To Rule in Kansas City

[Coach Owens]

You realize that the second that a managerial position opens up in New York City, there will be an empty Royals uniform and a massive cloud of dust where Billy Martin was once standing?

--Pet

Aw, don't be so assured of that Pet! I bet Turturro likes Kansas City!

[CatKnight]

petrel: Maybe. We'll see what happens! Historically he doesn't go to the Yanks for several years yet.

Coach Owens: When I added 'Thompson' he was a 73/93. My scouts REALLY don't like him right now though. I have to go over my notes, but he probably starts the year in B or A (AA or AAA) ball. That may be just as well. It'll give him a chance to experience big league pitching and develop.

According to my scouts (hah!) he's now a 68/91. In ST he batted .267 with 3 HR in 86 AB.
*******

March 2, 1970

"Men! My name is Billy Martin! You can call me Coach, Skipper, Mr. Martin, Billy, or even red-***! Don't call me Alfred. That's my father." He glanced around to make sure he had everyone's attention while I listened from just behind the home dugout. "You are all men. Not boys. So long as you treat me and the coaches with respect and give me everything you got, then you won't hear me talk about curfews, cards or dice. Drink all night if it makes you happy. Just remember when you get to the field, I'm gonna make you sweat and I don't wanna hear ____ about how your head and stomach hurt!"

This was the first full day that everyone should have reported, and with a few minor exceptions they had. Martin gave the pitchers to Bob Lemon and had the outfielders hit grounders to the infielders while he yelled a curious mixture of praise and invectives.

Pat Kelly looked good. When batting his wrist snapped at just the right instant, and in the field his throws were as strong and accurate as anyone had the right to expect in early March. Scott Northey and Lou Piniella also looked pretty good, and they're my early favorites for the outfield.

I watched my new first baseman closely. For being eighteen he looked **** good. For a man earning $120,000 a year, he was horrible. In another ten years he might well be another Boog Powell, but he has a lot of growing up to do first. I watched him just grin through Martin's ravings. Perhaps he's just happy to be here.

Chico Salmon and Jim Ray Hart look like everything they promised to be when I picked them up as free agents. Our third infielder looks like it may be Paul Schall. I still don't like the way he snuck arbitration up on me, but I don't deny his skill. The other possibility is Joe Foy: Now that Hart's taken third base away from him, it might be worth trying to turn him into a general infielder.

Rodriguez is our only decent catcher, and he's just not that good. My earlier assessment about the others was right though: Dennis Paepke and Buck Martinez make up for dumping Merritt Ranew.

Bob Lemon later told me our pitching staff is looking surprisingly secure. He likes Bunker, Rooker and Blyleven. Dave Morehead and Roger Nelson may well be our other starters, though he's not counting out Paul Splittorff or Bill Butler. Our relief corps looks like it could be Eddie Watt, Tom Burgmeier, Al Fitzmorris (who can also start), Chris Zachary and Dick Drago.
******

March 4

Some horrible news today: We learned White Sox SP Paul Edmondson died on his way to training camp in an auto accident. Edmondson was 27, a B (AA) pitcher who hoped to be promoted this year and make it to the show sometime in the summer.

In other news, Dodger reliever Pete Mikkelsen was suspended by Bowie Kuhn 'indefinitely' for bookmaking. Mikkelsen was 6-2 5.81 1 SV before a rotator cuff injury sidelined him in June. Despite not being able to influence Dodger games, Mikkelsen's bookmaking is a serious no-no.
******

March 9

Well, it's official. Kevin followed through on his threat. Or Boeing did. Either way, the Seattle Pilots have countersued Curt Flood for breach of contract in not reporting. Not only are they refusing to pay him, they're asking for damages.

I talked to Pat Kelly about it, off the record. As well as him being our captain last year, he's also our player representative. Kelly told me that while the player's union stands firmly behind Flood ... most of the players actually see things our way. After all, everyone [i]is[i] making pretty good money, and what Flood's doing can really destabilize baseball. If players just go to what them they want to...well, that sounds like a good way to make sure the most popular teams dominate forever.

We're experimenting with a new baseball this year, the 'X-5'. Apparently some people still don't believe the pitcher/batter balance of power is correct, because these X-5s are supposed to be much livelier, meaning more homers and faster balls getting past infielders.
******

March 12

Oakland finished a trade with Montreal today and picked up some free agents. They gave four decent players that they just don't need in exchange for a pitcher that they do.

Trade:
Oakland to Montreal:
C Phil Roof (71) [29] (1 AB in 1969)
OF Jose Tartabull (73) [31] (.192 0-6 4 in 73 AB)
LF Tommie Reynolds (65) [28] (Last played MLB in 1967)
CF Jeff Neal (53/70) [18] (.500 in 2 AB)

Montreal to Oakland:
RP Carroll Sembera (71/76) [28] (2-6 6.24 2 SV)
*****

March 20

I talked with Billy today about how our players were coming along. Very few surprises: (M: Overall on March 1, A: Overall on April 1)

Fred Rico (M: 74, A: 68) wasn't doing well, perhaps knowing he was a longshot to start in the outfield this year. If he doesn't get his game up, he might end up in AAA.

IF Juan Rios (M: 67, A: 62) did even worse. His career is probably done at this point. In fact, he might be released as we approach Opening Day.

Rich Severson (M: 71, A: 77) meanwhile wanted in badly. I don't realistically see him starting, but he could end up on the bench.

Will Thompson (M: 69, A: 68) will start in AAA. Even Billy agrees that if we give Thompson time he'll be a great first baseman, but he just seemed too much in awe to do much this spring. Plus, he has a habit of practical jokes that makes the 'oldsters' nervous.

On the mound we sometimes used Steve Jones (M: 69, A: 64) in long relief or for mop-up work. He finished with a 3.38 ERA. However, despite being 28 he's fading fast and it may be time to cut the cord.

Ken Wright (M: 74, A: 81) looks like he's coming into his own. He'll probably be our short reliever, or maybe our setup guy.

Paul Splittorff (M: 74, A: 82) possibly heard we were thinking of starting him in Omaha. He wants to come up badly. We might just have to let him.

23 year old Mike Hedlund (M: 66, A: 75) must have also realized his only way up is to perform. He is 2-0 in 3 starts so far.
*****

March 24

Commissioner Kuhn's putting an end to the X-5 experiment. Officially it's 'inconclusive,' but Indians pitcher Sam McDowell summed up everyone's feelings on the matter by calling that horse____. Just a few days ago the Indians and Pilots slugged it out 19-14, and they weren't using their best players.

I understand they want to make offense more dominant, but batting went up 27 points last year. What do they want? A repeat of last April?

In other news, with Kuhn's and Joe Cronin's permission, the Pilots put Curt Flood on the sixty day disabled list. The official report claims he's suffering from hydrocephalus. I called Kevin and asked him what the heck that meant.

