June 28th, 1985

The Astros are in town and they are pitching Dick Ruthven (2-4, 4.71). I have never faced him.

The Giants are going with Atlee Hammaker (5-7, 3.60)

Houston is two games behind us in the standings. We win 2 out of 3 from them earlier this season.

I led off the bottom of the 1st and my first appearance vs Ruthven ended in a strikeout.

I got a big chance in the 3rd when I came up with one out and Kenny Smith on 3rd and John Castino on 2nd. He struck me out again. Thankfully Kenny Oberkfell did better and singled them both home.

Giants up 2-0!

Next time up was in the 5th, with two out and Castino on 2nd. I grounded weakly to Ruthven to end the inning.

I made my first defensive play in the 7th, starting a Priske / Castino / Deer double play to get Dickie Thon and Chuck Jackson out.

Atlee ran out of gas in the 8th and then replaced him with Ron Davis (and Sixto Lezcano took over for Terry Harper in right in a double switch.) There was two out and Terry Puhl on 2nd. Davis walked Jose Cruz and then gave up a single to Doug DeCinces, erasing the shut out. He then walked Keith Hernandez, loading the bases... and then Ron Hassey to tie the game! Ron hasn't gotten an out yet! He then struck out Thon but the damage was done.

Game tied 2-2.

That was it for me, too. Nestor lifted me for Chris Brown in the 8th.

In the end it was Castino scoring Tom O'Malley from 2nd with a walk-off RBI single and a 3-2 win.

We are back to .500. 36-36

It was a woeful game for me, though.

June 29th, 1985

Today the Astros are going with Bob Knepper (4-9, 3.90).
The Giants are using Colin Ward (4-2, 2.70).

I have gone 1 for 3 vs Knepper.

We fell behind early as Doug DeCinces hit a two-run homer in the top of the 1st.

Astros lead 2-0.

I led off the bottom of the 1st by grounding out to DeCinces at 3rd.

In the 2nd I was the keystone on an Oberkfell / Priske / Deer double play getting Dickie Thon and Chuck Jackson.

In the bottom half the game as squared up as Bob Brnely reached on error and then Terry Harper hit one out.
I came up with Kenny O. on 2nd and two out and I struck out.

Game tied 2-2.

In the 4th I got the 1st out, getting DeCinces at 2nd on a Keith Hernandez fielder's choice. I then got the 2nd out on a Ron Hassey grounder.

In the bottom frame Brenly got us the lead with a solo shot to lead off.
I came up with Kenny O on 2nd and two out. I grounded out to DeCinces.

Giants lead 3-2.

I handled the 3rd out in the 5th, taking a Bill Doran grounder.

In the 7th Ward reached his end as Nestor brought it Mark Davis (and Sixto Lezcano for Jeff Leonard din left in a double switch).

In the bottom half I was lifted for a pinch hitter.

We ended up winning 5-3.

I need to get my bat going. At what point does Nestor leave me out of the line-up (or move me down in the order)?

We are now 37-36, tied in 3rd in the NL West, 6 games back of the Dodgers, 5 behind the Reds, and tied with the Padres.

After the game Frank Williams was activated from the D.L. and Bill Laskey was sent to Phoenix.

June 30th, 1985

The Astros are pitching Mike Scott (3-8, 3.98).
The Giants are using Jeff Robinson (4-7, 4.75).

I have never faced Scott.

I led off the bottom of the 1st with Scott striking me out.

I go the 3rd out in the 3rd with a grounder by Jerry Mumphrey.

I came up that inning with one out and Fran Mullins on 3rd. This time Scott walked me on 4 pitches. With Kenny Oberkfell up I went for stolen base #50... but it was on pitch out and I was gunned down. We didn't get Fran across.

In the 4th Bob Brenly hit a solo shot to put us on the board.

Giants lead 1-0.

In the 5th I took a grounder from Scott for the 3rd out.

I led off the bottom half by smacking a double down the right field line.
I then got that elusive 50th stolen bag by swiping 3rd. I then scored when Jose Cruz dropped Kenny O's fly ball to left. (It would have been a sac anyway.) Later Kenny O scored on a Rob Deer grounder, Chili Davis scored on a Brenly single and he scored on a Fran Mullins single.

Giants lead 5-0!

The Astros got on the board in the 6th as Cruz tripled and scored on a wild pitch by Robinson. I ended the inning taking a grounder by DeCinces.

Giants up 5-1.

I led off the bottom half by grounding out to Keith Hernandez at 1st.

Frank Williams came in to pitch in the 7th. I got him the 3rd out by snagging a liner by Chuck Jackson.

I came up in the 8th with one out and now facing Jeff Calhoun. I hit what looked like a single to centre but Jackson trapped it and they called in a catch. Bull.

Mark Davis took over in the 9th. 3-up, 3-down and we had the win.

38-36. Four wins in a row.

I went 1 for 4 with a double, stolen base, and a run scored.
__________________

June 30th, 1985

2nd game of a double header.
The Astros are pitching Ray Burris and the Giants have Terry Mulholland.

I led off the bottom of the 1st by picking up an infield single. I moved to 2nd when Kenny Oberkfell walked. I stole 3rd and then scored on a Chili Davis sac fly.

Giants lead 1-0.

I came up in the 3rd with one out and grounded out.

In the 4th Chili Davis hit a solo homer.

Giants lead 2-0.

In the 5th I came up with Mulholland on 2nd and two out. I walked but nothing more came of it.

The Astros got on the board on the 6th when Jose Cruz homered.

Giants up 2-1.

In the 8th I walked again. I moved to 2nd on a ground out and then stole 3rd again.

We won 2-1, making us 39-36 and winners of 5 in a row.

July 1st, 1985

The Braves are in town and pitching Rick Mahler. The Giants are going with Mike Krukow.

I am 0 for 3 vs Mahler.

I got the 3rd out in the opening frame, taking a grounder from Ron Cey.

I led off the bottom half by flying out to Reggie Jackson in right.

Jackson scored in the 2nd on a passed ball by Bob Brenly. I got the 3rd out again, on a grounder by Paul Runge.

Braves lead 1-0.

I got the 3rd out for the 3rd straight inning on a grounder by Gerald Perry.

John Castino tied thing sup with a homer in the bottom half. I came up with one out and grounded to Runge at 2nd.

Game tied 1-1.

In the 4th Terry Harper hit a massive three-run home run blast! We also scored another on a Jeff Leonard RBI single.

Giant lead 5-1!

I led off the bottom of the 5th, now facing Steve Bedrosian, by legging out an infield single. I was erased on a fielder's choice by Kenny Oberkfell but took out Runge to avoid the double play.

Krukow ran out of steam in the 6th (after striking out TEN) and was lifted for Pat Perry. He pitched one and then Curt Brown came in for the 7th.
We helped him out with a Castino / Priske / Deer double play, getting Bruce Benedict and Runge.

I led of the bottom half, now facing Jeff Dedmon, with my second infield hit! I picked up stolen base #53 without Benedict even making a throw. They then walked Kenny O intentionally. After Kenny Smith struck out I picked up stolen base #54, taking 3rd. Deer ground out and though I crossed, the Braves turned the double play to end the inning.

The Braves jammed the bases in the 8th and scored one on a grounder as we got the 2nd out. Benedict grounded out to me to end it.

Giants still lead 5-2.

In the bottom half we got it back when Castino knocked Jeff Leonard home with a single.

Giants up 6-2.

Scott Garrelts came in to pitch the 9th. He did the job and we won our 6th consecutive game!

40-36!

I went 2 for 4 with two stolen bases!
__________________

July 2nd, 1985

We have won six in a row and the last place Braves are still in town. We want this one.

The Braves are going with a big name though... Jim Palmer (2-5, 5.81)
The Giants are using Atlee Hammaker (5-7, 3.43)

None of us have ever faced Palmer.

Atlee got into trouble in the 1st, loading the bases and giving up a 2-run single to Rafael Ramirez.

Braves lead 2-0.

I led off the bottom half by hitting Palmer's 2nd pitch into the right field corner and legging out a triple! I scored on a Ken Oberkfell ground out. Rob Deer hi ta game tying solo homer that inning as well.

Game tied 2-2.

In the 2nd I came up with two out and Kenny Smith on 1st. I grounded out to Paul Runge at 2nd.

I made my first defensive play in the 3rd, snagging a Ron Cey liner for the 2nd out. Great play.

We tore it open that inning with Kenny O leading off with a single. Chili Davis followed with another and an error by Brad Komminsk in left put them on 2nd and 3rd. Deer popped up and then Jeff Leonard walked to load them up. Terry Harper then singled, scoring Kenny O and Chili. Jeff Leonard was thrown out stealing. (Who does he think he is? Me?) Kenny Smith singled, scoring Harper. John Castino singled, moving Smith to 3rd who then scored on a passed ball before Atlee grounded out to end things.

Giants lead 6-2!

I led off the bottom of the 4th by grounding out to Runge again.

Frank Williams relieved Atlee in the 6th.

I came up that inning with two out and Smith on 2nd, now facing Ed Vande Berg. I grounded out to Rage for the 3rd straight time.

I handled the 2nd out in the 8th, taking a grounder from Cey.

In the bottom half Kenny Smith doubled and then scored on a Castino single.

Giants lead 7-2!

Ron Smith came in to handle the 9th. He gave up a lead-off single but got the next three and we have won seven in a row!

I went 1 for 4 with a run scored and a triple!

Tomorrow is travel day and then we are in Chicago for a 4th of July game!

(Not as big a deal for me, being Canadian, but it should be fun...)

July 4th, 1985

It is the 4th of July and we are in Chicago. Hopefully we can provide the fireworks.

The Cubs are using a rookie who only lasted 2 innings in his first start - Drew Hall (0-1, 27.00)
We are going with a rookie who has done quite a bit better - Colin Ward (5-2, 2.72)

We have won 7 in a row. The Cubs have lost 8 in a row.

I led off and Hall struck me out.

In the 3rd I came up with two out and Chris Brown on 2nd. I flew out to Warren Cromartie in right.

We opened the scoring in the 4th. Terry Harper knocked in both Rob Deer and Bob Brenly with a double.

Giants lead 2-0

I made my first defensive play that inning, taking a grounder from Jody Davis for the 2nd out.

I cam cup in the 5th with two out and nobody on. I outran a grounder to Leon Durham at 1st for a single. I then picked up stolen base #55 AND #56. I was stranded at 3rd.

In the 6th I got Ryne Sandberg at 2nd on a Durham fielder's choice.

Mark Davis took over pitching duties for the Giants in the 7th.

I led off the 8th, now facing Al Holland. I lined out to Cromartie in right.

The Cubs got on the board that inning when Bob Dernier scored Dan Rohn with a double.

Giants lead 2-1.

Ron Davis came in to close things out in the 9th. He gave up a 2-out single but that was all and we have now won 8 in a row.

Giants win 2-1!

I went 1 for 4 with a pair of stolen bases.

42-36!

We trail the Dodgers by 3.5 games and the Reds by 2.5

After the game the organization made a change, calling Mike Aldrete back up from Phoenix and sending Terry Harper down.

July 5th, 1986

Still in Chicago and the Giants are going with Jeff Robinson (5-7, 4.53)
The Cubs are answering with Chuck Rainey (7-5, 3.43)

I have gone 2 for 3 against Rainey.

Let's go for 9 in a row.

I lead off the game by sneaking a grounder through the infield into right for a single. I quickly grab stolen base #57. Kenny Oberkfell then lays down a sac bunt, moving me to 3rd. Rainey walks Chili Davis. Bob Brenly grounds into a double play and I am stranded.

In the 2nd John Castino hit a solo homer to put us up.

Giants lead 1-0.

I got my first defensive play on the bottom half, taking a grounder from Leon Durham for the 1st out.

I came up in the 3rd with one out and nobody on. I grounded out to Ryne Sandberg at 2nd. After that Kenny O walked, Chili singled, and Brenly hit a three-run dinger.

Giants up 4-0!

I lead off the 5th by flying out to Bob Dernier in deep centre.

In the bottom half I took a Garry Templeton grounder for the 1st out.

In the 6th we got out 3rd homer - a solo shot by Tom O'Malley!

Giants up 5-0!

