The American Baseball League

[glenn]

Standings
Continental League

East Division                          W            L             PCT         GB           Lst 10       Streak

Toledo Mud Hens                     33            25            .569         -              6-4           W3    

Washington Capitals*               30            28            .517         3              4-6           L3    

Buffalo Blizzard                       29            29            .500         4              5-5           L1    

Columbus Catfish                    27            31            .466         6              4-6           L3    

Pittsburgh Puma                     24            34            .414         9              6-4           W5    

Central Division                     W            L             PCT         GB           Lst 10       Streak

Minn. Mighty Manatees            35            23            .603         -              7-3           W1    

Milwaukee Monsters*               31            27            .534         4              5-5           W2    

Kansas City Steers                  29            29            .500         6              6-4           W3    

Indianapolis Racers                  27            31            .466         8              4-6           L3    

Oklahoma City Twisters           24            34            .431         10            3-7           L2   
West Division                         W            L             PCT         GB           Lst 10       Streak

Memphis Mud Dogs                 37            21            .638         -              7-3           W5    

Nashville Generals*                  31            27            .534         6              5-5           L1    

New Orleans Jazz                    27            31            .466         10            4-6           L5    

Jacksonville Waves                  25            33            .431         12            5-5           W2    

Atlanta Seminoles                   21            37            .362         16            5-5           W1    

Central Division                     W            L             PCT         GB           Lst 10       Streak

Denver Mountaineers                33            25            .569         -              6-4           W3    

Phoenix Flame*                       31            27            .534         2              4-6           L4    

Portland Lumberjacks              30            28            .517         3              5-5           L3    

Seattle Salmon Kings              30            28            .517         3              4-6           W1    

Oakland Sky Hawks                25            33            .431         8              5-5           L1    

League Leaders-Eastern League
Batting Average
1. S. Ragin-POR .368
2. J. Rodriguez-POR.357
3. G. Gray-TOL .355

Home Runs
1. B. Hopkins-SEA 20
2. Z. Jimenez-BUF 20
3. D. Fisher-PHO 18

Runs Batted In
1. J. Chenoweth-MIL 61
2. Z. Jimenez-BUF 56
3. B. Hopkins-SEA 49

Stolen Bases
1. T. Bobbitt-JAC 26
2. H. Helm-IND 17
3. P. Bas-WAS 16

Earned Run Average
1. E. Winfrey-POR 0.73
2. C. Freed-NOJ 1.50
3. L. Ortiz-MEM 1.60

Wins
1. S. O’Henrey-MIL 9
2. W. Smith-NAS 8
3. 6 Others Tied with 7

Saves
1. M. Cash-POR 20
2. R. Santiago-SEA 17
3. J. Torres-PHO 17

Strikeouts
1. C. Freed-NOJ 104
2. F. Villamarin-BUF 90
3. M. Alvarez-COL 87

Rookie of the Month
Milwaukee Monsters CF was named American League Rookie of the Month, hitting .327 with 9 homers, 6 doubles, and 27 RBI. He improved his average for the year to .289.

Artie Hines of the Nashville Generals was named National League Rookie of the Month, hit 382, with 6 homers and 23 RBI, to go along with a .432 OBP. Hines was also named National League Batter of the Month for his impressive May.

Batter of the Month
Buffalo Blizzard CF Zoilo Jinenez was named American League Batter of the Month for May, hitting .304 with 15 homers, and 37 RBI.

Pitcher of the Month
Wit Smith of the Nashville Generals was named National League Pitcher of the Month. Smith was 5-0 with 40 K’s and a 2.11 ERA. Smith is 8-3 for the year, with a 2.62 ERA.

Cefe Garcia of the Toledo Mud Hens was named American League Pitcher of the Month for May. Garcia was 5-0, to improve his season record to 7-1. Garcia had a 1.74 ERA for the month, and a 2.63 ERA for the season.

Notes
Two months into the season, and the Continental Baseball League is struggling to attract fans to the ballpark. Attendance at Continental Baseball League games is averaging 2700 fans per game. A spokesman for the Continental Baseball League said that the league remains confident that it will be successful, and will be able to attract fans.

[glenn]

St. Louis General Manager Bing Devine, unhappy with the direction of the team, announced today that the team has fired manager Whitey Herzog. St. Louis has the worst record in the league. Devine said, “We felt it was time to make a change. The players have stopped responding to Whitey, and we feel we are talented enough to not have the worst team in the league. We wish Whitey the best, and thank him for his service.” Herzog could not be reached for comment.

The team announced former Cardinals manager Red Schoendienst will be taking over the team, effective immediately. The team also fired both their hitting and pitching coaches. The Redbirds have the worst average in the league, and also the worst ERA in the league. No replacements have been named at this time.

[glenn]

1) St. Louis Redbirds Needs: Second Base, Center Field, Right Field

Draft: CF:L. Bostock, RF:R. Pruitt, RF:P. Dade, SP:P. Vuckovich, 1B:T. Kelly, MR:G. Pentz, LF:J. Brown

Analysis: The Redbirds addressed their most pressing need with the selection of center fielder Lyman Bostock. The speedy center fielder has a good glove, and can play all three outfield positions. St. Louis feels he will be able to immediately contribute to the team, and announced he would be batting ninth and playing center field against right handed pitching.

2) Cincinnati Locomotives
Needs: Center Field, Right Field, Starting Pitching, Bullpen

Draft: SP:G. Minton, RF:B. Molinaro, 2B:R. Andrews, C:R. Cerone, MR:P. Reuschel, LF:A. Gardner, SP:J. Gideon

Analysis: The Locomotives selected 22 year-old Greg Minton with their first pick. The big righty has a decent fastball, with a good curve, but will need some development before pitching in the big leagues. Cincinnati was pleased that catcher Rick Cerone was still available in the fourth round. Cerone will start the season at AAA and the team will give him a shot to make the big league roster in 1975.

3) Los Angeles Wildcats
Needs: First Base, Second Base, Right Field, Starting Pitching, Bullpen

Draft: CF:C. Lemon, CF:R. Manning, LF:B. Rivera, MR:T.Toms, 2B:J.Manuel, MR:G. Terlecky, 3B:T. Bianco

Analysis: The Wildcats failed to address any of their major needs, and selected two center fielders with their first two picks. Neither Chet Lemon or Manning has played any position other than center field, so the Wildcats may have a potential trade in mind to address their roster needs.

4) Bronx Bombers
Needs: Catcher, Second Base, Third Base, Shortstop, Left Field, Starting Pitching, Bullpen

Draft: SP:J. Candelaria, RF. Ford, SP:R. Guidry, RF:J. Simpson, 1B:B. Beall, SS:M. Miley, SP:J. Pactwa

Analysis: The Bombers addressed a major need, selecting starting pitchers John Candelaria and Ron Guidry. Candelaria will start the season at AAA, and the Bombers will assign Guidry to Single A.

5) Dallas Mavericks
Needs: First Base, Second Base, Shortstop, Left Field, Center Field, Starting Pitching, Bullpen

Draft:SP. Eckersley, SP:J. Augustine, MR:B. Schultz, 3B:J. Quirk, MR:I. Brookens, RF:A. James, SP:C. Mitchell

Analysis: Dallas selected 19 year-old Dennis Eckersley out of high school. The Mavericks scouts felt that Eckersley was the best pitcher available in the draft, and after a couple of years of development, has the potential to be the ace of the staff. Dallas added lefty Jerry Augustine in the second round, and the Mavericks hope Augustine will be able to develop with Eckersley.