"Doc says it's an archaic term for an enlarged head."
*****

March 29

Billy made the final decision today and recommended Pat stay on as team captain for another year. "We see eye-to-eye on a lot," Martin said. "He's not a bad kid...for an outfielder!"

I made the final decision and cut a few kids that...well, I don't see them ever being in Kansas City, and that's the point isn't it?

1B Chuck Harrison (64) [28] batted 1.000 in 2 at bats last year. However, we have Oliver, Fiore, and this new kid Thompson. Something catastrophic would have to happen for us to ever need him again. Maybe he can find a job elsewhere. It costs us $15,900 to buy out his contract.

RP Steve Jones (64/67) [28] had a 3.38 ERA last year, and actually rallied to finish Spring Training pretty strong. However, he's not happy here, and other than possible mop-up work I don't see him lasting here.

I asked Billy what he thought of our chances. He smiled. "I don't expect we'll win the division, but I think we're going to give some people a few surprises. TSN comes out today. Let's see what they think."

[CatKnight]

The Sporting News
Baseball Preview 1970

This year we expect excitement to be hard to find, but here are a few things to watch.

The hapless Washington Senators have yet to break .500. We think this might be the year.

Willie Mays and Hank Aaron continue to chase Babe Ruth's record for most home runs. While it's not likely the record falls this year (Mays would have to hit 85!), at ages 38 and 36 respectively both men have plenty of time to close the gap.

We expect this to be one of the less competitive years. Not much happened in the off season to convince us the balance of power is about to be broken. We expect three teams (Baltimore, Oakland, Minnesota) to break 100 wins, and two (Seattle, San Diego) to have trouble making 50.
....

AMERICAN LEAGUE WEST

1. Oakland Athletics
Last Year: 106-56 (1st), Predicted: 109-53
There's very little not to like about Oakland. They have power hitters in Monday and Jackson, and the stolen base champion in Bert Campaneris. Ace Catfish Hunter could easily win 20 games, and if the A's starting rotation can stay healthy, he might not be alone.

C: Gene Tenace (.184 4-22 1 SB)
1B: Rich Reese (.262 4-27 1 with Twins)
2B: John Donaldson (.242 1-29 3)
3B: Sal Bando (.312 19-111 6)
SS: Bert Campaneris (.296 7-46 82)
LF: Joe Rudi (.246 3-21 0)
CF: Rick Monday (.286 27-103 7)
RF: Reggie Jackson (.281 33-110 13)

S1: Catfish Hunter (19-11 3.34 12 CG)
S2: Chuck Dobson (15-8 3.84 5)
S3: Jim Nash (22-5 2.80 4)
CL: John Wyatt (7-2 1.59 25 SV)


2. Minnesota Twins
Last Year: 84-78 (3rd), Predicted: 104-58
Minnesota continues to strengthen. At age 33 Killebrew shows no sign of slowing down, while Rod Carew is coming on fast. The Twins have a good mix of new and old, with the only apparent weakness being at 3B. If Oakland stumbles, look to the Twins to fight for the pennant.

C: Johnny Roseboro (.242 5-57 3 SB)
1B: Harmon Killebrew (.317 38-119 0)
2B: Rod Carew (.363 5-55 31)
3B: Ron Clark (.211 3-41 6)
SS: Leo Cardenas (.317 15-96 4)
LF: Bob Allison (.278 22-90 3)
CF: Ted Uhleander (.253 6-48 7)
RF: Tony Oliva (.324 22-121 7)

S1: Milt Pappas (9-10 3.38 7 CG for Braves and Twins)
S2: Jim Perry (17-5 3.06 4)
S3: Dean Chance (10-13 5.59 0)
CL: Ron Perranoski (81) (6-8 4.79 20 SV)


3. Chicago White Sox
Last Year: 87-75 (2nd), Predicted: 78-84
Poor finances and ultimately confusion in the face of new ownership and a new GM prevented Chicago from making much needed attempts to strengthen their lineup. Several players are new and need time to develop. If Chicago stumbles badly they could easily end up in fourth.

C: Duane Josephson (.252 2-49 0 SB)
1B: Bob Spence (.269 1-10 0)
2B: Sandy Alomar (.238 0-30 52)
3B: Bill Melton (.267 7-36 1)
SS: Ron Hansen (.275 11-46 0)
LF: Brian Downing (.268 18-58 3)
CF: Ken Berry (.284 9-54 9)
RF: Buddy Bradford (.246 7-32 6)

S1: Tommy John (11-5 3.08 6 CG)
S2: Gary Peters (13-12 4.28 4)
S3: Joe Horlen (15-7 3.51 4)
CL: Bob Locker (7-6 4.44 15 SV)


4. Kansas City Royals
Last Year: 66-96 (5th), Predicted: 73-89
The Royals have a very young team still settling into their positions. Foy practiced infield over the spring, only to go back to third when Hart took LF. They are still power weak and have an uphill battle, but this should be a much stronger team than last year.

C: Ellie Rodriguez (.277 0-32 0 SB)
1B: Bob Oliver (.251 8-46 1)
2B: Chico Salmon (.336 4-21 5 with Orioles)
3B: Joe Foy (.244 16-68 10)
SS: Rich Severson (.188 1-19 4)
LF: Jim Ray Hart (.288 33-95 2 with Giants)
CF: Pat Kelly (.325 7-44 7)
RF: Lou Piniella (.297 9-68 1)

S1: Wally Bunker (14-19 4.10 3 CG)
S2: Bert Blyleven (8-5 4.06 6)
S3: Paul Splittorff (4-5 3.49 2)
CL: Eddie Watt (4-7 3.63 22 SV with Orioles and Royals)


5. Los Angeles Angels
Last Year: 76-86 (4th), Predicted: 64-98
It's hard to tell just what's wrong with the Angels. Some of their starters look questionable this year compared to their own minor leaguers, as heat and age have taken their toll on this once proud team. If Angel skipper Lefty Phillips values his position, then he really needs to bring fresh blood up and try them out this year for a possible rally in '71.

C: Tom Satriano (.224 3-22 0 SB)
1B: Bob Chance (.238 12-53 0)
2B: Bobby Knoop (.243 9-48 2)
3B: Aurelio Rodriguez (.250 13-47 1)
SS: Jim Fregosi (.280 12-69 8)
LF: Rick Reichardt (.302 22-82 12)
CF: Jay Johnstone (.268 11-62 8)
RF: Bubba Morton (.304 4-48 5)

S1: Clyde Wright (6-15 3.57 3 CG)
S2: Andy Messersmith (10-13 3.89 2)
S3: Jim McGlothin (12-11 4.15 2)
CL: Ken Tatum (5-5 4.39 13 SV)


6. Seattle Pilots
Last Year: 59-103 (6th), Predicted: 47-115
There are struggling teams, then there are the Pilots, who we believe to be the second most troubled in baseball ahead of the Padres. Last year's financial chaos and struggle to stay in Seattle crippled the team. Like LA, expect big movements within their lineup as they struggle to find a winning combination.

