Third Inning Action - Does it all end here?? (9/18)

Dayf has a man on third with two outs here in the top of the third inning. From the looks of things, this match is going to an extra card and we'll see about extra innings, depending on what Erin and her Orioles do when (or maybe *IF*) the Braves are sent out of the inning...

Dayf calls in Number 13 to come to bat next. Number Thirteen proves to be unlucky for the Braves as Erin's pitcher sends him back to the dugout in a 1-2-3 strike out.

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The Braves take their 6-1 lead into the bottom of the third inning here tonight. Erin only has four players to choose from on this card: 18, 26, 11, 14

She's submitted her batting order and we get rollin...

Number 18 comes up first. The Orioles fans are cheering on their team, trying to get a rally started! The pitcher throws. The batter sends the ball deep to left, but this one doesn't have the legs to leave the park and it drops into the fielder's glove for an out. There's a simultaneous "Oooohhh..." and a raucous cheer from the crowd as both sides react to that one.

One out and the only sound coming from the bases is that of crickets. Here's Number 26 up to bat next. The pitcher nods at the sign from the catcher. He winds up and throws. The batter smacks the ball in there for a single up the first base line!

That'll bring up Number 11 batting third. She's got a runner on base and there's one out in the inning. You cannot count the Orioles out of this match until the last out is called, as we have seen at various times during this competition. Here's the pitch to Eleven... Swing and a miss. The pitcher checks the runner. He throws and the batter takes strike two. The batter looks a little nervous. The pitcher throws the 0-2 pitch and the breaking ball gets the batter looking for strike three.

The last spot on the card comes up next. There are two outs and a runner on first. This next scratch is HUGE. If it's an out, the championship match will end with a Braves victory. Anything else and the Orioles will have a full card to continue the game! This is where the cleats meet the dirt, folks! The fans are cheering, yelling, you name it!! This place is ROCKIN!

Number 14 walks to the batter's box. The pitcher throws and the ball is fouled off. The next pitch misses wide and the count is even. Here in the bottom of the third, this pitch slides past the batter's swing and it's strike two. 1-and-2 the count. The pitcher winds up and throws. It's a ball inside and he evens up the count again. The 2-2 pitch is fouled off into the third base crowd, and the batter stays in the game here. Here's the wind up, and the pitch... The batter gets a piece of it! The ball heads between first and second, but the second base man makes a HUGE diving stop and gets the ball over to the first baseman for the final out!

BRAVES WIN! BRAVES WIN!! DAYF takes his team to a 6-1 victory over the Orioles!

Incredibly, the entire tournament came down to the last spot on the card! Congratulations to both Dayf and Erin for hanging in there through the whole tournament and for a GREAT game of (scratch-card) baseball!!

To the victors go the spoils, and here is what our Champion and Runner-up will be receiving:


Dayf, for winning the whole shootin' match, you win a 2007 UD Legendary Cuts Masterful Materials Gaylord Perry game-used jersey (MM-GP), 2002 Topps Gold Label MLB Awards Ceremony Roberto Alomar game-used bat Class 1 Gold (ACR-RA), 2002 Donruss Classics Significant Signatures Steve Belcher auto'd card (serial #417/500 - card 415), AND 2008 Topps Allen & Ginter mini game-used jersey Carlos Zambrano (AGR-CZ)!! You will also receive a special "web button" (for placement on your site or where ever you'd like) commemorating your win! Congratulations on being the first-ever Tribecards scratch-off tournament winner!!

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Erin, no need to hang your head! You fought hard and hung in there until the very end! You also walk away with a few cards yourself: 2001 Upper Deck Yankees Dynasty game-used DUAL jersey card of Joe Girardi and David Cone (YJ-GC), 2008 SPX Winning Materials J.D. Drew jersey card (serial 058/125 - card WM-JD), AND 1999 UD Authentics Signatures Alex Gonzales auto'd card!

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Thanks to EVERYONE that participated in the scratch-card tournament! Your prizes will be mailed within the next couple days (most likely on Saturday), so be looking in your mailboxes!


I'll be back after a commercial break with some final thoughts!
(I'll kick out a new post for those thoughts)

Top of the Third, Braves last at-bats? (9/17)

It's hard to believe, but we have reached what could be the final inning of the scratch-card tournament! Twelve readers started off on a journey that has taken many twists and turns over the past month. Even the playoff games had to have a no-holds barred scratch-off! The Braves jumped out to an early 3-0 lead here in the championship and then things seem to have stalled out. That is until the Orioles grabbed a run in the second inning. Today's action takes us into the final inning of the tournament (barring extra innings, that is). Dayf has carefully looked over the last of the batters and selected the six he thinks will help bring in even more runs for his team. Let's take a look at the players he will be sending to the plate:

Leadoff batter - #24 Deion Sanders (because #1 Otis Nixon's gone already)
2 - #8 Yogi Berra (Ted Turner offered him a job in the '80s, so he's a Brave to me)
3 - #10 Chipper Jones
4 - #3 Dale Murphy
5 - #30 Orlando Cepeda
6 - #21 Warren Spahn

Sanders comes up to lead things off. The Orioles are hoping for a three-up, thee-down inning, but so far Dayf has been doing well with his choices. The pitcher sets, winds up and throws her first pitch. Sanders sends a blooper over the first baseman's head for a lead-off single. There's a lot of Braves Blue here today and they're all stomping! (Do Braves fans still do the 'tomahawk chop?')

Dayf reaches WAY back and brings in Yogi Berra. This should prove to be an interesting at-bat. The pitcher throws and Berra swings, but can't connect with the ball. The next pitch sails by Berra for another strike. He's behind 0-and-2. Here's the pitch... Berra knocks the ball to left and he'll make it to second for a double!

The Braves now have two men on and no outs. This could spell serious trouble for Erin and her Orioles. Dayf calls up Chipper Jones to see if he can add more runs to his scorecard. The pitcher takes her sign and throws. Jones is behind it by a fraction, swinging for a strike. The second throw is right on the mark, and Jones is left scratching his head as the ump calls strike two. Jones takes the next pitch, which is a bit low for a ball. The pitcher's ahead in the count 1-and-2 as she wipes a hand across her brow and sets up for the next toss. Here's the pitch... Jones swings for the fences! Unfortunately, there is no ball going along for the ride, and he goes down swinging.

One out, two men on base, and Dale Murphy comes to the plate! The Braves have called in the super stars for the final inning, giving the fans quite a show. Let's see if the cleanup man can clean up now. The pitcher throws and Murphy sends the ball deep to right field! It drops in there, but bounces over the wall for a double as Sanders and Berra cross the plate, giving the Braves 5 runs!

Orlando Cepeda faces the pitcher with just one out and a runner on second. The Orioles fans are NOT happy! The pitcher looks shaken, but waves off the catcher who wanted to have a conference on the mound. The catcher crouches down and gives the pitcher her sign. The pitcher checks the runner, turns and throws toward home. Cepeda wastes no time coming around and knocking this ball into the far corner and he'll end up with a run-scoring triple! That's 6-1 for the Braves, and they appear to be running away with the championship.

Warren Spahn will bat next. If memory serves, his last at-bat netted an out. Let's see how he does here. Spahn takes the first pitch for a strike. The next pitch is a bit high, but the batter swings for it anyway. He'll pop this one up to the shortstop. And, that's two outs for the Braves in the third.

Dayf, your boys are still up to bat in the third inning! The Braves lead 6-1 with two outs. There are only five spots left on the card, so Dayf, just put them in the order you'd like them to bat: 10, 13, 14, 18, 26

Erin, since there are only five spots, go ahead and put all five players in the order you'd like them to bat. Whichever players Dayf doesn't get to use, I will bat the numbers in the order you select. The numbers he does get to use will just be dropped from your list when the time comes.

The Championship reaches halfway point! (9/16)

Good evening, folks! We've reach the halfway point of the championship match. Dayf's Braves grabbed an early three-run lead in the first inning, and so far they've been able to sustain it.

Erin's Orioles kept the Braves from scoring in the beginning of this inning, and now they're up to bat, hoping to close the gap. Let's take a look at tonight's line up: 4, 29, 32, 5, 12, and 18.

Now, we've seen these players before in the tournament, and some have done very well. Others have been struggling, but now may be their time to shine!

First up is Number 4. The Braves have taken the field and the batter comes up to the plate. The pitcher comes in with an offspeed pitch to start and the batter hits a long fly ball to center. The fielder is under it for the out.

One down and Number 29 steps in. Here's the first pitch and the batter sends it flying down the right foul line, but it dips foul into the crowd. We've seen plenty of foul balls during this tourney, and I'm sure there will be at least a few more before it's all over. The pitcher winds up and throws. The batter jumps out early and misses for the second strike. Both teams have battled through some tough spots to get to the finals, but so far this one is a shutout. Here's the pitch. OH! The batter gets caught standing there and the ump calls for the third strike.

That is two up and two down here in the bottom of the second inning. The Orioles fans have really quieted down here... In fact, I'd have to guess that the majority are sitting in their seats, while the Braves fans have continued showing the love to their team. The third batter up this evening is Number 32. Being the last spot on the scratch-card has not slowed down this batter in previous games. Let's see how she does here. Oh MY! She knocks this pitch deep into left field. She's around first. The ball takes a bad lick off the wall and shoots back into the field, bouncing past the fielder. The batter rounds second and the coach tells her to stop, but she keeps coming. The center fielder has the ball and throws to third. Thirty-Two hits the dirt and beats the throw! It's a triple!

