7-31 CUP O' JO

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Yesterday's Pearls:

JOEY GOMES (DH, Joliet Jackhammers, Northern League IND):
7-30: Cellar dwelling Schaumburg has become the Jackhammers' nemesis. They always seem to be the spoilers when Joliet gets on a roll. Last night, they did it again with a come from behind 9th inning rally to score three and edge Joliet by a score of 5-4. Joey was 1 for 4 with his 13th double and 3 Ks batting 8th and playing in RF. .281 avg. Joliet (32-32) is 5 and 5 in their last 10 with a 3 game losing streak, 9 games back, but only one game out of 2nd place.

CHAD FILLINGER - P, Joliet Jackhammers, Northern League - IND:
Last game pitched - 7-27: Pitched two scoreless innings for Joliet allowing 3 hits and striking out 2. 2.45 ERA.

LOUIS OTT (DH/INF Detroit Tigers Organization - Lakeland Flying Tigers, A):
LOUIS TRANSFERRED TO BACK TO CLASS A LAKELAND FLYING TIGERS ON 7-26-08 AFTER SUCCESSFUL STINT WITH AA ERIE BATTING .238
7/30: Louis hit a game winning 2 out walk-off RBI single in the 10th, giving Lakeland a 6-5 win over Tampa! He was 2 for 3 on the night with 2 singles, 2RBI, 2 walks, and a sac bunt. .267 Avg. Recap Lakeland is 6-4 in their last ten with a 2 game win streak in second place, 4.5 games back of Dunedin.

TOMMY EVERIDGE (1B, Oakland A's Organization - Midland Rockhounds, AA):
7-30: 1 for 5 at 3B with a two out RBI double and a K as the Rockhounds beat Division Leading Frisco for the second day in a row, this time by a score of 5-2. The hit was Tommy's 24th double and 90th RBI of the season. .271 avg. Recap The Rockhounds are 7-3 in their last ten with a six game win streak, 2 games back of Division Leader, Frisco and just a half game out of second place. Keep it going Tommy!

KONRAD SCHMIDT (C, Arizona Diamondbacks Organization - Visalia Oaks, High A):
PROMOTED TO CLASS A ADVANCED VISALIA OAKS 7-11-08
7-30: Did not play in the Oaks 4-2 win over Bakersfield.
7-29: 1 for 4 at DH with a single in the Oaks' 1-6 loss to Bakersfield. .364 avg. The Oaks are 2-8 in their last 10 with a 3 game losing streak. At 6 games back of Division leading Modesto, the Oaks have sunk to last place.

STEPHEN PEARSON (1B, American Assn-Wichita Wingnuts, IND):
7-30: Doubleheader. Game one: 1 for 2 at DH/RF with a single, stolen base and a HBP in the 7-0 4 hit shutout of St. Paul. Game 2: 0 for 1 as a pinch hitter in a 4-2 loss. .284 Avg. Wichita is in the cellar, 3-7 in their last ten with a 1 game losing streak, 6 games behind Lincoln, the Northern Division leader.

JONNY GOMES (DH, Tampa Bay Rays):
7-30: 0-1 as a pinch hitter with a K in a nice, and timely win for the Rays in Toronto. Evan Longoria may have had the game of his rookie season last night with two Gold Glove plays and a huge RBI triple. The Red Sox spoiled a no-no for the Angels' Lackey at the 8 1/3 inning mark but the Angels held on to win so the Rays were able to extend their AL East lead to two games.

Rays Chatter: Today's the day... the MLB Trade deadline. The Rays rumor mill is picking up and "the most likely scenario" changes a couple of times each hour. If you're into it, the on again/off again Jason Bay scenario is back on in the last 30 minutes. MLBTradeRumors.com is usually one of the first to report any new rumors and actual trades, though their server is pretty overloaded the last few days. Just keep hitting the refresh button.

BRANDON MORROW (P, Seattle Mariners):
7-29: Did not pitch in last night's one run loss to the Rangers, but should have, as JJ Putz blew the save in a game that saw Ichiro collect his 3,000th career hit (MLB + Japan).7-28: Save number 10 for Brandon as the Mariners edged the Rangers 7-5 in Texas. Brandon allowed no runs, one hit and a walk and notched one strikeout in the four batters he faced. 1.51 ERA.

PTOWN's UP AND COMERS:

DJ GENTILE (OF, Mat-Su Miners (Palmer, AK), Alaska Baseball League, Amateur):
7-30: 2 for 7 in RF with an rbi single in the 15th and final inning of a 4-2 win over the Peninsula Oilers. 7 straight wins for the Miners. As of 7-29, DJ is still leading the team by a 71 point margin with a .360 avg, .570 slugging avg, and .423 on base avg. WOW! Brook trout for breakfast must be workin' for him.

7-30 CUP O' JO

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Yesterday's Pearls:


JOEY GOMES (DH, Joliet Jackhammers, Northern League IND):
7-30: 1 for 2 in a rain shortened 6 inning 1-8 loss to Schaumburg. .281 avg. Joliet (32-31) has won 4 of their last 10.


CHAD FILLINGER - P, Joliet Jackhammers, Northern League - IND:
Last game pitched - 7-27: Pitched two scoreless innings for Joliet allowing 3 hits and striking out 2. 2.45 ERA.


LOUIS OTT (DH/INF Detroit Tigers Organization - Lakeland Flying Tigers, A):
LOUIS TRANSFERRED TO BACK TO CLASS A LAKELAND FLYING TIGERS ON 7-26-08 AFTER SUCCESSFUL STINT WITH AA ERIE BATTING .238
7/29: 1 for 3 with a single, a walk, and a stolen base in Lakeland's 7-1 win over Tampa. .262 Avg. Lakeland is 6-4 in their last ten and in second place, 5 games back of Dunedin.


TOMMY EVERIDGE (1B, Oakland A's Organization - Midland Rockhounds, AA):
7-29: Tommy is having a week! Last night he was 4 for 5 at 3B with 3 singles, 2 RBIs and home run #20 and a double play as the Rockhounds beat Division Leading Frisco 7-3. .271 avg. Recap The Rockhounds are 7-3 in their last ten with a five game win streak, 3 games back of Division Leader, Frisco and just a half game out of second place.

KONRAD SCHMIDT (C, Arizona Diamondbacks Organization - Visalia Oaks, High A):
PROMOTED TO CLASS A ADVANCED VISALIA OAKS 7-11-08
7-29: 1 for 4 at DH with a single in the Oaks' 1-6 loss to Bakersfield. .364 avg. The Oaks are 2-8 in their last 10 with a 3 game losing streak. At 6 games back of Division leading Modesto, the Oaks have sunk to last place.

STEPHEN PEARSON (1B, American Assn-Wichita Wingnuts, IND):
7-29: Postponed - rain.
7-28: 0 for 3 playing LF in an 5-8 loss to Sioux City as the Wingnuts continue to lose ground in the Division. He did steal a base and score a run. 288 Avg. Wichita is in the cellar, 4-6 in their last ten with a 2 game losing streak, 5 games behind Lincoln, the Northern Division leader.

JONNY GOMES (DH, Tampa Bay Rays):
7-29: 0-1 as a pinch hitter with a K in a nice, and timely win for the Rays in Toronto. Evan Longoria may have had the game of his rookie season last night with two Gold Glove plays and a huge RBI triple. The Red Sox spoiled a no-no for the Angels' Lackey at the 8 1/3 inning mark but the Angels held on to win so the Rays were able to extend their AL East lead to two games.

Rays Chatter: Less than 24 hours before the deadline, the Rays rumor mill is picking up. Lots of talk about Jason Bay who would be a nice add. Last years #1 draft pick, David Price, is off the table, but he is one of the few that the Rays wouldn't consider moving. Jonny's name is mentioned in the blogs as a possible piece to round out a package, but not from any terribly reputable sources. If you're a JG fan, keep your browser pointed to MLBTradeRumors.com for the latest rumors. They're usually one of the first to report any actual trades, though their server is pretty overloaded the last few days.

BRANDON MORROW (P, Seattle Mariners):
7-29: Did not pitch in last night's one run loss to the Rangers, but should have, as JJ Putz blew the save in a game that saw Ichiro collect his 3,000th career hit (MLB + Japan).
7-28: Save number 10 for Brandon as the Mariners edged the Rangers 7-5 in Texas. Brandon allowed no runs, one hit and a walk and notched one strikeout in the four batters he faced. 1.51 ERA.

PTOWN's UP AND COMERS:

DJ GENTILE (OF, Mat-Su Miners (Palmer, AK), Alaska Baseball League, Amateur):
7-29: Nice doubleheader for DJ. 1 for 3 with a walk and an RBI single in game one, a 4-0 win over Anchorage. DJ was 4-4 at DH with a two run home run, 2 RBIs, in the second half of the double header, a 6-4 win. As of 7-26, DJ is still leading the team by a 71 point margin with a .360 avg, .570 slugging avg, and .423 on base avg. WOW! Brook trout for breakfast must be workin' for him.

Petaluma Valley Loses A Heartbreaker

A dozen Petaluma pre-teens woke up one sunny morning in March to suit up for the first game of the season. And what a season it was. Four months of personal bests and great memories culminated in a "must win" win on Monday night and they found themselves playing for the Northern California Little League Championship Flag Tuesday night in Alameda. Northern California... Four rounds of elimination tournaments. Four rounds of "must win" wins. What an extraordinary accomplishment.

Pleasanton Little League got the 4-1 win tonight and will continue on the road to the Little League World Series. Excellent pitching and a first inning three run home run established early momentum for Pleasanton and PTown wishes them well. In fact, we'd love to see NorCal win the whole thing!

Way to play Petaluma Valley! We are so proud of you. It's time to sleep in for a few days and let that glove gather a little dust. The next season is right around the corner, but the rest of your summer vacation starts right now. Make the most of it :-)

Petaluma Valley Little League Wins Again!

Petaluma Valley won the elimination game last night and it's a whole new season! Petaluma and Pleasanton each have one loss and play for the Northern California Division Championship tonight at 5:30 in Alameda. The winner will advance to the Regional Championship in San Bernardino... just one stop from Williamsport, PA. The forwarded email I received described a very close and exciting game full of dramatic long balls, great defense and well executed small ball.

