Sunday, August 31, 2008

Scratch-off Action Continues (8/31)

We have a winner! We have TWO winners! Voltaire correctly identified Louis Sockalexis as the Native American for whom the Indians eventually took their team name. Sockalexis was the first Native American to play professional baseball in the majors. Voltaire wins a 2002 Leaf Rookies and Stars Statistical Standout Paul Konerko game-used Jersey card! MMosley correctly listed the Indians with retired numbers and identified the players that go along with those numbers. For his cheating, er, searching ability, he wins a 2001 Pacific Private Stock Authentic game-used gear jersey of Rey Ordonez! Congratulations to both of you!


Round 1 Match 5 - Voltaire is up in the bottom of the fifth with two outs, a runner on third, and trailing 7-8 behind Erin. I am pretty confident that this game will end tonight. The question that has remained now for five innings is: who is going home? Voltaire sticks with his "bat 'em in order" strategy and chooses Number 10 to come to the plate. The pitcher wipes her brow. She takes the sign and throws a fastball that the batter gets a piece of but sends it foul. The 0-1 pitch comes down but it misses its mark for a ball. The 1-1 toss is hit foul into the stands. The hometown crowd is on its feet! The pitcher throws but can't find the edge of the plate and she chalks up another ball. The count is evened up with that throw. The next pitch is WAY inside, narrowly missing the batter, who spins out of the way. It's a full count in the bottom of the fifth. If the batter gets a hit or can manage a walk, he'll bring in the game-tying score. If the pitcher can find her mark, she could end the game right here.

The pitcher winds up and throws. It's an inside fastball that cuffs that batter for a called strike three! The Orioles WIN! The ORIOLES WIN! Holy cow, talk about coming down to the wire! Erin was able to keep Voltaire from scoring that runner on third, ending the game 8-7 in five innings!

That was truly an incredible game! Congratulations to both of you for putting on a GREAT show! Erin will take her Orioles (or whatever team she chooses) to play against ChrisB in Round 2. She moves on with a 2007 UD SPx Winning Materials Jim Edmonds Game-used card (serial #41/50)! Voltaire, who takes home a prize for answering the trivia question correctly, takes home a 2006 Allen & Ginter Johan Santana Game-used mini card!

Now that Round One is over, I will post scans of the game cards and prizes on Labor Day.


Round 2 Match 1 - Welcome to the bottom of the second inning here in Match1 of Round 2, where Joey and his Rangers are behind Chris(M)'s Giants three to nothing. Let's see how #20 Jeff Kunkel performs here. The Giants pitcher throws an off-speed pitch to start things off, and the batter sends it back...way back! That ball is OUTTA HERE for a lead-off home run! The Rangers are down by two as #28 David Murphy comes to the plate. The pitcher throws, and Murphy knocks the ball over the pitcher, bouncing over second base for a base hit. The game-tying run comes to the plate. A home run here and the Rangers are right back in it. And if you need to be in this position, you just might want #32 Josh Hamilton batting for you. Un-be-freakin-lieveable! Hamilton sends the ball into the upper deck for a no-out, two-run, game-tying banger!

The Giants are beside themselves. Can they pull themselves together? #15 Gerald Laird is betting they won't as he comes up to bat. The pitcher throws and the batter hits the ball to the shortstop who easily throws Laird out at first. One out, no one on base, and the score is tied at three. Joey signals for #27 Frank Catalonotto to bat next. The pitcher has lost all sense of location and ends up walking the batter in four pitches. Chris(M) is trying to keep the wheels on here. Perhaps a new pitcher should be called in. Let's see how he does against #9 Hank Blalock. He takes a deep breath. Here's the pitch. The batter swings and misses. The next pitch and Blalock checks his swing... or does he? It's called a ball, but unlike a recent similar situation which led to the ejection of a manager, the call simply stands on its own merit. The 1-1 pitch comes down and the batter swings through it for strike two. Blalock can't find the next pitch and strikes out.

That's two outs here in the bottom of the second inning. The Giants and Rangers are tied, and the Rangers have a runner on first.

Joey, feel free to select SIX BATTERS and see if they can keep your team alive here: 05, 13, 14, 16, 17, 21, 22, 25, 26, 29, 30, 31


Round 2 Match 2 - Madding leads Dayf as we go into the top of the second inning. The Cardinals have 3 runs and Dayf's Nonames have 1 run here in Round Two action. The Cardinals send in Number 16 (Chris Duncan) to lead things off. The first pitch is off the mark for a ball. The pitcher throws and gets the batter to pop the ball up to center for the first out of the inning. Number 29 (Chris Carpenter) walks up to the plate as Dayf's pitcher stares him down. Both players set. The pitcher throws. The ball is fouled off behind the plate. Carpenter gets ready for the next pitch. The pitcher hurls the ball and gets the batter swinging a pitch that is low and outside. Carpenter is not in a good position here, having fallen behind 0-2. The next pitch is fouled off and the batter stays in there. The pitcher tries a slider, but it misses for ball one. The pitcher flings the next on in there and gets Carpenter out swinging. Two outs, bases empty. Here's Number 19 (Tyler Johnson) in to try and turn things around this inning.

The first pitch to Johnson is WAY outside. Maybe the pitcher thought he was going to intentionally walk the batter. The next pitch finds it mark, though, and the batter takes strike one. The next pitch hangs just a bit too long, and Johnson sends a laser shot over the right-center field fence for a home run! The Cardinals advance their lead to three runs. After a moment of contemplation, Madding directs Number 24 (Rick Ankiel) to grab a bat. He swings at the first pitch and chops the ball out to right field for a base hit! The Cards are making a two-out showing here today, which seems to be the theme of the tournament in general. Number 27 (Ron Villone) jogs out of the dugout and steps into the batter's box. He takes a cue from Ankiel and sends the ball into the outfield for another single. That's two men on with two outs. Dayf eyes his pitcher. Should he be taken out of the game? Let's see how Number 22 (Felipe Lopez) fares against him. The pitcher throws a splitter that gets Lopez swinging, sending the ball into shallow right. The fielder grabs the ball and retires the side, but not before the Cards were able to add another run to the board.

Dayf comes up to bat next, as we head into the bottom of the second inning. He's trailing 4-1, but as we have seen plenty in this tournament, no one is ever down-and-out!

Dayf, select your SIX BATTERS: 01, 02, 04, 06, 09, 10, 14, 15, 17, 20, 23, 26, 30, 31, 32


Round 2 Match 3 - ChrisB now faces Erin's Orioles here in the 2nd round. He's already got 1 out, 1 run, and a runner on base.

ChrisB, select SIX BATTERS from all 32 except for 07, 12, and 23 (you've already played those).

Saturday, August 30, 2008

Impeding Impeachment?

Though I try hard to keep things in order and on the up-and-up, there have been a couple times during these games that my brain has lapsed, thus causing teams to appear in innings they shouldn't or to gain or lose runs for no reason whatsoever. I am hoping to keep my position as purveyor of play, though many more foul-ups and I just may be facing impeachment.


Round 1 Match 5 - Voltaire faces possible elimination here in the bottom of the fifth inning where his Brewers are trailing by four runs behind Erin's Orioles. He's decided to go straight down the line of batters, hoping they'll bring him back from the brink of banishment! Number 01 comes to the plate and the pitcher sends him back without so much as a blink. The pitcher dazzles the batter with her mad pitching skills and strikes him out. Up next, Number 03 makes an attempt to turn things around. The pitcher winds, and here's the throw.... It's a hit! The ball rockets to deep left, and the batter easily reaches second - a double. Third up is Number 06. The Orioles get ready in the field as the pitcher launches her pitch. It's a swing and a miss. The next pitch comes in high and tight for a ball. The batter takes the next pitch and watches it sail a bit outside. With the count 2-1, the pitcher has fallen behind. She comes back with a sinker that gets the batter coming up short, sending the ball foul. The 2-2 pitch blazes across the plate as the batter can't connect with it, another "K" for the pitcher.

Two outs and a runner on second, Number 07 is hoping to bring a little luck. Here's the throw... The batter swings and the good luck pours out of the bat into the ball as it soars out of the park for a two-run home run! The Brewers pull within two runs of tying the game with that hit! Just when we thought this one was over, the Brew Crew pulls a two-out two-run homer out of their hats! Number 08 does not want to be the batter that puts an end to Voltaire's tournament play. He steps in and eyes the pitcher. When the ball gets within reach, the batter sends it over the third baseman's head, bouncing in there for a double. We've got two teams here who do NOT want to give up their shot at winning the whole shebang by losing here. Number 09 has the entire first round riding on his shoulders. The pitcher offers up a nicely placed ball, and the batter takes the bait. He sends the ball FLYING deep into the right field corner. He's got an easy double, scoring the runner but he's not stopping there! The fielder throws, but the batter slides in there for a run-scoring triple!

We're now in a 7-8 game with Voltaire still up to bat. Will Erin's girls be able to stave off this attack? Can the Brewers stay in the game long enough to take the lead and finally end this match? I have no idea! Not even upping the ante to six batters at a time has pushed this game to the end. But, I have to say it has been a very exciting game!

Voltaire, go ahead and pick out SIX more spots! You have two outs and a runner on third ready to tie the game: 10, 11, 14, 17, 18, 20, 21, 24, 26, 27, 31, 32


Round 2 Match 1 - Chris(M) and Joey are in the top of the second inning where Chris(M) has taken a 1-0 lead and has a runner on third. With only one out, things could go in any direction! The Giants call in Number 10. The Rangers work a great defensive move as the batter hits the ball on the ground. The ball was heading between first and second, but the second baseman made an incredible dive, spun around on one knee and managed to throw the runner out at first. That's two outs and the runner on third is hoping to cross the plate before the third out. Number 06 enters the box for his Giants. The pitcher throws a hanging slider and the batter sends it deep to left. The runner on third scores as the batter comes up with a double. Two down, two scored, and Number 12 is ready to put the Rangers on their rears. And, unbelievably, the pitcher throws the exact same pitch as the last batter, and Number Twelve takes the clue from his teammate and HE gets all the way around the bases to third - back-to-back triples as another run scores!

The Rangers have fallen behind 3-0 here in the second inning. They've managed to get two outs against the Giants and are hoping they can end the inning here. Chris(M) sends in Number 11 for his Giants. The batter sends this one bouncing right back to the pitcher who makes the throw to to first for the out.

Joey's Rangers trail 3-0 as the come to bat in the bottom of the second inning. Let's see if they can generate some hits here!

Joey, which SIX BATTERS will you use to fight back? 05, 09, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 20, 21, 22, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32


Round 2 Match 2 - Madding leads 3-1 (I mistakenly made his three runs disappear last go-round) over Dayf. We're in the first inning and Dayf has runners on first and third with just one out in the bottom of the inning. He comes to the plate using Number 28 to get things going this evening. Madding's Cardinals get ready. The pitcher throws and the batter pops the ball up to the second baseman for out number two. Up next is Number 21 to the plate. The first pitch is fouled off into the crowd. The pitcher misses the next two pitches, getting behind in the count 2-1. The next pitch comes in a little high, but the batter goes for it anyway. It's hit deep, but it is straight-away center and the fielder pulls it in to end the inning.

