Rusty Priske - Future Hall of Famer

[rpriske]

August 5th, 1988

We are in Atlanta and the Braves are giving us Johnny Cash (9-11, 3.32).

The Giants are pitching Bruce Ruffin (12-6, 2.61).

I have done well against Cash, going 6 for 18.

I opened up the game by making that 7 for 19 with a single through the right side. Stolen base #94. With one out Chili Davis walks on four pitches. Then Cash balks, moving us both up. I scored on a Rob Deer sac fly.

Giants lead 1-0

I came up in the 2nd with two out, Ruben Sierra on 3rd, and John Rabb on 2nd. I reached on an infield single, scoring Ruben!

Giants lead 2-0

In the 3rd Rob belted a one out solo homer!

Giants lead 3-0

I made my first play in the bottom half, getting a Jeff Blauser grounder for the 1st out.

I led off the 5th by walking on four pitches. I was replaced on a fielder's choice by Mike Aldrete.

In the 6th Robby Thompson hit a two out solo homer!

Giants lead 4-0

The Braves got not he board in the 6th when Gary Sheffield led off with a triple and then scored on a single by Ken Griffey Jr.

Giants lead 4-1

I came up with one out in the 7th and they lifted Cash to bring in Mike Dunne to face me. I got my second straight walk. Stolen base #95. I went to 3rd on a groundout by Mike but got no further.

I took care of a Milt Thompson grounder for the 1st out in the bottom half.

After Ken Griffey Sr. led off with a pinch hit double in the 8th, Jim went to Mark Davis (and Alan Cockrell in at catcher, in a double switch). He balked, giving Griffey 3rd. He got one out but then walked Griffey Jr. and Andres Galarraga. Then Ron Gant hit a bases-clearing double to tie the game.
I got the 2nd out, taking care of a Nelson Santovenia grounder, keeping Gant at 3rd.

Game tied 4-4

I came up in the 9th with one out and Duane Ward pitching. I walked for the 3rd straight plate appearance. I not only picked up stolen base #96, but I took 3rd when Santovenia threw away the attempt to catch me.
They struck out Mike and intentionally walked Chili... and UNintentionally walked Rob. With the bases loaded Jim Presley flew out to end the threat.

Mark got the 1st out in the bottom of 9th before Jim switched to Scott Garrelts. I got Brad Komminsk out on a groundball for out #2.

We took the lead back in the 10th when Ruben scored on a single by pinch hitter Chris Brown.
I came up with one out, Robby on 3rd and Chris on 2nd. Steve Farr was the pitcher. I hit a liner to Thompson in right but was award a sac fly as Robby scored!

Giants lead 6-4

Jeff Robinson came it to try to finish them off in the bottom of the 10th. Three batters later and he had done it!

I was named the Player of the Game! I went 2 for 2 with a pair of singles, three walks, a sac fly, one run scored, two RBI, and three stolen bases!

[rpriske]

August 6th, 1988

I had a great day yesterday. Let's see if I can keep it going.

The Braves are pitching Tom Glavine (8-10, 3.76).

The Giants have our Ace, Frank Viola (12-7, 2.06).

I have done well against Glavine, going 11 for 36, or .306, with a home run.

I kicked off the game by hitting a soft one down the third base line for an infield single. I then scored on a hit & run double by Mike Aldrete. Mike then scored on a single by Chili Davis. Chili ended up scoring on a single by Ruben Sierra and Jim Presley scored on a single by Robby Thompson.

Good start!

Giants lead 4-0

I got the 1st out in the bottom half off a fielder's choice grounder by Ken Griffey Jr. We then got Junior and Andres Galarraga with a Priske - Thompson - Aldrete double play.

I came up with one out in the 2nd and walked on ELEVEN pitches. Stolen base #97. I took 3rd on a groundout by Mike, but was left there.

I next came up with one out in the 4th and I lined out to Milt Thompson in right.

I got the last out in the inning, grabbing a tough Jeff Blauser grounder to save a run.

I came up in the 6th with two out and Alan Cockrell on 3rd. I walked again. Stolen base #98. We were both left.

The Braves for on the board in the 6th when Gary Sheffield scored on a Galarraga single and Chili error. Then Griffey Jr. scored on a Blauser single.