A tip of the cap to D. Ross Cameron of the Oakland Tribune for the above photo and caption: Petaluma Valley outfielders Taylor Gomez, left, and Tyler Nadolski both nearly take a header over the fence in pursuit of Pleasanton American's Ryan Alley's solo home run the sixth inning of their Northern California Division II Little League playoff baseball game, Monday, July 28, 2008 at Will C. Wood School in Alameda, Calif. Petaluma Valley forced another game between the two teams by winning, 4-3, in 7 innings. (D. Ross Cameron/The Oakland Tribune)

Here's a game story from the Tri-Valley Herald newspaper in Pleasanton: http://www.insidebayarea.com/search/ci_10027686?IADID=Search-www.insidebayarea.com-www.insidebayarea.com

Bring home that flag tonight Petaluma!

7/29 CUP O' JO

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Recapping yesterday's action:

JOEY GOMES (DH, Joliet Jackhammers, Northern League IND):
7-28: Day off for Joliet. They face Schaumburg tonight.
7-27: Joliet almost had the league leading Fargo birds in hand again yesterday, but the Redhawks forced one of the longest games in League history, and came away with a walkoff win in 15 innings. After each team knocked in their first run during the 5th inning, the score remained tied at 1 apiece through 13 frames. Each club scored again in the 14th, but Fargo plated two on a walk off home run in the 15th... 5 hours and 48 minutes after the opening pitch. Joey, 0-6, put it in play every time but couldn't find a gap yesterday. .279 avg. Joliet (32-30) has won 5 of their last 10.

Jackhammer rubble: Sunday night's game might have been a different outcome if the Jackhammers most dependable bat, Doc Brooks, had not been tossed in the 11th. The guy is a great hitter, but is going to establish a new saber stat for playoff jeopardizing ejections and suspensions. With second - fourth place flip flopping on a daily basis, every win makes a difference.

CHAD FILLINGER - P, Joliet Jackhammers, Northern League - IND:
7-28: Day off for Joliet. They face Schaumburg tonight.
7-27: Pitched two scoreless innings for Joliet allowing 3 hits and striking out 2. 2.45 ERA.

LOUIS OTT (DH/INF Detroit Tigers Organization - Lakeland Flying Tigers, A):
LOUIS TRANSFERRED TO BACK TO CLASS A LAKELAND FLYING TIGERS ON 7-26-08 AFTER SUCCESSFUL STINT WITH AA ERIE BATTING .238
7/28: 2 for 4 with two singles and two K's in Lakeland's 5-6 loss to Tampa. .261 Avg.
Lakeland is in second place, 5 games back of Dunedin.

TOMMY EVERIDGE (1B, Oakland A's Organization - Midland Rockhounds, AA):
7-28: Tommy continued this week's offensive explosion with a 3 for 6 day as the Rockhounds swept Corpus Christi 11-2. He blasted his 19th HR, a two out two run shot, hit an RBI double, scored 3 runs, and saw his share of defensive action at 3B. .265 avg. Recap The Rockhounds are 6-4 in their last ten with a four game win streak, 4 games back of Division Leader, Frisco who they face in a three game series that begins tonight.

KONRAD SCHMIDT (C, Arizona Diamondbacks Organization - Visalia Oaks, High A):
PROMOTED TO CLASS A ADVANCED VISALIA OAKS 7-11-08
7-28: Night off for the Oaks.
7-27: 1 for 3 at catcher with a single in the Oaks' 0-5 loss to Rancho Cucamonga. .375 avg. The Oaks are 3-7 in their last 10 with a 2 game losing streak and 6 games back of Division leading Modesto.

Oaks Chatter: Konrad's former teammate, South Bend Silverhawk Josh Collmento is a finalist in the Mustaches in the Minors contest. He became the team's runaway favorite when Konrad and his horseshoe-and-patch combo were promoted to Visalia. No word on how well Konrad did with Visalia fans, but you can catch a glimpse in this MiLB slideshow featuring The Konrad Kombo.

STEPHEN PEARSON (1B, American Assn-Wichita Wingnuts, IND):
7-28: 0 for 3 playing LF in an 5-8 loss to Sioux City as the Wingnuts continue to lose ground in the Division. He did steal a base and score a run. 288 Avg. Wichita is in the cellar, 4-6 in their last ten with a 2 game losing streak, 5 games behind Lincoln, the Northern Division leader.

JONNY GOMES (DH, Tampa Bay Rays):
7-28: 0-1 as a pinch hitter with a fly to right last night as the Rays dropped the opener to Toronto. The Rays offense just couldn't get it done. Again. Fortunately, the Red Sox and Yankees both lost so Tampa Bay was able to maintain their razor thin lead in the AL East.

Rays Chatter: Two days before the deadline, the Rays rumor mill is eerily quiet. There just aren't many guys in play that meet the Rays needs without an exhorbitant price tag, but as the offense continues to stuggle, the natives are growing restless. And the Bandwagoners are going nuts.

BRANDON MORROW (P, Seattle Mariners):
7-28: Save number 10 for Brandon as the Mariners edged the Rangers 7-5 in Texas. Brandon allowed no runs, one hit and a walk and notched one strikeout in the four batters he faced. 1.51 ERA.

PTOWN's UP AND COMERS:

DJ GENTILE (OF, Mat-Su Miners (Palmer, AK), Alaska Baseball League, Amateur):
7-28: Night off for the Miners.
7-27: 1-3 with an RBI triple and a fly out playing RF as the Minors beat the Anchorage Bucs 7-2. As of 7-26, DJ is still leading the team by a 50 point margin with a .329 avg, .519 slugging avg, and .386 on base avg.

PETALUMA VALLEY LITTLE LEAGUE 12 Y.O. ALL-STAR TEAM
Petaluma Valley won the elimination game last night and it's a whole new season! Petaluma and Pleasanton each have one loss and play for the Northern California Division Championship tonight at 5:30 in Alameda. The winner will advance to the Regional Championship in San Bernardino... just one stop from Williamsport, PA. The forwarded email I received described a very close and exciting game full of dramatic long balls, great defense and well executed small ball.

Here's the game story from the Tri-Valley Herald newspaper in Pleasanton: http://www.insidebayarea.com/search/ci_10027686?IADID=Search-www.insidebayarea.com-www.insidebayarea.com

An extraordinary picture by D. Ross Cameron of the Oakland Tribune showing two Petaluma players going over the fence to try to rob Pleasanton of a home run in the top of the 6th: http://www.flickr.com/photos/drosscameron/2712085623/in/set-72157601382747382/ Alameda's lead off hitter drove a long ball that hit the top of the fence and bounced straight up. Two Petaluma OFs went for the ball and both hit the fence hard, nearly going over. One of the Valley fielders actually caught the ball, but couldn't hold onto it as he fought to stay in the park. What a great effort by both players and what a shot by the photographer!Bring home that flag tonight Petaluma!

7-28 CUP O' JO

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Recapping yesterday's action:

JOEY GOMES (DH, Joliet Jackhammers, Northern League IND):
7-27: Joliet almost had the league leading Fargo birds in hand again yesterday, but the Redhawks forced one of the longest games in League history, and came away with a walkoff win in 15 innings. After each team knocked in their first run during the 5th inning, the score remained tied at 1 apiece through 13 frames. Each club scored again in the 14th, but Fargo plated two on a walk off home run in the 15th... 5 hours and 48 minutes after the opening pitch. Joey, 0-6, put it in play every time but couldn't find a gap yesterday. .279 avg. Joliet (32-30) has won 5 of their last 10.

Jackhammer rubble: Sunday night's game might have been a different outcome if the Jackhammers most dependable bat, Doc Brooks, had not been tossed in the 11th. The guy is a great hitter, but is going to establish a new saber stat for playoff jeopardizing ejections and suspensions. With second - fourth place flip flopping on a daily basis, every win makes a difference.

CHAD FILLINGER - P, Joliet Jackhammers, Northern League - IND:
7-27: Pitched two scoreless innings for Joliet allowing 3 hits and striking out 2. 2.45 ERA.

LOUIS OTT (DH/INF Detroit Tigers Organization - Lakeland Flying Tigers, A):
LOUIS TRANSFERRED TO BACK TO CLASS A LAKELAND FLYING TIGERS ON 7-26-08 AFTER SUCCESSFUL STINT WITH AA ERIE BATTING .238
7/27: Day off for the Tigers.
7/26: Lou knew he was only in Erie for a few weeks to cover an injury situation and he made the most of the opportunity. He ended the AA stint with a .238 Avg. Back in Lakeland, FL yesterday, Lou was 0-3 with a walk and 2 K's in the Tigers 4-3 win over Sarasota. .256 Avg. Lakeland is in second place, 4.5 games back of Dunedin.

TOMMY EVERIDGE (1B, Oakland A's Organization - Midland Rockhounds, AA):
7-27: Another good game for Tommy who was 3-5 with 3 singles, a sac fly, 3RBIs and a K in the Rockhounds 12-4 win over Corpus Christi. .261 avg. The Rockhounds are 6-4 in their last ten with a three game win streak, 4 games back of Division Leader, Frisco.

KONRAD SCHMIDT (C, Arizona Diamondbacks Organization - Visalia Oaks, High A):
PROMOTED TO CLASS A ADVANCED VISALIA OAKS 7-11-08
7-27: 1 for 3 at catcher with a single in the Oaks' 0-5 loss to Rancho Cucamonga. .375 avg. The Oaks are 3-7 in their last 10 with a 2 game losing streak and 6 games back of Division leading Modesto.

Oaks Chatter: Konrad's former teammate, South Bend Silverhawk Josh Collmento is a finalist in the Mustaches in the Minors contest. He became the team's runaway favorite when Konrad and his horseshoe-and-patch combo were promoted to Visalia. No word on how well Konrad did with Visalia fans, but you can catch a glimpse in this MiLB slideshow featuring The Konrad Kombo. It knocks the socks off the Grizzly Adams full beard he was sporting last winter, that's for sure.