Now the Orioles fans are back on their feet after that one! They've got a runner on base in perfect scoring position. The Braves don't seem bothered by it at all as the get ready for Number 5 to come out of the dugout. There's some last-minute coaching from Erin before Number Five gets into the batter's box. The pitcher winds up and throws. The ball is fouled off down the third base line. The next pitch is fouled off, too. Number Five is behind 0-and-2. The pitcher loses track of the strike zone and sends down three more balls in a row for a full count. Two outs, runner on third, and the Orioles trail three nothing. Here's the pitch... It's fouled off behind the catcher. The batter is not giving up easily, that's for sure. She's got some spunk! The pitcher takes the sign. He winds up... And WALKS the batter to first! Following the rules of the game, the runner on third advances to home for the run!

The Orioles are now down by two. They've got two outs and the tying run comes to the plate. Number 12 adjusts her helmet and faces the pitcher. The pitcher throws and the batter sends the ball foul into the crowd. The next pitch misses wide and the count is 1-and-1. The fans for both teams are cheering wildly and everyone is on their feet! Here's the throw... Swing, and a miss... Two strikes... The pitcher winds... And the batter goes down on strikes to end the inning.

The Orioles grab a run in the bottom of the inning as we head into the final inning of the championship! Dayf's Braves lead 3-1 and are hoping to increase the distance between them and the O's!

Dayf, select the SIX SPOTS that you feel will seal the fate of the Orioles in the Scratchcard Championship! 03, 08, 10, 11, 13, 14, 21, 24, 26, 30

Scratch-card Championship 2nd Inning (2/15)

Welcome back to the game, folks! We're here in the top of the second inning, but before we get things going, we have a little business to attend to. Voltaire came up with the answer to the last trivia question: Which hall-of-famer once donned a Cleveland uniform because his was missing? It was Ty Cobb! During 1911, an all-star benefit game was held in honor of Addie Joss. According to most accounts, it was the first all-star game in major league history. One story says that Cobb's luggage was lost, so he had to play in the Indians uniform, while another tale reports simply that Cobb had forgotten his outfit. Either way, for one fleeting moment, Cobb was an Indian. Want a picture? Okay!


Cobb is in the front row, third player from the RIGHT - the one in the "CLEVELAND" uniform!

For his research prowess, or general baseball knowledge, Voltaire is the winner of a 2000 Pacific Paramount Holo-Gold Vladamir Guerrero (serial #101/199 card 142)! Way to go!!

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I've been waiting to post the grand prizes and runner-up prizes until I could get back to my scanner, so you'll just have to wait a tad bit longer, I'm afraid... :-)

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Let's get to some dusting - scratchcard dusting that is!

Dayf's Braves jumped out to an early lead, and held on as Erin's Orioles were not able to score any runs in the first inning. Braves fans are clapping, cheering, making all kinds of noise as the next set of batters comes into the game!

Leading off the second inning, Number 06 comes up to the plate. The pitcher seems pretty upset that her team is still behind. The first pitch is WAY inside, and brushes the batter out of the box. The umpire gives her a warning. The next pitch is a fastball over the plate, and the batter fouls it off. The pitcher sets up... Here's the pitch... strike two. The pitcher is ahead in the count 1-2. She fires off the next pitch and sends the batter down looking.

The first batter came up empty, but Dayf is unaffected. He leads by three and sends in Number 17 to try and build an even bigger lead. The pitcher can't quite find the zone on this batter and she walks him.

The Braves have a runner on and one out. It's still early in the inning as Number 25 takes his place in the batter's box. The pitcher throws... Whoa! The batter lays down a bunt! The catcher jumps up to get it, but cannot throw the runner out in time! Two men on base now present a real threat to the Orioles.

Number 27 comes out of the dugout and tips his hat to the crowd. He's got a lot of fans here today! Let's hope he can give them what they came for... The pitcher gets her sign. She checks the runners, turns and fires the pitch! The batter swings in what looks to be more instinct than aim, and he hits it! The ball takes a funny bounce off the mound, sending it to the outfield for a base hit.

The Orioles have pitched themselves into a bases-loaded situation. Can their pitcher get them out of it? Will Dayf's next batter capitalize here? Let's see if Number 01 earns his pay today. OH! The batter may not be earning his pay, but the pitcher sure did! She sends the batter back to the dugout on three pitches for a 1-2-3 strike out!

Two outs, bases loaded, and the last batter for this go-round comes up to the plate. Number 16 is feeling the pressure. Here's the pitch... The batter swings and sends the ball into the air above the center fielder. She easily makes the catch to keep the Braves stranded on the bases! The Orioles escape the bases-loaded situation.

Erin trails by three as her girls come up to bat in the bottom of the second. Erin, pick your SIX SPOTS! 03, 04, 05, 08, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 18, 21, 24, 26, 29, 30, 32

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Scratch-card Championship (bot 1st, 3-0)

The Braves came out swinging in their half of the first, but now the Orioles take to the plate to see how much damage they can do.

The Orioles are well represented in the crowd today, and the fans are on their feet to encourage their team! Erin scans the lineup card and chooses Number 15 to start things off. The Braves take their positions on the field, hoping to keep their lead. Here's the first pitch... The batter hits it high into the air, and it's deep! But, it's not deep enough and this one is a long fly out. That's one away.

One down and Number 9 comes up to the plate next. She is hoping to put on a show here in front of the crowd. Let's see if the show is a hit or not. The pitcher throws, and Number Nine knocks this one to deep right field where it drops in and bounces against the wall in that back corner that has become the bane of pitchers throughout this tournament. She puts on a show, alright! She comes around second heading for third as the fielder throws the ball toward the baseman. She slides and she is SAFE on third!

The Orioles have a runner in perfect scoring position and just one out here in the bottom of the first. The fans are going crazy! Erin sends in Number 22 to bat third here today. As long as she can avoid an out, the runner on third will cross the plate here. Let's see what happens... The pitcher takes his sign and sets up for the next pitch. He throws... The batter swings and gets under the ball a bit too much, sending it straight up into the air back to the pitcher. The second baseman waves the pitcher off and he's under it for the grab.

Two outs, a runner on, and the crowd is not quite as 'randy' as they have been. Well, the Orioles fans anyway... The Braves fans have started making some noise as they see the end of the inning looming closer. Number 31 comes in, batting in the clean-up spot. Let's see if she can clear that base... The pitcher assesses the situation, checks the runner, and throws. Thirty-One swings but gets the top of the ball, driving it forward but into the ground. It takes a hop toward first base. The first baseman comes off the bag to grab the ball, and he turns, underhanding it back to the pitcher waiting on the base for the ground out to end the inning.

The Orioles leave a runner on third without being able to bring any of the girls across the plate in order to generate runs. They trail 3-0 behind the Braves as we move on to the second inning here in the Scratch-card Championship!

Dayf, your boys are leading by three and now you will have SIX PLAYERS to call up in the second inning: 01, 03, 04, 05, 06, 08, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 16, 17, 18, 21, 24, 25, 26, 27, 29, 30, 32

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Trivia Question (open to everyone except Erin and Dayf): Which hall-of-famer once donned a Cleveland uniform during an All-Star event because his own uniform was MIA (he either forgot it, or it got lost, depending on which source(s) you use)?

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Scratch-card Championship Begins! (9/13b)

Welcome back everyone! The wind outside the Tribecards stadium is blowing and gusting pretty severely. The rain comes and goes, but so far, the championship match is going on as planned!

It's been three solid weeks of scratch-card dust flying, and it has all come down to two very worthy and deserving teams. Dayf's Braves and Erin's Orioles face off to see who will claim the title of Scratch-Card Champion! Who is going to win? It's boys against the girls, North against the South, people versus nature (well, that's a bit of a stretch)! No matter how you cut it, I am sure we are in for some kind of match!

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Dayf leads off the first inning with Number 7 coming to the plate. The Orioles take the field. The pitcher looks for the first sign. Meanwhile, the crowd is cheering for both teams and they are on their feet! The pitcher gets her sign, sets, and takes a quick deep breath. She winds up and throws. The batter swings and misses. The next pitch is off the mark, and the count is 1-and-1. Here's the third pitch. Number Seven swings and this ball is outta here! A lead-off home run! The Braves take a 1-0 lead to start off the championship match!

Dayf brings in Number 19 to bat second. The pitcher shakes off the last hit and gets ready to throw. Here's the pitch. It's a bit outside, but the batter goes after it. He gets much more than a piece of it! He sends this one down the right foul line. It's a laser beam that misses the post by inches to the LEFT!! It's a HOME RUN! Back-to-back homers to start off the game! The Orioles have been here before, so this does not appear to phase them. The Braves fan are cheering on their boys!

With a 2-0 lead and no outs, Number 20 steps into the batter's box. The pitcher throws and the batter grounds this one straight to the second base fielder who throws it to her partner at first for the out.

One out and the bases are empty. Dayf brings in Number 2 to bat clean-up, but there's no cleaning up here (unless you count the two runs as cleaning up!). This batter is on his own. Here's the pitch... The batter knocks this one to left field and it keeps...on...going... ANOTHER home run for the Braves. These guys came to play some serious scratch-off baseball!

The Orioles may be losing some of that confidence they displayed at the start of the match. The catcher heads out to the mound to calm down her pitcher. After their meeting, Number 23 jogs out to home plate. Here's the pitch... The batter hits the ball out to right field, but the fielder is under it to make the play for out number two.

The last batter in this set is Number 28. The Orioles hope to put an end to this Braves at-bat right here. The pitcher takes a long, hard look toward the plate. She sets up for the pitch. Here's the wind up... the throw... and the batter smacks this one to deep center field. The fielder is back... She's to the track... And the ball runs out of steam, dropping into the waiting glove of the Oriole fielder for out number three.