In the 7th I came up with one out and nobody on, now facing Ray Soff. He struck me out.

In the bottom half Robinson allowed the first 3 Cubs to reach so Nestor gave him the hook and brought in Mark Davis with the bases loaded. He struck out Templeton and then got Shawon Dunston, but Sandberg scored on the sac fly. Warren Cromartie grounded out to me and we got out of it with only one run allowed.

Giants lead 5-1.

I also got the 1st out in the bottom of the 8th, handling a grounder from pinch hitter Dave Valle.

Scott Garrelts took the mound to try and end things for us in the 9th. Jody Davis popped out to me for the 2nd out.

We won 5-1 for our 9th straight victory!

I went 1 for 4 with a stolen base.

We are 43-36

July 6th, 1985

Still in Chicago. The Cubs are throwing Bob Owchinko at us (2-9, 5.29).
The Giants are answering with Mike Krukow (9-6, 5.29).

Time to put our winning streak into double digits. The Cubs have lost 10 in a row.

I have gone 0 for 3 against Owchinko.

I led off the game by getting my first hit against him - a single into centre. Then came stolen base #58. I moved to 3rd and Jeff Leonard reached on an error by third baseman Shawon Dunston. After Chili Davis popped up Rob Deer walked, to load the bases. Bob Brenly singled and I scored. Kenny Oberkfell singled to score Leonard.

Giants lead 2-0.

The Cubs cut the lead in half on a Leon Durham RBI single in the bottom half. Then Garry Templeton tied it up with the same.

Game tied 2-2.

In the 2nd I came up with none out and Krukow on 1st. I hit into a fielder's choice. I made the most of it, picking up stolen base #59. Leonard walked. I then stole 3rd for #60. I got us the lead back off a Chili sac fly.

Giants lead 3-2.

Bob Brenlys cored off a Fran Mullins double in the 3rd. With two out and Mullins on 2nd I lined out to 2nd.

Giants lead 4-2.

I made my first defensive play in the bottom half, taking a Ryne Sandberg grounder for the 2nd out.

In the 4th Jeff Leonard scored on a Brenly sac fly.

Giants lead 5-2.

I got the 1st out in the bottom half, handling a grounder by Jody Davis. The Cubs got one back that inning as Warren Cromartie singled to score Templeton.

Giants up 5-3.

In the 5th I came up with Mike Aldrete on 2nd and two out. I grounded out to Sandberg at 1st.

In the bottom half Davis singled, scoring Sandberg. Leon Durham scored on a wild pitch, tying the game. Templeton scored on a Dunston single.

Cubs lead 6-5.

Frank Williams took over not he mound for us in the 6th.

I came up in the 8th with one out and Fran Mullins on 3rd. I grounded out to Durham at 1st, unable to score Mullins.

Scott Garrelts came in to pitch for us.

In the top of the 9th Kenny Oberkfell singled, scoring Deer to tie the game!

Game tied 6-6.

Curt Brown came in to pitch the 9th. He did the job and we were off to extras!

I was set to lead off the 10th but Nestor lifted me for John Castino.

We ended up exploding for 6 runs in the 13th, winning 12-6.

We picked up out 10th win in a row!

I went 1 for 5 before being lifted for Castino. I also stole 3 bags and scored two runs.

We are 44-36.

We are 2.5 games back of the Dodgers and 1.5 back of the Reds.

July 7th, 1985

Our fourth day in Chicago and the Cubs are pitching Darryl Banks (4-3, 3.33). The Giants are going with Atlee Hammaker (6-7, 3.44)

I have gone 0 for 3 vs Banks. We have won 10 in a row.

I lead off by grounding out to Ryne Sandberg at 2nd.

In the bottom half Marvell Wynne hit a ball that was ruled a single that went off my glove. I should have had it.

In the 2nd I grabbed the 3rd out of a grounder by Warren Cromartie.

In the 3rd I came up with one out and the bases empty. I blasted one into the right field corner and sprinted around the bases for a triple! Kenny Oberkfell grounded out but I scored.

Giants lead 1-0!

In the 4th Bob Brenly smoked a two-run homer!

Giants up 3-0!

In the bottom half we saved a run when I started a Priske - Castino - Aldrete double play to get Sandberg and Shawon Dunston to end the inning with Wynne standing on 3rd.

I led off the 5th by flying out to Cromartie in right.

Brenly was at it again as he smashed a THREE run homer that inning!

Giants lead 6-0!

In the bottom half Dave Valle led off with a solo homer for the Cubs. Then Cromartie grounded out to me. Then Garry Templeton did the same.

Giants up 6-1.

In the 6th I came up with one out and Mike Aldrete on 3rd and John Castino on 1st, and now facing Dickie Noles. I hit into to Sandberg and into a double play.

In the 7th a couple of errors led to a couple of Chicago runs.

Giants lead 6-3.

In the 8th I came up with two out and Sixto Lezcano on 3rd. The Cubs had Dennis Lamp on the mound. I grounded out to Sandberg for the 3rd time.

Scott Garrelts took over pitchman duties for us that inning. He got through the 8th but the Cub loaded the bases on the 9th and Nestor went to Mark Davis with two outs. He got Wynne to pop up to me and we had won our 11th straight game!

We are 45-36!

I went 1 for 5 with a triple and a run scored.

The Reds and Dodgers are tis atop the NL West and we are only 1.5 games behind them.

Tomorrow we are going to St.Louis!

July 8th, 1985

In St. Louis to take on the Cardinals.

They are going with Rich Gale (4-6, 3.96). We are answering with Terry Mulholland (6-6, 5.78).

I am 1 for 3 against Gale.

We have won 11 in a row.

I start the game off right, singling through the left side. Stolen base #61 soon followed. I was stranded at 2nd.

The Cards got onto board in the bottom half. They loaded the bases with one out and then Tom Herr scored on a Phil Garner sac fly.

Cardinals lead 1-0.

I got the first out in the 2nd, grabbing a pop up by Juan Beniquez.

I came up in the 3rd with two out and nobody on. I doubled to deep centre. I was left on 2nd again.

The Cards scored again int eh 4th as Terry Pendleton reached 2nd on a throwing error by Ken Oberkfell and scored on a single by Beniquez.

Cardinals lead 2-0.

In the 5th I came up with two out and John Castino and Ken Smith in scoring positions. I got my 3rd straight hit as I singled to right, scoring both runners and tying the game! I then stole base #62. I tried to score from 2nd on a Kenny O single, but Vince Coleman made a perfect throw to gun me down.

Game tied 2-2.

In the 7th we grabbed the lead as Kenny Smith put a pitch into the right field bleachers for a two-run blast! I came up with the bases empty and one out and pupped up to Herr at 2nd.

Giants up 4-2!

I got the 1st out int he bottom half, taking a pop up from John Wockenfuss. Mark Davis took over pitching duties with two out that inning.
Herr singled, scoring inherited runner Darrel Thomas from 3rd. Herr scored on a Willie McGee double, tying the game.

Game tied 4-4.

In the 5th Chris Brown came in as pinch hitter and doubled before scoring on a Jeff Leonard single.

Giants lead 5-4!

I got the 3rd out in the bottom half, snagging a grounder by Wockenfuss.

I came up in the 9th with none out, Kenny Smith on 2nd and Sixto Lezcano on 1st. I flew out to Andy Van Slyke in right. Kenny O singled, scoring Smith.

Giants lead 6-4!

Ron Davis came in the close things out. Three batters later, he had none just that.

We have win TWELVE in a row!

I went 3 for 5 with 2 RBI and 2 stolen bases!

July 9th, 1985

We have an interesting match-up in St.Louis today as the Cards go with Dave LaPoint (4-7, 2.79) and the Giants answer with Colin Ward (6-2, 2.39). A pair of hot shot young pitchers, though Ward struggled against the Cardinals last time out.

I am 0 for 7 vs LaPoint.

I led off the game by continuing that 0-fer. LaPoint struck me out.

Ward struggled in the 1st, walking FOUR in a row before I started a Priske - Castino - Aldrete double play to end the inning.

Cardinals lead 1-0.

I came up in the 2nd with John Castino on 2nd and two out. He struck me out again.

I got the 1st out in the bottom half of the 3rd, handling a Tom Herr grounder. Willie McGee hit an RBI double, scoring Vince Coleman. Then Andy Van Slyke knocked him home with a single. We turn another P-C-A double play to end it but...

Cardinals lead 3-0.

In the 5th I came up wont one out and Mike Aldrete on 3rd. He struck me out again. What the hell.

I took another rHerr grounder for the 3rd out that inning.

In the 6th we finally got on the board when Rob Deer pushed Chili Davis across.

Cards lead 3-1.

Frank williams took the mound for us that inning, also bringing in Sixto Lezcano for Jeff Leonard in a double switch.

I led off the 8th, now facing Jeff Lahti. I did little better against him, grounding out to Herr... but he flubbed it! Safe on an error! Tom O'Malley pinch hit for Williams and grounded out, but I moved up to 2nd. Chili single to centre and I scampered home! Bob Brenly ended up cashing in Chili so...

Game tied 3-3!

Scott Garrelts took over mound duties for us. He walked Oddibe McDowell but I erased him on a Coleman fielder's choice.

Then the worst happened. We got the 2nd out before Coleman moved to 3rd on a McGee single. Then Van Slyke grounded out to me... and I threw it away. Error #16.

Cards lead 4-3 and if we can't score in the 9th, the loss is on my head.

3 up. 3 down. Our winning streak comes to an end because of my error.

July 10th, 1985

I am still really wearing yesterday's loss. The guys are being supportive but I know that it was my fault we lost.

Today we have Jeff Robinson (6-7, 4.34) pitching.

The Cardinals have Danny Cox (7-6, 3.69). I have gone 2 for 4 against Cox. I really need a big game.

Neither pitcher has pitched well against the other team.

I led off the game by watching a strike three call.

Rob Deer knocked in Kenny Oberkfell.

Giants up 1-0.

In the 2nd the Cards got it back when Phil Garner singled home Andy Van Slyke.

Game tied 1-1.

I came up in the 3rd with one out and nobody on. I grounded out to Juan Beniquez at 1st.

Terry Pendleton led off the bottom of the 4th with a solo homer. I took the 1st out, handling a Garner grounder.

Cardinals lead 2-1.

I came up in the 5th with two out and Tom O'Malley on 3rd and John Castino on 2nd. Here is my chance.

I grounded out to Beniquez again.

Curt Bowen took over for Robinson with two out in the 5th. He couldn't stop the inherited run from scoring as Willie McGee singled Tom Herr home.

Cardinals lead 3-1.

They got another in the 6th when Beniquez singled Garner home.

Cardinals lead 4-1.

I came up in the 8th with none out and pinch-hitter Chris Brown on 1st. Cox drilled me. Honestly, the way things have been going, I will take it.
I didn't;t last, though, as Kenny O hit into a double play.

Frank William took over on the mound for us that inning. He got the first two out but then allowed two runners who were both sent home by an Oddibe McDowell double.

Cardinals lead 6-1.

Jeff Leonard hit a solo homer in the 9th but that was all we could do.

St.Louis won 6-2.

We are now 46-38.

Possible interesting thing... after the game it was announced that the organization had signed Mike Hargrove to a minor league contract. This guy is an 11 year vet who signed a one year contract with the Tigers and was then released.

Tomorrow we are in Pittsburgh. I really need to get out of this funk.

July 11th, 1985

In Pittsburgh. The Pirates are pitching John Candelaria (9-3, 1.92). The Giants are answering with Mike Krukow (9-6, 3.25).

Candelaria is tough. I have gone 0 for 4 against him. I need that to change.

I don't, though. I fly out to Joe Orsulak in right to lead off.

Orsulak hurts us in their half too, hitting an RBI double that scores Denny Gonzalez.

Pirates are up 1-0.

I got the 2n out in the 2nd, taking an Ozzie Smith grounder to get Bobby Miscik at 2nd.

I came up in the 3rd with two out and Fran Mullins on 2nd. I grounded out to Miscik at 2nd.

In the bottom half Fred Lynn parked a Krukow pitch over the right field wall for a two-run dinger. It gets worse as Krukow loads the bases and then walks Ozzie Smith for a run. Gonzalez grounded out to me to end the threat.

