Rusty Priske - Future Hall of Famer

[rpriske]

April 7th, 1992

Today the Dodgers are pitching Luis Vazquez.

The Giants have rookie, Charlie Vinson Jr.

I am hitting seventh.

I took care of a Pat Listach grounder for the 1st out in the bottom of the 1st.

I came up in the 2nd with one out and Craig Grebeck on 1st. I hit one up the middle but Listach made a diving catch and then threw out Craig at 1st for the double play.
Bad luck.

We turned a Thompson - Priske - Klesko double play to end the 2nd.

I handled a Vazquez grounder for the 2nd out in the bottom of the 3rd.

On back-to-back plays I got steamrolled by Gary Sheffield and Kent Hrbek to break up double plays.
Ouch.

I led off the 5th by grounding out to Hrbek at 1st.

I caught a Phil Plantier pop for the 2nd out in the bottom of the 6th.

Right after that, Sheffield hit a solo homer.

Dodgers lead 1-0

I came up with two out in the 7th and popped out to Listach at short.

I took care of a Shawn Manuel grounder for the final out in the 7th.

In the 8th, Usama Jamal al Din scored on a Listach single.

With a man on and two out, Matt brought in Mark Ross.
Plantier immediately scored on a Sheffield double.

Dodgers lead 3-0

And that was the final.

Two games into the season and we have yet to score a run.

I went 0 for 3.

After the game we were told that Timothy McKercher was being sent to Phoenix as Alan Cockrell was being activated.

Travel day. We are going to Atlanta.

[rpriske]

April 9th, 1992

We are in Atlanta, looking for our first win - and first run - of the season.

The Braves are pitching Oil Can Boyd.

The Giants have Scott Service, making his transition to the rotation. He made two starts for us back in 1987 (when he was only 20), but has been in the pen ever since.

I am hitting sixth.

Well, we wanted out first run and we didn't have to wait long.

Jerry Browne led off the game with a single.
Ruben Sierra singled.
With one out, Ryan Klesko singled, loading the bases.
Jerry scored on a Craig Grebeck sac fly.
I singled, scoring Ruben.
Jesse Barfield hit a three-run homer.

Giants lead 5-0

In the bottom half we turned a Thompson - Priske - Klesko double play.

In the 2nd Scott scored on a single by Ruben.

Giants lead 6-0

I came up with one out in the 3rd and flew out to Gene Larkin in right.

In the 5th, Andujar Cedeno hit a solo homer.

Giants lead 6-1

I came up with one out in the 6th, now facing Scott Lewis, and flew out to Larkin again.

With two on and none out in the bottom of the 6th, Matt brought in Charles Hudson. He was only in the Bigs for a cup of coffee last year, but pitched in 47 games for the Pirates in 1990.

With one out, Jeff Blauser scored on a Larkin single.
Then Ken Griffey Jr. and Larkin scored on a Mike Scioscia double.
Cedeno homered for the second time this game to tie it up.

Matt brought in Bryan Hickerson.

I handled a Randy Ready grounder for out #2.

Game tied 6-6

We got the lead right back in the 7th when Ruben hit a two run bomb.

Giants lead 8-6

Ted Power took the ball for us in the bottom of the 7th. Ted is a 37 year old vet who was solid last year with San Diego and dominant in 1990 with the Mets.

He gave up an RBI single to Jeff Bagwell, scoring Ron Gant.

Giants lead 8-7

I came up with two out in the 8th and hit one into the left field corner for a double.
I was left there.

In the bottom of the 8th, with one out and one on, Matt brought in Jeff Russell. Jeff is an 8 year vet who led the AL in Saves last year with the Yankees. He led the NL in saves in 1989 with the Expos.

He got out of the inning.

Things were a little more dicey in the 9th. Atlanta loaded the bases with one out. Larkin hit a ground ball to me and I gunned down the man at the plate.

One more groundball and we had our first win of the season.

I went 2 for 4 with a double, a single, an RBI, and a run scored.

[rpriske]

April 10th, 1992

We got our first win. Let's make it a streak.

Today the Braves are pitching Ben McDonald.

The Giants have Rick Sutcliffe.

I am hitting sixth.

We got on the board right away as Ruben Sierra scored on a Ryan Klesko groundout to put us up int he top of the 1st.

