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Re: A Shot of Redemption: The Story of Will Kane
MID-JUNE REPORT
http://img220.imageshack.us/img220/4773/19900615xq2.jpg
MILESTONES
6/8 – Expos LF Tim Raines: 600th steal
6/13 – Royals 2B Frank White: 2000th hit
EXTENSIONS
6/5 – SP Mike Witt (CAL)
6/7 – RP Mike Jackson (SEA)
MAJOR INJURIES
6/4 – Expos SP Zane Smith out 2 weeks (stress fracture)
6/4 – Athletics SP Bob Welch out 3-4 months (ruptured cervical disk)
6/8 – Astros 3B Ken Caminiti out 3 months (broken tibia)
6/8 – Dodgers SP Ramon Martinez out 2 weeks (stress fracture)
6/14 – Rangers 1B Rafael Palmeiro out 2 weeks (stretched ligament)
TRADES
REVERSED 6/14 – Royals trade LF Bo Jackson to Chicago Cubs for RP Mitch Williams
Andre Dawson would get back from injury in 1 day. The Royals already have Jeff Montgomery at closer. It seemed like an easy call to reverse this trade.
RETIREMENTS
6/4 – RF Jim Dwyer (40)
6/5 – 2B Jim Pankovits (34)
6/7 – 1B Phil Stephenson (29)
6/14 – C Ronn Reynolds (31)
6/14 – 1B Denny Walling (36)
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Re: A Shot of Redemption: The Story of Will Kane
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Re: A Shot of Redemption: The Story of Will Kane
Coach: I do what I can to please you, the reader. And now this!
21. “Watch out for cow s***…
‘…whoops, too late.”
Paul Stanley picked up his shoe, dreading the sight on the bottom. He dragged his foot on some hay, then turned back to watching the entrance of the Stockyards. It was now 4:30, a full hour after Tiger told him to be here.
“Say, pardner: you waitin’ for someone?” The farmhand turned back to the journalist.
“Yeah, I was. I guess he didn’t show up. Oh well.” Stanley let out a long sigh.
“That’s too bad. You want somethin’ to drink? There’s a bar down the way about a mile. The Bud’s always coldest there.”
“Thanks, that’s not a bad idea.”
*
Stanley stepped into the bar. Immediately, the odor of cigar smoke overwhelmed him. A few of the regulars looked his way but said nothing. Paul made his way to the bar.
“What’ll it be?” The bartender laid a coaster in front of him.
“Club soda, please.”
Drink in hand, Paul Stanley looked about the bar. It had a pool table; nothing special, but it could hold a game. It also had 3 TV, each showing baseball: the Pirates-Mets game?
“Hey barkeep, why are the TVs watching the Mets game? Should the Royals game be starting soon.”
“Ah, what’s the point? They never win in Oakland, and they’re struggling to keep their head above water.”
One innocent question livened up the entire bar. One of the regulars chimed in. “Ever since ’85, this team has been going in the wrong direction. Dick Howser had more of an influence than anyone could’ve imagined.”
A second regular picked his head up. “No way, Bert, you’ve got it all wrong. They could’ve done without Howser if upper management hadn’t screwed up with player management; exhibit A: David Cone.”
“If I ever meet that son-of-a-b**** Kane that traded David Cone, it’ll be the last thing he does.”
Stanley’s eyes started to widen. “You mean, Will Kane, the GM of the Mariners?”
The second barfly, Frank, answered. “Yeah, that’s the guy. Schuerholz lets him have one deal, and he ruins a decade of excellence. Now George Brett has more of a burden on him, and we all know he can only do so much. They had ‘too much pitching’ when they made the deal. Now they have Saberhagen; who else is there? No one! Plus, David’s a local boy, born and raised right here in KC. Trust me, there were people ready to run him out of town that day. The only thing that kept him his job is when David struggled to begin with. After he won 20 games in ’88, Kane was as good as dead.”
*
Stanley spent another hour at the bar, chatting with the regulars about the demise of Royals baseball. He neglected to mention he was from Seattle.
When he got back to the hotel, he found a note waiting for him.
Code:
Paul,
Got last minute assignment, couldn’t meet you.
Will call you in a week to set up new appointment.
T
Paul nodded, packed his things, and hailed a taxi to the airport.
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Re: A Shot of Redemption: The Story of Will Kane
Ah, so that is what Kane did... :D
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Re: A Shot of Redemption: The Story of Will Kane
I guess it's my own fault. Trying to start a dynasty during the offseason? What was I thinking?
Anyway, if you haven't noticed, its been a while since this has been updated, and honestly, it will probably stay that way. It's been incredibly hard for me to get interested in this, meaning I may need to retool the format.
I do plan on starting a mini-dynasty before the release of BBM2010, but this one is on indefinite hiatus.
I guess I ought to leave the extravagant story-telling to Cat and petrel! :D
Thanks to everyone who read and commented. Keep your eyes peeled for my new story up soon.
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Re: A Shot of Redemption: The Story of Will Kane
Why do all Seattle Mariner dynasties get ended not long after they start?!?!?!?! ARGGGHHHHH!!!! :( :( :( :( :( :( :( :( :(
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Re: A Shot of Redemption: The Story of Will Kane
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Re: A Shot of Redemption: The Story of Will Kane
IT'S ALIVE?!?!?!?!?!?!
???
I need something in lower case so that comes out all caps
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Re: A Shot of Redemption: The Story of Will Kane
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Re: A Shot of Redemption: The Story of Will Kane
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Re: A Shot of Redemption: The Story of Will Kane
RF4E, Difar, & Cat: Yep, it's back!
***
A LESSON IN NOT DELETING YOUR SAVEGAMES
There was a bit of uproar after I decided to end this back in February. It might’ve been because I wasn’t inspired during the offseason, or maybe that my story-telling skills needed work. Whatever the reason, I didn’t feel that I was performing up to my potential in terms of writing, reporting, and storytelling.