6) Austin Westerners
Needs: Catcher, Second Base, Shortstop, Center Field, Right Field, Starting Pitching, Bullpen

Draft: MR:J. Umbarger, 3B:B. Hobson, MR:O. Jones, 2B: B. Smith, MR: M. Wiley, C: B. Allietta

Analysis: The first round selection of Jim Umbarger was a surprise, because it failed to address Austin’s most pressing needs. Austin still has big holes up the middle at catcher, second base, shortstop, and center field.

7) Philadelphia Freedom Eagles
Needs: First Base, Second Base, Center Field, Starting Pitching, Bullpen

Draft: RF: J. Clark, MR: P. Mitchell, MR: M. Stanton, CF: H. Cruz, SP: E. Raich, LF: G. Martz, LF: C. Chant

Analysis: Philadelphia selected 18 year-old RF Jack Clark with their first selection. The Freedom Eagles feel Clark was the best player available, and has decent speed, and good power potential.

8) Baltimore Renegades
Needs: Starting Pitching, Bullpen

Draft: SP: M. Flanagan, SS: B. Bailor, MR: D. Moore, 2B: S. Dillard, 2B: D. Flynn, MR: P. Hanna, RF: M. Poepping

Analysis: The Renegades addressed their major need with the selection of lefty Mike Flanagan. The 22 year-old will start the season at single A, but the Renegades feel Flanagan will develop into a top of the rotation starter. The Renegades are pleased with third round selection Donnie Moore, who they feel will help their bullpen, and has the potential to develop into a frontline closer.

9) Fort Worth Cowboys
Needs: Second Base, Shortstop, Left Field, Starting Pitching, Bullpen

Draft: SS: R. Smalley, LF: D. Walling, CF: J. Wallis, LF: R. Stillman, 3B: R. Staiger, MR: M. Barlow, DH: L. Fritz

Analysis: The Cowboys selected 21 year-old switch hitter Roy Smalley in the first round. The Cowboys believe that Smalley has the talent to start at either second base, or shortstop.

10) San Jose Bees
Needs: First Base, Shortstop, Center Field, Starting Pitching, Bullpen

Draft: SP: F. LaCorte, RF: D. Bergman, MR: J. Burton, SS: T. Sandt, DH: D. Goodwin, MR: L. Currence, DH. J. de la Rosa

Analysis: San Jose selected starter Frank LaCorte and right fielder Dave Bergman with their first two selections. San Jose hopes LaCorte will develop into a solid number three starter.

11) San DiegoSea Wolves
Needs: Catcher, Third Base, Left Field, Right Field, Bullpen

Draft: SP: E. Rasmussen, MR: D. Warthen, RP: T. Stoddard, MR: R. Lerch, SS: R. Belloir, MR: R. Kurosaki

Analysis: San Diego selected pitchers in the first three rounds. The Sea Wolves will start all three at single A. Eric Rasmussen will be given the opportunity to start, and Tim Stoddard will start out in the bullpen.

12) Houston Stars
Needs: Shortstop, Starting Pitching, Bullpen

Draft: SP: S. Monge, 2B: D. Scott, MR: D. Heaverlo, SS: J. LeMaster, SP: M. Pazik, MR: K. Crosby

Analysis: Sid Monge was selected in the first round by the Houston Stars. The lefty has a good slider, and good changeup, but has struggled with control.

13) New York Skyliners
Needs: Second Base, Shortstop, Centerfield, Right Field, Starting Pitching, Bullpen

Draft: SP: R. Tate, MR. F. Arroyo, MR: P. Torrealba, MR: D. Miller, C: A. Merchant, MR: R. Krueger

Analysis: New York failed to make an impact in the draft. Their top pick, Randy Tate, was rated poorly by scouts, and many scouts don’t feel he has the make-up to start at the major league level.

14) Chicago Colts
Needs: First Base, Starting Pitching, Bullpen

Draft: SP: K. Kravec, MR: L. Anderson, MR: R. Baldwin, MR: O. Osburn, MR: C. Knapp, CF: K. Dineen

Analysis: Lefty Ken Kravec was selected in the first round. The Colts believe Kravec is two to three years away from the big leagues, but feel the lefty has good enough stuff to be a middle of the rotation pitcher. The Colts looked to add bullpen depth, with Larry Anderson, Rick Baldwin, and Ozzie Osburn.

15) San Francisco Sky Sox
Needs: Second Base, Shortstop, Center Field, Starting Pitching, Bullpen

Draft: SP: P. Falcone, C: B. Pocoroba, MR: D. Lewallyn, LF: H. Speed, SP: M. Bacsik, 2B: K. Andrew

Analysis: The Sky Sox selected lefty Pete Falcone with their first round pick. Falcone has a good fastball, but has experienced control problems.

16) Los Angeles Titans
Needs: First Base, Third Base, Shortstop, Left Field, Right Field, Starting Pitching, Bullpen

Draft: C: G. Alexander, RF: M. Vail, SS: C. Reynolds, SP: R. Dressler, C: D. Werner, SP: C. Lang

Analysis: The Titans drafted catcher Gary Alexander with their first round pick. The Titans feel that Alexander will provide good defense at catcher, and has the potential to develop into a decent power hitter.

17) Boston Pilgrims
Needs: Catcher, First Base, Third Base, Left Field, Starting Pitching

Draft: RF: E. Valentine, 3B: R. Jackson, SP: M. Norris, 3B: D. McKay, SP: E. Glynn, MR. C. Hockenberry

Analysis: The Pilgrims selected Ellis Valentine with their first pick. The Pilgrims believe Valentine has the potential to hit 20-25 home runs per year, and play solid defense in right field. The Pilgrims will give second round pick Ron Jackson a chance to play and both first base and third base, and feel Jackson will be a good utility player.

18) San Antonio Wranglers
Needs: Shortstop, Right Field, Bullpen

Draft: CF: O. Moreno, 2B: J. Remy, MR: B. McClure, MR: S. Wall, 1B: D. Briggs, MR: G. Throop

Analysis: The Wranglers drafted speedsters Omar Moreno and Jerry Remy with their first two selections. San Antonio feels both are capable of stealing thirty to fifty bases, and give the Wranglers good speed on the bases.

19) Detroit Mustangs
Needs: Catcher, Second Base, Third Base, Right Field, Starting Pitching

Draft: 2B: W. Randolph, CF: L. Harlow, RF: B. Baldwin, MR: J. Sosa, CF: D. Hopkins, MR: S. Grilli

Analysis: The Mustangs were pleased when Willie Randolph was available with the nineteenth selection in the first round. The Mustangs believe Randolph will fill a major need, and become their second baseman of the future.

20) Chicago Storm
Needs: First Base, Third Base, Center Field, Starting Pitching, Bullpen

Draft: LF: D. Collins, RF: G. Adams, 1B: M. Squires, MR: T. Hausman, SS: C. Scrivener, SP: W. Prall

Analysis: Drafting last, the Chicago Storm attempted to take the best player available, regardless of need. Left fielder Dave Collins, and outfielder Glenn Adams were selected with the first two selections.