Dayf could not quite get enough done in the first inning to take the lead, but he's got other chances coming up in the game. Meanwhile, Madding's Cardinals come to bat in the top of the second, leading 3-1.

Madding (now that you have your runs back), feel free to pick out your next SIX BATTERS from your Cardinals line-up: 01, 02, 04, 06, 09, 10, 14, 15, 16, 17, 19, 20, 22, 23, 24, 26, 27, 29, 30, 31, 32


Round 2 Match 3 - ChrisB is batting while he waits to see who wins the Erin/Voltaire match. So far, he's got 1 run, a runner on first, and just 1 out. Since there is not another player waiting on his selection just yet, I am not enforcing the 48-hour play selection rule. We'll catch up with ChrisB when he checks in next.


READER TRIVIA QUESTION: Okay, folks! We've got another trivia question for you! Once again, this is open to any readers who are not currently playing in the scratch-of tournament. As before, eliminated players may answer! The prize is a random game-used/auto'd card! Answer by replying to THIS post only. The question: Excluding #42, what are the seven retired numbers from the Indians, and who is represented by each of the numbers?


PLAYER TRIVIA QUESTION: Yeap, you read it right! I am giving away a game-used/auto'd card to any player CURRENTLY playing in the tournament! What player is credited for the Cleveland team calling themselves the Indians? Please respond to this post, and only answers from players currently active in the tournament can answer this one! If you've been eliminated from the tourney, please do not answer this one.

Friday, August 29, 2008

Trivia Winner and more scratch-off action! (8/29)

Motherscratcher correctly answered the trivia question: Lajoie, Speaker, and Murray are the three Indians in the 3000-hit club. For answering correctly, he gets a 2004 Bowman Futures Game-Gear jersey card of David Kelton (FG-DK)!

We are rolling right along in our matches, so let's see what happens tonight.


Round 1 Match 5 - Erin grabbed up four runs last time, taking an 8-4 lead over Voltaire. She's got two outs after a strikeout. Let's see if Number 23 can keep things going. The pitcher heaves the ball. The batter swings and sends this one deep! The fielder is back. The ball is snagged out of the air for the final out of the at-bat.

Voltaire is up next in the bottom of the fifth. Will he be able to select players that will get things done, or does this spell the end of the line for him and the end of the match for both of them?

Voltaire, select SIX PLAYERS from those left: 01, 03, 06, 07, 08, 09, 10, 11, 14, 17, 18, 20, 21, 24, 26, 27, 31, 32


Round 2 Match 1 - Chris(M) stays with his Giants as he comes to bat in the top of the second inning. Taking the players in the order they appear, he selects Number 01 to bat first. We're scoreless, but the Giants are hoping to change that. Joey's Rangers send the batter back to the dugout with a 1-2-3 strike out. Up next, Number 02 is going to give his best shot. Here's the throw... It's a shot over the first baseman's head to right field and the batter is on first with a single! The third batter is Number 03. So far, Chris(M) is batting .500 with his choice of players. Let's see if his average gets better or falls off. Here's the toss... The batter swings, sending this one deep to right center, but it takes a very odd bounce off the bottom of the wall. The runner comes all the way around to third for a run-scoring triple!

The Giants have taken the lead 1-0 against the Rangers. They've only got one out.

Chris(M), select SIX PLAYERS to send to the plate (potentially): 05, 06, 09, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 20, 21, 22, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32


Round 2 Match 2 - Dayf comes to bat, down by three runs against Madding's Cardinals. Let's see if he can bring things around here. He calls in Number 3 to take first bats. The Cardinals pitch. Number Three knocks this one deep. The throw to second is off the mark, and Dayf begins his second round with a double. Number 18 walks up to the plate. The ball is hit to shallow center, where the second baseman grabs it for the first out. All eyes turn to Number 25 to see if he'll put Dayf further ahead. Here's the pitch... It's a bunt! In what has been the bane of defenses in this tournament, the batter reaches first, sending the runner on second to third.

Dayf has runners on the corners with just one out. He is leading Madding 1-0 so far.

Dayf, you can choose SIX PLAYERS to see if your guys can keep on truckin' for you: 01, 02, 04, 06, 09, 10, 14, 15, 16, 17, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32


Round 2 Match 3 - In an unprecedented move, ChrisB is allowed to bat his players while his opponent is yet to be determined from Round One. Since we're not sure who will be pitching, we call in guests to provide the action for us. Pitching first, Mr. Bill (the clay character) will face Number 12. The batter nearly doubles over in laughter. The little clay guy throws... OH, NOOOOOO..... The batter hits the ball squarely and burns serious rubber as he turns for third. Mr. Bill rushes over to cover the base. OH, MY! The ball lands right on him, and he is squished as the ball rolls off toward the dugout. Meanwhile, Number 12 slides in safely to third for a triple. The next guest pitcher is Yosemite Sam. He draws his guns and shouts, "Sat yer prayers, batter!" He shoots a baseball out of his gun at Number 23. Unfortunately for Sam, though, he can't hit the broadside of a barn, and he sends the batter to first base on a walk. This brings he runner on third in for a run scored. ChrisB leads...someone... 1-0 with no one out. Next up to bat is Number 7 and he'll face Bob Feller. The senior-gamer sizes up the situation and assumes his signature pose as he launches the ball. The batter swings, catches the ball on a weird angle and sends the ball high into the air back to Feller who snags it.

One out. One on. One run score so far.

ChrisB, you're still up with no opponent in sight yet. Feel free to pick SIX PLAYERS to do some hitting: You have every number except the ones you just picked - 07, 12, 23...

Thursday, August 28, 2008

Extra Innings, Extra bases (8/28 update)

Welcome to day 953 of Round 1 action. :-) Just kidding! But, round 1 has lasted a whole lot longer that I ever would have bet money on. And it's a celebrity death match between Erin's Orioles and Voltaire's Brewers. In case you missed it, I upped the ante after the last set of batters. The players in Round One now get to choose SIX spots. This won't really affect the outcome, other than hopefully speed the game up a little - call it the anti-instant replay... Meanwhile, Joey has been able to keep Chris(M) from doing anything, and we're waiting to see what Dayf and his crew can do in that match!


Round 1 Match 5 - Top of the FIFTH inning! If you've been following along, you know that Erin has fought hard to remain the only female in the tournament. She brought her team back from the very brink of elimination and Voltaire has had quite a time of disposing of them! With the change in player picks, Erin comes into the inning after having chosen SIX batters. Will she be able to utilize all of them? Let's see how things go:

First up is Number 19. The pitcher releases and the lead-off batter sends this one over the fence and high into the stands for a home run! The Orioles take the lead 5-4 as Number 5 comes in to bat next. The Brewers pitcher seems a bit flustered as he gives this batter a free pass to first base with a walk. The girls are going bananas in the dugout. Number 25 pulls herself together enough to take her place at the plate. The pitcher throws, and the batter swings...no, she lays down a bunt!? The pitcher turns to throw the runner out at second but can't get there. The throw to first is.... NOT in time! That's two on with no outs. Erina calls Number 12 into the game. The pitcher regains composure and sends Twelve down swinging on strikes. One away here in the top of the fifth. We're in extra innings with the Orioles having taken a 5-4 lead. Number 2 hopes she can move those runners. There's the wind-up, the pitch, and move the runners Number Two does indeed! She sends that ball into no-man's land outta the park for a three-run homer! That's EIGHT to four in the fifth. Voltaire suddenly finds himself in the same position he had Erin in not long ago. Let's see if his pitcher can put the tourniquet on this bleeding! Player Number 29 is still dancing around as she comes up to bat. The pitcher ends the celebration with another strikeout.

That's two outs in the top of the fifth, and Erin's Orioles are STILL up to bat, leading the Brewers 8-4. The question is: How big of a lead will Erin have to maintain in order to survive an onslaught from Voltaire?

Erin, please choose SIX spots again (even though they may or may not get to bat): 01, 03, 06, 07, 08, 09, 10, 11, 14, 17, 18, 20, 21, 23, 24, 26, 27, 31, 32


READER BONUS QUESTION: First to answer (respond to this post only, no emails, do not respond to some other post, current tourney players are not eligible, however former tourney players are!) correctly gets an auto or game-used card: Who are the three Indians to have hit the 3000-hit mark?


Round 2 Match 1 - Joey is keeping his Rangers in the batting sequence with a runner on third and two outs here in the beginning of Round Two action. Next up number 19 Chris Davis comes to the plate. Chris(M) hopes his pitcher puts the squash on any base-advancing ideas Joey might have. And, sure as shootin', the pitcher gets Davis swinging for the fences but coming up empty.

Chris(M) now selects three players to come to the plate to see what they can do in the bottom of the first in front of their hometown crowd.

Chris(M), select a team name and three players: 01, 02 03, 05, 06, 09, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 20, 21, 22, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32


Round 2 Match 2 - Dayf took a beating and is down by three runs here in the first inning. He's got 24 hours to select three batters or I'll have to step in for him.

Dayf, choose THREE of your favorite players to come in for the bottom of the first: 01, 02, 03, 04, 06, 09, 10, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32


Round 2 Match 3 - ChrisB, I am going to let you go ahead and bat first in your game, even though you don't know who you're playing against yet. You are starting with a clean card, so all 32 spots are up for your choosing.

ChrisB, please select THREE players from any of the 32 spots on your card! We'll eventually have a team for you to play against! So far, Erin has done quite a job pulling ahead, but as we've seen, there are no sure things in THAT game!!


PLAYER POLL: Do you like the SIX SPOT selection method? Would you like to see ALL picks move to the pick-six format? Just respond here with your thoughts. Thanks!

Wednesday, August 27, 2008

Round Two Action continues (with some Round One thrown in for flavor!) (8/27 update)

It's hard to believe we're still watching a first-round game being played out in the tournament! We've also got two games under way in Round-Two action. There are plenty of prizes to be handed out and a surprise or two in store for those of you who surf in just to follow along! That's right, keep watching because we'll have 'fan-cam' prizes!


Round 1, Match 5 - Voltaire's Brewers are up to bat here in the bottom of the fourth inning with two outs and a runner on third. Erin's in the field, hoping to survive to the next inning. It's a game of numbers, and this time Number 28 is the number that matters. Any successful hit or a walk and this match is over. An out, and the Orioles will get a chance to take the lead. The pitcher checks the runner, takes a breath, winds up and fires. The batter catches a piece of the ball and sends it in the air to the third baseman for an inning-ending out.

