A Shot of Redemption: The Story of Will Kane

soxfan93: I only wish I had caught them sooner. Then I wouldn't have this weird statline of 7 games played in a different uniform (a la Mike Piazza).

Junior's play isn't surprising. Edgar's is, especially after a season where he hit only .240. I'll chalk it up to small sample size, but I hope he continues hitting like that. I only wish they'd hit some more home runs...

*

9. A Brief Diversion from our Hero…

Paul Stanley would never hear the end of it. He had tried his whole life to become one of the best journalists in the Pacific Northwest, but he was always being overshadowed by his more famous counterpart, the famous KISS guitarist.

Stanley had spent 10 years at the Seattle Post-Intelligencer, working his way up from a mailroom clerk to beat reporter for the Seahawks. He had a loving wife, 2 beautiful daughters, and job security. Besides his unfortunate moniker, life was perfect.

*

Paul was on vacation. With the NFL Draft only 2 weeks away, and the Seahawks holding the #3 pick, his time off was coming to a close. He was enjoying his final days at his lakeside cabin near the Canadian border, enjoying a glass of wine while watching the sun set over the trees in the distance.

RING.

The phone. Who could that be?

RING.

“Hello?”

“Paul Stanley…” a deep voice said, “…I have something that might interest you.”

“Who is this?”

“That’s not important. I need to meet with you. April 30, San Francisco, California. Lombard Street. 7 PM.”

“Wait wait, who is…”

*click*

“…this?”

10. April, Part II

We’ve been lucky. Our Pythagorean record is only 3-9. We win the close games, but we get blown out every other time. And yet, we still sit only 2 games behind the AL West-leading Angels. Maybe it’s a sign that this is the year that the Mariners can finally get a winning record. In order to do that, our 6.62 team ERA needs to come waaaay down.

Seattle (6-6) at Kansas City (5-7)

I stayed in Seattle on the advice of my therapist. I don’t think I’m quite ready to face my demons yet. This will probably be a high-scoring series, as these teams have 2 of the 3 worst ERAs in the American League.

15 – Bradley catching. The Mariners get home runs from Coles, Briley, and Bradley, as Randy Johnson allows only 2 hits over 8 scoreless innings. The lanky southpaw struck out 9 batters en route to his first victory of the year. Mariners 7-0

16 – A sloppy slugfest. The Royals stake out an 8-2 lead, then survive the ensuing Mariners rally to win. Jeffrey Leonard hits his 1st home run of the season. Royals 8-7

Rob Murphy is ready to return to active duty.

17 – A wild game. The Mariners get out to a 7-0 lead, thanks to Junior’s 4th home run of the season. The Royals come roaring back, scoring 9 runs to retake the lead. The Mariners counter, scoring 3 more to take a 1-run lead into the bottom of the 9th. However, Schooler blows the save (3rd of the season), and ends up losing the game in the 10th. Royals 11-10 (10)

Randy Johnson experienced some joint pain when he was performing a routine bullpen session this afternoon. He has been diagnosed with a hip pointer. We’ll try a 4-man rotation, as he’s only scheduled to miss one start.

Seattle (7-8) at Detroit (7-9)

I rejoined the team in preparation for their 4-game series in the Motor City, where longtime 2B Lou Whitaker has been replaced by the younger Tony Phillips, who is struggling. The Tigers rely on the power of 4 men: starters Jack Morris and Frank Tanana, LF Larry Sheets, and 1B Cecil Fielder.

18 – Valle catching. 5 runs in the 7th and 8th innings are enough to survive some wild bullpen moments for the Mariners. Schooler rebounds with the 4-out save to give Bankhead his first win of the year. Mariners 7-5

19 – Bradley catching, Erik Hanson dealing. The 24-year-old added another gem to his already impressive season, going 8 innings, allowing only 1 run on 4 hits. Jackson loaded the bases but earned the save in a wild 9th. Mariners 2-1

20 – Cecil Fielder was king today, hitting 2 home runs and plating 5 runs, sparking the 5-run 7th inning rally to give the Tigers the win. Harris & Jackson: 4 IP, 5 RA. Tigers 11-6

21 – This was over after 4 innings. Bill Swift and Matt Young gave up 14 runs in 3.2 innings. Not a whole lot of bright spots today. Tigers 17-7

I ran some lineup changes by Jim Lefebvre. He was keen to the idea, and redesigned the lineup.

2B Harold Reynolds
SS Omar Vizquel
CF Ken Griffey Jr.
3B Edgar Martinez
DH Jeffrey Leonard
1B Alvin Davis
RF Darnell Coles
C Scott Bradley/Dave Valle
LF Greg Briley

California (13-5) at Seattle (9-10)

After 2 losses where our pitching staff gets hammered, we have to face the best team in the American League. 1B Wally Joyner is hitting .444, and their rotation has been lights out. Not looking good for us…

22 – Valle catching. For once, everything fell into place. Bankhead threw a 4-hit shutout, and the offense exploded for 10 runs. The one downer continued to be Alvin Davis, who was 0-5, and is mired in his worst slump in years. Mariners 10-0

Randy Johnson is back to 100%, and will start the final game of the series against the Angels.

23 – One positive: Alvin Davis hit a home run! Lots of negatives though, as the Angels bring their bats today, and slug 3 home runs en route to a big victory over Erik Hanson and the M’s. Angels 10-6

Harold Reynolds needs some time off with a pulled muscle in his chest. Brian Giles will take over at 2nd base and bat 9th, while Omar Vizquel will bat leadoff for the time being. Darnell Coles gets bumped up to the #2 spot.

24 – Jeffrey Leonard’s 3-run home run sparks a 6-run 6th inning for the Mariners, who get a ‘good enough’ effort from Randy Johnson and 2 relievers to take the series against the Angels. Mariners 11-6

25 – DAY OFF

Kansas City (10-11) at Seattle (11-11)

Back to .500, we welcome the team directly behind us to Seattle. The Royals took 2 of 3 from us in KC. Hopefully we can return the favor at home.

26 – Bradley catching. Brian Giles goes 3-3 with a home run, and Jay Buhner hit a pinch-hit grand slam to give the Mariners another slugfest victory. Might have to reconsider moving Bone back into the lineup… Mariners 11-7

Harold Reynolds is rested and ready, and will return to the starting lineup. Also returning will be Jay Buhner in right field, replacing Greg Briley. Jeffrey Leonard moves to left field, Edgar Martinez becomes the DH, and Darnell Coles is the new third baseman.

We really like Edgar’s bat, but his glove raises some questions. We’ll try this lineup, which I feel gives us a much better defensive team, without compromising our potent offense.

27 – Despite Ken Griffey’s 3 singles, the other Mariners can only manage 4 more hits as Kevin Appier shuts us down for 8 innings. Danny Tartabull’s 2-run homer is all the Royals would need in this one. Royals 4-1

Jerry Reed will miss the next few days with a sore muscle in his throwing arm.

28 – Despite 10 hits, the Mariners can only put up 3 runs, and for the second straight day, the offense is kept off guard by Royals pitchers. This time, Richard Dotson does the deed, going 7 strong for the win. Royals 7-3

29 – DAY OFF

Received a frantic call from Jeff today. It was the first time I’d heard from him since our exchange on Opening Day. He told me that the club was “hemorrhaging money”, and that I needed to slash payroll to a “reasonable amount” ASAP. With that in mind, I called several player agents, hoping that they’d consider renegotiating some contracts. Every single agent gave me the same answer: no.

Meanwhile, Jerry Reed is back to full health.

Texas (13-12) at Seattle (12-13)

Amazingly, we’re only 2.5 games behind the 3-team logjam at the top of the AL West. This is definitely proving to be the toughest division in baseball. We get our first look at the Rangers this season, who are powered by the young trio of Ruben Sierra, Juan Gonzalez, and Rafael Palmeiro. Their pitching staff is unimpressive: that is, outside of Nolan Ryan, of course.

