 13 3 0 0 1 22 0 1 6 4 .267 .226
Roberts, Robin PHI 26 .203 74 15 2 2 0 4 23 0 0 14 7 .284 .238
Sanicki, Ed PHI 5 .182 11 2 0 0 0 2 2 0 0 1 2 .182 .308
Gables, Ken PHI 34 .167 6 1 1 0 0 0 1 0 0 1 0 .333 .167
Mauney, Dick PHI 7 .100 10 1 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 1 .100 .100
Goliat, Mike PHI 3 .000 7 0 0 0 0 1 2 0 0 0 0 .000 .125
Hanyzewski, Ed PHI 33 .000 2 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 .000 .000
Fick, John PHI 21 .000 2 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 .000 .000
Page, Joe PHI 8 .000 4 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 .000 .000
Gerheauser, Al PHI 1 .000 3 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 .000 .000
LEAGUE LEADERSCode:1945 Pitching Team IP ERA G GS W L SV K BB R/9
Pearson, Ike PHI 27.2 2.60 25 0 3 3 16 10 7 9.43
Fick, John PHI 33.2 2.67 21 0 2 0 1 22 14 12.30
Roberts, Robin PHI 207.0 2.83 26 26 18 4 0 84 68 11.35
Lambert, Gene PHI 82.0 2.96 11 11 6 5 0 57 23 11.30
Hughes, Tommy PHI 150.0 3.00 21 21 9 8 0 67 48 11.10
Hanyzewski, Ed PHI 46.1 3.11 33 0 4 4 5 19 9 10.10
Ruffing, Red PHI 148.1 3.40 19 19 7 6 0 64 53 12.20
Mauney, Dick PHI 34.0 3.97 7 4 0 3 0 14 14 13.50
Gables, Ken PHI 52.0 3.98 34 0 3 4 5 24 18 12.12
Ripple, Charlie PHI 175.0 4.01 25 25 9 6 0 125 56 11.93
Page, Joe PHI 14.0 4.50 8 0 0 0 0 6 4 15.43
Gerheauser, Al PHI 8.0 4.50 1 1 0 0 0 3 2 14.63
Casey, Hugh PHI 39.0 4.62 25 0 5 5 1 16 9 11.77
THE JOLLY FARM REVUECode:NATIONAL LEAGUE LEADERS
AVG - Stan Musial (CIN) .340
HR - Stan Musial (CIN) 24
RBI - Stan Musial (CIN) 89
SB - Jackie Robinson (BRO) 17
W - Robin Roberts (PHI) 18
ERA - Ewell Blackwell (CIN) 2.43
K - Charlie Ripple (PHI) 125
SV - Whitey Miller (CHC) 17
AMERICAN LEAGUE LEADERS
AVG - Ted Williams (BOS) .351
Joe DiMaggio (NYY)
HR - Ted Williams (BOS) 30
RBI - Bobby Doerr (BOS) 87
SB - George Case (CHW) 32
W - Tiny Bonham (NYY) 17
ERA - Ed Lopat (CHW) 2.31
K - Early Wynn (WSH) 104
SV - Len Perme (CHW) 14
Code:TOP PROSPECT WATCH (peak of 90+)
SP Harvey Haddix (81/94) [19] - 6-2, 3.12 ERA, 36 K (AAA)
SP Jake Thies (66/93) [19] - 5-2, 2.70 ERA, 15 K (A)
SP Bob Trice (57/91) [18] - 4-2, 4.16 ERA, 11 K (R)
RP Don Grate (80/93) [21] - 2-2, 3.15 ERA, 1 SV (AAA)
RP Hal Hudson (62/90) [18] - 1-1, 3.60 ERA, 1 SV (R)
1B Dale Long (56/95) [19] - .310, 2 HR, 15 RBI* (A)
2B Nellie Fox (62/90) [17] - .358, 0 HR, 10 RBI (R)
RF Jackie Jensen (58/91) [18] - .291, 1 HR, 20 RBI (A)
*Long is out for the season with a broken wrist
PROMOTIONS
From AA Wilmington to AAA Utica
SP Andy Lapihuska - 6-8, 3.96 ERA, 49 K
From A Greensboro to AA Wilmington
RP Mitch Chetkovich - 2-4, 2.88 ERA, 5 SV
RP John Hall - 1-3, 3.71 ERA, 2 SV
From R Clearwater to A Greensboro
2B Nellie Fox - .358, 0 HR, 10 RBI
RP Armando Roche - 0-6, 3.57 ERA, 1 SV
I think you deserve congrats as well, for your dynasty!