We're heading to the FIFTH inning! Okay, we're changing things up a little in the interest of moving things along here. Instead of picking three spots for now on, the player at bat will pick SIX SPOTS. That way, if the at-bat is not over in three spots, we don't have to wait a whole day for the next three. Then again, anything could happen and the inning could end three-up, three-down and it'll not make a difference. Guess we'll see!

So, ERIN, your Orioles come to bat in the fifth inning. You may choose SIX NUMBERS to see if you can send your girls up the ladder: 01, 02, 03, 05, 06, 07, 08, 09, 10, 11, 12, 14, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 29, 31, 32


Round 2, Match 1 - Joey keeps his team as the Rangers, and I'm not sure if Chris(M) has decided to go with Giants, Phillies, or who just yet. :-) No matter what he calls his team, you can bet he's hoping to keep the Rangers scoreless here.

The Rangers go with #7 Pudge Rodriguez to lead off the bottom of the first inning. I-Rod swings at the first pitch and can't get anything more than the bottom edge, netting in a pop up that the second baseman easily snatches up for the first out. Next, #22 Steve Buechele, walks up to the plate. Chris(M)'s pitcher is hoping for his own easy inning. He throws, and the batter takes off running as the ball soars deep to the outfield. There is no doubt this runner will easily reach third for a triple. he Rangers put a runner in scoring position early in the game. Can they make something of it? #4 Fernando Tatis is hoping to show Joey that he really can be the player Joey hoped he would be. He swings at the ball sent his way, chucking it up into the air for another easy out.

Two outs, a runner on third, and Joey stays in the inning, but is dangerously close to getting the boot.

Joey, pick your next THREE batters from this motley crew: 01, 02 03, 05, 06, 09, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 19, 20, 21, 22, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32


Round 2, Match 2 - Madding puts on the powder blue uniforms of the 80's and sends his Cardinals to keep things rolling here in the top of the first. Dayf hasn't chimed in with his team yet (though, those of us that know him might have a guess!!).

One out, runners on the corners, and the Cardinals take 7 (Adam Kennedy), 12 (Aaron Miles) and 13 (Brendan Ryan) (if needed), referring to them as "Middle infielders on parade!" Number 7 comes to the plate, looking over his runners as he sizes up the situation. The pitcher concentrates on the sign from the catcher for a moment before throwing the ball. The batter takes a liking to this one. He comes around and connects with the ball, sending it out of the park for a three-run home run! Dayf wipes his hand across his face as Number 12 comes in to bat with a smile on his face. Being far from amused, the pitcher wipes that smile off the batter's face as he sends him down with three quick strikes.

Two outs here in the top of the first with Madding's Cardinals leading by three. Number 13 has had mixed luck in the tournament so far. Let's see which side of the coin he falls on this time. He shows the crowd his unlucky side, striking out to end the inning.

Dayf trails by a trio of runs as he brings his batters to the plate. Dayf, choose THREE of your favorite players to come in for the bottom of the first: 01, 02, 03, 04, 06, 09, 10, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32


Round 2, Match 3 - And, ChrisB has no choice but to wait it out as Erin and Voltaire duke it out in their first-round match-up. Will all this waiting work to his advantage, or will it lead to over-thinking his batting choices?

Tuesday, August 26, 2008

Round 2 and Extra Innings! (8/26 update)

Before we get rolling with the tournament, I wanted to provide a link to the entry I wrote regarding my first Indians ballgame: http://poppedinmyhead.blogspot.com/2008/08/1st-tribe-game.html. The game started off an hour and a half late due to a rain delay. Before the rain delay, Nashville Star winner Melissa Lawson sang the National Anthem! It was great! The Rangers came out and withing the first few innings had racked up a sizable lead after scoring 6 runs in one inning. But, the Tribe came back and scored 6 of their own! Then, late in the game, the Indians grabbed another run and held on to win! Now, THAT'S how to spend the first game you see of your favorite team! :-) I took a lot of pics, and not just Tribers. After all, when you've got Hamilton, Blalock, Young, and the other Ranger heroes, you HAVE to capture those guys, too! My kids had blast, and the woman in front of us threw her guts up. Does it get any better than that? (Pics are here)


We've got quite a tournament going on here! One game is still in first round action, as we enter the bottom of the fourth inning. We also have two Round Two games getting under way tonight. Don't go anywhere folks, We Live For This! :-) (to borrow from the MLB...)


Round 1, Match 5 - Erin and Voltaire have battled hard with Erin's Orioles fighting to bring the game to a tie. So far, she hasn't been able to push past the tie, but her team has not given up yet. Voltaire is ready to bat and bring in the run that will take his team to the next round of play. Let's see what happens!

Erin's pitcher readies herself to take on Number 15. She looks tired, but hopefully still has plenty of gas left to go the distance. She throws, and the batter pops the ball up to the shortstop for the first out. Can the Brewers get one passed the Orioles? Number 16 thinks he can do it. The pitcher delivers and this one is sent high into the air to the center fielder - another pop out recorded. Two down and Number 30 steps up to the plate. Can he keep things alive in extra innings, or will he give Erina another shot at breaking the tie? He swings. The ball rockets toward right and drops in there. The batter rounds second as the fielder misplays the ball. Coming in to third, the batter slides in there for a triple!

Two outs, a runner in scoring position, and the Brewers are on the verge of winning the game! Can they do it? All Erin can do is hope that Voltaire doesn't pick an advancing spot. Brewers fans are on their feet. The Orioles fans who have made the trip here are waving their orange towels.

Voltaire keeps the inning alive with that triple! Pick three more players: 01, 02, 03, 05, 06, 07, 08, 09, 10, 11, 12, 14, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 31, 32


In the second round, players can choose to keep the same team that got 'em here or they choose to play as another team. Tot choice is theirs completely!


Round 2, Game 1 - Chris(M) vs. Joey - Chris(M) decides to break out the big guns early in hopes to lead things off to a powerful start. Joey has no intentions of letting anything major happen here, so when Number 24 (Willie Mays) steps up, the pitcher doesn't even bat an eye. He hauls off three perfectly placed pitches and gets Twenty-Four hitting nothing but air, striking out the batter in one fell swoop. Joey's hometown fans erupt in approval. Unwavering, Chris(M) chooses Number 8 (Joe Morgan) to face the pitcher next. This pitcher is on FIRE! In just three more pitches, he sends Number Nine back to the dugout on three strikes. That's six strikes on six pitches. Two down and Number 23 (Tito Fuentes) comes in to get things started for his team. HOLY SMOKES! Three more pitches and this batter is sent packing. Three up and three down - nine strikes in nine pitches! Could this pitcher be heading for a no-no?? He's got two more innings to try, and Chris(M) has two more innings to shut it down.

Joey, your boys are up to bat in the first inning. Pick any of the 32 spots EXCEPT for 8, 23, and 24.


Round 2, Match 2 - Madding vs. Dayf - In a pre-game interview, Madding let it out that he'll be using a "Cardinalcentric" selection method for his batters. Now that the players can choose their teams, it seems evident that he'll choose to be the Cardinals in this round. But, you never know... As we wait to see which uniform his players put on, Madding picks Number 8 (Troy Glaus) to lead things off. Glaus smacks the ball to the wall, churning out a stand-up double. Dayf's defense is unphased by the opening hit as they prepare for the next batter. In Madding's own words, the next player up is "5 (duh)." Can Number Five move that runner? The pitcher just can't find the plate with Pujols standing there, and he walks him. That's now runners on the corners with no one out. I'm thinking Dayf likes to build the suspense. Let's hope it doesn't come back to haunt him. Madding sends up Number 11 (Jose Oquendo) to see if he can be the first to show some points on the board. The pitcher shakes his head, gives the batter a smirk, and promptly sends the batter down swinging.

We've got one out and two runners on base (1st and 3rd) in the top of the first inning.

Madding, with only one out, you've got more players to pick! Choose from any of the 32 spots EXCEPT 5, 8, or 11.


Round 2, Match 3 - ChrisB has his team warming up as they wait to see what happens in the last game of Round 1. Or maybe his players are in the clubhouse having drinks. I'm not sure which...


Remember, ALL ROUND TWO PLAYERS, please respond, letting me know which team you'd like your players to represent!

Monday, August 25, 2008

Getting the most out of it AND STARTING ROUND TWO (8/25 update)



Match 2 - Joey is up to bat in the bottom of the third. We've got no runs on the board for either team. Will Joey send this thing into extras innings like Erin's Orioles have done in the match next door, or will Joey stick it to WhiteSoxCards and charge into the next round?

Joey looks over his playcard and put his batters in order. First up, the Mariners pitcher faces Number 09. The batter sends the first pitch foul into the crowd. The next pitch is high and tight. A little too tight, and the batter gets a ball. The pitcher throws the next pitch and the batter swings, but narrowly misses. The count is 1-2. Here's the next pitch. OH! The batter goes down swinging. One out and Number 14 steps up. The Mariners pitcher decides he wants to build the suspense a little, so he gives the batter a free pass to first - he walks him. The Rangers crowd is thrilled! Bugs Bunny moonwalks on the big screen as Number 27 comes into the game. The pitcher throws. Here's the swing... It's a deep hit that bounces off the wall! The Rangers score the game-winning run as the batter gets around to third base on a triple, but it doesn't matter. This one is over in three at-bats!

Joey's Rangers put on a great show here in the third to win the game 1-0 over WhiteSoxCards' Mariners.

Joey advances to the next round, and along the way, he grabs a 2003 Fleer Focus Team Colors Jersey Edition Eric Chavez (TC-EC). WhiteSoxCards might be going home without any runs, but he won't go without any cards! He leaves the ballpark with a 2008 Upper Deck Retrospectrum Swatches jersey card from Freddy Garcia (RS-FG2)! Congratulations Joey on winning the game with a triple off the wall!


Match 5 - EXTRA INNINGS! In case you're just tuning in, welcome to Match Five where Erin's Orioles and Voltaire's Brewers are tied at four runs apiece. In the interest of fairness, I am not going to reveal the teams listed on the card selected for extra innings. Both teams will play the same teams they have been using for the whole match.

The Orioles have a runner on first with no outs. Erin calls up Number 22 to the plate. The Brewers pitcher looks like he's ready to put this one to bed (the game, not the batter!). He throws. The batter swings, and she pops the ball up into the air above the second baseman. He catches it, giving the Orioles their first out of the inning. Perhaps Erin saw the 4-4 tie in the fourth inning as a good sign, because she is sending Number 4 into the game. Voltaire's pitchers winds up and throws. Number Four sends this one deep, deep to right field! This one could be a goner... NO! The Brewers snag the ball, robbing the O's of a two-run homer. The fielder keeps the runner in check. That's two down with a runner still hanging out at first. Number 4 did not prove to be lucky, so let's see if Number 13 can bring a little to the plate. The pitcher throws, sending the batter down swinging in a 1-2-3 pitch strikeout, ending the top of the fourth.