30 – You remember how I said their staff was unimpressive? Color me impressed. Kevin Brown hurls a 3-hit shutout, completely dominating our lineup from top to bottom. The good news? 3 shutout innings from our bullpen. Rangers 4-0

Scott Bradley’s throw was too late to 2nd to try and catch Jeff Frye on a steal attempt, and he grasped his shoulder in pain. He suffered a severe shoulder separation, and will be out 2 month. This means that the platoon has ended, and Dave Valle will become the full-time catcher. Matt Sinatro has been called up to the active roster from AAA Calgary, as Bradley will be moved to the DL.

END OF APRIL

Ouch on the injury to Bradley. Keep up the nice work, and hope you can stay around .500 for a while.

EVEN11323: Losing Bradley hurts a lot. Coming into the season, that was one of my primary concerns. I was hoping that if a catcher did get injured, it would be Valle, as I have Sinatro rated higher (according to my +/- 10 scouting), so I could keep my platoon. Alas, the mogul gods were unkind to me this time... :D

.500 might be able to do it for me this year. In such a talented division, every team is just going to beat each other up. I wouldn't be surprised to see the AL West winner with fewer than 90 wins at the end of the year.

And by the way, do you have any extra 'Stanley nickels' lying around? :D

*

...continued

APRIL RECAP

STANDINGS

Code:

---

AL WEST
Oakland          15-10        -
Chicago          15-10        -
California        14-11        1
Texas                14-12        1.5
Kansas City        12-13        3
Seattle          12-14        3.5
Minnesota        11-15        4.5

AL EAST
New York        15-11        -
Milwaukee        15-12        .5
Boston                13-13        2
Baltimore        13-13        2
Toronto          11-14        3.5
Detroit                12-16        4
Cleveland        9-17        6

NL WEST
San Francisco        16-10        -
Houston          13-14        3
Cincinnati        13-15        3.5
Los Angeles        11-14        4
Atlanta          11-15        4.5
San Diego        10-18        6.5

NL EAST
Pittsburgh        18-10        -
St. Louis        17-10        .5
Chicago          16-11        1.5
Montreal        13-13        4
New York        12-15        5.5
Philadelphia        11-15        6

---

LEAGUE LEADERS
AMERICAN LEAGUE

Code:

---

BATTING AVERAGE       
Gene Larkin (MIN)        .463
Wally Joyner (CAL)        .430
Jim Eisenreich (KC)        .406
       
HOME RUNS       
Mark McGwire (OAK)        15
Jose Canseco (OAK)        12
Jim Thome (CLE)            11
Rob Deer (MIL)              11
       
RUNS BATTED IN       
Ellis Burks (BOS)        36
Mark McGwire (OAK)        35
Cal Ripken Jr. (BAL)        34
Jose Canseco (OAK)        34
       
STOLEN BASES       
Luis Polonia (NYY)        19
Steve Sax (NYY)            14
Alex Cole (CLE)              12
       
WINS       
Melido Perez (CHW)        5
Tom Candiotti (CLE)        4
Teddy Higuera (MIL)        4
Dave Stewart (OAK)        4
       
ERA       
Tom Candiotti (CLE)        2.72
Jamie Moyer (TEX)        2.72
Pascual Perez (NYY)        2.92
       
STRIKEOUTS       
Jack Morris (DET)        48
Teddy Higuera (MIL)        41
Roger Clemens (BOS)        40
       
SAVES       
Dan Plesac (MIL)        6
Gregg Olson (BAL)        5
Tom Henke (TOR)          5

---

NATIONAL LEAGUE

Code:

---

BATTING AVERAGE       
Eric Davis (CIN)        .439
Larry Walker (MON)        .415
Tony Gwynn (SD)          .405
       
HOME RUNS       
Matt Williams (SF)        10
Barry Bonds (PIT)        9
5 tied with              8
       
RUNS BATTED IN       
Ricky Jordan (PHI)        30
Matt Williams (SF)        29
Craig Biggio (HOU)        28
Pedro Guerrero (STL)        28
       
STOLEN BASES       
Ozzie Smith (STL)        17
Vince Coleman (STL)        16
Gerald Young (HOU)        15
       
WINS       
Ken Hill (STL)              6
Doug Drabek (PIT)        5
7 tied with              4
       
ERA       
Mike Scott (HOU)        2.14
Bob Walk (PIT)            2.48
Atlee Hammaker (SF)        2.84
       
STRIKEOUTS       
Greg Maddux (CHC)        46
John Smoltz (ATL)        41
F. Valenzuela (LA)        40
       
SAVES       
Tim Burke (MON)            6
Steve Bedrosian (SF)        6
Todd Worrell (STL)        6

---

MARINERS STATS
http://img237.imageshack.us/img237/3...ril1990id0.jpg

MILESTONES
4/23 – Tigers SP Frank Tanana: 200th Win
4/29 – Tigers LF Larry Sheets: 22-Game Hitting Streak

EXTENSIONS
4/15 – SP Mark Langston (CAL)
4/17 – 1B Wally Joyner (CAL)
4/20 – 2B Ryne Sandberg (CHC) (go figure)
4/30 – SP Tom Glavine (ATL)

MAJOR INJURIES
4/20 – Royals 1B George Brett out 7 weeks (broken forearm)
4/24 – Red Sox SP Mike Boddicker out 3 weeks (dislocated shoulder)
4/24 – Mets RP Alejandro Pena out 2 weeks (stress fracture in hand)
4/26 – Giants LF Kevin Mitchell out 2 weeks (shoulder separation)
4/28 – Mets SP Bob Ojeda out 2 weeks (stress fracture in foot)

I guess living in New York is a lot more stressful than I imagined… :rolleyes:

TRADES
None

RETIREMENTS
4/30 – 2B Paul Noce (30)

Some pretty impressive OBPs from most of your line-up. Hope the ERAs come down though, some pretty ugly ones there. And no, I cashed in all of my Stanley nickels in exchange for $1000 Schrute Bucks. 5 extra minutes of lunch is mine!!!

OMG Whats gonna happen on the 30th!

EVEN11323: Hopefully it's just a fluke month, and everything begins to normalize soon. And congrats on the 5 minutes of extra lunch: I hope it's everything you dreamt it would be! :D

5DiMaggio: You'll find out (sort of)...

RIGHT NOW!

*

11. “I Left My Heart in San Francisco…”

Paul Stanley jumped off the cable car, and made his way back to his hotel lobby. Had anyone followed him? No, it didn’t look that way. He made his way towards the staircase.

“Mr. Stanley?”

Paul jumped startled, then spun around to face his caller.

It was the receptionist. Sheepishly, he walked to the desk.

“Someone left a message for you. Here.” The desk jockey handed him a folded piece of paper.

“Thank you. Can I get a menu for room service while I’m here?”

*

Stanley made his way through the hallway to his room. He slid the key into the latch and turned the knob. The lights were off. He closed the door behind him, checking 3 times to make sure it was locked. He flicked on the lights, half expecting to see a dead body lying on the bed.

There was nothing.

He checked the behind the shower curtain, in the closet, and out on the balcony. Nothing, nil, nada.

He hadn’t been this apprehensive an hour ago. That all changed when he met his source. What he had been told during his meeting had shaken him to the core. Cover-ups, grand schemes, conspiracies. None of it seemed to make much sense as individuals, but put together, he was now in charge of a great truth: he only hoped that no one else would catch on.

He’d been told everything his source (henceforth called ‘Tiger’) knew about: steroids, gambling, fixes, shams, scams, set-ups, and sabotage: perhaps the most dastardly of them all was perpetrated by ‘Tiger’ himself…

He had scheduled another meeting with ‘Tiger’ a month from now in New York City. God only knows what he’ll be told then…

Sorry for the delay everyone, I've been a little preoccupied with some family in town for the holiday. Now that they've left, I'll be able to get back to a semi-regular updating of this story! Thanks for your patience!