Pirates lead 4-0.

In the 4th I keystoned a Krukow - Priske - Aldrete double play to get Tony Pena and Steve Kemp to end the inning.

I got the first out in the 5th off a Tim Tolman grounder.

I came up in the 6th with one out and nobody on. I finally got my first hit against Candelaria, singling up the middle. Unfortunately Jeff Leonard hit into a double play right behind me.

In the bottom half Orsulak got to us again, singling home Gonzalez. That was it for Krukow as Nestor went with Curt Brown. Pena pushed Orsulak across. We ended it with a Mullins - Priske - Aldrete double play to get Pena and Kemp.

Pirates lead 6-0.

In the 7th Rob Deer hit a solo homer to put us not he board.

Pirates up 6-1.

In the bottom half Ozzie Smith scores Tolman with an R|BI double.

Pirates lead 7-1.

Pat Perry comes in to pitch in the 8th after Brown was lifted for a pinch hitter. He fares no better as Orsulak scored on a Pena ground-out and Lynn scores on a Kemp single.

Pirates lead 9-1.

I lead off the 9th and I hit a double into deep centre. I move up to 3rd on a one out single by Chili Davis and then score on a two out double by Bob Brenly. Kenny Oberkfell pushes both of them across but that is as far as it goes and we lose 9-4 to the Pirates.

I went 2 for 4 with a run scored. That is not nothing, but we needed the win.

After the game Mike Jones was called up from Phoenix and Eddie Vargas was designated for assignment. Eddie had been doing some pinch hit duty, but he is hitting as well as I have been.

I like Mike Jones, though. He got five at-bats last year (with no hits), but is still basically a rookie like me.

July 12th, 1985

The Pirates are pitching Rick Rhoden (7-4, 3.20).
We have Atlee Hammaker (7-7, 3.32).

Fairy evenly matched.

I have gone 2 for 4 against Rhoden. Let's keep that up.

He walked me on five pitches without me ever swinging the bat. After Kenny Oberkfell flew out I tried to steal but they pitched-out and caught me dead to rights.

After whiffing on my chance on the top half, I did it again in the bottom half. Kirk Gibson grounded out to me on what would have been the 3rd out. I fumbled the ball for my 17th error. That led to an unearned run.

Pirates lead 1-0.

When I led off the 4th I had still been the only Giant baserunner. Turns out I was also our first hit as I singled past Ozzie Smith at short. With two out I tried running again and once again they pitched out. Am I tipping something? This time I was in there anyway. Stolen base #63. The rest of the story isn't so good as I tried to score on a Rob Deer single and Fred Lynn gunned me down from centre.

What is going on?

Johnny Ray grounded out to me for the 2nd out in the bottom half.

I came up in the 6th with one out and Atlee on 1st. Rhoden struck me out.

I made the 3rd out in the bottom half on a Robin Yount grounder.

I got Ray again for the 2nd out in the 7th. I also got Tim Tolman for the 3rd out after Lynn doubled.

I was due up 2nd in the 9th but Nestor lifted me for Sixto Lezcano. We couldn't get it done and lost 1-0.

We really didn't support Atlee who pitched a hell of a game.

46-40

I went 1 for 2 so I guess I am still .500 against Rhoden.

July 13th, 1985

The Pirates are pitching Jose DeLeon (5-7, 3.26).
We are going with Terry Mulholland (6-6, 5.54).

I have gone 2 for 4 against DeLeon. Another good one for me (small sample size permitting.)

I led off the game by taking a walk from DeLeon. I quickly grabbed stolen base #64 and then advanced to 3rd on a ground out by Kenny Oberkfell. Chili Davis singled, I crossed, and we had the early lead.

Giants up 1-0.

I came up in the 3rd with one out and John Castino on 2nd. I grounded out but at least made it productive, moving John up a bag. Unfortunately he was left there.

I made my first defensive play that inning, taking DeLeon's grounder for the 3rd out.

In the 4th Rob Deer and Bob Brenly hit back-to-back homers! I came up with two out and Mike Aldrete on 3rd and Castino on 2nd, but I flew out.

Giants lead 3-0!

In the bottom half Robin Yount responded with his own solo shot.

Giants lead 3-1.

In the 5th Fred Lynn tied the game with a two-run homer.

Game tied 3-3.

I was lifted for Sixto Lezcano in the 7th.

I think I am really lucky that the team does not have a better choice for short. I do not have the faith of my manager at all.

We lost 4-3.

46-41

We have lost 5 in a row.

July 14th, 1985

Today the Pirates are using John Tudor (4-8, 3.92)
The Giants have Colin Ward (6-2, 2.67)

This looks like our day to break the losing streak!

I have not faced Tudor.

I led off the game by grounding out to Johnny Ray at 2nd.

The Pirates strike first as Robin Yount hit an RBI double in the bottom half.

Pirates lead 1-0.

We took the lead back in the 2nd as Rob Deer scored on a passed ball and John Castino hit a solo home run.

Giants lead 2-1!

I made the 1st out in the bottom of the 2nd, handling a grounder by Tony Pena.

I led off the 3rd by grounding out to Tim Tolman at 1st.

In the bottom half I snagged a liner off the bat of Denny Gonzalez for the 2nd out.

I came up in the 4th with two out and Ward on 1st. A pitch got away from Tudor and gave me a little thump. Jeff Leonard grounded out and left us there.

I got the 1st two outs in the bottom of the 5th, taking grounders from Ozzie Smith and Denny Gonzalez. After Colin walked Yount, he was lifted for Curt Brown. He stranded Yount.

Frank Williams took on pitching duties in the 6th after Brown was lifted for a pinch-hitter. Things didn't go well for him as he gave up a two-run homer, and the lead, to Fred Lynn.

Pirates now lead 3-2.

I led off the 7th by singling into right field. I stole 2nd, for #65 and moved to 3rd on a Jeff Leonard ground out. Chili singled, I scored, and the game was tied.

Game tied 3-3.

In the 8th Chris Brown led off with a solo homer to put us back in front! I was lifted for Kenny Oberkfell that inning.

After I left the game my teammates exploded for four more runs. We won 8-3, breaking the losing streak.


The All-Star Rosters were announced and Bob Brenly and Rob Deer are both going! Good for them!

Eddie Vargas cleared waivers and has been assigned to Phoenix.

The NL won the All-Star Game, beating the AL 5-4.

Rob Deer played some outfield and went 1 for 2 with a pair of RBI!

Bob Brenly went 0 for 1.

One day I'll get the nod. Net yet, though.

We are back home after the break, facing the Cubs.

July 18th, 1985

At home in San Francisco after a break, Hopefully the break us what I needed to get my bat to life.

The Cubs are pitching Bill Swift (2-0, 3.51).
We have Atlee Hammaker (7-8, 3.12).

None of us have faced Swift before.

Things went against right away as Atlee gave up hits to the first three Cubs, putting us down 2-0. It got worse before it got better. By them time I started the inning ending Priske - Castino - Aldrete double play, the Cubs had sent up 9 batters and had scored 5 times.

Cubes lead 5-0.

I led off the bottom of the 1st and Swift did the unforgivable with a five run lead... he walked me. I moved up to 2nd on a Kenny Oberkfell ground out and 3rd on one by Chili Davis. I was stranded there.

Things went better in the 2nd. Bob Brenly led off with a double and then scored on a Jeff Leonard single. Mike Aldrete then parked a ball for a two-run homer. I came up with two out and nobody on and singled before stealing 2nd. I was left there.

Cubs lead 5-3.

In the 3rd the Cubs were back at it as Garry Templeton hit an RBI single, scoring Mel Hall.

Cubs lead 6-3.

I handled the 1st out in the 4th, taking a Shawon Dunston grounder.

I came up in the bottom half with two out and Aldrete on 1st. Swift pitched a little too tight and I got both a small bruise and my base. Kenny O then doubled into the corner, scoring both Mike and myself, but was thrown out trying to stretch it to 3rd.

Cubs lead 6-5.

Atlee had left for a pinch hitter than inning so Curt Brown took over. I caught a Jody Davis pop up for the 3rd out in the top of the 5th.

In the 7th, after another pinch hitting opportunity went nowhere, Mark Davis took over pitching duties for us. He allowed a couple of baserunners by a Castino - Priske - Aldrete double play ended the threat.

I led off the bottom half, now facing Dennis Lamp, by flying out to centre.

I got the 1st out in the 8th, taking a grounder by Hall. (There is something about that guy, I just don't like.)

A double switch in the 9th brought in Ron Davis to pitch and Kenny Smith to play left field.

In the bottom half, down by one, I got pulled for Chris Brown with one out and a man on. We didn't score and lost 6-5.

47-42

July 19th, 1985

The Cubs are pitching Chuck Rainey (7-6, 3.50).

We have Jeff Robinson (6-8, 4.41).

I have gone 3 for 6 against Rainey.

Shawon Dunston is the first batter and my first play as I take his grounder for the 1st out. The Cubs strike with two out, though, as a Ryne Sandberg triple and a Mel Hall double put them up.

Cubs lead 1-0.

I lead off the bottom half by flying out to Hall in left. We struck on the 2nd, though. Rob Deer led off with a single, advanced to 2nd on a wild pitch, then scored on a Bob Brenly single. The third and fourth straight singles, these one say Jef fLeonard and Tom O'Malley, cashed in Bob. They moved up on a Fran Mullins ground out and then scored on a Jeff Robinson double! I walked but that is as far as the scoring went.

Giants up 4-1!

I got the 2nd out in the 3rd, catching a pop up by Sandberg.

In the bottom half we scored two more, on a sac fly bye O'Malley and yet another RBI hit by Robinson! I struck out for the 3rd out.

Giants lead 6-1!

Bob Brenly hit a RBI single, scoring Ken Oberkfell, in the 4th.

Giants lead 7-1!

I made a sweet catch for the 1st out in the 5th, snagging a liner from Jody Davis.

I came up in the bottom half with one out and nobody on, now facing Ray Off - the pitcher I hit by first ever home run off. This time I got a nice single to right. I immediately stole 2nd for SB #67. I was left there.

With two out in the 7th Nestor goes with Curt Brown on the mound.
I come up in the bottom half with two out and the bases empty. Soff strikes me out.

Frank Williams take over for us in the 8th. He has a bit more trouble, giving up an RBI single to Sandberg and loading the bases before getting out of it.

Giants up 7-2.

Frank allows a couple more baserunner sin the 9th but dodges any damage and the Giants win 7-2!


After the game we were told that Mike Jones was heading back to AAA - without ever getting in a game - and Eddie Vargas was back up.

Huh?

July 20th, 1985

Today the Cubs are sending up Darryl Banks (4-5, 4.37).
We have Mike Krukow (9-7, 3.53).

I am 1 for 6 vs Banks.

We ran into some sloppiness in the 1st as Tom Lombarski scored on a Kenny Oberkfell error. I ended things by snagging a tough liner by Dave Martinez.

Cubs lead 1-0.

Martinez return the favour as I make the 1st out int he bottom half by flying out to him in centre. Bob Brenly knocks Chili Davis in to tie the score.

Game tied 1-1.

I come up int he 2nd with two out and Krukow on 1st. I leg out an infield hit to Garry Templeton at short. Kenny O makes up for his fielding gaffe by smacking a triple, scoring us both! Chili then doubles and Rob Deer hits a two-run dinger!

Giants lead 6-1!

The Cubbies gets some back as Ryne Sandberg hit s two-run homer in the 3rd.

Giants up 6-3.

I got the 1st out in the 4th, taking a Banks grounder. Shawon Dunston follows it with a solo homer. I got Sandberg's liner for the 2nd out.

Giants up 6-4.

I come up in the bottom half with one out and nobody on. I grounded out to Templeton after he gets a lucky bounce off the mound.

I handled a Jody Davis grounder for the 3rd out in the 5th.

The 5th was a good inning for us as Deer led off with a solo homer. Bb Brenly reached on an error and then moved to 3rd on a Jeff Leonard double. Mike Ladrete flew out and then the Cubs walked John Castino to face Krukow. Mike singled, scoring two! Then I came up against Dickie Noles and came up with my own RBI single!

Giants lead 10-4!