Giants lead 1-0

I led off the 2nd by scooting one through the right side for a single.
Stolen base #2.
With one out I went to 3rd on an Alan Cockrell groundout.
I scored on a single by Rick.

Giants lead 2-0

I made a great play on a Jeff Blauser roundball for the 2nd out in the bottom of the 3rd.

But then Randy Ready scored on a Ken Griffey Jr. single.

Giants lead 2-1

I led off the 4th by blooping one into right for another single.
I went to 2nd on a Jesse Barfield single.
I went to 3rd on a double play ball by Alan.
This time I was left there.

In the bottom of the 4th, the very unexpected happened. Following an error by Ryan, which should have ended the inning, Braves pitcher Ben McDonald hit a Grand Slam.

Matt brought in Charles Hudson after that.

Braves lead 5-2

I took care of a Jeff Bagwell grounder for the 2nd out int he bottom of the 5th.
I then did the same to Gene Larkin for the 3rd out.

I came up with one out in the 6th and grounded out to Andujar Cedeno at short.

I caught a Mike Scioscia pop for the 1st out in the bottom of the 6th.

With one out and one on, Matt brought in Heathcliff Slocumb.

In the 7th he went to Bryan Hickerson.

I came up next with two out in the 8th, now facing Kelly Downs.
I flew out to Larkin in right.

In the bottom of the 8th, Scioscia scored on a Ready sac fly.

Braves lead 6-2

And that is how it ended.

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

[rpriske]

April 11th, 1992

We don't want to get back to our home opener in a big hole. We need to turn it around.

Today the Braves are pitching Danny Jackson.

The Giants have John Burkett (0-1, 1.17).

I am hitting fifth.

I made a great diving catch on a Ron Gant liner for the 1st out in the bottom of the 1st.

Before the inning was up, however, Jeff Blauser scored on a Gene Larkin single.

Braves lead 1-0

I led off the 2nd by striking out.

I next came up with one out in the 4th and drove one into right for a single.
I went to 3rd on a Craig Grebeck single plus a Larkin error.
Craig and I both scored on an Alvin Davis single.

Giants lead 2-1

I handled a Jeff Bagwell grounder for the last out in the 5th.

I then came up with one out in the 6th. I took a four pitch walk.
Stolen base #3.
I went to 3rd on a groundout by Craig, but was left there.

In the 7th Jerry Browne scored on a Robby Thompson single.

Giants lead 3-1

In the bottom of the 7th, however, Ken Griffey Jr. hit a three run homer.

With two out and a man on, Matt brought in Heathcliff Slocumb.
I got him the 3rd out off a Larkin grounder.

Braves lead 4-3

I led off the 8th, now facing Larry Casian. I drilled one to left for a single.
I went to 2nd on a groundout by Craig.
Stolen base #4.
I was left at 3rd again.

We were unable to score in the 9th and lost again.

We are 1-4.

I went 2 for 3 with a pair of singles, a walk, a run scored, and two stolen bases.

I am currently batting .412.

[rpriske]

April 12th, 1992

This is our last game before heading back for our Home Opener.

Today the Braves are pitching Tom Glavine (0-1, 5.62).

The Giants have Charlie Vinson Jr. (0-1, 3.52).

I am hitting seventh.

I made the 1st out in the bottom of the 1st, off a Ron Gant grounder.

I led off the 3rd by notching the first hit for either team - a single up the middle.
Stolen base #5.
Stolen base #6.
I scored on an Alan Cockrell sac fly.

Giants lead 1-0

I took care of a Jeff Blauser grounder for the last out in the 3rd.

I came up in the 5th with one out and Craig Grebeck on 1st.
During my plate appearance, Craig went to 2nd on a wild pitch. Then I walked.
I was thrown out on a fielder's choice by Alan, since I broke up the double play.

The 6th went well for us.

To be more accurate, it went badly for Gavin and the Braves.

Jerry Browne walked.
Ruben Sierra singled.
Robby Thompson walked, loading the bases.
Jesse Barfield walked, scoring Jerry.
Ryan Klesko struck out.
Craig walked, scoring Ruben.
I walked, scoring Robby.

Giants lead 4-0

I got the 1st out in the bottom of the 7th, dealing with a Gene Larkin grounder.

I came up in the 8th with one out and Craig on 1st.
I flew out to Larkin in right.

Matt brought in Mark Ross with one out and one on in the 9th.

Two batters later the bases were loaded and Matt brought in Jeff Russell.