[glenn]

The American Baseball League has announced the All-Star rosters for the inaugural American Baseball League All-Star Team.
The Eastern League All-Stars will be made up of:

SP: Jon Matlock (BAL): (10-4, 2.59 ERA)
SP: Bert Blyleven (CHS): (9-5, 2.47 ERA)
MR: Bill Singer (BOS): (10-1, 2.93 ERA)
SP: Alonso Caprasquillo (DET): (7-6, 2.74 ERA)
SP: Jim Barr (CHS): (8-3, 3.61 ERA)
SP: Dave Goltz (DET): (8-5, 3.56 ERA)
SP: Don Hood (DET): (8-3, 2.07 ERA)
CL: Stan Thomas (DET): (5-2, 17 Saves, 3.13 ERA)
CL: Al Hrabosky (BOS): (1-2, 19 Saves, 1.80 ERA)
SP: Gustavus Gwynn (BOS): (8-3, 3.97 ERA)
CL: Bob Miller (NYS): (1-2, 18 Saves, 0.68 ERA)
CL: Rollie Fingers (BRX): (3-2, 14 Saves, 2.14 ERA)
SS: Mike Schmidt (BAL): (.293, 23 HR, 64 RBI, 11 SB)
1B: Tommy McCraw (DET): (.374, 9 HR, 53 RBI, 15 SB)
2B: Bobby Grich (CHS): (.291, 10 HR, 46 RBI, 23 SB)
LF: Johnny Grubb (BOS): (.346, 8 HR, 32 RBI)
C: Johnny Bench (PHI): (.294, 12 HR, 49 RBI)
C: Thurman Munson (NYS): (.322, 7 HR, 46 RBI)
RF: Rick Miller (BOS): (.316, 7HR, 20 RBI, 10 SB)
3B: Steve Garvey (BAL): (.315, 10 HR, 30 RBI)
CF: Bake McBride (BRX): (.302, 4 HR, 33 RBI, 19 SB)
2B: Toby Harrah (CHC): (.320, 9 HR, 42 RBI)
1B: Cesar Cedeno (BAL): (.303, 13 HR, 19 RBI, 12 SB)
SS: Davey Lopes (BOS): (.315, 10 HR, 41 RBI, 10 SB)
LF: Larry Hisle (CHS): (.314, 8 HR, 38 RBI, 20 SB)
1B: Willie McCovey (NYS): (.251, 14 HR, 41 RBI)
LF: Bruce Bochte (CHC): (.322, 9 HR, 26 RBI)
LF: Ralph Garr (DET): (.319, 6 HR, 43 RBI, 21 SB)

Six players were elected from both the Boston Pilgrims and Detroit Mustangs, no players were elected from the Cincinnati Locomotives and St. Louis Redbirds [I’m not sure if this is a bug that not one player from each team was selected, or something I did by mistake.]

The Western League All-Stars will be made up of:

SP: Jerry Koosman (HOU): (12-4, 2.50 ERA)
SP: Don Gullett (LAW): (10-5, 2.71 ERA)
SP: Fergie Jenkins (LAT): (9-2, 3.07 ERA)
SP: Randy Jones (LAW): (7-3, 2.65 ERA)
SP: Buzz Capra (SJ): (7-5, 3.02 ERA)
SP: Ed Figueroa (AUS): (8-6, 3.28 ERA)
CL: Terry Forster (LAT): (3-3, 18 Saves, 2.92 ERA)
CL: Timothy Gasaway (DAL): (0-2, 19 Saves, 1.64 ERA)
CL: Steve Foucault (SD): (3-4, 15 Saves, 3.62 ERA)
CL: Javier Gelada (SAN): (0-2, 19 Saves, 3.38 ERA)
SP: Glenn Abbott (SAN): (5-1, 3.63 ERA)
MR: Sparky Lyle (AUS): (3-0, 2 Saves, 1.23 ERA)
2B: Joe Morgan (HOU): (.284, 9 HR, 41 RBI, 28 SB)
1B: Willie Stargell (FWC): (.291, 20 HR, 51 RBI)
3B: Greg Nettles (HOU): (.329, 9 HR, 56 RBI)
RF: Ben Oglivie (FWC): (.315, 9 HR, 30 RBI)
LF: Mike Jorgensen (SJ): (.269, 12 HR, 43 RBI)
CF: Reggie Jackson (LAT): (.290, 12 HR, 35 RBI)
C: John Ellis (SF): (.321, 6 HR, 34 RBI)
SS: Colman Dowdell (AUS): (.290, 7 HR, 25 RBI)
C: Ted Simmons (DAL): (.260, 8 HR, 31 RBI)
3B: Bill Madlock (AUS): (.321, 8 HR, 44 RBI, 20 SB)
1B: Dick Allen (SF): (.275, 19 HR, 57 RBI)
RF: Andrew Wilson (SJ): (.292, 14 HR, 57 RBI)
RF: Rusty Staub (SAN): (.308, 8 HR, 35 RBI)
CF: Cornelius Reed (LAW): (.329, 5 HR, 22 RBI, 9 SB)
2B: Jack Brohamer (DAL): (.343, 0 HR, 20 RBI)
1B: Mike Hargrove (HOU): (.318, 1 HR, 17 RBI, 10 SB)

The Houston Stars and Austin Westerners lead with 4 selections each.

[glenn]

The first annual American Baseball League All-Star Game was played today at Shea Stadium in front of a crowd of 41,631. Don Gullett started for the Western League, and Bert Blyleven started for the Eastern League. The game started poorly for the Western League, when SS Colman Dowdell made an error on the first play of the game. The next batter, Thurman Munson drove a 1-0 fastball into the seats to put the Eastern League up 2-0. Two batters later, Steve Garvey hit a solo home run, to put the Easter League All-Stars up 3-0, which would be all the runs the Eastern League Pitchers would need.

Seven Eastern League pitchers combined to pitch a 7 hitter, giving up 2 runs. Stan Thomas of the Detroit Mustangs picked up the win, pitching a hitless 4th inning. Don Gullett took the loss for the Western League, giving up 3 runs, two earned, in three innings. Thurman Munson of the hometown Skyliners was named player of the game, going 2-5 with a homer and 4 RBI. Steve Garvey added three hits and two RBI for the Eastern All-Stars, and Ralph Garr added two hits in four at bats.

Reggie Jackson led the Western All-Stars with 2 hits in 4 at bats, including a first inning RBI double. Rusty Staub added two hits in two at bats.

[glenn]

 Standings
  Eastern League
Eastern Division                     W            L             PCT         GB           Lst 10       Streak

Boston Pilgrims                       45            38            .542         -              4-6           L1    

Bronx Bombers*                      44            39            .530         1              9-1           W7    

Baltimore Renegades               42            41            .506         3              6-4           W1    

New York Skyliners                 42            41            .506         3              4-6           W2    

Pha Freedom Eagles               39            44            .470         6              6-4           L1    

Central Division                     W            L             PCT         GB           Lst 10       Streak

Chicago Storm                        50            33            .602         -              7-3           W7    

Detroit Mustangs*                    49            34            .590         1              4-6           W2    

Chicago Colts                          44            39            .530         6              6-4           W1    

Cincinnati Locomotives             34            49            .410         16            3-7           L2    

St. Louis Redbirds                   26            57            .313         24            1-9           L4  

League Leaders-Eastern League
Batting Average
1. T. McCraw-DET .372
2. B. Bochte-CHC .332
3. B. McBride-BRX .330

Home Runs
1. M. Schmidt-BAL 26
2. W. Horton-STL 19
3. W. McCovey-NYS 15

Runs Batted In
1. M. Schmidt-BAL 73
2. A. Oliver-BRX 59
3. J. Wynn-BOS 58

Stolen Bases
1. F. Durun-BAL 47
2. M. Rivers-DET 28
3. B. Grich-CHS 26

Earned Run Average
1. B. Blyleven-CHS 2.38
2. J. Anderson-CHS 2.64
3. J. Matlock-BAL 2.87

Wins
1. J. Matlock-BAL 11
2. B. Blyleven-CHS 10
3. B. Singer-BOS 10

Saves
1. A. Hrabosky-BOS 21
2. B. Miller-NYS 20
2. T. House-BAL 20

Strikeouts
1. J. Matlock-BAL 118
2. B. Blyleven-CHS 116
3. S. Carlton-CIN 114

Rookie of the Month
Cincinnati Locomotives Left Fielder Keverne Bennet won the Eastern League Rookie of the Month in June. Bennet hit .404 with 4 home runs and 11 RBI. Bennet raised his average for the season to .333 with 8 home runs and 28 RBI. He has added 10 stolen bases with a .433 OBP.