The Orioles have a LONG way to go. Dayf's Braves scored THREE runs in their first at-bat, giving them a lot of breathing room. But there are no givens when it comes to scratch-cards, as we've seen!

Erin, you're up to bat in the bottom of the first. Which SIX BATTERS are you going to bring in to try and help get some offense going? 01, 03, 04, 05, 06, 08, 09, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 21, 22, 24, 25, 26, 27, 29, 30, 31, 32

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The winds are blowing VERY hard here, and we've lost DSL twice, and power several times. There may be an IKE delay tomorrow (Sunday), but only time will tell! Stay tuned!

This is IT! It all gets decided here! (9/13a)

Howdy, folks! As much of the Ark-La-Tex fights, fears, and deals with what's left of IKE, we are going to put an end to this playoff series (or, I'm hoping that's what happens here!). It has been an intense battle for the top two spots, as none of the final three teams seems willing to give up the fight!

So, in order to narrow down the two finalists, the players will all choose from the same scratchcard. There will be a LOT of dust flying around here today! I held up a stack of scratchcards and had my wife "pick a card, any card." So, if you don't like the end results, you can blame her! LOL!!

Erin chimes in first, hoping to capitalize on having the entire board at her disposal. Let's see how her girls do here!

Number 23 - Holy cow! It's a lead-off HOME RUN! (1 run, 0 outs)
Number 4 - the batter flies out to short (1 run, 1 out)
Number 19 - the batter pops the ball up to first for an out (1 run, 2 outs)
Number 32 - the batter goes down on strikes (1 run, 3 outs)
Number 1 - the batter is sent to first on balls (1 run, 3 outs, 1 runner on)
Number 27 - it's a two-run jack outta the park! (3 runs, 3 outs)
Number 12 - the batter goes down swinging (3 runs, 4 outs)
Number 21 - a blooper to left for a single (3 runs, 4 outs, 1 runner on)
Number 5 - the batter flies out to right

There you have it, folks! Erin's at-bat nets her 3 runs and 4 outs! I think it'll be an uphill battle for the guys!

Joey is the second player to announce his picks for this all-out playoff game. Let's see how his Rangers perform here!

Number 15 - a lead-off double! (0 runs, 0 outs, 1 runner on)
Number 24 - a single! runners on the corners (0 runs, 0 outs, 2 runners on)
Number 2 - a shot to shallow center for a run-scoring single! (1 run, 0 outs, 2 on)
Number 30 - the batter pops the ball up to second (1 run, 1 out, 2 on)
Number 17 - the batter pops out to first (1 run, 2 outs, 2 on)
Number 22 - the batter drops down a bunt single (1 run, 2 outs, bases loaded!)
Number 7 - the batter grounds out to third (1 run, 3 outs, bases loaded!)
Number 11 - the batter grounds out to first (1 run, 4 outs, bases loaded!)
Number 6 - the batter whiffs, striking out (1 run, 5 outs, bases loaded!)

The Rangers score a run and leave the bases like my wife likes her baked potato: fully loaded! I have a feeling it's going to be hard for Joey to pull through this one. He ends up with 1 run, 5 outs, and bases loaded. But, we've seen ALL kinds of things happen in this tournament!

Dayf brings up the rear and outlines his plan of attack:

Leadoff: LF Otis "my man" Nixon - 31
2 spot: 1B The Crime Dog Fred McGriff - 28
3 hole: SS Chipper Jones (yes, shortstop) - 10
Clean up: RF Hammerin' Hank Aaron - 8
Protection for Hank: 3B Eddie Mathews - 13
More Protection: CF Dale Murphy - 3
Can't walk Murph: C Brian McCann - 16
8th but DEADLY: 2B "Mr Clutch" Mark Lemke - 20
THE PITCHER: Warren "35 home runs" Spahn - 25

Let's see if Dayf's Braves can put together a winning combination or if his batters will serve as the friends he's called in to help load the moving truck outta here...

Number 31 - Nixon gets nixed, striking out (0 runs, 1 out, 0 runners on)
Number 28 - The Crime Dog takes a walk to first (0 runs, 1 out, 1 on base)
Number 10 - Jones is not so chipper after striking out (0 runs, 2 outs, 1 on base)
Number 8 - Hank hammers one to the right fielder (0 runs, 3 outs, 1 on base)
Number 13 - Unluckily pops out to center (0 runs, 4 outs, 1 on base)
Number 3 - Murphy adds to the poppin...out that is (0 runs, 5 outs, 1 on base)
Number 16 - McCann...can't...he strikes out (0 runs, 6 outs, 1 on base)
Number 20 - Lemke pops the clutch and knocks it outta here! (2 runs, 6 outs, 0 on)
Number 25 - Spahn spawns a triple, a little late (2 runs, 6 outs, 1 on base)

The Braves' Lemke saves the day for Dayf! His team ends up with 2 runs, 6 outs, and a triple to end things.

So, let's take a look at the overall stats here for this ultimate championship playoff round:

Erin - 3 runs, 4 outs, 1 runner left on
Joey - 1 run, 5 outs, bases loaded up
Dayf - 2 runs, 6 outs, 1 runner on base

Erin and Dayf - YOU are going to Disney World!! Oh, wait, sorry, I got a little carried away there... You are going to the Scratchcard Championship!

Congratulations to ALL of you for hanging in there and making this one of the coolest (albeit longest) championship playoff rounds in scratchcard history*! Okay, Roddy, tell our contestants what they've won!

"Well, Tribecards, for starters, Erin and Dayf, you have reached the Pinnacle of the tournament! You two are Topps! Let's hope under the pressure of the upcoming championship, you don't Bow,man! Okay, okay, seriously folks, Erin wins 2002 Upper Deck Mid-Summer Stars Swatches Carlos Delgado game-used jersey (MS-CD) AND a 2008 Upper Deck Baseball Heroes Green Parallel Mark Mulder (serial #399/499 - card 160)! Dayf wins a 2005 Topps All-Star Sttches Dontrelle Willis game-used jersey (ASA-DW) AND 2001 Upper Deck Evolution E-Prospects Billy Sylvester (serial #0255/2250 - card 119)!! Joey, you won't go home empty-handed, as you have probably guessed! Joey receives a 2000 Royal Rookies Futures Jovanny Cedano autographed card (serial #3293/4950 - card 7)!"

These prizes were not randomly chosen, but rather, I went through my stacks of game-used and serially-numbered cards and hand picked the cards that I thought suited each of these folks' team likes as best I could. I hope y'all enjoy your prizes from this ultimate playoff game!

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Okay, folks, it has come down to this: Erin and Dayf will face each other in the Tribecards Scratchoff Championship!! I flipped a coin and DAYF will lead things off in the Championship match. I know it has been a while since we've played by the "official rules," but the Championship match will be three innings long and the team with the most runs at the end of the game wins!

So, DAYF, you have a brand-new, unscratched card at your disposal! Select SIX SPOTS that will lead your team in the first inning of the championship! Keep your feed readers, web browsers, and bookmarks pointed right here, folks! When we come back, the championship will be underway, and the championship prizes WILL BE REVEALED! Plus, more chances for readers and former players to walk away with more prizes, too! You will not want to miss this!

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*Disclaimer: I have not done any research to back up this claim, but I would venture to say it's a safe assumption.

We have our winners! or do we? (9/13)

I took the night off last night to spend the time with my wife on her birthday!!

Before we get into today's playoffs, WhiteSoxCards came up with the answer I was looking for in the trivia question. I purposely did not use the phrase "hit for the cycle" because that would have made (re)searching a tad easier. Yeah, I know, most of my readers know what it means to hit for the cycle and did their own translation, I'm sure, but that was still a little 'work' for ya! :-) The first Cleveland player to hit for the cycle was ------- Larry Twitchell in 1889. There was some discussion regarding 'franchises' and that is where the 'trick' part of the question comes in. I purposely said "which Cleveland" and no "Which Indians." Ain't I a stinker?

The first Cleveland player was Twitchell. That was in the days of the Spider/Blues. The first Nap to do it was Bill Bradley and the first Indians player was Earl Averill.

WhiteSoxCards receives a 1999 Just Minors auto'd Michael Barrett (serial #166/200)!

Now, let's get to the business that brought all here together today in the first place: SCRATCHCARD CHAMPIONSHIP PLAYOFFS!!

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Playoff Match 1 - Joey vs Dayf - Joey's eight players were able to generate a two-run lead last time. He's already got one win in the playoffs. Can he seal the deal here, or will Dayf bring down the rain like Hurricane IKE? The Braves bring out their big dogs:

Number 29 - First batter flies out to right
Number 4 - A single up the middle!
Number 16 - Batter goes down swinging (strikeout)
Number 28 - Batters gets walked - two men on base!
Number 1 - It's a triple! That brings in two runs to tie the game!
Number 22 - It's a double and the runner scores for the win!
Number 13 - (just for fun - it's a single)
Number 9 - (again for fun - a triple)

Dayf grabs the win (3-2) with a runner to spare! Congratulations to Dayf and the Braves! Joey's Rangers put up a good fight, but proved to be no match for Dayf's mad-scratchdusting skills. For his win, Dayf receives 2002 Topps Gold Label Class 1 Gold Wilson (Willie) Betemit (serial #251/500 - card 185)! Joey gets a 2000 Pacific Prism John valentine (serial #269/480 - card 25)! Way to go guys!

Dayf's record is 1-0, and Joey is 1-1. It all comes down to the Braves and Orioles game to see who moves on to the final round!