STEPHEN PEARSON (1B, American Assn-Wichita Wingnuts, IND):
7-27: 1 for 3 at 1B in an 8-9 loss to Sioux City. .292 Avg. Wichita is in the cellar, 4-6 in their last ten with a 1 game losing streak, 4.5 games behind Lincoln, the Northern Division leader.

JONNY GOMES (DH, Tampa Bay Rays):
7-27: Flied out to deep left pinch hitting for Gross in the 6th with two out and two on in the Rays' 1-6 loss to the Royals. Pena and Aybar both came to the plate with 2 on before him and couldn't get the job done either. 2 ground balls among the three of them would have tied the game.

Rays Chatter: The Rays inconsistent offense is starting to get into the heads of the pitching staff. It's also got the Skipper worked up. He lit into the team after Saturday's game about their collective lack of hustle. Joe doesn't get riled up very often. The Rays still own the second best record in baseball with a .006 edge over the Cubs and one less loss than the Red Sox. Clearly, it's time to turn it on. Still lots of talk about the need for an impact right handed corner outfielder but no consistent rumors to share or support. Likely, the price is just too high to get it done. Jonny's name is not popping up all over the map as it did this time last year, but don't be surprised to see him packaged with a prospect toward the deadline for pitching help.

BRANDON MORROW (P, Seattle Mariners):
7-27: Did not pitch as the Mariners snapped a 7 game skid and beat the Blue Jays 5-1 in Toronto with JJ Putz as the closer.
7-25: Pitched a scoreless 9th inning last night after JJ Putz allowed the tying run in the 8th. The game ended with a rare mistake by Ichiro as Lowe hit a liner to deep RF. Ichiro jumped to grab it, but it glanced off his glove allowing two runs to score. Brandon faced 5 batters, walking two and striking out one. 1.56 ERA.

PTOWN's UP AND COMERS:

DJ GENTILE (OF, Mat-Su Miners (Palmer, AK), Alaska Baseball League, Amateur):
7-27: 1-3 with an RBI triple and a fly out playing RF as the Minors beat the Anchorage Bucs 7-2. As of 7-26, DJ is still leading the team by a 50 point margin with a .329 avg, .519 slugging avg, and .386 on base avg.

PETALUMA VALLEY LITTLE LEAGUE 12 Y.O. ALL-STAR TEAM
Another "must win" win yesterday for Petaluma as they elminated Turlock! Tonight at 5:30, they face Pleasanton, the team that beat Valley in the first round. A Petaluma win puts them in the Championship Game with Pleasanton on Tuesday night and a loss means the end of the road. The tournament fields are located at the Will C. Wood School, 420 Grand St., Alameda, CA 94501.Take I-880 South to the 23rd Ave. exit, follow to Park St. Bridge. Follow Park St. to Otis Dr., right on Otis to Grand St., left on Grand. Parking available around school. GO GET 'EM VALLEY!

7-27 CUP O' JO

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Recapping yesterday's action:

JOEY GOMES (DH, Joliet Jackhammers, Northern League IND):
7-26: Joliet slammed the door on Fargo's win streak at 13 games with a dominating 11-2 win over the Redhawks yesterday. Joey was 3 for 5 with 2 singles, a solo HR (9), 2 RBI and 2 runs scored at DH. .287 Avg. Joliet (32-30) has won 6 of their last 10 and have shot up to second place this week thanks in part to last place Schaumburg taking two in a row from Kansas City. They play the Redhawks in the rubber match today at 1pm Fargo time. They are 6.5 games back of Fargo and .5 games ahead of Kansas City.

CHAD FILLINGER - P, Joliet Jackhammers, Northern League - IND:
Last appearance was on 7-25: Pitched a scoreless final inning for Joliet walking one and fanning three in the team's loss to Fargo. 2.66 ERA.
7/22: Gonna leave this one up awhile... He might not get another AB until he signs with a National League team! On July 22, not only did the Jackhammers notch a 13-4 victory over rival Schaumburg, RHP Chad Fillinger found himself swinging the bat in the win over Schaumburg. Shorthanded after the ejection of teammate Corey Harris, the Jackhammers had just one reserve on the bench and the pitchers were pressed into offensive action. After pitching a two hit, no run 8th, Chad came to the plate in the 9th. He fouled off a 1-1 pitch and hit a grounder off the end of the bat to reach on a fielder's choice. Chad pitched one inning, K'd one, gave up two hits, no runs, and no walks. 2.78 ERA.

LOUIS OTT (DH/INF Detroit Tigers Organization - Lakeland Flying Tigers, A):
LOUIS TRANSFERRED TO CLASS A LAKELAND FLYING TIGERS ON 7-26-08
7/26: Lou knew he was only in Erie for a few weeks to cover an injury situation and he made the most of the opportunity. He ended the AA stint with a .238 Avg. Back in Lakeland, FL yesterday, Lou was 0-3 with a walk and 2 K's in the Tigers 4-3 win over Sarasota. .256 Avg. Lakeland is in second place, 4.5 games back of Dunedin.

TOMMY EVERIDGE (1B, Oakland A's Organization - Midland Rockhounds, AA):
7-26: Another good game for Tommy who was 2-4 with 2 doubles, 2 runs scored, 2RBI, and 1k in the 8-6 win over Corpus Christi. .257 avg. The Rockhounds are 5-5 in their last ten with a two game win streak, 5 games back of Division Leader, Frisco.

KONRAD SCHMIDT (C, Arizona Diamondbacks Organization - Visalia Oaks, High A):
PROMOTED TO CLASS A ADVANCED VISALIA OAKS 7-11-08
7-26: 2 for 4 at DH with two singles in the Oaks' 2-5 loss to Rancho Cucamonga. .378 avg. The Oaks are 3-7 in their last 10 with a 1 game losing streak and 6 games back of Division leading Modesto.

Oaks Chatter: Konrad's former teammate, South Bend Silverhawk Josh Collmento is a finalist in the Mustaches in the Minors contest. He became the team's runaway favorite when Konrad and his horseshoe-and-patch combo were promoted to Visalia. No word on how well Konrad did with Visalia fans, but you can catch a glimpse in this MiLB slideshow featuring The Konrad Kombo. It knocks the socks off the Grizzly Adams full beard he was sporting last winter, that's for sure.

STEPHEN PEARSON (1B, American Assn-Wichita Wingnuts, IND):
7-26: 1 for 5 at 1B in a 5-2 win over St. Paul. .296 Avg. Wichita is in the cellar, 5-5 in their last ten with a 2 game win streak, 4.5 games behind Lincoln, the Northern Division leader.

JONNY GOMES (DH, Tampa Bay Rays):
7-25: Popped out for Hinske in an 8th inning pinch hit appearance as the Rays notched a 5-3 win over Kansas City on the strength of 2 Carl Crawford triples. The win combined with a Red Sox loss has really tightened up the AL East where Tampa Bay holds a 2 game lead over Boston and a 3 game lead over New York. The Rays still own the second best record in baseball behind the Angels and ahead of the White Sox and Cubs. How sweet it is.

Rays Chatter: Trade rumors really heating up with the 7/31 deadline approaching. With several new teams emerging as contenders instead of dealers this year, the usual trade game is a bit topsy turvy. The Rays would be happy to upgrade RF with a rightie that can both field and hit for average but so far the price tag has been too high for a team that is poised to compete for the next several years. The Rays are likely to stand pat or possibly trade a prospect and some lesser players for some late game relief help in the bullpen. Jonny's name is not popping up all over the map as it did this time last year, but don't be surprised to see him packaged with a prospect toward the deadline for pitching help. There was some buzz yesterday at MLBTradeRumors.com about the Rays' interest in SF Reliever Tyler Walker, who did a brief stint with the Rays a few years back before throwing out his shoulder. Good chance for the Giants to pick off some PTown A's fans prior to the A's move, but Jonny's name was not mentioned.

BRANDON MORROW (P, Seattle Mariners):
7-26: Did not pitch as the Mariners dropped their 7th straight.
7-25: Pitched a scoreless 9th inning last night after JJ Putz allowed the tying run in the 8th. The game ended with a rare mistake by Ichiro as Lowe hit a liner to deep RF. Ichiro jumped to grab it, but it glanced off his glove allowing two runs to score. Brandon faced 5 batters, walking two and striking out one. 1.56 ERA. The struggling Mariners are 26 games under .500 and a basehit or two ahead of the Nationals, the current MLB Cellar Dweller.

PTOWN's UP AND COMERS:

DJ GENTILE (OF, Mat-Su Miners (Palmer, AK), Alaska Baseball League, Amateur):
7-26: Rained out.
7-25: DJ had an RBI double in the Minors 7-0 shut out of The Fire. As of 7-26, DJ is still leading the team by a 50 point margin with a .324 avg, .507 slugging avg, and .387 on base avg.

PETALUMA VALLEY LITTLE LEAGUE 12 Y.O. ALL-STAR TEAM
The report from the field at Fall Ball Evaluations yesterday is that Petaluma Valley Little League won their "must win" game Saturday morning. It took 11 innings so hopefully they are d-e-e-p in pitching! They'll need it for their next "must win" game today at 1pm! Congrats Valley. Keep it up. You gotta believe! The tournament fields are located at the Will C. Wood School, 420 Grand St., Alameda, CA 94501.Take I-880 South to the 23rd Ave. exit, follow to Park St. Bridge. Follow Park St. to Otis Dr., right on Otis to Grand St., left on Grand. Parking available around school. GO GET 'EM VALLEY!

Per the PTown Grapevine... Valley Wins Saturday!

The report from the field at Fall Ball Evaluations is that Petaluma Valley Little League won their "must win" game this morning. It took 11 innings so hopefully they are d-e-e-p in pitching! They'll need it for their next "must win" game tomorrow! Congrats Valley. Keep it up. You gotta believe!

7-26 CUP O' JO

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Recapping yesterday's action:

JOEY GOMES (DH, Joliet Jackhammers, Northern League IND):
7-25: Joliet couldn't keep the mojo going to derail the steaming hot Fargo Redwings who soaring above the Northern League on a 13 win streak. Joey was 1 for 3 in the loss with a single, a walk and a run scored. .280 Avg. Joliet is won four in a row and are just .5 games back of the Division Leader, Kansas City. The Jackhammers mounted two promising rallies last night so they should be able to solve the Redwings before heading home for another series with Schaumburg.