Batter of the Month
The Chicago Storm have been very pleased with the play of Ultan Hazzard since his trade from the Continental League. Hazzard hit .304 with 7 homers and 24 RBI, while scoring 18 runs, and was named Eastern League Batter of the Month.

Pitcher of the Month
The Chicago Storm swept both the batter and pitcher of the month categories, when Doyle Alexander won the Pitcher of the Month for June. Alexander was 4-0 with a 2.23 ERA, notching 19 strikeouts. The 23 year-old joined the rotation on June 3rd and hasn’t looked back since.

[glenn]

Standings
Western League
Southwest Division                W            L             PCT         GB           Lst 10      Streak

San Antonio Wranglers            47            36            .566         -              4-6           L3    

Dallas Mavericks*                    42            41            .506         5              6-4           W1    

Houston Stars*                        42            41            .506         5              7-3           W1    

Austin Westerners                   40            43            .482         7              4-6           L2    

Ft. Worth Cowboys                  39            44            .470         8              4-6           W2    

Western Division                   W            L             PCT         GB           Lst 10       Streak

San Francisco Sky Sox           44            39            .530         -              8-2           W3    

San Jose Bees                        42            41            .506         2              7-3           W2   

Los Angeles Titans*                 40            43            .482         4              2-8           L2    

Los Angeles Wildcats              40            43            .482         4              5-5           L1

San DiegoSea Wolves             39            44            .470         5              4-6           L1    

League Leaders-Western League
Batting Average
1. J. Brohamer-DAL .333
2. C. Reed-LAW .333
3. G. Nettles-HOU .325

Home Runs
1. W. Stargell-FWC 21
2. D. Allen-SF 19
3. R. Jackson-LAT 15

Runs Batted In
1. A. Wilson-SJ 63
2. D. Allen-SF 47
3. G. Nettles-HOU 58

Stolen Bases
1. J. Morgan-HOU 30
2. B. Madlock-AUS 23
3. D. Chaudle-SF 20

Earned Run Average
1. L. Christenson-LAT 2.26
2. L. McGlothen-SD 2.42
3. J. Koosman-HOU 2.48

Wins
1. J. Koosman-HOU 13
2. D. Gullett-LAW 10
2. F. Jenkins-LAT 10
2. B. Kison-SF 10

Saves
1. T. Gassaway-DAL 22
2. J. Gelada-SAN 19
3. R. Black-LAW 18

Strikeouts
1. N. Ryan-DAL 142
2. B. Capra-SJ 114
3. D. Gullett-LAW 101

Rookie of the Month
Los Angeles Wildcat’s center fielder Cornelius Red was named Western League Rookie of the Month for June. Reed batter .404 for the month, hitting 4 home runs.

Batter of the Month
San Jose Bees leftfielder Mike Jorgensen collected Batter of the Month honors for the month of June for the Western League. Jorgensen hit .324 with 8 doubles and 3 home runs during the month.

Pitcher of the Month
For the second straight month, Houston starter Jerry Koosman was named the Western League Pitcher of the Month. Koosman went 4-1 with a 1.62 ERA, striking out 30.

[glenn]

I ended up simming to the end of the season by mistake, so I lost the monthly recaps from July to the end of the season. I think I'm going to use that as an excuse to change the format a little bit. Seems like it moves real slow when you are following the league, as opposed to one team. Hopefully I can come up with something that works better.

[glenn]

The first regular season for the American Baseball League has come to a close. The Boston Pilgrims have won the Eastern League Eastern Division title with a 89-79 record. The Detroit Mustangs have captured the Central Division title, with a league best 104-64 record. The Chicago Storm (92-76) and the Baltimore Renegades (87-81) are both going to the playoffs as Wild Card teams.

The Western League has proven to be the weaker league this year, with the Houston Stars winning the Southwest Division with a 88-80 record. The San Jose Bees won the Western Division with a 89-79 record. The Fort Worth Cowboys have won the first Western League wild card spot with a 87-81 record.

The last wild card in the Western League will come down to a one-game playoff between the San Antonio Wranglers and the San Francisco Sky Sox, who both finished the season with an 84-84 record.

Wilbur Wood will be starting for the visiting Sky Sox. The 32 year-old knuckleballer is 9-10 on the year, with a 3.80 ERA. Wood was released on September 2nd by the San Diego Sea Wolves, and signed a one year deal with San Francisco. Since joining the Sky Sox he has struggled, going 1-2 with a 6.98 ERA. Starting for San Antonio will be 24 year-old Rich Troedson, who was 6-9 with a 4.73 ERA after being called up from AAA.

[jtb]

Glenn,
This is a very immersive thread.
Outstanding!

[glenn]

Originally Posted by jtb

Glenn,
This is a very immersive thread.
Outstanding!

Thank you.

[glenn]

Rich Troedson pitched his best game of the year for the San Antonio, as the Wranglers knocked off San Francisco to advance to the playoffs. Troedson only allowed three hits over 7 1/3 innings in the 4-0 shutout. Ron Bloomberg and Garry Maddox each came up big, knocking in two runs apiece for San Antonio. Sam Robinson snapped an 0-13 streak for San Antonio, going 3-3, and scoring three of the four Wrangler runs. Wilbur Wood took the loss for San Francisco, going 8 innings, and giving up all four runs. Dick Allen led the Sky Sox with 2 singles, but the Sky Sox only managed five hits in the game.

The Sky Sox will be going home for the year, and San Antonio will be advancing to the playoffs to play the top seeded San Jose Bees. San Antonio is the third team from Texas that has made the playoffs.

[glenn]

Eastern League
Baltimore Renegades (87-81) at Detroit Mustangs (104-64)
21 game winner Jon Matlock leads a Renegade staff that finished third in ERA for the Eastern League with a 4.10 ERA. Doug Rau(13-12), Mike Caldwell(2-1), and Ron Schueler(10-14) round out the rotation. Tom Seaver was 6-4 since coming over from the Bronx in a July trade deadline deal will work out of the bullpen for the series, and fill-in where necessary. The offense is led by all-stars Steve Garvey (.315, 18 HR, 94 RBI, 15 SB), Mike Schmidt (.307, 39 HR, 122 RBI, 22 SB), and Cesar Cedeno (.281, 29 HR, 99 RBI, 24 SB).

