Rusty Priske - Future Hall of Famer

[rpriske]

July 15th, 1988

What a day we had yesterday. Rick Sutcliffe pitched a no hitter. Amazing.

We are in Pittsburgh again today and the Pirates are pitching Bob Walk (7-5, 2.98).

The Giants have Eric Show (8-6, 2.76).

I have done very well against Walk, going 6 for 14, including a home run.

I opened up the game by grounding out to Sid Bream at 1st.
Before the inning was up, Mike Aldrete scored on a Robby Thompson single.

Giants lead 1-0

I came up in the 2nd with one out and Brian Giles on 2nd. During my at bat, Brian got to 3rd on a wild pitch. I hit a little bleeder in front of home and was thrown out by Adam Brown, the catcher.

I got the 1st out in the bottom half, returning the favour on a Brown grounder.

In the 3rd Chili Davis scored on a Bob Brenly single and then Rob Deer scored on an Alan Cockrell groundout.

Giants lead 3-0

I grabbed a Kirk Gibson liner for the 2nd out in the bottom of the 3rd.

I came up with one out in the 4th and lined out to Bip Roberts at 3rd.

Lee Stevens led off the bottom half with a home run.

Giants lead 3-1

The 5th saw back-to-back jacks by Robby Thompson and Bob Brenly!

Giants lead 6-1

I led off the 6th, now facing John Cooke. I grounded out to Paul Zuvella at short.

I got the 1st out in the bottom half, off a Zuvella grounder.

I then got the 2nd out in the 7th off a Kirk Gibson grounder.

I came up in the 8th with one out and John Tuozzo pitching. Brian was on 2nd again after hitting his 3rd double of the game! (I think Brian isn't happy about the trade for a new third sacker.)
I grounded out to Roberts at 3rd again.

Bobby Thigpen relieved with two out in the 8th. Eric was finally out of gas.

Chili led off the 9th with a big blast!

Giants lead 7-1

In the bottom half Pat Tabler scored on a Roberts triple.
Mark Davis took over after that.
He got Bream to groundout but Roberts scored.
That was it and we won 7-3.

I went a miserable 0 for 5. My average is down to .286

After the game, Alan was back down and Greg Litton was back up.

[rpriske]

July 16th, 1988

We are still in Pittsburgh and the Pirates are pitching Jeff Fassero (7-4, 3.11).

The Giants are going with Bruce Ruffin (10-5, 2.88).

I have had very limited experience with Fassero, going 1 for 4.

I led off the game by grounding out to Frank White at 2nd.

I came up next with two out in the 3rd, with neither team having a hit yet, and I struck out.

In the bottom half, Pat Tabler got the first his of the game - a double - and then scored on a two out single by Bip Roberts.

Pirates lead 1-0

I made my first defensive play in the 4th, grabbing a Ken Phelps grounder for out #2.

Chris Brown got our first hit in the 5th.

I got the 1st out in the bottom of the 5th off a Tabler grounder. I then got the 3rd off a Fassero grounder.

I led off the 6th with another strike out.

I made a brutal error in the bottom half. I made a great stop but then threw the ball away. Charlie Montoyo was probably going to score anyway, but maybe not Kirk Gibson.

Pirates lead 3-0

The scorer said both runs that inning were unearned, so they are on me.

Goose Gossage took over with one out in the 7th. I caught a popup by pinch hitter Leon Durham for the 2nd out.
Lee Stevens scored on a throwing error by Ruben Sierra.

Pirates lead 4-0

I came up in the 8th with one out and pinch hitter Greg Litton on 1st. Cecilio Guante was pitching.
I finally broke my mini-slump and singled up the middle, moving Greg to 2nd.
We were left there.

Al Leiter came in to pitch the 8th and make his major league debut.
He walked the first batter he faced - Ken Phelps - but then Jody Davis flew out to right and Frank White hit into a Thompson - Priske - Aldrete double play.

We ended up with three hits in total, and lost 4-0.

I went 1 for 4 with a single, and a heinous error.

That was it for Greg (but at least he saw action this time), who was sent back down for Alan Cockrell.

We have one more game against the Pirates.

[rpriske]

July 17th, 1988

Finishing up against the Pirates today. They are pitching Gil Heredia (2-7, 4.15).

The Giants have Frank Viola (10-5, 2.07).

I have gone 3 for 9 against Heredia.

I opened up the game by being plunked by a 2-2 slider.
That was followed by stolen base #69 and an extra base when they threw it away trying to catch me. I scored on a Mike Aldrete single.

Giants lead 1-0

I then came up in the 2nd with two out and Frank on 1st. I grounded out to Sid Bream at 1st.

In the 4th Brian Giles scored on a single by Frank, though I then grounded out.

Giants lead 2-0

The Bucs scored in the 4th when Bream crossed on a Jody Davis single.