C: Bill Heath (.223 2-26 0 SB)
1B: Don Mincher (.258 10-29 0)
2B: Phil Gagliano (.233 1-25 3 with Cardinals and Royals)
3B: Rich Rollins (.256 12-66 3)
SS: Jack Lind (.000 0-0 0 in 1 AB)
LF: Tommy Harper (.300 15-67 35)
CF: Steve Whitaker (.219 25-64 4)
RF: Bernie Smith (.240 1-11 5)

S1: Marty Pattin (5-14 4.29 2 CG 1 SV)
S2: Gary Bell (13-9 4.30 3)
S3: Jim Bouton (12-17 4.02 2)
CL: Jack Aker (3-3 1.78 18 SV)
*******

In Review:

American League East:
Baltimore (105-57), Boston (89-73), Washington (82-80)
Detroit (81-81), New York (79-83), Cleveland (61-101)

American League West:
Oakland (109-53), Minnesota (104-58), Chicago (78-84)
Kanssa City (73-89), Los Angeles (64-98), Seattle (47-115)

National League East:
St. Louis (97-65), Chicago (85-77), New York (85-77)
Pittsburgh (80-82), Philadelphia (75-87), Montreal (71-91)

National League West:
Cincinnati (95-67), Houston (94-68), San Francisco (92-70)
Atlanta (83-79), Los Angeles (71-91), San Diego (44-118)

[CatKnight]

KANSAS CITY ROYALS
Opening Day, 1970

CATCHERS

Ellie Rodriguez (75/80) [23] (.277 0-32 0)
CON: $15,400 until Arb 72 / ACQ: Expansion Draft
DEBUT: 1968 New York Yankees (2nd season)

To quote Richie, Rodriguez won't win any awards, but he's steady. Ellie did everything I asked of him in 132 games last year, and looks to be the starting catcher at least until arbitration.

Dennis Paepke (70/77) [24] (.500 0-0 0 in 2 AB)
CON: $15,400 until Arb 73 / ACQ: Trade 12/68 with Angels
DEBUT: 1969 Kansas City Royals (Rookie)

Paepke or Buck Martinez (69/89) look to be Rodriguez's apprentice at least for the near future. His ability to handle the ball (99) is the best I've ever seen.


FIRST BASE

Bob Oliver (72/77) [27] (.251 8-46 1)
1969 Awards: Gold Glove
CON: $15,400 until Arb 72 / ACQ: Expansion Draft
DEBUT: 1965 Pittsburgh Pirates (2nd season)

Oliver surprised everyone with his Gold Glove, but with a .996 fielding percentage he deserved it. He also played third and right briefly last year. Versatility makes him useful.

Mike Fiore (69/72) [25] (.216 7-40 1)
CON: $15,400 until Arb 72 / ACQ: Expansion Draft
DEBUT: 1968 Baltimore Orioles (2nd season)

If Will Thompson (68/91) develops, he could easily be called up some time in July, which would pretty much end Fiore's run with us. Mike has a good eye for the ball, but too many weaknesses.


INFIELDERS

Chico Salmon (79) [29] (.336 4-21 5 with Orioles)
CON: $98,000 through 1973 / ACQ: Free Agent 11/69
DEBUT: 1964 Cleveland Indians

Salmon deteriorated slightly over the winter, but his excellent speed will be an asset. In a pinch he could come into first base if there are problems there.

Joe Foy (80) [27] (.244 16-68 10)
CON: $108,000 through 1970 / ACQ: Expansion Draft
DEBUT: 1966 Boston Red Sox (5th season)

Foy was one of our two 'power' hitters last year and has an excellent eye for the ball. He converted to a general infielder to be more useful.

Rich Severson (77/84) [25] (.188 1-19 4)
CON: $15,400 through Arb 73 / ACQ: Trade 12/68 with White Sox
DEBUT: 1969 Kansas City Royals (2nd season)

Severson had a bad year last year, but his general versatility (another one who can play all the infield spots) and speed will be great if he can reverse his fortunes.

Dave Concepcion (79/87) [21] (.333 0-1 0 in 15 AB with Reds and Royals)
CON: $15,400 through Arb 73 / ACQ: Trade 07/69 with Reds
DEBUT: 1969 Cincinnati Reds (Rookie)

Concepcion really took off over the winter and looks like he could start if he had to. If Severson struggles, that's exactly what he'll do.

Paul Schall (78) [27] (.262 5-32 2)
CON: $100,000 through 1970 / ACQ: Expansion Draft
DEBUT: 1964 Los Angeles Angels (7th season)

I'm still annoyed with Schall for going to arbitration without even letting me talk to him. As far as I'm concerned, barring catastrophe or major injury he can just sit on the bench.


OUTFIELDERS

Jim Ray Hart (85) [28] (.288 33-95 2)
CON: $245,000 through 1973 / ACQ: Free Agent 11/69
DEBUT: 1963 San Francisco Giants (8th season)

We brought Hart (the most expensive player on the team) in to help with the infield, but as it turns out the OF is in worse shape. His power should be a real asset.

Pat Kelly (79/90) [25] (.325 7-44 7)
1969 Awards: All Star
CON: $15,400 through Arb 72 / ACQ: Expansion Draft
DEBUT: 1967 Minnesota Twins (2nd season)

Pat was doing great until his season ending injury in June. If he can fully recover and regain last year's form we should do well.

Lou Piniella (77/78) [26] (.297 9-68 1)
CON: $15,400 through Arb 72 / ACQ: Trade 03/69 with Pilots
DEBUT: 1964 Baltimore Orioles (2nd season)

After Kelly was hurt, Piniella took over as our batting leader..until HE went down. Again, if he stays healthy, great. If there's trouble, we don't have the depth to cover our OF well.

Scott Northey (69/88) [23] (.203 3-11 3)
CON: $15,400 through Arb 72 / ACQ: Expansion Draft
DEBUT: 1969 Kansas City Royals (2nd season)

Hopefully in 4 years or so Northey will really be something, and all these years of nursing him along will pay off. Last year wasn't great. I hope he improves.

Fred Rico (68/76) [25] (.229 4-33 11)
CON: $15,400 through Arb 72 / ACQ: Trade 12/68 with Orioles
DEBUT: 1969 Kansas City Royals (2nd season)

Rico started so many games only because after Kelly left, he was one of our speedsters. Should he (or Northey) stumble, I have George Spriggs (69/70) looking for a last chance to shine.

[CatKnight]

STARTERS

Wally Bunker (84/88) [25] (14-19 4.10 3 CG)
CON: $216,000 through 1973 / ACQ: Expansion Draft
DEBUT: 1963 Baltimore Orioles (8th season)

In the end, Wally was the best pitcher we had. Perhaps Bert would have surpassed him with a complete season. We'll find out this year, I hope.