*

12. May, Part I

Well, the ERA came down. Not by much (from 6.62 to 6.31, but at least it’s moving in the right direction. I’ll put my concerns on the back burner for now, because we clearly can’t pitch much worse. On the hitting side of things, one number stands out above the rest: 25. As in, team home runs for the month of April, 2nd worst in the American League. That’s something that needs to change as well. The Mariners have been historically late starters, recording a winning record in April only twice in team history. Despite the lackadaisical effort from our pitchers, and the power outage from our bats, we still sit only 3.5 games back of the division leaders. Go figure.

Texas (14-12) at Seattle (12-14)

1 – With a 4-1 lead entering the top of the 8th inning, and Randy Johnson still pitching, everything was under control, right? Wrong, as the Mariners find another way to lose. This time Mike Schooler is the culprit (again), blowing his 4th save of the season. He’s already 4/8 in save opportunities, one of the worst performances of any closer in the league. Rangers 6-5

2 – ‘The Ryan Express’ was going full steam tonight, allowing only 2 hits over 6 innings. However, Jay Buhner’s home run capped a 4-run 4th inning, giving the Mariners and Brian Holman more than enough to work with. Mariners 4-1

Seattle (13-15) at Oakland (16-11)

We pay our first visit to the Bay Area, and the home of the World Champs. After they so graciously took 2 of 3 to start the season, we hope to reciprocate.

3 – Knock knock! Who’s there? Not the Mariners offense! Only 6 hits against Scott Sanderson, and a 2-run error by Bill Swift dooms the visitors tonight. A’s 7-2

4 – Scott Bankhead records only his 2nd start with fewer than 4 runs allowed, and it couldn’t have been timed better. The offense can only muster 3 runs, but Buhner’s 2-run single in the 5th provides the difference. Mariners 3-1

Jeffrey Leonard will get a day off tomorrow. He’ll be replaced by Greg Briley.

5 – Junior breaks a 2-2 tie with a clutch solo shot to lead off the 9th. Despite getting only 4 hits, the Mariners get the win before the off day. Mariners 3-2

6 – DAY OFF

‘Hackman’ will be back in left field tomorrow night.

*

How’s this for good publicity?

http://img262.imageshack.us/img262/9781/si50790yn6.jpg

Junior on the cover of Sports Illustrated, hitting newsstands tomorrow. Can’t get much better than that…

*

Kansas City (16-14) at Seattle (15-16)

7 - ‘The Big Unit’ was dealing, and the Royals bore the brunt of his aggression. Randy struck out 10 Kansas City batters, winning his 3rd game of the year thanks to a 5-run rally by the bottom of the order in the 6th inning. Mariners 6-2

8 – Can you say ‘slumpbuster’? Alvin Davis hopes so. Trailing by 2 runs entering the bottom of the 9th, the Mariners stage a frantic comeback, scoring twice with two outs, setting the stage for Mr. Mariner’s 3-run walk-off home run. Mariners 7-4

9 – This team is starting to develop a habit of winning ballgames in their last at-bats. So long as we’re winning. Again trailing by 2 runs, the Mariners use 3 doubles and an intentional walk to take the lead in the bottom of the 8th. Mariners 4-3

Seattle (18-16) at California (17-16)

The Mariners and their 5-game winning streak hit the road again, making a short pit stop at Disneyland before heading to Anaheim Stadium.

10 – Both teams manage only 6 hits, but the Mariners are able to string 4 together in the 3rd inning, scoring 3 times. That’s more than enough for Scott Bankhead, who goes 8 innings, allowing only 1 run and striking out 5. Mariners 3-1

11 – A real heartbreaker, especially after tying the game up in the top of the 9th. Jackson can’t quite extend the game, allowing the winning run in walk-off fashion, ending the Mariners’ 6-game winning streak. Angels 7-6

Jeffrey Leonard will sit out tomorrow with a bout of migraine headaches. Briley will be subbed into the starting lineup, and the batting order will be juggled.

12 – Randy Johnson was phenomenal, striking out 13 Angels batters over 8 innings of work, allowing only 1 run on 5 hits in the process. Omar and Junior’s back-to-back doubles in the 3rd inning are enough offense for the day. Mariners 2-1

‘Hackman’ is back.

13 – DAY OFF

Seattle (20-17) at Chicago (20-17)

While Oakland is looking over their shoulder, they’ll see the 2 teams immediately chasing them squaring off in the South Side today. If all goes well for the defending champs, they’ll see us destroy each other. Worst case scenario for the Bash Brothers and company? A Mariner (or White Sox) sweep.

14 – Ron Kittle grand slams his way into White Sox lore, as the Mariners can only manage a single run on Coles’ solo shot. White Sox 10-1

15 – Melido Perez records his AL-best 7th win of the year, holding the Mariners offense to 1 run over 7.2 innings. Alvin Davis continues to climb away from the Mendoza line, hitting his 5th homer of the year. White Sox 4-2

16 – A 5-0 lead couldn’t hold, as the White Sox scored 8 of the last 9 runs, using back-to-back home runs by Kittle and Fisk to come from behind and sweep the Mariners at Comiskey. White Sox 8-6

...continued

MID-MAY REPORT

http://img141.imageshack.us/img141/8194/19900515ny2.jpg

MILESTONES
5/2 – Royals CF Willie Wilson: 600th steal
5/2 – Blue Jays CF Mookie Wilson: 300th steal
5/9 – Rangers RF Harold Baines: Hit for cycle

EXTENSIONS
5/10 – SP Tim Belcher (LA)

MAJOR INJURIES
5/1 – Yankees LF Luis Polonia out for the season (broken wrist)
5/3 – Cubs 1B Mark Grace out 3 weeks (stretched knee ligaments)
5/3 – Indians 1B Jim Thome out 2 weeks (dislocated shoulder)
5/7 – Royals SP Mark Gubicza out 2 weeks (broken hand)
5/8 – Braves 3B Ron Gant out 3 weeks (broken ankle)
5/13 – Cubs SS Shawon Dunston out 2 weeks (broken finger)
5/14 – Brewers CF Robin Yount out 5 weeks (dislocated hip)
5/14 – Rangers CF Juan Gonzalez out for the season (Tommy John surgery)
5/15 – Phillies RF Von Hayes out 6 weeks (broken collarbone)
5/16 – Tigers CF Lloyd Moseby out 2 weeks (sprained thumb)

TRADES
5/6 – Red Sox trade RP Lee Smith to Pirates for RF R.J. Reynolds, RP Ted Power, C Mike LaValliere, and 2B Wally Backman

A trade of need for 2 first place teams. The Red Sox needed a right fielder with the season-ending injury to Dwight Evans. They get that, as well as a 4th starter, a backup catcher and a utility player. The Pirates, get rid of some excess salary while acquiring a true closer.

5/7 – Red Sox trade RP Josias Manzanillo to Rangers for RP Steve Fireovid and SP Dan Smith

No idea, but if the Sox want to fritter their prospects away for a washed-up reliever, it's their prerogative...

RETIREMENTS
5/7 – RP Paul Mirabelli (36)
5/7 – 1B Rick Lancellotti (33)
5/14 – CF Nick Capra (32)

13. How to Recognize Different Types of Trees from Quite a Long Way Away…

Fay Vincent leaned on the door of his BMW, checking his watch repeatedly. ‘What the h*** am I, the Commissioner of Baseball, doing in this parking garage anyways?’, he thought to himself. He was told by one of his aides that the Commissioner of the Nippon Pro Baseball league was to meet him in this deserted parking garage. ‘Those crazy Japanese, always meeting in clandestine’.

He began to walk around, moving away from his car and towards the elevator. ‘Well, maybe I have the wrong floor. It wouldn’t be the first time.’

*CRASH*

Vincent spun around: “Hello? Anyone there?”

No answer.

‘What a peculiar sound. Almost like a rock through the window of…my car!”

He raced back to his BMW, finding the windshield shattered all over the hood and front seat. Sure enough, there was a rock, and attached was a note.

Code:

---

Fay -

I’m sorry it had to end like this all good things come to an end.