Curt Brown took over with one out in the 6th. He pitched that and the 7th before giving up to Pat Perry after he was pinch hit for.
Jody Davis grounded out to me for the 2nd out in the 8th.

I led off the bottom half by grounding out to Dunston at 3rd. Chili hit a two-run homer that inning.

Giants lead 12-4!

Turnabout is fair play as I got the 2nd out in the 9th off a Dunston grounder. Perry did the job and we won 12-4!

July 21st, 1985

Today the Cubs are using Bob Owchinko (2-9, 5.56)
The Giants are going with Colin Ward (6-2, 2.61)

Advantage: us.

I have gone 1 for 6 vs Owchinko, though the rest of the team has done quite well.


Except... bad news. Colin landed funny on a pitch to the first batter of the game. He go the strikeout but he came up hobbling. He had to be helped off the field with a calf strain.

(We were told after he only needs to rest it.)

So now we need the bullpen to get us through the rest of the game - starting with Frank Williams. He allowed one hit but I took a Tony Armas grounder for the 3rd out.

I led off our half by smashing a lien drive that was snagged by Shawon Dunston at 3rd.

I got another grounder in the 2nd, this one by Marvell Wynne, for the 2nd out.

In the bottom half Bob Brenly smacked a solo homer to put us on the board.

Giants lead 1-0!

Pat Perry took over pitching for us.

I didn't back him up and the 1st batter - Dunston - sent a grounder my way, which I threw away. Error. He ended up scoring.

Game tied 1-1. My fault.

I led off the bottom half, hoping to make amends. Instead I grounded out to the pitcher.

I got the 1st out in the 4th, taking a grounder from Jeff Jones. Dunston knocked in Garry Templeton to give the lead to the Cubs. I took a grounder from Ryne Sandberg for the 3rd out.

Cubs lead 2-1.

I got the 3rd out in the 5th - a grounder from Wynne.

I came up in the bottom half with two out and nobody on. Owchinko walked me. I was stranded there.

Scott Garrelts came on to pitch in the 6th. In the 7th I got the 3rd out again - again a grounder from Sandberg.

It was Mark Davis' turn on the mound in the 8th. Things went bad for him. He gave up a couple hits and a couple of walks, including walking in a run.

Cubs lead 3-1.

I led off the bottom of the 8th, now facing Al Holland. I grounded out to Sandberg at 1st.

Ron davis took over pitching in the 9th. He got through it and we were faced with out final outs, down by two.

Briefly.

Rob Deer led off with a solo blast, narrowing the margin to one.

Then Bob Brenly smacked a double and this started to really look possible.

Chris Brown flew out but Bob moved up. One out and the tying run was 90 feet away.

John Castino grounded out and Bob wasn't able to advance. Uh-oh.

Miek Aldrete came up and... singled to left! Tie game!

Ken Smith entered as a pinch hitter and... SMASHED THE BALL TO DEEP IN THE OUTFIELD! ALDRETE SCORED ALL THE WAY FROM FIRST AND WE HAD WALKED OFF WITH A 4-3 WIN!

Woooo!!!!!!

Great win.

(Too bad I played so badly.)

Also too bad that Colin got hurt.


After the game Eddie Vargas was sent back to Phoenix and Mike Jones was called back up. Eddie never got its he game. What is going on?

The Cardinals are in town tomorrow.

July 22nd, 1985

The Cardinals are in town. They have not done well this year and we really need to take advantage of the opportunity to make up some ground.

St.Louis is pitching Rich Gale (4-6, 3.95).
San Francisco is answering with Terry Mulholland (6-7, 5.46)

I have gone 4 for 6 vs Gale. Time for a big game.

I got in the play right away as the Cards leadoff batter, Tom Herr, grounded out to me. Unfortunately their next batter, Juan Beniquez, took Terry deep.

Cardinals lead 1-0.

I led off the bottom half by taking a walk. I was erased on a fielder's choice by Chili Davis. I came up next in the 3rd with one out and John Castino standing on 3rd. I hit what looked to be a sac fly but John was gunned down, turning it into a long double play.
I led off the 6th by grounding out to Phil Garner at short.
In the top of the 7th I started a Priske - Castino - Aldrete double play to get Terry Pendleton and Mark Salas.
In the bottom of the 7th Bob Brenly hit a solo shot to tie the game!

Game tied 1-1

With one out in the 8th Terry was lifted for Scott Garrelts (along with Jeff Leonard giving way to Sixto Lezcano in a double switch.)
I got Willie McGee out for the 2nd out, but Darrel Thomas scored on the play, giving the lead back to the Cardinals.

Cardinals lead 2-1

I came up in the bottom half with one out, now facing Dave Rucker. I singled into right. Chris Brown pinch hit for Kenny Oberkfell and also singled. I moved up to 3rd. Rucker walked Chili and the bases were juiced for Rob Deer. He worked a walk, sending me across to tie the game. Brenly then singled, scoring Chris! Tom O'Malley pinch hit for Garrelts and Rucker uncorked a wild one, scoring Chili!

Giants lead 4-2!

Ron Davis came in to try to close it out. I got the first out off a Garner grounder. Ron got the next two just as easily and the win was ours!

51-42

I went 1 for 3 with a single, a walk, and a run scored.

July 23rd, 1985

Today the Cardinals are going with Danny Cox (8-7, 3.67)
The Giants are replying with Atlee Hammaker (7-9, 3.42)

I have gone 2 for 7 vs Cox.

The Cardinal struck early as Terry Pendleton hit a two-run single.

Cardinals lead 2-0.

I led off the bottom half by singling up the middle. I picked up stolen base #68 in short order. After Ken Oberkfell flew out I also stole 3rd. Chili Davis grounded out and I scored.

Cardinals lead 2-1.

I came up in the 3rd with two out and grounded out to Tom Herr at 2nd.

I got the 1st out in the 4th, grabbing a Phil Garner pop up. I also got the 1st out in the 5th, taking a David Green grounder.

I came up in the bottom of the 5th with one out and John Castino on 3rd and Kenny Smith on 2nd. I legged out an infield single, picking up the RBI as Castino crossed to tie the game. I immediately stole 2nd for stolen base #70. Kenny Smith scored on a Kenny O sac fly.

Giants lead 3-2!

In the 6th I got the 2nd out, taking a Garner grounder, and the 3rd out, making a tougher play on Terry Pendleton.

I came up in the 7th with one out, now facing Dave Rucker. I grounded out to Pendleton at 3rd.

In the 8th I was the pivot on a Hammaker - Priske - Aldrete double play to get Tom Herr and Juan Beniquez. Nice play by Atlee!

Ron Davis came in to close things out in the 9th (while Sixto Lezcano also came into left in a double with, in case Ron CAN'T get it done). He got the 1st out but then walked Garner. Pendleton then hit into an O'Malley - Priske - O'Malley double play to win the game!

That is five in a row for us!

2 for 4 with an RBI and a Run scored... and THREE stolen bases!

I was even quoted in the BNN recap where they called me 'the best prospect in baseball'.

52-42

NL West Standings

Dodgers - --
Reds - 0.5
Giants - 2.5

After the game we heard that Eddie Vargas and Mike Jones were swapping again. Eddie is up now.

July 24th, 1985

Today the Cardinals are using Dave LaPoint (4-8, 2.75)
The Giants are trying for six in a row behind Jeff Robinson (7-8, 4.22)

LaPoint, eh? I am 0 for 10 vs LaPoint.

I led off the bottom of the 1st hoping to break that streak. Nope. Struck out. Chili Davis knocked Jeff Leonard in though.

Giants lead 1-0.

I came up in the 3rd with two out and flew out to Andy Van Slyke in right. 0 for 12.

I made a great diving catch on a Phil Genre liner for the last out in the top of the 4th.

In the 5th the Cards knotted it up off a Darrell Porter homer. I got the 3rd out off a Tom Herr grounder.

Game tied 1-1.

I came up in the 6th with one out and grounded out to Herr at 2nd. 0 for 13. Jeff Leonard followed me with a solo shot to give us the lead back.

Giants lead 2-1!

Mark Davis took over pitching duties for us in the 7th. He was lifted for a pinch hitter so Scott Garrelts took over in the 8th.
I led off in the bottom half, now facing Neil Allen. He struck me out.
Ron Davis had been used quite a bit lately so Nestor left Garrelts in for the 9th. He gave up a triple to Andy Van Slyke to lead things off. He then walked Terry Pendleton. Garner grounded out to me and I looked Van Slyke back, though Pendleton advanced. Mickey Hatcher popped out and Darrell Porter grounded out. Garrelts pitched out of it and saved the 2-1 win!

That is six in a row for us!

Not a good game for me at the dish, but I'll take the win.

53-42

NL West

Reds - --
Dodgers - 0.5
Giants - 2.0

July 25th, 1985

The Pirates are in town and we are running hot!

The Bucs are pitching Jim Beattie (2-5, 4.15)
The Giants are going with Mike Krukow (10-7, 3.60)

I have gone 1 for 3 vs Beattie.

Krukow got in trouble early, surrendering an RBI triple to Joe Orsulak. He was later gunned down at the plate before Kirk Gibson homered.

Pirates lead 2-0.

I led off the bottom half by grounding out to Ozzie Smith at short.

In the 2nd Ozzie hit a two-run single.

Pirates lead 4-0.

I came up in the 3rd with one out and hit a comebacker to Bettie for the 2nd out.

I got the 1st out in the 5th, taking a grounder from Orsulak.

I came up in the bottom half with two out and Tom O'Malley standing on 3rd. I flew out to Robin Yount in left.

I got the 1st out in the 6th - a grounder by Bill Madlock.

In the 7th we finally got on the board as Jeff Leonard smacked a two-run homer. I flew out to end the inning.

Pirates lead 4-2.

Mark Davis took over pitching in the 8th.

We couldn't make up any more ground and our winning streak ended there.

Whoa! After the game we were told that Kenny Smith had been traded! He went to the Mets in exchange for Lee Mazzilli and a minor leaguer named Mark Berry.

July 26th, 1985

Mazzilli isn't here yet and apparently we are going without a back-up catcher. Hmmm....

Today the Pirates are sending up John Candelaria (11-3, 2.02)
We have Colin Ward (6-2, 2.59)

This could be interesting.

I have gone 2 for 8 vs Candy.

I made the first play of the game, getting Ozzie Smith out on a ground ball.

I led off the bottom half by grounding out to Bill Madlock at 3rd.

I got Johnny Ray's grounder to start off the 2nd. I then got Tony Pena's pop fly for the 2nd out.
The bad news there is that Colin Ward came off the mound holding his shoulder and had to be taken from the game. It looked bad.
Frank Williams took over.

In the bottom half Mike Aldrete pushed Bob Brenly across to open the scoring.

Giants lead 1-0.

Once again I got the 1st out in the 3rd - this time a Tim Tolman grounder. I should have had the 3rd out too, but I booted an Ozzie grounder! Thankfully he never scored.

I came up in the 3rd with one out. I struck out.

In the 4th Tony Pena hit a two-run double to take the lead back.

Pirates lead 2-1.

In the 5th Robin Young scored Ozzie for another run. We ended things with a Castino - Priske - Aldrete double play.

Pirates lead 3-1.

In the bottom half I came up with two out and Kenny Oberkfell on 2nd and Chris Brown on 1st. I popped out. Sigh.

Curt Brown took over for Frankie. I got the 3rd out for him in the 8th, snagging a Johnny Ray liner.

I came up in the bottom of the 8th with two out and I hit a single to left. I was stranded there.

Ron Davis came on to pitch the 9th. He did his job but we couldn't scratch anything across in the 9th and lost 3-1.

A lot happened after the game.

Colin Ward is hurt pretty bad. He is heading to the D.L. and word is that it will take up two months to come back.

They called up Randy Morse and Brian Harper from Phoenix and Mike Hargrove from Shreveport. Rob Deer and Mike Aldrete were both sent down.

My old buddy Dave Linton was dropped from the 40-man. Oh, and Lee Mazzilli arrived. I didn't get a good first impression.

Lots of changes. We'll see.

July 27th, 1985

It is weird without Rob and Mike around here.

Today we have Terry Mulholland (6-7, 5.24) pitching for us.
The pirates have Rock Rhoden (9-4, 2.99).