Bert Blyleven (82/94) [18] (8-5 4.06 6 CG)
CON: $15,400 through Arb 73 / ACQ: 1969 Draft (1st Round)
DEBUT: 1969 Kansas City Royals (2nd season)

Blyleven came up in August and did fantastic for a teenage kid. As he matures he should be one of the dominant pitchers in the game. His endurance (94) is incredible finishing 6 of 19 starts.

Paul Splittorff (82/94) [23] (4-5 3.49 2 CG)
CON: $15,400 through Arb 73 / ACQ: Expansion Draft
DEBUT: 1969 Kansas City Royals (2nd season)

Despite two minor injuries (hopefully not a bad sign) and indifferent usage, Paul really improved over the winter and spring to earn his spot on the rotation. Hopefully he can hold it.

Jim Rooker (80/86) [27] (5-13 5.64 2 CG)
CON: $15,400 through Arb 72 / ACQ: Expansion Draft
DEBUT: 1968 Detroit Tigers (2nd season)

Rooker had a bad year and spent some time in A-Omaha trying to get in shape. He looks good this year. Good enough to at least try to keep the 4 slot. He will have competition though.

Dave Morehead (79) [27] (8-19 5.32 1 CG)
CON: $90,000 through 1973 / ACQ: Expansion Draft
DEBUT: 1963 Boston Red Sox (8th season)

Morehead led the team in strikeouts last year, but that was the only reason he pitched so much. He also allowed a hit an inning and a walk every two. He'll start in the spot start role.


RELIEVERS

Eddie Watt (77) [28] (4-7 3.63 22 SV for Orioles and Royals)
CON: $68,000 through 1971 / ACQ: Trade 07/69 with Orioles
DEBUT: 1966 Baltimore Orioles (5th season)

Watt performed adequately in the closer role, but he didn't improve over the winter as others have. If he stumbles, he may end up in short-relief before the season is through.

Ken Wright (81/85) [23] (3-3 4.02 0 SV)
CON: $15,400 through Arb 73 / ACQ: Off Season 1969
DEBUT: 1969 Kansas City Royals (2nd season)

Wright spent much of last year in A-Omaha. It did him a lot of good and he finished the season very strong. He's earned a chance to try and keep the setup role.

Tom Burgmeier (77/78) [26] (2-6 3.59 12 SV)
CON: $15,400 through Arb 72 / ACQ: Expansion Draft
DEBUT: 1968 California Angels (3rd season)

Burgmeier was setup man most of last year and spent some time as closer when Watt was hurt. It wouldn't take much to find him back in either role.

Chris Zachary (77/92) [26] (1-1 9.56 0 SV)
CON: $50,000 through 1970 / ACQ: Trade 10/68 with Astros
DEBUT: 1963 Houston Colts (7th season)

Zachary stumbled last year and wound up in A-Omaha. He's back and ready to try again. Scouts still swear by Chris. This spring he mastered a new pitch, the two-seam fastball.

Jim York (78/88) [22] (Rookie)
CON: $15,400 through Arb 73 / ACQ: Off Season 1969
DEBUT: 1970 Kansas City Royals (Rookie)

York pitched 17 innings for a 1.06 ERA in Spring Training. That's good enough to give him a chance to stay on the 25-man roster. Low endurance for middle relief, we'll keep an eye on him.

Roger Nelson (77/79) [25] (3-4 6.46 1 SV)
CON: $15,400 through Arb 71 / ACQ: Expansion Draft
DEBUT: 1967 Chicago White Sox (4th season)

Nelson struggled and found himself bouncing between long relief and A-Omaha. He has the endurance for a starter, just not quite the skill compared to others.

[Overbay17]

Liking the look of the top two or three starters, here's hoping they pan out for you! A fourth place prediction...hmmm....pretty good for a second year team if you manage it.

[CatKnight]

Overbay: If. Right now it looks BAD However, the real life KC Royals DID finish fourth in 1969. We can hope!
*******

Early April 1970


"Chuck? It's Ewing."

I looked at the clock on my wall: 12:13. Our opener against the Indians would be in just a few hours. "Good afternoon, sir."

"Chuck, I was going over some figures with our accounting department. I understand Richie Perrin signed one of our minor leaguers to a $100,000 contract?"

Why wouldn't everyone shut up about this? Half the players are furious and I don't blame them. I've had three different requests to renegotiate contracts which would ruin the club. Meanwhile, Kevin told me the Seattle papers ran an article on the local boy suddenly rolling in the dough. Kyle from Detroit called and asked if he could put his minor leaguers on our payroll too.

"Yes, sir. I gave Richie the power to negotiate and sign. He...has a lot of faith in this kid. I've since limited him to minor league and try out contracts."

"A wise idea." He paused. "It won't hurt us much to give him a year or so, but if he can't make the club we either need to renegotiate or move him. I don't care what Richie thinks of him, I can't have our third highest paid player in B-ball."

"No." I rubbed my eyes. "I'm sorry."

Kauffman's voice softened. "I don't mind if you spend my money, son. ****, you're still under budget - if just by a hair. I need bang for my buck though."
*******

Cleveland (0-0) at Kansas City (0-0)

April 1: Bunker pitched 7 strong innings, giving up 3 ER all at the hands of Chris Chambliss (double, homer). LF Jim Ray Hart's ninth inning error kills any comeback. Indians 5-2

April 2: Sam McDowell held us to 1 hit in 7 innings. We had the bases loaded in the seventh but couldn't capitalize. Blyleven didn't give up any runs til the eighth. Indians 2-0

April 3: Chico Salmon hit the team's first homer, but Splittorff fell apart in the eighth and Wright couldn't limit the damage. Indians 4-2
*******

The stadium was pretty quiet as we went home that night. The sad news is we're only 1.5 games out of first, chasing the Seattle Pilots...who haven't started their season yet.

San Diego signed Steve Jones, the reliever I let go right before the season started, and put him in A ball. Given how the Padres are doing, they just might be able to use him.
*******

Washington (2-1) (2nd-T, -1g) at Kansas City (0-3) (6th, -1.5g)

April 4: Ugh. 3 errors, including a ninth inning kicked ball by CF Pat Kelly, allows them to put out the win. On the other hand, his 8th inning grand slam was the only reason we were close. Senators 8-7

April 5: Bunker goes the distance, giving up 5 hits and earning a shutout. Piniella homered, and Foy hit a 2 RBI double. Royals 5-0

April 6: Another ugly game as we combine for 29 hits. Mike Epstein homers off of Jim York in the ninth to give Washington the rubber match. Senators 8-7
*******

And just in case that wasn't enough, C Ellie Rodriguez will miss the better part of a month. While throwing out a runner at second his shoulder popped. Trainers report he seperated the **** thing!

Rodriguez batted only .188 in 16 AB. He'll be replaced by Dennis Paepke, and Buck Martinez will come up to serve as backup.