CHAD FILLINGER - P, Joliet Jackhammers, Northern League - IND:
7-25 Pitched a scoreless final inning for Joliet walking one and fanning three. 2.66 ERA.
7/22: Gonna leave this one up awhile... He might not get another AB until he signs with a National League team! On July 22, not only did the Jackhammers notch a 13-4 victory over rival Schaumburg, RHP Chad Fillinger found himself swinging the bat in the win over Schaumburg. Shorthanded after the ejection of teammate Corey Harris, the Jackhammers had just one reserve on the bench and the pitchers were pressed into offensive action. After pitching a two hit, no run 8th, Chad came to the plate in the 9th. He fouled off a 1-1 pitch and hit a grounder off the end of the bat to reach on a fielder's choice. Chad pitched one inning, K'd one, gave up two hits, no runs, and no walks. 2.78 ERA.

LOUIS OTT (DH/INF Detroit Tigers Organization - Erie Seawolves, AA):
LOUIS PROMOTED TO THE AA EERIE SEAWOLVES ON 7-9-08
7/25: Did not play in Erie's 7-6 10 inning win over Bowie. .238 Avg. Erie is 19.5 games back, 6-4 in their last 10 with a 2 game win streak.

TOMMY EVERIDGE (1B, Oakland A's Organization - Midland Rockhounds, AA):
7-25: 2-4 at DH with a single, home run #18, 1 K , 2 runs scored and a HBP in a lopsided 11-0 win over Corpus Christi. Tommy's home run was also his 80th RBI of the season. .254 avg. The Rockhounds are 4-6 in their last ten with a one game win streak, 6 games back of Division Leader, Frisco.

KONRAD SCHMIDT (C, Arizona Diamondbacks Organization - Visalia Oaks, High A):
PROMOTED TO CLASS A ADVANCED VISALIA OAKS 7-11-08
7-25: 2 for 4 at DH with a single, a double, a pair of RBIs, a run schored, a K and a HBP in the Oaks' 16-2 pounding of Rancho Cucamonga, the southern division leader. .364 avg. Recap The Oaks are 3-7 in their last 10 with a 1 game win streak and 5 games back of Division leading Modesto.

Oaks Chatter: Konrad's former teammate, South Bend Silverhawk Josh Collmento is a finalist in the Mustaches in the Minors contest. He became the team's runaway favorite when Konrad and his horseshoe-and-patch combo were promoted to Visalia. No word on how well Konrad did with Visalia fans, but you can catch a glimpse in this MiLB slideshow featuring The Konrad Kombo. It knocks the socks off the Grizzly Adams full beard he was sporting last winter, that's for sure.

STEPHEN PEARSON (1B, American Assn-Wichita Wingnuts, IND):
7-25: 0 for 3 in the 12-2 win over St. Paul. .298 Avg. Wichita is in the cellar, 4-6 in their last ten with a 1 game win streak, 4 games behind Lincoln, the Northern Division leader.

JONNY GOMES (DH, Tampa Bay Rays):
7-25: Did not play last night as the Rays snapped their 7 game losing streak on the road with a messy 5-3 win over the Royals in KC. Edwin Jackson had a no hitter going through 4 innings before giving up a solo home run in the 5th. The bullpen took over in the 6th after he gave up his only other hit, another solo home run. While the pen only gave up two more hits, it was a much closer game than the box score would suggest. Pena's bat came back to life yesterday and Rays fans hope it's the beginning of long toasty hot streak for the first baseman. The Royals do not have a left handed starter so it's unlikely Gomes will play in this series unless he is called on as a pinch hitter against one of two Royals relievers.

Rays Chatter: Trade rumors really heating up with the 7/31 deadline approaching. With several new teams emerging as contenders instead of dealers this year, the usual trade game is a bit topsy turvy. The Rays would be happy to upgrade RF with a rightie that can both field and hit for average but so far the price tag has been too high for a team that is poised to compete for the next several years. The Rays are likely to stand pat or possibly trade a prospect and some lesser players for some late game relief help in the bullpen. Jonny's name is not popping up all over the map as it did this time last year, but don't be surprised to see him packaged with a prospect toward the deadline for pitching help. There was some buzz yesterday at MLBTradeRumors.com about the Rays' interest in SF Reliever Tyler Walker, who did a brief stint with the Rays a few years back before throwing out his shoulder. Good chance for the Giants to pick off some PTown A's fans prior to the A's move, but Jonny's name was not mentioned.

BRANDON MORROW (P, Seattle Mariners):
Pitched a scoreless 9th inning last night after JJ Putz allowed the tying run in the 8th. The game ended with a rare mistake by Ichiro as Lowe hit a liner to deep RF. Ichiro jumped to grab it, but it glanced off his glove allowing two runs to score. Brandon faced 5 batters, walking two and striking out one. 1.56 ERA. The struggling Mariners are 26 games under .500 and a basehit or two ahead of the Nationals, the current MLB Cellar Dweller.

PTOWN's UP AND COMERS:

DJ GENTILE (OF, Mat-Su Miners (Palmer, AK), Alaska Baseball League, Amateur):
7-25: DJ had an RBI double in the Minors 7-0 shut out of The Fire. As of 7-26, DJ is still leading the team by a 50 point margin with a .324 avg, .507 slugging avg, and .387 on base avg.

PETALUMA VALLEY LITTLE LEAGUE 12 Y.O. ALL-STAR TEAM
Valley won their must win game against Briarwood last night, beating them 12-5. They continue to battle through the loser's bracket with a 10am game against Woodcreek Little League today. If they win, they will play again tomorrow at 1pm. Another loss in this tournament means the end of the road for Valley. The tournament fields are located at the Will C. Wood School, 420 Grand St., Alameda, CA 94501.Take I-880 South to the 23rd Ave. exit, follow to Park St. Bridge. Follow Park St. to Otis Dr., right on Otis to Grand St., left on Grand. Parking available around school. GO GET 'EM VALLEY!

7-25 CUP O' JO

7-24 CUP 'O JO

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Recapping yesterday's action:

JOEY GOMES (DH, Joliet Jackhammers, Northern League IND):
7-24: Home Run Derby for Joliet as they hammered the Flyers 12-4 in a game that included 5 home runs and a back to back pair. Joey's stick is heating up just in time for the road trip to League Leading Fargo, ND. He was 4-5 on the day with a lead off home run (8) in the 5th, 2 runs scored, an RBI, a double (12) and 2 singles. .279 Avg. Joliet has won four in a row and are just .5 games back of the Division Leader, Kansas City. The Fargo Redhawks are red hot, riding a 12 game win streak into the series, but Joliet is poised to cool them off beginning tonight.

CHAD FILLINGER - P, Joliet Jackhammers, Northern League - IND:
Last game pitched - 7/22: What a fun game. Not only did the Jackhammers notch a 13-4 victory over rival Schaumburg, it may have been the first time that two Casa Grande Gauchos had back to back at bats in the pros. RHP Chad Fillinger found himself swinging the bat in the win over Schaumburg. Shorthanded after the ejection of teammate Corey Harris, the Jackhammers had just one reserve on the bench and the pitchers were pressed into offensive action. After pitching a two hit, no run 8th, Chad came to the plate in the 9th. He fouled off a 1-1 pitch and hit a grounder off the end of the bat to reach on a fielder's choice. Chad pitched one inning, K'd one, gave up two hits, no runs, and no walks. 2.78 ERA.

LOUIS OTT (DH/INF Detroit Tigers Organization - Erie Seawolves, AA):
LOUIS PROMOTED TO THE AA EERIE SEAWOLVES ON 7-9-08
7/24: Did not play in Erie's 1-0 win over Binghampton. .167 Avg. Erie is 20. games back, 6-5 in their last 10 with a 1 win streak.

TOMMY EVERIDGE (1B, Oakland A's Organization - Midland Rockhounds, AA):
7-23: 0-3 at 3B with a walk in a 2-6 loss to division leading Frisco. .252 Avg. Midland is 4-6 in their last 10 with a 2 game losing streak and 6 games back of Division Leader, Frisco.

KONRAD SCHMIDT (C, Arizona Diamondbacks Organization - Visalia Oaks, High A):
PROMOTED TO CLASS A ADVANCED VISALIA OAKS 7-11-08
7-24: Game being rescheduled.
7/23: 0 for 3 with a walk and a run scored in a 7-11 loss to the the Modesto Nuts. Recap .345 Avg. The Oaks are 3-7 in their last 10 with a 5 game losing streak and 6 games back of Division leading Modesto.

STEPHEN PEARSON (1B, American Assn-Wichita Wingnuts, IND):
7-24: Playing 1B and LF, Stephen was 2 for 3 in the 4-9 loss to St. Paul with a run scored, an RBI, a double (13) and a HBP. .302 Avg. Wichita is in the cellar, 3-7 in their last ten with a 4 game losing streak and 4.5 games behind Lincoln, the Northern Division leader.

JONNY GOMES (DH, Tampa Bay Rays):
7-24: The Rays dropped the opening game of the 4 game Royals series in Kansas City by a score of 1-4, continuing their recent struggles on the road. Jonny was not in the lineup against RHP Gil Meche who struggled early in the game. The Rays had opportunities, but couldn't take advantage of Meche's mistakes. Happily, it was Jason Barlett's first day back after a stint on the DL and he looked sharp at the plate and, where we've missed him the most, at SS. The Royals do not have a left handed starter so it's unlikely Gomes will play in this series unless he is called on as a pinch hitter against one of two Royals relievers.