Giants lead 4-2

I caught a Thompson pop for the 1st out in the bottom of the 7th.

With one out in the 8th, Galarraga hit a massive home run.

Giants lead 4-3

I lead off the 9th with Ken Dayley on the mound. I walked for the third time today. I tried to steal again but was cut down on a pitchout.

Frank ended up with eleven strikeouts and the complete game win.

I went 1 for 2 with a single, three walks, a run scored, and two stolen bases.

[rpriske]

August 7th, 1988

Game three of a four game set in Atlanta. We have taken the first two.

The Braves are pitching Brian Holman (4-9, 4.19).

The Giants have Ace #2 Rick Sutcliffe (11-7, 2.46).

I have very little exposure to Holman, going 0 for 2.

I led off the game by striking out.

I got the last out in the inning off a grounder by Ken Griffey Jr.

We opened the scoring in the 2nd when Rob Deer walked and later scored on a Steve Stanicek single.

Giants lead 1-0

In the bottom half I got both Ron Gant and Andres Galarraga with a Priske - Aldrete double play! I then took care of a Nelson Santovenia grounder for the 3rd out.

I came up with one out in the 3rd and popped out to Gant at 2nd.

I took care of a Jeff Blauser grounder for the 1st out in the bottom frame.

I caught a Gary Sheffield pop for the 1st out in the bottom of the 4th.

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

I took care of a Griffey Jr. grounder for the 1st out in the bottom of the 7th.

I came up with two out in the 8th and grounded we to behind 2nd for an infield hit. Stolen base #99. I scored on a single by Mike Aldrete.

Giants lead 2-0

I caught a Blauser pop for the 2nd out in the bottom half.

Rick ended up with a five-hit shutout!

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

We are only two games behind the Padres.

[rpriske]

August 8th, 1988

We are finishing up in Atlanta today, hoping for a four game sweep.

The Braves are pitching Brian Fisher (5-7, 4.62).

The Giants have Eric Show (11-8, 2.96).

I have done very well against Fisher, going 8 for 16.

I kicked off the game by grounding out to Ron Gant at 2nd.

The Braves struck early with Gary Sheffield scoring on a Ken Griffey Jr, single with none out in the 1st. Milt Thompson ended up scoring a Jeff Blauser sac fly.

Braves lead 2-0

I came up in the 2nd with two out, Ruben Sierra on 3rd, and John Rabb on 2nd. I flew out to Ken Griffey Sr. in left.

I snagged a John Russell liner for the 1st out in the bottom half. I caught a Sheffield pop for the 2nd.

I came up in the 4th with two out, Robby Thompson on 3rd, and Ruben on 2nd. Fisher pitched a little far inside and I got plunked for the 10th time this year. With the bases loaded, Mike Aldrete struck out.

In the 5th we got not he board when Rob Deer singled and scored on a triple by Robby.

Braves lead 2-1

They got in right back, and then some, as Milt Thompson and Griffey Jr. scored on a Gant single.
We got Gant and Andres Galarraga with a Show - Priske - Aldrete double play.

Braves lead 4-1

I came up in the 6th with one out and John on 2nd. I was hit by a Fisher pitched for the 2nd straight at bat. What the hell!
Mike hit into a double play.

I took care of a Griffey Sr. grounder for the 1st out in the bottom half... except I threw the damn ball away for an error! He ended up scoring on a single by pinch hitter Jerome Walton.

That was it for Eric as Jim went to Goose Gossage.

I took care of a Sheffield grounder for the 1st out. Things were really getting out of hand after that as Griffey Jr. hit a three run double. He ended up scoring on a Galarraga single.

Braves lead 9-1

I came up in the 8th with one out, Ruben on 3rd, and John on 2nd. Marty Clary was pitching. I grounded out to Blauser at short, but Ruben scored on the play.

Braves lead 9-2

Bobby Thigpen took over for us in the 8th.

We were unable to get any more and lost, badly.

I went 0 for 3 with an RBI and TWO hit-by-pitches.

With that mess behind us, we are heading to Houston.

[rpriske]

August 9th, 1988

We are in Houston and are facing a new pitcher, Ed Caballero (3-11, 6.22).

The Giants are going with Willie Fraser (3-6, 3.71).