The Mustangs feature the league’s best pitching staff (3.66 ERA), and the league’s second best line-up (.284 AVG). Alonso Caprasquillo leads the rotation (19-12, 2.58 ERA). Doc Medich (11-8), Dave Hamilton (13-8), and Don Hood (16-7) round out the rotation, and make Detroit a tough team to beat. The line-up features lots of speed, but little power. Mickey Rivers (68 SB), Ralph Garr (31 SB), Juan Mendoza (30 SB), and John Knox (23 SB) tore up the basepaths, and gave opposing pitchers fits.

Prediction: Detroit 4-2

Chicago Storm (92-76) at Boston Pilgrims (89-79)
The Storm come limping into the playoffs with several key players nursing minor injuries. Bert Blyleven (21-10, 2.80) and Jim Barr (19-7, 3.84) both are listed as day to day. The team needs Doyle Alexander (9-8, 4.84) and Jim Lonborg (17-17, 4.39 ERA) to step up, or it will be a long series for Chicago. Ultan Hazzard came to Chicago in a May trade from the Continental League, and has been dominating opposing pitchers since. Hazzard has hit .315 with 33 HR, and 95 RBI in 112 games with the Storm. Bobby Grich has done it all for Chicago (.412 OBP, 20 HR, 105 RBI, 103 R, 46 SB). Boston needs to keep both Hazzard and Grich in check in order to have a chance at the upset.

The Pilgrims finished the year with the worst ERA in the league (4.71) and the best batting average (.286). With a rotation of Gustavus Gwynn (17-10), Oleos Calzada (12-16), Dick Rutheven (8-12), and Tom Dettore (4-4), the Pilgrims are not capable of out pitching anyone, but have been winning by outscoring teams. The line-up is solid from top to bottom-Rick Miller(.403 OBP, 76 R, 22 SB), Davey Lopes (.341 AVG, 15 HR, 43 SB), Johnny Grubb (.400 OBP, 15 HR), Daisuike Chikafuji (.333 AVG, 15 HR, 57 RBI), Jimmy Winn (.352 OBP, 14 HR, 70 RBI), Bob Robertson (8 HR, 26 RBI), Norm Cash (.333 OBP, 13 RBI), John Lowenstein (.385 OBP, 10 HR, 12 SB), and Ellie Rodriguez (.355 OBP).

Prediction : Chicago 4-3

Western League

San Antonio Wranglers (85-84) at San Jose Bees (89-79)
San Antonio squeaked into the playoffs after winning a one game showdown with San Francisco. The Wranglers made a risky move starting their number five starter, but it paid off, and the Wranglers will have a well rested rotation for the series. Frank Tanana (15-14), Dick Tidrow (15-13), Bill Champion (15-12), and Bill Butler (13-14). The young rotation has been inconsistent all year, but has the talent to win. Ron Bloomberg (.434 OBP, 20 HR, 65 RBI), Fred Lynn (.378 OBP, 16 HR, 69 RBI), and Bill Buckner (.348 OBP, 10 HR, 75 RBI) have been solid in the middle of the line-up. Rusty Staub (.405 OBP, 15 HR, 75 RBI) and Garry Maddox (10 HR, 54 RBI, 18 SB) have come off the bench and filled in all year for the Wranglers. They will need to continue to contribute for San Antonio to be successful.

San Jose has a solid rotation and line-up, and would have finished higher if not for a dismal May (9-20). Gene Garber (13-11), Reggie Cleveland (8-9), Buzz Capra (18-8), and Ed Halicki (13-12) will pitch for San Jose. Mike Jorgensen (.482 OBP, 25 HR, 74 RBI, 94 R, 15 SB) has been San Jose’s most dangerous hitter all year. Andrew Wilson has had the benefit of hitting behind Jorgensen all year, driving in 117 runs, with 25 HR. Ray Ward (.362 OBP, 40 SB) and Pete Rose (.378 OBP, 82 R, 16 SB) have been getting the Bee’s offense started at the top of the line-up all season.

Prediction: San Jose 4-1

Fort Worth Cowboys (87-81) at Houston Stars (88-80)
Steve Rogers (14-15) is expected to miss the series with a tired arm. The Cowboys need Tommy John (17-9), Dock Ellis (9-9), and Pat Dobson (12-16) to step up. The Cowboys offense has relied on the long ball all season, which could hurt their chance if the big bats come up empty. Willie Stargell (31 HR), Ben Oglivie (25 HR), Eric Soderholm (19 HR), Darrel Porter (18 HR), Dusty Baker (14 HR), and Hank Aaron (12 HR) need to continue to produce in the playoffs.

Jerry Koosman (25-8, 2.43 ERA) leads the staff that features Andy McGaha (12-13), Harry Parker (11-8), and Larry Dierker (10-13). Catfish Hunter (6-7, 6.02 ERA) has struggled with injuries all year, but the stars hope he will come up big in the playoffs, working out of the bullpen. The Stars will be without one of their top hitters, Mike Hargrove (.418 OBP, 10 HR, 61 RBI) after Hargrove suffered a fractured wrist. The Stars are counting on Joe Morgan (.418 OBP, 18 HR, 75 RBI, 59 SB), Dwight Evans (.350 OBP, 27 HR, 120 RBI), and Graig Nettles (.342 OBP, 17 HR, 90 RBI) to fill the void.

Prediction: Fort Worth 4-3

[glenn]

Hot bats give Mustangs Playoff Lead
Detroit Mustangs 10
Baltimore Renegades 7

Mickey Rivers, Juan Mendoza, and Taizo Matsusaki combined to go 9-15, with 6 RBI and 9 runs scored at the top of the line-up to lead the Mustangs past the Renegades and their ace Jon Matlock. Matsusaki’s second inning homer put the Mustangs up 5-0 and in control of the game.

Jon Matlock waited until the playoffs to have his worst start of the year. He finished the regular season with a 21-7 record with an 2.55 ERA, but only lasted 2 1/3 innings while giving up 6 earned runs. Alonso Caprasquillo pitched 7 strong innings, giving up 3 runs while striking out 4 in picking up the win.

The Renegades mounted a late inning attempted comeback off of Mustangs reliever Mac Scarce, who gave up 4 runs in an inning and a third. Steve Garvey went deep in the 7th inning, and Mike Schmidt homered in both the 8th and 9th innings, but the Renegades fell short in the ninth inning, after reliever Bob Apodaca came in. Apodaca gave up two consecutive singles, but Dwight Walker was thrown out trying to score from second on an Ed Kirkpatrick single that should have loaded the bases, and put the winning run at the plate.

Player of the Game: Juan Mendoza

Detroit leads the series 1-0.

Boston Cashes in on opportunity

Boston Pilgrims 9
Chicago Storm 2

With the bases loaded in the first inning of a 2-2 game, Norm Cash knocked in three runs with a deep double off of Chicago starter Al Fitzmorris that proved to be all the runs the Pilgrims would need. Boston starter Gustavus Gwynn pitched 6 1/3 innings, without giving up an earned run for the win, and Bill Singer closed the game out, earning the save. Al Fitzmorris took the loss for Chicago, going 6 1/3 innings, giving up 8 runs, 7 of which were earned.

Davey Lopes and Norm Cash added solo home runs in the game. Earlier in the game, Lopes made two errors on routine plays, which led to the 2 Storm runs. Cash went 2-5, driving in 4 runs. Johnny Grubb added three hits and scored twice for Boston.