Giants lead 2-1

Bream scored again in the 6th - this time on a Kirk Gibson sac fly.
I got the 3rd out off a Charlie Montoyo grounder.

Game tied 2-2

I came up with two out in the 7th and grounded out to Frank White at 2nd for the 2nd time today.

I made a nice play on a Pat Tabler grounder for the 2nd out in the bottom half.

I continued that it the 8th, grabbing a Bip Roberts grounder for the 1st out.
Unfortunately Bream followed that with a home run.

Pirates lead 3-2

We couldn't get it back in the 9th and that was it.

Tough loss.

I went 0 for 3 with a hit-by-pitch, a run scored, and a stolen base.

I am down to .283.

[rpriske]

July 18th, 1988

We left Pittsburgh behind - and a disappointing series overall, except for Rick Sutcliffe's gem. Now we are in Chicago!

The Cubs are pitching Greg Maddux ... no, wait. They aren't. He was suppose to start, but they have changed to Jim Neidlinger (0-0, 4.08).

The Giants have Willie Fraser (3-3, 3.48).

I am 0 for 4 vs Niedlinger. He is normally a reliever.

I started thing off with a hard shot to centre... which was caught by Brady Anderson.

The Cubs opened the scoring in the 2nd when Tom Foley crossed on a single by Niedlinger.
I got the 3rd out off a grounder by Otis Nixon.

Cubs lead 1-0

I led off the 3rd against a thus-far-perfect Niedlinger. I grounded out to Mike Brumley at short.
We finally got a couple of hits that inning but still no score.

I came up with one out in the 6th and I singled to right. With two out I grabbed stolen base #70, but got no further.

I got the 2nd out in the bottom frame off a Larry Parrish grounder.

I did the same in the 7th off a Foley grounder.

I came up in the 8th with two out and John Rabb on 1st. I grounded out to Foley at 2nd.

Scott Garrelts took over for us in the 8th.
I got the 1st out behind him, catching a Nixon pop.
I then handled a Billy Hatcher grounder for the 2nd.

Niedlinger, on a spot start, ended with a complete game shut out.

I went 1 for 4 with a single and a stolen base.

After the game Alan Cockrell was sent down and Tom O'Malley was called up.

[rpriske]

July 19th, 1988

It is Rick Sutcliffe's first start since his no-hitter for the Giants. (9-6, 2.39).

The Cubs are pitching Greg Maddux (6-11, 4.22).

I have gone 7 for 27, or .259, with a home run against Maddux.

I kicked off the game by flying out to Dave Martinez in centre.

The Cubs got any ideas of a second straight no-hitter out of the way with the very first batter, Otis Nixon, who singled. He then scored on a Billy Hatcher double (who was thrown out trying to stretch it to 3rd).

Cubs lead 1-0

In the 2nd Maddux scored on a Nixon double.

Cubs lead 2-0

I came up in the 3rd with two out and Brian Giles on 2nd. I hit one to centre for an RBI single! I took an extra base when they threw home. I then scored on a Mike Aldrete single.

Game tied 2-2

Rob Deer led off the 4th with a home run!

Giants lead 3-2

I got the final out of the inning off a Dave Stegman grounder.

I came up next with two out in the 5th and I took a six pitch walk. Then came stolen base #71, with an extra base on Stegman's throwing error. I was left there.

I made the 1st out in the bottom of the 6th, catching a Paul O'Neill pop.

I came up in the 7th with two out and Ruben Sierra on 2nd. They gave me the old four finger salute. Mike made them pay with an RBI single.

Giants lead 4-2

In the bottom half Stegman scored on a double by pinch hitter Marvell Wynne.

Giants lead 4-3

Our old teammate Frank Williams came it to pitch for the Cubbies after that.
Maybe we were too familiar with him.
Rob Deer singled and stole 2nd.
They intentionally walked Robby Thompson.
Bob Brenly singled, loading the bases.
They managed to get Ruben Sierra and Brian Giel Storm fly out too shallow to score anyone but then Frank walked Rick.
I came up next and hit my second RBI single of the day.

Giants lead 6-3.

Mark Davis came in to pitch the 9th, trying to close things out.
Grounder to Robby.
Grounder to me.
Grounder to Brian.

Game over.

I went 2 for 3 with two singles, two walks, two RBI, one run scored, and one stolen base.

And I was named Player of the Game!
It is always nice to get mentioned on the highlight reel!

[rpriske]

July 20th, 1988

We are still in Chicago of course and today the Cubs are pitching John Dopson (5-6, 3.88).

The Giants have Eric Show (9-6, 2.68).

I am 0 for 6 vs Dopson. That is something I want to change today!

I couldn't do that to lead off the game, as I was given nothing to hit! Four pitch walk. I was then awarded 2nd on a Dopson balk. With one out I grabbed stolen base #72. Then Chili Davis smashed a two run homer!
Rob Deer reached on an error and scored on a Robby Thompson double, who then scored on a Bob Brenly single!