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Playoff Match 2 - Joey vs Erin - Joey won, Erin was not able to come back (final score 3-2). As mentioned above, Joey's record is 1-1 and Erin's is 0-1. Let's see what happens in Match 3.

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Playoff Match 3 - Dayf vs Erin - Dayf scored a run in his at-bat. Let's see how the Orioles girls fare here!

Number 19 - A lead-off game-tying HOME RUN! Holy Smokes!
Number 23 - a single to get another on base
Number 4 - the batter flies out to center
Number 28 - the batter goes down on strikes
Number 14 - a game-winning triple! The Orioles win!
Number 1 - (for fun - batter grounds out to third)
Number 20 - (for fun - home run to clear the bases)
Number 5 - (for fun - the batter walks)

The Orioles grab a triple to take the game away from Dayf's Braves (final 3-2). Congratulations to Erin's Orioles who pulled off a win, bringing everyone's record to 1-1!! For her win, she snags a 2001 Pacific Private Stock Randy Johnson (serial #09/90 - card 7)! Dayf pulls a 2008 UD Piece of History Timeless Moments John Smoltz (serial 036/149 - card TM-3)!

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For the record, prizes were pulled randomly from my stack of serial #d cards. I have to admit, I find it very 'spooky' that Dayf pulled TWO Braves cards from the prize pool!! Way to go!

Okay, so my Championship Playoff idea did not solve the problem. My wife suggested I add up the total points scored by each team. Let's see how that pans out:

Dayf - 3+2
Erin - 2+3
Joey - 2+3

Well, that's not going to work either... ROTFL... Wow, I had no idea things would get so tight here at the end!

Okay, here is what I'm going to do... Let's try a ONE-CARD, THREE-TEAM super playoff. Here is the way this is going to work: The first player to respond gets his or her pick of NINE SPOTS from a new, clean card. The second player picks NINE SPOTS from the remaining spots on the SAME CARD. Then, the third player will pick NINE SPOTS from what's left over on that same card. Be sure not to pick the same spot as another player! If a player chooses the same spot as another player, the first player to pick the spot gets it and the second person will receive an out. The two players with the most runs AND fewest outs will advance to the championship.

ALL THREE PLAYERS, please respond to this post with your selections. Remember to check the comments before you choose, so you can be sure not to pick the same spots as someone else! :-)

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More playoff action!! (9/11)

Alright, folks, we have got some serious playoff action going here! I've ramped up the scratching, so tonight, we are letting the dust fly!

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Playoff Match 1 - Joey vs Dayf - Neither team scored in the first inning, so tonight Joey will play eight spots to see what kind of damage he can do before Dayf gets his own crack at the plate.

Joey gets creative in his scratchcard selections:

#07 Lonnie Line Drive - Ground out
#25 Hot Corner Harry - Strike out
#24 Speedy Sammy Sneedy - Strike out (good thing we changed things up!)
#30 Triple Play Troy - Pop out (ouch, four outs in a row!?)
#02 Homer Hank - Triple! That's a runner in scoring position!
#20 Grand Slam Baker - HOME RUN! It's a two-run homer for Grand Slam Baker!
#27 Pinch Hit Peter - Fly out
#17 Big Fly Moses - Pop out

Joey snags two runs in a 'middle-of-the-pack' home run shot! The Rangers lead the Braves, but they also managed to reveal a LOT of outs. How will that affect Dayf's choices and reveals? Let's find out!

Dayf, you're down by two, but six of eight Ranger scratches were outs. Who would you like to do your bidding? Pick your EIGHT: 01, 04, 06, 09, 11, 12, 13, 1, 15, 16, 21, 22, 26, 28, 29, 31

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Playoff Match 02 - Yesterday, Joey defeated Erin but they both left with some nice additions to their respective prize pools!

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Playoff Match 03 - Dayf vs Erin - We're in the top of the second inning here as Dayf's team takes their chance at the plate. We saw them give up two runs moments ago to Joey. Will they be able to put some tally marks on this game's score board or will Erin's Orioles hold them off? Here we go!

Number 6 - It's a lead off double! That's a runner ready to score!
Number 29 - Strike out
Number 3 - Pop out
Number 25 - Strike out (three outs in a row... ouch)
Number 17 - Strike out
Number 7 - Single! That advances the runner to third. Runners on the corners!
Number 24 - Double! That scores the runner on third and leaves men on 2nd & 3rd!
Number 11 - Fly out

The Braves leave two men stranded, but do manage to get one across the plate before running out of batters!

Erin trails by a run as her Orioles come up to bat in the bottom of the second. Which "eight (wo)men out" will she pick? 01, 02, 04, 05, 12, 14, 16, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 26, 27, 28, 30, 31

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We're getting close to a winner in the trivia question from yesterday, too! Keep your eyes on that post (or this one) to see when we get the correct, final answer!

Championship Playoffs - Bottom of the inning (9/10)

Playoff Game 1 - Joey vs Dayf - Joey was not able to get a runner in during his half the inning. Let's see if Dayf can bring a batter all the way around to win this playoff game. The Braves come up to the plate, leading off with Number 08. The Rangers pitcher winds up and tosses the ball in there for a strike. The pitcher takes him time setting up for the next pitch. Number 08 gets ready. Here's the pitch and the batter gets a piece of it! It's heading out toward center-right. The center fielder runs, and makes a diving catch! That one landed in the laces as the fielder skidded across the field to snag it up. The Braves have one out as they bring in Number 23.

Number 23 walks to the batter's box. The pitcher takes his sign and gets ready to throw. There's the wind up. The throw comes in and the batter swings and misses. The next pitch is hit deep to the left side, but it's fouled into the stands. That's 0-and-2 with one out. The pitcher throws, and it looked close from here, but the ump calls ball one. The batter's got a good eye. The pitcher really thought he had the out there, and he's not happy. He throws way outside on the next pitch for ball two. He's evened up the count, and the catcher goes out to talk to him. The batter steps out of the box and the coach gives him a few signs. The conference ends and the pitcher sets for the next pitch. Here's the throw. The batter swings but can't catch it, and he strikes out for out number two.

Time seems to be running short here for Dayf and his Braves. If he doesn't do something here, we're going to a whole new level of game play. He looks over his roster and chooses Number 3 to bat third. The Rangers look ready to make that move. The Braves batter takes the first pitch and it's low and away for a ball. The pitcher lets the next one slip a bit and it sails over the catcher's shoulder for ball two. The batter fouls off the third pitch and the count is 2-and-1. Here comes the wind up and the throw is outside of the zone for ball three. The batter, way ahead in the count, takes the next pitch and it's ball four - a walk.

The Braves have a man on base now with two outs. Dayf motions for Number 18 to get in the game. The pitcher finds his rhythm and sends the batter down on strikes to end the inning. The Braves leave a runner hanging on first.

Since my plan for selecting a lot of players to help push some runs across the plate failed miserably, I'm invoking some "arcade-style" rules.

Joey is up to bat in the second inning. Here's what we're going to do: Joey will select EIGHT SPOTS. Outs will not be kept up with. An out at this stage just means the defense blocked the batter from getting a hit. After all eight spots have been scratched, Dayf will get to select eight spots from what's left and I will scratch off those spots. The player with the best score at the end of the inning wins the match. Batters will move around the bases just like we have been playing (Wii rules).

Everyone got it?

Joey, pick your EIGHT SPOTS and let's see how your team does! Pick from these: 01, 02, 04, 06, 07, 09, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 20, 21, 22, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31

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Playoff Game 2 - Erin vs Joey - Erin scored two runs in her half of the inning. Joey's got to make a great showing, or he'll take a knock here. Joey employs a pair of strategies in his player selection process. Let's take a look:

#15 his softball number
#24 his High School Baseball Number
#16 his High School Football Number Backwards

Lets finish off the picks using a random stack of baseball cards.

#2 Derek Jeter
#28 Prince Fielder
#17 Lance Berkman
#18 Jason Kendall
#5 Pat Burrell
#7 Ivan Rodriguez
#30 Magglio Ordonez

So, starting things off with the batter wearing his softball jersey number. Erin faces Number 15. The Orioles pitcher throws out the first pitch and the batter wastes no time dropping that baby right over the shortstop for a single. His boys jump on it early.

Up next is Number 24, who is sporting the same number as Joey's high school baseball number. The pitcher throws and the batter sends it flying off into the right field crowd, foul. The next pitch hangs for a second too long and the batter gets ALL OF IT! There is nothing for the girls to do but watch that thing g sailing out of the park, giving the Rangers a two-run homer to tie the game!

No outs and so far, Joey's strategy has paid off well for the Rangers. Erin's Orioles are hoping they can put an end to Joey's run. His next batter is his high school football jersey backwards.... I feel like a particle in the Hadron Collider... Backwards, anticlockwise, see where I'm going here, people? No? Okay, well, so much for the color commentary... Let's just see how Number 16 does. The batter swings at the very next pitch and the ball shoots for the right field corner. It takes a bad bounce off the wall, and the Rangers put a man on third!

The Rangers fans are going ballistic! Their team has no outs, a runner in the ultimate scoring position, and up next is ... Derek Jeter!? Well, let's see how Jeter likes the south... Number 02 steps into the box to face the pitcher. The Orioles have fought back from bigger situations than this, so nothing is a given. The pitcher throws and Jeter fouls the ball off behind the catcher. The next pitch misses high and tight. With the count 1-and-1, the pitcher takes a breath before she sends in the next pitch. Here's the throw.... The batter swings, and Jeter bloops this one into shallow right-center for a run-scoring single!