Tough match-up.

I have gone 3 for 6 against Rhoden.

I get the first play of the game, handling an Ozzie Smith grounder.

I led off the bottom half by returning the favour.

In the 2nd we opened the scoring when John Castino knocked Jeff Leonard across.

Giants lead 1-0!

They got it back and more in the 3rd when Robin Youth doubled, scoring Ozzie and Bill Buckner. I grabbed a Kirk Gibson pop for the 1st out and a Johnny Ray grounder for the 2nd.

Pirates lead 2-1.

I came up int he home half with none out and Mulholland on 1st. I hit into a fielder's choice. No hit but an upgrade on the bases. I proved it by getting stolen base #71 AND #72 during the next at-bat. Kenny Oberkfell then singled me home. Lee Mazzilli later pushed him across and we had the lead back.

Giants lead 3-2!

I got Ozzie for the 1st out again in the 5th. I then got Buckner the same way for the 2nd.

In the bottom half I came up with one out and Rhoden struck me out.

My busy defensive dat turned negative in the 6th when I blew a Ray grounder for my 20th error of the season. Thankfully he never scored.

Ron Davis took over on the mound in the 8th. He struck out the side.

I led off the bottom half by grounding out to Rhoden... but Buckner dropped the ball at 1st! Safe on an error. I moved to 2nd when Kenny O walked and to 3rd on a Chili Davis fly ball. I was stranded there.

Ron got 3 in a row, including two more strikeouts, to save the game!

We win 3-2!

54-44

Not a great day for me, except on the basepaths where I got two stolen bases and a run scored.

July 28th, 1985

Today the Pirates are pitching Jose DeLeon (5-8, 3.65)
The Giants are going with Atlee Hammaker (8-9, 3.36)

I have gone 2 for 6 vs DeLeon.

I got into the action right away, taking a grounder from Ozzie Smith for the first out.

I led off our half by working a walk. I tried to steal 2nd but this time they had the timing down and I was nailed on a pitch out.

The Pirates opened the scoring in the 4th as Robin Yount crossed on a Tony Pena ground out.

Pirates lead 1-0.

I led off the bottom half and DeLeon struck me out.

I made up for in the 6th when I snagged a Kirk Gibson liner with a highlight reel catch!

I led off again that inning and DeLeon struck me out again.

I got the 1st out in the 8th, taking a grounder from DeLeon. Scott Garrelts then took over pitching, with Tom O'Malley taking over for Mike Hargrove at 1st in a double switch.

I came up in the bottom half with one out. I dropped a single into left field. They didn't sniff it out this time and I stole 2nd for #73 and 3rd for #74. I just couldn't get that last 90 feet.

And that was that. We just couldn't get to DeLeon so lost 1-0.

I went 1 for 3 with a pair of stolen bases.

54-45

Tomorrow we head down to L.A.

July 29th, 1985

We are in L.A. and Jeff Robinson (8-8, 4.07) is set to got for the Giants.
The Dodgers are answering with Fernando Valenzuela (12-6, 2.07).

Fernando-mania is sweeping the nation.

I have gone 1 for 7 against him.

I led off the game by lining out to R.J. Reynolds in left.

The Dodgers opened the scoring right away as Pedro Guerrero singled home Darrell Evans with two out.

Dodgers lead 1-0.

We evened it up in the 2nd when Mike Hargrove knocked in Jeff Leonard.

Game tied 1-1.

I led off the 3rd by working a walk. One stolen base attempt - one pitch out - one wasted walk.

In the home half Steve Sax doubled home Fernando, then Mike Marshall did the same for him. Later Reynolds hit a two-run double.

Dodgers lead 5-1.

I snagged a liner by Fernando in the 4th, but in the process I turned my ankle. The trainer came out to check on me but I was able to walk it off.

Curt Brown took over for Robinson in the 5th. I helped him out, taking a Marshall grounder for the 1st out.

I led off the 6th by grounding out to Dave Anderson at short.

In the bottom half I started a Priske - Mullins - Hargrove double play to het the first two outs.

I came up in the 7th with two out and Eddie Vargas on 3rd and Mike Hargrove on 1st. Big at-bat.
Grounded out to Steve Sax at 2nd.

Pat Perry took over mound duties for us after that.

We closed the gap in the 8th with tree consecutive this by Chili Davis, Bob Brenly, and Jeff Leonard, followed by a sac fly by Eddie Vargas.

Dodgers lead 5-3.

In the top of the 9th Tom O'Malley pinch hit for Pat and hit a single. My turn next, facing Tom Niedenfuer. I dropped the ball into short centre and now we had the tying runs on 1st and 2nd. Chris Brown struck out. Chili flew out to deep centre and O'Malley advanced to 3rd. Niedenfuer tried to pick me off first and threw it away. O'Malley scored and I moved to 2nd.
Bob Brenly hit a two run homer! We had the lead!

Giants lead 6-5!

Bottom of the 9th and in comes Ron Davis to close things out!
No such luck. Sid Bream came in as a pinch hitter and hit a solo homer to tie the game back up. Now Ron had to hold them to go to extras. He gave up a single but then struck out three straight.

Game tied 6-6. On to the 10th.

Once again I came up in a pretty key situation. Two out with Mike Hargrove on 3rd and Kenny Oberkfell on 1st. I was facing Ken Howell.
And I hit it into the left field corner! Hargrove scored! Kenny O went to 3rd! Double! My 27th RBI!

Giants lead 7-6!

Mark Davis took the mound at out second chance to close things out.
Infield single for Mike Scioscia. Sac bunt by Jim Dwyer. Fly ball by Dave Anderson. Now with two out, Candy Maldonado up with the tying run on 2nd.
Ground out to Hargrove at 1st.

7-6 extra inning win!

I was 2 for 5 with a double, walk, RBI and run scored! I was highlighted on the official recap!

55-45

We saw a bunch more changes after the game, including bad news of ranter teammate.

Rob Deer is back, as are John Rabb and Mike Jones.

Fran Mullins and Eddie Vargas are sent to Phoenix.

It was worse for Jeff Leonard. He was placed on waivers and designated for assignment.

Also, an update about Dave Linton - he cleared waivers and was assigned to Single A Fresno. I hope he can put it back together down there.

July 30th, 1985

After that great win yesterday, the team is pretty hyped up. We lost Jeff Leonard, which is too bad, but it is nice to see Rob Deer back up. He belongs here, for sure.

Today we are pitching Mike Krukow (10-8, 3.67).
The Dodgers are going with Jerry Koosman (10-3, 4.05).

I have yet to face Koosman.

I led off the game by striking out. Koos is tough!

I made the first out in both halves of the inning as I snagged a nasty grounder by Steve Sax.

I came up next in the 3rd, with one out. I have felt better at the plate lately and this time... yeah. Home run #4. Wooooo! Later that inning Lee Mazzilli hit a two-run double, scoring Chili Davis and Bob Brenly. Then he scored on a Ken Oberkfell single.

Giants lead 4-0!

The Dodgers struck back in the bottom half as Sax singled home Dave Anderson. Sax thens tole 2nd and when he tried streaking 3rd, Brenly threw it away, allowing him to score. Bob actually made two errors that inning. Unusual for him.

Giants still up 4-2.

I came up the next inning with two out. I grounded out to Sax at 2nd.

In the 5th Chili and Brenly hit back-to-back bombs!

Giants up 6-2!

Oops. In the bottom half Mike Marshall smacked a three-run bomb to bring the Dodgers within one. Then R.J. Reynolds knocked Darrell Evans home to tie it up. I got Candy Maldonado for the 2nd out but Reynolds scored. You know it is bad inning when their pinch-hitter gets up twice. Krukow even walked in a run before getting pulled for Frank Williams. He immediately gave up a two-run single to Marshall (giving him 5 RBI of the inning). Brenly made his third throwing error of the game and Sax scored. Then Hargrove made an error and Marshall scored.
TEN RUNS SCORED FOR L.A. that inning.

Dodgers lead 12-6.

I came up in the 6th with nobody out and Frank Williams on 1st, now facing Jerry Reuss. I flew out to Marshall in right.

I handled a Dave Anderson grounder for the 3rd out in the bottom half.

Chili hit his second homer in the 7th.

Dodgers lead 12-7.

I came up facing Randy Lerch in the 8th. Two out and nobody on. I hit it into the right field corner for a double. I was stranded there.

Pat Perry took over as hurler. He gave up a two-run double to pinch hitter Rich Dauer. I took a Marshall grounder for the last out.

Dodgers won 14-7.

I good day for me at the plate (2 for 5 with a double and a homer), but a real bad day for us as a team.

That was an ugly inning.

55-46

July 31st, 1985

Randy Morse is going to make his major league debut for the Giants today. He is replacing the injured Colin Ward.

The Dodgers are using Rick Honeycutt (7-7, 5.00).

I am 3 for 8 vs Honeycutt.

I led off the game by grounding out to Steve Sax at 2nd.

Interestingly, Sax led off the bottom half by grounding out to me. I also got Mike Marshall for the 2nd out and Pedro Guerrero for the 3rd. Busy inning!

In the 2nd Mike Jones knocked Mike Hargrove in to give us the lead.

Giants lead 1-0!

I was the pivot on an Oberkfell - Priske - Hargrove double play to get Candy Maldonado and Steve Braun to end the inning.

I led off the 3rd by grounding out to Braun at short. Sixto Lezcano smacked a two-run homer that frame.

Giants lead 3-0!

In the bottom half my busy day continued as I took a grounder by Jeffrey Brown for the 1st out.

In the 4th the Dodgers got on the board when a sac fly by Maldonado scored Guerrero. Darrell Even followed with a solo homer.

Giants still up 3-2.

I led off the 5th by grounding out to Sax again.

In the bottom half Marshall singled in Wayne Gross to tie the game.

Game tied 3-3.

In the 6th Maldonado hit a solo homer to give L.A. the lead. Evans grounded out to me for the 1st out.

Dodgers lead 4-3.

Mark Davis took over for Morse in the 7th.

I led off the 8th by taking an inside pitch off the arm. I moved to 2nd on a wild pitch and then 3rd on a ground out by Chris Brown. I scored the tying run off a Sixto single.

Game tied 4-4.

That was short lived as Maldonado singled Guerrero across in the bottom half.

Dodgers lead 5-4.

Kenny Oberkfell led off the 9th with a triple off Tom Niedenfuer! Mike Hargrove grounded out to the mound. Mike Jones put one over the right field wall and we had the lead back! I came up with one out and Tom O'Malley on 1st. The L.A. closer struck me out.

Giants lead 6-5!

Ron Davis came in to try and do what Niedenfuer couldn't. I got the first out, taking a grounder from pinch-hitter Sid Bream. Two batters later, we had the win!

56-46

We have an off-day tomorrow, then we are in to Atlanta.

August 2nd, 1985

We are in Atlanta to take on Jim Palmer (3-9, 6.16) and the Braves.

We are going with Atlee Hammaker (8-10, 3.26)

Obviously this is no longer peak Palmer. Aging is a harsh mistress.

I am 1 for 3 against him.

I led off by grounding out to Paul Zuvella at 2nd.

I got the final out in the 2nd, taking a grounder by Palmer.

I came up in the 3rd with Mike Jones standing on 3rd and Atlee on 2nd. Nobody out. I struck out. Both guys ended up scoring on an error by Zuvella.

Giants lead 2-0.

In the home half we got an off Castino - Mazzilli - Priske double play. getting Gerald Perry at 1st before getting Davey Concepcion at 2nd.

In the 4th I came up with 2 out and both John Castino and Miek Jones in scoring position. I flew out to left to end the threat.

This is what I get for implying that Palmer is over the hill. He is owning me.

In the 4th we got a more traditional Priske - Castino - Mazzilli double play to get Reggie Jackson and Ron Cey.

In the 5th I got the first out off a Concepcion grounder and the 3rd out off the same by Cey.

I next came up in the 6th with to out, Sixto Lezcano on 3rd and Mike Jones on 1st. No more Palmer though. Jeff Dedmon was on the mound. I fared no better, grounding out to Dedmon.

Frank Williams took over for us that inning. Atlee had a shut out but used a lot of pitched to get there. He allowed a couple of base runner but I handled a grounder from pinch hitter Ben Oglivie to end the inning.