Good start!

Giants lead 4-0

I then came up with one out in the 2nd and I flew out to Marvell Wynne in centre.

The Cubs got on the board in the 3rd as their first baserunner, Tom Foley, scored on their first hit, an Otis Nixon double. Then Nixon and Billy Hatcher scored on a Paul O'Neill double.

Giants lead 4-3

I came up in the 4th with one out, Steve Stanicek on 3rd, and Brian Giles on 1st. I hit into a fielder's choice, replacing Brian on 1st and scoring Steve. Stolen base #73 but I was left on 2nd.

Giants lead 5-3

I made my first defensive play in the 5th, taking a Mike Brumley grounder for the 1st out. Before the inning was up, however, Nixon scored on a Hatcher double. I stopped the momentum by taking care of an O'Neill grounder for the 3rd out.

Giants lead 5-4

In the 6th I came up with one out, Steve on 3rd, and Brian on 2nd. Don August was now pitching. They gave me an intentional walk.
It worked as we ended up leaving the bases juiced.

Things did not go that way for the Cubs that inning, as Brumley came up with one out and the bases loaded and slammed one.
That was it for Eric and Jim brought in Bobby Thigpen.
I took care of a Hatcher grounder for the 3rd out, but the damage was very much done.

Cubs lead 8-5

In the 7th I got a Priske - Aldrete double play to get O'Neill and Larry Parrish.

I came up in the 8th with one out and pinch hitter Tom O'Malley on 1st. Randy Johnson was pitching. I walked. Mike Aldrete smashed a double scoring Tom but when I tried to also cross, I was gunned down at the plate.

Cubs lead 8-6

Scott Garrelts took over on the mound for us.

He got his three but we were unable to score in the 9th. We lost.

I went 0 for 2 with three walks (one intentional), an RBI, a run scored, and two stolen bases.

After the game was got some good news as Atlee Hammaker was back from his rehab assignment! Alan Cockrell was also back as Al Leiter and Tom O'Malley were sent down.

I seems that Atlee will be going to the 'pen, however. Our rotation has been too solid to mess it up.

We are off to St. Louis!

[rpriske]

July 21st, 1988

We are in St. Louis to take on the Cardinals.

They are pitching Greg Harris (5-7, 4.21).

The Giants have Bruce Ruffin (10-6, 2.81).

I have had no success against Harris in limited exposure, going 0 for 5.

I kicked off the game by managing a walk. I then grabbed stolen base #74.
With one out, Chili Davis walked.
We tried a double steal but Chili was thrown out.
I scored on a Rob Deer single.
Rob then scored on a triple by Jim Presley. (Let's see if Jim can avoid getting throw out today.)

Giants lead 2-0

In the bottom half I took care of a Willie McGee fielder's choice ball for the 1st out.

I came up with two out in the 2nd and Bob Brenly on 2nd. Harris threw away his 2-1 pitch, letting Bob go to 3rd on the wild pitch.
I ended up walking again.
We were both left.

I made the 1st out in the bottom of the 3rd off a Pat Bailey grounder. I then did the same to Harris for the 2nd out.

I got the last out in the 4th off a wicked grounder by Jose Uribe.

I led off the 5th by dumping one into centre for a single. No more goose egg against Harris!
I ended up running into a pitchout and was thrown out.

I handled a Vince Coleman grounder for the 1st out in the bottom of the 6th. I then made a great play off a Mike Marshall grounder for the 3rd out.

I came up in the 7th with one out and Bruce in 1st. Tom Niedenfuer was now pitching. I hit one deep to 2nd for an infield single. Bruce went to 2nd.
We were left.

I made the 1st out in the bottom of the 8th off a grounder by pinch hitter Steve Balboni. I then caught a floater by Coleman for out #2.

I came up with two out in the 9th. Bob was on 2nd and Todd Worrell was on the mound. I lined out to McGee in centre.

Bruce allowed a couple of baserunners in the bottom half but pitched out of it for the complete game, 2-0 win!

I went 2 for 3 with a pair of singles, a pair of walks, a run scored on a stolen base.

[rpriske]

July 22nd, 1988

Another game in St. Louis and the Cardinals are pitching Ted Power (5-10, 4.55).

The Giants are going with Ace, Frank Viola (10-6, 2.13).

I have done well against Power, going 6 for 20 with a home run.

I opened the game by walking on five pitches. I was then removed on a fielder's choice by Mike Aldrete.

I made my first defensive play in the 2nd, taking care of a Terry Pendleton grounder for the 1st out.

I came up with one out in the 3rd and I hit a bouncer to 3rd that I outran for an infield single. I then outran a pitchout for stolen base #75. Not content with that I stole 3rd for #76! I scored on a single by Mike.
Mike and Chili Davis scored on a Job Presley double.

Giants lead 3-0

I handled a Mike Brown grounder for the fist out in the bottom half.