Rays Chatter: Trade rumors really heating up with the 7/31 deadline approaching. With several new teams emerging as contenders instead of dealers this year, the usual trade game is a bit topsy turvy. The Rays would be happy to upgrade RF with a rightie that can both field and hit for average but so far the price tag has been too high for a team that is poised to compete for the next several years. The Rays are likely to stand pat or possibly trade a prospect and some lesser players for some late game relief help in the bullpen. Jonny's name is not popping up all over the map as it did this time last year, but don't be surprised to see him packaged with a prospect toward the deadline for pitching help. There was some buzz yesterday at MLBTradeRumors.com about the Rays' interest in SF Reliever Tyler Walker, who did a brief stint with the Rays a few years back before throwing out his shoulder. Good chance for the Giants to pick off some PTown A's fans prior to the A's move, but Jonny's name was not mentioned.

BRANDON MORROW (P, Seattle Mariners):
Last pitched 7/23: Pitched the 9th and 10th in a tied game against Boston. Brandon's two scoreless innings were enough to extend the game but the 12th inning was a trainwreck. Willie Bloomquist , having moved from SS to CF, dropped a fly ball at the warning track with one out and two runners on. That brought Mike Lowell to the plate who hit a two run single off Sean Green. DH Vidro had a chance to be a hero with bases loaded in the 12th, but couldn't get 'em in. The struggling Mariners are 25 games under .500 and a basehit ahead of the Padres, the current MLB Cellar Dwellers.

Mariners' Chatter: Seattle is making it easier for fans with peanut allergies to enjoy the game. Now, if you can just find a peanut free airline to get to Seattle... Mariners Designate Peanut Free Zones

PTOWN's UP AND COMERS:

DJ GENTILE (OF, Mat-Su Miners (Palmer, AK), Alaska Baseball League, Amateur):
7-24: The sun finally came out in Palmer, Alaska with mom and dad in town. DJ had a good night with a single and an RBI triple. As of 7-20, DJ is still leading the team with a .311 avg, .475 slugging avg, and .373 on base avg.

PETALUMA VALLEY LITTLE LEAGUE 12 Y.O. ALL-STAR TEAM
Valley took a tough 10-2 loss against Pleasanton in the opening round of the Section II tourney in Alameda yesterday afternoon. Pleasanton shut out Foothill LL 17-0 the day before and may well be the team to beat as the tournament rolls on. Petaluma will have to battle back through the losers' bracket today facing Briarwood who lost a close 0-1 game to Turlock in the opening round. Gonna be a tough one and we wish them well. The tournament fields are located at the Will C. Wood School, 420 Grand St., Alameda, CA 94501.Take I-880 South to the 23rd Ave. exit, follow to Park St. Bridge. Follow Park St. to Otis Dr., right on Otis to Grand St., left on Grand. Parking available around school. GO GET 'EM VALLEY!

7-24 CUP 'O JO

MEET PTOWN's PROS: Click Here

Up before the roosters today as the neighborhood

racoon made a daring attempt to raid

the Coonhound's kibble.

Score one for the excitable hound.

Recapping yesterday's action:

JOEY GOMES (DH, Joliet Jackhammers, Northern League IND):
7-23: 1 for 3 with 2 RBIs, 2 walks and a K in Joliet's 8-2 thumping of Schaumburg. Joey got things rolling, ripping a two out liner to LF to plate the Jackhammers first two runs. .267 avg.
Joliet has won three in a row and regained 4th place ahead of Schaumburg and Gary and are now just 1.5 games back of the Division Leader, Kansas City. They're off to League Leading Fargo, ND tomorrow for a 3 game series followed by a home series with Schaumburg early next week.

CHAD FILLINGER - P, Joliet Jackhammers, Northern League - IND:
Last game pitched - 7/22: What a fun game. Not only did the Jackhammers notch a 13-4 victory over rival Schaumburg, it may have been the first time that two Casa Grande Gauchos had back to back at bats in the pros. RHP Chad Fillinger found himself swinging the bat in the win over Schaumburg. Shorthanded after the ejection of a teammate, the Jackhammers had just one reserve on the bench and the pitchers were pressed into offensive action. After pitching a two hit, no run 8th, Chad came to the plate in the 9th. He fouled off a 1-1 pitch and hit a grounder off the end of the bat to reach on a fielder's choice. Chad pitched one inning, K'd one, gave up two hits, no runs, and no walks. 2.78 ERA.

LOUIS OTT (DH/INF Detroit Tigers Organization - Erie Seawolves, AA):
LOUIS PROMOTED TO THE AA EERIE SEAWOLVES ON 7-9-08
7/23: Postponed... rain.
7/22: 0-4 in a 4-11 loss to the Binghampton Mets. Lou gunned down a runner at home! .167 Avg. Erie is 20.5 games back, 5-5 in their last 10 with a 1 game losing streak.

TOMMY EVERIDGE (1B, Oakland A's Organization - Midland Rockhounds, AA):
7-23: 2 for 4 at DH with 2 singles and a K in an 0-4 loss to division leading Frisco. .254 Avg. Midland is 5-5 in their last 10 with a 1 game losing streak and 5 games back of Division Leader, Frisco.

KONRAD SCHMIDT (C, Arizona Diamondbacks Organization - Visalia Oaks, High A):
PROMOTED TO CLASS A ADVANCED VISALIA OAKS 7-11-08
7-23: 0 for 3 with a walk and run scored in a 7-11 loss to the the Modesto Nuts. Recap .345 Avg.
The Oaks are 3-7 in their last 10 with a 5 game losing streak and 6 games back of Division leading Modesto.

STEPHEN PEARSON (1B, American Assn-Wichita Wingnuts, IND):
7-23: 0 for 4 at 1B in a 2-4 loss to the St. Paul Saints. .294 Avg.
Wichita is in the cellar, 4-6 in their last ten with a 3 game losing streak and 4.5 games behind Lincoln, the Northern Division leader.

Wingnut Chatter: In a virtual online feeding frenzy, the famed jersey worn by the Wingnuts Manager Kash Beaucamp during his sensational and nationally televised temper tantrums last week went for well over $100. Will Kash come through with the infamous batting ring "binoculars" for the CampForACure Silent Auction? Got an email this morning that the request has been kicked upstairs for consideration in Wichita. There may be a piece of history in the auction this year folks. Look out for Gordie Wirtz. He's a real collector and a ruthless bidder. His collection of Christmas Stockings include one of Jonny Gomes' "707" cleats.
Video courtesy of the Associated Press.
Story by John Marshall of the Chicago Tribune.

JONNY GOMES (DH, Tampa Bay Rays):
7-23: Jonny went yard with a 2 run HR in his first at bat as the Rays "meatloafed" the A's yesterday afternoon in St. Pete. A sweep woulda been sweet, but 2 out a three ain't bad. All four runs came from the 8 and 9 hitters with Gomes and Zobrist belting back to back HRs in the 5th and Zobie adding an RBI in the 7th. In case you missed it earlier, here's how "meatloafing" became a verb. Become a Rays Fan and, you can expand your vocabulary faster than Webster's or Wikipedia: Maddon On "Meatloafing"

BRANDON MORROW (P, Seattle Mariners):
Pitched the 9th and 10th in a tied game against Boston. Brandon's two scoreless innings were enough to extend the game but the 12th inning was a trainwreck. Willie Bloomquist , having moved from SS to CF, dropped a fly ball at the warning track with one out and two runners on. That brought Mike Lowell to the plate who hit a two run single off Sean Green. DH Vidro had a chance to be a hero with bases loaded in the 12th, but couldn't get 'em in. The struggling Mariners are 25 games under .500 and a basehit ahead of the Padres, the current MLB Cellar Dwellers.

Mariners' Chatter: Seattle is making it easier for fans with peanut allergies to enjoy the game. Now, if you can just find a peanut free airline to get to Seattle... Mariners Designate Peanut Free Zones

PTOWN's UP AND COMERS:

DJ GENTILE (OF, Mat-Su Miners (Palmer, AK), Alaska Baseball League, Amateur):

7-23: More rain. No game. But... we have...

Miners' Chatter: FE and W Gentile are in Palmer, AK trying to catch a few of DJ's games. FE reports lots of rain, high prices and has no fish stories or photoshopped trophy trout to share with us. Hard to work on your tan in the land of the midnight sun under cloudy skies. BTW, as of 7-20, DJ is still leading the team with a .311 avg, .475 slugging avg, and .373 on base avg.

PETALUMA VALLEY LITTLE LEAGUE 12 Y.O. ALL-STAR TEAM
Petaluma is on pins and needles awaiting tonight's big game in Alameda. The newly crowned California Division One Champs will now meet other NorCal Division winners in the Section II Tournament in Alameda beginning tonight at 5:30. Good luck Petaluma! The tournament fields are located at the Will C. Wood School, 420 Grand St., Alameda, CA 94501.Take I-880 South to the 23rd Ave. exit, follow to Park St. Bridge. Follow Park St. to Otis Dr., right on Otis to Grand St., left on Grand. Parking available around school. GO GET 'EM VALLEY!

7-23 CUP O' JO - Mug #2

MEET PTOWN's PROS: Click Here


Recapping the rest of yesterday's action (see the Mug#1 post for the Joliet game):


LOUIS OTT (DH/INF Detroit Tigers Organization - Erie Seawolves, AA):
LOUIS PROMOTED TO THE AA EERIE SEAWOLVES ON 7-9-08
7/22: 0-4 in a 4-11 loss to the Binghampton Mets. Lou gunned down a runner at home! .167 Avg. Erie is 20.5 games back, 5-5 in their last 10 with a 1 game losing streak.

TOMMY EVERIDGE (1B, Oakland A's Organization - Midland Rockhounds, AA):
7-22: 1 for 4 at DH with a 2 out 3RBI double in an 8-4 win over division leading Frisco. .252 Avg. Midland is 6-4 in their last 10 with a 1 game win streak and 4 games back of Division Leader, Frisco.

Rockhounds Chatter: Two of Tommy's teammates made the Team USA Roster. Pitchers Trevor Cahill and Brett Anderson are going to Bejing.

KONRAD SCHMIDT (C, Arizona Diamondbacks Organization - Visalia Oaks, High A):
PROMOTED TO CLASS A ADVANCED VISALIA OAKS 7-11-08
7-22: 2 for 4 with two singles, one a 2 out RBI single, in a 5-9 loss to the the Modesto Nuts. Recap .385 Avg. The Oaks are 3-7 in their last 10 with a 4 game losing streak and 5 games back of Division leading Modesto.