Still tied at 4-4, Voltaire comes in to see if HE can bring this train to a screeching halt.

Voltaire, pick three players. All 32 spots are up for grabs EXCEPT 04, 13, and 22.


Let's keep things moving along in the other games! We've got five players that have advanced to Round Two: Joey, ChrisB, Dayf, Chris(M), and Madding. In a random seeding, these players will now pair up for the second round of scratch-off action while we wait to see what happens with the Orioles and Brewers:

Round 2, Match 1 - Chris(M) will face Joey.

Round 2, Match 2 - Madding will play against Dayf.

Round 2, Match 3 - ChrisB will face either Erin or Voltaire.



Okay, Round Two players, let's have some picks! Chris(M) and Madding, you've each got 32 spots on your cards to pick from (My English teacher is having a stroke with all those prep phrases! LOL). You have clean slates - let's see how dirty you can make 'em!

Sunday, August 24, 2008

The End Of Round 1? (8/24 update)

We are down to two active matches left in the first round of play. The players moving on in the tourney are anxiously waiting to see who they will play against next! Well, maybe they're waiting anxiously... Maybe they're just waiting... In either case, let's see what happens in tonight's action!


Match 2 - All right, folks, WhiteSoxCards is up to bat in the top of the third inning with two outs. He's got a runner on first. Number 18 comes up to the plate. Here's the pitch. After the hiatus, the Mariners were hoping to be to the first to show runs on the board, but the Rangers pitcher squashes their dreams by getting the batter to pop the ball into the air to the right fielder for the final out.

Can Joey's Rangers do enough in the bottom of the third to prevent extra innings or will WhiteSoxCards' Mariners keep the home team scoreless?

Joey, you're up to bat in the bottom of the third. You have the task of putting the remaining batters into the final batting order of the inning (well, maybe the final at-bat): 06, 09, 10, 14, 16, 25, 26, 27, 32


Match 5 - We've reached the bottom of the third here in this match, where Erin's Orioles have tied the game at 4 runs, forcing Voltaire's Brewers to break the tie and win the game. The Brewers are playing their remaining batters in numerical order. Erin's hoping for three-up and three-down, while Voltaire is hoping to end this quickly. Number 06 comes to the plate as the Brewers fans begin makin' some noise. The Orioles are playing deep. The pitcher throws her best stuff. Here's the swing. It's a high fly ball. It's going deep! The fielder is back to the track. He steps back to the wall, and the ball falls short of a home run. The home crowd BOOS as the defense gets the ball back to the pitcher. The Orioles fans here today cheer and applaud the effort. Number 09 steps up and adjusts his helmet. The pitcher throws. The batter hits it deep to left-center. The fielder makes the throw to second, but the runner is in there sliding for a double. The game-winning run is standing on second as Number 18 comes to bat. The crowd explodes in whistles, applause, and cheers. The noise is too much for the pitcher, and he WALKS the batter. There are now runners on the corners (remember, Wii rules...) with one out. Erin goes out to the mound to talk to her pitcher. The pitcher nods, signalling that she feels confident that she can get the Orioles out of this. Satisfied, Erin heads back to the dugout and the Brewers send Number 19 to the plate. The pitcher takes her sign and throws. The batter swings, sending the ball high int the air just behind the catcher. The catcher tosses her mask, puts out her glove, and snags the ball for the second out. Two outs, two runners on base, and only two batters left in the Brewers arsenal. This is make or break. Any hit wins the game for Voltaire. An out, and we go to extras innings. Here's Number 22 up to bat with all the pressure on him. The pitcher winds. She heaves the ball toward the plate. The batter swings. Every runner takes off. The batter swings and he POPS the ball in the air, where the first baseman catches it to end the third inning! We're going to EXTRA INNINGS!

Since there is only one space left on this card, I will scratch it off as Erin's first play of the 4th inning. Number 32 comes in to see if she can lead her Orioles on to Round two. The pitcher sends the ball to the plate. Thirty-two swings and drops the ball into short left-center for a SINGLE.

Both teams are fighting to keep the other team from scoring. We're in the top of the fourth inning, where Erin's Orioles have put a runner on first with no one out. Voltaire's Brewers couldn't make enough things happen in the last inning and are hanging on tight.

Erin, you have a NEW, FULL card to pick from! All 32 spots are up for grabs, so pick three batters and we'll see how your girls do with a runner on base.


The players that have already battled their way to the next round are: ChrisB, Dayf, Chris(M), and Madding! Way to go!

Friday, August 22, 2008

Drawing Conclusions (Round 1, 8/22 update)

I think it's safe to say that most of the matches here are very likely to end tonight. It's been very crazy around here with the scoreboard in some games doing so many flip-flops we may need Dramamine! I hope the rest of the rounds are as exciting as the first has been! Let's get ready to scratchoff!! - er, uh, PLAY BALL! I've moved previously completed games to the bottom of post to make it easier to follow along with the matches in progress.


Match 2 - Both defenses have been strong in this match, not allowing the other team to score at all. Joey's Rangers have kept WhiteSoxCards' Mariners at bay so far, but can they keep their end of the shutout alive? The Mariners don't think so. Number 28 grabs a bat and gets ready for some action. The pitcher hurls the first pitch. Twenty-Eight hits the ball and it bounces to the second baseman, whose throw to first gets there in plenty of time. That's one away here in the third. WhiteSoxCards hasn't figured out a viable strategy yet for getting some runs on the board. All he can do right now is wait and see what Number 19 can do. As the ball crosses the plate, he hits it deep, but the fielder is there as the ball bounces to limit things to a single. One on, One out. And up next, Number One-One. Someone in the crowd yells out, "won-won-won-Wonder Wheels!" I think he's a few too many. The pitcher shakes it off, sets, and rips one toward the plate. The batter swings and misses. Two more pitches and two more misses. Number 11 goes down on strikes.

Two outs, a runner on, and still no score here in the top of third for WhiteSoxCards.

Okay, WhiteSoxCards, pick three more players who you think will get the job done for you. Remember, we're taking a break on Saturday, so take your time... 06, 09, 10, 14, 16, 18, 25, 26, 27, 32


Match 3 - TasteLikeDirt leads 4-2 as he prepares his fielders for what may prove to be the Blue Jays' last bat. ChrisB is hoping to put on a great show for the hometown crowd. He's got plenty of batters to choose from. His first choice is Number 17. We've not seen this player bat yet, so let's see what he's got. The pitcher goes into motion and sends the pitch. It's just off the plate for a ball. I don't know if it's last-inning nerves or what, but he manages to WALK the first batter. Up next, Number 24 is hoping to capitalize on the situation. Unfortunately for the Jays, the batter grounds out to the second baseman. We still have a runner on first as Number 19 eases up to the plate. Is the two-run difference too much to overcome? We won't know for sure, and we won't find out now. The pitcher loses control of the pitch and Nineteen hits it into deep left, where it takes a Braves bounce to limit the hit to a single. That's two runners on for Number 18. The game-winning run stands at the plate. The Braves have a long way to go with only one out chalked up for their defense. Here's the pitch.... The batter takes a swing and he sends it deep. The crowd roars as the place comes to its feet. This ball is going, going, and it is..... GONE! The Jays manage to pull of a last-minute victory!!

ChrisB leads his team to a first-round win. Not only does he advance to the next round, but he gets a 2008 Tristar Projections Auto'd Grant Desme card (#18/50). According to the card, he was a 74th pick in 2007 for the A's. And, what appears to be an "Oakland A's" night, TasteLikeDirt pulls a 2001 Best of Fan Club 2002 Master Artists Marquee Pitch (Master Curveball) Barry Zito game-used card (#037/150, card number is A-1) (and what a mouthful THAT card is! Yeesh!).

Congratulations on an AMAZING COMEBACK, ChrisB! Good luck in the next round! TasteLikeDirt, you put up a great fight.


Match 5 - Erin has rallied her girls into tying the game at four runs with Voltaire's Brewers. She's got two outs and the bases are empty after the last home run. She calls up Number 28 to see if she can add more runs to the scoreboard here in the top of the third. The pitcher throws and the batter sends it off foul into the stands. The second pitch comes in fast and low for a called strike. The pitcher shakes off the first sign. He takes the next one and throws a slider that the batter just can't get hold of, and she strikes out to end the inning. But, Erin's Orioles managed to tie the game, forcing Voltaire to keep on batting.

Going into the bottom of the third, we're tied at four apiece. If the Orioles can hold off the Brewers, we'll see extra innings. The Brewers will try to use all the batters they can to win the game.

Voltaire, as with the other matches, since you have last bats, you get to choose which order you'd like all of the remaining batters to bat. Remember, we're off on Saturday, so take your time choosing your batting order: 06, 09, 18, 19, 22, 32


Match 6 - There is no smack talk from Kevin as his Marlins come into the final inning, losing 6-3 to Dayf's Rockies. I can't help but make an allusion to fish swimming upstream in the mountains here.... This will either be one incredible showing, or it will be quick and painless. Well, maybe not painless... Kevin sends Number 29 to the plate. The batter knocks the ball in there for a lead-off double to get things started! The pitcher shrugs it off as Number 26 comes to the batter's box. Here's the pitch... Twenty-Six makes it easy for Dayf's infield as he hits the ball straight to the first baseman for an easy ground out. One man on base, One out. Four batters remain in the dugout. Number 12 steps out and approaches the plate. He fidgets with the bat as he waits for the pitch. Will he settle down enough to hit? Holy cow! Not only does he settle down, he sends the ball into the far corner, where it bounces off the wall. The fielder can't match the runner's speed and he reaches third on the play. A run scores, bringing the score to 6-4 with one out. Dayf gets the news of the outcome from the ChrisB-TasteLikeDirt game. He's hoping the same thing doesn't happen to his Rockies. Kevin looks down the list and tells Number 14 to get up there and bring the runner home. The pitcher throws, and when the batter connects with the ball, he sends it high and deep. It runs out of gas, though, and falls into the waiting glove of the center fielder. Two outs, two batters left. If Kevin can tie the game, we'll see extra innings. It all comes down to these last two guys. Number 17 comes to the plate, knowing the future of his team is riding on his at-bat. The pitcher sets, glances at the runner on third, turns to the plate and throws. Seventeen takes one look at the ball and in what can only be described as some bizarre aligning of the planets, he hits a triple to bring the runner in for a score! The Marlins are now within one run of tying the game and the possible game-winner is walking up to the plate. The final batter of the scratchcard, Number 30, takes his place. Will the Rockies end things here and take their team to the next round? Will the Marlins bring in the runner on third to tie? Can the Marlins knock the ball out of the park and overtake the Rockies to win? There's only one way to find out... The pitcher throws. The hometown crowd jumps to their feet. The batter hits the ball! It's a high fly ball. Is it far enough? NO! It falls into the waiting glove of the right fielder for a pop out to end the game!