Congrats on the nice record, keep it up and we'll see you in October.
RedsoxRockies: Thank you! Coming from the future president of the forums, that means a lot... :D
BigBomber: Let's hope so. There's still plenty of baseball left to be played, so let's not get ahead of ourselves just yet...
AUGUST – SEPTEMBER 1945
PART I
After an absolutely torrid July (20-7), the Phillies are back on top of the National League. Only time will tell if it will last. With 47 games remaining, we hold a 1 game lead over the surprising Cincinnati Reds. Since 1901, no team has ever finished 8th one season, only to win the pennant the next.
August 1: Day Off
*
The Reds edge the Dodgers in extra innings, 5-4, cutting our lead to a half-game.
*
August 2-4: Philadelphia Phillies (63-44, 1st, 0.5 GA) at St. Louis Cardinals (45-61, 7th, 17.5 GB)
2 – Robin Roberts is, without a doubt, the greatest teenaged pitcher in the last 40 seasons. He tosses a 3-hit shutout, as the Phillies roll. The Dodgers continue to lie down for the Reds, keeping the gap at a half-game.
Phillies 8, Cardinals 0
W: Robin Roberts (19-4) L: Charlie Condorcet (2-1)
2B: Phil Rizzuto (26), Larry Doby (21), Ty LaForest (3)
HR: Gil Hodges (20)
SB: Nick Goulish (6), Larry Doby (4)
*
SP Billy Pierce made his Major League debut today, picking up the win for the Reds. He was immediately sent back to R ball, where he is 7-0 with a 1.81 ERA!!! Wow!
*
3 – Red Ruffing gets whacked around, as Johnny Beazley tosses a complete-game 5-hitter. The Reds, naturally, win, and seize 1st place by a half-game.
Cardinals 5, Phillies 1
W: Johnny Beazley (2-2) L: Red Ruffing (7-7)
2B: Ron Northey (14)
*
Ike Pearson has recovered enough to return to the bullpen. Dick Mauney will get sent to AAA Utica.
*
4 – Charlie Ripple strikes out 7 over 8 shutout innings, and the Phillies retake 1st place thanks to a Reds loss (finally) to the Dodgers.
Phillies 11, Cardinals 2
W: Charlie Ripple (10-6) L: Brent Pendergast (0-1)
2B: Larry Doby (22), Ed Walczak (5), Ty LaForest (4)
HR: Gil Hodges (21), Larry Doby (15)
August 5-8: Brooklyn Dodgers (57-53, 4th, 8 GB) at Philadelphia Phillies (65-45, 1st, 0.5 GA)
5 – Despite an early 3-0 lead, the Phillies need extras to push the winning run across. Meanwhile, the Reds lose to the Cubs, extending the league lead to 1.5 games.
Phillies 4, Dodgers 3
W: Ed Hanyzewski (5-4) L: Jim Hughes (4-3)
3B: Phil Rizzuto (6)
SB: Nick Goulish (7)
6 – Robin goes the distance again, allowing only 1 earned run while becoming the first pitcher to 20 wins this season. The Reds fall to the Cubs again, making the lead 2.5 games.