STEPHEN PEARSON (1B, American Assn-Wichita Wingnuts, IND):
7-21 and 22: All Star break for the American Association. The Wingnuts pick it up again tonight vs. the St. Paul Saints. .301 Avg.
Wichita is in the cellar, 4-6 in their last ten with a 2 game losing streak and 3.5 games behind Lincoln, the Northern Division leader.

Wingnut Chatter: In a virtual online feeding frenzy, the famed jersey worn by the Wingnuts Manager Kash Beaucamp during his sensational and nationally televised temper tantrums last week went for well over $100. Will Kash come through with the infamous batting ring "binoculars" for the CampForACure Silent Auction? Got an email this morning that the request has been kicked upstairs for consideration in Wichita. There may be a piece of history in the auction this year folks. Look out for Gordie Wirtz. He's a real collector and a ruthless bidder. His collection of Christmas Stockings include one of Jonny Gomes' "707" cleats.
Video courtesy of the Associated Press.
Story by John Marshall of the Chicago Tribune.

JONNY GOMES (DH, Tampa Bay Rays):
7-22: A walk and a fly out in the Rays' offensive and offense-free 1-8 loss to the A's. Just an ugly game all the way around. .192 Avg.

Rays Chatter: Peeking ahead to tomorrow's Cup O' Jo... it looks to be a more aromatic brew. The Rays are in position to "meatloaf the A's" with a 4-2 lead going into the top of the 8th. All four runs have come from the 8 and 9 hitters with Gomes and Zobrist belting back to back HR in the 5th and Zobie adding an RBI in the 7th. Jonny's was a two run dinger. You remember Meatloaf? Not quite a One Hit Wonder, but close with his big single "Two Out Of Three Ain't Bad". Maddon On "Meatloafing"

BRANDON MORROW (P, Seattle Mariners):
Last trip to the mound was on 7-19: Got three quick fly outs in the 9th to end a painful game in Seattle which was really over in the 3rd inning. The Mariners lost 9-6 to the Cleveland Indians. The regular Seattle Closer, JJ Putz, is due back from the DL shortly. It's not clear whether he and Morrow will share the closer role, which Brandon has excelled at during his absence.

PTOWN's UP AND COMERS:

DJ GENTILE (OF, Mat-Su Miners (Palmer, AK), Alaska Baseball League, Amateur):
7-22: 0 for 2 at DH with 2 walks, a line out and a K in a 7 inning rain shortened 2-2 tie with The Fire. As of 7-20, still leading the team with a .311 avg, .475 slugging avg, and .373 on base avg.

PETALUMA VALLEY LITTLE LEAGUE 12 Y.O. ALL-STAR TEAM
Woohoo! They did it! Petaluma Valley edged Alameda 4-3 in a must win game Monday night in Woodland. The newly crowned California Division One Champs will now meet other NorCal Division winners in the Section II Tournament in Alameda beginning Thursday, 7/24, meeting the winner of Pleasanton and Foothill (Palo Cedro) Little Leagues. Good luck Petaluma! The tournament fields are located at the Will C. Wood School, 420 Grand St., Alameda, CA 94501.Take I-880 South to the 23rd Ave. exit, follow to Park St. Bridge. Follow Park St. to Otis Dr., right on Otis to Grand St., left on Grand. Parking available around school.

Here's a YouTube video of the dramatic finish of last Friday night's semi-final game: http://youtube.com/watch?v=jxJIaJyv-a8

7-23 CUP O' JO - Mug #1

MEET PTOWN's PROS: Click Here

The Joliet game was the highlight of the day, deserving of it's own post. The other games will require another mug o' Peet's. Look for them in a bit.

JOEY GOMES (DH, Joliet Jackhammers, Northern League IND):
and
CHAD FILLINGER - P, Joliet Jackhammers, Northern League - IND:
7/22: What a fun game. Not only did the Jackhammers notch a 13-4 victory over rival Schaumburg, it may have been the first time that two Casa Grande Gauchos had back to back at bats in the pros. RHP Chad Fillinger found himself swinging the bat in last night's win over Schaumburg. You may recall that PTownFan predicted an ejection during the Schaumburg series but it was a Jackhammer, not the Flyer's Manager that was tossed last night in the 7th. The Jackhammers are already a bit short handed and had only one reserve on the bench so the pitchers were pressed into offensive action. After pitching a two hit, no run 8th, Chad came to the plate in the 9th. He fouled off a 1-1 pitch and hit a grounder off the end of the bat to reach on a fielder's choice. At that point, PTownFan's Family erupted in celebration muffling much of Joey's at bat.

Officially, Joey was 2-5 with a single, a double, two runs scored, a walk and a K. .266 Avg.
Chad pitched one inning, K'd one, gave up two hits, no runs, and no walks. 2.78 ERA. He was 0-1 at the plate, reaching on a fielder's choice.

Way to go guys. That was fun!

Calling Last Years Gaucho Greats! Clinic This Sunday...

Hey all you 2008 Casa Grande Gauchos... don't let any moss grow under your cleats during the Dog Days of Summer. We've got titles to defend!

Coach Mayo wants to see you on Bob Leslie field for a two hour fielding and hitting clinic this Sunday at 11:00am to 1:00pm. Coach Mayo will conduct the clinic. Be sure to contact "his peops" (that would be Gordie) and let him know if you'll be attending. Just look for the email he sent you this morning. You don't need to sell a single raffle ticket on Sunday, but you do need to bring four baseballs for the hitting clinic (used ones are OK).

Don't miss this clinic. It may be the last we see of Coach Mayo for awhile. Although he was just 2 votes short of being inducted into the Hall Of Fame this weekend, Pearls of Wisdom has exclusive breaking news about Gaucho Great Paul Maytorena: http://www.news3online.com.

Stay-cationing This Summer? Take An Audio Ballpark Tour...

If the price of gas has you "stay-cationing" this summer, why not enjoy a virtual visit to America's minor league ballparks? It's a bit nostalgic and it's (mostly) FREE! Click on a name for a link to their Audio feed. All times shown are PTown Time (aka: Pacific Daylight Time):

• Chad and Joey (Joliet Jackhammers): Typically play 6 games a week with Mondays off. Gametime 5pm.
• Louis Ott (Erie Seawolves): Usually play at 3:05 or 4:05. You'll need to register with MiLB.com, but it's free.
• Tommy Everidge (Midland Rockhounds): Usually play at 6:05. It's bloody hot in Texas this time of year. You'll need to register with MiLB, but it's free.
• Konrad Schmidt (Visalia Oaks): Usually play at 7pm. I don't know why the schedule displays the Eastern Time Zone... You'll need to register with MiLB, but it's free.
• Stephen Pearson (Wichita Wingnuts): Gametime 5:05. Click on the webcast link.
• Jonny Gomes (Tampa Bay Rays): Each day at gametime, a "listen to the game" and "Gameday" audio link will appear on the Rays homepage. For $12.95/year, you can listen to any regular season, playoff, or World Series MLB game. I prefer the Rays radio crew to the TV broadcast team. And for the craziest of you baseball crazies, you can even download a mobile version of GameDay to your BlackBerry or other PDA. I think it's free.
• DJ Gentile (Mat-Su Miners): Games are at 5 or 6 pm. I haven't tried it yet, but the Miners have something similar to GameDay that you can log onto at gametime.
• Petaluma Valley Little League All Stars: When they get to San Bernardino, the media frenzy starts!

7-22 CUP O' JO

MEET PTOWN's PROS: Click Here

Recapping yesterday's action:

JOEY GOMES (DH, Joliet Jackhammers, Northern League IND):
and
CHAD FILLINGER - P, Joliet Jackhammers, Northern League - IND:
7/21: Day off for Joliet.

Coming up... 3 games at neighboring Schaumberg where there are usually on field fireworks at some point. My money is on the Schaumberg Manager to be ejected by game two. Joliet can't afford to give up any ground to the trailing Flyers. After that, they're on the road to Fargo where, ya know, they could really make up some games in the standings against the league leader.

LOUIS OTT (DH/INF Detroit Tigers Organization - Erie Seawolves, AA):
LOUIS PROMOTED TO THE AA EERIE SEAWOLVES ON 7-9-08
7/21: Pinch hit with a K in a 3-12 loss to the Binghampton Mets. .214 Avg. Erie is 20 games back, 4-6 in their last 10 with a 1 game losing streak.

TOMMY EVERIDGE (1B, Oakland A's Organization - Midland Rockhounds, AA):
7-21: 0 for 4 at 3B in a 3-4 loss to San Antonio. .252 Avg. Midland is 5-5 in their last 10 with a 1 game losing streak and 5 games back of Division Leader, Frisco.

Rockhounds Chatter: Two of Tommy's teammates made the Team USA Roster. Pitchers Trevor Cahill and Brett Anderson are going to Bejing.

KONRAD SCHMIDT (C, Arizona Diamondbacks Organization - Visalia Oaks, High A):
PROMOTED TO CLASS A ADVANCED VISALIA OAKS 7-11-08
7-21: 3 for 4 with a double and two singles in a 1-5 loss to the Bakersfield Blaze. The Oaks are 3-7 in their last 10 with a 3 game losing streak and 4 games back of Division leading Modesto.

STEPHEN PEARSON (1B, American Assn-Wichita Wingnuts, IND):
7-21 and 22: All Star break for the American Association. The Wingnuts pick it up again tomorrow night vs. the St. Paul Saints. .301 Avg. Wichita is in the cellar, 4-6 in their last ten with a 2 game losing streak and 3.5 games behind Lincoln, the Northern Division leader.

Wingnut Chatter: In a virtual online feeding frenzy, EBay bidding on the famed jersey worn by the Wingnuts Manager Kash Beaucamp during his sensational and nationally televised temper tantrums last week has surged to $120.50 with just 25 hours and 3 minutes to go. Will Kash come through with the infamous batting ring "binoculars" for the CampForACure Silent Auction? Time will tell, but it would sure be good for his karma.
Video courtesy of the Associated Press.
Story by John Marshall of the Chicago Tribune.