I came up in the 4th with two out and Frank on 1st. I grounded out to Tom Herr at 2nd.

I got the 1st out in the bottom frame off a Willie McGee grounder.
I did the same thing to Pendleton in the 5th. I also got the last out in the 5th off a Herr grounder.

I led off the 7th, now facing Tim Crews. I flew out to McGee in centre.

Frank had been nearly untouchable thus far, but things got a little dicey in the 7th. With one out he loaded the bases and then walked Herr to force in Mike Marshall. Pendleton then scored on a sac fly by Brown.

Giants lead 3-2

Frank was still out there for the 8th (for some reason). He got two out and one man on before Jim went to Mark Davis, while also replacing John Rabb with Bob Brenly in a double switch.
Mark gave up a hit but then I took care of a Pendleton grounder for the 3rd out.

I came up in the 9th with one out and Terry Leach on the mound. I hit one off the centre field wall for a triple! I scored on a single by Mike again.
Chili followed with a big home run!

Giants lead 6-2

I took care of a Jose Uribe grounder for the 1st out in the bottom of the 9th. I then caught a pop up by Herr for out #2. Mark struck out Brown and it was all over and we had the win!

I went 2 for 4 with a triple, a single, a walk, two runs scored, and two stolen bases.

[rpriske]

July 23rd, 1988

Still in St. Louis and today the Cardinals are pitching Terry Clark (0-7, 5.04).

The Giants have Willie Fraser (3-4, 3.27).

I have never faced Clark, but his track record is not worrying me too much.

I have to make sure to not carry that attitude onto the field.

I opened up the game by flying out to Oddibe McDowell in deep left.

I go the 1st out in the home half off an Andy Van Slyke grounder, but McDowell scored on the play.

Cardinals lead 1-0

I came up in the 3rd with two out and Alan Cockrell on 2nd. I walked and then we were left.

In the bottom half, Clark scored on a McDowell triple. Then Willie McGee hit an RBI double. McGee scored on a Mike Marshall double. I ended things with a Ruben Amaro grounder.

Cardinals lead 4-0

In the 4th Chili Davis scored on a Bob Brenly sac fly to get us on the board.

Cardinals lead 4-1

Then Tom Herr scored on McDowell's second triple of the game. McGee singled him home.

That was enough for Jim as he pulled Willie for Bobby Thigpen.

Cardinals lead 6-1

I led off the 5th with a slow roller up the 3rd base line that I outran for a single. Stolen base #77. I went to 3rd on a Mike Aldrete single. Chili walked to load them up. Rob Deer singled, pushing me across and keeping the bases jacked.
Two strikeout followed but that Bob and Alan both walked, for two more runs.

Cardinals lead 6-4

We hit around in the 5th so I led off again in the 6th. Another infield single, this time up the 1st base line. Mike hit into a double play.

I made the 2nd out in the bottom of the 6th, catching a Pat Bailey pop.

Rob led off the 7th with a home run!

Cardinals lead 6-5

Jeff Robinson relieved for us in the bottom of the 7th.
He gave up a run when Van Slyke scored on a Marshall double. Then Terry Pendleton hit an RBI double.

Cardinals lead 8-5

I led off the 8th, now facing Mike Schooler. I flew out to McDowell again.
Chili walked and scored on a double by Rob.

Cardinals lead 8-6

I came up with two out in the 9th and Todd Worrell on the mound. I got my 3rd infield hit of the game. Mike, representing the tying run, singled and I went to 3rd. Then Chili struck out to end the game.

I went 3 for 5 with 3 singles, a walk, a run scored, and a stolen base.
Good day. Too bad we didn't win.

[rpriske]

July 24th, 1988

We are finishing in St. Louis today.

The Cardinals are pitching Rick Mahler (11-8, 2.58).

The Giants have Rick Sutcliffe (10-6, 2.44).

I have gone 4 for 21, or .190 against Mahler.

I led off the game by continuing what happened a lot yesterday - I reached on an infield single. Stolen base #78... but I was left at 2nd.

I got the final out of the inning off an Oddibe McDowell grounder.

I came up next with one out in the 3rd and bounced one through the right side for another single. I went to 3rd on a Mike Aldrete single. I scored on a Chili Davis fielder's choice.

Giants lead 1-0

The Cards got it right back as Terry Pendleton crossed on an Andy Van Slyke triple. McDowell followed with an RBI single. He crossed on a Mike Marshall single.

Cardinals lead 3-1

I came up in the 5th with Rick on 1st. I replaced him on a fielder's choice grounder to Ruben Amaro at 2nd. Stolen base #79. I went to 3rd on a fly ball by Mike, but was stranded there.

I took care of a Jose Uribe grounder for the 1st out in the bottom of the 6th. Then I did the same to Amaro for the 2nd.

I came up with two out in the 7th and grounded out to Uribe at short.