---

(tick tick tick tick tick tick tick)

Code:

---

You and I go way back, and you know me better than anyone.
I would never have done this to you out of my own free will.

---

(tick tick tick tick)

Code:

---

Goodbye Fay.

---

(tick tick)

Code:

---

Your friend,

---

BOOM

The parking garage shook with the explosion. Fire and rescue personnel arrived on the scene as soon as they could, but they could find no evidence of any one inside the building when the ‘electrical fire/gas leak’ combination incinerated the 3rd floor of the garage.

*

Ed’s. Note: Fortunately, my friends, you and I know that there was someone on the 3rd floor: a very important person in the life of Will Kane. I’ll provide more insight later, but first, we turn back to the season…

A short update to whet your appetite (and keep this on the front page :D)


14. May, Part II

California (20-19) at Seattle (20-20)

The Angels make their second trip to the Kingdome this season. We took 2 of 3 from our foes from down the coast, hopefully we can do that (or better) this time around.

17 – Bert Blyleven recaptures some of the magic of his glory days, tossing a 2-hit shutout. Big thanks to Omar Vizquel and Jeffrey Leonard for keeping the no-hitter away from Blyleven. Angels 4-0

18 – At least we’re moving in the right direction: we score 1 run and notch 3 hits in another loss, as Mark Langston tosses 8 shutout innings. Angels 2-1

Jay Buhner will miss the next few games with a mild concussion after getting hit by a pitch. Greg Briley takes over in right.

19 – Every starter (on both teams) recorded a hit in this veritable cornucopia of hitting. Unfortunately, the Angels rallied from a 3-0 deficit, then managed to hold off 3 successive Mariner rallies for the sweep. Angels 9-7

Jeffrey Leonard will miss the next few days with a sore rib. Henry Cotto will step in for him.

An apology:

I'm sorry I haven't really been around these parts lately. I've rediscovered my love of console gaming, having played nearly a decade with an NCAA Football 08 dynasty. That is when I've had power. The recent icestorm that hit Massachusetts has left me without power for the last week.

The good thing: it gave me a renewed appreciation for our pioneers.

The bad thing: I started going into computer withdrawal.

Thankfully, the juice is back on. Which means that this dynasty is too!

Oh, by the way:

Anyone want a prospect in this year's draft? I've already added RSR's player (remember Dick Head? :D), and was wondering if you readers wanted to get your fingerprints all over this thing.

Just let me know here or shoot me a PM.

BASEBALL PLAYERS WANTED!!!

Have you ever dreamed of playing in the Major Leagues, but weren't good enough? Do you spend waaaay too much time on a computer? Can you think of any more questions? Then this is the opportunity for you!

This universe is currently looking for prospects to add to the 1990 Amateur Draft, and you could be one of them! Just complete the following form and send it to me - PotatoOfCouch13 - right here on this thread or via PM. Act now, because this offer stands for only a limited time!


Name:
Position:
Birthdate:
Place of Birth:
Height:
Weight:
Age (as of 1990): please try to keep the number below 21, as these are draft picks
Bats/Throws:

List both peak and draft-day ratings please
Health:
Best skill:
Worst skill:
Additional info:

Can I have two players? :D:)

Name:Menthol Ethanol
Position: C
Birthdate: 1970
Place of Birth:Ho Chi Min City, Vietnam
Height: 6'7"
Weight:145
Age (as of 1990):20
Bats/Throws: R/L

Overall:65
Peak: 96
Health:95
Best skill: Awesome Glove, Amazing arm, and a bat that will hit .280 with 15 or more HR. Only an average eye
Worst skill: An averagish eye, VERY slow, can only play catcher, bad personality
Additional info: VERY aggressive... Keep that in mind


It is ok if you don't want me to have 2 players

Ok here's mine

Name: Andy Popeck
Position: 2B, IF
Birthdate: 1972
Place of Birth: Abington, PA, USA
Height: 6'4"
Weight: 198
Age: 18 (as of '90)
Bats/Throws: R/R

Overall: 68
Peak: 93
Health: 90
Best skill: Awesome power, at least 30 homeruns a year with about 20 stolen bases, good eye. Good fielder
Worst Skill: Bad contact, strikes out a lot, has a criminal record
Additonal info: Parties too much

Name: Brian Nichols
Position:SP
Birthdate: May 7th, 1972
Place of Birth: Somewhere in NE US (Im Canadian so pick a spot)
Height: 6'3
Weight: 205
Age (as of 1990): 19
Bats/Throws: L/L

Draft-Day Rating: 57
Peak: 92
Health: 87
Best skill: Great control, high endurance. Easy to get along with.
Worst skill: Not a strikeout pitcher, tends to lose confidence in high pressure situations, lessening his effectiveness.
Additional info: Refers to himself in the 3rd person.

RSR: I don't mind. Just something more to occupy my time!

phillies: Sweet, thanks!

BravesFan: Thanks! And welcome! Let the record show that you were contributing to a dynasty on your first post in this section. That's better than some of the regulars! :D By the way, I made your CP from Cooperstown, hope that's NE enough for you!

Here are the CPs that you guys wanted. Let me know if you want anything changed about them. I tried as best I could to get them to your specs, so let me know if anything is amiss.

http://img101.imageshack.us/img101/1...ospectstg5.jpg

If its not too late:

Name: Marcus "Bacon" Xavier
Position: P
Birthdate: 1/11/74
Place of Birth: Baltimore, MD
Height: 5'10"
Weight: 160
Age (as of 1990): 16
Bats/Throws: S/R

Overall: 55
Peak: 89
Health: Injured often, but only minor stuff, never major problems. (79)
Best skill: Control pitcher with excellent movement. Decent hitter.
Worst skill: Power pitching.
Additional info: TOO competitive- will get blown out if one or two runs is scored against him early.

Oriole: Not too late! How's this?

http://img187.imageshack.us/img187/9...sxavierwt0.jpg

*

Thanks to the 5 of you that got in players! That's all I'll be doing this year, but please, there will be future drafts, so keep those prospects ready!

15. May, Part III

Man, it seems like forever since I’ve sat behind this desk!

One of the guys down in the mailroom tried to turn me onto some new music: some band named ‘Soundgarden’ released an album last week. Naturally, being an open and inquisitive mind, I listened to a few minutes of it. The verdict? Still unsure. This ‘grunge’ music thing has really started to take over Seattle, but it seems a little depressing for my tastes. Why not convert some of that energy into positive things, like watching the Mariners?

Oh wait, that might worsen everything…

Seattle (20-23) at Oakland (26-16)

The AL’s coldest team (L6) hits the road to take on the AL’s hottest team (W5). What’s the worst that could happen? Only everything. Hopefully we don’t leave our bats, gloves, and arms at the Kingdome. Or wherever the h*** we left them (Anaheim, maybe?).

20 – Good news: we put up 9 runs, the most we’ve scored in 3 weeks. Bad news: Mark McGwire and Jose Canseco hit home run #19 and 17, respectively, to help the A’s to 15 runs. A’s 15-9

Jay Buhner is healthy, and will return to right field.

21 – Bad news: our pitching staff allows 4 home runs. Good news: um…Junior got 2 hits? Not really a lot to get excited about in our 8th straight loss. A’s 11-3

Jeffrey Leonard is healthy, and will return to left field.

22 – A win? Against Oakland in their building? Must’ve come in extreme circumstances. Sure enough, Jay Buhner’s 2nd home run of the night caps a 6-run 12th inning, giving the Mariners the extra-inning win. Mariners 11-6 (12)

Mike Schooler will miss a few days with a sore arm. The rest of the bullpen will have to shoulder the load (with their ‘success’, I’m very uneasy about this).

23 – DAY OFF

Minnesota (19-27) at Seattle (21-25)

The 2 worst teams in the AL West meet up in Seattle. Now I see why grunge is so popular around here. With draws like the Twins coming to town, I’m beginning to feel depressed after looking at our financials.