I was the first to face Caballero and I reached on an error by third baseman Rance Mulliniks. Followed by big stolen base #100!
However, I was then thrown out trying to score on a Mike Aldrete single.
After that Mike scored on a Chili Davis double.

Giants lead 1-0

I made my first play in the 2nd, taking care of a Mulliniks grounder for the 2nd out.
Craig Biggio followed with a game tying solo homer.


Game tied 1-1

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

I took care of a Dickie Thon grounder for the 2nd out in the 5th.

I came up with one out in the 6th and walked on four pitches. Stolen base #101. Mike walked behind me. We were left.

I got the 2nd out in the bottom half off a Jim Dwyer grounder.

In the 7th Steve Stanicek hit a solo shot to get us the lead back.

Giants lead 2-1

I got the last out in the inning off a Biggio grounder.

I came up with one out in the 8th and walked again. With two out I got Stolen base #102. I scored on a single by Chili. Rob Deer then hit a two run homer.

Giants lead 5-1

Jeff Robinson took over during the 8th.

In the 9th Steve scored on a double by pinch hitter Chris Brown. I came up with two out and Chris on 2nd. Mike Madden was pitching. I singled to left, moving Chris to 3rd. We were left.

Giants lead 6-1

Bobby Thigpen came in to pitch the 9th. He gave up one hit but that was it and we had the win.

I went 1 for 3 with a single, two walks, a run scored, and thee stolen bases.

[rpriske]

August 10th, 1988

We had a nice win in the Astrodome yesterday. Let's go for another.

The Astros are pitching Chris Hammond (6-10, 3.38).

The Giants have Bruce Ruffin (12-6, 2.61).

I have limited exposure to Hammond, going 1 for 3.

I kicked off the game by striking out on three pitches.

I made my first defensive play in the 2nd, taking care of a Harold Baines grounder. I then did the same to Dickie Thon for out #3.

I came up in the 3rd with one out and Bruce on 1st. I replaced Bruce on a fielder's choice. I got no further.

I took care of a Hammond grounder for the 1st out in the bottom half.

I got the 2nd out in the bottom of the 4th off a Glenn Davis grounder.

In the 5th we turned a Thompson - Priske - Aldrete double play to get Rance Mulliniks and Thon.

I led off the 6th by lining out to Dave Gallagher in centre.

I got the 2nd out in the bottom half off a Bill Doran grounder.

Ooo boy. In the 8th Bruce came up with one out and Hammond hit him in the hand. In the midst of a shut out, Bruce had to leave the game, clearly in pain.
If he is really hurt...
Chris Brown came in a s pinch runner and then I came up. I hit into a fielder's choice. I advanced to 3rd on a single by Mike Aldrete. Chili Davis walked to load them up. Rob Deer then singled and both Mike and I scored! We can still get that win for Bruce!

Giants lead 2-0

Mark Davis came in to pitch for us. Brian Giles also took over for Jim Presley at 3rd in a double switch.

We got word from the clubhouse that Bruce is okay. He got a bruise on his pitching hand, but there is no worry that it will affect him going forward.

I came up in the 9th with two out, Alan Cockrell on 2nd, and Brian on 1st. They brought in Anthony Kelley to face me. I blistered a single thought the left side for an RBI! Brian went to 3rd. We were left.

Giants lead 3-0

Mark gave up a single in the 9th, but that was all and we had the shutout win.

I went 1 for 5 with a single, an RBI, and a run scored.

We finish in Houston tomorrow. Let's get that sweep.

[rpriske]

August 11th, 1988

Finishing up in Houston, going for that sweep.

They have the big guns, Mike Scott (15-4, 2.34).

The Giants are going with OUR big gun, Frank Viola (13-7, 2.11).

And I... have the day off.

I will admit, I have been dragging a bit. It is a long season.

Brian Giles is playing short.

The boys got two in the 3rd, but then gave them right back.
The Astros made it 3-2 in the 5th and 4-2 in the 7th.
We tied it up in the 8th and then burst ahead 6-4 in the 10th.... but they tied it back up!
Finally the Astros won 7-6 in the 12th.

Frank Viola pitched ELEVEN innings.

(NOTE: I forgot to switch it to AI control and was wondering why Viola was still pitching. Sigh. This one is on me.)

No sweep, but we took the series.

Now we are heading to L.A.