The Cardinals stuck again in the 7th when Willie McGee scored on a Van Slyke fielder's choice.

Cardinals lead 4-1

Things went better for us in the 8th when Chili singled and scored on a Rob Der double, who ended up scoring on a Jim Presley sac fly.

Cardinals lead 4-3

After a batter got on base with one out in the 8th - though it was by an error by Rob - Jim brought it Scott Garrelts to relieve. He got his two but we were unable to score in the 9th and lost, 4-3.

I went 2 for 4 with a pair of singles, a run scored, and two stolen bases.

We are now heading to L.A.

[rpriske]

July 25th, 1988

We are at home to face the Dodgers. (I don't know why I got it into my head yesterday that we were playing in L.A.)

They are in 2nd, 2 games behind the Padres. We are in 4th, 4.5 games out.

L.A. is pitching Ken Howell (8-6, 3.45).

The Giants have Eric Show (9-7, 3.06).

I have gone 3 for 8 against Howell.

Sloppy start as Steve Sax walks, takes 2nd on a wild pitch, and then scores on an error by Jim Presley.

Dodgers lead 1-0

I led off our half by flying out to Candy Maldonado in left.

I took care of a Sax grounder for the 3rd out in the 2nd, after Jim made another error.

I shouldn't have been critical of Jim, as I threw one away for an error in the 4th. Mine was just as bad as it allowed Dave Anderson to reach and he scored on a Howell single.

Dodgers lead 2-0, and nothing earned yet.

I led off the bottom of the 4th by singling through the right side for our first hit of the game. Stolen base #80. I went to 3rd on a Mike Aldrete groundout. Chili Davis then tied the game with a home run!

Game tied 2-2

I came up next with one out in the 6th. I grounded out to Kent Hrbek at 1st.

I got the 2nd out in the 7th off another Sax grounder.

In the bottom half, Jim scarped when Rob Deer walked with the bases loaded while pinch hitting for Eric.
I then came up and grounded out.

Giants lead 3-2

Mark Davis came in the pitch for us in the 8th.

The game ended with yet another Sax grounder handled by me. We had the win.

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

The Dodgers are trying to bolster their team, though, as they traded for Jerry Gleaton from the Rangers today.

[rpriske]

July 26th, 1988

We are facing the Dodgers again today. They are pitching Andy Hawkins (5-10, 5.97).

The Giants are going with Bruce Ruffin (11-6, 2.63).

I have gone 7 for 24, or .292, against Hawkins, but two of those were home runs!

The Dodgers struck first as Tim Wallach scored on a Candy Maldonado single in the 1st. I caught a Benito Santiago fly to avoid any further damage.

Dodgers lead 1-0

I led off our half by striking out.

I took care of a Dave Anderson grounder for the 1st out in the 2nd.

In the 3rd Wallach scored again - this time on a Kent Hrbek double. Dave Winfield scored on a Maldonado sac fly. Hrbek scored on a Santiago sac fly.

Dodgers lead 4-0

In the 4th we got a pretty sweet Rabb - Priske - Aldrete double play to get Brian Harper and Hawkins... with Rabb playing behind the plate!

I led off the bottom of the 4th, with Hawkins still prefect thus far. I ended that with a single to centre.
With one out I grabbed stolen base #81.
I scored on a Rob Deer single.
After that Ruben Sierra walked and Jim Presley launched a three-run, game-tying home run!

Game tied 4-4

I came up in the 5th with none out and Bruce on 1st. While I was at the plate, Bruce went to 2nd on a wild pitch. Then I hit an RBI single to right!
I advanced to 2nd on a groundout by Mike Aldrete.
Stolen base #82 took me to 3rd.
I was unable to score.

Giants lead 5-4

I made a great play on an Anderson grounder for the 1st out in the 6th.

I came up in the 7th with one out and pinch hitter Robby Thompson on 1st. Jim Acker was pitching. I replaced Robby on a fielder's choice.
Stolen base #83!
I was left there.

Scott Garrelts took over for us in the 8th.
Hrbek hit a one out homer to tie the game.
I took care of a grounder by pinch hitter Steve Sax for out #2.

Game tied 5-5

I came up with two out in the bottom of the 9th. John was on 2nd and pinch hitter Bob Brenly was on 1st. Bryan Harvey was pitching.
I worked a walk and the bases were loaded for Mike.
Mike singled and we had the walk-off win!

Giants win 6-5 in exciting style!

I went 2 for 4 with a pair of singles, an RBI, a run scored, and THREE stolen bases.

We go for the sweep against L.A. tomorrow!

[rpriske]

July 27th, 1988

We won the first two against the Dodgers and are trying to sweep today. They are pitching Mike Witt (12-1, 2.94).

He is tough but the Giants have Frank Viola (11-6, 2.14).

This could be great!

I have limited exposure to Witt, going 1 for 4.

I got in on the action right away, handling a Steve Sax grounder for the 1st out.