So I took a break: I started a modified career dynasty (THE GRIFFEY YEARS) to kind of kill the time before the release of BM2010. GRIFFEY has been more successful than I could’ve ever imagined, and has really helped me get back into more detailed write-ups. However, every time I opened the game, I had to pass over this Mariners save on my loading screen. As it got closer and closer to Opening Day, I was becoming more and more tempted to give it another go. With the start of the season imminent, I felt that the time was right to try and delve back into the world of storyline-driven dynasties.
I’ll try and run this and GRIFFEY simultaneously. Only time will tell if I’ll be able to pull it off, what with my track season just starting to kick into full swing. However, I feel like I need to get closure, so just sit back, relax, and enjoy the show!
(Also, I have had the hard drive from my corrupted computer sitting on my bookshelf for almost 6 months, meaning that it may be possible to resurrect Trapped in the Basement. Just saying…)
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Re: A Shot of Redemption: The Story of Will Kane
A story inside of a story.
This just keeps getting better.
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Re: A Shot of Redemption: The Story of Will Kane
Bring back Trapped in the Basement!!
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Re: A Shot of Redemption: The Story of Will Kane
Difar: Thanks! Hopefully I can finish a season :p
RSR: We'll see, I need to use all sorts of technical stuff, so it may not be possible. When I find some time, I'll try and do that.
23. A (Not-so) Rude Awakening
I forced my eyes open. No matter how many times I blinked, my vision was blurred. The room was incredibly bright, with white walls and fluorescent lighting.
A dark figure entered the room. I couldn’t see who (or what) it was. All I heard was this:
“Oh my… he’s awake! Someone page Dr. Levinson!”
…before I drifted back into the darkness.
***
“Mr. Kane? How are you feeling?”
I opened my eyes. Sitting on the end of my bed was an angel in hospital scrubs. She had shoulder length blonde hair, lightly tanned skin, and a smile so white it was blinding.
“A lot better now, thanks for asking. Mind telling me what I’m doing here?”
“The police found you passed out on the Canadian border on June 20. You were unconscious and comatose. You’ve been here for almost 3 months.”
“3 months? That can’t be! I was just getting in a cab…”
Quote:
Originally Posted by FLASHBACK
“Sheraton hotel, please”
“I’m sorry I have to do this to you, Will…”
The nurse sat up. “The cabbie knew your name? That’s so weird. Hey, do you want some dinner?” She ducked into the hallway and pulled 2 trays of…stuff back into the room with her. “Do you mind if I join you? I’m sure you could use the company.”
“Absolutely not…um…”
“Courtney”, she finished. “Courtney Morgan.”
“Will Kane, but you already knew that.”
***
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Re: A Shot of Redemption: The Story of Will Kane
An amazing dynasty. Love the style of writing and the story is intriguing. I have two players to add to the 1991 draft pool, my hitting and pitching self from little league.
Name: East Hawk
Position: LF
Birthdate: 1973
Place of Birth: Glendale, AZ
Height: 6'2"
Weight: 185
Age (as of 1990): 17
Bats/Throws: S/R
Overall: 57
Peak: 78
Health: 84
Best skill: Great glove, great contact, great eye, decent speed (low 70s)
Worst skill: absolutely zero power, weak arm
Additional info: calm, relaxed, team player
Name: Bartleby Gaines
Position: SP
Birthdate: 1971
Place of Birth: Burbank, CA
Height: 6'4"
Weight: 190
Age (as of 1990):19
Bats/Throws: S/R
Overall:61
Peak: 89
Health:84
Best skill: good control, good endurance, nasty sinker and two seamer, can throw 7 pitches (4 seamer, 2 seamer, circle change, sinker, palmball, curveball, knuckleball)
Worst skill: velocity tops out at 82, little power, sinker/change/2seamer only good pitches
Additional info: flustered easily, team player
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Re: A Shot of Redemption: The Story of Will Kane
Didn't I have several created guys in this?
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Re: A Shot of Redemption: The Story of Will Kane
5dodgers5: Remind me again when I get to next year. I'm sure I'll forget between now and then.
RSR: I'm sure you did, I just need to find them...
...yes. Methanol Ethanol and Dick Head
***
GETTING YOU UP TO SPEED…
STANDINGS
Code:
AL WEST
California 80-64 -
Chicago 77-65 2
Seattle 75-67 4
Texas 75-67 4
Oakland 76-68 4
Kansas City 66-75 12.5
Minnesota 55-88 24.5
AL EAST
Boston 77-65 -
Milwaukee 77-66 0.5
New York 76-66 1
Toronto 73-69 4
Baltimore 67-76 10.5
Cleveland 63-80 14.5
Detroit 61-82 16.5
NL WEST
Houston 77-66 -
San Francisco 74-68 2.5
San Diego 73-68 3
Atlanta 72-70 4.5
Los Angeles 70-71 6
Cincinnati 70-72 6.5
NL EAST
Pittsburgh 82-60 -
St. Louis 74-67 7.5
Chicago 70-72 12
Montreal 68-75 14.5
New York 63-79 19
Philadelphia 58-83 23.5
LEAGUE LEADERS
AMERICAN LEAGUE
Code:
BATTING AVERAGE
Dion James (CLE) .347
Kevin Seitzer (KCR) .347
Wade Boggs (BOS) .340
HOME RUNS
Mark McGwire (OAK) 50
Cecil Fielder (DET) 42
Sammy Sosa (CHW) 39
RUNS BATTED IN
Albert Belle (CLE) 136
Cecil Fielder (DET) 133
Dante Bichette (CAL) 128
STOLEN BASES
Alex Cole (CLE) 48
Willie Wilson (KCR) 37
Rickey Henderson (OAK) 37
WINS
Roger Clemens (BOS) 18
Dave Stieb (TOR) 18
3 players tied with 16