[rpriske]

August 12th, 1988

We are in L.A. to face Andy Hawkins (6-10, 5.96), and the Dodgers.

The Giants are pitching Rick Sutcliffe (12-7, 2.35).

I love facing Hawkins. I have gone 9 for 27, or .333, with TWO home runs.

I opened the game by grounding out to Dave Anderson at short.

I then led off the 3rd by reaching on an error by Kent Hrbek. I will take it. I gave it right back, though, as I tried to steal into pitchout and was out.
With two out Chili Davis singled and Rob Deer put one in the seats.

Giants lead 2-0

I came up in the 4th with two out and Steve Stanicek on 1st. While I was at the plate Steve tried to steal 2nd and was thrown out.

After that, I led off the 5th instead. I dropped one into right for a single and took an extra base as Dave Winfield misplayed it. I then scored on a Mike Aldrete double. Miek later scored on a bases loaded catcher's interference call.

Giants lead 4-0

I then came up with one out in the 6th and pushing one up the middle for a single. I was replaced on a fielder's choice (and a rough takeout on Steve Sax at 2nd).

I finally got a defensive play in the 6th, taking care of a Sax fielder's choice for the 1st out.

In the 7th Robby Thompson scored on a Brian Giles single.

Giants lead 5-0

I led off in the 8th, now facing Jim Acker. I flew out to Winfield in right.
We weren't done as Rob Deer singled home both Mike and CHili and then scored on an Alan Cockrell double.

Giants lead 8-0

I came up with one out in the 9th, now facing Rick Honeycutt. I reached 2nd on a throwing error by Tim Wallach. I went to 3rd on a groundout by Mike but that was it.

Winfield erased the shutout with a one out home run in the bottom of the 9th. I got the 2nd out on a fielder's choice by Wallach. One fly ball later and we had the 8-1 win.

I went 2 for 6, though I reached four times. Two singles, one run scored, and a caught stealing.

[rpriske]

August 13th, 1988

Today the Dodgers are pitching Orel Hershiser (12-8, 2.82).

The Giants are going with Eric Show (11-9, 3.18).

I have not well vs Hershiser, going 9 for 45, or .200

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

The Dodgers struck quickly with Steve Sax leading off their half with a single and Dave Winfield following with a home run.
Eric then struck out the next three.

Dodgers lead 2-0

In the 2nd, an old teammate of ours, Brian Harper, hit a solo shot.

Dodgers lead 3-0

I came up in the 3rd with one out and Eric on 1st. I replaced him on a fielder's choice. Stolen base #103, but that's it.

I got the 1st out in the bottom frame off a Sax grounder. I did the same on a tough grounder by Kent Hrbek for the 3rd.

I led off the 6th with a nice single to right. With one out I was removed by a Chili Davis fielder's choice.

I made a highlight play on a Tim Wallach grounder for the last out in the 6th.

In the 7th the Dodgers added to their lead when Benito Santiago scored on a Harper single.

Dodgers lead 4-0

I came up in the 8th with pinch hitter Ruben Sierra on 1st. I popped out to Hrbek at 1st.

Goose Gossage took over on the mound for us after that.
I got the 1st out for him off a Winfield grounder.
He only had to pitch the one inning.

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

We have fallen to 4.5 games back as the Padres have won five in a row.

[rpriske]

August 14th, 1988

It is game three of a four game set in L.A.
We have split the first two.

Today the Dodgers are pitching Shawn Hillegas (6-3, 4.22).

The Giants are going with Willie Fraser (4-6, 3.51).

I have never faced Hillegas.

I got my first chance leading off the game and I was still 0 for 0 after working a walk. I then got stolen base #104 as Mike Aldrete struck out on a hit & run attempt. I went to 3rd on a passed ball by Benito Santiago.
Chili Davis walked but we weren't able to cash me in.

The Dodgers started in a very similar way to last game. Steve Sax singled and was followed by a home run by Kent Hrbek. Later Gene Larkin scored on a Dave Anderson sac fly.
I took care of a grounder by Brian Harper to end it.

Dodgers lead 3-0

I got the 1st out in the bottom of the 2nd off a Hillegas grounder.

I led off the 3rd by walking again. With two out I went to 2nd on a Rob Deer single. We were both left.

I came up in the 4th with two out, John Rabb on 2nd, and Willie on 1st. I hit one right in front of the plate and was thrown out by Benito Santiago.

