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July 1st, 2023
June Ends with More Questions Than Answers
The inconsistency that has plagued the San Jose Raiders all season followed them through to the end of June. The team managed to take a 2–1 series win against the Boston Rebels, only to undo that good work by being swept 0–3 by the Milwaukee Bucks. The Raiders did at least open the currently ongoing Cincinnati Wildcats series with a win, leaving them 3–4 over their last seven games.
That run sees the Raiders sitting at 37–44 on the season, still last in the Pacific Division, now 13½ games behind the Portland Bruins. They have also lost some ground in the wild card race, slipping to 1½ games back as the calendar turns to July.
Injury Blow Forces Rotation Changes
There was significant bad news on the injury front on June 28th, when Joe Olsen was diagnosed with bone chips in his elbow. He is expected to miss up to six weeks, a frustrating setback in what has already been a difficult season for the young starter.
The injury forces another reshuffle of the rotation, with Luis Hernandez returning to take the fifth starter’s spot. Elsewhere, the pitching staff continues to fluctuate wildly from game to game. Willie Baca remains the lone true constant, once again underlining just how heavily the Raiders rely on him.
Power Without Support at the Plate
Offensively, the same problems persist. Joey Watts continues to supply elite power, now sitting on 25 home runs, but the lack of consistent production around him means those blasts often come without enough runners on base to swing games in the Raiders’ favour.
Meet the Player – Dave Jones
As a new month begins, we continue our regular Meet the Player feature. This time, we spoke with 36-year-old veteran right fielder Dave Jones.
Jones is one of the most talked-about figures in the clubhouse — a productive hitter with a reputation for a short temper and a confrontational edge. His scouting report highlights a strong understanding of the strike zone, above-average power, and a patient approach that leads to plenty of walks. However, he is also known to have a strained relationship with manager John Bernklau and hitting coach Adam Reaser.
Jones didn’t shy away from the tough questions.
Q: Dave, individually the numbers look solid — you’re hitting .309 with 13 home runs. How do you feel your season is going?
Jones:
“Statistically? I’m doing my job. I get on base, I hit for power when I get pitches to hit, and I don’t chase junk. That’s what I’ve always done. But I’m not someone who measures a season by personal numbers alone. If we’re not winning, it doesn’t feel like success, no matter what my line looks like.”
Follow-up:
Do you feel you’ve been asked to change your approach at all this season?
Jones:
“Let’s just say there have been suggestions. I know what kind of hitter I am, and I’ve been doing this a long time.”
Q: From your perspective, how are the Raiders doing as a team given the ongoing struggle to win consistently?
Jones:
“We’re a talented team that plays like it’s still figuring out who it is — and that’s a problem this far into the season. One night we look like we can beat anyone, the next night we can’t string together quality at-bats or hold a lead. That’s not effort, that’s execution and direction.”
Follow-up:
Do you think the issues are more mental or tactical?
Jones:
“Both. Confidence doesn’t grow in a vacuum — it comes from preparation and trust.”
Q: There are rumours you’re not working well with the current management, that you’re unhappy with your role and the overall team chemistry. How do you respond?
Jones:
“I’m unhappy with losing. If that gets twisted into something else, that’s not on me. I speak my mind. Some people like that, some don’t. I don’t have to agree with every decision to show up and play hard.”
Follow-up:
Is your role on the team clearly defined in your eyes?
Jones:
“It changes depending on who you ask. That’s part of the frustration.”
Q: Some say team chemistry suffers because you can be disruptive in the clubhouse. What’s your answer to that criticism?
Jones:
“Disruptive is a convenient word. I care. I hold people accountable — including myself. If that makes others uncomfortable, that’s not the same as being toxic. I’ve been on winning teams. They weren’t quiet places.”
Follow-up:
Do you think younger players misunderstand that intensity?
Jones:
“Maybe. But learning how to deal with pressure is part of being a professional.”
Q: Finally, what are your hopes for the rest of the season — and what do you think happens between you and the Raiders once your contract ends?
Jones:
“My hope is simple: we start playing up to our ability and make a real push, not just talk about one. As for the future? That’s business. I’ll play hard wherever I’m wanted. Whether that’s here or somewhere else, we’ll see.”
As July begins, the Raiders remain stuck between promise and disappointment. With injuries mounting, chemistry under scrutiny, and the wild card still just within reach, the next few weeks may determine not only the team’s fate — but the futures of several key figures within it.
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