Meanwhile, Charley Finley decided to have some fun. When the Yankees showed up for Oakland's home opener, they found the bases painted YELLOW. Aside from being one of Oakland's colors, Finley claims they're easier to see. There's nothing in the rule book forbidding it, so umpires had to let them play, but the Rules Committee met today to discuss his actions.
*******

Kansas City (1-5) (6th, -3g) at Baltimore (3-0) (1st, +0.5g)

April 7: Piniella's single and Oliver's 3 run blast in the first gave us a lead we'd never relinquish, handing Baltimore their first loss. Royals 6-3

April 8: Trailing 7-3, Bob Oliver gets an RBI single and Paul Schall a two-run homer. It's just not quite enough. Burgmeier and Zachary really suffered in relief. Orioles 7-6

April 9: Dave McNally gets the complete game shutout despite 8 hits and 4 walks. Orioles 3-0
*******

Billy's acting a little strange. He prowls around the dugout like an animal, glaring at everybody. I think he understood we weren't a good team, but perhaps nothing quite so unholy as this. We aren't playing well, even by our inexact standards, and he's trying to find a solution.

As expected, the Rules Committee told Charley what to do with his bases.
*******

Kansas City (2-7) (6th, -4g) at New York (5-4) (4th, -2g)

April 10: Foy went 3 for 5 to bring in one of our four runs, but New York managed six getting eleven hits and forcing two errors out of us. Bert only got 1K in 5 IP. Yankees 6-4

April 11: This time it's Rico getting 2 RBI, and our relievers still struggle badly. They made three errors, for all the good it did us. Yankees 6-4

April 12: Jim Rooker died in the seventh, giving up a total of 5 hits and 9 walks in 6.2 IP. We were leading 2-1 at the time, but six runs in an inning demoralized us. Yankees 8-4
*******

Just in case you're wondering, we are absolutely the worst team in Major League Baseball. Oddly enough, three of the five teams tied for second worst (4-8) are in our division. The AL East is eating everyone alive this year.

At least, I hope that's why we're so blatantly horrible.
*******

Kansas City (2-10) (6th, -6g) at Boston (6-6) (5th-T, -2.5g)

April 13: Now it's starter Wally Bunker who struggles. So does our offense, only picking up 4 hits (2 by Paul Schaal.) Red Sox 5-2

April 14: Our seventh straight loss comes because Blyleven can't get his act together. Our entire pitching staff is reeling. If this is sophomore slump, we are in so much trouble. Red Sox 6-3

April 15: Finally! Boston scored in the first helped by Foy's error, but in the ninth Paepke hit a sac bunt to tie the game, then Schaal singled to win it. Royals 2-1

Team          W    L    GB
Oakland      10    5    --
Seattle       6    6     2.5
Chicago       4    8     4.5
Minnesota     5    9     4.5
Los Angeles   5   10     5
Kansas City   3   12     7

AL East: Cleveland (10-5), Baltimore (-0.5g), New York (-0.5g)
NL East: Pittsburgh (10-5), New York (-1g), St. Louis (-1g)
NL West: San Francisco (9-3), Cincinnati (-4g), Los Angeles (-4g)

Team Leaders:
AVG: Pat Kelly (.326)
HR:  Lou Piniella, Pat Kelly (2)
RBI: Pat Kelly, Bob Oliver (7)
SB:  Fred Rico, Dave Concepcion, Chico Salmon (1)

W:   Wally Bunker, Paul Splittorff, Ken Wright (1)
ERA: Paul Splittorff (2.79)
K:   Paul Splittorff (16)
SV:  None

[CatKnight]

Late April 1970

We are in the midst of a difficult road trip. I'm just hoping to get out of April within any kind of striking distance. I don't like being sixth. We shouldn't be sixth. So many players are having bad streaks. Two of my starters are batting below .200 ... three if you count Rodriguez. Two starters and two relievers have ERAs over six.

Billy spoke with the team today. He didn't yell, though his tone was rather fierce. He talked about the Indians lineup and how to pitch to players like Jose Cardenal and Duke Sims. He also talked about their pitchers: Tiant and McDowell are dangerous. The rest are ****.

"No excuses, men! We play them six times in the next nine days. I want at least half. They aren't good enough to be in first, and we're not bad enough to be in last."
*******

Kansas City (3-12) (6th, -7g) at Cleveland (10-5) (1st, +0.5g)

April 16: We tied it in the ninth when Concepcion PH and hit an RBI single. Chris Zachary gave up a single and double in the bottom half however. Ball game. Indians 7-6

April 17: For all our troubles with relievers, the Royals have always been good at extra inning games. Scott Northey proves it with a one run blast. Watt finally gets the first team save. Royals 4-3 (12)

April 18: Trailing 2-1, Paul Schall hits a 2 RBI single in the seventh to give us the lead and game. Blyleven puts together a pretty good 8 IP performance. Royals 3-2
*******

That knocked Cleveland from first and gives us our first winning streak. Maybe we can forget those awful two weeks and get to playing some real baseball.
*******

Kansas City (5-13) (6th, -6g) at Washington (7-8) (6th, -3g)

April 19: Chris Zachary is terrible, giving up 4 hits, a walk and 4 runs in 1 IP. Bob Oliver hit his third homer for all the good it did us. Senators 6-2

April 20: Splittorff was hurt yesterday with a broken tooth, and I think it hurt his concentration allowing the Senators an early lead. He held them to four hits, while Washington's Joe Coleman needed seven. We couldn't score though, and left the bases loaded in the ninth. Senators 2-1

April 21: RF Lou Piniella bobbles the ball, allowing two unearned runs. This is the margin of victory, wasting a decent performance by Rooker. Senators 5-4
*******

Ugh. Maybe I shouldn't say anything. We've also lost Jim Ray Hart for about ten days after he twisted his knee out in left field. Rico will play left while he recovers.
*******

Cleveland (14-7) (1st, +1.5g) at Kanssa City (5-16) (6th, -8.5g)

April 22: Trailing 4-2 in the ninth, Concepcion singles to bring Paepke home, Kelly brings Severson home with a suicide squeeze, and Foy hits a two-out single to win it. Royals 5-4

April 23: Dick Woodson held us to 4 hits (all singles) in 8 innings, stifling any attempt to take advantage of Blyleven's credible performance. Indians 3-1

April 24: This time it's Luis Tiant holding us to one hit and striking out eleven in eight innings. Indians 5-1
*******

Well...Billy asked for half the games against Cleveland, and got half the games. Still, unless we do really well against Baltimore this should be our worst month ever. I'm just not sure what to do to get the team moving. Billy and I are going to go out and sort things out after the Baltimore series, when we have three days off.

Perhaps our team is just tired. This is going to be a 27 day run. After those three days off, we play for 24 more before our next break (another three days), then 21 more. Whoever wrote this schedule has a bit to answer for.
*******

Baltimore (14-7) (2nd-T, -0.5g) at Kansas City (6-18) (6th, -9g)

April 25: Not sure what to say, except maybe that we trailed 7-1 entering the bottom of the eighth and fought back. Schall went 2 for 2 with 3 RBI. Piniella hit a double and triple. Orioles 7-5

April 26: It's official: Worst month ever. This isn't even pretty. Mike Cuellar gets the complete game, while Bunker doesn't make it out of the sixth. Orioles 8-1

April 27: Baltimore scored 3 of 4 runs on sac flies while we mostly dimed them to death. Four consecutive singles and a grounder for 3 runs helped though. Royals 5-4

[Coach Owens]

Boo! Fire Chuck! Fire Chuck!