Joey wins the playoff match! His record is now 1-0, and Erin falls to 0-1. For their work, the Rangers snag Joey a 2007 Topps Moments and Milestones Mike Piazza 1993 ROY (serial # 081/150 - card 79)! The Orioles help Erin walk away from the match with a 2003 Upper Deck Honor Roll Silver Honors JD Drew (serial # 142/150 - card 103)! Both players still have teams playing in other matches, so we'll se how things go!

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Playoff Game 3 - Dayf vs Erin - Dayf's Braves were not able to bring in any runs during their at-bat. The Orioles are coming up to bat after a hard loss against Joey's Rangers just a few moments ago. Will the girls pull themselves back up after the loss, or is the devastating blow too much for them? We've seen the Orioles pull off some amazing feats in this tourney... First up is Number 15. The Braves pitcher winds up and throws. The batter swings and pops the ball into the air. The third baseman is under it for the easy out. He tosses it to first and then the ball is returned to the pitcher. Erin sends in Number 09.

The pitcher takes his sign and throws. The ball can't seem to find the strike zone and it's a ball. Number Nine swings at the next pitch, but she misses for the first strike. The home crowd is pretty quiet as they wait to see what this batter is going to do. The pitcher throws. Here's the swing and the ball bounces hard in front of the second baseman. His quick reflexes serve him well, as he turns and throws off balance to first. The runner is out by half a step!

Two outs and no one is on base yet. Number 32 wants to change the momentum of the game right here and now. She steps up to the plate and ... What the!? She POINTS to left field with her bat! She is calling her shot!? The pitcher laughs and shakes his head. He winds and throws. The batter swings, and she hits the ball! Instead of going left, the ball pulls to the right! The right fielder makes a beeline for the wall. He leaps and .... CATCHES the ball to end the inning! Three up and three down.

So, it looks like we're going into the second inning in this game, too. Just like Playoff Game 1, the way this works is that Dayf will choose EIGHT SPOTS and I will scratch off all eight spots. After that, Erin will choose eight spots and I'll scratch those off. The team with the most runs wins. Players advance bases just as they have so far - Wii Rules.

So, Dayf, pick the EIGHT NUMBERS you hope will bring you the best results: 01, 02, 03, 04, 05, 06, 07, 11, 12, 14, 16, 17, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31

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TRIVIA TIME! This is open to everyone EXCEPT Joey, Dayf and Erin (sorry guys, but you're getting plenty o' prizes just for makin' it this far!). So, anyone else out there in bloggersville is free to answer: Who was the first Indians player to hit a single, double, triple, and home run in one game? First one with the correct answer wins a prize!

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Championship Round Playoffs - Top of the inning

Welcome back to the Tribecards Scratchoff Tournament, folks! We've come a long way from 12 teams! We're down to the last three teams left, and these three teams will play each other in order to see who moves on to the championship! The playoffs feature a one-inning game, so things could get fast, furious, and frustrating very quickly! We've got Dayf, Joey, and Erin ready to play some scratchoff baseball, so let's get to the action!

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Playoff Game 1 - Joey vs Dayf - Joey has a group of players that he likes to use, and has placed them in the path of the scratchcard dust many times during this tournament. Dayf's team (and for the sake of keeping things lively, I'm calling his team the Braves) takes the field. Up first for the Rangers is #5 Ian Kinsler. He's had mixed luck in this tournament, so let's see how he fares here. The pitcher winds up and throws out the first pitch. Kinsler takes a whack at it and sends it bouncing over the wall for a double to start the inning. #10 Michael Young comes up to the plate, batting second here today. The Braves pitcher makes short work of this batter, sending him out almost as quickly as he came into the game with a 1-2-3 strikeout. One away here in the playoff inning and #32 Josh Hamilton wants to keep things that way. The pitcher throws but he's a bit off the mark for a ball. Hamilton gets ready. The pitcher winds up, and throws. The ball is fouled off behind the catcher. The 1-1 count is hit to deep right, but the Braves defense is there to make the grab for out number two. The quick throw back into play keeps the runner on second.

Will the Rangers leave a runner stranded with nothing to show for it? #19 Chris Davis is hoping the dust will blow in his favor. Here's the pitch... Davis hits the ball toward center, but there's not enough card dust to carry it. The Braves retire the side on a routine fly out.

The Braves escape the at-bat, only allowing one runner to get on base.

Dayf gets to select his TEN BATTERS to see if he can take the game in the bottom of the first. Dayf, you've got all 32 spots except for 05, 10, 19, and 32.

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Playoff Game 2 - Erin vs Joey - Erin's Orioles have shown that the girls can certainly keep up with the boys in scratchcard action! She's taking on Joey's Rangers, who couldn't quite get things started against Dayf's Braves. Will Erin continue to show these boys who's boss, or will the Rangers shoot down these birds?

Erin looks over the field of players she has, and sends Number 04 into the game to serve in the lead-off position. The pitcher takes the sign, winds up, and tosses down the first pitch. Number Four lets it go by. The umpire calls a strike, and the batter nods. She knows where she wants the pitch, and is apparently willing to wait for it. The next pitch comes right down the middle and the batter swings. She gets a part of it, but it's not enough to do anything but pop the ball into the air. The catcher stands, flips off his mask, and is under the ball for out number one.

Number 19 makes her way into the batter's box. The Rangers make a slight defensive shift and get ready for the throw. Here's the pitch and the batter swings and misses. The pitcher sets. Here's the wind up and the delivery. Strike Two! The pitcher is up in the count, 0-and-2 and he's already helped generate one out. The next pitch comes in low for ball one. The batter is standing her ground, ready to take whatever the pitcher sends her way. The next pitch is inside, and the batter has to back away from it to avoid getting pegged! The count's all evened up as the next pitch gets fouled off. The pitcher tilts his head in a quick little move that suggests, "okay, let's try something else..." He looks to the catcher, but refuses the first sign. He gets a sign he likes and takes his position. He winds up and throws a hard fastball that misses the corner by a few ticks at the most! I don't know how the umpire kept himself from calling that one a strike! But, as it is, the batter is still up and now faces a full count. The pitcher throws and Nineteen takes a swing at it, but barely misses the ball for strike three...

That's two up and two down. Things are not looking good for the Orioles here, folks. On the other hand, things are looking VERY well for the Rangers. Erin gives a little pep talk to Number 23 and sends her in to change the direction of this game. The pitcher throws and Twenty-Three puts the pine to the leather! This one is GONE! A two-out home run to put the Orioles on the board! They are the first to score in the playoff games!

The girls in the dugout go crazy! Things settle down long enough for Number the 12 get her bat and take to home plate. The pitcher shakes his head at himself, but looks pretty unshaken. He wipes his brow, sets, and throws. The batter swings and misses the first pitch. Looking satisfied, the pitcher sets, winds, and throws in his next pitch. The batter fouls it off down the first base line. Two strikes and the batter is way behind with two outs. Here's the next pitch and the batter swings, sending the ball into the right field corner! She rounds first, trucking for second as the fielder throws. The batter slides as the ball reaches the short stop on second.... The throw is.... NOT in time!! She is SAFE at second. It looks like these girls have turned up the heat. Number 31 comes in, hoping to add to the sizzle. Here's the pitch... It's a hit to left field back to the wall and it bounces off. The batter steps at second for a run-scoring stand-up two-bagger!

The Orioles take a 2-0 lead. The Rangers are going to try to turn off the lights at this party. Can they knock Number 11 out of this rhythm? The pitcher nods, sets, and throws a curve ball toward the plate. The batter swings and connects! Unfortunately for her, it's a direct flight to the first baseman for the third out.

The Orioles leave a runner on second, but not before driving in two runs, making life hard for the Rangers as the come into bat in the bottom of the inning.

Joey, you're up with your work cut out for you. Which TEN PLAYERS are you going to send into the game? 01, 02, 03, 05, 06, 07, 08, 09, 10, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 20, 21, 22, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 32

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Playoff Game 3 - Dayf vs Erin - Dayf's Braves come up to bat to start off the third game of the playoffs against Erin's Orioles. The Orioles are coming into this match after scoring two runs against Joey. The Braves kept the Rangers from scoring anything in Playoff Game 1 and they are hoping to put these Orioles in line.

To start things off, Dayf motions for Number 10 to leave the dugout and take his place at the plate. The Orioles pitcher winds up. She throws and the batter hits the ball into the air above the second baseman (basegirl?) for the first out. Next to the plate is Number 13. This player has not proven to be all that lucky in this tournament so far.

Let's see if he can turn that around here. The pitcher takes the sign, winds up and throws. The batter fouls it off into the crowd on the third base side. That's a souvenir for someone. The catcher tosses out another ball and the pitcher sets. She stares at her mark, and here's the throw. It's high and outside for a ball. The count is 1-and-1 to Number Thirteen. The next pitch falls away from the strike zone for another ball. On the next pitch, the batter knocks the ball on the ground to third. The fielder picks up the ball and gets the batter out before he can reach first.

That's two down with no one on base. The Braves find themselves in the same position the Orioles were in just a moment ago against the Rangers. Will the Braves be able to pull off a couple runs here? Dayf sends in Number 18 to find out. The pitcher adjusts her cap, winds up and throws. The batter comes around, and in a move we haven't seen in while, he lays down a bunt! The defense is caught totally off balance and the batter reaches first! Dayf has a man on! He calls Number 8 up from the depths of the boys on bench next.

The batter fouls off the first pitch. The next pitch misses low and inside for a ball. Neither the pitcher nor the batter seems willing to give in. The next pitch also drifts inside for another ball. Here's the next pitch... A huge swing sends the ball deep to right field. If it stays fair, it'll be a two-run homer! It's drifting... And just squeaks by the foul side of the pole. A long strike, and that shores up the count here in the first inning. The Orioles got a lucky break there, but will their luck run out? The follow-up pitch is high and away, and now the pitcher looks at a full count. The batter takes a couple practice moves and the pitcher sets. The batter sets his bat back. There's the wind up, the throw and the batter brings his bat around. The ball dips ever so slightly and the batter swings above the ball by a hair as the ump calls "STRIKE THREE!"