ERA
Roger Clemens (BOS) 2.69
Bert Blyleven (CAL) 3.03
Dave Stieb (TOR) 3.13
STRIKEOUTS
Roger Clemens (BOS) 223
Randy Johnson (SEA) 218
Nolan Ryan (TEX) 194
SAVES
Dave Righetti (NYY) 36
Tom Henke (TOR) 29
Jeff Montgomery (KCR) 28
NATIONAL LEAGUE
Code:
BATTING AVERAGE
Mark Grace (CHC) .361
Gregg Jefferies (NYM) .339
Garry Templeton (SDP) .337
HOME RUNS
Barry Bonds (PIT) 49
Matt Williams (SFG) 38
Tom Brunansky (STL) 30
RUNS BATTED IN
Paul O'Neill (CIN) 120
Bobby Bonilla (PIT) 116
Andres Galarraga (MON) 115
Barry Bonds (PIT) 115
STOLEN BASES
Vince Coleman (STL) 83
Gerald Young (HOU) 60
Bip Roberts (SDP) 40
WINS
John Smoltz (ATL) 19
Doug Drabek (PIT) 19
Greg Maddux (CHC) 18
Ken Hill (STL) 18
ERA
Greg Maddux (CHC) 2.64
John Smoltz (ATL) 2.92
Mike Scott (HOU) 2.94
STRIKEOUTS
John Smoltz (ATL) 216
Greg Maddux (CHC) 214
Andy Benes (SDP) 187
SAVES
Billy Wagner (HOU) 42
Chad Fox (ATL) 33
Todd Worrell (STL) 33
MARINERS STATS
http://img5.imageshack.us/img5/8873/19900908l.jpg
ALL-STAR GAME
American League 14, National League 3
MVP: Yankees 1B Don Mattingly – PH Grand Slam
Mariners 3B/DH Edgar Martinez - DNP
MILESTONES
6/16 – Yankees RP Dave Righetti: 200th save
6/19 – Brewers RF Dave Parker: 2500th hit
6/30 – Padres 1B Jack Clark: 1000th run
7/5 – Tigers 2B Lou Whitaker: 1000th run
7/6 – Rangers SP Nolan Ryan: 300th win
7/7 – Athletics LF Rickey Henderson: 900th steal
7/14 – Dodgers SP Orel Hershiser: PERFECT GAME
7/15 – Padres 1B Jack Clark: 300th home run
7/16 – Dodgers CF Juan Samuel: 300th steal
7/23 – Tigers SS Alan Trammell: 1000th run
7/31 – Pirates SS Jay Bell: hit for the cycle
8/10 – Giants C Gary Carter: 2000th hit
8/24 – Royals CF Willie Wilson: 2000th hit
8/25 – Giants C Gary Garter: 1000th run
EXTENSIONS
6/18 – Blue Jays SP Al Leiter
6/23 – Athletics C Terry Steinbach
7/1 – Angels CF Devon White
7/8 – Mets 1B Kevin Millar
7/20 – Mets SS Kevin Elster
7/21 – Mariners 1B Alvin Davis – 4 yrs, $2.2M/yr
8/1 – Padres C Benito Santiago
8/2 – Mariners 2B Harold Reynolds – 2 yrs, $1.0M/yr
8/2 – Dodgers LF Kal Daniels
8/4 – Reds SP Jose Rijo
8/7 – Padres LF John Kruk
8/22 – Yankees 1B Don Mattingly
8/28 – Braves 3B Ron Gant
9/1 – Yankees RP Rich Monteleone
9/3 – Royals C Mike Macfarlane
9/4 – Pirates SS Jay Bell
9/8 – Reds SP Tom Browning
9/8 – Royals LF Bo Jackson
MAJOR INJURIES
6/19 – Dodgers 2B Willie Randolph out 12 months (severed elbow ligament)
6/20 – White Sox CF Sammy Sosa out 2 weeks (strained knee)
7/5 – Athletics SP Dave Stewart out 3 months (elbow tendonitis)
7/14 – Mariners 3B/OF Darnell Coles out 13 months (torn rotator cuff)
7/25 – Mets RF Darryl Strawberry out 1 month (broken fibula)
7/30 – Mariners 3B/DH Edgar Martinez out for season (severed knee ligament)
8/6 – Athletics LF Rickey Henderson out for season (torn ankle ligament)
TRADES
6/25 – Philadelphia trades RP Roger McDowell to St. Louis for LF Allen Battle
7/2 – Philadelphia trades LF John Kruk to San Diego for SP Joey Hamilton and RP Scott Sanders
7/4 – Cincinnati trades SP Ron Robinson to San Diego for SP Eric Show and C Mark Parent
7/14 – Philadelphia trades RP Dennis Cook to Milwaukee for 1B Brian Banks and SS Pat Listach
7/15 – Seattle trades LF Jeffrey Leonard and 2B Fernando Vina to Philadelphia for 3B Charlie Hayes and RP Steve Ontiveros – made possible due to season-ending injury to D. Coles
7/19 – Cleveland trades SP Greg Swindell to St. Louis for RP Mike Perez and RP Rene Arocha
7/24 – Minnesota trades CF Kirby Puckett to Los Angeles for SP Tim Belcher, C Mike Scioscia, 1B Eddie Murray, and LF Kirk Gibson
7/25 – Minnesota trades SP Tim Belcher and SS Greg Gagne to California for RP Troy Percival, SS Gary DiSarcina, and CF Kevin Flora
7/26 – Cleveland trades RP Jesse Orosco to Chicago (AL) for RP Ken Patterson
7/26 – Minnesota trades C Brian Harper to Boston for RF Israel Alcantara
7/27 – Minnesota trades 3B Gary Gaetti to Texas for RP Danny Patterson
7/29 – Houston trades LF Jeff Baldwin, RF Eric Anthony, and RF Mike Simms to New York (NL) for SP Ron Darling
7/30 – Oakland trades C Henry Mercedes and 1B Jim Bowie for 2B Tony Phillips
7/31 – Detroit trades SP Frank Tanana to Chicago (AL) for SP Brian Keyser
7/31 – Detroit trades SP Jack Morris to California for RP Joe Grahe, RP Mike James, and RP Cliff Young
7/31 – New York (NL) trades 3B Howard Johnson to California for C Larry Gonzales, SS Rod Correia, and LF Reggie Williams
And too many reversed to even list…
RETIREMENTS
6/22 – RF Eric Bullock (30)
6/22 – RP Doug Bair (40)
6/25 – RP Steve Fireovid (33)
6/29 – SS Paul Zuvella (31)
7/7 – RP Keith Comstock (34)
7/28 – C Ron Tingley (31)
7/30 – 1B Bill Buckner (40)
8/17 – RP Danny Boone (36)
8/23 – 1B Wallace Johnson (33)
8/25 – SP Chris Codiroli (32)
8/31 – 2B Tony Bernazard (34)
***
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Re: A Shot of Redemption: The Story of Will Kane
The box score from Orel Hershiser's Perfect Game
Code:
Cincinnati Reds at Los Angeles Dodgers
July 14, 1990
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 + R H E
Reds (CIN) 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
Dodgers (LAD) 1 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 x 2 6 0
CINCINNATI ab h bb r hr bi k sb avg
H. Winningham (CF) 3 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 .115
K. Griffey (LF) 3 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 .286
B. Larkin (SS) 3 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 .269