In the bottom half Santiago scored on a Harper single.
I took care of a Sax grounder for the 3rd out.

Dodgers lead 4-0

We got one back in the 5th when Mike scored on a Jim Presley single.

Dodgers lead 4-1

I came up with one out in the 6th and they brought in Juan Agosto to face me. I grounded out to Tim Wallach at 3rd.

I got the 1st out in the bottom half off a grounder by Dave Anderson. I then did the same to Harper for #2 and Sax for #3.

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

Bobby Thigpen took over for us in the 8th.
Pinch hitter Bill Spiers ended up scoring on an error by Jim Presley on an Anderson grounder.
I got the 2nd out off a Harper grounder.

Dodgers lead 5-1

Mike and Rob scored on a Ruben Sierra double in the 9th, but it wasn't enough and we lost 5-3.

The Dodgers are now tied with us in 2nd.

I went 0 for 3 with two walks and a stolen base.

We finish up tomorrow and try to salvage a split.

[rpriske]

August 15th, 1988

We have lost 2 of 3 to the Dodgers so far in this set. We need this one to stay ahead of them.

They are pitching Ken Howell (8-8, 3.60).

The Giants have Bruce Ruffin (13-6, 2.50).

I have done all right against Howell, going 4 for 12.

I opened the game by grounding out to Tim Wallach at 3rd.
Chili Davis hit a solo shot with two out to put us up.

Giants lead 1-0

Big play in the bottom of the 1st. Bruce gave up singles to Steve Sax and Wallach to start. Then they were in motion on a Dave Winfield hit & run. He lined it to Chili in shallow right but the runners were way too far off base and we got a Davis - Priske - Aldrete TRIPLE PLAY.

In the 2nd Candy Maldonado scored on a passed ball by Alan Cockrell.

Game tied 1-1

I led off the 3rd by taking a ten pitch walk. I went to 2nd on a single by Mike Aldrete. Chili then hit his second home run in as many at bats! He is having a heck of a game already!

Giants lead 4-1

I then came up with two out in the 4th and walked again. I was given 2nd when Howell balked. I was left there.

I got the last out in the inning of a Domingo Michel grounder.

Chili led off the 5th with his THIRD STRAIGHT HOME RUN!
After that Robby Thompson scored on a Steve Stanicek single.

Giants lead 6-1

I led off the 6th, now facing Jim Acker. I grounded out to Kent Hrbek at 1st.
Chili came up that inning and 'only' got a single.

In the bottom frame, Maldonado scored on a Brian Harper double. Harper and Michel later scored on a double by pinch hitter Gene Larkin.
I took care of a Sax grounder to end it.

Giants lead 6-4

In the 7th we got a Priske - Thompson - Aldrete double play to get Wallach and Winfield.
After Hrbek doubled, Jim went to Jeff Robinson.
Hrbek scored on a Maldonado single.
I took care of a Harper grounder to end that threat.

Giants lead 6-5

I led off the 8th, now facing Juan Agosto. I walked for the third time. Stolen base #105. With one out, stolen base #106. Chili lined out to right and Winfield threw me out trying to score.

We lost the lead in the 8th when pinch hitter Franklin Stubbs and Sax scored on a two out double by Wallach.

Dodgers lead 7-6

We didn't score in the 9th and lost it. This one was painful. Three homers by Chili and a triple play but we still couldn't win it.

I went 0 for 2 with three walks, a run scored, and two stolen bases.

We are heading home in 3rd place, 4.5 games off the pace.

[rpriske]

August 16th, 1988

We are back home and facing the Mets.
We have lost three in a row and need to turn it around.

The Mets are pitching Dwight Gooden (18-5, 2.41).

The Giants have Frank Viola (13-7, 2.26).

Gooden is tough, obviously, as are the Mets. I have gone 8 for 36, or .222, against him.

The Mets got a couple of baserunners in the 1st but Frank pitched out of it. Then I led off the home half by grounding out to Johnny Ray at 2nd.

I got the 3rd out in the 3rd off a grounder by Kevin Mitchell.

I came up with one out in the 3rd and I took a walk. Stolen base #107, despite running into a pitchout. I was throw out trying to take 3rd on a Robby Thompson fly.

Darryl Strawberry led off the 4th with a home run.