Phillies 5, Dodgers 2
W: Robin Roberts (20-4) L: Louis Benz (5-7)
2B: Phil Rizzuto (27), Ron Northey (15), Ed Murphy (5), Robin Roberts (3)
HR: Vern Stephens (21), Nick Goulish (7)
*
The destruction of the most awesome weapon ever conceived was witnessed today over the city of Hiroshima, Japan. The “Atomic Bomb”, as it is being called, killed close to 120,000 people, and injured countless others. As much of a relief it is to see the good guys winning, it is a shame to see so many innocents killed as well.
http://img363.imageshack.us/img363/6...micbombrk3.jpg
The Atomic Bomb over Hiroshima
*
7 – Red Ruffing was cruising along until the 9th inning, when the Dodgers score 3 times to steal a victory from the Phillies. The Reds solve the mystery that is the Cubs, cutting the lead to 1.5 games.
Dodgers 4, Phillies 3
W: Max Macon (6-5) L: Red Ruffing (7-8) SV: Jim Hughes (17)
2B: Nick Goulish (19)
8 – Jackie Robinson goes 4-5, driving in 6 runs, and rallying the Dodgers to split the 4-game set. The Reds lose, but the Giants have won 6 straight, and are now 5 games back.
Dodgers 12, Phillies 7
W: Mort Cooper (10-9) L: Gene Lambert (6-6)
2B: Larry Doby (23), Leon Culberson (4)
August 9-11: Philadelphia Phillies (67-47, 1st, 1.5 GA) at Chicago Cubs (54-58, 5th, 12 GB)
9 – While the Phillies are outhit 9-5, a pitcher’s duel goes long, and the visitors are able to plate the eventual winning run in the 12th inning. Meanwhile, in Cincinnati, Travis Robbins’ first win of the season is a dandy: a 3-0 shutout of the Braves that keeps the Reds 1.5 games back.
Phillies 2, Cubs 1 (12)
W: Ike Pearson (4-3) L: Whitey Miller (2-5) SV: Ed Hanyzewski (6)
3B: Ed Walczak (3)
SB: Phil Rizzuto (11)
*
Ray Hamrick comes off the disabled list today. However, with Ed Walczak playing so well, we have no choice but to send Ray to AAA Utica for the rest of the month.
*
The 2nd “Atomic Bomb” was dropped today, on the Japanese city of Nagasaki. The destruction wasn’t as great as the first one due to the mountainous terrain surrounding Nagasaki, but the intent was clear. The Soviets have also declared war against the Japanese, making the end of this long conflict seem nearer and nearer.
*
10 – Red Ruffing is getting old. Of course, it’s awfully hard to win without proper run support. Thankfully, the Braves beat the Reds.
Cubs 2, Phillies 0
W: Claude Passeau (11-14) L: Red Ruffing (7-9)
*
One of the drawbacks in playing so many young players is having to pay them eventually. 1B Gil Hodges, who just became eligible for arbitration at the end of the season, agreed to a huge extension: $20,000 per year through 1951, with a 3-year player option.
It’s not often a player of Gil’s caliber comes along: Gold Glove caliber defense at a pivotal position and awesome power. In fact, only one player has hit more home runs than Gil at age 21: Mel Ott. I have no qualms about this deal.
I might need to add some seats to that new ballpark to pay all of these guys though…
*
11 – Another extra-innings pitchers’ duel, this time the roles are reversed as the Cubs walk-off with the win. The Reds win, moving to a half-game back.
Cubs 3, Phillies 2 (12)
W: Whitey Miller (3-5) L: Hugh Casey (5-6)
HR: Larry Doby (16)
SB: Danny Murtaugh (4), Ed Walczak (2)
August 12: Day Off
*
By virtue of a 10-0 drubbing at the hands of the Yankees, the St. Louis Browns are officially eliminated from the pennant chase.