24 – Randy Johnson pitches 7 strong innings, and despite the bullpen adventures, earns his team-leading 5th win of the season. Harold and Omar went 5-9 with 3 R from the top 2 spots in the order. Mariners 6-4

25 – An early candidate for Game of the Year. The Twins got on the board early, and after 6 innings, they were leading 5-0. The Mariners chipped away, getting to within one run. Trailing 5-4 entering the bottom of the 9th inning, the Mariners tried to complete their comeback. Darnell Coles hit a leadoff homer, tying the game. With 2 outs, Omar Vizquel singled past the outstretched glove of Paul Sorrento down the right field line, scoring Dave Valle with the winning run. Great performance by the bullpen in the victory (0 R in 3.1 IP). Mariners 6-5

26 – Memo to self: petition Major League Baseball to see if we can’t get a schedule exemption. We seem to have lots of luck playing the Twins, might as well try and get all 162 against them. The Mariners tally 16 hits, including 7 doubles, en route to a thumping in the series finale. First series sweep in over 2 weeks. Also, the bullpen extended its scoreless innings streak to 5.1; this has to be a team record or something… Mariners 8-4

California (27-21) at Seattle (24-25)

If we play our cards right, the AL West could have 6 teams .500 or better by next week. Of course, that’s hard to do against the 2nd-best team in the division. Hopefully the fans come out for a big 4-game series.

27 – An unearned run in the 1st inning is all the Mariners need, as Scott Bankhead shuts out the Angels for 8 innings, and the bullpen does the rest. Ken Griffey, Jr. hit his 7th home run in the win. Mariners 3-0

Amazingly enough, the bullpen has gone 6.1 consecutive innings without allowing a run. Mike Schooler is back to 100%, so that means we get a little bit deeper. Perhaps the season is turning around?

28 – Junior’s error allows the go-ahead run to score in the top of the 8th, pinning Erik Hanson with a tough-luck loss. The only consolation? The bullpen extends their streak to 7.2 straight scoreless innings. Angels 3-2

29 – In a battle of power lefties, Randy Johnson completely outpitched Mark Langston, striking out 11 over 8 shutout innings. Mike Schooler does the rest, keeping the bullpen unscored upon for their 8.2 innings. Batterymate Dave Valle drives in 4 runs. Mariners 6-0

Darnell Coles needs a day off. Some lineup juggling affords us that opportunity, with Henry Cotto starting in left field.

30 – Brian Holman and the offense are ‘good enough’, scoring 5 while holding the Angels to 4. The bullpen is exemplary again, extending their streak to 10.1 consecutive innings without surrendering a run. Mariners 5-4

Jay Buhner will need a few days off with a sore hip. Enter Greg Briley into right field, as Darnell returns to the starting lineup.

Seattle (27-26) at Kansas City (26-27)

You know how I said the AL West could have 6 teams .500 or better? Well, the Royals had to screw everything up and get swept. So now there are only 5, and we have to beat the Royals to prevent 6.

On a side note, this will be my first trip to Kansas City in almost 2 years. It will be interesting, returning to the scene of the crime, so to speak…

31 – Another Game of the Year candidate. Bill Swift pitched admirably, allowing only 3 runs over 8 innings. Mark Gubicza, however, pitched better, giving up 1 run in the same duration. So the Mariners entered the top of the 9th trailing 3-1, and with closer Jeff Montgomery staring them down. However, the deficit would be erased, thanks to Edgar’s double, and Greg Briley’s home run. With the score even, Montgomery tried to regain composure, sandwiching a single between a strikeout and a sac bunt. Darnell Coles proved the hero today, though, singling up the middle to break the tie. Junior followed with his team-leading 8th home run of the season to give the visitors a 3-run cushion. That was more than enough for Mike Schooler, who recorded his 11th save with a 1-2-3 inning. Mariners 6-3

MAY RECAP

STANDINGS

Code:

---

AL WEST
Oakland                34-20        -
Chicago                30-24        4
Texas                29-25        5
California        28-25        5.5
Seattle                28-26        6
Kansas City        26-28        8
Minnesota        21-33        13

AL EAST
Milwaukee        30-24        -
Boston                27-27        3
New York        27-27        3
Baltimore        26-28        4
Toronto                25-28        4.5
Cleveland        24-29        5.5
Detroit                22-33        8.5

NL WEST
Houston                31-25        -
San Francisco        29-25        1
San Diego        28-27        2.5
Los Angeles        27-28        3.5
Cincinnati        28-30        4
Atlanta                24-28        5

NL EAST
St. Louis        30-26        -       
Chicago                29-26        .5
Pittsburgh        28-28        2
Montreal        26-27        2.5
New York        27-29        3
Philadelphia        23-31        6

---

LEAGUE LEADERS
AMERICAN LEAGUE

Code:

---

BATTING AVERAGE       
Wally Joyner (CAL)        .393
Dion James (CLE)        .373
Jim Eisenreich (KC)        .358
       
HOME RUNS       
Mark McGwire (OAK)        26
Jose Canseco (OAK)        18
Randy Bush (MIN)        17
       
RUNS BATTED IN       
Jose Canseco (OAK)        59
Mark McGwire (OAK)        58
Ellis Burks (BOS)        57
       
STOLEN BASES       
Rickey Henderson (OAK)        23
Alex Cole (CLE)                20
3 tied with                19
       
WINS       
Mike Moore (OAK)        9
Teddy Higuera (MIL)        8
Scott Sanderson (OAK)        8
       
ERA       
Bert Blyleven (CAL)        2.26
Roger Clemens (BOS)        2.56
Kevin Brown (TEX)        2.95
       
STRIKEOUTS       
Randy Johnson (SEA)        85
Nolan Ryan (TEX)        84
Curt Schilling (BAL)        80
       
SAVES       
Bobby Thigpen (CHW)        12
Doug Jones (CLE)        11
Jeff Montgomery (KC)        11
Mike Schooler (SEA)        11

---

NATIONAL LEAGUE

Code:

---

BATTING AVERAGE       
Gregg Jefferies (NYM)        .371
Paul O'Neill (CIN)        .365
Lonnie Smith (ATL)        .363
Eric Davis (CIN)        .363
       
HOME RUNS       
Matt Williams (SF)        20
5 tied with        14
       
RUNS BATTED IN       
Matt Williams (SF)        58
Jack Clark (SD)                54
Craig Biggio (HOU)        51
       
STOLEN BASES       
Vince Coleman (STL)        32
Gerald Young (HOU)        29
Ozzie Smith (STL)        24
       
WINS       
Ken Hill (STL)                8
4 tied with                7
       
ERA       
Mike Scott (HOU)        1.91
Atlee Hammaker (SF)        2.36
John Smoltz (ATL)        2.90
       
STRIKEOUTS       
John Smoltz (ATL)        91
Greg Maddux (CHC)        86
Jose Rijo (CIN)                73
Bruce Hurst (SD)        73
       
SAVES       
Billy Wagner (HOU)        17
John Wetteland (LAD)        14
Todd Worrell (STL)        14

---

MARINERS STATS
http://img187.imageshack.us/img187/9536/19900531ks5.jpg

MILESTONES
5/19 - Giants SP Rick Reuschel: 2000th strikeout
5/23 – Cardinals LF Vince Coleman: 500th steal

EXTENSIONS
5/19 – 1B Cecil Fielder (DET)
5/28 – C Mickey Tettleton (BAL)

MAJOR INJURIES
5/17 – Rangers SP Bobby Witt out 1 month (broken collarbone)
5/18 – Tigers RF Chet Lemon out 1 month (broken wrist)
5/24 – Mets SP Sid Fernandez out 2 weeks (stretched ligaments)
5/28 – Mets 3B Howard Johnson out 4 weeks (broken wrist)
5/30 – Cubs RF Andre Dawson out 2 weeks (broken finger)

TRADES
5/30 – Twins trade LF Dan Gladden to Cardinals for RP Howard Hilton

A straight salary dump. I allowed it because Gladden is in the final year of his contract, and the Twins are the worst team in baseball.