Mets lead 1-0

I got the 1st out in the 6th off a Lenny Dykstra grounder.
However, Wally Joyner hit a two run blast that inning.
I took care of a Hubie Brooks grounder to end the frame.

Mets lead 3-0

I led off the bottom half by dropping a soft one into short left centre for a single. I got 2nd on a hit & run groundout by Robby. Stolen base #108. Chili Davis walked. I scored on a Ruben Sierra sac fly.

Mets lead 3-1

I took care of a Carlton Fisk grounder for the 1st out in the 7th. I had what should have been the 2nd out off a soft fly by Gerald Young, but I dropped it! Error #14!
With two out and the bases loaded, Jim went to Atlee Hammaker. He got out of that bind.

I came up in the 7th with two out, Alan Cockrell on 2nd, and pinch hitter Mike Aldrete on 1st. I walked to load them up. Robby struck out and we left them all full.

Scott Garrelts came in to pitch the 8th.
I got him the 1st out off a Joyner grounder.

With one out in the 9th, Jim went to Mark Davis.

We ended the game with me in the on deck circle.

Our fourth loss in a row.

I went 1 for 2 with a single, two walks, a run scored, and two stolen bases.

[rpriske]

August 17th, 1988

We need to break out of this slump, but we have to do it against the top team in the NL.

The Mets are pitching Ron Darling (14-6, 2.96).

The Giants have Rick Sutcliffe (13-7, 2.28).

I have gone a miserable 4 for 31, or .129, against Darling.

They got to us immediately as Gerald Young walked, stole 2nd, and scored on a Lenny Dykstra single. DYkstra scored on a one out single by Darryl Strawberry. We ended things with an Aldrete - Priske - Aldrete double play to get Wally Joyner and Johnny Ray, saving another run.

Mets lead 2-0

I led off the bottom half by grounding out to Hubie Brooks at short.
Mike Aldrete followed me with a solo shot.

Mets lead 2-1

We tied it up in the 2nd when Jim Presley scored on a John Rabb single.

Game tied 2-2

That was short lived as the 3rd saw Kevin Mitchell score on a Joyner single. Then Strawberry scored on a Ray single. I ended things on a Carlton Fisk grounder.

Mets lead 4-2

I led off the bottom of the 3rd by flying out to Young in left.

They got us again in the 4th when Young scored on a Dykstra double.

Mets lead 5-2

After Strawberry led off with a single in the 5th, Jim pulled the plug and brought in Bobby Thigpen. He also replaced John with Alan Cockrell behind the plate on a double switch.
The inherited runner ended up scoring on a Brooks fielder's choice.

Mets lead 6-2

I came up with two out in the 5th and flew out to Young again.

In the 6th Young scored on an error by Jim.

Mets lead 7-2

In the 7th Strawberry scored on a sac fly by Ray.

Mets lead 8-2

Atlee Hammaker took over for us in the 8th.

I came up with one out in the bottom frame and managed an infield single. I took 2nd as Mike reached on an error by Darling. We were both left on.

Things went no better for us in the 9th and we dropped our fifth straight game.

I went 1 for 4 with a single.

And tomorrow we face Sid Fernandez. There is no let up with the Mets.

[rpriske]

August 18th, 1988

The Giants have lost five in a row and are facing the best team in the league.

The Mets are pitching Sid Fernandez (8-1, 2.10).

The Giants have Eric Show (11-10, 3.25).

I have gone 7 for 34, or .2.6, against El Sid.

We got the first three guys and then I led off the home half by grounding out to Johnny Ray at 2nd.
Chili Davis hit a solo shot with two out.

Giants lead 1-0

The Mets got it right back, and then some, in the 2nd when Darryl Strawberry scored on a Ray groundout. Then Wally Joyner scored on a Hubie Brooks single. Brooks and Carlton Fisk scored on a Gerald Young double. Lenny Dykstra singled home Young. He scored on a Kevin Mitchell double.
That was enough for Jim who pulled Eric for Goose Gossage.

Mets lead 6-1

I led off in the 3rd and I singled to right. Stolen base #109. With one out, stolen base #110. I was then awarded home on a Fernandez balk.

Mets lead 6-2

I made a great play catching a liner by Dykstra for the 2nd out in the 4th.