I led off our side by hitting one off the centre field fence for a double!
Then came stolen base #84!
I scored on a Mike Aldrete single.

Giants lead 1-0

I got the 2nd out in the 2nd off a Benito Santiago grounder.

I came up with one out in the 3rd and I grounded out to Kent Hrbek at 1st.

In the 4th Chili Davis scored on a Robby Thompson sac fly.

Giants lead 2-0

I came up with two out in the 5th and grounded out to Tim Wallach at 3rd.

Wallach got a hit for L.A. in the 7th, breaking up Frank's no-hitter.

I came up with two out in the 7th and Alan Cockrell on 1st. I grounded out back to Witt.

I got the 1st out in the 8th, catching a Bill Spiers pop. Then Dave Anderson pinch hit into a Thompson - Priske - Aldrete double play.

I took care of a Dave Winfield for the final out of the game on Frank's 100th pitch as we finished the sweep, beating the Dodgers 2-0!

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

Frank Viola was named the #1 star of the day on Sports Centre!

We passed the Dodgers AND the Astros into 2nd place, though we still trail the Padres by four games.

Tomorrow we have an off day before the Braves come to town.

Dave Parker was traded to the Red Sox! I didn't see THAT coming.

I wonder what it feels like to be traded?

Alan Cockrell was sent to Phoenix before the Atlanta series. Tom O'Malley was called up.

[rpriske]

July 29th, 1988

The Braves are in town and they are pitching Brian Fisher (4-6, 4.75).

The Giants have Rick Sutcliffe (10-7, 2.55).

I have done very well against Fisher, going 7 for 13, or .538.

We have been playing better lately, We need t keep it up.

I got right in the action, taking care of a Gary Sheffield grounder for the 1st out... or so I thought! Mike Aldrete dropped my throw for an error.

I led off our side by flying out to Brad Komminsk in left.
Chili Davis hit a two out solo homer.

Giants lead 1-0

I came up in the 3rd with Rick standing on 1st. I hit one into the right field corner for an RBI triple!
I ended up scoring on a Chili sac fly.

Giants lead 3-0

In the 4th I took care of a Ron Gant grounder for the 2nd out.

In the bottom half I came up with two out and Rick on 1st again. This time I struck out.

In the 5th Mike doubles and then scored on an error. Chili walked and scored on a different error. Jim Presley reached on the first error and scored on a third!

Giants lead 6-0

The Braves got their first hit in the 6th. That was by Sheffield and he ended up scoring on a Ken Griffey single. Griffey later scored on an error by Rob Deer. I took care of a Komminsk grounder to end the damage.

Giants lead 6-2

I led off the bottom half, now facing Marty Clary. I walked.
Then came stolen base #85.
I scored on a single by Mike.
Mike scored on a sac fly by Jim.

Giants lead 8-2

In the 8th Gant hit a solo shot. After another hit, Jim pulled Rick, bringing in Bobby Thigpen.

Giants lead 8-3

I led off the bottom of the 8th, now facing Mike Dunne. I walked on four pitches. Stolen base #86. Stolen base #87. Despite that, I was unable to score.

Bobby allowed a couple of baserunners in the 9th but no runs and we had the 8-3 win.

I went 1 for 3 with a triple, two walks, two runs scored, an RBI, and three stolen bases. But Chili was named Player of the Game. Chicks dig the long ball.

I did make the highlight reel with my triple.

Another Atlanta game tomorrow and then a double header on Sunday.

Sunday is also the Trading Deadline... are we going to pick anyone else up?

[rpriske]

July 30th, 1988

Today the Braves are pitching Sergio Valdez (1-3, 2.65).

The Giants have Eric Show (10-7, 2.92).

I have limited experience with Valdez, going 1 for 5.

I led off the home side by grounding out to Ron Gant at 2nd.

I made a nice play on a Jeff Blauser liner for the 2nd out in the 2nd.
I then handled a Milt Thompson bouncer for the 3rd out in the 3rd.

I came up with two out in the 3rd and grounded out to Blauser at 3rd.

In the 4th I started a Priske - Thompson - Aldrete double play to get Andres Galarraga and Nelson Santovenia to end the inning.

We opened the scoring that inning when Valdez walked Robby Thompson with the bases loaded to score Mike Aldrete and then Chili Davis scored on a Bob Brenly sac fly.

Giants lead 2-0

I came up with one out in the 5th and flew out to Thompson in right.

In the 6th Jim Presley blasted a two run homer!

Giants lead 4-0

I came up with two out in the 7th. I hit one down the line into left for a double. Mike followed me with a home run!

Giants lead 6-0

Eric walked Ken Griffey Jr. with one out in the 9th and and Jim decided he had reached the end of the line. Mark Davis came in to finish things up. I got the next out off a little roller by Gant, for a fielder's choice, but then Galarraga smashed a two run homer. Mark struck out Santovenia and we had the 6-2 win for our 5th straight victory.