Player of the Game: Norm Cash

Boston leads the series 1-0.

Garber silences Mustang bats

San Jose Bees 5
San Antonio Wranglers 1

Gene Garber brought his A game to the Oakland Colliseum, as he combined with reliever Ramon de los Santos to 2 hit the visiting Wranglers. Garber struck out seven in 6 2/3 innings, allowing only a solo home run to Ron Bloomberg, and a two out seventh inning double to Fred Lynn.

The Bees got two hits apiece from Barry Foote and Dave Concepcion. Foote’s first inning double knocked in the first two runs of the game, and they proved to be all that they would need. Mike Jorgensen hit a solo home run in the eighth off of San Antonio starter Frank Tanana, who took the complete game loss.

Player of the Game: Gene Garber

San Jose leads the series 1-0

Stars win on Hal McRae’s walk-off 9th inning single

Houston Stars 8
Fort Worth Cowboys 7

Hal McRae drove in the winning run in the bottom of the ninth, to cap off a three run ninth inning for the hometown Stars, in their 8-7 victory over Fort Worth. Fort Worth jumped out to an early 4-0 lead in the first inning, when Joe Lis hit a grand slam off Fort Worth starter Andy McGaha. Dave Duncan added a 2 run shot in the fifth, putting the Cowboys up 6-1, and knocking Houston starter McGaha from the game.

Houston got some timely relief from two former starters though, as Charlie Hough pitched 4 2/3 innings of relief, giving up one unearned run. Catfish Hunter came in to record the final two outs to pick up the win for Houston, without allowing a baserunner. Hunter was the Stars first round pick in the inaugural draft, but lost his spot in the rotation in June and suffered through an injury plagued year.

Bert Campaneris went 3-3 with 2 RBI for Houston. Joe Morgan knocked in two runs, and scored the winning run in the bottom of the ninth. Troy Joseph took the loss for Fort Worth, giving up three runs while recording one out.

Player of the Game: Joe Lis

Houston leads the series 1-0

[glenn]

Detroit outlasts Baltimore in 11 inning thriller
Detroit Mustangs 7
Baltimore Renegades 6

Tony Oliva knocked in the winning run with a two-out single scoring Bob Barton to put the Mustangs up 2 games to 0 in the first round playoff match-up. The Mustangs collected 14 hits, including five doubles and a triple, in the 11 inning affair. Mickey Rivers, Juan Mendoza, Taizo Matsusaki, Gary Carter, and Ralph Garr each had two hits for the game, and combined to score 6 of the 7 Detroit runs. Jim Kaat pitched the final 2 1/3 innings to pick up the win for Detroit. Starter Doc Medich gave up all 6 runs over 8 2/3 innings.

Steve Garvey went 4-5 for Baltimore, driving in 3 runs with 2 home runs, while scoring two runs. Baltimore used five separate pitchers in the loss. Tom Seaver came on to pitch the 11th for Baltimore, and after retiring the first batter faced, gave up a double to Bob Barton. He left the game with a 2-0 count on Tony Oliva with a shoulder injury, and Oliva drove the first pitch from Mike Cosgrove into left field for the RBI single. Seaver was responsible for the runner on second, and picked up the loss.

Player of the Game: Steve Garvey

Detroit leads the series 2-0

Boston win pitching duel on 10th inning walk off home run

Boston Pilgrims 3
Chicago Storm 1

Boston third baseman Bob Robertson drove a hanging curveball from Dave LaRoche over the Green Monster to give the Pilgrims a 3-1 victory and a two game lead in the series. It was Robertson’s second hit of the game. The lone Chicago run came on a solo home run by first baseman Enos Cabell.

For nine innings, it was a pitching duel between Boston starter Oleos Calzada and Detroit starter Doyle Alexander. Calzada struck out 9, and surrendered 5 hits, and one run. Al Hrabosky pitched a hitless ninth to pick up the win for Boston. The series heads to Chicago with the Pilgrims up 2-0.

Player of the Game: Oleos Calzada

Boston leads the series 2-0

Late rally falls short for visiting San Antonio, as San Jose hold on

San Jose Bees 8
San Antonio Wranglers 5

San Jose’s bullpen managed to hold on when left fielder went up and over the wall to rob San Antonio’s Fred Lynn of a home run to end the game that would have brought the Wranglers within one run. Curtis Frahill hit a two run homer in the top of the ninth to cut the lead to three off reliever Randy Moffitt. Ross Dockery relived Moffitt, and gave up a two out double to Ron Bloomberg, before retiring Lynn to end the game, and earn the save.

Reggie Cleveland pitched eight solid innings for San Jose, giving up 3 runs while striking out 4, and picking up the win. Dick Tidrow took the loss for San Antonio, giving up 8 runs, 5 earned, and 11 hits over 4 2/3 innings. Curtis Frahill picked up two hits, and knocked in 2 runs, while scoring 2 for the Wranglers. Ron Bloomberg added three hits and also drove in 2 runs.

Marcus Teck delivered a big three run bomb for the Bees. Ray Ward, Pete Rose, Dave Concepcion, and Dave Cash each picked up two hits for San Jose.

Player of the Game: Curtis Frahill

San Jose leads the series 2-0

Oglivie’s 3 run shot evens series for Fort Worth

Fort Worth Cowboys 6
Houston Stars 3

In the top of the ninth inning, Ben Oglivie smashed a three run shot that broke up a 3-3 tie, giving the Fort Worth Cowboys the first victory by a road team in the playoffs. The Cowboys led off the ninth with two back to back walks, which forced the Stars to make a pitching change, and bring in knuckleballer Charlie Hough. On a 3-1 pitch, Oglivie drove the next pitch over the right field wall, putting Fort Worth up by 3 runs, and taking the crowd of 25,759 out of the game. Virgilio Varela took the loss for Houston, after pitching 2 1/3 scoreless innings for Houston, but failing to record an out in the ninth inning.

Tommy John pitched 8 strong innings for Fort Worth, giving up 3 runs and 6 hits to pick up the win. Troy Joseph pitched a hitless ninth to pick up the save. Dwight Evans went deep in the first inning for Houston, putting Houston up 2-1.

Player of the Game : Ben Oglivie

Series tied 1-1

Tomorrow is an off day for all teams, and the playoffs will resume on the 7th.

[glenn]

Mustang bats too much for Baltimore

Detroit Mustangs 8
Baltimore Renegades 7

The Detroit Mustangs started the game with seven consecutive hits, scoring 6 runs off Baltimore starter Mike Caldwell, before he was removed without recording an out. The inning included back to back triples by Stephen Comiskey and Darrel Chaney. Detroit starter Dave Hamilton almost blew the lead in the bottom of the first, but managed to get out of the jam. Steve Garvey and Cesar Cedeno hit back to back homers, pulling the Renegades within 2, before Hamilton settled down, and worked out of the jam.

Detroit picked up two more runs in the top of the second, to bring the lead to 8-4, which would be all the runs they would need. Bob Apodaca came on in the fourth inning, after Steve Garvey’s second home run of the game pulled the Renegades within one run, and managed to shut down Renegade bats with 4 hitless innings, picking up the win. Stan Thomas pitched a scoreless ninth to pick up the save.

Steve Garvey continued to put up big numbers in the series for Baltimore, going 3-4 with 2 homers, 4 RBI, and 3 runs. He has hit three homers in the series.