P. O'Neill (RF) 3 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 .329
H. Morris (1B) 3 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 .341
J. Oliver (C) 3 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 .261
R. Oester (2B) 3 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 .271
L. Quinones (3B) 3 0 0 0 0 0 2 0 .238
R. Mahler (P) 2 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 .235
E. Davis (CF) 1 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 .334
TOTALS 27 0 0 0 0 0 6 0
CINCINNATI ip h bb hr r er k pit ERA
R. Mahler 8.0 6 2 1 2 2 5 101 5.25
TOTALS 8.0 6 2 1 2 2 5 101
LOS ANGELES ab h bb r hr bi k sb avg
J. Gonzalez (CF) 4 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 .222
L. Harris (2B) 4 1 0 1 0 0 1 0 .202
E. Murray (1B) 4 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 .278
J. Samuel (CF) 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 .284
M. Piazza (C) 3 1 1 1 1 1 0 0 .227
K. Gibson (LF) 3 1 0 0 0 1 1 0 .256
H. Brooks (RF) 2 0 1 0 0 0 1 0 .270
J. Hamilton (3B) 3 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 .231
A. Griffin (SS) 3 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 .285
O. Hershiser (P) 3 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 .081
TOTALS 29 6 2 2 1 2 5 0
2B: L. Harris (3)
HR: M. Piazza (3)
CS: A. Griffin
LOS ANGELES ip h bb hr r er k pit ERA
O. Hershiser 9.0 0 0 0 0 0 6 86 3.89
TOTALS 9.0 0 0 0 0 0 6 86
WP: O. Hershiser (8-7)
LP: R. Mahler (7-8)
Temperature: 81F
Wind: 5 MPH (out to center)
Attendance: 56,000
Time: 2:04
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Re: A Shot of Redemption: The Story of Will Kane
To be honest, I'm a little surprised that Coach hasn't popped in here yet...
...oh well, on with the show!
***
24. September, Part I
Now that I’m out of my coma, it’s back to the grindstone! Fortunately for me, Jeff (Smulyan, owner of the Mariners) didn’t replace me, and the team is 8 games over .500. My job appears safe for now.
Seattle (75-67) at Milwaukee (77-66)
A series that means a lot for both teams, as we’re both within striking distance of leading our respective divisions. It probably means a little more for the Brewers, as they’re only a half-game behind Boston, and it’s a home series for them.
9 – With a 9-3 lead entering the 8th inning, everything seemed to be going our way. Just then, a massive collapse occurred, and the Brewers scored 7 times to take the lead. We were fortunate to tie the game in the 9th, but all the air was sucked from our sails, and the Brew Crew won in extras. Brewers 11-10 (10)
10 – Erik Hanson has his best start in a long while, and Ken Griffey, Jr. hits his 26th home run of the season, powering the Mariners to victory. Mariners 4-2
11 – Another heartbreaker. Brian Holman was wild (9 BB), but didn’t allow a run over 7.2 innings. Teddy Higuera was just as good. As a matter of fact, the Mariners lead 1-0 entering the bottom of the 9th. But the Brewers proved too powerful: B.J. Surhoff’s solo home run sent the game to extras, where Dave Parker’s 2-run shot won it for the home team. Brewers 3-1 (10)
12 – DAY OFF
Seattle (76-69) at Baltimore (68-78)
Last trip to the East Coast on the season, as we finish our season series with the O’s. Every series is huge for us now, but this one possibly more so, as its against a subpar opponent.
13 – No bullpen collapse this time, as the Mariners seize an early lead and add some insurance late in the game thanks to Alvin Davis. The Seattle DH went 4-5, including his 24th home run of the year. Mariners 8-3
14 – Another wild and crazy game, as Mussina and Johnson dueled to a 0-0 tie after 9 innings. With the Big Unit long gone, the Orioles trotted Moose out there in the 10th, and the Mariners proceeded to bat around, giving Mike Jackson plenty of cushion to not screw this up. Mariners 6-1 (10)
15 – Even though Bob Milacki had 16 losses entering today’s game, the Mariners treated him like a got, getting a paltry 4 hits off of him in 8 innings. Gregg Olson slammed the door to help the Orioles avoid the sweep. Orioles 4-3
***
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Re: A Shot of Redemption: The Story of Will Kane
25. Back to Work
I’d always been a quick healer. Whether it was a broken bone or just a common cold, I was usually back on my feet before anyone thought I would be. The coma was no different, as I was walking out of the hospital a week later, Courtney’s number in hand. Maybe she has a thing for head-trauma patients…
I went back to my apartment first. I had to convince my landlord that I did in fact spend the last 3 months at a local hospital, then I paid my rent (plus interest), then I finally got a new key. My room was dusty, but unchanged from when I left it. I scoured the kitchen for something to eat, which ultimately turned out to be an exercise in cleaning mold-infested leftovers from the refrigerator, then hit up a Burger King on my way to the Kingdome.
I heard a few ‘welcome backs’ as I made my way through the corridors of the domed stadium. I finally made it to my office, and was about to step inside, when…
“Will!”
Jeff Smulyan was walking down the hallway, big grin on his face. “Welcome back! It’s been strange around here without. We had to put Danny and J.R. in charge, and while they did a serviceable job, it’s just not the same without you!”
“Really? I mean, just on paper, Danny and J.R. did a great job. They have the team in position for its first winning record ever!”