The Rockies manage to keep their lead and win the game! Congratulations to Dayf and his team for hanging on until the very last batter of the game to grab the victory and move forward in tournament play. Dayf also receives a 2001 Upper Deck Game-used base from SAFECO field that is embedded into an Andruw Jones card. (Really, totally random!) Kevin may be out of the tournament after a great last inning effort, but he gets to keep a 2000 Fleer Autographics Ryan Minor Auto'd card. Both players drew cards from the teams they collect - very cool! Actually, several players have managed to pull cards of teams they collect! Sweet!


Match 1 - Madding advances to round two after winning his match.


Match 4 - Chris(M) advances to round two after winning his match.

Thursday, August 21, 2008

Winding Down Round One

We've had our first winner (and first elimination) here in the scratch-off tournament. Prizes are already being handed out, and I've received questions as to the determination of prize distribution. Fair enough question, I think. :-) It's a very scientific process. I have a pile of game-used and auto'd cards. I reach in and pull out a card. The first card goes to the winner of the match, and the second card goes to the eliminated player. The cards are then shuffled up before the next draw. Of course, the more games a player wins, the more cards he or she gets throughout the tourney.


Match 1 between Madding and MMosley ended with Madding moving on to the next round of play!


Match 2 - Joey has a runner on with two outs in the bottom of the 2nd inning. WhiteSoxCards takes the field. First up for the Rangers is Number 30. The pitcher manages to throw four balls in four straight pitches, sending the batter to first. With runners on first and second, the pitcher is hoping to lure the Rangers into an easy out. WhiteSoxCards watches from the railing of the dugout as Joey sends Number 20 up to bat. Here's the pitch... The batter pops this one up to the second baseman to retire the side.

WhiteSoxCards comes up in the top of third. Can his Mariners grab a few runs in what could be their last at bat? Joey's got his defense ready to take on anything WhiteSoxCards smacks their way.

WhiteSoxCards can choose from an extensive list of batters: 06, 09, 10, 11, 14, 16, 18, 19, 25, 26, 27, 28, 32


Match 3 - Somewhere in the game yesterday, I switched TasteLikeDirt to WhiteSoxCards. Luckily, the players were paying more attention than I was, and TasteLikeDirt is the correct player in this match. He's got two outs in the top of third and leads 4-2. He looks over the motley crew of batters left, and selects Number 05 to get off the bench and do something productive. Let's see if #05 earns his keep... The pitcher throws and Five hits this one to deep left field, getting an easy double! ChrisB watches as his hopes of winning are slowly being ground down. Number 10 jumps up off the bench before anyone else can and he heads for the plate. The pitcher loses all control of his location and ends up walking the batter! Since we're playing by "Wii Sports Baseball" rules, the runner on 2nd advances to third. I know, it's a weird thing, but here, it's no different than a single. Hey, I don't make the rules, I just...er, wait, I *DO* make the rules... Well, fancy that. Regardless, TasteLikeDirt is on the verge of scoring another run. With two outs, can Number 11 bring 'em home or will he bring an end to a great showing by his Braves? The pitcher heaves the ball and the batter chokes on it, sending it flying through the air to the center fielder for the final out of his at-bat.

ChrisB has a long way to go to bring his Blue Jays to victory. TasteLikeDirt doesn't want to hear the "C" word, but he can't deny that it is a distinct possibility...

ChrisB, you're last bats, so you can play all of the batters (assuming your team lasts long enough to do so) available. Just put them in the order you want them to bat: 14, 17, 18, 19, 24, 26, 29


Match 4 - Motherscratcher comes to bat in what could prove to be his last showing in the tournament. He's down 5-2 and decides to take the Looney Tunes route by having one player do it all. As Motherscratcher said, "it worked for Bugs Bunny..." So, we will have George Brett batting in all of the remaining plate appearances. Let's start with George #19. Things do not start off well as Chris(M)'s White Sox get George to pop the ball into the air for an out. They are two away from putting the Royals out of the tourney. Next, we have George #28 coming up to bat. The Royals can't seem to get things together and they WALK him. Hmm, since he is playing all the batters, does that mean he puts a 'ghost man' on first? Well, in any case, George Brett #31 takes a stand at the plate. The White Sox aren't letting THIS George walk. In fact, the pitcher doesn't even let him HIT! He goes down on strikes. Two outs with a runner on first. George #14 is up next with all eyes on him. The crowd gets to their feet, trying to see if this George can kick up some of that scratchoff dust. Unfortunately for the Royals, he smacks the ball to the second baseman for an easy ground out, ending the game.

Chris(M)'s White Sox charge onto the field and celebrate their victory! Motherscratcher's Royals decide to hang around and sign some autographs for the fans. Chris(M) receives a 2004 Upper Deck USA Game-Used Mark Prior (GU-MP #504/550) and will continue on to the next round. Motherscratcher leaves us with a 2001 Pacific Private Stock Game-Used Gear Masato Yoshii (#65).


Match 5 - The Orioles (Erin) have been on a roll here in the third, reducing the Brewers lead to a score of 4-2. They've got one out and have just come off a two-run homer. Number 27 looks like she could take on the world about now. With only one out, there is really very little pressure on her. She looks relaxed and ready. The pitcher seems tense after the two-banger, but he has a job to do here. He throws and the batter hits a long fly ball toward center. The fielder is under it and makes an easy grab. That's two outs now. The Brew Crew home crowd get to their feet. The applause and cheering is deafening. How will this affect Number 11's turn to bat? She swings at the first pitch and sends it foul. The crowd quiets after that one. The next pitch is a strike and the crowd gets into it again. Two outs, two strikes. Here's the pitch and the batter.... lays down a bunt!? Now this is not something you see everyday! In fact, the defense is completely unprepared for this move and she easily reaches first base. Number 29 exits the dugout and takes her place. The Brewers pitcher could very well throw the ball at the batter after being duped on that last one. Let's hope that doesn't happen. He winds, pitches, and the only thing getting hit this time is the ball. The batter knocks this one out of the park for ANOTHER two-run dinger! Erin's Orioles have TIED THE GAME! Maybe she should have asked her girls not to embarrass her earlier in the game!

The game is tied at four each. Orioles have two outs. Brewers are shaking their heads.

Erin, your girls have been making quite a showing here late in the game! Which three batters would you like to try next? 06, 09, 18, 19, 22, 28, 32


Match 6 - Dayf is leading by a run. At the end of the last set of batters, my brain short-circuited. Evidently, I was having a rough night last night! It's the top of third. Dayf leads 4-3. We've got two outs and a runner on first. Sorry for the confusion last go-round - that's what I get for trying to update when the kids are still awake! Dayf directs Number 25 to take on the Marlins' pitcher. Evidently, Dayf's Rockies have been taking notes from Erin's Orioles... The batter sends a line drive over the fence for a two-run home run! There is no doubt here - Dayf extends his lead to three: 6-3 in the third. Kevin clings to the possibility of getting back in this game. Batter Number 15 has his own thoughts on the subject. However, when he swings, he knocks the ball back to the pitcher who fields it cleanly and retires the side.

Dayf leads 6-3 as Kevin brings in the rest of his Marlins.

Since Kevin bats last, he can simply put these guys in the order he'd like them to appear: 12, 14, 17, 26, 29, 30


I will be posting scans of the gamecards and the prizes when all the first round matches are complete. If the first round is not over by Saturday, there will be NO GAMES updated on Saturday, since I will be at the Indians-Rangers game in Arlington!! WAHOO!! :-)

Wednesday, August 20, 2008

Round 1 and going strong (8/20 update)

Since my last two posts about someone being eliminated blew up in my face, I thought I'd try a little reverse psychology. :-) Yesterday, we saw several teams mount dramatic comebacks as others held on just to stay in the game. Who will go home, who will move on to the next round? How many licks does it take to get to the center of a Tootsie Roll Tootsie Pop? The world may never know....


Match 1 - We're here in the bottom of the third. MMosley watched his team fall behind 5-2 to Madding in the top of the inning. The Blue Jays get last bats, so all of the remaining batters go to them. The big question: Will MMosley get to play them all? Madding is hoping the answer is "no." The Blue Jays send Number 28 to the plate for first bats. The pressure is on. Let's see how he handles it. The pitcher comes over the top, sending the ball screaming to the plate. Twenty-Eight swings his bat around, makes contact, and sends this ball out of the park! A home run! The hometown crowd is going crazy here. Number 19 comes to the plate with his team now trailing by one less run. Madding wipes his palm across his face in frustration with his pitcher. Not bothered at all, the pitcher winds up and releases. The batter tries to duplicate his teammate's feat, but he misses the ball - strike one. The next pitch comes in just missing the outside corner for a ball. One-and-one, the count. Here's the pitch, and the batter fouls it off into the crowd. One ball, two strikes. The next pitch misses high. With two balls and two strikes, the batter needs to be careful here. Here comes the pitch.... And the batter goes down swinging. That's the first out. Madding seems pleased with this set of pitches, but he would really like to see his pitcher put this one away for good.

MMosely calls Number 16 to bat next. The pitcher chucks the ball, and the batter connects. He clears second base and reaches third on a slide, in what has become something of a staple in these first-round games: a late triple! The Blue Jays have one man on with one out. There are two batter spots left on this card. Can the Jays make productive use of them? Let's find out how Number 18 answers the call. The pitcher winds up, throws, and watches as the batter sends the ball straight up the third base line to the waiting baseman who sends the ball to first for the easy ground out. Two outs, down by two, and a runner on third. It has all come down to Number 32. The last batter, who happens to sport the last number, has it all riding on him. What is he going to do here? The crowd is on their feet. Here's the pitch. The batter swings and hits the ball high and deep! The right fielder turns, running for the wall. The ball is back, but is it high enough to clear the wall? The fielder climbs the wall, leaping outstretched as far as he can. He reaches.... And CATCHES THE BALL for the final out! HO-LY COW! What a play!

Madding's A's rush onto the field and congratulate each other on an incredible first round. The Blue Jays head into the locker room, the first team eliminated from the scratch-off tournament. MMosely will not go home empty-handed, however. MMosley receives a 2001 Leaf Limited Rookie Game-Used pants card of Mets' Alex Escobar (#064/650).

Congratulations to Madding who receives a 1999 Skybox Autographics Cardinals' Luis Saturria, PLUS he moves on to the next round!