[CatKnight]

Coach Owens: But..but...if they fire me, where will I go? What will I do?
*******

May 1, 1970

Standings

American League East
Team            W   L   GB
Baltimore      18   9   --
Cleveland      17  10    1   
NY Yankees     17  10    1
Washington     16  11    2  
Detroit        15  15    4.5
Boston         15  15    4.5

American League West
Team            W   L   GB
Oakland        17  10   --
Chi WSox       13  14    4
Minnesota      12  15    5
LA Angels      10  17    7
Seattle         8  19    9
Kansas City     7  20   10

National League East
Team            W   L   GB
Philadelphia   17  10   --
St. Louis      17  10   -- 
Pittsburgh     16  11    1  
Chi Cubs       15  12    2
NY Mets        16  14    2.5
Montreal       11  16    6

National League West
Team            W   L   GB
San Francisco  17   7   --
LA Dodgers     12  12    5
Cincinnati     12  15    6.5
Houston        11  16    7.5
Atlanta        10  17    8.5
San Diego       5  19   12

*******

American League Leaders
Average: Bobby Murcer (NYY) .415, Rod Carew (MIN) .405
HR: Frank Howard (WAS) 8, Reggie Jackson (OAK) 7
RBI: Three tied with 22
Steals: Ron LeFlore (NYY) 17, Dave Nelson (CLE) 12

Wins: Dave McNally (BAL) 6, Fritz Peterson (NYY) 6
ERA: Luis Tiant (CLE) 1.10, Catfish Hunter (OAK) 1.45
Strikeouts: Luis Tiant (CLE) 43, Sam McDowell (CLE) 41
Saves: Dave Baldwin (WAS) 7, Phil Hennigan (CLE) 6

National League Leaders
Average: Willie Crawford (LAD) .416, Ron Santo (CHC) .403
HR: Joe Torre (STL) 8, Dick Allen (PHI) 7
RBI: Dick Allen (PHI) 26, Willie Stargell (PIT) 24
Steals: Lou Brock (STL) 12, Two tied with 8

Wins: Bobby Bolin (SF) 5, Six tied with 4
ERA: Bob Gibson (STL) 0.33, Joe Niekro (CHC) 0.64
Strikeouts: Nolan Ryan (NYM) 54, Jim Bunning (PIT) 52
Saves: Kent Tekulve (PIT) 6, Two tied with 5

Kansas City Royals Leaders
Average: Lou Piniella .310
HR: Bob Oliver, Pat Kelly, Lou Piniella 3
RBI: Paul Schaal 14
Steals: Chico Salmon, Fred Rico 2

Wins: Bert Blyleven, Ken Wright 2
ERA: Paul Splittorff 3.38
Strikeouts: Bert Blyleven 30
Saves: Eddie Watt 2
*******

Milestones
4/1: Willie Mays (SF): 3,000 hits
4/1: Joe Coleman (WAS): PERFECT GAME!
4/9: Hank Aaron (ATL): 3,000 hits
4/13: Norm Cash (DET): 300 HR
4/21: Harmon Killebrew: 1,000 runs
4/24: Bill Mazeroski: 2,000 hits
*******

Trades
San Diego sends -
* 2B Billy Harris (64/65) [26] (.203 0-38 11 SB in 1969)
+ twelve minor leaguers

Boston sends -
* 2B Mike Andrews (80) [26] (.269 14-66 2 SB in 1969)
*******

Retirements
None

[Coach Owens]

Coach Owens: But..but...if they fire me, where will I go? What will I do?
*******

I don't care, KC sucks because of YOU!

[CatKnight]

Coach Owens: Here you go. Happy?
*******

Kansas City Star
April 28, 1970

HUNTER'S FOLLIES

Well fans, we have what we wanted ever since the Athletics left to go to Oakland and become division champions: Baseball in Kansas City.

Unfortunately, we seem to have a warped version consisting of very young men, supported and guided by slacking veterans and indifferent leadership. The Royals, after a strong finish last season, completely fell apart this April. In other words, some time over the winter they weakened compared to the rest of the League. Let's review the changes and see where they are now:

Ed Kirkpatrick (released). Last year Ed was a star outfielder with excellent power (16 HR 72 RBI). GM Chuck Hunter didn't want to pay him, so now he's in Washington with 1 HR and 6 RBI. He's on the Senator roster, but not playing due to a broken knuckle.

Phil Gagliano (released). Gagliano was steady, if not spectacular, at second base last year. Now he's batting .183 with 3 RBI for the Pilots.

Jackie Hernandez (released). Hernandez came off the bench for 7 at bats last season. This year he's 0 for 1 in Washington.

Merritt Ranew (released). Ranew didn't play for us down the stretch and was released. Facing no prospects, Ranew retired.

Chuck Harrison (released). Harrison went 1.000 last year in 2 at bats. Now he's a 'free agent.'

Steve Jones (released). Jones ended last year with a 3.38 ERA. Not trusting that, Hunter released him. San Diego picked him up, and now he's in A ball.

So far so good, though Harrison and Jones may have deserved more consideration, but let's look at who he acquired:

Jim Ray Hart (acquired). His .310 average looks good, but 7 RBI is questionable. He was supposed to be the answer to our power issues, but has yet to hit one homer. Hart's also been injured for the past week opening the door for Fred Rico.

Chico Salmon (acquired). Salmon at least has two homers! However, his .221 average is horrible. While it's true he has 2 stolen bases...he's been caught 4 times, a net loss.

While one could argue that releasing certain contracts didn't hurt the team, nor did Hunter strengthen the club over the winter, unlike Seattle who is now one game ahead of us. Indeed, we are the worst team in the American League, and not far ahead of San Diego.

Royal Woes

Over the winter Hunter also overlooked bench coach Charlie Metro, a solid performer who watched Joe Gordon last year, to bring in manager Billy Martin. This paper sees not the slightest hint that Martin knows what he's doing. It is true he led the Twins to 84 wins last year, however considering this year The Sporting News predicted they'll win 104, last year's performance speaks more to Minnesota's talent than their manager's. It's well known he can't control his temper, and it's quite possible he's earned enough enmity among the umpires that it's costing our team close calls.

Hunter stated in an interview on Monday that he has complete confidence in Billy Martin's capabilities. We're pleased he does. The fact we're winning only 1 of 5 games suggests otherwise.

No doubt Hunter has plans to get the team moving, but it's possible he's simply in over his head. Drafting a better team last year than the Padres, Pilots and Expos requires one skill set - the ability to evaluate players, which Hunter's previous experience in St. Louis prepared him for. Maintaining and strengthening an organization requires more. It needs patience, financial moderation, and above all leadership. His time with the Cardinals didn't adequately prepare him for the challenges of running a new organization.