Our new closer immediately gave up a Grand Slam to Mike Scoscia, tying the game.

Game tied 4-4. Going to extra innings.

We used a couple of pinch hitters in the top of the 10th, but did not score.

I led off the 11th, now facing Larry Casian.
I walked on four pitches.
I went to 2nd on a sac bunt by Alan.
I was thrown out trying to steal 3rd.

Ted Power took the ball for us in the bottom of the 11th.

We took the lead in the 12th when Ruben scored on a sac fly by Ryan.
I flew out to end the inning.

Giants lead 5-4

I got the 3rd out for Ted off a Randy Ready grounder.

We got the win, but it sure wasn't comfortable.

I went 1 for 3 with a single, three walks, a run scored, an RBI, two stolen bases, and a caught stealing.

We have an off day before our Home Opener against the Padres.

[rpriske]

April 14th, 1992

It is our home opener!

Unfortunately we have started out only 2-4.

Today the Padres are serving up David Nied (0-1, 3.38).

The Giants are going with Scott Service (0-0, 5.40).

I am hitting seventh.

I caught a David Segui pop for the 2nd out in the 2nd.

I then came up with two out in the bottom of the 2nd and popped out to Dickie Thon at short.

I got the 1st out in the 3rd off a great play on a grounder by Orlando Merced.

But then Nied and Chad Curtis scored on a Tony Gwynn double.

I got the 3rd out off a Kirt Manwaring grounder.

Padres lead 2-0

We got out first hit in the 5th when Jerry Browne singled with one out.
I came up next and struck out.

But then Jerry scored on an Alan Cockrell single and Alan scored on a pinch hit triple by Shawon Dunston!

Game tied 2-2

Bryan Hickerson took the ball for us in the 6th.

In the bottom of the 6th, Ryan Klesko scored on a Craig Grebeck
single.

Giants lead 3-2

I took care of a Nied grounder for the 2nd out in the 7th.
Then I did the same to Curtis for the 3rd.

After those two plays, I led off the bottom of the 7th by flying out to Merced in centre.

Mark Ross took the ball for us in the 8th.

I got the 2nd out behind him off a Gwynn grounder.

Robby Thompson led off the bottom of the 8th with a home run.

Giants lead 4-2

Jeff Russell came in for the save opportunity in the 9th.
I caught a sky high pinch hit pop by Dave Parker for the final out.

I was busy on defense but went 0 for 3.

[rpriske]

April 15th, 1992

It was nice to get that Home Opener win. Now let's get another pone to get us back to .500/

Today the Padres are pitching Mike Gardiner (0-0, 1.50).

The Giants have Rick Sutcliffe (0-1, 2.45).

I am hitting seventh.

We took the lead in the 1st when Robby Thompson scored on a Ryan Klesko sac fly.

Giants lead 1-0

They got it back int he top of the 2nd when Junior Felix scored on a Dickie Thon sac fly.

Game tied 1-1

I came up with one out in the 2nd and reached 2nd on a throwing error from Orlando Merced.

I was left there.

In the 4th, Kirt Manwaring scored on a Bill Pecota groundout.

Padres lead 2-1

I came up in the bottom of the 4th with one out and Jerry Browne on 1st. I walked.
Then Alan Cockrell walked, loading the bases.
Rick singled, scoring both Jerry and me.
Alan ended up scoring on a sac fly by Robby.

Giants lead 4-2

In the 5th, Eric Young scored on a Chad Curtis single.
Then Tony Gwynn singled Curtis home to tie the game.
Gwynn scored on a Manwaring single.

With two out and two on, Matt brought in Charles Hudson.
He gave up a two-run double to Pecota.

Padres lead 7-4

I came up in the bottom of the 5th with two out, Craig Grebeck on 3rd, and Jerry on 1st. I blooped one into centre for an RBI single!
Jerry and I were stranded.

Padres lead 7-5

In the 7th, Manwaring singled home Gwynn.
We turned a Priske - Thompson - Klesko double play.

Padres lead 8-5

We switched it up in the 8th and turned a Thompson - Priske - Klesko double play.

I came up with one out in the 8th, now facing Stuart Rogers. I grounded out to defensive replacement Anthony Miller at 1st.

Ted Power took over for us in the 9th.

We dropped this one, 8-5.

I went 1 for 3 with a single, a reached-on-error, a run scored, and an RBI.