Match 2 - Welcome to the bottom of the second inning in this match-up between WhiteSoxCards' Mariners and Joey's Rangers. Neither team has been able to generate any runs, but as we have seen, that can change with the simple scratch of a coin. As Joey pondered his choices, he used the following rationale: "Alright, lets go with my favorite number 7, my softball jersey number 15 chosen in honor of Thurman Munson and a random number 22." So, he leads off the bottom of the second with Lucky Number 07. Let's see if Joey still feels the same way about the number after this at-bat... The pitcher winds-up comes around and releases. The batter swings, popping the ball up into the air. WhiteSoxCards' defense easily makes the grab, keeping the score at nothing-nothing. Next up is Number 15 to see if a connection between baseball and softball leads to points on the board. The pitcher checks his sign and gives the nod. He sets. Here's the wind-up. The pitch is fouled off. The batter gets ready for the next pitch. It's a heater that blows right by him for a called strike. As the players prepare for the next pitch, the home crowd begins to chant, trying to rally the batter into making something happen. Here's the pitch. The batter swings and misses. That's a strikeout for the pitcher, and that makes two outs for the Rangers. Will their next player be able to keep the team alive here, or will WhiteSoxCards be the one to pick the next batters? Joey closes his eyes, spins around, and stops at Number 22. The batter looks ready to knock one out of the park, but let's see if he can pull it off. The pitcher takes a breath and throws the pitch. Number 22 swings the bat and makes solid contact! He sends the ball into the air and it drops into the gap for a base hit.

Joey has a runner on with two outs in the bottom of the 2nd inning. We're still scoreless her, but things have got to turn around soon, I'm sure.

Joey is still up to bat, and has a plethora of players to pick from, people: 06, 09, 10, 11, 14, 16, 18, 19, 20, 25, 26, 27, 28, 30, 32


Match 3 - We've got a tied game in this match, too, folks. Only here, the score is 2-2. TasteLikeDirt is still up to bat in the top of third. He's got a man on third and no one out. ChrisB has got to stop the comeback and then get things going for his team if he expects to pull this off. TasteLikeDirt's Braves send in Number 02 to see if he can keep the outless streak running. The pitcher checks the runner (though we all know he's not allowed to steal...), and here's the pitch. The batter swings hard and connects with the ball. Unfortunately, this one doesn't even make past the pitcher's mound, and the pitcher catches the pop out. That's one down here in the third. Up next is Number 23. ChrisB looks pretty confident as he watches to see what his pitcher is going to do. The pitcher throws and everyone in the house watches as the ball soars deep into stands for a two-run homer! The Braves take the lead 4-2 with one out. The home crowd boos the Jays' pitcher as Number 32 comes up to the plate. The batter gives a little wave to the crowd, taunting them a bit. He gets into the box, and the pitcher brings his arm back, and launches the ball. The batter swings around, but misses the pitch. The next pitch gets the batter swinging as well, and this does not look for the Braves. They've got two outs, but they lead by two as well.

We're here in the top of the third inning with two outs. WhiteSoxCards leads ChrisB 4-2 with no one on base. There are fewer and fewer batters to choose from.

Will WhiteSoxCards be able to pick his next three batters to extend the lead, or will they end the inning and turn it over to ChrisB? WhiteSoxCards can choose three of the these guys: 05, 10, 11, 14, 17, 18, 19, 24, 26, 29


Match 4 - We're watching quite a game develop here in Match 4. Chris(M) has taken an incredible 5-1 lead over Motherscratcher. There's one out as we wait to see who Chris(M) brings into the game. He looks over the player list, and chooses Number 03 to bat next. Will the White Sox keep slamming the Royals, or can the Royals put a cork in this? The pitcher gathers himself, but appears completely deflated. Here's his pitch. The batter swings and sends this ball sky-high! Too bad it doesn't have any distance whatsoever. The Royals easily catch the pop fly for an out. That's two outs with no one base. Number 09 steps in for the next pitch. The pitcher sends a curve ball down the lane and the batter stares at it, letting it go by for a strike. The next pitch is a low fastball that the batter can't catch up with, and he swings for strike two. The batter fouls the next pitch off into the stands. The pitcher is ahead of the batter 0-2. Here's a changeup that the batter gets a piece of and sends out into the stands. He's keeping alive with these foul balls, but how long can he keep doing that? The next pitch is high for a ball. The catcher calls a timeout and heads to the mound for a little conversation. The batter adjusts his glove and gets ready to bat again. The Royals make a defensive shift as the pitcher prepares his next throw. He takes the sign. Here's the throw... The batter swings just over the ball and strikes out to end the inning!

We are heading for the bottom of the third and the Royals have a LONG way to go, trailing the White Sox 5-2. Can Motherscratcher put Chris(M) out of the tournament, or will Chris(M) seal the fate of his adversary?

Motherscratcher has last bats and is losing, so he will get to possibly play all the remaining batters. Choose all the players, putting them in the order you'd like them to bat: 14, 19, 23, 28, 31


Match 5 - Erin says she is crossing her fingers in hopes that her girls don't embarrass her, though even she admits it may too late for that. Voltaire sure hopes so. His Brewers lead 4-0 as we head into the third inning. Will he spell the end of the line for the girls? Or will the Oriole girls be the darlings of the game? Erin calls in "Sweet Sixteen" to bat first. As Number 16 comes to bat, the pitcher stares her down. Undaunted, she swings the bat a couple times, and waits for the pitch. It comes in as a low slider that the batter tries to hit, but she only catches the space between the bat and the ball. Strike one. The next pitch comes in and it's another strike. Erin looks on, almost sensing what is coming next. And sure enough, Voltaire's pitcher sends the batter down swinging. That's one away. Erin calls up Number 05 next. In blackjack, she'd have twenty-one and win the hand. Let's see if Number Five can bring some luck to the Orioles batting. The pitcher comes around and throws a fastball inside. The batter swings and catches enough of the ball to send it over the first baseman's head for a single! And, as if Erin WAS playing blackjack, she points to Number 21 to get in the game. The question is whether Twenty-One will be a hit or a bust. Will she move that runner and keep things alive for the O's, or will she bring the Brewers one out closer to victory? The pitcher, looking for the latter, winds up and throws. The batter swings. She connects! The ball goes flying deep toward the centerfield, but has no chance of being caught by anyone other than a lucky fan sitting in the bleachers! Lucky 21 knocks a two-run home run!

The Orioles pull within two runs and have only one out. Voltaire is not happy about this development, but still has confidence that his defense will get them out of this game with a victory.

Erin's girls have done anything but embarrass her here in the top of third. Who she chooses now could mean the difference between an incredible comeback or an agonizing defeat: 06, 09, 11, 18, 19, 22, 27, 28, 29, 32


Match 6 - Dayf brings his crew into the third inning, leading the game by one run. Can Kevin end the game here and move on to the next round, or will Dayf mull some magic out of that old black hat? He sends in Number 11 to get things started. The Marlins pitcher misses outside for ball one. The batter lays off the next one, and it misses low. The pitcher takes a moment to regroup. He fires in the next pitch and it's fouled off. The count is 2-and-1. Here's the pitch... Swing and a miss! The batter steps out of the box for a second and gets ready for the next pitch. Here's the wind-up and the pitch... It sails high for another ball. Full count with no outs and nobody on base. The pitcher takes the sign. The batter sets in for the pitch. The pitcher throws and the ball misses inside, sending the batter to first on an inning-opening walk. The Rockies have a man on as Dayf calls Number 28 to the plate. Will Twenty-eight be able to move that runner or will he go back to the dugout? Here's the first pitch. Strike one. The pitcher gets the ball. Here's the pitch - a high foul ball into the first base crowd. The pitcher is ready with an 0-2 count. He winds, throws, and catches the batter looking. Strike three! That's one out with one on as the Rockies trail 4-3. Dayf has secured at least one more batter in the inning. Let's see if he'll get to send more than one additional player after this set. He's hoping that Number 09 can get things rolling here. Unfortunately for the Rockies, the Marlins pitcher gets Number Nine to pop the ball right to the shortstop for an easy out.

Top of the third, two outs, and a runner on first. Can Dayf make something happen here folks? Will he force the Marlins to bat in the bottom of the inning, or will Kevin's crew put the nail in the coffin? We'll find out soon!

Dayf has plenty of players to choose from, but which ones will pull him out of this? He'll pick three from these: 12, 14, 15, 17, 25, 26, 29, 30

Tuesday, August 19, 2008

Round One - Okay, seriously, I think someone's going home (8/19 update)

Let me start off by stating that Voltaire is correct. In his match with Erin, we are in the bottom of the 2nd, not the top of 3rd inning. Voltaire's the home team, I just got confuzzed.. :-)

In light of recent developments, I have to make a rule addition. There is actually a chance that a card could run out of spaces before a game actually ends (that is, before the last at-bat gets three outs), so if that happens, I will get another card to finish out the inning. The player will choose spots until the final out is played.


Match 1 - Madding's Athletics took over the lead yesterday, and remain at bat with 2 outs. Can MMosley's Blue Jays fend off the 3-2 game? Can Mosely bring in the runner on 2nd before ending the inning? Let's find out! Madding calls Ken Boyer (Number 14) to the plate. The pitcher takes a deep breath and sets up for the pitch. He takes the sign, nods, and throws the ball. Boyer swings and sends a ground ball up the middle for a single. That's runners on the corners with two down. Number 21 (Jason LaRue) comes to the plate, hoping his 'stache will distract the pitcher into giving up another run or two. MMosley looks like he is about to wring the pitcher's neck. The pitcher winds up and throws. LaRue sends the ball careening off the right field wall and pulls a triple out of the at-bat! That scores two runners, making the score 5-2 in the top of third. What was supposed to be Maddings bg send off has become MMosely's worst nightmare. Anthony Reyes (#23) saunters up to the plate. The hometown crowd seems to be thinning here, as many of them have given up hope. Let's see if MMosley's pitcher can give them reason to stay! Here's the throw - the batter swings and misses. Reyes can't seem to find the location, and he misses for strike two. The next pitch comes in high for a ball. Reyes waits for the next pitch. The pitcher throws, and it's a ball low and outside. Fans are standing in the aisles, watching to see if they should stay or head for the parking lot. Here's the wind up. The pitch comes in high and tight for a full count. The entire place has gone dead silent. The pitcher takes a deep breath, and the batter follows suit. Here's the set. The wind-up. And here comes a fastball right down the middle. The batter swings and.... MISSES!

The pitcher retires the side after taking a severe beating here in the third inning. Will the Blue Jays be able to pull themselves back after being down 5-2? Will Madding be able to keep his A's focused on keeping that lead? The tension is off the charts!

MMosley, you've got five players left to choose from. Since you have the final bat here in the game, you can select all five, just put them in the order you'd like them to bat: 16, 18, 19, 28, 32


Match 2 - WhiteSoxCards' Mariners and Joey's Rangers are tied at 0-0 in the top of the 2nd inning. The Mariners have two out and a runner on third. WhiteSoxCards sends in Number 13 to see if he can be a lucky charm. The pitcher is known to have a superstitious streak in him. Will #13 be a good sign or a bad one? He sets. Here's the wind-up, the pitch, and the batter hits the ball on the ground right at the first baseman, who scoops it up and tosses it to the pitcher on first for the ground out to end the inning.