JONNY GOMES (DH, Tampa Bay Rays):
7-21: Jonny had a great night in the Rays 4-0 shutout of the A's with a walk, a two out single, a run scored and a ground out. .193 Avg. Looking forward to two more starts in this series.

Rays Chatter: Maddon-ing-ly (is that really an adjective?), Rays Skipper Joe Maddon pulls Jonny for defensive upgrade Gabe Gross anytime there's less than a 6 or 7 run differential in the 6th inning. I was surprised to see it last night after two patient ABs. Seemed a little heavy handed. PTownFan thinks that if Joe really wants to play to win, Carl Crawford needs to get off his high horse and learn to bunt to get his speedy butt on base more often. That's where the "tough love" is really needed. When Jonny's going good, let him develop a rythym to carry into the next game (or two). That said, Maddon is a colorful character: Maddon On "Meatloafing"

BRANDON MORROW (P, Seattle Mariners):
Last trip to the mound was on 7-19: Got three quick fly outs in the 9th to end a painful game in Seattle which was really over in the 3rd inning. The Mariners lost 9-6 to the Cleveland Indians. The regular Seattle Closer, JJ Putz, is due back from the DL shortly. It's not clear whether he and Morrow will share the closer role, which Brandon has excelled at during his absence.

PTOWN's UP AND COMERS:

DJ GENTILE (OF, Mat-Su Miners (Palmer, AK), Alaska Baseball League, Amateur):
7-21: Day off for the Miners.

PETALUMA VALLEY LITTLE LEAGUE 12 Y.O. ALL-STAR TEAM
Woohoo! They did it! Petaluma Valley edged Alameda 4-3 in a must win game last night in Woodland. The newly crowned California Division One Champs will now meet other NorCal Division winners in the Section II Tournament in Alameda beginning Thursday, 7/24, meeting the winner of Pleasanton and Foothill (Palo Cedro) Little Leagues. Good luck Petaluma! The tournament fields are located at the Will C. Wood School, 420 Grand St., Alameda, CA 94501.
Take I-880 South to the 23rd Ave. exit, follow to Park St. Bridge. Follow Park St. to Otis Dr., right on Otis to Grand St., left on Grand. Parking available around school.

Here's a YouTube video of the dramatic finish of last Friday night's semi-final game: http://youtube.com/watch?v=jxJIaJyv-a8

7-21 CUP O' JO

MEET PTOWN's PROS: Click Here

Recapping yesterday's action:

JOEY GOMES (DH, Joliet Jackhammers, Northern League IND):
7/20: 1 for 4 as Joliet's held Gary to just 2 runs in the 9th to eek out a 12-11 win. Joey hit his 9th double of the season, reached on an error and later scored and drew a walk hitting in the 5 spot. .262 Avg.

Joliet is 4-6 in their last 10 with a 1 game win streak, and 6.5 games back of Fargo in 5th place in a 6 game division. They have a day off today then 3 games at neighboring Schaumberg where someone always seems to be ejected and where Joliet can't afford to give up any ground to the trailing Flyers. After that, another roadtrip to Fargo where, ya know, they could really make up some games in the standings against the league leader.

CHAD FILLINGER - P, Joliet Jackhammers, Northern League - IND:
7/19: Another rough night for Chad who left a couple up enabling Gary to tie things up with a home run in the 8th and take the lead with a home run in the 9th. They were the only two hits he surrendered in two innings pitched. His record is now 3-2 with a 2.91 ERA.

Jackhammer Chatter: Signed a new LHP fresh out of Northern Illinois University and released one of the newbie RHPs.

LOUIS OTT (DH/INF Detroit Tigers Organization - Erie Seawolves, AA):
LOUIS PROMOTED TO THE AA EERIE SEAWOLVES ON 7-9-08
7/20: Whew Lou! 2 for 3 as the Seawolves LF with a single, a double and a K. Recap .231 Avg. Erie is 20.5 games back, 5-5 in their last 10 with a 1 game win streak.

TOMMY EVERIDGE (1B, Oakland A's Organization - Midland Rockhounds, AA):
7-20: 0 for 4 with a walk and 2 Ks at 1B in a 3-2 win over San Antonio. .255 Avg. Recap
Midland is 6-4 in their last 10 with a 1 game win streak and 5 games back of Division Leader, Frisco.

KONRAD SCHMIDT (C, Arizona Diamondbacks Organization - Visalia Oaks, High A): PROMOTED TO CLASS A ADVANCED VISALIA OAKS 7-11-08
7-20: Did not play as the Bakersfield Blaze smoked the Oaks in a 0-9 shutout.
7-19: 0 for 2 with a run scored as Visalia was thumped 2-11 by Bakersfield. .333 Avg. Recap
The Oaks are 5-5 in their last 10 with a 1 game losing streak and 3 games back of Division leading Modesto.

STEPHEN PEARSON (1B, American Assn-Wichita Wingnuts, IND):
7-20: Lost a close one in 10 innings. Sioux City edged them 3-2, but Stephen hit his 12th double of the season in a 1-4 effort. .301 Avg. Wichita is in the cellar, 4-6 in their last ten with a 2 game losing streak and 3.5 games behind Lincoln, the Northern Division leader.

Wingnut Chatter: EBay bidding on the famed jersey worn by the Wingnuts Manager Kash Beaucamp during his sensational and nationally televised temper tantrums last week has stalled at $104.15 with 1 days and 21 hours and 58 minutes to go. PTownFan has shamelessly requested the donation of the infamous batting ring "binoculars" to the CampForACure Silent Auction...
The video courtesy of the Associated Press.
The story by John Marshall of the Chicago Tribune.

JONNY GOMES (DH, Tampa Bay Rays):
7-20: Got a nice warm up in his first of 4 consecutive games. Jonny was 1-4 in RF with a 2 out double, a walk and 2 Ks in the Rays 4-9 loss to Toronto yesterday. Tonight the Rays take on the A's in the first of a 3 game series at home. Jonny will get three starts against the A's LHPs.

Rays Chatter: Is Jonny pumped about 4 consecutive games? Here's what he had to say about it.

There's lotsa trade talk swirling about the Rays as a team in playoff contention needs to take a hard look at it's weaknesses. Corner OFs hitting for average is one of them, specifically a Right Fielder as LF Carl Crawford, though struggling, isn't going anywhere... including CF... which is another topic for another time. Tampa Bay is not willing to deal the chips required to get a big name. Everyone wants David Price and he's not available so look to see a relative unknown or perhaps a head scratching trade by the end of the month. After all, the Stu Crew has done pretty well with Carlos Pena, Eric Hinske, and even Gabe Gross, though they may regret the expensive 3 year deal extended to Pena after last year's Cinderella season.

BRANDON MORROW (P, Seattle Mariners):
7-19: Got three quick fly outs in the 9th to end a painful game in Seattle which was really over in the 3rd inning. The Mariners lost 9-6 to the Cleveland Indians. The regular Seattle Closer, JJ Putz, is due back from the DL shortly. It's not clear whether he and Morrow will share the closer role, which Brandon has excelled at during his absence.

PTOWN's UP AND COMERS:

DJ GENTILE (OF, Mat-Su Miners (Palmer, AK), Alaska Baseball League, Amateur):
7-20: Singled and doubled in the Miner's 1-7 loss to the Anchorage Bucs. Recap.

PETALUMA VALLEY LITTLE LEAGUE 12 Y.O. ALL-STAR TEAM
District 35 Champs, Petaluma Valley Little League, were undefeated entering the Championship Game last night, but Alameda managed a win forcing another game tonight in Woodland. The winner will advance. The next stop on the Road To Williamsport for the Little League World Series is the Division II tourney in Alameda so you can bet Valley's competition will be fired up about the chance to take it home. Good luck Petaluma!

Here's a YouTube video of the dramatic finish of last Friday night's semi-final game: http://youtube.com/watch?v=jxJIaJyv-a8

A Baseball Lovin' Family's Most Excellent Adventure

Petaluma's Belove family recently returned from a tour of several east coast baseball cities. The lucky Belove boys got to see Yankee Stadium in its final season and oh so much more... check out their Blog. Another PTown Pearl... www.belovesamazingbaseballadventure.blogspot.com.

PTown's Fall Instructional League Starts Soon

PTown is fortunate to have a top notch Fall Instructional league to help players develop their game during the off season. Players register for the level of ball they will play during Little League season in the spring. For example, if a player has just finished their 12 year old year and will play Little League on the big diamond next spring, they will play fall ball with Junior Division rules on the regulation field. Instructional Leagues are also a great way for new players to learn the game without the pressure of wins and losses as no scores are kept. The focus is really on player development and instruction with kids generally learning a variety of positions. Having experience in a variety of positions not only gives a player a lot of flexibility, it makes him or her a more valuable teammate who understands where a fellow fielder will be in a given situation.

Here is a link to more information about the league which is conducted by Petaluma's Athletic Edge, the Water Street "cages" where so many PTown players take their hacks in pursuit of the perfect swing. Evaluations will be held this Saturday, July 26th. http://www.athleticedgenow.com/instructional_league.html

BTW... Fall Ball isn't just for kids anymore. Athletic Edge has added an instructional softball division for the 18 and up crowd. PTownFan is mulling that one over. One of her tools ain't bad, the the other 4 could definitely use some work :-) If the roster looks more like a 40+ group than a 20 something group, we may have some first hand Participant Pearls Of Wisdom to share as the dog days of summer wind down and the MLB pennant races heat up.

7-20 CUP O' JO

MEET PTOWN's PROS: Click Here

Recapping yesterday's action:

JOEY GOMES (DH, Joliet Jackhammers, Northern League IND):
7/19: 1 for 4 in Joliet's 5-6 loss to Gary's come from behind victory over the Jackhammers last night. Joliet needed baserunners in the 8th to break a tie and regain the lead. Joey did his job with lead off single, but the team couldn't get him home. .263 Avg. Joliet is 3-7 in their last 10 with a 3 game losing streak, and 6.5 games back of Fargo with a solid hold on 5th place in a 6 game division.