[rpriske]

April 16th, 1992

We split the first two games and are trying to win the series.

Today the Padres are pitching Tim Belcher (1-1, 4.72).

The Giants have John Burkett (0-2, 3.14).

I am hitting seventh.

In the top of the 1st we turned a Thompson - Priske - Klesko double play.

We took the lead int he bottom of the inning when Bryce Bernadin crossed on a Craig Grebeck single.

Giants lead 1-0

I took care of an Eric Young grounder for the 3rd out in the 2nd.

I then led off the bottom half by flying out to Junior Felix in centre.

In the top of the 3rd, Tony Gwynn hit a two run homer.

Padres lead 2-1

In the 4th, Kirt Manwaring tripled and scored on a Bill Pecota single.
I started a Priske - Thompson - Klesko double play.
But then Pecota scored on a Belcher double.
Then he scored on a Chad Curtis single.

Padres lead 5-1

I came up in the bottom of the 4th with Craig on 2nd and Jerry Browne on 1st. I hit into a double play.

In the bottom of the 5th, Robby Thompson hit a solo homer.

Padres lead 5-2

Heathcliff Slocumb relieved for us in the 6th.

With one out in the 7th and the bases loaded, Matt went to Bryan Hickerson.
He got out of it.

I led off the bottom of the 7th by lining out to Dickie Thon at short.

Ted Power took the ball for us in the 8th.

In the bottom of the inning, Ryan Klesko scored on a sac fly by Jerry.
I came up with two out and Craig on 1st. Butch Henry was the pitcher. I singled up the middle and Craig went to 3rd.
Alan Cockrell walked to load the bases.
We were left that way.

Padres lead 5-3

Mark Ross got the nod for the 9th.

We got through that but couldn't score incur half and dropped it.

I went 1 for 4 with a single.

Last in the NL West.

The first place Reds come to town next.

[rpriske]

April 17th, 1992

Kicking off a series against the Reds.

They are pitching Jim Abbott (1-0, 1.08).

The Giants have Charlie Vinson Jr. (0-1, 2.25).

I am hitting clean-up.

I came up in the bottom of the 1st with two out and Ruben Sierra on 1st.
While I was at the plate, Ruben stole 2nd.
Then he scored as I drove a single up the middle.
Stolen base #7.
I was stranded.

Giants lead 1-0

I led off the bottom of the 4th by slapping another single up the middle.
With two out I grabbed stolen base #8.
I was left on again.

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

Then, in the 8th, I came up with two out, Jerry Browne on 2nd, and Scott Terry on the bump. Another RBI single, driving Jerry home!
Stolen base #9.
I was left at 2nd again.

Giants lead 2-0

I snagged a Paul Molitor liner for the 2nd out in the 9th.
I then started a Priske - Thompson - Davis double play to end the game.

Charlie got the shut out!

I had a heck of a game, though. I went 3 for 4 with three singles, two RBI, and three stolen bases.

[rpriske]

April 18th, 1992

We got the shutout yesterday. Let's keep it going!

Today the Reds are pitching Frank Castillo (0-0, 3.38).

The Giants have Rod Nichols making his season debut and first ML start.

I am back to hitting seventh. (Even after the great game I had, batting 4th.)

I took care of a Mark McGwire grounder for the 3rd out in the game.

We got a couple in the bottom of the 1st. Robby Thompson scored on a Bryce Bernadin single and then Ruben Sierra scored on a Ryan Klesko single.

Giants lead 2-0

In the top of the 2nd, Mariano Duncan scored on a Beau Allred single.

Giants lead 2-1

I led off the bottom of the inning by grounding out to McGwire at 1st.

In the 3rd, Carlos Baerga scored on a Paul Molitor single to tie it up.
Then Brian Harper crossed on a McGwire double.
Monitor scored on a Shawn Twillie sac fly.
Jose Uribe doubled home McGwire.

Reds lead 5-2

With a man on in the 4th, Matt brought in Charles Hudson.
Two batters later, Castillo scored on a double play.
I took care of a Molitor grounder for the 3rd out.

Reds lead 6-2

I came up with two out in the bottom of the 4th and hit a dribbler for catcher, Harper to throw me out.

With one on and two out in the 6th, Matt brought in Bryan Hickerson.
I handled a Baerga grounder for the 3rd out.