WhiteSoxCards couldn't break the nothing-nothing tie, but he'll get another chance to bat later in the third inning. In the meantime, Joey is hoping his Rangers beats the Mariners to the punch. Grab a snack and watch what happens coming up in the bottom of the second inning.

Joey comes to bat with the game still tied. Which three players will he call to bat: 06, 07, 09, 10, 11, 14, 15, 16, 18, 19, 20, 22, 25, 26, 27, 28, 30, 32


Match 3 - TasteLikeDirt comes to the plate in the top of the third, trailing 2-0 behind ChrisB's Blue Jays. Will the Braves be able to take the lead? Can they do what Madding did in the other match? Number 28 sure hopes to get things going here! He steps up to the plate as the pitcher finishes up his warm-up. Here's the pitch... The batter swings and sends the ball between the second baseman and first baseman into right for a single to start things off! Let's see if Number 12 can move that runner further down the bases. Joey is hoping his team has given up its last hit of the inning. But, no outs, there's a good chance TasteLikeDirt can get something done here. The pitcher sets up for the pitch as Number 12 takes his stand. Here's the throw... It's another hit! The batter knocks this one into the outfield, dropping it right into the gap for another single! So far we've had two batters and two singles. Looks like the Braves have found a combination that works. The Blue Jays are ready for this trend to be over. What is going to happen as Number 8 comes to bat? Let's see what the pitcher can do. He comes in this time with an off-speed pitch. The batter is not even close to being fooled and he sends this one screaming to the outfield. The centerfielder tries to get a bead on it, but it shoots off the wall toward right. The batter rounds second as one run scores. He heads for third and the throw is too late. It's a two-run RBI for Number Eight to tie the game.

TasteLikeDirt has managed to tie the game here in the top of the third, and has a man left on third to boot. He's got no outs, so all of his next three players will get to make a plate appearance next. The question is: Which three players will he pick? 02, 05, 10, 11, 14, 17, 18, 19, 23, 24, 26, 29, 32


Match 4 - We're in the top of third inning here as Chris(M) has taken the lead 2-1 over Motherscratcher's Royals. The Royals took out of of the White Sox players. So, with two outs to go, will the White Sox build their lead or will the Royals put an end to their scoring? There's a runner on second, hoping to reach home plate. Chris(M) brings in Number 25. The pitcher takes the sign. Here's the wind-up and the pitch. The ball comes out of the pitcher's hand, hurtling toward home. The batter swings and, well, there is no other way to say this, but there is SOMETHING in the water here at this tournament... The batter ends up on third with a stand-up triple, bringing the runner home and increasing the lead to 3-1 with one out. Feeling pretty good about things, Number 26 walks up to the plate, ready to strike. The pitcher can't believe this is happening and looks on wearily. He's got a job to do, so he gets to it. Here's the pitch. The batter swings, and in some kind of weird space-time warp sends the ball flying to the outfield for YET ANOTHER triple. I have to say, I never expected to see anything like this. Just how many triples can be scored in one day across this many cards!? That's 4-1 now, and still only one out. Chris(M) chooses player Number 27 to bat next. Even I can't watch... Oh, wait, I have to do the scratching... Here we go.... The pitcher winds up and throws. The batter connects and sends this one clear out of the park for a two-run homer! Motherscratcher has got to be shaking his head here.

That's now 5-1 with one out, and Chris(M) is still up to bat. Can the Royals stop the gusher that has sprung up here tonight? We'll find out next time!

Chris(M), look over the remaining players and choose your next three batters: 03, 09, 14, 19, 23, 28, 31


Match 5 - Voltaire pointed out that he is up to bat in the bottom of the second inning. I had mistakenly said it was the third inning. Blame it on late-night scratchcard dust... :-) So, Voltaire comes to bat in the bottom of the second inning, leading 4-0 over Erin's Orioles. Erin has been showing some frustration and disappointment in her players as they have failed to close in on the Brewers. The Brewers are hoping to capitalize on the amazing run of triples being chosen tonight. The lead-off batter is Number 14. The pitcher sets and throws her first pitch. The batter swings and pops the ball into the air. The Orioles shortstop gets under it and she sends the first batter back to the dugout with a pop out. One down and two to go. Can Erin keep Voltaire in check? Or will the next batter do some of his own pounding? Voltaire sends in Number 23 to try and increase his 4-run lead. The pitcher takes her sign from the catcher. Here's the throw. And there's a swing and a miss. The next pitch barely catches the edge of the plate and the ump calls strike. Before the batter knows what's happening, he is sent packing. A strikeout puts the Orioles one out closer to getting out of the inning. Voltaire is not one to go out quietly, though, so let's see if Number 24 can turn things around for them this inning. The pitch comes in low and the batter swings, sending a grounder to the shortstop who makes the throw to first for the final out of the inning. Three up and three down in the bottom of the second.

The Brewers lead 4-0 as we NOW go to the top of third. The Orioles will come in and try to save themselves in the last inning. From what we've seen of third innings so far, it should prove to be one heck of a ride!

Erin, you're up, so choose you three players wisely or randomly or by flipping coins... :-) Here are the gals ready to bat for you: 05, 06, 09, 11, 16, 18, 19, 21, 22, 27, 28, 29, 32


Match 6 - Welcome back, folks! We're in the bottom of the 2nd inning with 1 out. Kevin's Marlins have shown great potential as they are battling to overcome Dayf's Rockies' lead of 4-3. Meanwhile, Dayf is hoping to end the inning quickly. Kevin checks out the players at his disposal, and chooses Number 20. The batter steps into the box and gets ready. The pitcher asks for a new ball and gets one. The catcher gives the sign. Here's the pitch. The batter meets the ball and it bounces passed the pitcher, but takes a funny bounce toward the second baseman. He makes a diving stop, turn and fires to first just in the nick of time for the out! What an incredible play! As the batter heads back to the dugout, Number 4 heads for the plate. There are two outs and the bases remain empty after the home run shot that seems so long ago. The pitcher has regained all his confidence as he fires in is next pitch. The batter has other plans, however. He swings around and knocks the ball toward left field. The fielder heads back to the track and pulls off an amazing over-the-shoulder catch to retire the side.

Dayf takes over in the top of the third inning. He leads by one run and is hoping some of the 'triple-infused' scratchcard dust works its magic on his batters. Kevin will have to hang on and try to make a late-game comeback.

Dayf checks over his roster and makes his next three selections: 09, 11, 12, 14, 15, 17, 25, 26, 28, 29, 30

Monday, August 18, 2008

Round 1 - Who will survive? (8/18 update)

We're here at what could spell the end of the line for some of our tournament players. These games only have three innings and if a losing team can't turn things around here, they go home. At least they receive a parting gift in this tourney... :-)


Match 1 - Madding has got to get his A's to bring the two runners on base around to score or he just may be going home tonight. He trails MMosley 2-1 in the top of third. Since he's got no outs, he'll get to use all three of his batters tonight. Looks like it'll be Yadier Molina (Wearing #4), Tony La Russa as #10, and Rick Ankiel sporting Number 24. Can MMosley end the match and move on to the next round? His pitcher sure hopes so. Here's the wind up and the pitch. Molina gets a bead on it, comes around and knocks this ball for a DOUBLE, bringing in both runners to take the lead! The A's now lead 3-2 in the third. La Russa comes in, hoping he can see the ball, let alone hit it. Here comes the throw. La Russa sends this ball straight up into the air. The pitcher ducks out of the way as the shortstop gets under the ball for the pop out. One down, one on, and one out. With Ankiel coming up to bat, the question now is whether or not the A's can extend the lead in this last ditch effort. There's only one way to find out. The pitcher comes around, sending the ball hurtling toward home. The Blue Jays' pitcher pumps his arm as the ball goes sky high above the catcher, who grabs it with both hands.

Madding has rallied back to take the lead. He's got a runner on second with two outs and at least one more batter coming to the plate.

Let's see who Madding selects to step up to the plate next. He'll choose three players from the few remaining: 14, 16, 18, 19, 21, 23, 28, 32


Match 2 - We're in the top of the second inning with two outs and a runner on third for WhiteSoxCards. Will he be able to bring that runner around and break the 0-0 tie, or will Joey's Rangers be able to shut him down? WhiteSoxCards has another 24 hours to decide.

WhiteSoxCards gets to select from the following players, who are eager to help out: 06, 07, 09, 10, 11, 13, 14, 15, 16, 18, 19, 20, 22, 25, 26, 27, 28, 30, 32


Match 3 - ChrisB comes back up to the plate. He's got a runner on third and two outs. The score is tied at zero-zero in the bottom of the 2nd inning. TasteLikeDirt looks on as his pitcher winds up and pitches the ball. Number 09 smacks the ball deep into the outfield in what looks like an instant replay of the previous batter! The runner on third scores, and despite a valiant effort, batter Number 09 makes it all the way around to third himself! The Blue Jays hometown fans are going crazy! Number 04 steps up to the plate. I bet he's hoping to make it a threesome of triples here for his team. Let's see what happens! The pitch wipes his brow, takes the sign, and fires in the pitch. The batter brings the bat around, and pulls off a surprising two-out bunt! No one expected this, and the runner crosses the plate as the batter reaches first. A bunt single gives the Jays a two-run lead with two outs. TasteLikeDirt has had just about enough out of this pitcher. After a heated meeting on the mound, the pitcher convinces the coach to give him one more batter. So, Twenty-One comes in to the box. He's got very little pressure on him right now. Let's see if that helps things or hurts them. Here's the pitch. And perhaps the batter is a tad bit TOO relaxed as he goes down swinging to end the inning for the Jays, but not before they grab a pair of runs.

We're heading into the top of the third inning where TasteLikeDirt's Braves are hoping to put the hurt on ChrisB's Jays, who lead 2-0.

TasteLikeDirt, who are you sending in to the game to try and mount a massive comeback? Choose your lucky three: 02, 05, 08, 10, 11, 12, 14, 17, 18, 19, 23, 24, 26, 28, 29, 32


Match 4 - Chris(M) and his White Sox come into the third inning, hoping to break the 1-1 tie with Motherscratcher's Royals. He wastes no time, and certainly no words, as he sends in Number 13 to bat. The pitcher tosses in a curve ball that the batter sends up into the air toward third. The third baseman waves off the shortstop and catches the pop out. One down and still tied. Let's see if Number 15 can break the stalemate. The pitcher looks pretty confident as he readies the pitch. Here's the throw and the swing. The batter sends this one deep! It ricochets off the wall for a stand-up double! One on, One down. Can Chris(M) get to startin' somethin'? Here's Number 18 coming into the game. Can he do it? Will Motherscratcher give his team what they need to put an end to the threat? Here we go.... The pitcher winds up, throws, and YES, Number 18 is able to send this ball bounding into the far corner, scoring the runner on second and stopping on second himself for another double here in the top of the third.