Jeff pulled me aside: “I know, but I want you to keep your job. If you don’t want it, I’ll gladly put those two knuckleheads in charge.”
“But it’s great to be back, sir! When do I start?”
“Start tomorrow. I have a favor to ask of you. My wife is in town and she wants to see my latest investment. How about we double date?”
“Sir? I just got out of the hospital, I’m afraid I don’t have someone to go with me.”
“If you know what’s good for your career, find someone.”
***
What’s a guy to do? I just woke up from a 3-month long coma, only to discover that I’ll be fired if I don’t bring a date to the ballgame tonight!
Alright, Will. Think about this: let’s start in the most logical place. Any single ladies in the front office here? There was Jeff’s secretary, Sheila. But she was turning 78 over the winter, that might seem a little weird.
Anyone else? Maybe one of the cute popcorn vendors…what? She got let go last month? Ok, how about the cute…I see. Any vendors that aren’t guys? No, huh? Oh well…
I checked my rolodex for any leads: just numbers of other GMs and sponsors. I slumped back in my chair, defeated. I looked around the room; I had my second chance, and I blew it. Couldn’t even last a year, just because my boss is so eccentric that I’ll get fired if I don’t bring a date tonight. I stood, and began to clean my desk.
***
5:45. I had 90 minutes left in my general managing career. All my personal effects were in a cardboard box, sitting on my (soon to be old) desk. I took one last look around. You know, I think this place was starting to grow on me. I think that there might be some gold in them thar hills, so to speak. Oh well, J.R. and Danny proved that they could handle the job well enough, I’ll definitely be leaving the team in good hands.
Enough reminiscing for now, time to lock up and bail. Where the h*** are my keys? In my jacket pocket. Hey, what’s this paper here…
I stared at the paper and my eyes grew wide. Of course! Why hadn’t I thought of this before! I raced to my phone and started to dial.
“Courtney Morgan, please.”
***
“Hello?”
“Courtney! This is Will Kane, the guy from the coma!” Smooth, as always.
“Will! How are you feeling? You’re not suffering from headaches, are you?”
“No, I’m doing fine. Listen, I was actually calling you for a favor: do you like baseball?”
***
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Re: A Shot of Redemption: The Story of Will Kane
Quote:
Originally Posted by
PotatoOfCouch13
Dude, pollute your own dynasty with that crap. Please leave it out here. Thanks.
deleted
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Re: A Shot of Redemption: The Story of Will Kane
This is a great read. I'll be following.
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Re: A Shot of Redemption: The Story of Will Kane
RSR: Thanks.
DIM: I've got be honest: I read some of your posts from Even the Braves, and I wondered where you had gone. Good to see you back, even if I wasn't here the first time. Thanks for reading!
***
26. My ‘Double Date’ with Courtney
“So your boss told you to find a date just hours after you walked out of a hospital?” Courtney had heard my story, her cheeks pulled up in a little smile. “I’ve had some bad bosses, but this takes the cake.”
“He’s a little eccentric, that’s for sure. But it’s the job of a lifetime: I get to sit and watch baseball all day, and it’s something that I love to do.”
“Hey, if you’re happy…”
“Will! Over here!”
Jeff came sprinting down the hallway, nearly yanking his wife’s arm out of her socket as she tried to follow behind him.
“Oh, hey Jeff. This is Courtney…”
“…Morgan.” The nurse was able to save my mental error with a quick recovery. “It’s a pleasure to meet you.”
“And you. Now, shall we go to our box?”
***
The Brewers were in town for a pivotal game. The Milwaukee club was only 3 ½ back, but fading fast behind two surging teams: Boston and New York. Meanwhile, we were sitting 5 GB of the Angels, but we need to start making up ground.
But none of the action was really of any interest. Jeff and his wife left after the 3rd inning to ‘enjoy the sights’, leaving me and Courtney for the next 2 hours in the owner’s box. Now, if you’ve never been in an owner’s box, it’s like a 5-star restaurant crossed with an all-inclusive spa, with a dash of luxury hotel room thrown in. I was distracted: badly.
Her smile was just so captivating: her tanned skin made it seem that much whiter, as if it was straight out of the dentist’s office. Her blond hair formed perfectly against the side of her face, and when it dared to stray in her eyes, she brushed it away with the greatest of ease. I tried to keep my eyes focused, but when they wandered, they were very pleased. Let’s just say that hospital scrubs do not do her justice, ok?
The game? Oh, Erik Hanson dominated the Brewers, winning 5-1. But that wasn’t the big story.
I think I’m falling in love…
***
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Re: A Shot of Redemption: The Story of Will Kane
Woo! Please don't drop out of it this time! And I had a created guy, no?
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Re: A Shot of Redemption: The Story of Will Kane
Quote:
Originally Posted by
PotatoOfCouch13
To be honest, I'm a little surprised that Coach hasn't popped in here yet...
There he is! :D
I checked my records, and it doesn't appear that you have a created player in this yet. And yet I gave RSR two...
And this dynasty is going to continue for the foreseeable future. It might be a few days between updates, but just like Clay waits a few days to perfect his patches, I like to wait a few days to perfect my stories. Thanks for reading!
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Re: A Shot of Redemption: The Story of Will Kane
Quote:
Originally Posted by
PotatoOfCouch13
There he is! :D
I checked my records, and it doesn't appear that you have a created player in this yet. And yet I gave RSR two...
And this dynasty is going to continue for the foreseeable future. It might be a few days between updates, but just like Clay waits a few days to perfect his patches, I like to wait a few days to perfect my stories. Thanks for reading!
I created a guy! You must have forgot about him! :mad:
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Re: A Shot of Redemption: The Story of Will Kane
Quote:
Originally Posted by
Coach Owens
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.
I stand corrected. Looks like I was the one to forget about him :o
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Re: A Shot of Redemption: The Story of Will Kane
*Cough* THAT'S RIGHT! YOU DID FORGET ABOUT HIM! HMMPH!!