I came up with one out in the 7th and flew out to Allred in right

With one on and two out in the 8th, Matt brought in Ted Power.

In the 9th he went to Heathcliff Slocumb.

Our bullpen did a good job but we never scored so we still lost.

I went 0 for 3.

[rpriske]

April 19th, 1992

Trying to take the deciding game of the series.

Today the Reds are pitching Cal Eldred (1-1, 3.38).

The Giants have Scott Service (0-0, 4.66).

I am hitting seventh.

I got into the game right away as I handled a Carlos Baerga grounder for the first out,

In the 2nd, Dave Staton scored on a Jose Uribe groundout.
Scott later walked Baerga with the bases loaded, scoring Matt Nokes.

Reds lead 2-0

I came up in the bottom of the 2nd with two out and Jerry Browne on 1st. I grounded out to Uribe at short.

I took care of a Mark McGwire grounder for the 2nd out in the 3rd.

I then took care of an Uribe grounder for the 1st out in the 4th.

I did the same to Baerga in the 5th.

I came up with one out in the bottom of the 5th and flew out to Staton in centre.

Ted Power relieved for us in the 6th.
I caught an Uribe pop for the 3rd out behind him.

I took care of a Baerga grounder for the third time - this time for the 3rd out in the 7th.

Mark Ross took the mound for us in the 8th.

I led off the bottom of the 8th by taking a fastball off my leg.
I advanced to 3rd on an Alan Cockrell single.
I scored on a pinch hit single by Tim Naehring.
Alan and Tim ended up scoring on a Ruben Sierra single.
Ruben scored off a Ryan Klesko double.

Giants lead 4-2

Jeff Russell came in to pitch the 9th and Jesse Barfield took over in right.

Thee batters later, Jeff had the save and we had the win - and the series!

I went 0 for 2 with a hit-by-pitch and a run scored.

Now we head to Houston!

[rpriske]

April 20th, 1992

We are in the Astrodome and hoping to keep out momentum after taking the series from the Reds.

Today the Astros are pitching Chris Hammond (1-1, 5.40)

The Giants have Rick Sutcliffe (0-2, 8.64).

I am hitting seventh.

I started a Priske - Thompson - Klesko double play to get the first two outs in the bottom of the 1st.
A few batters later, though, Jay Bell hit a three-run homer.

Astros lead 3-0

I came up in the 2nd with two out and Ryan Klesko on 1st. Tony Phillips stole a hit from me with a sliding catch in centre.

In the 3rd, Rick scored on a sac fly by Ruben Sierra.

Astros lead 3-1

In the bottom of the 3rd, Jay Bell scored on a Felix Jose double.
Then Jose scored on a Daniel Williams single.

With two out and one on in the 3rd, Matt brought in Charles Hudson.
He got the out, but...

Astros lead 5-1

I came up in the 4th with one out, Ryan on 3rd, and Bryce Bernadin on 2nd. I moved them both up - scoring Ryan - on a groundout to John Olerud at 1st.
Then Bryce scored on a single by Alan Cockrell.

Astros lead 5-3

In the bottom of the 4th, Phillips hit a solo home run.

Astros lead 6-3

I came up in the 6th with two out and Bryce on 2nd. I grounded out to Roberto Alomar at 2nd.

With none out and a man on in the bottom of the 6th, Matt brought in Heathcliff Slocumb.
We immediately turned a Thompson - Priske - Klesko double play to erase the runner.
I caught a Harold Baines pop for the 3rd out.

In the 7th Alan scored on a Jerry Browne sac fly.

Astros lead 6-4

Bryan Hickerson relieved for us in the 7th.
I got the 3rd out for him off a Jay Bell grounder.

I came up in the 8th with two out, Bryce on 1st, and Richard Dotson pitching. I struck out.

I took care of a Jose grounder for the 1st out in the bottom of the 8th.
Then I did the same to Derek Bell for the 3rd out.

We could not score in the 9th and lost.

I went 0 for 4 with an RBI.

[rpriske]

April 21st, 1992

We lost the opener and need to take this one if we don't want to lose the series.

Today the Astros are pitching Pete Schourek (0-0, 1.35).

The Giants are going with John Burkett (0-3, 4.66).

I am hitting seventh.

I got the first out in the bottom of the 1st, off a Tony Phillips grounder.

With two out, Harold Baines scored on a Roberto Alomar double.