The Braves leave a runner on base. They leave scoreless as they head for the field.

The Orioles come up to bat in the bottom of the inning. Erin will choose TEN PLAYERS. She can choose from all 32 spots except 8, 10, 13, 18

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Round Two Scratchcards and Prizes!

Round Two saw lots of action! Two of the thre matches had to go to extra cards/innings, and I believe the players drew some cool prizes!


Dayf and Madding

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Chris(M) and Joey

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ChrisB and Erin

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WhiteSoxCards and Joey each picked up a trivia prize!

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Stay Tuned right here, folks! There is more baseball scratchoff action ahead, with chances for the viewers at home to win more prizes!

The end of Round 2 - The Fight for the Championship begins! (9/8)

Round 2 Match 3 - ChrisB comes up in the third and his team is behind by three runs, trailing 5-2 against Erin and her Orioles. He's a bench full of batters eager to make it through to the next round. Let's see what happens here!

Batting first is Number 10. The pitcher throws and she gets the batter to fly out to center. That's a hard way to start things off. Let's see if Number 26 can get things going. Here's the pitch, and it's another fly ball to the center fielder.

Two down and it is not looking good for ChrisB's team right now. Third up is Number 20. The fate of his team rests on his shoulders. Will the scratchcard dust be full of magic or mayhem? The pitcher throws. The hit is sent to deep left field. The fielder runs toward the ball and dives.... She's got it! The Orioles win! The Orioles win!

Erin's Orioles hang on to the lead and carry themselves through to the next round! For her win, she grabs a 2008 Upper Deck Baseball Heroes Game-use jersey Mariano Rivera! ChrisB grabs a 2008 Upper Deck Series 1 Game-used jersey Ian Snell! Congratulations to both of you!

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Now that we have our three finalists, we're moving into the mini-championship seeding matches!

Joey, Dayf, and Erin will all choose TEN PLAYERS from each of their respective brand-new cards. Each of you has 32 players fresh off the bench to come to bat in the one-inning playoff! After each half-inning ends, then we will move to the bottom of the inning where the other team will get a chance to show their stuff. Good luck!

Game 1 - Joey vs Dayf (Joey picks ten to start)

Game 2 - Erin vs Joey (Erin picks ten to start)

Game 3 - Dayf vs Erin (Dayf picks ten to start)

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As in the other round, I will post scans of prizes and scratchcards soon!

Say Goodnight, Gracie... Round 2 truckin along (9/6)

Congratulations to WhiteSoxCards for doing some research and coming up with George Burns (hence the title, for those old enough to understand the reference, though it was a different GB). For his effort, WhiteSoxCards wins a 2001 Leaf Rookies and Stars Statistical Standouts Game-Used Opening Day Base Magglio Ordonez (ss-23)!! Excellent work!

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Round 2 Match 1 - Chris(M) grabbed a game-tying run in his half of the inning, forcing Joey to send more of his players to the plate. If Joey can score a run here, he will join Dayf in the next round of action. If Chris(M) prevents a score from crossing the plate, THIS game will go into extra innings!

#5 Ian Kinsler steps up to the plate to lead things off. The pitcher is not going to let things end quickly or quietly, apparently. He gets Kinsler swinging for Wiffle Ball field, but only coming up whiffing... He goes down on strikes. That'll bring up #7 David Murphy to see if HE can make something happen. Here's the pitch. Murphy swings and pops the ball out to the left fielder who is under it for the out. Two up and to down. Are we looking at ANOTHER extra-inning game? #32 Josh Hamilton will try to prevent that from happening.

The pitcher throws. Hamilton takes the pitch and the ump calls a strike. The next gets delivered and Hamilton takes a swing. He connects! This ball is heading for the fans! It.....Is.... GONE! Hamilton knocks the ball out of the park for the game-winning run, keeping the game from going into extra innings! HO-LY COW!

Joey takes his Rangers to round three, and for his game-winning run, he also receives a 2002 Donruss New Generation 2002 Rookie Game-used jersey Travis "Pronk" Hafner (serial #238/500)! And even though he's been knocked out of the tournament, Chris(M) receives a 2001 Donruss Class of 2001 Scrapbook Game-used jersey Larry Walker (with pinstripe! serial #320/500, card SB-16)!

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Round 2 Match 2 - Dayf pulled off an extra-inning win last night and he advances to Round Three. More details about Round Three action below...

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Round 2 Match 3 - Erin's Orioles are still batting here in the bottom of the second inning. She's got runners on second and third, two outs, and leads ChrisB 5-2. Erin brings in Number 28, hoping she can keep the Orioles streak running. The pitcher throws, and ChrisB breathes a sigh of relief as Twenty-Nine hits the ball on the ground to the second baseman who fields over to first to end the inning.

ChrisB has got his work cut out for him going into the third inning. Since Erin is leading, Chris just needs to put all the remaining players in the batting order he'd like, and hope he catches up or takes over the lead before his three outs come up! This is going to be a hard inning to watch... Chris, put 'em in order: 06, 10, 16, 18, 20, 26, 29, 32

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Round Three Info - I'm sure if you've been following along, at some point you must have seen what is about to happen here. Because of the number of players, this next round has an 'odd team out.' I have played out several scenarios on how to advance the tournament, given that in Round 2 Match 3 the winner has no one to play against! I considered a random "BYE" situation where one team would be chosen to automatically advance to the finals, but that didn't seem fair. I thought about having the team play against me, but again that didn't seem fair. So, here is my plan. I will hold a "mini round-robin" tournament-within-a-tournament! A WHAT!?

Here is the way this works: Joey, Dayf, and the winner of Match 3 (we'll call that person WM3) will play a series of ONE-INNING mini games. Each team plays twice. The two teams with the best records head to the championship. Here is the mini-bracket:

Joey vs Dayf
WM3 vs Joey
Dayf vs WM3

To speed things up, each visiting team (team listed on left) will choose TEN PLAYERS to bat for them in their respective games. The game plays exactly like the main tourney except there is only one inning! Yes, every player gets a 'bonus' card (though it will be a serial #'d card instead of game-used/auto) in every game played!

Round Three will start after Round Two is completed. Stay tuned to see how things turn out in the final game of Round Two!!

Oh, and for those of you that have already been eliminated from the main tourney, keep your eyes peeled! I have a surprise for you guys, too!

Trivial Matters and more scratch-off action! (9/5)

Okay, so the latest trivia question asked who were the three Indians to be named league MVP. Joey was the first to answer. He had different players than I had expected, but after some research, it can actually be concluded that there were FOUR league MVPs in an Indians uniform. Joey listed Lou Boudreau - 1948, Al Rosen - 1953 Unanimous Decision, and Lew Fonseca - 1929 by the Baseball Writers Association. There is actually another player that is "officially" recognized as a league MVP.

Joey wins a prize for his answer - a 2001 Pacific Private Stock Authentic Game-used Gear Ellis Burks jersey card!

Now, the next person (sorry Joey, you've already won for this question) who responds with the other "official" MVP will win an auto'd or game-used card!

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Round 2 Match 1 - Chris(M)'s Giants are ready to bat in the top of the third, but they are behind Joey's Rangers 4-3. Hot Dog man is on first base and there are no outs yet. Number 24 comes to the plate to face the pitcher. Here's the throw. The batter hits a pop fly to first for an out. With one away, Number 8 steps in to take on the Rangers. He knocks the ball into deep right field, and by now we all know what tends to do... You guessed it! Number 8 sends the Hot Dog man home as he gets in there for a triple! The game is tied at 4 runs each and one out in the top of extras innings. Up next, we'll watch and see if Number 23 can keep things going. He fouls off the first pitch. He swings and misses on the next pitch. The third pitch catches the batter looking. That's two outs with a runner on third. Can Number 10 get that runner off the base? The pitcher throws and Ten hits it high into the air to the center fielder for an easy pop out to end things for the Giants this inning.

The Giants managed to score a run, and remain in the tournament! If Joey can score here, his Rangers will advance to the next round.

Joey, with the score tied at four, which six players do you choose to help move you along? 01, 02, 03, 04, 05, 06, 07, 09, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32

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Round 2 Match 2 - Dayf and Madding have been going at it hard in this tournament and now Dayf is losing 4-3 as his team comes to bat in the bottom of the fourth. He picks Number 8 to start things off. The lead-off hit nets the batter a triple! It's amazing how many triples we've seen here in this tournament. With no one out, Dayf has a good chance of tying this up or even taking the game altogether! Number 17 comes into the game. The pitcher sends the first one down and the batter sends it foul into the stands. The next pitch misses the plate for ball one. The hometown fans get out of their seats, cheering on the batter. The 1-1 pitch misses outside and now the pitcher has fallen behind. Two balls, one strike. Seventeen sets and is ready for the pitch. It's tight inside and now the pitcher is way behind. He throws a heater right down the middle, but the batter lays off it. So, the full count here with a runner on third. Here's the pitch. It's juuuust a bit outside - he walks the batter and the runner on third scores (remember, wii rules)!