I got the 1st out in the 7th off a Gerald Perry pop up. The Braves got on the board that inning when Andres Galarrage singled home Concepcion.

Giants lead 2-1.

Ron Davis took over for us in the 8th, looking for that 2 inning save. I got him the 3rd out, handling a Concepcion grounder.

I led off the 9th, now facing Ed Vande Berg. I lined out to Concepcion. Bob Brenly hit a two-run homer to give us some insurance.

Giants lead 4-1!

The Brave loaded the bases in the 9th but Ron got out of it for the 4-1 win.

57-46

Terrible day for me at the plate. 0 for 5.

Oh, I forgot to mention, Davey Concepcion collected hit #2000 in the game. They stopped for a little mini celebration for the fans.

One day that will be me.

We are only a half game behind the Reds for 2nd (and another 3 games behind the Dodgers for 1st) in the NL West.

August 3rd, 1985

Today we have Jeff Robinson (8-8, 4.32), who is really turning his season around after a rough start.
The Braves are going with Mike Payne (1-6, 5.75).

I am 3 for 4 vs Payne. I really want a big day today.

I led off the game by grounding out to Dusty Baker at 1st... or that is, I would have, but Baker threw it away when tossing it to Payne, covering the bag! I ended up at 2nd on the error. Then Ken Oberkfell singled and I scored! Getting off to a good start!
Then Chili Davis doubled and Rob Deer walked, loading the bases. Then Bob Brenly walked, pushing a run across. Then Mike Hargrove walked, pushing another across! John Castino scored another on a sac fly, Mike Jones struck out and Jeff Robinson singled, scoring Brenly! I came up again, and flew out to centre for the 3rd out.

Giants lead 5-0!

The Braves struck back right away as Davey Concepcion hit a lead off homer. Later Ron Cry singled Andres Galarraga home.

Giants up 5-2.

In the 2nd Concepcion scored Ben Oglivie on a ground out. I got Gerald Perry's grounder for the 3rd out.

Giants up 5-3.

In the 3rd I came up with one out and Robinson on 1st. I fouled out to Baker.

In the home half Galarraga hit a lead off homer.

Giants still lead 5-4.

In the 4th Chili singled and then Payne walked the next FIVE straight batters. Robinson hit into a double play and then I walked. All in all we scored 4 more times, mostly without hitting.

Giants lead 9-4.

In the bottom half I got the 2nd out, taking a Payne grounder. (Why is he still in the game?). Jeff ran out of steam this inning and was replaced by Curt Brown.

In the 5th we got another run, this one off a Brenly sac fly scoring Chili.

Giants lead 10-4.

I got the 3rd out in the bottom half, taking a Baker grounder.

I came up in the 6th, now facing Steve Bedrosian. I rapped a double off the centre field wall. I stole 3rd for #75, but I went in pretty hard. I short visit from the trainer and I walked it off. Kenny O walked and I scored on an infield single by Chili. Then Deer singled, scoring Kenny. Brenly singled, scoring Chili. Hargrove singled, scoring Deer!

Giants lead 14-4!

In the 7th I came up with none out and Mike Jones on 3rd and Lee Mazzilli on 1st. Jeff Dedmon was not he mound. I grounded out, but in a productive way, scoring Jones.

Giants lead 15-4.

Pat Perry took over pitching for us.

In the 8th Mike Jones singled home both Brenly and Hargrove.
I grounded out for the 3rd out.

Giants lead 17-4.

Scott Garrelts took over for us in the 8th. I started a Priske - Rabb - Hargrove double play, getting Dusty and Oglivie.

I also go sth e1st out int he 9th, taking a grounder from pinch hitter Brad Komminsk.

This was a blow out for us.

I only went 1 for 6 but I had an RBI, 2 runs scored, a walk, and a stolen base.

58-46

August 4th, 1985

Today the Giants are going with Mike Krukow (10-9, 4.12).
The Braves are answering with Len Barker (5-12, 4.99).

I haven't faced Barker yet.

I don't waste my first chance, singling to left to open the game. Then, while stealing 2nd, I take advantage of Tommy Thompson throwing away the caught stealing attempt and advance to 3rd. I then score on a Kenny Oberkfell sac fly.

Giants lead 1-0.

I got the 1st out in the home shelf, taking a Davey Concepcion grounder. Gerald Perry then put one into the left field stands to tie the score.

Game tied 1-1.

We got in right back in the 2nd when the two Mikes, Joins and Hargrove, combined to put us back up.

Giants lead 2-1.

I led off the 3rd by dropping on win front of home and getting thrown out by catcher Thompson.

The misty weather turned into a 35 minute rain delay in the bottom of the inning. I hate playing on wet grass. After we started playing again Perry knocked Thompson across to knot things back up.

Game tied 2-2.

I got the 1st out in the 4th, handling a Ben Oglivie grounder. I did the same to Paul Runge for the 2nd out.

I led off the 5th by grounding out to Ron Cey at 3rd. Rob Deer hit s two-run homer that frame.

Giants lead 4-2.

Dusty knocked Concepcion across in the bottom half to lower the lead to one. I got Cey to end the inning.

Giants still up 4-3.

Curt Brown took over for Krukow in the 6th. Milt Thompson hit a pinch hit RBI single to score Runge and tie the game yet again.

Game tied 4-4.

I led off the 7th, now facing Ken Dayley. I flew out to Ben Oglivie in left. Brenly got us the lead back, knocking Chili across.

Giants lead 5-4.

It didn't last as Cey knocked Reggie Jackson in to tie it right back up. After the bases loaded back up due to a Mike Jones error, Mark Davis came it to try and get us out of it. Runge grounded to me and I gunned it home to get Dusty out and save a run.

Game tied 5-5.

In the 8th I came up with none out and the bases loaded: John Castino on 3rd, Mike Jones on 2nd, and pinch hitter Brian Harper on 1st. Harper was walked to face me. I know it is about the double play, but I still take it personally.

Time for a big hit.

Not quite. Fielder's choice, getting Castino at home. John Rabb pinch hit for Kenny O and hit a sac fly, scoring Jones.

Giants lead 6-5.

Harper stayed in to play 3rd. Ron Davis took over for the 2-inning save.

I helped him out by starting a Priske - Castino - Hargrove double play, getting Brad Komminsk and Davey Concepcion. The 8th went fine but Oglivie hit a two-run walk-off two -out homer to steal the game away from us.

We lost 7-6.

58-47

I went 1 for 5 with a run scored and a stolen base.

Tomorrow we are in Houston.

August 5th, 1985

Into the Astrodome to face the Astros.

Houston is pitching Bert Blyleven (8-10, 4.17).
The Giants are going with Terry Mulholland (7-7, 5.07).

I am 0 for 3 vs the crafty vet.

I led off the game by continuing that o-fer streak, but reaching anyway as Bill Doran made a throwing error, pulling Keith Hernandez off the bag at 1st.
That was followed by stolen base #77.

I am on pace for 119. Not quite Rickey Henderson's record of 130 in a season, but just ahead of Lou Brock for second place on the all-time modern list.

What the hell, why stop there? I took 3rd for stolen base #78.

After Kenny Oberkfell struck out and Chili Davis walked, Rob Deer smacked one over the fence in left field.

Giants lead 3-0!

I led off again in the 3rd and again reached 1st without collecting a hit. This time rather than hitting, I was hit. I wonder if Bert wasn't happy about those stolen bases? If so, too bad. Stolen base #79 quickly follows. Then Kenny O hit a double and I scored again. Chili grounded out, moving Kenny to 3rd. Deer struck out but then another error(this one by Doug DeCinces at 3rd), allowing Brenly to reach and scoring Kenny. Mike Hargrove doubled and Brenly scored.

How many unearned runs is that so far? Three?

Giants lead 6-0!

In the 4th I came up with one out and nobody on. I didn't reach this time as Bert struck me out. That is 100 of those so far as well.

In the home half DeCinces made up for it a bit by hitting an RBI double, scoring Doran. Keon Landreaux plated Hernandez with a sac fly. Dickie Thon hit a two-run double.
When Ron Hassey struck out to end the inning he took umbrage at the call. Before too long he was ejected from the game. The way I have been running on him, I don't; know if that is good or bad.

Houston struck back. Giants lead 6-4.

I came up in the 6th with two out, now facing Mike Madden. He struck me out as well.

Scott Garrelts took over on the mound for us in the 8th after Terry was lifted for a pinch hitter. Things turned badly fairly quickly as he walked Jerry Mumphrey and then surrendered a game-tying gopher ball to Keith Hernandez.

Game tied 6-6.

I was lifted for a pinch hitter - Chris Brown - in the 9th.

We lost in the 12th.

58-48

August 6th, 1985

Today the Giants are going with Randy Morse (0-0, 6.00) in his 2nd outing.

The Astros are pitching Ray Burris (10-5, 3.78).

Looks like a mismatch, but we have faith in Randy.

I have gone 1 for 6 vs Burris.

I lead off the game by popping out to Keith Hernandez at 1st.

I made the first out on offence so it is only fair that I made the first out on defense - taking a Bill Doran grounder.

I came up in the 3rd with none out and Morse standing on 1st. He hit the 2nd pitch into the left field corner for a double, moving Randy to 3rd. Mike Jones then walked to load the bases. Chili Davis singled and both Randy and I scored. Rob Deer struck out and Chris Brown grounded out, moving Jones and Chili to scoring positions. Lee Mazzilli reached on an error, allowing Jones to score. John Castino walked. Brian Harper walked, pushing another run in. Randy Morse singled, scoring Mazzilli and Castino. I struck out to end the inning. Six runs, only one earned.

Giants lead 6-0!

I got a Jerry Mumphrey grounder for the 2nd out in the 4th. After that Keith Hernandez singled, getting the first baserunner for Houston.

In the 5th I was pivot on a Castino - Priske - Mazzilli double play, nailing Dickie Then and Ron Hassey.

I led off the 6th by grounding out to Hernandez at 1st.

I go the 1st out in the bottom half off a pinch hitter Terry Puhl grounder.

In the 8th I came up with one out and popped up to Doran at 2nd. In the bottom half I got Glenn Davis' pinch hitter grounder for the 2nd out.

In the end Randy Morse threw a 6-hit shut out in his 2nd ever start!

We won 6-0! 59-48!

I went 1 for 5 with a double and a run scored.


We have passed the Reds into 2nd place in the NL West... though we still trail the Dodgers by 4.5 games.

Tomorrow we have a travel day and then we are home to face the Braves!

August 8th, 1985

The Braves are in town and they are sending up a rookie named Tom Glavine (2-3, 6.95).
The Giants are answering with Atlee Hammaker (9-10, 3.15).

None of us have faced Glavine. I am hoping to give him a rude welcome.

Atlee got the Braves 1-2-3 and then I led off the home half. I hit a grounder to Davey Concepcion at short but he threw badly and I reached on his error. Before I could even try to steal 2nd, John Castino singled and I moved up 60 feet. Then Chili Davis singled and I scored from 2nd. Castino ended up scoring on a Bob Brenly sac fly.

Giants lead 2-0.

I got the 1st out in the 2nd, off a Ron Cey grounder. The Braves got on the board when Reggie Jackson scored from 2nd on a Brad Komminsk single.

Giants still lead 2-1.

I led off the bottom of the 3rd by dropping a single into right. This time I not only stole 2nd but moved up to 3rd on an errant throw. That is 80 stolen bases. On pace for 120.
Chili singled me home again. Rob Deer then smashed a two-run homer.

Giants lead 5-1!

I got the 1st out in the 4th off a Cey grounder again.
I came up in the bottom half with two out and Atlee on 1st. I grounded out to Cey at 3rd.

In the 5th Deer doubled Chili home and Brenly hit a two-run blast.

Giants up 8-1!

I came up in the 6th with one out and Atlee on 1st again. I grounded out to Dusty Baker at 1st. Back to back doubles by Castino and Child needed us a couple more runs.

Giants lead 10-1!

I got Reggie's grounder for the 2nd out in the 7th.

Glavine is still out there. What are the Braves doing? They could really be hurting this guy's future here. He is nearly as young as I am.

They finally pulled him after 7.