Chris(M) now leads 2-1 with one out and a runner on second. The pickin's are getting slimmer. Which three players will Chris(M)'s White Sox bring in next: 03, 09, 14, 19, 23, 25, 26, 27, 28, 31


Match 5 - Erin's Orioles trail by four here in the second inning. She's got two outs. A lone runner stands on third base. Will the only female in the tournament be able to crack open the goose egg? Let's get into the action and find out. Voltaire's Brew Crew pitcher knows he is one out closer to victory. As long as the Brewers can keep the Orioles from scoring, they can force the game to go the full three innings. Erin decides that it's time to select her next player randomly. Closing her eyes, she points to Number 07. The pitcher takes the sign. He sets. Here's the wind-up, the kick and the throw. The batter swings and misses. She sets back up again and waits for the next pitch. It comes in fast and low, grabbing the outside of the plate for a called strike. That's two strikes on the batter. Will the pitcher end the inning here? Can Erin break the curse? The pitcher throws.... And Strike Three... The batter goes down swinging, ending the 2nd inning, forcing the game to go a full three innings, leaving a runner hanging on base.

Voltaire's Brewers lead four to nothing as they come up to bat in the final inning. Will they extend their lead or get frozen with four runs? Can Erin keep her girls from giving up more runs and then come from behind to win? Will the game go into extra innings?

Voltaire heads into the third inning, where he can pick from these prospective players: 05, 06, 09, 11, 14, 16, 18, 19, 21, 22, 23, 24, 27, 28, 29, 32


Match 6 - Kevin's Marlins come to bat in the bottom of the second inning. They are down 4-1, but are just coming off a three-up, three-down showing from Dayf's Rockies. Kevin calls up Number 31. The Marlins' pitcher throws a slider that has the batter swinging at air. The next pitch is fouled off for strike two. The batter gets ready for the pitch. The next throw comes down, and the batter is called out on strikes. One away here in the bottom of the second. The Marlins bring Number 02 to the plate. Here's the pitch. Another strike. Will this batter go down swinging? Dayf sure hopes so. The next pitch meets the batter's stick and he sends it into the gap for a single. Kevin's got a runner on with one out. Let's see if Number 22 can continue the hitting, and maybe bring that runner home. Here's the wind-up. The first pitch is fouled off into the stands. The pitcher sets up for the next pitch. He fires one in there and the batter sends this one foul behind the catcher. Two strikes, one out, one on. The batter squares up as the pitcher takes his sign. The pitcher checks the runner, turns back to the batter and rifles the ball toward the plate. Before the batter comes all the way around, the pitcher begins to dip his head in disbelief. The ball is sent into the upper deck bleachers for a two-run homer! The Marlins come within one run of Dayf's Rockies with only one out.

Action continues here in the bottom of the second inning as Kevin seems to be mounting a come back, scoring two runs so far, bringing the score to 4-3 as Dayf leads the match. There's one out, so let's see what happens next!

Kevin, check over your batters, and choose three more: 04, 09, 11, 12, 14, 15, 17, 20, 25, 26, 28, 29, 30

Sunday, August 17, 2008

Round 1 - Naming Names (8/17 update)

Several match players have taken to naming their chosen batters. So far, it seems to be working out pretty well. Let's see how our players' picks pan out today!


Match 1 - Madding's A's trail 2-0 against MMosley's Blue Jays. We've made it to the third and final inning in this match, so the choices Madding makes here could either spell the end of his game or the start of something big. Madding calls up the Wizzard of Ozz (1), Jim Edmonds (15), and Albert Pujols (5). Looks like the trend is to call back HOFers and "Old Timers" to try and rally the team into scoring. MMosley's pitcher gives Ozzie Smith a smirk and a disbelieving shake of the head. Evidently he's pretty confident that Smith will go nowhere fast. He winds up and here's the pitch... The ball takes a dip as Ozzie swings. He connects! The ball is sent screaming out of the park for a HOME RUN! The A's come within one and have no outs. Edmonds comes to bat next, as MMosely's pitcher regroups. Still shaken from the Oz-man's homer, the pitcher WALKS Edmonds. Pujols can't wait to get into the batter's box, and actually jogs to the plate. The pitcher seems a bit off right now. Let's see if he can pull himself together here. He winds up, throws, and Pujols knocks the ball into deep into the outfield, sending Edmonds to third as he pulls into second.

Madding is fighting to stay in the game here in the third inning. His team is down 2-1 with two men on base an no outs. Can he tie the game? Will MMosley send the next three batters back to dugout? Stay tuned folks, this one has gotten very exciting!

Madding, pick your next three batters: 04, 10, 14, 16, 18, 19, 21, 23, 24, 28, 32


Match 2 - WhiteSoxCards enters the top of the second inning in a scoreless tie with Joey. Joey did get a message to me, so hopefully he'll be able to play the rest of his match without my help (or lack thereof, thus far). The Mariners (WhiteSoxCards) are hoping to get something going. The first batter is Number 08. The pitcher wipes his brow, sets, and throws. The batter swings and starts hauling butt as the ball heads deep, deep into the nether regions of the right field corner. The right fielder gets the ball. Despite the coach's call for the runner to hold up at second, the runner heads for third. The throw comes in just as the runner slides. The throw is.... NOT in time! That's a lead-off triple for the Mariners! We've got no outs and a runner on third, hoping to cross the plate and get some points on the board. Number 17 comes up to bat next. The pitcher seems undaunted by the previous hit, and fires a rocket down the pipe. The batter swings and misses. The next pitch is just on the corner and is called for a strike. The batter readies himself. The wind-up, the pitch, and the batter goes down swinging at air... That's 1 out with a runner on base. Let's see if Number 23 can get that runner home. The pitcher sets, throws, and in three short pitches disposes of this batter as readily as he did the last.

That's two outs in the top of the second with a runner on third. Will WhiteSoxCards be able to bring that runner around and break the 0-0 tie, or will Joey's Rangers be able to shut this down? Keep posted to see what happens!

WhiteSoxCards gets to select from the following players, who are eager to help out: 06, 07, 09, 10, 11, 13, 14, 15, 16, 18, 19, 20, 22, 25, 26, 27, 28, 30, 32


Match 3 - TasteLikeDirt does a quick mic check as ChrisB is MIA. Since it has been 48 hours since ChrisB's turn to bat has come up, I'll be picking his players. We're in the bottom of the second and the score is tied at 0-0. First up is Number 22. The Braves make the pitch. The batter swings and hits the ball to shallow right. It's an easy fly out. That's one down as Number 13 comes into the game. Oh, things are not looking good for the Blue Jays as ChrisB's batter goes down swinging. Two outs, no one on base, and TasteLikeDirt keeps bringing the heat. Let's see who comes in next... It's Number 20 to the plate. The pitcher winds up, throws, and the batter knocks this ball deep where it takes a funny bounce in the outfield! The center fielder and the right fielder both try to get a hold of it. Finally, the center fielder comes up with it and sends the ball to the plate, keeping the runner on third for a triple!

We've got a runner in scoring position with two outs in this scoreless match. Will TasteLikeDirt hold that runner in check, or will ChrisB break the tie and get that runner home again?

ChrisB, you've got plenty of guys to choose from: 02, 04, 05, 08, 09, 10, 11, 12, 14, 17, 18, 19, 21, 23, 24, 26, 28, 29, 32


Match 4 - Motherscratcher has tied the game 1-1 against Chris(M) in the bottom of the second inning with one out. He's got a runner on third and is hoping to bring him in to break the tie. He calls in Steve Balboni (Number 5) to see what he can do here. Chris(M)'s White Sox make a defensive shift and the pitcher sets. He checks the runner on third, turns toward the plate, and sends in the pitch. Balboni swings and sends the ball flying. Unfortunately for the Royals, the Sox are right under it for the fly out. Two down, and the Royals send in Kevin Seitzer (Number 16) to see if he can get the runner off third. The runner has been on third so long, he's set up a tent and is roasting marshmallows! The pitcher looks like he's ready to make s'mores out of the Royals! Seitzer sends the first ball out into the crowd along the first base line. The pitcher tosses in the next pitch, and the batter sends this one into the crowd on the left side of the field. At least he's sharing the love here, folks. The third pitch comes in and the batter gets pinned high and tight. The ump calls "Strike Three" and Seitzer expresses his disbelief before heading back to the dugout.

Three down, leaving a man stranded on third, and the score is still ties at one apiece as we head into the final inning of the match. Will Chris(M) and his White Sox be able to take the lead or will they have to hope for extras innings? We'll find out shortly, I'm sure!

Chris(M), the players have been narrowed down to: 03, 09, 13, 14, 15, 18, 19, 23, 25, 26, 27, 28, 31


Match 5 - Erin's Orioles are down by four runs as we go into the 2nd inning. She is not happy with her girls. After a serious discussion with her players, she's hoping to recover from the devastating first inning. She calls up Number 10 to bat first. Voltaire's Brewers get set and the pitcher fires in the first pitch. Number 10 hits the ball and it bounces in front of the third base man, who snags it up and puts the runner out at first. One down as Number 13 steps up to the plate. Let's see if Thirteen turns out to be a 'lucky' number for the O's. The pitcher winds up, comes around, and throws a hard pitch at the batter. The batter brings herself around, and sends the ball flying into deep, deep right field. The runner is kicking up dust and the fielder finally gets a handle on the ball, but the damage is done and the runner easily reaches third base for a stand up triple! That's one on with one out, trailing 4-0. The Orioles are hoping that Number 31 can bring that runner home. Voltaire's pitcher digs deep and sends in a volley of three incredible heaters, getting the batter to strike out.

The Orioles are still hanging in there, here in the second inning with two outs and runner in scoring position on third. Will the Brewers keep the shutout alive, or will Erin light a fire under her team to get things going?

Erin, show these boys they can't hang with girls and choose three more players from these: 05, 06, 07, 09, 11, 14, 16, 18, 19, 21, 22, 23, 24, 27, 28, 29, 32


Match 6 - Dayf also has four runs and leads Kevin's Marlins 4-1 as we go into the second inning. Can Dayf extend his lead, or will Kevin shut down the Rockies? First up, Number 27 comes into the box. The pitcher sets up and he is not smiling. He intently stares and gets his sign. He sets and throws. Twenty-Seven slaps at the ball, sending it straight to the first baseman for an easy ground out. That's one down and nobody on. Will Number 06 get things rolling here? Let's see what happens. Nothing. Nothing happens as the Marlins send the batter down swinging. Two outs in the top of the 2nd inning, and it appears Kevin has his defense under control. Dayf is hoping Number 08 will change all that. Instead, the Marlins retire the side in yet another strikeout. That's 1-2-3 to end the inning.

In a quick top half of the inning, the Marlins are set to come to bat and turn things around for themselves.

Alright, Kevin, respond to this post by selecting your three batters from these guys: 02, 04, 09, 11, 12, 14, 15, 17, 20, 22, 25, 26, 28, 29, 30, 31