That ties the game 4-4 with no outs. The audience roars and the noise is completely deafening. Number 10 emerges from the dugout and the crowd continues to cheer. The noise must be too loud for the pitcher because he walks this batter in just four pitches. Runners on first and second now. We're in the bottom of the fourth. The game-winning run is on second. Number 24 steps into the batter's box. He hits the ball back to the pitcher for a ground out. The runners get back before anything else can happen. (This is one of those times when you just have to accept the fact that this is a fictional scratch-off game) That'll bring up Number 18 with one out in the inning. The pitcher throws what could bring Madding one step closer to ending the inning. The batter swings and he .... gets... ALL OF THIS ONE! The ball screams over the fence, out of the park into the stands!

Dayf wins the game in extra innings! What a game for the hometown crowd! Madding's Cardinals hung in there for most of the game, but just couldn't fend off the scratchcard dust... Awesome game, guys!

Dayf advances to Round Three and he also receives a 2005 Bowman All-Star Futures of the Game jersey card of Andy Marte (FGG-AMA). Madding wins a 2007 Upper Deck Antiquity Artifacts Authentic Materials game-used Justin Morneau (serial #026/199) (card AA-MO)! Congratulations to both to you!

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Round 2 Match 3 - Welcome back to the third game in this round of tournament action. The Orioles lead ChrisB 3-2 going into the bottom of the second inning. First up is Number 19. The pitcher might need a GPS because he can't find his location and ends up walking the lead-off batter. Orioles Number 15 walks to the plate next. The pitcher takes the sign from the catcher, who evidently also hands the pitcher a GPS after all... Not only does the pitcher hit the mark, he sends the batter back to the dugout without so much as a swing of the bat! Three strikes that leave the batter baffled. That's the first out and Number 27 comes up with a runner on base. Here's the pitch. Twenty-Seven swings. She hits the ball on the sweet spot, sending it over the fence for a two-run homer! The Orioles increase their lead to 5-2 in the second with one out.

With the bases empty, Twenty-Nine heads for the plate next. The pitcher gets his focus and strikes the batter out for out number two. Erin sends in Number 8, hoping to stay alive in the inning. The batter swings at the pitch and sends it over the third baseman's head for a single. Two outs, a runner on base, and the Orioles call in Numero Uno. She sends the ball into deep, deep right-center and slides into second for a double!

Erin, you've still got room to move here in the second. Two runners on base and two outs. You get to pick six more girls to try to keep the inning rolling: 06, 09, 16, 18, 20, 26, 28, 29, 32

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Round Two - Extra Cards, Extra Innings, Extra Fun! (9/4)

First of all, since I've had NO response to the trivia question I posed the other day, I am opening it up to the first person that responds. Period. Who are the only three Indians to have been name league MVP? You get it right, you win a card. Good luck and happy researching!

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Round 2 Match 1 - Joey and Chris(M) have quite a stalemate going on here, so Joey calls up some "minor league flair" to see if they're ready for the Bigs. To start off the bottom of the second, the Rangers bring in #30 Jason Ellison. The Giants pitcher sends down the first pitch. Ellison swings, sending the ball straight to the right fielder for a fly out. One down, and Joey sends in #26 John Mayberry to the plate next. So far, the waters here are stagnant. Let's see if Mayberry can stir things up. Here's the pitch. Mayberry swings, and sends this one straight to the right fielder for fly out. Whoa. Anyone else getting that deja vu feeling here? Perhaps its time to bring in out a veteran. As #25 Buddy Bell comes up to bat, the crowd erupts into a standing ovation. It's been a while since we've seen him in action. The Giants seem completely unaffected as they make their defensive shift.

The pitcher winds up and throws. Bell takes the pitch for a called strike. The next pitch comes in, just missing the outside part of the plate. The 1-1 pitch is delivered, and Bell sends the ball on a one-way trip into the outfield bleachers, breaking the tie! The crowd goes wild! Rangers take the lead 4-3 with two outs. Let's see if the next batter has enough game. #21 Milton Bradley takes his turn at the plate. Will he be headed to Candyland? Can he Connect Four bases for a home run? Or will he be the Downfall of the inning? Here's the pitch... Splat! Bradley sends the ball over the pitcher's head into deep center field. There's Trouble in the outfield and the batter reaches second for a double. Two outs with a runner on second as #17 Nelson Cruz steps in. The Giants throw and Cruz pops the ball into the air. The second baseman gets under it for the out to end the inning.

The Rangers score a run, but leave a man stranded in the second inning.

There is only one spot left on this card, so I will play Chris(M)'s first at-bat in the top of the third. The Rangers take the field as the Giants come up to bat. Let's go ahead and let #31 the Hot Dooooogggggg Man get his shot at ball-playing glory. The Rangers pitcher seems a bit torn. After all, he wants to strike out the batter for his team, but this IS the Hot Dog guy.... He winds up and throws. Hot Dog man swings and it's a hit! Well, sorta... He takes off running as the Rangers scramble to grab the "bunt." He beats the throw at first and is on base! The crowd cheers him on, even though he is potentially the game-tying run!

So, we're here in the top of the third and this game has gone to a NEW scratch-off card! The Rangers lead 4-3 and Chris(M) has a runner on first.

Chris(M), you're up and you have a brand-new, unscratched, unsearched card at your disposal! Choose six spots out of 32 available!

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Round 2 Match 2 - The game is tied 3-3 and Madding has a runner on third with no outs. Dayf managed to bring his team back from elimination. Can he keep that runner on third for the entire inning? Madding is hoping not! Next up is Number 23 Brian Barden to try and drive that runner home. The pitcher throws and the batter swings and misses for a strike. The next pitch misses the mark and Barden takes ball one. The pitcher eyes the runner on third, turns and pitches. Barden hits the ball up the middle for a run-scoring base hit! The Cardinals take the lead 4-3 here in the fourth. Up next is Number 13 Brendan Ryan. Ryan makes himself at home and waits for the pitch. And he waits to swing, taking strike one. The pitcher makes the next pitch and the batter is evidently a little too comfortable at the plate because he lets this go right by him for another strike. The pitcher takes his sign. Here's the pitch... The batter swings! But, he fails to connect and is struck out.

One run scored, one runner on base and one out. Batting third is Number 3 Cesar Izturis. He gets up to the plate and the pitcher throws. It's a swing and a miss. The pitcher seems to be on a roll here. His next pitch catches the batter reacting too slowly for another swinging strike. The next pitch is fouled off. The batter gets ready and the pitcher misses the plate for ball one. The count is 1-2 with one out. The pitcher hurls in a fastball that the batter never sees. He, too, goes down on strikes. Batting cleanup, Number 7 Adam Kennedy steps up to see if he can bring in another run here. Or, for that matter, just get on base. The pitcher throws and Kennedy comes out swinging. He gets a great piece of this one, sending it deep into left field. He has to stop at second and the other runner advances to third. Two outs and Number 22 Felipe Lopez has runners ready to extend the lead. Can he make that happen? Here's the throw. It's a hit! But, it's not hard enough to get outta here, and the second baseman makes the easy out.

We head into the bottom of the fourth, but not before Madding scores a run.

Dayf comes up to bat in the bottom of the fourth inning. He's down by one. He's been here before, though, so we'll see if he can make a repeat performance!

Dayf will have to pick six of these players to come into the game: 01, 02, 04, 05, 06, 08, 09, 10, 11, 12, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 20, 21, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32

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Round 2 Match 3 - Erin's Orioles have the lead as ChrisB comes to bat in the top of the second inning. He trails 3-1, but is pretty confident in his team. He checks the roster and sends Number 09 into the game. The pitcher sends down the first pitch, and the batter lets it go by for strike one. He's got a feel for what this pitcher is willing to do here now, so let's see how he fares. The next pitch is a little off the mark and the ump calls ball one. The next pitch is fouled off into the stands. The pitcher gives the batter her best stuff and he jumps out early, striking out in the process. ChrisB calls on Number 24 to bat next. Here's the pitch. The batter swings and he drops the ball into the gap between the shortstop and the outfield. That'll get him a single.

One out. One on. The tying run comes to bat. Number 14 looks to face the Orioles next. He knocks the ball deep into the right field corner - the bane of every defense in this tournament! He drives in the runner as he comes to third for a stand-up triple! ChrisB pulls within one run of tying things up here. With only one out so far, Number 17 has a chance to make that happen. The batter gets ready. The pitch comes down. He sends the ball in a line drive shot to the third baseman who makes a reflex-action catch! That's two outs and things are getting tougher here for ChrisB in this inning. Number 30 walks to the batter's box and he looks nervous. The first pitch is inside - ball one. The batter fouls the next pitch off and evens up the count. The batter swings at the next pitch and he sends it out to right field, and the fielder grabs it to end the top of the inning.

ChrisB scored a run in that inning and now is only one run behind. Erin's Orioles lead 3-2 as she comes up in the bottom of the second.

Erin, which girls are you sending into the game? Pick your six favorites: 01, 06, 08, 10, 15, 16, 18, 19, 20, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 32

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Going to extra innings and action keeps going! (9/3)

Let's get right into the action tonight!

Round 2 Match 1 - The Giants and the Rangers are tied with three runs each here in the top of the second inning. Chris(M) directs Number 13 to the plate to start off the inning. The Ranger pitcher winds up for the first pitch and throws. The batter takes the pitch for a called strike. The next pitch comes in high for ball one. The 1-1 count and the pitcher throws. Here's the swing and it's a long fly ball, but the right fielder easily makes the grab for the first out. Up next, Number 14 comes to bat. The pitcher throws and Fourteen misses for strike one. Here's the next throw. It's wide for a ball. The catcher sit low in the zone as the pitcher throws. The batter lays off it and the ump calls strike two. The next pitch is fouled off on the first base side. The batter hangs in there behind in the count 1-2 with one out already in the inning. The pitcher throws and this misses low for another ball. That evens the count 2-2. The pitcher winds and throws. The batter goes down swinging for the second out. The Giants can't seem to pull anything together so far this inning. Number 16 hopes to change things around here. There's the pitch, and the batter pops it up to shallow center where the shortstop gets under it to retire the side.