If Hunter won't resign, then we'd suggest owner Ewing Kauffman intervene, either by finding a new general manager or hiring an assistant to 'advise' him as he learns his duties.

Despite the Royals' slow start, we look forward to their history in this great city. It's hard not to notice the contrast between the mediocre Royals and Super Bowl champion Chiefs, however. If baseball is to continue to thrive, then the Royals must do better. Soon.

[CatKnight]

April 30


Billy and I had a long talk today in my office, poring over scouting reports and talking about our players. He's as frustrated as I am, if not more so. He's a real competitor. He likes to win. As I've said before, I think he realized it would take awhile for the Royals to really shine, but a .200 winning percentage is ridiculous.

He's in the same boat I am. Relatively young, he hopes to be in baseball for a very long time yet. If the Royals fail he's going to have trouble finding work.

So am I.

Billy's pushing hard for more control of the lineups and roster. I'm letting him have his head for now, partly because it may help him perform if he feels he has more control over his destiny, and partly because I'm out of ideas. Some of his though...hmm.

Rodriguez (.188 0-0 0) is back from the DL and will resume being our starting catcher. He asked me to demote Buck Martinez (.333 0-0 0) to make room. Dennis Paepke (.153 0-5 0) remains his backup.

Oliver (.239 3-9 0) stays at first, but he asked me to bring up Thompson from B ball. Now, I agree Will's doing well - .370s, 9 homers - but is he ready? I warned him rushing Thompson now can destroy his career and the team's investment in him. Billy replied that Mike Fiore (.188 0-0 0) is worthless to him, and if nothing else Thompson can learn what he needs to from the bench.

He's moved Foy from third to second, and brought Paul Schall in at third. Foy (.187 0-10 1) is struggling and needs to get himself settled. Severson (.225 0-3 1) has settled at short. Schaal... well, I have to admit that whatever capers he pulled during arbitration, he's having a great start. (.435 1-14 0)

On the bench he asked for Concepcion (.500 0-3 1), Salmon (.221 2-11 2) and Jim Ray Hart (.310 0-7 0). Hart's seeing family for a day or two. When he comes back, Billy might play with the lineup again.

Piniella (.310 3-8 0) has taken over left, Rico (.216 0-4 2) right. Pat Kelly (.301 3-10 1) holds the middle. I suspect Hart will take left, Piniella to right, Rico to the bench but I'm not sure what Billy has in mind. Our only bench warmer in the outfield is now George Spriggs. He suggested I demote Scott Northey (.290 1-2 1).

(The 'system' I use required me to have the AI set everything, hence Will's early callup. Perhaps he's ready?)

Between us we mixed up the rotation a bit. Blyleven (2-4 4.86) is now our ace, with Bunker (1-4 4.53) holding the number two role. After them comes Morehead (0-0 0.00) and Splittorff (1-3 3.38). Our spot starter will be Jim Rooker (0-3 5.60)

For relievers I demoted Tom Burgmeier (0-1 8.03) and Chris Zachary (1-3 8.10) to work the kinks out. Premature, I know, but we have many fine pitchers in Omaha. No sense not letting them try out. Up comes Dick Drago in short relief, Mike Hedlund in middle.

Eddie Watt (0-0 0.00 2 SV) will stay as closer, Ken Wright (2-0 2.12 1) as setup. Our other short reliever is Jim York (0-2 1.86), and long relief goes to Roger Nelson (0-0 0.00)

(Here I maintained control of the roster, but the AI reset the order.)

We now begin another 24 days of ball play and hope for no injuries. On May 13 we finally get to play divisional rivals, though three of those are against Oakland away. On the other hand, six more are at Seattle. Hopefully we can start pulling away from them again.

[Coach Owens]

April 30


Billy and I had a long talk today in my office, poring over scouting reports and talking about our players. He's as frustrated as I am, if not more so. He's a real competitor. He likes to win. As I've said before, I think he realized it would take awhile for the Royals to really shine, but a .200 winning percentage is ridiculous.

He's in the same boat I am. Relatively young, he hopes to be in baseball for a very long time yet. If the Royals fail he's going to have trouble finding work.

So am I.

Billy's pushing hard for more control of the lineups and roster. I'm letting him have his head for now, partly because it may help him perform if he feels he has more control over his destiny, and partly because I'm out of ideas. Some of his though...hmm.

Rodriguez (.188 0-0 0) is back from the DL and will resume being our starting catcher. He asked me to demote Buck Martinez (.333 0-0 0) to make room. Dennis Paepke (.153 0-5 0) remains his backup.

Oliver (.239 3-9 0) stays at first, but he asked me to bring up Thompson from B ball. Now, I agree Will's doing well - .370s, 9 homers - but is he ready? I warned him rushing Thompson now can destroy his career and the team's investment in him. Billy replied that Mike Fiore (.188 0-0 0) is worthless to him, and if nothing else Thompson can learn what he needs to from the bench.

He's moved Foy from third to second, and brought Paul Schall in at third. Foy (.187 0-10 1) is struggling and needs to get himself settled. Severson (.225 0-3 1) has settled at short. Schaal... well, I have to admit that whatever capers he pulled during arbitration, he's having a great start. (.435 1-14 0)

On the bench he asked for Concepcion (.500 0-3 1), Salmon (.221 2-11 2) and Jim Ray Hart (.310 0-7 0). Hart's seeing family for a day or two. When he comes back, Billy might play with the lineup again.

Piniella (.310 3-8 0) has taken over left, Rico (.216 0-4 2) right. Pat Kelly (.301 3-10 1) holds the middle. I suspect Hart will take left, Piniella to right, Rico to the bench but I'm not sure what Billy has in mind. Our only bench warmer in the outfield is now George Spriggs. He suggested I demote Scott Northey (.290 1-2 1).

(The 'system' I use required me to have the AI set everything, hence Will's early callup. Perhaps he's ready?)

Between us we mixed up the rotation a bit. Blyleven (2-4 4.86) is now our ace, with Bunker (1-4 4.53) holding the number two role. After them comes Morehead (0-0 0.00) and Splittorff (1-3 3.38). Our spot starter will be Jim Rooker (0-3 5.60)

For relievers I demoted Tom Burgmeier (0-1 8.03) and Chris Zachary (1-3 8.10) to work the kinks out. Premature, I know, but we have many fine pitchers in Omaha. No sense not letting them try out. Up comes Dick Drago in short relief, Mike Hedlund in middle.

Eddie Watt (0-0 0.00 2 SV) will stay as closer, Ken Wright (2-0 2.12 1) as setup. Our other short reliever is Jim York (0-2 1.86), and long relief goes to Roger Nelson (0-0 0.00)

(Here I maintained control of the roster, but the AI reset the order.)