REVERSED 5/21 - Pirates trade CF Andy Van Slyke, RP Lee Smith, and SS Rafael Belliard to Braves for 1B Nick Esasky, RF Geronimo Berroa, C Kelly Mann, and SP Ben Rivera.

Maybe later, when one of these teams is out of contention. With both of them with 5 games of the division lead, I just couldn’t allow it to go through. The Braves already have Dale Murphy in center, and Andres Thomas is hitting over .300. The Pirates have a plethora of young catchers in their system, and Jeff King is hitting over .350 at first base.

RETIREMENTS
5/25 – LF Warren Cromartie (36)
5/25 – RP Mark Ross (32)

The player's Great. Great Dynasty, too.

oriole8: Glad you like it! It's always great to keep my constituency happy! :D Hope to keep you as a reader.

*

16. ‘Tiger’

As he waited for Paul Stanley, Tiger nervously sat on a bench in Central Park. It was a beautiful day, maybe a little cool for early June, but there wasn’t a cloud in the sky. Perfect baseball weather, he thought to himself.

*

Paul Stanley made his way from the subway through Central Park. He knew some sort of foul play was involved when Commissioner Vincent’s ‘disappearance’ happened. Police were combing the New York area for any leads, but nothing had been found.

He saw Tiger sitting on the bench. Tiger stood to greet him.

“C’mon, we’ve got to walk and talk.”

*

As he had done last time, Tiger told Paul a lot. But not entirely what he wanted to hear. “So what happened with Vincent?”

Tiger froze. “What do you mean?”

“I know he disappeared, but that seems a little fishy to me. What happened?”

“Off the record.” Stanley nodded, but kept his tape player recording.

“He’s gone. In the electrical fire that hit the parking garage a few weeks ago. The Board organized the whole thing.”

“But why? Why would the Board want to do that?”

“You’re really a football man, if you don’t know that. Vincent and some of the Board’s senior members absolutely despise each other. After meeting with some members, and discussing philosophy of the advancement of the game, it was determined that he was not the best choice as commissioner. Same thing for Giamatti.”

“So wait, the Board’s just been killing off commissioners until it gets one that suits its needs?”

“Precisely. I vehemently objected to it, but the higher-ups…” Tiger’s voice trailed off.

“So why me? Why did you call me to tell me these things?”

“2 reasons: one, you’re a football writer, not always the most obvious choice in case we get found out; two, you’re from Seattle, meaning you can get close to Will Kane.”

“What does he have to do with all this?”

“I worked closely with him in Kansas City. He’s the one the prophecy foretold of. He has the ability to restore the game to its former glory. I need eyes out there so I can make sure he survives.”

“Survives what?”

Tiger started to walk away. “I’ll tell you next month. June 17. Kansas City. The Stockyards.”

17. June, Part I

Seattle (28-26) at Kansas City (26-28)

1 – Good news: the bullpen extends its scoreless streak to 11.2 consecutive innings. Bad news, we’re already down 3-0, thanks to a home run by Orestes Destrade, when the bullpen gets into the game. Royals 3-0

2 – The streak is ended at 14.1 innings, and then the floodgates open, as the Royals tag on 6 runs to our demoralized bullpen. Royals 14-8

What do you know? 6 teams in the AL West have a record of .500 or better

Jay Buhner is ready to return to right field

3 – DAY OFF

I'ma just post my guy here for the 1991 draft so I don't forget. Okay, POC? :)


Name: Will Thompson
Position: LF
Birthdate: 12/21/74
Place of Birth: Seattle, Washington
Height: 6'7"
Weight: 260 Lb.
Age (as of 1991): 16
Bats/Throws: R/L
Overall: 67
Peak: 92
Health: 86
Best skill: Power, glove, speed.
Worst skill: Contact, eye
Additional info: The most preferred stats for him at peak would be ~ .270/.340-.350/.610.

Me Too, I Can Book Me for the 1991 MLB Draft

Name: Kevin Cude
Position: 2B
Birthdate: 04/07/1971
Place of Birth: San Jose, California
Height: 6'1"
Weight: 183
Age (as of 1991): 20
Bats/Throws: R/R
Overall: 71
Peak: 83
Health: 89
Best skill: Power, glove, contact.
Worst skill: Eye, Speed

Coach & AF2k8: Thanks! You guys are all set for 1991 (that is, when I'm able to edit the prospects). I'll either post your prospects here or shoot you PMs so you can give the final approval on your creations when I get to next April in my sim.

And, as always, thanks for reading!

*

18. Feeling a Draft

I sat at the head of the conference table. The Draft was scheduled to begin in a half-hour, and I had gathered all the decision-making personnel around the table. I had invited Jeff as well, but he hadn’t shown up yet. With 9 of the 10 chairs set up around the table occupied, it looked as though all hands were on deck for this momentous day: it would be my first time leading a draft.

Back when I was in Kansas City, the draft was always an exciting time. It marked a new start, a new era, a new beginning for both teams and players alike. Hopefully the other 9 individuals (scheduled to be) here shared those feelings.

In the room:
- Myself: Will Kane, General Manager
– Danny Blackstone, assistant to the GM
- J.R. Thompson, Assistant GM
- Eddie (Big E) Earley, VP of Player Personnel
- Carlos Velacruz, VP of International Scouting
- Nick Powers, Director of Amateur Scouting
- Tim Jacobson, Assistant Director of Amateur Scouting
- Lance Butler, Director of Player Development
- Julio Cruz, Mariners Bench Coach
- Jeff Smulyan (hopefully), Principal Owner

*

I began the meeting with a quick speech.

“Alright, thanks again to all of you for being here. I just want to remind you all that the draft this year is only 6 rounds long. So if you have any hidden gems, that you’re keeping for later rounds, let’s hear them!” (nervous laughter) “Just kidding, let’s go out there and have fun doing this. Carlos, I know there are several marquee players from overseas available…”

“Si. You have the usual influx of foreign-born players who emigrated to the United States. Guys like [Manny] Ramirez, they’re easy to gauge because they have documentable stats. Then you have the Japanese players; guys like [Akinori] Otsuka and [Tsuyoshi] Shinjo. Again, not that difficult to project. However, this year there are some obscure players. 2 of the top catching prospects are overseas.”

“Where? Venezuela, Argentina, England?” Lance Butler asked.

“Vietnam and Cote d’Ivoire. The Ivoirian is a prince, as a matter of fact. I’m not sure about the other one, Cambodia or something Asian, but he’s a good prospect.”

“Thanks Carlos.” I turned to the other side of the table. “Nick and Tim, what do you guys have for us stateside?”

“Nothing out of the ordinary.” Nick began, as Tim just nodded along. “This year may be a little deeper in terms of overall talent than normal, especially behind the plate. If we aren’t sold on Widger, we might want to grab a catcher today. Aside from that, pitching is deep, and the middle infield looks to have some talent as well.”

“Great. Anyone else have anything?”

Big E raised his hand. “Remember, no outfielders, unless it’s a special circumstance. We have plenty of young talent down on the farm.” I loved that he left that exception; we were looking forward to having Manny Ramirez available for us when our pick rolled around...

“Alright. Take 15 minutes, and meet me back here, we’ll dial into New York then.”

*

Hey, POC, you should have the M's hire Zduriencik.

Coach: What, am I doing a bad job!? It's been 2 months! Let me finish the season first! :D I am under contract through the 1992 season, so you'll have to deal with me for a few more years in Seattle. As for Zduriencik, he is a scout in the Mets system, so I could bring him over in a similar role.

*

...continued

Everyone stood up to leave, but the door suddenly swung open. Immediately, the odor of stale beer filled the room sending everyone scrambling for the door, which was inconveniently blocked by a hung-over owner: Jeff.

“Welcome to the party, Jeff!” I started. “I see you’ve already started without us…”

“Don’t talk like that to me, you wisea**! Remember who your boss is!” Jeff tended to be an angry drunk, and today was no exception. “Now everyone listen up! I’m going to be sleeping this off. So nobody make any loud noises or your fired! Got that?”