Astros lead 1-0

I came up in the 2nd with one out and Bryce Bernadin on 1st. I flew out to Phillips in centre.

Back to back doubles by Alan Cockrell and John followed, putting us ahead.

Giants lead 2-1

In the 3rd we turned a Priske - Thompson - Klesko double play to get Schourek and Phillips.

I led off the 4th by taking a walk.
I went to 3rd on a single by Alan.
With one out we both scored on a Jerry Browne triple.
Jerry scored on a Robby Thompson double and then Ryan Klesko hit a two run homer.

Giants lead 7-1

I came up next with one out in the 5th, now facing Mike Timlin. I doubled to left centre.
I was stranded.

In the 6th Jerry scored on an error.
I ended the inning by grounding out against Randy Tomlin.

Giants lead 8-1

In the bottom of the 6th, Phillips homered.
I took care of a John Olerud grounder for the 2nd out.

Giants lead 8-2

I caught a Phillips pop for the 2nd out in the bottom of the 8th.

I led off the 9th against Dave Righetti and doubled into the left field corner.
I went to 3rd on a groundout by Alan.
With two out, I scored on a single by Jerry.

Giants lead 9-2

Heathcliff Slocumb took the ball for us in the 9th.
He ended up walking two, but got the three outs and we had the win.

I went 2 for 4 with a pair of doubles, a walk, and two runs scored.

[rpriske]

April 22nd, 1992

It is the rubber game after we split the first two.

Today the Astros are pitching Victor Sanchez (3-0, 1.93).

The Giants have Charlie Vinson Jr. (1-1, 1.44).

I am leading off!

I kicked things off by reaching with an infield single.
Stolen base #10.
I went to 3rd on a groundout by Bryce Bernadin.
I was left.

I took care of a fielder's choice ball by Harold Baines for the 1st out int he bottom of the inning.
We then turned a Grebeck - Priske - Klesko double play to end it.

In the 2nd, Jerry Browne scored on an Alan Cockrell single.

Giants lead 1-0

In the bottom half, Roberto Alomar scored on a Felix Jose sac fly.

Game tied 1-1

I led off the 3rd by dropping one into shallow right for a single.
Stolen base #11 (on a missed hit & run).
I went to 3rd on a groundout by Bryce.
I was left again.

In the 3rd, Sanchez scored on a single by Baines.
Then Casey Candaele scored on a John Olerud sac fly.

Astros lead 3-1

I caught a liner by Jose and doubled Craig Biggio off 1st in the 4th.

I came up with two out in the 5th and doubled to right centre.
I scored on a Ruben Sierra single.

Astros lead 3-2

In the bottom of the 5th, Sanchez scored on a Tony Phillips single.

Astros lead 4-2

I handled a Biggio grounder for the 2nd out in the bottom of the 6th.

I came up in the 7th with one out, Tim Naehring on 2nd, and pinch hitter Robby Thompson on 1st. I hit a bloop single to left, loading the bases.
Ruben walked, scoring Tim.
Robby was cut down at the plate on a fielder's choice by Bryce.
Ryan Klesko doubled, scoring all three runners!

Giants lead 6-4

Bryan Hickerson relieved for us while Jesse Barfield replaced Bryce in a double switch.

With two out and a man on 3rd in the bottom of the 8th, Matt brought in Mark Ross.
I took care of a Biggio grounder to end the threat.

I came up with one out in the 9th and Manny Hernandez pitching. I cracked a single to right for my fifth hit of the game!
Stolen base #12.
Ruben walked.
Double steal!
I scored on an attempted fielder's choice by pinch hitter Shawon Dunston.

Giants lead 7-4

Jeff Russell came in to lock things down in the bottom of the 9th.

He allowed a couple of hits but we turned a Grebeck - Priske - Klesko double play to end the game.

We took the series against a first place team!

I was definitely the Player of the Game!

I went 5 for 5 with a double, four singles, three runs scored, and four stolen bases!

What a day!

Now we get a day off as we head home.

[rpriske]

April 24th, 1992

Home to face the Dodgers.

They are pitching Mike Boddicker (1-0, 2.00).

The Giants have Rod Nichols (0-1, 18.00).

I am batting clean-up.

With one out in the 2nd, Chili Davis hit a solo homer.
Then Howard Johnson scored on a Usama Jamal al Din single.

Dodgers lead 2-0.