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Re: A Shot of Redemption: The Story of Will Kane
if his worst skill is eye how is his OBP 60 points more than his average? :p
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Re: A Shot of Redemption: The Story of Will Kane
Quote:
Originally Posted by
200tang
if his worst skill is eye how is his OBP 60 points more than his average? :p
Hey! SHUT UP! :p
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Re: A Shot of Redemption: The Story of Will Kane
There's love in baseball?
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Re: A Shot of Redemption: The Story of Will Kane
O.D. There is if I say so! Plus, it advances a storyline, so keep quiet, you... :D
***
27. September, Part II
Milwaukee (79-70) at Seattle (78-70)
16 – SEE ABOVE. Erik Hanson dominated the Brew Crew for 8.1 innings. Mariners 5-1
17 – Paul Molitor proved to be the hero of the day, knocking in 2 runs with an RBI single, giving the Brewers the winning edge. Brewers 3-1
18 – The M’s take advantage of a Brewers error, scoring the tiebreaking run in the 7th inning to beat the Brewers. Mariners 3-2
19 – The Big Unit was set up and ready to roll, holding the Brewers to only 2 hits over 8 innings, while striking out 11. Alvin Davis and Ken Griffey, Jr. hit home runs to ensure the Mariners first .500 season in team history! Mariners 5-0
Seattle (81-71) at Toronto (76-76)
No one said winning the division was going to be easy. The Mariners travel to Canada for the last time this year to face off with the Blue Jays, who are all but mathematically eliminated from the Eastern division race. Hopefully we can finish the job while cutting into the Angels’ 3 ½ game lead.
20 – Despite giving up a 3-run 1st-inning home run to Ken Griffey, Jr., Dave Stieb settled down enough to give the Jays’ offense time to recover and pass the Mariners, making Stieb the second 19-game winner in the AL this season. Blue Jays 9-5
21 – Jimmy Key does a number on the Mariners, and that number is 0: as in, how many runs did Seattle score? Key’s shutout was his first of the season, and the Blue Jays clobbered the visitors. Blue Jays 11-0
22 – Rob Murphy’s 9th-inning wild pitch starts a chain reaction, one which ultimately leads to the Blue Jays completing the sweep at home. Mark Whiten drives home the game winner with a Texas League single. Blue Jays 5-4
New York (83-72) at Seattle (81-74)
The last home series of the year, as the Yankees come to town to close out the Kingdome’s regular season. That’s good because the Seahawks are starting to get on our backs about field usage. Of course, if we pull out a miracle and win the West, they’ll just have to wait. We sit 5 ½ GB with 7 games left: possible, but highly improbable. Meanwhile, the Pinstripers are just 2 games behind the rival BoSox, with one week to play in the season.
23 – With all the minor injuries, it was a rag-tag group of Mariners on the field today against Tim Leary. And while Alvin Davis went 2-4 with 2 home runs, the rest of the team went 1-27, and the Yankees cut the Sox’ lead to 1 game. Yankees 12-5
24 – The Mariners scored 3 times in the 1st inning, thanks in large part to Ken Griffey, Jr.’s RBI double, and that was all that Randy Johnson needed. The Big Unit went 8.2 innings (really AI? He couldn’t throw the 4 pitches that Schooler threw?), striking out 11 Yankee batters en route to his 13th win of the season. Mariners 5-1
Unfortunately, there will be no postseason for us, as the Angels were victorious today, eliminating Seattle from the division race.
25 – The Bronx Bombers live up to their moniker, as the Yankees pound 6 home runs, including a 10th-inning game-winner by Mel Hall. Good news: Brian Turang made his Major League debut, pinch-hitting in the 9th inning, and tying the game with a 2-run double. Welcome to the big leagues, kid! Yankees 8-7 (10)
26 – Alvin Davis goes 3-4, including his 28th home run of the season, and Erik Hanson kept the Yankee bats at bay, allowing only 4 hits over 8 innings of work. Mariners 6-1
Seattle (83-76) at Chicago (84-75)
Only pride is on the line in the final series of the year, as 2-5 in the AL West are separated by only 2 games. I just hope that the injuries subside for once this year…
27 – Light-hitting SS Craig Grebeck’s 3-run home run was the straw that broke the Mariners’ backs, as Frank Thomas and Sammy Sosa lead the charge with 9 runs. White Sox 9-5
Sure enough, Alvin Davis went down with an injury, and will be out for the season. The longtime 1Bman hit .301, with 28 HR and 111 RBI in arguably the best season of his career.
28 – Everything was going great, until Bill Swift collapsed in the 8th inning, allowing 4 runs, and giving the White Sox plenty of cushion to take victory. White Sox 5-2
29 – Randy Johnson gets roughed up in the final game of the season, allowing 6 runs in 5.1 innings. Frank Thomas’ 26th home run helped propel the White Sox to a season-ending sweep. White Sox 7-1
30 – DAY OFF – END OF REGULAR SEASON
***
ONE-GAME PLAYOFF for the AL EAST TITLE
NEW YORK YANKEES (88-74) at BOSTON RED SOX (88-74)
This ancient rivalry has been renewed, as the Red Sox and Yankees finished the 1990 season with identical 88-74 record. Therefore, a one-game playoff will be held on September 30, to determine the winner of the American League East, and who would face the California Angels in the ALCS.
As was the case in 1978, the Red Sox won the coin flip, and would be the home team for this decisive game.
…and that’s where the similarities end. The Red Sox sent out ace Roger Clemens to the mound, and the Rocket was his usual, dominant self: 8 innings, 8 strikeouts, 0 runs allowed. Meanwhile, the Yankees Chuck Cary was not, and the veteran southpaw was touched for 5 runs in the 4th inning, capped by Matt Nokes’ 3-run homer.
All the drama and suspense leading into this game were burned up by the Sox’ “Rocket”. Red Sox 6, Yankees 0
(Just think what could’ve been if the Yankees didn’t split a four-game series in the season’s last week with the MARINERS!!!)