In the 8th I came up with two out, now facing Steve Bedrosian. He struck me out.

Ron Davis came in to mop up the 9th.

We won 10-1.

60-48

I went 1 for 5 with a stolen base and two runs scored.

We heard after the game that Jeff Leonard was granted his release. He is a good guy and I am sure he will catch on somewhere. He isn't done at 29.

August 9th, 1985

Today the Braves are pitching Len Barker (5-12, 4.99).
The Giants are going with Jeff Robinson (8-8, 4.49).

I am 1 for 3 vs Barker.

After getting the Braves 1-2-3 in the top half, I led off the bottom half. I hit it deep at 3rd and outran Ron Cey's chance to throw me out. Single! Then stolen base #81! I advanced on a Chili Davis fly ball for the 2nd out and was left on 3rd.

In the 2nd Dusty Baker took Jeff deep, giving Atlanta the lead.

Braves lead 1-0.

I made my first defensive play in the 3rd, taking a Gerald Perry grounder for the 2nd out.

In the bottom half I came up with one out and took a walk. Stolen base #82. Stolen base #83. I then scored on a Ken Oberkfell sac fly to tie the game. That is making a difference with speed!

Game tied 1-1.

I finished the top of the 4th by starting a Priske - Castino - Hargrove double play to get Tommy Thompson and Paul Zuvella out.

In the bottom of the 5th I came up with two out and grounded out to Zuvella at 2nd.

I handled the 1st out in the 6th, taking a grounder from Cey. Frank Williams took over for Robinson with two out that frame.

The bottom of the 6th things went well.
Kenny Oberkfell singled and Chili Davis both singled and then moved up on a Rob Deer grounder. They intentionally walked Bob Brenly and then Unintentionally walked Mike Hargrove, scoring Kenny. John Castino singled, scoring Chili. Bob scored on a passed ball and Miek Jones struck out. Lee Mazzili pinch hit for Frank and doubled, scoring two. Steve Bedrosian took over on the mound and struck me out.

Giants lead 6-1!

Curt Brown took over pitching for us in the 7th. Milt Thompson pinch hit for Bedrosian and hit a one-out solo homer.

Giants lead 6-2.

In the 8th I made highlight reel catch, diving to snag a liner by Dusty Baker to end the inning.

In the bottom half I came up with two out and Castino on 2nd and Jones on 1st, facing Jeff Dedmon. I hit one right up the middle for an RBI single! That is 30 RBI for me.

Giants lead 7-2!

Pat Perry took the mound in the 9th. The first batter was Thompson and he grounded out to me. Two batters later we had won 7-2.

Big day for me! 2 for 4 with a pair if singles, a walk, and RBI, a run scored, and 3 stolen bases! On pace for 123!

The Giants are 61-48 and trail the Dodgers by 4 games.

August 10th, 1985

After yesterday and am really raring to go today!

The Braves are pitching Rick Mahler (7-11, 4.42).
The Giants are going with Mike Krukow (10-9, 4,16).

I am 0 for 5 vs Mahler but I think that will change today!

I led off the bottom half of the 1st by grounding out to Dusty Baker at 1st.

In the 3rd Gerald Perry took Krukow deep with a man on to open the scoring.

Braves lead 2-0.

In the 4th Ben Oglivie hit a solo shot to give Atlanta another run, while we had yet to reach base.

Braves lead 3-0.

I led off the 4th by grounding out to Ron Cey at 3rd. We finally got a hit, and it was a biggie, as Chili Davis homered.

Braves lead 3-1.

I led off the home half of the 6th by flying out to Perry in centre. I am now 0 for 8 vs Mahler.

Scott Garrelts took over for Krukow with one out in the 8th. It was a double switch, bring in Brian Harper for Kenny Oberkfell at the same time.
Garrelts walked two with two out int he 9th and he got lifted for Ron Davis in another double switch as Tom O'Malley took over for Mike Hargrove at 1st.
With all the switched, maybe I don't get lifted in the 9th.

And I wasn't. I am leading off the 9th, facing Brian Fisher. I flew out to Perry in centre again.

After a great day, a bad day. I went 0 for 4 and we lost 3-1.

61-49

August 11th, 1985

Today the Braves are sending up Pasquel Perez (8-10, 5.41).
The Giants are going with Terry Mulholland (7-7, 5.08).

I am 0 for 4 vs Perez.

I led off the bottom of the 1st by grounding out back to the pitcher.

In the 2nd I was the pivot on a Castino - Priske - Mazzilli double play, erasing Brad Komminsk and Ben Oglivie. In the 3rd I got the 3rd out off an Andres Galarraga grounder.

I came up in the bottom of the 3rd with one out and flew out to Gerald Perry in centre.

In the 5th I came up with two out and Mulholland on 1st. I grounded out to Komminsk at 3rd.

In the 6th I took a Dusty Baker grounder for the 1st out. Atlanta opened the scoring right after that as Reggie Jackson hit a solo blast. Komminsk then grounded out to me for out #2.

Braves lead 1-0.

Davey Concepcion led off the 7th by grounding out to me. Dusty knocked Perry across that inning and Nestor lifted Terry for Mark Davis.

Braves lead 2-0.

In the bottom half we finally got on the board as Bob Brenly hit a solo homer.

Braves lead 2-1.

Scott Garrelts took eh mound for us in the 8th. He induced a grounder to me from Komminsk for the 1st out and from Paul Zuvella for the 3rd.

I led off the bottom half, now facing Ken Dayley, but giving him a little comeback for the 1st out.

In the top of the 9th Perry hit a two out homer to give the Braves an insurance run. Galarraga grounded out to me to end it.

Braves lead 3-1.

3 up, 3 down in the bottom half and we are done.

61-50

I went 0 for 4.

I heard after the game that Jeff Leonard signed to play for Utica - an independent league team.

We have an off day and then the Astros are in town.

August 13th, 1985

The Astros are in tow and they are pitching Mike Scott (7-12, 3.99).
The Giants are answering with Atlee Hammaker (10-10, 3.05).

Here is an example where stats don't tell the story. Scott is quite a good pitcher, by all accounts.

I am 1 for 3 against him.

I got into the game right away as Houston's lead off man, Bill Doran, grounded out to me. I also got the third out off a Keith Hernandez pop up.

I led off the home half by working a four pitch walk (including a couple of borderline pitches). I am not one to let an opportunity like that pass me by so I picked up stolen base #84 right away. Mike John struck out and I went to 3rd with stolen base #85. I didn't get any further.

In the 2nd I handled the 3rd out again, this time with a man in scoring position, as Ron Hassey served up a grounder.

Houston turned up the heat in the 3rd as Jerry Mumphrey pushed Chuck Jackson across with a single and then Hernandez did the same for Doran. Doug DeCinces continued it, pushing Mumphrey across. I ended the threat off a Dickie Thon grounder.

Astros lead 3-0.

I came up in the bottom half with two out and lined out to DeCinces at 3rd.

I made a highlight reel play in the 4th off a Scott grounder, managing to snag the tough hop, look Hassey back to 3rd, and throw out Scott. Unfortunately it was short-lived as Doran singled Hassey home.

Astros lead 4-0.

In the 5th I started a Priske - Castino - O'Malley double play to get Hernandez and DeCinces.

We got on the board int he bottom half when John Castino knocked Bob Brenly in.

Astros lead 4-1.

I led off the bottom of the 6th by striking out.

I came up next in the 8th with two out and grounded out to Then at short.

Ron Davis took over for us on the mound in the 9th. We got a nice Castino - Priske - O'Malley double play to back him up.

We couldn't score and lost the game 4-1.

61-51

I went 0 for 3 with a walk and a pair of stolen bases.

August 14th, 1985

Today the Astros are pitching Bob Knepper (7-12, 3.74).

The Giants are answering with Jeff Robinson (8-8, 4.36).

I am 1 for 6 vs Knepper, but Jeff has gone 2-0 vs Houston and Knepper is 0-2 against us.

Jeff got into a bit of trouble int he 1st, loading the bases and giving up a 2 run single to Doug DeCinces. Then Ron Hassey doubled, scoring another. DeCinces crossed on a wild pitch.

Astros lead 4-0.

I led off the home half by striking out.

In the 3rd DeCinces reached on an error by Chili Davis and later scored on a Dickie Thon single. We ended the inning with a Priske - Castino - Hargrove double play, getting Then and Chuck Jackson.

Astros lead 5-0.

I came up that inning with two out and Mike Hargrove on 1st. I was robbed of a hit by Jackson's diving catch.

Curt Brown took over pitching with two out in the 4th. In the 5th he gave up consecutive RBI singles to Bob Knepper, Bill Doran, Jerry Mumphrey, and Keith Hernandez. Then Jose Cruz singled, without scoring a run before getting DeCinces to ground out to end the inning.

Astros lead 9-0.

Brown gave up another big hit to Knepper in the 6th - an RBI double.

Astros lead 10-0.

In the bottom of the 6th I came up with two out and flied out to Jackson in centre.

Frank Williams was our next pitcher.

In the 8th I came up with one out and Mike Jones on 2nd and Lee Mazzilli on 1st. I singled into centre, scoring Jones.

Astros lead 10-1.

Pat Perry took the mound for us in the 9th. We got him a Rabb - Priske - Hargrove double play to end the frame.

We did not score again.

61-52

I went 1 for 4 with an RBI.

We really need to pick up our game. The Dodgers are running away with the division.

August 15th, 1985

John Castino had to hit the trainer's table after the game yesterday. I hope he isn't really hurt.

Today the Astros are pitching Ray Burris (10-6, 3.68).
The Giants are going with Mike Krukow (10-10, 4.14).

I am 2 for 10 against Burris.

I led off the bottom of the 1st by striking out. Chili Davis opened the scoring with a solo homer.

Giants lead 1-0.

I came up in the 2nd with two out and Lee Mazzilli on 2nd and Krukow on 1st. Burris walked me to load the bases. We didn't cash in on it.

Houston tied the game in the 5th when Chuck Jackson reached on an error to Kenny Oberkfell and was then cashed in by a Bill Doran double.

Game tied 1-1.

I came up that inning with nobody out and Krukow on 2nd. Burris struck me out again. At least that is what the ump said.

In the 7th Krukow reached the end of his line after giving up a two out walk to Burris. Mark Davis took over in a double switch that put Tom O'Malley at 1st for Lee Mazzilli.

I came up in the home half with none out and O'Malley on 1st. I singled into left for my 100th hit of my career. I was erased when Kenny O hit into a double play.

Things went our way in the 8th. With Jeff Calhoun now pitching, Rob Deer took leadoff walk. Bob Brenly then singled. Sixto Lezcano pinch hit and struck out. John Rabb singles, loading the bases. Deer scored on a Mike Jones sac fly. Chris Brown hit for O'Malley and singled, scoring Brenly. I walked before Kenny O flied out.

Giants lead 3-1.

Mike Hargrove took over at 1st and Ron Davis took the mound in the top of the 9th, trying to close things out.

That is when things turned back around. Doug DeCinces singled and Joey Cora entered as a pinch runner. Ron Hassey singled. Terry Puhk moved them up with a sac bunt and Glenn Davis hit a pinch hit, three-run homer.

Scott Garrelts took over on the mound. He got out of it but now it was us who needed to score.

Astros lead 4-3.

We didn't.

61-53

I went 1 for 3 with 2 walks. Good on-base but I never managed to score.

Still no word about Castino. Now the Dodgers are coming to town. We have lost 5 in a row and dropped to 3rd place behind the Reds. This series may be where we find out if we can hang with the top teams or not.

August 16th, 1985

The Dodgers are in town and today they are led by Alejandro Pena (2-1, 3.40).
The Giants are answering with Terry Mulholland (7-8, 4.95).

I am a big 0 for 1 vs Pena.


John Rabb is filling in for John Castino.

Pena is batting 8th for the Dodgers, ahead of Sid Bream. Interesting.

I led off the bottom of the 1st by flying out to Jim Dwyer in right.

In the 3rd I came up with one out and Mike Jones on 1st. I knocked one down the line into the left field corner for a double. Mike was held at 3rd. Kenny Oberkfell lined out but then Chili Davis smacked a triple, scoring both of us.

Giants lead 2-0!