Player of the Game: Steve Garvey

Detroit leads the series 3-0

Chicago scores 4 in bottom of the ninth to narrow series to 2-1

Chicago Storm 7
Boston Pilgrims 6

Down 6-3 entering the ninth, down 2-0 in the series, and facing one of the league’s best closers, Al Hrabosky, the Storm showed they weren’t ready to give up on their season. Charlie Moore led off the bottom of the ninth with a single up the middle on a 1-2 fastball. Hrabosky got ahead of the next batter 1-2, before Pepe Mangual laced a single into left field. Bobby Grich then drew a 4 pitch walk to load the bases. Pete Varney hit a bloop single between the left fielder and center fielder, that brought the Storm within 2 with the bases loaded. That brought Chicago slugger Ultan Hazzard to the plate, who worked the count to 3-2. Hrabosky’s next pitch appeared to catch the inside corner, but the umpire called ball four, and the Storm were within 1 run.

Hrabosky appeared to settle down, and stuck out Larry Hisle on three pitches, and got George Foster to pop up weakly to the shortstop. That brought up Leopold Blue, who hit a weak grounder that somehow got past shortstop Jim Fregosi, which tied the game at 6. Earlier in the game, Blue made a costly error, that led to two unearned Boston runs. Blue went 3-4 at the plate though, and drove in two runs, while scoring another, and stole a base.

Boston Manager Leo Durocher had seen enough, and went to the mound to bring in Bill Singer. Singer was no better though, walking Rudy Meoli on four pitches to bring home the winning run. Hrabosky took the loss, which brought his playoff record to 1-1. Chicago reliever George Kahle picked up the win in relief for the Storm, pitching the last 1 2/3 innings, while giving up 1 run. Boston starter Dick Rutheven had a fine outing ruined, going 7 innings, striking out 5, and giving up 2 runs. Chicago starter Al Fitzmorris pitched 7 1/3 innings, giving up 5 runs, 3 of which were earner.

Chicago Manager Chuck Tanner was very pleased with his team’s performance, “Our guys showed a lot of guts and determination on the field today. We knew going into the game it was a must win for us because we couldn’t fall down 3-0. I hope that determination we showed in the 9th inning will carry over, and I think we are going to make this a series to watch.”

Player of the Game: Leopold Blue

Boston leads the series 2-1

Solid outing by Champion has San Antonio fans thankful

San Antonio Wranglers 6
San Jose Bees 3

San Antonio needed Bill Champion to pitch well today, and he didn’t disappoint. Down 2-0 as the series headed back to San Antonio, the Wranglers handed the ball to Champion, who responded with 6 1/3 innings, giving up 3 runs, which allowed San Antonio to win their first game in the series. Champion did not have his best stuff today, and struggled early and often. The leadoff batter reach base each inning except the first inning against Champion, and even in the first, he walked the second batter of the game. He allowed 9 hits and walked 2, but managed to fight his way out of most every jam, picking up the much needed win.

San Jose starter Bill Capra gave up 6 runs in 6 1/3 innings, and took the loss. Andrew Wilson hit a solo home run for San Jose. Fred Lynn connected for a two-run homer in the first inning, which gave San Antonio the early lead. Glenn Adams added a solo shot in the seventh, giving the Wranglers a three run cushion. For the game Adams went 4-4, driving in a run, and scoring 3 runs. Javier Gelada pitched the ninth to pick up his first save of the playoffs.

Player of the Game: Glenn Adams

San Jose leads series 2-1

Dobson dominates Stars

Fort Worth Cowboys 3
Houston Stars 2

With the series tied at 1, Houston turned the ball over to 25 game winner Jerry Koosman, and Fort Worth gave the ball to Pat Dobson, who won 12 games, with a 5.29 ERA. The 32 year-old Dobson pitched seven shutout innings, before surrendering 2 runs in the 8. Dobson allowed 6 hits and 2 runs over 8 innings, while striking out 8 and out-pitching Koosman. Koosman pitched a solid game, but his one mistake was costly, allowing a 3 run homer to catcher Darrel Porter that put the Cowboys up 3-0 in the 6th. Koosman was charged with the loss. Troy Joseph pitched a scoreless ninth for the Cowboys, picking up the save for the second consecutive game.

Dobson spoke after the game, “This was the biggest game of the season for me, and I knew I had to come up big for the team. I pitched in the World Series for both Detroit and Baltimore, so I think that helped prepare me for today. It felt good to go out there and do the job my team needed me to do.”

Player of the Game: Pat Dobson

Fort Worth leads series 2-1

[glenn]

Caprasquillo too much for Renagades as Detroit sweeps series
Detroit Mustangs 6
Baltimore Renegades 2

For eight innings, Detroit starter Alonso Caprasquillo matched Baltimore starter Jon Matlock pitch for pitch, and the game was tied at 2 through the end of 8. Caprasquillo was able to hold on in the ninth though, and finished off the Renegades season, picking up his second win of the playoffs. He pitched 4 hit ball through 9 innings, allowed 2 runs, and striking out 5.

Matlock ran out of steam in the ninth though, after throwing 135 pitches, he allowed a lead-off double to Gwang-Soo Kim, then intentionally walked pinch hitter Ron LeFlore. Reliever Bill Castro was brought in out of the bullpen, and retired Tommy McGraw on a pop-up to third base. The next batter, Mickey Rivers, laced a single into right field, but Kim was thrown out at the plate on a strong throw home by right fielder Greg Gross. With two outs, Ken Griffey came on to pinch hit, and delivered a single down the line past third base, scoring both LeFlore and Rivers to put the Mustangs up 4-2. Taizo Matsusaki followed with a 421 foot, 2 run bomb that put the Mustangs up 6-2.

Manager Ralph Houk spoke after the game, “I’m happy with how our guys responded this series. Baltimore is a good team, but our guys did what it takes to win ballgames. It will be nice to get our guys a couple of days of rest while we wait for our opponent, to heal some of the bumps and bruises.”

Detroit will host the winner of the Boston-Chicago series.

Player of the Game: Alonso Caprasquillo

Detroit wins series 4-0

Hazzard leads Chicago bats to even series

Chicago Storm 10
Boston Pilgrims 6

The Chicago Storm, led by Ultan Hazzard’s 3 hits, pounded out 14 hits and scored 10 runs to even up the series with Boston. Hazzard’s three run double in the 6th inning put the Storm up for good, with a 7-4 lead. Bobby Grich hit a first inning homer for Chicago, and added a single, driving in 2 runs in 5 at bats. Pete Varney, Leopold Blue, Rudy Meoli, and Enos Cabell each added 2 hits for the Storm. Rick Miller and Davey Lopes each went 3-5 for Boston, and Bob Robertson added two hits, including a big three run homer.

Bert Blyleven pitched a complete game for Chicago, giving up 6 runs and 10 hits, but striking out 11. Boston’s bullpen continued to struggle, coming on in the 5th inning with a 1 run lead, but Bill Singer allowed 4 runs in 1 inning to take the loss. Joe Coleman came in to pitch 2 innings for the Pilgrims, but couldn’t keep the Storm from scoring, allowing 3 runs in 2 innings.

Player of the Game: Ultan Hazzard

Series tied 2-2.

Tanana ties up series for Wranglers

San Antonio Wranglers 6
San Jose Bees 4

Frank Tanana pitched 8 innings for the San Antonio Wranglers, allowing 3 runs, and picking up the win as San Antonio evened up the series at two games apiece. Javier Gelada pitched the 9th for his second save of the series. Gene Garber started the game for San Jose, but left in the 6th with the game tied at 3. Ramon de los Santos pitched an inning, giving up two runs and picking up the loss.