I went 1 for 4 with a double and a run scored.

Alan Cockrell is back and Tom O'Malley is down in time for our double header tomorrow.

[rpriske]

July 31st, 1988

It is the trade deadline and we have a double header against the Braves.

In the first game we are facing Johnny Cash (9-10, 3.24).

The Giants are pitching Bruce Ruffin (11-6, 2.74).

I have done very well against Cash, going 6 for 14, or .429.

I led off the home side by flying out to Brad Komminsk in left.
In the 2nd Robby Thompson scored on a Bob Brenly double.

Giants lead 1-0

I made the 2nd out in the 3rd, catching a Ken Griffey Jr. pop. I then handled an Andres Galarraga grounder for the 3rd.

I immediately had to switch gears as I led off the bottom half. I grounded out to Gary Sheffield at short.
In the 4th Jim Presley scored on a groundout by Robby and then Ruben Sierra scored on a sac fly by Bob.

Giants lead 3-0

I led off the bottom of the 5th by grounding out to Sheffield again.
Mike Aldrete followed me with a homer.

Giants lead 4-0

I came up in the 7th with one out and Bob on 2nd. I grounded out to Galarraga at 1st, advancing the runner. Unfortunately he didn't end up scoring.

After a man got on in the 8th, due to a passed ball by Bob on a strikeout, Jim went to Jeff Robinson and his 7+ ERA. He got the 3rd out.
He then stayed in for the 9th and we had a scare when Bob Brenly played a little roller for the 2nd out, but ended up grabbing his arm. He left the game for John Rabb.
Jeff got the last guy to finish the game, but word on Bob is that he has a biceps strain that will likely last all through August. I am not sure if he will play through it or what.

We got the win but I didn't help, going 0 for 4.

And we still have another game to go.

[rpriske]

July 31st, 1988

For the second game of the double header, the Braves are pitching Brian Holman (4-9, 4.27).

The Giants have Willie Fraser (3-5, 3.81).

I have very limited exposure to Holman, going 0 for 1.

I made the first play of the game, taking care of a Gary Sheffield grounder.

I led off for our said by working a walk. Stolen base #88 followed. With one out I made it #89. I was left there.

I got the 2nd out in the 3rd off a Milt Thompson grounder.

I led off the bottom half by taking another walk. Why stop there? Stolen base #90. With one out, you guessed it, stolen base #91. This time I scored on a Chili Davis double.

Giants lead 1-0

I made the 2nd out in the 4th, catching an Andres Galarraga pop.

In the 5th I saved a run, getting the 3rd out on a tough Thompson grounder.

I came up that inning with one out and struck out.

I took care of a Ken Griffey Jr. grounder for the 1st out in the 6th.

We lost our lead in the 7th when John Russell connected for a two run homer.
I caught a pop up by pinch hitter Gerald Perry for the 3rd out.

Braves lead 2-1

I came up with two out in the 7th, now facing Ken Dayley. I walked for the 3rd time. I tried to steal for the fifth time but I overslid the bag and was tagged out.

Scott Garrelts took over for us in the 8th.
I made a nice snag of a Galarraga liner for the 3rd out.

We were unable to get the run back so our win streak ended at six.

I went one for one with a single, three walks, a run scored, and four stolen bases.

So the team didn't make any last minute trades, but there were changes made.

We got Alonzo Powell back from the Dodgers. He had been claimed in the Rule 5 draft.
Bob Brenly was placed on the 15-day DL. We knew that was likely.
Mike Griffin was removed from the 40-man.
Jeff King was called up from AA Shreveport.

Alan Cockrell is our main catcher for now.

Chili Davis was named NL Player of the Week!

Bruce Ruffin was named NL Pitcher of the Month!

We are kicking off August with the Astros coming to town!

[rpriske]

August 1st, 1988

The Astros are in San Francisco and are pitching Mike Scott (13-4, 2.37).

The Giants are answering with Frank Viola (12-6, 2.03).

I have had troubles with Scott, going 8 for 39, or .205.

I finished the top of the 1st, taking care of a Craig Biggio grounder.

I then opened the bottom half by striking out.

Houston go on the board first in the 2nd, with Dickie Thon crossing an a Dave Gallagher double.

Astros lead 1-0

Biggio led off the 4th with a homer.
I got the 1st out off a Thon grounder.
Glenn Davis scored on a Gallagher single.
Gallagher scored on an error by Alan Cockrell.
I got a Nelson Liriano grounder for the 3rd out.
Two error sled to two unearned runs that inning.

Astros lead 4-0

We were still hitless.
I led off the bottom of the 4th by striking out again.

I handled a Jim Dwyer liner for the 1st out in the 5th.

I took care of a Juan Delgado grounder for the 3rd out in the 6th.