In our half Ruben Sierra scored on a wild pitch. I came up with two out and two on but grounded out.

Mets lead 6-3

Strawberry led off the 5th with a home run.

Mets lead 7-3

In the 6th Young scored on a Dykstra double.
With two out and a man on 3rd, Jim couldn't let Goose stay out there, exhausted, any longer. He brought in Atlee Hammaker.
He pitched out of it.

Mets lead 8-3

I came up with two out in the 7th and struck out.

Scott Garrelts came in for the 8th.

I came up in the 9th with two out, Ruben on 2nd, pinch hitter Chris Brown on 1st, and Kevin Brown pitching. I hit a hard liner but Brown caught it, ending the game.

We have lost six in a row.

I went 1 for 5 with a single, a run scored, and two stolen bases.

We are slumping hard, and now the Phillies are coming to town. Another tough team.

[rpriske]

August 19th, 1988

The Giants have lost six in a row. Willie Fraser (4-7, 3.62) will try to break that.

The Phillies are pitching Mike Morgan (11-9, 4.09).

Jim is giving me the day off. Brian Giles will play short, letting me recharge.

We lost 5-2.

Seven in a row.

[rpriske]

August 20th, 1988

The Phillies are pitching Pete Smith (8-9, 3.13).

The Giants have Bruce Ruffin (13-6, 2.61).

We have lost seven in a row.

I have gone 2 for 7 against Smith.

The Phils struck fast with Tim Raines doubling and then scoring on an Alfredo Griffin double. Griffin scored on a Von Hayes sac fly. Dwight Evans scored on a wild pitch by Bruce.

Phillies lead 3-0

Already in a hole, I led off our half by taking a walk. Stolen base #111 AND #112. I scored on a Mike Aldrete sac fly.

Phillies lead 3-1

I came up with two out in the 3rd and flew out to Hayes in centre.

I handled a Ken Oberkfell grounder for the 1st out in the 4th.

In the bottom half, Mike Aldrete scored on a Rob Deer double, and Rob scored on a Robby Thompson double, tying the game!

Game tied 3-3

They got the lead back in the 5th when Raines scored on a Bo Jackson single. I caught a Walt Weiss blooper for the 2nd out with the bases loaded. Bruce then walked in a run by losing Kenny Oberkfell.

Jim then did a double with, taking out Bruce and John Rabb for Atlee Hammaker and Alan Cockrell. Atlee got the 3rd out.

Phillies lead 5-3

I came up with one out in the 5th and grounded out to Griffin at 2nd.

In the 6th Raines hit a one out, solo shot.

Phillies lead 6-3

Goose Gossage came it to pitch the 8th. He still seems tired from yesterday to me.

I came up with one out in the 8th. They brought in Michael Jackson to face me. (not that one.) I singled to left. I went to 2nd on a wild pitch and to 3rd on a groundout by Mike Aldrete. Chili Davis walked and we were both left on.

I got Hayes and Weiss with a nice Priske - Aldrete double play to end the top of the 9th.

We were unable got score and dropped out eighth straight game.

This is a mess.

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

[rpriske]

August 21st, 1988

We are struggling a lot right now.

The Giants hope to turn things around with Frank Viola (13-8, 2.31).

The Phillies are pitching Kevin Gross (8-6, 2.72).

I have gone 7 for 38, or .184, against Gross. Not good enough.

I led off the bottom of the 1st by grounding out to Walt Weiss at short.

I took care of a Gross grounder for the 2nd out in the 3rd. I then got the 3rd off a Tim Raines grounder.

I came up with two out in the 3rd and grounded out to Weiss again.

In the 4th Rob Deer scored on a Jim Presley single.

Giants lead 1-0

I came up in the 5th with one out and John Rabb on 1st. I hit into a double play.

I got the 2nd out in the 6th off a Raines grounder.

Kenny Oberkfell singled in the 8th, breaking up Frank's No-Hitter!

I came up with two out in the 8th, now facing Clint Jenkins. I grounded out to Weiss for the third time.

I amde a great play on a Dwight Evan grounder for the 2nd out in the 9th.

Frank Viola carried us on his back for a 1-0 win, breaking our losing streak! He allowed only two hits and struck out ten!

I went 0 for 4.

Now the Expos are coming to town, which means my family is visiting! Hopefully we can keep this going.