I led off the bottom of the 2nd by reaching on an error by Shawn Manuel at 2nd.
I was thrown out trying to steal 2nd.

In the 3rd, Pat Listach scored on a Phil Plantier double.
I handled a Davis grounder for the 3rd out.

Dodgers lead 3-0

I led off the bottom of the 4th by hitting a liner to right for a single.
I was thrown out trying to steal again. Jamal al Din has a cannon behind the plate.

I caught a Johnson pop fly for the final out in the top of the 6th.

I then came up with two out in the bottom of the 6th and flew out to Davis in right.

Manuel led off the 7th with a homer.

With two out and a man on, Matt brought in Ted Power.
He got the 3rd out.

In the bottom of the inning, we finally got on the board when Alvin Davis homered.

Dodgers lead 4-1

Then, in the 8th, Plantier hit a two run blast.
Davis scored on a Manuel double.

With none out and two on, Matt brought in Charles Hudson.
Johnson scored on a Jamal al Din sac fly.
I made a great play to spear a Listach liner to end the assault.

Dodgers lead 8-1

Heathcliff Slocumb took the ball for us in the 9th.

I came up with one out in the bottom of the 9th and singled up the middle.
Craig Grebeck hit into a double play to end it.

Ugh.

I went 2 for 4 with a pair of singles and a pair of caught stealing, tripling my total for the season.

[rpriske]

April 25th, 1992

Hoping to bounce back from a drubbing yesterday.

Today the Dodgers are pitching Chris Haney (1-2, 5.40).

The Giants are going with Scott Service (0-0, 4.30).

I am hitting seventh.

The Dodgers got on the board int he top of the 1st when Kent Hrbek crossed on a Phil Plantier single.

Dodgers lead 1-0

I came up in the bottom of the 2nd with one out and Bryce Bernadin on 1st. I drove one up the middle for a single, sending Bryce to 3rd.
Bryce scored and I went to 3rd on a single by Scott!

Game tied 1-1

I handled a Chili Davis grounder for the 1st out in the 4th.
Howard Johnson followed with a solo home run.

Dodgers lead 2-1

I came up with two out in the bottom of the 4th and grounded out to Shawn Manuel at 2nd.

Charles Hudson relieved for us in the 5th.

I gunned down Hrbek at home plate on a Plantier fielder's choice.

I caught a Manuel pop for the 2nd out in the 6th.

We had a 15 minute rain delay in the bottom of the 6th.

After that, though, Bryce hit a two run home run!

I came up right after that, with two out, and reached on an infield single.
Stolen base #14.
I scored on an Alan Cockrell single.

Giants lead 4-2

Bryan Hickerson took the ball for us in the 7th.
Also, Jesse Barfield had hit for Charles and he stayed in to play RF, replacing Bryce.

In the 7th Ryan Klesko hit a two run blast!

Giants lead 6-2

Mark Ross took the mound for us in the 8th.

I led off the bottom of the 8th against new pitcher, Larry Andersen. I grounded out right back to him.

Jeff Russell got the nod for us in the 9th.
He allowed two base runners but no runs and we had the win!

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

After the game we found out that Charles Hudson was placed on waivers.
Pat Combs was called up tot replace him.

We just signed Charles this year and he has been pretty decent, but the team seems to be giving up on Scott Service as a starter and they needed room in the bullpen for him.

Pat has also been a reliever for us, but he was a starter in the minors.

[rpriske]

April 26th, 1992

Rubber match against the Dodgers.

L.A. is pitching Mark Langston (3-1, 2.76).

The Giants have John Burkett (1-3, 3.95).

I am hitting seventh.

In the 1st, Phil Plantier hit a one out, solo bomb.

Dodgers lead 1-0

I handled a Howard Johnson grounder for the 1st out in the 2nd.
I then did the same to Shawn Manuel for the 2nd out.

I came up in the bottom of the 2nd with two out and Bryce Bernadine on 1st.
I lined a single to left and Bryce advanced to 3rd.
We were stranded.

I came up with one out in the bottom of the 5th and popped out to Manuel at 2nd.

In the 6th, the Dodgers loaded the bases with none out but we were able to stop them from scoring.

I took care of a Pat Listach grounder for the 1st out in the 7th.

I caught a sky-high pop by Paul Sorrento for the 1st out in the 8th.

With two out and one on in the 8th, Matt brought in Mark Ross.
He got the 3rd out.