In the 7th Liriano scored on an error by Robby Thompson. That was four.
With one out and two on, Jim went to Bobby Thigpen.
I made a great play to get Davis for the 2nd out, but Dwyer scored.

Astros lead 6-0

I led off the bottom of the 7th. I flew out to Gallagher in centre.
Mike Aldrete then doubled, breaking up the perfect game.
He did not score.

This was bad, and in the 8th, we had enough.
Jim Presley walked.
Scott got the next two guys but then Alan doubles, scoring Jim.
Ruben Sierra singled as a pinch hitter.
I doubled, scoring both guys.
I scored on a single by Mike.

Astros lead 6-4

Jeff Robinson came in to pitch the 9th.
He let the first two guys reach and Jim went to Mark Davis.
I caught a towering pop up by Gallagher for the 2nd out.

We stopped them there but were unable to make up those last two runs and lost.

I went 1 for 4 with a double, a run scored, and two RBI.

[rpriske]

August 2nd, 1988

We want to get that win back from the Astros today.

Houston is pitching Manny Hernandez (7-10, 4.21).

The Giants have Rick Sutcliffe (11-7, 2.55).

I have gone 3 for 14 against Hernandez.

I kicked off the home half by lining out to Harold Baines in right.

I got in on the action on dense in the 3rd, taking care of a Hernandez grounder for the 2nd out.

I came up in the 3rd with one out, Steve Stanicek on 3rd, and Alan Cockrell on 2nd. I grounded out right back to the pitcher and couldn't advance anyone.

I caught a Craig Biggio pop for the 2nd out in the 4th. I then made a highlight reel play to snag a Keith Hernandez grounder.

I made a much easier play on a Dickie Thon grounder for the 1st out in the 5th. We then made a Thompson - Priske - Aldrete double play to get Darel Hansen and Ray Knight.

I made a nice play on a Bill Doran grounder for the 2nd out in the 6th.

I led off in that inning by grounding out to Doran at 2nd.

That was it for Rick, still in a 0-0 tie, and Jim went to Atlee Hammaker for the 7th, making his season debut.

And it was not the debut he wanted and Baines led off with a homer.
I got the 1st out for him off a Biggio grounder. I then did the same to Thon for the 3rd.

Astros lead 1-0

We got it back, and then some, when Ruben Sierra hit a two out, pinch hit home run! I then came up and took a walk. Stolen base #92. Mike Aldrete then walked. Stolen base #93. I scored and Mike went to 3rd on a Chili Davis single.

Giants lead 3-1

Mark Davis came in for the 8th.
Over the next two he gave up a hit and a walk, but that was it and we had the win!

I went 0 for 3 with a walk, a run scored, and two stolen bases.

We finish the series with Houston tomorrow.

[rpriske]

August 3rd, 1988

It is the rubber match against the Astros today and they are pitching John Candelaria (12-5, 2.72).

The Giants have Eric Show (11-7, 2.83).

I have gone 5 for 25 against Candelaria.

Houston struck first as Harold Baines scored on a Glenn Davis double with two out in the top of the 1st. Then Davis score don a Rance Mulliniks single.

Astros lead 2-0

I led off for our side and I flied out to Jim Dwyer in left.

I got Dave Gallagher's ground error the 1st out in the 2nd.

In the 3rd Dwyer scored on a Mulliniks double. Then Baines scored on a Craig Biggio single.
I handled a Dickie Thon grounder for the 3rd out.

Astros lead 4-0

I took care of a Candelaria grounder for the 1st out in the 4th. I then got a Dwyer grounder for the 3rd.

I led off the bottom of the 4th. Candelaria was still perfect and I did nothing to change that as I grounded out to Davis at 1st.
A couple of guys after me busted that up, but we still didn't score.

I got a Gallagher grounder for the 3rd out in the 5th.

I came up in the bottom half, with two out, Ruben Sierra on 2nd, and Alan Cockrell on 1st. While I was up they both advanced on a passed ball by Biggio, but I stranded them by flying out to Baines in right.

Rich Gossage took over on the mound for us in the 6th.
I got the 3rd out for him off a Bill Doran grounder.

I then caught a Dwyer pop for the 1st out in the 7th.
Baines scored that inning, off a single by Mullininks.

Astros lead 5-0

Nelson Liriano came on as a pinch runner in the 8th and scored on a single by Candelaria.
Bobby Thigpen took over after that.
I got the 2nd out on the first batter he faced - a Doran pop up.

Astros lead 6-0

I came up with two out in the 8th and grounded out to Doran at 2nd.

Atlee Hammaker came in to pitch the 9th.
I got the 2nd out for him off a Mulliniks grounder. That was the first time we got him out.
I took care of a grounder by Darel Hansen for the 3rd out.

We did not score in the 9th. Candelaria didn't go the full nine, but he still had his shut out..

I went a big fat 0 for 4.

Tomorrow is a travel day and we are heading to Atlanta.