CHAD FILLINGER - P, Joliet Jackhammers, Northern League - IND:
7/18: Another rough night for Chad who left a couple up enabling Gary to tie things up with a home run in the 8th and take the lead with a home run in the 9th. They were the only two hits he surrendered in two innings pitched. His record is now 3-2 with a 2.91 ERA.

Jackhammer Chatter: Miniature horse racing caps off a big weekend at Silver Cross Field following Hogs and Hammers Night with fireworks on Friday and the Girl Scout Sleepover last night.

LOUIS OTT (DH/INF Detroit Tigers Organization - Erie Seawolves, AA):
LOUIS PROMOTED TO THE AA EERIE SEAWOLVES ON 7-9-08
7/19: Did not play in Erie's 2-7 loss to Division leading Akron. Erie is 21.5 games back, 4-6 in their last 10 with a 1 game losing streak.
7/17: 0-4 as the left fielder for the Seawolves in their 7-5 win over Akron. Lou hit 'em hard, but couldn't find a gap. Solid with the action in left field. .100 Avg.

TOMMY EVERIDGE (1B, Oakland A's Organization - Midland Rockhounds, AA):
7-19: 2 for 4 with a double, single, and a K in a 0-4 loss to San Antonio. .255 Avg. Recap
Midland is 5-5 in their last 10 with a 1 game loging streak and 5 games back of Division Leader, Frisco.

KONRAD SCHMIDT (C, Arizona Diamondbacks Organization - Visalia Oaks, High A): PROMOTED TO CLASS A ADVANCED VISALIA OAKS 7-11-08
7-19: 0 for 2 with a run scored as Visalia was thumped 2-11 by Bakersfield. .333 Avg. Recap The Oaks are 5-5 in their last 10 with a 1 game losing streak and 3 games back of Division leading Modesto.

STEPHEN PEARSON (1B, American Assn-Wichita Wingnuts, IND):
7-19: o for 4 in a 2-1 loss to Sioux City. .302 Avg. Wichita is 5-5 in their last ten with a 1 game losing streak and 2.5 games behind Sioux Falls, the Northern Division leader.

Wingnut Chatter: EBay bidding on the famed jersey worn by the Wingnuts Manager Kash Beaucamp during his sensational and nationally televised temper tantrums last week has stalled at $104.15 with 3 days and 2 minutes to go. PTownFan has shamelessly requested the donation of the infamous batting ring "binoculars" to the CampForACure Silent Auction...
The video courtesy of the Associated Press.
The story by John Marshall of the Chicago Tribune.

JONNY GOMES (DH, Tampa Bay Rays):
Did not play as the Rays pulled out a dramatic 6-4 win over Toronto in St. Pete on 90's Night At The Trop. The win featured rookie Evan Longoria's first grand slam and a bunt single by catcher Dionner Navarro that touched off some drama in his next at bat. League, the Jays pitcher plunked Navarro and was immediately tossed. Turns out he was sore that Tampa was trying to add insurance runs to their 5-0 lead following the slam. Give me a break. This is MLB not a Triple A Little League Game! Good call Blue. The Red Sox lost to the Angels again giving Tampa a 1.5 game lead in the AL East. It took 12 innings, but the Yankees beat the A's on a bases loaded Hit By Pitch yesterday afternoon so they remain 5.5 games back of Tampa.

Coming up... lots of lefties for opposing teams. Jonny should get some consistent ABs, but he'll have to hit early in the game to stay in the lineup. If he does get a RF start, look for Maddon to order up a defensive replacement late in any close game. Reserve Gabe Gross is winning me over as a solid defensive outfielder with good range, a good arm, and clutch (only) hitting.

Rays Chatter: San Francisco's own MC Hammer performed last night at the Trop for the happy fans. Did you know that Oakland A Reggie Jackson gave Hammer his nickname? MC was a ballboy for the A's and Reggie thought he looked an awful lot like Hammerin' Hank Aaron.

BRANDON MORROW (P, Seattle Mariners):
Got three quick fly outs in the 9th to end a painful game in Seattle which was really over in the 3rd inning. The Mariners lost 9-6 to the Cleveland Indians. The regular Seattle Closer, JJ Putz, is due back from the DL shortly. It's not clear whether he and Morrow will share the closer role, which Brandon has excelled at during his absence.

PTOWN's UP AND COMERS:
DJ GENTILE (OF, Mat-Su Miners (Palmer, AK), Alaska Baseball League, Amateur):
7-19: Did not play in the Miners 5-2 win over the Goldpanners.
7-18: 0 for 3 with a K in a 5-3 win over the Peninsula Oilers. DJ is leading the team with a .281 avg.

PETALUMA VALLEY LITTLE LEAGUE 12 Y.O. ALL-STAR TEAM
District 35 Champs, Petaluma Valley Little League, won their second game Friday night and advances to the potential Championship game tonight at 7pm in Woodland. They will face Alameda Little League, the Loser's Bracket winner, who lost earlier to PVLL and would have to beat Valley twice to win the Championship and advance. The next stop on the Road To Williamsport for the Little League World Series is the Division II tourney in Alameda. Good luck PVLL! Here's a YouTube video of the dramatic finish of Friday night's game: http://youtube.com/watch?v=jxJIaJyv-a8

CUP O' JO - July 19

MEET PTOWN's PROS: Click Here

Recapping yesterday's action:

JOEY GOMES (DH, Joliet Jackhammers, Northern League IND):
7/18: Joey was named WJOL Player of the Game going 3 for 4 with 3 RBIs and two runs scored on two singles and home run number seven. The Jackhammers led until the 7th when Gary went up a run. Joliet held them in the 8th and Joey's solo lead-off home run tied things up, but Gary came back with 5 unanswered runs in the 9th to snap a 4 game losing streak. Joey bumped his average 10 points to .263.
Joliet is 3-7 in their last 10 with a 2 game losing streak and 5.5 games back of Fargo.

CHAD FILLINGER - P, Joliet Jackhammers, Northern League - IND:
7/17: Chad relieved the team's closer Thursday and pitched a 1-2-3 11th inning last night before Schaumberg got to him for 2 hits in the 12th. Joliet was unable to respond in their half of the inning to keep it alive. Chad's record is now 3-1 with a 2.29 ERA.

Jackhammer Chatter: Big weekend Silver Cross Field with the Gary Railcats in town. Friday was Hogs and Hammers Night... fireworks and Harley's... sounds like a winner. Girl Scouts Sleepover tonight. Something for everyone this weekend in Joliet.

LOUIS OTT (DH/INF Detroit Tigers Organization - Erie Seawolves, AA):
LOUIS PROMOTED TO THE AA EERIE SEAWOLVES ON 7-9-08
7/18: Did not play in Erie's 3-1 win over Division leading Akron. Erie is 21.5 games back, 4-6 in their last 10 with a 2 game win streak.
7/17: 0-4 as the left fielder for the Seawolves in their 7-5 win over Akron. Lou hit 'em hard, but couldn't find a gap. Solid with the action in left field. .100 Avg. Recap

TOMMY EVERIDGE (1B, Oakland A's Organization - Midland Rockhounds, AA):
7-19: Put it in play 3 times against San Antonio, reached on an error and K'd twice in an 0 for 5 day, but a solid 4-1 win for Midland to prevent a third straight loss. .255 Avg. Recap
Midland is 6-4 in their last 10 with a 1 game win streak and 5 games back of Division Leader, Frisco.

KONRAD SCHMIDT (C, Arizona Diamondbacks Organization - Visalia Oaks, High A): PROMOTED TO CLASS A ADVANCED VISALIA OAKS 7-11-08
7-18: Did not play in Visalia's 7-2 win over Stockton. Visalia is 6-4 in their last 10 with a 2 game win streak and 3 games back of Division leading Modesto.
7-17: 1 for 4 as DH with a single, lots of contact and an HBP in a 6-2 win over Stockton. .333 Avg. RecapVisalia is 6-4 in their last 10 with a 1 game win streak.

STEPHEN PEARSON (1B, American Assn-Wichita Wingnuts, IND):
7-18: 4 for 6 in an 11 winning win over Sioux City. Pearson had 5 RBIs, on a home run, two doubles and a single in the 14-11 victory pushing his average to .308.
Wichita is 5-5 in their last ten with a 2 game win streak and just 1.5 games behind Sioux Falls, the Northern Division leader.

Wingnut Chatter: EBay bidding on the famed jersey worn by the Wingnuts Manager Kash Beaucamp during his sensational and nationally televised temper tantrums last week is now up to $104.15 with 4 days and 1 minute to go. PTownFan has shamelessly requested the donation of the infamous batting ring "binoculars" to the CampForACure Silent Auction...
The video courtesy of the Associated Press.
The story by John Marshall of the Chicago Tribune.

JONNY GOMES (DH, Tampa Bay Rays):
Did not play as the Rays ended their 7 game skid with a 2-1 win over Toronto in St. Pete. For awhile it looked like the Rays offensive woes would continue, but utility infielder Ben Zobrist, went yard again. He's got 13 hits all season and 4 of them are home runs so we'll just call him "Dinger" as long a he keeps it going. The win, combined with Boston's loss to the Angels, puts Tampa Bay back on top in the AL East 1/2 game up on the Sox and 5.5 ahead of the Yankees.

BRANDON MORROW (P, Seattle Mariners):
Did not pitch in Seattle's 8-2 thrashing of the Indians on the strength of a grand slam by Raul Ibanez.

PTOWN's UP AND COMERS:

DJ GENTILE (OF, Mat-Su Miners (Palmer, AK), Alaska Baseball League, Amateur):
7-18: 0 for 3 with a K in a 5-3 win over the Peninsula Oilers. DJ is leading the team with a .281 avg.

PETALUMA VALLEY LITTLE LEAGUE 12 Y.O. ALL-STAR TEAM
District 35 Champs, Petaluma Valley Little League, won their second game last and advances to the potential Championship game Sunday evening at 7pm in Woodland. They will face the Loser's Bracket winner who will bring a loss into the game and would have to beat Valley twice to win the Championship and advance. The next stop on the Road To Williamsport for the Little League World Series is the Division II tourney in Alameda. Good luck PVLL!