I came up with one out in the bottom of the 8th and took a walk.
I didn't get past 1st.

Ted Power came in to pitch the 9th.

John Burkett pitched a very good game, but Mark Langston pitched 8 innings of a two hit shutout, and Dennis Eckersly mopped up the rest.

I went 1 for 2 with a single and a walk.

I am hitting .403

But we are 8-10

We found out after the game that we signed a veteran pitcher to a minor league deal. Ed Whitson. He was released by the Orioles 9 days ago. We are hoping he still has something in the tank.

My family is in town for the next couple of days, as the Expos are visiting!

[rpriske]

April 27th, 1992

My family came down for a visit, though it is only a quick, two day set against the Expos.

Montreal I switching Steve Avery (2-1, 2.25)

The Giants have Charlie Vinson Jr. (2-1, 1.74)

Both pitchers have had a strong start to the season.

I am hitting seventh.

I made the first play of the game, taking care of a Sammy Sosa grounder.

I did the same to Shane Mack for the 3rd out.

The Expos opened the scoring in the 2nd when Chris Donnels scored on a Rey Sanchez double.

Expos lead 1-0

I came up with two out in the bottom of the 2nd and grounded out to Mitchell Hannahs at 2nd.

I handled a Thomas Howard grounder for the 3rd out in the 3rd.

I came up with one out in the 5th and grounded out to Scott Cooper at 1st.

I handled another Mack grounder for the 2nd out in the 6th.

I thence up in the 7th with one out, Ryan Klesko on 2nd, and pinch hitter Shawon Dunston on 1st. I walked, loading the bases.
Ryan scored on a Greg Myers sac fly, tying the game.
The other two of us were left on.

Game tied 1-1

Jesse Barfield took over in CF, replacing Shawon. Jerry Browne moved to LF, replacing Bryce Bernadin, who Shawon pinch hit for.

In the 8th, Mack scored on a Howard triple.

Expos lead 2-1

We got it back int he bottom of the inning when Robby Thompson scored on a single by Craig Grebeck.

Game tied 2-2

Jeff Russell relieved for us in the 9th.
Jesse left the game in a double switch with Jerry moving back to CF and Alan Cockrell taking over in LF.

People seemed surprised to see Alan in the OF but he is actually a really solid utility guy who can play all over. He is just usually most useful to us behind the plate.

I took care of a grounder by pinch hitter Bill Moore for the 2nd out in the 9th.

But then another pinch hitter, Reggie Sanders, homered with two out.

Expos lead 3-2

I led off against their closer, Jeff Reardon. I reached on an infield single.
I went to 3rd on a Greg Myers double.
Tim Naehring pinch hit... and blasted a three-run homer for a 5-3, walk off win!

Exciting!

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

[rpriske]

April 28th, 1992

(I accidentally simmed this one)

The Giants beat the Expos, 4-1

I went 0 for 4.

We are 10-10, 1.5 games behind the 3-way tie for 1st between the Astros, Dodgers, and Braves.

Next, the Cardinals come to town.

[rpriske]

April 29th, 1992

The Cardinals are pitching Greg Harris (2-1, 3.16)

The Giants have Rod Nichols (0-2, 9.31).

Not great.

I am hitting seventh.

In the top of the 1st we turned a Thompson - Priske - Klesko double play to get Joe Orsulak and Luis Gonzalez.

I came up in the 2nd with two out and Craig Grebeck on 1st. I flew out to Orsulak in right.

I took care of a Harris grounder for the 3rd out in the 3rd.

I caught an Orsulak pop for the 2nd out in the 4th.

The Cards opened the scoring in the 5th when David Rivera scored on a Jose Valentin single.
I started a Priske - Thompson - Klesko double play to get Valentin and Ray Martinez.

Cardinals lead 1-0

I came up in the bottom of the 5th with one out. I grounded out to Valentin at 3rd.

I made a GREAT play in the 6th, snagging a liner by Gonzalez and doubling Boggs off 3rd.

I took care of a Martinez grounder for the 1st out in the 8th.

I came up in the bottom of the 8th with Jerry Browne on 2nd. I grounded out to Valentin again.

Jeff Russell took over for us in the 8th.

Rod had a pretty great bounce back game, but we are still losing.

I handled an Ed Taubensee grounder for the 3rd out in the 9th.

But we ended up shut out, 1-0.

I went 0 for 3.