Everyone nodded. Jeff nodded back as he closed the door to his office.

I turned to Danny: “Does this happen often?”

“About once a year, right around the draft. No one really has any idea why, we just stay out of his way.”

I nodded, then turned back to the scouting reports, scanning over them for the last time.

*

“Welcome to the 1990 MLB Amateur Draft. Detroit is on the clock.” We were picking 6th.

The War Room was abuzz with activity, with several scouts going over their reports, hoping to find the smallest detail that would favor one prospect over another. I had run through several scenarios in my head; all of which ended with us getting screwed. I only hoped to have Manny Ramirez fall to us. He was the one player that I coveted the most. Pairing a potential 40-home run guy with Junior and Edgar? Try and pitch around that.

“The Detroit Tigers have selected…SP Erik Hiljus from Panorama City, CA."

Good news for us. Hiljus was way down on our board. Maybe we can pull this off after all…

“The Atlanta Braves have selected…3B Larry Jones from DeLand, FL.”

Not great for us, but my mentor, John Schuerholz still knows how to draft! Of course, it helps when you’re drafting near the top.

“The Philadelphia Phillies have selected…C Mike Lieberthal from Glendale, CA.”

Another good pick for us. Lieberthal wasn’t the best catcher on our board. He was in the Top 5, but I’m not sure where. Spirits are high in the War Room.

“The Chicago White Sox have selected…OF…”

We held our breath, hoping that Manny would still be available.

“Shawn Green from Des Plaines, IL.”

Whew! Now we have to survive just one more pick before it’s our turn to pick up a cornerstone corner outfielder! C’mon Cleveland! Do your native son this one favor!

“The Cleveland Indians have selected…”

“OF…”

“Mierda!” Julio Cruz’s exclamation foretold the story.

“…Manny Ramirez from Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic.”

“Okay boys, now we definitely won’t be taking outfielders. Danny, who are the best players left?”

“Pitchers: Benitez, Otsuka, Pettitte, Nichols, Xavier. Catchers: LoDuca, Varitek, Diaz, Royale, Ethanol. Position players: Delgado, Popeck, Mora, Head, and Graffinino.”

“Any recommendations?”

“Stay away from Delgado, we already have enough talent at 1st base”, Big E chimed in. “Graffinino I’m hesitant about as well. I honestly think we need a catcher.”

“Not so fast, amigo.” Julio Cruz interjected. “We need 3rd basemen. Yes, Darnell is playing well, but what’s the long-term solution there? Edgar?”

“It’s obvious our biggest weakness is pitching, so why not address that?” J.R. mused out loud.

I stood in the corner of the room for a minute. “Danny, what do you think?”

My assistant look stunned. “Well, I feel that without a backbone, a being cannot stand. Therefore, we’ll need a catcher, as that’s the weakest position on the team that can’t be upgraded from within. I’ve heard some great things about Varitek…”

“Nick, what’s your report on Varitek say?”

“Let’s see…switch hitter, great at calling a game, plus power for his position, not the strongest arm, batting eye will come.”

“Any objections?” Nobody said a word.

“Alright, call it in.”

The Seattle Mariners selected C Jason Varitek with the 6th pick of the 1990 MLB Draft.

Scouting is +/- 9

Rd. 1, Pick 6: selected C Jason Varitek [18] (68)
Scouting Report: Great game-caller. Solid arm strength and a good fielder. Very durable, never missed a start in high school. Good eye, and power; contact should come with time. A great all-around catching prospect, the likes of Bob Boone or Tony Pena.

Rd. 2, Pick 32: selected 3B Chase Sanford. [18] (65)
Scouting Report: Raw, but with good potential. Good bat control, but everything else may have to come with seasoning. A solid option at third base, a la Chris Sabo.

Rd. 3, Pick 58: selected SP Mike Hampton. [17] (55)
Scouting Report: Power lefty pitcher. Has good fastball, developing change, slider, and curve. Control and movement will need to come with time. Not a great ace, but could be a solid #2, think a faster Jimmy Key.

Rd. 4, Pick 84: selected SP Jose Armero. [16] (50)
Scouting Report: Young, raw, and talented. Can hit 93 on the radar, with a devastating sinking slider. Projected to be similar to Dan Petry, but with a higher ceiling.

Rd. 5, Pick 110: selected SP Cory Lidle. [18] (49)
Scouting Report: Somewhat of a late bloomer. Has 5 pitches, all of which he throws with similar efficiency. Will require a lot of seasoning. Has future as a 5th starter/long relief pitcher.

Rd. 6, Pick 136: selected SS Lawrence Hancock. [18] (53)
Scouting Report: Not outstanding at anything, but could be a solid middle infielder.

CREATED PLAYERS
2B Andy Popeck – drafted #9 to Cincinnati Reds
C J.T. Royale – drafted #17 to St. Louis Cardinals
SS Dick Head – drafted #19 to New York Mets
SP Brian Nichols – drafted #24 to Chicago Cubs
C Methanol Ethanol – drafted #30 to Chicago White Sox
SP Marcus Xavier – drafted #134 to Chicago White Sox

Should've drafted Royale, oh well when the Cards are World Champs you'll be sorry :D

Just please don't, if you're a contender later, don't trade Varitek for Heathcliff Slocumb! :D

BigBomber: I really did want to draft one of you guys. I tried to step back and make it as realistic as possible. I could've used a 2Bman, but I have Reynolds there now, and Bret Boone and Fernando Vina waiting in the wings. I've got a lot of pitchers, so I think I'm good there. I have Omar at SS for the foreseeable future, so I'm good there. So that left me at catcher, which I wanted to solidify. And honestly, I'll take the kid from America over the kids from Cote d'Ivoire and Vietnam!

Coach Owens: The only way I'll do that is if I'm trading to the Red Sox, and I can throw in Derek Lowe! :D

*

First, I'd like to extend a Happy New Year greeting to you and your loved ones. I wish you all good health, good cheer, and good luck in 2009!

With the new year, I'll start with a 'clean slate'. After the middle of the month of June (dynasty wise), I'll update to version 11.25. Just letting you all know if you start to see drastically different numbers...it's not my fault! :D

Quote:

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Originally Posted by PotatoOfCouch13

BigBomber: I really did want to draft one of you guys. I tried to step back and make it as realistic as possible. I could've used a 2Bman, but I have Reynolds there now, and Bret Boone and Fernando Vina waiting in the wings. I've got a lot of pitchers, so I think I'm good there. I have Omar at SS for the foreseeable future, so I'm good there. So that left me at catcher, which I wanted to solidify. And honestly, I'll take the kid from America over the kids from Cote d'Ivoire and Vietnam!

Coach Owens: The only way I'll do that is if I'm trading to the Red Sox, and I can throw in Derek Lowe! :D

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First, I'd like to extend a Happy New Year greeting to you and your loved ones. I wish you all good health, good cheer, and good luck in 2009!

With the new year, I'll start with a 'clean slate'. After the middle of the month of June (dynasty wise), I'll update to version 11.25. Just letting you all know if you start to see drastically different numbers...it's not my fault! :D

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He is the only player who you would have been allowed to draft over Ethanol :p. Which, on that note, why must he be a White Sox?:(:eek:

Oh and POC? You're going to try and make sure that the CPU teams treat the created players well, let them develop and such, right?

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Coach Owens

Oh and POC? You're going to try and make sure that the CPU teams treat the created players well, let them develop and such, right?

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I have... people to make sure they will be :D

RSR, Coach: You can rest assured that I am making every effort possible to ensure the success of the created prospects. However, if they happen to fall on their face, so it is. I set everyone's potential and decline to average, so we'll see how that works.

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19. The Board

Tiger made his way through the streets of Harlem, walking quickly on the warm summer night. He made his way to the subway, and hopped on the 4 train southbound.

It had been a long time since he had ridden on the subway. He was so used to riding in taxis, or being chauffeured from place to place. The subway was dingy, smelly, and probably filled with people that would rather stab him than look at him. A well-to-do middle-aged white man? Just another target for a posse of teenage gangbangers.