*
STANDINGS (after games on August 12, 1945)
Italics denotes eliminated
*Code:NATIONAL LEAGUE
Philadelphia 68-49 ---
Cincinnati 68-50 0.5
New York 63-54 5.0
Brooklyn 61-56 7.0
Chicago 57-59 10.5
Boston 53-63 14.5
St. Louis 50-67 18.0
Pittsburgh 47-69 20.5
AMERICAN LEAGUE
New York 80-38 ---
Boston 69-49 11.0
Cleveland 66-51 13.5
Chicago 63-55 17.0
Washington 53-64 26.5
Detroit 51-67 29.0
Philadelphia 47-70 32.5
St. Louis 41-76 38.5
BATTLE FOR THE #1 PICK (1946)
St. L. Browns 41-76 ---
Phila. A's 47-70 6.0
Pitts. Pirates 47-69 6.5
St.L. Cardinals 50-67 9.0
Detroit Tigers 51-67 9.5
BATTLE FOR THE LIBERTY BELL TROPHY
Phillies 68-49 ---
Athletics 47-70 21.0
TO ALL MY READERS:
First and foremost, this dynasty will not be stopped! There have been some ugly rumors about that, but they are false. THIS DYNASTY WILL CONTINUE AS PLANNED!
Secondly, I was thinking about starting a 2nd dynasty. I already have an idea, as well as a backstory, but I was just trying to gauge interest. Also, for those of you that have run multiple dynasties at once, I was wondering if you could impart on me some 'words of wisdom' that can help me if I decide to make the leap.
Thank you for your patience. We now return you to your regularly scheduled dynasty.
PoC13 :D
You post at weird times lol
RedsoxRockies: I'm a night owl. So sue me! :D
AUGUST – SEPTEMBER 1945
PART II
August 13-15: Boston Braves (53-63, 6th, 14.5 GB) at Philadelphia Phillies (68-49, 1st, 0.5 GA)
13 – A late Phillies rally falls a run short. Thankfully, the Reds fall to the Dodgers keeping the deficit at a half-game. The Giants, however, win again, moving to 4 games back.
Braves 5, Phillies 4
W: Rob Kelley (6-12) L: Tommy Hughes (9-9) SV: George Diehl (3)
2B: Larry Doby (24), Nick Goulish (20), Ron Northey (16), Vince DiMaggio (8)
14 – You know things aren’t going right when Robin Roberts doesn’t get a win. Ethan Gornitsky (who?) outduels the teenager for the victory. Both the Reds and Giants lose, but the Dodgers win moves them to 5 games back.
Braves 3, Phillies 1
W: Ethan Gornitsky (7-13) L: Robin Roberts (20-5) SV: Jim Hickey (15)
15 – Deuces are wild in the Phillies win: Gil Hodges and Vern Stephens both hit their 22nd home run of the season, and Red Ruffing allows 2 runs in a complete-game effort. The Reds lose, and the Dodgers pull even with the Giants, who lost.
Phillies 4, Braves 2
W: Red Ruffing (8-9) L: Jocko Thompson (3-1)
2B: Ed Walczak (6), Leon Culberson (5)
HR: Vern Stephens (22), Gil Hodges (22)
PENNANT RACE
*Code:TEAM GB NEXT
Phillies --- 3 v. Pittsburgh
Reds 1.5 3 v. St. Louis
Dodgers 5.0 3 v. Chicago
Giants 5.0 3 at Boston
The Phillies snapping their funk wasn’t the biggest news of the day. Not by a long shot.
JAPAN SURRENDERS! WORLD WAR II IS OVER!!!
http://img158.imageshack.us/img158/3...dm2vjdakr4.jpg
Perhaps the most iconic image from V-J Day
*
RF Ron Northey and RP Ed Hanyzewski both became eligible for arbitration, so we hammered out long term extensions with pay raises.
Ron Northey agreed to an extension worth $20,000 a year through 1950 with a 3-year player extension.
Ed Hanyzewski agreed to an extension worth $10,000 a year through 1949 with a 3-year player extension.