***
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Re: A Shot of Redemption: The Story of Will Kane
END OF SEASON REVIEW
STANDINGS
Code:
AL WEST
California 92-70 -
Chicago 87-75 5
Texas 87-75 5
Oakland 85-77 7
Seattle 83-79 9
Kansas City 77-85 15
Minnesota 61-101 31
AL EAST
Boston 89-74 -
New York 88-75 1
Milwaukee 85-77 3.5
Toronto 82-80 6.5
Baltimore 77-85 11.5
Cleveland 71-91 17.5
Detroit 71-91 17.5
NL WEST
Houston 86-76 -
San Diego 84-78 2
San Francisco 83-79 3
Cincinnati 82-80 4
Atlanta 82-80 4
Los Angeles 80-82 6
NL EAST
Pittsburgh 94-68 -
St. Louis 83-79 11
Montreal 77-85 17
Chicago 76-86 18
New York 74-88 20
Philadelphia 71-91 23
LEAGUE LEADERS
AMERICAN LEAGUE
Code:
BATTING AVERAGE
Dion James (CLE) .349
Kevin Seitzer (KCR) .344
Lou Whitaker (DET) .342
HOME RUNS
Mark McGwire (OAK) 57
Cecil Fielder (DET) 46
Jim Thome (CLE) 43
RUNS BATTED IN
Albert Belle (CLE) 148
Cecil Fielder (DET) 144
Dante Bichette (CAL) 142
STOLEN BASES
Alex Cole (CLE) 55
Steve Sax (NYY) 41
Willie Wilson (KCR) 39
WINS
Roger Clemens (BOS) 22
Dave Stieb (TOR) 21
Mark Langston (CAL) 19
ERA
Roger Clemens (BOS) 2.56
Bert Blyleven (CAL) 2.99
Mark Langston (CAL) 3.32
STRIKEOUTS
Roger Clemens (BOS) 264
Randy Johnson (SEA) 254
Nolan Ryan (TEX) 213
SAVES
Dave Righetti (NYY) 41
Jeff Montgomery (KCR) 35
Robb Nen (TEX) 34
NATIONAL LEAGUE
Code:
BATTING AVERAGE
Mark Grace (CHC) .352
Larry Walker (MON) .336
Garry Templeton (SDP) .337
HOME RUNS
Barry Bonds (PIT) 53
Matt Williams (SFG) 44
Tom Brunansky (STL) 36
RUNS BATTED IN
Bobby Bonilla (PIT) 131
Joe Carter (SDP) 131
Paul O'Neill (CIN) 130
STOLEN BASES
Vince Coleman (STL) 87
Gerald Young (HOU) 63
Lenny Dykstra (PHI) 46
WINS
Doug Drabek (PIT) 21
John Smoltz (ATL) 20
Greg Maddux (CHC) 20
ERA
Mike Scott (HOU) 2.92
Greg Maddux (CHC) 2.98
John Smoltz (ATL) 3.26
STRIKEOUTS
John Smoltz (ATL) 245
Greg Maddux (CHC) 238
Frank Viola (NYM) 205
SAVES
Billy Wagner (HOU) 46*
Todd Worrell (STL) 38
Chad Fox (ATL) 36
* = Major League Record
MILESTONES
9/11 - Tigers RF Chet Lemon: 1000th run
9/25 – Cubs RF Andre Dawson: 300th stolen base
EXTENSIONS
9/9 – Brewers C B.J. Surhoff: 3 yrs, $1.3M per
9/18 – Reds RF Paul O’Neill: 4 yrs, $2.05M per
9/24 – Royals 3B Kevin Seitzer: 3 yrs, $1.45M per
9/26 – Mets RF Darryl Strawberry: 5 yrs, $1.6M per
***
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Re: A Shot of Redemption: The Story of Will Kane
It seems all your dynasties have Red Sox-Yanks tie breakers. How do you pull that off so often?
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Re: A Shot of Redemption: The Story of Will Kane
RSR: As far as I can remember (and I've been wrong before, check the top of the thread for proof), this is the first one. Just a pair of big-market teams that are willing to go 'all in'.
SEATTLE MARINERS SEASON IN REVIEW
HITTING
http://img8.imageshack.us/img8/130/1990hitters.jpg
PITCHING
http://img8.imageshack.us/img8/6946/1990pitchers.jpg
***
-
Season Stats display
You could probably take screenshots of the Box Score Parser for your stats. It might load easier, unless you want the stats in a particular format. Just a thought.
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Re: A Shot of Redemption: The Story of Will Kane
Quote:
Originally Posted by
PotatoOfCouch13
RSR: As far as I can remember (and I've been wrong before, check the top of the thread for proof), this is the first one. Just a pair of big-market teams that are willing to go 'all in'.
***
I recall it occurring in Trapped in the Basement.
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Re: A Shot of Redemption: The Story of Will Kane
Mizerak: Nice shameless plug! Anyways, that's a fantastic idea. I may have to download the LATEST VERSION for next year!
RSR: D***!!! Who'd have thought that I'd lose my memory before turning 21? Nice save, kid.