Ron Bloomberg went 3-5 for the Wranglers. George Scott went 2-4 with a triple and 2 RBI. Pat Bourque went 2-3 with 2RBI. Mike Jorgensen had a big game for San Jose, going 4-4 with a home run and 2 RBI.

Player of the Game: Mike Jorgensen

Series tied 2-2

Ellis gem has Cowboys within one game of advancing

Fort Worth Cowboys 4
Houston Stars 0

Doc Ellis pitched 8 shutout innings for Fort Worth, allowing 6 hits, picking up the win, and putting the Cowboys within one game of advancing to the League Championship. Ennis Lakin pitched a perfect ninth to pick up the save. Andy McGaha took the loss for the Stars, going 7 innings, and allowing 4 runs.

Ben Oglivie again was the offensive her for Fort Worth, with a bases loaded two-out double in the 6th inning. Joe Lis added three hits for the Cowboys.

The Cowboys will have Steve Rogers on the mound tomorrow to try and close out the series. This will be Rogers first playoff start after winning 14 during the regular season.

Player of the Game: Doc Ellis

Fort Worth leads series 3-1

[glenn]

Chicago takes lead as series heads back to Boston
Chicago Storm 8
Boston Pilgrims 6

The Chicago Storm seem to have found the secret to success, fall behind early, wait until the starter exits, comeback against the bullpen. For the third straight game, Boston’s bullpen failed to hold on to the lead. Bill Singer relieved starter Oleos Calzada in the 7th with Boston up by two runs, only to see the game slip away again, and take the loss. Doyle Alexander pitched 8 innings to pick up the win, and Dave LaRoche pitched a scoreless ninth for the save.

Pete Varney had a big game for Chicago, going 4-5 with two doubles and two RBI. Leopold Blue and Bobby Grich also knocked in 2 runs for Chicago. Daisuke Chikafuji went deep for Boston connecting for a three run homer.

Jim Lonborg (17-17, 4.39 ERA) will start for Chicago and face Dick Rutheven (8-12, 5.88).

Player of the Game: Pete Varney

Chicago leads 3-2

Tidrow two hitter shuts down San Jose

San Antonio Wranglers 7
San Jose Bees 0

Dick Tidrow pitched a complete game shutout for San Antonio, putting the Wranglers up 3-2 in the best of seven series. Tidrow allowed 2 hits and only walked one batter in pitching a masterpiece verse San Jose. Reggie Cleveland pitched 6 1/3 innings for San Jose, allowing 7 runs, 6 earned, and taking the loss for San Jose. Cleveland is 1-1 in the playoffs.

San Antonio had 8 different players with a hit, and Pat Bourque led the way with 2 hits and 3 RBI.

With the series heading back to San Jose, Bill Champion will start for San Antonio, with Buzz Capra starting for San Jose.

Player of the Game: Dick Tidrow

San Antonio leads 3-2

Rogers leads Fort Worth to championship series

Fort Worth Cowboys 3
Houston Stars 2

Fort Worth became the second American Baseball League team to advance to the championship series, after they knocked off the Houston Stars 3-2 to advance. Steve Rogers pitched 8 innings of 3 hit ball, allowing 2 earned runs. Lindy McDaniel pitched the 9th to pick up the save. Harry Parker took the loss for Houston, allowing 3 runs over 5 innings. Catfish Hunter came into the game in the 6th inning, and pitched 3 hitless innings.

Bert Campaneris committed a costly error in the first that let the Cowboys get on the board first. Houston came back with a two-run homer by Dwight Evans which put Houston ahead 2-1. Eric Soderholm hit a two-run homer in the fifth, which put the Cowboys up for good.

Cowboys owner Marvin Davis was happy to advance, “Our team went out and did their job, and I am proud of them. We are looking forward to the next round, and advancing to and winning the Championship.”

Player of the Game: Steve Rogers

Fort Worth wins series 4-1

[glenn]

Boston bullpen falters again, but late inning rally forces game 7
Boston Pilgrims 8
Chicago Storm 4

Boston starter Dick Rutheven left the game in the seventh inning with the Pilgrims leading by one, and Boston manager Leo Durocher again went to Bill Singer, who again gave up a key run, allowing the Storm to tie the game by failing to field a squeeze bunt by Ken Jefferson. This time the Pilgrim’s batters bailed him out in the 8th inning, handing Bob Reynolds the loss by scoring 5 runs in the eighth inning. Singer settled down and finished out the game, picking up the win for Boston.

Johnny Grubb, Jimmy Winn, Bob Robertson, and Norm Cash each hit homers in the 5 run eighth inning for the Pilgrims. Game 7 will be played tomorrow night, with Bert Blyleven taking the mound for Chicago, and Gustavus Gwynn getting the start for Boston in a rematch of Game 4 starters.

Player of the Game: Johnny Grubb

Series tied at 3.

San Antonio wins 7-4 to advance to League Championship Series versus Fort Worth

San Antonio Wranglers 7
San Jose Bees 4

Fred Lynn and Bill Champion lead San Antonio past the San Jose Bees and into the League Championship Series. Champion pitched 7 innings, allowing 4 runs, and improved for his playoff record to 2-0. Javier Gelada pitched the 9th inning for his third save of the postseason. San Jose Buzz Capra was hit hard again, and fell to 0-2 with a 8.56 ERA in the postseason.

Fred Lynn went 3-5 with a double, driving in 1 run and scoring 3 to lead San Antonio. Pat Bourque, Steve Yeager, and Nick LaFountain each added to hits for the Wranglers. Bobby Murcer hit a solo home run in the 5th inning for San Jose.

San Antonio will go on the road to start the League Championship Series at Fort Worth.

Player of the Game: Fred Lynn

San Antonio wins the series 4-2

[glenn]

Blyleven pitches Chicago past Boston in decisive game 7

Chicago Storm 6
Boston Pilgrims 2

Chicago Storm starter Bert Blyleven brought his A game to the ballpark, pitching 8 2/3 innings, allowing 7 hits while striking out 8 to pick up his second win of the postseason. Dave LaRoche recorded the last out to pick up his second save. Gustavus Gwynn pitched a decent game, allowing 2 earned runs, 3 total, over 5 innings, but ran out of steam with a high pitch count, and took the loss. Boston again turned to Bill Singer, who pitched in 6 of the 7 games. Singer allowed 3 runs in 3 1/3 innings. For the series, Singer was 1-2 with 1 save, with a 7.15 ERA 11 innings. Leo Durocher’s reliance on Singer demonstrated his lack of faith in Boston’s bullpen.

Ultan Hazzard’s ninth inning double drove in the 4th run of the game for Chicago, and quieted the Boston crowd. With runners on second and third, Boston failed to bring its infield in, and another run scored on Larry Hisle’s groundout to the second baseman. A single by George Foster put the Storm up 6-2, and set off a mass exodus from FenwayPark.

Boston owner Ted Williams was seen leaving Fenway visibly upset, and refused comment on whether Manager Leo Durocher would return next year.

Chicago advances to play the well rested Detroit Mustangs, who swept their series. The series will begin in Detroit, after an off day tomorrow.

Player of the Game: Bert Blyleven

Chicago wins the the series 4-3