So, Chris(M)'s Giants are unable to do anything as the Rangers taken them three-up, three-down.

Joey's boys come to bat in the bottom of the second next. Let's see if they can break the tie. Since we're doing six batters at a time, Joey just needs to put his batters in order: 17, 21, 25, 26, 30, 31

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Round 2 Match 2 - This could spell the end for Dayf's crew unless he can work some magic here in the bottom of the third. He is down by two runs as the Cardinals lead 3-1. He's got a lot of players to choose from, so let's see how things work out here!

Dayf sends in Number 31 to see if he can start some kind of rally for his team. The pitcher throws, and the batter sends the ball bouncing back to him. On the one-hopper, the pitcher turns and gets the runner out easily at first. One away and the home crowd is not happy. Number 23 wants to get on base here. He adjusts his gloves and gets ready for the throw. Here's the wind-up and the throw. The batter knocks the ball high into the air, but it has no distance at all. The center fielder calls everyone else off of it and he catches the ball for another out.

Two down, two runs behind, and Dayf wants to see something from Number 02. This is critical for Dayf's team if they don't want to go home here. The pitcher throws and it's tight inside, brushing the batter back from the plate. The next pitch misses high and away for ball two. 2-0 and the pitcher has fallen behind. Here's the pitch. The batter swings and sends a laser-shot line drive over the left field fence for a home run! That puts his team within one. It's going to take some serious action to keep Dayf's team in the game. The Cardinals are more than ready to put this one to bed. Let's see what happens as Number 26 comes to the plate. The batter swings at the pitch and sends this one up the middle for a base hit. Number 32 steps in with two outs and the game-tying run on first. Here's the pitch. It's hit long and deep into the right field corner. The batter takes off running fast and spins his wheels heading for third. A run scores to tie the game as the batter slides in safe for a late-inning triple! The crowd goes bananas! Two outs and the score is tied 3-3. There are only two spots left on the scratch card! Will the next one be a game-winning move, or an extra-inning inducing out? Number 15 walks to the plate with the crowd to its feet. All the pressure is on this batter. Here's the pitch. It's hit deep, but the left fielder easily makes the grab to end the inning with a runner stranded.

We're going to extra innings in the game! Since there is only one spot left on this card, Madding will send up Number 09 to lead off the fourth inning. Dayf's pitcher throws, and this batter has been taking notes! He sends the ball into that dreaded right field corner and comes up with a lead-off triple.

Madding, you get dibs on a brand new card for extra innings. Take your pick of six batters for your Cardinals to continue action in the fourth. All 32 spots are available!

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Round 2 Match 3 - The Orioles lead 3-1 over ChrisB with two outs in the bottom of the first. Erin calls up Number 5 to see if she can continue to build the lead. Unfortunately for her, the pitcher makes some seriously short work of the batter. She goes down on three strikes to end the inning.

ChrisB, you've got quite a group here to choose from. Let's see which six batters ChrisB will send in next as he heads into the second inning: 01, 06, 08, 09, 10, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 32

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We still do not have a winner in last night's trivia game. Remember, that question is open to all readers that are not playing currently and have not played at all in this tournament! If you answer the question, you win an auto'd or game-used card!

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Last bats or just getting started? (9/2)

Two of our 2nd Round matches head into the third inning, providing the possible last bats for two of our tournament teams. The third game is just now entering the bottom of the first after a delayed start. Gustav may be pouring down outside my doorway here in southwest Arkansas, but the skies are clear on the scratchoff ballfield!

This is the 100th anniversary of "Take Me Out to the Ball Game," so everyone please stand and sing along:

Katie Casey was base ball mad. Had the fever and had it bad; Just to root for the home town crew, Ev'ry sou Katie blew. On a Saturday, he young beau Called to see if she'd like to go, To see a show but Miss Kate said, "No, I'll tell you what you can do."

"Take me out to the ball game, Take me out with the crowd. Buy me some peanuts and cracker jack, I don't care if I never get back, Let me root, root, root for the home team, If they don't win it's a shame. For it's one, two, three strikes, you're out,
At the old ball game."

Katie Casey saw all the games, Knew the players by their first names; Told the umpire he was wrong, All along good and strong. When the score was just two to two, Katie Casey knew what to do, Just to cheer up the boys she knew, She made the gang sing this song:

"Take me out to the ball game, Take me out with the crowd. Buy me some peanuts and cracker jack, I don't care if I never get back, Let me root, root, root for the home team, If they don't win it's a shame. For it's one, two, three strikes, your out,
At the old ball game."

Now, Let's PLAY BALL!

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Round 2 Match 1 - Chris(M) is up to bat in the top of the third with the scored tied 3-3. Since it was a holiday weekend, I'm extending the allotted time to choose the batters here.

Chris(M), play your pick six to see what they can do in the third inning: 13, 14, 16, 17, 21, 25, 26, 30, 31

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Round 2 Match 2 - Madding brings his batters up to the plate here in the third inning, where he has a 3-1 lead over Dayf. He is ready for action, telling the local sports reporter, "Let the scratchcard dust fly!" He brings in Number 4 (Yadier Molina) to start off the inning. Dayf's pitcher throws the ball across the plate for a strike. The batter gets hold of the next pitch, but he sends it foul into the crowd. Molina is behind in the count 0-2. As the next pitch comes in, he swings, sending the ball to the center fielder for an easy pop fly out. That's the first out of the inning as Number 30 (Mark Mulder) makes his way out of the dugout. The pitch is a bit outside, but the batter gets just enough of it to send it deep into the right field corner. He crosses first, rounds second and slides into third just ahead of the fielder's throw! He's got a triple. That brings up Number 14 (Ken Boyer) with a man on and still two outs away from the end of the inning. The pitcher looks over the situation, checking the runner and taking his sign from the catcher. He throws. The batter swings and knocks the ball up the middle but the shortstop makes a diving grab and throws the ball to first for the second out.

The Cardinals call up El Dorado, Arkansas, native and Hall of Famer Number 20 (Lou Brock). The pitcher tosses up the first pitch. Brock swings and hits it foul. The next pitch misses the zone and the count is evened up 1-and-1. Brock looks ready for the pitch. Here it comes... He smacks the ball hard, but it bounces hard to the third baseman. Brock is no match for the defense as Dayf racks up the third out.

Dayf manages to keep the Cardinals on hold, but he still trails 3-1 as his team comes up in the bottom of the third. Will Madding's Cards put up a strong enough defense to win the game, or will Dayf take a cue from the Orioles/Rangers game last round?

Dayf, since you've got last bats, you get to use all of the remaining batters as long as you stay in the game! Here are your players: 02, 09, 15, 23, 26, 31, 32

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Round 2 Match 3 - Erin's Orioles barely get out of Round One and they are thrust into Round Two, trailing by a run behind ChrisB's team. She sends her girls up to the plate here in the bottom of the first. She looks over her roster, and selects Number 4 to lead off. The batter swings at the ball and sends it up the middle for a base hit. The girls have become accustomed to playing catch-up, and Number 22 is hoping to do that and more here. ChrisB watches as his pitcher sends in the next ball. The batter swings and misses. The next pitch gets the batter swinging as well, and she falls behind 0-2. The third pitch produces the third strike and that batter takes her seat in the dugout. The Orioles pick Number 11 to come into the game. The batter swings at the batter's toss and she drops this one into deep left field for a stand-up double! The Orioles have two runners on and one out. Number 13 walks to the batter's box and gets ready to face the pitcher's arsenal. A base hit here ties the game. The pitcher misses his mark, and Number Thirteen cracks this one into a galaxy far, far away! This one is GONE! A three-run homer puts the Orioles ahead 3-1 in the first.

With one out and two batters left to go this go-round, ChrisB hopes his boys can stop Erin's girls. Out of the dugout next is Number 21. She adjusts her helmet, takes a couple swings and gets ready for the pitch. Here comes the pitch... BAM! Back-to-back home runs as the batter sends this one out of the park! The girls came to put on a show, folks! They like that four-run mark as we've seen from them in the previous game. 4-1 with just one out. What is Number 3 gonna do here? The pitcher takes a cleansing breath, draws, and pitches. KAPOW! The batter sends the ball flying! The right fielder starts running. This one is gonna be close! The fielder grabs the wall and leaps up. HOLY COW, what a grab! That's a web gem there, folks!

The Orioles lead 4-1 with two outs in the bottom of the first.

Erin is still up to bat, so she can select six batters to see if can widen the gap even further: 01, 05, 06, 08, 09, 10, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 32

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Okay, let's try another trivia question, only this time only readers that have never participated in the current tournament are allowed to answer! The question: Only three Indians have ever been selected as league MVP. Who are they and when were they the MVP? Remember, respond to this post with your answer, and if you've played (or are playing) in the tourney, you'll have to sit this one out...

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Round One Gamecards and Prizes!

I know the suspense has ben killing you... Well, okay, maybe not... But, after a few brief delays, ladies and gentlemen, I present First Round pics!

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Match 01 - Madding vs. MMosley

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Match 02 - WhiteSoxCards vs. Joey

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Match 03 - TasteLikeDirt vs. ChrisB

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Match 04 - Chris(M) vs Motherscratcher

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Motherscratcher wins the first trivia question!

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Match 05 - Extras innings and two scratchcards later! Erin vs. Voltaire

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Match 06 - Dayf vs Kevin

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Our second trivia winners were MMosley and Voltaire!

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