***
28. The Place We All Want To Be: October
ALCS – CALIFORNIA ANGELS V. BOSTON RED SOX
CALIFORNIA ANGELS - AL WEST CHAMPIONS
DIVISION TITLES: 4 (1990, 1986, 1982, 1979)
AL PENNANTS: 0
BOSTON RED SOX – AL EAST CHAMPIONS
DIVISION TITLES: 4 (1990, 1988, 1986, 1975)
AL PENNANTS: 9 (1986, 1975, 1967, 1946, 1918, 1916, 1915, 1912, 1903)
*
NLCS – PITTSBURGH PIRATES V. HOUSTON ASTROS
PITTSBURGH PIRATES – NL EAST CHAMPIONS
DIVISION TITLES: 7 (1990, 1979, 1975, 1974, 1972, 1971, 1970)
NL PENNANTS: 7 (1979, 1971, 1960, 1927, 1925, 1909, 1903)
HOUSTON ASTROS – NL WEST CHAMPIONS
DIVISION TITLES: 3 (1990, 1986, 1980)
NL PENNANTS: 0
*
ALCS GAME 1 – The Red Sox must’ve left their bats back on the East Coast, because Mark Langston shut them out for 8 innings, giving the Angels the early series lead. Angels 4-0
NLCS GAME 1 – The Pirates are saved by late game heroics from Mark Ryal, whose 8th inning pinch-hit single with the bases loaded drove in the eventual winning run. Pirates 4-3
NLCS GAME 2 – The Pirates again need a late-inning lift, and Sid Bream provided it. The first basemen hit a pinch-hit 2-run homer to break a 2-2 tie in the bottom of the 7th, and the Pirates bullpen held off a late Astros charge for the win. Pirates 4-3
ALCS GAME 2 - A classic matchup between Bert Blyleven and Roger Clemens: The Rocket struck out 12 batters, but left after 8 innings with the score tied at 3. The Red Sox took a lead in the top of the 9th inning, when Kevin Romine’s pinch-hit double capped a 3-run inning, but the Angels fought back. Jeff Reardon loaded the bases with 2 singles and a walk, and Lance Parrish made him pay, blasting a walk-off grand slam into the right field bleachers. Angels 7-6
ALCS GAME 3 – Mike Boddicker takes advantage of an Angels lineup that apparently left its equipment back in Anaheim. Boddicker twirls a 6-hit shutout to help put the Red Sox in the win column. Red Sox 4-0
NLCS GAME 3 – Barry Bonds breaks out of his postseason funk, going 3-5, and driving in the eventual game-winning run with an RBI single in the 8th inning. Pirates 4-3
NLCS GAME 4 – The Pirates score 10 times after the 3rd inning, and Rick Reed tosses a 5-hit complete game, as Pittsburgh makes easy work of Houston in the NLDS. Pirates 10-1
THE PITTSBURGH PIRATES ARE NATIONAL LEAGUE CHAMPIONS
MVP: SP John Smiley (Game 2 Winner) - 7 IP, 5 H, 2 R
ALCS GAME 4 – Ted Power continued the run of great Red Sox starting pitching, holding the Angels to just 4 hits over 8 innings of work, and the Red Sox ride a Mo Vaughn home run to even the series. Red Sox 5-1
ALCS GAME 5 – Clemens and Langston duel to a 1-1 tie after nine innings, and a battle of the bullpens ensues. The Red Sox manage to push across the winning run on a Mike Greenwell single in the bottom of the 11th inning. Red Sox 2-1 (11)
ALCS GAME 6 – Boddicker is masterful again, allowing only 3 hits over 8 innings. However, he left with the Red Sox trailing 2-1 entering the 9th inning. With Brendan Donnelly on the mound, the Angels looked primed to force a Game 7. However, with one out, Sox C Matt Nokes (yes, him again) blasted a fastball into the leftfield bleachers, tying the game at 2. R.J. Reynolds followed with a single, and he stole second, setting up Jody Reed. Reed proved to be the hero, knocking a single into right-centerfield, scoring Reynolds, and giving the Sox the lead. Jeff Reardon came in a slammed the door on the demoralized Angels, who had lost 4 straight after winning the first two games. Red Sox 3-2
THE BOSTON RED SOX ARE AMERICAN LEAGUE CHAMPIONS
MVP: SP Roger Clemens – 2 GS, 16 IP, 0-0, 2.25 ERA, 18 K, .190 BAA
***
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Re: A Shot of Redemption: The Story of Will Kane
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Re: A Shot of Redemption: The Story of Will Kane
RSR: Yep! Now lets see if they can reverse the curse in a rematch of the first World Series.
***
1990 WORLD SERIES PREVIEW
One of the major subplots of the series is the trade between these 2 teams back in May: CL Lee Smith for SP Ted Power, RF R.J. Reynolds, 2B Wally Backman, and C Mike LaValliere
***
BOSTON RED SOX – AMERICAN LEAGUE CHAMPIONS
DIVISION TITLES: 4 (1990, 1988, 1986, 1975)
AL PENNANTS: 10 (1990, 1986, 1975, 1967, 1946, 1918, 1916, 1915, 1912, 1903)
WORLD SERIES: 5 (1918, 1916, 1915, 1912, 1902)
2B Wally Backman - .313, 0 HR, 20 RBI
3B Wade Boggs - .337, 8 HR, 89 RBI
CF Ellis Burks - .307, 36 HR, 139 RBI
DH Mo Vaughn - .322, 26 HR, 124 RBI
LF Mike Greenwell - .325, 14 HR, 94 RBI
1B Pete O’Brien - .311, 30 HR, 105 RBI
C Matt Nokes - .288, 23 HR, 79 RBI
RF R.J. Reynolds - .314, 7 HR, 69 RBI, 29 SB
SS Jody Reed - .267, 2 HR, 53 RBI
SP Roger Clemens – 22-6, 2.56 ERA, 264 K
SP Mike Boddicker – 14-11, 4.66 ERA, 152 K
SP Ted Power – 13-14, 6.16 ERA, 79 K
CL Jeff Reardon – 4-8, 4.97 ERA, 19 SV
PITTSBURGH PIRATES – NATIONAL LEAGUE CHAMPIONS
DIVISION TITLES: 7 (1990, 1979, 1975, 1974, 1972, 1971, 1970)
NL PENNANTS: 8 (1990, 1979, 1971, 1960, 1927, 1925, 1909, 1903)
WORLD SERIES: 5 (1979, 1971, 1960, 1925, 1909)
CF Andy Van Slyke - .290, 25 HR, 104 RBI, 140 R, 13 SB
SS Jay Bell - .306, 19 HR, 90 RBI, 122 R
LF Moises Alou - .294, 20 HR, 87 RBI
RF Barry Bonds - .326, 53 HR, 126 RBI, 147 R, 17 SB
3B Bobby Bonilla - .316, 28 HR, 131 RBI
DH Sid Bream - .286, 3 HR, 18 RBI
1B Jeff King - .265, 23 HR, 97 RBI
C Don Slaught - .313, 17 HR, 85 RBI
2B Jose Lind - .265, 2 HR, 62 RBI
SP Doug Drabek – 21-9, 3.91 ERA, 177 K
SP John Smiley – 13-7, 3.57 ERA, 140 K
SP Walt Terrell – 15-12, 4.24 ERA, 100 K
SP Bob Walk – 12-7, 3.42 ERA, 80 K
CL Lee Smith – 8-10, 7.76 ERA, 20 SV
*