*

This time was uneventful, and after riding on the 4 for about 25 minutes, he stepped off at Atlantic Avenue, made his way up a level, and then jumped on the Q train southbound. 2 stops later, he got off, checking to make sure no one had followed him; no one had. He came up at Prospect Park, a beautiful expanse of land right in the middle of Brooklyn. Maybe later, when I don’t have people to meet; he scowled, then turned east onto Ocean, across Washington, one block on Empire, then a left onto McKeever. It was only one block until McKeever met up with Sullivan. Facing him on the corner was an apartment complex. He sighed; it didn’t used to be like this, he thought, as he crossed over to the complex.

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On a completely unrelated note, I'd like to thank BINGLEBOP for getting smudge marks all over my computer screen: everytime I see that fly in his signature, I think it's the real deal and go to squish it, only to remember (too late) that it's only a picture.

With a cleaned screen, on we go!

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…continued

Tiger couldn’t get in the front door: he didn’t live here. He knew the protocol: walk around the block, a full lap, before doing another half-lap to the corner of Bedford and Montgomery. From there, knock 3 times at the service entrance, each knock rising in height, from the bottom of the door to eye-level. Flash the security camera the fake ID, then make your way down to the basement. Tip the room service ladies, then to the underground meeting hall.

Legend states that the hall was once used as a clubhouse for young men, who got together to engage in sport. This was a long time ago, and both of the places that existed in New York had long since been vacated at destroyed. However, Major League Baseball had enough pull to convince the lot’s new owners to keep the underground meeting area, as a backup option/bomb shelter.

Baseball had long since forgotten about the underground lair beneath this apartment complex. The Board, however, had not. There were already several members gathered around a long, wooden table. The men exchanged formalities, and Tiger turned to the balding man at the head of the table.

“Sir, you wanted to see me?”

The balding man smiled a wry grin, as he finished his drink. “Yes, as a matter of fact I did. I wanted to commend you on the job you did last month. It certainly must’ve been difficult to throw a friend under the bus like that, but you proved to us that your priorities are in order.”

Tiger felt the squeezing in his chest. It made him sick to his stomach that he had done that to his friend. But he put on a face: “Commissioner Vincent was just in the way of our greater goal. It was what had to be done.”

The balding man continued to smile. “Excellent. How about the Oakland job?”

A second man stepped out of the shadows. “Good. The juice has been deployed to the locker room, where our ‘distributor’ is doing his thing.”

“Excellent. And now, the final plan shall be set in motion. Once we get enough ‘insurance’, we’ll call a meeting for the owners to vote on a new commissioner. With the support of the Board, and several other ‘key figures’, there will be no way to deny the appointment of one of our own as Commissioner!”

Tiger looked on in astonishment. The prophecy was ahead of schedule…

Come on POC, we need longer posts! :(

Coach: Sorry. I'll try and get more in-depth with your beloved Mariners!

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20. June, Part II

Oakland (34-22) at Seattle (28-28)

We come home to face the AL West leaders. With Jose and Big Mac on pace for 50 home runs each, our pitchers need to be extremely careful in dealing with the middle of the A’s lineup.

4 – Randy Johnson strikes out 12, but is lifted after 6.2 innings after surrendering the lead. Fortunately, the M’s are able to rally and force extra innings, but the A’s manufacture a run in the 12th inning to steal the win. A’s 5-4 (12)

5 – A 3-run 7th inning breaks a 4-4 tie, as Alvin Davis caps the inning with an RBI double. Omar Vizquel steals 2 more bases, bringing his season total to 15. A scoreless 3 innings by Murphy and Jackson in relief nails down the win. Mariners 7-4

6 – One of Oakland’s top prospects made his major league debut today, and Jason Giambi made it one to remember. The 19-year-old 1Bman went 2-5, hitting his first career HR in the 8th inning with his team trailing 3-0. With a one-run lead in the 9th inning, Mike Schooler can’t hang on, surrendering 4 runs, giving the A’s a come-from-behind victory. A’s 6-3

RP Mike Jackson has been one of the more solid (read: not awful) members of our bullpen this season. At the young age of 25, he could be a vital cog in our bullpen for years to come. I called up his agent, and we were able to hammer out an extension, giving Mike a raise to $750K a year through the 1993 season.

Seattle (29-30) at Texas (34-25)

Deep in the heart of Texas, the Rangers have reeled off 5 straight wins, and sit only 2 games behind the A’s in the division race. They’re no doubt licking their chops seeing the Mariners come to Arlington.

7 – As Scott Bankhead (8 IP, 5 H, 1 R, 9 K) shut down the Rangers offense, the Mariners provided plenty of support, erupting for a 7-run 4th inning to put the game on ice. Mariners 8-2

8 – A good performance by Erik Hanson (6 IP, 3 ER) is more than enough for the offense tonight, as the Mariners get to Kenny Rogers early and often, with the bullpen surviving a few late scares. Mariners 7-5

9 – Despite Randy Johnson’s 13 strikeouts (!), Nolan Ryan is just too good, shutting down the Mariners offense for 6 innings. Edgar Martinez was the only M to see the ball well, notching 3 hits in the loss. Rangers 4-1

10 – DAY OFF

Minnesota (27-36) at Seattle (31-31)

With the Mariners trying to keep their head above water, the Twins are sporting the worst record in the American League. Maybe this will help us breakthrough.

11 – Despite allowing 13 baserunners (7 H, 6 BB), Brian Holman scatters them over 8 innings and allows only 1 run, as the offense reawakens to hammer Allan Anderson (7 R in 3.2 IP). Mariners 8-1

12 – Griffey’s 2-run single in the 7th inning turns a deficit into a lead, making a winner of Bill Swift. Junior also hit his team-leading 9th home run earlier in the game. Rob Murphy and Mike Schooler retire the last 6 batters for the hold and save, respectively. Mariners 5-3

13 – Rick Aguilera holds the Mariners offense at bay, as Shane Mack and Randy Bush homer in the Twins’ win, avoiding the sweep at the Kingdome this time around. Edgar Martinez: 3-3, 2 doubles, 2 RBI. Twins 4-2

SP Randy Johnson felt some tightness in his left shoulder when throwing a routine side session. He has some ligament damage, and will be placed on the DL, retroactive to June 9. Dave Burba will be called up from AA Jacksonville to fill Randy’s roster spot, and will start the 2nd game of the Rangers series.

Seattle (33-32) at Texas (37-28)

Weren’t we just here? The stupid schedule makers decided a 2nd trip in a week to Texas was in the cards, so we’re back in Arlington, looking for similar results to last week.

14 – Game of the Year Candidate. After erasing a 5-2 deficit, the Mariners fell behind thanks to a Palmeiro homer, and found themselves trailing 7-5 entering the 9th inning. They loaded the bases with one out, and Dave Valle poked a single into right field to cut the lead in half. One out later, Omar Vizquel came up with another huge hit, lining a single through the box to put the Mariners ahead, 8-7. In the bottom half of the inning, Mike Schooler got into a bases loaded jam of his own, but with 2 outs, an acrobatic diving play by Vizquel sealed the victory for the Mariners. Mariners 8-7

SP Scott Bankhead will join Randy Johnson on the DL with a mild shoulder separation. Matt Young will be moved into the rotation, and Scott Medvin will be called up from AAA Calgary.

Jeffrey Leonard needs a rest day, so Greg Briley will start tomorrow.

15 – Going up against Nolan Ryan in your first career start? Not an easy task for Dave Burba. His offense got him an early lead, but Pete Incaviglia made his life miserable, going 3-4 with 2 home runs and 6 RBI. Major League Debut for Dave Burba: 5 IP, 7 R (all earned), 8 H, 2 BB, 4 K, 112 pitches. Rangers 12-3

3B Darnell Coles will miss the next 10 days with a twisted knee. Alonzo Powell gets called up from AAA Calgary to fill his roster spot as Coles goes on the DL for precautionary reasons.