*
August 16-18: Pittsburgh Pirates (49-70, 8th, 19.5 GB) at Philadelphia Phillies (69-51, 1st, 1.5 GA)
16 – Despite getting outhit 11-5, the only stat that really matters is runs scored. Thankfully, the Phillies came out on the right end of that one. All 3 teams chasing won today, keeping pace.
Phillies 3, Pirates 2
W: Ed Hanyzewski (6-4) L: Harry Shuman (4-9)
2B: Vern Stephens (11)
*
Johnny Blatnik is healthy and ready for duty! He’ll be moved to AAA Utica for the time being.
*
LF Bob Johnson retired today. He had 276 career home runs, good for 9th all-time.
*
After losing a heartbreaker, 3-2, to the Chicago White Sox, a Yankees win means that the Philadelphia Athletics have been eliminated from pennant contention.
*
17 – Tommy Hughes tosses a complete-game 5-hitter, and the Phillies win another pitcher’s duel. The Reds and Dodgers win, but the Giants lose, dropping 1 game in the standings.
Phillies 2, Pirates 1
W: Tommy Hughes (10-9) L: Ken Heintzelman (10-7)
2B: Phil Rizzuto (28), Larry Doby (25)
*
Charlie Ripple will miss the next 2 weeks with a broken finger on his pitching hand. Gene Lambert steps into the rotation, and Dick Mauney will be recalled from AAA Utica.
*
18 – The ultimate rarity in Robin Roberts’ star-crossed rookie season: 2 consecutive losses. Blame the offense, or lack thereof. The Dodgers are the only chasers to win, pulling to 4 games back.
Pirates 3, Phillies 2
W: Jim Hooks (1-3) L: Robin Roberts (20-6) SV: Ace Adams (7)
2B: Nick Goulish (21), Gil Hodges 2 (19)
3B: Larry Doby (8)
SB: Phil Rizzuto (12)
August 19-21: Philadelphia Phillies (71-52, 1st, 1.5 GA) at Boston Braves (57-65, 6th, 13.5 GB)Code:TEAM GB NEXT
Phillies --- 3 at Boston
Reds 1.5 3 v. New York
Dodgers 4.0 3 at Pittsburgh
Giants 6.0 3 at Cincinnati
19 – Another game where our heroes are outhit, but good prevails thanks to Vern Stephens’ 23rd home run of the season. The Reds and Dodgers win, meaning the Giants lose another game in the standings.
Phillies 4, Braves 3
W: Red Ruffing (9-9) L: Jocko Thompson (3-2)
HR: Vern Stephens (23)
20 – Gene Lambert gets roughed up, and there is no chance of a comeback with Warren Spahn on the hill. The Reds are the only chasers to win, but pull to a half-game back.
Braves 7, Phillies 2
W: Warren Spahn (11-12) L: Gene Lambert (6-7)
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Despite a victory today, the Detroit Tigers are eliminated from pennant contention.
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21 – An offensive explosion in the 8th inning (5 runs against the bullpen) costs the Phillies the game, and the league lead. A victory by the Reds moves the Cincinnati nine into 1st place.Braves 6, Phillies 3
W: George Diehl (6-2) L: John Fick (2-1) SV: Jim Hickey (17)
2B: Ron Northey (17), Andy Seminick (15)
SB: Vern Stephens (4)
*Code:TEAM GB NEXT
Reds --- Day off, then 3 at Philadelphia
Phillies 0.5 Day off, then 3 v. Cincinnati
Dodgers 4.5 Day off, then 3 at St. Louis
Giants 7.5 4 v. Pittsburgh
Despite the loss, I still had contracts to extend. Andy Seminick agreed to an extension worth $20,000 a year through 1951, with a 3-year player option.
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August 22: Day Off
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The Giants drop their 6th straight, falling to 8 games behind the Reds.
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Indians RF Jeff Heath hit for the cycle today.
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COMING UP NEXT...
A huge 3-game series with the Reds