In the 4th the Dodgers got back as Mike Scoscia cashed in Pedro Guerrero with a sac fly.
We had a fun play at 2nd with two out as Steve Sax tried to steal. I made the tag but then dropped the ball. Sax thought he was out and stepped off the base and I picked it up and re-tagged him, getting the final out.

Giants lead 2-1.

I lead off the bottom of the 5th by fouling out to Bream.

Things turned in the 6th as RJ Reynolds hit a lead-off triple and Guerrero doubled after him to tie the game. I made my first defensive play off a Sax grounder to get the first out but Pedro moved to 3rd. Terry pitched out of it.

Game tied 2-2.

I came up in the 7th with two out and the bases empty. Pena struck me out.

Scott Garrelts took over on the mound for us in the 8th. The Dodgers worked the bases full with one out but Garrelts struck out the next two to maintain the tie.

Ron Davis took the mound in the 9th in a double switch that brought Brian Harper in to play 3rd for Kenny Oberkfell. Ron got the first two batters but then Bream hit a solo homer to right. We couldn't get in back and the Dodgers won, 3-2.

61-54

That is six losses in a row.

1 for 4 with a double and a run scored for me.

August 17th, 1985

Today the Dodgers are going with Orel Hershiser (13-4, 3.06).
We are answering with rookie Randy Morse (1-0, 2.40).

I have gone 1 for 6 vs Hershiser.

I got into the action early, handling an RJ Reynolds grounder for the 1st out.
The Dodgers got not he board in the 1st when Steve Sax hit an RBI grounder. I finished the inning by taking a Darrell Evans grounder.

Dodgers lead 1-0.

I led off the bottom of the 1st by striking out.

I made the 1st out in the 3rd, taking a Dave Anderson grounder.

I led off the bottom of the 3rd by working a walk. Stolen base #86 AND #87 quickly followed. Kenny Oberkell grounded out and I scored, tying the game.

Game tied 1-1.

I handled the 1st out in the 4th, taking a Pedro Guerrero grounder. I did it again in the 5th, taking a Mike Scioscia grounder. I also snagged a Hershiser liner for the 3rd out.

I came up in the 5th with two out. I struck out.

In the 6th I was involved in a collision at 2nd when Dave Anderson tried to take me out. No harm, no foul. I took a Guerrero pop up for the last out that frame.

I got the 1st out in the 7th, handling a Sax grounder. Busy game for me!

The Dodgers got the lead back in the 8th when Anderson singled home Jim Dwyer. Then Mariano Duncan hit a two run homer.

Dodgers lead 4-1

I came up that inning with one out and lined out to Anderson at 3rd. Back-to-back singles by Kenny O and Child Davis, followed by an error by Sax led to a run for us.

Dodgers lead 4-2

Mark Davis took over pitching for us. I got a Sax grounder for the 1st out.

The game changes in the 9th when Sixto Lezcano hit a two-out, punch hit homer off Tom Niedenfuer to tie the game! I came up right after and grounded out to Duncan at short.

Game tied 4-4 going into extras.

Ron Davis took the mound for us in the 10th. I got the 2nd out for him off pinch-hitter Sid Bream's grounder. I took Duncan's pop up for the 3rd out.

Scott Garrelts took the mound for us in the 12th.

I led off the home half, now facing Ken Howell, by singling through the right side. Kenny O hit into a double play.

Frank Williams took over pitching duties for us in the 14th. In the bottom half Mike Jones reached with a one out double and scored when he tried to steal 3rd and Jeffrey Brown threw it away.

We'll take it! Breaking the losing streak with a 5-4 win in 14 innings!

62-54

I went 1 for 5 with a walk, a run scored, and 2 RBI. Plus a whole lot of action of defense!


We got the bad news about John Castino after the game. His bang on the head led to a concussion and he is expected to miss up to five weeks recovering from it.

Fran Mullins is called up from Phoenix to take his place.

August 18th, 1985

Fernando-mania is back in SanFran. The Dodgers are pitching Fernando Valenzuela (14-6, 2.22),
The Giants are going with Atlee Hammaker (10-11, 3.12)

I have gone 1 for 10 vs Fernando.

We got behind right away as Mariano Duncan tripled and was knocked home by Steve Sax. Darrell Evans got a one out RBI single. Dave Anderson got an RBI double. Jim Dwyer got an RBI single. Fernando himself got an RBI single. They sent 10 men to the plate before we even got up.

Dodgers lead 5-0.

I led off the bottom half by grounding out to Sax at 2nd.

In the 2nd I let a Mike Scoiscia single past me that I really should have had. Thankfully Hammaker picked me up.

Duncan hit an RBI single in the 3rd.

Dodgers lead 6-0.

I led off the bottom half by grounding out to Evans at 1st.

In the 4th I started a Priske - Oberkfell - Mazzilli double play to end the inning.

We finally got on the board that inning when Bob Brenly knocked Rob Deer home.

Dodgers lead 6-1.

I led off the 5th by striking out. Valenzuela owns me.

Curt Brown took over for Atlee to start the 7th. I got the 2nd out for him off a Scioscia grounder.

I came up in the home half with one out and grounded out to Fernando... but he was off target with the throw and I was safe on the error. Stolen base #88 before Chris Brown walked behind me. Chili popped out but Deer blasted a three-run homer!

Dodgers lead 6-4. We are not giving up!

Mark Davis took the mound for us in the 8th. He retired them in order. Unfortunately Carlos Diaz did the same for L.A.
Mark repeated it for the 9th.
I came up with one out. Diaz struck me out.

We weren't able to pull it out.

62-55

I went 0 for 5 with a stolen base.

Bad day.

Travel day tomorrow.

We are off to New York.

August 20th, 1985

We are in New York to face the Mets.

They have Dwight Gooden (11-4, 2.30) on the mound.

We are going with Jeff Robinson (8-9, 4.51).

Obviously Doc is a beast, but I have gone 2 for 4 against him.

Let's find out as I lead off the game...

Uh, Gooden struck me out.

I came up next in the 3rd, with two out and the bases empty. I grounded out to Wally Backman at 2nd

I made my first defensive play that inning, getting a lucky bounce off a Gooden grounder for the 2nd out. Shortly after that back to back doubles by Lenny Dykstra and Backman put the Mets on the board. Hubie Brooks grounded out to me to end it.

Mets lead 1-0.

In the 6th I came up with two out and nobody on again. We still didn't have a hit. I didn't change that, grounding out to Cesar Cedeno at 1st.

I got the 3rd out in the bottom half off another Hubie grounder.

Chili Davis finally erased the Golden no-hitter in the 7th, but we still remained scoreless.

Despite pitching great, Jeff Robinson ran out of steam with two out in the 7th and gave way to Mark Davis. He couldn't hold the inherited runner as Cedeno knocked Mike Fitzgerald across.

Mets lead 2-0

Things went better in the 8th. Mike Hargrove and Mike Jones singled and Chris Brown pinch hit with one out. He also singled, scoring Hargrove. I was up next and I... struck out.

Mets lead 2-1

Scott Garrelts entered for us after that. He tried to hold it there but to no avail. Dykstra crossed on a Backman single.

Mets lead 3-1.

We need to score 2 run before making 3 outs against the league saves leader, Roger McDowell.
We start it off right, with Chili working a walk. Rob Deer singles, moving Chili into scoring position. Bob Brenly flies out and Chili moves to 3rd. Hargrove doubled and scored both Chili and Deer!

Game tied 3-3!

Ron Davis took over pitching duties, trying to push in ti the 10th. Three batters later, he had done just that.

I was set to lead off the 10th, but Nestor went with Brian Harper. I can't blame him. I have been cold as ice lately.

We ended up scoring in the SIXTEENTH when John Rabb singled and Mike Jones knocked him home with a triple.

Giants lead 4-3.

But in the bottom of the 16th Dave Magadan led off with a double. One out later Dykstra doubled, tying the game back up. Curt Brown intentionally walked Backman but Kevin Mitchell singled home Dykstra and the Mets had won, 5-4.

62-56

Bad result for us. Bad day for me.

August 21st, 1985

Today the Giants are pitching Mike Krukow (10-10, 3.97).

The hometown Mets are answering with Sid Fernandez (12-5, 2.57).

I am 0 for 3 vs Sid.

I start the game off, trying to change that and I do! I leg out a grounder for an infield single! Chris Brown comes up behind me and does the same thing! Two men on without the ball leaving the infield. Chili Davis comes up and I swipe 3rd. Stolen base #89! Chili singles to left and we are on the board before recording an out! Brown goes to 3rd and home and ground balls.

Giants lead 2-0!

I get the first out against the Mets, handling a grounder by Wally Backman. With one out Hubie Brooks drives Lenny Dykstra home.

Giants lead 2-1.

I come up in the 2nd with two out and Krukow on 2nd. Sid struck me out.

Mike Fitzgerald tied thing sup in the bottom half with a lead-off solo homer. The then get the lead when Fernandez hits a sac fly, scoring Cesar Cedeno. They get another when Brooks does the same, scoring Dave Magadan.

Mets lead 4-2.

In the 3rd I get Fitzgerald's grounder for the 2nd out. Magadan scored Cedeno with a triple and then scored on a Fernandez single. Dykstra grounds out to me to end it.

Mets lead 6-2.

I came up in the 5th with one out. I flew out to Mookie Wilson in centre.

Curt Brown took the mound for us that inning.

In the 6th Chili singled, stole 2nd and moved to 3rd when they messed up the play and then scored on a Rob Deer sac fly.

Mets lead 6-3.

In the 7th I came up with two out and Mike Hargrove on 2nd, and now facing Greg Minton. I cracked a hit to right and scored Hargrove! I then tried to steal on a pitch out... and was in there anyway! Stolen base #90! I was left there.

Mets lead 6-4.

Pat Perry took over pitching duties for us that inning. Before he could get out of the inning Cedeno singled home Brooks.

Mets lead 7-4.

It never got any better and we lost again.

62-57

I had a decent day. 2 for 4 with an RBI, a run scored, and 2 stolen bases.

I would still rather we won.

George Brett got career hit #2000 today. Reggie Jackson got career home run #500 yesterday.

One day I will get the former, but never the latter.

August 22nd, 1985

I was just looking at some numbers and did you know that we have the best bullpen in the NL? We are also very good at stealing bases and defense. (I will take some credit in both of those categories.) Where we really lag as batting average and on-base. (Unfortunately, I take some credit there too.)

Today we have Terry Mulholland (798, 4.82) facing Ron Dalring (16-3, 2.46).
Advantage Mets.

I am 0 for 7 vs Darling.

Make that 0 for 8 as I popped up to Wally Backman at 2nd to open the game.

In the 2nd Rob Deer smacked a solo homer to open the scoring.

Giants lead 1-0.

I got the 1st out in the home half, snagging a liner off Dave Magadan's bat with a man on 3rd. We could not contain that as Mulholland walked Backman with two out and the bases loaded to tie the game. Hubie Brooks followed with a two run single. I ended the threat, t akin a grounder from Cesar Cedeno.

Mets lead 3-1.

I came up in the 3rd with two out struck out.

I made the 3rd out in the top half and snagged a liner from Darling to get the 3rd out in the bottom half.

I took grounder from Backman for the 2nd out in the 4th. I did the same to Darryl Strawberry for the 1st out in the 5th.

In the bottom the 5th Terry walked in a noter run. This one was kind of embarrassing though as it was Ron Darling who walked with two out.

Mets lead 4-1.

I came up in the 6th with Sixto Lezcano on 1st and nobody out. I flew out to Larry Herndon in left. Before the inning was up, it was Darling's turn to walk in a run as he gave up a base to Deer with them all full.

Mets lead 4-2.

Pat Perry took over pitching for us in the bottom half. Nestor double switch Kenny Oberkfell out for Brian Harper at 3rd.
Nestor lifted me for a pinch hitter in the 7th. I am so cold, how can I blame him.

We took bog advantage of a Mets' error that inning, scored three times to take the lead.

It didn't matter because after that the Mets starting hitting at will.

We lost 10-5.

We have lost 4 in a row and are down to 62-58. We are 1-9 in our last ten.

I went 0 for 3 and by batting average is down to .216

Tomorrow we are in Philadelphia. Can we turn our fortunes around there?