[rpriske]

August 22nd, 1988

The Expos are in town for three games, which means my family is in town for three days! This is always fun. Let's put on a show for them!

The Expos are pitching Chuck Finley (12-8, 2.62).

The Giants have Rick Sutcliffe (13-8, 2.51).

I have very limited exposure to Finley, going 0 for 2.

We gave them something to watch in the top of the 1st as we turned a Thompson - Priske - Aldrete double play to get Shane Mack and Jose Oquendo to end the inning.

I led off our side by flying out to Thomas Howard in left.

I came up next in the 3rd with one out and Alan Cockrell on 2nd. I floated one into right for a single. Alan Went to 3rd. He scored and I went to 2nd on a groundout by Mike Aldrete. I was left, but we had the lead.

Giants lead 1-0

We got another Thompson - Priske - Aldrete double play in th e4th, to get Thomas Howard and Brian Dayett to end the frame.

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

In the bottom half Robby Thompson scored on an error by Russ McGinnis. I came up after that with none out, Alan on 2nd, and Rick on 1st. We ended up safe all around on a Jose Offerman error. With one out, Chili Davis walked, pushing Alan across. We left them loaded by got a couple.

Giants lead 3-0

I made a really nice play snagging a Howard liner for the 1st out in the 7th.
The Expos got on the board that inning when Chris Sabo crossed on a Rich Gedman double.

Giants lead 3-1

I led off our half by lining out to Howard in left.

Mark Davis came in for the 9th, trying to nail down the save. I got the 1st out on a Jose Oquendo grounder. Great play. Highlight reel stuff. I then made another great play on a Dayett grounder for the 3rd out and we had the win!

I went 1 for 4 with a single but I also made some very nice defensive plays.

Back at it tomorrow!

[rpriske]

August 23rd, 1988

It is the second game of a set with the Expos, which means my family is in town!
We picked up a win yesterday and want to keep that going.

The Expos are pitching Scott Bankhead (7-12, 4.17).

The Giants have Eric Show (11-11, 3.51).

I have gone 7 for 27, or .259, against Bankhead.

I led off the home half by dropping one into short left for a single. Mike Aldrete struck out on a hit & run attempt as I got stolen base #113.
I was left there.

In the 2nd Jim Presley scored on a single by Eric. I ended the inning hitting into a double play.

Giants lead 1-0

Russ McGinnis walked to lead off the 3rd but when Bankhead tried to bunt him over, he instead hit into a Rabb - Priske - Aldrete double play.

I got the 1st out in the 5th, taking care of a Chris Sabo grounder.

I came up with one out in the 5th and flew out to Shane Mack in centre.

In the 7th John Rabb socked a solo shot to double our lead.

Giants lead 2-0

I led off the bottom of the 8th by striking out.

With one out in the 9th, Jose Oquendo reached with a single and Jim decided it was time for the closer - Mark Davis came in.
Pinch hitter Joey Cora grounded one to me... and I threw it away! Error #15 on the year!
Thankfully Jim bailed me out with a double play and we had the shut out win.

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

We finish up with the Expos tomorrow.

[rpriske]

August 24th, 1988

We finish off our series against the Expos today. We are going for the sweep.

Montreal is pitching Wally Whitehurst (8-12, 5.07).

The Giants have Willie Fraser (4-8, 3.65).

I have had good success against Whitehurst, going 5 for 11.

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

I next came up with two out in the 3rd and I struck out again!

The Expos struck first in the 4th when Doug Snyder and Brian Dayett scored on a Chris Sabo double. Sabo then scored on a Mike Maksudian sac fly.

Expos lead 3-0

We got on the board in the 5th when Brian Giles scored on a double by pinch hitter Robby Thompson.
I came up with Robby on 2nd and two out. I grounded out to Jose Oquendo at 2nd.

Expos lead 3-1

Jeff Robinson took up pitching duties for us in the 6th.

I came up with one out in the 8th and grounded out to Oquendo again.

Scott Garrelts came in to pitch the 9th.

I finally got a play that frame, handling a Russ McGinnis grounder for the 3rd out.

We were unable to score and dropped the game.

I went 0 for 4.

Disappointing all around.

It was good to visit with the family, as always, but they are heading back to Victoria tomorrow and the team is off to New York.