We now begin another 24 days of ball play and hope for no injuries. On May 13 we finally get to play divisional rivals, though three of those are against Oakland away. On the other hand, six more are at Seattle. Hopefully we can start pulling away from them again.

I hate Martin.

[CatKnight]

Coach: Aww, you should have faith in him
*******

Early May 1970

With some in the media hinting at my removal, and others starting to question Billy's ability to run a team, it's just as well we're spending a week out of Kansas City. Richie's in charge. I hope he doesn't sign Finley's mule to a hundred thousand dollar contract to pitch!
*******

Kansas City (7-20) (6th, -10g) at Cleveland (17-10) (2nd-T, -1g)

May 1: Seven solid innings by Dave Morehead and a 7-run eighth (including Pat Kelly's grand slam) lifted us well over Cleveland. Will Thompson got his first at-bat, an RBI single with George Spriggs on second. Royals 7-2

May 2: Kelly's eighth inning homer breaks a 5-5 tie and gives us the win. Dick Dragon's debut (2 IP 3 H 1 ER) wasn't spectacular, but good enough. Hart and Rico also hit their first homers. Royals 6-5

May 3: Piniella goes 4 for 5 with a triple and 2 RBI, Oliver 2 for 5 with a homer and 3. Blyleven struggles, giving up 11 hits in 8.2 IP, but Watt finishes them off. Royals 7-4
*******

The trade season opens with Oakland offering a struggling first baseman (Danny Cater (74) [30] (.148 0-8 0) and a decent catcher (Jack Pagliaroni (74/75) [32] (.290 1-9 0) in exchange for infielder Joe Foy (80) [27] (.191 0-10 1). We don't need first basemen. If Rodriguez straightens out, he's Pagliaroni's equal. Plus, Jack's starting to enter the tail end of his career. Nope.

Hart took over third base on May 2, and Severson sat down. Perhaps not the choice I'd have made, but we'll see.
*******

Kansas City (10-20) (5th-T, -9g) at Detroit (16-17) (5th, -5.5g)

May 4: There wasn't an inning where the Tigers failed to score, while we rallied in the late innings to make a game of it. Kelly scored 3 runs, Spriggs hit a 3 RBI homer, and in his first start Thompson went 2 for 4 with a homer. Tigers 13-8

May 5: This game's a little more sane, but Morehead has one bad inning and pays for it. Piniella gets his fourth homer. Tigers 5-2

May 6: Thompson pinch hits in the fourteenth and doubles in Rich Severson for the win. Hart went 4 for 6 with a double, homer and 3 RBI. Royals 8-7 (14)
*******

Well, the new guy is playing like he might be worth $120,000. I'll give him that.

Federal court opened hearings today regarding Curt Flood's argument against Major League Baseball, and the Seattle Pilots' countersuit for breach of contract.

Curt's argument amounts to this: The reserve clause prevents him from offering his services to other teams. True. However, it allows a team to trade him, forcing him to leave his home. Effectively true, though there is such a thing as no-trade clauses. This therefore constitutes antitrust, since the player can like it or not play.

He also continues to compare our arrangement to slavery. Gary, and many others, think he's just using the race card to try and apply pressure to Major League Baseball. I think it's going to backfire. He's angering a lot of people, and it's hard to argue depressed wages when he's making $219,000 per year.
*******

Boston (17-19) (6th, -5.5g) at Kansas City (11-22) (5th-T, -11g)

May 7: Leading 3-1, Blyleven stumbles in the ninth allowing a walk, single and triple. Eddie Watt comes in and gives up three singles as well as the game. Red Sox 4-3

May 8: Ken Wright and Jim York SUCK, giving up 8 runs in the eighth and turning a 4-2 lead into a massacre. Lost in their incompetence is Spriggs' three run homer. Red Sox 10-4

May 9: On another hitter's day, Bob Oliver opens the eleventh with a homer to avoid the sweep. Piniella goes 3 for 5 with 2 runs and RBI, Rico 3 for 4 with 2 doubles. Royals 11-10 (11)
*******

The Giants would like to give me SP Barry Phillips (62/77) [21] (0-1 9.58 0) in exchange for Foy. I tell them to call me back when they're serious.
*******

New York (23-13) (1st, +0.5g) at Kansas City (12-24) (5th, -11g)

May 10: We get all our runs in the first four innings and hold on. Hart goes 3 for 4 with a triple and homer for 3 RBI, Foy and Piniella get 2 each. Royals 9-3

May 11: Hart's fourth homer ties the game, and Bob Oliver wins in the ninth on an RBI single. Blyleven holds them to 4 hits in 8 innings with 9 strikeouts. Royals 2-1

May 12: After yesterday both offenses come alive. The Yanks lead 10-5 in the sixth but we fight back. Kelly and Oliver both hit their sixth homers. Yankees 10-8
*******

Commissioner Kuhn began testifying in the Curt Flood case. Our response is rather simple:

Yes, he can't just play for any team. This is no different than any non-competition clause you'll find in big business.

Yes, we might trade him. This is no different than a company's wanting you to relocate.

It is true you might have more freedom to refuse in a corporate setting, but you're earning an awful lot of money to put yourself at the disposal of the club.

Since our liberalizing the reserve clause back in the '50s, we've very rarely tried to stop someone from seeking employment once released. Flood hasn't been released. There are two years left on his contract.

Meanwhile, for us it's up to Seattle to see what Kevin's done with the place now that he actually has money.
*******

Kansas City (14-25) (5th-T, -11g) at Seattle (14-22) (4th, -9.5g)

May 13: Winning 3-0 and 8-3, Dave Morehead dies in the fifth giving up six runs and the game. Hart went 2 for 5 (doubles) and 2 RBI. Rodriguez went 2 for 4 with 2 of his own. Pilots 9-8

May 14: The Pilots scored early as Splittorff (3 IP 8 H 4 ER) couldn't put it together. Hedlund (5 IP) is brilliant in relief, but we're held to four hits. Pilots 4-1

May 15: Blyleven and Seattle's Jim Bouton battle most of the day. Jim Ray Hart's second inning homer proves to be the difference. Blyleven gets a CG shutout. Royals 1-0
*******

Team          W    L    GB
Oakland      26   16    --
Chicago      19   20     5.5
Seattle      16   23     8.5
Minnesota    15   22     8.5
Los Angeles  16   26    10
Kansas City  15   27    11

AL East: New York (27-15), Washington (-1g), Baltimore (-3g)
NL East: Philadelphia (27-15), Pittsburgh (-2g), New York (-2g)
NL West: San Francisco (23-16), Cincinnati (-5g), Los Angeles (-5g)

Team Leaders:
AVG: Jim Ray Hart (.359)
HR:  Bob Oliver, Pat Kelly (6)
RBI: Pat Kelly, Jim Ray Hart (23)
SB:  Pat Kelly (7)

W:   Bert Blyleven, Ken Wright (4)
ERA: Bert Blyleven (3.81)
K:   Bert Blyleven (55)
SV:  Eddie Watt (3)